Plavan's 818R Build Thread

[C.Plavan]

They are building it right now. Mine will have some tweaks I requested. Also lots of Reflective Gold film on the firewall and near muffler. I can't wait. I also have the new gigantic color MXG Aim dash going in -That should be pretty darn cool.

More like this-

[RetroRacing]

THAT is a thing! I love that dash, BTW. We are using the IQ3, but still love that dash. I notice the foam blocks on the door panel, ours are here now as well, not cheap! Is there a drybrake on each side of the car? 1.5" or 2.25"?

[Scargo]

It is a beautiful and simple design. The reversed exhaust! What is the Alumilite-like, yellow, laminate material for the underside?
So envious. However I haven't finished my 818. I might be tickled pink with it.

[C.Plavan]

THAT is a thing! I love that dash, BTW. We are using the IQ3, but still love that dash. I notice the foam blocks on the door panel, ours are here now as well, not cheap! Is there a drybrake on each side of the car? 1.5" or 2.25"?

They use 1.75" probes for the dry break. It's an option. You can have both sides, or one side, or just a traditional screw on cap. I went with one dry break. I plan on getting a bigger enduro cell (custom) later and make it a dual dry break.
I had them weld in a AN -16 in take fuel discriminator valve so I can just dump fuel in (Enduros).

They started on mine on Monday (Chassis #20). I can't wait!

[C.Plavan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Zaw6O7mN30

[C.Plavan]

Some of you guys should check this race car out........ EJ motor based.

http://www.carmaracing.com/

[Scargo]

500 whp! That is too much for a reliable Subaru motor (out of a 2.1L, no less) Won't last a season. FFR dominated a race at WGI with an ST2 car.
I don't see much on the internet and info on their website seems stale. Next to zero on Youtube. Is this for real?

[C.Plavan]

500 whp! That is too much for a reliable Subaru motor (out of a 2.1L, no less) Won't last a season. FFR dominated a race at WGI with an ST2 car.
I don't see much on the internet and info on their website seems stale. Next to zero on Youtube. Is this for real?

Not for me, but It's brand new.

[Sgt.Gator]

I've been following their two threads on NASIOC about the Carma Wolf builds. The first one ended in a fail with the H6 3.0 due to lack of a dry sump. The second one they swapped out the H6 for the 2.1. And they learned their lesson, the stroked 2.1 has a dry sump!

I'll leave ya'll to judge the results.

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show....php?t=2494976

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/show....php?t=2673223

[Frank818]

Ok, that's a car. Sorry I'm building an 818.

[Sgt.Gator]

As long as we are discussing exotics...a local guy here is building a Superlite GT-R, a car you dig around hard to find on the RCR cars or Superlite websites. You have to keep a close eye on the GT40s forum to even know it exisits and how the builds are going. Anyway I went out to visit his build a couple of days ago. OMG! The quality of the aluminum monocoque frame, the fiberglass, and the aluminum suspension parts are beautiful. He had a brand new Ford Coyote crate motor and ZF transmission ready to install.
Of course that's why the kit alone costs $70K! (not including the engine and transmission).

[Scargo]

I've been following their two threads on NASIOC about the Carma Wolf builds. The first one ended in a fail with the H6 3.0 due to lack of a dry sump. The second one they swapped out the H6 for the 2.1. And they learned their lesson, the stroked 2.1 has a dry sump!

Funny. I found those threads and was reading them as you posted your info. I am trying to contact John Evans. There is nothing on NASIOC after August. Really interesting cars.
I made these points to John:
There are a lot of similarities in engine design ideas.
I have built a close-ratio six-speed box with OS Giken racing diff and MR2 shifter for my 818R.
The interior will be a bit laid-out like the FFR race mules (and like Chad's).
My plan is to do a similar, front, undermount turbo, like he did.
I am ready to assemble a de-stroked 2.3L motor and use a Dailey dry-sump. I was looking at Dailey's back in October of 2014.
I have the same intake, though shaved, but I intend to use a Plastic Fantastic manifold, reversed. I even planned on doing the same alternator repositioning detail. (With the small bore, high-RPM engine I think that manifold will perform better)
For the exhaust, I wanted KillerB to furnish me some pieces (but he's not interested) and three months out on exhaust systems.
The Outback system looks hard to beat as a starting point for me.
I am building my own front suspension for the 818 using S2000 spindles and 17" wheels. Doing a few other unconventional things. So not stuck completely within the Subaru parts list for the FFR kit.

Of note:
He ran his exhaust all the way to the rear. I want to terminate mine on the side, in front of the tire, on the right side. A muffler may be a bit of a challenge.
I don't understand why he has his intake/air filter in the engine compartment, right over the turbo. He said it got so hot it fell off.
The automatic tranny is somewhat interesting. dpkilty thread on NASIOC is using one. John was contributing to that thread.
Is there anything Subaru makes that would be easily adaptable in more than a four-speed auto?
Watching the NP-01s on track, I was struck by the right hand coming off the steering wheel and, as fast as it was to shift, I didn't like seeing him trying to shift in certain circumstances. I had had a paddle Bimmer M3. I loved it.

[C.Plavan]

Primo Example of Customer Service I have been receiving from Elan; Along with class act competitors:
The Pacific NP01 Series starts March 13th. The Atlantic series starts later. What does Elan do to make sure I get my car in time? They call the other owners who's cars are being built along side mine (On their own).

"I just spoke with the seat builder and either Feb 22 or 23 will be fine. Was one better than the other? On another note, I've spoken with the owners of both the other cars that we're building currently and both have given me permission to hold their builds so we can get yours done and try to get you to the March 12 race. We actually set up another of the chassis to fit the body so we can do 2 things at once.
That will help us get the vinyl guys over here earlier to do their thing."

Brandon White
Project Coordinator
Elan Motorsports Technologies


This is a great company, and great fellow racers. Chassis #16 and #17 owners will be getting all my setup notes.

[bbjones121]

So..... Is this a Factory Five forum?

[Mechie3]

Just a race car forum.

[C.Plavan]

So..... Is this a Factory Five forum?

It's just a world of difference in CS. That's my point.

[bbjones121]

It's just a world of difference in CS. That's my point.

I understand. I am sure you have given FFR a lot to think about. Hopefully some things are taken to heart.

You have done a lot for us in this community and we are all very thankful for your motivation, love, hate, dedication, trail blazing, and a whole bunch of time and commitment to keep in communication with all of us in this forum. Your efforts have helped us all in some way or another.

I wish you the best in the new car and supportive elan community. We will continue on with the Factory Five 818 torch for you.

[RM1SepEx]

It's just a world of difference in CS. That's my point.

much different volume # not quite an apples vs apples eval (from perhaps one of FFR's most vocal CS complainers...

[Scargo]

I understand. I am sure you have given FFR a lot to think about. Hopefully some things are taken to heart.

You have done a lot for us in this community and we are all very thankful for your motivation, love, hate, dedication, trail blazing, and a whole bunch of time and commitment to keep in communication with all of us in this forum. Your efforts have helped us all in some way or another. ...

I agree. This is Chad's thread after all and he has paid his dues and given mightily to the 818R community, as you said.
What I'd like to see from FFR is an R kit that is less compromised in the front suspension. Bump-steer is a problem as is weight and all the compromised geometry for a race car. They should also have an "out-of-the-box" solution for cooling that works. I don't think anyone has had success at the track in the generic kit form.
The NP-01 has given me some ideas, so I appreciate the intro into that class. I sure look forward to seeing them go at it. Can an 818R ever measure up/be competitive?

[C.Plavan]

much different volume # not quite an apples vs apples eval (from perhaps one of FFR's most vocal CS complainers...

That made me laugh! . True, but it should not be that way. FFR sells more cars, has more employees.

Just a much welcomed observation. Nothing more. No need to debate.

[C.Plavan]

NP01 thread started in the OT section for those who want to follow. Head over there if you want more info.

http://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showt...248#post227248

[Frank818]

So..... Is this a Factory Five forum?

This is Chad's forum.

[C.Plavan]

Since David decided to close the NP01 thread because it was too "Salesy" For the people who asked to follow- you can follow it here on FB

https://www.facebook.com/Plavan-Raci...homepage_panel

[Sgt.Gator]

since david decided to close the np01 thread because it was too "salesy" for the people who asked to follow- you can follow it here on fb

https://www.facebook.com/plavan-raci...homepage_panel

liked!

[129st]

Since David decided to close the NP01 thread because it was too "Salesy" For the people who asked to follow- you can follow it here on FB

https://www.facebook.com/Plavan-Raci...homepage_panel

Chad,
The forum community definitely supports you, but it appears the admin is not responsive to the community. The forum is the real loser in this deal.

I'll keep following your NP01 on Facebook, but I DO NOT post to Facebook. I'll just be a lurker from now on. Signing off.

[Rob T]

Hi: This is Rob T. I am the new, proud owner of Chad's 818R. I am very grateful to Chad and the people on this forum for the support you provide. I am excited to get started. The last several weeks have been spent getting familiar with the car and setting up my trailer. In the near future, I plan to autocross the car (to get familiar with some of its performance), followed by some open track time at Buttonwillow. I am an engineer by education, but a relative novice when it comes to building cars. I look forward to getting to know many of you.

[Scargo]

Excellent! I'd like to see you start your own thread so we can follow your adventures.

[Hindsight]

Welcome to the forum and congrats on the purchase - it is a very well-built car. Please create a thread to keep us all posted of your experiences on the track!

[Sgt.Gator]

Great to have you here Rob T!

[metalmaker12]

Cool stuff

[C.Plavan]

Just a quick, worthy update on my old car:

Rob had it out at BW this last weekend. 103 degrees out. The cars oil got to 189 degrees with both front coolers blocked off at the bumper (rear still working like normal)- he could probably remove the front coolers now. Water temp was 190-195, AWIC temp 110-115 at speed. Oil pressures at 80 psi.

So the car can work in 100+ ambient temps. everything worked great in the heat, and most of all- Rob is having a blast with it.

I'm going to stress this one last time-

DRY SUMP YOUR CARS IF YOU ARE ON THE TRACK. YOU HAVE A TICKING TIME BOMB IF NOT. It could last 20min, or 1 season- It will blow up if you are pulling any G's. DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP! This is the reason my car is still turning laps on the track- Smiles per Miles is very high.

[bbjones121]

Just a quick, worthy update on my old car:

Rob had it out at BW this last weekend. 103 degrees out. The cars oil got to 189 degrees with both front coolers blocked off at the bumper (rear still working like normal)- he could probably remove the front coolers now. Water temp was 190-195, AWIC temp 110-115 at speed. Oil pressures at 80 psi.

So the car can work in 100+ ambient temps. everything worked great in the heat, and most of all- Rob is having a blast with it.

I'm going to stress this one last time-

DRY SUMP YOUR CARS IF YOU ARE ON THE TRACK. YOU HAVE A TICKING TIME BOMB IF NOT. It could last 20min, or 1 season- It will blow up if you are pulling any G's. DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP! This is the reason my car is still turning laps on the track- Smiles per Miles is very high.

Thank you for the update. Great to hear

[Sgt.Gator]

Just a quick, worthy update on my old car:

Rob had it out at BW this last weekend. 103 degrees out. The cars oil got to 189 degrees with both front coolers blocked off at the bumper (rear still working like normal)- he could probably remove the front coolers now. Water temp was 190-195, AWIC temp 110-115 at speed. Oil pressures at 80 psi.

So the car can work in 100+ ambient temps. everything worked great in the heat, and most of all- Rob is having a blast with it.

I'm going to stress this one last time-

DRY SUMP YOUR CARS IF YOU ARE ON THE TRACK. YOU HAVE A TICKING TIME BOMB IF NOT. It could last 20min, or 1 season- It will blow up if you are pulling any G's. DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP, DRYSUMP! This is the reason my car is still turning laps on the track- Smiles per Miles is very high.

So for a concise recap on your final DS system, here's what I recall, please correct my mistakes:
1) Aviaid Pump. Did you get the larger pump pulley (bigger than the one Element originally sent) ?
2) Peterson Tank.
3) Spintric aos in the scavenge return line almost right at the tank. One line into the tank for oil, one for the air/blowby.
4) OBX Underdrive pulley. (Not just a lightweight oem circumference.)
5) I think you went with the vented block to the DS tank also? (Mine is the sealed block).
6) Cooler on the scavenge return line to the DS tank, but prior to the Spintric?
7) All -12AN.
8) No DS tank heater, but probably a good idea in some climates/racing conditions.
9) If you don't have the A/C bracket and parts you'll need them to run the serp belt. (I have a list I can send anyone the needs it)
10) Aviaid mounting plate to adapt the pump to the A/C bracket.
11) Valvoline 20-W50 Racing oil.
12) ARE DS oil pan for Subaru.
13) Catch Can w/Breather off DS tank.

Anything else?

[Hindsight]

Thanks for the update Chad. I recall following your temp battle very closely, but I do not recall what the final modification was that allowed you to overcome the oil temp issues. Was it the anti-froth device?

[C.Plavan]

Thanks for the update Chad. I recall following your temp battle very closely, but I do not recall what the final modification was that allowed you to overcome the oil temp issues. Was it the anti-froth device?

Honestly, I hit it with a BIG HAMMER (Lots of changes at once) I think the 10mm oil pump did the most help. The 11mm pump was probably causing the oil to bypass in the motor and just circulate in the motor the whole time. That caused the oil to heat up and not properly flow through the coolers.

Now, it has too many oil coolers if the owner is taping off both fronts in 100 degree plus weather (189 degree oil temp)

[C.Plavan]

So for a concise recap on your final DS system, here's what I recall, please correct my mistakes:
1) Aviaid Pump. Did you get the larger pump pulley (bigger than the one Element originally sent) ? I used the same, supplied pulley
2) Peterson Tank. Yep
3) Spintric aos in the scavenge return line almost right at the tank. One line into the tank for oil, one for the air/blowby. Yep
4) OBX Underdrive pulley. (Not just a lightweight oem circumference.) Yep
5) I think you went with the vented block to the DS tank also? (Mine is the sealed block). I vented mine- I was getting weird pressure readings with it sealed
6) Cooler on the scavenge return line to the DS tank, but prior to the Spintric? They had me switch it up- I used Spintric AFTER the oil coolers since I had so many coolers- It helped with the flow.
7) All -12AN. Yep
8) No DS tank heater, but probably a good idea in some climates/racing conditions. No Heater
9) If you don't have the A/C bracket and parts you'll need them to run the serp belt. (I have a list I can send anyone the needs it) Exactly
10) Aviaid mounting plate to adapt the pump to the A/C bracket. Yep
11) Valvoline 20-W50 Racing oil. Yes- but I think any good racing oil will work with the Spintric possibly
12) ARE DS oil pan for Subaru. Yep
13) Catch Can w/Breather off DS tank. Yep

Anything else?

I would try the Drysump setup without the Spintric first to save money. Just make sure you have a 10mm oil pump/ not an 11mm. You could also possibly do -10AN oil lines- Coming from the Porsches I was use to -12AN.

[Hindsight]

Thanks Chad.

[C.Plavan]

I was out helping another NP01 driver test his car out at Buttonwillow yesterday. Low and behold, my old 818R zoomed down the front straight. The crew I was with all thought it was a Lotus. I then got to tell them that was the car I built and sold for the NP01. It looks good on the track. I never saw anyone else ever driving it. Fire out the tailpipe and everything. It was also over 100 degrees- still working great. There is alot of sweat & cursing in that car!

[Hindsight]

I'm jealous.... I'm just starting down the track of fixing overheating, ensuring I have adequate oiling, etc. Based on your long journey, I have a ways to go (both in time and money). I bet it was cool watching the car go down the track!

[ben1272]

Chad, do you have a NP01 build blog hosted somewhere?