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SP BLING
04-03-2009, 07:50 PM
Here's my current daily driver......The car as purchased new in May 05:

Mazda 3 SP23 - Leather/BOSE pack - Colour: Sunlight Silver

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DSCF0017.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=DSCF0017.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_dscf0018qi9.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=dscf0018qi9.jpg)



Dyno Results:

91.0kW - JAN 2007
Mods: K&N Panel Filter, Advanced Timing, 98 Octane Fuel, Stock 17" Wheels
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_Mazda_3_dynoSPBLINGJAN2007.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda_3_dynoSPBLINGJAN2007.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 08:51 PM
The car was involved in a front ender after just 3 months of ownership - thankfully we were insured.

The accident put the car of the road for 3.5 months, but enabled us to do a little "modding" while being rebuilt. The new stock front bar was modifed to have the honeycomb black plastic lower grille removed and fitted with silver mesh instead. Mounting tabs for the plastic grille were cut off and sanded smooth before being painted. A new fiberglass grille was fitted to the bonnet whcih removed the big Mazda logo. The headlights (both new) were cracked open and had the orange side reflectors removed and angel eyes (rings) fitted around the 2 chrome rings inside the light, then re-sealed and fitted to the car.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DSCF0050.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=DSCF0050.jpg)



This was the start of the "modding".... then the bug bit......

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_dsc03256lq2.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=dsc03256lq2.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_dsc03298dw0.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=dsc03298dw0.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_dscf0005gp8.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=dscf0005gp8.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_img0512eo9.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=img0512eo9.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_img0514xz7.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=img0514xz7.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_img9473hc6.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=img9473hc6.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000075rr3.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000075rr3.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000080ge9.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000080ge9.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000085fc4.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000085fc4.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000364iw3.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000364iw3.jpg)




Within a few months after all this, the Car was lowered using "KMAC" springs (these were sh1t and didn't last too long :rolleyes: ) along with the brake calipers painted red. Custom ordered number plates of ASP.023 were also fitted.

The KMAC spings were later pulled out and replaced with a set of Eibach Sportlines along with a set of Mazdaspeed Shocks (imported from the US). The Eibachs lowered the car a further 5-10mm and made it sit super low. Ride quality was improved 50% over the KMAC springs previously fitted as the Eibach's were progressive. The Mazdaspeed shocks also helped firm up the ride as well, though not too good for Sydney's roads....

Technafit braided brake lines were also fitted at this stage. This improved the factory braking system greatly - even with the stock pads still fitted!!!

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000065wi1.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000065wi1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000066on2.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000066on2.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000067xi3.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000067xi3.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_s6000068vy6.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=s6000068vy6.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 08:57 PM
DEC 07:

- I decided to give the car some golf ball aerodynamics (thanks to hail storm in December 07 that went through Blacktown)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000493_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000493_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000492_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000492_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000486_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000486_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000485_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000485_web.jpg)
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000484_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000484_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000483_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000483_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000481_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000481_web.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000480_web.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000480_web.jpg)
Damage to Windscreen (now replaced), front drivers guard, bonnet and roof. Very lucky considering I was driving through the middle of the storm at the time. Hopefully should be repaired by April/May.

- Number Plates have now been changed to SP23XS :D

- Eibach Sportline springs have now been swapped out for Pedders Sports Ryder. The Eibach's were just not suited to the MazdaSpeed Struts and as such made the car too bumpy/harsh. Great for a race track, but shocking (Literally) on Sydney roads. The 10mm or so raise of the car now gives the suspension a little more travel and has made the car very nice to drive now. Handling hasn't changed between the springs.

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:13 PM
MARCH 08:

X Force Headers & High flow cat + MPS 3 Exhaust sourced for a bargain price :rolleyes:
http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/2554/copyofs6000748ua1.th.jpg (http://img527.imageshack.us/my.php?image=copyofs6000748ua1.jpg)


Well the 3 now roars!!!..... And yep, it's pretty loud :thumbsup:

Previous 2" stock system:
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000754.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000754.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000755.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000755.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000762.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000762.jpg)



New 2.5" system with High flow cat, no second cat. A flange was welded on after the main muffler to allow for the system to be removed if needed.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000760.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000760.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000761.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000761.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000759.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000759.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000765.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000765.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000766.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000766.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000767.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000767.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000768.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000768.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000769.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000769.jpg)


The MPS system had to be extended at the front to cater for the removal of the second cat, but other than that it would've bolted straight up. The rear mini muffler was removed from the system to allow for the custom twin 3" tips hanging out the back. The rear bumper was also expanded on the inside to fit the two tips in the hole, instead of just the one.

I must give credit to the guys at Westside Mufflers :thumbsup: These guys know how to weld!!!! It took them approx 7 hours to fit the whole mandrel bend system with every joint TIG welded.

==================================================

The resonator removed from the rear of the stock MPS3 system was added back in a week later due to the excessive (read above legal limit) noise. An additional resonator was also added up the front of the system where the 2nd Cat used to live.

So all up my car now has 3 resonators and 1 muffler. And the result........Bloody brilliant!!!!! Sounds deep as and is semi quiet, instead of a car farting into a large milo tin while rattling your house as I drove past :eek:

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:18 PM
APRIL 08:

Fibreglass MPS3 rear wing with carbon fibre overlay

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000831.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000831.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000832.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000832.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000833.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000833.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000834.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000834.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000835.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000835.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000836.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000836.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000837.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000837.jpg)




And the final look after installation...

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000838.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000838.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000839.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000839.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000840.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000840.jpg)
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000841.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000841.jpg)



Installation was relatively easy - done in approx 1 hour start to finish. It does leave two holes in the top of the hatch, but these will be removed shortly along with the BLOODY hail dents. You do though need to drill an additional hole for the brake light cables to go through.

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:26 PM
MAY 08:

Car was handed over to the smash repairers in late April to finally get the hail damage repaired.

Well unfortunately the Microtech won't be in for Dynoday thanks to some very slow hail repair work at the Smash Repairers. I'm now going to be lucky to just have my car in time for the day, let alone have any performance work done to it.

But hopefully it will have a totally new look in time for OZMAZDA Dyno Day on the 24/05/08! :thumbsup:

Here's a sneak preview:
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000918.jpg




Well at this point something flipped in my head.... The mod bug had seriously bitten this time and big $$$$ spent :eek: :eek: :eek:

Anyway I'm still aiming to crack the 120kw at the wheels in the next few months with the end goal to get it up to 130kw using the stock bottom end of the engine. Though I'm not sure how well it will go with the stock compression ratio of 9.2:1 :whistling:

This is the plan to hit 120kw @ the wheels (well today anyway lol!!!)
Headers - Installed
2.5" High Flow Cat - Installed
2.5" Mandrel Bend Exhaust - Installed
Custom 3" Cold Air Intake (CAI) including enlarged MAF section - Ordered
Balance Shaft Delete Kit - Awaiting install
Cosworth Intake Manifold - Coming Soon
67mm Throttle Body - Awaiting install
Microtech LT10S - Awaiting install
Full Dyno Tune

To get it the Mazda 3 past the 120kw mark it will require some serious head work.... And for a Mazda 3 that has very little aftermarket product support, that means a lot of $$$$$$$

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:30 PM
Late May 08:

Well the new rims are finally on the car. They are Lenso DC6's in Black in 18x8" - 45 offset. Here are some pics from OZMAZDA Dyno Day with the rims fitted:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000939.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000939.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000949.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000949.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000952.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000952.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000953.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000953.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000954.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000954.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000955.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000955.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000956.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000956.jpg)

Dyno Results:

97.4kW - MAY 2008
Mods: Bomz 2.5" CAI, 2.5" Headers, Cat and Mandrel Bend Exhaust, Advanced Timing, 100 Octane Fuel + Booster, 18" Wheels
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_OZMAZDAcomDynoDaySP_BLING.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/OZMAZDAcomDynoDaySP_BLING.jpg)




While the car was in the Smash Repairs having the hail damage fixed we also had a few holes in the tailgate welded up and resprayed. The conversion from the SP23 to the MPS style rear spoiler also leaves 2 holes in the roof which were removed along with both mazda badges. The end result is a rather clean rear end..... :tongue:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000963.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000963.jpg)




The parts lying around the house waiting to go on the car keeps growing (mainly due to my compulsive spending disorder :rolleyes: )
EBC Greenstuff Rear Brake Pads (fronts on order)



2 x Boxes of Dynomat Extreme - Say goodbye to road noise! I believe I have enough to do all 4 doors, the boot and the cabin floor. Well there goes a whole weekend!



CFM 67mm Billet Throttle Body (to suit a Ford Focus). These will only suit the 04/05 model Mazda 3's with the cable throttle bodies. It's just a little upgrade from the stock 62mm plastic jobbie that produces the horrible hoover vacuum cleaner sound, but mates up well with the Cosworth Intake manifold. Fingers crossed for no hoover sound!!!!! Needs modification to the throttle cable though just to hook it up to the throttle, but I might be able to adapt a Ford Focus cable yet to fit.....

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000919.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000919.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000920.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000920.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000921.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000921.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000922.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000922.jpg)




Custom 3" Cold Air Intake pipe made by Westside Mufflers in Padstow which they even polished it up for me! Again perfect match up to the 67mm throttle body in terms of sizing and was designed to suit. Unfortunately the car won't run with it in due to the increased pipe sectional size where the MAF sensor is located. The stock MAF sensor is designed to suit a 2.25" pipe and the car is tuned as such. Fitting the sensor into a 3" pipe kinda throws the tuning out :whistling: This will be installed once the Microtech ECU is installed and will be tuned to run with it.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000966.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000966.jpg)





AutoExe front Bar (thanks to OJ 3). Currently being sprayed and should be fitted by the end of this week. Going to fit it with black mesh to offset the silver of the car and to accent the black rims. Me thinks going to look hot :p

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_0114.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/IMG_0114.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_0117.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/IMG_0117.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:38 PM
JUNE 08:

Car was sent back to the Smash Repairers again after it's briefing outing at the DynoDay. The totally screwed up the paint job requiring it to be resprayed.


================================================== ======

Well I finally got the car back tonight from the Smash Repairers. Here's a few dodgy night/raining shots for those who just can't wait...... It looks soooo much better than the photos. The AutoExe front bar has really transformed the car. I likes alot :thumbsup:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000978.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000978.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000980.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000980.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000983.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000983.jpg)

================================================== ======

Some more pics of the front end... still raining though so you'll have to wait for the proper photos.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000986.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000986.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000990.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000990.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000991.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000991.jpg)

================================================== ======

More parcels arrived today including my birthday present to myself :whistling: Me and the mailman are on first name basis now......

Cosworth Bling :biggrin:
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000992.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000992.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000993.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000993.jpg)


Carbon Fibre Mirror Covers
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6000994.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6000994.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:43 PM
30th June 08:

Well we had out first issue with the car on Saturday morning. One of the auto transmission fluid lines had a bolt work it's way loose (after 60,000km!) and has left a trail of fluid down our street. Luckily not too much had been lost as the dip stick was still just on the low level indicator. No damage to the tranny luckily!

To add to my luck, about an hour later after jacking the car up to investigate, a guy turns up with my PWR Oil and Transmission coolers which I ordered off ebay just over a week ago. Bonus!

So after working all last weekend on other people's cars, I decided to give the 3 a little modding this weekend!

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/spblingPWROilCoolers.jpg



So after pulling the whole front end apart to do the install, the transmission cooler has now been installed, plumbed in line with the factory cooler with the fluid all topped up again.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001093.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001094.jpg


The engine Oil cooler will be installed at a later stage once I pickup a thermo oil sandwich plate to be able to plumb it in properly. Since it was a beautiful sunny winter day today I cranked up the spray gun and painted the front crash bar black so as not to see silver while looking through the front bar, as the opening on the autoexe bar is much larger than the stock bar. Also got in and painted my Redline bonnet strut brackets in Sunlight Silver, instead of the supplied black to help blend them in a little easier. Hoping to get these installed next weekend.


EBC Greenstuff Front pads also arrived in from the US last week. Just need to find some time now to take the car off the road for a day while I have the discs machined before installing the new pads. Nearly ready for TRACK TIME!!!!!



The first of the power mods (Cosworth Intake manifold and Focus throttle body) should be one the car in a few weeks time once I purchase a new accelerator cable from Mazda ($145 :mad: ) and have it modified to suit the Focus throttle body. I managed to find 2 companies in Sydney that specialise in Automotive gauges, cables and custom work. Purchasing a second cable will allow me to revert back to the stock throttle body should the need arise and also means the car won't be off the road for several days while they modify the cable. I could get them to make a custom cable from scratch much cheaper than buyer a factory cable, but they would need my existing cable for several days to use as a template.

================================================== =======
July 4th:

New throttle cable from Mazda has arrived in Sydney. Going to pick it up tomorrow and drop it off at Consolidated Wire @ Milperra to have it modified to suit the Focus throttle body!!!! Nearly there!!!

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:46 PM
20th July 08:

The Hoover has officially left the building!!!!!!

That's right, no more Hoover sound anymore as it's been replaced by the sound of induction. Yep Stage 1 was completed today with the Cosworth Intake manifold and Focus 65mm throttle body successfully installed. But it was only possible thanks to Rob! (I secretly wish I had smaller hands like him!!!!)

The install was semi straight forward taking approx 7 hours for the 2 of us.

I had purchased a new accelerator cable from Mazda and had the throttle body end of the wire shortened approx 30mm and had a eye/ring fitted, instead of the ball. This was done to mate the Focus throttle body to the Mazda pedal assembly. The removal of the old throttle cable was easy, but trying to get the new one back in was fun as the hole through the firewall is located behind the brake booster.... literally! A word for the wise - Installing the accelerator cable is a pain in the a$$!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Something I hope I never have to do again.

2 hours after starting and the plastic inlet manifold and throttle body was removed from the car. After a quick test fit of the new manifold we discovered that the injectors will also need to be removed in order to squeeze the new one in without damaging it, so out they came as well. We had a little trouble fitting some of the larger nipples on the inlet manifold as we had to re-tap two of the holes somewhat due to the ceramic coating used on the outer shell. We also had a plug a couple of holes in the inlet manifold due to the differences between the Focus and the Mazda..... Rob's bolt bucket to the rescue again! Some 3+ hours later..... and it was ready to fit with all sensors swapped over (map, throttle position etc) and new o rings fitted. Rob even managed to polish up the Idle Air Valve to match the rest of the bling. The accelerator bracket needed a lot of special touches to make it fit. The tab to hold the wiring loom in place had to be hack sawed off and the whole bracket is now sitting 10mm higher to clear the throttle body and the manifold. I thought it would be a straight swap over, but it was so close. I will try a source a focus one to replace it for the long term. But nonetheless it is in and holding the cable in the right spot.

The look on our faces was priceless when we started the car as it actually ran and idled perfectly on the first start! Best of all - NO CELS!!!!!!!!! Of course a few revs later and we were really starting to smile... Well me anyway! No hoover sound anymore, just lots of induction noise. Sounds like a quad throttle body setup at idle gasping for air - Me Likes!

The test drive..... (BTW - I'm still smiling now as I type). There is nothing like 3 blokes piled in a car doing happy laps just to listen to the induction roar..... And what a roar it is! I was seriously expecting to have a little growl from it, but it seriously sounds like a highly tuned VTEC. Once you hit 3,500rpm, the growl begins and when you open the throttle full it roars. The car now pulls all the way to 7,500rpm (that's 1,000rpm past the stock redline) and would probably keep going, but I'm not that game until the head of the engine receives some special attention.

Bum Dyno - At least 5kw or more in it as I can really feel the difference right across the whole rev range - even in the lower band which I though I might loose a bit from. The car is also much more responsive now with the larger throttle body allowing better air flow - Really jumps off the line now.


Seriously, I wish I had done this much sooner!



http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001118-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001118-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001119-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001119-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001123-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001123-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001124-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001124-1.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001125-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001125-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001126-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001126-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001127.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001127.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001128-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001128-1.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001129-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001129-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001130-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001130-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001131-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001131-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001132-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001132-1.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001133-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001133-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001134-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001134-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001135-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001135-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001136-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001136-1.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001137-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001137-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001138-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001138-1.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001139-1.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001139-1.jpg)


Also have managed to crack the exhaust piping right at the main muffler (stock Mazda weld). Most probably due to having not enough flex in the headers and not having a rear engine mount installed. Anyway we had this re-welded and braced. 7,500rpm would've have helped this in any way :rolleyes:



Now for Stage 2!

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:53 PM
22nd July 08:

Pics of engine bay once cleaned up :whistling:
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001141.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001142.jpg

Close ups of Throttle body and linkage
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001143.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001144.jpg

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 09:58 PM
11/12th August 08:

Here's some pics of the Carbon Fibre mirror covers that were fitted several weeks ago. They were fitted over the top of the mirrors and held in place with Sikaflex (i.e. will never come off again!!!)
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001152.jpg http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001153.jpg


Redline Bonnet Struts finally installed. I painted the mounts to match the car colour, instead of the black powder coated items supplied. Redline stickers were also removed from the struts to give that clean shiny look. Also commonly known as BLING :biggrin:
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001156.jpg




Driveability of the car has been fun of late, due to splitting the rubber crankcase ventilation hose that connects to the intake manifold. I've sourced a new silicone hose to replace the rubber factory item and I'm currently fitting a Oil Catch Can which will be plumbed in when I actually get around to replacing the hose. And yes it's shiny :thumbsup:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001154.jpg
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001155.jpg



Got the Dyno Power Run this afternoon - 102.5kW (up 5.1kW from previous run in May of 97.4kW). Max Torque of 160Nm was achieved at 3,500rpm, not bad considering the stock figure of 130Nm at the wheels at 4,500rpm (203Nm at the flywheel).

Still pretty good for an AUTO :thumbsup: Still on the same oil since May, so the only change from the previous run is the Cosworth Intake Manifold and the 67mm Throttle Body.

Max power was made at 6,900rpm, but I think it still has lots more in it. As per the last dyno run, air/fuel ratios are still messy, but better than last time. Starts off with an even 13.0 until 4,000rpm where it starts to richen up to a 11.7 at 5,000rpm, then swings the other way and slowly leaning out to 13.5 at 7,200rpm.

Dyno Results:

102.5kW - AUG 2008
Mods: Cosworth Intake Manifold, 67mm Throttle Body, Bomz 2.5" CAI, 2.5" Headers, Cat and Mandrel Bend Exhaust, Advanced Timing, 98 Octane Fuel, 18" Wheels
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_SP23XSDynoAUG2008kW-Nm.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=SP23XSDynoAUG2008kW-Nm.jpg)



Had it done at TODA Racing Australia in Wetherill Park - these guys were awesome. Had 8 power runs (20mins on Dyno) + 3 graphs printed out at all for $50, and during Business Hours!

Now for the Microtech!

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:00 PM
21st August 08:

Well I kinda got bored tonight, so i decided to finally install some Dynomat...

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001170.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001170.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001171.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001171.jpg)



Some 3 Hours and 5 sheets of Dynomat later....

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001172.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001172.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001173.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001173.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001174.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001174.jpg)




Also some more goodies arrived today :D
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001175.jpg
OBX Silicone Radiator hoses in Red of course!


http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001176.jpg
Billet light weight pulleys for the Alternator and Water Pump (Standard size, not underdrive)

bourbon
04-03-2009, 10:02 PM
thats bloody awesome dude! so much detail i love it :D

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:02 PM
11th September 08:

Well I got around to servicing the Auto transmission on the weekend with the help of Breno. Quite an easy job really, but you really need the right tools before you start :whistling:

We managed to flush 8 litres of fluid through the transmission using the inbuilt pump. Firstly we drained the transmission sump of which only 2 litres came out and re-filled with fresh fluid. Then we just needed to disconnect the transmission fluid hose that leads from the pump output to the factory cooler and re-route it through clear hose into a oil pan. With the car started and put into drive (with foot applied on the brake), fluid was pumped from the transmission sump through the transmission and out into the pan. Once 2 litres was pumped out, we stopped the car and re-filled the sump with fresh tranny fluid before starting the flush again. It took all up around 90 minutes to do and the results are worthwhile. Where gear shifts in the high rpm area required you to lift of the gas pedal while changing, now you can flat stick it through without slippage of the auto trannies clutches - even at 7,000rpm!!!! :D :D


The car was also booked in today for a full Dynotune on the 8/9th October. Just need to arrange a hire car now to use as a daily for the week preceeding while the 3 is off the road having the engine re-wired for the Microtech. Full steam ahead :banana:


Also some more suspension tweaking will be done to fine tune the handling a little more. A crappy tyre on the rear that had a puncture and was repaired is giving me the poo's at the moment as the back end of the car is really suffering because of it. Feels like jelly when swinging the car side to side at the moment. As we didn't notice or feel the puncture after nearly an entire day of driving, I think the side wall of the tyre has been severly weakened. Hopefully getting a new tyre to replace it tomorrow. I hate Nankangs.....


Even so.....I'm still on track to have the car ready in time for Albury and DECA in OCT!!!!!!! Bring on the Mexicans

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:05 PM
21st September 08:

Modifications #659, 660 & 661 Completed today (and no I'm not actually counting lol!)

Thnaks to the help of Rob, Sanzy and m0nkeib0i888 we managed to get a fair amount of work completed today on the Bling mobile.


Balance Shaft
The 8.2kg lump of rotation mass in the sump has now been removed - known as a Balance Shaft and only found on the 2.3L to stop engine vibrations. It's a real messy job and consumed several hours. I had purchased an SCI (Sport Compact Industries) Balance Shaft Delete kit almost 2 years ago, but haven't had the want/need to fit it until now. The kit simply contains a plug for the oil gallery feeding the balance shaft and a plate to secure it in.

So people say that alot of vibrations are felt once you perform this mod, but after taking the car for a spin......Wow! The only vibrations are felt through the actual pedals and no where else. Vibrations only occur when revving on course, but I really like it as I can feel the engine revving now.

During the last oil change back in May 2008 ~ 5,000km ago, I fitted a magnetised oil sump plug. Well it actually works! No large metal shaving were found, but there was a bit of crud attached to it. Well worth the $15 if it'll keep collecting the minute metal shavings. We also cleaned out the bottom of the sump as well and removed all the traces of the old oil and oil pan sealant.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001230.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001230.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001231.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001231.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001232.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001232.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001233.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001233.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001235.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001235.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001236.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001236.jpg)




Lightweight Billet Pulleys
The pulleys are made by Medieval (http://medievalllc.com/oscommerce/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=58) in the US and offer a weight saving of 292grams over the stock items. I purchased a 2 piece kit which replaced the water pump and the alternator pulleys. These are standard size pulleys, not underdrive, so the stock belt fitted straight back on.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001239.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001239.jpg)




Silicone Radiator Hoses
Yep to add to the show effect, we also fitted a set of RED silicone radiator hoses made by OBX. No real function apart from being stronger than the OEM rubber ones and it looks good! I get some pics up later.



Overall the car is defiently much more responsive and I can feel that a little more power has been gained, but maybe only a couple of kilowatts. Still good enough to give a little grief to a turbo'd MX5 tonight as he couldn't loose me along the straights :cool:

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:07 PM
22nd September 08:

Latest pics from a couple of weeks ago for a photoshoot:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001180.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001180.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001181.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001181.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001182.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001182.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001183.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001183.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001184.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001184.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001185.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001185.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001186.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001186.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_2810701231_bc3bc81496_o.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/2810701231_bc3bc81496_o.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_2810719831_23115e96af_o.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/2810719831_23115e96af_o.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_2810721013_1b2526fdbc_o.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/2810721013_1b2526fdbc_o.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_2811564040_a93e69debc_o.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/2811564040_a93e69debc_o.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:10 PM
29th September 08:

Latest purchase: Adjustable Swaybar end links:


http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/swaybarendlinks.jpg



Front: Whiteline Heavy Duty Adjustable (Gold long ones pictured)

Rear: AWR Heavy Duty Adjustable (Short ones pictured)

I'm hoping to get these installed next week to complement the Whiteline rear swaybar so I can try and relieve some of the tension/loading off the swaybar due to the lowering of the car. Going to be a bugger to adjust with the car on the ground though.... :biggrin: But I think overall it should help to stiffen it up a little more as the stock endlinks look like match sticks in comparison to these bad boys! :ninja:

================================================== =======

3rd October 08:

BSD & Pulleys - Absolutely loving the car now. It revs so easily now and I love the small vibrations coming through as it feels like a proper car, not a new car where you feel absolutely nothing from the engine.



All set for wiring the Microtech tomorrow :D Have even picked up a set of new spark plugs (1 step colder just in case).

Hired a Toyota Yaris this morning to drive around in for the next week while the car is off the road undergoing works. Going to have a little fun there me thinks :rolleyes:

Hopefully the car should come back to life before tomorrow night...... I hope! Then it all steam ahead - tuning, brakes and suspension tweaking before DECA in 3 weeks :eek:

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:14 PM
5th October 08:

Well after a long day the Microtech ECU has been installed. I drove the car out of the garage this morning on the stock ECU and drove it back in tonight using the Microtech. It's not exactly streetable yet, but does start and holds idle (just). Haven't adjusted the base tune as supplied with the ecu as of yet.

Wiring was spot on first go, but had a few embrassed looks when I forgot to plug the main engine's loom back in properly before trying to start the car for the first time :whistling: That one managed to waste a good 20 minutes lol!!!! Just need to tidy up the wiring and secure it all away.

The only issue that we had was with the stock Water temp sensor as it seems that it isn't compatible with the Microtech. I need to hunt down another sensor to replace the OEM one that works on a different tempature scale. This isn't helping the car start as it thinks the coolant temp is -22 degrees and is trying to compensate for the sub zero conditions....

================================================== ======

6th October 08:

We managed to "fine" tune the car a little more today and even took it out for a little drive. It's running a little lean in places, but that'll be sorted by the tuning.

So far I've had to replace the Water Temp Senor and the O2 sensor out for different units that were compatible with the Microtech. As such I still need to re-mount the stock water temp sensor into the thermostat block so the water temp gauge on the dash works again.

Still got to clean up the wiring nightmare and connect a few little extras up to the Microtech, but overall ready to be tuned. I even manged to install the 3" CAI I had made a while ago since the MAF is now no longer in use.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001265.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001265.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001266.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001266.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001267.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001267.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001268.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001268.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001269.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001269.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001270.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001270.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001271.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001271.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001272.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001272.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001273.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001273.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001274.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001274.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001275.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001275.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001276.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001276.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001277.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001277.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001278.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001278.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001279.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001279.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001280.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/S6001280.jpg)



Tuning is booked in for Wednesday & Thursday (Thursday for cold start tuning), so won't know how good it goes until then. Until then, back to driving the crappy Yaris around! BTW - Handbrake works well.....

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:20 PM
10th October 08:

Update:

Tuning of the Microtech was completed yesterday. I didn't get the result that I wanted, but then again you never really do!

Total power is now 106 kW @ the wheels, with just over 170Nm of torque.

It doesn't look like much on paper, but the car runs so much better now. The car is making the same power as it was on the stock ECU 500rpm earlier now, with peak torque from 2,500rpm!!! Throttle response is also remarkedly improved and it is much better to drive with smooth transition instead of an on/off switch due to the larger throttle body.

The Microtech is fully controlling the engine, with the stock ECU still running the Idle Air Control (IAC), Variable Cam Timing (VCT), the Dash and the Gearbox shifts(auto). We spent a few hours playing with the Cam Timing, but the stock ECU does just a great job of controlling it. With VCT disabled, the car lost power throughout the middle rev range, but still made the same peak power.

It still needs some more fine tuning, but that'll happen over time.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/SP23XSDynoOCT2008kW-Nm.jpg

================================================== =======

17th October 08:

All is looking well for DECA on the 26th. Front and rear brake discs are being machined today, EBC Greenstuff pads being fitted along with a brake fluid flush. This should provide some much needed stopping power. Guards are booked in to be rolled on Saturday to allow some larger tyres to be fitted - 225/235 instead of 215.

My suction camera mount arrived the day from the US. I wasn't really sure wether it would be good enough or not for the track, but the quality is really impressive on it. It can hold a camera up to 3.5kg in weight, so my little cheap made in China video camera that weighs next to nothing should be sweet as!

I wasn't sure how well it would fair with driving and bouncing around in my car (it ain't that smooth!), so I gave it a little test out. Here's a little video sample from this morning:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeT3vJ5Bceg


I'm really impressed with the result. Not bad for a $250 investment in camera and mount.

================================================== =======

19th October 08:

I rebuilt the front drivers side strut today. It has been making noises ever since I installed the Pedders springs 6+ months ago and it has been giving me the sh1ts lately. I picked up a new strut top ball bearing plate for $40 from Mazda and swapped out the old one and now.... No more noises when turning the wheel!!!!!

I also fitted up the Whiteline Front Swaybar endlinks today while the car was up on stands. These endlinks are so much beefier than the stock units. As always liberal amounts of loctight was applied to the locking nuts as well.

No noises from either the front or rear endlinks at the moment.....but give it some time :whistling:


Still got a few more things to get done before we leave for DECA on Friday morning :ohmy: Looks like it going to be a long week!

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:22 PM
8th November 08:

The OZMAZDA Motorkhana held in DECA Shepparton was kind of a washout :D 1st in the Slalom, and 2nd Overall for the day along with the People's Choice Award.


Here's a Video and the pics from DECA:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6W-XDmlQ5f4

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0002.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0002.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0005.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0005.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0013.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0013.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0023.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0023.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0024.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0024.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0035.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0035.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_DPP_0131.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=DPP_0131.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_0161.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=IMG_0161.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_0164.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=IMG_0164.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_2388.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=IMG_2388.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMG_2395.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=IMG_2395.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:28 PM
2nd December 08:

Video from DECA of onboard camera:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=elOQxCW6GVY


Kinda forgot to mention that the car has had a slight re-tune by Castle Hill Exhausts the day before we left for Albury to try and get fuel economy. On the initial tune I chewed through a full tank (approx 45L to fuel light) of premium fuel for just 260 km around the city. I wouldn't call that tuned......

Car has been running pretty well since the last tune. I've been averaging around 10.8litres/100km around the city with me driving, not the Mrs, so improvements can defiently be made :D

I've since done a few adjustments to the idle, to make do just that..... IDLE.

I've also run a few tests on 95 octane fuel (instead of my usual 98 octane diet) using 4th gear up a rather steep hill at low rpm to try and introduce pinging, but to no avail.... Some people would say that's a good thing, but to me, that means I need to add in some more timing!!!! The factory tune maxs out at 35 degrees and I'm already running 42 degrees on the Microtech, but I need some kind of knock sensor indicator/light before I go any further. Listening by ear gets kinda hard sometimes with a noisy exhaust.

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:29 PM
5th January 09:

Slowly finishing off the install of the Microtech by connecting up all the extra sensors. As the Water temp sensor in the block was replaced with one for the Microtech, we installed the factory water temp sensor in one of the radiator hoses. This enables the water temp display on the dash to function and also allow the stock ECU to get the water temp reading again.

An Intake Air Temp sensor has also been wired in. In order to get the car tuned originally, we had fitted a resistor bank which showed a constant 20 degrees on the Microtech. This has now been replaced with a proper air temp sender (from a Holden Camira of all things!!!). The sendor is currently loose inthe engine bay, but will be tapped into the CAI shortly, but as is, it has made the Cold start of the engine much better - Starts first go now!

Also picked up a 2J1 Wideband o2 sensor (http://wbo2.com/2j/default.htm) made by Tech Edge so I can start to tune the car myself on the road. It's a relatively cheap budget wideband unit, but from reviews I've read, should perform really well. Still to be installed though...

Water temps have been stabilised with the use of Motul's Mocool. Motul claims that it will reduce the water temp on average by 10 degrees and I can back them up on that! It's not cheap at $40ish for a bottle, but well worth it IMHO. At cruise on the highway, water temps hold around 80 degrees, with city traffic water temps ranging between 90 and 100 degrees, but not over 100 as seen previously. I've discovered that the factory thermostat has an opening temp of 96 degrees :ohmy: So I'll be seeing what can be installed in it's place shortly before I head to the track........

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001283.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001283.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001286.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001286.jpg)


Exhaust has also been modified to allow for the installation of a Chassis "H" brace. The resonator installed up the front of the system (in place of the 2nd cat) has been shifted forward 6" to allow for the brace to be fitted. An extra bracket was also fitted at the rear of the exhaust to stop excessive movement of the system as the rear bumper has been melting around the tips due to the movement. No exhaust mounts were broken though, so I have to assume that they are just stretching over time.


For those curious ones..... Aftermarket vs Stock swaybar endlinks. Spot the difference!
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001287.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001287.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_swaybarendlinks.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=swaybarendlinks.jpg)


I managed (well thanks to Rupewrecht!) to source a genuine MazdaSpeed front grille from Japan :thumbsup: Apart from being blue, it's top quality as expected and fits perfectly with the bonnet lines. Unfortunately, the grille is made to mate up to the MazdaSpeed front bar which has no upper lip on the top of the bar (similar to a Neo or Max)..... I thought about hacking up the grille to make it fit, but it was just in too good condition and cost a bucket as well......so I cut into the AutoExe bar instead :biggrin: :biggrin: Go the Dremel!

No end product pics yet as I'm still in the process of painting it.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001342.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001342.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001341.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001341.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001344.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001344.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001345.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001345.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001346.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001346.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001347.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001347.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001348.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001348.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001349.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001349.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001350.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001350.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001353.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view¤t=S6001353.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:34 PM
11th January 09:

The new grille was finally fitted this afternoon!!!! It took a little bit longer to paint than expected as it took several attempts to remove a fine, but deep scratch out of it.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001357.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001357.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001360.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001360.jpg)


I'm stoked with the result as it really finishes the front end off now :thumbsup:

================================================== =======

11th February 09:

Here's a few pics from the Renault Car Club of Australia's Motorkhana Training day held at Eastern Creek raceway's Skidpan:

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_IMGP1466.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=IMGP1466.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001425.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001425.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001427.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001427.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001429.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001429.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001430.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001430.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001431.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001431.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001433.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001433.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/th_S6001434.jpg (http://s214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/?action=view&current=S6001434.jpg)



The Wideband o2 sensor should be installed this weekend. I had originally fitted it over Christmas to find out that the unit wasn't working and was faulty. It's now repaired and ready to go! ..... Once I test it first before installing it this time :whistling:

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:39 PM
Full Mod list as it stands now:


Performance


Intake/Induction: Custom 3" CAI with DRIFT 3" Filter, Central Florida Motorsports (C-F-M) Billet 67mm Throttle Body, Modified Throttle cable, Cosworth Intake Manifold (ceramic coated)

Exhaust: XForce 4-1 Stainless Headers & High Flow Cat, 2.5" Stainless Mandrel bend exhaust system taken from MPS3, extra resonator fitted, custom dual 3" tips

Transmission: Stock 4 speed Activematic still holding up for now, fitted with large PWR transmission oil cooler, 100% synthetic transmission fluid

Drivetrain/clutch: Stock

Electrical: Microtech LT10s ECU, Optima Yellow Top Battery, larger grounding leads (2GA)

Other Engine modifications: Mazda 3 2.0L Spin on Oil filter conversion, Billet Gunmetal Oil Cap, DRIFT Oil Catch Can, Red Silicon coolant/radiator hoses, Engine vacuum lines replaced with Red Silicon items, All bolts visible replaced with Stainless Steel Button head bolts, Colour coded engine cover, Redline Elite Bonnet Struts and lots of Bling.... What else!!!!

Power/Torque Before Mods: 91.0kW @ wheels (Shoot-out Mode) - JAN 2007

Power/Torque After Mods: 106.0kW / 175Nm @ wheels (Shoot-out Mode) - OCT 2008



Handling


Wheels: Lenso DC-6 18x8" rims in Black with polished lip fitted
Tyres: Kumho Ecsta 225/40 tyres

Brakes: EBC Greenstuff Brake Pads, with Calipers painted BLACK with White "Mazda" decals. Technafit Stainless Steel Braided Brake Lines w/ Red outer protective coating, Motul DOT4 Brake Fluid

Suspension: Pedders SportsRyder Springs (approx 40mm lower) = stoopid low :biggrin:

Sways/Struts: Whiteline Adjustable 22mm Rear Sway Bar fitted with AWR rose jointed end links, Front Sway Bar stock fitted with Whiteline rose jointed end links, MazdaSpeed performance Struts/Shocks (Blue)

Other: Summit Racing Front Strut Brace, Speedline Lower Rear Strut Brace, Middle H Brace



Audio Setup

Amplifier: 4x100W JayCar Response & 1x380W Pioneer 7100 Monoblock

Speakers: Front - Infinity Reference 6810CS 6x8" 2 way Compnents; Rear - Infinity Reference 6812CF 6x8" Coaxials

Subwoofer: 12" Pioneer Shallow Mount in custom 19 litre ported enclosure sunken into boot floor above spare wheel.

Headunit: Stock Bose

Other Audio: David Navone 4 Channel Line Output Converter, Coustic XM3e Electronic Crossover, 1 Farad Rockford Fosgate Capacitor, Jaycar OFC Series gold plated RCA Cables, 2 Gauge Power Cable, Rear trunk/cabin sound deadened using DynoMat Extreme



Interior / Electrical

Lighting (internal/external): HID 6000K Lights, MTEC 4750K Fog lights, Predator Chromium Angel Eyes, White LED Parkers, MAP lights, Number plate lights, Reversing Lights and Interior centre light, Chrome Turn/Blinker globes front and rear, Red LED's in footwells and under front seats

Navigation: UBD 2001 Edition

Other: OEM Black Leather Interior, SP23 Floor Mats, Aluminium Pedal Set, Aluminium Dead pedal, Bosch Windtone Twin Electric Horns, AutoExe Carbon Fibre Gear Knob




Bodykit/Styling:


AutoExe Front Bar/Spoiler fitted with black mesh, MazdaSpeed "Open Mouth" style Front Grille, Eyelids, clear side reflectors, Stuby antenna, Front orange indicator reflectors removed, Chrome Turn/Blinker globes front and rear, Colour coded engine cover, MPS3 Carbon Fibre/Fibreglass Rear wing with LED brake light, Side molding removed, SP23 badges removed, Mazda text and Logo removed from boot and holes welded, Carbon Fibre mirror covers

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:42 PM
Here's the specs of my custom audio install that was designed to replace the false floor in the boot on a Mazda 3 Hatch. This was done back in 2007 sometime.....



Why
The car is a Mazda 3 2005 Model SP23 Hatchback with the Bose stereo upgrade. Why upgrade an already decent Bose stereo? Well it kinda lacks any serious bass and I believe the 6 speakers in the Doors could be much better. I'm no self confessed expert nor do I pretend to be one, but I like to listen to quality music and sometimes very loud!



The Plan
Many options were discussed around which pieces to replace and which to leave. In all options we wanted to retain the stock headunit which integrates with the climate control, clock and steering wheel audio controls.
Remove the Bose 5" subwoofer and replace with larger 10/12" subwoofer/amplifier combo. Factory Bose amplifier and speakers to remain.
Remove the Bose amplifier, subwoofer and speakers and replace the lot
Due to the impedance of the Bose amplifier and door speakers it makes it hard to integrate with aftermarket stuff. The Bose equipment is designed to run at 2 ohms, where as most aftermarket speakers run at 4 ohms.

Our choice? Chuck the Bose amplifier/sub/speakers in the bin and replace the lot!


The decision was made to use 2 separate amplifiers:
- 1 x 4 channel amplifier for the Door speakers with at least 100w RMS @ 4 ohms per channel;
- 1 x Mono Amplifier with plently of grunt for the Sub;

Both amplifiers will be connected to the headunit via a LOC (Line Output Converter) & Electronic Crossover all which connects to the speaker outputs from the stock headunit and supplies an RCA output for the amplifiers.

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/AudioSetup.jpg



The Sub & Enclosure
The subwoofer box itself is made from 18mm MDF timber and was designed using a software program called Bass Box Pro which really does all the hard work for you. The box was designed as a Ported enclosure to allow tuning of the box to enable the subwoofer to perform better at lower frequencies.

The subwoofer of choice is a single Pioneer 12" TS-SW3041D Shallow Mount which has a single 4 ohm voice coil. Why a shallow mount you ask? This was needed in order to keep the height of the box at a minimum.

The base plate of the sub box differs from the below diagrams as it was extended to cover the entire boot floor width to provide a mounting location for the 2 amplifiers. For what it is worth, you can redesign it to fit 2 x 10" shallow mounts instead of the single 12", but then you will need to mount your amps elsewhere (under the front seats maybe?).

The whole assembly is connected to a piano style hinge (really long hinge) which attaches to a custom made aluiminum bar that bolts to the 3 rear seat mounts. This allows the whole subwoofer/amplifier assembly to be lifted up to gain access to the spare wheel. Although I must admit, it's bloody heavy to lift! I would have to guess and tsay that the whole assembly including sub and amps would weigh in at around 40-50kg.

The finished product has a false boot floor covering it all enabling the hatch to still be utilised while providing protection for the sub and amps. The boot floor was raised approximately 4cm in height above standard, and I still have access to my spare tyre and tools.



Subwoofer Enclosure Design Specifications
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro1.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro1.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro2.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro2.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro3.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro3.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro4.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro4.gif)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro5.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro5.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro6.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro6.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro7.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro7.gif) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_BassBox-Pro8.gif (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/BassBox-Pro8.gif)



LOC
The whole setup connects through a 4 Channel David Navone LOC - also known as a Line Output Convertor. The LOC connects to the the high level speaker outputs direct from the headunit and converts the signal to a Line Level signal with RCA Connectors. The David Navone LOC choosen converts all 4 channels from the headunit allowing fade and balance controls from the headunit still to function.



CROSSOVER
The 4 RCA ouptuts from the LOC then directly connect into a Coustic XM3e electronic 24db octave Crossover. A crossover removes unwanted frequencies from the audio signal. This crossover also has a few extra goodies where it splits the 4 channels into 6 (4 speakers + Dual Mono Sub Feed) - a high pass signal for the speakers and a low pass filter and bass boost to the sub. The bass boost function on the unit allows you to focus a boosted audio signal at a specified frequency to the sub. For my application I've tailored it to boost the frequency at the lower end of the sub/enclosures as the signal starts to fade at around 30hz.

Both the LOC and the Crossover are mounted under the drivers seat. This was done due for practicality as this was where the existing Bose amplifier was installed - hence all speaker wires from the headunit and speakers terminate here.



Amplifiers
The speakers in the doors are powered from a Jaycar Reponse amplifier pumping out 4 x 100W rms @ 4 ohms. This is more than ample to power a decent set of splits/component speakers.

The Subwoofer is powered by a Pioneer GM7200 Monoblock Amplifier which pumps out at 380W rms @ 4ohms.



Wiring
6 x Shielded RCA cables feed out from the Crossover and run to the 2 amplifiers in the boot running down the drivers side of the car.

The speaker wires from the amplifier also a feed down the drivers side keeping some distance away from the RCA cables and connect up to the stock wiring under the driver's seat.

Power to the amplifiers is guaranteed using 2 Gauge wire direct from the battery run down the passenger side of the car along with a 150amp fuse near the battery. The battery has also been upgraded to an Optima Yellow Top shortly after the install as it killed the stock battery. The earth from the battery has 1 x 2 Gauge wires connecting to the chassis and 1 x 4 Gauge wire connecting to the engine. All cabling was purchased from Jaycar.



Speakers
The speakers in the doors were also replaced due to the Bose design of 2 ohm. The speakers were replaced with Infinity Reference 6x8 Components up front with tweeters installed in the factory location, and Infinity Reference 6x8 Two way speakers in the rear doors. As per my usual style the 4 speakers were purchased off ebay New from the US and delivered to my door for $300 AUS.



Installation Pics
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0001.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0001.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0002.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0002.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0003.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0003.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0004.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0004.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0005.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0005.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0007.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0007.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0008.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0008.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0009.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0009.jpg)

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:43 PM
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0010.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0010.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0011.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0011.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0012.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0012.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0013.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0013.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0014.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0014.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0015.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0015.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0016.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0016.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0017.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0017.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0018.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0018.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0019.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0019.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0020.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0020.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0021.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0021.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0022.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0022.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0023.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0023.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0024.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0024.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0025.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0025.jpg)

rodhog
04-03-2009, 10:54 PM
It's just too bad it's AN auto

But it's really too low to do any real escape driving in sydney. LOL

So self shifting is a advantage LOL

SP BLING
04-03-2009, 10:56 PM
Anyway up to present day now.... If you make it this far in reading - Congrats!!!

The TechEdge Wideband o2 is now installed and successfully working. It was installed early Sat morning prior to leaving for a long dive down to Wagga for the weekend.

AFR's sitting at a perfect 14.7 while cruising at 110km/h.

Now I can finally fine tune the rest of the ECU while driving myself, without having to pay for more Dyno time. Just need to workout the in's and out's of tuning first.......

Still need to sort out the signal from the A/C compressor as well so I can adjust the tune when it kicks in. Unfortunately it's not a 12v switching signal, but rather a digital sinewave of 0-1.0V. A trip to Jaycar is needed....

Rupewrecht
05-03-2009, 07:53 AM
Hadn't realised you'd done so much to it - very impressive :)

marcs_sp20
05-03-2009, 08:14 AM
I read every single update as soon as it was put up, basically by the time I had read one and refreshed the forums, a new post had been put up!

Very very impressive, a lot of $$$ has spent in all the right places, well done!

Husss
14-12-2009, 09:33 PM
http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0010.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0010.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0011.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0011.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0012.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0012.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0013.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0013.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0014.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0014.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0015.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0015.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0016.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0016.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0017.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0017.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0018.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0018.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0019.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0019.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0020.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0020.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0021.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0021.jpg)

http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0022.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0022.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0023.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0023.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0024.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0024.jpg) http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/th_DSCF0025.jpg (http://i214.photobucket.com/albums/cc225/sp_bling/Mazda%203%20Audio%20Install/DSCF0025.jpg)


Was wondering mate would the black hard cover that goes ontop of the spare tyre still cover all of that just for protection of the sub and amp?

SP BLING
16-12-2009, 08:17 PM
Was wondering mate would the black hard cover that goes ontop of the spare tyre still cover all of that just for protection of the sub and amp?


No it won't fit. The entire box is a direct replacement for it, but just a little higher. It needs to be totally removed to get a flat boot floor.

Husss
16-12-2009, 10:56 PM
No it won't fit. The entire box is a direct replacement for it, but just a little higher. It needs to be totally removed to get a flat boot floor.

ok thanks mate ill stick to the other fibre glass one then lol this ones gunnah be a a head ache as the boot gets used alot but thanks i like the idea might consider it for my next car