Michael's GT-R Build
- Thread starter Michael Hampson
- Start date
You meant to say polystyrene right? Have you done this latex 'seal' coat? It works? Neat cost savings if it does.
Indeed I did mean PolyStyrene (the pink stuff at the hardware store). I have tested it on a small piece, I’ve not done anything large yet to determine how difficult it is to get a good seal on a big surface.
Even the smallest breach will let the MEK totally dissolve the foam.
BUT, you can lay up with epoxy instead and it won't eat the foam.
www.aeromarineproducts.com
BUT, you can lay up with epoxy instead and it won't eat the foam.
300/21 Laminating Epoxy Resin w/ Pumps - 1.5 Gallon Kit
AeroMarine Products 300/21 epoxy resin is a clear, low viscosity cycloaliphatic epoxy system Primarily used for laminating and coating. It contains no VOCs and is relatively moisture insensitive. This multifunctional epoxy is also used for pebble paving and for coating floors. Automotive...
www.aeromarineproducts.com
Michael, car looks great. I should be getting mine from RCR in April. I have a 5.2 XS and the Graziano Transaxle. I have not ordered the clutch, flywheel, starter yet. Did you go with the Audi R8 clutch or a different option? Do you have a build list you can share?
Ron McCall
Supporter
Steve,
Congrats on the car!! Do yourself a huge favor and check out the clutch offerings from HCF Autosport for the L140.
Ron
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Michael Hampson
Supporter
HI Steve - must have missed your response. Sorry for the delay. Yes, I purchased my clutch and flywheel from HCF (HCF Parts - Ferrari, Gears, Transmissions (hcfautoparts.com) ) John is a great guy, and even gave me a list of the other parts and pieces required complete the setup (fittings, etc.). The starter is a common Audi/VW part, I believe. Try a part number SR0408X (Bosch). I got mine on Amazon.
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Yes, I'd say that using polystyrene would be a cheaper alternative, and lay up with epoxy. Doesn't stink either!!. However, the polyurethane foam is great for sculpting complex shapes, etc. You get what you pay for I guess.
Even the smallest breach will let the MEK totally dissolve the foam.
BUT, you can lay up with epoxy instead and it won't eat the foam.
300/21 Laminating Epoxy Resin w/ Pumps - 1.5 Gallon Kit
AeroMarine Products 300/21 epoxy resin is a clear, low viscosity cycloaliphatic epoxy system Primarily used for laminating and coating. It contains no VOCs and is relatively moisture insensitive. This multifunctional epoxy is also used for pebble paving and for coating floors. Automotive...
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Hi Tony;
I haven't seen a tub installed before, but when I was considering my kit, I personally didn't see the advantage to it. It seemed to me I would have more control over how the fit and finish all worked out without having to try to figure out how to trim around another piece. And how to you apply sound deadening between the tub and the frame? I wasn't sure. I don't think the original-style center console I purchased from H would have fit, and I expect the door panels would be a challenge as well. Anyway, if you've seen one in person and like the finished look without a lot of extra work with a center console, wrap around carpet, etc., then certainly go for it!
I haven't seen a tub installed before, but when I was considering my kit, I personally didn't see the advantage to it. It seemed to me I would have more control over how the fit and finish all worked out without having to try to figure out how to trim around another piece. And how to you apply sound deadening between the tub and the frame? I wasn't sure. I don't think the original-style center console I purchased from H would have fit, and I expect the door panels would be a challenge as well. Anyway, if you've seen one in person and like the finished look without a lot of extra work with a center console, wrap around carpet, etc., then certainly go for it!
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Here's a nice photo of my car just before the wrecker picked it up after I ran out of gas! 
At the time, I thought something was wrong, so I didn't think to just put more gas in it! The fuel tank sending unit is good for a general idea, apparently! I actually got all the way to removing the fuel pump from the tank before I realized the tank was bone dry!
At the time, I thought something was wrong, so I didn't think to just put more gas in it! The fuel tank sending unit is good for a general idea, apparently! I actually got all the way to removing the fuel pump from the tank before I realized the tank was bone dry!
Neil
Supporter
Don't feel bad... on a cross-country drive back in 1969, i was approaching Denver and watching my gas gauge for its red warning light to come on, indicating that it was on "reserve". As i got just inside the city, the car sputtered to a halt on the side of the road. "What the...?" Can't be out of gas, the reserve warning light never came on. I took off my green sun glasses and there was the red warning light staring me in the face! That's when I switched to neutral density sun glasses. (Fortunately a gas station was close by)Here's a nice photo of my car just before the wrecker picked it up after I ran out of gas!
View attachment 130353View attachment 130354
Hi - quick question if you don't mind. I have my GT-R kit on order, and I'm researching some parts to begin collecting in prep. I really like the side / door mirrors you've selected for your build - by any chance would you mind sharing where they came from or what model they are? Thanks - your car is beautiful and I love the blue.
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Hi Robert!
Best of luck with your built. I am happy to help out however I can. Thanks for the compliment too!
The side mirrors are from a C6 Corvette.
Michael
Best of luck with your built. I am happy to help out however I can. Thanks for the compliment too!
The side mirrors are from a C6 Corvette.
Michael
Michael - thank you. Really looking forward to the build and trying to use the time I have waiting to collect various parts I know I'm going to want to have.
Robert
Robert
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Still working on final tweaks and finishing touches... I plumbed up my air box to the side scoops. It would have been a real nightmare to try to connect them to the upper rear clamshell vents. The tubing is 4" polished 6061, 1/16" wall thickness. I welded a bracket on it that attaches to the upright. Then silicone elbows and air ducting to complete the circuit. I cut 1/8" aluminum sheet to fit over the vent holes, using the same bolt holes that mount the scoop on, then welded a couple of inches of 4" tubing to the plates for the tubing to connect to. It is amazing how different the car sounds from inside while the engine is sucking in all that air right next to my ear!
Excellent job with the ductwork.
Very clean and professional looking.
I have my kit on order and will be using the Aluminator 52XS also. (many months away)
One question, did you order the Graz completion kit from Superlite, meaning the clutch, flywheel hyd throwout bearing etc.
Or possibly did you choose all the components based on advice given by Ron McCall when you had the drop gears installed?
Thanks
Very clean and professional looking.
I have my kit on order and will be using the Aluminator 52XS also. (many months away)
One question, did you order the Graz completion kit from Superlite, meaning the clutch, flywheel hyd throwout bearing etc.
Or possibly did you choose all the components based on advice given by Ron McCall when you had the drop gears installed?
Thanks
Michael Hampson
Supporter
Thanks for the compliment, Tony!
I purchased my clutch and flywheel from HCF (HCF Parts - Ferrari, Gears, Transmissions (hcfautoparts.com) ) John is a great guy, and even gave me a list of the other parts and pieces required complete the setup (fittings, etc.). I can't remember all the reasoning behind the decision, but I am sure some of it was recommendation from Ron.
I purchased my clutch and flywheel from HCF (HCF Parts - Ferrari, Gears, Transmissions (hcfautoparts.com) ) John is a great guy, and even gave me a list of the other parts and pieces required complete the setup (fittings, etc.). I can't remember all the reasoning behind the decision, but I am sure some of it was recommendation from Ron.
Nice work! It looks gorgeous