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SINISTER GT: The Official Build Thread by ITALGT
Started on | : 09-02-2006 11:20 AM |
Replies | : 301 (45131 views) |
Last post by | : exoticse on 06-04-2022 12:12 AM |
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Oct 29th, 2006
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exoticse Member Posts: 8655 From: Orlando, Fl Registered: Jun 2003
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Wow Brett !
The car is looking sick !!!
Outstanding job,..can't wait to see it at the Fall Haul !!
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10:35 PM
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Oct 31st, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Quick update...
Well, the wheel alignment was a bust... the driver's side inner tie rod was shot so they couldn't do it. I'll see if I can get a new one ordered and installed so an alignment can be done before going to the car show.
Not much time left! 
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 02-03-2013).]
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07:43 AM
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Nov 4th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Another quick update...
I've got the car up on jack stands again, and I've already got the new inner tie-rod from Rodney Dickman (excellent service as usual!), as well as a couple of door hinge kits that I've been needing. I did get over-anxious though and didn't order a new tie-rod boot along with the tie-rod, so I got one of those coming too. I should have it all together and aligned later this week, hopefully in time for Thursday night's club meeting.
I somehow managed to throw my back out yesterday and it's hurtin', so I'm not sure how much more work I'll be getting done on the car this weekend... at least it's mostly the little stuff I'm needing to get done before the show anyways.I'll see how much pain I can deal with... I'm going back out to the shop! 
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 02-03-2013).]
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02:03 PM
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exoticse Member Posts: 8655 From: Orlando, Fl Registered: Jun 2003
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| quote | Originally posted by ITALGT:
Another quick update...
I've got the car up on jack stands again... I've already got the new inner tie-rod from Rodney Dickman, as well as a couple of door hinge kits I've been needing. I got over-anxious though and didn't order a new tie-rod boot, so I got one of those coming too. I should have it all together and aligned later this week, hopefully in time for thursday-night's club meeting!
I somehow managed to throw my back out yesterday and it's a hurtin', so I'm not sure how much more work I'll be getting done on the car this weekend... but it's mostly the little stuff I'm needing to get done before the show anyways.
I'll see how much pain I can deal with... I'm going back out to the shop! =P
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Brett, you talking about the CFF club meeting ?? If so you missed it, ..it was this past thursday. It is the first thursday of every month.
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02:38 PM
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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| quote | Originally posted by exoticse:
Brett, you talking about the CFF club meeting ??
If so you missed it, ..it was this past thursday. It is the first thursday of every month. |
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Yeah, you are right... *snicker* that just shows you how much I've been distracted, scrambling to get things done... how about getting there for next month's meeting??? lol... at least I'll get to meet some of you guys this next week, it should be a blast. [This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 02-03-2013).]
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03:11 PM
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Nov 12th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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09:36 PM
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Dec 8th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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09:39 PM
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Dec 10th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Yet another change of plans on those door trim panel "rivets..." I utilized the same chrome license plate caps I used on the shifter instead. MUCH better effect with the chrome finish...

I used the supplied nylon hardware by cutting off the "snap-on" portion with a dremel tool, then drilling out the center for a screw. I also need to place a washer behind each piece for the caps to secure properly and not "sink" into the holes.
I'm also experiementing with some chrome snap caps I found at Lowe's, using them where I can... arm rests, door seals, trim face-plates, etc..
Armrests are soon to be painted black...
Here's a picture of how the interior is looking:

A better shot of the shifter:

1/2" solid aluminum rod I will fab and polish for the doors and dash:

...tail lights got the VHT Night Shades spray-tint treatment:

...and finally, updated pictures of the car. Note: black lug nuts will be replaced with chrome soon:


Here is the seats I've decided to purchase in the future... they are Summit Racing's sport seats, $189.00 each:

...and I think my clutch is starting to slip under hard acceleration. Bummer. It's not terrible yet but noticable, so I guess I better get my hands on a new clutch and plan for a cradle drop in the future. I also had the honor of discovering a wet substance below the clutch master cylinder on the inside of the car... gee, I've never seen THAT before! ha-ha... time for a new master cylinder.
Otherwise, the only other major things the car needs is a new alternator belt (to replace the early-morning squealer) and one of my catylitic converters is rattling away... oh yeah, need some new header collector gaskets too. But the car is driveable now at least.
That's about it for now. More coming... stay "tuned."
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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04:56 PM
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pavo_roddy Member Posts: 4351 From: State with a city named Gotham Registered: Apr 2004
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HI all, bump....... ------------------ Me, I sell engines, the cars are for free, I need something to crate the engines in.... Enzo Ferrari....
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11:07 PM
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Dec 22nd, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Update time!
Here's my "pre-post" post for the weekend (more coming somewhere in the next four days). I've got the drive-pulleys and alternator belt cleaned up with some brake cleaner to take care of that annoying belt squeal. Also bought a pair of Percy's aluminum header-collector gaskets for installation this weekend, as one of the original copper's didn't hold up and blew out. A new first-gen clutch master-cylinder is on it's way from the Fiero Store, hopefully it will show up soon so I can get it installed this weekend. The interior is coming together NICELY (IMO)... more pictures coming... and lastly, I have some new chrome lug nuts to finish off those black powder-coated wheels.
Stay tuned...
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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04:52 PM
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Dec 23rd, 2006
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Dr.Porsche Member Posts: 71 From: Chicago, IL Registered: Dec 2006
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I think you are really doing a nice job with the interior. Love the shifter!
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01:41 PM
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PFF
System Bot
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Dec 24th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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01:59 PM
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Dec 30th, 2006
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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06:45 PM
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Russmanu Junior Member Posts: 8 From: Oxford, England Registered: Dec 2006
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The car is looking very smart. You have done a very nice job, I like the theme you are trying to acheive. When I get my next Fiero, I think this is the same path I will follow, keep up the good work .
Russ B
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07:28 PM
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Feb 3rd, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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05:53 PM
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twofatguys Member Posts: 16465 From: Wheaton Mo. / Virginia Beach Va. Registered: Jul 2004
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| quote | Originally posted by ITALGT: So... most of my creative energy has been focused on the interior lately, and after many sessions of picture browsing and thought, I'm leaning towards a "Ferrari 360 Modena" style black/tan two-tone with aluminum highlights.

Seats I'm considering with this combo:

Heh he heee.... this build is about to get real interesting!
Brett
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Ummmmm, I really like the black/black fighter cockpit theme you have going, I think the black/tan theme will ruin the look. That said, you have surprised me on a few of the things you have done so far, so I won't judge, just warn  I love the license plate screw cover idea, can we see a picture of inside from outside again? Keep up the Awsome work. Brad
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10:22 PM
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Feb 4th, 2007
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Alex4mula Member Posts: 7405 From: Canton, MI US Registered: Dec 1999
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Thanks for the comments guys... always appreciate it! I've done a lot of debating lately as far as how I want the interior to look when it's done. When I began the "jet-fighter" theme to my interior, it was intended to be no more than a supplemental stage of the build. I'm not so sure yet that I want an all-black interior in Florida... but it's growing on me none the less.
I'm looking at a couple of other seat designs that only come in black (synthetic leather) and may just go ahead and buy them, knowing that I can always dye the material down the road if that's what I decide. Here's one design I'm looking at for under $300 a pair on Ebay...

As far as the engine... I've done no more than basic tuning. I know right now the most restrictive part of the engine is the stock TPI intake system, which I'd like to take off and replace with better... but I'm holding off until later when the more serious mods on this car begin.
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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10:54 AM
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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A better shot of the interior:

[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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12:32 PM
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Feb 17th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Cajun Member Posts: 1567 From: Youngsville, La., USA Registered: Dec 2003
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ITALGT,
Quick question, where did you purchase the scooped rear quarter sail panels? How was the fit and amount of work required to get them to fit if any?
Thanks, Mike
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10:02 PM
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PFF
System Bot
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Feb 18th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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I believe these windows can be bought from the Fiero Store... as far as fitment, they were already installed when I bought the car. I can tell you however that they are of excellent quality and the same can be said for fitment...
Brett
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12:11 AM
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Feb 19th, 2007
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Cajun Member Posts: 1567 From: Youngsville, La., USA Registered: Dec 2003
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Thanks Brett for the feedback.
I really like what you are doing to the car. Keep up the fine work and keep us posted of any developments.
Mike
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03:51 AM
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Feb 24th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Quick update...
Been tinkering with the car some more now that my back has been feeling a little better... I have now installed the rear wheel-wells, with only a small bit of cutting required for the 350's water pump pulley. The door armrests are now black, and I've decided to stick with the black trim plates for now. I've also started to do some detailing and cleaning on the car.
I finally got my hands on a factory wing, it's in good shape... just needs some paint... as well as a new radio surround and kick-panel "Fiero" tabs... and a special thank-you goes to Frank Martin for for the surprise visit to my workplace with a few parts for my car! Much appreciated! 
And finally... I played cat and mouse with a new GTO on the highway the other day on the way to work. Needless to say he and I were both impressed (he gave me the ol' thumbs-up afterwards)! I just can't wait to get this engine to really breathe!
That's it for now... as always, stay tuned; more on the way!
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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09:25 PM
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F-I-E-R-O Member Posts: 8410 From: Endwell, NY Registered: Jan 2005
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Thanks for some great ideas, hope you don't mind that I steal some!
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09:47 PM
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Feb 25th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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01:00 PM
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88White3.4GT Member Posts: 1604 From: Hayward, CA Registered: Dec 2003
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i think your car looks very nice wing-less
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02:17 PM
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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I think it looks great wingless too... it's the first wingless GT I've owned. BUT.... lol... I think it will look even better with the wing if it's mounted right. I will be mounting it as far aft as I can for a much more streamlined, euro look... it's a subtle but very effective mod I've seen done a couple of times. Brett [This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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03:04 PM
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wingless Member Posts: 152 From: arlington,texas,usa Registered: Oct 2006
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read my username....don't do it! jk, whatever you like, its your car dude!
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10:07 PM
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Feb 26th, 2007
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David DeVoe Member Posts: 1358 From: Grand Blanc, MI US Registered: Jul 2001
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italgt, I know you haven't asked but I have to say it. I like everything about your car but those stinking red calipers. When I look at the side view all I see are those bright red blobs in the wheels. Just my opinion but I'd lose em. Beautiful car otherwise.....and your idea for a black and tan interior rocks.
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11:34 AM
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exoticse Member Posts: 8655 From: Orlando, Fl Registered: Jun 2003
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| quote | Originally posted by David DeVoe:
italgt, I know you haven't asked but I have to say it. I like everything about your car but those stinking red calipers. When I look at the side view all I see are those bright red blobs in the wheels. Just my opinion but I'd lose em. Beautiful car otherwise.....and your idea for a black and tan interior rocks. |
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I think he mentioned earlier in the thread that he was going to lose the red calipers, if i am not mistaken ?
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06:25 PM
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PFF
System Bot
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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| quote | Originally posted by exoticse:
I think he mentioned earlier in the thread that he was going to lose the red calipers, if i am not mistaken ? |
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Yeah, I still think the red is too much. I think it would be alright when used with different wheels and/or a car of a different color. But in this case, it's just too distracting to the eye. The cure? More black. I'll have to get those painted soon! [This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-30-2013).]
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06:58 PM
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Mar 17th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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The slave-cylinder war rages on... Last week I decided it was time to disassemble my "new" slave-cylinder (only 6 months old) to see why it was bringing air into the system. Non-GM unit by the way. Sure enough, the inside walls were corroded in spots and needed to be polished out. After putting it back into the car, I gravity-bled the system as usual. On the last bleed, I was snugging down the bleeder (using no excessive force) when I heard a " SNAP!," followed by a splash as the bleeder and a chunk of the slave went falling into my drain pan. What the heck...  So... long story short. After a couple of failed attempts of fixing with JB Weld, a hose clamp and lots of brake fluid... no bacon. The slave is a junker, I need a new one... fast. Oh yeah, Daytona '07 less than a week away.  I've been getting ready for this show even before I bought this car... and a week before the show, my slave-cylinder craps out and my wallet is tapped. Imagine that? I'll be talking to a friend of mine today to see if he'll be able to help money wise... and let's just hope I can get one here in time for Daytona. At this point I'd even settle for borrowing a used one. On a lighter note... I've got some more parts and pieces coming from Oslo to "finish" the car in time for the show. It's going to be so nice to get those missing parts taken care of! 6 days and counting, D'07![This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 01-31-2013).]
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10:23 AM
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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My rear window is now tinted.  I used two 5" removable windshield strips (35% tint from Walmart), and I'm happy with the results... for now. Eventually I will the windows professionally tinted. ($$$) Brett
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01:54 PM
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Mar 28th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Post-Daytona '07...
Well, my skull is now peeling from the sunburn I got at the show! Worth it? Yes... but next year I'm wearing a hat! I may have not been able to even make an appearance this year, due to a last minute scramble for a new slave cylinder. But thanks to a good friend of mine, the car was back together the night before the show and ready to roll... minus wash job and quick detail. I did that Friday morning...
We (my friend Ed and I) arrived at the motel around 2:00 to check in. After being told that our room wasn't quite ready yet, we decided to take a stroll around the parking lot. About 45 minutes later we return to the front desk to check in. That's when we got some run-around about not being in the computer. Huh? Wait a minute. We were just told that they were cleaning our room... and now I'm not even on the computer? It gets better... suddenly my name somehow pops up on the screen and I hear, "It says here you made the reservation for the 18th, and that you cancelled it..."
What a load of crap! As it turns out, I wasn't the only one who got the run-around from the front desk. I talked to at least one other Fiero owner who also got the "mysterious" treatment. So, for those of you curious why you didn't see much of the car (and for that matter, me) at the motel, here's why:

...They stuck us waaayyyyy down on the opposite end of the motel... far away from the rest of the Fieros (I was surrounded by late-model Chevy Impala's instead ). Talk about a fish out of water. We still drank a few beers and had a good time regardless... but it would have been even better with the right company!
Unfortunately, this year money for me was very tight... I could barely afford the entry fee and motel, as a result unable to attend most of the events that were held. It really is too bad, because it looks like there were definitely some good times!
We spent most of Saturday walking the show and Sunday we checked out the swap meet area for 'Vette parts that my friend was needing for his project. I didn't expect to be away from my Fiero as much as I was, but there were just so many things to check out and do. And lot's of food too!
Here's a few shots from Daytona '07:



A few shots of my Fiero at the Daytona International Speedway, turn three:



So what's next? April's club meeting is next Thursday... after that I'll be doing a couple more things to the car to get motivated for next year!
[This message has been edited by ITALGT (edited 02-10-2013).]
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09:31 PM
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Apr 17th, 2007
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pavo_roddy Member Posts: 4351 From: State with a city named Gotham Registered: Apr 2004
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HI all  What ever happened with the all the seats you were looking at? Did you decide, or buy any?? ------------------ Me, I sell engines, the cars are for free, I need something to crate the engines in.... Enzo Ferrari....
Today they are called garage's, yesterday, they were stable's! Eric Jacobsen....
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11:53 PM
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Apr 18th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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Yeah, still going to replace those torn up stock seats with aftermarket racing seats... would have them already but there was no tax return for me this year (in fact, I'm paying in...). It's on my list...  Brett
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08:12 AM
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May 20th, 2007
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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02:13 AM
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ITALGT Member Posts: 994 From: Cocoa, FL Registered: Jan 2002
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01:17 PM
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May 23rd, 2007
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pavo_roddy Member Posts: 4351 From: State with a city named Gotham Registered: Apr 2004
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HI all  Lookin sic!! I love what you did with the center of the rotors too! a + for you for that one!! ------------------ Me, I sell engines, the cars are for free, I need something to crate the engines in.... Enzo Ferrari....
Today they are called garage's, yesterday, they were stable's! Eric Jacobsen....
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01:24 AM
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