Cusico Baja 1000 WRX

[Recce01]

Ok Dirty Impreza... I have about 10 different projects I could probably put on here, but I thought I would post up the most interesting project of them all, The Cusico Rally Team Baja 1000 Subaru Project.

In September of 2006 Ryan Cusic decided he wanted to race his WRX rally car in the Baja 1000 a few months later. Most of the GravelCrew heads converged on PLaCAR in Temecula for a last minute effort to prepare the car for the SCORE rules and to handle the rough terrain. The car would ride on stock suspension components attached to a heavily caged bodyshell via 50MM Gravel Spec DMS dampers. A fuel cell was installed, along with a full length Aluminum skid plate. Next add a safari style bumper, and snorkel, and we are racing :) Here are a few pics....

This is tearing the car down for the fuel cell addition...

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01889.jpg

The box and new filler neck were made.....

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01890.jpg

And the cell installed and plumbed.....
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01888.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01919.jpg

[Recce01]

There was a tremendous amount of rain preceding the 2006 Baja 1000, so we felt it would be a good idea to attach a snorkel for some of the 3' deep water crossings we were seeing on you tube, and hearing about. We used 3" aluminum tubing, and an intake hose from a WRX, along with a leaf blower end (who the hell knows where that came from??), and you have a functional Snorkel.
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01900.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01887.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01877.jpg

Oh, and we couldn't go without a Safari Style bumper :)

http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01883.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01878.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01898.jpg

[Recce01]

We cant very well do the event without some proper lighting, so we took the PIAA pods off of my Kenwood project .....( http://www.gcrallyx.com/car_audio_pg01_02.jpg ) and added some KC HID lamps , the faces of the lamps are hard plastic instead of glass, so rocks thrown up off of Robby Gordon's trophy truck wont break them while we are getting ready to bump him out of the way :lol2:. Here are a few shots.....
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01917.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01915.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/DSC01923.jpg

The car def got some attention in mexico.....

[Recce01]

Sorry for the crap photography, but it was usually about 3 am by the time someone said grab a camera, by then 12 red bulls deep, and well... you can tell.


The story on Baja will come in the near future, Then I will show you the new projects in the works to make this car even better :)

[409industries]

So awesome to finally see some shots of the car in Mexico! I really want to see that car in action again!

[Not All There]

what an awesome purpose built rig! one of my favorite builds i have seen so far. any action shots or vids?

[Recce01]

we had a video of some hard pounding, and a roll over, but it got taken down from youtube. I'll ask ryan to put it back up.

[tuffsti]

sweetbabyjesus thats so effing amazing! i always tell my 4x4 buddies into trucks i can whoop thier ass and there like no man baja 1000 bleh bleh i mean its cool but i always knew a subie could do it allpro omg u guys are my herwos

[saturn]

holycow

[dppaladino]

wow! this may be my favorite subbie on DI. Did you ever get a chance to test the snorkel?

[carl]

completely badass! subscribed!

[UP2MTNS]

nice....pretty sick.

[pigpen]

that is a purdy bugeye...i can't wait to hear the baja stories!

[Recce01]

I have been to the Baja1000 probably 8 or 9 times over the years and every time down there there is something new to be learned. Our first attempt at baja in a Subaru was no different, we had limited time to prepare for the event, and a very limited spare parts selection. We started the event on an interesting note with the Score tech guys giving us a hard time about window nets, and an acceptable amber rear facing lamp. We swooped up the necessary parts from Kartek's rolling store , sorted the issues, and we were off.

The reaction from the people in the town and the wash at the start was incredible, they cheered like crazy for our "odd" entry. The first 20 or so miles were awesome, Ryan was doing an incredible job negotiating the silt beds, he and the codriver said it was like a slolom between all the stuck cars and trucks. Subaru's all wheel drive system actually worked extremely well in the stupid soft stuff. about 40 miles in to the event, the clutch started sticking to the floor. We had a full underbody skidplate that seemed to retain the heat, and cause problems with the clutch. We removed the rear portion of the skidplate, let everything cool and carried on. The chase truck then headed back to the other side of the peninsula to start heading south.

Unfortunetly we started heading south too soon, as at about mile 80 the car suffered a front right control arm failure. the boys had entered a huge ditch/wash, and drove as well as they could through it, there was a huge hole on the right side of the road where a truck had gotten stuck, and it was impossible to see from the car, as it all looked like a rock face. The right front suspension drooped out in the hole, and the leading edge was too high for the rally tire to get over. It bent the rt front suspension back into the body shell. Our efforts to reach each other failed, as communication from coast to coast is almost impossible over the mountain range. A few guys were nice enough to drag the car onto their trailer and bring the car back to Ensenada. We finally reached the boys as they were coming back into town and learned of the news. We then contacted the boys who were down at bay of LA, and headed for the hotel. The boys then dodged head ons with semi's and tour busses all the way back to the hotel to join us..... wow, what an effort to go 80 miles..grrrrr

[Recce01]

so... on to the golden rule in motorsports... if/when it breaks build it stronger:) Ryan came to me, and said "lets do some WRC style crossmembers/suspension but strong enough for Baja" ..... he dropped off some stock crossmembers, and the surgery commenced....
\
step 1 build some fixtures....
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p541.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p491.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p492.jpg

[Recce01]

step 2...
Throw some chromoly at it!!
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p544-1.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p545-1.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p547.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p550.jpg

[Recce01]

step 3...
Throw some more chromoly at it....
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p549.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p553-1.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p556-1.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p555-1.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p553.jpg

[RS-ti_Andy]

BAD A**!!!!!!!!!!!! the coolest car on DI!

[Recce01]

and of course the front......
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p514.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p513.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p512.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p515.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p517.jpg

[Recce01]

and some mas.....
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p536.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p538.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p542.jpg
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p543.jpg

There is the comparison, I feel we have built it pleanty heavy duty enough for Baja, and it still weighs 2.5lbs lighter than standard :):machinegunleft:

[Recce01]

test fit.... and move on!
http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p521.jpg

[Recce01]

with front and rear crossmembers done.. it was time to move onto arms... I'll get to that when time permits.... here are both together...http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm277/recce01/Baja%201000%20Rally%20Car/Crossmembers/p554-1.jpg

[Recce01]

ya... crappy photos .... my bad, just shot on a whim with my palm.

[newbie101]

looks sweet... i need some of them and some control arms the way ive been going threw em

[JacksonRally]

Lets get this car back to BAJA!!!

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/ryanbaja.jpg

[Not All There]

VERY IMPRESSIVE WORK! oops caps

[pigpen]

wow...those are some beefy upgrades. badazz stuff!

[carl]

this car is just so kickass!!

[Bampalo]

This is totally bad ass. What class does it race in the baja?

[westy2005]

SICK!! Awesome car to see in person too!

[Soltek Lighting]

NICE!! I look forward to seeing everything coming together and your next effort!

[Recce01]

I just have to make time to throw at the car to get it ready for baja this year. We will also be in need of volunteers to chase for us this year... any interest? Best if you have a 4wd truck, and a bit of experience with the insanity that is Mexico.

[subyspawn]

i think the battle wagon plans on being ready to chase...

[04caliwrx]

Wow your car is done up crazy man, looks great.

[dppaladino]

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/ryanbaja.jpg
you're not from reno, are you? whats the story to the L*CON RENO sticker?

[Recce01]

L con is a friend of mine and his shop name in anaheim. Reno is a company name that does construction. Not sure of the association.

[JacksonRally]

It is a work of art. It is on exhibit at PlAcAr in Temecula.

Hurry come and see it the exhibit closes July 31st.

[Recce01]

:lol2:

[fattie92]

Awesome fabrication work!

[cusico]

Hurry come and see it the exhibit closes July 31st.


I think it will be open for another twelve months at PlaCaR.

Kyle, don't sent out the wrong message, or you'll have crowd control issues to deal with. I don't want to throw off your 5 to 1 OTD ratio.

[JacksonRally]

I think it will be open for another twelve months at PlaCaR.

Kyle, don't sent out the wrong message, or you'll have crowd control issues to deal with. I don't want to throw off your 5 to 1 OTD ratio.

I have cones and caution tape, plus I'll be selling tickets. :crazy:

[cusico]

I have cones and caution tape, plus I'll be selling tickets. :crazy:

Perfect, just use the profits to purchase a bigger pry bar to get the lead man off his Keester. He Say's I put a voodoo curse on the car, and that's why he will not touch it.

I'm in no hurry. I'm looking into the offroad truck market in the interim. Protruck plus Dunlap prep. At least it a guaranteed program.

[UP2MTNS]

so....um......are those suspension upgrades for sale? (fab up new ones, I mean....not buy yours, haha)


seriously.

[Allwheelsdriven.net]

so....um......are those suspension upgrades for sale? (fab up new ones, I mean....not buy yours, haha)


seriously.

They have the template.. there should be more for sale, for a few more $$$ than a stocker will run. _Guessing_ $1500-2500 ea.. You doing the Baja now Jon?:)

BTW Scott and co.,
Great work! Those subframes are works of art. Very proper rally and Trophy Truck fab skills combined on those..:mrgreen:

Barrett-
www.allwheelsdriven.net (http://www.allwheelsdriven.net)

[UP2MTNS]

They have the template.. there should be more for sale, for a few more $$$ than a stocker will run. _Guessing_ $1500-2500 ea.. You doing the Baja now Jon?:)

BTW Scott and co.,
Great work! Those subframes are works of art. Very proper rally and Trophy Truck fab skills combined on those..:mrgreen:

Barrett-
www.allwheelsdriven.net (http://www.allwheelsdriven.net)

no baja, but a nice front suspension upgrade for stage rally would be nice......'nearly' indestructable ;)

[Tommy Gun Rally]

This is definitely on my 'to do' list. I would think these cars would benefit from a lot more tire under them.....thoughts? Any way to fit some big mudders under there ala Jackson Brothers?

And where can I find the rule book for the 14## class?

Eli

[JacksonRally]

The 14xx class I believe is sportsman. Pretty much all you would need is a fuel cell and window nets to make your car legal Eli. As far as tires...I honestly wouldn't change the size for rally. I however am not going to race my car, its just for fun. So one day my tires will be even larger :muhaha:

[cusico]

More updates on the project.


Front lower control arms
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture223.jpg
Radiator upper mount in the works
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture444.jpg
Radiator upper mount
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture445.jpg
Brake master cylinder booster delete-stainless
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture450.jpg
Proper RC steering system. Firewall bearing and mount
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture455.jpg
Factory core support mod
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture457.jpg
AP brake system prop valve.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture460.jpg
Hood pin mounts.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture461.jpg

[cusico]

Firewall sealing. The seam welding and final finish/sand/grind is not yet complete.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture449.jpg
Firewall plates. All flush fit/net fit, and match the openings.

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture456.jpg

[Newk_Rally]

nice man my dad is getting ready to build a trophy truck for baja and we're building 2 trucks for corr. i've always said that one day i will race baja in a suby looks good hope to see you down there some time

[JAN02000]

That is just awesome. When is the Baja this year?

[Newk_Rally]

it's nov. 20th-23rd
more info here (http://www.score-international.com/baja1000/index.ihtml)

[Not All There]

cant wait to see this out in the desert!

[Allwheelsdriven.net]

Damn, those control arms, core support, and hood pin mounts are proper!!!:mrgreen:
Now you just have to plate the unibody and frame to take the force generated by the lca's. BTW, nice stitching in the engine bay..

I just puked in my mouth a little..(in a good way).:)

Barrett-
www.allwheelsdriven.net

[Newk_Rally]

i was curious if there was any more pics of you guys at baja

[cusico]

The unibody is plated, and the load gets transfered to the cage.

[JAN02000]

Any more recent updates on this beast? Baja is coming up and I'm mighty curious.

[cusico]

Some updates. Very busy lately, but great news is Scott is back on the project working away.
Skid plate assembly
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture519.jpg
Skid plate subframe assembly
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture521.jpg
New one off hose for steering rack
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture517.jpg
Steering column
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture524.jpg

[Recce01]

Ryan... you are going to become the master Fabricator here in a minute! Yes, I am actually working on the car again :) The added aproach angle is rediculous. Now we need Kyle to cut the back of the car like his :) come on Kyle!!! Break out the plazma!

[SReitsma]

holy hell that car is amazing! even more amazing is the cage fabrication...well done guys!

[Drew84]

That rocks, how did I miss this thread before?

[cusico]

One thing has been coming up lately around the water cooler.

Most people within the Rally community have no grasp on the level of fabrication some of these cars have gone through. They take the "pooped out of can, mig welded garbage, material from Home Depot" cars, and somehow in their head place them on the same level as proper elite cars out there.

Start digging for WRC photos, then place work done by Scott G., Kyle Jackson, and if put next to eachother, the products produced by them, and the products from Robby Gordons shop, and Prodrive, start to become the same, on the same level, and in a lot of cases...better.

My car is unique, and has driven the contacts I have made at Prodrive scratch their heads, and want more pictures. I am not looking for praise for myself, but for respect, and understanding of the true elite level of fabrication that is being done by a couple talents that have raised the bar.

Look at even Aaron's cage in the RS. The quality level is higher than a WRC car. The weld quality produced by kyle is higher than what is produced by Prodrive's WRC GD cars I have seen, and curry combed.

Maybe this is something that is hard to understand, the difference between a Harbor Freight tool, and a proper Snap On/Beta tool.

Sorry to rant, but I wish people in the rally community (not only on this site) could understand the difference, because it is huge. Most people slap a bunch of S H I T together, and call it a race car.

[Newk_Rally]

very valid point

[fattie92]

I fabricate light bars for 04-05 WRX's and I can not even comprehend the time and work that goes into the stuff that you guys do. My jaw just drops in complete awe because it it so beautiful. I wish that one day I can fabricate on the same level as you and your shop.

[Tommy Gun Rally]

I dont get it, I dont think anyone was talking smack about the car at all? In fact, I've never seen one disparaging comment written on ANY forum about Scott G or Kyle Jackson's work, through all their many combined builds.... :shrugs:

[sniper1rfa]

^^^


I kinda thought the same thing.

Where did that little rant come from? This car is very clearly Something Else.

[Allwheelsdriven.net]

One thing has been coming up lately around the water cooler.

Most people within the Rally community have no grasp on the level of fabrication some of these cars have gone through. They take the "pooped out of can, mig welded garbage, material from Home Depot" cars, and somehow in their head place them on the same level as proper elite cars out there.

Start digging for WRC photos, then place work done by Scott G., Kyle Jackson, and if put next to eachother, the products produced by them, and the products from Robby Gordons shop, and Prodrive, start to become the same, on the same level, and in a lot of cases...better.

My car is unique, and has driven the contacts I have made at Prodrive scratch their heads, and want more pictures. I am not looking for praise for myself, but for respect, and understanding of the true elite level of fabrication that is being done by a couple talents that have raised the bar.

Look at even Arrons cage in the RS. The quality level is higher than a WRC car. The weld quality produced by kyle is higher than what is produced by Prodrive's WRC GD cars I have seen, and curry combed.

Maybe this is something that is hard to understand, the difference between a Harbor Freight tool, and a proper Snap On/Beta tool.

Sorry to rant, but I wish people in the rally community (not only on this site) could understand the difference, because it is huge. Most people slap a bunch of S H I T together, and call it a race car.

This is for the guys too shocked to reply..:waving:

First of all, most people within the rally community don't have a couple hundred grand to build a WRC spec car.. Club level guys in particular. Some eat ramen to rally...no kidding.

From what I've read, pretty much everyone, including myself, has given you (Scott and Kyle too) props on the level of the build quality of your car..It's very well built, and pretty too. what gives? Where did this rant come from??:roll: Too much Hatorade this morning? Maybe you got some $hit from the trophy truck crew..How good the fab work is will be put to the test if you can get to the finish of the 1000. Don't blow your wad (and all their fab hours) in the first 100 miles like last year..

I know what it takes to build a proper car, that's how I make my living. Our/our clients' podium finishes speak for themselves. Our client's that have rolled and came out intact, understand even better. Additionally, as a tech inspector for both R-A and NASA, I know about the bird poop looking welds you are referring to.. there are definitely some ugly/weak welds out there. BUT, the "mig welded garbage/ home depot materials" comment is unnerving, to say the least. Did your cage material get delivered from the planet unobtanium? Most likely not.. Probably just a steel supply outfit, similar to those located all over the world.. There are many properly built rally cars that are MIG'd, not TIG'd. They are just as strong if welded correctly. If you don't think there are people that lay down weak TIG beads, think again. No matter if it's MIG or TIG, penetration is key to the strength of the weld. Both machines, in the right hands, can get it done well.

I've teched everything from "bird poo/booger" welded cars, to SRTUSA (VTCAR) cars, to Rockstar cars, to CPD's cars (Prodrive), Cascade Autosport Evos, Rocket Rally cars, to properly built club rally cars, and everything in between.. The thing that you aren't recognizing, is that it's not the money spent on the build (or parts) that gives a fabricator talent. Some guys just have the skills, others don't, and never will.:)

Did you ever see the build pics of Doug Havir's CPD 1 ('04 STI)? That's a proper build too, and $250k+ worth of it..:mrgreen:

Barrett-
www.allwheelsdriven.net (http://www.allwheelsdriven.net)

[cusico]

Sorry to rant, and NO I did not think that anyone was negative, that was not the reason why I posted.

The reason is to hopefully shed light on some of the above board work done by some of the guys around here. I kinda view the rally community feels that "it's all the same", and similar to the homebuilt prerunner set running around, it does not matter what the finish product is, it's all about if it installed. This is true even for the rally tech program(s), they dont care if it is proper, they are looking to see if you put in 80 feet of god knows what tubing. Scary to me, but Im weird.

Please don't take this in a negative way everyone, but there is a night and day difference in someone spending 6 hours on one custom body panel, and just throwing it together. Perfect takes talent, and sometimes magic.

[Recce01]

As a matter of fact my tubing and my personality were delivered from the planet Unobtanium. Dont mind Ryan, he just gets bitter when he hears guys state that their buddies could do the same job in their garage for $500 and a twelver of heiny. It happens at the shop sometimes, not on the forum, not sure why he posted it here, he just needed to get it out i guess LOL.

Hey Barrett... Thanks for the compliments, and I am sure you hear the same thing from time to time. :)

Hey Ryan.... get back to building parts!

[409industries]

I don't think cusico's comments were from anyone's posting in his thread, most likely just something that was talked about at the shop ('round the water cooler) and just wanted to be vented.

You guys (Scott / Ryan / Kyle) do top notch work and I believe firmly that for my money there is no better investment out there. Every time I come out to the shop I am amazed at some of the new and innovative things that are being fabricated every day. So one thing is for sure, i doubt you're going to get and sh*t talking from anyone on this forum. Now the Baja / Prerunner crowed... Subaru guys are the little fish in their big pond, but you can show them what we're all about.

Amped to see that Scotty is back involved in the build, i'm really looking forward to this car being put back together and rocking it!

[scootfd3s]

I LOVE YOU :shock::shock:

[cusico]

Yeah bean burrito's

[cusico]

This is for the guys too shocked to reply..:waving:

First of all, most people within the rally community don't have a couple hundred grand to build a WRC spec car.. Club level guys in particular. Some eat ramen to rally...no kidding.

From what I've read, pretty much everyone, including myself, has given you (Scott and Kyle too) props on the level of the build quality of your car..It's very well built, and pretty too. what gives? Where did this rant come from??:roll: Too much Hatorade this morning? Maybe you got some $hit from the trophy truck crew..How good the fab work is will be put to the test if you can get to the finish of the 1000. Don't blow your wad (and all their fab hours) in the first 100 miles like last year..

I know what it takes to build a proper car, that's how I make my living. Our/our clients' podium finishes speak for themselves. Our client's that have rolled and came out intact, understand even better. Additionally, as a tech inspector for both R-A and NASA, I know about the bird poop looking welds you are referring to.. there are definitely some ugly/weak welds out there. BUT, the "mig welded garbage/ home depot materials" comment is unnerving, to say the least. Did your cage material get delivered from the planet unobtanium? Most likely not.. Probably just a steel supply outfit, similar to those located all over the world.. There are many properly built rally cars that are MIG'd, not TIG'd. They are just as strong if welded correctly. If you don't think there are people that lay down weak TIG beads, think again. No matter if it's MIG or TIG, penetration is key to the strength of the weld. Both machines, in the right hands, can get it done well.

I've teched everything from "bird poo/booger" welded cars, to SRTUSA (VTCAR) cars, to Rockstar cars, to CPD's cars (Prodrive), Cascade Autosport Evos, Rocket Rally cars, to properly built club rally cars, and everything in between.. The thing that you aren't recognizing, is that it's not the money spent on the build (or parts) that gives a fabricator talent. Some guys just have the skills, others don't, and never will.:)


It is not a money thing, it is a "my brain is worth just as much as the next guy"

I have the equipment to test any product, and there is a right, and a wrong.

[Safe Drives]

*subscribes*

[cusico]

Yeah updates.

Just picked up an insane engine from Millenium Motorsports. Good for 950hp so Im told????

Scott at Placar has been hard at work on the car. Camera battery charger is MIA.

[wrx!kid]

:shocked: that is some sweet fab work ! :headbang:i hope some day i could fab at least half that some day

[cusico]

Updates for everyone!!!

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture022.jpg
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture019.jpg
Lower X over fuel cell
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture024.jpg
View from the engine bay
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture022.jpg
AP Brake valve
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture027.jpg

[cusico]

Stealth

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture020.jpg

http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture016.jpg

[junkyard racer]

very nice work. i assume you are prepping for next years baha?

[msgsti217]

06 front swap?

[cusico]

very nice work. i assume you are prepping for next years baha?

Maybe? I just need to get my car in the production line over at the shop. It keeps getting derailed which is bad.

[King of Poop]

WOW!!! can't wait to see more!!!

[cusico]

The build has had some distractions in the last two months, but it will be full steam ahead next week until it is finished.

The new heater/defroster
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture056.jpg

There are two brackets behind both seats for the fire systems.
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture059.jpg

The bumpers got some slide latches mounted to allow the bumper covers to be remover/replaced quickly.

Not much else to update.

[409industries]

The bumpers got some slide latches mounted to allow the bumper covers to be remover/replaced quickly.



Is there any way you could elaborate on this a bit more Ryan? I am looking to do the same thing for my front bumper, as i have one with no lights mounted for daytime, and one with expensive lights in it for night stages.

No point in breaking lights on day stages stuffing the front end, if i can avoid it...

[PhyrraM]

Great, and absolutely amazing, work. Here's to hoping it runs all 1000 miles this time. :guitarist:


The sad part is my hopes of getting Scott to eventually build my cage have now been permanently dashed. I clearly could never afford PlaCar. :shootsself:

[cusico]

The sad part is my hopes of getting Scott to eventually build my cage have now been permanently dashed. I clearly could never afford PlaCar. :shootsself:

Scott and Kyle are making deals in this tough economy. You never know what scott would do for so cash.

[409industries]

You never know what scott would do for so cash.

That could be interpreted... many ways :oops:

[Recce01]

That could be interpreted... many ways :oops:
you asshats think that I dont come here anymore????? :nono

[Tommy Gun Rally]

we know you so well scotty!! :)

[SoCalBoomer]

Roflmaopmp!!!

[Daniel B]

The new heater/defroster
http://i75.photobucket.com/albums/i296/rcusic01/Picture056.jpg



Could you expand on this a bit? Make, Model, etc...

I can't make up my mind on whether or not I want to go with something other than the factory heater. I want the stronger cage design, but it cames at the expense of the OEM heater...

Thanks!

EDIT: My shell goes in for it's rally cage in three weeks and I can't decide if I want the X-brace between the front half-lateral to dash bar intersection, and the strut towers. I want the X-brace but have not found a trustwothy solution for a heater/defroster...
________
BMW R60 (http://www.cyclechaos.com/wiki/BMW_R60)

[JacksonRally]

Link to where we purchased the heaters.

http://www.southernrods.com/categories/heating-and-cooling/heaters/products/product-867.html

[subyspawn]

I will have some pics up of the same heater setup in my car by this weekend. very similar to this design.

[bigjoshsubyfan]

this is a bad ass car with some bad ass fab work and what happened to the bug eye front end? anyways wow you guys do some great stuff

[JacksonRally]

Ryan want to come in tomorrow and check off on his new air box?!?!?

[Broken Motorsports]

I am totally floored by the attention to detail. Amazing work.

Been looking to do tubular subframes for years now, but just didnt have anyone to do it for me.
Might have to talk to you about those subframes and arms for one of my cars ;)

_billy

[cusico]

I wish welder and metal were in the schedule. Three good weeks and it can be done. Simple stuff.

[cusico]

man, three months since the last post. Nothing new same story:)

[cusico]

Alright, KYle is plugging away to get the fab work done before the VEgas to Reno race in August!!!

Tight schedule!!!

[Logic]

This is a beautiful build , keep it up guys.

[cusico]

vegas to reno is soooo close. This thing needs to get finished up.

[cusico]

machining up some "new" DMS struts for prerunning. Heavy duty fab work to make them work well/strong.

New struts in the works for events.

[albascoob]

machining up some "new" DMS struts for prerunning. Heavy duty fab work to make them work well/strong.

New struts in the works for events.


Words mean nothing without pictures....stop teasing!

[daywalker007]

I may have missed this answer earlier, but I was also wondering what happened to the bugeye front end?

[JacksonRally]

I may have missed this answer earlier, but I was also wondering what happened to the bugeye front end?


rollover

[cusico]

kEerbWkNmRg

This is the good old days when it was outside in the dirt:(

[Daniel B]

:shock: YOWSAH! :shock:

I did NOT expect that!

(cool video)

[Dubld]

Awesome build. I'll have to check out the shop next time I'm in Tem.
Doh! on the roll-over...says a lot of the car & the extent you had to go to make drives like that fun!

[cusico]

Hope the car can get going in the right direction asap. It has been 7 months with very little progress in that long period of time.

[aresbykes]

awesome build, need to do some more work to it, to keep our interests :D

[cusico]

awesome build, need to do some more work to it, to keep our interests :D

Yeah NO S H I T! My interest has been down in the dumps due to putting my kindness out there and having it stepped on.

Hope things start going again on the car.

[cusico]

The prodrive carbon roof scoop is installed.
The steering column is done, with 10 minutes of welding to go.:/
Working on the underbody goop removal.

Hope next week the big stuff gets going.

[Rally OBXT]

Yeah NO S H I T! My interest has been down in the dumps due to putting my kindness out there and having it stepped on.

Don't know if this comment is based on the failure of the R4 series or not, but if it is, you need to realize it was a bad economic situation and you happened to be on the short end of the stick. Bad luck mostly IMO.

Best of luck with your build and rally on.

[lorenkb]

Don't know if this comment is based on the failure of the R4 series or not, but if it is, you need to realize it was a bad economic situation and you happened to be on the short end of the stick. Bad luck mostly IMO.

Best of luck with your build and rally on.

It's not about R4, and I'm in the same boat ;-)

[subyspawn]

It's not about R4, and I'm in the same boat ;-)

wha?

[409industries]

Hope to see more progress soon Ryan. Keep it up!

[cusico]

It's not about R4, and I'm in the same boat ;-)

Loren your car is coming together nicely from what I saw Sunday.

[rollo]

You guys are building a boat?

[worldrallyblue]

yeah its gonna be a rally boat.... Ryan cool videos BTW!!

[lorenkb]

Yeah, we're building a sweet rally schooner. That Albert dude is definately not invited onboard... at least not until he converts that new RS of his into a manual transmission :p

Ryan, I know you have some pictures of the latest work you've been doing, post em up!

[cusico]

Just make a canvas prairie schooner roof rack for the red wagon!

My car car is going in the battleship direction in the wait... weight department.

[Tommy Gun Rally]

IT'S NOT A SCHOONER IT'S A SAILBOAT!

A schooner is a sailboat, dum dum.

[Newk_Rally]

..YOU KNOW WHAT THERE IS NO EASTER BUNNY


sry had too =P

[daywalker007]

..YOU KNOW WHAT THERE IS NO EASTER BUNNY

:cry: w-w-what?

[pigpen]

..YOU KNOW WHAT THERE IS NO EASTER BUNNY

LIES!!!!! :unamused:

[cusico]

Uploaded a few photos.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/theryan/sets/72157623072897884/

[cusico]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4008/4217066086_7236180110_b.jpg

[Not All There]

beautiful

[cusico]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4216186120_39151f0da5_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2629/4216193860_81cfed9968_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2588/4216231026_4c6bd605a1_b.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/44/143658004_d62852c4f0_b.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/55/143657318_a75dd95843_b.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/47/143657012_31c41a1883_b.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/47/143657036_f379122090_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4216335534_12fdb93abd_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2730/4216326418_a2975a8bb7_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2770/4215575489_d73e98b31a_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4233519257_78a2b65cac_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4233524381_fe504ddc37_b.jpg
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/452851399_902c6a0eec_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4216178875_09dc5b9311_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/4216178875_09dc5b9311_b.jpg

[409industries]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4011/4216186120_39151f0da5_b.jpgWhat is / was mounted to this plate... an intercom?

[cusico]

What is / was mounted to this plate... an intercom?

No, it for the interior light. Super bright, and has a 20 foot cord that winds up.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2519/4235187509_f39569b9da_b.jpg

[Daniel B]

The two outer (front and rear most bolts and bushings) bolts do have solid steel bosses that do not move. The damage is from a hard hit to the bolt head that bent it.
I was wondering if that damage MADE the subframe move, as my car is going to see a hundred thousand rally miles in 24 hours. Seeing if the Subaru stock unibody nuts held up.

Bobbins...

http://i471.photobucket.com/albums/rr78/123124125/rally%20car/b1-2.jpg

"Subaru stock unibody nuts" don't hold up if hit hard. My driver is pretty good a cutting open frame rails to replace them. I went with bobbins.

If you're interested, you can get them here:
http://www.apromachining.com/

[cusico]

Bobbins...

http://i471.photobucket.com/albums/rr78/123124125/rally%20car/b1-2.jpg

"Subaru stock unibody nuts" don't hold up if hit hard. My driver is pretty good a cutting open frame rails to replace them. I went with bobbins.

If you're interested, you can get them here:
http://www.apromachining.com/

Looks like what I am doing already with the dowel system on my car. My car ties to the cage, like WRC. I have not seen a rally car below WRC that has gone that far. Those look very nice!

[cusico]

Prodrive Carbon Door Cards

I bought these awhile back. Still need to mount them. They doubled the worth of my car:p

Front (lots of camera flash sorry)
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4259761422_b36b6e0daa_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4259769042_63f112d6ae_b.jpg
Rear
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4259022659_98c4e444fc_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2669/4259028281_fcafdb7bbd_b.jpg

[driveclimbslide]

Holy bling!

[cusico]

Holy bling!

This is just the first step. I have an order on the way with A LOT of WRC spares for my POS.

[GravelCrewMedic]

damn those are sexy

[cusico]

Yeah new stuff.
Meth/washer fluid tank mounts.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2769/4290057020_77bd091027_b.jpghttp://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4289316393_686eeb9bcb_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4289310259_44f16fed85_b.jpg

Airbox progress.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2753/4289299769_eaab7aaed6_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4065/4289296787_ca71126297_b.jpg
PS Tank. http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4289292583_fd41cf45a0_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4010/4289289169_c5e8f17fab_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4063/4290029328_99de944609_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2800/4290025032_b9ab7dd3e2_b.jpg

[RS MN]

lookin great man.
whats your reason for the fabbed airbox?
stock too fragile? or is it just for the awesomeness factor?

[Not All There]

a car to this level is just beautiful! Great quality work as always

[cusico]

lookin great man.
whats your reason for the fabbed airbox?
stock too fragile? or is it just for the awesomeness factor?

The car has a custom snorkel, and the airbox needs to be sealed tight to avoid water damage to the filter. It should be done this saturday complete, for everyone to see.

[RS MN]

awesome man, that makes alot of sense.
cant wait to see that done, are you keeping it raw, or getting it painted/powercoated?
i think it would look best left raw.

[cusico]

awesome man, that makes alot of sense.
cant wait to see that done, are you keeping it raw, or getting it painted/powercoated?
i think it would look best left raw.

Powdercoat. flat black.

[RS MN]

i suppose theres a reason for that too lol.
and you cant go wrong with flat black.

[Ath]

what kind of race schedule do you have in mind for this year? All SCORE or any BITD as well?

[Newk_Rally]

looking very good my main goal is to race a suby in the 1000 look forward to seeing how this all plays out keep up the good work

[Ocard]

This looks insane!!! I wish I had the and money it takes to do this. Everything is looking great. Keep up the great work and I can only wish you the best of luck ;) I mean, if an old school bug can get in there why not a suby and show em how it's done :machinegunleft:

[cusico]

looking very good my main goal is to race a suby in the 1000 look forward to seeing how this all plays out keep up the good work

The current work is based on the fail in 2006. Hit me up if you have any questions. 80% of the work being done to the beast is needed, the rest is just for getting community college chicks. They are the best.

[cusico]

what kind of race schedule do you have in mind for this year? All SCORE or any BITD as well?

The ultimate goal is to finish well at the BAJA 1000. I might consider another race, even the 500, but the cost to repair damage is super high, and it wouldn't be for the big game.

[rollo]

80% of the work being done to the beast is needed, the rest is just for getting community college chicks. They are the best.

:lol2:

[Rudukai13]

Can I make a suggestion on how to give it a bit of a prerunner-look? Remove the trunk lid and build a custom tire carrier that holds the spare out at an angle like some prerunners have. Like the following:

http://www.pickupspecialties.com/tire_gate/img_pr_6.gif

http://www.tiregate.com/images/img_series_prerunner/img_pr_5.gif

Just an idea. Looks incredible so far!

[cusico]

Can I make a suggestion on how to give it a bit of a prerunner-look? Remove the trunk lid and build a custom tire carrier that holds the spare out at an angle like some prerunners have. Like the following:

http://www.pickupspecialties.com/tire_gate/img_pr_6.gif

http://www.tiregate.com/images/img_series_prerunner/img_pr_5.gif

Just an idea. Looks incredible so far!

Maybe on the next car. this one will cross the finish line looking like a proper rally car.

No long travel, no big tires, etc. The next car will be insane 33 inch tires, long travel, full on monster.

[Duffurban36]

Maybe on the next car. this one will cross the finish line looking like a proper rally car.

No long travel, no big tires, etc. The next car will be insane 33 inch tires, long travel, full on monster.

Looks and sounds like this thing is gonna be even sicker than the first time I had seen this BAJA WRX.

I know this is off subject but I got a question. I can't remember if it is you or not. Were you the owner of the black Zx2 rally car? If so I've got even more questions than previously...

[Rudukai13]

Maybe on the next car. this one will cross the finish line looking like a proper rally car.

No long travel, no big tires, etc. The next car will be insane 33 inch tires, long travel, full on monster.

Sounds like a beast :headbang:

[Newk_Rally]

Maybe on the next car. this one will cross the finish line looking like a proper rally car.

No long travel, no big tires, etc. The next car will be insane 33 inch tires, long travel, full on monster.

that's how i envisioned the car i wanna build but that won't be for many moons

[cusico]

Looks and sounds like this thing is gonna be even sicker than the first time I had seen this BAJA WRX.

I know this is off subject but I got a question. I can't remember if it is you or not. Were you the owner of the black Zx2 rally car? If so I've got even more questions than previously...

The ZX2 escort was owned by Rodney Wills, a business partner of mine in GCRALLYX.

[ScoobyDoobyRex]

Can't wait to see this in action!

[JacksonRally]

Another weekend of work done, but some how was mostly spent getting more done on the trailer than the car. Should actually complete a few tasks next go round.

[cusico]

This weekend the car didn't see a ton of work. Kyle fought with the airbox lid (the airbox won). PITA part to make. Couple hours of welding on the trailer winch below the floor.

The "rolling car" is scabbed together to be a "roller", but the ball joint/uniball combo makes 2 inches of toe in, or toe out trying to push the damn thing.

This "fix" helped a little, and the winch works.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4303120592_2a1e4c0c81_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4303116692_35fddb45d0_b.jpg

[pigpen]

flaming ball joints to change your toe in/out? i'm confused...

[cusico]

flaming ball joints to change your toe in/out? i'm confused...

It's CSDM I Level Top Secret. I've already said too much...doooooh!

[Daniel B]

Is that the grease burning out after they were welded? Looks like a decent bead seeing as how it was contaminated...

[cusico]

Is that the grease burning out after they were welded? Looks like a decent bead seeing as how it was contaminated...

It's just to get the car rolling straight around the shop and on/off the trailer.

[lorenkb]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4059/4303120592_2a1e4c0c81_b.jpg


We don't need no water, let the mother****er burn.

[Gravel Crew Rally Team]

Do you still have the sweet ass aluminum fender liners?

[cusico]

Do you still have the sweet ass aluminum fender liners?

Always, but I have donated the design to Jackson Rally. Kyle can make some for everybody.

[Gravel Crew Rally Team]

Sweet thanks

[cusico]

I wish someone would work on my car. What a f u c k i n g joke.

[Rally OBXT]

Doh!! I guess when you have a fabricator in such high demand things slow down a bit....

[cusico]

Yes, but they need to prioritize their clients based on who is in line, and who has paid.

I don't give a FF about any of those other people.
I am going on 14 months to start to see substantial (relative to payment(s) made) fabwork on my project. Hundreds, yes hundreds of chances have been given to make things right.

It's bull sh it.

[Tommy Gun Rally]

whoa - drama on the DI front :popcorn:

[cusico]

no drama, no popcorn. Just join adulthood and do the work agreed to.

[subyspawn]

so that means, I'm ahead of you then :punch:

[cusico]

so that means, I'm ahead of you then :punch:

I don't know what deal you have, but I do know that family has come first. Last year the schedule for my car was built around everything else, yet the work on the few days (yes few days) left after fun trips/family trips/rally trips/desert trips/rally prep/family time/sleepy time/travel time/birthday time/GF time/new customer cars to pay bills that week time/awards banquet time/mountain bike time/subaru meet time/check out potential work in Long Beach time/ETC.


I could go all day, but I have been more than patient with the Jackson Rally Program for A LONG TIME. Everything is more important than settling the debt with me. This weekend will be the third weekend in a row I have been blown off for other events.

It is very insulting to give someone a last ditch opportunity to settle this, and the offer was spit on, and the terms are SO DAMN EASY to meet.

[subyspawn]

So it's all on JR now? What aboot the PlaCar program? I guess it's all Kyles fault now...

edit: and my tab has been running alot longer than you have even known Kyle, so yes, I'm first :)

[cusico]

So it's all on JR now? What aboot the PlaCar program? I guess it's all Kyles fault now...

edit: and my tab has been running alot longer than you have even known Kyle, so yes, I'm first :)

Scott and Placar are a different deal. What a mess on my part for paying for work in advance to keep people afloat during bad times. Being nice gets you nowhere when you involve money. Buyer beware.

They were never together on the money that was paid to JR to get by, and get the wagon back together back in 2008.

I am a costumer. I paid money, and have not received the services that have been paid for.

Don't take this the wrong way, but your deal is none of my concern. You could be deeper than me on monies owed, but that is your deal. I do not know the understanding you may have together, I only know my deal, and my deal is falling apart even after a last ditch effort to get things settled under very easy terms.

I usually never put my private dealings out to the public, but I am done. This should have been settled 12 months ago, and that phase of my car would have been done.

I am being very patient on the matter, but when no tangible work is done in a year, you know your getting fu cked.

Kyle is a super nice guy, and has helped me out, even giving me rides to pick up my truck, but the time management on JR is so poor, you know after a year of excuses, you know it will never change.

Maybe you could buy out my fab time owed to get your car further along?
Simple solution to both our problems. I accept cash.

[GravelCrewMedic]

so that means, I'm ahead of you then :punch:


do you know how big ryan is ? lol. i would not want to run into him in a dark alley..then again he is a teddy bear.

[cusico]

A bunch of boxes of Subaru WRC Spares where delivered today.

Prodrive bling for the machine.

Pictures to follow...

[lminette]

Oooh!!!

[RS MN]

ooohhhh prodrive porn!
yay!
i wanna see!

[SoCalBoomer]

mmmm, rally pron

[GravelCrewMedic]

oh dont play just the tip game....balls deep brotha.

[cusico]

I am remaking the base to the hand brake before it touches my car.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4045/4372148669_dba0cd4ac8_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2586/4372132005_89a77bbd15_b.jpg

Two sets of real Prodrive S12 mirrors.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2760/4372889136_0ca76cb2d6_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4372142397_34cd41ae66_b.jpg


A couple of sets of hood/bonnet vents for an S12.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4372145245_318891f376_b.jpg

[daywalker007]

moar!

[RS MN]

ahhhh :drool:

[Newk_Rally]

dang baller nice dude can't wait to see them installed are you gonna run the 1000 this year? if so i'm gonna have to make it out

[cusico]

I am working with a NEW fab shop now. It is so nice to be able to show up, and the shop is working on your car, and progress is being made.

It will be together soon.

Full WRC body kit (Prodrive) is stuck in customs. POOP! I will not install it until after the Baja 1000 mission. Too costly to take a hit from another car/truck.
________
Medical marijuana (http://medicalmarijuana.us/)

[GravelCrewMedic]

****ing drool

[Newk_Rally]

nice dude i'm gonna see what i can do to get down there that weekend

[Gravel Crew Rally Team]

If you are still looking for someone to do the video and still shots in Baja I am still down. Especially now that I have mo powa!!!!!

[cusico]

The car is now being worked on. My car has a new roommate at the new shop.
We should be making major progress in one week or so. Im on a REAL schedule that is being honored.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4414146380_7144c3f70b_o.png

[Ocard]

well that is awesome cause i really hope to see the car be ready for this year.
Its always great to see progress done to one's car :D
what is the schedule looking like or are you keeping that under wraps?

[cusico]

what is the schedule looking like or are you keeping that under wraps?

1- Complete unfinished fab items from the last shops.
2- Plumb the brake system
3- Plumb the fuel system
4- Rewire car
5- Install all car components to complete as a dry prep.
6- Disassemble, and paint interior and underbody.
7- Final prep and shakedown
8- Go race

[Ocard]

lol nice. cant wait to see the progress on this. I'm gonna be going o the baja 250 next weekend hopefully i get some good shots. I'm assuming you're gonna try to have the car ready for this year's 1000? assuming everything goes according to plan that is

[cusico]

Work has been moving along. Pictures soon.

[cusico]

Not so new race rig. It is getting the finishing touches now.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2711/4434805151_000a7dcb81_b.jpg

[cusico]

Just received my Aquamist HSF System for the beast.

More progress coming.

[cusico]

I will post more photos of the work done.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4605913430_b21788e621_b.jpg

[Newk_Rally]

Tease!!!!!!

[cusico]

Tow hook (1 of 2)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3387/4605820913_a96d8d728d_b.jpg

Steering Column
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1055/4606438444_62bcb7e1d4_b.jpg

B pillar seals
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4606441640_e039ac7fd2_b.jpg

Fuel filler guard
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4606433512_1d192fff7b_b.jpg

Foot rest water tank- NOT COMPLETE YET.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4606431310_40275f32d6_b.jpg

[msgsti217]

nice progress. cant wait to see the completed project

[cusico]

Item completed:

*water tank foot rest
*airbox
*hood prop
*rear tow hooks
*B pillar seals
*power steering tank
*radiator mounting
*fuel filler for dump can
*fuel filler guard
*seam welding

Forgot my camera the last time I was at the race shop. Pics monday.

[Rally OBXT]

What's your deadline? / When is the race? I forgot :oops:

[JacksonRally]

What's your deadline? / When is the race? I forgot :oops:

Im guessing he is gonna say 2 years ago.

[cusico]

New stuff.http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1288/4681358664_5cbacecef5_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4042/4680729799_a42135466b_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/4681367014_7ab33f846b_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4681370454_3060be2240_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4025/4681374124_898c1dd275_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1283/4680749389_2e7d4a5c96_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4681385286_9129a29b46_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/4681388984_32224266c5_b.jpg

[cusico]

More Pictures.
Rear Bumper Mounts
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4080/4915473352_56af0c3ea3_b.jpg
Steering Shaft
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/4914862019_87d118319d_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4079/4915469304_fa2d4029fd_b.jpg
Dash Mount. For the Electronics.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1345/5155824030_0e27a9d2f8_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1177/5155837424_a8afc23c0a_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5155834850_e5d695063f_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5155839342_0bbbc430ea_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/5155841696_70b9be3f27_b.jpg
AquaMist Pump Mount.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4024/5155826502_30044be1a4_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/5155829130_40e517f724_b.jpg
Hood Prop.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5155242045_700bc2de1e_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5155251399_c23f8c0a3d_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1049/5155853550_2f53dce9c6_b.jpg

[409industries]

New pics! w00t :)

[lorenkb]

Fancy hood prop, I like it!

So when are you going to fab up the new radiator mount? :bs: :kyle: :pissed:

Oh yeah, and send me the damned Part# for the anode!

[cusico]

I hope this next step of work will be the last, and everything will go smoothly and on schedule.

Loren relax man I will send it over.

[dunkinuts]

can I get a hood prop like that :D can't wait to see finished pics.

[cusico]

More updates.

New Heater. Had to cut the cowl to make it work.
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5188344975_1b05e786f2_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5188350035_497a5da9c1_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5188951260_b017c76540_b.jpg

New Window Net Mounts. Full Radius so your suit or face do not get snagged.
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1277/5188964260_d2350254c9_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4090/5188346161_fb7fd6e160_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1023/5188948332_8f4d90a95a_b.jpg

Strut Brace Gusset
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1402/5188355987_d30cff0dbf_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1014/5188957880_0c66970c7b_b.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1289/5188361331_c4d8cbd97f_b.jpg

[Cambo]

nice work man! this is the car that was/is with Kyle (JR) right? im pretty sure this is the car i was looking at and those look like Kyles welds :eyebrows:

anyway, looking good :thumbsup:

[cusico]

nice work man! this is the car that was/is with Kyle (JR) right? im pretty sure this is the car i was looking at and those look like Kyles welds :eyebrows:

anyway, looking good :thumbsup:

I am letting Kyle work on the car again. Some of the work was Arciero Racing, and some of the earlier stuff was Scott G./Placar way back when.

[Cambo]

i was talking with Scott about building my cage and he seemed stoked to do it and now i cant get ahold of him so Kyle was gonna build it.... now i have to wait till next year due to some things that came up. but ive seen alot of good work from both of them so i dont care who builds it as long as its good.

are you planning on doing another baja in that bad ride?

[cusico]

i was talking with Scott about building my cage and he seemed stoked to do it and now i cant get ahold of him so Kyle was gonna build it.... now i have to wait till next year due to some things that came up. but ive seen alot of good work from both of them so i dont care who builds it as long as its good.

are you planning on doing another baja in that bad ride?

Yes on Baja.

Kyle is the best builder, but I know he can't work on any new projects until my car and the red truck are done 100%. I think he has it laid out to finish by the end of December 2010. Maybe January He will have a spot free in the shop.

[sammyk]

That is some sexy fab work :love:! What kind of heater motor/blower is that? Nice progress btw.

[Cambo]

yes, i know about him having to finish those projects before he starts mine... i have no money right now. well i do, i just cant put it into the car :kyle:

[cusico]

Heater is a vintage air. I will get the part number.

If you have a savings, don't spent more than 10% of it on toys. It is tough.

[cusico]

stuf dun

Sorry for the rust Kyle.
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5207/5344693531_bb0610eabd_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5242/5344693305_04e54a651f_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5082/5344693187_d1c331fd2e_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5169/5344693095_01e7338cd5_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5005/5345304872_5c48dea1de_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5202/5344692849_1a87ed31cb_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5127/5344692669_8807570d20_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5344692381_aae6c44c69_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5206/5345304240_126777b11b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5041/5345303998_5504c2c07e_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5244/5345303810_8b6d30a2e9_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5345303210_5a447a3eb6_b.jpg

[punkrockerjohn]

Boner inducing...

[Newk_Rally]

so will you be running in this year's baja??

[STi_wanted]

Beautiful build keep up the great work.

[cusico]

so will you be running in this year's baja??

It may come together this year. I would like to run the 500 in June. I will more than likely run the Primm 300 because Vegas is a nice quiet town.

[Rex_Saugerty]

those welds :drooling: if i was girl i would give myself to welder :D

[cusico]

It hope the schedule goes into 7th gear.

[rob_is_legend]

Im speechless. Amazing build. this car deserves to be in the dirt

[cusico]

One day.

[lorenkb]

Liking the trans mount setup. What kept you from just going straight to hard-mounting as opposed to using the group-n?

[cusico]

Liking the trans mount setup. What kept you from just going straight to hard-mounting as opposed to using the group-n?

It is a good part already, but I will be making new mounts for the engine and trans soon. ChromeMoly and Urethane. Then I will have WRC+++ mounts.

[cusico]

Stuff and things from the coral reef
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5599218585_7f4ac0419b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5102/5599217463_60538b4eb7_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5307/5599216201_8a9f47f467_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5599796152_b214468861_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5301/5599212455_7874667c98_b.jpg

[fattie92]

:bow: Holy crap that knuckle is a thing of beauty! :thumbsup:

[573]

That car is becoming a work of art.

[monstaru]

i just read through his thread.....
and DAMN.thats hot.those knuckles are......are....:bow:i'd like to see how the fronts get finished out.nice design so far....
i can't wait to get a tig machine........cheers, b

[cantpee]

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5102/5599217463_60538b4eb7_b.jpg


:shock: I came...

[cusico]

Something new growing on the coral reef.

Some new 24mm hex pin stands.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3501/5772985742_75fcdc910b_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2322/5772984018_fe41111170_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5301/5772439863_55707901d6_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3073/5772975622_0b03dc99b8_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3237/5772433455_23de035427_b.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3348/5772969474_e7c9f88c58_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5184/5685050294_0c1e74a149_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5183/5684479133_aaca7fd0ef_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5029/5685052004_84e087859b_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5684476489_6d252699d0_b.jpg
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5189/5685043020_5bf4d35cf5_b.jpg

[lorenkb]

Hex pins; because round pegs are for pussies. :mrgreen:

[cusico]

Hex pins; because round pegs are for pussies. :mrgreen:

Loren, your spot on!

[spiwrx]

Hexpins? How does this rotate through jacking the car front to rear? Don't see any obvious advantage???

[KevinWelker]

and what about those fantastically level service areas?

Great knuckles, nice to see progress.

[cusico]

Hexpins? How does this rotate through jacking the car front to rear? Don't see any obvious advantage???

It is taken care of already. The pin stands rotate.

There is a huge advantage for my car. It will all make sense. Promise.

[SoCalBoomer]

Why hex pins (aside from the whole round pin=pussy thing)?

[spiwrx]

You've got my mind spinning, can't wait to see the result!!

[cusico]

More trinkets.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2271/5817319372_51186b4629_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2556/5817318112_dfe7f6a32b_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2688/5816751309_00f3c47ab0_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2598/5816750311_1c2367f97f_b.jpg

[cusico]

Why hex pins (aside from the whole round pin=pussy thing)?

Hex pins smell better.

[scoobyltd]

This build gets my pants tight. Gorgeous fab work.

[zetozeto99]

What a beast this thing is turning out to be...

[JacksonRally]

Now that I have the internet rockin again Ill have to post some updated pics. Ill get some pics tomorrow.

[JacksonRally]

Stuff and things

Front suspension just about done, just need to make caliper mounts on the knuckles

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0768.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0769.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0770.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0783.jpg

Re-tabbed DMS strut housings with proper gussets

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0771.jpg

Lateral links and trailing arms....and spares

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0772.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0773.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0774.jpg

JR super tucked up stainless exhaust

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0775.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0776.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0777.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0778.jpg

Rear knuckles getting ready to build caliper mounts

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0779.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0780.jpg

Cut out rear sheetmetal, added dimples to factory hinge sheetmetal

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0782.jpg

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa15/Jackson-Rally/Other%20Rally%20stuff/PICT0781.jpg

[Rudukai13]

Oh you marvelous bastard... :headbang:

[shoogshoog]

.......