Project XTA Build - (SuperLow)

JasonWW · 02-09-2009, 09:06 AM

I'm going to start a build log here if you guys dont mind.

This is my regular car that I've had for about 6 years. It used to be my daily driver. I'll call him Blackie. (99 Trans Am)

Now I had planned to do lots of extensive mods to this car, but it snowballed to the point that I decided to build a whole new car and leave Blackie alone.

So I bought this one. This is my test mule/project car. I'll call him Whitey. (98 Trans Am)

List of mods planned:

1. Custom front suspension consisting of shorter aluminum spindles and new upper control arms. The shock towers will be completely removed.

2. Custom independant rear suspension with tubbed wheel wells. It will be a short arm/long arm independant rear suspension setup with a Ford 8.8 IRS diff. I may mount the trans in the rear as well.

3. Choptop. Lowered roofline with removable roof, cut down front windshield, and custom made side windows.

The goal is to be able to set the car down on the ground with the air suspension and have the total height be 38" or even less if possible.

Now if worst comes to worst, I'll just use Whitey as a testbed for certain mods which will then be transfered to Blackie. For instance, if I lose interest in Whitie, I can transfer the front suspension setup over to Blackie. If I build a new roof and side windows and get the front glass cut, then it should make things go real fast to give Blackie the chop top. You get my point?

This will be a slow build so please don't ask me if there are updates.

JasonWW · 02-09-2009, 09:40 AM

Here is a list of older links if your interested in certain portions of the build.

General thread of all the stuff I want to do

Figuring out a mid-engine design

Converting the stock unit body car to a space frame design

Short spindle conversion

Choptop info

Adding airbags

Radiator relocation
I've already done the front breather conversion.

Fixed projector HID conversion
I've been working on and off for a while on these. I now have all the parts.

sway99bird · 02-11-2009, 06:20 AM

Dang you are actually doing it I can't wait to see it done

JasonWW · 02-11-2009, 09:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sway99bird

Dang you are actually doing it I can't wait to see it done

I'm going to build something. I don't know if I can do everyhing I want.

Spd-Kilz · 02-11-2009, 12:09 PM

This is going to be awesome. Please keep us updated.

I've always loved your out-of-the-box ideas. If this actually comes together, it will be badass!

4WOFURY · 02-11-2009, 11:32 PM

+1. You have some badass ideas, I can't wait to see them become a reality.

TORCHD 02 TA · 02-12-2009, 02:40 PM

you have had some crazy ideas. Can not wait to see what it looks like

sporty_drew · 02-17-2009, 01:18 AM

I'll be watching. Good luck

JasonWW · 02-17-2009, 01:49 AM

I hope to have the roof off and shock towers out in the next day or so.

JasonWW · 02-19-2009, 08:16 PM

An update.

I added some wheels so I could move it around.

I cut the nose off to make it easier to cut the shock towers. I'll get those off soon.

slammer454 · 02-19-2009, 08:21 PM

looks good so far Jason, i bet the neighbours must absolutely love you.

ws6in · 02-20-2009, 09:38 PM

your neighbors must love you haha i live in a strick neighborhood and me being a grease monkey im allways making noise or toying with something and they hate me... im excited to see the finished project good luck man

w3s1c0a5t · 02-21-2009, 01:50 PM

This is a crazy project sir. Props for at least attempting.

Also what was the main goal of the Mid engine? Just being different? I didnt know if you have some performance idea in mind as well.

3.8redbird · 02-21-2009, 01:56 PM

subscribed buddy
GL

JasonWW · 02-21-2009, 03:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by w3s1c0a5t

Also what was the main goal of the Mid engine? Just being different? I didnt know if you have some performance idea in mind as well.

Mainly it was to allow me to raise the k-member 2" so I can really put the nose in the dirt.

Plus it solves the exhaust routing problem.
Plus it would let me put some subwoofers up front for more accurate sound quality.
Plus it would just be cool.

A "proper" transmission would run me about $6k plus clutch and LS1 adapter. That's just too much in my opinion.

w3s1c0a5t · 02-21-2009, 08:21 PM

Cool man. Should be insane when you get it done. Whats the "IMproper" tranny your setting up

JasonWW · 02-21-2009, 08:31 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by w3s1c0a5t

Cool man. Should be insane when you get it done. Whats the "IMproper" tranny your setting up

There are cheaper mid-engine transmissions out there, but they can't handle much more than 300HP. I was trying to figure out a way to go mid-engine with a tough and cheap 4L80E or T-56. It will probably stay front engined, but I haven't given up on mid-engined, yet.

w3s1c0a5t · 02-21-2009, 08:43 PM

I dont want to hear it. YOU make that thing mid engine. Also i need it done by june 5 6 7th So i can see it while were down for the cruise.

Demonicbird00 · 02-23-2009, 12:58 PM

look into the factory five gtm car. that is a mid engine ls1 w/ a porshe 6spd trans

-brandon

slammer454 · 02-23-2009, 03:31 PM

/\/\/\/\/\
actually a half decent idea, maybe call em up and see if they have any advice.