2008 July | Madness Shop Manual

New layout (finally)

July 30th, 2008 the Mad Scientist

The much-anticipated new layout is finally here! There are a few changes that I feel like I should explain, just so we’re all clear here.

The previous hosting service was limited but free. The new hosting service allows me to clean up the layout of the site, but I’m very sorry to say that it does cost me money. I’ve added some ads to the main page (and only the main page) in order to cover some of the costs of keeping the Manual alive. I want to assure you that I’m not “selling out”, I’m trying to make the site better for everyone. I made it a point to keep ads off the individual post pages so that when you’re reading a tech article you don’t have to deal with a bunch of distractions.

Layout

I’ve changed the layout pretty considerably. I’m using an updated version of the same system, and have added a few extra features that have cleaned up the site and made it a bit more readable. I’ll be making small changes to the layout as time goes on, but for once I’m getting to a point where I’m legitimately happy with it. If you have feedback, just leave a comment.

Schedule

I’ve laid out a more defined schedule for articles to be released. I’m trying out a schedule which will make the first week of every month very exciting, with a week-long Monthly Special. I also hope to feature a vehicle or project I’ve come across once a month, and post weekly Shop Tips and Project Updates.

Feedback

Most of the changes I’ve made were directly inspired by suggestions from readers, so keep the comments and suggestions coming! If you run into any bugs or weirdness, contact me to let me know as soon as possible. Please post your vote here!

Loading ...

Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

350ci exploration

July 29th, 2008 the Mad Scientist

As I tore off the smog equipment from the new 350, I did a little research and exploration. I continued the teardown, got lots of cuts, and had a good time, overall. I’m going to end up with a combination of the two motors, since somebody obviously knew what they were doing with the 283 when they put it together.

It has some definitively fun parts to it that are worth keeping around and moving over to the new engine. It should make a great donor, and as I tear it down I’m learning more and more about why this engine failed on me in the first place. Read on for more info! Read the rest of this entry »

Posted in Anger Project | No Comments »

B18a1 CRX vacuum diagram

July 25th, 2008 the Mad Scientist

At long last, the b18a1 -> CRX vacuum diagram is here! This version may be difficult to read (it’s a draft, and I took the picture with my cellphone) but please bear with me.

This is a diagram on how to hook up the b18a1 vac lines using the stock CRX map sensor cluster (mounted to the firewall). If there are any questions/comments for future revisions, leave a comment!

Posted in crx | 1 Comment »

Hang in there

July 18th, 2008 the Mad Scientist

The new design for the website is NEARLY finished! It should be finished by the end of next week.

I hate to keep everyone waiting, but I promise it’ll be worth it. In the meantime, take a look at this sweet thing!

And yes, there’s a carbon fiber car next to the crx, too.

Holy carbon fiber, Batman!

Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

Anger Project upgrades to a 570z

July 15th, 2008 the Mad Scientist

I’ve relocated to the new house in San Leandro, and finally got the 240z in my garage. I’ve gutted it, removed the gas tank, rear light panel, and am in the process of removing the engine and wiring to replace both. I’m trying to decide what brake lights to end up using, or just fabricate a new light panel for the Z, but I’ve been strongly considering the Mach 1 Mustang style tail lights, similar to those pictured.