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ZUKIWORLD Discussion Forum => Build Diaries, How-To, DIY => Topic started by: yellow2000S/R on October 22, 2009, 11:20:04 PM

Title: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 22, 2009, 11:20:04 PM
Some may recognize this from suzuki-forums... figured I'd post it over here as well!

It's been sitting for around 3 months now, snow is around the corner and I need something back on the road. I also use it once in a while doing some trailing.

1996 Geo Tracker with just over 110k miles, 16 valve, automatic, 4x4.


It started with doing maintenance that is due/soon due. I've had a few CELs over the past 2 years. I passed last year because the tech misread the old mileage as being under 5k miles so I passed with the CEL. This year I have approx 20k miles on it and I need to get it inspected because winter is here.

Smokes blue at startup, idle is inconsistent and stalls, reeks of gas (believe 02 sensor is fouled cause there is a lean code but its running very rich). I only get 22-23mpg at best yet I see people claiming 27-29 mpg. Valve cover is leaking some and the PCV valve is probably gummed up.



Things I've done in the past 1-2 years:

Plugs, air filter, and pulled the MAF and cleaned it with CRC MAF cleaner, EGR valve around 2-3 years ago with one from AutoZone as it was completely clogged and no longer opened/closed freely after cleaning. I have also replaced the MAP/MDP sensor (on the firewall) a few months ago with a new one from Advanced. I pulled the metal tube that runs from near the EGR up to the intake manifold as it was nearly clogged, cleaned it out with some braided wire on a drill low speed, as well as the holes where it bolts on both ends.


Plan on pulling the head and cleaning all the passages good for the EGR system along with the intake manifold.

Stuff I bought:
Oil - high mileage
Oil filter
Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Wires
#1 O2 sensor
2 cans Carb cleaner
PCV Valve
Full upper gasket kit
EGR vacuum control solenoid (x2)
Timing belt & tensioner
Head Bolts
Crown Vic Shocks
Low Range Offroad 2" budget lift kit
Waterpump


I'm hoping after all this I'll get closer to 28mpg, no smoke upon startup, and no CELs along with power and throttle response I know I'm missing from the CEL being on.


How it sits now, painted the hood matte black last week because it started delaminating, unsure if I'll do the entire vehicle.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/OffRoading/T1.jpg)
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance... more?
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 22, 2009, 11:24:13 PM
Ordered some Cragar V-5 15x7 from Summit racing with the 3.75 in. backspacing and found some 30x9.5x15 for a price I was willing to pay and picked them up the other day. Got them for $300 picked up which saved me about $180-$225 over getting them new (after shipping). Two have about 85% and other two have about 80% tread left, I feel it was worth it because of the $ I saved for right now. White letters are going inside.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/7.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/6.jpg)




Blah, taking the head off to clean the EGR passage and ports then get it decked then cleaned. Also cleaning out the intake manifold ports for the EGR and slight port matching. Goal to have it all back together is 2 weeks.

Rear most exhaust runner is cracked where it meets the rest. No carbon deposits tho so IDK what I'm going to do.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/8.jpg)


4 hours into it.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/9.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/10.jpg)
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance... more?
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 22, 2009, 11:24:31 PM
Basic port cleanup, removed casting seams along sides of ports then blended the steel valve seats into the ports, took around 3 hours. Some of the intake ports were nearly 1/16" off (valve seat being smaller) so this should help some, but I'm not expecting miracles, just figured while I have the head off I might as well clean it up some. Didn't mess with the guides, radius of bend or anything, just basic blending and cleanup.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/11.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/12.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/13.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/14.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/15.jpg)
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance...
Post by: Drone637 on October 23, 2009, 06:23:55 PM
That is some  nice work on the head.  It will be interesting to see how she looks with the new tires and lift with that black hood.
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance...
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 23, 2009, 09:16:30 PM
Head is at the machine shop getting milled .015" per request as well as all seats and valves recut then everything cleaned. Costing me ~$200 for that work. Just making sure everything is up to par before I reassemble because I don't want to have to mess with this setup again.
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance...
Post by: Freak on October 24, 2009, 01:06:17 PM
 I like the flat black hood it looks good with the green. I would paint the small pieces between the hood and the mirrors flat black as well though. But it looks cool!
Title: Re: My 96 Tracker 16v - Started with maintenance...
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 25, 2009, 11:22:08 PM
I like the flat black hood it looks good with the green. I would paint the small pieces between the hood and the mirrors flat black as well though. But it looks cool!


A few people have told me that now... I'll probably end up doing them.


Degreased, glass beaded, cleaned, silver metallic, then sanded paint off the letters to 320 grit for a "brushed" look then cleared over everything.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/16.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 26, 2009, 08:15:10 PM
Coil spacers in and new 91 Crown Vic shocks on. Instead of drilling out the old bushings to reuse the metal spacer, I made a trip to Lowes and got some 1/2"ID, 5/8"OD x 1.5" long steel zinc plated spacers and 2" long 1/2"x13t grade 8 bolts, nuts, and lock washers then drilled out the mounting holes on the axle brackets to 1/2" (hardly larger then stock but enough to require drilling).

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/17.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Lindenmooch on October 26, 2009, 10:37:40 PM
Wow!  Nice work on that head and valve cover!  I like the patience and attention to detail.   Makes me want to rebuild a 16 valve motor and replace my old worn out 170k mile 8 valve in the 1991 Tracker.

Keep up the good work!  You won't be disappointed.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Drone637 on October 27, 2009, 04:29:38 PM
Wow!  Nice work on that head and valve cover!  I like the patience and attention to detail.   Makes me want to rebuild a 16 valve motor and replace my old worn out 170k mile 8 valve in the 1991 Tracker.

Keep up the good work!  You won't be disappointed.

Heck, it makes me want to just take off my valve cover and polish it up...  :D
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Lindenmooch on October 27, 2009, 10:36:26 PM


Heck, it makes me want to just take off my valve cover and polish it up...  :D


Lol....that too.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 30, 2009, 07:18:20 PM
White powdery stuff is the chemical they use to clean everything... have to spray something on there to get it off, water doesn't seem to want to take it off.

Cost $216.xx total for grinding all the valves and seats and taking .015" off then cleaning. One of the exhaust valves were over-cut or something so they machined one to spec of the others from a blank which is cool (since they took fault).

Now that everything's clean, the exhaust side has a bit of play so I may have issues in the future but I don't want to drop the coin for new guides and machine work.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/18.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/19.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/20.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/21.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on October 31, 2009, 01:49:45 PM
Front is currently about 1.25" higher then the rear (measured at wheel arch). Should come down about level when everything is back together. Have to modify the LCA still to fix the camber.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/22.jpg)


Rear is sitting where it's going to be...

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/23.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/24.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 04, 2009, 04:00:53 PM
"Future" mod after I get it back together and drive it for a month or two to make sure there aren't any CELs that pop up again.

Pulled it from a Saab, P/N 452083-15, got it for $51. No shaft play, no oil on exhaust side and basically no oil on the compressor side, pulled it apart to clean it up and get a rebuild kit before I put it on. No shaft play, no oil on exhaust side and basically no oil on the compressor side, pulled it apart to clean it up and get a rebuild kit before I put it on. Good for about 17psi and 250 hp max from what I've found. I'm only planning 5 psi to get a little more power but I don't want a bunch of issues with reliability.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/25.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/28.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 10, 2009, 05:18:58 PM
Like an idiot I put the head gasket on backwards and trashed the head after a 10-15 mile drive. #3 cap/journal is toasted as well as the rocker/lobe contact areas between #3 and #4... there goes a few hundred. I'll be getting a head from the junkyard this weekend and taking it to the shop the following weekend to get decked and valves worked.


Anyhow, working on the exhaust. SS tubing, Magnaflow muffler, HF cat, and 8" SS flex pipe. Welds are just regular MIG tho :rolleyes:   Found out the tube that runs through the frame to each rear strut plate is more rotted/missing then solid... guess I'll be dropping the tank and cutting it out and welding in a tube.

Stock 1.5" crush bent
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/E1.jpg)

SS 2" mandrel bent
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/E3.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/E4.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: smife on November 11, 2009, 06:44:07 AM
Nice tracker!! I just replaced the shock crossmember on my tracker yesterday. I used  1  5/16  sch 40 pipe, 43 inches long. I think 1 1/4 may have worked better. I had to taper the end on the 1 5/16 to get it thru. I just took the rear wheels off, oiled down the new pipe and slide it thru the shock towers. Weld the ends and you're done. I didn't have to take the gas tank out either. I plan on raising the tank this weekend when we put the body lift on so I"ll replce the mounts then.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: hegemon on November 11, 2009, 08:04:47 AM
I'm in the exact same process right now.  Trying to decide how to replace the tube, I had some dom scrap laying around, it's the size OD as the existing cross member.  Initially I thought I would be able to slide it right through, but that's not going to happen with out drilling out the section that runs through the rails,  so I think I'm just going to plat the ends of the new tube, and weld the plates on the inside of the frame rails.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 16, 2009, 08:30:04 PM
Picked up some flares off a Jeep at the u-pull for $5.50 a piece with brackets. Found out that older trackers have less flare/bulge in the 1/4 and fenders and the trim/rub strip is higher on the 96 up or something. Flares fit great on the white Tracker I held them against at the yard.

Anyhow, trimmed the bottom quite a few times till I got it to sit flush then trimmed the corners at the front bumper and rounded it. Scribed/marked some holes, drilled, and bolted on (3 bolts right now, have to replace other 2 cause they snapped off) Rear was trimmed to sit flush then scribed and drilled. Had to mount it about 1/4" lower then what I wanted because of the wheel tub curving down so early but it worked out alright.

Now I just need to trim up the rub strip and put it back on along with cut up a spare bumper and melt on some "patches" to fill the spots at the bottom 6-8" towards the center of the vehicle cause the jeep has a wide strip instead of the little 2.5" one the Tracker has. Once I get them modded/fitting right they'll be painted the low gloss black like the hood.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/29.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/30.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: safarikick on November 19, 2009, 07:44:43 PM
i like the jeep fenders. what was the jeep that they came off
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 24, 2009, 01:07:45 PM
i like the jeep fenders. what was the jeep that they came off


Jeep Cherokee


I got a Warn winch for a decent price on a mounting plate so the front bumper began. I got a 4'x4' piece of 3/16" that I'll be using for the bumper and probably get some more as I also ordered bushings and sleeves to make custom front control arms instead of hacking up the factory ones. IDK if there are any issues with the stock arms bending or anything but this will prevent it.


Photoshop of what I want to do, the tubes will have more of a radius on the center tho. All tubing will be 1.75" .120 wall.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/BUMPER.jpg)


Got this together in a few hours, I'll be continuing today... I really need to get a plasma cutter.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/31.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 24, 2009, 04:12:55 PM
Taking a little break

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/32.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: beagle..t on December 25, 2009, 05:57:18 AM
looks good cant wait to see how the bumper turns out .i ant to build one like that to
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 30, 2009, 10:42:11 PM
Been busy with some stuff around here and work so I didn't progress as much as I wanted. Ended up using my JD2 bender instead of my pipe bender. Read the "rules" for aux lighting for inspection and it says center to center can't be closer then 20" so I went wider at the top and kicked it in so I can put the lights as spaced out as space allows which will be just shy of 20" center to center. It's all level and centered, there's an illusion that it blocks a good bit of the headlights but it only comes in about 1/2" infront of them for a small area. Shouldn't have a problem.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/33.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on February 02, 2010, 02:51:06 PM
It runs!!!

After the first few starts an o-ring cracked on #1 injector so I had to pull the upper manifold and fuel rail, I decided to replace all 4 o-rings. Exhaust is hooked up now also.


Things left to do till it's drivable:

1. Wire up 2nd O2 sensor
2. Control Arms
3. Up insurance (storage insurance right now)
4. Alignment (will be toe-in bad after I do the control arms)
5. Inspection/Emissions

Wiring the o2 sensor tonight and starting on the control arms.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: 91zukisas on February 04, 2010, 03:35:41 PM
Nice work
Cant wait to see the turbo set up
Are you going to run a intercooler? I have been throwing around the idea of a turbo set up
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: 91zukisas on February 04, 2010, 03:50:19 PM
I like the flairs
Are they off an xj?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: umiami80 on February 15, 2010, 10:04:25 PM
Looks great, where did you get the new suspension stuff? I may nee dthat for my 1998 Chevy Tracker.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on February 20, 2010, 02:53:48 PM
Looks great, where did you get the new suspension stuff? I may nee dthat for my 1998 Chevy Tracker.

I got the shocks from AutoZone, front are Gabriel replacement and rear are 91 Crown Vic with steel spacers from Lowes installed in the bushings and new grade 8 bolts. The spring and strut spacers are from Low Range Offroad.



SO, Today I found typical cancer on my Tracker. The crossmember that the front of the tank mounts to as well as the fuel filter is 80% gone. IDK how my tank didnt fall off when I was off roading last week.

Guess its time for body lift. If I'm going to drop the tank to cut out the crossmember and put a new tube in, I might as well get a 2" body lift and tuck the tank up higher when I reinstall it.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: hegemon on February 23, 2010, 09:33:17 AM
I just replaced that cross member, I also had to replace the rear portion of the frame though.

(http://www.zukiworld.com/forum/gallery/0/7898_16_11_09_8_20_07_7.JPG)

If you plan to raise the tank, consider a 3" body lift, this will allow you to bolt the tank directly to the front cross memeber and use the existing mounts on the rear cross member, I don't think 2" will give you enough clearance on the top of the tank. 

I just finished raising my tank with a 3" body lift and it just makes it, I'll take some pics tonight and post them up.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 01, 2010, 11:51:08 PM
Had to replace the front main seal the other day... I should have just replaced it when I had everything else torn apart. Good news is the keyway and key are in great shape and came right apart. Also dropped the oil pan and cleaned off the old gasket material and used high temp RTV gasket maker since it's been leaking slightly for some time now. 600 miles later and everything is still dry under there!

Finally got around to bending and welding up the tube for the passenger side. Also cut 4 plates to bolt to the frame using 3 grade-8 1/2" bolts per side.

Stupid me, I forgot to weld the backside of the D plates for the shackles so now I have to do that or they could possibly rip out from what I've read. Oh well, shouldn't be hard to touch up the paint.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/35.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 02, 2010, 03:38:06 PM
Got the bumper installed today after I took care of welding the back of the shackle mounts. Winch will be on tomorrow but probably not wired up till later.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/36.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/37.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/38.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: jawman on April 02, 2010, 10:10:20 PM
NICE WORk the thing I want to know/ see is how you mounted the bumper to the kick.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 03, 2010, 11:13:01 AM
NICE WORk the thing I want to know/ see is how you mounted the bumper to the kick.

I used 3 3" long x 1/2" grade8 bolts through the welded on extention for the body mounts. I templated and cut more 3/16" plate and welded inside the bumper for both sides of the rail. 2 bolts through the end of the rail and one through back further between where the body mount brackers run vertical.

I also used the little 12mm head bolts on top of the end of the rails but they were more used for mock up.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: jawman on April 03, 2010, 02:09:38 PM
could I see some pictures?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 06, 2010, 06:07:31 PM
could I see some pictures?


I'll have to get pics tomorrow if I remember.



Went down a "road" that is often closed due to flooding with some friends (a Cherokee 3" lift on 31x10.5 and a Pathfinder on 33s) . Saw this rock off the side and insisted I needed a picture. They all stopped like 1/4 mile prior on the trail from a few mud/water crossings but the Tracker made it on BFG A/T tires... frikkin sissies. I did barely make it up the rock tho, had to get a small start in the water at the bottom prior to it so the tires were wet and had a bit of mud in the tread.

This Saturday like 5 of us are going up to Raush Creek. I guess a Jeep forum is going to be up there, I'm taking the Tracker for one last 4x4 fling prior to tearing down the bottom end due to poor compression (90, 92, 75, 107) cause the rings are shot at only 113k miles.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-6-10/1.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-6-10/2.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-6-10/3.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 09, 2010, 12:25:45 AM
Getting a spare tire tomorrow. Saturday I'm going up to Rausch Creek with some friends! Wish my winch worked, previous owner(s) tampered with the wiring some so I'm trying to find a diagram but apparentlly it's a very old model 5000. Going to an autorized dealer tomorrow, hopefully they can help and possibly get me some parts (solenoids to start, they arent even clicking).

Pic from yesterday night when I got home. Messed around in a mud pit leaving another place last night. Buddy also kicked up dirt into my front end on the driver side (hence the larger clumps on the front/left of hood) on the way out.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-7-10/1.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-7-10/2.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: ecoast on April 09, 2010, 05:04:38 AM
I have diagrams for that winch; pm me an emaill addy and I'll send you 2 pdf's; there were two 5k configurations.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: hegemon on April 09, 2010, 07:59:13 AM
Ha ha ha - Love the "MOVE" sticker upfront.  Great touch to a really well done bumper!  Love the mud accents as well!!!

Quote
([url]http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-7-10/1.jpg[/url])
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: djlantis57 on April 09, 2010, 12:07:28 PM
This Saturday like 5 of us are going up to Raush Creek. I guess a Jeep forum is going to be up there, I'm taking the Tracker for one last 4x4 fling prior to tearing down the bottom end due to poor compression (90, 92, 75, 107) cause the rings are shot at only 113k miles.
Are you going to work on the Turbo at the same time since you'll basically have a fresh engine?
It looks great.  GREAT job on the bumper.  And I like the "MOVE" too, nice touch  8)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 09, 2010, 10:51:47 PM
I got a spare tire from a used/new tire place. Has a few light cracks between some of the tread but for $37 mounted and balanced I can't complain. Let alone the fact you need a full size spare to offroad at Rausch.

I have diagrams for that winch; pm me an emaill addy and I'll send you 2 pdf's; there were two 5k configurations.

Warn got back to me today, basically from what I gathered it's one of the real old model 5000s. It has the 3" motor with only 2 terminals and the 3 solenoid control. Lukily the solenoids are all good after cleaning the contacts, they are $58 through Warn and I even had AutoZone cross reference them and they couldn't get them for under $67!

I redid all the wiring from the plug to the solenoids, fresh supply wiring, cleaned and scuffed all the contact points, cleaned and scuffed the copper jumpers from solenoid to solenoid, and new ends on the ground wire. Total invested... $260 (with the purchase of the winch for $250). I can't complain for the 2-3 hrs it took troubleshooting and fixing everything to get a 5000lb winch for $260!


Are you going to work on the Turbo at the same time since you'll basically have a fresh engine?

The bottom end (rings and possibly pistons and maybe rods? alone with hone or slight overbore if I get new pistons) will be first, then I'll break that all in on stock "tuning". In the mean time I still have my trashed head so I'll build a turbo mani off that outside of the Tracker and collect parts. I'm hoping to have the turbo on mid/late summer if possible.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 12, 2010, 06:11:24 PM
WELL, I developed a squeak in the rear after Rausch Creek this past Saturday (which was a blast, place is WAY bigger then I thought and we only drove like 3/4 of the perimeter trails of the "older" side. SO much not explored.

The "Mud Pit" aka "5 foot pit". It was kinda dry, only 3.5-4 feet or so deep
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-10-10/1.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-10-10/2.jpg)


Radiator got clogged up and I almost overheated... Oil got so hot I suppose that the oil light was coming on at idle and has been since. Going to replace the oil cause its real thin on the dipstick. 5w30 Castrol GTX high mileage... only 900 miles on it. I'll never use it again. Had to stop for a little to let it cool then go to a car wash and spray out the radiator and electric fans which are still going.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/OffRoading/4-10-10/3.jpg)



Come to find out the crossmember that the front of the tank bolts to and the shocks are mounted to finally gave way from all the jarring offroading. I knew it was a matter of time... The tank was held up by the 2 zipties I used on the gas filter and the 3/8" breather tube for the differential (which came off the diff at some point so I need to change the fluid).

I got 4 feet of 1 5/16" 4130 cause they didn't have standard DOM in the size and sanded it clean and greased it up and hammered it in after cleaning the remainder of the tubing out and cutting ~2" from the rails.


Oops

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/39.jpg)


The huge piece missing.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/40.jpg)


The REALLY bad crossmember (whats left of it).

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/41.jpg)


4130 in.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/42.jpg)


Found some more rot in the rear... be replacing this with some 1.75" .120 wall DOM I have here tomorrow.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/43.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: jawman on April 12, 2010, 07:21:38 PM
makes me wounder how rusty the rest of the rig is.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Drone637 on April 12, 2010, 11:15:58 PM
The REALLY bad crossmember (whats left of it).

Really bad... that is one way of putting it.  :D
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 13, 2010, 10:54:17 AM
makes me wounder how rusty the rest of the rig is.

It's not bad sheet metal wise. There's a spot about the size of a dime rusted through under the coolant reservoir. The body mounts just infront of the rear tires have some splitting from rust, then those 2 crossmembers is all I've seen. The rails seem to be nice and solid.


Really bad... that is one way of putting it.  :D

Almost non existent? LOL
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 13, 2010, 06:08:57 PM
Cut out the rear crossmember today. The end sections were fine so I wire brushed them out, blew them out and cut a piece of tubing I had to join the 2. Not a big deal that the center mounts aren't there anymore for the bumper reinforcement, making a steel bumper in a few weeks. Hammered the chromoly in further up front and cut off the excess and welded the tank brackets on after wire brushing and blasting the rust off.

Another coat of paint tomorrow and the tank goes back on. The skid plate will be on but only 3 of the 4 brackets remain from the rust. After the 2" body lift, coming soon, I'll make a skid plate after I relocate the tank up higher.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/44.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: utahskibum on April 15, 2010, 07:35:26 PM
Do you know what the factory called that paint color? Any chance you would know the paint code?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 16, 2010, 08:32:11 PM
Do you know what the factory called that paint color? Any chance you would know the paint code?

43U    WA299C  Woodland Green Met      Enamel Clear Coat.


I liked the color more before the clear started delmainating. You can't tell in the pictures cause I have it waxed but the tops of the flares, the a-pilliars, the hood (till I painted it) and the little lips on the doors area all getting rough and frosty/white looking.

The entire thing is getting repainted in a few weeks to months in Hitachi Charcoal construction equipment paint from the local John Deere repair shop. The hood is painted with John Deere Blitz Black.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 21, 2010, 12:40:10 AM
Making a tubular bumper. Horizontals are .120 wall, verticals are .95 wall. I drilled 1/2" holes at every joint, plan when done is use it as a tank to hold air so I can air up some after offroading. Guess I'll see how much air it can hold and how many PSI I can raise my tires. May get an electric pump in the future.

Only put 2ish hrs into it tonight. Be working on it more tomorrow afternoon.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/45.jpg)


What it will probably look like when done.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/Bumper3.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 22, 2010, 11:42:58 PM
Got a little more done yesterday. Busy Busy.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/46.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on May 02, 2010, 03:42:42 PM
Went to Rausch Creek again on Sunday.

I was working my way up the 3rd climb on the left past Lake Christy and got about 3/4 way up taking it easy and unloaded front left so I backed down a few feet and gave it a little gas to get some momentum to carry the wheel till it got traction... well, it got traction and now the front end skips teeth under load.  :disgust:

Guess it's time to get some 5.125 gears from a manual Tracker to swap in place of my 4.30s!

Pics to come in a few days when I swap it all out. Stupid front aluminum housings. Also waiting for my 2" body lift to come Tuesday. My rear tires bottom out in the wheel well so I'm not getting full articulation.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on May 22, 2010, 07:15:27 PM
5.125 gears are in the rear, what a difference!. I still need to get a new front pass halfshaft before I can install the front.

Cleaned and waxed it today.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/49.jpg)

Also, has anybody seen this style end on the rear axles? Sean|removethispart||removethispart|@LROR said he's never seen this as I was asking him about just getting caliper brackets to run disc brakes in the rear sometime in the future.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/47.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/48.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Drone637 on May 22, 2010, 10:56:59 PM
I've seen that style before, but I can't tell you which year rig I saw it on.  So basically, I'm no help at all.  :P

Looks good though, I like the snorcle coming straight up rather then off and to the side.  Looks good when all polished up.  Have you ever thought about getting an ARB style square top for the snorkel?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on May 22, 2010, 11:45:32 PM
I've seen that style before, but I can't tell you which year rig I saw it on.  So basically, I'm no help at all.  :P

Looks good though, I like the snorcle coming straight up rather then off and to the side.  Looks good when all polished up.  Have you ever thought about getting an ARB style square top for the snorkel?

The snorkel is all 2" which fit in the stock flex tubing inlet to the airbox with a coupler on it. I lost 5 mph goig up the local "test hill" I keep using between mods. I'll be redoing it in 3" but that will take some cutting and metal work to run it like I did.  It'll all be metal next time so I can weld it and "form" it in tight spots so I don't have to hack the underside of the hood out more.

Think I might pull the fender and cut out some of the upper rail there and droup it an inch and weld it back in.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: TopHeavy96 on May 24, 2010, 07:04:44 PM
My '96 4-door had those style axles,  after the wreck they were replaced with 4 bolt ones out of a '93 4-door.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: jawman on July 13, 2010, 09:52:59 AM
I have never seen that style axle before, but I like that style better.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: ebewley on July 13, 2010, 10:16:19 AM
That style, 5 bolt flange vs. 4 bolt flange, of axle is what's on the 96-98 Sidekick/Tracker models. Don't be fooled by thinking they're beefier. While they may appear to be stronger on the outside because 5 is more betterer than 4 right? However, the metal in the axle itself seems to be inferior. I have broken many 96+ axles and 95- axles too but the late model ones seem to go faster. On the plus side, you should have 26 spine front shafts vs. the 22 spline. That's better! :) Hope that helps...

-Eric
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Medford on August 20, 2010, 06:38:50 PM
That axle is what I have on mine.  Having a bit of trouble getting the drum off to get to the shoes.  Chiltons says to use a slide hammer.  Is that how you removed yours?  Anyone else know a trick?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: Jluck on August 20, 2010, 08:45:47 PM
I need some advise too. tried to get my 92's axles out last night (with slide hammer) until I had blisters, then smart me...tried some more MY HANDS HURT!!!! :'( :'( WTF???
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: smife on August 21, 2010, 06:06:47 AM
I use a 4 way. Wedge it behind the axle plate, have someone hold it and beat the 4 way with a hammer. I've taken 8 axles out this way with no problems.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on August 24, 2010, 08:48:10 PM
I used an axle puller/slide hammer rented from AutoZone. Just bolt the 3 legs onto 3 wheel studs and screw in the slide hammer and get to work after removing the brakes and removing the 4 nuts that hold the flange on outside of the bearing.

Just got a warehouse job for amazon.com and getting orientation Thursday. Not going to be fun but $12/hr and up to 60hr mandatory overtime I'll be making some decent $$$ and this project will be going again. Removing rear seat, enclosing behind b-pillar with sliding-glass from a small truck and enclosed down to floor. Spare will be moved to where rear seat was (prerunner style) and from there I'll either be rebuilding the bottom end which has bad scoring and worn rings, or possibly an engine swap?

It's been sitting in the yard with no head on the engine since May when the belt went, luckily again, no valve-to-piston contact.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on August 31, 2010, 09:28:28 AM
Got the engine pulled last night along with the top, rear seat, carpet, seat belts, etc. Just got done spraying a bunch of engine cleaner on the engine and pressure washing everything. Now to tear into the block tonight or tomorrow and inspect everything and see if I can reuse any of it.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/53.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/54.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/55.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/56.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on September 01, 2010, 08:57:22 PM
MMMmmmm, scoring. Knew there was something causing my oil pressure light to be on at idle. Some of the bearings are pretty bad, hopefully some new bearings and some machine work can take care of it all. I can catch my finger nails on almost every scratch.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/57.jpg)


Everything disassembled.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/58.jpg)


Wiped the skirts with gas so I could tape them off prior to blasting.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/59.jpg)

#1 piston cleaned up ('degreased' with gas, media blasted, then 1,200 and 2,000 grit sandpaper on the skirts to polish and deburr them.) Providing the machinist is confident that I can get away with a light hone, I'd like to reuse the pistons as the ring lands are square, minimal gap, and uniform.

Everything will be finely cleaned and degreased further to best of my abilities prior to assembly and possibly cleaned at the machine shop as well.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/60.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: djlantis57 on September 04, 2010, 12:38:35 AM
Was this engine just high mileage and worn out, or what?  Did you use a certain kind of oil that deteriorated?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on September 04, 2010, 08:42:21 PM
Was this engine just high mileage and worn out, or what?  Did you use a certain kind of oil that deteriorated?

Engine is original to the Tracker, 117k miles, 60-70k of which was under my ownership. I always used 5w-30 oil and usually Castrol GTX and a few times Penzoil. Oil filter was usually STP and a few times Bosch, air filter was replaced twice in my ownership, currently have a Fram for the last ~1,000 miles.

35k miles worth or so it had blue smoke at startup, that stopped after head rebuild/machine work and new seals but under hard accel it still had a faint smoke, compression test resulted in low numbers, put 2 caps of oil in each cylinder and it bumped it up like 40-60psi each cylinder so I knew it was rings now and I also had developed a low oil pressure at idle (light would flicker) so I was about to stop driving it and it threw the timing belt. The new front main seal pushed out after ~1-2k miles and dug itself into the crank pulley and sprayed a little oil back there so IDK if that had anything to do with the belt walking forward and melting/eating itself after ~5k miles. It was a new Gates belt and tensioner set to factory specs via AllData.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: umiami80 on October 20, 2010, 08:53:43 AM
WOW, when my motor goes I got to get you to build mine.

What do you know about strokers?



Was this engine just high mileage and worn out, or what?  Did you use a certain kind of oil that deteriorated?

Engine is original to the Tracker, 117k miles, 60-70k of which was under my ownership. I always used 5w-30 oil and usually Castrol GTX and a few times Penzoil. Oil filter was usually STP and a few times Bosch, air filter was replaced twice in my ownership, currently have a Fram for the last ~1,000 miles.

35k miles worth or so it had blue smoke at startup, that stopped after head rebuild/machine work and new seals but under hard accel it still had a faint smoke, compression test resulted in low numbers, put 2 caps of oil in each cylinder and it bumped it up like 40-60psi each cylinder so I knew it was rings now and I also had developed a low oil pressure at idle (light would flicker) so I was about to stop driving it and it threw the timing belt. The new front main seal pushed out after ~1-2k miles and dug itself into the crank pulley and sprayed a little oil back there so IDK if that had anything to do with the belt walking forward and melting/eating itself after ~5k miles. It was a new Gates belt and tensioner set to factory specs via AllData.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: KJMac on October 20, 2010, 10:31:14 AM
umiami80,
I have heard horror stories about Castrol oil, may want to switch oil. just my .02 cents

KJ
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: djlantis57 on October 20, 2010, 01:11:14 PM
umiami80,
I have heard horror stories about Castrol oil, may want to switch oil. just my .02 cents

KJ
x2.  Honda Odyssey FL350, my father and brother had those years ago, and had pistons that looked like they were melted.  The Castrol GTX didn't hold up and was found to be a huge failure, especially in that engine.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: vw505 on October 22, 2010, 09:25:34 AM
Nice build up you make it look easy. FWIW I have been using castrol oil for 22 years and never has a problem, after the oil lite started to flicker you should have stepped up to 20w50.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 11, 2010, 05:10:37 AM
Nice build up you make it look easy. FWIW I have been using castrol oil for 22 years and never has a problem, after the oil lite started to flicker you should have stepped up to 20w50.

Eh, lesson learned? haha

WELL, winter is fast approaching, which means only 1 thing... the Tracker needs to get back on the road. Since with overtime at work since we're in peak now, I'm bringing in an extra $160+ /wk now after taxes till at least the end of the year which gives me a bit of 'play' money in addition to the $200 of spare $ I have every week that I blow near 1/2 of.

Crank is going to the machine shop Friday to get evaluated and machined if it's salvageable, then I'm ordering all new main/rod bearings, rings, oil pump, timing belt/tensioner, and some T-gauges to check the bore size and if it's outta round or anything to determine if it needs machined. Hoping I can get away with a light DIY hone and reusing my pistons. Then a full gasket kit (for the 3rd time now LOL) and assembly begins!

Have to figure out what I'm doing with the top now since the rear zipper broke. Maybe cut the end of the zipper line off and slide a new head on and crimp something on the end so it doesn't come off... have to swing by my old upholstery job and see if I can get a zipper head like the ones we used for marine covers/tops.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: meach4x4 on November 14, 2010, 10:08:41 PM
Was this engine just high mileage and worn out, or what?  Did you use a certain kind of oil that deteriorated?

Engine is original to the Tracker, 117k miles, 60-70k of which was under my ownership. I always used 5w-30 oil and usually Castrol GTX and a few times Penzoil. Oil filter was usually STP and a few times Bosch, air filter was replaced twice in my ownership, currently have a Fram for the last ~1,000 miles.


Did you ever have any coolant loss?  The reason I ask is that the color of your oil stains on the crank and rods is quite brown, which usually happens when you have coolant mixed in the oil.  Ideally, the staining should be more to the blue/black color.  Of course, I've never pulled down a Suzuki motor, so maybe that is a difference, but I've torn down a lot of other makes, and when I first saw the pic of yours I thought you must have had a head gasket leaking coolant into the oil for a while.  That also would explain why your oil pressure was low at idle.  

Any brand of oil doesn't do well when it has coolant mixed in. ;)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 15, 2010, 03:03:14 AM
Was this engine just high mileage and worn out, or what?  Did you use a certain kind of oil that deteriorated?

Engine is original to the Tracker, 117k miles, 60-70k of which was under my ownership. I always used 5w-30 oil and usually Castrol GTX and a few times Penzoil. Oil filter was usually STP and a few times Bosch, air filter was replaced twice in my ownership, currently have a Fram for the last ~1,000 miles.


Did you ever have any coolant loss?  The reason I ask is that the color of your oil stains on the crank and rods is quite brown, which usually happens when you have coolant mixed in the oil.  Ideally, the staining should be more to the blue/black color.  Of course, I've never pulled down a Suzuki motor, so maybe that is a difference, but I've torn down a lot of other makes, and when I first saw the pic of yours I thought you must have had a head gasket leaking coolant into the oil for a while.  That also would explain why your oil pressure was low at idle.  

Any brand of oil doesn't do well when it has coolant mixed in. ;)

Never had coolant loss, before or after the prior teardown ~5k miles ago. Oil 'stains' in a clean engine are always a gold/bronze/brown color, black is when you let the oil cook/bake/breakdown too much prior to changing. Too much baking and it turns to sludge and gums up in the head among other places.

Only thing the engine used was .5-.75 quarts every oil change (~3-4k miles).

Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: wildgoody on November 20, 2010, 10:58:40 PM
I have found over the years that Castrol is a quality oil, and leaves your
inside a golden but clean color.

And I have also noticed that Pennzoil leaves that darker brown and also
a coating of sludge on the valve cover, I think Pennz has improved their
oil additive package to reduce the buildup issue, but I still will not use
their oil

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 20, 2010, 11:24:21 PM
Taking the block to the machine shop this week to see if I can get away with a hone or if I need a little more. Regardless, with overtime now, I'm going to get new YCP Vitara pistons like all the Honda budget builds use.

Think I sourced a low mileage d16z6 crank also, if they still have it, I'll be getting it and doing my own comparison to verify and either get it machined down on the mains or get the block bore/alignhoned to fit depending on cost differences and what the machine shop says. Then I'll be checking on rods.

Anybody know our stock 16v rod length?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: wildgoody on November 21, 2010, 12:18:18 AM
I used to know, but all I could find is 139.57 mm but it might be wrong,
for a 1.6 engine, both 16V and 8V engines have the same rods

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 21, 2010, 12:55:04 AM
I used to know, but all I could find is 139.57 mm but it might be wrong,
for a 1.6 engine, both 16V and 8V engines have the same rods

Wild

TeamSwift says 139.6mm / 5.489 inches

Looks like FJT Distributors has custom length D16 rods which are 138.633mm / 5.458 inches which is closer then 'standard' d16 rods which are 137mm. Unfortunatelly still 1 mm short from the g16 rod. If I can't find something 'perfect' or closer, I'll probably go with them.

OH, another thing, I have some ARP head studs from a k24de build I started but never finished and the studs screw into the block right and are the right length, but I believe they get caught up passing through on the exhaust side... I may see about getting the passages for the studs enlarged so they fit just cause I have the studs already and they'll be better then standard head bolts.

Any good options for a head gasket?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on November 21, 2010, 01:08:47 AM
I used an aftermarket head gasket on the turbo motor, no problems
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 21, 2010, 01:15:55 AM
I used an aftermarket head gasket on the turbo motor, no problems

I've used 2 gasket sets off e-bay so far with no problems, then again I only ran 5k miles on the setup but still. Currently trying to find the piston pin/compression height to see if what D16 rod I shoud go with (137 or 138.633).

D16 piston has -15.4cc dish & 29.81-30.00 pin height, while g16 has -15cc dish & 28.3~28.6mm pin height.

SO, pin height is 1.5mm closer for the Vitara to the deck but at the same time the D16 rod is .967mm-2.6mm shorter.

G16 deck height is 213.8mm, d16 is 212mm so that's 1.8mm shorter.

All this while I have .015"/.381mm shaved from my head.


Too many numbers it's making my head spin thinking about it right now.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on November 21, 2010, 09:13:25 AM
The shorter rod will reduce your compression ratio, but are you
still planning on building a turbo motor? or are you just looking for
stronger rods?

I would look into forged pistons, about $400 for a
set designed for the D16 engine, but watch the CCs in the dish as
well as the CR of the piston, I ended up buying a set that was too
tall and the CR was about the same as a stock cast Suzuki piston, not
that it is bad, the stock CR is about 9:1 which is acceptable for a turbo
motor, but I was looking for 8.5:1 or a little lower, I let the info on the
piston specs cloud my thinking, it was advertised as 8.5 but what is really
most important is the dish volume of the piston and the volume of the
chambers of your head, that is what will give you your CR not the advertised
CR of the piston.

Suzuki rods are plenty strong, and will easily take 200HP turbo motor
application.

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 21, 2010, 03:07:44 PM
The shorter rod will reduce your compression ratio, but are you still planning on building a turbo motor? or are you just looking for stronger rods?

I would look into forged pistons, about $400 for a set designed for the D16 engine, but watch the CCs in the dish as well as the CR of the piston, I ended up buying a set that was too tall and the CR was about the same as a stock cast Suzuki piston, not that it is bad, the stock CR is about 9:1 which is acceptable for a turbo motor, but I was looking for 8.5:1 or a little lower, I let the info on the  piston specs cloud my thinking, it was advertised as 8.5 but what is really most important is the dish volume of the piston and the volume of the  chambers of your head, that is what will give you your CR not the advertised CR of the piston.

Suzuki rods are plenty strong, and will easily take 200HP turbo motor application.

Wild

I'll just run the YCP Vitara pistons, there's litarlly hundreds of d16 turbo guys running them with great results (350-400whp builds) and a few in the 450whp range so they'll be plenty good with plans of only running 200 or so max for now, till I get bored and blow up the driveline LOL. Everything online says the YCP pistons are a stronger material that is a step down from being forged.

The D16 with the vitara piston on stock D16 rod length (137) drops the piston 1.7mm (vitara has a 1.7mm lower piston pin height then D16). That's why FJT offers 1.633 longer rods to move the piston up the near same to bump compression back up to 8.1-8.2:1 for them otherwise they're around 7.5:1 for compression which is very low, even for turbo build.

So 1.6mm longer rods in the D16 = ~.5 compression change it should be somewhat similar for us so the 138.633 rods will be .967mm shorter dropping our compression .3 with the 138.633 rods.

We'd just be getting the compression drop from the rod not putting the piston as high where the D16 guys get the compression drop from our pistons not having as high of a pin height.

If you wanted a slower responding engine but be able to cram stupid amounts of boost in it you could always run their 137mm stock length aftermarket rods and be 2.6mm low and be mid 7:5-8:1 LOL.


I plan on using the 138.633 rods since the crank has the same throw and it's essentially stock pistons so I'm not changing pin height. The shorter rod will get me a light drop in compression which will put me in the 8.5:1 area so that'll be pretty good for turbo. There's a listing on e-bay right now for Revolution Rods and YCP pistons but I think they're only the 137mm rods so you'd only be in the 7.75:1 range probably which is too low for a 'responsive' motor outside of boost. (All rough numbers on the compression but you get the idea).
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on November 21, 2010, 06:57:01 PM
Ya, I get the idea, but I think those #s are too low, the Honda guys use Vitara
pistons to bump compression, and I think the compression with the Honda rod
and forged piston will be closer to 9 than you think, but is still fine for turbo use.

I'm pulling up some new parts in some research I'm doing, I'll let you know

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 29, 2010, 04:57:26 AM
Scored a complete D16Z6 honda engine for $44 (that's all the cash I had in my wallet at the time). Has a lightly spun rod bearing but nothing worse then how ALL of my journals are scored. Going to pull the crank here in the next few days and spec everything out and see what all needs done to make it work in the g16.

Not sure if I posted it or not but somebody outbid me with 7 seconds remaining on the FJT rods and YCP Vitara pistons :(
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Trackasaurouswrex on November 29, 2010, 06:30:20 AM
 Sounds ALOT like what happens to me constantly on Flea-bay.....  Frikkin' snipers  >:( .  ( wheres' the emicon for that, anyways??? )
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on November 29, 2010, 07:58:56 AM
You saw the lightly spun or he told you it was? why did it spin?
got to be oil delivery related, could be a junk crank if not for the
Suzuki having much smaller main and rod journals.

Rebuild the rods and get the crank mains turned down to stock std.
Suzuki journals and have it rehardened  if needed, I'm not sure
if it's needed on a crank or if it's just extra protection  

Now you have a turbo worthy low
compression bottom end with short rods

Ohh, and you will need to do something with the flywheel
to fit the new crank too
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on November 29, 2010, 02:41:15 PM
You saw the lightly spun or he told you it was? why did it spin? got to be oil delivery related, could be a junk crank if not for the Suzuki having much smaller main and rod journals.

Rebuild the rods and get the crank mains turned down to stock std. Suzuki journals and have it rehardened  if needed, I'm not sure if it's needed on a crank or if it's just extra protection. Now you have a turbo worthy low compression bottom end with short rods

Ohh, and you will need to do something with the flywheel to fit the new crank too

I saw it (he lost the main cap for that rod but when I picked up the engine we took the pan back off and he showed me the journal). It's not that bad and will be able to be machined to just accept oversize bearings on that rod.

I'm scared of what the machine work is going to cost.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on November 29, 2010, 02:56:14 PM
the writeup I saw the guy said he spent $700 on turning the crank and
having the journals nitrided but I think that is over priced, I was talking
to a crank shop here is San Bernardino that would weld and regrind a
stroker crank for a Sidekick for about $400, and that is more work than
just turning and treating a crank
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: shanemade on December 01, 2010, 07:10:16 PM
This is a deadly build!! Nice job on everything.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 02, 2010, 03:43:14 AM
This is a deadly build!! Nice job on everything.


Only to get better! Got a knockoff Type-S BOV from e-bay, said to be one of the 'better' quality ones out there so we'll see. Turbo rebuild kit arrived a few days ago and the 6 port vacuum block arrived yesterday. A few days ago I ordered a 2' piece of 3.5"x3.5" .120 wall box tubing to make a custom upper part of the intake manifold and relocated the TB to the end, providing the cables will reach, that way I can have shorter charge piping to/from a small front mount intercooler after I remove the A/C lines and condenser.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 03, 2010, 11:42:00 PM
Don't go too crazy trying to shorten the intake between the turbo and the
throttle body, I had about 6' of 2" and 3" tubing, plus a Volvo intercooler
and there was really no lag so don't put bunches of work into that, do
something that is more productive

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 04, 2010, 02:22:21 AM
Don't go too crazy trying to shorten the intake between the turbo and the throttle body, I had about 6' of 2" and 3" tubing, plus a Volvo intercooler and there was really no lag so don't put bunches of work into that, do something that is more productive.

Wild

I just wanted to mess with the idea, I have yet to see if the cables will even reach the TB relocated to the front.

On a good note I finally took the block, crank, and main caps to the machine shop today along with the honda crank and girdle to see what they think. Rough measurements show that the mains need turned down 3mm, the snout for the timing gear is the same but it is ~.5" longer where it steps down for the accessory drive and the bolt/threading is larger. Honda main bolts are 1/8" larger and much longer. The trans side of the crank is ~.5" larger in OD and the 6 bolts are larger in size and bolt pattern.

Rough estimate is $350-$400 for machine work on the crank alone but they're doing research and doing a few calls to see if the Honda cranks are and/or need nitride treatment and if it does it will probably cost another $300+. IF the crank DOESN'T need treated, I'll probably get it done. IF IT DOES, then I'm sticking with factory crank, getting it 'fixed' and using new oversize bearings and will just be 'happy' with up to 200hp.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 04, 2010, 08:44:51 AM
I think 200 HP is a good but conservative figure, but if I were building
your engine, I would use the 16V crank, it has double counter weights
and is supposed to be better at high RPM by not flexing the crank
like a single counter weight can do

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 04, 2010, 11:38:15 AM
I think 200 HP is a good but conservative figure, but if I were building your engine, I would use the 16V crank, it has double counter weights and is supposed to be better at high RPM by not flexing the crank like a single counter weight can do

Wild

A little relieving that the 16v is less prone to the warp issues as that's what I have.

I just ordered a CXRacing front mount (18"x12"x3") off ebay, hoping to be able to tuck it behind the grill infront of the radiator after I remove the condenser.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 08, 2010, 05:46:27 AM
FMIC will be here in a few days. Have a piece of 3.5"x3.5" .120 wall box tubing I'm going to make a custom upper for my intake mani to relocate the TB to the front. Black item in the picture is a 6 port vac block so I don't have to drill/tap so many holes in the plenum.
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/63.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 15, 2010, 07:36:24 AM
 :( Just stopped shaking... the machine shop called and gave me a price for ALL the work I want/need done. I gave the green light anyhow. This is going to be frikking sweet! I can't wait till everything's done and a few hundred miles after 1st startup to beat on it!!! Now... since I'm spending so much on the engine, I have to go legit with tuning.

Driving down Friday to put ~50% down and get paperwork to show what's being done!!! The 1 rod bearing that spun is getting welded and remachined to OE Honda specs to match the others. I'll put up a full list of what's getting done probably Saturday.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 24, 2010, 08:03:19 PM
5 new holes drilled and 1 slotted and it fits! Flange is slightly warped so I'm probably going to get a quote to get it milled at the shop. What can you expect for a $100 ebay manifold?
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/64.jpg)

Everybody loves him... my goofy brother.
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/65.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 24, 2010, 08:52:37 PM
So what was that manifold built for? a Honda or was it custom for the 16V Suzuki
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 24, 2010, 10:00:36 PM
So what was that manifold built for? a Honda or was it custom for the 16V Suzuki


Below is a link to the manifold I purchased. It is for a 'Mazda Protege 5 1.6l' t3 setup. The flange that is already on the manifold is large enough that I just drilled 5 new holes and slotted 1. The front most hole I'm going to use a small spacer with a washer to 'clamp' it to the head. For the rear most 2 bolt holes nearest the EGR passage I'm going to make a small plate to bolt on with a passage for the EGR setup then run a tube from that to the external wastegate port on the manifold. If I have some spare time tomorrow I'll drill out a few of the holes and do a quick mock up and post it in here. I already purchased a t3-t25 adapter.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/MAZDA-PROTEGE-5-1-6L-STAINLESS-STEEL-T3-TURBO-MANIFOLD-/250745531263?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3AProtege&hash=item3a61992b7f (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/MAZDA-PROTEGE-5-1-6L-STAINLESS-STEEL-T3-TURBO-MANIFOLD-/250745531263?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3AProtege&hash=item3a61992b7f)


t25-t3 adapter I just purchased. Going to drill out the threads for the t25 side since the Saab turbo is studded.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GODSPEED-T3-T25-TURBINE-FLANGE-CONVERTER-ADAPTER-GASKET-/150536952497?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item230cb39ab1 (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/GODSPEED-T3-T25-TURBINE-FLANGE-CONVERTER-ADAPTER-GASKET-/150536952497?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&hash=item230cb39ab1)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 25, 2010, 08:20:00 PM
Started on the custom plenum. Making it from 3.5"x3.5" .120 wall box tubing. Pied out a 1.5"x7" section and folded the top down, welded, and ground smooth. All holes for the mouting are drilled and tapped. Need to get shorter bolts. Tacked on a cap for the backside for now till I figure out what I'm doing for the vac lines and some sensor mounts.

Figured it'd be an efective way to shorten the runners and gain a larger plenum all at once, let alone relocating the throttle body to the end instead of side so it no longer goes over the exhaust area.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/67.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/66.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: BRD HNTR on December 27, 2010, 08:25:12 AM
Great detail on this build.  Getting all the numbers together and deciphering them must have taken a lot of time.  Looking forward to the rest of it.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 27, 2010, 09:57:51 AM
Great detail on this build.  Getting all the numbers together and deciphering them must have taken a lot of time.  Looking forward to the rest of it.

At work (Amazon.com), workflow has greatly dropped off this week. Had off yesterday and today so the build is going to be slowed down. IF I loose my job the build will be put on hold.

In other news, the coolant outlet above the thermostat is in the way for the TB. I'm unsure if the throttle cable will even reach the TB being located way up front like this. I think the kick-down? cable will reach tho. Thinking about plating off the end of the plenum and running a 1.5" length of 2.5" tubing to yet another flange that I can then bolt the throttle body to. Waiting till I get the engine back so I can drop the block in and set the head on and see if I should continue with the plenum build or not.

Anybody know of a place that makes custom throttle cables to get one longer?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Trackasaurouswrex on December 27, 2010, 10:17:57 AM
Way late on asking this, but, back on page 2, you say that you are going to be moding the LCA for camber adjustment. Is the 1.5' x .75" ball joint RE-location mod, or are you doing something different?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 27, 2010, 10:54:10 AM
Way late on asking this, but, back on page 2, you say that you are going to be moding the LCA for camber adjustment. Is the 1.5' x .75" ball joint RE-location mod, or are you doing something different?

I cut the control arms and moved the joint forward and outward at the same time. I forget the measurements of what I ended up doing tho.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Trackasaurouswrex on December 27, 2010, 11:18:03 AM
 Ok. That's what I was wondeering. Thanks.  For your throttle cable, have you tried outfits such as Lokar? They offer DIY kits for all kinds of things. High quality, too. Like showcar grade stuff.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 28, 2010, 05:09:48 AM
Nice buildup so far. I was taking a good look at that turbo manifold you got off ebay and I have to tell you I'd be concerned with the thickness ( or lack therof ) of the tubing used to build it. It looks like plain old stainless exhaust tubing, and from experience I can tell you it won't last long. That thin wall stuff is prone to burn through, cracking and coming apart at the weld areas. While you have it off you might want to brace it against vibration, and to support the weight of the turbo better. jmo.
Also do you have any pics of your control arm mods?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 28, 2010, 08:58:06 AM
Hey Bent, you think even in stainless it would burn through?

I was looking at lots of different manifolds that are available, just
to see if there were something that could be easily modified to
be custom fitted to a 16V Suzuki engine, and that fits the right
location in the engine bay for ease of install.

I found one that I think will work well, and even contacted a
company to see if they will copy a prototype. Many if the specs
say the tubing is 2.3mm thick, which sounds thin but that's about
1/8" and should be fine as long as you support the turbo or brace
the manifold properly to prevent cracking

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 28, 2010, 10:01:33 AM
Depends on where it's made from what I've been told by the local trubo guru's. Many of those Chinese made manifolds use an inferior stainless, it will actually begin corroding soon after install. They are also know for cracking after just a few hours of run time. I'm sure there's probably good ones out there, but all the ones I've seen that were built to be durable were made out of pretty heavy wall tubing, making the manifold itself pretty heavy. I've looked at and held a bunch of quality built turbo manifolds and most of them were as heavy if not heavier than a stock manifold, the cheap Chinese made ones were quite light, much like the first one I built. It lasted less than 6 months, and that was with several repairs. That's when I finally built a good one out of heavy wall stainless. Schedule 40 grade 304.
I imagine you could add some bracing to support the turbo and help with vibration damping, but the thinness of the tubing walls will do more than just deteriorate and crack, it doesn't hold in the heat very well, and the heat is what really runs the turbine side. It also requires much more heat sheilding due to heat leakage and heat soak.
But hey, if your just building a toy, no big deal. Just be prepared to be under the hood regularly for repairs. Just sayin'.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 28, 2010, 10:39:12 AM
Was looking at that manifold again, I give it just a few hours of run time before it starts coming apart. You gets what you pays for, and IMO you can barely buy the materials to build a good strong turbo manifold out of stainless for $94. One more thing, if they made the header flange out of stainless too, it shouldn't be that easy to drill through, especially at 3/8ths or greater thickness. Most really good turbo manifolds don't use stainless header flanges due to the greater expansion rate of stainless. It tends to shear the studs off the head when it heats up and expands. The bolt holes have to be such a loose fit around the studs that you end up with big time sealing problems. Or, if it's the cheap quality recycled spoons and forks the Chinese use to make their stainless it'll probably just warp and split.
































Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 28, 2010, 11:54:48 AM
I have a bunch of Ls already, just regular steel tho, to make a manifold. I just wanted something that I could copy from and seeing it was so cheap, it doesn't matter as much if it fails. For the tubing that intersects from the sides, they only made a hole about the size of a nickle for the exhaust to pass through. I'm going to see if I can get in there with a carbide bit and open it up some.

The wall thickness isn't... thick. It's like 1/16-3/32" maximum from the looks of those passages. The header flange is warped a bit too. I tried quickly sanding it flat and it sands relatively easy with paper. BOTH flanges look cast, and after sanding the head flange a little, it started turning a copper color so I'm worried and unsure WTF it's even made out of LOL. There's no returning it now that I've notched/drilled the new holes so I'm going to try to make the best of it.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 28, 2010, 12:37:06 PM
What  the hell, it'll make a good template!  ;D  Oh, any pic's of your control arm mods? I seem to remember someone doing something similar, maybe it was you. I've been searching this forum looking for pics, without luck. BTW, regular steel is fine for a manifold, just paint it with some of that ceremic high heat paint, Duplicolor works good.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on December 28, 2010, 12:49:38 PM
What  the hell, it'll make a good template!  ;D  Oh, any pic's of your control arm mods? I seem to remember someone doing something similar, maybe it was you. I've been searching this forum looking for pics, without luck. BTW, regular steel is fine for a manifold, just paint it with some of that ceremic high heat paint, Duplicolor works good.

I did the arms back in Feb, unfortunatelly I didn't take pics. Got caught up in doing it and getting them back on not long before a trip to Rausch Creek. I think the passenger side is about 1/16" more forward then the driver side but whatever. I punched out the factory bushings and used ES bushings. I forget the sizing for them also LOL. I used a piece of 1.75" DOM and insterted it into the sleeve and welded it in to make the ID of both arms the same. I also used the same ES bushings on both then opened up the front LCA mounts where the swaybar mounts to use the same size bolt there and in the rear. I still have the swaybar there, I usually have it connected for on-road driving and always disconnected when I went to Rausch.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 28, 2010, 10:37:08 PM
That copper plating is usually done to get chrome to stick, I don't know why
they would chrome plate stainless unless they were going for a show look

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 29, 2010, 01:49:21 PM
Unless it's not real stainless. Put a magnet to it. Real stainless isn't magnetic.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 29, 2010, 09:43:16 PM
That is true sometimes, some Stainless is magnetic, so that isn't
always the best test, but copper is the under plating for other
processes like chrome
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 30, 2010, 05:02:06 AM
Why would they plate stainless? The material itself is one of the best corrosion resistant materials available. Me thinks it's just a cheap rip off.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 30, 2010, 03:18:06 PM
For one of two reasons I can think of, it is a cheep ripoff or it's
easier to chrome plate to make it bling bling than to polish it

My guess is it's for show, as the disclaimers say and is shiney
chrome to look good under the hood on a rice racer... for a
few days until that stuff burns off or get's bubbles in it
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on December 30, 2010, 03:58:49 PM
Good quality stainless is not that hard to polish, providing the finish is already smooth. I have a buddy who has a metal shop that specializes in fabrication of stainless sheet metal products. The good quality smooth stainless polishes up so easily it looks like chrome. When I built my turbo manifold out of Sched 40 304 stainless the finish was rough, so being as anal as I am, I used a variety of tools to smooth the finish, files, grinders,  belt sander, sanding discs on power tools, whatever I could get at it with. Then I took it over to his shop and used their industrial buffers to polish. Came out pretty nice and still is kinda shiny although I haven't polished it in a couple years, no corrosion whatsoever though.
Ya know, it doesn't really matter though if it was chromed, cheap stainless recycled pots and pans, whatever. What matters is he's trying to build a turbo setup and that deserves credit. Props for that! 8)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on December 30, 2010, 04:27:09 PM
enough banter already.....who builds (or would build) a quality one for the 2.0L family? how 'bout it wild?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on December 30, 2010, 09:03:40 PM
Get me an exhaust manifold gasket and what turbo flange do you want?

Should be about $250 plus shipping

I would suggest a top mounted turbo, t-3/t-4 type for best price
on the turbo, new can be had with internal 8 PSI wastegate for
about $200

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on December 30, 2010, 09:27:36 PM
sounds good, I will let him know. will any other mods be necessary? computer, fuel delivery etc??   BTW sorry to sidetrack the thread)  :-[
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: jaysonbarn on January 03, 2011, 03:40:35 AM
Great stuff bro. Your technical is great. From where did you get to learn all those things??
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on January 03, 2011, 08:10:18 AM
Lots of study, reading over technical books on all sorts of related subjects,
and hands on doing it, as well as I have a natural aptitude for mechanics.

I often say "it's a curse" as I can't hardly look at something and not want
to either know how it works or want to make it better

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on January 04, 2011, 10:07:31 AM
.020 over pistons finally came. YCP brand with upgraded teflon coated skirts. Only ~$140 shipped total and the Honda D16 guys run 400+hp on them daily so they'll last. Ordered the custom rods also, could take up to 7-10 weeks. Rumor was that the company had a few in stock so we'll see how long it takes till I get them.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/68.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 04, 2011, 02:31:32 PM
Damn those are pretty!
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on January 04, 2011, 06:22:18 PM
Thats a good price for pistons, I had to go look them up, but those are cast
not forged, on some other forums guys are running them high, like 12 PSI
and more, and they say they are holding, they also say the pistons are noisy
and sound like a diesel, but that was from large clearances like .035 for heat
expansion, I think that's a little wide, but these are cast, and will expand more
than forged pistons.

I paid about $400 for forged pistons, and those didn't include rings

Go easy on the boost, no more than 8 PSI boost on these would
be my advice, but these could be those new Hypereutectic piston type
too and those are stock in new Chevrolet vehicles

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on January 05, 2011, 12:25:50 AM
Thats a good price for pistons, I had to go look them up, but those are cast not forged, on some other forums guys are running them high, like 12 PSI  and more, and they say they are holding, they also say the pistons are noisy and sound like a diesel, but that was from large clearances like .035 for heat expansion, I think that's a little wide, but these are cast, and will expand more than forged pistons.

I paid about $400 for forged pistons, and those didn't include rings

Go easy on the boost, no more than 8 PSI boost on these would be my advice, but these could be those new Hypereutectic piston type too and those are stock in new Chevrolet vehicles

Wild

From the research I did prior to making the jump for such cheap pistons, some sites say they are a step under forged.

AC8a cast is said to be stronger then most all OEM pistons followed by being T6 heat treated. There are literally tons of Honda guys running them in D16 engines pushing 12-18psi in daily drivers and shop cars running 25-30+psi. You can ruin even a 'name brand top of the line' piston if your tune is crap. A few shop cars have passed the 500whp mark with the rods/pistons I ordered and I'm using a D16 crank so it's virtually the same setup, just in a different block with a different head.

I have high confidence in the setup. I'm more worried about a rocker failing then I am the bottom end letting go. I already know I'm most likely going to ruin the driveline which will just give reason to do a solid axle swap.

I'll be running a wideband O2 sensor and 92 octane (which will be funny asking for 92-93 octane in my Tracker when I visit some friends in NJ where its full service). I'll also be running oil pressure gauge, trans cooler, and a boost/vac gauge.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 05, 2011, 03:16:26 PM
I'm in NJ too, always get some looks asking for premium, but I think it's just the modified Tracker.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on January 05, 2011, 07:54:53 PM
I'm in NJ too, always get some looks asking for premium, but I think it's just the modified Tracker.

Nothing like cruisi around in the Pine Barrens for hours listening to music and relaxin with friends!  One buddy is in Tabernacle.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 05:08:16 AM
I'm in NJ too, always get some looks asking for premium, but I think it's just the modified Tracker.

Nothing like cruisi around in the Pine Barrens for hours listening to music and relaxin with friends!  One buddy is in Tabernacle.
Get that rig running so we can go out!
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 05:09:06 AM
Let me know if you would like some help at all, I'm close enough to drive by and lend a hand.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on January 06, 2011, 09:43:00 AM
When you get funny looks asking for premium, just say it's got a turbo,
then they will probably want to see it, unless you don't have the time
to chit chat.

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on January 06, 2011, 09:46:19 AM
you wont have to worry about it if you never get it done! :P

chop chop!! :laugh:
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 03:25:39 PM
you wont have to worry about it if you never get it done! :P

chop chop!! :laugh:

Look who's talking! you ought to use velcro fasteners on your engines Jluck  :laugh: :P
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 03:53:12 PM
When you get funny looks asking for premium, just say it's got a turbo,
then they will probably want to see it, unless you don't have the time
to chit chat.

Wild

Going to have to stop by Pep Boys and pick up one of them there chrome  turbo emblems ::)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on January 06, 2011, 07:04:59 PM
Chrome emblem  :P Let the turbo do the advertising

Keep it sleeper
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 07:17:16 PM
Yeah, it is fun to pull away from a stoplight and leave a bigass suv behind. I can usually get a good  :o  look from that.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on January 06, 2011, 07:21:30 PM
I live on a rural highway that leaves passing a dangerous sport, I often think what will people be thinking when a cute 'lil rig with a "S" on the grille pops out behind them then blows there doors off. :laugh:
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 06, 2011, 07:25:39 PM
Their gonna think " what the hell was that !? "
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on January 06, 2011, 07:53:55 PM
Rods start manufacturing next week. Have them by end of Feb most likely... Lame
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on January 07, 2011, 07:19:50 AM
you wont have to worry about it if you never get it done! :P

chop chop!! :laugh:

Look who's talking! you ought to use velcro fasteners on your engines Jluck  :laugh: :P


 :-[ you win this one bentparts! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:

Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on January 07, 2011, 03:41:28 PM
All in good fun boys, all in good fun  8)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Trackasaurouswrex on January 07, 2011, 11:27:55 PM

[/quote]
Look who's talking! you ought to use velcro fasteners on your engines Jluck  :laugh: :P
[/quote]


 Now, THAT is funny. I don't care WHO you are...   :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on February 14, 2011, 12:03:23 AM
SMALL update. Think I have a buyer for some expensive rims I have from another vehicle so that should pay off the rest of this 'phase' of the build.

Picked up some front seats from a Sidekick this weekend at a u-pull junkyard for $20/each. They are much more comfortable then the stock flat Tracker seats and the adjustable headrests make it that much better. Going to recover them in black with red inserts sine I already have enough 'Marine' vinyl left from other projects to do it.

1 of the seats on the left, photoshop of what I'm doing on the right.
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/S1.jpg)

Seats I did with the same vinyl for a customer. I'm not doing piping on my seats.
(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/CustomerCars/BradFordZX2/U1.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on February 14, 2011, 03:38:03 AM
That is a SWEET job on the seats! Do you do this for a living? I'd LOVE to change the fabric on my Corbeu sport seats, they are covered in a black soft cloth that attracts dirt and lint like a magnet. I have to keep a cheap seat cover over them and that sucks and makes them hard to keep clean.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on February 14, 2011, 11:03:35 AM
I had training for trim/upholstery at WyoTech in 06 and I worked at an upholstery shop from 09-10. Not a ton of experience but enough to get by and look good. I'm doing the Tracker seats for more experience/warm up before I do the seats in my escortZX2. They'll be black pleather with suede inserts with double stitch diamond pleats.

I have some Corbeau seats I'll be recovering. Be my first 'race' style seats. I'll let you know how it goes.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on February 28, 2011, 03:04:58 AM
WOOT! FJT replied to my email and said my rods are in route to them and they should be shipped to me later this week or early next week. Just purchased ACL race bearings for the rods, Clevite thrust bearings, Sealed Power main bearings, and a new oil pump. Think a gasket set should be all I need now minus tubing for the intercooler and treating the crankshaft when its done.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on February 28, 2011, 03:59:18 AM
That is going to be some hot rod!
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on February 28, 2011, 08:14:29 AM
I have a bunch of 2.5" I/C piping and silicone couplers left over from my build if you are interested. pm me
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on March 01, 2011, 04:20:27 AM
Me too on the intercooler piping and couplers. Lots of left over turbo stuff.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Jluck on March 01, 2011, 05:47:30 AM
Shoot bent I shoulda hit you up before ordering elbows! 20+ dollars each is robbery!
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on March 03, 2011, 04:11:16 AM
Really, either of you guys need anything piping wise I've got a box full in the attic of my shop, silicone couplers, polished aluminum tubing, clamps, all kinds of shit.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on March 14, 2011, 10:24:48 AM
Looking for polished piping for the 'bling' factor  ;)


Yummmmm... can't wait till they're in! Have to take to the machine shop to check/possibly clearance the block!

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/69.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 29, 2011, 02:38:53 PM
Woot, just went to the machine shop and they have been working on it... slowly. Block cleaned, mains are line honed, block decked, and bored/honed. Crank main journals are all turned down, the rod journal that was spun has been prepped and welded up in prep for machineing down.

The other 3 rod journals are still at Honda OE spec so the ACT Race standard size D16 bearings that I got work! Oil pump end of crank is all good and measures out that it should fit the Tracker oil pump fine, snout is prepped to be cut down ~.500" and keyway cut for timing gear. They are moving the thrust bearing from the #3 location for the Tracker to the #4 location that Honda uses because the crank doesn't have any meat in the #3 spot to machine flat/bearing to run against and the #4 spot in the Tracker block is already rough machined from the factory so they only need to hit it ~.015" on each side and they'll fit.

#1 and #3 rod hit 2 random ridges in the bottom end. Shop is going to shave them flat but this isn't all that needs done in the bottom end. The rod bolts are ~.020" from the block and they feel safe with .060" as thats what most other engines call for. They are going to torque down the rod bolts, mark them where they go, then remove and shave off the tip/side of the head slightly to gain that clearance rather then grinding channels in the block that I feel could compromise its integrity.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/70.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on April 29, 2011, 03:26:41 PM
DAMN! What happened to that # 4 crank journal? Looks like it welded itself to the rod.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on April 29, 2011, 11:40:25 PM
DAMN! What happened to that # 4 crank journal? Looks like it welded itself to the rod.

It was a lightly spun bearing from the d16z6 engine. They ground it down then welded it up larger then it needs to be. They have yet to machine the welded material down and polish it to the final size.

I only paid $60 for a full d16z6 engine because of the spun bearing, pulled the crank, and sold the rest of it (bottomend/internals/full head) for $80 or $100 so the spun bearing repair nearly pays for itself as the crank was free.

They said crank should be done mid/late next week then it still needs sent out to get nitride treated at a place near Philadelphia.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on May 19, 2011, 04:03:55 AM
Any updates on this?
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on May 19, 2011, 04:26:58 AM
Any updates on this?


May 17th:
Member on honda-tech sent me 6 factory bolts for the d16 flywheel so the machine shop could use them to plug the stock holes, shave off, then machine down that end of the crank so the rear main seal fits. The bolts were needed because they'll be machining down into them and then pressing a 'repair sleve' on as they call it so it is a smooth surface to prevent the seal from being possibly eaten.

Unsure if they machined the repaired rod journal down yet, but besides that, everything else is good to go! I'll post an update when everything is back in my hands along with hopefully a price breakdown... have a feeling I'm going to need to put another $800 into it bringing it up to a total of near $1,800 between top end and bottom end machine work total.

New oil pump is here along with timing kit. Experimenting with an adjustable Honda F22 cam gear if it measures up the same when it comes in. Going to get the shop to make an adaptor piece to make it bolt to the cam.

ANYBODY KNOW of an adjustable cam gear that will just bolt on just incase this $30 one won't work?



Thursday, May 19th:

Cam gear is here, it's the correct tooth count and spacing, etc. Now to take it with me to the machine shop and see what they think about modding it to work.

I'll just use the notch

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/71.jpg)


Talk to the shop about making a ring with keyway kinda like this to 'adapt' it.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/72.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: wildgoody on May 19, 2011, 08:24:34 AM
That new hub looks too thick, and it also looks like it
could be aluminum, so you might just want to mod the
stock pulley and have it fitted so the new cam cog will
fit on it and adjust

Wild
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: bentparts on May 19, 2011, 04:02:32 PM
Sure is purdy though!
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on September 03, 2011, 07:45:24 PM
BIG UPDATE!!!

Found a MSIII kit with 8' wiring harness for sale on the local forum...

MS3357-C_BL - $548

MSHarness8 - $67

Total: $615

For sale for $450 shipped!!! Saving $165... better then the deal DIYautotune would give me.

Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on September 14, 2011, 04:34:26 AM
Received a call from the machine shop yesterday... followed up today!

They sourced a way to do the holes, got that taken care of while I was out of town, pressed the seal saver sleeve on the rear of the crank, and everything is balanced! Doing a final clean today and I'll hear from them tomorrow.

Now, to send the crank out to get nitride treated to protect my HUGE investment.
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Drone637 on September 14, 2011, 09:29:23 AM
Nice to see the project is still going forward.  :)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: yellow2000S/R on January 19, 2012, 10:33:02 PM
Haven't updated this in forever. I went to the machine shop and they royally screwed up the crank, it literally took me 3 months of searching to find another crank for a core. I'm taking it to a fabrication shop this Saturday to get the holes welded prior to taking it to the machine shop to get everything machined. I'll be working up some kind of paper regarding a deadline and if they don't agree, I will be seeking legal action because of how big of an inconvience this has all been, and I have just shy of $1,000 invested in that crank.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/Crank/5.jpg)

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/Crank/4.jpg)


This is how I told them to do it, and saw a shop in Canada did it for one of their Swifts.

(http://www.endlessmotorsports.net/Gallery/Tracker/Crank/1.jpg)
Title: Re: 96 Tracker build - getting serious post 72+
Post by: Drone637 on January 20, 2012, 08:33:56 AM
I had to go back and read up on what you were trying to do, really annoying about the crank.  Hopefully they will get it right this time...