Bugzilla - Mid Engine Madness

[Bugzilla]

Thanks to Photobucket, they screwed up mostly all threads. I have gone through mine and done a temporary fix. Once the pictures stop working again, I will do a permanent fix.

Well looks like it is time to post up about my project. This has been a 3 year long project so far but should be finished up in a few months. My main goal for the car is to be drive-able on the street and shine on the track. This is not going to be a show car. More like a dedicated track car that looks decent. I myself have never built a car from the ground up, so this is a first for me. I have restored many older cars, done LS swaps, built many engines, and done minor fab work. I am not a professional welder and do not have many fab specific tools like a bender and notcher. All the work was done in my garage by me, with the exception of tube bending.

Details

- 1970 Bug body (the only VW part left on the car)
- Wide fiberglass fenders (6 inches wider in the rear, 5 inches in the front)
- Independent suspension on all 4 corners
- Using Miata spindles front and rear
- Double adjustable coilovers
- Full square tube frame
- Getrag F23 trans (5 speed)
- Supercharged Chevy Ecotec powered (estimating 400hp)
- Big brakes and sticky tires

In the beginning with a bone stock Bug

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20130606_084712_zpsqyvxjwni-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20130606_084721_zps3b10d3e6-1.jpg~original

Removed pretty much everything

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20130609_133214_zps0aac7ef2-1.jpg~original

Added in the new frame. I lost all pictures of building the frame and installing it, so this is all you get

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20140222_143611_zps2e889ee1-1.jpg~original

Engine and trans about to go in

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20151201_231647_zpsorik0llz-1.jpg~original

Engine and trans went in through the door

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20151208_232552_zpsf8bppl6a-1.jpg~original

All boxed in

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

How it is now

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/02/20150702_214528_zpsxckymtxl-1.jpg~original

And it runs!

https://youtu.be/v0590RpY-ro

[andrewb70]

Hey!

Glad you made it over here from ls1tech (I am Project Gattago over there....)

Andrew

[Bugzilla]

Andrew - Glad to see you on here too (especially as a Mod). I have noticed there are quite a few LS1 Tech members on here. Figured my build is better suited here then LS1 Tech anyways.

[wfo guy]

This has got to be a gas! Hope you have plenty of pics.

[Kenova]

My son has a Cobalt SS with a similar engine. It's still stock so if yours is modded then you are going to have a lot of fun.

Ken

[Bugzilla]

Kenova - yes mine is a bit modded. There are not many stock parts on the engine anymore. I think the crank and rockers are the only stock things left in it. Hoping I am under guesstimating at 400hp. We will see when I dyno it.

[Bugzilla]

Wfo guy - plenty of pictures. More then needed to be shared. I have another complete build thread on another forum which is many pages long with way too many pictures. It's only the good stuff shown from here on out

[T_Raven]

Sweet project

[nathankershaw]

Nice!

[neongreen]

Fantastic work! I'm excited to see more of it. Are you going to add any sound deadening?

I once built an Ecotec turbo for a formula car. The turbo was a bit oversized and laggy, but wow, what an engine.

- - - Updated - - -

Fantastic work! I'm excited to see more of it. Are you going to add any sound deadening?

I once built an Ecotec turbo for a formula car. The turbo was a bit oversized and laggy, but wow, what an engine.

[Bugzilla]

- - - Updated - - -

Thanks for the comments guys!

Neongreen - Sound deadening is all over the car. Its pretty much on every panel and the panels that don't have it yet will get it later. I know its still going to be loud inside due to the engine hatch. It is half carbon fiber and half lexan. Neither of those materials help with heat and sound.

As for the engine, I was originally going to go with a turbo. But due to the whole lag thing, I went with the supercharger. This is going to be a true track car and I am sure the lag would have caused all sorts of traction issues coming out of a turn. I wont make as much power with the supercharger but the smooth output will make up for it. Either way, I should end up around a 5 lbs per HP which will make for a fun ride.

[neongreen]

- - - Updated - - -

Thanks for the comments guys!

Neongreen - Sound deadening is all over the car. Its pretty much on every panel and the panels that don't have it yet will get it later. I know its still going to be loud inside due to the engine hatch. It is half carbon fiber and half lexan. Neither of those materials help with heat and sound.

As for the engine, I was originally going to go with a turbo. But due to the whole lag thing, I went with the supercharger. This is going to be a true track car and I am sure the lag would have caused all sorts of traction issues coming out of a turn. I wont make as much power with the supercharger but the smooth output will make up for it. Either way, I should end up around a 5 lbs per HP which will make for a fun ride.


Are you just using dynamat type stuff? If so, that will definitely help with the resonance of flat panels, which you have a lot of. If you haven't already, you should look into using some Mass Loaded Vinyl. It will actually block the noise, where dynamat will only dampen vibrations.

https://www.sounddeadenershowdown.com/products/mass-loaded-vinyl-mlv

read the "function tab" for more info.

[Bugzilla]

I am using Cool It Thermo Tec for insulation. It is 70 mil thick and supposed to work for both noise and heat. I am sure there is better stuff out there, but for the price I couldn't pass it up. Again, this is more of a race car then street car so I am fine with noise, just trying to keep some heat out. And like you said, it does a great job for the resonance. The panels that aren't coated yet buzz like crazy when the car gets revved up but the ones that are coated stay nice and quiet. I am sure my motor and trans mounts don't help at all either considering they are almost solid.

[lunatic_magnet]

that car looks great! nice work! you should be over on volksrods.com :)

[Bugzilla]

Lunatic - I am over on Volksrods. The people over there don't seem to like what I have done to the Bug. Most of them are all about the Rat Rod style or building a Bug for as cheap as they can while keeping it stock. It like most people have 10 Bugs on there property and will take the good parts off 9 of them and put them in to 1.

[Bugzilla]

Finally an update! It has been a while. Long story short, the brakes are on.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_182838_zpsbhonyde4-1.jpg~original


We take this


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_182106_zpsnr1sd7nc-1.jpg~original


Add these


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_191209201_zpsrvwba4dm-1.jpg~original


Add this too


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_194145_zpsl2xitone-1.jpg~original


Ends up looking like this


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_202822_zpskteicspz-1.jpg~original


Did the rear as well


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/03/20160301_200608_zpsgc1lxoxz-1.jpg~original


Just a little bigger then stock...

[Tincup]

Awesome build, I love the engine choice, should be a blast to drive...

[cbpldc]

I recall a few years ago downloading a handbook from GM about how to build a 1500 HP ecotec. While you won't need all that power it was an interesting read.

As a current 74 SB owner, I approve of this thread! Great work! Can't wait to see more!

Chris

[Streetbu]

Looks like a great project and should be a blast to drive!

[LERM]

I'm currently in remission from my VW addiction... (I've got a box of vw parts... but I haven't' opened it for a awhile...)

...course', its only a matter of time.

Killer car. I stared at my last bug and for a good long while considering a mid engine ecotec.... but I never considered the miata suspension. Too cool.

[Bugzilla]

Thanks guys for the comments. This thing seems to get closer and closer every day. My bday is coming up soon and my from me to me present should be driving this thing for the first time! We will see what happens in a couple weeks

[Pt109]

This is too cool. Make sure you wear a good neck brace for the acceleration and the rapid deceleration... Those brakes in that car will stop so fast, 'time' will have to back upn to keep up with you. Never heard of this build combo. a buddy of mine would be freaking out if he saw this one!! Have fun, cant wait to see more pics. Subscribed!!

[rustomatic]

I'll skip the Bug qualifier and just say that is a killer hotrod! Nice execution of the vision!

[Bugzilla]

Thannks guys. My original plan was to find the cheapest and slowest car that performed the worst in stock form and turn it in to something it's not supposed to be. I think I am going in the right direction. My next project is going to be a VW bus that will be 4wd and at least 18" of wheel travel. Someone needs to put those jeeps to shame.... I take that back. Next project is a nova for the gf. Then bus.

[Bugzilla]

Time for another update! I have been slaving away in the garage for the past couple of weeks doing body work. Yes it sucks. The worst part of building a car! My whole garage is white now. But at least the Bug is starting to look good. I should have it all done and painted tonight though.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160319_184504_zpsmxhjzvbh-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160330_210605_zpsakz3fstl-1.jpg~original

The body was actually pretty straight. This was the worst panel but all the others took only a little bondo.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160329_204134_zpsu213jsxc-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160320_204954_zpsqki6krcl-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160322_210538_zpslyxv7bvq-1.jpg~original

[srh3trinity]

Cool build. I love bugs.

[Bugzilla]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160402_130417_zps3agaxcxw-1.jpg~original

*https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160402_145243_zpsouuxdlyy-1.jpg~original

Finally unwrapped it! It was like Christmas all over again

[Ben@SpeedTech]

Cool project. My daughter wants a Bug and she wants to autoX too. Looking forward to seeing more. Where's that other thread with all the pics?

[Bugzilla]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160404_192540_zps9cjuonle-1.jpg~original

More progress!

[Bugzilla]

Cool project. My daughter wants a Bug and she wants to autoX too. Looking forward to seeing more. Where's that other thread with all the pics?

Get her one! Just be sure to put another engine in it. 36hp stock is no fun...

Here is your link to the initial build.

http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversions-hybrids/1723405-1970-bug-mid-engine-engine-build-pg15.html

[Bugzilla]

Let the wiring begin! This is my favorite part but there is a lot of planning ahead to make sure nothing gets left out.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160406_213956_zpsmmwbwz3j-1.jpg~original

[justanova]

this thing is cool, I read all 22 pages at ls1tech the other night and all I can say is nice work, I have been wanting to do some sort of lightweight car build to use a hayabusa engine in, and I cant seem to get the thought of a beetle out of my head.

[keepat]

Very cool project, awesome job!!!
Pat

[Ben@SpeedTech]

Get her one! Just be sure to put another engine in it. 36hp stock is no fun...

Here is your link to the initial build.

http://ls1tech.com/forums/conversions-hybrids/1723405-1970-bug-mid-engine-engine-build-pg15.html Thanks for the link! Thoughts are light blue and white traditional paint scheme, lowered on 17" American racing salt flats. Nice white and light blue interior and some go go out back.

[Zspoiler]

You sure have an interesting project.It seems very well thought out,And very nice work.I remember back in the 60`s and 70`s people taking the engine trans out of Toranado front wheel drive car (400 or 455 with a 425 transaxle) and mounting in the rear of a VW Beetle like yours. Then mount VW hubcaps to make a "Sleeper" out of it.It sure must of bee an handful to drive.

[Bugzilla]

Justanova - Glad you got to read about the birth and childhood of Bugzilla! All I can say is, it has been quite the project. I had the idea too of going with a Busa engine, actually turbo Busa. I have seen them squeak 300hp out of them with ease. Would still be fast and sound awesome! Maybe on the next one.

Keepat - Thank you.

Ben - I like your idea! If your idea ever goes through, I am expecting a build thread on it! I wish there were some better Bug forums out there for stuff like this.

I am almost done with wiring. It is flying together! I am hoping to have it moving and stopping on its own power here in a week or two. When that happens, time to take it around the block! Can't wait.

Check list of things before I drive it
- Finish wiring (90% there already)
- Finish welding gas tank
- Put together fuel lines
- Put together coolant lines
- Get brake and clutch lines made
- Weld together steering rack extender

Then driving!

[Bugzilla]

More wiring added!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160411_202732_zpshls4uelk-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160411_202839_zpsptc4meu8-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160411_202847_zpswwdqmlf1-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160411_211625_zpsx7zljzlf-1.jpg~original

Still need to tidy everything up but everything is starting to look as it should. I have the running lights and head lights left still but almost everything else is attached.

[Bugzilla]

Well I got a little more done. Thanks to my helpers.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160413_183249_zpsdkzj1hwl-1.jpg~original

Ended up giving the Bug some personality

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160415_170500_zps780dgq9q-1.jpg~original

Set it up at 6 inch ride height. And that means 6 inches at the lowest point. Ya it pretty flat

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160415_184601_001_zpsarukk5ke-1.jpg~original

Threw the fenders on to check the alignment. Still need to paint them...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/04/20160415_233725_zps1iizwf6x-1.jpg~original

[mc84_zz4]

What an awesome build! I have fond memories of abusing the VW product line before I was old enough to get my drivers permit.
This bug should fly! With the suspension mods it will be a blast in turns!!
I'm looking forward to the next updates!

[dangina]

are the fenders stock or have you widen them? Car looks great!

[I_make_oil]

Cool build. Subscribed!

[Bugzilla]

https://youtu.be/MFZbFgwfSCE

Back up and running. Nice to hear it again. All switches finally work!

[Centerforce]

This build is SO COOL. Glad to see its running now, and hopefully we can get some sweet driving/burnout vids soon ;)

[Bugzilla]

Thanks!

I am working on finishing up the brake and clutch lines right now. After that, will be doing the coolant hoses. All AN fittings. What I will be waiting on is my radiator. I sent it out to get a shroud made and is 2 weeks out still. So in 2-3 weeks, I should have a video of it going up and down the street! Still got to tune it though. The tune is wwwaaayyy off right now. If you try to rev it, it dies. But it starts and idles good!

[Bugzilla]

More pictures! I was a little bored. I did however fire it up and verify that the clutch and brakes do there job. I got to officially drive the Bug for 5ft! I also put the wing back on.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160430_172553_zpsyfouqmwo-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160501_130401_zpsuwm5n0cs-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160501_130454_zpslxk4fe7e-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160501_131038_zpsgpnjzhag-1.jpg~original

More help from the helpers. The Bug was looking hungry.

[Bugzilla]

I got a little bit more done. Still waiting on my radiator to come back in! Its killing me! So I finished up the rack extender / bump steer eliminator. Got the tie rod ends shortened and welded back together. Painted them too. I also started welding all the steering shafts. Only had them tacked on. 2 more to go and all steering stuff is done. After slapping everything back on, I checked bump steer and it is nearly perfect now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Drove it back out to sweep the garage. It is nice to not have to push it in and out anymore. Had to take a picture of the 2 frogs together. I didn't realize how small the Bug was compared to the Juke.

[19,69camaro]

Nice looking part, much better than some of the pure butchery I have seen lately. Can't wait to see how it drives.

[Bugzilla]

Alright! After about 5 weeks, I got my radiator back. In the mean time, I was buttoning up all the little stuff. Just need to finish my gas tank and the bug is good to drive. Since I got the radiator back, I finished up the coolant the lines. Now I can start to street tune it. My goal for this week is to drive it up and down the street. Hopefully it happens. Lots of little things to do before then. Btw....-16an hose ends are no fun to put on

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160525_192048_zpslrthixmw-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/05/20160525_193931_zpssh5tkxop-1.jpg~original

[Kenova]

Btw....-16an hose ends are no fun to put on.

Is it anything like wrestling with a python?lol

Ken

[Bugzilla]

Is it anything like wrestling with a python?lol

Ken

You must have done the same thing once or twice since you know the feeling...

And I had 8 of them to top it off...

[Bugzilla]

Radiator is finally back. Slapped it in, dumped some coolant in it and let it warm up for the first time!

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JuhrWMnXKIE

[Bugzilla]

As promised, the bug went up and down the street today. Bad news is that somehow I broke a shifter cable. Officially lasted 2 miles. Guessing I got a dud. So I am done for now. I got it tuned pretty good up to 3500 rpms. Took the gf for a ride and she recorded it. I was stuck in 2nd the whole time so don't mind that. Will be fixed tomorrow. I will have to say that everything rattles. I will fix that later as well. Enjoy and listen to that blower whine!

Bugzilla - up and driving on the streets - YouTube (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=7ue63Zlin_E)

[Centerforce]

I will have to say that everything rattles.

Eh, that adds to the experience. More importantly, it sounds awesome with the SC whine!

[Kenova]

I just had a brilliant idea!!
Split the header into a 2 into 2 arrangement and it'll sound like a Beetle's flat four.:Alchy:

Ken

[Bugzilla]

Eh, that adds to the experience. More importantly, it sounds awesome with the SC whine!

But its so loud I cant hear the exhaust! I knew it would be loud but not this type of loud. There are a couple panels I have in question and can add some braces. The supercharger noise is very nice though. Cant make that quiet and thats a good thing.

[Bugzilla]

I just had a brilliant idea!!
Split the header into a 2 into 2 arrangement and it'll sound like a Beetle's flat four.:Alchy:

Ken

Ken - I honestly think it sounds like a flat 4 how it is. Might have to hear it in person. A 2 into 1 would make it sound more like one though. Either way, the 16 hours I have in to the header, its staying like this. Haha

[vintageracer]

Your my kind of neighbor.

What's the red car sitting on blocks in your driveway in the picture above???

Kinda looks like a Miata.

[Bugzilla]

You got that one right. It is a Miata. That one is going turbo Ecotec powered. Mock up engine and trans are already in it. I will get to working on it a bit more after the Bug is done. If you scroll up a few pictures to the picture with the hose in the vise, you can see the actual Ecotec in the background that will be going in it. It is very similar to the one in the Bug.

[Bugzilla]

Alright guys. I got my replacement shifter cable installed. I tweaked the tune a little more and took it for another spin. The tune was on the fat side but close enough to get on it for the first time. Lets just say 1st gear is worthless and 2nd is halfway worthless. But it runs good! My ears are ringing due to how loud the blower is. Well worth it. If i had a copilot, i would have posted a video. Maybe tomorrow. Sorry. More then happy with tonights outcome. Officially have 7 miles on it. There is a hotchkis auto-x next weekend. I am going to try my best to make it. Even if its not 100% done. All door and window seals showed up today so i just have a lot of assembly to do to get to that point....and tuning

[LeftHandThreads]

Love this project, and especially the videos! Thing sounds like an airplane at times. :firefire:

[Bugzilla]

Well the next video never happened. Will try for something this weekend. Up to 11 miles now. All i have to say, is the more i fine tune this thing, the faster it gets. It seems like 2nd gear rolls through in 2.5 seconds from 2000 rpms to 7500 rpms. That is about 65 mph. Cant wait to see actual track results. I feel like i need to bump the limiter up to 8000. It does not stop pulling!

[Bugzilla]

New video is up! You get to see some fun in this one. Most of the rattling i fixed so it sounds decent now, a lot like a normal bug. Fast forward to 1:25 in the video if you get bored. Top of 3rd gear is about 95 mph.

Bugzilla - out for a test run - YouTube (https://youtu.be/NrtShPWW6Bk)

[2ndroundko]

what normal bug sounds like that???? great build by the way.

[Bugzilla]

what normal bug sounds like that????

Sorry should have clarified that one. Sounds like a normal Bug while cruising around at lower rpms. Anything other then that, its just whining....

[Bugzilla]

Its been a while since an update so might as well add in one. I have been slowly working on the Bug. Fixing one little thing at a time. I keep having a motor mount come loose for some reason. Added some loctite this time so hopefully problem solved. I also had an issue with the CV boots rubbing on the shock. This was a known issue that I kept putting off. So, I finally got around to fixing the issue. I ordered some shorter springs and flipped the shock over. Tons of room now.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/20160612_123641_zpso35e5ggt-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/20160612_124440_zpsochtxfrm-1.jpg~original

I also got some windows put in, fenders back on, and the ugly doors back on. Will paint them later. I would rather drive it then work on it!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/06/20160612_190834_zpssuhchvv7-1.jpg~original

Still working on getting the tune dialed in. For some reason, I can't log WOT runs. It will log everything while just cruising around, but as soon as you mash the throttle, the log stops. So full throttle tuning is going slow. I have to keep an eye on the AFR gauge. The more I tune, the faster it gets. It feels like it should be a high 10 second car and 0-60 is around 3.5 seconds when I get traction.

[Bugzilla]

Just a quick little Friday update. The Bug has made its first 25 mile journey to work. Now I just have to hope I make it back home.... Friday traffic, 95° weather, big heater in the back... its going to be fun.

[Bugzilla]

So it was very hot today yet i forced myself to work on the bug. Pretty sure i am going to buy an ac unit for the garage tomorrow. Sweating all day is no fun.

On to progress. I pulled all the plugs to see what they look like. Nice even burn across all cylinders. All pistons have a light carbon layer and are dry. Looks like it is running a little lean but the afr never goes over 14. WOT is set to a 11.2 for now. Thoughts?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/20160709_125033_zpsaeje0l73-1.jpg~original

After that, I put my new lights in. I had the original stuff, but new stuff just looks so much better.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/07/20160709_160945_zpsfsq2ioxr-1.jpg~original

And to top off the day, i put all the engine hatch stuff back on. Tomorrow will be test day to see how much heat it keeps out and if it keeps the noise out

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[Bugzilla]

The flyby video....


https://youtu.be/PTwcUPgX2fk

[Centerforce]

The flyby video....


Everything about that is 100% awesome. It sounds way better than we were expecting. What exhaust setup is on there?

[240g]

Everything about that is 100% awesome.

What he said.

[raustinss]

4 cylinders of fun ....sounds awesome

[Bugzilla]

Everything about that is 100% awesome. It sounds way better than we were expecting. What exhaust setup is on there?


Well thank you and to the others above. I haven't heard it from the outside until the video. It sounds a lot different then from the drivers seat. Maybe its the blower being 2 ft from my head. I dont know... but it does sound good from outside. I have heard many different Ecotecs in my life and none have sounded like this.

Exhaust consist of:

- 1.75" primary equal length header (or close to) with a 3" collector. Long tube design.
- 2 round style Magnaflow mufflers in line. 14" long can 6" diameter.
- from collector to tip its about 4.5ft of piping including mufflers
- 96db at idle. 113db when revved. Both @ 15ft away


https://youtu.be/ME2G0v6xsDo

[Kenova]

It sounds great!
It sounds a damn sight better than my Vega LOL.

Ken

[Bugzilla]

It sounds great!
It sounds a damn sight better than my Vega LOL.

Ken

Pretty sure a 2.0 LNF Ecotec would go nicely in there. Think of it like a modern day Cosworth Vega engine except with 300hp. DO IT!!!

[neongreen]

That thing sounds awesome. Reminds me of an Ecotec I built a few years back. It was turbo, but it sounded amazing. You running stock cams?

[Bugzilla]

That thing sounds awesome. Reminds me of an Ecotec I built a few years back. It was turbo, but it sounded amazing. You running stock cams?

Glad to see another Ecotec guy! Not stock cams. They are quite large for an Ecotec. I think the only thing stock in the engine is the crank. Its built to handle about 500 hp and 8500 rpms. Not that it will ever see either of those numbers but its nice to know it can.

[Zoomin]

That flyby is awesome. If I heard that coming and turned around to see it, I wouldn't believe it. It looks like it was shot out of a canon. Love it!

[lucky13firebird]

You know, with it being an ecotech you can compete at goodguys autocross events... just saying.

[kimosabi]

Impressive build! That fly by was awesome! Looks like a well planned build and all the right mods. :)

[Bugzilla]

You know, with it being an ecotech you can compete at goodguys autocross events... just saying.

I looked in to the Goodguys series. Doesn't look like the Bug will qualify to run in it. It says the gas tank has to be in the factory location. Mine is not. That is about the only thing that doesn't qualify for the one class. In the other class, it says I have to have an american made car...

[nathankershaw]

Love the build!

Awesome car.

[Bugzilla]

Well I ran my first auto-x event over the weekend! Everything went smoothly beside breaking a motor mount. Good thing my work was close and I fixed it in time to make it to the next round. I started off in the compact car class and got best time there. Then they decided since I had r-compound tires to throw me in the ultimate street car class. Well, I still won! I also won the special recognition award from Wilwood. Got to say thanks to Rob for putting on the event as well as Wilwood!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160918_172158_zpsigzsoirf-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160918_184914_zps6ycm803i-1.jpg~original



https://youtu.be/GME5YGSV8lw


https://youtu.be/5QrVu7yq5jY

[Streetbu]

Wow! That's awesome, congrats!

[Centerforce]

Nice! You really cleaned house at that autox. May have to upgrade the on-board camera in the near future so we can hear that sweet ecotec better.

[Bugzilla]

Centerforce - thanks for coming out to the event! It was good to meet most of you guys. Thanks for the banner as well. It will go nice in my garage. Sorry about the camera. I decided to try a cheap china one. Video is decent, sound is terrible. I think i will just fork out the $$$ for a Gopro. But i will be posting a much better quality out of car video soon. It sounds much better with a real camera.

[Bugzilla]

More pictures thanks to the GF!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0544_zpsohgsm4ch-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0592_zpswrqmxgbp-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0583_zpsifxb7uql-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0576_zpsh6unhdin-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0553_zps64kci2sn-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0564_zpsniivkiyj-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0577_zpsvbb31ymr-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/IMG_0566_zpsrhnlmdgp-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

And an out of car video


https://youtu.be/WvhKItM8Muk

[mc84_zz4]

Huge congrats man!
That bug runs fast as stink! Love that onboard blower whine!
:1st:

[Zoomin]

That's cool X 1,000! Your car barely has to change direction to make it through the chicanes.

[Bugzilla]

Thanks guys! It was a blast to finally get to push it to the limits. Since it was my first time out, I had no idea what to expect. But apparently I did something right!

[Bugzilla]

The auto-x event went good as you guys know. Until I give the Bug a good look over... Turns out I bent both front arms. Not a good design on my part. So new arms are in the making. This time out of chromoly and a lot more bracing. Then to my next event in 2.5 weeks. A lot of work to get done in little time.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160921_181836_zpsoyu1ka3k-1.jpg~original

Yes the lower arm was straight at one point...

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160927_194018_zpstyokbunz-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160927_194536_zpskiwlncxa-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160927_203412_zpswgwnhcui-1.jpg~original

Made a little jig. Nothing fancy. Doesn't need to be. This is a simple arm remake. I will set caster and camber before I make the arm. Then build the arm based off that.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/09/20160927_203425_zpsczlwvgcr-1.jpg~original

Still bent...

[Streetbu]

Looks like the sway bar was stronger than the a arm. Could you use larger and thicker tubing?

[Bugzilla]

Ya the sway bar was stronger then the arm. Couldn't go bigger tubing cause I couldn't find the right size bungs. Better material and more bracing should do the trick. One arm ready to weld. The other soon to come.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161001_124255_zpsh9e7xc91-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161002_142143_zpsmchy0xvj-1.jpg~original

Drivers side arm was bent worse then the passengers side.

[LERM]

Strong work on your first run, your first win, and your first broken parts, all in one shot.

[Bugzilla]

Haha well said. If i didnt break anything, that means i wasnt pushing hard enough. Got to find the weak points somehow. When i do break things, i make sure it was worth it!

[Bugzilla]

Looks like I will be going down to work today to finally tig weld the arms. Sounds like a lot of hours to me!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161006_203256_zpsdyf7fllq-1.jpg~original

[neongreen]

So cool! Not only does it look awesome, it can back it up on the track!

[Bugzilla]

And 3.5 hours later of welding, we get this.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161008_155111_zpsdi0mphzi-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161008_132622_zpsivkr7qim-1.jpg~original

[Zoomin]

That should do the trick!

[Bugzilla]

Lets hope it does! Will find out on Saturday! Still got a ton of work to do so I hope I am even ready.

[injcted]

Great build, I love this project!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[digitalsolo]

Crap, before this build I didn't know I wanted a widebody Beetle. Awesome work.

[Ghiaguy]

Then to my next event in 2.5 weeks....

Great build --- Love what you've done with it!!!! If you continue to bend those arms, just get some angle iron and weld that to the bottom of the tube " O>" (only with the angle on the bottom) I have built some rear swing arms for my toys and this cured bending/twisting them up....

Where's the event going to be at this weekend??????? I'll try to get mine done this week to give you some competition.... Need to get some R rated tires as mine are 240 compound SCCA legal ones and they suck when trying to hook up out there at those Fontana parking lots......

Mine --- https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/113571-Ghiamonster-A-little-something-to-pick-on-the-big-boys-with

[Bugzilla]

Great build --- Love what you've done with it!!!! If you continue to bend those arms, just get some angle iron and weld that to the bottom of the tube " O>" (only with the angle on the bottom) I have built some rear swing arms for my toys and this cured bending/twisting them up....

Where's the event going to be at this weekend??????? I'll try to get mine done this week to give you some competition.... Need to get some R rated tires as mine are 240 compound SCCA legal ones and they suck when trying to hook up out there at those Fontana parking lots......

Mine --- https://www.pro-touring.com/threads/113571-Ghiamonster-A-little-something-to-pick-on-the-big-boys-with

I have read your thread before. Beautiful car! When are you going to get rid of the VW power plant? Haha. I originally wanted to do a Ghia instead of the Bug but people want big $$$ for them. There is one down the street from my house just rotting away. I have been thinking of making the owner a low ball offer...

This weekends event is at the speedway right next to the drag strip. If you run r-compound tires like me, they will throw you in the Ultimate class. For next season, I am getting some 200 tread wear tires so I can run in the classic muscle class. It goes from like 7-10 people in the ultimate class to like 30 in classic muscle. Stop by if you are in the area. I will be there both days. Even if the Bug breaks and can't make it there on Sunday, I have my back up car that I will take. Not nearly as fun but at least I will get some track time.

[Ghiaguy]

I'm going to try to have it running -- I'm pulling all the EFI off of it and going back to draw thru,,,, so having to fab up a new intake.... I finished welding it up today and saw where in my haste I warped the carb plate, it was only 5/16" thick so there was that possibility -- so I dug through my crap and found a 1" carb spacer that I'll throw on there to make up for my stupidity.....

[Jetfixr320]

Bugzilla

What is the steering rack from or who makes it?

[Bugzilla]

Jetfixr320 - The rack is a billet aluminum unit made by Kartek Offroad. It is more of a universal rack then an application specific rack. The only thing I don't like about it is that the steering shaft is dead center. Its fine in my car but anyone with a front engine will have issues.

[Bugzilla]

Well my track filled weekend did not go as planned. The good news is that the new arms did there job. Bad news is that something happened to the motor. I am guessing it spun a bearing due to oil starvation in one of the longer turns. Yes it has a stock pan. I fired it up last night and it made no noises and had 60 psi for oil psi. Typically when it is cold, it has 80 psi so something is going on. On Saturday, it was clearly knocking. Now this could also be something in the head. Hoping that a rocker popped of and shot a lifter out at the same time. That would explain the noise and lower oil psi. From what I can tell, the oil looks fine. I will pop the valve cover off tonight and drain the oil to get a better idea of what is going on. Worst case, I have another short block in my garage already built and ready to go...

It was good meeting a bunch of you out there! I will get the 2 videos I have posted up.

[Bugzilla]

While the engine is out, might as well do some upgrades. I was thinking of still keeping it a 2.2L but as a big bore short stroke combo. The 2.4L blocks are much stronger, have better cooling abilities and oil squirters! So I think that is the route I will be going. Might as well do a 2.0L crank which is forged from the factory. Sounds like a good combo to me!

And now to the findings. Started with the oil filter.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161017_192518_zpshtuwxw42-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161017_192732_zps4cpawfoj-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/10/20161017_201126_zpskd8wlld2-1.jpg~original

At least the spark plugs looked pretty good.

[andrewb70]

So what's the theory to the mode of failure? Seems like an important thing to identify!

Andrew

[Ghiaguy]

I spent about a half hour trying to convince him that he needs to go dry sump on Sunday -- I think at a minimum will be a great pan with a super deep sump to keep some oil around the pickup..... You can just tell from the videos that that thing can pull some serious G's in the corners..... Great meeting you!!!

[Bugzilla]

Andrew - thinking it could have been oil starvation. But at the same time, there is so much stuff in the filter, I think it was something else. Maybe there were metal shavings in the engine that I didnt get out before assembly. Who knows... We will see what unfolds when I tear it down.

Ghiaguy - It was good to meet you too! Bring the Ghia out to the next event. You have 5 months to finish up everything! If i can throw a motor in by then, the Ghia better be ready to race. It looks like it would handle real good but I want to see it in person.

[Bugzilla]

Alright, so I got the engine some what torn apart but the short block is still in the car. I called it quits after I saw what was under the head. Found some very odd issues. So I am going to say it spun a bearing for sure. This assumption is due to finding a piston with tag marks from the valves. I had very little piston to valve clearance so a spun bearing with a big gap would most likely cause a valve to touch. That was finding #1. #2 is the one that doesn't make sense. On each sleeve, right at the top where the gasket goes, you can see that my intake valves were literally rubbing the sleeve. I do not have over sized valves so this makes no sense. The only thing I can imagine is that whoever I got the head from, failed to mention to me that it was decked. And by decked I mean decked a lot. I did not CC the chambers so this is yet another guess.

Moving on... I am going to start fresh. This time around, 2.0L direct injected turbo Ecotec. Small turbo and big boost should equal a decent powerband with minimal turbo lag. It will be very easy to make the same power as before if not a lot more. This is also causing me to run a Racepak display since my current gauges only read a MEFI 4 signal. That is a big plus for me (kinda the whole reason I want to switch over engines).

So stay tuned, the new build will start shortly!

[wfo guy]

Will be waiting. :)

[Centerforce]

Wow that's a real bummer that its life was so short-lived. :crying: Either way, we're hoping to see the bug back on the road and better than before!

[Bugzilla]

Yes it had a very short life for sure. Still haven't figured out exactly why. But none the less, it happened and now its time to move on.

So the engine I had planned, 2.0 turbo, looks like its not going to happen. It would be about 7k to build and I have about $3500 of good parts I can sell off the old engine. Seeing that I am not made of money, this is not going to happen. So the new budget build is in plan. I got a 2.4L block in the garage ready to go. This will solve my valves hitting the sleeve issue. So 2.4L block with 2.2 internals to equal a 2.3L. Big bore short stroke. I am working with JE right now hoping to have them "help me out" with some custom pistons. I should only need 1 rod (hoping that is all the bearing that spun) so that wont be much. Then back on with my head and supercharger. So we will see how it goes with JE but the build should start whenever the pistons are done being made. Probably 3-4 weeks. At least I now have time to finish painting the Bug. Life goes on...

[Ghiaguy]

J&E are usually pretty quick making weird pistons -- I've used a few sets in mine

Be looking for a new pan that has some baffles in it or a really deep one

[Bugzilla]

I am working with Moroso on the pan. We are trying to get a 7-8 qt pan with baffles. I sent in the rough sketch of the pan design, so just waiting on the answer. Shouldn't be too much longer

[Bugzilla]

Alright guys, instead of handing out candy last night, I decided to take a further look in to my engine. I am pretty sure I found out what happened. It looks like the valves springs are going to be the cause of a blown motor. Who would have guessed... Since my engine is a DOHC, there is literally no room for valve springs. The valve springs I used are about .250" wider in diameter then a stock spring. I did not assemble my head so that is why I did not catch this. I left the entire assembly, porting and setup to the place that ported my head. I assumed everything was checked and clearanced as needed. Guess not. It looks like the springs were rubbing so bad that it actually, very slightly, bent the valves. This is the reason why the valves rubbed the tops of the cylinder sleeves as well. All the aluminum I found in the engine now makes sense. It came from the head because of the springs. Great. So now not only do I get to buy new springs, but I also get to get new valves and guides. There goes my cheap rebuild. So far the only parts I can salvage are the cams, bare head, 3 rods and all the little timing components.

Lesson learned. Double check everything even if it was done by a professional shop, especially when you are using custom parts.

[ryeguy2006a]

Awesome build! That really sucks about your engine, but you have a great attitude about it. Everything will work out. Please keep us posted.

[Bugzilla]

Ya I am trying to see the bigger picture. The engine will be bigger and better then it was before. Should make some more power too! So I can't complain too much. Just going to cost more then I was hoping.

I am just about done designing the new pistons with JE. They are going to be super nice! Then the 3-4 week wait before I get to see them... Just wait until I start the engine build! It will be filled with many beautiful pictures.

[wfo guy]

Just a thought from a really old guy: on normal engines with just a few mods, the valve train is usually the 1st cause of failure. No.2: never trust anybody's work. Learn what it takes to double check everything. Even the best have bad days and make mistakes. It doesn't mean you need to learn to do your own work if it's not possible but you need to know all the clearances necessary for your parts to live. I live in a rural area and had to learn all this because no one had race car exp. I ran a blown alky dragster for 20 years.

[Bugzilla]

In the 100+ Ecotecs I have built, I have never seen this issue. This is the 5th Ecotec I have used this exact valve spring on (which is a custom spring). The others had 2.4L heads on them which are a little bit different. Different enough that they don't have this clearance issues. But yes like you said, I should have triple checked and not assumed they clearanced the head properly. Since my engine is nothing close to a stock motor and is filled with custom parts, that means check every thing again and again and again. I think it took me longer to do all the measuring on the crank, rods, pistons and block then it actually did to build the motor. Too bad I didn't take more time on the head. I do know that all my cam clearances and pre load on the lifters were all good! Just not the parts right under them.

I will see if I can post up a picture tonight of where they were rubbing. Then you guys can see why I didn't catch it earlier.

[Bugzilla]

I have no good news tonight. Looked over the head again tonight to see if there was anything else. Yep there is. First of all here is what I am dealing with.

133725

You can see it is a very tight sqeeze. Since it has already self clearanced there are only a few spots left touching. This I already knew. I somehow managed to get in the right angle to see the bottom of the spring. Well looks like the base never got machined to fit a bigger spring. So the spring is sitting halfway in and halfway out of the spot it is supposed to sit in. Probably has a .100" deep lip. One thing after another with this head...

133726

You might be able to see it in this picture.

[wfo guy]

I see. I'm a little surprised at how porous the casting is. I would have thought with today's technology, that it would be vacuum degassed in pouring.

[Bugzilla]

Ya it is kinda sad. All the 2.2 heads are "foam cast" while all the 2.0 heads are "sand cast". At least thats how i describe it. The 2.0 heads go through a much better casting process and look how they should look. They are also supposed to be stronger

[mc84_zz4]

Well, I'm glad you got to the source of a major issue. There is definitely some binding going on.
In one pic, it even looks like the valve tip looks angled a bit (?)
I would not be surprised to find major galling around the hats and spring bases as they chatter around.

The glass 1/2 full is you had a great time shaking out the large bugs, the car just needs one task done, and it's time to chase some cones.
Killer bug! :hail: :hail:

[Bugzilla]

Once I get the head taken apart, I am expecting to find more issues, especially where the springs meet the head. The valves I have already deemed as junk. I did the good'ol flashlight test through the intake and exhaust ports. Yep you can see the light between the valve and seat. So that also means that the guides are going to be junk. I just hope it didn't crack the head around the guide. I don't have the correct spring compressor so I can't take it apart at my house. Going to send it out next week to have someone else take it apart. Then we will see what happens from there.

[wfo guy]

I wish you were close to me. I would enjoy helping you on this. We would machine clearance on the heads and have a ball talking about how this is going to end up. :)

[Bugzilla]

Its only a short drive from you to me... a couple miles. Just let me know when!

So I just happened to find the correct adapter for my valve spring compressor. That means I will be popping some springs off tonight to find more destruction!

[wfo guy]

It's 1250 miles from my drive to the Ontario city limits sign. How are we going to get all my equipment there in the back of a 32 Ford? Spending a winter in Socal sounds fabulous!

[Bugzilla]

That is actually not as far as I thought it would be. Ya our winters are pretty horrible out here. Was around 90° today. Might rain one more time before the end of the year too. Its the winter wind you have to be worried about. Expecting to see another couple semis get blown over pretty soon here. One day last year I saw 4 flipped on there side just on my drive to work. They were still there on my way home...

I have got a few Haas CNCs we could use. I just don't know how to use them. If not, I got an old school manual mill that should do the job. I know how to use it too!

[wfo guy]

Build you a roll over fixture to bolt to the head. Line up with the valve guide and use the mill to clearance the area for the springs. If your table on the mill is long enough, this will be simple. If not, the roll over fixture will need a table to support it on the mill table. It would be nice if you could trust shops to do what they should, but how many shops will the average person go through until they find one that does really good work??????

[Bugzilla]

I got the head all torn apart. Yes, the valve springs were rubbing the head. The valves also seem a bit on the loose side. Some of the springs were wedged in so bad, I had a hard time getting them out with plyers. All the spring bases look good and dont have any indents like I thought they would. All the valves look to be straight and dont have much wear. I will get everything double check just to be safe. Better findings then I thought would happen.

[Bugzilla]

Parts are slowly starting to show up!

New 2.4 block. Honed and ready to go.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161114_193255_zpsmhjzu4o2-1.jpg~original

Another 2.2L crank

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161114_193338_zpsfe1zihuz-1.jpg~original

New guides installed in the head. They were trashed!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161114_193352_zpsp0kjv9hj-1.jpg~original

New valves. Inconel on the exhaust. Nitrite coated on the intake.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161115_115416_zps3llfiifr-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2016/11/20161115_115432_001_zpsa1wnlmiz-1.jpg~original

I also got the new valve springs in that wont rub anything.... So now I wait for the pistons to show up and then assemble!

[Zoomin]

It's gonna be sweet to see that back on the track - love it!

[Bugzilla]

Well I am still waiting on pistons. JE somehow never placed my order... So nothing has happened to the Bug lately. But I should be getting the pistons in next week. I did see that I never posted up the videos of the last race, so here they are. Better late then never.


https://youtu.be/mTR6shAu_-c


https://youtu.be/xl3pn-BYeTc

Also, since the Bug has been down, I got another project going. I figure I can use this as my tow vehicle for the Bug. Here is when I got it 6 weeks ago beat and all.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/20161211_134454_zpslrdk0nhg-1.jpg~original

After replacing the entire interior, doing a lot to the outside, new wheels and tires, this is what you get. I also converted it from 2wd to 4wd. Still have a little more work to do.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/20170121_164125_zpswa4gfmow-1.jpg~original

So hopefully my next update shows some Ecotec pistons. Then a Bug up back and running.

[Bugzilla]

It is official. My pistons have left JE and will be here on Wednesday! Now I have to finish pulling out the old engine...

[Godbolt]

That is very good news indeed. Long waits are painful.

[rustomatic]

You do good work with the apexes--the Bug's size must be a benefit there!

[Bugzilla]

Godbolt - it only took 3 months... they somehow lost my order. But they expidited it when I placed the 2nd order so I am happy.

Rustomatic - thanks! The Bug being small, light and quick steering helps nail the apex. For a Bug, it is quite wide though. Track width is 68". Stock Bug is 54". Wheelbase is only 95". Helps the fun factor!

[Bugzilla]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/02/20170208_160207_zpsarvhbudp-1.jpg~original (http://s1294.photobucket.com/user/CBMmotorsports/media/20170208_160207_zpsarvhbudp.jpg.html)

[dew34]

Bugzilla that was a great read simply bad ass !!!!
mike

[Godbolt]

Piston looks beautiful. That must be a welcome sight for you.

[Bugzilla]

Thanks Mike! And yes it is a very welcome site. The Bug has been down for nearly 4 months. The pistons were the last thing I needed.

[Bugzilla]

Well here we are 2 month later and still no progress has been done to the Bug. I kinda got distracted with the Jeep project. But the Jeep is nearly completed so Bug time will be coming soon. Hopefully I can get it all back together before summer hits and the triple digit temps hit. I missed my first race which was last weekend so kinda disappointed. Next one is in June so hopefully I can make that. We will see!

Jeep - Went from this to this in 4 months. Now if only I could do the same to the Bug...

139034

139031

[beater65]

Seems like you have an affinity for WHITE vehicles lol.


Get back on that BUG MAN! lol

[Bugzilla]

Yep that I do. Have 6 white cars at the house right now...

Bug update coming soon.

[LERM]

Don't be too hard on yourself about the project A.D.D. Getting distracted by desert toys describes the last 15 years of my life! I think it's just part of living in socal.

Looking forward to bug updates.

[Bugzilla]

Yep that is the Socal life I guess. We are surrounded my deserts and mountains. The natural habitat for a Jeep. This is now the 5th Cherokee I have owned in the past 15 years haha. I got my shackle angles all fixed over the weekend so the Jeep is pretty much done now. Just have to wait for my custom shackles to come in. That will be an easy swap though. So, that could possibly mean Bug time this weekend (if I decide to not take the Jeep out). I really need to pull the engine out to see if I have any good rods left in it. Thats the only thing I am waiting on in order to start the new engine build. Everything else is just sitting on the work bench ready to go. But man, I really do not want to pull the engine out. So much work. The interior is already gutted but that was the easy part. Now I have to pull off the rear suspension to get the axles out (spindles at the minimum) and then attempt to wiggle the engine and trans out the door without scratching the dash or cage. Yep going to be a blast.

[Bugzilla]

Small yet big update for today. I have pulled the Juke out of the garage and moved the Bug to the middle. Lots of room to work now. I believe that means I will have the engine out this week.

139478

139479

[454bug]

Hey man,

I'm sorry to hear about your parts breakage... But, like you said, you wouldn't be pushing hard enough if you weren't breaking parts!

Unfortunately, this is not an inexpensive hobby. Especially when you have life, family, work, and other projects getting in the way of progress. You've got plenty of years to enjoy the car. Just take it at whatever pace you can afford. I've done that for years. I actually like the build part of the project too. It's a lot more fun racing the vehicles but I get a lot of enjoyment and friendship time during the build as well.

I have always had hotrods in my life but I have had a TON of distractions along the way. I got into 3-wheeler and 4-wheeler racing, water skiing and kneeboarding, flying radio controlled airplanes, college football tailgating, etc. They all took time and money away from my car projects. They were all short-term hobbies (except for the college football tailgating) that were always replaced with car projects...

Good luck with the rebuild and keep up the great job on the car! :cheers:

[Bugzilla]

Ray - Thanks for the words of inspiration! And yes I have had many distractions along the way haha. But it has been well worth it. I guess I really dont mind the Bug being down for so long since I have already completed most of my goals in it. Once it is back up and running, I probably wont even drive it that much. I do enjoy driving the Jeep probably more then the Bug. Yes it is slow and doesnt like to turn or stop but that keeps me out of trouble. BTW I really like the big changes you are doing on your Bug. I have been lurking on your thread for quite a while now. Keep up the good work!

[Bugzilla]

I guess I cant upload picture's from my phone since I updated it. Awesome. And to make things worse, photobucket isnt working like normal. So no pictures tonight. I will try again tomorrow on a computer. The engine is pretty much ready to come out. All I have left are the 4 mounts that hold everything in. Progress, finally.

[Bugzilla]

Not sure what is up. I cant add pictures through the attachment option even on a normal computer. And photobucket is still not working. So I guess no pictures it is. I will try again once the engine is all the way out.

[Bugzilla]

Still cant post pictures.... well the engine is out. I also popped the pistons out. Spun bearing on #2 as expected. All the other bearings look horrible. Metal went through this thing for sure. I will order another rod tomorrow and start getting the new engine built. Good news is the clutch looks brand new!

[Bugzilla]

Well stupid Photobucket is working today.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170418_185348_zpsuvd3yrgm-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170418_203936_zpssdeayokv-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_195307_zpsrbvg4st6-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_200417_zpsiohhwezh-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_200426_zpsos7lpq09-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_201024_zpsvkflafmz-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_204953_zpsnw9ilf9n-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_205824_zpsrzkp9jbq-1.jpg~original

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/04/20170419_211534_zpsdg3lr7hy-1.jpg~original

[Bugzilla]

Another small yet big update for today. My replacement rod showed up today. It was the last of the last parts I needed. That means on Monday I will send out my rotating assembly to get balanced. Should have it back by the end of the week if all goes well. Then on to building the new engine! Finally.

[Bugzilla]

Well not everything goes as planned when you order custom parts. I got a call from the shop balancing my rotating assembly today. Looks like the wrist pins are a little too big. Somehow they set the pistons up for a LSJ wrist pin and not a L61 wrist pin as I specified. So back to not building the engine and once again waiting on pistons. I swear every single custom part I have ordered has come to me wrong. And not just with the Bug, same thing happens with my Jeep...

[Motown 454]

That sucks, taking longer to build is part of this hobby but waiting for parts a second time is a kill joy. Stay positive.

[beater65]

Boy that looks like too much fun digging that motor out.

[Bugzilla]

That sucks, taking longer to build is part of this hobby but waiting for parts a second time is a kill joy. Stay positive.

I am trying to stay positive. I already missed the first race of the season so its not like it really matters if I miss this next one. I was hoping to do the whole season this year. But at the same time, in a month or so, its going to be so hot out that I am not going to want to drive it. So then its going to sit even longer until it cools back down...


Boy that looks like too much fun digging that motor out.

Yep almost too much fun. And just think, I still have to put an engine back in. At least when it came out, the head was off. When it goes back in, the head will be on. Even tighter of a squeeze through the door.

[Centerforce]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2017/05/20170419_205824_zpsrzkp9jbq-1.jpg



Looks like it wasn't mating evenly. Was everything bolted up with the correct order/torque?

[Bugzilla]

Looks like it wasn't mating evenly. Was everything bolted up with the correct order/torque?

I sure hope it was! I hand tightened all the pressure plate bolts a little at a time going in a star pattern. After the pressure plate was touching the flywheel on all 6 stands, I used the TQ wrench and did the final pass. It does seem like the pads have uneven wear on them. Is this not normal for a very very very low mile disk that doesnt really slip when releasing the clutch? Another odd thing is that my engine / trans combo does not use a pilot bearing.

[Streetbu]

How is the end of the shaft supported then?

[andrewb70]

How is the end of the shaft supported then?

Various engines/transmissions don't use a pilot. The input shaft is just supported by the bearing in the trans. I was helping a buddy with a 91 Eagle Talon and it was the same way.

Andrew

[Bugzilla]

Ya I think most FWD style trans are this way. This is the first FWD trans I have really dealt with so I cant be 100% sure. I know every RWD trans I have worked on required a pilot bearing. I do know that if you try to wiggle the input shaft around, it does not move in any direction. It is nice and solid.

Also, when I say the clutch has very low miles on it, it has 350. 250 of them were freeway miles. So literally it has 100 miles of actual start and stop use. And again, the clutch is impossible to slip. Once it starts grabbing, it sticks. The clutch pedal is more like an on/off switch (which is what I wanted).

[Bugzilla]

In other news, I just got to drive my brothers LS7 powered C5 Z06 for the first time. That thing runs good! Too bad it cant put the power down. I still think the Bug is faster and has way more traction. But it was a good feeling being behind the wheel of an over powered car once again.

[Bugzilla]

Well I am still here waiting on the second set of pistons to show up. Hoping they will be here in a week or two. So in the mean time, I took the Jeep on a nice 1100 mile road trip. Made it all the way up to San Francisco and on the way back down, stopped by Pismo beach for a little dune action. Was a fun little trip. It was the Jeeps first long adventure and I was glad nothing went wrong.

140833

140832

140831

140836

After I got back from the trip I actually started working on the Bug again. Havent done much yet but I started painting some more. When the Bug goes back together this time, its going to be all one color. No more multicolored beater looking Bug! Have I ever said how much I hate doing body work? Yep top of my list.

140834

140835

[Bugzilla]

And the door is temporarily back on. Dont want it laying around waiting to get damaged. Ya the rest of the Bug is a bit dirty from sitting for 6 months and a shade of brown now. Ill wash it one of these days.

140853

[Bugzilla]

Still waiting on pistons.... So more body work it is. Got the rear deck lid done. Normally, when I race, I pop the lid off. It just gets too hot when sitting and idling in the staging lane with the lid on. So this time, I cut a nice big hole in it to hopefully help vent the heat out so I can leave the lid on.

141096

141097

141098

141099

[454bug]

Hang in there... This can be a frustrating, expensive hobby. But, if you are a car nut, it's just the cost of doing business! I've tried a number of other hobbies in my lifetime and none of them have given me the joy and friendship that this one has. It always helps if you have like-minded car nuts around to give you a hand through the tough times. It makes it much tougher doing projects like this by yourself. I've had it both ways over the years. It's definitely a hobby that's much more enjoyable with car buddies around.

Here's to you and getting the car back on the road! :cheers:

[Bugzilla]

Ray - I know what you mean. I work in the auto industry and deal with the same issues everyday. So I expect to have problems along the way. But at the same time, we are going on 7.5 months without pistons. That is more then excessive. If I knew it was going to be this long, I would have just thrown my other engine in so I could be driving the Bug. I guess the good thing about the down time is that I can get all my painting done. It had to happen sometime so why not now while I cant do anything else?

I do have some friends who are car nuts. Well more like Jeep nuts which works for me. 2 of the guys renting rooms from me have Jeeps and love working on them. So I always have some help if needed. And when we dont feel like working, we just take the Jeeps out to one of the local trails. Its a nice little get away to get your mind off things (like waiting 7.5 months for pistons!!!). Cheers!

And I got one fender painted and hung. 3 more fenders to go! Then a door and a hood and I am done. Going to try to get most of it painted this weekend since the weather should be nice. Starting to look like a new Bug!

141136

[wfo guy]

I don't remember, did you mention who you ordered pistons from? When I was a drag racer all my pistons were custom ordered. Usually 3 weeks, no more than 6 weeks. That was 20 years ago.

[Bugzilla]

I don't remember, did you mention who you ordered pistons from? When I was a drag racer all my pistons were custom ordered. Usually 3 weeks, no more than 6 weeks. That was 20 years ago.

I think I did mention it but I am getting them from JE. I order custom pistons through them all the time and of course the one set for my own project has got to be the longest time frame ever. Typically it is about 6-8 weeks to get them and about 1-2 weeks longer if you go for coating. They claim that it is their busy season right now so everything is taking longer.

[Bugzilla]

Well I didnt get as much done as I wanted this weekend. Was hoping to get all the fenders done and painted but my dogs decided to make that not happen. Spent an entire day at the animal hospital getting them stitched up and another day making sure they rested. Get dogs they say. It will be fun they say....

Anyways, I at least got one fender done and set it back on. I finally got to see what a white Bug looks like! Well its partially brown but for the most part its all white. Once I finish painting the last 2 fenders, I am going to roll it outside and wash it. Then, hopefully, it will be all white. Still undecided on what color its going to be. Keep it white or do something else? Sorry for the bad pictures too. Pretty sure I had some grease on the lens.

141208

141209

[Streetbu]

How about a smal red and blue stripe down the length, slightly off center with #53 on the hood and doors? :)

[Bugzilla]

How about a smal red and blue stripe down the length, slightly off center with #53 on the hood and doors? :)

Haha that would be very fitting for a white Bug but I just have this strange feeling that someone has already done that... I wonder if it would be able to do the auto-x events for me too?

But on another note, PISTONS HAVE SHIPPED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Should be here early next week and they better be correct.

[Bugzilla]

Well the new pistons are here. They look exactly the same as the last set. But they arent! Thats a good thing. Wrist pins actually fit and the compression height has been changed to my specs. Now I just have to hope everything balances out fine.

141601

[Bugzilla]

Getting closer and closer to being done painting this thing! The hood was pretty bad. Took the most bondo out of any other panel. Lots of spraying and sanding. Still have to sand it one last time and then on to its final coat of paint. After that, only one door and one fender left to paint!

141636

141637

141638

[Bugzilla]

Well guys, its official. I can start building my engine. Got the rotating assembly back from balancing this morning. Dont think I will have time to do it this weekend but should be able to build it next week. I might get a 4 day weekend for 4th of July so there is a good chance it will be up and running by then! I am very excited to see what this new engine is going to do. I am hoping it will be a night and day difference over the last one. If it makes the kind of power I am thinking, its going to be a scary ride!

[beater65]

Well guys, its official. I can start building my engine. Got the rotating assembly back from balancing this morning. Dont think I will have time to do it this weekend but should be able to build it next week. I might get a 4 day weekend for 4th of July so there is a good chance it will be up and running by then! I am very excited to see what this new engine is going to do. I am hoping it will be a night and day difference over the last one. If it makes the kind of power I am thinking, its going to be a scary ride!

Killer. Git after IT!

[Bugzilla]

Its going to happen this week, dont you worry!

[Fuelie Nova]

I just read this entire thread, it motivated me to go out to the garage and work on my car!
Tom

[Motown 454]

Glad to hear something's going your way !! I'm pulling for you.

[Bugzilla]

Tom - Glad to hear I motivated someone! I have been motivated to work on the Bug but this heat is just killing my motivation. Might start building my engine inside instead!

Wayne - Yes finally going in the right direction. Now all I am waiting on is.... well, myself. I do have a 4 day weekend coming up so I should be able to get the engine done and built.

[Damn True]

Well I am still here waiting on the second set of pistons to show up. Hoping they will be here in a week or two. So in the mean time, I took the Jeep on a nice 1100 mile road trip. Made it all the way up to San Francisco and on the way back down, stopped by Pismo beach for a little dune action. Was a fun little trip. It was the Jeeps first long adventure and I was glad nothing went wrong.

140833


Makes me miss my old XJ

[Bugzilla]

I know what you mean! Everyone needs a XJ in there life. I was XJ-less for about 5 years this time and decided I needed another one. I had a WJ a 2 years ago and hated it. So now I am on XJ # 4. This one is a keeper though.

[Bugzilla]

Well I was off to a good start. Then hit a brickwall. JE didnt send me ring savers for the pistons. So couldnt build the engine. Got everything measured, rings filed, rods hung, head assembled and then couldnt go any farther.... So looks like the engine build wont happen until I go back to work and borrow some ring savers. Its really hot out so I guess I dont care too much. Progress is progress.

141897

141898

141899

[andrewb70]

Looking good, man! Progress is progress!!!

Andrew

[Bugzilla]

More progress. Its 115° today so not much more is going to happen.

142070

142071

142072

142073

142074

142075

[dirty rick]

That piston looks looks like it is sticking out pretty far! :^(

[Bugzilla]

Nope not really. About .007" as planned. Wanted to get a nice quench this time around.

[Motown 454]

NICE! Coming together now.

[Bugzilla]

Thanks Wayne!

Off to another good start today and then hit a snag. Got all the block plugs painted and in, neutral balance shafts and chain on, head gasket and studs in, cant find head stud nuts anywhere... at a stand still now

142146

[gator68428]

Looking good. Looking forward to seeing that thing kick some more AutoX butt.

[Motown 454]

cant find head stud nuts anywhere...

Your talking to the I'm sure it's right over Here somewhere guy!!!! I hope they turn up soon.

[Bugzilla]

Looking good. Looking forward to seeing that thing kick some more AutoX butt.

Thanks Mitch. First race is mid Sept. Hopefully it goes good!


cant find head stud nuts anywhere...

Your talking to the I'm sure it's right over Here somewhere guy!!!! I hope they turn up soon.

Ya losing your nuts is no fun. I have searched for 2 days and cant find them... Well it has been 7 months since I last saw them so it is what it is. Ill bring some home from work today so I can finish it up.

[Motown 454]

I lost a new set of Holley polished valve covers! Can't find them for the life of me.

[Bugzilla]

Wayne - now that is just impressive. My garage is small enough that I would not be able to lose something that big haha.

On another note, took some nuts home from work, came home for lunch and the nuts work! So possible complete long block tonight!

[Bugzilla]

We have long block completion.

142212

142213

142214

[Motown 454]

Nice!

[Bugzilla]

Looks like its going in, through the door again unfortunately...

142254

[Bugzilla]

And a few hours later... and after a lot of sweating....it fit.

142255

142256

[Switta]

WOW ! very cool build nice work .

Dave

[Kenova]

:idea: Removable subframe and car hoist.

Ken

[Bugzilla]

WOW ! very cool build nice work .

Dave

Thanks Dave. Cant wait to drive it again.


:idea: Removable subframe and car hoist.

Ken

Ken, I will inform the designer of his very bad design and make him do the engine swap next time. If it was up to me it would have been removable. :hammer:

[Bugzilla]

I think it will run today.

142383

[Bugzilla]

I will take it that it runs.


https://youtu.be/XYZR6_WC2fI

[andrewb70]

Awesome...

Andrew

[Bugzilla]

I ran it for about 45 min yesterday. Found a few minor issues. 1st issue - it is way louder then it was before. Apparently bumping the compression 1 point makes that big of a difference. 2nd issue - oil psi. I was hoping it was going to be lower this time around since it now has oil squirters. Nope, still have crazy oil psi. Lowest I saw it get was 55 psi at a 1000 rpm hot idle. Cold idle, 80 psi. So thats about 5 psi less then the last engine. Might have to mess with the relief spring. 3rd issue - this thing sucks to put coolant in. Pretty sure there is still a bubble in the system but the fan kicks on and turns off as it should. Temps are good. The best part is that there are 0 leaks!

So I might bolt in a seat and take it around the block tonight. The tune seems to be pretty good so might as well try to drive it. Its a little fat at idle (12:1) but revs up fine. We will see what putting a load on it does. I still see a couple hours of street tuning in my future.

[Bugzilla]

Alright, drove the bug about 10 miles so far. All good. Tune is pretty close. Got on it to about 6k. Runs a lot better then before. Seems to have a mean powerband now. Could just be in the tune. Need to do some logging now.

[Motown 454]

Sweet news! Glad to hear it all went well.

[Bugzilla]

Well I took the Bug for another spin this morning. I actually had the laptop hooked up this time to log and its making a lousy 9 psi of boost. I cant really go much smaller with the pulley either. I already had to clearance the snout to make my current pulley work. I think ATI makes and oversized balancer. Might be next on the list... I am hoping to hit 14-15 psi. Will post the video of the run shortly.

142559

[Motown 454]

Great! Glad you got it out.

[Bugzilla]

https://youtu.be/wJ2XGcMhgtA

2:30 for you impatient people.

[slimjim]

Really cool, it was definitely worth the buildup to 2:30

[wfo guy]

I like the fact that at part throttle, it sounds like a bug. Somewhere, someone is going to get a surprise to no end we he takes that on. :)

[Motown 454]

Nice!!!

[Bugzilla]

Thanks guys! It is still a blast to drive despite being low on boost. I am guessing its 50hp down from where it should be. 50hp on 2000lbs is a big deal. If I can get the boost up to where it should be, its going to be scary.

WFO - Yes it really does sound like a normal Bug while cruising! Even more so in person. That blower whine is a give-a-way though. No way to hide it either. Its just loud 100% of the time.

[gator68428]

Well I took the Bug for another spin this morning. I actually had the laptop hooked up this time to log and its making a lousy 9 psi of boost. I cant really go much smaller with the pulley either. I already had to clearance the snout to make my current pulley work. I think ATI makes and oversized balancer. Might be next on the list... I am hoping to hit 14-15 psi. Will post the video of the run shortly.

142559

Looking awesome.

Wish I could see it in person.

Ever think about Optima USCA? Fontana in Sep is calling your name--I think there are a few spots left... just sayin' ;-)

I wonder what class you'd be in, GTL or the compact GTC class--the GTC class is pretty new.
Seems like you have yourself a killer vehicle there. The way you kicked a$$ before the current mods--once you get your boost back, look out!!

[Bugzilla]

Thanks Mitch! I do plan on doing an Optima event (hopefully this year). Not too sure what class I would run in. Need to get some new tires first. R-compounds are a no go as you probably know.

Now that you have that nice tow vehicle (yes the G8), you can always drag the Bird out here and compete with me! Would be a nice little road trip.

[gator68428]

Thanks Mitch! I do plan on doing an Optima event (hopefully this year). Not too sure what class I would run in. Need to get some new tires first. R-compounds are a no go as you probably know.

Now that you have that nice tow vehicle (yes the G8), you can always drag the Bird out here and compete with me! Would be a nice little road trip.

I considered it trust me! haha. Really excited to do another event. My bro lives in AZ and is planning to go in his C5 so I had a place to stop on the way and someone to finish the drive with. Also have another brother in Houston of all places. A three day drive with places to rest/stay at the two stopping points, Houston and Phoenix, it's almost poetic!

However, recent developments on the home front (new baby July 5) and all the time I spent in the garage from Jan to April getting ready for NOLA, It'd be asking a lot of my wife to let me get back in the garage to prep (she's already a saint for letting me live in the garage all spring just about--check out my proj thread)--and it's HOT. So I've been scheming on what mods to do next and almost can't wait until next year. And living vicariously through the forums until then. I've FINALLY got my project thread up to date! Lucky if I can get enough time on the comp to do it with a newborn and 22mo old. I found if I let the baby sleep on me I get more clearance for car forum time on the comp!

[Bugzilla]

See that would work out perfectly then! Do it! But I see what you mean about the kids (and congrats on the new one). If you do ever make it out here, shoot me a message and we can meet up.

[Bugzilla]

Alright guys, I did some thinking and it wasnt good. What if I was to take the blower off and go turbo? That would solve my boost issue and gain me many many hp. Downside is the lag.

[gator68428]

Would be nice to know why you're down on boost first... What did you determine about the damper pulley?

[Bugzilla]

Ya I figured out the ATI deal. Its an under drive pulley.... So not going to work. Pretty sure the boost went down cause I made the engine bigger. I figured it would, just not 2 psi. I also looked at the engine and there is no way to put on a bigger damper. Anything bigger would rub on the front cover.

Going back to the crazy turbo idea, I already have a perfect turbo sitting at home. Brand new but sitting for a year. Was going to go on another Ecotec project. I can easily sell my blower for decent money and that would more then cover the rest of the turbo components. So money wise, its a good idea. Bad news - I would have to make another header, do all the cooler tubing (would be water to air), build an intake manifold, and the worse part, lift the engine back up so I can drop the oil pan to add a turbo drain provision. The engine wouldnt have to come out, just up about 4" which I dont think will be a huge ordeal. Just not too fun.

The other halfway good news is that I would be able to run the engine in NA form until I got the turbo system built. So technically, the Bug would only be down a few days at a time until I got each component done. Would still be fun with 200 whp for the time being.

[gator68428]

Ya I figured out the ATI deal. Its an under drive pulley.... So not going to work. Pretty sure the boost went down cause I made the engine bigger. I figured it would, just not 2 psi. I also looked at the engine and there is no way to put on a bigger damper. Anything bigger would rub on the front cover.

Going back to the crazy turbo idea, I already have a perfect turbo sitting at home. Brand new but sitting for a year. Was going to go on another Ecotec project. I can easily sell my blower for decent money and that would more then cover the rest of the turbo components. So money wise, its a good idea. Bad news - I would have to make another header, do all the cooler tubing (would be water to air), build an intake manifold, and the worse part, lift the engine back up so I can drop the oil pan to add a turbo drain provision. The engine wouldnt have to come out, just up about 4" which I dont think will be a huge ordeal. Just not too fun.

The other halfway good news is that I would be able to run the engine in NA form until I got the turbo system built. So technically, the Bug would only be down a few days at a time until I got each component done. Would still be fun with 200 whp for the time being.

Up to you. But if you go for it, it will be pretty sick. I know you've already made up your mind. A change up in plans always takes a few days to swallow, but you're progressing quickly. Go For It.

Better get it done before Fontana. I'm looking into plane tickets to watch my bro compete (Kevin M. in the 98 Vette reg in GTS). Would be sweet to see bugzilla in action that's for sure. I have a little Vee-dub in me too BTW--my parents always had a 71 squareback in the garage. I drove it in college for a few years after my 68 Firebird got broken into the first weekend parked on campus. Hotwired, but no start luckily due to preventative measures my Dad told me to take--praise god. Put it back safely at home and drove the VW for 3 until I picked up a beater car. See if you can see the VW in my proj thread in the background. Which reminds me I gotta add the near theft details to the story.

[Centerforce]

Yes! We're happy to see you finally on the road again. Even with lower boost, it looks like the bug still has some pretty good pick-up!

[Bugzilla]

Thanks guys! Did a photo shoot today. Here is a sneak peak.

142772

[Motown 454]

Nice.

[gator68428]

Awesome. Was recently thinking of getting high quality pics of my car done one day--now that I've been posting more. Maybe after I get it looking better first though.

[2ndroundko]

How much power did you lose with 2psi. Love the build I'm sure you can wait to beat on it

[andrewb70]

How much power did you lose with 2psi. Love the build I'm sure you can wait to beat on it

Boost is just a measure of resistance. He is probably making more power now with less boost...But I think there is a turbinator in the works...

Andrew

[Bugzilla]

100% was going to say what Andrew said. Its making probably 25hp more then the last engine even being down in boost. The bump in compression helped too. And yes, there is possibly a turbinator in the works. More boosties!

[2ndroundko]

How much boost......ALL OF IT!!! Cool beans forced induction has always interested me but I have yet to mess with it. My denali may get turbo'd within the next year after I pay it off though...

[Kenova]

I'm sure you have thought of it, but is the bypass valve working properly? Just a thought.
I love the sound of the blower. May have to get one of my own someday.

Ken

[Bugzilla]

Ken - yep bypass is working correctly. That thing slams shut when you rev it. Same thing if you are just cruising down the street and lean in to the throttle.

[dirty rick]

Add a turbo to force feed the blower?

[Bugzilla]

Rick - I was waiting for someone to say that! Thought about it, would be freakin awesome, but not going to happen.

[Bugzilla]

Alright guys. I had Chad (Chad-1stGen on here) @ Autox and Track reach out to me a little while ago to do an article on the Bug. Well he did it and I have to give him a big thanks! You can check out the article in the link below.

Article here (https://www.autoxandtrack.com/bugzilla-mid-engine-autocross-vw-bug/)

[gator68428]

Alright guys. I had Chad (Chad-1stGen on here) @ Autox and Track reach out to me a little while ago to do an article on the Bug. Well he did it and I have to give him a big thanks! You can check out the article in the link below.

Article here (https://www.autoxandtrack.com/bugzilla-mid-engine-autocross-vw-bug/)

Saw it on my Facebook feed. Awesome article about a cool car! Nice pics too.

[Bugzilla]

Thanks Mitch! Now I just need to get some more race videos. 5 weeks until the next event.

[Bugzilla]

Well not much going on over here. Took the Bug out for a few more laps to finish the tuning. Well the part throttle tuning is now done and it has a ton more bottom end power. Still need to work on full throttle passes. They are close but not perfect. Dont like doing them on the streets. Might be time to put it on the dyno.

[gator68428]

Optima Autoclub labor day weekend? I'll be there helping my brother--he'll be competing in his C5 in GTS.

[Bugzilla]

I really do want to go to the Optima event. But I still think my build is too fresh / not enough seat time. I have never done a road course in my life. And from what I hear, the speedway is a very high speed track. Like some cars hit 150 mph. Not sure I am ready for any crazy speed in the Bug just yet. And I need an oil cooler.... Next year for sure. If I could just do the autox and speed stop, I would be there!

[gator68428]

They just run the infield for Optima I know that--much lower speeds. I'm not sold on oil coolers--for 15-20min track sessions they're not always needed. On a 85 deg day in FL i stuck a thermocouple down my dipstick after 20 min on track and the engine oil wasn't even at 220 degF (190 deg water temp). That's when you'd want your thermostat to kick on. If you do get an oil cooler, get a thermostat. You want your oil 215deg+ so it burns off contaminants. I bet most people that just slap an oil cooler on may be doing more harm than good.

Optima has 15min track sessions, and they have a novice group. Not to pressure you. Either way, I don't blame you since you've never been on a track. And with a highly modified car that's never been on a track either, I double don't blame you--get some practice and shake down the car first would be a sound strategy. If only you could do a track day somewhere first...

[Bugzilla]

Mitch - I wish I knew that they didnt do the full Roval earlier! I would have signed up. If someone pops up with an extra ticket I will gladly take it off their hands.

And in other news, I am signed up for the Hotchkis/NMCA race in September. Sadly I waited too long and only could only get signed up for the Sunday race.

[gator68428]

Mitch - I wish I knew that they didnt do the full Roval earlier! I would have signed up. If someone pops up with an extra ticket I will gladly take it off their hands.

And in other news, I am signed up for the Hotchkis/NMCA race in September. Sadly I waited too long and only could only get signed up for the Sunday race.

You can still register for it. Reg is not closed as far as I can tell.
http://driveusca.com/events/

If you click on Road America for example (last event before Vegas), it will say reg closed. It does not say that for Autoclub.

[Bugzilla]

I tried to do it yesterday and it wasnt working. Guess I can try again!

[gator68428]

I tried to do it yesterday and it wasnt working. Guess I can try again!

If you need any help Adam is very helpful and he will get back to you quickly. Adam H, his email is: adamh at driveusca dot com