Payne Productions

wiring

2011-11-29T22:08:00.000-08:00

Getting back to work on the car. One thing I could care less to do is wiring, not because it is hard but just time consuming. The last time I did a wire tuck on the street car it took me about a week.

This time it was much different.

After enjoy a beautiful morning in Tucson then Kelly Banks barbecue it was time to get to work. Alex and I had been running ideas back and forth for a few days. We each had a completely different mental picture when considering the wire tuck.

Less talk and more work we de-loomed and stripped the stock harness removing all unnecessary wires and relays. This week I will place the wiring in the car before cutting, shortening, and re-looming the wiring.

Missing Link....

2011-10-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

the custom drive shaft has arrived

350z input shaft

Nissan rear

All custom

Chevy style 3/4ton u-joints
(easy to replace if they ever go bad)

Thanks Suspicious Garage

All nighter

2011-10-01T08:07:00.000-07:00

yesterday I woke at 5am to prepare for work.
Worked 7:30-4:30
Ate dinner
Played with Dion
Started working on the car
Finished at 6am and have been up ever since....

Sometimes you just need to pull an all-nighter to get work done!

motor finally mated with tranny

transplant complete

Last week got the windows installed....

Home stretch..

2011-09-26T00:58:00.000-07:00

If you have never been in a situation being overwhelmingly occupied with balancing many priorities at once you may not have realized the importance on friends and or acquaintances.

Trying to build two cars at the same time as well as manage work, school, family, and friends can be quite the task.

When short for time especially during a build all the little things add up. Personally I feel both cars should have been completed months ago.

Oh I must add the unnecessary stress such as relying on unreliable people is definitely a set back and detrimental to the progress of the build. Fortunately but unfortunately my progress set backs are always due to one person/progress of the build; paint and body.

The track car should have been painted two years ago after the paint job was purchased in full, however I have been dealing with the horrible business ethics or the lack thereof from one individual.

Jump up to speed many headaches and evil thoughts later work is finally being done. I'm apologetic for the lack of updates for those who follow, but I promise the progress of both cars seem to be nearing the completing stages.

September 17 ended the drift season here locally in Arizona, so this means I have some time to finish the car and make it track ready. However, I missed two entire seasons since I began the build of the track car.

If there is anything you listen to as an inspiring driver never replace track time with down time if not necessary.

Having an awesome looking car will NOT make you a better driver!

Being 25 I feel this quarter century has taught me a lot!!!

Being human we are known for learning from our individual mistakes, situations, etc. I'm now a firm believer in the lack of effort put forth by the government and educational entities to assist today's youth in understanding the importance in the decisions made after graduating high school, but that is another debate all in itself.

Long story short I have learned from many mistakes over the past 8 years, but PROGRESS continues.

To-date;
The street car remains torn down with the door-jams, trunk already painted. This weekend the exterior of the car should see its first coat of paint. The weekend after will begin the cut and buff stage. Then finally the car will return home for the installation process.

The motor to the street car has been prepped and is ready for install. With a new competition clutch kit, resurfaced fly wheel, and transmission the transplant should make some fun street driving. That makes me think of an issue I read in one of my subscribed car magazines this week. The guy builds his 98 Nissan not to drift or drag but as his ideal of the perfect street car. For my street car if feel the same way a balance of performance, handling, and oem accessories is the ultimate driving experience.

So yes the motor for the street car is ready! I had a definite plan for brakes, however the plan is not working as planned so I'm researching alternative big brake kits and will decide when I have enough money to purchase one.

On to the track car, I finally put some time in and prepared the engine bay for the install of the transplant. I updated the engine bay with an awesome power by Maxx intercooler kit, brake line delete kit, power steering cooler system, and possible an oil cooling system as well but we'll see. We always manage to find ways to dump unnecessary money into these cars we build for the love of the sport whether it's the competition, adrenaline, or a tactic to combat the OCD.... It doesn't matter why it just feels good to create something you can call your own.

As for the motor of the track car it too has been updated with a new competition clutch kit which I hope will hold up for the abusive driving... they say it will but for how long I do not know. Everyone has their own opinions based off their experience so this will be my experience and I'll write reviews once tested. With the clutch upgrade and transmission upgrade it only makes sense to replace all the OEM parts that are known for wearing out so this week the throw-out release bearing should arrive to complete the list of required parts. Then the install happens hopefully Saturday.

Back to the main purpose of this rant I would like to thank all those who have made the little things that add up manageable!

Seriously you have no idea how important the little items are in such an extensive, intensive, and time consuming build.

SHOUT OUT!

Thank you Ralph @ RJ's Auto for all the help offered.
Thank you Efrian @ Suspicious Garage for the list of help and advice too long to pen.
Thank you Patrick for the late night advice while all others are fast asleep or drunk.
Huge Thanks to my partner Dan @ Boost Junkyz for all the welding and making turbo'd dreams possible again and again and again..... Thx
And (TF) TeamTopFlight for all the support and encouragement to Get err Done...

Now for pics of the said progress report...

WhAt hAppeN'd

2011-08-23T15:33:00.001-07:00

Progress on the black s14.... Time for a color change!

Previous look

We'll miss the great Big Papa ( Rich Spohr)

2011-07-16T17:06:00.000-07:00

My apologies for the lack of updates, a lot has happened within this past month somethings more serious than others.

All those in the Arizona Nissan community we'll continue to pay our respects to Rich Spohr's family for their loss.

We all lost a piece of ourselves when we lost Big Papa Rich Spohr. He has impacted the Arizona automotive community especially the Nissan, 350z, 240sx, and drift scene far more than anyone living to date.

Prayers go out to Rich's family and friends.

You are missed!

Time to refresh

2011-06-16T11:52:00.000-07:00

There are a few items I have been meaning to upgrade on the street car so now its time for a start the make over...

The physical look may or may not change, a few more JDM pieces as pictured below.

Time to upgrade the 1997 subframe bushings with the PowerbyMax sold bushings $100.00
http://www.gtfactory.jp/cms/

With the sub frame removed it's time to upgrade the rear braking system.

Adding BC 264 cams to the sr power plant.

more updates soon.

Goodies....

2011-06-05T18:31:00.001-07:00

Goodies arrived...

Moving along...

2011-06-03T11:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I arrived to the shop to drop off the remaining suspension links I purchased from AceUp Motorsports. I walk in to see Daniel hacking away at the 11 year old stock subframe bushings....

I had planned on returning to the shop after completing the assignment I was working on at home. However, Daniel texted me the final result before I was able to return.

Thanks again D!

Hopefully soon....

2011-05-31T13:01:00.000-07:00

Man almost there.... Did not get to attack the track car this weekend as planned but last night we dropped the subframe. This week we'll add the new rear links as well as the solid subframe bushings.

From there I'll install the transmission, drive shaft, differential, turbo kit, and project Sunkist should be ready for wiring!

Plan is to make the June 18th drift event in the track car... we'll see.

New Project

2011-05-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

As if I'm not busy enough... reassembling the track car, disassembling the daily driver, doing the foot work trying to get the 73 GMC running, and now the 68 restore project...

Drift and Drag

2011-05-24T23:26:00.000-07:00

Thank you Charles Siritho!

One of Arizona's BEST photographers for sure.

He literally snapped a few quick pics while driving nothing special, but the picture quality is always superb.

Need a photo shoot?... Charles is proven, find him on Face Book.

Few steps away...

2011-05-09T20:25:00.000-07:00

Just received notice from Daniel (BoostJunkyz) today after work of the progress made to the track car!

Turbo kit in house waiting on head flange

Progress in the cabin!

Yay! Car will be done before summer for sure!!!

Last week I ordered all suspension components, solid subframe bushings, drive shaft, coilovers, caliper brackets, e-brake lever, Brake and clutch line delete kit,

Once all items are received we have intercooler, wiring, and install glass and DONE!

Almost there.

Dyno Time

2011-04-30T16:23:00.000-07:00

I know many people have been waiting and requesting to see "numbers" on the new BorgWarner 67/58.

As you know everything comes with a price which includes dyno time.

Finally found time to spend to get to the dyno this week. Every time we tap into this new turbo it continues to amaze me!

First the incline of horse power is smooth but steady.

Second once the turbo hits 20psi it truly comes alive.

We didn't get to see much of the 20psi range as time was limited and the motor is stock, however when we watched the turbo hit 20psi the gain in instant horse power was phenomenal.

The true tuning isn't complete just yet, we will need more than an hour on the fine tune and truly tap into this new set up. The next step is to upgrade the external wastegate this week.

So far we are sitting at full boot at 3800 rpm creating 337whp & 302 lb/ft @ 14psi.

With a few changes we will definately realease dyno sheets soon.

XDC (Xtreme Drift Circuit) 2011

2011-04-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Last week Daniel and I were crazy busy trying prepare the s14 to show off the first BorgWarner 67/58 Sr20 Top Mount turbo kit at the XDC Round2 XDC / REMIX Car Show & Concert at the Firebird International Raceway.

What an awesome time!

Jared representing Team Top Flight "winning" *Charlie Sheen voice*

in the HardParking categorey of the Best JDM, thank you for entering *Alex Simpson*

Really the event was AWESOME all around; the drifting performance has risen to another level.

Congratulations to all the local drivers and especially George Marstanovic for bringing his A game!

Some pics of the fun we had at the event...

Jared, George, Damien, Alex, and Dionte

- XDC pics from local photographers -

Wheels are done

2011-04-30T13:30:00.000-07:00

Seeking a little contrast for the daily driver I decided to remove the matte black finish and power coat the wheels.

Unfortunately I'm not very creative when it comes to colors etc., so I could not decide on the color to powder coat the wheels.

Therefore I decided on a polish finish.

Thanks again Rey for picking up and dropping off the wheels you were a huge help!

EFR!.... the best thing yet....

2011-04-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

Ahh... Can I say ahhhh what the heck happened the past two weeks!
The other day I was thinking and thinking about 2010... What have I accomplished in 2010, hmmmmm.

Exactly- Nothing! There's nothing that stands out to me when I think about last year. This year however is another story and even the past two weeks; WOW!

My memory is not the greatest but I will try to describe the past two weeks and the progress we have made.

Today is Friday April 22nd; the deadline I have been given to resubmit my taxes because they were rejected on Monday April 18th; the official tax day. This is the first year that I have procrastinated till the very last minute regarding taxes, but with so much on my mind you can see why.

Since the beginning of the year we have been working diligently on preparing the "track car" to finally hit the street. We're talking about paint, suspension, brakes, wiring, heart transplant, etc. you name it. Not to mention building two cars at the same time. That is two motor swaps, two sets of coil overs, two suspension packages, wire tucks, custom turbo kits, Cusco 2way diffs, custom exhaust, gauges, -AN fittings, you name it.

Now I have seen a few cars come together over night, however being crunch for time... All the time as a full-time father, full-time student, full-time employee, etc. balancing multiple hobbies and interest including auto motives, wrestling, long distance running, the gym, and spirituality; time is a very value asset I rarely see.

Finally allowing additional hands in the pot reaching out to longtime friends for assistance the building process has been much smoother.

Going back two weeks ago...

Track car is at Boost Junkyz and were considering plans of building the "right" turbo kit for the use of the car. Plan is the occasional drift events both local and neighboring states and they styling of driving I'm eager to engage in; time-attack. So with careful consideration and after reading many write ups and watching all the production videos we decided on the new BorgWarner Engineered For Racing (EFR) turbo. With plenty research and Full-Race's backing all lights were Go!

Once the decision was made the turbo arrived in less than a week, perfect timing. With the turbo in his has Daniel jump right on top and at that point assumed position as crew chief. Within less than one full week Daniel fabricated the manifold and down pipe.

With the hardest part completed the pressure grew, knowing this is "my" building meaning I am in charge of the funding I sat down to review what is needed to get this car on the road to show gratitude for those who helped with the progress.

Crunching numbers and parts needed... In my mind there was no way we could get the track car on the street and presentable within the time requested.

Up to-date; we are now at Wednesday April 13th about 8pm I arrive at the shop to check the progress of the master piece. Subconsciously knowing we’re currently underfunded and short on time to have the track car on the streets within the month; I presented the idea to bolt the kit to the street car.

Idea accepted... all is Go

Thursday night Daniel and I meet at the shop removing the 3076 top mount turbo kit less than one hour and a day ahead of schedule we leave the shop feeling accomplished. Now that the new EFR turbo kit is tested and sitting pretty on the street car we reconvene Friday after work to complete the final bolt, test, and tune.

Before meeting Friday evening I called Efrian at Suspicious Garage Friday afternoon with a last minute request to purchase the brake line relocation kit just in case the turbo sat too close to the master cylinder. Not only did he come through with the last minute request he also made a custom oil line and has no idea how much he helped out. See the standard Garrett turbos use a -3 oil feed line while the new EFR turbo' use -4 and after searching around all day Daniel was unable to find and adapter to make the previous top mount oil line work with the new kit. Thank you Suspicious Garage!

So kit is complete and all lines made fit like a dream. It is Friday night and now time to drive!

At start up car sounds fine, it maintains idle at 1000 rpm, no coolant leaks, no smoke, all signs point toward Go!

We hit the street at about 10pm; the first thing that comes to my mind is damn! That's a quick spool. Going from a t3 traditional ram horn style top mount feeding the 30R monster to now a t2 housing 67/58 there is a considerable difference in both spool and response.

First pull down the street the main difference noticed is the EFR never loses spool/boost. Now when you're driving and slightly accelerating but not truly accelerating for speed the turbo will spool and recirculate unused vacuum. Its trip at first was we are used to hearing the blow off valve between shifting gears or as we back off the accelerator. This internal bov or better known as the recirculating valve works 100% on its own. Talk about turbo efficiency!

On to the freeway pull I can definitely see a difference in power band compared to the 30r.

The EFR's power-band would be more comparable to a 2871 a smooth incline compared to the hit like a ton of bricks feeling generally larger turbo produce. IF we were forced to compare the BorgWarner to the Garrett series turbo I definitely recommend the BorgWarner EFR. This scenario of swapping turbo on the street car could not have played out more perfectly if it were a movie script. Previously I research the options of running a 2871 top mount turbo because I've always desired the spool/response since the departure with the coupe, but strayed away for a few reasons:

- The turbo inlet housing (clock) location caused and issue and though it had been done before it was a custom setup.
- The 2871 is rated up to 400hp and I definitely plan for more than 400 horse power.
- The 5 bolt exhaust housing...

The next option was purchasing a 3071 with is rated to up to 460hp. Therefore, I sacrificed turbo response for the best option at the time which allowed room to grow and a sufficient potential horse power rating of 500hp; GT3076.

Now driving the BorgWarner EFR 67/58 the street car has instant response about 3000 rpm or slightly sooner depending on acceleration. With the power-band of the comparable to the 2871 but the horsepower rating comparable to the 30R and a level of efficiency all alone I believe we made the best choice.

Not only is the turbo efficient in design but in cost as well. I recall purchasing my 30r for $1300, the 90 degree inlet extension $50-$100, purchasing the Tial blow off valve $260, and purchasing the Tial 44mm MVR wastegate $350. The cost quickly increases before you know it.

The BorgWarner is equipped with the internal wastegate and re-circulatory valve. Saving cost on an external gate and blow off valve the EFR series are already v-band turbos which come equipped with the boost solenoid which again saves money.

I'm excited to see the power band and actual horse power numbers on my street car hopefully next week. This has been an exciting journey with much more to come!

Stay tuned and we'll see shortly!

Finally an update.... right... HOME Stretch

2011-04-05T00:21:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since the last update; though I wish I had more time to dedicate like before it's just not there. So I try to make progress when I find time available. The current updates have had more hands in the pot than just mine. It's almost becoming a mini team build in a way. Ralph had helped me with painting the interior and engine bay when I had a week off of school. Now Daniel has blessed the track car with his special touch and one of the most important Fascist of the build.... Turbo kit.

I had used Daniel’s (Boost Junkyz-602-421-1504) services before and was thoroughly impressed with the turnaround time, superb quality, and straight and forward prices.

When I went to Daniel with the idea and opportunity he immediately jumped on board and said yes! Project mayhemwas 100% full go forward from there on, as soon as the turbo arrived the kit was complete start to finish within one week.

After much research we decide to go with the first BorgWarner 67/58 top mount SR20Det turbo kit for immediate turbo response, accessibility, and simplicity while every other Nissan is swapping Sr's for domestic lsx motor transplants, etc.

Not going to lie, if I had 12 thousand laying around I would also swap a lsx into the track car. However, I must live within my means. Not to mention the 67/58 is 500 horsepower capable with a spool and power band that will feel similar to the v8 minus the obnoxiously sound.

The new BorgWarner turbo only make sense.

The Engineered For Racing (EFR) turbine wheels are comprised primarily of titanium and aluminum with approximate 1:1 turbine: compressor weight ratio which dramatically improves turbo response.

Utilizing the t2 housing and proportionate runners there is no need for twin scroll.

The feature which attracted me the most is the convenience of the compressor bypass valve,boost control solenoid, and wastegate all combined within the turbo.

Before for EFR was released I had been researching options to clock the Garrett 3071 to position as a top mount set up. However, the options to do so seemed to drastic compared to the BorgWarner EFR. I would have had to purchase the turbo, purchase a Tail wastegate, and the Tail blow off valve.

The street car is running the same SR20Det swap as the track car with the 525hp rated Garrett 3076 top mount set up compared to the 500hp 58/67. At the end of the month I we're able to post dyno numbers to directly compare both set ups.

I'll try to update regularly as the build is now piecing itself together.

lil Fab work

2011-02-24T22:50:00.000-08:00

Daniel @ Boost Junkyz help with my much needed battery box; super durable and perfect fit!

This battery is going anywhere!

300z/ 5 lug Brake upgrade

2011-02-20T06:39:00.000-08:00

There's plenty information floating around the World Wide Web how to complete the infamous z32 front and rear brake upgrade. In fact, most are overlooking the previous "big brake" swap and going even bigger with the z33 brake upgrade. As the stories goes, if you try to keep up with the Jones's you will never finish your car; it will always be a project.

This year is dedication 2011
Representing the idea of staying focused and executing task.
Mind you I've had this "track car" in my possession for a few years now and it has not seen one day on the track. So for now I will have to call it my potential track car as I attempt to stay focused to one day see this car enjoying a manful life of tire shredding, smoke bearing, motor revving, sideways glory.
That's the dream and I'm sticking to it.
Back to this weekends' progress and this weekend is not close to being over just yet. Today is the annual IFO - Import Face Off down in Tucson. There will be drag racing, car show, and maybe a drift session if I recall correctly. However, I cannot enjoy watching others preform as mine sits so close to being finished. With Monday being a holiday I'll have additional time to advance on the project with a little preparation.

One thing I've come to have is a profound respect for is the build process itself. Previously thinking about those who would pay somebody else to build their car as a lesser individual. Now considering all the time, work, and effort involved in even the simplest of processes and the headaches with limited tools and time. I can see why someone would turn to an automotive shop. Allow the specialist to do what they do best!

This weekend I jacked up the rear-end of the car, dropped the rear sub frame and gas tank. I still need to find a proper procedures to dispose of the 5 year old gas in the tank, in due time.

Removing the sub frame from the 95 240sx I noticed every sub frame bushing had ripped/torn apart from its original design. This car was an automatic before I added the five speed master cylinder and hardware last week. Differential and sub frame bushing upgrade is a must from here on out. After researching the options of ploy urethane and solid bushing I have decided to go with solid. The car being gutted from the original sound deadening material will allow noise to travel either way. With the solid bushings in place there should be less play in the suspension while driving.

With the rear-end up in the air it was the perfect time to complete the 5 lug and 300z brake upgrade.

I had the brakes powder coated a while ago but never got around to completing the install. Fronts were a direct replacement that took maybe 10 minutes. I captured a few pictures with the good old G1 as a reference to the install.

Step 1.
-Jack up the car from the rear-end
-Position jack stands to support car
-Remove axles completely from vehicle

(at this point you have two options- some may prefer to remove the e-brake cables- I on the other had complete the brake upgrade with out removing the original e-brake cable until it was time to install the newer conversion cable. I thought this was helpful to ensure you're using the right cable on each side)

-Remove the two bolts holding the rear caliper in place
-Remove caliper off the rotor (some may slide easily while rusted rotors will require force)
-Remove the rotor
-Remove the four bolts holding the hub in place
-Remove hub and dust shield.

Step 2.
-clean the center of the rear uprights before installing 5 lug hubs (light sand paper and wd-40)
-Place 300z dust shield to upright
-Install 5 lug hubs
-Insert studs through the upright into hub
-Install e-brake cables
-Install rotors
-Install 300z calipers

Step 3.
-Once both sides are complete adjust your e-brake cable to make upgrade functional.

New direction

2011-02-13T23:43:00.000-08:00

So I started de-looming the stock chassis harness from the 1995 240sx. Starting mapping out the engine bay wire tuck along with the ugly ugly chassis wiring that seems to hide in huge bundles under the dash when other attempt to relocate their fuse boxes.

After de-looming just the chassis harness inside of the cabin, before even getting to the engine bay I realize there has to be a better way. All the work involved would be so time consuming; to get the chassis harness to its desirable length almost 4 feet of wires would need to be removed. Same goes for the front chassis harness (engine bay). With the fuse relocation in place approximately 4 feet of unnecessary wire length would need to be de-loomed, measured, cut, soldered, wrapped, and loomed again.

The question at hand is if is worth it to me in the case of my "track car," which it was worth it with the street car to keep all the stock accessories etc. However, in this case with the "track car" I was unsure if the wiring time was worth the opportunity to utilize the stock speedometer, water temp, oil pressure, fuel, and other stock gauges on the bezel.

I decided NO, it's not worth the time which is very limited in my case and headache to complete such a complex wiring job for a track car.

Therefore the new wiring project will begin shortly, custom fuse box, all new wires, clips, stealthy shrink wrap.... The works.

In the meantime I'm in pursuit of locating the "right" motor for a heart transplant.

LS1 anyone?.... Message if I you have a killer deal :)

trying to manage..

2011-02-01T19:56:00.000-08:00

Time is one thing I can't seem to locate these days...

Work, school, Dion, the shop...

Always needing to be somewhere every moment I blink my eyes. Eh oh well this is life as we know it and to do work one must sacrifice a little sleep.

Trying to make progress, hopefully I'll complete the motor swap within the coming weeks.

For now have begun the chassis harness reduction and will then complete the engine bay tuck.

100% complete chassi harness all stock 1995 Nissan 240sx 108,000miles- oh boy.

That's just for starters-

2011-01-22T09:28:00.000-08:00

Slow but steady.

Full time work, school, and demanding son does not always allow me to spend the time in the garage as I would like. Sitting in a cube daily definitely doesn't help the process either.

Work on the track car may seem slow.... but steady. Finally got around to spraying the main portion of the shell. Still need to paint the hood and doors and over fenders once they arrive, after I order them :)

This car should come together fairly easy once the paint process is complete, almost there.

2011-01-22T08:56:00.000-08:00

Barrett Jackson 40th year Anniversary Auto Auction 1971-2011

Monday night Jared and I spent the evening enjoying a special preview of all the cars being auctioned off to the public and highly paid professionals. The world's best collector cars and antiques.

Such an awesome event! If you have never been you should definitely plan to attend the next Barrett Jackson Classic car auto auction.

Practice Practice Practice

2011-01-02T22:50:00.000-08:00

Definitely utilized the two week fall break between classes; made progress on both the daily driver and track car.

Practice makes perfect..... one day

OG wheels

Weekend warrior

2010-12-29T21:10:00.000-08:00

Economy sucks

Gas Prices are high

Daily driving great distance

So I did the math and realize my 6.0 Chevy 2500 is not the best vehicle for daily driving especially using premium gas... O_o

In preparation for a productive New Year spending less on unnecessary expenses I acquired the Honda civic. From 13 miles per gallon to 35 miles per gallon... The civic will do the trick.

Civic used strictly for daily driving, being the #1 stolen car in America I had to add security features. In addition I couldn’t roll the bucket in its stock condition. She's showing signs of aging.

Decided a facelift is needed to improve her self-esteem.

Saturday spent time sanding, sanding, wet sanding, and more sanding.

With progress made I was able to mask off and spray Monday night.

Facelift complete ready to roll.

Track Car waiting its turn...
Need to finish glassing inner fender panels and minor body work first

Movin on to Paint (100% GARAGE BUILT)

2010-12-18T19:19:00.000-08:00

Over the last two weekends Ralph and I have been working through the "prep" process of the track car. Though it may one day see a wall among other possibilities, we like to ride in style. Putting forth a little extra work now will definitely pay off later.

Moving on toward paint; interior and engine bay were both primered last Saturday, this Saturday the interior was ready for paint. The color for the interior and exterior were Purchased from ADCO (http://adcopaint.com) located at 67th Ave and Orange wood Ave (623 842-4470).

Always use ADCO; the family owned business has proven helpful countless times. I'm no body expert so any advice they give is golden in my book.

Purchased new paint guns, da sander, paint, and materials. Building a car is not cheap!!!

New spray guns are more accurate and lay paint maybe ten times better than the Harbor freight ones we started with. - live and learn

With a little more body work to go and over fenders to order tomorrow the exterior should be ready to paint next weekend.

excuse the crappy "G1" cell phone pics; I know I'm overdue for an upgrade

Hittin the streets

2010-12-12T18:38:00.000-08:00

Karlo, Damin, and I cruised the streets tonight just to enjoy the weather.

What other state offers 90degree weather mid-day December and 80degrees at night; only Arizona.

Few quick pics

Track Car on the way....

2010-12-06T19:18:00.000-08:00

This weekend Dionte and I spent time working on our track car; 95 240sx slick top.
Finally time to finish the body work and move on to paint.
Thanks to Ralph at RJ's(602-487-5410)for helping shave the engine bay.

Side note...

2010-11-28T22:33:00.001-08:00

Little Thanksgiving fun with the boys.

Went riding Thursday and returned with missing skin... O_o

Nothing like the great out doors!

Alignment

2010-11-28T22:01:00.000-08:00

Finally found some time with this last weekend to work on the s14.

Drove down to Dysart and I-10 to get the alignment special.

By the way this is the only shop I trust with my wheels even though the building is yellow. Ask for DoeBoy or Cain, other shops have turned their backs when in bring in my double sided 19 chrome wheels. One manager said I never seen a tire like this, "how in the world did they make it stretch".

Only trust Llantera LLamas

Any who car sits pretty now waiting a gangster pull (fender roll)

Started with outrageous toe and -4.5 degrees of camber on one rear wheel while the other sat at -3.5

Very content with adjustment; running 265/35 on 18x10+15 with -.5 degrees of camber.

Prime

2010-10-31T14:16:00.000-07:00

spent the morning preping the cage for paint. Not bad for two dollar cans of primer and Arizona heat to bake it.

A day to do work....

2010-10-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

Ran around all day starting at 8am though plans were to begin working on the track car early in the morning. Either way progress was in order this weekend, from yard work to driving all over town to prep for paint with the track car.

Today I focused on body prep; I had planned to primer the car to allow plenty time to wet sand once again before paint. Obviously that did not happen.

Previously I should have premiered my caged as soon as it was purchased from Full-Race. However that was not the case, but you live and learn. To clean the surface rust created from the rainy season I purchased scotch brite. I used the same method on the cage of soapy water and scotch brite as prepping the exterior of the car.

Much thanks to my buddy Karlo who helped with the entire meticulous task completed today.

After almost two years of sitting on the shell it feels good to see everything coming together...

Back together

2010-10-23T23:20:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we were honored by a visit from Brad and Mr. Teddy Phuthanhdanh (http://mulsanne.wordpress.com) to bring the Top Flight,AZ family back together again. What started out as a beautiful 80 degree sunshine and blue skies Saturday, ended with a 3 hour brunch hugs and high fives.

"Takin it back old school"

TF Boys rallied together Saturday at the Fire Bird Raceway to support local drivers in competition at the XDC-Xtreme Drift Circuit Phx,AZ. That is after a couple issues *cough* brad still running ka trying to pass emissions... *cough*

We all made it to the track; the lay out was very nice. Better than XDC Vegas with this super long high speed high power entry which reminded all of Red Bull World Championship at Port of Long Beach a year or two ago. I believe the entry speed topped out at 104 miles per hour at full lock! crazy fast.

At XDC Mike Burns, Joe Haven, and Vitaly Sopkin all repped Arizona to the fullest bringing heat Friday and Saturday: way to go! There were MANY fast cars on the track and some upsets to say the least concluding the event.

In all a beautiful weekend with enough tire smoke to motiviate Raymond to wrench on his car.

video found online (sick find bradd)

XDC Round 6 Finals-Phoenix, AZ from Corey Denomy on Vimeo.

-Sunday-

Breakfast with the team.... Must repeat as soon as possible.

back in the driver seat

2010-10-09T23:15:00.001-07:00

quick update- sr swap was successful- currently running- need to find money and time to tune- local event less than a week away

Follow up

2010-09-08T10:51:00.000-07:00

Started the track car build long ago and has been on the back burner ever since.

This is the Do Work month!

Track car is out of storage, back home, and ready to ride.

2 weeks ago i stay up till 2am with scotchbrite lightly sanding the roll cage to get the surface rust from our famous monsoon season.

car as pictured two weeks ago; this week ill be working on shaving the bay and preping for paint.

Plans for the track car is to keep it simple; sr20,t28,tuning,oem aero,suspension,wheels,seat time!

will update....

The Prodigy continues....

2010-08-29T14:01:00.000-07:00

The time has come for the marvelous 73 to be passed down to the next generation.

well maybe not but I am incharge of the full restoration.

My uncles has own, built, and loved his truck for nearly 40 years.

One last request is to drive the 800hp beast one more time.

Micky Thompson street/strips tires, deep dish wheels, for 9" w/510 gears, and the huge 400 block punched is quite the beast.

Truck has had many glory days on the streets and it is time to make it happen agian!

I'll try to update the restoration/build as much as possible but this will be a long one. Much body, paint, and clean up is needed.

Here she is...

Heart transplant

2010-08-27T08:24:00.000-07:00

Finally decided to put the infamous sr to use so to prep the s13 sr I decided a few upgrades should be ordered;

ARP head studs
APEXI metal head gasket
S14 water pump
pilot bushing

Finally found some time to clean exterior of sr, reassemble oil pans w/new sealant, attach brackets and accessories, install head gasket, have Efrain set timing, add clutch kit, and tranny.

KA, SR, LS1....

2010-08-20T07:38:00.000-07:00

It's not that the ka-t was not fun, not the case at all. The process/cost of building a ka-t is not worth the investment of value or time you put into the 2.4 truck motor when compared to similar markets in my opinion.

No matter how you look at it the SR20DET is the new B-series as well the Ls1 swap is the new K-series.

You have your loyalist to a certain motor or style but in all reality technology continues to advance and there are so many ways to make the power you desire with the power band you want by spending a little more on a motor designed to perform the way you want it to factory.

Where does the ka sit?..... Somewhere around the d-series motor.....

It's not that it can't be done, it's not something new either, it's that most people realize they will have to put more time, money, and heartache compare to purchasing a better designed motorset.

Granted you can boost a ka24de or d-series motor for cheap, using cheap eBay kits, which last in some cases and pop on the first run in others.

For those people just remember you get what you pay for.....

SR20's comparable to B series as the enthusiast market is flooded with parts as well as tech write-ups and downloadable DIY information. Not to mention both motors can willingly rev higher rpm's then their rivals. One huge plus for those seeking higher horse power or different powerbands compared to stock.

Upgrading to the Ls1 or K-series will cost money, similar to when B-series swaps were first introduced into the US market. At the same time more enthusiast are realizing the power, potential, and simplicity of reaching their goals when upgrading to either motor.

The issue is 100% opinion based!

You may want a stock SR swap and AC for your daily.
You may want a B-series turbo and AC for your daily.
You may desire twice the horse power of either stock swap, if so you may end up paying close to $7500 in aftermarket parts to reach your goal and that does not include building the motor internally.

Some who have been "in the game" sort a-speak and have spent time, effort, and their annual income building and maintain their cars have realize the cost effectiveness of purchasing a well-built/better performing stock motor from start.

If you plan on adding highly esteemed upgrades to your B-series or SR swap you will more than likely end up paying nearly the same amount for a stock K-series or Ls1 into your import.

It's all about preference and availability of funds.

TO EACH HIS OWN... whatever you so desire I wish you the best.

Remember

If its Cheap and fast it's not reliable
If its Fast and reliable it's not cheap
If its Reliable and cheap it's not fast

- D.P.

WHAT Happened?!?!?!?!.......

2010-08-04T17:14:00.000-07:00

Every builder is excited about the build process and nothing ever goes as planned, understandable. However that does not mean a build process that should only take 1-2months should actually take 8-10 months. Time can definitely kill your interest in a project. I wanted to try something new and I did. Each step in the process that was to be completed by someone other than myself took a significant amount of time.

In fact my car would sit around for months at a time without being worked on. Anyway as the process began to fall closer to the end a little excitement came back.

Fast forward.

Car is complete, running but working out issues.

I removed the car from the tuner's shop after only one dyno pull to fix the voltage issue which limited efficiency.

Once the voltage issue was fixed the car drove fine! Full boost of 7psi at 3500 rpm 300hp on super duper base tune. Plenty room to grow.

Ka-T, 3076, ARP head studs, Felpro head gasket, Precision 1000cc injectors, Map senor, Wideband, and stand alone management.

Car had plenty room to grow.

Driving around Saturday at full boost any chance I got was the funniest part of the build.

Until it blew.....

Tial 44mm waist gate- a vacuum line backed out therefore boosting the psi to 20lbs.

Fixed the waist gate and two runs later car died and would not start.

At that point I became upset with the total downtime of the build; I was not 100% happy with the build assuming the custom fabrication I purchased should have been better quality for the amount I paid. Mixed emotions

That night I posted the motor set up for sale, the next day I disassembled the motor and pulled it from the car.

As much money spent on the simple setup I figured I could have built the car in the direction I originally intended to.

Parts sold, cash in hand, new build begins....

Car will be running in less than 4 weeks guaranteed.

To be continued……

Quick update

2010-07-20T13:18:00.000-07:00

Building cars suck!

Nothing ever happens on time.

One of these days I will drive I guarantee it.

- All jokes aside just waiting on tuner to return home and bang we're golden.

1 step away...

2010-07-09T11:56:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of pictures.. been running directly from work to the shop to finish up the car.

Car starts but had a few issues we had to figure out-

power cable gauge is too small for necessary current

intake manifold gaskets failed

wastegate was wide open-missing fire ring

Ordered new 5mm heat releaving itm gasket from http://www.phase2motortrend.com/ should be in mid next week and reassemble to test and tune.

Just one step away.

Stickers... Stickers... Stickers FOR SALE

2010-07-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

YOUR opportunity to grab the Top Flight singature sticker while supplies last.

$6.00 a sticker- email me or leave comment and contact info if interested- willing ship.

Proceeds will go towards Camera equiptment to cover Arizona's Largest Cash PayOut Drift Event - from http://www.trailbyfire.com/

Please check out:
http://www.trialbyfire.org/
http://www.allstarcarbattle.com/

status

2010-07-06T07:11:00.000-07:00

Wiring on the s14 will be complete today, car cranks, next will be test and tune and should be drive able this weekend.

Recap

2010-06-24T22:40:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through my online photo album and ran across a few cars I built between 2006-2009

My red coupe

My 95 Red Integra w/ JDM frontend conversion

My 98 Black GSR

My white coupe- so quick

My Black s14

Each project is an accomplishment when complete.

Last piece of the puzzle

2010-06-24T06:51:00.000-07:00

To complete the last piece of the puzzle I visited Jon at Future Fab yesterday.

Jon made the bracket which holds the increased spark of the Ls2 coil packs.

Definitely better than using the stock distributor. Hopefully the next update will include pics of the s14 on the road.

Found these videos on "GoodFeeling" blog

2010-06-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

Worth watching 100%
Appreciate the beauty- found these videos on Good feeling blog.
Enjoy

Hayaku: A Time Lapse Journey Through Japan from Brad Kremer on Vimeo.

The Third & The Seventh from Alex Roman on Vimeo.

Time to go ridin

2010-06-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

Up date on the car is there is no update... Still waiting my turn in line to be tuned things have been so busy at the Dyno shop. I have witnessed how busy they have been. My turn is this week- Yay - now that's an update!

Once the car is drivable the actual fun begins! Must fine the right stance for comfort and performance, time for repaint, and fix all the possible problems that come with building a car from scratch inside of your garage. Looking forward to driving the most.

I got tired of not going fast in any form, obviously you need to keep it off the streets and without a car I have not made any track events.

So I bought a quad.

Honda 400ex

So today Brian and I decided it was time to go riding. I was a blast and now I can't wait to drive my car even more. Speed must have triggered the void I've been feeling for 8 months now... Soon though.

June 5th- Santa Monica- HellaFlush.com meet

2010-06-01T22:52:00.000-07:00

Tune up!

2010-05-30T17:41:00.001-07:00

Waiting around for the call to transport my car to tuning allowed for the perfect opportunity to utilize such a beautiful day with perfect weather conditions.

Friday night I found myself wondering the aisles of Checker Autoparts, my seem weird but we always run in and grab what we need.... Never find time to just relax and review available products.

In fact, Checker performance stores are actually carrying decent products such as -AN fittings and more performance product by brands then ever before.

Anyway I purchased all necessary products Friday night and spent Saturday morning installing, swapping, and flushing.

Starting to reach high mileage about 130 so tune up was definitely necessary.

Included;

Tranny flush, new filter, new fluids

Oil change

Serpentine belt

AC belt

K&N Air filter

Iridium spark plugs

Performance spark plug wires

On the ground ready to roll

2010-05-25T23:42:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I was able to wrap up the lose ends within the engine compartment and get the car on the ground.

Few suspension adjustments and we'll be ready to rock for enginemanagement this weekend.

- see ya soon adam

weekend plans

2010-05-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Defiantly plan on doing work and finishing the engine compartment.

Once intake manifold and all piping are installed the car will be shipped to tuning.

The moment will bring a tear to my eye- no homo.

will update as often as possible.

Top mount

2010-05-09T17:57:00.001-07:00

Practically completed driver side within the engine bay today, mounted turbo, manifold, and downpipe.

more to come

Progression

2010-05-08T22:17:00.000-07:00

-AN

began reassembling the engine bay, still have a little wiring to do- other than that it should be coming together rather quickly.

The bay

2010-05-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

The last few months have sucked!

been with out my car
no work was being done though paid for
school is boring
still procrastinate
each week went buy and still no car

Not to mention I haven't driven and fast, fun, or exciting car in at least 6 months.

The closest thing I got to fun, fast, or exciting was sitting in the cockpit of the fully built cosworth 06 STI. Such a beautiful ride...

Finally I was able to tow my car home Saturday. Best day ever-this week....

Today we reassembled the head components. Plan to completely reassemble engine bay and drive train by Saturday night, working on project between full time work, full time school.... Who needs sleep when you can drive fast?......

back together again

Candy?

2010-03-31T08:55:00.000-07:00

Thank you Toni
Fast Powder Coating
53rd Ave Montebello Ave
Glendale, AZ 85301
623-847-4347

Payne Vs. ARP

2010-03-15T13:20:00.001-07:00

Received vocal guidance from Pat as I changed my head gasket.

Any body can take it apart but putting it back together properly is where most fail.

Time to torque the head to spec... Must have read the torque wrench wrong

Foot pounds were too much for ARP

Payne 1 > ARP 0

Support group (left to right/ red to purple) Farmer John, Mr. FaShiOn over Function, Pat, & Rico suave.

Keep it clean

2010-03-15T09:15:00.000-07:00

Work, school and the little man leave barly anytime to work on the whip.

Thank goodness for after hours.

Wednesday, Thursday and Friday night along with three sauder tips allowed just enough time to start/complete the fusebox relocation/wire tuck.

It was a firest and definatley needed!

Payne>stock Nissan harness!

Morning Cruise...

2010-03-07T20:41:00.000-08:00

TF meeting to cover this year's LBC D1 event @ Black Bear diner then a quick cruise.

Always keep the camera on...

Scrubbing Bubbles

2010-03-06T20:26:00.000-08:00

Had a few items cleaned and ready to install.

New power steering relocation prt.2

2010-03-06T20:11:00.001-08:00

Install 20 minutes
effort 3/10
simplicity priceless

Also installed oil pan

Power steering Relocation kit

2010-03-06T00:02:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Efrian @ Suspicious Garage

custom power steering relocation kit.

Support Local Talent!...... VOTE NOW!

2010-02-19T23:14:00.000-08:00

Hawaii/Arizona native Forrest Wang to represent in Wrecked Magazine ONLY if you place your vote!

>>>copy into the address bar..GO Vote>>> http://www.wreckedmagazine.com/blog/2010/02/15/what-2010-story-are-you-most-looking-forward-to-at-long-beach/

According to Wrecked Magazine (2010),"We have made our picks and placed our votes so let us know what story you think is the biggest of 2010"

You know it's a good day.....

2010-02-19T16:29:00.000-08:00

When;

you get off early

daylight outside

beat the traffic

package arrives on time

Lopers is open

all before making it home at 5......

Big Tanks to AMS for being responsive and reliable

But when do you know if your a AN whore?.......

Performance Part Specialist (Lopers Performance 602-264-5288)

2010-02-14T20:32:00.000-08:00

Drove down to Lopers Performance store managed to buy all lines and fittings needed to make my feed and return lines.

First time I assembled AN fittings on lines and feel pretty good about it. Now only if they're assembled correctly :0

The new steel braided line Lopers sells is soooo flexible you wouldn't believe it until you feel it. I know they changed vendors but not sure who makes this new line.

here you go finish product

Moving along.. getting ready for test, tuning, paint

2010-02-11T22:48:00.000-08:00

Now its time to custom fab all powersteering lines, oil cooler kit, turbo lines, etc.

Car is finally home and we have a 3 day weekend :)

well see how it turns out

On to the next Step!...

2010-02-06T19:47:00.000-08:00

Got down with some gansta work today- Started and finish the custom intake manifold.

finishing pics will be up soon.

Testing take #2...

2010-01-09T19:37:00.000-08:00

LLantera Llamas @ Main & Central

The one shop I trust with my new wheels...

FAB time w/Daniel @ BoostJunkyz

2010-01-08T08:00:00.000-08:00

If you recall I purchased a 97 Nissan 204sx Slick Top

Build begun sometime durning fall of 09.

First there was just a shell, then the Ka-T (Greddy 20G kit), now custom top mount and goodies.

1 step at a time; quick recap of my project. This will be the new street car so 300+ hp is mandatory!

Up grades will include T3 top mount, 3076, v-bands (for extra powa), custom intake manifold, more fuel, new management, etc..... Should be fun.

first...

then...

now... (the T-3 Top-mount manifold was custom created to fit without any modification to stock parts; no cutting of powersteering brackets and zero relocation of stock parts neccessary! -Excelent work done @ Boost Junkyz)

FOR Local Fab work Westside of Phoenix contat Daniel @ BoostJunkyz 602-421-1504

Do'n work... & a lil test fit

2010-01-08T07:38:00.001-08:00

Finally got some time to test fit my wheels.

18x10-16 18x11-16

We're home... 18x10+15

2009-12-25T01:43:00.000-08:00

Wheels are in....

2009-12-17T19:24:00.000-08:00

Pics up soon. Wheels for the daily are home

I'm bringing Sexy Back!....

2009-11-24T13:11:00.000-08:00

soon enough you will know what I'm talking about!

You will not be disappointed I swear!

Now I'm just waiting till I get off of work!

SHUT'n Down the Block!!! Old School Style

2009-11-14T12:35:00.001-08:00

True car enthusiast come together for one common interest...

Cars

This group happens to be classic car enthusiast that know how to Shut Down The Block, Saturday morning.

Neighbor Keith allows friends to congregate at his residence to admire his new shop with the celebration of noise.

LOUD Noise!

ever sat 3 feet from a 1000 horse power dragster as it's cranked?....

Trust me, if you had... you'd never forget it! (ear plugs please)

Enjoy the pics from today's classic car show in celebration of Keith's shop!

And... The Shop / full of antiques you couldn't find if you tried (so you better see keith if you like what you see... shhhh)

This man is a living legend! (Frank)

More Classics

Go Coyotes!

2009-11-01T08:12:00.001-08:00

Last night was the most exciting Coyotes game I've attended in years:

6 rows from the floor

The most fights I've ever witnessed at a hockey game

Double overtime

Coyotes Win

And Muhammad Ali was 15-20 rows above me

Let's eat

2009-10-25T00:26:00.000-07:00

while getting work done today I received a phone call...

He said let's eat!

So we ate!

Thanks to his mom's gourmet cookin, I feel good.

1 for the Streetz 1 for the Track

2009-10-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

Quick update on my street car.....

The past two months have allowed me to convert this.....

To this....

Tubbs are in.....

2009-10-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Purchased from Joe.... My Tubbs!

1 step closer

Last night Alex and I picked up the car from Joe and dropped it off at the body shop!

AZ's sickest work comes from this little body shop! - stay tunned

Let the fun begin

quick update

2009-10-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

here is a quick update. . . so the track care has been on the back burner roasting like a chestnut. . .

So I figured there's no time like the present. lol

Last week Alex and I towed the car to Joe's house for a little cutting and welding. (bout time)

here is the before pic, hopefully the car will look different when picked up tonight :)

Morning Inspiration

2009-10-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

Morning Inspiration

. . . I know you may have viewed the following video, but it still vital for daily inspiration!

Of course www.SPEEDHunters.com is rockin the house with unique one on one driver profiles.

If you have not viewed ALL videos Please do so.

THE VAUGHN GITTIN JR IN CAR EXPERIENCE from The SpeedHunters on Vimeo.

streetz- - -TF @ it Again

2009-09-28T17:28:00.000-07:00

Time for a cruse before dinner...

It's been a while

2009-09-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

With the addition of school, I have been very busy and apologize for the lack of updates!

The car is on the ground and I WILL update the build soon.

As for now in is "Under construction" state... The boys and I went out for some grub and a cruise

Brad Lim and Harrison Friend are at it again...

2009-08-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Never a inch short of perfection!

The Top Flight boys Brad Lim and Harrison Friend are at it again...

Thanks for taking your personal time to cover the Ziptied All Star Bash and bringing quality video back to Arizona.

Keep up the tremendous effort, from the entire Drift community in Arizona!

TF Crew X Justdrift / Ziptied All Star Bash 2009 (ASB 2009, July 25-26, Willow Springs) from Team TopFlight on Vimeo.

Ziptied All STAR BASH Round 3- Tell me why?...

2009-08-01T17:48:00.000-07:00

I think I may have witnessed the beginning of the new "Honda" sorta speak...

Remember back when Honda's were the only option available, or that's the way main stream made it seem.

Due to certain aspects associated with the different crowds of Honda enthusiast, some individuals begun seeking new vehicles to enthuse.

Of course the main objective being to "soup up" a vehicle to ones' preference in a costly manner.

In the late 90's individuals started to notice the US Nissan 240sx and the JDM Silvia and Skyline options.

Bringing us to present... The amazing popularity of the Drift scene.

Accordingly, supply and demand of these vehicles have changed along side the economic trends with the ups and downs.

At times we witness these vehicles being posted for sale as if they were gold.

One can only agree that the majority of vehicles used in the Drift community are the Nissan 240sx's 89-98, with the oh so fun rear wheel drive aspect!

Not to mention you can practically drop any motor in the perfect geometric design of the Nissan chassis.

However, this last weekend at the Ziptied All STAR BASH something caught my eye.

It was very apparent of the respect demanded by two individuals.

As you've come to assume by now, they were not Nissan 240sx's.

But these two individuals have undoubtedly made a spectacle with the smoke clouds trailing their rear tires. . .

Thank you Team Top Flight .blogspot .com for the impressive photos.

Being light in weight, small in size, and affordable in price; I can only imagine the increase in Rx-7(s) driving in events to come.

Ziptied ALL STAR BASH Round 2- AZ Dedication

2009-07-31T18:39:00.000-07:00

Special dedication to local Arizona driver who made the effort to drive across the our desert to California's desert and drift for two days in 105 degree weather.

I believe his name is Chase...

Just kidding.

You already know him.

The Willowsprings race track is considered one of the fastest tracks on the West Coast!

This guy had no problem going balls out, even if it took a few try's to fully connect the course.

Many may say I can do that... why did he go off track so much and what not.... blah blah blah

As I road in the chaser car with Jason Aquino I quickly learned how fast and demanding those tracks were.

So if you are one of those who say "I Can Do That".... PROVE IT, such as Chase has.

The pure adrenaline rush you receive during each turn and straight have re-motivated me to get my car in gear.

Not to take away from the post so with out further a due; Chase s13 coupe

Ziptied All STAR BASH Photos Round 1

2009-07-28T18:08:00.000-07:00

This last weekend has been very eventful.

With being able to meet so many grass root drivers, hanging with old friends, and starting new relationships. From South Dakota to California the love for the sport was in the air.

The one on one experiences I received this last weekend has been mind blowing.

From ride-a-longs with experienced drivers such as Jason Aquino of JustDrift.com; it is truly a needed experience for individuals to gain a true love or at least a complete understanding and respect for the intense sport of Drifting.

All STAR BASH Finale (5)

2009-07-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

Thank you to all those who support our effort to bring you grass root event coverage, the way we see it.

We finally arrived home about 11pm last night while others rolled in about 3am this morning.

Continue checking in as there will be more photos to come.

So much to come so little time- ASB (4)

2009-07-25T20:01:00.001-07:00

Don't have much time to write... Just got in the hotel and I'm tired, but you do have MUCH heading your way!

until then....

Time for some Pre-peration! TF style- ASB (3)

2009-07-25T00:35:00.000-07:00

Bring your helmet and get a ride along....

That's the information I received while preparing for 2009 Ziptied All STAR Bash

So of course it's time for PREPeration!... TF Style

shout out; thanks to Bradly Lim wonderful brain which never stops, I thought I'd borrow some of his genius

So I laced my SHOEI helmet TOP FLIGHT style

Then I got laced TOP Flight Style

On the road..... All Star Bash 2009 (2)

2009-07-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

So I got a call from Pat about 12 pm as I was heading back to work from my lunch break/hair cut. Thanks to the homie Jonathan with his newly remolded pimped-out Barber shop on 27th Ave & Glendale.

"I'm going to leave work in 1 hour, can you leave work in an hour so we can get on the road," asked Pat
With this unexpected sense of urgency I got excited and say yes.

Got back to work asked to leave early, got the ok then clocked out.

Now its time to get ready!

Though it's summer time I have not had a chance to buy any shorts this year. Yes I know it's 115 degrees out here..
I definately had to stop for summer clothes after checking the temperature in Willowsprings.
The event is in the middle of the desert and todays temperature was 100 degrees at 1pm.

With only 1 cashier in the store I waisted a full hour, 30 minutes shopping and 30 minutes waisted waiting in line...
Oh well now I have to really rush...

As I arrived home I quickly threw my clothes in the duffel bag and jumped in the shower.
Probably the fastest I've ever gotten ready.

Anyway with everyone rushing bout time we stocked up on water, candy, and umbrellas from Wal-Mart we didn't hit the freeway till 5pm. Oh well Brad & Harry haven't even left yet.

On our way...

the beautiful orange tree

Ridin with the ladies

Alex stuffing his face as always

Pat searching for directions

-BTW don't mind the spelling as I'm typing from my G1....

More trip coverage to come.

Ziptied All Star Bash - July 25th & 26th (1)

2009-07-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

1. You maybe thinking... What is Damien getting into this weekend.
.
2. You now know the answer....

3. The answer is; -Team Top Flight will be traveling to Willow Springs California for the Annual and possibly Final- Ziptied All Star BASH!

4. Your next question will likely be; "What is ASB or All Star Bash?"

5. Allow the previous documentedASB events tell the story

THANKS TO

www.SPEEDHUNTERS.com

All footage can be found @ SpeedHunters.com

http://speedhunters.com/search.aspx?q=all+star+bash

6. Enjoy

Ziptied All Star Bash V from Joshua Herron on Vimeo.

All Star Bash V from Will Roegge on Vimeo.

Ziptied All Star Bash 4 HD from Will Roegge on Vimeo.

AND OF COURSE WE WILL MOST LIKELY DOCUMENT OUR TRIP FOR YOUR VIEWING PLEASURE!

Stay tune...

Finally gettin busy...

2009-07-20T08:22:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like have so much work to do and know you can do it, but have lack of motivation to do so.

That's how I have been feeling about certain task pertaining to my project.

Many important pieces to the puzzle are there but if there is no motivation the puzzle will remain a pile of pieces as most do.

- My problem is/was I installed my 5 lug conversion on one car which I later decided I would not use once I bought my current project. I have had zero motivation this month to remove the necessary parts to transfer over to my current project.

The weekend came and almost left with out touching the car once, until 5:30pm Sunday.

Until that time I was able to cry the same excuse as all residents of Arizona, "it's too hot outside". Seriously though; this Saturday and Sunday in Arizona we reached 111° Fahrenheit. Some News stations say 111° others published 120°, either way it was HOT!

Maybe it's due to the pollution above the city!... (Today at 8:30am it is 104°)

At 5:30pm Sunday an overcast blocked the sun's intense heat. Right at that moment the weather was perfect, or bearable.

Time to turn on some rock and jam-out while removing the differential, axles, and 5 lug conversion.

Now I feel accomplished! One more piece to the puzzle has been connected on the board.

Lil Update

2009-07-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

As previously stated; I have removed the head and head gasket. Next are all pulley systems then time to clean....

Still undecided if I should use this opportunity of extended down time to completely rebuild the motor. Cylinder walls look to be in good shape and motor never smoked. I know it's always better to upgrade or at least a fresh stock rebuild, but the down time is a killer.

At this point one can be so close yet so far away...

Decision process sucks! I'll keep you updated.

Stock head gaskets are not the best, but they do work for a long time.
Mine did not leak oil but I see a little rust at the same point in each cylinder. I

When she comes back together hopefully it looks and preforms better than it did before I got in over my head with this build...

well see,

Before

Keep it off the Streets! - Beautiful Sunday turns to Tragedy

2009-07-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoon after taking care of the more important things; I decided to head north to each lunch near Arrowhead Mall.

Usually I drive north on 75Th ave, but this time I figured the restaurant is on 83rd Ave so I minus well go north from there.

About 2:30pm heading north on 83rd ave; immediately after I pass Cactus road I notice a gold color civic coupe (probably 01-05)speeding south bound. Usually I don't pay attention to the particular vehicle however there was something weird about this one.

As I take a second look the entire front end was damaged/missing. I see damaged cars driving around after car accidents on the streets, but this one stood out because there were body parts still hanging off the car. Also the entire front end (lights, grill, front bumper, corners) were all missing.

As the car passed heading south I looked northward and and 20 yards away I immediately noticed a Dodge van wrapped around a pole laying on its driver's side.

Instinctly I veered off the road into the park and ran towards the van. There were about 10 individuals standing around the vehicle. I quickly asked around making sure the authorities were contacted and someone got the civics's license plate number.

Two individuals caught the entire car accident as it unfolded.

The Gold civic was driving southbound 100mph as it ran a red light, they hit the van so hard that it wrapped the pole and fell on its left side.

With in 2 minutes the police, ambulance, and fire truck arrived. As the event unfolded one gentleman was working towards removing the 300lb women stuck in the drivers seat, there was nothing further I could do to help.

I walked back to my car and left for lunch, my original destination.

Using the G1 here is what I saw....

Back from HPC

2009-07-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

Thank you Adam @ www.streetorstripconcept.com

who dropped off and picked up my manifold from HPC coating.

-Turned out great

1 more piece to the puzzle, now to find all the little, expensive, annoying pieces of the puzzle.... (does it ever end?)

New arrivals! Yes... Still Do'n Work,

2009-07-03T23:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Stork the babies are home; one step closer as a few more drive train components arrive.

Almost there!

These two are obviously not new; I purchased them back in November for another car. Funny how things come back around. - This is the "Before" pic, they have been sent to chemical cleaning and HPC coating. Pics when they return!

Just a reminder the project at hand is project; Do Work, Son s14 Track addition.

I purchased a 95 Nissan 240sx back in October of 08, 100k miles, auto, blown ka, ugly, and stock.

To date the interior has been completely removed, along with all sound deadening, Full-Race cage installed,engine bay stitch welded, rear fenders cut and raised for clearance, and the body kit; including D-Max and Vertex areo.

The next items on the list include Apexi head gasket, ARP headbolts, and lots of suspension!

stay tuned for future updates.

Beginning of Monsoon season!

2009-07-03T22:48:00.000-07:00

Beautiful day before it rained tonight

Leaving no reason to guess who our creator is...

Still Do'n Work....

2009-06-20T00:09:00.001-07:00

Removed cams, head, then head gasket.

Also cleaned up the subframe, gas tank, and front sub frame.

waiting on head gasket and other miscellaneous items...

Do Work Son! -Prj s14

2009-06-13T19:10:00.000-07:00

you know what they say.....

Do Work, Son!

so that's exactly what I did today!

time to take the first step on my new project "Black Out!" aka S14 King aka Try me aka.... You get the point. This will be a fun car.

So not knowing what bolts were lose and which ones were tight I decided to remove the front sub frame, rear sub frame, differential, axles, suspension, and gas tank. That way I could start fresh.

-Note; never assume the car you buy in is perfect drivable shape.... I may drive, but you should always double check the entire vehicle top to bottom- especially when it comes to our modified cars...

No one was around this beautiful Saturday, but I could not let the day go to waist so I did it all myself.

s14 rear sub frame is out!

Removed the diff & axles & brakes (make room for the upgrades)!

Removed front sub frame and suspension!

Getting a little ency I started touching my motor set

I wanted to get it on the stand so I had to remove the clutch and flywheel

That's when I chose my next license plate; (Cluth Klr)

Yes, the clutch never stood a chance...

take a second look. . .

Until next time... motor disassembling

Arizona WHO? Drifting What? Drag Where?...

2009-06-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

"Daaamn look at that car!"

"he must have traveled a long way for this event"...

WRONG!

Arizona is home to countless beautiful automobiles and the enthusiast who drive them from Muscle to Import and Exotic.

If fact, there were has been an increase in enthusiasts' events this year such as the monthly Drifting/Drag event held at Fire bird Raceway.http://www.firebirdraceway.com/

This months event was held Saturday June 6th; the Drag and Drag event allows locals to bring out the rust buckets, garage queens, and full blown track cars.

What ever you prefer... Run what Ya brung!

For less than a full tank of gas you can drift the course and drag on the strip.

Special thanks to Dax (http://dmrproductions.com/dax/) @ http://motormavens.com/ for donating a few photos

But if you'd like to see the photography the were photos were meant to be viewed check out Dax's new relocated site! http://dmrproductions.com/dax/

For complete event coverage check out http://motormavens.com/