EJ's Nissan Skyline GF-ER34 (スカイライン)

ER34 in Astro Channel 304 Jia Yu

2012-01-17T01:28:00.000+08:00

Pic 1: The Director setting up the camera

Recently, the ER34 was involved in filming a short Chinese New Year 'greeting spot' to be aired on Astro Channel 304, Jia Yu. Jia Yu is a Mandarin and Cantonese based channel aired on Astro (All-Asian Satellite Television and Radio Operator), which is a Malaysian pay television service.

Basically what will be shown is that a bunch of people from IPC and yours truly doing a group Chinese New Year greeting in front of the camera. The cars served as a background for the shoot. It's a relatively quick shoot lasting only half a day.

A mix of cars were present comprising of Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VII, Toyota Celica, Mazda RX-7, Nissan 350Z, Nissan Skyline R34 GTT, Ferrari F430, Aston Martin Vantage, Mitsuoka Le-Seyde, Honda Integra DC5, Subaru Impreza WRX STi, and two stunning stretched Hummers.

Do check it out on Astro Channel 304 as it will be aired repeatedly during the Chinese New Year period. See if you can spot the ER34 and me. Hehehe

Here's some photos from the shoot.

Pic 2: The cars on one end

Pic 3: The cars on the other end

Pic 4: Camera track for the rolling shot

Pic 5: More setups

Pic 6: The ER34 is the sole Skyline representative

Pic 7: Shot from the rear

Pic 8: 8 wheeler stretch Hummer

Pic 8: 4 wheeler stretch Hummer

New Brakes On The ER34

2012-01-01T23:45:00.000+08:00

As promised, here's a couple of shots of the ER34 with it's new brakes on. Read my previous post here to know more about the new setup.

Pic 1: The ER34 with its new brakes on

Pic 2: BNR34 Front Brembo Calipers with BIOT 345mm Floating Rotors

Pic 3: BNR34 Rear Brembo Calipers with 300mm Rotors

BNR34 Brembo and BIOT Brake Upgrade (Front & Rear)

2011-12-21T08:25:00.000+08:00

If you have followed this blog for sometime, you would have recalled that I fitted in a set of Endless 6 pot brakes on the ER34 for a wee bit of time before it was removed (Read here and here). The issue was due to the minute clearance between the calipers and the inner wheel. Too small of a margin for me to feel comfortable with. Better be safe and paranoid than sorry later on eh? There were just two options for me then, switch to a new wheel with bigger clearance (i.e. TE37s) or remove the brakes.

I choose the latter and had since sold the set of Endless 6 pots. It now resides in a cool looking S15 Silvia. :(

Pic 1: The 'new' set of brakes for the ER34

Fast forward a year later, I'm now dabbling with brakes again. Via JDM Auto Link, I have managed to get a set of pretty rare BIOT Front Brake Offset Kit. This kit consist of a set of rotors and brake brackets to complement the BNR34 Brembo calipers.

The BIOT Brake Offset Kit is not an affordable kit either. Just the front rotors and brackets alone cost upwards of JPY 160,000. Yeap, BIOT parts is not your run-of-the-mill items, they are at the top of the ladder in terms of performance and quality.

For the rear, I'll slot in the stock R34 GT-R Brembo brakes. That would do unless JDM Auto Link can source me a set of a BIOT Rear Brake Offset Kit that would bring the rotors up to 322mm. :P

The set of brakes that I procured consist of:-
1) BNR34 Front Brembo Calipers
2) BIOT 345mm Floating Rotors
3) BIOT Front Offset Kit Brackets
4) BNR34 Rear Brembo Calipers
5) BNR34 Rear 300mm Rotors

Pic 2: The front set of brakes. BIOT Offset kit with BNR34 Brembo calipers

Pic 3: BIOT 345mm floating brake rotors

Pic 4: Super clean set of BNR34 Brembo calipers

Pic 5: Super clean set of BNR34 Brembo calipers

Pic 6: Super clean set of BNR34 Brembo calipers

Pic 7: BIOT Offset Brake Kit Brackets

The set of BIOT brakes enables the ER34 to move up from its stock 310mm brake rotors to 345mm rotors. That's a nice upgrade in term of size. How does that improve braking?

A bigger rotor has more material in it so it can absorb more heat. More material also means a larger surface area for the pads to generate friction with, and better heat dissipation. Larger rotors also put the point of contact with the pads further away from the axle of rotation. This provides a larger mechanical advantage to resist the turning of the rotor itself. To best illustrate how this works, imagine a spinning steel disc on an axle in front of you. If you clamped your thumbs either side of the disc close to the middle, your thumbs would heat up very quickly and you'd need to push pretty hard to generate the friction required to slow the disc down. Now imagine doing the same thing but clamping your thumbs together close to the outer rim of the disc. The disc will stop spinning much more quickly and your thumbs won't get as hot. That, in a nutshell explains the whole principle behind why bigger rotors = better stopping power.

Put quite simply, bigger rotors give you more surface cooling area, so they will stay cooler.

I just got it installed and is mighty pleased that the brakes fit in the wheels nicely. The clearance between the edge of the caliper and the inner wheel is just perfect. The front brakes fill up the wheel orifice nicely. I'm pretty happy with the outcome.

Oh btw, it's not a direct fit per se. The BIOT Offset Brake kit will require some grinding and shaving of the Brembo calipers and also the knuckle. Nothing too major but just make sure it's done properly. Picture 9 shows a part of the knuckle that have to grind off.

I'll post up some proper pics of the brakes on the car on my next update. Will get some good shots done up and share with you guys.

Pic 8: Rear BNR34 Brembo brake set

Pic 9: BIOT Offset Brake Kit Bracket Installed

Pic 10: Front BIOT Offset kit with BNR34 Brembo calipers

Pic 11: Rear BNR34 Brembo brake set test fitted

Carbon Fibre Rear View Mirror Cover

2011-12-15T16:52:00.001+08:00

Pic 1: Carbon fibre rear view mirror cover

Just got some bling for the ER34. Via JDM Auto Link, in came a nice carbon fibre rear view mirror cover for the ride. Basically, it's a snap on cover on the existing rear view mirror. So instead of showing it's beige colour via the front windscreen, it now is displayed proudly in carbon fibre.

Small little thing but I think it should look better when photos are taken from the front of the ER34.

Pic 2: Carbon fibre rear view mirror cover

Pic 3: Carbon fibre rear view mirror cover installed

Pic 4: Carbon fibre rear view mirror cover installed

107,000km Service & New Silicone Hoses

2011-12-13T23:57:00.000+08:00

Pic 1: Fresh oils into the ER34

The ER34 has just undergone it's 107,000km service. Fresh fluids in the form of Torco SR1 10W-40 went in together with an original Nissan oil filter (Part No. 15208-53J00).

At the same time, did a small little bit of sprucing up the engine bay. Covered up the holes on the firewall where the heater lines goes to with nice silicone caps. These are no longer in use as the heater lines have all been removed during my stage II upgrades. At the same time, also covered up the unused hole where the original fuel regulator used to be.

Small touches but good enough to somewhat tidy up the engine bay a wee bit. :)

Pic 2: Torco SR1 10W-40

Pic 3: Silicone caps on the heater lines on the firewall

Pic 4: Silicone caps on the heater lines on the firewall

Pic 5: Silicone caps for the old fuel regulator line

Nissan Skyline Mega Gathering in Malaysia 2011

2011-12-02T20:39:00.001+08:00

Pic 1: The cars at the gathering

Recently, the Nissan Skyline owners in Malaysia had an gathering at the federal administrative centre of the country, Putrajaya. Basically, it's a meet up session to mingle around snap some photos before heading out to the nearest food stall for a bit of chowder and more chit chat.

I reckon there were close to 40 Skylines comprising of R32, R33 and R34 Skylines plus a lone V35 Skyline. Most of the lot were ER34 and BNR34s though. It would have been excellent if there were older Skylines present like the R31s around.

Took some pictures and a video. Do check them out below.

Pic 2: The line-up of BNR34s

Pic 3: The line-up of ER34s

Pic 4: Some R33s here

Pic 5: The line-up in front

Pic 6:A photo opportunity not to be missed. A ladder saves the day here for an 'aerial' shot

Pic 7: Roll-out!

2011-11-10T00:50:00.001+08:00

It's funny that some music CD albums in Japan somewhat portrays the love hate relationship with the Nissan GT-R (R35). Check out these album covers below.

I find it very amusing. LOL

Pic 1: I love R35!!!!

Pic 2: I hate R35!!!!

Been pretty quiet .....

2011-10-01T09:30:00.003+08:00

Gosh, it's been pretty quiet here lately. Sorry for that folks. I've been busy with my job but rest assured I'm scheming up some mods to be done with the ER34. Got JDM Auto Link to try to source me some rare stuffs. It's about time I did a bit of pampering on the ER34. Hopefully it can be found in the land of the rising sun. *fingers crossed*

In the meantime, here's some pictures of the ER34 with Felixia Yeap, Malaysia's one and only Playboy bunny. :)

DILYSI #18: Frasiers Hill

2011-08-03T00:01:00.008+08:00

Pic 1: The group setting off - Dinesh right at my rear. Note DARK skies.

After a long hiatus on the DILYSI sessions and doing a recce trip 2 weeks back, DILYSI #18 took place last weekend to none other than Frasiers Hill. I have had many sessions to Frasiers Hill in the ER34 and before that in my Proton Perdana V6. I really love the route and what it has to offer in terms of driving enjoyment.

What is different in DILYSI #18 was the weather. This is by far the worst ever weather I have had going up Frasiers Hill. It was raining pretty heavily thus the roads were drenched! To add more drama, as we get closer to The Gap, the roads were littered heavily with leaves and tree branches. Add a couple of fallen tress and landslides, it really does gets very unnerving.

And I was driving a little bit faster than I should in these sort of conditions. Not a really wise thing to do I must say. All the seven of us (2 ER34, 1 BCNR33, 1 BNR32, 1 ECR33 and 2 A31) would probably be finding it a bit of a handful to drive hard as we got nearer to Frasiers Hill, and as the weather worsens.

There's some incidents enroute and the drive was cut short. We didn't even make it to The Gap. We were probably 5 km away to that. Oh well, as long as everyone is ok. Not sure when will the next DILYSI be .......... somehow I think I might want to retire from driving my ER34 like I've just stolen it and my life is worth half a penny.

Pic 2: Turning in after Ulu Yam town

Pic 3: This is how bad the condition is. Rain, wet roads and loads of leaves

Pic 4: Turning back as a fallen tree have blocked the road

Pic 5: The group just hanging around

Pic 6: EJ's ER34, Temujin's BNR32 and Wai Chun's A31

Pic 7: Loki's BCNR33 and Alvin's ER34

Pic 8: Feez's ECR33 and Temujin's BNR32

Pic 9: A monkey enjoying its meal

Pic 11: Inquisitive fellow this one

BNR34 Seats and Interior Trims

2011-07-24T14:16:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: BNR34 Seats

The interior trim of the ER34 is kinda dull and uninspiring. I've not really liked it since I got the car. All I've done so far is just to add on a single piece of Recaro RS-G and changed some of the panel trims to the BNR34 version.

Many people would be eager to slap on the stock BNR34 seats into their ER34 for it looked really good and does the job of holding the driver very well. This is especially true of the newer BNR34 seats where it has the black trim. The older grey trimmed seats are just as dull in my opinion. The trouble is that these sort of parts doesn't come easy nor does it come cheap. There have been a couple of grey trimmed BNR34 seats that popped into the market place and those were sold for top dollars! The black trimmed version? Suffice to say it's as rare as spotting an elephant in downtown Kuala Lumpur! Hehehe

Pic 2: BNR34 complete interior seats with front door panel

But lucky me I just got hold of some very rare bits of interior trims off the BNR34. I've got:-
1) Pair of front seats with railings
2) Set of rear seats
3) Set of front door panels

The best part is all of the above are finished in the black trim which originates from the newer of the BNR34s. I've chucked these in the corner of my house and been staring at it whenever I pass by the area. Sat on it numerous times to get a feel and jolly well, it's damn good! Plus it looked really nice with the black trim. I'm positive, with this set in my ER34, the whole interior would look simply awesome. Another plus point is that the front door panels comes with the lighted red lens where in the ER34, it's just a reflector with no lights inside.

I'm actually at a cross road now. Not sure to install it onto my ER34 or to sell it off. If I'm still on stock seats, it's a no brainer to put it into my car. But I have a Recaro on the drivers side already. I love the Recaro RS-G and am a bit apprehensive about taking that out of the car.

Decisions ...... decisions ..... What do you think? Hmmm .....

Pic 3: Nice trimmings

Pic 4: BNR34 Rear Seats

Pic 5: BNR34 Front Door Panels

Recaro Side Protector

2011-07-20T17:44:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: Recaro Side Protector

It is common for bucket seats to have worn side bolsters. The high sides of the bucket seats means that the driver will often rub against it when entering and exiting the vehicle. Friction, over time will wear off the cloth trim of the seats and expose the insides. Not a pretty sight and not something that I hope to happen to my Recaro RS-G.

To prevent that from happening, I got myself a Recaro side protector. Basically, it's just a piece of leatherly material to wrap around the sides of the seat. With it on, the fabric underneath is protected from wear and tear.

A simple thing but works a treat!

Pic 2: Before fitment

Pic 1: After fitment

DILYSI #17: Frasiers Hill, the recce

2011-07-11T17:59:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: The ER34 at its fave playing ground

Unbelievable but my last trip to Frasiers Hill was exactly two years ago! And the last Drive It Like You Stole It (DILYSI) was one year ago! Oh man, looks like I have been in hibernation for way too long. I still love driving on touge (mountain roads) but it's just that family commitment (and age!) kind of somewhat deters that from happening for quite a bit. Or maybe I'm just plain lazy!

I've been telling myself to do a recce trip early this year. Somehow, I never get to do that until last weekend when my touge buddy Alvin pesters me that it's about time we revisit our old favourite playing ground. Plus he has just converted to manual transmission on his ER34 so I guess it's also a shakedown run for him. We were joined by Bhagwan who decided to have a cruise most of the way. He came with a leaky radiator and a huge unsecured boom box in the trunk. Hahaha

It's mostly a recce trip to check on the road condition and also if there's any changes to the routes. I'm pretty happy to report that things were almost just like before except some parts of the roads now are better BUT it's still the good old road surface mixture that we love. Smooth roads dotted with some that have ruts on 'em. Some damp stretches, wet leaves and sand on some parts, dips and undulations and not to mention, low overhanging tree branches that scrapped Alvin's car. LOL

What changed a lot was up in Frasiers Hill. Old buildings were refurbished and gone were the mamak stall that we used to hang out a long time ago. The tiny little coffee shop that we used to have breakfast was also gone and supposedly moved up the road. We went to this new food court sort of building where we had breakfast. Yummy burgers were available and so were great Nasi Lemak. Got to try that next time.

Pic 2: Alvin and Bhagwan

With my stage II upgrades, I find that my driving pattern had to change too. I had to keep the engine on higher rpm to so that I have sufficient boost coming out of corners. I tend to row between 2nd and 3rd gears lesser too compared to my previous setup when going towards The Gap.

The best part of this drive besides the great company was that the roads were practically deserted. All the way to The Gap and up to Frasiers, we practically have the whole road to ourselves. I'm driving as if it's a one way street utilizing all the roads on front of me. It was a blast and most definitely won't be too long till we come up here again. :)

Till the next DILYSI.......

Pic 3: Lovely roads ...

Pic 4: ... with lovely bends

Pic 5: Parked at the 'entrance' to Frasier Hill

Pic 6: Alvin's ER34

Pic 7: Waiting for Bhagwan

Pic 8: The three chaps that got nuttin' to do on a Sunday am

AC Delco NS40ZL Maintenance Free Battery

2011-07-06T15:17:00.003+08:00

For the past week, the ER34 have been kinda hard to crank up especially during cold morning starts. It gets much worst if it's left un-driven for 2 days or more. It takes a LOT of cranks to get her started. Not very impressive if there is any passer-by around. Kind of embarrassing actually. The battery voltage reading as indicated by the Blitz Fatt DCIV confirms that it's running a tad low on juice.

Skyline absolutely hates low voltage battery and it really does show. After checking through my records, my last battery change was exactly 2 years ago. Guess it's about time to replace it. Got my usual AC Delco NS40ZL Maintenance Free Battery from my regular parts shop and it's all good now. With just a crank or two, the ER34 roars to life beautifully! Pleased! :)

Largest Supercar / Performance Car Gathering at Super GT 2011

2011-06-30T00:04:00.011+08:00

Pic 1: Preparing to enter into SIC

During the Super GT 2011, JPM Motorsports organized the Largest Supercar / Performance Car Gathering. Their aim is to gather the most number of supercar / performance car in Sepang International Circuit at the same time. They managed to create a new record in the Malaysia Book of Record at 405 units of cars. That is all great and mighty fine but I had an unfortunate incident during the event.

Pic 2: At the holding area

As we were waiting in the holding area next to the back straight of turn 14, I noticed that my front tyre had a flat. Oh man, that really sucks. Running my hand around the rubber reveals there's no nails/screw that have penetrate the tyre. Really weird. It must have leaked slowly too as just an hour ago, I was barreling down the highway at speeds which is best not to be revealed publicly. LOL :D

Anyway, as the rest of the cars are making their way into the track, I had to ditch the ER34 behind and hop into one of the cars there (Thanks Colin for the ride!). Why leave the car behind? Well I don't have a 19mm wrench with me to remove the Rays Engineering lug nuts. And the best place to loan one was where the rest of the cars are going to be parked, the main straight of Sepang International Circuit. Amongst the hundreds of cars there, I'm sure there must be at least one chap with the tools.

Pic 3: At the holding area

Pic 4: All 405 cars on the main straight of SIC

My plan to narrow down the search was to ask owners of cars that spots the same lug nuts as me. Smart move BUT funnily enough, most of the owners that I've asked either do not have the wrench or do not carry tools at all. Oh man!!!

Thankfully, Dennis had one in his beautifully kitted Reckless MR-S (Thanks a bunch bro!). Now, with the tool in hand, I had to get back to the parking area. This is where Jason (sakakida) came to the rescue with a loan motocycle from Alex. The ride back to the back straight is a journey in itself as we potter along outside the track proper to get to the area.

Jason helped with the tyre change and it was done in a jiffy. Thankfully too as there is a grandstand facing directly where we were changing the tyre. Not exactly a sight to be proud of. Hahaha

This is where the problem starts, the threads on the Rays Engineering lug nuts got worn while tightening; and as such, only 3 of the lug nuts can be somewhat tightened. Somewhat tightened? Yeap! Just realized that the smaller dimension of the Rays Engineering lug nuts means that it ain't gonna be sitting flush and tight with the space saver wheel.

Pic 5: My old worn and well-used Rays lug nuts

Lucky thing is that the ER34 managed to be nursed back home all the way from Sepang International Circuit. We were only doing 60km/h all the way! Man that really sucks!

Couple of days later, I got replacement Rays Engineering lightweight Duraluminum lug nuts for the ER34 and she's now all fine and dandy. Oh btw, beware of fake Rays lug nuts which is flooding the market. Those are selling at a small fraction of the price compared to the originals. Don't be stingy on safety!

Pic 6: Brand new Rays lug nuts

Pic 7: Brand new Rays lug nuts

Pic 8: Brand new Rays lug nuts installed

Weider HSV-010 wins the Round 3 of the 2011 Autobacs Super GT in Sepang International Circuit

2011-06-20T19:02:00.009+08:00

The SUPER GT International Series MALAYSIA race, Round 3 of the 2011 AUTOBACS SUPER GT, took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on June 19. In the GT500 class, the winner was the No. 1 Weider HSV-010 (Takashi Kogure/Loic Duval). In the GT300 class race, the No. 4 HATSUNEMIKU GOODSMILE BMW (Nobuteru Taniguchi/Taku Bamba) took the win.

Race day was the hottest yet in this race weekend at Sepang. By the time the formation lap started at 16:00, the heat had passed its peak and the skies were increasingly cloudy but it was still a hot 34 degrees C. with a 43-degree track surface temperature. When the official start was signaled after the formation lap, it was the pole-sitting No.1 Weider HSV-010 (Loic Duval) that got the lead. Following Duval into the first corner were the 2nd-place qualifier, the No. 46 S Road MOLA GT-R (Ronnie Quintarelli) and the 3rd-place No. 17 KEIHIN HSV-010 (Toshihiro Kaneishi). Behind them, the No. 12 CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R (Joao Paulo Lima de Oliveira) and No. 39 DENSO SARD SC430 (Takuto Iguchi) collided while running side-by-side. Both machines ran off the track as a result and dropped far back in the pack. Moving up into 4th position in their place was the No. 8 ARTA HSV-010 (Hideki Mutoh). In 5th position came the No. 24 ADVAN KONDO GT-R (Bjorn Wirdheim) and behind it a cluster of cars would begin a cramped battle for position.

Meanwhile, the top two machines managed to slip away from the pack and open up a considerable margin. These two cars continued to run laps in the 1'59 to 2' range. Some distance behind the two leaders there was a hot battle for 3rd raging from the early stages of the race. Locked in the close-quarters battle were Kaneishi in car No. 17 and Mutoh in No. 8. Farther back, in the group running behind Wirdheim in car No. 24, Takuya Izawa in car No. 100 RAYBRIG HSV-010 emerged to try to pass No. 24 on the last turn of lap six. Unfortunately the attempt failed as Izawa (No. 100) ran off the track and into the gravel bed. This dropped him back to last position in the GT500 class.

In the battle for sixth position, the No. 36 PETRONAS TOM'S SC430 (Andre Lotterer) overtook the No. 38 ZENT CERUMO SC430 (Kohei Hirate) on lap nine. After that, Lotterer in car No. 36 chased Wirdheim (No. 24) but the superior speed of the GT-R on the straights prevented him from making a decisive move. Meanwhile, Lotterer had to worry about cars No. 38 (Hirate) and the No. 35 D'STATION KeePer SC430 (Andre Couto) chasing his just a few tenths of a second behind him.

The No.1 car of Weider HSV-010 ran on to its first win of the season, having maintained a fast and consistent pace from the start of the race. Finishing 2nd in the first GT podium finish for the team and the driver pair was the No. 46 S Road MOLA GT-R. In 3rd place came the No. 17 KEIHIN HSV-010, which had held on stubbornly despite struggling with its machine set-up.

The GT300 class got off to an uneventful start. It was the pole-sitting No. 4 HATSUNEMIKU GOODSMILE BMW (Nobuteru Taniguchi) that got the best start, followed by the No. 88 JLOC LAMBORGHINI RG-3 (Yuhi Sekiguchi), the No. 27 PACIFIC NAC IKAMUSUME FERRARI (Hideki Yamauchi) and the No. 11 JIMGAINER DIXCEL DUNLOP 458 (Tetsuya Tanaka). Gradually, the lead BMW (No. 4) began to increase its margin over the pack.

The battle for 2nd place developed between the two Ferrari cars, No. 27 and No. 11. As they battled, No. 4 continued to increase its lead. Farther back in the field, the No. 2 EVANGELION RT TEST-01 IM·JIHAN Shiden (Hiroki Katoh), which had been unable to compete in the qualifying due to machine trouble and had to start from 14th position at the very back of the grid (for the third year in a row!), was once again putting on a show of passing prowess while climbing to 5th position in just the first 10 laps.

Never faltering in the lead, Taniguchi in the No. 4 BMW managed to build a 14-second lead over the rest of the field before he finally made his pit stop and turned over the wheel to teammate Bamba. In contrast, the No. 11 Ferrari (Katsuyuki Hiranaka) had made an early pit stop and was closing to within 10 seconds of the fleeing leader, No. 4. Initially, both cars had been running laps in the 2'11 or 2'12 range, but with six laps remaining, Bamba's lap times in car No. 4 dropped by 2 or 3 seconds. Caught up in the battles of the GT500 cars mid-pack, Bamba's pace had been interrupted badly.

Seeing this, Hiranaka (No. 11) charged hard to try to catch him. With about six laps remain the gap was down to less than two seconds and with two laps remaining it had developed into a nose-to-tail battle between the lead BMW and the Ferrari. But Bamba in the BMW (No. 4) was not going to give up. Using his speed advantage on the straights, Bamba blocked the Ferrari in the turns and moved ahead on the straights to defend his lead for the final two laps to take the win.

It was the first GT win for the team and for the BMW Z4. No. 11 finished 2nd for the third race in a row. Finishing 3rd came car No. 27 (driven by Yutaka Yamagishi in the second half). For the third consecutive race this season the podium was swept by the European GT machines. Showing a magnificent rush to the front from the back of the grid was the No. 2 Shiden (driven by Kazuho Takahashi in the second half), and by holding off on its pit stop it had even taken the lead momentarily. However, a problem with the right-side door coming open in the final stages of the race, it finished in 10th place.
Source: supergt.net

For more pictures of the cars and race queens, goto the below facebook link. Remember to click LIKE for the page. :)

Album 1
Album 2
Race Queens

Super GT 2011 Series - Malaysia Round 3

2011-06-03T23:20:00.003+08:00

Middle of the year in the Malaysian motorsports calender only spells one thing. It's Super GT season! By far the most successful motorsports event in Malaysia (Formula One aside), the round 3 of the Super GT will be happening in Sepang International Circuit on the 18th and 19th June 2011.

2011 also marks the 11th year the series has been in Malaysia. No mean feat mind you as Kuala Lumpur remains to be the only championship round outside of Japan. Be it the drivers, cars or the even umbrella girls that attracted you Super GT, it's a race event and an atmosphere like no other.

I have been to a number of international motorsports event from Formula One to World Rally Championship but Super GT offers a unique sort of atmosphere. You get friendly and sometimes wacky drivers, charming race queens, freebies from the race teams, opportunity to get close to the machines but most of all you get to hang loose and soak in the aural orchestra of the GT300 and GT500 cars. Cars, that actually reassemble those that you might bump into on the streets! Real cars and not open seaters that worth millions of US dollars a pop. Yes, it's a motorsport event that motor heads and relate to in their heart.

So have you got your tickets? If not, it's pretty high time you head out to the participating ticketing agents out there and grab it!

See you in Sepang!!

Skyline Club at the Kolej Komuniti Bentong open day

2011-05-22T23:42:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: The cars on display

The Skyline chaps were invited to display their cars at the open day of the Kolej Komuniti Bentong yesterday. And so the club went with a couple of BNR32, BNR34, ECR33 and ER34. The venue is not exactly near, I think I clocked in close to 200km from my house to the venue and back home.

Nothing much happened there, basically it's just a car display during the college's open day. Here's some pic of the day.

Pic 2: This is the most popular car of the day

Pic 3: They are checking out a BNR32 with a RB30 heart

Pic 4: The cars on display. Nice ECR33 there.

Pic 5: Different wings for different folks

Pic 6: The group

Pic 7: The group of R34s

Pic 8: The group of R32s

Pic 9: Same car, different face

Pic 10: Hakosuka GT-R emblem

Pic 11: Manic sound system in a BNR34

Pic 12: Now that's a clean engine bay of an ER34

Pic 13: The cops are in da house!

Pic 14: No escaping ....

Pic 15: Some small chat

Pic 16: Heading home back to the capital, Kuala Lumpur

ER34 have been LED-ed masssively

2011-05-12T23:41:00.001+08:00

Pic 1: LED Taillights + LED signal indicators

I've always been a fan of the Nismo GT LED Taillights. Unfortunately, due to cost reasons, it have been out of my reach for a long while. But looking back, I'm thankful I didn't splurge on those lights as now there's a much better alternative in the market.

Via JDM Auto Link, I've acquired a fair bit of LED lights for the ER34. They are:-

1) LED taillights with LED indicators
2) LED third brake light
3) LED reverse + LED fog lights

Pic 2: LED Taillights + LED signal indictors

Pic 3: LED third brake light

Pic 3: LED reverse + LED fog lights

The LED tailights have the exact same pattern as the Nismo GT LED taillights but in addition to that, it also have LED signal indicators which the Nismo version do not have. Another good point is that it is much brighter than the Nismo version. Yes I've heard of complains that the Nismo version is not bright enough. :)

The LED tailights are manufactured using used original R34 tailights core. This kept the prices lower but still offers top notch factory quality. The LEDs and boards are of course brand new items. Definitely a lot better than those crap offerings from Taiwan with the ugly chrome taillight core.

The LED third brake light are a lot simpler. The LEDs comes in a board and it just slots right into the original third brake light housing. Two small holes are drilled on the housing to screw in the board. I suppose you can also use two way tape but screws are a lot more secure for me.

Pic 3: Insert in the LED third brake light board

Pic 6: Close back the cover

Pic 7: LED reverse + LED fog lights

The last and crème de la crème of the LED lights are the reverse+foglights. Instead of going for the 'factory look' of either the ER34 (both reverse lights) or the BNR34 (one reverse and one fog light), I had mine done whereby both the lights functions as fog lights when the headlights are turned on and both will turn into reverse lights when the reverse gear is engaged. I think it's really wicked!

Below are some shots taken in the carpark. Didn't have the time to get proper shots/video. These will do for now. :)

Pic 8: The LED fog lights are really bright!

Pic 9: The LED reverse lights is even brighter!

Pic 10: Up close ... LED signal indicators

Pic 11: All lighted up

Pic 12: LEDs

Pic 13: All lighted up

Pic 14: All lighted up

Pic 15: All lighted up

Pic 16: Up close ...

Pic 17: All lighted up

Prince & Skyline Museum

2011-05-06T19:40:00.002+08:00

Now, this is one place that I need to visit......... It was closed for winter last time when I wanted to go there. Sigh......

Ecliptech Innovations SHiFT-i Progressive Shift Light System

2011-04-22T11:35:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: The SHiFT-i Progressive Shift Light System

Just installed the Ecliptech Innovations SHiFT-i Progressive Shift Light System in the ER34. This Australian product is a smashing piece of driving aid. With the shift light system one can concentrate more on the road and attacking that corner instead of taking your eyes off the road and looking into the instrument binnacle.

To learn more about the product, goto this link.

Pic 2: The SHiFT-i Progressive Shift Light System installed

Check out the below video.

BNR34 Shifter and AV Panel Installed!

2011-04-13T18:32:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: BNR34 shifter and AV panel

Sorry for the lack of updates guys. I finally got the BNR34 shifter and AV panel installed in the ER34. These 2 pieces of plastics actually costs me a bomb. These are mint condition used units. New ones are priced even more astronomically from Nissan Japan. Yikes!

So what do you think? This splash of colour worth the investment to brighten up the interior?

The below pic was how it looked like previously.

Pic 2: Stock ER34 shifter and AV panel

BNR34 Shifter and AV Panel

2011-03-25T17:44:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: BNR34 Shifter and AV Panel

Look at what the guys at JDM Auto Link got in for me. Yeap, it's the shifter and AV panels off the Nissan Skyline GT-R (BNR34). The stock ER34 ones are a dull black ....... boring!

This should add in a splash of colour and modern feel to the interior of the ER34. Now got to find time to fit this in. :)

Pic 2: BNR34 Shifter Panel

Pic 3: BNR34 AV Panel

34 Matsuri at Fuji Speedway - 4th March 2011

2011-03-08T14:33:00.002+08:00

Check out this video taken during the 34 Matsuri at Fuji Speedway on the 4th March 2011. Almost all R34 present were the ER34 and HR34! Even Ken Nomura is there with his HR34!

How I wish we have the same sort of scene over here in Malaysia. Now that would be awesome!!

Fuel Leak !!!

2011-02-21T11:28:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Leaky injectors

Some time after my stage II mods, fuel smell inside the ER34 has become a norm. I took to it as nothing more than perhaps running a wee bit rich, hence the strong odour. Didn't really give much thought to it as I have a blocked nose most of the time. The little amount of passenger that the ER34 ferries would often comment on the strong odour whenever they board the car. I couldn't really be bothered because, well ..... fuel smells great to me! It's a natural high for us petrol heads. :P

What is getting a tad worrisome is that the smell is getting stronger, so much so that people standing outside of the car would get high and start doing the chicken dance. Ok I exaggerated a little bit here but you get the picture.

Pic 2: Can see the fuel stains

So anyway, I decided to take a look at what's happening under the hood. Using my nose like a blood hound, I sniff my way around the engine bay and it lead me to the centre of the engine bay. Lo and behold, those damn injectors are leaking fuel. All 6 injectors are leaking via cracked o-rings!

Pic 3: O-rings are indeed in a bad shape

Now this sucked big time, I was scratching my head on where to find replacement o-rings. Order from SARD? I bet it will be ridiculously priced! Luckily one of my contact knows where to get it and promptly ordered some for me locally. With the o-rings replaced, the injectors are back to normal and no more fuel leakage.

Pic 4: New o-rings were fitted and the injectors were mated back with the fuel rail

Pic 5: In goes the fuel rail and injectors

A quick check around the fuel lines also leads to another leak. The Tomei fuel pressure regulator is leaking where the fuel lines joins the fittings. A quick change of fuel lines and new banjo clips solved that pretty quickly. After the above drama, the ER34 is now back to normal and hey no more fuel smell! Woohoo!

Is that the end of the ordeal? Hardly unfortunately. Strangely enough, a week later when I started the ER34 in the noon for a lunch appointment with alvint, it reeks of even stronger fuel smell. This can't be right at all. Pop open the hood and tracing the fuel lines, I saw fuel literally dripping off from the fuel rail adapter plate. Oh man, I can't drive the ER34 with it leaking fuel like that, I might end up with a big bang and have a burnt wreck as a car after that!

Took out my tools and gave it a couple of quick turns to tighten the banjo clips. This will serve as a temporary measure while I drive out to my mechanic's place to get new fuel lines and also a new banjo clip. Problem has since been solved and the ER34 has been running fine for a couple of weeks now. Phew! Lucky that is solved finally!

Pic 6: The Tomei Fuel Pressure Regulator were also leaking

TCS and SLIP Light ON

2011-02-11T22:41:00.005+08:00

Pic 1: TCS and SLIP light

Recently, my TCS and SLIP light lighted up permanently whilst driving. Needless to say, it's bloody annoying to see the light on my dash and what is more worrisome is that my TCS isn't working. Not a good thing as it's been raining a fair bit recently.

The problem is pretty erratic. Sometimes it lights up other times it does not. And when it lights up, it'll be gone after I stop the car and restarted it.

I've seen and heard of this problem before and a simple fix is to remove out the TCS module and give it a good cleaning and it should all be fine and well. Did just that and it has been fine for the past 4 weeks. Fingers cross that I do not see the some problem cropping up again. :)

Pic 2: TCS module. There's a butterfly flap in there.

Pic 3: Inside the module

97,000km Service

2011-02-08T16:59:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Time for new fluids

Just did my oil change recently. The ER34 has now clocked 97,000km and in goes the usual Torco SR1 10W-40 engine oil and of course the obligatory Nissan engine oil filter (Part No. 15208-53J00). Feels good to have fresh fluids inside the RB25DET NEO again. :)

Gohtong Jaya Drive with the MSC #01

2011-01-31T08:43:00.005+08:00

Pic 1: Heading towards Ulu Yam

The Malaysian Skyline Club had a drive to Gohtong Jaya via Ulu Yam road yesterday. Now it has been ages since my last drive (approx. 6 months ago!) thus was looking forward to do some driving. I've already decided not to push it like last time due to the ER34 having fresh tyres, fresh brake pads and also just had the rotors skimmed. Well PLUS I am a much slower driver nowadays, getting old might have got something to do with it, and also with a little one on tow does have its effect. :)

Anyway, I reached the rendezvous point at 6:30am only to see a huge gatherings of Alfa Romeos that are heading up the same route as well. As they start to move off, the rest of the Skyline chaps arrive in great numbers. There were a mix of cars from Skylines, Silvias, Pulsar GTi-R, Cefiros, R35 GT-R, Lancer Evolutions, 300ZX, etc....

Pic 2: Regroup before the cable car station

Pic 3: Regroup before the cable car station

How many cars? Gosh I really don't know man. It's a huge turnout!

The weather was not on our side this morning as it was raining pretty heavily on some stretch and the roads were soaking wet! It's at this point that I am glad I shod the ER34 with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetrics. These were great in the wet!

Even in these adverse conditions, some of the front runners were really gunning it mad. I couldn't even catch a glimpse of them. Naturally in such a big group, the cars broke into two groups pretty soon. Those that are ahead and those that are a a little bit behind.

I stayed with a bunch of cars throughout comprising of R32s, A31s, Z31, R35 and some R34s. It's quote entertaining to watch those R32s drift round the wet corners ahead of me. Good stuffs!

The final destination of the Cable Car station was reached pretty quick. This is where we grouped up for a much deserving breakfast before the group start to move off back home individually and in small groups. Nothing much to report on thus I'll just proceed with some pictures of the day.

Enjoy!

Pic 4: Regroup before the cable car station

Pic 5: Regroup before the cable car station

Pic 6: Regroup before the cable car station

Pic 7: Yes it was really raining mad!

Pic 8: Yours truly

Pic 9: Slammed RPS13

Pic 10: The dorifto guys

Pic 11: Sexy and very rare Pulsar GTi-R

Pic 12: Probably the most awesome BCNR33 in the country

Shod the ER34 with Volk Racing TE37 and slap on the Endless brakes??

2011-01-27T00:38:00.002+08:00

This month seems to be the topic of footwork for the ER34. We've been talking about tyres, wheels, brakes and suspension. :)

Well, since we are at this topic, let me wrap up this month's blog entry on the discussion of possible replacement wheels for the ER34.

What got me thinking was that the good folks at JDM Auto Link have a set of used Volk Racing TE37 enroute from Japan. What's so special about the wheels is that it's finished in one of RAYS optional colour.

The standard colour of TE37 is just bronze and white. I mean, only two colours? Yes, only two colours are available off the shelf. However, they do carry some optional colours which needs to be ordered from their factory. The list of optional colours are:-

Optional Colours:
Mercury Silver
Platinum Silver
Titanium Gunmetal
Hyper Flat Black
Diamond Black
Takata Green
Gold (aka Top Secret Gold)
Magnesium Blue
Orange
Chameleon Blue/Purple

And they also have some special edition colours as below:-

Special Edition:
Black Time attack with red lip TE37 only
Seibon edition (similiar to black/red time attack) TE37 only
Silver Green time attack TE37 only
Blue Yellow time attack TE37 only

Before we go into the specs of the possible new wheels, let take a look at my journey from the stock ER34 wheels to my current Work Emotion XD9. I took me a long while to decide what wheels to shod the ER34 with in order to ditch the fugly standard items.

After many hours, days, weeks, months of research, looking at pics, etc ..... only then I decided to go for the Work Emotion XD9. I was very careful with my wheel order, thus with advise from Work I got the recommended specs for the ER34. Now lets look at what difference did it make to the ER34 on stock versus the Work Emotion XD9.

Stock ER34 wheels specs:-
17 x 7.5J PCD +40 - Front
17 x 7.5J PCD +40 - Rear

Work Emotion XD9 specs:-
18 × 8.0JJ+35 - Front
18 × 9.0JJ+38 - Rear

With the switch to Work Emotion XD9, the ER34 had the below changes:-

FRONT
Inner Clearance: 1mm LESS
Outer Position: EXTEND an extra 11mm

REAR
Inner Clearance: 17mm LESS
Outer Position: EXTEND an extra 21mm

Pic 1: This is how Volk Racing TE37 in Mercury Silver looks like

Now if I shod it in with the Volk Racing TE37s that have the below specs:-
18 X 8.5J＋30 - Front
18 X 9.5J＋40 - Rear

The ER34 will have the below changes from what it is currently:-

FRONT
Inner Clearance: 1mm LESS
Outer Position: EXTEND an extra 11mm

REAR
Inner Clearance: 8mm LESS
Outer Position: EXTEND an extra 4mm

After checking my wheels yesterday, I have the extra space up front and rear to move the wheels outwards a bit. That means those Volk Racing TE37s will be perfect for the ER34. PLUS I will be able to fit in my Endless 6 pot brakes. Woohoo!!!

But but but I have not really decided to go for it tho. Decisions ..... decisions. I am still ok with selling off my Endless brakes at this moment. So yeah, in a bit of a dilemma now. :(

Well if you are interested in those wheels, you can check it out with JDM Auto Link. :)

Tein Super Street Re-adjustment

2011-01-23T00:42:00.007+08:00

Previously, ER34 somehow handled a bit weird when it's flung around long sweeping bends. Somehow it felt a little bit unstable and not as planted as before. It has been a long while in that condition but the silly me just shrugged it off as perhaps due to my worn tyres.

However, after I changed to the new tyres, the problem still persists. There must be something wrong. What could it be? I decided to check my damping on the Tein Super Street as the first step.

Pic 1: Just a quick turn clockwise to set it to the hardest

Horrors that be, the front right side was set to the softest while the left side was set to the hardest. Some low-life idiot must have decided to tamper with my damping adjustment!!! Damn it, no wonder it felt weird. This must be the handiwork of some itchy hand fellows while the ER34 was at the workshop. &%$#@!*

Well, since I'm readjusting it, I set it all round to the hardest setting. I mean the current setting was perfect for me. A good trade off for daily normal commute and the occasional spirited drives. But I wanted to try something a little bit harder. Think of it as a prelude to see how I can take it if I decided to upgrade to something from the Tein catalogue.

The verdict? The ride now is very firm and bordering to being uncomfortable for daily usage but I'll stick to it now and see how it goes. I think it'll grow on me. :)

Fitted in - Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric

2011-01-18T10:14:00.005+08:00

After the brakes are done, it's time to shod on new shoes. Can't wait to wrap the wheels with Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric and have more confidence in driving. The old Yokohama Advan AD07s were pretty much worn down already.

Pic 1: Three tyres in the car

Pic 2: Last piece in the boot

I was having doubt on the transport of the tyres from my house to the shop. I had to do it using the ER34 you see. BUT amazingly it fits in well ..... except that one of the tyre kept on interfering whenever I need to use second gear coz it kinda blocks the shifter it from entering 2nd. Had to push it away whenever I engage 2nd gear. LOL :D

Now who says a 2 door car can't be practical? Hehehe

Pic 3: The old Yokohama Advan AD07

At the shop, after taking the tyres off, one can see that the old tyres were worn pretty evenly all round. It's good testament to the chap that adjust my suspension geometry. I had them on for 18,000km and just did one rotation in between. Nice job!

After fitment the wheels were balanced off-wheel and then fine tuned on-wheel. Gives the best accuracy. The rest were SOP as per before on the old skool machine. I like!

So now with skimmed rotors, new brake pads and new tyres, I have to rake in the miles to run them in properly before I start pushing the ER34 around. Problem is I don't travel around much distance so I guess it's gonna take me a while for this to be done.

Pic 4: Fitting in the new rubbers

Pic 5: Fitting in the new rubbers

Pic 6: Old skool method for me

Pic 7: Old skool machine

Pic 8: Time for the rear

Pic 9: On-wheel balancing

Pic 10: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric thread pattern

What Endless Brakes?

2011-01-16T08:26:00.005+08:00

Pic 1: Endless 6 pot brakes clearance

Yes I can't wait for those lovely Endless 6 pot brakes to be installed into the ER34!!

Two days ago, I try-fitted in the Endless 6 pot but was utterly disappointed that there is a clearance issue. Between the caliper and the inner wheel, there's just about 2mm of clearance. The clearance is so close that even the wheel balancing counter-weighs couldn't pass through the gap. Yes it's that small. With the balancing counter-weighs removed, even the residue two-way tape underneath touches the caliper as the wheel is spun around.

Pic 2: It will hit on the balancing counter-weighs at the bottom left of the picture

A couple of guys said it's ok as long as the caliper does not touch any part of the wheel as it turns, but me being a little bit more careful gave it a hard thought and conjure out some worst case scenarios. I was thinking of:-

- Wheel flex under hard load (eg. while cornering) could have physical impact with the calipers
- A bent wheel (if I hit a massive pot hole) could also have physical impact with the calipers
- If a pebble/stone gets lodged between the caliper and the wheel, the inner wheel would have been scratched to kingdom come.
- etc.....

All of these thoughts made me realise that I cannot be driving with full confidence with these in my head. It is just not worth it to be thinking of the what-ifs while driving enthusiastically.

I do know the problem is due to my wheel design which is a Work Emotion XD-9 but changing to a new wheel now is not the solution. I tried-fitted in a Volk Racing TE37 and it has ample clearance. So much that a kid could be swimming in between! Well ok, I exaggerated a little bit but you get the picture.

Due to the above fears, I have decided not to mount on the Endless 6 pot brakes. It's totally sad as I was looking forward to having some good uprated braking power. Plus it's like my dream set of brakes. Sob! So I guess these brakes would be up for sale if there's any interested parties out there. :(

Pic 3: Newly skimmed Project Mu SCR Pro rotors

Well because I can't get those lovely Endless brakes in, I've decided to uhm ..... 're-new' my current brakes. I had the Project Mu SCR Pro rotors skimmed a wee bit and also changed to new Endless Super Street - S-sports brake pads (EP230 SSS). These are rated to 500 degrees which would be sufficient for fast road usage.

Pic 4: Endless Super Street - S-sports brake pads (EP230 SSS)

Pic 5: Endless Super Street - S-sports brake pads (EP230 SSS)

New Rubbers - Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric

2011-01-13T16:30:00.008+08:00

Pic 1: My stash of new tyres

I have been using my current set of Yokohama Advan AD07 for the past 18,000km. They are great tyres if you are looking for outright grip. In the wet, well, they could be better though. It's now time for replacements as they have almost ended their life already. Coupled with the torrential rains of late, I think it's time to go for an all round tyres that performs both in the dry and in the wet.

I have a couple of choice in my list, namely the:-

1) Yokohama Advan Neova AD08
2) Bridgestone Potenza RE-11
3) Dunlop Direzza® Sport Z1
4) Goodyear Eagle RS Sport
5) Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric

In the end, I decided on the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric due to the raving reviews it receives (and the great price I got :P). Ironically I was using the predecessor, the Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 back in 2007. Looks like I have returned to the Eagle F1 tyres now. Hehehe

I am of the opinion that besides working great, the thread pattern should looked the business too. But unfortunately, the thread pattern on the Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric aren't that aggressive at all. Oh well, as long as it performs as it claims to be.

Pic 2: This is how the thread pattern looks like

The below are what Goodyear says about its tyre features .....

Unique Active Cornergrip Technology
- Ensures even distribution of pressure and consequently more efficient tire/ road contact patch where all tread zones are in action
- Reinforces compression of the open tread zone designed for critical wet conditions like aquaplaning
benefit - High performance, Aquaplaning and wet handling

Racing Compound Technology
- Tread stiffness optimised via highly reinforcing filler and a new generation of polymers. This tread compound is more environmentally friendly through low PCA technology
benefit - Better tracking and grip in wet and dry conditions

Pitching Sequence
- Optimising tire noise harmonics
benefit - Ensuring a smoother, quieter ride

The Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric have a threadwear rating of 240 which is great. This should last me longer than the Yokohama Advan AD07s which is just rated at 180. Reassuring to note that this tyre is winning awards and praises the world over. Just check out some of the awards it won below.

The replacement size I got is exactly the same as per my current set which is 225/40/18 for the front and 255/35/18 for the rear. I should be fitting them soon BUT first I got to get my Endless brakes into the ER34. :)

Pic 3: F1 Asymmetric!

Pic 4: All round 2010 tyres

Pic 5: Multiple water channels - should be great in the wet

Pic 6: Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric

'New' Power Window Regulator - RHS

2011-01-04T13:02:00.005+08:00

Recently, my driver's side power window has been acting funny. At times, it will produce a "klack, klack, klack" sound when it is lowered or raised. Sometimes it can't full be closed without assistance via pushing up the glass by me.

Weird thing is, it's perfectly normal sometimes. Darn it!

Pic 1: The replacement power window regulator

I didn't bother and decided to stop using the power window for a good 2 months until I cannot take it anymore. My back hurts too much each time I need to open the door to pick up parking tickets, at the toll, etc.....yea and the R34 has a very long door. Plus being in a full bucket is tough to maneuver around.

Oh and at one time I was stopped by a traffic police; I only lowered the window down about 3 inches. That totally annoyed him until I told him there's something wrong with my power window. Hahahaha

I actually got a replacement power window regulator on hand. It has been sitting in my storeroom for a good month plus but I just couldn't find the time to get it replaced or perhaps I was just too lazy. LOL

Pic 2: Door panel off

I finally got it done today and upon opening the door panel, the only thing that was out of whack was a small piece of broken roller bracket as per the below picture.

With the new-ish power window mechanism in, the ER34 is now back to 'normal'. I am pleased. :)

Pic 3: Broken roller bracket

A ride in the Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

2010-12-12T15:33:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: Riding shotgun with Alister McRae

I've always been a rally fan. The sport is so much more accessible to the petrol head than other forms of motorsports. You get to be right at the heat of the action rather than behind some cordoned off fences.

Another plus point is that rally drivers are a friendly lot. I've met, chatted and took photos with some of the world’s best known rally drivers and I can say they are a whole lot better than those F1 drivers that I bump into during the F1 races. Humble, down to earth and chatty with the fans. :)

Pic 2: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 3: Interior

Recently I had the opportunity to hitch a ride with Alister McRae in his Proton Satria Neo Super S2000 (Thanks Gary!). The car is based off the Proton Satria Neo but has been extensively redesigned and redeveloped by Chris Mellors of Mellors Elliott Motorsport (MEM) to FIA Super 2000 rally specifications. For those that are unaware, Proton is now competing in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge and FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championship.

I am mighty proud that Proton did a good season this year too. They took first and second placing at the APRC 2010 and also second and third placing for the Asia Cup. Overall the team came out second for the Manufacturer’s Championship. Now ain't that a feat for a team that is considered the underdogs!

Pic 4: Lovely seats!

Pic 5: GEMS system

The 2 litre Proton Super 2000 engine is derived from the 1.8 litre engine fitted to Proton Waja and has been further developed by MEM’s engineers to produce a reliable 278 bhp @ 7600rpm with a usable power band from 5,500 to 8,500rpm. Combined with the Xtrac 6-speed sequential 4WD Super 2000 transmission, the car sets new standards for engine performance and driveability. And all of this power is naturally aspirated!

I can still remember the first time I saw Alister McRae. It was in 1998 when he was driving the Volkswagen Golf GTi. Then in 1999, he was the works driver for Hyundai driving the Hyundai Coupe. Check out the pics below which I took way back then. A little walk down memory lane .....

Pic 6: Alister was driving the VW Golf GTi in 1998 (note autograph :P)

Pic 7: In 1999, Alister was works driver for Hyundai

Pic 8: During recce, Alister ran into an emu during Rally of Australia hence the damaged front end (Yes he autographed this pic too :P)

Pic 9: David Senior tightening back the wheel

Anyway, back to the experience in the Proton Satria Neo Super S2000, the drive was done in an oil palm estate somewhere in Sepang, Malaysia. Strapped in the TRS harness and donning the Stilo helmet with integrated intercom, I was able to chat with Alister enroute to the start of the SS. As my only experience in a rally car was on tarmac, he was telling me that real rallying is on the forest (gravel) and it will be a totally different experience. I agreed and look forward to going at crazy speeds admist oil palms on both sides of the road.

Observing Alister piloting the car, the agility and maneuverability of the vehicle is phenomenal. It's amazing how Alister controls the vehicle on the slippery gravel (it was raining!). What really amazes me is how responsive the brakes are. Braking was done very very late. For example, at a square turn, Alister yanks on the handbrake and the car slides thru with ease. Everytime, he pulls the handbrake it's like a ballerina on steroids!

Pic 10: Those buttons on the steering wheel are bluetooth linked - weight saving on wires

Pic 11: Those are AP pedals there

I did take a video of the experience but sadly it's not the best as I mounted it on the A pillar roll cage thus it's a tad slanted in view and my cam ain't the best out there. Hope you enjoy the video.

Pic 12: Gear indicator display

Pic 12: GEMS system with 12 scroll-able screens

Pic 13: GEMS system with 12 scroll-able screens

Pic 14: The rear - spare tyre, jack, first-aid kit, etc..

Pic 15: The heart of the Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 16: The heart of the Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 17: Roll cage and air vents on the roof

Pic 18: Side shot

Pic 19: With Alister McRae

Pic 20: The hardworking crew

Pic 21: Alister McRae

Pic 22: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 23: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 24: ER34 or Proton Satria Neo Super S2000? Hmmm.....

Pic 25: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 26: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 27: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Pic 28: The Proton Satria Neo Super S2000

Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Z-Tune in Nismo Omori Factory

2010-12-01T16:19:00.007+08:00

Was going through my PC and found this old video that I took in April 2007 when I visited Nismo Omori Factory. Had a good look at the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R Z-Tune when I was there. This is the first production unit (Vehicle Number P001).

Sorry about the video quality; didn't have a HD cam back then. :P

Endless System Inch Up Brake Kit (6 pot)

2010-11-25T23:48:00.008+08:00

Pic 1: 6 pot Endless System Inch Up Brake Kit

Going back in time to April 2007, I posted an entry on the painting of the stock ER34 Sumitomo calipers to blue. Why blue? Well I always liked the blue Endless calipers; and thus, did the next best thing back then, i.e. blue stock calipers. Yeah, I'm sure some readers will be scorning at the decision. LOL :D

I've been on the lookout for stock BNR34 Brembo brakes (front + rear) off and on for a while now. Just too bad that I have yet to stumble upon a set that is reasonably priced and in mint condition. As luck would have it, out of the blue (pun intended!) and totally unplanned and un-budgeted for, I ended up with a set of front Endless System Inch Up Brake Kit.

Pic 2: 6 pot Endless System Inch Up Brake Kit

This set of Endless System Inch Up Brake Kit came off a R34 Skyline and thus is just plug and play into mine. Unfortunately I only have the front pair tho. Looks like the rear will have to do with stock calipers with the current Project Mu rotors. I hope there will not be too much of an irregular brake balance. But then it is said that only 20% of the brake force is at the rear, the front is doing most of the stopping anyway.

The set I got is in relatively good condition and it comes complete with:

1) 2X Endless 6 pot calipers
2) 2X Endless 345mm rotors
3) 2X Endless brackets to suit R34 fitment
4) 2 pairs of Endless brake pads (plenty of meat!)

Pic 3: 6 pot Endless 6 pot Calipers

Pic 4: 6 pot Endless 6 pot Calipers

Out of curiosity, I weight the parts on my home electronic scale and got the below readings:-

Endless calipers with brackets - 4.9kg each
Endless rotors - 9.7kg each

I would have expected it to be lighter tho, afterall it's made from diecast aluminium composite material. I can't wait to fit this on the ER34!!

PS. Looks like my Project Mu SCR Pro 2 piece floating rotors will be up for sale soon. :P

Pic 5: Endless 345mm rotors

Pic 6: Mockup behind a stock BNR34 wheel

Skyline, the movie

2010-10-27T18:14:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: Skyline movie poster

Check out this latest movie that's coming to the big screen. Yes I don't do movie reviews and such but this is here because of the title of the movie, SKYLINE. I just thought that it's funny and apt for this blog in a weird kinda way.

The plot summary of the film reads, "Strange lights descend on the city of Los Angeles, drawing people outside like moths to a flame where an extraterrestrial force threatens to swallow the entire human population off the face of the Earth".

It seems like a really good movie not to be missed. Check out the trailer below:-

Pic 2: Snapshot from the movie

Darth Vader ECR33 Skyline

2010-10-08T18:48:00.005+08:00

Pic 1: Darth Vader?

Not my taste but hey it's different all right. Makes it look kinda muscle car style. Or a grinning Cheshire Cat. LOL :D

Pic 2: Cheshire Cat

Nissan Hako-Stagea

2010-09-29T17:45:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Nissan Hako-Stagea - front

Now we have seen how the BNR34 and CBA-R35 front was grafted into the Nissan Stagea before but this conversion have to really take the cake!

Check out this Nissan Stagea that has a Hakosuka conversion done to it. The whole front is from the Hakosuka while the rear has neat chrome accents in an attempt to blend in the old skool style. It even has those nice flared arches all round.

Some might love it while others will loathe at it, but one thing for sure, it's damn hell of a unique conversion.

Pic 2: Nissan Hako-Stagea - rear

A retune of the ER34

2010-09-20T17:26:00.010+08:00

Pic 1: Power FC Datalogit

I got the ER34 retuned again today. Basically need to fine tune some stuffs on the ignition map. I need to make some changes on the higher rpm thus arises the need to take the car up to high gear and high rpm. That means I have to go fast! Now, I do not condone speeding nor am I a top-speed freak but I had to do this to get the map tidied up. Yeah so there ya go.

I only managed to take the ER34 up to 6,188rpm on fifth gear before I ran out of road or had to slow down (way in advance!) due to traffic up ahead. The ER34 redlines at 7,000rpm thus there's still some room to go. As the stock instrument cluster only goes up to 180km/h, the actual speed thankfully can be viewed via the data logs. Now I can safely say the ER34 is VERY safe to run up on higher boost even on a hot sunny day. :)

Willans Harness Pad

2010-09-07T09:50:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Willans Harness Pad

Just got this in from the UK. Original Willans Harness Pad to replace my aging unit. Now the interior looks much better with these on. The crummy old ones are pretty much used past its useful life. :P

Pic 2: Willans Harness Pad

Pic 3: Now it does look much better eh?

Lamborghini 300ZX

2010-08-27T23:14:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: This bumper looked familiar....

I spotted this Nissan Fairlady 300ZX (Z32) recently in a bodykit shop. Horrors it be, it's being converted to replicate the Lamborghini Gallardo. :O

While in standard form, the Z32 may not be that much of a looker but compliment it with a nice bodykit and the appropriate wheels, it'll stand out looking real handsome. If only the owner of this car did just that.

Well I have a lot of comments but I think I'll let the pictures speak for itself ..... plus I do not want to offend anyone. Hahaha

Enjoy!

Pic 2: Quadruple exhausts!?!?!

Pic 3: Some vents here ...

Pic 4: X-Wing :P

Pic 5: Mouth of 'da bull

Pic 6: Uhmm .....

Pic 7: Wonder if real Gallardo lights gonna be fitted there....guess probably not.

Pic 8: Another shot of the vents

Skyline Company

2010-08-16T00:17:00.003+08:00

This is what might happen if you are madly in love with the Skyline. You'll probably end up naming your business with that name. Do not forget to paint your lorry too. LOL :D

92,000km Service

2010-08-10T02:08:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: Engine oils and engine oil filter

It's time for fresh fluids for the ER34 again. The vehicle is now at 92,000km and due for an engine oil change. My last engine oil change was 5,000km ago after the completion of my Stage II mods. You can check out the process here.

That was approximately 6 months back!! Damn I really should get my car serviced at a much earlier interval. Now, where can I find more time???

The usual Torco SR1 10W-40 engine oil was used coupled with a the Nissan engine oil filter (Part No. 15208-53J00). Feels good to finally able to pamper the ER34 for a bit of a much needed "blood transfusion". :)

Pic 2: Pouring in the fluids

Riceboy R34 Headlights

2010-08-02T16:24:00.004+08:00

Pic 1: Riceboy R34 headlights

This is proof that riceboy-ness (Ah Beng Syndrome for those residing in Malaysia and Singapore) do exist in hip and cool Japan. Check out these R34 Xenon headlights that have been modified to have daytime running lights (ala Audi) and also CCFL rings (ala BMW). Uber ugly if you ask me.

If I see anyone R34 with these lights on the street, I'm gonna give the owner a bitch slap! Hahahaha

Pic 2: Riceboy R34 headlights

Pic 3: Riceboy R34 headlights

Wheels in Motion - Work Emotion XD9

2010-07-30T22:07:00.000+08:00

Just wanna share this excellent video of the wheels off my ER34. I'm running Work Emotion XD9 with the below specs:-

Front: 18×8.0JJ+35 5H-114.3
Rear : 18×9.0JJ+38 5H-114.3

This video is showing the rear wheels on a dyno machine. Enjoy!

Lancia Thema 8.32

2010-07-24T15:33:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Lancia Thema 8.32

In South East Asia, Lancia is a little known car manufacturer. This Italian car manufacturer makes amazing cars notably the Lancia Delta Integrale before the company closed its factory doors; and was bought by Fiat Group Automobiles S.p.A.

Being a rally fan when I was young, I was mesmerized by images of flying Delta Integrale on rallies. They are up there on the pedestal alongside "super-rally" cars like the Audi Quattro.

But have you heard of the Lancia Thema 8.32? Lancia Stratos maybe yes but a Thema? *scratches head*

The Thema 8.32 has a very unique feature, it has an electronic rear spoiler! Check out the below video showing it off. The Thema is powered by a 2927 cc Ferrari V8 powerplant! Now ain't that amazing!

Pic 2: Ferrari V8 powerplant

Pic 3: Rear shot with the spoiler out

It is interesting that the electronic rear spoiler was in adoption so early whilst most of us here would only associate it with cars like the Porsche 911, Caymen, Boxster, Audi TT, etc....

Check this video of how it functions....

The R34 kinda look good without a rear spoiler. Now if only someone is mad enough to procure the boot off a Lancia Thema 8.32 and retrofit in the spoiler mechanism. Then you'll have the best of both worlds. LOL :P

Pic 4: Rear spoiler-less R34

Nissan Skyvia revisited

2010-07-22T12:05:00.000+08:00

About 6 months ago, I posted an entry about a Nissan 180SX (RPS13) that have converted it's rear to look like a R34 Skyline. You can read about it here.

Well, lets revisit that same vehicle with exclusive footage of it's "Jekyll and Hyde" demeanor. You see, that car didn't really just convert it's RPS13 rear end to look like a R34 Skyline BUT in fact it still retains the RPS13 rear and also have the R34 Skyline rear end. Confused?

Pic 1: Nissan Skyvia

Simply put, it has two arse. One on top of the other. :P

As the above photo illustrates, opening the "R34 boot" will unveil the RPS13 centre granish plate complete with reverse lights. :P

Ain't that interesting? Hehehe

Holden Statesman spotted in Kuala Lumpur

2010-07-20T21:51:00.005+08:00

The other day I spotted this Holden Statesman on top of a car carrier. I wonder whose is it for......

If my eyes caught the side emblem correctly, this unit is a V6 thus it is 3,600cc with 262hp and 340Nm of torque at 2,600rpm. If only this was the V8 with the massive 6,000cc litre engine.

Loki, you bought another Holden? :P

Happy 25th Anniversary, Proton!

2010-07-10T15:36:00.009+08:00

PROTON celebrated its 25th Anniversary yesterday with a grand Gala Dinner held in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. I was fortunate enough to be invited for the event and are thankful to be remembered as part of the pioneering few that kick started official PROTON car clubs.

As a Malaysian, PROTON plays a big part in ones life. I bet almost every Malaysian have owned a Proton at some stage in life. It is inevitable. For those who have not owned a PROTON before, you might be the 'lucky' few or perhaps the 'unlucky' few. :)

My family was an early adopter of PROTON. My mom had a 1986 Proton Saga and it had served the household well. My first Proton was a 1994 Proton Wira 1.5GLi. It was the early version where it ran on carburetor instead of EFi. Back then I was still a very young chap with little or no money BUT interest in cars is already building up strong. With limited funds and limited knowledge about engines, I succumbed to simply mods like Bosch Super 4 spark plugs and Hot Bits spark plug cables which I thought would make the car super duper powerful. Guess not. Hahaha

It was at this time also I ran a K&N filter which gives out a nice throaty roar on throttle. But I must say the thing that most people remember about the car was the noisy exhaust. You can hear me coming a couple a blocks away! And it was a DTM style muffler. Hahahahaha

Everything else remains stock but I recall keeping a set of 15" Enkei RP01 (Made in Japan) for over a year in my store room as I have no money to buy 15" tyres. The Enkei were graciously 'donated' by my uncle off his car. :)

I had to potter around with the stock 13" wheels though as the Enkei never did find its home on the Wira until today. LOL

After that my 2nd Proton came into the picture and that changed my life forever. The Proton Perdana V6 was a lovely car and via that car and via the inception of the V•Sixers: Perdana V6 Club, I have made a lot of friends and together we have had countless fun times together. From interstate and intercountry drives to track days and autokhana competitions. Those were the days.

Ahhh........such memories.

Coming back to the gala dinner, the guests were treated by two of Malaysia's most talented singers, Zainal Abidin and Sheila Majid! I was mesmerized when both of them sang duet to "Ikhlas Tapi Jauh" accompanied only by electric violin and guiter. It was simply super awesome!

After some speeches by YBhg Dato' Mohd Nadzmi Mohd. Salleh, Chairman of PROTON and YAB Dato' Seri Mohd. Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, Prime Minister of Malaysia, the 25th Anniversary Special Edition PROTONs were unveiled by YBhg Dato' Hj. Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohammed Tahir, Group Managing Director of PROTON.

Only 25 units of these special edition PROTON will be produced per model, the Proton Exora 25th Anniversary Edition, Proton Persona 25th Anniversary Edition and Proton Saga 25th Anniversary Edition. Interesting way to celebrate.

Pic 1: Proton Emas - front view

What really got me excited was the opportunity to touch and feel Malaysia’s first global car, the Proton Emas. Emas, an acronym for Eco Mobility Advance Solution, was designed in collaboration with acclaimed Italian design house Italdesign Giugiaro. Production is scheduled to be by 2012.

The Proton Emas was first unveiled during the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March. Having the chance to view it up close is amazing. I am amazed by the lighting system and overall interior space given that it is afterall a small car. Hope to see it on the roads 2 years from today.

I wish all the best to PROTON.

A journey that has been the nation's pride,
A dream fueled by passion, and
A vision towards another 25 years of progress.

Pic 2: Interesting interior

Pic 3: Proton Emas - rear view

And thank you for the memento. I am sure I will have a wonderful time reading the 25th Anniversary Commenorative Book, "A Saga: Proton's 25 year story".

Pic 4: A Saga: Proton's 25 year story

Pic 5: The past 3 Presidents of the V•Sixers: Perdana V6 Club

Pic 6: Those are very interesting integrated headlights and signal lights

Pic 7: Not sure what technology is this but it lights up as the rear lights

Pic 8: 18" wheels shod in Pirelli P Zero 215/45/18

Pic 9: Doubt this will make it into production. Too bulky power window control

Pic 10: Another interior shot

Video: IMPUL Showroom In Japan

2010-07-06T12:01:00.001+08:00

I think by now, a lot of my readers know that I'm a big fan of IMPUL. :)

IMPUL is probably most famous for its racing car, CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R. Who can forget the iconic blue BNR32 that dominated the Japan Grand Touring Car Championship?

Founded on 1980 by Nissan's legendary factory driver Kazuyoshi Hoshino, IMPUL exclusively produces aftermarket parts for Nissan cars, and runs a motorsports team "Hoshino Racing" for Super GT and Formula races in Japan.

Achievements of Hoshino is historic. Having himself as a driver, he won JGTC (ex SuperGT) series championship 3 years in a row from 1993 through 1995. Seen on the below video, the 1:4 scale miniature racing car of R32 Nissan GT-R was a gift from Carlos Ghosn, Nissan's President, praising Hoshino's contribution to Nissan and Japanese motorsports.

I am still mighty pleased when he signed my Kyosho 1:18 scale model of the BNR32 CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R in 2008. Pics can be seen here. :)

Check out the below video of a tour around the IMPUL showroom in Japan.

Transfăgărăşan in Romania

2010-07-01T18:34:00.002+08:00

Pic 1: Transfăgărăşan

Just watched the 1st episode of Season 14 of Top Gear and they in it was a drive to Transfăgărăşan in Romania in a Ferrari California, Lamborghini Gallardo and an Aston Martin DBS. Transfăgărăşan what?!?

Transfăgărăşan is the highest and most dramatic paved road in Romania. Initially built as a strategic military route, the 90 km of twists and turns run North to South across the tallest sections of the Carpathian Mountains. The road was constructed between 1970 and 1974 and has claimed to have taken six thousands ton of dynamite to make it and 40 lives were lost in its construction.

Anyway, I find this episode mighty entertaining and the roads were just simply superb. How come we don't have these kind of crazy roads here. Hmmmm.....

Btw, Top Gear reckon that Transfăgărăşan is better than the Stelvio Pass!

Pic 2: Transfăgărăşan

Here's the segment extracted from Top Gear.

..... and some behind the scenes footage during the filming.

Bumped into a Ferrari F430

2010-06-25T00:20:00.001+08:00

What do you do when you encounter a Ferrari F430 on the twisty mountain roads? Try to keep up of course!! *grins*

I bumped into a Ferrari F430 on the roads heading to Gohtong Jaya and had a bit of fun tailing it. Needless to say, the F430 is freaking fast! Well it does have a 4,300cc V8 under it's hood pumping out 483hp at 8500 rpm and 465 Nm of torque at 5250 rpm. Yikes!!!

But what impresses me the most is the gear changes. Ferrari's F1 gearbox for the F430 is a gem. It changes the cog so freaking fast and instantaneous (150 milliseconds to be exact)! Makes perfect sense. Why spend idle time changing gear while you can be constantly accelerating? I was losing ground each time I shift up or down. Dang it!

Check out the below video of my run-in with the F430. I was short-shifting at 5,000rpm as this drive was my shakedown run after the completion of my Stage II mods. :)

2010 Autobacs Super GT Rd. 4 Race Results!!

2010-06-21T10:28:00.009+08:00

Fierce battle ends with 1-2 finish for GT-R teams!

The SUPER GT INTERNATIONAL SERIES IN MALAYSIA, Round 4 of the 2010 AUTOBACS SUPER GT in Sepang International Circuit ended with good results! 27,500 spectators cheered to the 1-2 finish of the mighty Nissan GT-Rs!!

The GT500 class winner was the pole-starting CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R driven by Tsugio Matsuda and Ronnie Quintarelli for their first victory of the season. Second place went to the MOTUL AUTECH GT-R, giving the Nissan GT-R a 1-2 finish.

Pic 1: CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R

Starting from the pole position, Matsuda in the CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R managed to stay ahead of his Honda HSV-010GT pursuers and remain in the lead until he made his pit stop at the end of lap 25.

After that, the RAYBRIG HSV-010 and MOTUL AUTECH GT-R moved ahead for a while, until the RAYBRIG and MOTUL cars collided and that accident helped the CALSONIC take the lead again with 10 laps remaining in the race. From that point on, Quintarelli managed to keep that lead to the finish and claim the team's first win since the final round of the 2008 season.

Pic 2: MOTUL AUTECH GT-R

In the GT300 class race, the M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC7 came from 2nd position on the class starting grid to grab the win. This was the fifth win for the AMEMIYA RACING team here at Sepang in the ten GT races held here.

Pic 3: M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC 7

========= Winner Comments ========

No.12 CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R [GT500]
Tsugio Matsuda: “There were some uncertain factors in today's race, so I am really happy that we won. I am glad that I was able to do my job of getting a good start and then turning the wheel over to Ronnie (for the second half) in first position. Although, if I had been able to give him a bit more of a margin over the cars behind, it would have made his job easier…. Things had gone well most of the way, but near the end, the Honda machine with their advantage in tire wear rate began to close the gap. Still, Ronnie was able to get to the checkered in 1st place for us. So, this win belongs not just to me but to Ronnie and to Manager Hoshino and the team who gave us a chance to run winter tests despite the tight finances, and to the people at NISMO who supplied us with this new engine and the people at Bridgestone and everyone else involved."

Ronnie Quintarelli: “I thought I could get past car No. 100 but I was beginning to lose tire grip at that point and that kept me from running at the pace I wanted. But I kept pushing, knowing that this was the key point in the race. (When No. 100 collided with another machine) I thought that there was a possibility of it happening, so I had kept a space open on the inside. But I still don't know what happened to him. To tell the truth, I didn't think we were going to win, but when I started my stint I found that neither No. 100 nor No. 23 had gotten as far ahead as I thought they would, so I kept pushing to try to catch them. Then they collided with each other. The last ten laps after that were very long for me. So much happened out there that I still can't believe that we really won. Tsugio and the team all worked very hard. Nothing can beat this feeling of having won."

No.7 M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC 7 [GT300]
Nobuteru Taniguchi: “Our team's main sponsor is a Malaysian company, so several of the country's VIPs were at the pre-race party, and we wanted to win this race, so there was a lot of pressure. That makes me all the more happy that we won this race. Or strategy had been that we wouldn't change tires if we were in the lead. The tires that the engineers chose for us were exceptionally good."

Ryo Orime: “Our Malaysian sponsor MUTIARA MOTORS came out to give us their support this weekend, so I am very happy that we were able to give them this victory in return. Taniguchi-san pushed hard and brought the car back in 1st place with a lead, so things were relatively easy for me. But trouble developed in the suspensions in the last seven laps, so I had to avoid the curbing and that slowed my pace by almost 2 seconds per lap. Actually, it was a miracle that I was able to make it to the finish."

RACE QUEENS
So where's the race queen pictures? Hmmmmm.........
I think I'll reserve that for another post entry. :)

Pic 4: ISHIMATSU Kosei RUNNUP PORSCHE

Pic 5: M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC 7

Pic 6: COROLLA Axio apr GT

Pic 7: ZENT CERUMO SC430

Pic 8: KEIHIN HSV-010

Pic 9: CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R

Pic 10: MOTUL AUTECH GT-R

Pic 11: CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R

Pic 12: ZENT CERUMO SC430

Pic 13: M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC 7

Pic 14: MACH GOGOGO SHAKEN408R

Pic 15: EVANGELION RT TEST TYPE-01 apr COROLLA

Pic 16: PETRONAS TOM'S SC430

Pic 17: EVANGELION RT TEST TYPE-01 apr COROLLA

Pic 18: WedsSport IS350

Pic 19: HIS ADVAN KONDO GT-R

Pic 20: CALSONIC IMPUL GT-R

Pic 21: COROLLA Axio apr GT

Skyline Club Gathering - 19th June 2010

2010-06-20T00:18:00.007+08:00

Pic 1: The ones that were on time

In a somewhat period that seemed like ages, the Malaysian Skyline Club finally had a gathering that involves everyone and that is really newsworthy. All in I think were close to 50 cars that turned up. Mostly were R34s but there were a smattering of R32s and a couple of R33s. Two units of R35s also joined in the fun. I wish there were the older R31 or even the R30 around. Now that would be superb. Even more so if a certain owner were to bring out his KPCG10. :P

Pic 2: Some butt shots

Pic 2: More butt shots

The gathering was great!!! Kudos to Azmir for organizing this event. Was good to meet up with the owners and also getting to know new friends. I reckon the best way to showcase the cars that came that day is via a video of the attendees. There are a couple of cars not in the video as they arrived after I filmed it. Sorry guys...

Btw, there are a lot of cars that many (me included) have not seen before. Wonder where those guys lurk .... hehehe

Am keeping this post short as nothing really happened. The owners gathered, we had a photoshoot, mingle around and chit chat before groups of owners starts to make a move. Remember to check out the video below. :)

Sneak Peek: 2010 Autobacs Super GT Rd. 4

2010-06-18T09:30:00.004+08:00

I'm sure plenty of you guys are very excited about the 2010 Autobacs Super GT Rd. 4 this coming weekend. Holding its own weight amidst the frenzy of the World Cup 2010, the Super GT is here at the hottest round of the series. Some teams even installed air-conditioning in their vehicles last year. Yes, that is something that is virtually unheard of in the world of motorsports. I'm sure more teams will do the same this year round. :P

Anyway. as a teaser to the race this weekend, below are some sneak pics......

Pic 1: PETRONAS TOM'S SC430

Pic 2: NAC EISEICOM LMP Ferrari

Pic 3: RIRE Lamborghini RG-3

Pic 4: JLOC Lamborghini RG-3

Pic 5: M7 MUTIARA MOTORS AMEMIYA SGC 7

Pic 6: Volk Racing wheels for the picking

Pic 7: EVANGELION RT TEST TYPE-01 apr COROLLA & COROLLA Axio apr GT

Pic 8: Wheels of the EVANGELION RT TEST TYPE-01 apr

Pic 9: ARTA Garaiya

Pic 10: ARTA Garaiya

Pic 11: Weider HSV-010

Pic 12: Interesting rear wing of the Weider HSV-010

Pic 13: Weider HSV-010

Pic 14: KEIHIN HSV-010

Pic 15: WedsSport IS350

Pic 16: DENSO DUNLOP SARD SC430

Pic 17: ZENT CERUMO SC430

DILYSI #16: Genting Highlands

2010-06-14T00:10:00.001+08:00

Pic 1: Grouping up

Well theoretically, I shouldn't call this a DILYSI session since I am not the organizer but just an invited participant but for the sake of easy of reference, I'll call it DILYSI anyway.

The route this was from Ulu Yam to Gohtong Jaya and up Genting Highlands. Not my favorite route but it'll do I guess. It has been exactly 11 months since my last DILYSI. Yea man, it has been that long! What the hell .....

Pic 2: Enroute

Pic 3: Grouping up before the drive

Pic 4: Be afraid when this is staring at you from the rear

I would like to focus this entry about my 'feelings' on the ER34 after my Stage II upgrades. The car definitely has more power and torque but I think the original setup is far better suited on the twisties. The turbine now spools later which makes exiting out of tighter corners a real drag as one has to wait for the turbine to spool before you get any action happening.

With so much torque on tap (well more than previously), throttling out of fast corners or long sweepers will see the tail coming out. In fact, the ER34 tail was sure like a happy dog. It kept wagging around coming out of corners. That's on 255mm width tyres! And they're Yokohama AD07s, sort of like your street-legal semi-slicks. What the ......

I had to have the ER34 on low boost throughout the journey to make it more 'easier' to drive. :(

So yeah, it's now much harder to drive on the twisties as throttle modulation is crucial. I must admit I got scared shit countless times when the ER34 tails out more than expected.

Back to the drive; after the twisties of Ulu Yam, the group stopped for breakfast in Gohtong Jaya before proceeding up to the Coffee Bean in Genting Highlands. Over there we were greeted by the sight of loads of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Lotus. Some were leaving as we arrived. Superbikers were in full force too. There's just so many of 'em. We were all congregating at the same place. :P

What's surprising is that, upon arriving, we were guided by the local coppers to park by the side of the road right outside Coffee Bean. Very convenient indeed. :)

Allrighty then, check out some of the pictures I took. There are also some videos of the drive. Do enjoy. :)

Video 1: ER34 heading up to Gohtong Jaya

Video 2: ER34 going up Genting Highlands with a FD3S RX-7 and a R35 GT-R

Pic 5: Spot the odd one out

Pic 6: R34 rear end looks huge compared to the Porsches

Pic 7: The Jap pack

Pic 8: Regular readers will find this car looks familiar (it was white previously) :P

Pic 9: Clean FD3S and a wicked looking CBA-R35

Pic 10: Privileged parking up in Genting Highlands :P

Pic 11: Superbikes from BMWs to Kawasaki and KTMs to everything in between

Pic 12: Couldn't keep up with this F430 coming downhill from Genting Highlands

Pic 13: F360 Modena twin stove round lighs

Pic 14: Twin round lights on the CBA-R35, F360 and also F355

Pic 15: This VR38DETT is packing massive power

Pic 16: This FD3S is freaking loud. Straight pipe yo!

2010 Autobacs Super GT Rd. 4 in Sepang International Circuit

2010-06-11T12:05:00.006+08:00

That's right folks, the time of the year has arrived. Every year for the past 10 years, the month of June holds a very special place in the heart of motorsports fans in Malaysia. For this 19th and 20th June 2010, the Super GT Round 4 is in Sepang International Circuit!

This year's calender saw the participation of the much anticipated Honda HSV-010 GT after the NSX was retired. Now that would be mighty interesting. The 'triple a' team also made a switch to race an Aston Martin V8 Vantage this year. Some changes are always great for the racing fans. :)

The confirmed participants for this round is as below:-
GT500: 13 cars with 26 drivers
GT300: 19 cars with 38 drivers

The 2010 Autobacs Super GT Rd. 4 would also be featuring the new GT4 Asia Cup, the GT3 Asia Series, Yaris/Vios Experience Race in Sepang as well as the environmentally-friendly Scirocco Cup as the support races.

And most definitely, the much renowned troupe of Japanese race queens will be on hand to add a much more lively flavour to the race environment and to thrill the fans. They are like celebrities back home so in essence they are stars in their own right alongside the drivers themselves. :)

Current points standings are:-
GT500
1. LEXUS TEAM PETRONAS TOM'S (68 points)
2. LEXUS TEAM LeMans ENEOS 64 points)
3. LEXUS TEAM KRAFT (54 points)
4. LEXUS TEAM ZENT CERUMO (50 points)
5. Weider Honda Racing (48 points)

GT300
1. MOLA (70 points)
2. apr (50 points)
3. HASEMI MOTOR SPORT (46 points)
4. M7 RE-AMEMIYA RACING (40 points)
5. AUTOBACS RACING TEAM AGURI (40 points)

Tickets for the Main Grandstand are priced at RM100 and tickets for K1 area are priced at RM70. Tickets for the circuit safari are priced at RM100, while parking charges are priced at RM5 So are you going for the race? :P

SuperGT Queens, Kozue Nitta (Koko) and Megumi Hattori (Mimi)

Great Balls of Fire

2010-06-08T00:12:00.002+08:00

Here's another video of the dyno run where massive flames were captured off the ER34. It happened pretty fast so incase you can't see it properly from the video, I've attached screen captures below for better illustration.

It's freaking cool but I'm burning away gasoline and my rear bumper wrote me a letter of complaint!!

Pic 1: It starts with cool blue flames ...

Pic 2: ... before it develops into a massive fireball

Pic 3: Flames moving up high

Pic 4: Tapering end of flames

Pic 5: That's it folks. Flames over.

Nengun links to http://er34.blogspot.com/

2010-06-06T17:54:00.000+08:00

The other day I notice some incoming traffic from Nengun.com. Weird I thought. I went and check it out and found that Nengun.com actually links to this site for my review of the Uras Super Single Drift Clutch.

They have added the clutch to their catalogue and if you go to the product page here, the link to this blog is Under LINKS --> BLOG CLUTCH REVIEW. :)

For Sale: RB25DET Gasket Kit - Engine Repair

2010-06-05T13:00:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: RB25DET Gasket Kit - Engine Repair package

Just got hold of two sets of the RB25DET Gasket Kit - Engine Repair. This is required if you want to do a complete overhaul of your engine and wants all seals and gaskets refreshed. This is pretty hard to come by as no one really stocks it.

This kit is compatible for both the RB25DET in the R33 and R34.

The below is the complete list of what's in the package. There are a total of 55 items in it.

1x 11026-01M02 Washer - Drain Plug
1x 11044-5L700 Gasket - Cylinder Head
1x 12279-58300 Oil Seal - Crankshaft Rear
1x 13042-16V00 Oil Seal - Camshaft
12x 13207-D4201 Oil Seal - Valve Stem
12x 13207-5L300 Oil Seal - Valve Stem
1x 13270-5L301 Gasket - Rocker Cover
1x 13270-5L311 Gasket - Rocker Cover
1x 13510-10Y10 Oil Seal - Crankshaft
1x 14032-AA500 Gasket - Intake Manifold
1x 14035-75T01 Gasket - Intake Manifold
1x 14036-21U00 Gasket - Exhaust Manifold
1X 14415-4P200 Gasket - Turbo Charger inlet
1X 1445-V2700 Gasket - Turbo Charger outlet
1X 14465-OP610 Gasket - Inlet tube
1x 15053-1E400 Gasket - Oil Strainer
1x 15066-71L00 Gasket - Oil Pump to block
2X 15189-01P00 Gasket - eye bolt
2X 15189-01P00 Gasket - eye bolt
4X 15193-P9000 Gasket - eye bolt
2X 15193-03E00 Gasket - eye bolt
1X 15196-73L00 Gasket - Oil turbo charger outlet
1X 15239-7IL00 Gasket - Oil filter
1X 16175-3IU00 Gasket - Throttle chamber
1X 22131-68S00 O-ring - Seal
1x 22636-N4200 Gasket - Water Temp Sensor
1x 23785-AA000 Gasket - AAC Valve

If you need it for your RB25DET engine rebuilt, shoot me an email via eujin[at]hotmail[dot]com.

Pic 2: Contents of the RB25DET Gasket Kit - Engine Repair

ER34 On The Dyno (again!)

2010-06-03T00:18:00.003+08:00

Ok guys. Following up on my post here about the retune of my Power FC, here is the video of the dyno run. Sorry man, can't help but tease a bit. Hahaha

The ER34 went through more than 30 runs on the dyno machine but I've only uploaded one of the runs; well, basically they are more of less the same anyway. Is the car a tad loud?

Oh yea, there's another video where massive flames can be seen spitting out of the ER34, but I think I'll just reserve that for another day. :P

Retune of the Power FC

2010-06-01T00:17:00.007+08:00

Pic 1: ER34 strapped on the dyno machine

After my botched up crappy tuning of the Apexi Power FC (read here), I've gone to another tuner that would at least meet my expectations and would know what he is doing. In preparation for the retune of my Power FC, a couple of items had to be done. They are:-

1) Obtain bigger cc injectors
2) Fuel pump rewiring (read here)

I got Nismo 480cc injectors for the retune but those ran out of flow. We found out the hard way while road tuning the Power FC. A good 200km of distance travelled were wasted and the tuning had to be stopped. These lovely injectors were already maxed out at 6,000rpm. Sigh....

With much hesitation, I put up the Nismo injectors for sale; and it was gone in a week! With the renewed funds, I bought bigger 650cc injectors from Sard. :)

Pic 2: ER34 strapped on the dyno machine

So the ER34 were in a half state of tune for 2 weeks while I waited for the Sard injectors to arrive. No worries since I'm not going anywhere much and if I do, I never drove past 4,000rpm. Yes, this self-restriction is mighty hard to cope with. LOL :D

Anyway, with the Sard 650cc injectors, one can be assured that there would be more than enough juice for the ER34. After the injectors arrived and were fitted, the car saw another 200km of road tuning before being strapped on the dyno machine for another 100km of fine tuning.

On the rollers, the ER34 spend a good solid 2 hours plus to get the tuning right. The power and torque curve is now much smoother compared to my previous jagged edged piece of crap tune. My air fuel curve can be better but given the amount of effort spent, it's the best that my tuner can extract out of it. It’s running a tad on the rich side now.

Whilst power and torque went up, fuel consumption improved dramatically! In my previous crap tune, I got 220km out of the full tank of 65 litres. Yea, it really sucked. Felt like I'm driving a big block muscle car. WTF!

Now, I'm getting far better mileage. Still on my initial full tank of fuel, I've already clocked 300km before my refuel. And a third of it is hard runs on the dyno machine! Most definitely it will however drink like the "Thirsty Traveller" during my hill runs but that’s expected anyhow.

Pic 3: Tuning the Power FC

Preliminary feelings on the car is that it’s now much tougher to drive hard and throttle modulation is crucial during cornering lest it’ll be tailing out. I am missing my stock turbine responsiveness with its early spooling. :(

The HKS GT-RS is a responsive turbine as it spool earlier than bigger turbines like the 3037s BUT it's still a tad laggier compared to the stock snail.

But when the boost kicks in, it’s bloody frantic! The car is also spitting massive flames. Wild bonfires in the still of the night. Hahaha

I have a strong feeling that I'll be much slower when I tackle Frasiers Hill again. That has got to suck! :(

Anyone care for a video of the dyno run? Hehe :)

Pic 4: Took this pic while preparing for road tune

Pic 5: Power FC, Datalogit cables, HKS A/F Knock Amp, Innovate Motorsports LC-1 Wideband Controller, etc..

Pic 6: ER34 strapped on the dyno machine

Pic 7: Spinning wheels

Pic 8: Anyone wanna see the dyno video? :P

BNR34 Carbon Fibre Fetish

2010-05-26T23:50:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: Fully carbon fibre up front

There's one BNR34 in Malaysia that have my greatest respect. But interestingly enough, it has managed to stay below the radar for a looooong time. No one seems to have seen or heard of this car. I've been keeping some photos for a very long time, and I think perhaps it's now apt to share just some of it.

I'm sure the specifications list is mighty impressive as this car generates tonnes of power and torque. Even the tuner is flown in from Jun Auto Mechanic, Japan to fine tune this beast. I'm not gonna reveal the power figures but instead am just going to concentrate on one aspect of this car, its carbon fibre fetish.

This BNR34 has carbon fibre everything!!!

Amongst the cf bits it possesses are bonnet, front bumper, fender (LH & RH), fenders covers, headlamp air intake, canards, doors (LH & RH), eye lid, craft square mirrors, boot, Voltex spoiler, rear diffuser, Nismo cf pillar garnish, Garage Defend GT cooling panel and many many more.

Pic 2: Panda theme

Oh yeah, even the interior is not spared by the carbon fibre fetishism. There's cf-look transmission surround cover, gear lever boot cover, handbrake lever cover, mfd cover, armrest cover, etc....

Hats off to the owner. :)

Pic 3: Menacing no less. Note headlights air intake

Pic 4: Lovely Nismo hood

Pic 5: Note Craft Square mirrors

Pic 6: More carbon fibre at the rear end

Pic 7: Side profile

Pic 8: Voltex carbon fibre GT Wing

Pic 9: Did you see the wheels? And what's peeking out?

Pic 10: Carbon fibre doors - outside and inside!

Pic 11: Nismo LM GT-4 and AP Racing brakes.

Pic 12: I wish I have these Takata harness

Pic 13: Carbon fibre theme continues inside

Pic 14: Let me assure you that this engine has LOADS of power and torque. Tuned by Jun Auto Mechanic.

Direct fuel pump wiring

2010-05-25T08:48:00.000+08:00

I had the fuel pump wiring in the ER34 rewired so that it receives the full 13.8V that comes direct from the battery. If I am not wrong, the ER34 comes with variable speed pump control - 2 stage?

With the new rewiring, the fuel pump gets the full juice from the battery and is at full efficiency. Attached is the wiring diagram if anyone is interested. Click on it to see a larger image.

Movie: Drift GT-R

2010-05-23T13:16:00.003+08:00

Check out this Japanese movie entitled Drift GT-R that was released in 2008. Basically the storyline is like this:-

Ren, a young street racer has just defeated a red RPS13 on the mountain pass. A moment later, he found that the tires of his BNR32 were stolen by a local tyre and car parts stealing gang! Miyu, the daughter of the gang’s boss challenged Ren to a race. However, Miyu asked him for a favour after she lost the race. Now Ren have to challenge three cars on the touge, 2 RPS13 and the FD3S belonging to the gang leader. What would be the outcome? Watch it to know. :P

Yes, corny storyline but what the hell, I'm just watching the show for the cars! Tyres and car parts stealing gang? Geez!!! LOL :D

Directed by Kichitaro Negishi, it's a pretty short film of just 1:13:29. Stars include unknown people like Taiyo Sugiura, Kazuya Kimura and Mizuho. Acting is pretty dodgy and at parts can be a pretty repetitive. You have been warned. Oh and the lead actor looked like a girl to me. LOL :D

If you have an hour of free time to watch this, you can download it here:-

Movie download:-
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=3JZOGN5T

English subtitle download:-
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=CSIJZUEE

Check out the trailer below:-

Sard 650cc Injectors

2010-05-21T09:08:00.001+08:00

Pic 1: Sard 650cc injectors

As per my blog post about my Nismo 480cc injectors here and here, I need to upgrade to higher cc injectors as the ER34 is maxing out even on the Nismo injectors.

So what's out there that is available as direct plug and play with the ER34 OEM fuel rail? Blitz has a set that churns out 525cc while Sard makes a 650cc replacement. While having Blitz injectors may sound cool and all, but with just 45cc increment over the Nismo, it will definitely not cut it. So I guess the only option for me now is the Sard 650cc injectors.

Sard 650cc fuel injectors are top-feed, high impedance and an excellent upgrade if you have upgraded your turbine and are gunning for a bit more horses. The set of 6 injectors comes with bolts and spacers designed to use with the OEM fuel rails so it's just a simple case of taking out the old and putting these in. If you're wondering, these have a latency of 1.50msec.

Pic 2: Sard 650cc injectors

I might not need the full 650cc of flow but in the event that I do anymore upgrades in the future (which I have absolutely no plan :P), at least I do not have to worry about injector capacity again.

With these new injectors, the injector and latency correction in the Power PC will need to be adjusted as per below:-

New Injector Correction
Old Size / New Size X 100
370 / 650 = 0.569 X 100 = 56.9%

New Latency Correction
New Latency - Old Latency
1.5 - 0.528 = +9.72 msec

Willans 4 point harness

2010-05-17T00:04:00.003+08:00

Pic 1: Willans harness

I bet most if not all motorsports fan will have heard of Willans. They are the world’s leading harness manufacturer. You'll be able to see their product in all forms of motorsports – from club racing and rallying to Formula One and Nascar. Yeap even Formula One teams uses Willans harness.

I got a Willans 4 point harness to complement the Recaro RS-G seat. Well, might as well right? Afterall, the factory 3 point seat belt will be massively brushing against the Recaro RS-G shoulder support. It's going to definitely worn out that portion of the seat mighty quick if I keep on using that.

Pic 2: Camlock

The version I got is with the Camlock twist buckle quick release version and it work wonders. With a quick twist and all the harness straps unbuckles itself. It even has provision in the twist buckle to accept a fifth harness strap to convert it to a five point or six point harness.

The downside is that it's now a mighty chore just to get strapped in. And once you're strapped in you can't even reach for the glovebox let alone to look over your shoulders when you wanna reverse the car. Eeekk!

Here are some pictures of the harness.

Pic 3: Willans harness

Pic 4: Installed along with the Recaro RS-G