Body and interior Mods Latest Topics

RHD swap with LHD parts

Thu, 10 Sep 2026 00:04:34 +0000

First post in years, but trying to move away from the 10 different FB groups and contribute to this forum instead.

Figured I'd post about my recent challenge.. decided my second Starion would become a parts car after two bearings spun and found the block was cracked. Car has rust and been poorly painted too. Plus it has a manual trans I decided would be better suited swapping into my auto 88 Starion driver.

Anyways, I'm a big JDM fan boy so I decided while the dash was out doing the trans swap, I'd inspect how different all the LHD parts are from RHD. And my dash is already in poor condition so I will do a custom overlay of some sort.

Anyways, I've already relocated the steering column, brake pedal, brake booster, steering box, idler arm, shortened and reflared the oem steering and brake lines. So now I have a steerable and stoppable RHD car and have only purchased a $10 brake line union.

Pending work - gas pedal, clutch pedal, extending harnesses, and dash work of course.

Not sure about my HVAC yet.. that seems about the main thing that the proper RHD parts are necessary. I think I have a solution to retain heat but not sure if I can make AC and ducting fit.

Known differences I plan to live with or fix later on - window switches, turn signal stalk, km/h cluster

Known differences I'll likely never change. Parking brake, fuse box, hood pull, and gas cap release all on driver side still.

Just tried to upload an image and the file limit is so small

Does anyone know where to get these?!?

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 17:19:53 +0000

This might be a newb question but I am looking to get my hands on a set of the rear truck hatch gasers. Mine are completely shot and my fabricator has almost gotten his neck broken on multiple occasions due to this. I would really like to prolong his life, at least until my car is done lol. Dose anyone where I can find these odd things?!?!

Decided To Cut A Hole In My Hood (NACA ?)

Wed, 04 Nov 2015 01:05:17 +0000

I had part of a broken 280z hood scoop/duct that broke off a few years back when I dropped it. I was bored and decided to fit it to my hood for a little fresh air under the hood, one way or another ;-)

I need to attach some strings to it and see what this scoop actually does since I kinda put it on blindly.... What I am thinking is that because it creates a suction when air is moving over it that when I am moving it will bring air "in... and then it will act as a "vent" when the car is parked/standing still.

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20738_zpsi64avkap.jpg

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20739_zpswgqegjpn.jpg

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20743_zpsjaxvikam.jpg

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20742_zpsaww8wudu.jpg

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20748_zpszcs11myk.jpg

http://i761.photobucket.com/albums/xx254/notstock88/Mass%20Import%2010-16-15%20744_zps3pfbj2di.jpg

Radio/afc/wideband/turbo timer trim

Sun, 18 Oct 2015 23:48:39 +0000

Decided to put all my new goodies in one central location.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v438/littlchampion/3307B90C-497F-4244-BFBB-DB10B7CC79CF.jpg

Interior out...questions about rust/holes

Sun, 24 May 2015 23:30:44 +0000

I took out a good portion of my interior the other day. No carpet on the floor. I noticed my passenger side floor drain plugs are completely rusted it. Should i keep the functionality of these and replace them with good ones, assuming one could even find them, or just cover up the holes and keep it moving?

I purchased this car already with an engine swap and i can see several holes about an inch long on the trans tunnel. I assume i should try to get this patched and not just cover them up right?

3-piece louver set value?

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 06:57:16 +0000

I have a metal set of aftermarket louvers, rear and sides. All hardware is there, at least at that was used to attach them. They could use a fresh coat of paint. Anyway, I don't think I am going to use them and am considering selling them but not sure what the whole set is worth. Any expert opinions? Thanks.

Bed Liner

Mon, 27 Jul 2015 02:32:18 +0000

Anyone coated the entire car with Line-X or something like it?

Cheap car cover worth mentioning.

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 22:35:37 +0000

Just thought I'd share this with the SQ community...

After buying a $220 Covercraft car cover, I was a little disappointed to find my car soaked underneath after the first rain storm. I've since then switch to using a $45 Polypro 3 car cover.

Car now stays completely dry when raining. In heavy down pours I've notice one or two small patches of moisture under the cover but nothing that would cause any concern.

Polypro 3 cover going on my 89 SHP Fiji.

http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss25/squaddy11/IMG_2518_zpsidb4ssuf.jpg

Cover fits very snug with 83 hood and upper hatch spoiler.

http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss25/squaddy11/IMG_2517_zpsbzfktklk.jpg

Bungee cord used to secure the cover's mid under body grommets.

http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss25/squaddy11/IMG_2519_zpsaieswykm.jpg

Rear view

http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss25/squaddy11/IMG_2520_zpsbusy7hx7.jpg

Its been 6 months under the Florida sun, so far so good, cover hasn't blown off and its still in good shape.

Ebay link: http://www.ebay.com/...=item2c97bb39e1

Rear Bumper Removal

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 11:14:16 +0000

I need to replace the cover on the rear bumper of the ESI-r.

Please...where do I start to remove the bumper? Where are the bolts?

I don;r see 'em!

Weight reduction

Fri, 28 Feb 2014 14:26:44 +0000

This is my question I am attempting to stay in so called street form but lose some weight from my starion any suggestions? I really want to keep stock interior but if i has to go it has to go.

Metal air dam?

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 16:21:09 +0000

Had to take my air dam off to get some work done and it once again cracked. Wondering if there are sturdier alternatives then the flexible plastic that seems to come apart in this hot summer heat. Metal comes to mind. Has anyone done this before? I understand it would have to be a complete custom job. Just mad at my current one and may have to replace in the near future, can keep repairing it forever.

Got my wideband installed yesterday....

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 02:43:47 +0000

Me and my stepdad finally got it put in...

Innovate LC-1 wideband w/ blue face...Bought it from a member here like 5 years ago..maybe in a group buy or from a vendor listing...

Made a cheap easy mount from a piece of metal...Its wired to a toggle switch, and the led bulb/push button is mounted in the toggle switch housing..That's located under the steering wheel...

Car was idling between 12.2-12.3...

Here it is:

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/photo%201.jpg

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/photo%202.jpg

Making the hood scoop functional?

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 16:38:55 +0000

Hi all,

I took the front hood scoop piece of my starion to sand and repaint it and realized it's not exactly the most functional. Wondering if anyone has molded one to let more air in and help cool things down and how they went about it. Just a random thought really

Need Help with LOUVER INSTALL

Mon, 17 Aug 2015 02:46:48 +0000

Can anyone tell me what the bottom brackets look like that this go into? Do they attach under the rear spoiler?

Thanks

Gullwing Door project pictures through out.

Tue, 01 Jan 2008 21:35:10 +0000

Well after many months and many delays I finally got the first door on hinges and working. I have alot of body work still to complete but thought everyone might like a peek at what I have been doing.

If all goes well I should have the car back on the road this spring.

I will post more picture as it progresses!

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg1/pagemo/DSCI0185.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg1/pagemo/DSCI0187.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />

http://i244.photobucket.com/albums/gg1/pagemo/DSCI0186.jpg" border="0" class="linked-image" />

Rear Spoilers Post Em

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 08:17:21 +0000

What do you have thats different. Got some pic's post'em... Mine is stock and misaligned for that perfect starquest in need look............

where to get a moonroof outerseal and why to use one

Thu, 23 May 2013 19:02:11 +0000

Here is some basic info on why its good to have a sunroof seal installed . First off we already know its " not needed" and we already know "many have removed it without issues". Basically its about keeping you car in as nice shape as possible for years to come. The parts behind the outer seal are vulnerable to weather. When it rains that channel fills with water. When it snows it fills with snow flavored slurpies from 7-11. Yes it does have a drain x4 but the drain can get clogged and actually lets water pool at the rear even when not clogged. You also have a wind deflector and a sunroof regulator in there that can get messed up from exposure. Ever pulled a sunroof regulator from a car? Those 4 screw are usually a major pain to get out from rust. Here are pics to tell the story...http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102601.jpg See the holes? Those are where the water is supposed to drain...when you drive in the rain that channel and those holes keep the wind forces from dumping rain right in (like if you crack the sunroof a little during a light rain) This sunroof has the wind deflector removed because is was so rusty under the chrome the chrome would actually flake off in your eyes) Next ups here are each of the four drain holes...notice the paint chips and cancer rust under the paint.http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102524.jpg http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102538.jpg http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102507.jpg http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102456.jpg Next thing you wanna keep rust free is the hinges..http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_C360_2013-05-23-11-33-23-560.jpg http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_C360_2013-05-23-11-33-33-316.jpg Here is a shot of my 87 parts car , that rust is getting close to the paint...and that little drain pipe joint can rust through and deliver rain water right into your car..http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_C360_2013-05-23-11-31-21-150.jpg Next up is my 89 TSI the previous owner gooped the chips with fingernail polish. I think a seal would have blocked whatever did that to the paint..http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_C360_2013-05-23-11-30-13-417.jpg And how about the sunroof wind deflector? http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102740.jpg This one I polished up , but the little hinge extensions where not so lucky http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/sunroof%20seal/th_2013-05-23102829.jpg

Simple fix for broken odometer reset button

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 18:14:33 +0000

I don't know if this has been posted in the past but I just discovered the "spindly" odometer reset button which break a lot on our cars can be replaced by the much sturdier 3000GT's one!

Colinhttp://i663.photobucket.com/albums/uu353/carguygibby/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-07/20150708_140059_zpshnrkora5.jpg

How I made my own "Turbo" door handles

Sun, 28 Jun 2015 01:04:10 +0000

Recently, I became interested in picking up a set of the 83-86 turbo door handles for my current restore project. After a lot of hunting I became discouraged by both the quality of what's available and the prices. So, I took matters into my hands. Here's what I did (I'm sure others on here have done something similar) ....

Years ago I had a local friend who owns a graphic shop make me some "turbo" decals for the door handles, he did a great job, but when I looked closely at the later year handles I noticed they had knurling on them, and I figured they'd never lay right or look right, so I threw them in a drawer. First thing I had to do was find them. After some digging, here they are.

http://imageshack.com/a/img661/8303/w2X8Ee.jpg

Next, I had to remove my door handles. If you don't know how to do this there's some good threads on here with some great tips and it can be done in about 5 minutes after you get the door cards off.

http://imageshack.com/a/img540/5100/Q3RO6L.jpg

Now it was time to deal with the knurling. Here's what I'm talking about.

http://imageshack.com/a/img538/8993/0eTAx2.jpg

Next, I got out my orbital sander. I think I had like 220 grit on the bottom. I simply sanded them down until all the knurling was gone and they were flat.

http://imageshack.com/a/img661/1079/EHmIjw.jpg

http://imageshack.com/a/img633/7132/1ux9RH.jpg

As you can see in the above picture, doing this makes the plastic very dull and grey looking, not "black" like they should be. So next I got out some buffing compound and a cloth buffing wheel.

http://imageshack.com/a/img912/1003/hOpPka.jpg

Here's what they looked like after several minutes of buffing. Don't use too much pressure or you'll burn the plastic, kinda similar to if you've ever used those headlight restoration kits.

http://imageshack.com/a/img538/4037/n4E3ud.jpg

http://imageshack.com/a/img538/9858/WXRMOZ.jpg

I actually still wasn't happy with this, so the next thing I did (but I didn't take any pictures) was use some wax on them and hand buff them with a microfiber cloth. That really did the trick making them look super smooth as you can see below.

http://imageshack.com/a/img540/1015/zACR8y.jpg

Now it was time to lay up the decal. First, I trimmed the decal tight to the T and the O on the left and right and then eyeballed the decal left to right and marked the ends with painters tape.

http://imageshack.com/a/img673/1161/rvTXH6.jpg

Peeled the backing off and carefully laid it in place and ran over the top it several time with a plastic putty knife.

http://imageshack.com/a/img905/5536/4JqVSS.jpg

Carefully remove the facing.

http://imageshack.com/a/img661/4004/zyPBym.jpg

Whaa-la. Done.

http://imageshack.com/a/img910/333/3e84Mh.jpg

I'm very pleased with how these came out. I can't remember how much I paid my graphics guy for the decals, but $5 seems to stick in my mind. So, that's it - 5 bucks and some time.

Now, all this said, I'd still like to get a set of real ones someday, but for now, while I'm in the midst of restoring a car and don't wanna spend extra money on novelties, these make a decent substitute.

If you try it, let me know how you make out.

Fixing broke parking light switch mounts in housing base

Sun, 21 Jun 2015 02:11:01 +0000

With only 2 screws into the plastic housing/cover to take all the button pushing, they break after 25+ years.

An idea of my mech. worked out pretty well but wasn't easy.

1. Removed busted plastic where stripped/cracked screw housing busted.

2. Using a straw to fill, I put in some JB Weld

3. After a day to harden, used the Dremmel to take it down to the right depth

4. Starting with a 1/16" bit, drilled screw holes and worked up to size for screws to take

5. Put screws in VERY slowly as too tight WILL BREAK the new base right outta there.

6. Cross fingers and hope it lasts once in.

http://www.26liter.us/gallery/albums/userpics/14392/Light_Switch_repair_1.JPG

http://cdn.theboxotruth.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/e75-5.jpg

http://www.26liter.us/gallery/albums/userpics/14392/Light_Switch_repair_2.JPG

Sorry phone pics are a bit blurry. No after drilled pics, but you get the point.

Back in (Matte) Black

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:14:46 +0000

I recently got my formerly red Starion back from the body shop, I'll post some better pictures soon, but for now here are a few.

John Deere Blitz Black paint, JD reducer and Valspar hardener. Carbon Fiber hood, header panel, headlight covers, airdam, hatch wing.. and muffler.

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/fender.jpg

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/grill.jpg

I modified the front emblem using carbon vinyl...

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/inter.jpg

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/shels.jpg

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/street.jpg

http://waste-nj.com/d2/paint/bros.jpg

Little bro is getting in on the fun now. Hard to see in this pic but the Starion is much wider than the Turbo-II.

Cheers

Another HVAC relocate thread....

Sun, 31 May 2015 01:39:38 +0000

I know this has been done to death, but I got this all installed yesterday......

I got this alum panel and gauge pod from MotoCam...

CONS:

Had to sand the alum panel in both openings to get the radio cage and the HVAC panel to fit...I used a straight file to file it down..

The gauge pod didnt fit at all, and I had to sand the edges because it was too wide, and it still needs more sanding..I will be taking it back out to make it fit better. You can see it bulging in the middle...And the 52mm holes needed to be sanded to make bigger also. I have 2 1/16" guages which is 2.0625" which is exactly 52.39mm...so I guess that .39mm made a difference...

I didnt move the brain box, as I just unbolted it and pushed it up and back to make way for the gauges. I extended the harness on the HVAC which took forever, but was worth it. The HVAC squeezed in tight and I didnt need silicon or glue to keep it in place. It isnt moving at all. The radio cage was so tight it bulged and flexed but I made it fit.

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/IMG_3806.jpg

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/IMG_3807.jpg

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/IMG_3843.jpg

http://i1221.photobucket.com/albums/dd461/Preludedude1/IMG_3844.jpg

Front Tow Hook

Tue, 26 May 2015 16:30:54 +0000

What have you guys done for a front tow hook? My stock tow hooks are all bent up from the previous owner. I had to get towed last week and was afraid that my airdam was going to get damaged because of how bent they are. I'd like to get something that sticks out a little farther than the airdam to keep it from getting damaged. I've seen this thread, but I don't have a welder to build my own. Any generics out there that work with only simple modification (drilling,bending,no welding)?

FYI about sunroof trim

Mon, 18 May 2015 22:55:14 +0000

You can the inner door seal trim...

http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/random%20parts/th_SAM_4775.jpg

http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/random%20parts/th_SAM_4776.jpg

http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/random%20parts/th_SAM_4778.jpg

http://i1187.photobucket.com/albums/z388/starionkiller/random%20parts/th_SAM_4779.jpg

You would need two of them.

Hood Vent Paint Removal

Sun, 10 May 2015 15:12:21 +0000

From my understanding the two side vents are metal on the 83 hood and the front center vent isnt, am I right? Whats the best way to remove paint from the front center vent without damaging it?