Gizzmo_jr's Ride

[Gizzmo_jr]

Okay, well I haven't posted any pictures of the car. But today was different, the good weather allowed me to wax the car and getting it looking all spiffy. Aside from me ripping the car apart doing a few mods.

Which include, TWM short shifter, independent fog mod, angel eyes. I have a boat load more to be installed and I'll post pictures as they get done. But here's what I have for now.
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/767041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5y7.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/763041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5y3.jpg)

After some love with Maguires NXT paste wax (awesome stuff)
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/762041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5y2.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/761041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5y1.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/760041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5yy.jpg)

My buddies and I (pimpin' the new stubbies, lol)
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/765041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5y5.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/766041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5ys.jpg)

Night shots (less 2 mods to come, mwahaha)
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/764041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yng5yf.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/759041000063.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yngfzz.jpg)

Site for car photos and my other photos are here http://gizzmojr.fotopic.net/

[Gizzmo_jr]

Oh and I nearly forgot, TheBiz and Flippy, a pleasure to meet you.

[craigrodrigues88]

nice ride! where you get your angel eyes from?

[Gizzmo_jr]

I wouldn't go with anyone else but Devin from TheXenonStore (http://thexenonstore.com/).

[Gizzmo_jr]

edit (freaking "internal error 404" made me double post)

[Sean80]

looking sharp!!! love those angel eyes

[towelsnap]

love the stubby pic by far :) nice pics gizzi

[Caz]

Nice pics, angel eyes look great!
What % tint is that?

[Gizzmo_jr]

20%.
I'll get some pictures tonight of my HID's. Just finished installing them :)

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/988041000394.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynm8jr.jpg)

Stock fog halogen on the bottom, ProLumen 6000k ontop

[jaym3]

clean

did u DIY the angel eyes or get it done somewhere?

[cwp_sedan]

Looks good man! Definitely liking the angel eyes! The HIDs are awesome too!!

[Wild Weasel]

Lookin' good!

[Gizzmo_jr]

did u DIY the angel eyes or get it done somewhere?

DIY, the amount of money saved for being mechanically inclined is outstanding. Here if you wanna get started
http://www.torontomazda3.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=18152

Thanks guys, I'm not gonna go over board with a body kit, etc etc, I wanna make the car tasteful but personalized. Kinda...."touch of class" idea. More show then go.

I'm just awaiting Devin to return to earth to get my fog light situation taken care of. Then pedals, sway bar, finish my amp rack and cap, calipers, any anything else that comes in my way.

[MattC]

god those angel eyes are hot, just don't want to have to go all martha stewart on my headlight casings.

[ParsM3GT]

Looking good.

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/173041000841.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynvr6t.jpg)

Thanks Devin, sorry about the hassle. Happy as can be. :)
Stock vs LED white

[cwp_sedan]

sweet colour...a night shot would be sweet if you could get one

[WeatherB]

How close are those LED whites from matching your Angel Eyes? Also, how is the brightness compared with the Halogens?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Brightness is a tad less, but I can do a few photos tonight comparing to an old fog light brightness level and an angel eye color match.

As I was told, the LED fogs are 5500k. I think the angel eyes package said they were 5600k.

[WeatherB]

Thanks, pictures would be perfect.

I believe our Angel Eyes are 7000K, or at least that is what I remember reading from the instructions.

[plusvolume]

very nice ride...

nice and clean!

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/988041000394.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynm8jr.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/122041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9ul.jpg)
Okay I swear there on...oh well at least they look nice.
I'd say there is a huge cut in light output forsure.

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/123041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9um.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/129041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9ut.jpg)
Color isn't 100% but waaaay better then the stock yellow'ish.

[WeatherB]

Thanks Gizzmo. Looks like a very close match.

Are those the LEDs which cost about $60? If so, I might as well spend the $200 on HIDs.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Yea I think that's close to what I paid. Got them through Devin at TheXenonStore.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Nothing spectacular this time around. Was gonna do rear mount but need to borrow a power bar to get those bolts off.:complain

But here's what I did today.
Pedals
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/499042000545.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ypbvb4.jpg)

And ETB grounding. (4awg)
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/500042000545.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ypbvbg.jpg)

[MattC]

are those pedals OEM?

[dentinger]

hey u wanna help me install angle eyes on my car one of these days?? lol

looks really nice man, i cant wait to have oem fogs installed in my car, then i can have the hid fogs/headlights, and angel eyes :P

[Gizzmo_jr]

are those pedals OEM?
Negative, got mine off M3F LINK (http://www.mazda3forums.com/index.php?topic=50250.0)

hey u wanna help me install angle eyes on my car one of these days?? lol

looks really nice man, i cant wait to have oem fogs installed in my car, then i can have the hid fogs/headlights, and angel eyes :P
Your not the only one to ask me that, I should start a small business outta my garage. It's really intimidating to do, but after their installed and done it wasn't that hard. Just time consuming.

[Caz]

The pedals look nice and clean, a good addition to the interior.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks. Now that I've taken the car for a spin with the ETB ground mod done, I swear there's more low end torque or something. Cause the addition of the PVC pipes to the bottom of the air box, the noise was quiet but it seems louder to me. Or I would guess that since I had to take off the ground on the battery, resetting the ECU changed the A/F. Probably just me bashing on the petal more cause of the new pedals. :chuckle

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://www.finc.ca/userfiles/users/gizzmo_jr/DSC_0846_thumb.JPG (http://www.finc.ca/userfiles/users/gizzmo_jr/DSC_0846.JPG)

Porcupine walked away...:whoa

Insurance call tomorrow, wish me luck.
Needs: Bumper (debatable), front air splitter, rad, lower grill, front splash shield, main engine lower splash shield, possibly drivers bottom and/or wheel well splash shield.

Pretty much all the plastic underneath was ripped off.

[cwp_sedan]

Damn! That sucks man. Hopefully they won't jack your rates.

Just make sure they drill into the black part of the bumper so you can remove your plate on occassion. Better pics. :)

[MattC]

or just make sure they dont put your plate on, and bring some zipties :)

did you atleast kill the bastard after he hit you?

[Gizzmo_jr]

na that spiny guy got away, off into the night.

Insurance is going to cover everything thankfully. Just going the paper trail and phone calls to coordinate rental car, repair quote and when the car can come in. I don't know if the bumper will be replaced or repainted but i'll see about the bumper holes.

Ends up the ENTIRE rad+shroud+brackets assembly was pushed back 2 inches on the bottom. All the brackets are toast. Everything is plastic...good and bad.

[MattC]

well if they repaint the bumper, try to sweet talk the guy into filling the plate holes

now i know what i gotta do to get my bumper repainted without a hune insurance hit... just gotta smack my bumper with some dead animals!!!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Got my quote. $2400-2600 in damages.
Both rads (A/C and regular), all brackets for both, all underside plastic covers, and.....NEW BUMPER :bana. Okay I know it's bad, but I got the mechanic not to attach the front license plate when it comes in. As well, that booboo I had on the 2nd day with the car involving a curb goes away too. Oh this makes me happy. I'm only down the $300 deducible but small price compared to what needs fixed.

[cwp_sedan]

Crazy man. Glad it's getting fixed though!

[towelsnap]

sorry bro, lol I heard the wife was pissed about you hitting an animal lol jokes buddy , meh beers tonight carmen will buy haha

[Gizzmo_jr]

New plate location, new camera toy.
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/809044000567.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yox8op.jpg)

[cwp_sedan]

New plate location, new camera toy.
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/809044000567.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yox8op.jpg)

nice!! :)

[Gizzmo_jr]

wM74 Gizzmo_jr; "Mooney"

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/388047000866.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yrhwwv.jpg)

[p-o-g-i]

wM74 Gizzmo_jr; "Mooney"

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/388047000866.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yrhwwv.jpg)

hahaha... very nice.

[cwp_sedan]

wM74 Gizzmo_jr; "Mooney"

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/388047000866.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yrhwwv.jpg)

So you're one of those!!! Stay away!! :whoa

[Gizzmo_jr]

Haha, relax I'm nowhere near the GTA. But next time I'm in town I'll hunt you down....

[mEtH]

I like the plate location, did you just use the existing holes from the braket?
I plan to take the braket off and refab it lower. If it works out I will post pics, plan to do it in the spring.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Yup, just some zipties through the grill. The V notch at the top of mine doesn't look 100% with that black part on my bumper. I wanna buy another bracket and smooth it all out.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Haha, placed various orders over the past 3 weeks and everything is coming in this week.
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/962047000880.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yricso.jpg)

Lamin-X speed3 yellow overlays

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://www.finc.ca/users/gizzmo_jr/TWM1.jpg
http://www.finc.ca/users/gizzmo_jr/TWM2.jpg
http://www.finc.ca/users/gizzmo_jr/TWM3.jpg

[cwp_sedan]

Nice knob... :chuckle








...no really :whoa

[RallyPlaya]

Nice pics im sporting the same pedals and loving them and my favourite thing about your ride ... Angel Eyes :hawt

[Gizzmo_jr]

Don't think I mentioned the speed3 rear valence before, but that was done awhile ago.
Put my 6000k's back in, from the temp 5000k's I was using during my warranty claim. And todays lovely 3 hours of works was for;
Parking Lights.................Brakes
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/171050000154.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yt6z74.jpg) http://thumbs.fotopic.net/168050000154.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yt6z79.jpg)

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/169050000154.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yt6z7d.jpg) http://thumbs.fotopic.net/170050000154.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/yt6z7e.jpg)

Yes I know the car is embarrassingly dirty. I'm giving it a wash monday after the rain goes away. It's spitting right now. I've gotta do some new daytime and nighttime photos of the car to update with the changes.

[Jeff-TheBiz]

I love the clean look of clear reflectors.. there are quite a few sporting that look now..

Quite PIA getting at the ones on the bottom, damn!

Are they leds or just the reflector?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks TheBiz for the compliment. It was a PIA, I just took off the whole bumper and saved myself the hassle, no way to get the side ones without taking it off as far as I know.

I saw pictures of a dark blue (wasn't elec blue I think, on M3F) with the white reflectors and it looked horrible. So I went with smoked, to match my smoked front led turn signals.



Are they leds or just the reflector?
Both :)

[Jeff-TheBiz]

Are they leds or just the reflector?
Both :)

Okay, lets see em in action...

:ttiwwp

[Gizzmo_jr]

Shit, I've been called out ! I'll wait until dark and see, you may have a point thou. :chuckle

[Gizzmo_jr]

I was skeptical at first, but they work. Not as good as I'd imagine but here are the pictures.
http://www.finc.ca/users/gizzmo_jr/reflector1.jpghttp://www.finc.ca/users/gizzmo_jr/reflector2.jpg

[cwp_sedan]

Your reflectors look good. I hooked my rears up and like the look. I left the sides off for now.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Yeah, when I did the rear valence I can see the rear reflectors but the sides I'm positive you gotta take off the bumper. The bumper is held on with only 4 screws, and 4 clips but the tail lights (outer) gotta come out and the passenger side carpet around the light has to come away to get to the license plate light plug. Which in turn means you gotta remove all the plastic garnish around the carpet to get at the screws/pushpins. I tore more out of my hatch then I expected just to get the bumper off. Takes a couple of hours, taking your time and not knowing what to do.
Heck if you wanted, I can hook you with a picture tutorial. Take me 5min to get all the necessary pictures, the instructions in my repair manual were pretty vague.

[yearoftherat]

The repair manual is pretty shitty IMHO. I did mine and I didn't have to remove the plastic garnish.. The side ones you can get to by crawling underneath the car and popping them out with a screwdriver.

BTW nice look with the rear valence..too bad it doesn't work on the 06's :(

[Mafty]

is that the rear valence from the ms3?

[Gizzmo_jr]

is that the rear valence from the ms3?

Yup, that's the one. Dirt cheap to buy too. Well less then an entire speed3 bumper.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Asked the question else where, in exterior section
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/254050000221.jpg (http://images5.fotopic.net/?iid=ytve06&outx=1024&quality=70)
and a couple more to show the car cleaner then what I posted before.
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/255050000221.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ytve0u&outx=1024&quality=70)
http://thumbs.fotopic.net/256050000221.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ytve0v&outx=1024&quality=70)
(ignore the weird contrast spots, playing with HDR technique)

[Gizzmo_jr]

Falken FK-452 (definitely a great tire thus far, can't wait until the track)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2606099661_64a3177d9d_m.jpg (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/2606099661_523732c524_o.jpg)

Blue calipers w/white Mazda decals
(night time peeking) I'll get daytime soon I hope
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/2606099545_048261df81_m.jpg (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/2606099545_db888055ce_o.jpg)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3263/2606099469_5977f7c425_m.jpg (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3263/2606099469_1fb22a0f55_o.jpg)
Oh maybe one day real CPE parts, but this box is full of other goodies. I'd like to thank my unofficial sponsor, mleblond with all the time, parts and encouragement.
I just installed my rear MS3 sway bar, left inside the CPE box is a MS3 catback and MS3 front sway. Does the rear sway bar ever make a HUGE difference. Oh god why did I wait so long, turn in with the hatch is freaking awesome. WeatherB, thanks for the spacers I can see why they are a must need item. Exhaust will be soon, once I get some band style exhaust clamps. Found a shop here in town that stocks them so once I measure up the diameters, time to go shopping. More pics to follow.

[RallyPlaya]

I Like the Reflectors look really clean did you get them from Devin..... this is a mod im gonna do really soon... especialy since i got my 3rd break light and the clear look and red are not geliing together

[Gizzmo_jr]

I got them from Devin yes, it was a group buy if I recall. I'd say these are 2nd to the MS3 valence on must haves. The red reflectors were an eyesore.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Sunday bump. Did an oil change, cleaned the interior then realized as I was closing the hood that I had a package last week. I shoved it under my bed and completely forgot about it until now.
I'm sure you can imagine the rest, good quality kit. Advice...measure twice if not three times. Kinda nervous closing the hood for the first time, didn't want to bend anything out of alignment.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3076/2707632324_6e8a2dd28f_m.jpg (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3076/2707632324_3b970896c4_o.jpg)

[KPao]

Thanks, pictures would be perfect.

I believe our Angel Eyes are 7000K, or at least that is what I remember reading from the instructions.


http://thumbs.fotopic.net/988041000394.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynm8jr.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/122041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9ul.jpg)
Okay I swear there on...oh well at least they look nice.
I'd say there is a huge cut in light output forsure.

http://thumbs.fotopic.net/123041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9um.jpg)http://thumbs.fotopic.net/129041000867.jpg (http://images.fotopic.net/ynw9ut.jpg)
Color isn't 100% but waaaay better then the stock yellow'ish.

Ya the instructions say 7k give or take 100-200K.

I'm looking to get HID fogs to match my angel eyes but 7k almost seems too high, its just a hunch, I have no actual comparison. Was wondering if you guys could offer some knowledge?

PS. Angel eyes and fogs look great

[KPao]

Bueller?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks for the compliments.
I'd shoot for a 6K temp to match the angel eyes. 7K be to blue IMO.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Good weekend.
MS3 Exhaust installed (thanks Mat)
race piped the 2nd cat
Blacked out front emblem
Mazda factory accessory roof racks (Thanks Joe!)

Pictures to follow soon...

[Gizzmo_jr]

So much for those pics..hmm..perhaps monday when the car goes for a good cleaning cause I'm off to Algonquin for the weekend. Weather looks great and the temps are holding well. Happy Thanksgiving.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3287/2928580094_6ceb77a505.jpg

[Thrizzl3]

nice canoe..u paddling alone??

[Gizzmo_jr]

Nope, couple of us friends going. Lake travers on the east side, love it out there. I believe the park closes up for the season after this weekend (interior camping) so wanted to go.

[Thrizzl3]

ive been to algonquin before when i was a boy scout..took four canoes and spend 3 days there..came back with mad mosquito bites and my feet hurt from portaging the canoe :chuckle ahh the good ol' days

[Gizzmo_jr]

Forgot to take a photo earlier, but got the car alittle something for christmas.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1099/3167175335_9a58fc2316.jpg

Planning on doing a paint scheme come spring, probably colour match it all and leave the bolt heads unpainted. Found lots of picture examples here and on M3F and I think that's the best scheme.

[towelsnap]

looks good Matt

[mleblond]

yep you got a nice looking 3 right there :) Just remember to wash it once in a while :chuckle

[Gizzmo_jr]

yep you got a nice looking 3 right there :) Just remember to wash it once in a while :chuckle

haha yeah, I meant to before this cold name came in. Last time I went to the coin-op when it was below -20, my fuel door froze shut. haha.

[Ogata]

Is that a Sedan Syndicate decal on the back of your car?

[FLIPDADY]

Is that a Sedan Syndicate decal on the back of your car?
Wagon Mafia.:chuckle

[Gizzmo_jr]

Wagon Mafia.:chuckle

Spoken like a true member at heart

[Gizzmo_jr]

Auto-dimming mirror with compass, and OEM rear fog light this weekend.
I really like the rear view mirror. Mainly that it's alot wider view then the stocker.

Once I finalize my circuit schematics for the fog light, I'll get some pics up. I have it installed thou, I like. Thanks RedRaptor.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Gonna do a reverse 87/87A relay setup. Using the outputs as dual inputs.

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/3221/relay.jpg

Anyone foresee any issues with this?

[RedRaptor]

Matt,

Can't wait to see the rear foglight in action. I am sure you'll be the first in the GTA.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Picture for now, gonna go tomorrow to Ctire and get the parts for the switch assembly.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3305985012_2083a2e7d5.jpg

[sas]

Hello Gizzmo jr. Nice car. I don’t see problems with you reverse setup.
I don’t know the exact logic you want to achieve.
Logic for this setup is: Bulb = SwitchON or (SwitchOFF and ReverseON ).
As I understand you want your foglights were enabled when you reverse.
I hope this helps.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Basically I want it to act normally in reverse mode, but full control of when I want it to do fog light mode. Escaping the idea of sending a reverse voltage BACK to the PBJ (could install a diode).
That's why I set the 87A (normally closed) to the reverse light circuit, and 87 (relay active). Even if I have the fog light on by my manual switch, and I go into reverse, the voltage applied from the PBJ isn't tied into the manual circuit.

[bunchi]

i'm not good at circuits so what I just heard from you is $#^%&$# LOL but am excited to see how your install goes :) euro style!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Stupid Canadian Tire, they only sell 87/87 relays by themselves and the 87/87a is packaged within some stupid "complete install" kit. Interestingly enough, the 87a terminal doesn't exist, WTF!
The Source by CC had a proper 87/87a relay in stock, along with various things I forgot they had. 555 timers, 5v 1A regulator. I'd rather shop from Digikey thou, but shipping is a bitch for a single part.

So I spotted out where I'm gonna put the relay and whatnot. The only 'hard' part is getting a 12v wire from the blank switch panel all the way to within the hatch. Along the floor with my speaker wire, up the C pillar, across the headliner, through the rubber joint, and down along the hatch. Easy enough eh? I'll tackle it this weekend I think. Not exactly an easy 30min job.

It's a shame the rear harness wasn't the same as the Euro version. Then I could of done everything at the PJB. Oh well.

[sas]

Sorry Gizmo jr,I have much to work now,couldn't ansver
European cars have reverse and fog lights working independently.
Only one reverse bulb is lighting when you switch to reverse.
At first position the fog switch is enabling the front fog, second position is like self-returning button,triggering the back fog to ON and OFF.
So, back fog light is working only when enabled front fog.

With this logic you just need to replace the reverse wire on the new back fog by wire from fog lights.
And I see it looking in such manner.
http://i709.photobucket.com/albums/ww96/sas2000_album/euro_back_fog.jpg
By violet I have drawn circuits if you want to use switch with LED.
Your diagramm has pluses and minuses.
Pluses: better lighting, the red light attracts attension
Minuses: the red light distracts attension from white light, possible questions from authorities.
Hope Im not too late. It seems to me , the additional wire you need in any way.
Again uhh..,have to go.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Very interesting. I thought J04-Z was rear fog input wire? And it's neat to know in reverse only the one light is lit, not both. And there is a Tail-Light Control wire. Thank you for the information.

As setup on my car, and I do appreciate the diagrams, I have my front fog lights independent from the micro-controller. And I'm going to do the same for my rear fog.

I see the confusion where my method of controlling seems like I will be doing both at the same time. At connector C-22 right before the hatch, is the J05-C (G/O) wire all the way to the left light, then just before the bulb connector for the left light is a tap which becomes G/B to the right tail light. It is at this tap where I'll make my break in the wire for the relay control. Thus controlling one light and not both.

[3GFX]

Interesting....I like! JDM/EDM

[sas]

Yes, J04 – Z is input for back fog relay but working as trigger, from impulse.
I have understood you in that way as you said.
When you have disabled fog switch and enabled reverse, the back fog will be lit thru 87a-30.
I understand this is your purpose. In another way, you don’t need in 87a.
Not bad, but here we have the annual technical inspection, I would have problems. Or, maybe I have missed something. I just want help.

[Xerox]

I want one!

(I thought the stock fog light is on the left...)

[Gizzmo_jr]

Yes, J04 – Z is input for back fog relay but working as trigger, from impulse.
I have understood you in that way as you said.
When you have disabled fog switch and enabled reverse, the back fog will be lit thru 87a-30.
I understand this is your purpose. In another way, you don’t need in 87a.
Not bad, but here we have the annual technical inspection, I would have problems. Or, maybe I have missed something. I just want help.
Na, it won't cause me issues with inspections. The car only need to get safetied once with me. I also want both lit during a reverse hence the dual input, again I now understand your point thou. Most appreciated for the input.

I want one!

(I thought the stock fog light is on the left...)
Depends which Euro country it comes from. The standard for single rear fog light is it needs to be on the drivers side. So mine is from france or something, right hand side drive. UK and others are left hand side drive.

[sas]

(I thought the stock fog light is on the left...)
Apparently, this is the Japan version.
On my car ,yes , on the left. Don’t know, why rear driver has to see my fog better than reverse.

[RedRaptor]

I love the look!

There are few euro countries have it on the right (Russia, U.K.)

Most euro countries have it on the left.

However, there are some cars out there with fog lights on BOTH sides. I think that is the worse idea because it makes it look like brake lights.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Gotta redo my wiring for the switch, I was only going to install the relay tonight but one thing lead to another and I did the whole thing. I used a ghetto old switch so back to Ctire for new hardware in the morning. 2am and I'm exhausted. Hit a few hiccups but was expected.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3470/3310374859_58e982fd84.jpg

More pics soon

[towelsnap]

Picture for now, gonna go tomorrow to Ctire and get the parts for the switch assembly.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3535/3305985012_2083a2e7d5.jpg

which car wash? lol damn it's bright.


it's 3am now you should still be up modding the car =) looks good buddy I'll swing by sometime next week..... pics next week? See if mlebond is up for it ?

[Gizzmo_jr]

which car wash? lol damn it's bright.

Bayridge, it's only because the exposure my iPhone choose to take the shot.

it's 3am now you should still be up modding the car =) looks good buddy I'll swing by sometime next week..... pics next week? See if mlebond is up for it ?Working the graveyard shift again eh? Pictures maybe, the weather is all over the place and it's hard keeping the car clean. We'll talk next week.

[towelsnap]

lol yup . I'll swing by tuesday with the new exhaust

[Gizzmo_jr]

lol yup . I'll swing by tuesday with the new exhaust

hahahaha, eyelids too or you get them next month? :chuckle

[towelsnap]

:flaming !! Nextmod is hooking me up tuesday (thanks again) now I'm just stuck do I do HKS or Magnaflow

[Gizzmo_jr]

Okay I added one of those "insta-circuits" while I was at it this afternoon. I feel much better now that it's fused, I use that spare spot in the fuse panel to power my angel eyes, front fog relay and now my rear fog relay. Forgot to do it last time with my angel eyes.

So with the sun setting down for the day, took some pictures.

Rear Fog Only
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3529/3311998129_8dcf96ceed.jpg

Rear Fog with Running Lights
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3373/3311998271_731bf545ec.jpg

Everything on
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3393/3311997965_2378448661.jpg

[sas]

Perfect. Looks even better then I imagined.
pic of switch as one?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Perfect. Looks even better then I imagined.
pic of switch as one?

My actual switch or relay? Could you elaborate?

[FLIPDADY]

Nice work Matt. Definitely a rare Mazda EDM product! How's the mirror? I was thinking of purchasing one as well but not sure how the auto dimming feature will act with 20% tint.

[RedRaptor]

Nice work Matt. Definitely a rare Mazda EDM product! How's the mirror? I was thinking of purchasing one as well but not sure how the auto dimming feature will act with 20% tint.

Autodimm works great with 20% tint. I've had my mirror for 2 years now. I love it...I can't even tell when someone is flashing me.

Matt: Looking great man!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks for the kind words guys.
Like RedRaptor said Joe, the rear mirror is just fine with tint. Mainly because it's a gradient as it dims. It's not one set darkness, only going as dark as it needs to then back to clear when the lights are gone. Very slick.

[FLIPDADY]

Nice, so it looks like I know what my next mod is.:)

[silentRAGE]

nice work.. love your car.. hahah my look exactly like yours =)

[sas]

My actual switch or relay? Could you elaborate?
Interesting are both. Where you placed switch and what the type. Maybe I confused
something and you already have the back fog position on the steering wheel.
How is fixed relay. This is not necessary if you should to remove panels
or it can to be explained by words.I asked it just to compare my imagination with a real life.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Both are easily explained my friend.
1. The switch will utilize one of the blank spots, where the interior light dimmer is. I have my angel eye switch there as well. Just a basic SPDT with LED light indicator.

2. The relay is about 6 inches away from the right backup light. If you pop out the "hand cup" for closing the hatch, it will be in plain view. Understandably your suggestion about putting the relay where it is accessible in case something were to happen, but all the plastic panels can be removed tool free so it isn't of big concern for me. I do want to wrap the relay or attach it up and out of the way, what I didn't realize was the main back panel of the hatch, is lined with 1/2inch thick padding.

[sas]

Tanks Gizzmo jr.. Now I have a full picture. Precisely what I thought, I'd do it in the same way. I’m glad I had chance to participate in discussion of your project.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Ah what the hell, the weather has been so nice lately. Been getting rid of the winter blues over the weekend and this week.
Already 75Km on the motorcycle, and some fresh parts.

Eye lids
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3589/3364188758_f9e8e8a760.jpg

and rear spoiler lip
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3538/3363368861_a86fb90e76.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3442/3363367973_89e999e3bd.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3425/3363367353_11c46791c3.jpg

[yearoftherat]

That rear spoiler lip looks pretty nice. Are you happy with the fitment ?

[aris]

Looking good:bana

[Gizzmo_jr]

That rear spoiler lip looks pretty nice. Are you happy with the fitment ?

I'm actually quite happy with it. The material is great, and I think it goes well with the car. Alittle wider would of been nice, but not all the way down to the hatch. Like some people had wanted.
Shipping went well, just took awhile for the batch to be made.

[yearoftherat]

I'm actually quite happy with it. The material is great, and I think it goes well with the car. Alittle wider would of been nice, but not all the way down to the hatch. Like some people had wanted.
Shipping went well, just took awhile for the batch to be made.


I look forward to seeing it one day and comparing it to the I have..

[Gizzmo_jr]

I look forward to seeing it one day and comparing it to the I have..

Agreed, oh ya and to meet you too :chuckle

[Thrizzl3]

he matt is your plate bolted to the bumper or is it the mounted to the towhook?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Mount to the tow hook. Not the actual one, but the frame hole for it. Item is by CP-E.

[cwp_sedan]

The lip spoiler looks good. I really like that look!

[Gizzmo_jr]

The lip spoiler looks good. I really like that look!

Thanks man, I appreciate it.

[Gizzmo_jr]

mmmm nothing like the smell of fresh leather to start the day. All the way from Poland, console cover and e-brake. Very nice quality.
http://redlinegoods.com/

[towelsnap]

looks good matt

[Gizzmo_jr]

I can see clearly now, the rain is gone,
I can see all obstacles in my way...

EVO8 clear HID lenses
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3624/3400024239_5249f4bf44.jpghttp://farm4.static.flickr.com/3421/3400830888_3450212d49.jpg

[3GFX]

Aahahahah DOMO!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Some output shots from that group buy. Nothing fancy, posting them up incase someone wanted to see the colour differences.

Lamin-X with luminics yellow halogen (daytime)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3550/3425928766_85f2b9a2a0.jpg

3000k HID with Lamin-X (daytime)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3609/3425120765_a7836512ef.jpg

And then with my 6000k Prolumen's
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3596/3425928282_2212b5edd8.jpg
(yes I know, my passenger side bulb is on it's way out :complain. Getting dimmer)

[Reaper]

nice ride.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Been awhile, quite quiet lately but I've been busy. Working with someone on some "stuff". haha, shout to RJ3 for his awesomeness and thank you again.

Sneak peek at what's coming up in the next few weeks.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3585/3495381514_ea33d5e92b_b.jpg

[Tokic_o]

damn gizzmo, can't wait to see the finished product. Great looking car. One of the nicest hatches for sure. Just get some wheels :)

[-RJ3-]

Sweet!!! Looks better on your car then mine..... Check your PM too...

[Gizzmo_jr]

Well I haven't fallen behind. My lip kit pieces are done now, just waiting some back from SSG and then everything off for vinyl.

In the mean time, been busy with autox this season. I'd like to thank condor888000 for helping me confirm I did have a blown motor mount (by sticking his finger through it) hahaha.

In one session, I boiled over coolant and popped the passenger top mount. Worst design ever, Ford Fail!
A new one to break
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3725915589_3007d558e5.jpg

[marvin24k]

Can't wait to see your ride with the finished package.

[gabbygenier]

where do you go for autoX?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Picton Airfield, and Shannonville Motor Speedway.

[Thrizzl3]

matt how is the engine response since install the mount..i need to change mine too

[Tokic_o]

can't wait to see the finish product of the lip kit on your car!!! stop the suspenseee LOL

[Gizzmo_jr]

matt how is the engine response since install the mount..i need to change mine too
Well I replaced it with another stock one, all done under warranty. Oddly enough, I didn't even feel any difference for the couple of days with it busted. It definitely doesn't hold alot of weight.

can't wait to see the finish product of the lip kit on your car!!! stop the suspenseee LOL
I know, and I apologize. I kinda want get everything on in one shot then we can all rejoice.

[Cardinal Fang]

Can't wait to see the lip kit and sills Gizzmo_Jr. Now get off your ass and be done with it. :chuckle

I can't keep this much rejoicing in check for so long.

[Tokic_o]

lol when will I get my turn at those rear spats :( !!! PETERRR

[Gizzmo_jr]

I know, it's killing me!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Big thank you to Jeff at Audio Heaven. These facking rock, and are super clear and crisp. Much louder over stock at the same levels, but how do I know? I ran outta time tonight finishing up the drivers side. Passenger all stock, drivers the full package deal.
I was cranking some Metallica, tracks with strong instrumentals and lots of highs in the cymbal's. Plus some rap and whatnot. You can sit in the middle and instantly know the difference. cwp_sedan, thanks for the suggestion. When I heard your car at the bbq I knew what I wanted right then.
The stock 'woofer' is disgusting to look at when you finally see it. 98% plastic, I was surprised there was a magnet at all!
Install was to easy, with the right pieces. Metra 6x8 to 6.5 adapters, Metra harness pigtails (thanks cwp_sedan for finding the part#).
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3541/3764791890_01f2748a7b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3443/3763994817_c31756e2e1.jpg

[Thrizzl3]

matt we want the exterior not the interior!!! j/k i may upgrade my door speakers soon too..do you really recommend the JBL's?

[Gizzmo_jr]

matt we want the exterior not the interior!!! j/k i may upgrade my door speakers soon too..do you really recommend the JBL's?

Hahaha, I know. Soon enough my friend.
Well I'm no audiophile but I was talking with cwp_sedan about his JBL's and how he loved them. He sat me down in his car at the BBQ and cranked them and I was sold (in addition to starting a SPL competition). Always better to hear things in person as a sales pitch :)

But really, they are much nicer then the stock tweeter/woofer combo on my GT (non Bose). Clarity and volume are the instant features I noticed.

[Thrizzl3]

Hahaha, I know. Soon enough my friend.
Well I'm no audiophile but I was talking with cwp_sedan about his JBL's and how he loved them. He sat me down in his car at the BBQ and cranked them and I was sold (in addition to starting a SPL competition). Always better to hear things in person as a sales pitch :)

But really, they are much nicer then the stock tweeter/woofer combo on my GT (non Bose). Clarity and volume are the instant features I noticed.

nice i think i found my xmas present:)

[towelsnap]

I've gotta hear this ... off topic now did you take one of the t-rex for a spin at CT today

[cwp_sedan]

Glad you like them man! :) :)

[Gizzmo_jr]

I've gotta hear this ... off topic now did you take one of the t-rex for a spin at CT today

Na, by the time I was able to get away from the house it was already all packed up.

[Gizzmo_jr]

SSG presents have arrived :)
Domo, Hella horns and this :bana2
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3569/3768429557_5cba0456ce.jpg

More pic's later

[Thrizzl3]

lol nice matt! but why the seat belts..?

[Gizzmo_jr]

autocross

[Gizzmo_jr]

Let me rephrase that. I wanted alittle more interior bling and didn't wanna switch out the seat for something else. But stock seats have honestly no real bolstering when your right on it in autocross. I'm all over the place, and no, didn't feel like getting a CG lock.

[Tokic_o]

where are the exterior parts painted + installed?!?!?!? I CANT WAIT TO SEE EM!!

[Thrizzl3]

Let me rephrase that. I wanted alittle more interior bling and didn't wanna switch out the seat for something else. But stock seats have honestly no real bolstering when your right on it in autocross. I'm all over the place, and no, didn't feel like getting a CG lock.

ahhh gotcha:)

[Gizzmo_jr]

where are the exterior parts painted + installed?!?!?!? I CANT WAIT TO SEE EM!!

Sides being wrapped and installed hopefully this weekend, wrapped forsure. Tell Peter to hurry up with the first batch of rear's, that's what i'm waiting for. Plus I need my stock bumper to modify the DAMD ones at the moment.

[Iceman_F1]

Looks sweet. Can't wait to see what's next!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Sides for now, hopefully not much longer until the other pieces.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2464/3787612640_8c4dd94ec7_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3505/3786801621_07b1e89ed1_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2473/3787612744_0a7853f7cc_o.jpg

[aris]

VEry nice...where did you get those pieces from?

Are you leaving it black or are you painting them the same colour as the car.

Also your car is nice and shiny:chuckle what kind of wax do you use?

[Gizzmo_jr]

VEry nice...where did you get those pieces from?

Are you leaving it black or are you painting them the same colour as the car.

Also your car is nice and shiny:chuckle what kind of wax do you use?

Pieces are from SSG originally, but the pair is from RJ3 (prop's to ya bud)
Wax is Meguires NXT paste by hand. And for now, i'm leaving them vinyl wrapped flat black to do a slight 2tone theme overall.
Thanks man

[Thrizzl3]

finallyyyy!! what took so long lol?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Coordinate with Mat for vinyl (my fault), then install. I was half waiting to put on everything at once but I just wanted it done now.

[condor888000]

Dude! You better be at Shannonville on the 13th, I want to try those belts!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Dude! You better be at Shannonville on the 13th, I want to try those belts!

Will be forsure :)
More then welcome to see what they're all about.

[condor888000]

Sweet. You coming up to Ottawa for our event on the 23rd? Should be an awesome event. You've got to come out and try MCO, totally different experience than ST Lac.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Sweet. You coming up to Ottawa for our event on the 23rd? Should be an awesome event. You've got to come out and try MCO, totally different experience than ST Lac.

I'll try my best, it's still marked on the calendar :)
Oh I got those FD rims :bana
16x8 @ ~16lbs. Onto hunting down some 225/50's before the season is over.

[condor888000]

Good to hear, it's an awesome experience up here.

Pretty sweet. (http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=17044) I've been telling myself I shouldn't buy these for a while now...

Too bad these are so far gone. (http://www.casc.on.ca/forums/showthread.php?t=17312) Heard some pretty good things about them, but at that point I don't think it's worth buying the rubber, way too gone.

Damn CASC-ON, everyone seems to be running 15's or 17's, no 16's.

My current plan is to wait and buy a set of A6's or V710's next year. But it's SOO tempting to upgrade now. If I do MCO class champion could be a lock...ah well. Just have to outdrive the Saturn, not rely on the tires.

[Gizzmo_jr]

I hear ya, v710's and RS-3's are expensive!!!! I hope I can score a deal this fall/winter. Buying new, there's no way.

[condor888000]

All the more reason to come to a MCO event. You could win coupons for tire purchases at Talon Tires in MTL. Still not cheap, but better than nothing.

C'mon.....you know you WANNA.

Oh yeah, might have my Dunlops for sale at the end of Oct if they're not 100% dead. I'll let you know if it happens.

[condor888000]

Or you could buy these (http://www.mco.org/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=11&t=10354) and have insanely undersized tires. Hello 3rd!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Bah, I didn't get a 8 inch rim for nothing. 205's be waste! Definitely ping me about your Dunlops thou.

[condor888000]

Will do. Last event on my schedule so far is Oct 18th in Picton with you guys, so we've still got 2.5 months before the tires can come off and go to a new home. Thats if they're still usable.

[towelsnap]

Looks good Matt... bahahahahah DOMO nice....you free tonight still gotta hear the new system ... last night at LSS meet was like meet of the mazdas ... more mazdas than civics .. only one skyline. ... lol nvm remembered your camping.. pics look good can't wait to see the finished project.

[condor888000]

For the record, that harness is very nice! Had a look on the 13th, and it was awesome. Really tempted to get one for myself.

[Gizzmo_jr]

For the record, that harness is very nice! Had a look on the 13th, and it was awesome. Really tempted to get one for myself.

haha glad someone else see's it from my point of view :)
SSG is the man to talk to for everyone else, if your interested.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Best mod by far of all time, checkmate.
2.0L spin on, and the aftermath...
Death by design.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2494/3846740631_3f995ba3a8_b.jpg
Honest version - here (http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3448/3846740803_f2eb3acf72_b.jpg)

Wide is awesome! 205's on the left, 225's on 8inch rims on the right. Temp daily drivers until winter time.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2441/3846741131_4899580011_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3441/3847531426_1b41a13a79_b.jpg

[condor888000]

You coming up in...8 hours?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Still not sure, leaning towards no unfortunately. Mainly weather is the reason. I do wanna go to a MCO event thou. How many more left?

[condor888000]

One on Sept 6th. Maybe one after that, but will be MCO members only if it happens.

[towelsnap]

The rx7 rims are CRAZY wide can't wait to see them on the car , photoshoot? lol

[condor888000]

They are awesome.

Missed a great event. 94 cars, FTD of 52.9XX. Great course. Open at the start, tightening up about 2/3rd of the way through.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Nothing new. Had the camera out for other reasons, but just wanted to show off the wide stance. Rims are awesome, light weight or bust. My gas mileage has improved.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3485/3913360953_e50f4c4708.jpg

The backs don't poke out as much as the front. Which at first glance look like the fronts should rub but for the life of me, I can't figure out why they don't.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2554/3914146410_bcffe98e78.jpg

[condor888000]

I just figured out I was rubbing on the inside all summer long. So minor I never noticed.

You doing both the 19th and 20th in Picton?

[aris]

Let's see some side pics of the rims

[Gizzmo_jr]

I just figured out I was rubbing on the inside all summer long. So minor I never noticed.

You doing both the 19th and 20th in Picton?
1. Just the odd rub on the strut?
2. Yes, the 20th forsure. I might be in Toronto on the 19th, I really wanted to watch the provincials. Why not participate? I'm outta rubber, literally. One off my autox set showing a hint of threads.

Let's see some side pics of the rims
I wanna, but let me paint the hubs black or find some 2.5" hub caps. :blah I lie, i'll get one soon.

[-RJ3-]

Crazy look Gizzmo.. A buddy of mine had an idea of putting rx7 fd 16's on my car last year... I really wanted to do it this year/ next, but now I dont wanna copy your styles.

Stance looks mean man!!!

[RedRaptor]

Looking really good!

The 2.0L Spin-on conversion is the best mod, ever.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Crazy look Gizzmo.. A buddy of mine had an idea of putting rx7 fd 16's on my car last year... I really wanted to do it this year/ next, but now I dont wanna copy your styles.

Stance looks mean man!!!
Thanks dude, go for the FD's if you want. Were not in the same city so no copying at all :)

Looking really good!

The 2.0L Spin-on conversion is the best mod, ever.
Yeah man, peace of mind this winter and all the time from now on makes it all worth it.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Oh yeah......
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2580/3915418703_92ab647800_b.jpg

[condor888000]

1. Just the odd rub on the strut?
2. Yes, the 20th forsure. I might be in Toronto on the 19th, I really wanted to watch the provincials. Why not participate? I'm outta rubber, literally. One off my autox set showing a hint of threads.

Just watch? Bah. I'm running both days. Should be kick ass.

[Gizzmo_jr]

jealous, gimme your tires! lol
Next year i'll be more competitive. This year was good seat time.

[condor888000]

Lol, sorry, I need them myself.

[Gizzmo_jr]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2682/4041111469_4591ef4c34_b.jpg

So here's the winter project laid out.
OEM Xenon headlights
OEM Leveling switch
OEM leveling motor pigtails (still need another)
AMP to D2S adapters (for now until I get OEM ballasts)
EVOVIII clear lenses
(D2S bulbs on order)

To Do:
1. Fish the wiring for the leveling circuit.
2. Bake, open, and paint all chrome black (except high beam bowl, maybe not the turn bowl)
3. reflectors gone
4. Install the clear lenses
5. Properly aimed and setup the level heights.

[RedRaptor]

I was wondering how this project was shaping up. Sweet setup. Can't wait to see the finished results next year!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Finding a hatch passenger Xenon housing on ebay was a pain. I looked for nearly 3 months. You can buy one now, but your gonna spend ~$300 for one. I know the deals come around, for some reason driver side ones are a dime a dozen but passenger...forget it.

I could of taken the lenses and just redo my halogen ones, but I wasn't entirely sold on my HID conversion. The one guy on M3F (and HIDPlanet) did exactly that but in the end wasn't happy and did the same as me (well i'm following his foot steps by going the OEM xenon route). One thing leads to another, might as well do the leveling circuit, etc etc.

Oh i'm gonna get Mat to do clear vinyl them, after I buff them to a crystal clear finish. My halogens aren't yellowing but are chipped up enough in 2 years that I realized I should of done vinyl from the beginning.

[Thrizzl3]

that looks like alot of work there matt..how long do you think it would take?

[Gizzmo_jr]

It's my early winter project so no rush, plus they aren't headlights that I 'need' on the car to drive so it can sit around.
But to be honest Phil, I want them sooner then later. I've been waiting for all these little pieces to come together now I just wanna do it.

[Thrizzl3]

interesting and the other headlight assemblies are going where?

[Gizzmo_jr]

My stock halogens with working halo's, non fogging will most likely go up for sale.

[cwp_sedan]

Sick Matt. They will look awesome and the functionality will be sweet! I would definitely want to do that also but that much be a lot of $ after all is said and done. Can't wait to see the results.

[marteau]

please pic from side whit FD on ;)

[Gizzmo_jr]

Winter Mode
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2760/4144755221_54bd3630ee_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2658/4144755053_40800813d2_o.jpg

new mud flaps are the champ :winner

[yearoftherat]

Looks good Matt, winter mod ftw...

Hope to have my RA's installed 2morrow.

[RedRaptor]

Those RAs would look really good on my back end right about now...

Looks great Matt! :)

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks guys. The install isn't to bad for the RA's just bank time for an hour or two. Taking the wheels off/hoist would be benificial.

[Manpreet]

that looks sickkk

[-RJ3-]

Love the theme its becoming to be... I have my spare rx7 wheels should you need them black... just one has a crack on it, but cant wait to see it next year!

[towelsnap]

looks like your ready for a rally lol you gonna use the roof racks this year??? Thought you went down south instead of skiin last year lol

[CFX]

looks like your ready for a rally lol

Looks great though!
Are those Reflex wiper blades I see? I never had any luck with them. First few months are fantastic, then the lubricant on the wiper start to wear off and before you know it, they start to fall apart. That's what I've experienced anyway...

[Gizzmo_jr]

looks like your ready for a rally lol you gonna use the roof racks this year??? Thought you went down south instead of skiin last year lol
don't matter, winter mode. I like the look of them regardless :)


Looks great though!
Are those Reflex wiper blades I see? I never had any luck with them. First few months are fantastic, then the lubricant on the wiper start to wear off and before you know it, they start to fall apart. That's what I've experienced anyway...
I have the non-RainX ones from Canadian Tire. They work great, then apply RainX separately. I'd get another set forsure.

[towelsnap]

don't matter, winter mode. I like the look of them regardless :)


I have the non-RainX ones from Canadian Tire. They work great, then apply RainX separately. I'd get another set forsure.

I'm just jealous lol :chuckle :blush

[Gizzmo_jr]

So i'll use this thread as my mini headlight build blog. Rather then flood the other thread (headlight retro)

I wasn't originally going to post anything until the end but after my little mistake and what happened tonight, I would share that story and how things go along.

The other night I baked the one headlight, and mistakenly had it a little to low in the oven. Slightly warped some of the black housing (non essential, non in view, hidden behind a bracket) but is repairable with a heat gun. But what ticked me off was there were some slight bubbles that formed in the lens, mostly towards where the lens was closest to the element. I figured it looked repairable with some wet sanding, had to do some anyways to make the lenses 100% without scratches or sand blasting. (vinyl covers being put on at the end).

So tonight I started to wet sand, started at 1000 grit and hoped for the best. About 5-10min into it, I stopped to see my progress. Looking for a uniform fogginess and if the bubbles had been sanded down. While I was running my hand along the top for smoothness, I felt a ridge. I looked at the other headlight for the same ridge and none was there.

At this point, a light bulb went off and sure enough at one corner I can peel up. Yes, armed with my heat gun I peeled off some clear vinyl. I get a star for not noticing from the beginning :star. eBay special FTW
Some goo gone, and some soap and I found a diamond in the rough. Not only was there vinyl which had the bubbles that are now long gone, but after I got everything all cleaned up, the lens had zero imperfections!!! Right from day one, this headlight must of had clear vinyl. Boy did I ever feel better

BTW, 1000grit paper doesn't work very well on plastic vinyl :chuckle

And now...:pics
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4296506361_6d4e9cb767_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4020/4296514813_40707d8f16_o.jpg

Now a comparison of lens clarity within the bowl, of the
OEM
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2684/4297252832_0df4103c01_o.jpg

EVO
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2791/4296506407_ba861a1e3f_o.jpg

[Iceman_F1]

Cool, should be interesting to see how the evo lens turns out.

[Thrizzl3]

wow thats super clear

[MistaChin]

Lookin sexy!

[towelsnap]

updates?

[Gizzmo_jr]

wet sanded the other lens, its 95% there after compound polishing. Need a finer grain compound and a good rotary polisher. What sucks is i'm comparing it with literally, a factory flawless lens so I don't think it will get just quite the same. I'm thinking after vinyl one won't notice the subtitle differences.

Tonight is colour mod testing, see how much I wanna do.

[-RJ3-]

Can't wait to see your unveiling this spring!!! :champ

[Gizzmo_jr]

1 washer
projector to wall is 15~ ft away
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4305024085_6b68565374_o.jpg

[RedRaptor]

I don't see much colour...

You're just playing with us at this point. :pop

[towelsnap]

I'm suprised the SLR can't pick up the blue.... there must be a huge change........ :( take better pics matt!lol still yellow

[Gizzmo_jr]

I don't see much colour...

You're just playing with us at this point. :pop

Well ends up there won't be a thick deep blue line at the cut off had I kinda wanted. Typically you see that in retro's but they used TSX/S2000/FX bowls and projectors. Then again, this is with stock 4300k bulbs.
From the beginning, the primary goal was output. No way output will be sacrificed for illumination colour. I'd just stick with my aftermarket hid ballasts and get some 8000k bulbs and call it a day if I wanted blue.

I tried 2 washers, but it was getting out of focus (prefer sharp line) and was getting a faint double line above the cutoff. I'm guessing some internal reflection projected forward. Also tried, some other tricks like 2 washers on the top/bottom and none to angle the bowl. Made things really weird.

The stock Xenon lenses thou put out some blue at the cutoff and overall blue tint but not nearly as bright as what I have now. I think the properties of the EVOVIII lens is what gives me the red/yellow/orange at the cutoff. Although right at the step you see there is blue present :). The replica lenses for the halogens are really blue because I think they can incorporate that into the lens. Possibly some run 6000k bulbs with them. Some blue on blue action, kinda like smurf porn. :chuckle

So I agreed to myself I'd take the sharpness and better output over a 'slight' blue tinge, so 1 washer was the final verdict. The posted picture is decently close to the colour output thou.

Trust me thou, the flicker effect is in full force when your looking head on. These are seriously bright and light up a lot more.
I'll try tonight to get some comparison shots out doors >25ft with both on at the same time. Gotta put the projectors back inside the housings, and roughly aim them. Tomorrow, I'll make sure the leveling motors work before I think about sealing them back up. No more reflectors, and a little paint and we're done. Then onto wiring for the leveling switch.

[towelsnap]

nice..... that's what I wanted to hear :) output/flicker so overall worth all the hard work? Look forward to seeing this in person. You just keeping your other headlights? Did you transfer over the angel eyes?

[Gizzmo_jr]

nice..... that's what I wanted to hear :) output/flicker so overall worth all the hard work? Look forward to seeing this in person. You just keeping your other headlights? Did you transfer over the angel eyes?

Pictures will do the output justice, and as for extra's...that's something we're gonna wait for.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Okay, so. The night went from being awesome to "fack yeah!" within 60min. The outdoor shots were at 11:30pm, camera in manual mode (constant aperture and shutter speeds). Don't know the exact distance but far enough. 50ft at least.
Note: Not really, but all this is worth it alone just for the D2S clips instead of the H7's when changing bulbs.

Picture #1. Arrow indicates the drivers halogen stock cut off. Obviously you know where the passenger one is. Note the light on the wall from the middle lamp.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4308680288_118dafee9c_o.jpg

Picture #2. Relative combined output. I couldn't get both housings to overlap nicely while balancing ontop the engine. But you get the idea, now notice again the light from that lamp. Nearly over powered all together.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2680/4308680318_60f4345836_o.jpg

Picture #3. Reference output (and cut off) of stock halogen setup, with I think silverstar headlights.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4308691532_51b765cd5d_o.jpg

Picture #4. Went home and noticed at the 50ft mark one light did have more "blue" at the cutoff. Did some testing while I had some of the screws loose and found that if I spaced the lens out I'd get some blue. So I heard about this alternative method, tried it and holy shit. Made a cereal box spacer between the lens and lens holder. Such an insignificant spacing one would think but look at the results!!!
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/4308680232_fdcbecf911_o.jpg

[Iceman_F1]

SWEET! Looking nice! :winner

[cwp_sedan]

Those look great Matt!! Awesome job!

[Thrizzl3]

way to go Matt!:winner

[yearoftherat]

Looks good Matt !!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thanks guys, most appreciated. I figure now that I've got the optics all sorted out and the "full scale test" went flawless, things will finish quickly and just gotta button things up. I'm super pumped now, I want them on the car ASAP ahaha.

[mleblond]

you still need my help tonight at the shop?

[Gizzmo_jr]

you still need my help tonight at the shop?

yup yup, see you at the shop tonight.

[RedRaptor]

Thats what I'm talking about, that blue tint is to die for.

[Gizzmo_jr]

Thats what I'm talking about, that blue tint is to die for.

I won't lie, I was alittle upset when I originally didn't have the blue line but the first set of tests with washer spacing showed no improvement. So I assumed I couldn't with my setup, but now....*drool*:hawt

2 washers, and 1 cereal box spacer.

[RedRaptor]

I won't lie, I was alittle upset when I originally didn't have the blue line but the first set of tests with washer spacing showed no improvement. So I assumed I couldn't with my setup, but now....*drool*:hawt

2 washers, and 1 cereal box spacer.

Beautiful stuff, Matt. Can't wait to see the final results.

The clear lenses upgrade(TRS and EVO) is one of the most worthwhile mods. Maximizes light output (when using an OEM 4300K bulb) and also gives you the "Flicker" effect.

[TheMAN]

are you going to drill/cut out the blank spot at the top of the high beam reflectors to add the euro/jdm parking lights? they're a lot nicer than the ugly orange sidemarkers lit up at night :D

[towelsnap]

all I have to say is HOLY SHIT MATT!!!!! BRIIIIIGHHHHT

[Gizzmo_jr]

are you going to drill/cut out the blank spot at the top of the high beam reflectors to add the euro/jdm parking lights? they're a lot nicer than the ugly orange sidemarkers lit up at night :D

I like this guy :)
I found off a russian parts catalog the bulb holder that snaps/twists into place had the hole been there properly. I'm undesided. It be like the citylight's on VW's right?

I can just fab up my own holder.

[Gizzmo_jr]

And here's the little extra something I was hiding back. To be honest, I have no idea how it was going to turn out and whether it was something I was going to like. I think it looks hot!
Black Out
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/4310907530_9378e6916b_o.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2704/4310907466_d407e5480c_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4310171445_ea27e5504e_o.jpg

Yes there is something on the high beam chrome, actually the tape lifted the chrome off :complain. No biggie, I was leaning towards painting that part too. It's not the reflector bowl, but the outer part of the trim.

[aris]

I like it

[thanu31]

dam that looks crazy
very nice work

[Skip]

nice! can't wait to see it on the car

[mazdaskit]

that looks sick... i think you should do the high beam one too :)

[hatthi]

Cool!

[Gizzmo_jr]

Patiently awaits night time...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4316447353_676f4ac533_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4317181362_0a16286944_o.jpg
Need to aim them

[Gizzmo_jr]

headlight leveling system is SO cool!

[Thrizzl3]

matt...i wish i can open my headlights so bad =(

[zakman]

great work. sharp looking, amazing color, awesome black out (love the look) and im very jealous. thats so sick. congrates nice job:winner