Aussie SL-R Track Car Build

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Thought it was time to start a build thread considering we have already started the build on our 1st Aussie SL-R.

It's a customer car that will be used for Club Sprint Meets, maybe the odd Drag Meet & Hill Climb.

ozvenom on this forum is doing the build for us. He is one of our turnkey builders.


Kit Specs:
* SL-R kit setup for Mitsubishi 4G63T engine

* Supplied with optional AVO double-adjustable shocks, removeable 4 point cage & 18" wheels.

* Colour: Custom one-off black chassis, yellow nose cone & pods, black fenders. Obviously in RCR Colours. Will also carry RCR sign writting.

* F1 Body Kit


Engine Specs:
* 1991 US Spec Mitsubishi Eclipse 1st Gen 4G63 2.0lt DOHC Turbo with AWD MT transmission

* Before install will be fitted with the following service items:
new timing belt & tensioner kit, water pump, oil & oil filter, spark plugs.

* Paint Block & Transmission in silver. Detail engine.

* Mods include: new EVO III 16G Turbo, aftermarket Stainless tubular exhaust manifold & dump pipe, 550cc injectors, Adaptronic ECU, high-volume fuel pump, cold air intake, poly engine & trans mounts, lightened flywheel, 6-puck clutch, HD Pressure Plate


Tyres:
* 240/640/18 ex-Porsche Cup slicks front & rear

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Photo of engine as it came in the Eclipse front-cut.

http://www.racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Eclipse_Front_Cut.jpg


Photo of engine removed and stripped.

http://www.racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_Stripped.jpg


Gearbox removed from engine.

http://www.racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Gearbox_Removed.jpg


Our SL-R chassis is finished as of Tuesday(USA time) and ready to be packed for shipment. We expect it to arrive here on the 29th April.

In the meantime ozvenom will keep plugging away at this build.

In addition to the engine/gbox, the following items have already been sourced:
* Exhaust Manifold & Dump Pipe
* Evo III 16G Turbo
* Adaptronic ECU
* Slicks

[Conquest351]

AWESOME!!! Looking forward to the build!! The Mitsu. engine was another option for me, but I think I'm going with the Dodge Neon SRT-4 drivetrain in mine. I don't know how available those are down under though. Hehe I'd love to see how you set it up and how you're going to mount the intercooler. That way I can steal your ideas. :thumb2:

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

The SRT-4 engine is a great choice, it's late model and some nice HP can be obtained from it. Yeah, they are very rare here.

[Gage]

Thanks for the pictures Craig. We are looking forward to more progress.

[Chadillac]

That's going to be one mean machine!!! What kind of HP numbers are you guessing?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Thanks guys for your support and encouragement.

We are not going for big HP numbers as it needs to be driveable as it's a track car. Now if it was being built for drags we would be using a much bigger turbo to start with.

Some guys here would probably know better than me, but I expect it might have over 300rwhp. Aftermarket ECU makes things so much easier, especially future modifications.

You need a reasonable mount of HP to be competitive, but you also need to keep it driveable.

[chilipadi]

Great to see you building this.

I am a fellow Aussie but living in Asia and have been following the SL-R forum to see when and whether this might evolve to a race version that I could look at to race in our main series at Sepang in Malaysia.

I have been looking at various alternatives to meet the age-old requirement of competitive (ie. against Porsche Cup/RSR, Radical 8 etc) but with parts and set up that make it viable on a non-sponsorship basis. Rice-rocket engines like Evo and WRX or Honda are ideal, as if you break one, any local supplier can provide overnight.

With US/euro engines, it is a major import nightmare and takes weeks.

The more you can post on this, the better for me.

Good luck. Dying to see the outcome. And results.

Chilipadi

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Chilipadi, that's the exact same reasons the owner of this vehicle decided on the RCR SL-R.

Cheap & readily available replacement import engines & gearboxes are the key.

Also plentiful performance upgrade parts.

The whole design screams budget track car with minimal ongoing costs.

Plus the owner reckons it's going to be great fun as well. We certainly can't argue with that.

The WRX type flat four engines are plentiful but they are large and heavy.

For a track car I think the best choices are Mitsubishi 4G63T & Honda K20A if you live outside the USA, both with their pros & cons. But both readily available with large aftermarket support and knowledge.

Will post track performance and racing results once we get it on the track.

[chilipadi]

Thanks Craig. I would prefer a K20A fully worked as I can buy second hand from the regional Integra series.

I have looked at Sakers, Ultima, (would love a) GT-40, keen on RCR Superlite, and Radical SR3 Supersports. The latter would be great with a K20A for sprint and endurance but won't beat Radical 8 or Porsches.

Think SL-R would be best fun but fear it will be a brick on straight if body panels are not refined. Too much windage.

I am keen to see some pics.

To qualify for our series it has to be a "production road car" or silhouette of one but everything is free provided it is in the same place as production road car. Must be 750kg incl driver min.

At Sepang, you need good aerodynamics, a great chassis and more than 350bhp/tonne to have hope of beating the front guys.

I'll keep watching with interest. Looking at 2009 season.

Chilipadi

[chilipadi]

Further question..... will the chassis be stiff enough to take full race suspension settings, any downforce effects from rear and hopefully front wings but most importantly, front wide(ish) full race slicks (like Hoosier R35 compounds I run now)?

Any thoughts? Fran?

C

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

For our Marque Sport Car racing here, we also need to be a production sports car. No weight restriction though, just different classis. To be a production car, you need to have 10 registered cars over a 2 year period of basically the same spec.

I'm also interested in the aerodynamics. I'm hoping the F1 body kit might be good enough for our tracks here.

[Conquest351]

I'll make a quick response on the chassis rigidity. I have visited Fran's shop and seen these little cars first hand. If you look at the original design, you'll notice some flaws, it's a prototype after all. The finalized version Fran has designed and is going to be shipping is a much more refined chassis. MUCH stiffer than the original. Hopefully he'll get on here and go over specifics, but he was showing me where he had moved this tube, added this tube, changed the angle on this one, etc. all for the sake of stiffness and safety. I'm going to buy one of these cars and drive it on the street. It's going to be a tough and rugged chassis, believe me. Fran doesn't do anything half assed.

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

We will be testing the chassis for Torsion and Beaming shortly as per our registration requirements. I have no doubt it will pass with flying colours.

We also extensively test the quality of the fibreglass body panels to ISO standards also required by our registration requirements.

There is nothing better than seeing test results. :thumb2:

[Conquest351]

What I can't wait for is the results of these tests, PLUS the results from track testing. I can't wait to see one of these on the road/track screaming past other cars. LOL Get after the build and link us to the build thread!!! :bwhip: Oh, and post lots of pictures!! We loooove pictures.
:worthless:

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

We also need to perform CRASH testing as well.

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Just kidding, we get an exemption from that. :D

Will take as many pics as I can. I expect some of you guys would be wishing we were installing a Honda K20 powerplant. Maybe on the next one.

[chilipadi]

Or a Scuby 2.5 twin turbo. They are quite cheap, and very reliable with huge output.

[Degeneerit]

Or a Scuby 2.5 twin turbo. They are quite cheap, and very reliable with huge output.

All wheel drive flat four. Not going to happen bro. Just go with the srt4 camp:thumb2:

[chilipadi]

Not all wheel drive format. These can be reorganised to run as 2wd/reverse FWD. Done in Sakers and quite a few others.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Just off the top of my head the Subaru engines would be way too large. Although I like the way you are thinking. :D

[chilipadi]

Well .... size I can't comment on. Have no idea of the actual scale of the SL-R.

Whichever way it goes, it will need some excellent downforce to stop the thing getting flighty at full pace. Too much drag in body with high lift areas exposed.

I am confident that there are enough smarts on this to find the best solution. Can't wait to be the first in Asia with one of these once proven.

[Gage]

We've been over this on the Atom forum. Exoskeleton cars like the SL-R... are not Aerodynamic. They are pointedly NOT aerodynamic. Hell.. an Atom owner added 7mph to his top speed just by putting side panels on the car. But at speeds that high you can barely keep your helmet and head on your body. It just isn't a high speed concept. (as I've seen and experienced it)
With steering response so sharp and wind buffeting your helmet/neck/head at speeds over 100mph... you just don't want to go there that often. Maybe the SL-R will respond totally differently than our Atom did. Maybe some sort of much more effective windshield will make over 100 mph bursts better.

Ultimately an exoskeleton car like an SL-R/Atom feels like it is going much faster than it really is..(all the time) so you rarely push it to those neck muscle straining speed limits. And you love it just the same.

Anyway, it will be fun to hear about guys trying to get higher top speeds out of a basically open cockpit wind bath machine.

Of course, tearing around a track in an exocar is quite a neck work out anyway even without very high top speeds. The lateral g-forces are exhausting. Tons of fun though.

[Conquest351]

We've been over this on the Atom forum. Exoskeleton cars like the SL-R... are not Aerodynamic. They are pointedly NOT aerodynamic. Hell.. an Atom owner added 7mph to his top speed just by putting side panels on the car. But at speeds that high you can barely keep your helmet and head on your body. It just isn't a high speed concept. (as I've seen and experienced it)
With steering response so sharp and wind buffeting your helmet/neck/head at speeds over 100mph... you just don't want to go there that often. Maybe the SL-R will respond totally differently than our Atom did. Maybe some sort of much more effective windshield will make over 100 mph bursts better.

Ultimately an exoskeleton car like an SL-R/Atom feels like it is going much faster than it really is..(all the time) so you rarely push it to those neck muscle straining speed limits. And you love it just the same.

Anyway, it will be fun to hear about guys trying to get higher top speeds out of a basically open cockpit wind bath machine.

Of course, tearing around a track in an exocar is quite a neck work out anyway even without very high top speeds. The lateral g-forces are exhausting. Tons of fun though.



I can't wait to try it!!! Just need to make some money and order one.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Our SL-R will be air shipped as planned this week. So will arrive here in Aus by the end of next week.

Can't wait for it to arrive.

[ozvenom]

Getting started on the project has taken nearly 8 hours to pull the engine from the 1/2 cut and remove the wiring as to not damage anything. I am sure this will get quicker the more we do. Oh by the way i am the lucky bugger getting to make it all happen from a hands on side of things. Craig will be doing most of the commentary on the build . i am not much for typing. its interesting talking about aero on the cars as they are just as aerodynamic as a cobra and we have got them some down force happening now. I think aero is a very suple art and small things can make a huge difference to a cars handling . the first front spoiler i built looked good but at speeds over 100mph it rocked the front from side to side not the most positive start to developing aero packages once i fitted end plates to the spoiler it was great . so its the small things that will get it sticking to the track i know i have the neck strength to handle it. ( i dont have a neck lol )
And the best thing about this whole deal is .
I GET TO DO THE TEST DRIVING. YE HA CANT WAIT.:coolnana:
Scott.

[Conquest351]

you are indeed a lucky man Scott!!! I can't wait for the pictures and the build thread. Step by step baby!! It's gonna be an awesome beast, that's for sure.

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Our SL-R chassis has left RCR. Should arrive in Aus as planned at the end of next week. Can't wait. :D

[Karlo]

That is fast boat Craig!!! I mean Airplane.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yeah, it's the fast boat alright. :D

1 week total elapsed time to receive a shipment. The carrier is actually quite busy at the moment, they actually quoted me originally for 5 days shipping.

[soon_2b_evil]

Yeah, it's the fast boat alright. :D

1 week total elapsed time to receive a shipment. The carrier is actually quite busy at the moment, they actually quoted me originally for 5 days shipping.

WOW thats nuts i cant wait on pictures! im so jelious!

[Conquest351]

WOW thats nuts i cant wait on pictures! im so jelious!

+1!!! :coolnana:

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry been a bit slow on updates.

Engine and gearbox have been cleaned up and painted. Used POR15. Top cover has been painted red.

Have received some of the new go-fast parts:

Exhaust Manifold & Dump Pipe - Polished Stainless Steel
6 puck clutch
Heavy duty pressure plate
Aluminium flywheel

Engine Before
http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_Before.jpg

Engine After
http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_After.jpg

Clutch and Pressure Plate(that's not the aluminium flywheel)
http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Clutch.jpg

Aluminium Flywheel
http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Flywheel.jpg

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Exhaust Manifold & Dump Pipe
http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/SS_Exhaust.jpg

[Chadillac]

Looking good! That engine cleaned up real nice. I'm anxious to see that stainless steel header on there. So, I don't see any pictures of the cars! Is shipping being a little slow?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry a bit slow, but we've also received the SL-R chassis. No photos yet as it's not in a customer deliverable state.

I know I'm biased, but this thing looks fantastic in the flesh. :D In my books it's simply the bargain of the century.

The owner rushed out to see it and he was more than happy with his purchase.

Even OzVenom was happy with it and he is a hard man to please. The quality of the TIG work, design and overall construction is impressive to see.

[Chadillac]

Tell us more! Did the chassis come with all of the suspension, steering, seats etc...

[mattacolvin]

How about some pictures of the "shipped state" of the chassis. I know it's not in the customer state, but it is in the state that most of us will see when we order one...

[Conquest351]

Yeah, the engine looks fantastic as does the header & downpipe. I want to see the friggin car!!!!!!!



I've seen 2 in the flesh at Frans shop, but I want to see the final product as shipped.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

The chassis was sent in a format purely for logistics.

We don't have all the kit parts yet, so can't comment on the complete kit.

I expect the local USA guys will receive their complete kits before we do.

Sorry guys, I know your sweating on details/photos.

We have a consolidated shipment leaving next week, so all the remaining parts will be sent then. Getting the chassis early gets us started with the build.

I do have an update about the wheels(which we received), which I will post in the wheel thread.

[soon_2b_evil]

cant wait for some more pictures. actually went to go look at a Honda K20 motor this weekend with the intent to buy it but the head was missing a CAM CAP and so i decide not to buy it.

[NASSTY]

Hi Craig,

Just wondering if you have considered supplying some stardard parts for the SLR, not that there are too many to get as the roller is pretty comprehensive to begin with?

In particular things like a complete exhaust for the factory supported engines and the like.

Cheers

Al

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yes Al, we will be supplying parts.

Engine type specific parts e.g. wiring looms, exhausts, air intakes, shifter cables etc.

Actually we are aiming to supply quite a few parts to enhance the kit.

Will develop these as we go, so not all will be available immediately. But we will do our best.

So customers can source the parts themselves or get them from us. :)

[ozvenom]

Well we now have a powder coated chassis with a floor pan attached waiting for some engine mounts so i can put in the engine and start plumbing the radiator and intercooler up and assembling the suspension picks to come.
oz

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry been a bit slack on the updates. Will quickly get you guys up to date on the build.

As per customer request the chassis has been powdercoated in a light metallic silver colour. It's actually a brilliant colour, nice silver metallic with separate clear coat. Powdercoating has come a long way in recent years, the coating has the look of 2 pack paint. The separate clear coat gives the finish depth.

The chassis come supplied from the factory with textured gun metal grey finish. Quite a nice finish actually. So if you want a customer finish you will need to get the chassis painted yourself.

The photos just do not do the colour or finish justice.

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Chassis_Paint_01.JPG

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Chassis_Paint_02.JPG

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Chassis_Paint_03.JPG

[Karlo]

Nice!!!!!

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

The engine has also progressed. It's now painted and has been fitted with fidanza flywheel and clutch assembly, new timing belt(tensioner, idler etc), water pump and a few other tricks. Will post & photos of mods when I get a chance.

OzVenom modified the factory 4G63 sump, so it now holds 7lt of oil(7.3 quarts). And also fitted larger breather fittings into valve cover for oil catch can. See attached photo.

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Sump_Breather.jpg


Attached are photos showing fitment of the 4G63T into the SL-R. Notice there is a nice amount of space(air gap) between turbo/exhaust and where the firewall will run. Will run some heatshields, but I expect heat won't be an issue.

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_Fitment_01.JPG

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_Fitment_02.JPG

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Engine_Fitment_03.JPG

I forgot to take a photo with intake manifold and rear chassis cross-brace fitted. Intake manifold clears the cross brace nicely.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Oops, nearly forgot a shot of the floor installation OzVenom posted about earlier.

Customer wanted a 1.6mm aluminium chequer plate floor & firewall. So here is a photo of OzVenom installing the floor.

http://racecarreplicas.com.au/Pauls_SL-R/Floor_01.JPG

I'll grab a better photo when I get a chance now the chassis is back up the right way.

Sorry guys I was actually slack and didn't take photos of the supplied kit parts. When I get a chance I'll take some photos. The quality of parts is fantastic, but hey don't take my word for it, I'll get photos for proof.

[Karlo]

"Customer wanted a 1.6mm aluminium chequer plate floor & firewall. So here is a photo of OzVenom installing the floor."

That is great idea, what thickness comes stock?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Karlo, 3mm flat aluminium floor is supplied from the factory.

Also note that the factory floor extends underneath the side pods, the chequer plate floor was not done this way.

[soon_2b_evil]

wow! thats lookin good. how exciting it is.

[Conquest351]

Wow, wow, wow. Absolutely awesome!!!

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry guys not much progress on this car. Time & parts availability has slowed progress a lot.

But I do have some updates:

* We've sourced poly bushes for the 4G63 engine mounts now. Because this is a race spec car, we wanted all poly bushes. Off the shelf we could only buy top engine & gearbox poly mounts cheaply. The front & rear mounts were more difficult and the standard mount kit only provided booster poly inserts for these mounts. We found some other factory mounts with close enough dimensions that OzVenom could turn them down to the correct size.

* We've been busy designing the sign writing and graphics for the body work. The body panels(nose & side pods only) are now at the sign writer to finalise the graphics design and get all the sign writing done. Will post photos when they are done. I can wait.

* We've also been working on compliance requirements for this car. Next major steps are chassis torsion & beaming test. The SL-R will far exceed our requirements here. And also fibreglass testing - tension, flexure, hardness & fibre -> weight testing, which also won't be a problem with the quality of the RCR glass work.

Things will start to progress more quickly soon, well I hope so.

I will also take some detailed shots of the supplied parts so people can get a good idea of what is supplied.

[ozvenom]

I sat in the slr seat today and was pleasantly surprised that "A" i fitted i am 260 lbs .
"B" Realy good to sit in.
As far as cushining goes all i would put in is 1/2" closed cell foam in the bottom . if you are only 150 lbs then you may need a little around the sides . The closed cell foam will not absorb water so if it rains you don't get a wet butt for two weeks after.
Any way thanks Fran another tick in the box for you.
oz.:thumb2:

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Great news Oz, that's means it should fit me great as well. Good idea using the closed cell foam, keeps it nice and simple and best of all light. :D

I should of tried out the seats while I was there today. Doh.

[Chadillac]

Thanks for the update Craig! Sounds like you're going to have one awesome SL-R by the time you're done. I'm excited to see these graphics that you're putting on the car. I would REALLY appreciate pictures of all the parts that you've received. I just want to make sure that I get all of the parts from Fran. However, it sounds like you guys have had some delays in parts too.

I'm glad that I don't have to do all these chassis and fiberglass testing on my car. Heck, I don't even have to do emissions. That's got to be a real pain. I'm sure it will pass though. I've been really impressed with the frame and just how sturdy everything is. This car feels like it's a rock. Hopefully it drives as good as its built.

I like the seats too. I'm trying to get my wife to sew some covers for them. She's got some mad sewing skills.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Just a quick update.

The SL-R chassis here is currently being Beaming and Torsion tested. We will have to wait for the engineers final report, but it's looking good from my observations.

The sign writing and graphics on the body panels is currently being applied. With any luck I should have the body panels back from the sign writer later today. Will post photos when they are back.

[Gage]

I am leaving my repetitive "thanks for the update" message.

Sincerely appreciated.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Attached are photos of the sign written panels.

Will take more photos once they are fitted to the chassis.

The metallic silver in the chequer pattern & stripes was done to match the metallic silver coating on the chassis, suspension arms etc.

Enjoy.

[Karlo]

Very Cool Craig :winner:

[Chadillac]

That's awesome Craig! No other word can describe it. Just awesome.

[soon_2b_evil]

WOW how exciting! can wait to see that thing loaded!

[dwmtl1000s]

Damn, that is one ***XXXY set of skins for your car!!!!!! :coolnana::clap:

Any idea as to when it may be ready to drive???

[Conquest351]

FRIGGIN SWEET DUDE!! Can't wait to see it all on the car! What's the latest on the build sir...

[Gage]

That looks good, and I don't even like yellow on an SL-R. I love the little dashes of red.

[aloysius]

I hope you haven't got that scheme copy righted. I'd like to copy it! That's the best compliment you can get that doesn't have money involved.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Thanks guys, everyone involved is pretty stoked with how the panels look.

Actually there were quite a few really good designs we came up with, I will see if I can get a copy of them to share with you guys.

Haven't got much to update on the build side of things as we have all been distracted by other things. Hoping that will change this week.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Ozvenom has been spending more time on the SL-R. With a little help from myself, you know making coffee, holding things etc. :)

Chassis Testing:
Got the preliminary chassis torsional and beaming test results back from the registration engineer. Let just say that we absolutely smashed the requirements. We are many multiples greater than the minimum requirements for registration here. Thanks to Ozvenom for engineering the chassis test jig.

I'll wait for the final figures and check whether I can publicly post them.

No real surprise as we already knew the theoretical figures.

Engine:
Performed the final fitment on the engine and gearbox. Boy that 4G63T engine fits well. Well post some pics when I get a chance to take them.

Roll Cage:
The 4 point roll cage has also been manufactured. It's an RCR unit with a few mods as per customer request. The main hoop has been angled backwards slightly and a different style of cross-brace installed. It's now getting powdercoated. Also getting the suspension arms powdercoated the same silver colour as the chassis.


Looks like Ozvenom will be able to schedule a fair amount of time next week on the SL-R, so we can expect some good progress. Ozvenom is in demand for his skills, so it's great that he is squeezing in time for the SL-R.

[Conquest351]

Awesome!! Now hurry the hell up!!! :bwhip:


hehehe

[kn9]

Nice build !!

Craig, did you manage to weigh that engine by any chance?

Really interested in knowing how much a 4g63 weighs...dressed or undressed.

Cheers!

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry mate, didn't get a chance to weigh the engine and trans.

Will just weigh the finished cars to get an idea of the weight difference between 4G63 and Honda.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Not much to update, waiting for suspension to come back from the powdercoaters.

Have been working on the pedal box and brake lines, fitting the steering(normally done at the factory).

Have included some photos of the engine fitted.

Check the last photo, Ozvenom brings a whole new meaning to hanging panels. :D

Will have some more updates soon.

[Gage]

The entire car looks fantastic.

I know the subject has been discussed already, but that exhaust manifold/turbo put out an incredible amount of heat. I hope the heat shield solution works well enough.

The dump tube is going to be very loud. LoL This will truly be a "visceral" driving experience.

[Conquest351]

Looks AWESOME Craig!! You guys are trucking along nicely. I can't wait till this thing's done and we get some video and driving impressions. Very cool stuff!!

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Some more progress.

Got the suspension arms back from the powdercoater at lunch time and did a quick installation. This SL-R is also running the optional double adjustable shocks.

Still more work to do to finish the suspension off, then install brake system.

[Karlo]

Great pics and you are on a roll!! Pun intended.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yeah, hopefully rolling soon. :D

[Chadillac]

Great pics and you are on a roll!! Pun intended.

Second that! I just feel bad that you've gone through all of this work and then put the steering wheel on the wrong side.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Wadda you mean, the wrong side??? :run:

We are using the driver to balance the vehicle as the 4G63 engine is on the other side.

You guys are using Honda, so you need to be on the left to balance the Honda out.

There is a science to everything. :D

[ozvenom]

Hey guys got some more goodies today from the U.S.A.
Brackets and headlights wow these are really cool i am sure craig will post a pic later but they are just great well worth the wait . Fran definately knows how to finish a project as i said its the little things that makes a good car great.
I hope to get some real progress happening on the slr next week.
oz.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Some parts, suspension & pedal box photos for everyone's enjoyment.

Aluminium radiators: twin core. 1 supplied per kit.

Headlights: mounting brackets not shown.

Front Fenders: fender, fender air duct & fender mounting bracket.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Photos of the SL-R as a roller with engine installed.

(All the SL-R's are supplied as a rolling package from RCR)

[Gage]

That looks fantastic. Makes me wonder if I even want any body work.

Thanks for the great pictures.

This is also the first time that I had any idea the car would really be coming with the super sweet fenders pictured in the original SL-R drawing. No one else has shown an image of one that I recall.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yeah, it is down right ***y naked.

The fenders are impressive in their quality, perfect shape, full gloss. Very nice work.

Actually I can't wait to get our sign written body panels on it.

[B-T]

Looking great Craig! I can't wait to see it completed!!!
Great job on the engine mounts.
:)
BT

[Chadillac]

You guys do some real quality work Craig. I'm sure your first customer will be very pleased.

[wgknestrick]

Did they give you rear fenders? I have not seen any pics of an RCR with rear fenders yet.

[soon_2b_evil]

WOW! i think that thing looks ***y naked! if i had one (when) i get one i think ill roll around with no panels on.

[Chadillac]

Did they give you rear fenders? I have not seen any pics of an RCR with rear fenders yet.

Sadly, RCR is not providing any rear fenders.

[Gage]

Glad the car exists, but it needs rear Fenders. Someone make some. :thumb2:

[markAus]

Hi Guys,

First Post :wave:

Been watching for a while and was in communication with Craig a little while back.

Great to see it progressing well, was hoping to make a trip up to see Craig and an SLR in the flesh late this year.

Couple of quick q's
1) How much clearance between the turbo/exhaust and the firewall/fuel tank?
2) Where you do expect the battery will go?

Thanks for great photos and details on the build process :thumb2:

Cheers,

Mark

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Hi Mark, how are things?

1) How much clearance between the turbo/exhaust and the firewall/fuel tank?

I would have to measure it for you, but there is very nice gap between exhaust/turbo and the firewall. Plenty of space to fit heatshield, insulation and still have a nice air gap. It's worked out very well. The fuel tank is approx. 40-50mm from the firewall.

2) Where you do expect the battery will go?

In this car we will be putting an Odyssey battery right in the very front, in front of the footbox. Fuse box, ecu , data logger etc will be located under the front nose cone.

Due to engine horsepower and extreme temperature conditions experienced at some of the track racing here the customer has optioned a 2nd radiator for insurance. So there will be a radiator in each side pod. Intercooler will be mounted high on top of the engine with a duct forcing air into it. We will also be using the factory engine oil cooler as well.

[markAus]

Great thanks Craig.

I saw a little rectangular area in the frame between the wheels that looked just about right for a battery, thought that might be the spot.

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z302/landfalcon/www%20ExoCars%20net/IMG_0860.jpg

I did wonder about the radiator and intercooler.

Do you think a single radiator might not cut it?

Having some sort of scoop between the seats feeding fresh air to an intercooler would probably be ideal but I guess adds more work to it all.

I think a 4G63T with extra boost will be an absolute animal in this thing. For us in OZ would probably the best Bang for Buck.

Cheers,

Mark

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

I expect most customers will only need a single radiator. It's just the more extreme track type cars that could do with the extra cooling. But that's the great thing about the SL-R it's completely flexible when it comes to that sort of thing.

Yeah, the 4G63T is a gem. Best bang for buck out there in my opinion. Yeah it will be a little extreme, but considering the chassis, brakes and suspension are all up to the task...why not. :coolnana:

[wgknestrick]

On the rear tire/fender topic;

Is there enough clearance to fit the corvette rear wheels on the back? Or more specifically the Z06 rear wheels?

Standard corvette wheels are 17" x 8.5" and look to be used all around

Z06 are 18"x 9.5" front and 19x 10.5" rear, and I think the spoke pattern would look a little better IMO. I must admit that the choice of using the corvette lug pattern doesn't leave us with many wheel options considering the popular wheel size. You are generally into the $2000 range for a set of wheels for corvettes because of the rare bolt pattern (that is probably 10x overkill for this lightweight car).

[Gage]

On the rear tire/fender topic;

Is there enough clearance to fit the corvette rear wheels on the back? Or more specifically the Z06 rear wheels?

Standard corvette wheels are 17" x 8.5" and look to be used all around

Z06 are 18"x 9.5" front and 19x 10.5" rear, and I think the spoke pattern would look a little better IMO. I must admit that the choice of using the corvette lug pattern doesn't leave us with many wheel options considering the popular wheel size. You are generally into the $2000 range for a set of wheels for corvettes because of the rare bolt pattern (that is probably 10x overkill for this lightweight car).


Good points.

Welcome to the forum wgknestrick.

[B-T]

Glad the car exists, but it needs rear Fenders. Someone make some. :thumb2:

Deman (Lotus 7 type kit) makes fenders for sale seperate from the rest of the kit:
http://www.deman-motorsport.com/body.htm
There are also several Ford Hot rod aftermarket fenders that would work for this application I think.
BT

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

If the Z06 wheels have a much larger backspace, then you will need to use bolt on wheel spacers.

The owner of this SL-R also has chrome 18" wheels. I'll post a photo of them when I get a chance.

With the rear fenders a nice little flare off the side pod and a separate top piece attached to the hub that moves with the wheel would work well and balance out the looks of the SL-R. We need fenders for registration here. Personally I'm waiting to see what enhancements and upgrades RCR will supply in the near future.

[markAus]

What other parts, that are not included or optional, are neccessary for registration here (SA would be great!)?

Rear Fenders (not included)
Windscreen and wipers (coming option)
Handbrake (option)
Lap/Sash retractable seat belts / no harness (not included)
High level brake light (not included)
Rear view mirror (are the two side mirrors sufficient?)

I would love to use this as my daily driver (except winter) as I don't have too far to go to work.

The other thought I had, whether good or bad I'm not sure, is to have a radiator in one side pod (driver) and the intercooler in the other with a second radiator behind it (if it would fit). No Point? we keep the weight lower (CoG), balanced with the driver and gives increased cooling (although not as good as two radiators with fresh air) just thought I'd put it out there.

Cheers,

Mark

[Chadillac]

High level brake light (not included)



I'm not sure how high your brake light needs to be, in the US I think it's 24". The kit does include a rear brake light and you can mount it where ever you'd like.

I'm not sure if you'd be able to fit an intercooler and a radiator in the same side pod. It might get a little crowded as well with all of the plumbing in between the engine and the fire wall.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Mark, that's a pretty good list, here is my quickie list of items for road compliance:

Rear Fenders
Windscreen, wipers, squirters & demister (you can register it without windscreen and then don't need all the other stuff)
Handbrake with warning light switch
Lap/Sash Seatbelts
High level brake light
Side Indicators
Reverse Light
Brake fail switch
Immobilisor
Seat belt timer
Padded Dash edge
Steering, Transmission or Gear Shifter lock.
Tyre placard
Crash test labels
Horn
Number plate lights
...

And obviously other items to finish the kit.

All of these items will be available to purchase from RCR in Australia.

Rear view mirror not required if you use 2 x side mirrors, you need rear view mirror if you only have drivers side mirror.

The factory intercooler would not fit in the side pod and I doubt you would fit anything worthwhile in with the radiator. There are quite a few cheap factory intercoolers of larger 6cyl turbo cars that are a nice upgrade for 4G63T that will fit in the side pod by itself.

Or just mount the intercooler on top of the engine and you could use a variety of air scoops, even bonnet scoops to direct air into it.

[Chadillac]

Craig,

If you were to make rear fenders yourself, would you be willing to ship some to the US?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yes, anything RCR Australia develop will be available to customers worldwide.

[Gage]

A HUGE Intercooler could be mounted on brackets in the space behind the driver's heads. That is probably where you guys are talking about anyway.
Or even a smaller intercooler in the space between the too roll bar like hoops.. as is done on At-ms that that I have seen. Such a spot requires very little intercooler piping.

[markAus]

Thanks very much guys, gives me some more to think about.

Craig, do you know if not having a windscreen is OK in SA? I think I could live with a helmet

Cheers,

Mark

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Mark, windscreen is not an ADR requirement. So no problem running without a windscreen anywhere in Australia.

There is also no requirement that I know of that makes a helmet mandatory. Although some very good eye protection would be recommended.

[soon_2b_evil]

A HUGE Intercooler could be mounted on brackets in the space behind the driver's heads. That is probably where you guys are talking about anyway.
Or even a smaller intercooler in the space between the too roll bar like hoops.. as is done on At-ms that that I have seen. Such a spot requires very little intercooler piping.

yup thats the plan!

question for Craig. I know your using a 1G dsm motor, the evo 8 motor is it mounted differently there? Cause it is here. I was wondering if those 4g63 mounts would work on a Evo8 motor.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

We only support the earlier 4G63 engine set ups, so don't support the later reversed engines like the Evo 8.

We support 1G DSM, 2G DSM and Evo 1,2,3.

No plans at the moment to support the later 4G63 engines. But that doesn't stop someone from fitting one.

Down the track we could also support the 4B11 that is used in the current Lancers. The 4B11 is lighter than the old 4G63 thanks mainly to it's aluminium block and also uses the latest iteration of MIVEC variable valve timing.

[Gage]

No plans at the moment to support the later 4G63 engines. But that doesn't stop someone from fitting one.
Down the track we could also support the 4B11 that is used in the current Lancers.

It is sure to happen. They are such fun platforms to work with.

[soon_2b_evil]

yeha the 4B11 would be great too until you have to start sleveeing it as well! i like the cast iron 4g63! Rods and pistons and your on your marry way. the reason i ask is because for me i thik it would be easier to do a Evo8 4g63 swap, Then doing a HONDA k-series. I mean i already have my K24 but its going to need to get slevees and then a small turbo kit! with the evo motor i could just do a FP Green turbo upgrade and be done with a Reflash of the ecu.

Transmisson wise your still using a AWD tranny? would this be the switchable one? I thought u would have to go with a FWD tranny?

[Chadillac]

I think it's pretty safe to say you can get 400 hp out of the new 4B11 without doing anything with the internals. You could probably get there pretty easy with bolt-ons, larger turbo and a tune. Saying that would be a wild ride is an understatement.

If you look on evolutionm.net there are quite a few people that have started coming out with stuff for the 4B11 already and getting very good power increases.

For a transmission the new Kia Koup (sp?) I think uses a form of the 4B11 and it will be hooked up to a FWD transmission. If you're lucky they might just bolt straight up. This might be the easiest route?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

You can use either FWD or AWD transmissions. With AWD transmissions it's a simple matter of removing the transfer case & rear output shaft and then make a dust cover up. The SL-R in this build thread had a AWD gearbox.

Yeah, the 4B11 has a promising future. :thumb2:

These turbo engines are just going to be insane in the SL-R. But that's all part of the fun. :D

[Conquest351]

What's the latest on this project? Been kinda quiet round here lately...

[Gage]

Everyone is hammering away in their garages or at a desk contemplating solutions to as of yet unsolved problems or missing parts. No one wants to post up more"in between pictures". It drives the rest of us without cars crazy. I'm also imagining at least one person may have hit a wall and just stopped progress, gathering more energy for the project and all. - just my opinion -

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

We've just been too busy to post photos and updates.

I will try to get some more photos and updates up here after the weekend.

[Grifter]

Big thanks to Craig and the RCR team for yesterdays sneak preview - seeing the goods in the flesh has convinced me to seriously start the negotiation process with the Minister of Finances! :thumb2:

[ozvenom]

Hi Guys and Gals after the open day i got the slr home and started on the electrics layout it seems after a couple of hours i may not be as bad as i first thought . The data logger dash is very comprehensive though the electronic manual i am going to print out. The hardest part of it is to keep it looking neat and tidy i will post some picks of my idea when its finished . i am going to divide it into to power supplies one for the back and one for the front . the ezi wiring loom which comes with the kit has plenty of circuits to connect everything to and some spares for things like a sterio and a seat heaters .
(Just kidding ) but plenty of wire to use on hooking everything up .
Another issue i have been mulling over is the radiators
to connect them in series or parralell i have decided on parallell as if you run them in series the water speed will be too fast to cool properly .
one other item is the speed sensor i have decided to mount it on the front up right as it will be a stretch to reach the rear axle from the front where the data logger is mounted. just have to make sure the wiring properly fastened.
Thats it for this up date some pics with the next one.
I am full of the flu and struggling to just to keep working

[Chadillac]

I think you're correct in running the radiators in parallel. I'm excited to see how you're doing the wiring. I'm not very excited to start doing that. Anyways... Hope you feel better!

[aloysius]

Hey Oz,
Fran says that a single radiator will handle up to 250 hp but I look at how small they are and wonder what speed that works at. I'm thinking that sitting at a stop light might precipitate some over heating problems. I'm anxious to hear how well your car does with more power using two. Will you have a proportioning valve to balance the coolant flow? Are you going to have two fans too? Don't forget screens on front and back to stop the rocks.

Do you have the brakes plumbed up? I'd like to see pictures if so. I've about got mine figured out. I wouldn't do it the same way again. Moving the pedals is the wrong way unless you want to have three flex hoses for the brakes and clutch, several for the reservoirs unless you move them too, a cable for the throttle since moving that too only makes sense, and finally the wire for the brake switch. I also need an anchor for the stationary end of the hoses. See? A simple set of slides on the driver's seat sounds much much simpler and easier to manage as compared to unbolting things and moving them while standing on your head under the hood. Have you heard anything about implementing a hand brake? Keep us posted...

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Will try and take some photos today and post them up here.

[markAus]

Hi Craig,

I see Fran posted a pic up on the GT40's forum, was it of this car?

How did it go out on its track debut?

From the picture it looked great! well done to all involved.:thumb2:

Cheers,

Mark

[Karlo]

Craig has been neglecting us. Ha ha

[Gage]

That is a fantastic picture.

I am finally convinced that this car can look awesome.

[Conquest351]

Yeah, saw that on GT40s.com and was wondering why Mr. Craig hadn't posted anything about it. Guess he's a busy busy boy!! Looks like it, absolutely fantastic work. That car looks just incredible.

Kudo's RCR, great car!!

Brian


PS
Now we just need track data...

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry guys, just been too busy to post photos. Don't have the photos with me, but will post them when I get a chance. I'm currently in the USA at Run & Gun.

The SL-R was not running. Had troubles with the ECU tune and still neeeded a couple of jobs done to finsh it off. It's certainly a very complete car.

[soon_2b_evil]

Craig has been neglecting us. Ha ha

http://www.exocars.net/attachment.php?attachmentid=872&d=1223087125

OMG. i thought it lookin naked was GREAT but being all dolled up like this its LOOKs FREAKIN GREAT as well! looks alot better then that picture over there -------------------------->

[ozvenom]

Hi guys and gals it full tilt for a couple of weeks there but i was beat by a ecu problem which is still to be sorted . i managed to get the slr close with fuel system done cooling plumbed and filled body electrics all done the dash hooked up and working clutch done most of the exhaust there is less rome for it once the cooling pipes go in so its 2 1/2 " and just needs a muffler. a filler neck for the fuel tank .
The brakes bleed up real easy.
I put baffles in the tank one close to the end to form a header tank and a nother 1/2 way along to stop splosh .
Craig will post pics of all the work i did when he gets back the slr is in sydney on display. not sure if or when it is coming back.
i mounted all the electricals in a tray fitted under the front cover which also give you somewhere to mount switches so that the wiring is not accessable from under the dash so to speak pics will tell a thousand words . the shifter i had worked out how it was going to run but have not been able to finish it yet.
The oil cooler i mounted behind the engine above the rear most suspension pickup and will duct air to it later . the inter cooler is mounted above the gear box behind the driver and has very short piping which will help with boost responce. oh and 50mm bov.
oz.

[Karlo]

Pics Pics

[wgknestrick]

Very nice looking SLR. How is the handling shaping up?

[Gage]

Someone please please get larger pictures.. higher quality.

The car looks Superb! You guys are doing great work.

Karlo, get that Big Bananna off the add in the right column! =0)

[Gage]

All the car lacks to look Fantastic is a big black Spoiler over the rear braces.

[Chadillac]

They did a superb job building that car. I'd love to hear track data on it.

Karlo, were you able to pull any more information out of Craig besides the pictures?

[Karlo]

Karlo, were you able to pull any more information out of Craig besides the pictures?

Nothing

[Chadillac]

I'm guessing the car is so fast, he's literally speechless.

I'm also wondering where they've hidden all of the exhaust... That must be some crazy piping in front of the engine. Maybe that's the Aussie's way of making a seat warmer.

[Gage]

I've built 4G63 Motors before. That exhaust will will sure as heck warm the seats. Did you think those seat covers were there just for looks? =0)

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Sorry guys for the lack of updates, I've been absolutely flat out with RCR business.

I took these photos at Wakefield Park Raceway last October. The SL-R was not running. It wasn't quite finished and ecu problems had held up the progress.

It hasn't hit the track yet. It's booked in for a dyno, then out for some shake down laps in a couple of weeks.

It's had a few changes since these photos have been taken. Will post some better information then. The SL-R is not local to me, so will be flying down when the track dates are confirmed.

Larger photos from October, no problem, see below.

[Ronnie]

Just when I give up on the idea of an SLR build and commit the wife to an Atom, you just had to go ahead and post this. Damn you!

Nice pics. Thanks.:coolnana:

R

[Chadillac]

Just a few things I noticed about the car...

There seems to be some extra bars on that car. You can see one that goes up just left from the pedals from the floor to the hood. Also, there's a bar that's attached to the bottom of that one that seems to run to the firewall. I'm assuming those are for the wires. Very nice!

I'm also wondering where you decided to put the battery. There's also no shifter and no seatbelts. But like Craig said, these pictures are very old so I'm assuming they've just been added since these were taken.

But I really like what you did to hide the wires! I might have to steal your idea.

[Ronnie]

I don't think the car is truely finished in these pics due to the lack of battery, shifter, a box holding up the front splitter and seat.

R

[Gage]

No, Craig said that it wasn't.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

There is a battery in there, it's in the engine bay.

Yep, no shifter mounted at that stage. (there is a shifter now) Other than that it was a running vehicle.

The main electrics(fuse box, ecu, digidash pro+ box etc) have been concealed under the front nose in a water tight aluminium tray. Kill switch is mounted at the rear. It has an internal surge tank in the fuel tank.

Obviously now, it has had quite a few changes/enhancements. The items not permanently attached in those photos have not been attached. It now has different seats, different front splitter, different dash binnacle etc.

Anyone notice the twin aluminium radiators? Just an added safety precaution due to the high temps it will see at some of the track meets, especially with the power it will be putting out. The 4G63T engines all have oil coolers, which you can see mounted at the rear. Not a bad idea for a track SL-R.

Will post some updated photos when I see the SL-R next.

That SL-R was part of an RCR display at a National track meet last year.

[Chadillac]

Well you guys did a heck of a job concealing stuff in the engine bay. Looks very clean!

I also have an aluminum tray for the fuse box, but it's not water tight. I'm sure the first time I drive through a puddle everything is going to die. I was thinking about putting the ECU at the front of the car, but that's a LOT of wires that need to be extended.

And I think I'm also going to mount my GINORMOUS kill switch in the back as well. Compared to the engine, it doesn't look that big. I was just going to mount it on the firewall where it's easy to get to.

[bolus]

The car is just begging for a good wing package (excuse the crappy photoshop)

[Karlo]

The car is just begging for a good wing package (excuse the crappy photoshop)

I think its pretty good job

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Very nice. I've always been thinking of something straight when it comes to a front wing. I would certainly like to produce something for the front, just needs to be strong enough to survive a few encounters with ripple strips.

If anyone has any other suggestions body wise, I would welcome it.

Chad is doing some really interesting stuff. Would be interesting to see what those side pods look like from a distance. http://www.gt40s.com/forum/rcr-forum-rcr40-rcr70-p4-mkiv/26377-new-renderings-2.html#post254492

[bolus]

Like the Atom the SLR is terribly un-aerodynamic. So although the wings will take off some of the top end they can help tremendously in other areas. Once you get over 120 in these cars it starts to take huge amounts of HP to overcome their drag coefficients.

If I remember corrently, one of the Atom guys shaved of 6 seconds off his Hallet track times by just adding the wings. Hallet is a short track with lots of turns so the wings have helped tremendously.

I would argue that you dont want to buy these cars for the top end. My mini cooper has a similar top speed as my Atom.

The car is already light so I doubt you would need to do anything to the suspension. Shocks for these cars are probably made for 3000 lbs cars.

[nanotech]

Beautiful. Can't wait to see what she does around a track, as well as the dyno etc. Seriously contemplating getting one ordered.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

The SL-R is now at our factory. We are busy doing some fine tuning for it's first race meet this weekend. Morgan Park Raceway A Series Fri/Sat/Sun.

It gets run on the dyno for final check either Wednesday or Thursday. Will get some final power figures then.

Pretty excited about the weekend. I will be there with one of my employees to help out with the SL-R. It's really just a test session for us as we will be focussed on experimenting and seeing what works and what doesn't work.

The SL-R will be at our factory for a while. It certainly does grab attention, had a steady stream of interested parties come in to have a look. The buzz in the shop is incredible and infectious.

Will post some more photos soon.

[Gage]

Get one running, make it look good... and gee whiz what happens? I'm struck like a brick by "I've heard someone suggest doing those things before" Deja vu. =0)

We are looking forward to the photo's.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Dyno is first thing tomorrow morning(Thursday).

[wgknestrick]

What turbo is on the thing?

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

It's just a modest build, so that it is easy to drive on the track.

So just a 16G turbo, ebay turbo manifold, 19 year old jap import engine, 2nd hand intercooler, aftermarket ecu.

But the 4G63T produces what I consider a serious amount of HP and torque even with these modest bolt-ons.

But the 4G63T comes with the penalty of extra weight - iron block, oil cooler, turbo, intercooler, piping etc.

Can't wait to see how the bigger HP package performs on the track. :coolnana:

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

The SL-R spent half the day on the dyno yesterday.

It is having problems with boost creep.

So we have dialled the HP back again by severely restricting the exhaust so that it can be driven safely. It's got more than enough HP for us at the moment considering we are still setting it up.

Next we will have to look at the waste gate performance and if it's ok, we might need to port it.

Took some photos of one of my employee's camera. Once he downloads them, I will post them here.

It's at a shop getting a full wheel alignment today.

[markAus]

Thanks for the update, greatly appreciated.

Mark

[Conquest351]

And what were those power numbers? LOL Craig, are you guys using the stock wastegate actuator on that thing with the stock style flapper valve wastegate? See if you guys have an adjustable wastegate actuator available. You can pretension the wastegate actuator so it holds on there very tightly and that usually eliminates boost creep, at least it worked on the 2.3L Turbo Fords I'm very familiar with. Either that or go with an aftermarket external wastegate.

Laters,

Brian

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Just dropped the SL-R back to the factory.

We had a fantastic weekend. The owner is really loving the SL-R. Rob & I had a ball working as pit crew and chatting to all the other enthusiasts at the meet.

By the final session the SL-R was lapping up there with the fastest cars in the field. :thumb2: Just absolutely blew us away. And we still have plenty of improvements to make, same story with any new track car. We are really enjoying the adjustability and characteristics of the suspension.

Some really interesting stuff to come out of the weekend. 225rwhp is not enough. By the time we get the engine all sorted, it should have significantly more power. Which is what we need for this level of racing.

Weighed it. You are looking at 700kg+(1540lbs+) for a serious 4G63T SL-R. That's if you fit twin rads, oil cooler, wide wheels & tyres, large capacity sump, surge tank, extra panelling, wing and of course the extra weight for turbo, intercooler etc. The 4G63 also had an iron block, so this would be one of the heaviest versions. But the SL-R is also quite a big car.

Just for everyones info, we are running 245 & 315 slicks on the SL-R. They are just what we had lying around. We need much softer compounds due to the light weight of this car. Looks like we will stick with 240ish & 270ish sizing.

Didn't get any racing photos this time. Too many people to talk to and not enough time. Can't believe the buzz the SL-R created at the track. Everyone was impressed with the quality and design. Just awesome.

We just can't wait for the next outing. :D And I had better bring more business cards next time.

Thanks Brian for the tips on the waste gate. :thumb2: Yeah, that's how we will be approaching it. Will let you know what we find.

Enjoy the photos, wish I had more.

[Steve Jarvis]

Wow, 1,540 lbs. with that setup is amazing.

Keep up the good work.

Later, Steve

[Gage]

Thanks for sharing more pictures and details. We eat them up.

[thebionicman]

The pics look great.

How tall is the driver? It looks like the helmet is higher than the roll hoop.

[Gage]

The pics look great.

How tall is the driver? It looks like the helmet is higher than the roll hoop.

Those are not the seats the SL-R is designed for. They put the driver up what, two to four inches higher than the standard seats will. Correct me if I'm wrong those who know.

Cobra makes a seat called the Racer 7 that "might" be a good aftermarket alternative to the standard seats the car is designed with. Your buttocks need to be as close to FLAT on the floor of the car as possible.
I should also add that RCR's kit seats are very comfortable. But, free will to engage in individual customization is half the fun in life, for good or ill.

You can never have enough roll bar.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Yes, the seats are very thick in the base. They are also mounted to seat sliders. I haven't measured the total height there, but it is significant. The customer supplied his own seats.

We can make them lower and it's another change we will make.

They are also not the lightest seats around. (read heavy)

Just to note we only removed the passenger seat due to the rain.

We will be bolting in the optional 4 point cage for future race meets. It is a lot taller, wider, stronger than the standard hoops. Can't have too much safety.

Also configured the basic Digidash settings on the weekend. Very easy and quick to set up with a laptop. There is just so much it can do, we need to spend much more time with it. This SL-R is fitted with the optional Pro+ version.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Quite a few people have contacted me for dates when the SL-R will be racing next.

We are planning on Top Gear Sprints at Queensland Raceway on 9th May.

[Craig – Absolute PACE]

Haven't had a chance to post many updates of late due to how busy things have been.

This Roadster has been to quite a few race meets. Best result is 2nd. That's not 2nd in class, that's 2nd overall at the meet. It's very quick and very easy to drive. The owner is having an absolute ball.

Next race meet is Wakefield Park Raceway - 1st - 4th October.

Been asked for photos of our new intercooler install. Will post them tomorrow when I get back to the factory.