ICEMAN's Civic Project update pics! - 80+ pics (56k beware)

[ICEMAN707]

Hey guys, it's been a long time. I've been busy with school and my Civic project for over a year now. Just thought I'd show you some pics of what I've been up to. Every inch of this car has been cleaned and 90% of parts, down to the nuts and bolts, are new. Enjoy!

Here are the first batch of pics. These pics were from earlier on (Dec '06-Jan '07):

This how it looked before the project:
http://a184.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/46/l_e3b3383e7fc9a1fb531b44af861803ff.jpg

http://a672.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/59/l_1bc0bfa38c114765954581467f6b2f2f.jpg

http://a564.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/60/l_229aeab1c7dbf2822f273b52cfe19743.jpg

Cleaned the engine out:
http://a214.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/42/l_b022a97c94de283478d61b2d2b13d965.jpg

New water pump:
http://a14.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/50/l_9933539d0de6d1374a276e87eb42436d.jpg

http://a722.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/49/l_29fec251372c62903bb531d8bbda05d9.jpg

ARP head studs:
http://a754.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/13/l_152a23ae5240586dffdd8bc848af7611.jpg

http://a616.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/33/l_7acc82a7e9b7f0865a4f5388e21931ef.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

New VTEC head:
http://a486.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/43/l_8f5604cd36b28f68092ea2d53c1af205.jpg

New adjustable cam gear & new timing belt:
http://a795.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/55/l_1ce1528ef9282a6970397f0c96270a22.jpg

Custom valvecover put on. New 10mm plug wires:
http://a576.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/17/l_57361d94c15e0993ab6aad5a51066237.jpg

http://a476.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/15/l_bfd76efc6c03d80e31b9fb4246d01e0b.jpg

Custom oil pan:
http://a112.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/15/l_1a1596214f7398aeaa6820635b30232f.jpg

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/1/web/2401000-2401999/2401926_37_full.jpg

[fogged]

Nice work, very clean. I love the paint work.

[AccordEpicenter]

very cool. Any particular reason for the headstuds? Are you gonna go turbo later? I like custom oil pan and valve cover, nice color

[ICEMAN707]

The reason for the headstuds is because I didn't feel it'd be wise to re-use 165k mile-old headstuds, so I opted for these instead of new OEM ones which probably have costed as much. It's also an extra precaution for the VTEC head swap which raised the compression significantly.

I am also swapping out the block for a d16y8 block I am building for turbo sitting on the side of my garage. It has Eagle H-beam rods (block notched to clear these), Vitara pistons, ACL teflon coated rod and main bearings, and KMS block guard. But that's another project I'll finish up once the car is all done. :)

CURRENT MODS:

- Port & polished rebuilt VTEC head swap (10.xx:1 compression)
- Stainless steel headers and 2.75" exhaust piping; RSR muffler
- Adjustable cam gear
- Port & polished Y8 intake manifold; bored 60mm
- Hondata heatshield PPP intake manifold gasket
- 60mm Integra GSR throttle body
- Oil Catch can
- OBX Front & rear upper & lower strut bars
- OBX Front 4-point lower subframe brace
- Eibach Sportline springs
- KYB AGX adjustable struts
- Chipped P28 ECU
- Polished Integra GSR distributor
- ARP head studs
- new OEM honda intake & exhaust manifold nuts and studs
- new timing belt, water pump, seals, gaskets, timing belt tensioner, radiator hoses, alternator, a/c, drive belts, etc.
- engine bay fully cleaned & repainted flat black satin
- engine and components cleaned & repainted
- New fluids - Castrol Full synthetic oil, OEM Honda coolant, and OEM Honda MTF; drained gas tank & filled with 93+ octane gas (due to high compression)
- Neuspeed 10mm plug wires
- NGK Platinum plugs
- Walbro 255Lph fuel pump, AEM fuel rail and FPR, and DSM 450cc injectors
- Type-R style Front Lip (custom molded onto front bumper)
- Polished 16" lightweight Nippon Racing F2 wheels
- TOYO T1R tires - 215/40ZR/16
- 8 lb. Aluminum flywheel and stage 2 racing clutch kit
- ASR billet aluminum rear subframe brace
- OmniPower billet aluminum rear lower control arms
- JDM Integra Type-R 23mm rear sway bar
- Suspension Techniques 1" front sway bar kit
- Energy Suspension bushings kit
- Shaved door handles and side moldings
- MSD SCI ignition system; external coil kit ($300)
- FLUIDYNE aluminum radiator

NEXT MODS (still a long shopping list):

- VIS Racing OEM style carbon fiber hood
- AUTOLOC door popper kit w/ Clifford pager alarm; wire-tuck stealth install; Lo/Jack
- Jet Black Dupont paintjob; 3-5 coats clearcoat
- Black housing projector headlights; smoked LED taillights
- Lightweight racing seats
- MOMO steering wheel w/ NRG detachable hub
- Integra GSR rear disc brake swap
- Brembo cross-drilled brake rotors; stainless steel brake lines
- Complete ALPINE 1200watt audio system w/ fiberglass speaker door panels/interior and 15" single subwoofer trunk enclosure in spare tire well
- OBX stainless steel 70mm intake manifold
- Skunk2 70mm throttle body
- Hondata s600
- (stage 1) Turbo'ed d16y8 block - t3/t4 Garret turbo
- (Longterm goal stage 2) Engine swap: Acura TSX K24 block/Acura RSX type-S K20 head - Hondata K-pro - Hasport mount kit, etc.
- (stage 3) K-series turbo kit

[ICEMAN707]

These were the 16" wheels I had before (it was going to be an all-black car):
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/1/web/2401000-2401999/2401926_51_full.jpg

These are the 16" wheels I have now (much much lighter - only 12 lbs each):
http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/1/web/2401000-2401999/2401926_53_full.jpg

[Cheeseburger]

looks amazing!!

[ICEMAN707]

.....on to more pics....


Around Mar '07 - Apr '07 I swapped out the transmission:


Old B7 Transmission Removed:
http://a220.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/20/l_f4db682a94f7438ddd5f49aea0fbba43.jpg
http://a549.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/44/l_8538345b83e3621af2ec96992e758fcc.jpg

Old clutch & flywheel:
http://a112.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/16/l_95da04bd9283c78e8bb94d9d5f539dbf.jpg
http://a511.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/1/l_99a46f0128a9a2bcd129aa0f287b749e.jpg

Old clutch & flywheel removed:
http://a572.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/61/l_0485a2942af284bf9ac670199c97fa2b.jpg

New rear main seal:
http://a638.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/42/l_f505e1ea1e82a7de1bc07c348e5cff15.jpg

Old clutch assembly VS. new clutch assembly:
http://a880.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/21/l_ab1b3757bc5e907116fca28d92bf812f.jpg
http://a499.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/8/l_cd88295efa6553039867f102b084510a.jpg

New lightweight flywheel:
http://a743.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/39/l_976c5ae68bde0645b0fbf1e440984b46.jpg

[MessyHonda]

are the last set of pics of the rims rotas? i want some 16 inch also but i thought they were 13.5 pounds. i just installed some 205/50/15 on my fat fives and i felt the car gets up and goes faster...so it would be better if i had even lighter rims....anyways the civic looks good but i still think an exotic swap is on the way....

[ICEMAN707]

New clutch installed:
http://a931.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/36/l_fa78006d15213e6fd198bfa4b5da697a.jpg
http://a406.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/7/l_b31999cca6789018202a293cf57281c5.jpg
http://a904.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/50/l_d90d6b0bf340453e3bf3665c91d6d2df.jpg

New Z6 transmission:
http://a182.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/59/l_3585c6baa487d4c80f7cb0c3500a841d.jpg
http://a200.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/21/l_491e2fd16f3d48ec7cc3539da3b0c427.jpg
http://a6.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/22/l_16025b5fabb85973cd14c92f206cf68d.jpg

New transmission installed:
http://a856.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/64/l_767a7795b6eba7de8740b137aa3c86e7.jpg

[blazin3gen]

all i can say is wow...


jealous...

[ICEMAN707]

Around May '07 I installed my shift rod bushings and suspension setup:


Custom painted shift rods w/ polyurethane bushings
http://a363.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/60/l_ec6f3c9d72f052e38a16d6afe2862b62.jpg

Billet short shifter:
http://a717.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/21/l_6464cb783b5f5c50d704fb0f5bc4c854.jpg
http://a427.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/49/l_aad3bd47caf81a0e050f24104eb27142.jpg

New KYB AGX struts with Eibach springs and Energy Suspension bushings all around (front set pictured):
http://a926.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/37/l_c76e01b77c9cf89232268399c57830ed.jpg

New front Suspension Techniques sway bar installed (you can also see the H-brace below):
http://a539.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/23/l_52b76445c7127f74e809100e2eaf7fca.jpg

Rear frame brace, billet aluminum control arms, and rear JDM DC2 Integra Type R sway bar installed:
http://a949.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/64/l_1a0fbc051f314dc2feebc7c6070a98a4.jpg

Nice view of the rear suspension assembly w/ the AGX struts:
http://a708.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/62/l_74fb866ec91587953840319b4d882afb.jpg

These are more current pics with the exhaust installed:
http://a784.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/113/l_4d9c8ed7923f2782f818e792c5f8fd07.jpg
http://a951.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/122/l_65e76de71831261e996935b5d938bb76.jpg
http://a203.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/98/l_873e3f72b84568510321a23f38e3e99a.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

Early June '07 I installed a complete stainless steel exhaust system (RS*R catback and OBX freeflow cat):


Freeflow cat:
http://a92.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/104/l_e67bccc986fe2b26a3073075c5a5870b.jpg
http://a205.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/104/l_e27f80b6757543b1ce375340581eb53c.jpg
http://a578.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/127/l_ec151821beab0e79a3f972ac71fa2491.jpg
http://a860.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/78/l_95dde24854b08570d8fa868a31f49bb3.jpg

RS*R full stainless steel catback exhaust:
http://a578.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/78/l_187bbcca3b504b9f6ec34751911a5f69.jpg
http://a182.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/68/l_30fbde18c3f3cdfa1ff007a0a5be3b9d.jpg
http://a168.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/93/l_2d7f80e17e10e4eaf179d560b62b2277.jpg
http://a199.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/97/l_321c433329f3437f30dee8fcd5a4627e.jpg

Engine bay pic (I hand-polished alot of metal parts - distributor, injectors, fuel rail, vtec solenoid, etc.):
http://a28.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/57/l_65fc69bfca0558518f20b76c8c2c16db.jpg
http://a587.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/39/l_e90c228ba575a78d9d7f2bd27b215be2.jpg

[MessyHonda]

bad ass civic...i want some one to do the same on a 3gee

[Civic Accord Honda]

looks badass
i love that green too!
i have been searching around for a green EJ1 lol

[Hazwan]

Nice! Love the orange on the engine.

[ICEMAN707]

looks badass
i love that green too!
i have been searching around for a green EJ1 lol

LOL actually I hate that teal green color....it will be jet black inside and out soon enough! :)

[GraniteLXI]

Damn, thats a hot civic! When you do that black on black inside and out it will look fucking mean. The teal color reminds me of my cavalier lol

[ICEMAN707]

http://a275.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/57/l_f7233168f65358ae017e6df6f673a17a.jpg

Engine bay pic (new 2.5" thick all-aluminum radiator installed):
http://a290.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/120/l_d5029deb1f5865b15ef0bf9f498cd421.jpg
http://a110.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/122/l_a0e8b88b3a18b8753c46759f1f13be2d.jpg



Here's my inspiration for a turbo'ed D-series (fully built with Darton sleeves):


D16 Single Cam - 568whp @ 24 psi
http://a935.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/117/l_a79d29c47053e21c81541fd57e03959e.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

July '07 I noticed there's smoke coming out the tailpipe...and I'd hate to dirty up the new exhaust and cat I just installed. Did a compression test and I'm getting a slight leak on the #4 piston. So I went ahead and removed everything on the top end and rebuilt the bottom end with new Hastings rings and ACL rod and crank bearings:


Removed the crank, rods, and pistons. Honed the cylinders. Installed new rings and bearings:
http://a856.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/63/l_1ae643022073ef8bb24886fd21eb068f.jpg
http://a30.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/104/l_7686ed2576ff56a3c9563646e037a635.jpg
http://a127.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/17/l_f4c78fda31086961ad662e28dc29c966.jpg
http://a244.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/2/l_c59d1fd3ae87b05551f192cd507c12ab.jpg
http://a762.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/2/l_f3e2fa1dcc67a36ffa119ba869eea8f1.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

August '07 to Present - Finally got started on the bodywork - Repaired all the dings, shaved off badges, door handles, side moldings, and antenna....and gave the front a major facelift. Used Mar-Hyde Ultimate 2k Urethane Primer:


The front BEFORE:
http://a597.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/101/l_1bd210ff711b629a595fa2a3ebc7aa24.jpg

The front AFTER (CTR lip molded on and license plate bolt holes shaved off):
http://a715.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/102/l_9a2661b5824ad984e3ef77e40ed0c802.jpg

Another view with the Depo foglights put on after cutting the side vents out:
http://a691.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/6/l_fe4d2620efe99591c5b82548e9f58292.jpg

Wanted to go for a more cleaner look so I cut out all the grille entirely and filled-in the cutout gaps left behind. Now you can't tell if anything was ever cut out:
http://a613.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/34/l_cdde524de312f9cf007f9a0fd468426c.jpg

I found some stainless steel mesh grille from a metalworks shop that would go perfectly behind there:
http://a625.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/14/l_6c06351241daad22d136447eee16ed88.jpg
http://a682.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/24/l_455ac26613cd42d3dbf22b4397fa0879.jpg

Here's the rear with all scratches and imperfections gone. That's one smooth baby butt!:
http://a267.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/13/l_cfaa64684e7c5e27ae63316a708f0652.jpg
http://a55.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/128/l_ea192a31a68e943add0f43f57d2e2d46.jpg
http://a513.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/21/l_b8a0c4f5645dbe8ba4d8500d073e83e8.jpg

Primered the outside body and test-fitted everything to see where she stands in terms of looks. Can't wait to put on some jet black paint!:
http://a588.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/88/l_b4335b68a57d16538c3c4ed2286149b3.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

No half-assing here. Everything is taken off. The car is fully stripped:
http://a545.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/l_c653d93f0d6f15f0cee8f3a2f2204628.jpg
http://a535.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/122/l_009fa755a715f88aac27652decb82466.jpg

Shaved moldings:
http://a116.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/126/l_53dcc0f8bc01cda41a370b4386a1dccb.jpg
http://a401.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/41/l_d655ca3f584b0a5fe9a8f54bf8add6a0.jpg

Rear shot:
http://a102.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/27/l_1f31ef30223b844a2088ac9e0fec6ae5.jpg
http://a352.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/10/l_bbc47414f454048bd98f0afd23cc536f.jpg

Shaved door moldings and door handles:
http://a244.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/84/l_7643bc133741dd52240457366b1cc2c3.jpg

Trunk:
http://a225.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/109/l_a52930c8c7068124d2ac2a6e70b873a0.jpg
http://a956.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/95/l_6353f43b49b04ee4b38730785b842a4b.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

Spoiler and trunk trim panel:
http://a727.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/87/l_189e0b05bcc4c40bc4e47d5eaef4f1de.jpg
http://a183.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/13/l_bfbbbe61f3a84e7b934e00979533b6ae.jpg
http://a282.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/99/l_04a24fb45de70e0c91ee31516d775c89.jpg

Latest addition to the project - TOYO T1R tires 215/40ZR16 (looking to have these babies filled up with Nitrogen!)
http://a838.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/29/l_1e6d4802d444a542679e30e2a488d33d.jpg




......And that's where I'm at on the project right now. I will post update pics as I go along. I'm fully gutting the interior to start primering and painting from there. Then eventually the whole car will be painted! Stay tuned! :rockon:

[RobT5580]

You do some nice work i was really inpressed with your accord and the fiberglass work you did.

Props!

[ICEMAN707]

You do some nice work i was really inpressed with your accord and the fiberglass work you did.

Props!

Thanks Rob for the props! I actually plan to redo the accord again and make it look cleaner as well, and also do a 5spd swap and rebuild the engine....then eventually paint it too.

[knarg]

awesome, looking good!

makes me want an eg6 too :D

[Civic Accord Honda]

looking good
sucks your not keeping the teal but oh well its still going to hook hella bad ass
and black is a good color to go with too =D

[ZackieDarko]

all that suspension work and no rear discs?

[A18A]

thats pretty cool, i'll be looking foward to a similar thread with the 3gee

[ICEMAN707]

all that suspension work and no rear discs?

In due time I will. I prioritize everything I do to the car. Rear disc brakes are not that important right now. The car has enough braking power as is. When I did rear disc brakes on the 3gee, I felt an increase in unsprung weight to the rear end than with drums. So for the Civic, I'm trying to keep the car as light as possible. But when there is a need for more braking power, that's when I will do rear disc brake swap when I do the brembo rotor setup that's on my to do list. Probably when I go turbo is when I need that braking power. Everything is done in steps. That's how to successfully mod a car.

[MessyHonda]

i say you cage it.

[ICEMAN707]

Yeah something bolt-in like this one:

http://www.modacar.com/products/Honda/Civic/ROLLCAGE/rollcages.html

Would be nice to have this chassis:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/92-95-Civic-Chassis-Full-roll-cage-Tubular-front-end_W0QQitemZ130184899274QQihZ003QQcategoryZ98062Q QcmdZViewItem

[ICEMAN707]

bad ass civic...i want some one to do the same on a 3gee

I think Gemini2003 is restoring his 3gee if I'm not mistaken. I say he's doing a good job for being in a cold climate and using rattle cans to paint his car.

[fogged]

Sweet ride.

[AccordEpicenter]

nice work on the shaved moldings, look really good man.

[ICEMAN707]

nice work on the shaved moldings, look really good man.

Thanks bro :cheers:

[fogged]

I think Gemini2003 is restoring his 3gee if I'm not mistaken. I say he's doing a good job for being in a cold climate and using rattle cans to paint his car.

That man should be called the rattle can wizard. That cars going to look hot!

[newaccorddriver]

That man should be called the rattle can wizard. That cars going to look hot!

this summer, you could probably call me tremclad hobo

[SQ is the SQUAD]

civic looks great. i did a 91 mini me this summer. fun little car. mostly stock,

but mine is nowhere as clean as yours

[ICEMAN707]

civic looks great. i did a 91 mini me this summer. fun little car. mostly stock,

but mine is nowhere as clean as yours

Good 'ol blood, sweat, tears, and alot of patience and dedication is what it takes. An extra car to get around in for about a year helps too. :)

[ICEMAN707]

Recent pics - Interior redone in satin black:


http://a524.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/65/l_2a3872a866c2ebf17fabef287b7459bb.jpg

http://a878.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/32/l_0ee1ae4bc9d051d004e39c49a98ef17d.jpg

http://a395.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/30/l_ea3939f1ced44dc88631aaea1ec08a82.jpg

[RamThis]

Looks like an awesome project you have going on. That engine bay is cleaner than my kitchen!!!

Looks like there's quite a few big projects going on here on the board now. Mine's still got a long ways to go....... :help:

[ICEMAN707]

Project taking longer than expected. Black is a pain-in-the-ass color to work with especially painting at home with no paintbooth. No compromise - every suface it's sprayed on has to be perfect. But it's getting there...

[BITESIZE]

You must be rich. :)

[ICEMAN707]

Nope, just crazy about cars like most of us. I wish I was rich, then I would get this project done in no time. Instead, I just have alot of patience to get my projects done no matter how long it's taking me. It's been 2 yrs. now since I tore apart this car. When I have the time, I don't have the money cus I don't work as much. When I have the money, I don't have the time cus of working so much to get all that money. Plus school fulltime along with working fulltime takes up almost all my time everyday. I usually only able to work on the project about 1 to 1.5 days a week, which sux...

[mykwikcoupe]

really thats alot of time. I got about 4 hours last year and so far Im into about 3 this year. Maybe this is why Im so far behind on my project

[ICEMAN707]

Pics should be coming up soon. I have most of the major parts painted, it's just a few I'm having a little trouble with since black shows every slight flaw in the bodywork, even a small ding...

[russiankid]

Fantastic work!

[RamThis]

Cool man. Im dying to do some painting here too. 1st full warm week we've had this year, and the bugs are out big time. I need to get me a bug zapper now to put in the garage/shop/paintbooth, whatever you wanna call it lol. I did that when I painted my Ram. Close off the shop, turn off all the lights, leave the bug zapper on, it kills all the flying bugs inside. Then you vacuum them up, wet down the floor, blow off the car again, tack cloth it, and start painting. I had almost NO visible trash in my paint, maybe a speck or two. As long as it doesnt get on it while the paint or clear is really wet, and it just really sets on the very surface, it'll be fine since you have to color sand, and polish anyway. It's the big gangly mosquito things that like to plop their fat, leggy asses in your fresh clear, then writhe in it and sink all the way to the paint. Then their legs break off in the clear. Assholes. :gun:

Between work, and kids, and being constantly fucking sick this year (I've been sick nearly every day since before last Xmas) I havent hardly touched mine. Mostly it's just me being sick all the time. Im having extreme sinus infection problems and allergies, going to start with an allergist this week, and also look into immune system problems. I gotta get well so I can finish my projects. Seems like I start something, then keep getting sick and then never get a chance to finish it. My 3G's been down since 06. Looking at it every day as I pass through the garage to and from work, and never feeling good enough to work on it, sure is getting old.....

[ICEMAN707]

Yeah I feel the same way about my 3gee. It's been sitting outside longer than the civic's been in the garage, waiting for its turn for me to restart some work on it and getting it done. It's on stock wheels and stock bumpers to keep prying eyes away. When I am finally done with school and quit my serving job this August I will only be working for a Mercedes dealership and making the money I need and have the time I need to finish my projects. :rockon:

[ICEMAN707]

Hey Ramthis, that ram looks good! Great job on the painting. What mix ratios do you use for the base and for the clear? I started out going by what's on the can, but I find it lays out smoother with more reducer and some added fisheye eliminator...

[RamThis]

The base and clear I've just used the mix ratio's on the can, it's DuPont Chroma-Base and Chroma Clear that I use. Base is just a simple 50/50 mix and I use high temp basemaker since it dries a bit slower and allows it to level out more before flashing over.

The clear, I use Spot/Panel activator, since I have a tendency to lay it on a bit heavy. It keeps it from sagging. I still end up having to wait about 45 minutes between clear coats if I want to keep it from sagging any. And I still need morelights in my shop to do my clear later on. Another project lol.

Thanks for the props on the truck. Im assuming you were talking about my club cab with stripes I painted. It was my first attempt at painting anything that complex. I learned the basics of primer only when I was building UAV aircraft, they were primer grey only. So I bought a good Snap-On BF700 HVLP gun, some paint and clear, and played around with it. After some experimenting I had it down pretty good. Still learning new stuff though every time I go mix a cup of paint. One day maybe my paintjobs would be worth some decent cash! As they are now, they look better than alot of paint jobs at car shows I've been to. Man, some folks paintjobs just plain old suck!! Others, are of the quality I'd like to achieve. I can do about OEM quality now.

[ICEMAN707]

I guess a good $500 paintgun would help too. I got a cheap $75 no-name brand. It does its job, but I'm sure it's nowhere the perfect spray pattern of a more expensive one.

I also need to run a filter in my air line since my compressor's drain valve sux and I don't often drain the tank after every use cus of it. I need to replace the drain valve since the one it came with is made of brass and breaks off easily.

As far as OEM quality goes, it's still not as good as a great colorsand and buff job. Every brand new car I've seen has some slight orange-peel on it. I've been colorsanding the crap out of mine trying to go for that Barrett-Jackson car quality look. I've also been spending alot of time trying to lay a perfect coat on the places I can't reach with a buffer like the door jams. If I need to, I just use the small Mother's Powerball on my electric drill, or by hand, with some compound and nu-finish scratch remover to buff it out.

Next week I will be starting on the clear. Hopefully all the paintwork will be done within this month so I can get the car back together again and take good pics.

[RamThis]

Yeah most OEM's do have some orange peel to them. But that's just how it works, paint wont level perfectly. Only way to get that glass smooth finish is the colorsand/polish method. Wont work on an "OEM" finish since they use such a thin clear layer. Thats why most custom jobs use 3 or so coats of clear, so you have much less chance of colorsanding or buffing through the clear.

My gun leaves an OEM quality finish with nothing but spraying it and letting it dry. I dont have to sand/polish to match an OEM paintjob basically. Not too bad for a novice lol. The green truck with stripes in my gallery, Is straight shot paint, with no color sanding or polishing. Only parts that were sanded and polished, were a few spots that I got a bit of dryshot on, two spots on the bed, and one corner of the hood. Rest was so perfectly smooth straight from the gun I just left it as it was as good or better than the factory paintjob when it was brand new.

My 3G, will be getting the Barret Jackson polish treatment though. I plan to make that bitch shine like a diamond in a goat's ass. After the time I'll have in it, I want it to blow people away, and maybe win a show or two for at least paint quality lol.

[ICEMAN707]

It's been a long time since I updated...2 1/2 yrs. of school's got me all tied up. Anyways....here's some updates on the paint (pardon the mess):


http://a981.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/78/l_82b23b3cc94b55e769a527962b94d7ec.jpg

http://a745.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/83/l_43a2c2d21aeac52f74d040a7b490e160.jpg

http://a347.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/110/l_ced8b6f57b954b1dbf0db16235b28ffa.jpg
Shaved side moldings

It's coming along nicely. I wish I had more free time, but school comes first. I will be done with school next month and working for Benz as a certified tech. Can't wait! :rockon:

[knarg]

that paint is ridiculously glossy wow

[ICEMAN707]

yep after a crapload of wetsanding and buffing. it's got 3 coats of clear on it too.

[Civic Accord Honda]

why do u have a garage door on ur car? O.o

[gfrg88]

why do u have a garage door on ur car? O.o

haha, i couldnt figure it out at first either. lol... that shit is fukin NICE!!! :rockon:

[ICEMAN707]

when you open your garage door, where do you think it goes? duh! :lol:

[ICEMAN707]

Gas cap door, taillight trim, and foglight trim:


http://a215.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/18/l_6014931cfc540893e6b1850d29d26856.jpg

[ICEMAN707]

Doors....shaved side trim and door handles:


http://a704.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/68/l_07ca5a18cbf08c47d8bdba5b2d65a31f.jpg

http://a294.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/54/l_8473a118d36562de2cc3a50e541e66ed.jpg

http://a537.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/40/l_14e755e42f78951c0b7ba0cd193c5f70.jpg

http://a752.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/68/l_dca552f7be6a328d0416c19c7758ee8f.jpg

http://a197.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/54/l_c1fdc3b3a89eea25c62f456703f625dc.jpg

[2oodoor]

really nice gloss you got there, good work

[itzdave]

looks amazing! but how you supposed to open the doors without handles???






















j/k

[A18A]

jesus thats glossy, :O

[87roach]

Crazy stuff man, props on all the hard work.. it looks sick!

[86ccord]

looks amazing! but how you supposed to open the doors without handles???



hmm i guess he just wont drive it.. looks nice as hell, but i forgot the pop locks.. shit.. now how am i going to drive it..LOL

jk looks real clean bro!

[ICEMAN707]

Yep, door poppers w/ 50lb capacity solenoids. I have the 4 rigged up to a Clifford Alarm. One for each door, one for the trunk and one for the hood. I eliminated all the interior latches. Pretty much making this car a biotch to steal. I know Civics get stolen alot, especially around here in Orlando.

[86ccord]

Yep, door poppers w/ 50lb capacity solenoids. I have the 4 rigged up to a Clifford Alarm. One for each door, one for the trunk and one for the hood. I eliminated all the interior latches. Pretty much making this car a biotch to steal. I know Civics get stolen alot, especially around here in Orlando.

hell yeah! maybe next time im going threw orlando ill see it..ha, but shit looks tight.. any updates or what not?

[ICEMAN707]

Updates as of now is that I'm buying all new clips and rubber weatherstripping. Have the glass guy put all the glass back on. Put the interior back together. Then all the exterior lights, the new rims and tires, etc. Overhaul the A/C system (In FL you definitely need it). Siphon out the old gas that's been sitting in the tank for months, put in fresh gas and then start her up!

[ICEMAN707]

8/13/08 Front bumper:


http://a322.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/16/l_6db0703c363bc977f39857243910b2e9.jpg

http://a6.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/1/l_aacc3ca25a560d147dc511149d270125.jpg

http://a686.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/38/l_af28cd091c769bda3d96ecfb253483c5.jpg

[gfrg88]

What did you use to mold that lip on there??

Looks great!! keep up the good work, and keep posting up more pix :rockon:

[RobT5580]

From what i see your work looks awesome......Keep up the work!

You should donate your accord to my B20A Turbo :)

[thegreatdane]

I'll second that Rob :) Your B20A-T and icemans accord both needs to be put to good use :D

Are you doing the paintwork yourself? It looks mighty fine on my screen! If so how are you handling it? Paint booth, sealed up garage or out in the open with a clear sky?


edit: duuh, alright with a bit of reading it's obvious that you do the paint on your own. But I'm still interested in knowing what sort of facilities you have for the painting process.

[ICEMAN707]

I'll second that Rob :) Your B20A-T and icemans accord both needs to be put to good use :D

Are you doing the paintwork yourself? It looks mighty fine on my screen! If so how are you handling it? Paint booth, sealed up garage or out in the open with a clear sky?


edit: duuh, alright with a bit of reading it's obvious that you do the paint on your own. But I'm still interested in knowing what sort of facilities you have for the painting process.

I do all the painting in the garage. I have a commercial fan running to suck most of the dust out that it possibly can. I run that for about 2 hours, then I go in and wet the floor. While I air up my compressor I mix up the paint or clear. Then I proceed to paint minutes later.

I try my best to lay on a good coat of base and clear, let it dry for a few hours, then cut and buff to remove the dirt that got on the paint. So far it's working for me. The only thing I can't control in a garage environment is the temperature and humidity, so sometimes I get a few fisheyes or wrinkles that I have to fix. I add some fisheye eliminator to the paint/clear to minimize the chances.

[thegreatdane]

Cool. And you dont wetsand the base before clearcoating?

It would be cool to try doing quality painting on my own but getting all the materials needed to get started will add up quick and with the risk of making a lot of flaws which requires buying extra materials. Makes it difficult arguing against paying double or so to let a pro painter do the job.

[ICEMAN707]

Cool. And you dont wetsand the base before clearcoating?

It would be cool to try doing quality painting on my own but getting all the materials needed to get started will add up quick and with the risk of making a lot of flaws which requires buying extra materials. Makes it difficult arguing against paying double or so to let a pro painter do the job.

Yep I wetsand the base too. I've had experience painting car parts/panels before so this was no big deal for me. To not have the risk of wasting money, you have to have lots of practice to make taking on a big job like this worthwhile and cost effective.....so start small until you are confident. The biggest thing is the prep work, both on the piece you are painting itself and in the equipment and work environment you are in. Taking time to do all your preparation and preventative measures will yield good results.

The additional learning experience and great feeling of personal satisfaction you get from doing it yourself is also more valuable than paying someone else to do it. Sure you may make mistakes here and there for the first time you do it, but the second time you will know what to do. I don't think a pro would do the level of quality work and dedication like I do for a favorable price. Most likely they would charge you somewhere in the $3000-$5000 range with all the wetsanding also. Most of the cost is in labor, paint and sandpaper are not expensive. I'd rather use the money I save for more car parts.

[thegreatdane]

Yea with what I said above, I would only expect to get an OEM quality paintjob.
I would like to be able to do it myself, since I've always felt that doing everything yourself is the only way you will get the results you want, but unfortunetaly the money and time spent required to make me able to perform that good of a paintjob for only 1 car would far exceed what's reasonnable. At this time of my life at least. Besides, I suck at sanding lol.

But I think it's great that you've reached the point where you're able to do your own paintjobs in the quality you want it in.

[ICEMAN707]

1