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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Well it was a sort of productive weekend with a sour ending...

After cleaning out the garage last weekend, this weekend was prime time to assemble the L98.

Lots of cleaning, cleaning, cleaning and more cleaning of parts.
Bottom end has been measured, and crank bolted in place with fresh ARP studs and king bearings.
Everything within spec so far.

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Decided it was time to check the rod bearing clearances and noticed the wrist pin wouldn't fit into the rod :headscrat
Turns out i've been sent the wrong set of rods. .927 small end instead of .945
Even worse the rods have already been to the machine shop to have the weight matched, it's been a good 2+ months since i bought them and i bought them from USA :(:(:(:(:(:(:(

tenor.gif
 
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Alrighty I’m almost back in action

Didn’t seem to be enough meat to hone the rods out.

The USA shop I bought the rods from agreed to exchange them which was surprising considering I bought them in May last year! But the cost of posting them back was going to be costly.

I ended up finding a buyer for the rods locally, then proceeded to buy a new set locally albeit with slightly lower spec arp bolts (arp 8740 vs arp 2000) for not much more. And the shop has agreed to refund me the difference of the rods I received vs ordered.

Almost breaking even and the new rods have already been dropped off for some balancing and will be ready for the weekend :)
 

gazza

Well-known member
Joined
Dec 24, 2009
Messages
364
Location
Melbourne Aust
Sorry to hear about the parts, great that you have it sorted out.
I have to admit that I did not know exactly what a "L98" engine is, I do know some of the history of the "LS1" so I did a search and found this
http://australiancar.reviews/holden_L98.php
A complete breakdown of all of the later series of V6 and V8 engines used in Holdens.
 
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Back in action last weekend
Rods were good to go by Saturday morning


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The first insertion!
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Everything has been perfectly within spec so far
The clearance on the last journal was tight but still well within spec

Then the problems started!
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Forgot to get a new camshaft bolt, found a temp replacement and installed the dual row timing chain.
I was originally going to get the C5R IWIS chain which is a strong single but dual row's are cheaper and eliminate the need for the plastic chain guides.
Coming from BMW's i dislike any plastic chain guides as they often end up chewed up in engines.

Once i started to put the melling 10296 oil pump on was when things didn't go so well...
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The crank sprocket is seated as far as possible and still hitting the chain.
Will need to massage the oil pump a little and also the timing cover to fit the oil pump

I'll be back for more next week :D
 
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Spent a fair amount of time on the weekend making clearance on the timing cover and oil pump to suit.

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Once complete, installed fresh seals

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Rigged up a Balancer install tool, this is a SFI rated powerbond balancer (stock size) Hopefully it's the correct one

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I'm going to be running this F-body style rear sump pan to suit the e36 chassis. It's also quite low profile at the front
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DOH!
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Ahh fix was quite easy, whole front of the windage tray can be cut off.
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Checked oil pickup clearance was good, but decided i wasn't a fan of the single bolt retaining the pickup to the oil pump. Awaiting an aftermarket piece to fix that before i seal it up.

And also this arrived :) Improved racing Baffle
It's not cheap but also cheaper than a dry sump system. I was 50/50 on if i could even get a dry sump system through engineering to register the car. Also when the engineer see's a dry sump might prompt more questions about the "stock" internals :thumbup:
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Next on my purchase list;
VF HSV Clubsport R8 headers from a 340kw LS3 (These have a 2.5" outlet on the tri-y headers + 2.5 in/out on the cat. Previous models are all 2.25" outlet from headers)
Engine Mounts
Some new sensors
E46 steering shaft +Purple tag rack (tighter lock to lock)
Full accessories set (I thought BMW parts were expensive, LS isn't much worse)

I'm going for broke on the bank account in the next few months
Accurate picture of me;
50170729_634612740330405_5463265074208085300_n.jpg
 
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Few little updates

Pan installed with baffle
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Gave the heads a slight polish/cleanup to smooth out the ports
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Installed a full set of trunion upgrades, these have a solid bearing for the rockers instead of needle bearings. 100% overkill for my application until i get a cam.
y4mZMUdH1BHupKFQBnTsImSmGq_KOuEhdwGDFVej85835dJW9KuXms1o8boda9kS4GwBwyWG9q4G6iTVAdvtx8UII42O3aL05ZckVo-8sdRtKeuUw2KwtOSb3V5TjpgjB_uY74S1kIVyf5FT3glZhgjtG5HcnnydnceuMovaCVCyHrm6BcNoUUnDqK8W_qGQcUEMcgOGxxEh7wZehgZoFLtHw


Heads on and torqued up
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Picked up a purple tag E46 rack at the local pick a part
This has linear 3.0 turns lock to lock compared to progressive 3.2 standard on the e36

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Fresh coat of paint on the engine and ******, not bad ;)
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Next project; engine lift plate
6mm steel base, 5mm for the rings
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First time mig welding something load bearing so went to town welding
Drill press ate those holes like it was nothing
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+10hp for red right?
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Extended my long weekend to wednesday and got some work done cleaning up the engine bay
Unfortunately went for a trip in the morning to pickup some heat shielding and fittings but came home empty handed. I always seem to regret not just buying things online.

The engine bay has some terrible looking seam sealer and weird coolant? stains on the right shock tower.
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
wow it's been 2 months since last update, seems alot longer but as always, busy on multiple fronts


Bit of demo in the master bedroom lately, wardrobe opening being extended for some new built-in's
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For a long weekend recently the Amarok has received some roadsafe recovery points in preparation for a little exploring
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Weather didn't dissapoint on Anzac weekend, lest we forget.
Little trip around Rubicon state forest and Cathedral ranges
y4m5is5hLoD7XHOzIm0y1TVHJqWve8ud7n6wuM3diGa_4QnnE8XfdQpCV-Eamf2kCscuY8FOnGrDnj7BPAp9pysbw-g_Mm743E3DO9NeOZVq_PXwS7kcPHI1E-QO0ttOF16R7nyGZMUU_QD4HFCVqdXyG0PB5gTQCIIhchyxN4eUQ9WL3--hfX25c8CNObKJlzpj69IISD6oRa-Pw9Tutqo2w


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Had some time to get out on the little beast, love this thing!
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New tool purchase! so handy for plunge cuts into floor boards or trimming things.
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Vanity finally mounted in the ensuite, plumber comes to fit off this week
With the exception of a door and architrave it's done :bounce:
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Going to be a few busy weeks finishing the master bedroom and possibly building a bed frame :headscrat

Side note: if anyone in Melbourne(or VIC) has access to a CNC laser/plasma cutter please send me a PM; will pay cash for time,consumables, beer money etc Need a few sheets of 2mm steel cut for an upcoming welding project ;)

Thanks for visiting! :beer:
 
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Time for the quarterly update, time flys!

Still slogging away at the ensuite/master bedroom situation but almost there.
I have friends who seem shocked that it takes so long to renovate room but then you have problems like this..

When you hand over 3.5k to a plumber to sort out a 1.2x3m ensuite you would think you'd be getting quality workmanship

A qualified tradesman installed this...
y4m10nPCdVogNsPrBtvmLm_TaBZLV1mBIwieGWKjPvggMkvtoaQ7-wZnWYayQGOLSdHprHGtfc6153-wQCm7By3nKb1EXtK1gjq31sxZU45TRApz1qxYcT8AlWNStm_Liln3ys1BW9ymHV0W9yY2qYtQBgHERgNj6mmXZV0_HZm9g1wFk8CnS3Un11z189uRUgJTdeV2zol7vq6E8stVb3jig


behind the tiles things don't get any better
The mangled tiles are almost visible from the top of the toilet, only just covered by silicone.
y4mtSi9CrL-HhRAIt2r1uFlLsxG8cUKborCljgf_b9ZpbgMcI3vv7ca6IwrBnyyyFn5hoIKOHgwYHtJqdrdWylJHdymQKI2v9CdCU5181EiwxJK5lM7vrY05ett31f8Dv1ZRyLC4CDDX_ZJCZ5hN1N44nKxcpjGWYqV_g9IJ6x-aiB2l-_n_i72C_sdguocVDa38ixaAVVQUgaeDx_QClUqQg


image.png


That's only the tip of the iceberg unfortunately. There's no standoff mounted behind the toilet. All the fittings mounted on a 10degree angle, didn't even bother to silicone the toilet base etc etc and the list goes on. It's depressing when you spend so much time on all the other fine details.

Moving on...
Recently i decided to upgrade the ol gas smoker to something more natural ;)

ended up purchasing this Pit boss pellet grill from Bunnings
y4ms17zESvK-z-93EiFGSNyB4AU19DCN-HiN4mb2AmLFhGJ2frFg1Yzg5OSYdo0fzPCBTLLQF45afUdTPKmiSi654gFIt1EhOGoZaPRNF-SWgmwulooHW16fH9zHJAl82hF7IOSKVd1KfphkqPvzkBgrIm_jEjqmW1B6quJTEbddWxUdDmz8mODxGT7xy80rmbhdFtNi8KRSEkv2G1257dUZg


After testing various forms of pellets and meats i can confirm it's well worth the price for anyone considering it.

This is a Kiwami Wagyu brisket, Mb 9 plus, 6.5kg, smoked for ~19 hours
melt in your mouth delicious :drool:
y4mQCBPD7Z5sWDP39fKM_zzoEKOkH62oDAMG2W6NLnTi7aLq8WF9h_U90Y1g7YN9YvhX3BS51XjI3OPLj3hs9qVLMGnH9FxCR4maBeLE3BUgG_6vDHi7FMgpb6FlGcEZ9hTlO6cD6arwtZ9YSmeldwcKIPkV9fP7jNcAr_KWGNs4GaQj3uznlzu2IrHfW2sdBvhqCSRBNS6Jx61GhQi-dtO8w


wardrobes are all installed in the master, plenty of sanding and plastering, cornice etc almost done
Moved the heating vent a little closer to the window
multi-tool worked great to plunge cut the boards
y4mcmwnVx4FjjP5uifopiAKIupZBbUjZXWX390JH-XREq5jdhd9ByOTGAjQqCe2X3-btDgtFKnKAoq7Pc7CiNjL8LKNHBlB6jY3bbbst900tU3EmC5FMqIVcsPQdtq0rULv45OA1dAxg172I98iC7KmuwbTtZa_Ub3SvqEhIrq1A3K4mJ6Di_p3BW0JKBMQFGXP3roQuYtBojn24uqgNEbSJw

don't worry this flooring is being covered over anyway

Given my expensive taste in furniture, of course i'm building a bed for the master!

Successful trip to Whelans for some Blackbutt $$$ 285x45
y4m030DDVhU1IV6j9_94EHs2Z9Z6Hy4f3VSC2_FY3_jnBZwmEYnosMX9kQWltppMvXXP5SnEpyRID7rKGRZWvCdF64-EFxp6fBBBZW0dAfeVeLi_BFW5Mu3U21lrPsM1locMFK2aOAmMowCozyhc80qdF117RpKx2bmIM1H5LZswsXYOymNOmzoHoOY86nMqPARX22CQaXTRFBybVz_XCTspA


Solidworks drawings printed out on my little A4 printer
y4muUhD9cf5hK07CC4ZWbS8fbd87CFQ2zwpLyKvTxd3v-2Eyv8ktS_jlIazmmJ7fcmWdDC_pWyfzpJu6qu53Z-Wz_5Chb8NM-JY8ELxvLjqMliAS-qLG9w-YB4ZOUz5sHDa_8xDzDo2l4wB0b27Mt_xSpZQdLBBEIyCpnEWiqO_QDYzQGIeT2LyYGAOnAV303gxVH4tf9zMDPxteVhxHpcCnA


Some tape and scissor work later
y4mCuVx7KFtG9y_0tsj1u8b2XQ-q0oJvkjsse8tKMM-ebwUZSs9I0jCFYc-vHZjxKhliwUAjTfOWXu1kqo_ZHthkRZP5jU6xGWvqA3IdfTKQtQTPgOzkL8KBEA9rwlUzabx1JFHPseE63W6ykuAnw_-4r5OapVNAUt5X-fpCihRFg8LS_Kn--nKUOmRInnTbjVLHdp2uSDVwJV0-cZX_rmfWQ


slowly cut out the template from a scrap piece of hardwood
y4m8eaFsL5-lO5Uh-AzcAxJGM6wGkbAQGkHryyxqOteq1dsloTcnbdcrkwQXpvOm7ieOuE5ZWs7odhbOBAyGePYURHcclosB6Ma8kv-2ZvUt-MsjcmxPcWMigdDaYofdOfpL61TFH9uLtDQx_kU5O3GbD-qpiXGG3ruTBr4rNcYsfUdNw0p-VzBMxhAL3d3ELo7oM11MEGECPORa7m77vEe1w


For some perspective this is how it'll look in the room
y4mldET4b7UbKV_Fk6craZcsl58cnvWkkUPY6wrD2LmQQLr1KNwxH6ruQoBnHANN-hoB4ao8FJOkr2h8XeKCtj3Erf9N2viB29WnumELH0COX7jm7e6uF1aSWK0W-_Ia4NVrn5vSOkJzJ6BVoZ5K_hWoZEcJ5nt6dUc3AISrdZU5sBvUzJtzEIguTl109ZXAWz7oICy308owzcxlLQuxedALg


After thicknessing the stock down to 36mm i've run over the blackbutt with a spiral upcut bit with the guide bushing installed on my router. Then followed up with my large flush trim bit.

Just to prove i'm no saint, we all make mistakes
Hitachi router vs endgrain :mad:
y4mQHiKiWOUMbrT6sCoCW5YW47cc0X7agz_mARIhBwrMRYmvm6K2dPcl8cKPSrvolam38CxsPF4b1-Z7qopoYpr0PLJuh1z_6RokTLAswbTxlvwOA4OEfS6lMl5HMuXEkNVbM-eMw3mMRti3inTpx3f9MD2zirwnEiZJzvg5-jA6XTE9zxpYg_nGaBR9wRemdD2TJhA8pVa6FGzlZWYdUocgA

Maybe we can salvage that later

Moved onto the legs
template marked made and marked out on the stock
y4mphTeiaCp_n7RpdaxHnzPrsH5C2nCW4mXcYiMJNUXjoLzJHleb33hyBwHEUicjPueSVMcS4q5oyKG_P34Hdq0yJChtWoF9J_-YPdS0Xt1wwWpQut0X-EzTebh4f_3YSlVuWy3MoGW9Cxct0MSBWSnCA9p9FgYik5Bb28r7Qb_MsZiZ2e1eP1z0R66fTMW0k-LPJ6ziMazQm-f6Anz7ycJqA


Rough cut on the table saw after thicknessing
y4mKcTgToy69sQH1txBEJYsQAZP5w9kimrB4r50U7jlMYDasQY-auko6GhMKOtC24qKnRev3o4cdnY6uFaKH_kDB2M1xQObMO55eMz0p-8Tvu2o_ehiWdcnrg0QiQ8E2nKU6t9enm3SlgpsPdGWX-a1LbnHdXR_kqScsEapDmmvxNc_lyPXy_ZS5wAdPanNke_7JOXO4o99nDCEcEYW0ocwKQ


Jigsaw + tablesaw further cutting
y4m-1dURjTVuUebBbHzjzucDWbC7N06YRvr3cKU5HfFTxAsONYrXgH9i4mmPe4gONppsZKSnW4ycS__xGuXujGLz3a1XTZ9-kNgVMj3uh9LBvY-supJ4ZVNqWJAhWCFpbLDYIoKvbks4ShHGCNfkNdJwVHFOviyOzW_vCPPeDyI9VzIqg6zSbILiuP2L3GTaJdeUUs9CzqGJw0fHAsy55shyg


Cut 45's on each side of the leg and started the messy process of glue up
y4mVQcEGesjmZ3teFwXnOnlXxLCbQxrShxtvSC4vJL3OpMVxdRtVfVaozSFgYMkFfE-pVwJpCwTUCQiGWYN4oOE29bN5mAbj2IWg372a5MzxLHmOhFWShqiCN4P7HOaRAfxTyEsp0qwmEgzEQw2NrMgk8gj8pFGcdXflTW5Ek3T1fvCDvxVIutSzNYGK7L7zrv6K26ke3bjO_6TgMYVD6rUPg


After the master/ensuite is done (which includes laying overlay flooring)
I have gained approval from the Mrs to dedicate a considerable amount of time to completing the project car :bounce:

More to come :) thanks for visiting
 
Last edited:
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Great work on the bed. Any progress on the car?


I wish! but deal has been made it will be worked on till complete after the bedroom is sorted.

Ideally I’d love to get onto it ASAP but realistically I’m about 4-6 weeks away from that. Not sure how long the bed will take to complete at this stage
 
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Feels like months since i posted but it's only been 4 weeks :headscrat

The wardrobe has been installed (ikea pax) and all drawers + lighting, just needs trim and knobs which haven't arrived yet.
y4mxa2uc31-kC2TCVXHmRvHt3jP9QRChc1WCpKRy01Oy_nw-qqhzuzvZwxpxkM_Al-lK1mlwWRmVbG0XjQchA92cAhzOyymf0rakb57Jk4HREv9wnaf78rSXHABIFx3J1JUkQewqPnvSgsz2BjJ_JrQsI9VSE7TidL5K5T1NssaXxGeFzvzoA8COJR6-R-l9mPd2OfVeTrEPuylvYv7KWBMQw


Honoured to receive no 56 casting of the 1/2 cup tribute
Haven't found an appropriate spot for it yet
y4mNJ4SZ9qtAnaAPKoPYMpTAF-vBMJtK2hrPuI0QU9U93iMQR2fE02hquekUq8GOB0yzvkwpjr0-owfyyhp_FNV9kb6J12G08o54izzR6txjXDHAOj3chEa4R6E1W-26VWkH3H03ZZ0DVwxk0epMMN2DPMqwaxIJVsrFMu6GM9YzP_ao80EoqVll7UzuAcDzE4xc5Xm2k6o8QFKkVM4ojx6YA


Amarok has been under the wrench for a while :(
Major service for 165k, + new H&R lift springs
Needed a new radiator (small puncture)
Shortly after the service it began consuming coolant on long trips. Since had the EGR misplaced + tuned. Drives amazing after the tune. Shifts even smoother than before, not sure how that was even possible.
Starting loosing coolant again recently, hopefully it's just burped an air bubble after the EGR cooler was removed.
Really hoping the EGR hasn't cooked the head :mad: already spent thousands on it this month.
y4mWkc0C_11eHB-oYg90W1TAwIORocfLPo4NUjrYMXn9grgv2msxy8HqXphgKc0_2SDNOBJLlHND4-jRbvXOVe7Xhe_Kuywp4WqmXm7kSp4LeKuI1a309QyUELg5JuUg2ulQTlpWb6BwDoc4J0e5NG5sSp-eCtaWKYDfyZ3wcU9YmoxF4-u3YZtttTt35VEdLSzSa9utRfh-U6eI7N7zcEMmA


Few weeks ago i took Mrs Octane down the great ocean road for a few days.
Yeah wasn't exactly warm but good to get away to enjoy the outdoors :)
Here's a photo of the remaining apostles
y4mALLVfT-84HKxv1maZGYFkvkeWlGKOof2N4p-3RADTRGnNn0540YWEBhiwnMcwgULcTJN0GaSkJUPp6HCaDOBUqdIHAfM78lmrhxvy3Sv-gRa6O8K2m30V6BvQ5sdopEZ2j_o986Q08Df3DpsC-aubk_HmAdaGzR4YHKsqvN6nuT30o9FiYBn2C7yZx5IK1XAVZWauyoqyRimAtbl5b6d-Q


After returning home, getting stuck into the bed again
Leg shaping
y4m7ZMpEN2Kll99S1acj8oz9TCi6Vi_PweCyZycfnMTGkQroKBw8enm0eIjV-IfzcUuyCDQcc7cC54nM_bRELSIz6BcxD6Pn9IgSGVV1b37Frbaf8dqwsKMrqhzEQh2v_n-bLz8w_HRnjB0OrYAvkpsgmOZPJSGGciqsE11CMCPnKeWsEFDMfP89znPUNzwRXnkSlnXGcbpeI0_BRfzkbF3hA


Glue up's
y4mVLG6JntjBXXl6HnWTshrHBiRBcdyT4x-myY2i0y8MM_I8E1tMD2SjcMeLO1rMmxInkvjyFfAFpzYWBXn_vzqsWfac9Nw944daH1-iC8hZma-3RBdNK8H6aHa96y6Ie6lKAvY-_DKz1BuN48YSbMtl74B9M5J_d9CKYnTpXe86XlrjghPw8PM1S_Kev2-d3mYXKVMyBmQ5CASKGFmmTeVRw


rip tape measure number 3 or 4
y4mB3tcXOi42OZb7IgoZuj2upt5tW0i0pH73nxfOUP_BXp5JsKX3vFz_R0wBLl8wBjm5hEXBqdDRNdKKQ9xkRmiDDm9Aae_zUDeSDaS7EMNSfnSdf_Hv8fxT-fobBKWZiteBHhkHq-xGIaShKvqUbe6NDPFdbvyYMd1f_0jd0GjvsNq0mqGQVor951m5vMGQgj2OCpdGFNpzUsiSfE3eOC9rQ


New tool purchase, dual marking guage :bounce:
y4mbAKaPh1j4ej0lyNnUfdpCrB7mmy-xurP713-G9zvRsoN__Okjl49OY-tf_No3dle0vPsavtztXeTW00SQ30z3VMTilcNk2Z0Rmwxbd2mqfApf2tcJX8FBsg6Yirjo0MD462fYiQR98_ULDFVptKHZWNBAwsehh1XI6nTH4A4dVXu7tP_Y1YI_LU3JU8zJtvK9-HtpBsb0pz0nG3KQ1c6nA


Second dry assembly + bed bracket install
y4m7syIP4n2_8GP9e67r6zrCYdf7YuEDTCTaLBguml5sjHJr2fI7zxG6A5ljri5qt5OZlju2D5iShi12MOJJW3EjUzCVBRRRelNqb04IGhorulyK3u6wVEvxuIkhgpy_dPfnwFi4GaFtj_k0TWqS5_JBpY2Iv_B4HyItZ7LmmXeTgzVGVrZ1IYW7HQZ8v1qB7dWwSq9Jbu2vgvWqg0fR0qMmA


Since the weather is starting to warm up, starting to get the dirtbike/push bikes ready for some warm weather.
Planning some longer dirtbike riding this year into the high country so i'm starting to tweak my usual extremely minimal toolkit

New additions are: patch kit, tyre lever with axle spanner, co2 canister, pocket knife with pliers, knife, phillips and flathead.
I'm looking to ditch the heavy T-bar, add a spare 21" tube,master chain link + breaker, metal epoxy and some duct tape. I always like to be prepared for problems but need to balance weight vs what can be repaired.
Please drop any tool suggestions in the comments. The lighter and more multi-functional the better!
y4m-fjpU4BHWedHjW6c-VCZ2Ai0BrQ6Y6iMf1wCO_DG3dPzoOWaZdmQ91CMreVLDFzLYkCSiINZ0cyoi1ZQA6Dn1qOE1Bol9Jyv5KskfU6_NuJilsZ6SM0X6v3hNqvJzE8l9U-mUh8QCYUIQCuVCiS-NtYLK3HZ_Lwg5CxKtLyxQWbJdOKkOJ4faDu6e2wFmbJRdWTFnbGP6HCx-UxGXORSIw


I try not to mess with my dirtbike much but i heard about changing the TPS calibration and couldn't resist.
Trip to jaycar, 9v battery connector some wire and a 5v voltage reg and adjusted the TPS from .58v to .62 to enrich the mixture. Burnt the tip of my finger in the process (shorted out the 5v reg) but still worth it.

100% reduced burbles on decel and improved bottom end response on my '13 FE350
y4m04L5b5riQoQ23SqzJKTUgvTVNTShJntZETMcDSTpompuc5MQpqtVDc5HWrep42-gDjrQPhVDrs9gG6h3qdIc6F0MjZhFzV7zuAg36piSj3xsDxO6pg1h9CsjcJ2Z8fi5a-7Lr5GKOFeI_RZwz4YbzujP-L_e6gVot_TVFeDe1uShl7aRSFqhfg-fOfWVIlzh-OBF-lsvMGG-g21ZWI0SqA


perfect day for a ride
y4m3P507KwrHQ8xj_OM3xlS3jiOdNkLmcjbfweHlwWT4xmG_Y7nEt0ut_N_lXw3KS38Z8KyrbZc-Du4474s5OwLEQT1AqWO81Xq6k6vXlwLaZGgXGtBaMXNnSlpbIiLJt9sjyL9Hd3w1gtClDHQlyTP-Omf2fu54kn3_FUzGNI629QUQTvAMEg3bIuwNbj7fjB148AZgRv14lZSNTOuaAcPsg


y4m3gs_YPt5NakG7QgcuR7tk_BDDlcqFNjwRX4vdCVfwWH5HqW9y8kKC1FKHuTD2y-jCbBSej_E7mHhWO4mODSd-_nZhlS6MDIEs02vBC-WpPpWFBQoq-ytvXOFtg7mxV7t-pmD48_2lkh3cJVdMQ_kCL-Lv8dL_QM0cZxMphe5fr1_gc_ecfG4wxI1zSH_j9KmKFaPTZDREPL2Q-PMRobgqg


Thanks for visiting
 

Matias

Well-known member
Joined
Feb 28, 2015
Messages
616
Location
Finland
Went through the thread, nice to see woodworking, welding and car work all in one thread, you seem to be able to tackle anything. Bed is looking good! Hopefully finished soon, so we get an update on the car :D
 
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octane_matty

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Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Went through the thread, nice to see woodworking, welding and car work all in one thread, you seem to be able to tackle anything. Bed is looking good! Hopefully finished soon, so we get an update on the car :D

Thanks Matias!


Update on the Husaberg;
installed a new lithium battery, so much better at cranking now.
8PcblEzYucx9lQ?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Changed the fuel filter, only 50hrs but sure was dirty
BRev9CYKvvR2sw?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Started work on the backboard
_ivXuK7asecYUw?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

not bad for my first go at upholstery
dZrsfqfFOrUMuw?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

aaaand done
e29PvwBgYw0CHQ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

not sure if i posted these before but quite a few parts orders have come in
New engine mounts (e46m3'ish, they come on most 2000+ BMW's)
Has a little extra meat to keep the engine in place.
ifnuYgcbZmFqwg?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

I've been slowly working away at cleaning up the engine bay, removing unused mounts and getting it ready for a coat of paint
40IfibDQsY4xJg?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg
decided i'll paint it in a 2pk de-beer paint, my first time ever spraying something so we'll see how good or bad this goes.

I've been struggling to decide on transmission mount for the T56/TR6060 at the moment so feel free to throw a vote in the comments section.

The standard Holden Commodore VE mount looks rather weak, almost as weak as e36 standard mounts.

VE commodore mount: roughly ~$90AUD
Fl8CVLnHJB5Rw?width=1024&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Here are some of the alternatives i'm considering:
Subaru Group N mount - ~$140AUD
C2U8VUMFmgx0KRQ?width=480&height=430&cropmode=none.png

Some various Toyota Landcruiser mount - $60-80AUD
GqH2gXLMOWpCe_w?width=639&height=455&cropmode=none.jpg

2010+ camaro mount - $80-150AUD shipped
There are also poly inserts for these which gives it flexibility + easier bolt up options
fwy-bRuJiCiC_zQ?width=627&height=361&cropmode=none.jpg
 

TwoBytes

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 14, 2014
Messages
789
Location
Canberra, 'Stralia
The bed looks awesome mate, good job!

Nice marking gauge, is that a Veritas from Carbatec?

You're really making me want to go and buy a dirt bike again!
 
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
The bed looks awesome mate, good job!

Nice marking gauge, is that a Veritas from Carbatec?

You're really making me want to go and buy a dirt bike again!

Yep, that's it from Carbatec. It has a veritas tax to it but the quality is exceptional.

Have a look on facebook marketplace for dirtbikes....so cheap these days! :bounce:
 

TwoBytes

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Joined
Mar 14, 2014
Messages
789
Location
Canberra, 'Stralia
Mmm, yeah, buying the bike isn't the problem, it's finding the space to store it and the time to ride it that's the big issue!

That's why I sold my XR400 a few years back.

Hoping to get back into it when the kids are a bit older, but for now there's about a million things that are a higher priority.
 

az45

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Joined
Mar 19, 2014
Messages
298
Location
Tucson
Since the weather is starting to warm up, starting to get the dirtbike/push bikes ready for some warm weather.
Planning some longer dirtbike riding this year into the high country so i'm starting to tweak my usual extremely minimal toolkit

New additions are: patch kit, tyre lever with axle spanner, co2 canister, pocket knife with pliers, knife, phillips and flathead.
I'm looking to ditch the heavy T-bar, add a spare 21" tube,master chain link + breaker, metal epoxy and some duct tape. I always like to be prepared for problems but need to balance weight vs what can be repaired.
Please drop any tool suggestions in the comments. The lighter and more multi-functional the better!
y4m-fjpU4BHWedHjW6c-VCZ2Ai0BrQ6Y6iMf1wCO_DG3dPzoOWaZdmQ91CMreVLDFzLYkCSiINZ0cyoi1ZQA6Dn1qOE1Bol9Jyv5KskfU6_NuJilsZ6SM0X6v3hNqvJzE8l9U-mUh8QCYUIQCuVCiS-NtYLK3HZ_Lwg5CxKtLyxQWbJdOKkOJ4faDu6e2wFmbJRdWTFnbGP6HCx-UxGXORSIw

You're pretty good if you can change a tire with a single lever! :bowdown: Can you add a lever and get the 21/22mm combination to get rid of the KTM wrench?

You don't need 8,10,12 or 14mm wrenches? A small adjustable wrench will replace several wrenches

I'd add a couple feet of stainless .032 Safety wire. Keep the t-handle and add whatever sockets the plastic handle driver serves, or vice versa...but the T handle is a good hammer/pry bar.

Your tool pack can vary depending on how far you ride, have a pouch with the extended ride tools that you can toss in when needed.

Are you a Toby Price fan? I see him and some of the other Aussie off road racers over here(US) a couple times a year, all super cool cats.
 
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
You're pretty good if you can change a tire with a single lever! :bowdown: Can you add a lever and get the 21/22mm combination to get rid of the KTM wrench?



You don't need 8,10,12 or 14mm wrenches? A small adjustable wrench will replace several wrenches



I'd add a couple feet of stainless .032 Safety wire. Keep the t-handle and add whatever sockets the plastic handle driver serves, or vice versa...but the T handle is a good hammer/pry bar.



Your tool pack can vary depending on how far you ride, have a pouch with the extended ride tools that you can toss in when needed.



Are you a Toby Price fan? I see him and some of the other Aussie off road racers over here(US) a couple times a year, all super cool cats.


I know Haha 100% right on the tyre lever situation. Honestly I hate changing tyres with a raging passion, I would seriously consider the cable tie the tube to rim method and ride it out.

I’m very much considering a tubliss or mousse setup for the next tyre change to avoid changing tubes altogether.

Also right on the spanners, trying to find a compact little set that isn’t overpriced.

Safety wire and metal putty are on my list. Not sure where to get safety wire lol

Yeah definitely TP fan. I watch a bit of hard enduro races too but they’re starting to seem real boring with the urban courses of logs and tyres. Much prefer watching Graham Jarvis ride up a wall of rocks and make it look easy.
 
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octane_matty

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Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Mmm, yeah, buying the bike isn't the problem, it's finding the space to store it and the time to ride it that's the big issue!

That's why I sold my XR400 a few years back.

Hoping to get back into it when the kids are a bit older, but for now there's about a million things that are a higher priority.


This thread has been going for 5 years and I’ve only ridden maybe 7 times? Had a dirtbike the entire time.

I came across some wisdom in a ted talk or motivation video that’s very relevant here;
I didn’t ride because I didn’t have time, I didn’t ride because I didn’t MAKE time.

edit:
 
Last edited:

az45

Well-known member
Joined
Mar 19, 2014
Messages
298
Location
Tucson
I know Haha 100% right on the tyre lever situation. Honestly I hate changing tyres with a raging passion, I would seriously consider the cable tie the tube to rim method a
nd ride it out.

I’m very much considering a tubliss or mousse setup for the next tyre change to avoid changing tubes altogether.

Also right on the spanners, trying to find a compact little set that isn’t overpriced.

Safety wire and metal putty are on my list. Not sure where to get safety wire lol

Yeah definitely TP fan. I watch a bit of hard enduro races too but they’re starting to seem real boring with the urban courses of logs and tyres. Much prefer watching Graham Jarvis ride up a wall of rocks and make it look easy.

The trick to changing tires is getting the bead into the drop center, have one of your “mates” hold your bike and put its weight on the kick stand and on the tire to squeeze it while you use the levers.

Tubeless is great, but be careful if you run them on the road as they get super hot.

At least there’s lots of Moto coverage on the tube these days, so you can watch whatever you want. Jarvey is entertaining anywhere he he rides, hopefully he can stay healthy and have a long enough career to make a lifetime of money.
 
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octane_matty

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Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
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The trick to changing tires is getting the bead into the drop center, have one of your “mates” hold your bike and put its weight on the kick stand and on the tire to squeeze it while you use the levers.

Tubeless is great, but be careful if you run them on the road as they get super hot.

At least there’s lots of Moto coverage on the tube these days, so you can watch whatever you want. Jarvey is entertaining anywhere he he rides, hopefully he can stay healthy and have a long enough career to make a lifetime of money.


haha even without a lifetime of money, i'd take a normal wage to ride bikes or rip trophy trucks for a living :bounce:
 

TwoBytes

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Joined
Mar 14, 2014
Messages
789
Location
Canberra, 'Stralia
This thread has been going for 5 years and I’ve only ridden maybe 7 times? Had a dirtbike the entire time.

I came across some wisdom in a ted talk or motivation video that’s very relevant here;
I didn’t ride because I didn’t have time, I didn’t ride because I didn’t MAKE time.

edit:

That's a great TED talk! Thanks for sharing the link.

I guess I already knew deep down that what I was really saying was "unfortunately I don't have the time to buy another dirt bike, because at this stage of my life, while my kids are young, it's just not a priority for me".

I still love the idea of buying a dirt bike, and I miss all the riding I used to do, but spending time with kids, doing stuff around the house, and progressing my career are realistically more important to me right now.

When the kids are old enough to come with me, and I can spend time with them and ride at the same time, that's a different story! I'm getting them trained up on mountain bikes in the meantime.
 
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Merry Christmas all!

Jesus it's only been two months but feels like 4!

Dirtbike toolkit had it's first workout recently, got the Berg caught in a barb wire fence a few weeks ago and Pocket knife saved me bigtime!. The wire wrapped so hard around the tyre and swingarm i'm not sure how the tyre is still holding air.
Damage report; damaged rear brake line, ripped rear mud flap. :(

Car update!! woohoo!

a good month or so ago i started mocking up the engine mounts
y4mFKS0fcMYBcTMavpMM1bi_W6DRSncYNjjJey7Q5NAn4yI9xX6yrE94O0vntW-Ga1cCtQfT1PuJm1Wv9QF25K3eWmXWOJKu4TqB3YHRLHOF0AAP_OmnSL4eu6RGDUAm1dEg7tYJu6PX-BpM1gUK3dgH71J4GLxpd7WVuVNfvJc8tZ3qCfFfvurm3nrDxa40sq6hyEa5moDBclN0sZbu2-0kA


Shifter position looks great
y4m3S2YG-KFy0QXO4I8h1O0DPgOmGQ1a12_X4s2lI9L0CxbGOqIg96eEMgFxW2Ndpcp4_FM5ZCFF9sdt29zeV_zvrFGrdKbatEa80IP217rjSvGmS6mnSU4MiLQh5x1Inb8X6V_gC13YjKRpqtSZF3DeT7m02FBjU6yqPORepbnAj7RW0psGKC3lFVqeoKTk8kFAide6KVCISWUfPAzlgKxJw


After working out the tilt of the engine and height i attempted to figure out the driveline angles.
I measured it a 100 times with little consistency but there's ****** all options for moving things around.

y4mTkFFJ5pSP9yykwdhtFm-j9fVjAKHW2qqCcejG75r4eY9Wc_Szqz0fNVpNH5bxk1BBSF6aXJH599swzEr39JzsTA71Ou5D4GmzBZ4-qltTaN1g4QhXWQptlp21YdyFIDh-D9mobuSFVy-VGftdBm0UiR-pCNYEd4k9Vxzb2SopSfWCXJ5husprS2hDQ7pGbKLRFiUkX5AkzFQ-bqpWDyX8A


Once i had some mockup engine mounts/****** mount i took a break to work on some drawings for a final version.

In the meantime i took another look at the wheel/tyre/fender situation.
Since collecting these CCW wheels many years ago it seems wide 17" tyres barely exist these days. Rather unfortunate because i love the design and meaty 17" tyres look just right on the e36.
After some discussions with an engineer it seems they will also be quite hard to engineer given the difference in track width.
After thinking about it for a few weeks i ended up purchasing a set of Apex FL-5's in 18x9.5 square.
These wheels will end up being street wheels with good rubber and relatively legal from a width, track width etc perspective.
New wheels also changes my rear fender situation. I grabbed another E46 Sedan front fender from the local wreckers and started mocking up v2.

Much much lower and neater than previous test fit.
y4m0nlI_32HHnvuB3tnfI4i47xF-v_PWt5r5G3fYLvXUa30_LKqrhBl2uH1uABJXtf0OjF-l4M1yq-fRjHFux-RA8vrBrdeyxdUeWOt78Vm0t9Et5tX2HbLw4drmdN_oATwTFgDjmsJvd3Lfc6-T9anee1Liru1so65PpSQWrwNsxKNkpmJK_SDufGjEinz-c47COQDVcK0_AkgYu8bYa_cHA

Yeah still haven't touched the other fenders yet or even welded this haha

Between wheels and mock up mounts i spent some time drawing up the mounts in CAD. Sent off to my local cutting shop and here we are :bounce:
y4mrNAfL80wAA7fSfyyDTf-R9U6zrTKBNygd6M33ywr10dlnWhOUYczl1O9ft6VJDCpMSetRlVzFG1M6mCfNyz9_dLPcnU_DSeue7ftNQwzl1kliwPW1niBtEpgzaqbrqxLEbWOoDQ6qqxrGifgCncFFHIjszP2-2U_ok-0UNa-7cjSenmUa2tJIR4lcjWZYYNGrajdNinbxmpR_ufal6mR9Q

I may have scaled a few things wrong and had some bits recut from that pic ^

Quick intermission from Cars; woke up on my first day of Christmas holidays to make an impulse purchase. :bounce:
The carpet in our living room has been a source of terrible amounts of dust and filth since the day we moved in. I'm an asthmatic and we've been holding off on doing the floor until we complete kitchen renovations.
Then you're scrolling facebook marketplace and then came across enough flooring to cover our living room for $110

Took two days from pickup to completion and definitely worth it. The underlay cost more than the flooring did :beer:
y4mUQCoKQ32GVU-NzcB5gV4W5opF8274VXZ_rzNn7GTrq0a1eusbrZfPTy3st9gcS70mz4T9QnXOmttpVspp3SYE4f1R9mFcbEXXgpu7ugLSkR0xXDHmHzEwZ2C1_VWzuPh1eXungGXAD9TiDJfGZceFDCd_wljk3LNEffYmiUx-M5ct9d7ZyNqLlcL4pu8vHGTI56AshAf7zwLbgmZQdYIXQ


Back to cars!

I'm sure you're wondering some of that metal l i had cut for the engine mounts etc looked a little strange...

This is my engine mount jig :beer:
Might copyright this someday
y4mAUfx78s6xTc5yB-1mceRThbB9vItUUZ7qrw0JWlqnZSd-N0zssJEYF7IBFEUDNrBlSOW3vrIbsSAfnPrnBRAUGYo8M1kq0HnF5ypipMuKgvuvZT8Rj6Jdu7c-ShDhRktJJcrMZ_-GCkEtl7u8pQJLxwXdV3wkLsRivHtuXrp1ThidnXy2LHb379jY28ktvOGqdPFzYC7TzSKtCFTTr4vTg


Few tacks and it's ready for work
y4my9WWlVCeegJbUOmrCbbZYqiwTjvZ-a59pMzKT8rXbixsVl8RCNuYMbubBUjyemFeeRjiRllbchNucL5A1AxOAsHnILYk1bqqttA9h--BHeCn0TjWFijQ9hJC0PrjhrNsY-KIruIKARF29fOKJf4B5EdhUO4B5qZODgi3pJ9h68-VbVtOgFhQjw-C8G_-BOvfLi_ILozp3Pqi8mTTsMJSfA


Give the tubing a quick cleanup and chamfer on the lathe
y4mngB8mIkPaZVaQZ1Cjo4SMNabtrOjk7kmKwKNFcOPYVBZNCcnSY0KaBbHrRZekoYoZ_UE7lt6jmhg-59TLQNqC6ksF6xUttd4uyZl5E46HJHguF1d6T0hcjltYJ6MojlnLhDGJ_kcP5kBQvHU4pXBcrtbp2Tbh6i4MeMRnBeknoBJDJuu1cW4sc_TNmW0o-Na8FJ19T6ui0eGHfvLvIeNIQ


After a trip to get a new bottle of Argon, whipped the TIG out with a fresh tungsten, gas nozzle, collet ready to go

Things started off well but started having some issues with porosity
y4ms-CIKxvg9BHDnGRHPjmL6xTJ8F7FI425dQ6V4AZMGn0ZfwBe6KvgX4Pk4Ivda08eGyBF31gt3FIDqyPtUjLLUK78fx10T9rGwvVJuguUt7paTtBdqqa-8vu1jubYOCLyw2T1IRDNkX3cblP2O5FGrTRdzTM-CErn2HpL4qKJZJiSiOhOV255ocClqpE-vQL8y-vKw9n3JJwsQMu-Jse6Ag


Switched around nozzles, tugsten size and even more cleaning/prep and eventually got the hang of it. I'm slightly suspecting my new bottle of gas isn't as clean as you'd usually hope. Normally i can lay a smooth bead with one eye closed and no metal prep :headscrat

Attempted to tube notch using a vice to hold tube mounted in my drill press with little success. Decided to take a last ditch effort to succumb to the cheap tube notcher at Hare & Forbes
The tube notcher itself is ok, i'd give it a solid 4/10, sloppy as you'd expect.

There was a deal for a set of hole saws with the notcher.
Unfortunately like most hole saws the arbor doesn't mount square :(
Yeah i like to abuse my drill press but this is a bit much;
Click for video

If you have any suggestions for good quality, SQUARE hole saws...please let me and the world know.

Ended up using the cordless drill and got there in the end
y4my6uPPqd0SrnMfnqpLjKzrWgB4Donk1JT-BGK3Qi91tzoz3ahf0-ImBlQ2JPpHbxzhypHPRWzfb2DTjnznGYxfJfAtx4ULPFr7X75k64pe7aD3fSrPxk57tOmvOU-7HR4-VJLoCAQ5rgSLkmlxRjNCY55KwMPccQGSwX47fScY8ZXwWPoUIMcW8RuPJvabqDRZgdiYOAW1p7T-MbgKTxjew


Not the best welding i've done but i'm building 3 sets eventually.
y4mgwT-yyVnwsJr7UJpPwehDjE9ggqFS80E3C6grH4nBw2BTwiRmJ3OsqZBKOutDjRe-I474fjh4isGrRCjUaR-v6lzUrCdExjdApC5HMCse7fzsKDDIE0FgGvLCecAJsaQaEVTnGfB-cNOCmDFgLt1AfQUDV0L2ThfAdBzdeP5MNncEtD5JmUdKcGPdj6q_Bamea81TlU5gT3uLwC72EVCiw


Merry Christmas and i look forward to posting another update in the new year

Sneak peek of things to come
BMW 6 pots!
y4mX-q9mYcGdWa1UxVoEPgQ3H-ryeOghYlGKqjy8XPsvemYIQsClsGu--HNtnsG1_3yqjx0Z6VeDyOrQQ4eKsByqpT6R3BDjDzt9tBIwzsmdgDR0_R0tIfelzXkAA6le6iRlGAFWx4OvMHRamA__BA5FqRKYX_oAw3lxwfGUqC1fXUJXz08HXHLaOWt7PJD39bssQC43brLSMaic_Vk-WzxFA


Amarok upgrades! :bowdown:
y4m7DMqfQ74PrrSkOaVbRW7iYV7QseLuOF-sg4Fgzw7zeiHUFyF6ORhuIB6IFusxUuJh7Q6Jz9UtyN8Z0ft8WnXw-ohZi9BkXUu58xk6q6x-xuPr3ft1yjE5Ln7bTQ6x8bbR_-oWkJ2vO4cPYb6gbtbJAU--MF6SYdGk8tmpMjQRM4EDvqinONs6K2YMdskC4A22vTsItM4u-eADDb2PTcX4w


:beer:
Don't drink and drive, and keep out of the smoke/fires if you're in Australia
 
Last edited:
OP
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Well 2 weeks flew by but sorted out a few things

Transmission mounts started
y4mn0_R6CfYtq_pHzCx2uuylF0Wl0r4zXdSVBV-vVJj2dp1LfMZG6pr98rvqheMfx0eSUAOwPjgZI7o4bXVjfeZm5LogG3YMkPKkSLlCnz2iej6IWed0i6PNnzTmeUOgO4bZFdBHcE9UaD98Cijp0bWQkClzTt-Mh58QWPl7HTx-OiX8V9nQuvH6GeZ9b5r8lmIRYLI4_gdn3ymWzAPYSOzLg


Mounted :) Yeah i have a significant shortage of short bolts at the moment :headscrat
y4mNeeQyeAW3hI7fpht6RFtOk4FrgFA5fCqDeWZ55Sq-PXy9H5BpErdMZb2yn3L1vz2oBVk9lC8zDsMRFgpMhY-CW6cq-PJAx5fYujRDsQKufarKdIJuWAuQmKSzCeT7M6K9uwwpaXodiR2HrWta9Q2s3Yuc71Xeh3hN0iGm5WSUmet3pSbrJ8erZHF3f969X1_J5Tq1pTKzhIEMEift4ziPg


New years i cooked up a good 10kg+ of meat with friends; 7kg brisket, 2.5kg pork and some chicken.
y4m_ew8bYsUVcBc4C2ryEZdbpt16ptxJtQtKF9WriHP-_dPGsBC5vnF6j92MPOiUcRWp7NoXWjYG8rrkZqjnVlVRDC0auEZiNX23bX6whMoHKehgtRKBYpAy_xPuENGSD3bN-2-RZuVz6wjUUfZIMpqQYe54J2-8ilfwz11ILNuEkCKtimpwDJ0ppRJmXHIngdvHQsTFRiKQTeQvxYNkYC9Rw


16 hours smoking and definately the best yet!
Kiwami MS9 Wagyu
y4mGF0Za4gwwuPexZFJawfgPx8XXIWuMS5flCYo8aCV_A1Cll2_o8klcthOIeNQ0KXj_jwUEhQQcy4t60hOkH3_VMynHsmsECmyJZbRxl9wEPYP-zTo1ZeWKverVQrkcGcdf6eNxqXxvG7orRP2g6YzIYu4LgHp4nghDJ6MAIC8vKg4csluOtUik5ZUbHi4fdU_yO0OnX_hUMFjKE22iWNwTA


After the new year i started on the winch mounting
Took almost 3 days which is much longer than expected but mounting the winch came with some challenges to keep my existing recovery points. Few holes + some brackets to space things correctly and it eventually fitted.

y4mBbSch9ZZgSTqOFX-ZGW6tRBF8vVl1dr8Rd1lQf1UjbZ0ilDiUJFCfBR3ezSjGtfBQeUririCai8gyoOGIOt85svJIbH0U3q_zznFnh7Q6c7oeWDLf2Gn5uwNCYk5ApKgkn1KrkItvLhOTyyvk17vo6i76bmeDx4QK_lQVyOkX-OGsZAoeX8Fux1wBYVVYifxcB8nAOA1x1tqh5AJhiBEeQ


y4mnbkyUoRzn48KuuTLPVJ_rGQqzullBBy8ZyLvaxU-lU0sNXZ9UFCml5NKY6kaHqWIqbGhuc5W24VLPXazBdKch5zZC3DohLZUeSNJrAtDzepSQYVvf3QcxkGjYGHhWgHotJHLEYkcRZhcIfzLUJUSScoW96qfxXp9trDVgOTr-dI4Xp89rdb2IDr1SGPbEIt0IbsSOmI8e5E-QmzzjqA7UQ


Breather mounted on the firewall and modified the VW emblem to be removable to access the winch solenoid and clutch release.
y4mhegGgQhMOh2VqXPMA6qOARW_BWkmDS5fFSvy_NTzuKmLiW6sewWQ8mThvEYJdbcophN5PuDvpMislkRl5bDdfOOaKuLK_p1O8o9VHe1UuG-yYzkD2EAGLLHs5gVNSYoAOKeKsA4_VuUjR9y6ysM6C3yP0Skt2HFZ82w9guNWQOxLQnQ7HA-SKsVs4lCDekukADPnj3-Y23idvSbg__1Gxw


Unfortunately ran out of holidays really quick and didn't get much of a chance to get out of the house due to bushfire smoke early in the new year.
Hopefully over the next few weeks i'll get a chance to ride bikes and take the Amarok into the high country.

As many of you may already know, most of Australia is currently on fire. If you're an Australian resident and haven't already donated to the cause please consider donating to one of the following organisations
(All donations over $2 are tax deductible)
https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/about/supporting-cfa


https://www.rspcansw.org.au/bushfire-appeal/
 
Last edited:
OP
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octane_matty

Well-known member
Joined
Jul 21, 2014
Messages
314
Location
Melbourne, Australia
here's to third try of posting this! not sure why my posts aren't saving

Well 2020 has been...interesting? But that won't stop my progress!
Can't believe it's been another 6 months since my last post :dunno:

Here's some late 2019 i forgot to post
sorted out the splashback for the laundry
6DX-zCznm2zrnQ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

vYWw8p28THwq8g?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

Smashing out work on the e36 fenders
F4Eb0YW3YpJFYw?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

Fixed up the rear left shock tower situation
v1cbYr0agY2LXA?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

aIuBtKsazcaV4A?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

kM5-o9egmKt23A?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Some new parts arrivals!
reboot engineering caliper brackets
7ndg37hZtqFVUw?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

S6SXdqbW9qaPWw?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Recaro sportster CS's out of a renault
6ywhXseBtNWgBw?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

Adjustable rear lower control arms
lWz4EAv4I69T3g?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

re-trimmed mtech 2 steering wheel
k8YvanmT46Z06w?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Some pre-covid early feb calm frankston/mornington beach
y4mDEaMxXwA6l3iv6eB9Tn45gDMX9uVWlCYsKC7UHkdC3wMfmqE9yDM5eeylbgVRGuna1v_IMDG_2a1pTSYknIWAqvhomMS46CQqkJSSgNAkXsgJ2DJi-Uw-3F1TpPn-wSNzE6mrnMXAUs8XV_YIQ9N2QS6acOWANcWLQIbxWReGz_IojCjGUk4qKsiMKOys8iG1nppr_tpmKVDU6LD438kmw


Since my chances of an international holiday became low. time to invest in more 4x4 upgrades
-MnCpd01OEzSEA?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

FE_WTe8mW7m9Ng?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

TJM wedgetail snorkel
Dk5JSCOmFzsRoQ?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

Mocked up ABS bracket for the engine bay
bdcWJV8ZrUTyhA?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

E46 purple tag rack cleaned up and reinstalled
q3MxzaKzeJFqQA?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Mid-may my PC decided to give up
Fresh build of ryzen 3800x, 16GB DDR4, Aorus elite x570, existing gtx1080, re-used noctua fan
joJYVfSVORgcZg?width=1024&height=768&cropmode=none.jpg

Completed all 4 fenders, welded ABS bracket in
Replaced the rear boot lid (Previous was damaged/molested)
Put my aluminium doors on from a late 95 M3
mDokIuEOaV64HA?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

fresh front bumper
v7ebeE8ZutziKg?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

Wiring specialties harness also arrived this week
hSqhcq1bYOHtfA?width=768&height=1024&cropmode=none.jpg

At this stage the car is now ready for paint.
I've decided against painting it myself and now delivered the car to a mate who will caress the e36 and paint it ready for re-assembly.

Given the current covid situation there appears to be shipping/stock delays on many parts so i'm attempting to order any major remaining parts needed.
Bushings, accel pedal, misc bolts, fuel system parts, engine accessories, diff cover, bearings etc etc

Hopefully by the time the chassis is back from paint i'll have almost everything needed to re-assemble.

While the car is out of the garage i'm hoping to refresh all the rear subframe bushings,bearings and move to E46 330 rear trailing arms.
I also have a backlog of house renovation work to complete to keep Mrs Octane happy ;)

Stay safe everyone, if you don't absolutely need to go somewhere or do something then please don't :)
 
Last edited:

lidz

Member
Joined
Oct 15, 2012
Messages
13
Location
Melbourne, Australia
Great update, really enjoy reading your thread mate. Can we see a finished shot of the laundry splash back? I'm about to tackle something similar myself.

Excellent choice on the Sportsters, I often have a hunt to try to find myself a set also. Where did you find yours?

Cheers, Tim
 
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