Project DD built "MY Way" - Updated 8/19/08 - Tinkering Now

[1981gMachine]

Before posting please read. I like input but keep in mind \/\/\/

Disclosure: This car is going to be my DD. Not a race car. I don't plan on dumping a ton of money making the car quick. I know there are a lot of good parts but with them comes a price tag. Please keep this in mind when posting. I don't want to hear I should buy this part or that part cuz it's better. I'm building this and doing things to it to make it decent enough for me to drive. It's not that I'm poor, I work 2 jobs, pay rent for a town house, student loans and tool loan. Plenty of things to spend money on.

My car is a 2002 ZX2 with 105,XXX on the clock. 5spd original color is SU (green). Some guy before me wrecked it pretty good and it sat for almost 3 months at the dealership I work for. My exploder was acting up so I bought the car for $400 plus tax and tags.

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/1981/cid0215081643nu9.th.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0215081643nu9.jpg) http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/7459/cid0215081643ary7.th.jpg (http://img514.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0215081643ary7.jpg) http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/6595/cid0215081644xd6.th.jpg (http://img139.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0215081644xd6.jpg)

So I needed to buy some parts, here is what I got so far:
-Wrecked 02 ZX2 ~$474
-Passenger Spindle, Strut, Control Arm, Brake, Engine Cradle, Axle ~ $150
-Serpentine Belt ~ $25
-AC Compressor ~ $30
-2 Bags, Steering Wheel & Bag Module ~ $110
-Camber Kit ~ $20
-Deck Lid ~ $30
-Windshield ~ $120
-Outer Tie Rod End ~ $28
-Belt Tensioner ~ $60
-Exhaust Gasket ~ $6
-Axle Seal ~ $8
-Axle Boot Clamps ~ $4
-Leather Seats ~ $325
-Used Bumper, Dash, Center Console, Clock Spring ~ $20
-New Ford Rt Fender ~ $50
-Kumho Ecsta Ast 205/50/15 ~ $254
-Dropzones ~ $95
-Rear SR Struts, PCV Valve, Oil Filter, Spark Plugs, Plug Wires, Both E-Brake Cables ~ $150
- PCV Line and Outer Tie Rod End ~ $30
- Inspection & Emissions sticker ~ $11

Total Spent to Date: $2000

Here is my soon to buy list:
- Empty


My To Do List:
- Polish Headlights some more
- Clean More of the Compound Up
- Paint Drivers door handle Pull
- Punched out Cats
- ???


Progress Pics to Follow

[1981gMachine]

Before I started taking apart

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/208/cimg1230tj6.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1230tj6.jpg)


Driver Side in good shape

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/7475/cimg1233rk5.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1233rk5.jpg)


Passenger side beat to hell

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/152/cimg1234nd0.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1234nd0.jpg)


Can see the bent suspension parts

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/9691/cimg1235ps3.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1235ps3.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/1634/cimg1236jh6.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1236jh6.jpg)


Passenger side has old bodywork that cracked

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/1750/cimg1237xf4.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1237xf4.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/224/cimg1238ci6.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1238ci6.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/2320/cimg1239rr0.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1239rr0.jpg)


Somebody went to town on the wiring, I'll be splicing in a new harness

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/1083/cimg1240eo7.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1240eo7.jpg) http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/4428/cimg1241lh4.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1241lh4.jpg)


New/Used Strut on right, Bent on left
- Taking out involved take the top 4 nuts off the strut tower, 2 bolts through the strut/spindle

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/6357/cimg1244st0.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1244st0.jpg)


Strut out of the way, can see some more carnage

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/1420/cimg1250hb7.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1250hb7.jpg)


Sway Bar end link

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/9240/cimg1245gx8.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1245gx8.jpg)


Lower control arm out, can def see the bend
- Involved one through bolt that went through the front of the arm. 3 bolts that went to the rear bracket. And the 2 bolts/nuts that attach the control arm to the spindle. I cut the through bolt cuz I had another one and you have to raise the motor to get it out.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/9909/cimg1247mj3.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1247mj3.jpg)


Axle out
- There is a bracket the mounts to the block I believe. There was 3 bolts through that. After the bracket was off I used the big slide hammer and gave it hell. One knock and it was out.

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/5954/cimg1251kx6.th.jpg (http://img513.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1251kx6.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/204/cimg1252uv6.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1252uv6.jpg)


After and hour of work this is where the car stood. The next step was taking the engine cradle out.

http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/3016/cimg1253rj3.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1253rj3.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/1146/cimg1254pt4.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1254pt4.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/567/cimg1256wi0.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1256wi0.jpg) http://img126.imageshack.us/img126/1673/cimg1257rj4.th.jpg (http://img126.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1257rj4.jpg)


Engine cradle out
- I don't remember how many bolts their were. But I did have to disconnect the flex pipe and bend the heat shield out of the way.

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/6295/cimg1258fj8.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1258fj8.jpg) http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/4500/cimg1259pw8.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1259pw8.jpg)


Old and New/Used

http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/653/cimg1260nu3.th.jpg (http://img529.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1260nu3.jpg)


Put back together, minus a few things on the passenger side. Needed an outer tie rod before putting back together

http://img149.imageshack.us/img149/6172/cimg1261qq8.th.jpg (http://img149.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1261qq8.jpg) http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/3264/cimg1262in3.th.jpg (http://img204.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cimg1262in3.jpg)

[1981gMachine]

My free intake mod


My goal was to get rid of the resonators, for that "vroom vroom" sound. And make it breath better then stock


Top resonator gone. I cut it off, and 2parted part of the old filter housing to cover the hole. Sanded smooth and satin blacked it

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/7277/cid0404082253bgr3.th.jpg (http://img525.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0404082253bgr3.jpg)


I used the stock parts, cut and glued back together to get everything hooked up right. 4in PVC pipe from ACE for the filter. Satin Blacked it. Made a bracket from a steel rod to keep it still.

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/5321/cid0404082253aqu3.th.jpg (http://img525.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0404082253aqu3.jpg)


Enlarged the hole to let more air in. Also not shown is a hole I cut on the front side that'd behind the hole in the bumper.

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/4416/cid0404082253lt5.th.jpg (http://img211.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0404082253lt5.jpg)

[1981gMachine]

My Shifter Mod: Cut 2in off the top, Toruched it while in the car. I was in the driver's seat and about mid shaft I heated it up til orange. Then put the knob on and pulled it into 2nd gear til I got really close to the seat. Being 6'1" it was a bit of a reach for the front gears. A 13ball for the shifter and 06 Cobalt SS leather shift boot.

Total Cost: Free


In neutral

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/2508/cid0404082255fv9.th.jpg (http://img186.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0404082255fv9.jpg)


In 2nd Gear

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/6194/cid0404082255aam7.th.jpg (http://img186.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0404082255aam7.jpg)


Mock up to see how the boot looks

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/4195/cid0422081313id3.th.jpg (http://img88.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0422081313id3.jpg)

[1981gMachine]

Cut the back out of this opening, I feel it looks better. Also will help let a wee bit more air though. I just happen to have a hole through the core support which is behind the bumper hole.

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/4430/cid0426081830rz6.th.jpg (http://img521.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081830rz6.jpg)


Cut the center of the grill out. Also feel it looks better. No plans on wire mesh either.

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/5739/cid0426081830apj1.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081830apj1.jpg)


Need to fill this part with plastic repair and smooth it out.

http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/8262/cid0426081830bpx5.th.jpg (http://img137.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081830bpx5.jpg)


This got broken off, So I'm cheap and gonna glue it back on. 3M products of course

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/4185/cid0426081831ib4.th.jpg (http://img521.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081831ib4.jpg)


Clamped in place

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/5060/cid0426081838ju6.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081838ju6.jpg)


One of many mesh backing parts I'll be using. The back isn't visible so it will be loaded up with 2part and mesh.

http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/6950/cid0426081838ark1.th.jpg (http://img521.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081838ark1.jpg)


1st coat on for today. Will do a quick sand later and apply more and beef up the backside.

http://img237.imageshack.us/img237/4189/cid0426081843su8.th.jpg (http://img237.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0426081843su8.jpg)

[ZX2guy19]

Lookin' good

You would have been better off just buying this though:

http://www.teamzx2.com/showthread.php?p=13043#post13043

P.S. Don't flip

P.P.S. I man tan

[ImCrazy]

interestring build, i really don't like the shift boot but to each their own. the grille should look cool when your done tho!!

[1981gMachine]

interestring build, i really don't like the shift boot but to each their own. the grille should look cool when your done tho!!

Yeah my buddy with the speed3 said the same thing about the boot. Not a fan of the boot going right up to the knob. I figure the modifications to the bumper will give it a lil something extra. Thinking on how I could smooth/fill where the plate goes...


Guess I'm bringing a lil old school to new school. I like how the old cars shifters looked.

http://www.vaultcars.com/683434speedAMX/68amx343hurstshifter.JPG

[1981gMachine]

Ok, so after work today I took my shifter out and went to town. The end result is 40% shorter throws just by adding an inch to the bottom. I didn't section anymore off the top cuz I already cut 2in off the very top.

1st to 2nd use to be 5-1/4" now is 3-1/4" so if you do the math it's rounded to 40%. Technically 38.1% but 40 is a nice even number.

I did not insert a piece inside the hollow section. I trust my welds on a lot more important things other then shifters.

Pics of what I did:

1inch marked to be taken out
http://a362.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/50/l_71eb7ac276eb98bbb33dc8347a4b1b59.jpg

Chamfered the edges for good weld penetration
http://a832.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/18/l_c49af7e164339ac7c83f034b30c1a977.jpg

Mock up before wled
http://a392.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/46/l_41f88fe6b6beb041242eb644cde6ad0f.jpg

All welded
http://a13.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/32/l_a5c8e75f03a36329816f51549502bedc.jpg

Close up on a weld
http://a947.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/28/l_2f1584f3839dbc4ea455771b51f8fd22.jpg

Metal finished and ready for paint
http://a126.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_c827647548514c5f4d5888082ed198a5.jpg

Painted
http://a691.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/14/l_3bf9d108080e6916c99608c97aeecee2.jpg

Painted
http://a262.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/39/l_6036a19b8d3aa013a2a3cb15c0327ecd.jpg

[1981gMachine]

Ok, So i'm putting part of my interior back together. Painted part of the dash. Once I get the car all back together then I'll worry about the small stuff that I should find nicer parts to replace.

http://a626.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/26/l_cf56ae9d36098541829aacc795d2bf59.jpg

http://a75.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/6/l_8551c96fe6e0fcb6a8bd141f60a540fa.jpg

http://a766.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/39/l_6e36016b6f7f9a77796d55dfbd3cab15.jpg

http://a76.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/38/l_6bef57fa7d0891b39915b0ae0cb1b22b.jpg

[kln5014]

Keep up the good work! Any new updates?

[ImCrazy]

cool beans man, I think you should goto the j/y and get a few shifters then cut em down and reweld em then sell them i bet people would buy them.

[1981gMachine]

cool beans man, I think you should goto the j/y and get a few shifters then cut em down and reweld em then sell them i bet people would buy them.

I thought about that. Didn't take me long to make. I thought about having people send me theirs. Pay shipping plus $25 and I'll have it ready for paint/powder coating or $50 for base/clear. Maybe once I finish this project of a vehicle I'll search the JY to see what they have.

[ZX2guy19]

Shifter turned out really nice man!

[1981gMachine]

Keep up the good work! Any new updates?

This weekend will be another big work weekend. Hopefully I get all the bodywork done minus final sand b4 paint. memorial weekend I'm shooting for to paint it. I'll have all day monday to cut & buff the car. Still need springs and tires and I should be good to go. Might switch to power windows before I put the doors back together.

[1981gMachine]

Interior is put back together minus the sill plates. Will have to take the rear panels back out to put the quarter glass back in. I got the set of leather seats, mint cond. dash, and good condition center console along with a used front bumper for $345. Also a clock spring for my drivers air bag was included in that.

http://a987.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/23/l_1bbeae3763d38188539152b9f5435202.jpg

http://a410.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_3849105dee6b51bbe5ca279ee919eaa1.jpg

http://a636.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/42/l_c8f7a6e4d852e085a13458b175896ddb.jpg

http://a625.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/42/l_7d8ccba306e6fd7834abf5199de28b60.jpg

[Buster]

Interior looks GREAT.

[1981gMachine]

Interior looks GREAT.

thanks, when the car is done I'll take pics with my camera. All the pics recently are from my Samsung Flip Shot phone.

[1981gMachine]

Well I know people have a good idea on how to do this but I'd thought I'd share some pics. You could get away with doing this and only paint the door if you were really careful or own a white or black car.

Obviously take the moldings off. I used a puddy knife. The quarter panel can be cleaned up and buffed. The door needs the holes filled and not with bondo.


Use a grinder and take the surrounding area down to bare metal

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/7789/cid0516082136tc2.th.jpg (http://img88.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082136tc2.jpg)


Cut out your patch parts. I'm putting the patch on the backside instead of cutting it exactly to size.

Reason: The metal is really thin and I didn't want to chance burning a hole into the door. On an older car you would be ok but not on anything new with tin.

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/6830/cid0516082146qv7.th.jpg (http://img91.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082146qv7.jpg)


I used a stud gun and put a stud in the center on each. This will help hold it in place while welding. I attached a vise grip to the stud and the ground clamp to the vise grip.

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/9237/cid0516082151kj3.th.jpg (http://img91.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082151kj3.jpg)


Before welding

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/1034/cid0516082156apy7.th.jpg (http://img88.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082156apy7.jpg)


After welding. Notice I didn't fully weld it up. Just enough to secure it in place. I don't want to warp the door real bad. I also did about 2-3 tacks on each and rotated between all 4 leaving time for them to cool.

Note: Don't expect a clean weld. There is paint on the backside of the door and will cause some pops here and there.

http://img91.imageshack.us/img91/2893/cid0516082215uc0.th.jpg (http://img91.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082215uc0.jpg)


Ground down ready for filler.

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/5287/cid0516082217id3.th.jpg (http://img88.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0516082217id3.jpg)

[1981gMachine]

Cleaned up the sand/dirt box under the hood. Much better

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5617/cid0516082229dy8.jpg

[Hypnose Zx2]

wow lots of work LOOKS SOOO GOOD!~

[1981gMachine]

Bodywork (dent wise) is 98% done. Didn't take a lot of pics. Will take more when I'm heading down the last stretch before paint.

http://a892.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/28/l_689ca7cc20a1388b5a1f49b4ee9584d3.jpg

http://a721.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/33/l_8140bf0151a097b24e9d23f25780b608.jpg

[ImCrazy]

lookin good dude.

[1981gMachine]

Thanks to all that have complemented. Wasn't expecting this big of a project but I can't leave anything alone... so a few months later here I am.

[ZX2 Sleeper]

Your car has come along way. You've done an excellent job as far is bringing this thing back from the grave. You revived it with precision. It's an amazing thing that a guy hooked on camaro's would consider working on a ZX2. lol. Keep up the good work!

[1981gMachine]

Your car has come along way. You've done an excellent job as far is bringing this thing back from the grave. You revived it with precision. It's an amazing thing that a guy hooked on camaro's would consider working on a ZX2. lol. Keep up the good work!

Yeah well the mpg is what has me going. If it got 20-25mpg I'd say F it and get something else. The car grows on you over time.

[ZX2 Sleeper]

I agree with your statement saying it grows on you over time. When i got my ZX2 i liked it but soon after i started getting rid of the ugly/ and restrictive features... I made a piece of art! lol

[1981gMachine]

Zip Zero Nada, FREEBIE

http://a721.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/46/l_16d9007f87b9a9c907eb537adceb0490.jpg


Should go nice with the car. Might switch out the tip for a dual slash cut and tuck it right up to the bumper in the future.

[wudafxup]

nice job bro...props!!

[1981gMachine]

Borla is on, and rear bumper had the ZX2 shaved

http://img357.imageshack.us/img357/7896/cid0525081440uq9.th.jpg (http://img357.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0525081440uq9.jpg) http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/9796/cid0525081438do1.th.jpg (http://img170.imageshack.us/my.php?image=cid0525081438do1.jpg)

[Mike]

good progress....although...the rear bumper just looks too plain now...maybe a ww rear would help.

[1981gMachine]

good progress....although...the rear bumper just looks too plain now...maybe a ww rear would help.

Thanks but no lip kit in my future. Not a fan of them, I will lower the car so that might make it look better.

[Mike]

I'm sure that will make it look alot better.

[1981gMachine]

Ok, getting closer til paint time. New date is 1st weekend in June. I shaved a lot of stuff off so here are a few pics

http://a570.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/109/l_299aecf6726dc1e859afff00154a5541.jpg

http://a847.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/107/l_e319fb356ac916422d14fe6fd6b60bb6.jpg

http://a327.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/103/l_25908713cbea83a393c3b75828c75d7e.jpg

http://a493.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/9/l_8f744b3b125d481a84b8cf16904d378c.jpg

[DaviDawg]

the front emblem and side ding protector was the only things i didnt shave. i kept the ding protector for obvious reasons but the front emblem is something i decided against because i knew if i did it, it would of came out lookin like total ass.

yours, looks really good. :judge:

[1981gMachine]

the front emblem and side ding protector was the only things i didnt shave. i kept the ding protector for obvious reasons but the front emblem is something i decided against because i knew if i did it, it would of came out lookin like total ass.

yours, looks really good. :judge:

I was a lil iffy when starting it, made sure to grind down the edges where the emblem was. Then filled the hole with 3M Automix plastic repair and sanded it out. Finished with some plastic filler and glaze. I didn't want when I was done to still feel where it was, so that was my reasoning to grinding down the edge. Feels good, after I block the primer I'll know for sure but I highly doubt I'll feel anything.

I think a lot on here have a false idea on Plastic Filler (aka bondo). As long as you give the surface a good tooth it's not coming off. So I ended up glazing the hole area around the emblem to make sure I had plenty of stuff to block out.

[1981gMachine]

Update, no pics right this second. Will snap a few before it goes into the booth.

Car is getting ready for paint. The game plan is Sat the car gets paint. Still have to 320 the front bumper but the whole car has been 320'd. Tomorrow morn it will get scuffed and washed down with soap. Then masking during the week with friday night the car going in the booth for paint next day.

[zxtuner99]

Update, no pics right this second. Will snap a few before it goes into the booth.

Car is getting ready for paint. The game plan is Sat the car gets paint. Still have to 320 the front bumper but the whole car has been 320'd. Tomorrow morn it will get scuffed and washed down with soap. Then masking during the week with friday night the car going in the booth for paint next day.

what color is she going to be??

[1981gMachine]

what color is she going to be??

Not the best pic but an idea of the shade of blue. It's custom. No paint code, just a one off mix. My buddy was saving leftover blue paint last year so I could paint the camaro over winter. That never happened so he saved some more. This is how it came out. It's all leftover paint from his dealership. Hope I don't get into an accident once the cars done.

I would call it a shade of slate blue

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5617/cid0516082229dy8.jpg

[DaviDawg]

i like the shade of free paint! the blue looks good. i hope you dont get into an accident either

[zxtuner99]

free paint is the best paint... haha

[1981gMachine]

free paint is the best paint... haha

Anything free, well almost anything, is good.

[1981gMachine]

It's in the booth ready to go. My buddy is coming down tomorrow and meeting me after my 2nd job. Then we are gonna shoot the car. Will post paint progress pics prolly sunday. After we paint it were are gonna hit up rt 30 and watch the street rods cruise around.

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/4043/cid0606081640vo4.jpg

http://img364.imageshack.us/img364/1620/cid0606081908ds9.jpg

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/9040/cid0606081908alj9.jpg

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/678/cid0606081909qc0.jpg

[1981gMachine]

Ok, Time to post pics


Sealed
http://a23.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/114/l_477584763cfa790ca851c9cd59334166.jpg

Coat 2 of 5
http://a890.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/65/l_3d440bdba5e2fd05b1d23d7dc37cca41.jpg

Coat 3 of 5
http://a507.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/72/l_f6cb5673bc93b4e30ef2e883c3d96b9a.jpg

Final Coat of Base
http://a546.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/27/l_e87a2df50e7f3eccafa33a8539d9b0e9.jpg
http://a828.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/114/l_9947f12ff772f94ff1531da231238823.jpg

Me laying down the clear
http://a359.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/112/l_4d79998902bff427ba17bf97f9e76bce.jpg
http://a558.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/81/l_f507743f0d2c464455a9bd2c0895a005.jpg

All Cleared
http://a416.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/16/l_6006b99b8657a749e118b511aaf209ef.jpg
http://a467.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/98/l_650905aea6183ac33ee3edd545f0975a.jpg
http://a144.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/54/l_d487a4bcaffb56dc2ee304e277289147.jpg
http://a238.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/113/l_c6daec9f1332511fcb623f3a87b6bc2d.jpg
http://a205.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/18/l_81e1254b21b64296ad8d81dec8df9824.jpg

Kinda shows the color
http://a917.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/59/l_f08876ae85f4abf0d651b9bbf8f44014.jpg


All in all everything went good. The hood and roof has a good amount of dirt nibs in the clear. But it is a 1960 something Binks booth. This week I'll sand the clear and finish with 3000grit. Then the weekend I'll buff the hell out of it. Clear laid nice and flat, the rest of the car only has a few nibs here and there.

[ZX2guy19]

Beautiful. Seriously, it looks nice man.

[Buster]

Looks great.


That looks a lot like my factory Pacific Green color. It actually looks blue at night under street lights and in certain lights.

Nice color.

[TTFOWIA]

wow very nice job! keep up the good work hehe

[mellowness65]

I'm interested to see the painted rear bumper with no "zx2" in it, I've been wanting to do the same thing

Nice job mayne 8)

[1981gMachine]

I'm interested to see the painted rear bumper with no "zx2" in it, I've been wanting to do the same thing

Nice job mayne 8)

I'll snap a pic for you and post it.

[1981gMachine]

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/8346/cid0609081625ke1.jpg

http://img113.imageshack.us/img113/4285/cid0609081624pe6.jpg

[DaviDawg]

that emblem shave looks better than mine. props.

[McG35]

looks like your next investment may be some tires and I woulda shot the spare tire well as well

The color looks good, but I want it see it all done and assembled in the sun

[1981gMachine]

looks like your next investment may be some tires and I woulda shot the spare tire well as well

The color looks good, but I want it see it all done and assembled in the sun

Yep, if you read the 1st post, which I update, you'll see I'm painting the rims and buying tires. Also going to get springs for it. Spare tire is getting shot with rubberize along with the rear inner wells. I already shot the front inner wells.

I want to get progress springs but would like someone to tell me if they fit. Cuz the site lists for the older escorts and not the 98-03.

[ImCrazy]

the progress does fit however iirc dropzones are a better choice for that kinda drop.

[mellowness65]

that's awesome man. It's def. in my plans now




red rocket red rocket....

[ZX2guy19]

I have progress.

[1981gMachine]

the progress does fit however iirc dropzones are a better choice for that kinda drop.

I was gonna go megan til I saw progress were 87ish shipped. So cheap wins for me.

[TTFOWIA]

^^ should have taken dropzones... 89 shipped IIRC... and waaayyyyy better than progress

[capitalcrew]

Uhh.. progress springs are 200 dollars. Where did you find htem for 8X.

[ZX2guy19]

Yes Progress are over $200. IDK where you found them for $87...you might mean dropzone. Tell me where you got them, because I could use some new ones.

[1981gMachine]

Oh, my bad guys. I meant dropzones. Sorry for the confusion. Been a lil since i was looking at springs.

[slammmed]

that paint color is beautiful. I seem to see a lot of orange peel, is that true or is it the camera

[1981gMachine]

that paint color is beautiful. I seem to see a lot of orange peel, is that true or is it the camera

Just the rear bumper, the rest is flat. Even the top of the rear bumper.

[Buster]

I'm interested to see the painted rear bumper with no "zx2" in it, I've been wanting to do the same thing

Nice job mayne 8)

I've always wanted to do that, but don't feel like getting the whole bumper repainted.

If the stupid deer had jumped on the back of my car, I would've done it then. :D

[1981gMachine]

New shoes came today, $254 total with tax.

Kumho Ecsta Ast 205/50/15

http://a384.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/78/l_b47fb6651a2d6fd2050b749ac2fa6177.jpg

http://a815.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/30/l_f401678cfa05d274238f0e3eb5d684ee.jpg

[Buster]

Nice tread. Looks like they'll last a long time too.

Were you driving your Camaro through the Dover square (on 74) about 9:30 last night? If so, I passed you in my Z. :D

If it wasn't you, someone has a very similar car very near you. :D

[1981gMachine]

Nice tread. Looks like they'll last a long time too.

Were you driving your Camaro through the Dover square (on 74) about 9:30 last night? If so, I passed you in my Z. :D

If it wasn't you, someone has a very similar car very near you. :D


Nope, camaro is sitting at my dad's house in the poconos for the winter. Next weekend I take the exploder up and bring the camaro back. Which will give me more motivation to get the zx2 done quicker. Prolly will cost me close to a $100 a tank of gas for the camaro. 94 grade at 21gal tank. Oh well, doesn't bother me that much.

[Mike]

That's right. If you want something that is gonna eat gas, you just have to be prepared for the consequences.


People keep telling me not to buy this 1970 Cutlass F-85, cause of gas...hell it is just for fun, and the Crusin' the Coast we have every year.


But back on topic. The zx2 is coming along great, and nice tires.

[1981gMachine]

Front bumper mocked up for shits and giggles

http://a802.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/17/l_64488f82ac1aaf153b36dda309eca961.jpg


As for current status. Everything but the hood is sanded like glass with 1000grit. Also have to do the top of the bumpers. Tomorrow I will hit it with 1500grit with a block and 3000 the whole car. Hood and roof still need 1000, 1500 and 3000. I will prolly run out of time so next week I'll buff the car.

Car will look mean with dropzones

[Buster]

I like how you cut out the grille section. Planning on putting a mesh grille insert in there? If so, I'd go flat black. ;)

[1981gMachine]

Came yesterday

http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/5744/cid0618081448ms8.jpg

[Mike]

I love dropzones. I have some of their struts on my civic...and they are quite nice.


Loving the updates!

[1981gMachine]

Blacked out housings

http://a37.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/64/l_1206a6b65530b7170b5973d3558e034c.jpg

[mellowness65]

you'll like the dz's :)

[1981gMachine]

you'll like the dz's :)

Can't be as rough as the camaro

[mellowness65]

i don't really find them rough, you know the road's there, but you aren't beaten by it

[Buster]

Blacked out housings

http://a37.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/64/l_1206a6b65530b7170b5973d3558e034c.jpg

Good job! :D

[1981gMachine]

Good job! :D

Thanks, still have to finish cleaning the lenses for them.


Got some final goodies today

Rear SR struts, PCV Valve, Spark Plugs, Plug Wires, Filter and both E-Brake cables all for a grand total of $150


I'm gonna wrap up the stuff I need to do this weekend. next tue all the mechanical parts will be put on and car will be inspected. Bout time

[1981gMachine]

Ok, some teaser pics til I get it finished this weekend. I say teaser cuz it's with my cell phone.

Below is a pic of the hood, reflection of the building in it. My cell phone is crap for picking up color in the sun

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/4466/cid0717081244aip1.jpg

Some of the car, still have wetsanding sludge on the car in spots

http://img391.imageshack.us/img391/9413/cid0717081244cp4.jpg
http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/396/cid0717081244bsc2.jpg
http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/4663/cid0717081259eu6.jpg

[random_hero]

looks good! good luck with it.

[ImCrazy]

lookin good dood.

[DaviDawg]

i waited so long to see those pics. the body work and paint came out reallt good.

good job man!

not so positive thoughts are
i hope you dont get door dings although its probable now with out your moldings
shouldve shaved the antenna too
i like the all black swirlies including black lugnuts look better

[1981gMachine]

i waited so long to see those pics. the body work and paint came out reallt good.

good job man!

not so positive thoughts are
i hope you dont get door dings although its probable now with out your moldings
shouldve shaved the antenna too
i like the all black swirlies including black lugnuts look better

Thanks, gonna cut the stock antenna down, just will have to wait a week or two.

[yellow2000S/R]

more pics?

I'll be at the ZX2 parts guy on Saturday. My dad is buying the white 01 MTX zx2 he cleaned out (originally a flood car).

They are also running down to Chambersburg because they bought a 02 ATX zx2 for my bro/sis to share.


It's kinda crazy around here lately.

[1981gMachine]

more pics?

I'll be at the ZX2 parts guy on Saturday. My dad is buying the white 01 MTX zx2 he cleaned out (originally a flood car).

They are also running down to Chambersburg because they bought a 02 ATX zx2 for my bro/sis to share.


It's kinda crazy around here lately.

What time sat? I have my 2nd job in the morn but should be done by 12-2.

Tomorrow on lunch, it get's inspected and outer ball joint put on. Then after work I'm driving to Glens and swapping power windows onto the car. Some guy at work threw out the part the mirror bolts to. So I was gonna wait for the power swap, but will do it Fri instead. Then after that, the car will be 100% done for now. Sat I plan on cleaning the spots I missed and driving around taking photos.

Then of course since I obviously can't leave stuff alone, I will tinker with it from when it's done and years to come, if it keeps running.


Gonna buy Glen a case of beer. That man has hooked me up more then words can describe. Without him my total bill would prolly be 1K higher.


FYI, I live 1min away from his lot, let me know when you'll be around and if I'm not working I'll stop by to say hi.

[AZN_ZX2]

LOVE the paint color man

[Apex]

That is an awesome paint job.

[1981gMachine]

FINISHED, Yeah mutha fucka, bout damn time

Pics here (http://teamzx2.com/showthread.php?p=87595#post87595), 40 of them to be exact

[Buster]

CONGRATS!

The car is absolutely PERFECT. Well, maybe could use a spoiler. ;)

Great work. I love everything about it. I'll keep an eye out for it on the roads around here.

[Buster]

Now trade me those wheels. :)

You can paint my swirlies. :D

[yellow2000S/R]

Saw the car today in person. Looks great, and glad to meet you.

Should try to make it to my meet.... http://teamzx2.com/showthread.php?t=4854

[1981gMachine]

Saw the car today in person. Looks great, and glad to meet you.

Should try to make it to my meet.... http://teamzx2.com/showthread.php?t=4854

It's far enough ahead, that I think I can plan to make it. Guess I'll have to detail it and make it look extra special for a meet. Kinda sad, had my camaro for 4yrs and never went to a show or meet. Zx2 for less then a year and plan on going to one.

Want to talk to glen about getting a VC off of him so I can paint it up while I'm still driving the car.

[Buster]

So, bring the Camaro. :)

[1981gMachine]

So, bring the Camaro. :)

It's not a show car

[mellowness65]

is the zx2?;)

[texas_04]

^^ good point.

[1981gMachine]

Well, been driving the car everyday for the past 3 weeks. At a 1/2 tank right now and have about 170ish miles. Kinda poor mpg, but the knock sensor is still plugged in. I also have been running the car kinda hard. Took it to 108 once for shits and giggles.

Have ordered ES motor mount inserts

Plan on getting SR front struts ($35 each) and ES Ft Sway Bar end links. All of this should get rid of some clunks I have.


Have a J/Y run next month. Like to get a V/C so I can paint it. Iceman Intake, ECU, and other goodies.

Gonna buy 2 rolls of peel-n-seal from homedepot and sound deaden the car. To tin can like for me.

LED gauge lights, as soon as I find out how big led I can fit.


Bout it for now, will post pics when I do the LED's, SR to stock Strut comparison, and maybe a couple how to's

[Buster]

I unplugged my knock sensor and it idles perfectly smooth now. Haven't had a chance to track MPG yet since the battery just died on me. :D