IHADAV8.com - Turbo Buick Tech, and Nonsense

General => IHADAV8 Playground => Topic started by: motorhead on August 27 2014, 09:16:56 PM

Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 27 2014, 09:16:56 PM
I do a lot of random things and have lots of crazy ideas for things I want to do with/for the kid(s) that aren't directly related to my project cars so I figured I'd share.

---

I needed a (mental) break from working on the wagon so I built this for our Daughter... she is 17 months old today.  Crazy!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 27 2014, 09:18:26 PM
A few more...
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: stevemon on August 27 2014, 09:37:34 PM
THAT is COOL!!  :rock:  Great job on the project Mike! 
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on August 28 2014, 03:09:58 PM
That's awesome!
I want one for me!
The wheels up shot is my favorite.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on August 28 2014, 05:20:06 PM
You're a lucky guy. Those times end way too quick. Nice wheels up :cheers:
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Steve Wood on August 28 2014, 10:33:05 PM
 :cheers:  good job!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on August 28 2014, 11:51:49 PM
That's awesome!   
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on August 29 2014, 01:04:04 PM
and its a hemi  :cool;
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 29 2014, 04:08:02 PM
Thanks guys!

I hope it makes for great memories.  Now to get started on the pedal car!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 19 2014, 09:22:54 PM
So we recently bought a '99 Taurus off my brother in-law who had it unceremoniousl y left to him by his Grand Mother before she took off back to Germany; he couldn't afford it, and my wife is too damn sweet to let him suffer. So now I am suffering.  We've got about $1500 into the stupid thing already (certification, repairs (balljoint, endlinks, trans flush), emissions, plates, transport, and actually giving her brother some cash to ease "his pain").  This was before it started leaking oil like crazy out the front of the pan where the crankcase pressure pushed the gasket out (normal they say); my driveway is fucked with stains now.   As well, this is the base model with the Vulcan 3.0, not the DOHC Duratec... so it is a dog and was very quiet until today. ;)


Moroso valve cover breather to help keep the oil pan gasket from being pushed out again (that and where I spiked the front lip of the pan to pinch the gasket after I stuffed it back in), and the old K&N off the TrailBlazer to fix the car breathing through a straw.  I built the MAF adapter out of scrap steel and spare exhaust tubing (not a straight cut was found that day).

And lastly a 3" chambered glass pack - to hear that sweet 3.0L V6 rumble... even if the rest of the exhaust is 2" diameter. LMFAO!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on October 20 2014, 06:48:08 AM
when we had a ton of those in our fleet at work they were bad for needing the heater cored flushed out so you'd get some heat in the winter at least once in their service life.   
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 20 2014, 12:59:02 PM
That explains why the mechanic certifying it said "it has nice heat".
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on October 20 2014, 06:11:45 PM
Let me dig up the link for the Buck!!!
 
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on October 20 2014, 06:16:52 PM
Save it for your little one. We have TuffTruck competitions in Lancaster County. Nothing more fun than drilling a car just because. :cheers: http://www.buckmotorsports.com/ (http://www.buckmotorsports.com/)
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on November 02 2014, 07:40:55 PM
I missed Halloween last year... this year I went "bananas"!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 09 2014, 04:42:41 PM
Looks like someone decided our truck was too heavy - with a gun, while parked in our driveway, 75 feet away. There goes another $500.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: stevemon on December 09 2014, 04:59:36 PM
Pellet gun? Sorry Mike. Not fun to foot the bill for some azzwipe kids entertainment.




Personal pet peeve: If everyone who spends tens of thousands for their new cars would park the damn things inside a garage my insurance bills would be less.
Grouchy old man Steve....
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on December 09 2014, 08:37:26 PM
Insurance won't cover that?
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 09 2014, 09:25:22 PM
The missed shots indicate a BB gun; and the $500 is our deductible.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on December 09 2014, 10:38:30 PM
That sucks dude!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 18 2015, 11:09:35 PM
Made room for Thing 2... who is due in 9 days or so.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on February 20 2015, 10:55:43 AM
One of the greatest days of my life was when we quit carrying a diaper bag everywhere we went. I still spent way more time in the bathroom than I thought possible but I wouldn't trade my children and wife and the time spent with them for anything.

Congratulation s on the next one.

And that bb gun thing. I always think of it as the payback for all the stupid stuff I did as a kid that I never got caught/punished for. I probably have more coming to me.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on February 20 2015, 12:10:42 PM
Sorry to hear it Mike. The newborn will help you forget. Good luck to you and your family.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 20 2015, 12:52:17 PM
Thanks guys!  It is going to be interesting being the only male in the house: wife, two little girls, and two female cats.
And that bb gun thing. I always think of it as the payback for all the stupid stuff I did as a kid that I never got caught/punished for. I probably have more coming to me.
Funny!  I agree with this statement; and also why I feel that the universe is getting back at me for all my transgressions with the fairer sex by surrounding me with them.  Penance.  LMFAO!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: gordyzx9r on February 21 2015, 10:09:05 AM
And that bb gun thing. I always think of it as the payback for all the stupid stuff I did as a kid that I never got caught/punished for. I probably have more coming to me.

My daughter is about to turn 13 and my son is 9...I can't help but think of all the crazy shit I did as a teen, it's all going to come back to haunt me.

But I did learn a couple of valuable lessons along the way.  I remember getting setup for failure by a girl's dad that I really wanted to date.  Went to pick her up and her dad wanted to have a talk with me.  Asked me if he could bum a smoke, I said sure...we went out to the patio and I lit up, handed him one.  He asked me if I'd like a beer, I said sure.  He went in to get one.  Keep in mind, I was 16.  He comes back out with two beers and when I reach for it, he snatches it back and declares "So, you smoke, you drink, and you drive...you are not dating my daughter, get the fuck out".
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on February 21 2015, 07:02:02 PM
Ya'll are just getting to the "exciting" part of child rearing. They aren't driving or dating yet. Back talk and eye rolling are easy(sez the idiot with three girls 21,16 n 12 and an 18 yo son thrown in for good measure).
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on February 21 2015, 07:30:47 PM
Everything gets better when they can wipe their own ass.  Then it's fun until they become 12-13 for a daughter and my boy is still fun at 13. I can tell you that my wife is paying for her raising with my daughter which is now 40 going on 16
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on February 22 2015, 08:51:36 AM
Congrats on number 2 Mike - we just had our 2nd on 2/6
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 22 2015, 11:07:37 AM
Congrats on number 2 Mike - we just had our 2nd on 2/6

Thanks! And congrats to you too!

I am really looking forward to being off work for a month or so.
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 26 2015, 08:16:22 PM
A day early. Surprise!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on February 26 2015, 09:37:31 PM
A day early. Surprise!


Congrats!  I have to say though... Momma got a mustache!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on February 27 2015, 12:14:40 AM
congrats on the newest addition
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on February 27 2015, 05:48:13 PM
Congratulation s!!!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on February 27 2015, 09:59:41 PM
congrats!
Title: Re: The All About My Kid(s) Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on February 28 2015, 09:13:24 AM
Double the fun-Congrats!  Name?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 02 2015, 01:35:01 PM
Thanks guys!  Her name is Talia Elizabeth, born 1 day pre-term (36 weeks and 6 days) at a tiny at 4lb 8oz.  This is her this morning... all of 4 days old.

Last night Natasha and Talia were discharged from the hospital, and it was our first night at home as a family; and it was exhausting. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on March 02 2015, 04:09:21 PM
Wow, that is tiny. Keep an eye on her. Our smallest was 8lbs 6oz and they went up from there. Of course they were full term.

Nothing more exciting than a life being created.
Keep up the good work.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: GavinHunyady on March 02 2015, 04:53:03 PM
congrats!  :cheers:
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 30 2015, 08:14:47 PM
Just cruising home from daycare with Tatiana... who kept exclaiming: We're driving in the Buick!

As well as: What's that sound? (BOV, turbo boost, clanging suspension, sometimes all three) What's that smell? The car is loud!

The best part was when she took her shoes off and dumped sand all over the interior... my fault for not checking since she was playing in a sandbox when I picked her up.  She learned how a vacuum works when we got home.

PS.  Yes, I know I am missing a pull strap cover.
PPS. Not having air bags is awesome... because the kid is at arms length.
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on April 30 2015, 09:57:43 PM
Nice love the CM hat!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Charlief1 on May 01 2015, 01:26:45 AM
Very cool Mike, congrats. :rock: Have you ever thought of building a boat or mini bike? I found some simple free plans that you could do with the kids and wife in mind. :atbeer:
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 01 2015, 06:58:40 AM
Yeah, that Cookie Monster hat is great... I was wearing my Elmo t-shirt.

I am going to build Tatiana a pedal car this Winter that I can adapt with an electric motor.  Then she'll get into carting around 5-6 years old. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Charlief1 on May 01 2015, 02:27:50 PM
If you guys like going to the lake I can also point you towards some simple boat kits that are kid and bigger sized. I built a 15' 6" canoe a few years ago and you can do it in less than a week if you get everything together and have the free time. One's even called the 6 hour canoe because it's that simple.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 18 2015, 08:38:45 PM
If you guys like going to the lake I can also point you towards some simple boat kits that are kid and bigger sized. I built a 15' 6" canoe a few years ago and you can do it in less than a week if you get everything together and have the free time. One's even called the 6 hour canoe because it's that simple.

Can't swim, so I keep my ass out of the water. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 18 2015, 08:42:18 PM
A very expensive Victoria Day here... first we bought a supercharger kit for the TBSS.  Typically the D1 head unit will do 450-550 AWHP on a stock LS2 with the right mods, and can go 600+ on a built engine.


Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 18 2015, 08:43:13 PM
And we picked up a used C6 for the girls...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on May 18 2015, 08:53:23 PM
Nice!  We had a jeep and a john Deere tractor for ours at that age
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 18 2015, 09:03:01 PM
Nice!  We had a jeep and a john Deere tractor for ours at that age

I can't wait to "boost" it. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on May 18 2015, 10:24:50 PM
Nice!  We had a jeep and a john Deere tractor for ours at that age

I can't wait to "boost" it. ;)
I boosted the jeep... Ran two 6 volt batteries in it. It was a rocket!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 18 2015, 10:40:47 PM
Nice!  We had a jeep and a john Deere tractor for ours at that age

I can't wait to "boost" it. ;)
I boosted the jeep... Ran two 6 volt batteries in it. It was a rocket!

This thing is already 12V, does 4km/h in low and 8km/h in high... I am looking to go to 24V and teach them how to drift.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 16 2015, 02:49:07 PM
Couple of updates...

1.  Got the D1SC Procharger home. Yup, it is that big... good to 925hp so they say; and

2.  Fixed my ailing lawn mower like a true redneck... surprised that it didn't catch on fire (for very long at least).
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on June 16 2015, 03:53:02 PM
Whats the D1 going on?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 16 2015, 04:36:30 PM
Whats the D1 going on?

The TBSS. Because family car. ;)
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on June 16 2015, 06:54:33 PM
That mower got a seat?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 16 2015, 08:30:49 PM
That mower got a seat?

Nope... that is just a 7 year old 22" (formerly self-propelled) push-mower.  I ride on a John Deere... but did mow my 3/4 acre with that 22" death trap for about 3 years before we bought it.
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on June 17 2015, 11:19:22 AM
Nice been looking at a deer my Noma is beat pretty bad. It's on it's second deck and the boy snapped an axle popping wheelies in the front yard.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 17 2015, 03:54:45 PM
Ours is  D140.  48" triple blade deck and 22hp, second best power:weight/cut ratio in class IIRC.  The mulching kit I installed took 2 years to figure out how to avoid clumping long/heavy grass.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on July 25 2015, 12:08:03 PM
Just graduated from Army Staff College... no hard feelings saying goodbye after 11+ grueling months of 80-100hr work weeks.  Time to reconnect with the family.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on July 27 2015, 08:33:56 AM
I'll bet your glad that's over...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on July 27 2015, 01:29:46 PM
I'll bet your glad that's over...

In principle, yes.  Trying to get a feel for normal again.  Hoping the supporting promotion isn't too far away.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 06 2015, 10:40:07 PM
Time for a LS9 cam, ported mid-rise, and a Procharger; and some other crap.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on August 06 2015, 11:45:41 PM
Sounds fun. Need a hand?  It's too hot here to do anything
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 07 2015, 09:12:28 AM
Sounds fun. Need a hand?  It's too hot here to do anything

Sure! The garage is well air conditioned; how much is a round-trip flight anyway?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on August 07 2015, 09:20:49 AM
Thats a nice pile of parts Mike.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on August 07 2015, 09:50:24 AM
Sounds fun. Need a hand?  It's too hot here to do anything

Sure! The garage is well air conditioned; how much is a round-trip flight anyway?
Round trip from Dallas to Montreal direct is is about $1700. With 8 connecting flights it's about $600
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 07 2015, 10:37:17 AM
Sounds fun. Need a hand?  It's too hot here to do anything

Sure! The garage is well air conditioned; how much is a round-trip flight anyway?
Round trip from Dallas to Montreal direct is is about $1700. With 8 connecting flights it's about $600

$600 I can afford... but 8 connecting flights is horrible.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 07 2015, 10:39:08 AM
Thats a nice pile of parts Mike.

Thanks, there is an RPM Level 5 trans tucked in the corner too.  Being a one man show is daunting at times like these.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 11 2015, 11:38:49 PM
And the charge piping is complete. 3.5 into the supercharger, 3.0" out to the intercooler, and 4.0" from the intercooler to the throttle body.

Yup. 4 inches.

The inlet pipe clears the battery box with just a little trimming on the near corner, and no known interference from the radiator or fans. Final fitment will be done when the truck is getting buttoned up as the engine will likely move once the new motor mounts are in.

Again, for the record: The reason for the extra large piping is if the LS2 pops, a low compression 5.3L is going in and the Procharger is getting turned way up.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 29 2015, 09:45:18 PM
So while it seemed like a good idea (necessary) to service the TBSS starting two months ago, we have had a huge gap in our lives while it has been down - because as my Buick doesn't make a good family car - living with just the '99 Taurus has been pretty weak.  Hell... we had to rent an SUV over Labour Day to deal with the quantity of crap we haul around these days.  So that triggered the discussion about what was missing... and that brought us to "a truck".  But, what kind of truck fits a family of four?  A crew cab.  We looked at anything 2000 and newer, and an eBay scam and lots of Kijiji/Craiglist crap later before the idea of "new" seemed more and more appealing.

Monday last week involved a trip to a local dealership with a rear facing baby seat to see if it fit in a 2015 Colorado/Canyon crew cab.  It did.  After talking to a salesman who has proven to be more talk than action, and tried to sell us a topend "demo" for a tick below MSRP.  We walked.  On the bus ride home the next day I found this well optioned '15 Cyber Grey Metallic Z71 Colorado crew cab long box.  Well one that looks just like it anyway since it is currently in Saskatchewan; an hour SW of Saskatoon to be exact.  I placed the call, paid well below MSRP and got a few nice rebates (brand loyalty and military) to boot.  My flight is booked for 10 Oct, and I finally get to drive a part of the country I haven't seen.

Natasha is excited to get her truck, I am looking forward to modifying it.  :chin:
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on September 29 2015, 09:50:03 PM
Those are really nice trucks!  You'll be well satisfied with it. 
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 29 2015, 10:49:12 PM
Those are really nice trucks!  You'll be well satisfied with it.

I hope so.  I am usually weary of a "1st year" vehicle - but this is a global chassis truck (5 years proven) and the LFX has been around since 2012 or so.  It should be pretty well sorted.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Charlief1 on September 30 2015, 12:58:57 AM
Gas or diesel?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 30 2015, 06:45:08 AM
Gas or diesel?

Gas.  The new baby coal burner is only now available in the 2016s, and is a very expensive option.  I am hoping that the turbos from the new turbo V6 are a bolt-on to make up some torque.

This thing drives like an SUV, which is why Natasha is pleased with it.  I drove a lot of full-size trucks and SUV rentals this year, and this is a nicer experience.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 30 2015, 01:10:14 PM
Gas or diesel?

Gas.  The new baby coal burner is only now available in the 2016s, and is a very expensive option. 

And then there is this: http://jalopnik.com/thanks-volkswagen-chevy-colorado-diesel-may-get-delay-1733545205 (http://jalopnik.com/thanks-volkswagen-chevy-colorado-diesel-may-get-delay-1733545205)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on November 11 2015, 10:16:03 PM
We've had this for a few weeks (picked it up Oct 10)... It already has a few grand in mods.  I think I have a problem.  For the sake of comparison I parked it next to the waaaaay too large Silverado that I rented for work tomorrow. 
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on November 13 2015, 04:56:45 PM
Soooo... I was promoted to the rank of Major today.  I knew it was coming but I am still waiting for it to sink in.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on November 13 2015, 06:00:06 PM
Congratulation s!

Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on November 13 2015, 06:51:58 PM
Good job!!!!!!!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on November 13 2015, 07:28:26 PM
Nice.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on November 13 2015, 08:27:05 PM
So that would make you a major motorhead? makes sense...
congrats!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on November 13 2015, 10:33:26 PM
congrats!!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on November 14 2015, 09:43:32 AM
Congrats!  Will you be on staff now or still leading troops?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on November 14 2015, 10:27:10 AM
Thanks guys!  "Major PITA" seems to be the running gag nickname right now.

Congrats!  Will you be on staff now or still leading troops?

Both actually.  I hold a full-time position in Army HQ and a part-time role with a local Reserve Infantry unit so I will still be able to command at the tactical-level with a Company.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 05 2015, 02:22:19 PM
Being a cheap shit and not particularly worried about the amount of mileage/use this car gets (only 10K kms in the last year), I drank the Kool-Aid and bought Hankook Optimo 4S All-Weather (not all-season) tires for the Toreass from Crappy Tire (on sale, mail in rebate, and deferred financing, plus one-stop shopping).  We couldn't handle another Winter on balding Summer tires.

Here is the theory behind the AW tires: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzlDGRULvi8 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzlDGRULvi8)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 22 2015, 09:39:49 PM
TBSS progress, damn you China headers: http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/2990490-post124.html (http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/2990490-post124.html)

http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/2990498-post125.html (http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/2990498-post125.html)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on December 22 2015, 10:40:47 PM
Welding that china SS is fun eh? I found with my welder, turning the gas off and turning it to the lowest setting worked the best.
The TBSS are tight underneath. I do miss mine - it was a hoot in the winter.

Are you going to try and enter the TBSS in drag week? I know you have a few cars in your arsenal to choose from!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 22 2015, 11:29:52 PM
Welding that china SS is fun eh? I found with my welder, turning the gas off and turning it to the lowest setting worked the best.
The TBSS are tight underneath. I do miss mine - it was a hoot in the winter.

Are you going to try and enter the TBSS in drag week? I know you have a few cars in your arsenal to choose from!

Funny, I set the MIG to kill and used fluxcore wire - same method for the O2 bung I added - no issues.  The TBSS is definitely an option for Drag Week; I have a pros/cons list for each of the cars - but, it is definitely the most versatile.  But, at the end of the day I just want to stop driving the Toreass everyday because it feels like punishment - so this truck needs to get done soon.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 05 2016, 09:57:03 AM
Took a week off to travel and do family things over Christmas - good times. Got back to it on the 29th and buttoned it up underneath (y-pipe, trans cross member, driveshaft, etc). Yesterday I slapped the intake on and did a bunch of plumbing and crap; and that continued today along with some wire routing. Needless to say nothing is ever a bolt-on; but, at least the stuff I mocked up months ago is working out alright.

Just keep putting one foot in front of the other... that is what they told me in basic training.

Yesterday I finished up the vac lines, catch can and bracket, evap line and bracket, rad and fans, redid the tranny cooler lines, modded the oil fill cap with an AN fitting, pulled the propane line, painted some crap, and so on... I hope to crank it over in the next 2-3 days. After that I can move on to the suspension, and maybe drive it one day.

I might even drive it around with the hood off. Heh.
 
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on January 05 2016, 10:12:17 AM
Solid!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 05 2016, 10:54:52 AM
Solid!

Thanks! And fully emissions legal... more or less. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on January 05 2016, 02:08:34 PM
I like your work Mike. Always looks clean
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 06 2016, 12:16:28 AM
I like your work Mike. Always looks clean

Thanks, that means a lot. Cheers!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 08 2016, 02:15:08 PM
ITS ALIVE!!! (https://www.facebook.com/michael.j.lis/videos/10153911449273885/?l=2973670416203333278)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on January 08 2016, 04:37:37 PM
Sweeeeeet! Video clip?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on January 08 2016, 04:38:59 PM
lol it sounds great!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on January 08 2016, 05:21:59 PM
Gotta love that super charger whistle!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 08 2016, 06:03:25 PM
Sweeeeeet! Video clip?

Ummmm click the link above your post.
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on January 08 2016, 06:52:55 PM

Sweeeeeet! Video clip?

Ummmm click the link above your post.
I had a blonde moment....
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 08 2016, 11:03:43 PM

Sweeeeeet! Video clip?

Ummmm click the link above your post.
I had a blonde moment....

No worries, excessive exposure to solvents has really punked my brain as of late.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Be4u on January 09 2016, 06:30:47 AM
<---chuckles
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on January 09 2016, 12:09:22 PM
sounding good!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 09 2016, 11:23:07 PM
sounding good!

Thanks!

And here is a picture for Grumpy...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 22 2016, 10:52:15 PM
Got home early from work yesterday and put the left side suspension and brakes together, took the day off today and did the same on the right side and put the fascia back on; and then set it on the ground tonight to see how the MOOG springs worked out. Perfectly I would say - the front is sitting at 33.75" and 34.75" in the rear (remember I am using 32" tall tires here). There is very little compression in the suspension when "bounced", so it would seem that these replacement springs are legit stock replacements.

Tomorrow I am going to get the rear HD Bilsteins on, the Belltech swaybar, and new brakes.

Then it is a bunch of buttoning up... hope to have it off for an alignment early next week.
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on January 22 2016, 11:25:35 PM
Looks sinister
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on January 23 2016, 06:42:33 AM
I like the stance... Like it's ready to hole shot some unsuspecting retard
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on January 23 2016, 11:11:33 AM
That will be a riot it the snow - I had so much fun with mine!


Were your bags leaking? Just curious - mine leaked but 10 seconds after I turned the key on they were full, and they were awesome for towing.


It's got to feel good to get it back together after tearing damn near everything off it.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 24 2016, 12:27:21 AM
Thanks gents!

That will be a riot it the snow - I had so much fun with mine!


Were your bags leaking? Just curious - mine leaked but 10 seconds after I turned the key on they were full, and they were awesome for towing.


It's got to feel good to get it back together after tearing damn near everything off it.

With snow tires it is unstoppable.  The air bags are original and work perfectly - even at 125K+ miles.  As for finishing the TBSS (it has been six months since I started) I think I am more apprehensive than anything - because it means that I have to finish the wagon which has been in the works for over 2 years and is an even more insane project.

Should have it moving under its own power tomorrow.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 26 2016, 07:59:12 AM
Well it is done... almost. Got the propane tank recertified - but failed to get it filled (tomorrow); put the brackets in and slapped the snow tires on.

I did get it out for a quick tool around the 'hood and down a country road. Made 3.5psi at 3500rpm at half throttle. I guess I have a Procharged TBSS now... and it is really fucking loud.

It goes in for an alignment on Wed.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on January 26 2016, 08:10:06 AM
Cool
A big deal to get the tank tested?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on January 26 2016, 08:24:15 AM
Does that tank have to be hydrostat tested?  If so, that is a pain in the ass. 
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on January 26 2016, 10:06:44 AM
I really didn't ask about the how.  Just: How much and how long?  $35 and same day (was told it was going to be up to 2 weeks).  It took me quite a while to find a local shop that would do this.  It has a fancy new tag on it now - probably going to paint it to hide it better in the interior.

Hotrod hasn't gotten back to me about propane use during Drag Week yet...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on January 26 2016, 10:48:07 AM
I'd look for a compressed gas distributor and ask the guys working in their yard. They get theirs tested somewhere. Also a fire extinguisher place will have a place they get their extinguishers tested.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 03 2016, 09:24:49 PM
Cruising around in the TBSS has been fun.  I am getting used to the blower whine and the tip-in exhaust note is pretty crazy.  Got the attention of the local police.  Heh.  Had it up to 5psi today. 

Oh and I put a car seat in it for Tatiana since she was worked up that I haven't taken her for a drive yet - tomorrow after daycare.  ;)
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on February 03 2016, 11:30:39 PM
Sweet how does it feel?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on February 04 2016, 05:56:18 AM
Nothing better than a little enjoyment from your hard work.  Hope it's all you wanted it to be and more!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on February 04 2016, 09:14:05 AM
There has been a definite transformation in the way the truck drives both in its suspension and drivetrain.  The 2600rpm torque converter is loose, but not stupid loose.  I think the mass of the truck really enhances this sensation, so much so that I started engaging the TCC about 20km/h sooner at 60km/h to remove that slipping feeling.  Rolling into the boost is hillarious especially given the mass of the vehicle, I can see how this thing is going to be a handful.  The revised suspension fresh springs, shocks, bushings, swaybar, etc has made the ride a lot firmer; but, it feels neutral and balanced.  And finally - having all new brakes with braided stainless lines and new calipers, pads, rotors etc is a game changer for pedal feel.  So yes, I am pretty stoked about the whole build and what feels like a complete success.  That said, I want to get back to working on the station wagon this weekend - just not the 10+hr days like the TBSS was.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 18 2016, 08:58:47 AM
Talia (now a year old) and I were playing with the growing Hot Wheels collection after dinner last night.  Tatiana insisted that they were "cars", not "toys".
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Be4u on March 18 2016, 01:22:05 PM
Awe

If you knew how soft my heart is for babies you wouldn't post pics of them
to save me the imbarrasment of looking like a sissy. Lol.

But nah, keep posting that stuff, I don't care what yall think, I'll just go back
to being bad ass later.  :rock:
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on March 18 2016, 01:33:29 PM
That's some good stuff there!  I wanted to have more kids but the ol lady was not for it.  Just have to wait for some grand babies
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on March 18 2016, 02:43:35 PM
pretty cute! how did you manage that?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 11 2016, 08:03:45 PM
Thanks fellas!  The girls are pretty amazing.

In other news the Trailblazer is almost done...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on April 11 2016, 10:33:25 PM
Shiny!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on April 12 2016, 01:05:45 PM
Talia (now a year old) and I were playing with the growing Hot Wheels collection after dinner last night.  Tatiana insisted that they were "cars", not "toys".

Enjoy em while they are young.

(http://i444.photobucket.com/albums/qq167/texastandgransport/Blast%20from%20the%20Past/Picture%201067%20RIch%20%20Sarah%20Grant_zpsm3xtkdc3.jpg) (http://s444.photobucket.com/user/texastandgransport/media/Blast%20from%20the%20Past/Picture%201067%20RIch%20%20Sarah%20Grant_zpsm3xtkdc3.jpg.html)
it goes fast
(http://i444.photobucket.com/albums/qq167/texastandgransport/Blast%20from%20the%20Past/Picture%201067%20RIch%20Grandma%20Gast%20Sarah%20n%20Grant_zps50tgbhp4.jpg) (http://s444.photobucket.com/user/texastandgransport/media/Blast%20from%20the%20Past/Picture%201067%20RIch%20Grandma%20Gast%20Sarah%20n%20Grant_zps50tgbhp4.jpg.html)

This little one in the first pic is the bigger one in the second pic. She is engaged to be married and due to graduate college in DEC. Our son will be twenty in a few months. They grow up fast.

TBSS looks very nice. Ive been kinda looking for one but I haven't found one in the budget.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on April 12 2016, 07:08:53 PM
Talia (now a year old) and I were playing with the growing Hot Wheels collection after dinner last night.  Tatiana insisted that they were "cars", not "toys".
Can't they be both?
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 12 2016, 10:00:18 PM
Awesome moustache!  Believe me I am soaking up as much of them as I can.

Talia (now a year old) and I were playing with the growing Hot Wheels collection after dinner last night.  Tatiana insisted that they were "cars", not "toys".
Can't they be both?

When we were launching them off the kitchen table into a bucket like skee balls with her motorized racetrack they definitely were toys.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on April 12 2016, 10:20:18 PM
Three out of our four loved small cars. We have several 18 gallon Rubbermaid totes full of cars and related toys saved up for some grand kids. The tore up stuff got pitched, buried or just given away. I know I spent an inordinate amount of my life goofing with little cars.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 13 2016, 07:33:35 AM
Natasha came home with three more Hot Wheels last night; the sad part is I have about 100 unopened ones in a bin in the basement.  I am unsure how we are going to store them once opened?

Between the Power Wheels Corvette, RC cars, carts and big wheels, Hot Wheels etc.  I feel we are getting over-run. Ha!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on April 13 2016, 09:01:05 AM
Between the Power Wheels Corvette, RC cars, carts and big wheels, Hot Wheels etc.  I feel we are getting over-run. Ha!

There will never be a situation where there are too many toys!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on April 13 2016, 02:46:28 PM
X2 on never too many. I have at least six or seven of those 18 gallon Rubbermaid tubs full of unopend hotwheels size cars and some 1:18 scale cars and other car related goodies. My wife gets bent when i buy more . I picked up a couple 71 yellow GSX cars the other day. I'll probably be giving them out to the grandkids one of these days.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on April 13 2016, 05:37:12 PM
We'll look for you in "Hoarders, the Movie" !!!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on April 13 2016, 07:27:42 PM
Jason will tell you, I fit the description.

(http://s25.postimg.org/xtlk0zn27/WP_20160213_20_00_54_Pro.jpg)

My garage is way too full.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on April 13 2016, 09:45:30 PM
That's a mans garage full of some cool signs!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 18 2016, 09:25:16 PM
We got a new kitten for Talia's first birthday.

Princess Diana of Themyscira (aka. Wonder Woman).

Our other cat's name is Princess Adora (aka. She-Ra)... yes, we are huge nerds in this house.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on April 18 2016, 09:55:05 PM
We had a cat like that. We called her whitey.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on April 18 2016, 10:15:41 PM
Our cat's name is Temper.  She is a killer and lives outside.  You can imagine how she got that name. She will hide behind the retaining wall jump 4 feet in the air and snatch birds out of the bird bath
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Charlief1 on April 19 2016, 12:47:31 AM
You'll be in trouble later cause you got a little pussy on the side. :rofl: You knew someone would say it. :icon_fU:
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 19 2016, 06:31:51 AM
You'll be in trouble later cause you got a little pussy on the side. :rofl: You knew someone would say it. :icon_fU:

Natasha brought it home, so she must be okay with it. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on April 19 2016, 09:39:20 PM
OOO, I've seen that website....
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 24 2016, 09:02:28 PM
Stupid parts car got itself stuck in the mud a lot today.  The wife's 4x4 Colorado couldn't get it done today (even with me in the car assisting)... so the TBSS stepped in and ripped that bitch out without breaking a sweat (and no assistance) and dragged it all the way back up the property. 

Never send a woman's truck to do a man-truck job...

And this is why I bought a torque converter that maintained the TOTAL towing capacity of the truck.  The rest of TBSS owners are pussies with their lowering kits and 24s. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on April 25 2016, 09:06:32 AM
That little Colorado doesn't weigh half of what the trail blazer does.  Sometimes it helps to have a little meat on the bones...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on April 25 2016, 10:42:40 AM
The Z71 Colorado (crew cab, long box, 4x4) is listed at 4450lbs by Chevrolet.com; and the TBSS (AWD) is in the 4600-4700lb range according to Google.  I am sure every little bit helps - but, the Colorado didn't even make the car budge.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 01 2016, 09:34:26 PM
Got the FlexFuel sensor and pressure transducer up and running. I added a 20/30A relay triggered by a switched 12V source (previously solely used by the MTX-L wideband) with some extra fuse holders (10A and 5A respectively) to run them all. Pretty straight forward install overall.

Then I got sick of looking at the 6 weeks of body shop dust on everything under the hood, and then the little Devil got the best of me and I started polishing aluminum. I hope to have it looking decent for the first carshow of the season on Tues night - taking the girls for night of A&W and horsepower.

Ordered up a set of new black housing headlights to replace the faded and damaged stockers.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on May 01 2016, 09:45:01 PM
Looking nice!  Be sure to let the folks at the car show know that it also doubles as a tow vehicle
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on May 01 2016, 11:58:03 PM
Nice work everything looks right at home!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 02 2016, 09:06:21 AM
Thanks, guys!  It was my plan to make it look less like an "add-on", plus I got a bit lucky having the space in front of the intake to fit the sensor.

Stopped in to get some ethanol this morning to test the install since I had 91 octane (0% ethanol) in the tank. The tank was registering about 65-67% full, so I topped it up with "E85". The final blend according to the sensor was about 26-27% ethanol.

Quick calculations tell me that I got ~E77.7 out of the pump.

The fuel trims got pulled into spec pretty quickly, and the exhaust smell is greatly reduced. Interestingly it didn't clear up my transitional KR at low speeds, which tells me that I have some false KR to tune out (desensitizing the knock sensors(?)) thanks to the headers and solidish engine mounts. I have been scanning for Burst KR and haven't found a trace; so this about sums it up
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on May 03 2016, 10:37:41 PM
You Capitalists have E85 stations? I just figured we shipped it all south
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 04 2016, 11:11:54 PM
You Capitalists have E85 stations? I just figured we shipped it all south

We have one pump.  Just one.  49kms from my house.  I am buying some 5 gallon fuel jugs to store some at the house.

Got the TBSS appraised today; looks like I should be getting a favourable result.

Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on May 06 2016, 12:09:05 AM
Looks good Mike - I do miss mine at times
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 06 2016, 02:21:36 PM
Looks good Mike - I do miss mine at times

Thanks!  I am afraid I just turned it into Buick v2.0 by making it look that nice - and might be afraid to drive it as often.  But, then again it has over 125,000 miles on it and isn't worth much less if I use it even more.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on May 06 2016, 02:42:15 PM
I know you'll hate this idea but some mudflaps in the front will really save the paint.


My rear doors were all chipped at the fender flares from rocks and road debris.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 06 2016, 03:56:57 PM
Probably going to put some 3M/Xpel film along the bottoms of the doors after it is wetsanded/buffed out in a week.  I already run Rally Armour mudflaps in the Winter.  And the plastic rocker covers are dull and textured from being sandblasted by road debris.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on May 06 2016, 04:06:53 PM
The 3m stuff is supposed to be nice too



Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 21 2016, 09:12:07 PM
Made a few changes with new black housing China headlamps (the quality is very suspect - especially when changing the PITA bulbs, and the very sketchy adjustment screw) from Amazon, some bright paint work on the bowtie, some of China's best chrome bezels (little hint when changing the grilles out: keep the oversized washers from the stock rivets for reinstalling) from RockAuto, and I made a brushed stainless mount for the SS emblem in the grille (a legit OEM rear hatch unit).
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on May 21 2016, 10:45:38 PM
It makes a hell of a difference after installing headlight bezels that are actually clear.  Like the SS badge too
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 22 2016, 01:15:34 PM
It makes a hell of a difference after installing headlight bezels that are actually clear.  Like the SS badge too

Thanks, and yeah I didn't realize how bad the headlamps were until post paint.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on May 25 2016, 09:11:51 PM
Last night we took the TBSS and the girls to the local cruise night (and out for some A&W). We were greeted by a pair of old farts who almost refused us entry to the show. They insisted it was a "car show", and even after I pointed out the C4, C5, C6, and C7 Vettes (all stock), Hellcats (stock), new Mustangs (yup, stock), and 80s Z24s (yes, stock Z24s) they were still reluctant. Turns out they had no clue what they were looking at - it is the only one in town that we know of; but, it did generate a lot of interest once parked and the hood was popped. Short of some race cars I had the single most modified vehicle present.

Got stopped on the way out with some gent looking for a tuner. He almost shit himself when I told him I did my own tuning. LOL.

Nothing like leaving a cruise night at WOT with 3 pretty girls, insane blower whine and thundering exhaust. Minds blown.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on May 25 2016, 10:38:51 PM
Nothing like making a first impression.. Those cats will be talking about you at the coffee shops for sure
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on July 14 2016, 04:52:24 PM
Who buys a Martin Brodeur jersey off eBay when he should be shopping for a welding jacket? That's right, this guy!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on July 14 2016, 08:51:37 PM
You could weld in it but I wouldn't recommend it. Plus it is a Brodeur  jersey.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on August 29 2016, 03:17:14 PM
Gotta love a wife that picks up your steel order and gets your welding gas cylinder exchanged on her lunch hour.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 01 2016, 09:41:38 AM
Poor Natasha had somebody nerf the rear bumper of her Colorado while she was away from the truck yesterday.  She came home looking like she was going to cry - and gave me the "fix it" eyes.  I just told her to find the touch-up paint and get a part number/cost for the step plate that mangled.  It is about $300 in repairs; too low to run through insurance ($1000 deductible) - FML.  I must say she is very motivated in resolving this.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on September 01 2016, 08:57:06 PM
Life happens... It is what it is.  As long as no one is hurt
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on September 01 2016, 09:06:13 PM
This would be the first violation of her new truck? Always hurts. :(
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 02 2016, 11:33:06 AM
Yup, first real issue other than a couple of stone chips.  I have the touch-up paint and will get to work on it tonight.  Natasha is one sad panda right now...
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 04 2016, 08:42:36 PM
Post on the TBSS forum:

Quote
Blew Up My RPM Level 5 Today.

Now that I have your attention through a bit of pointless internet sensationalism - here is the run down of this RPM Transmissions 4L70E's short-lived existence:

1. The trans was purchased in Nov 2013 as part of a Black Friday sale (including a Coan converter), and arrived in Canada around Jan 14 - really easy purchase, was very pleased;
2. The trans sat in the corner untouched until Jan 16 - yup two full years;
3. The trans was installed Jan 16 (with a Yank converter), and following RPM's direction the transmission tables in the tune were returned effectively to stock - nothing outlandish in the tune;
4. From Jan to 8 Sep 16 the transmission worked great for approximately 3500 miles - daily driven and spirited blasts;
5. The trans survived 2500+ miles of our Drag Week campaign from 9-17 Sep 16 while racing and towing a heavy utility trailer (ironically carrying a spare 4L70E) - the truck was parked for a week;
6. The trans survived a day at a local drag strip on 24 Sep 16 - the truck was parked for another week; and
7. Today (4 Oct 16) The trans could not handle the demands of a casual drive to and from work when it decided that it did not require 3rd or 4th gear any longer while cruising down the highway.

A phone call to RPM Transmission resulted in them stating:

a. My tune was the problem - despite having not seen it (SD vs. Blended, pressure settings vs Delivered Torque, Force Motor DC, etc etc all must be the problem);
b. Faulty torque converter - because it must be magically failing to convert torque in 3rd and 4th - despite 1st, 2nd, and Reverse still working (drove it on and off the flat bed tow truck); and
c. You don't have a warranty anyway - feel free to ship it back at your cost, we'll go through it for $650, you should consider $500 in upgrades, and we'll return it to you at your cost.

I wasn't looking for special treatment (you race shit, if it breaks - fix it and carry on), yet one would like not to be called incompetent or incapable in the process of seeking a resolution for a transmission that couldn't last roughly 6000 miles. In short, my really expensive upgraded transmission could not survive the rigors of simply driving down the road.

I am now faced with the option of sending it back to RPM or buying another unit, having it repaired locally, source another built 4L70E in Canada, or maybe doing a 4L80E/RWD conversion? In the meantime, I suppose I am putting my 127,000 mile stock trans back in.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on October 04 2016, 10:00:05 PM
Eventually, you make the realization that you need to learn to build your own. I swear it isn't that hard. If you can pull one out and get it back in you can overhaul one. You will have to buy some tools, and learn some new things but it is possible . You just have to do it .
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 04 2016, 10:27:19 PM
Been reading your stuff, Rich.  https://www.700r4l60e.com/store/home.php?cat=63 (https://www.700r4l60e.com/store/home.php?cat=63)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on October 04 2016, 11:40:53 PM
Ive been reading up on the 4l60e. I bought the compressor tool off ebay and have a new clutch compressor thing. I got the clutches , caged spring set up and pistons. Saving for the big second forth piston setup, and some kind of $70 ring kit to put a ring on one of the drums to strengthen it.

Oh, I'm building one and i'm gonna tow in od. If it doesn't work i'll have it towed home and try again. My 2004r it still shifting, so I have that to fall back on. Haha

http://www.ebay.com/itm/High-Quality-Transmission-Rebuild-Clutch-Plate-Disc-Set-700R4-4L60-4L60E-USA-/131896843560?hash=item1eb5aa1d28 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/High-Quality-Transmission-Rebuild-Clutch-Plate-Disc-Set-700R4-4L60-4L60E-USA-/131896843560?hash=item1eb5aa1d28)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/700R4-4L60-4L60E-4L65E-Transmission-Input-Piston-Apply-Spring-AC-Delco-GM-/271375284398?hash=item3f2f3a38ae (http://www.ebay.com/itm/700R4-4L60-4L60E-4L65E-Transmission-Input-Piston-Apply-Spring-AC-Delco-GM-/271375284398?hash=item3f2f3a38ae)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/4L60E-4L65E-Transmission-Bonded-Piston-Set-Molded-3-Pcs-4L60-E-M30-81090-/321642315117?hash=item4ae3603d6d:g:OXAAAOSw1ZBUtp nf&vxp=mtr (http://www.ebay.com/itm/4L60E-4L65E-Transmission-Bonded-Piston-Set-Molded-3-Pcs-4L60-E-M30-81090-/321642315117?hash=item4ae3603d6d:g:OXAAAOSw1ZBUtpnf&vxp=mtr)

these are what I bought, not necessarily those specific ones but the molded seal pistons, clutch set and caged spring for the molded pistons

http://www.ebay.com/itm/GM-Input-Clutch-Housing-Spring-Compressor-Tool-SST-0149-SPX-OTC-Kent-Moore-Atec-/190677393795?hash=item2c65422183 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/GM-Input-Clutch-Housing-Spring-Compressor-Tool-SST-0149-SPX-OTC-Kent-Moore-Atec-/190677393795?hash=item2c65422183)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on October 05 2016, 10:17:51 AM
do the 4l80e with awd!


I'd call back RPM and ask for Jeremy or Rodney. They are good dude - but they are busy. Vette's are where there $$$$ is. Refresh it and sell it to fund the 4l80e swap



Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 05 2016, 12:27:14 PM
Drama!

http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/4l70e-transmission-help/209153-blew-up-my-rpm-level-5-today.html (http://www.tbssowners.com/forums/4l70e-transmission-help/209153-blew-up-my-rpm-level-5-today.html)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on October 05 2016, 01:02:46 PM
Interesting that you only get to see how unhappy people are with a vendor when one of these threads pop up.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Shimy87 on October 05 2016, 01:35:39 PM
Happy customers tell no one, unhappy ones tell everyone, and usually half the story
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on October 05 2016, 07:39:07 PM
I'm saving for one of these

http://m.ebay.com/itm/700R4-4L60E-4L65E-4L70E-Transmission-4th-Gear-Super-Hold-Servo-Sonnax-77767K-/271875152115?nav=SEARCH (http://m.ebay.com/itm/700R4-4L60E-4L65E-4L70E-Transmission-4th-Gear-Super-Hold-Servo-Sonnax-77767K-/271875152115?nav=SEARCH)

I've also seen where this one is needed. Your thing might be leaking where the shaft goes through the drum. I was told to locktite the shaft in so it doesn't leak there.

http://m.ebay.com/itm/4L60-4L60E-4L65E-4L70E-Transmission-Sonnax-Input-Drum-Reinforcement-Kit-/221805496142?nav=SEARCH (http://m.ebay.com/itm/4L60-4L60E-4L65E-4L70E-Transmission-Sonnax-Input-Drum-Reinforcement-Kit-/221805496142?nav=SEARCH)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 17 2016, 10:05:23 PM
Right, so I bought a 4l80E w/22,000kms on it to replace the 4L70E.  Still on the fence if I am going to convert the truck to RWD from AWD (saves weight, frees up power, and can do burnouts).

In the interest of potentially freeing up some more money Tatiana had me help her start to strip down the MCSS (Natasha took the picture from the comfort of the house - it was about to start pouring rain).  I came in with a piece of tape with "#1 Helper" written on it for her, she took it from me and stuck in on my shirt.  Smart kid.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on October 17 2016, 11:36:55 PM
Making some good memories!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Shimy87 on October 18 2016, 10:15:58 AM
That's awesome!!
Title: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: larrym on October 18 2016, 11:33:16 AM
That's a great picture!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk Pro
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on October 22 2016, 11:45:11 AM
The fucking irony of this is not lost on me.

https://youtu.be/RZXXqGGspp4?t=3m20s (https://youtu.be/RZXXqGGspp4?t=3m20s)
(note the footage is reversed)


 
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on November 25 2016, 01:42:27 PM
It was fucking cold today.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 06 2017, 01:30:51 PM
So, back in Nov 16 (about a day after the picture above was taken) Talia got her (left side) hearing aid. We'd learned a few weeks prior she had profound and severe hearing loss; We had our suspicions for months due to developmental delays in her walking (gross motor) and speech regression (that and I had to yell to get her attention); but, thankfully it wasn't Autism.  She immediately started walking and is learning new words daily.  The exact cause of the hearing loss still goes unknown.  Talk about a tough situation to be in; fortunately we are near to the best children's hospital in the country for the situation.  Our options were: accept that she is deaf and start learning conventional means of managing it (ie. sign language), or go for alternate and more invasive approach to gain her access to sound soonest (preventing further delays). 

Flash forward to 24 Feb 17 and Talia got a cochlear implant (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cochlear_implant) on her right-side - fortunately one of the best surgeons in the field is here in Ottawa.  The good news is that everything went well and later this month they will be turning it on (rather the external processor); and by the time she is school age she will be back on track.  Obviously nothing is going to be conventional again - but, that would make for a pretty boring life it were.  Ideally she will be bi-modal (one hearing aid and one CI), which will provide a more complete sound picture; plus this thing has Bluetooth!

Why am I writing this? Mostly because you guys will probably seeing pictures of her with it on and I figure it will save the back story.  Plus, it helps to educate us all, and they say it is cathartic to talk about things.


Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: xpander343 on March 06 2017, 02:29:45 PM
Hey Mike


My aunt has had her cochlear implant for about 10 years and she loves hers.  She had slowly lost her hearing over her lifetime due to illness as a kid.   She's in her 50's and from my understanding they don't like doing them in adults anymore.  It's amazing the technology that we have, and what it can do for people.   
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on March 06 2017, 07:41:44 PM
I think that's cool!  She will appreciate you and the wife when she gets older
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 06 2017, 09:37:58 PM
The hearing impaired/deaf world is quite vocally divided on CIs, and especially CIs for young children.

Onto more exciting news - we got a new project car today! Only this one snaps together.

(https://s1.scalemates.com/products/img/2/4/6/186246-12135-pristine.jpg)

So I dug out all of my old modelling paints and tools.  Tatiana and I will turn it into something more like this:
http://www.svensworldofwheels.com/driftgto_page.html (http://www.svensworldofwheels.com/driftgto_page.html)

Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on March 06 2017, 11:13:01 PM
Wow, this has been a stressful stretch for you guys. So glad the path forward is positive. Pretty sure without kids there would be no gray hair.:)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 09 2017, 04:16:54 PM
Wow, this has been a stressful stretch for you guys. So glad the path forward is positive. Pretty sure without kids there would be no gray hair. :)

It has been pretty wild - the good news is Talia has an incredible disposition, which is quite sunny.   Our kids are are giving Natasha grey hair, and the fact that they are girls is making me bald.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on March 09 2017, 07:15:15 PM
You haven't even made it into the double digits yet. Take this time in as best you can, there might(will) be much more trying times ahead. Though I wouldn't trade any of it I have stories of some of the shenanigans ours pulled to make all your hair fall out.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on March 09 2017, 08:51:38 PM
I am learning how to braid hair... gotta keep the customers happy.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 11 2017, 10:34:44 PM
Repaired my IR T30 air compressor which has been broken for a month.

We picked up the new Boldar L1430T motor last weekend, and I spent the week tripping over it - I literally left it in the middle of the floor as a constant reminder that I needed to install it. I kept ignoring it (because I dread anything to do with household wiring) until today when my oldest daughter asked when I was going to inflate the splash pool (Natasha put her up to it). So guess what I did for about the next six hours?

I am really grateful that I spend a lot of time in the gym, because that made it pretty effortless getting the 80lb motors down and up 5+ feet off the floor.

What I am not grateful for is the motor starter I decided to add. This ate up most of the job trying to figure out how to get the damn coils to fire - Square D does not include instructions (probably a liability issue). Much smashing of my head was done over finding the correct order of wires. Thankfully I was saved by a redneck on YouTube who literally went from post to post (paint by number simplicity). Then I added a simple toggle switch, and now have ON/OFF capability - no more pulling the plug out of the wall for this guy! (at least until I need to weld something that is).

Compressed air, oh how I missed you. Even if it cost me a day of not wrenching on a car and playing with my kids.

Sure am going to enjoy sitting in the pool on the deck.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: daveismissing on June 13 2017, 08:31:21 PM
Baldor? :)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 13 2017, 09:42:15 PM
Baldor? :)

Bladder and balder. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Pyro6 on June 13 2017, 10:30:04 PM
Waiting for the part the splash pool exploded.... Tim the Toolman style

Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on June 13 2017, 10:41:56 PM
Waiting for the part the splash pool exploded.... Tim the Toolman style

The girls were stoked when they came home to it ready to go last night.  Amazingly it is still holding air.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQwYNca4iog)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 05 2017, 08:34:21 AM
They say take a kid to a car show... I say forget that noise - take them to the track and show them what cars can really do!

This weekend John and I took my girls to the drags just like our parents did... worked on us, and it should work on them too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svTN0FdSRrs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svTN0FdSRrs)

Looks like we have a future engineer, and designer/speed freak in our midst.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on September 05 2017, 09:28:14 AM
I agree Mike. I really need to take the boys, the youngest hasn't been yet.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on September 05 2017, 09:31:40 AM
When you take them it is an experience not soon forgotten. My son is 21 and still talks of trips to the races when he was little.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Scoobum on September 05 2017, 09:45:14 AM
I had two uncles that raced a 57 Chev stock car...and my dad took me all over Ontario to watch them. They'd get drinking after the races and would get pretty loud. They aptly named the car...Hoot n Holler.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 05 2017, 10:57:48 AM
I had two uncles that raced a 57 Chev stock car...and my dad took me all over Ontario to watch them. They'd get drinking after the races and would get pretty loud. They aptly named the car...Hoot n Holler.

Ha!

While drunk my Dad failed to jump a fence, and had his eyebrows burned off by a jet car, at Cayuga (separate instances).  Yup, it is genetic - only I have never had a sip as an adult.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: good2win22 on September 05 2017, 01:59:22 PM
Awesome stuff Mike! Enjoy the younger years with them as much as you can. Before you know it, you're getting recruiting letters from universities and looking angrily at every little piss ant kid that's looking at your daughter. Can't tell you where the time goes but it's gone
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Scoobum on September 05 2017, 05:58:01 PM
Mike...get them into junior dragsters when they're old enuf. Junior dragsters are up first at our race weekends here. It's a hoot watching the kids go down the track.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: nocooler on September 05 2017, 07:41:46 PM
They are cool until you see the price tag Brad!
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 05 2017, 09:00:01 PM
They are cool until you see the price tag Brad!

Agreed.  They were running Jrs at the track on Saturday - definitely cool; but you can tell there is a lot of money in them.  I am hoping to get the girls into karting in a few years as it builds a better driver in all aspects of racing.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: TexasT on September 05 2017, 09:27:49 PM
That carting isn't any less expensive, but looks like a WHOLE lot of fun.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Scoobum on September 06 2017, 08:03:16 AM
MOSPORT up here...just north of Bowmanville has a professional cart track. You can sign up for the year long race series...and use THEIR carts. Not sure what the cost is tho.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: Scoobum on September 06 2017, 08:19:43 AM
They are cool until you see the price tag Brad!

I've talked to a few of the parents. With the exchange rate...and a billet engine...you won't have much left out of 10 grand. I've seen a few of them run damn near 8 flat.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 06 2017, 08:27:53 AM
That carting isn't any less expensive, but looks like a WHOLE lot of fun.

I can carry a kart in the bed of a pick-up, and not a 20' trailer.  That alone will save me thousands. ;)
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on September 06 2017, 08:32:21 AM
They are cool until you see the price tag Brad!

I've talked to a few of the parents. With the exchange rate...and a billet engine...you won't have much left out of 10 grand. I've seen a few of them run damn near 8 flat.

D&D Performance had a few sponsored cars running this weekend - definitely top-dollar programmes.
Title: Re: The All About My Kids Thread (and other random things)...
Post by: motorhead on December 10 2017, 10:32:01 AM
Transmission is done.
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