December 2009 - Mod Gear

Takeda USA


'06-09 Civic Si Short Ram Intake

The Takeda Retain Short Ram air intake for the '06-09 Honda Civic Si replaces the bulky and inefficient factory intake, increasing air volume and improving air velocity for increased horsepower, torque and improved throttle response. In recent testing, Takeda has seen 17 hp and 16 ft-lbs of torque gains over the factory vehicle.

www.takedausa.com

Hondata

S2000 Flash Pro

Hondata is now offering its highly successful FlashPro line for the Honda S2000. The Hondata FlashPro enables the user to modify the engine computer parameters through the OBDII diagnostic port. FlashPro offers the unbeatable combination of simplicity and tuning flexibility. It allows the S2000 to be tuned for maximum performance and economy, whether naturally aspirated or with forced induction. It is expected to retail at $695.

www.hondata.com

Pioneer Electronics

AVIC-U310BT

Pioneer Electronics is now offering the best value in in-dash navigation with the new AVIC-U310BT, a robust, full-featured system with the convenience of built-in Bluetooth for hands-free calling and Apple iPod/iPhone control. The 2-DIN system provides exceptional sound quality and renowned navigation performance with turn-by-turn route guidance all at a suggested price of $600.


www.pioneer.com

Tokico

350Z HTS Suspension Kit

Tokico Performance Shocks now offers its HTS adjustable shock and spring suspension kit for the '03-08 Nissan 350Z. This system is the same one that underpins Papadakis Racing's Rockstar/AEM Drift Nissan 350Z, which won back-to-back series championships in '07-08 with driver Tanner Foust behind the wheel.

www.tokico.com

Enkei

Racing Series Wheel PF01

The Enkei PF01 is one of two new Racing Series wheels added to Enkei's '10 wheel lineup. Utilizing Enkei's MAT flow-forming technology, the PF01 is designed to be an ultra-lightweight wheel. The PF01 is engineered to exceed the RPF1's weight benefit, taking Enkei's lightweight racing wheel line to the next level. For more info and to see the wheel in person, stop by the Enkei SEMA booth #46045.

www.enkei.com

Import Bible


Series 3 T-Shirts

The latest series of automotive-inspired T-shirts from Import Bible are stylish, sporty and unique. If you're an auto enthusiast of any kind, then these shirts are a must-have.

www.importbible.com

Tein Evasive


S2000 SPEC SR-C Coilover Kit

In conjunction with TEIN, Evasive Motorsports presents the Evasive SPEC SR-C Coilover for the Honda S2000. TEIN has customized these parts with specifications made by Evasive Motorsports, and they are the result of rigorous testing by Evasive Motorsports on the racetrack. The Evasive SPEC version of the TEIN SR-C includes smaller base valve and corresponding smaller diameter shims for improved initial steering response and damper reaction. The final product presented is optimized for road racing but adequate for daily driving.

www.evasivemotorsports.com

Yokohama

Advan Sport ZPS

Yokohama Tire now offers drivers ultra-high performance and security with its all-new runflat tire, the ADVAN Sport ZPS (Zero Pressure System). The ADVAN Sport ZPS can be driven up to 50 miles at 50 mph after the loss of air, and because the ZPS draws from the heritage of ADVAN Sport consumers can rest assured their safety comes at no expense of handling and comfort.

www.yokohamatire.com

Godspeed

Cross Bar

The Godspeed cross bar is born for one function: to connect the C-pillar and rear upper strut, making the rear section of the car act as one to reduce flex. It utilizes the C-pillar and strut points to decrease and eliminate body flex during hard cornering. Applications include: '89-94 240SX fastback, '94-01 Integra, '92-95 Civic , '96-00 Civic.


www.godspeedproject.com

AEM

Series 2 EMS

The Series 2 plug-and-play stand-alone engine management system for four-cylinder Honda and Acura race cars replaces AEM's first-generation EMS and represents a complete hardware redesign with greatly enhanced features, including a USB data port, 1MB of internal data logging and six coil outputs. In addition, all Series 2 EMS systems come loaded with the company's new AEMTUNER software, a completely new user interface software that replaces AEMPRO.

www.aempower.com

November 2009 - Mod Gear

OS Giken
Z33 Clutch And LSD
OS Giken announces its high-performance, ultra-durable and completely streetable clutch kits and limited-slip differentials for the Nissan 350Z (Z33). Engineered and manufactured to the highest standards, OS Giken parts have been proven time and again to provide the best performance and reliability in competitive motorsports.
www.osgiken.net

Spec Clutches
RX-7 Multi-Disc Clutches And Flywheels
SPEC Clutches and Flywheels introduces a line of configurable multi-disc clutch and flywheel assemblies for Mazda RX-7 FD applications. These units are purpose-built and clamp load (from 1,500-3,000 psi), inertia, disc (2, 3, or 4 disc) and diameter (140, 184 or 216mm) configurable. Torque capacities can exceed 1,200 ft-lbs of torque for big power applications, while other configurations can be optimized for modification level.
www.specclutch.com

Hybrid Racing
Immobilizer Removal Unit
In the past, when doing a K-series swap you either had to purchase a Type-R ECU or a stand-alone ECU. Now with the release of the Immobilizer Removal Unit you can use your bone-stock '02-04 ECU. Simply connect the four wires as outlined in the install guide and you're ready to rock. In addition to bypassing the Immobilizer, it also disables the multiplex code P0600 so that you can run an error-free ECU.
www.hybridracing.com

Icon Rogue
Flashlights
A new breed of flashlight has arrived; it's equally rooted in form and function-something you could count on-and also priced within reach. That's ICON. You get intense, long-running LED light, unrivaled quality and modern, rugged bodies that fit the way you live.
www.myiconlight.com

Tomei
Oversized Valves
Tomei oversized valves were designed to improve flow and optimize power output. Due to the extremely high temperature conditions experienced in the combustion chamber, the valves were also built to improve resistance to high-heat conditions.
www.tomeiusa.com

Stillen
Lightweight Pulleys
Each pulley is machined from 6061 aerospace-grade billet aluminum with a bold new design to maximize performance, strength and minimum weight. Stock timing marks are standard and pulleys are up to 80 percent lighter weight than stock units and up to 10 percent lighter than other aftermarket pulleys.
www.stillen.com

Tricplate.Com
Switchable Privacy Plate
Tricplate.com manufactures a switchable transparent/privacy film technology for cars/trucks and motorcycle license plates. Its film technology instantly conceals any license plate from a remote fob. The switchable film technology allows users to protect their identity by concealing their license plate information (personal information) during any public shows or events.
www.tricplate.com

Borla
Evo X exhaust
Borla's new dual-exit, cat-back exhaust system develops impressive double-digit horsepower gains while weighing less than half the factory system. Borla manages this with a unique muffler, smooth mandrel bends and large 2.75-inch tubing.
www.borla.com

AEM
Patch/Extension Harnesses
Eliminate the need to cut your factory wiring harness to modify electronics! AEM Performance Electronics is pleased to introduce its ECU Patch/Extension Harnesses for popular late-model race car applications, including Acura, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, GM, Honda, Mazda, Nissan, Scion, Subaru, Toyota and more. These harnesses provide tuners with unparalleled ease for integrating ancillary electronics to race cars, testing electronics and more!
www.aempower.com

Titan Motorsports
2JZ-GTE High Lift Cams
After months of development and testing, Titan is proud to release its new high lift camshaft offerings for the 2JZ-GTE engine. These camshafts are typically suited for engines with turbo combinations of 70mm or larger. If you aren't happy with the results, Titan will give you a 100 percent refund on the price of the cams.
www.titanmotorsports.com

Live Sockets
Ignition Time Attack
This DVD features two hours of insane time attack action from around the globe. From the Rev Speed Magazine Super Battle in Japan to the Redline Time Attack and Super Lap Battle Series in North America, this video delivers all the goods.
www.livesockets.com

2004 Mitsubishi Evolution VIII - AMS Performance Releases Top Car Challenge Video

By AMSPerformance.com
Photography by AMSPerformance.com

Top Car Challenge Evo
2004 Evolution VIII
AMS GT850R
700awhp on E85

Engine:
* AMS Built 2.0L Short Block
* Tomei 280 Cams
* AMS CNC Head

Intake/Intercooler:
* AMS Race Front Mount
* AMS VSR Intake Manifold
* Mil Spec 65mm Throttle Body

Turbo:
* AMS GT850R Turbo Kit

Fuel:
* Deatschwerks 1600cc Injectors
* AMS Surge Tank w/2 255lph Walbros
* AMS Fuel Pressure Regulator Kit

Ignition:
* SparkTech C.O.P Ignition System
* AMS Small Battery Kit

Exhaust:
* AMS 3" Turbo Back

Drivetrain:
* Exedy Triple Carbon Push Style
* Shep Transmission
* Carbonetics Carbon 1.5 Way Rear LSD
* Cusco EVO RS Front LSD
* DSS 2pc AL Lightweight Driveshaft

Suspension:
* JIC FLT-TAR coil-over suspension with custom spec’d springs (600lbs/in Front and 800lbs/in Rear)
* Cusco Rear Sway Bar
* Adjustable Swaybar Endlinks Front and Rear
* Whiteline Roll Center Adjuster Kit (Front)
* Whiteline Bump Steer Correction Kit (Front)

Engine Management/Electronics/Gauges:
* AEM EMS
* AEM UEGO Gauge & Controller
* AEM Oil Pressure Gauge
* Autometer Boost Gauge

Wheels/Tires/Brakes:
* Enkei 18x9.5 front and rears (front +38mm offset, rear +15mm offset)
* Michelin 265/18 Pilot Sport Cups (R-compound)
* Stop-Tech Brake Kit

Body/Interior:
* AMS C/F Roof
* AMS Roll Bar
* Seibon C/F Doors
* Fiber Images C/F Hood & Trunk
* Rexpeed Vortex Generator
* 5pt Harness

Honda CR-Z Sports Hybrid - Hell-Bent Hybrid?

Honda's CR-Z Sports Hybrid--The Reality Lurking Deep Within The Crystal Ball?

Shades of CR-X are alive and kicking in the CR-Z for sure, but are sports hybrids the future of automotive performance? How engaging can a "sports hybrid" be? Will CR-Z be the same as the Mugen Insight we featured a few months back-a bodykit and some trick wheels?

The CR-Z, which is Honda speak for "Compact Renaissance Zero," made quite a splash at the '07 Tokyo Auto Show. It is reportedly headed for production in 2010.

While we would all like to see a "Special K" edition with a K20A under the hood replete with Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) hybrid powertrain riding shotgun, Honda has released little technical information on the production version. Stay tuned, we will continue to work the crystal ball on this one.

Ken Block Returns to Scotland for the 2009 Colin McRae Forest Stages

(September 30, 2009) Subaru Rally Team USA driver Ken Block and his co-driver Alex Gelsomino will participate once again in the 2009 Colin McRae Forest Stages in Scotland this weekend. Block will be at the wheel of a sister car to his usual Rally America National Championship vehicle, a 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI built to Rally America’s Open Class specifications. As the high-powered Vermont SportsCar-prepared, #43 Subaru STI does not conform to any of the car specification classes featured at the McRae Stages, the final round of the Scottish Rally Championship, Block will run as course-opening car for exhibition only.
As well as aligning his name to the rally, the late Colin McRae for many years ran as opening car on the event. For McRae’s Scottish fans this was the only chance to see him drive on home-soil. After Colin McRae’s passing in 2007, the rally was transformed into a star-studded event in 2008 when former WRC champions and dozens of rally legends competed in the event to pay tribute to McRae. The 2008 edition of the event saw Subaru Rally Team USA teammates Block and Travis Pastrana compete in historic cars along with their mentor, American rally legend John Buffum.


Block thoroughly enjoyed his time at event last year and jumped at the chance to attend again in 2009. “Colin was a friend and mentor and is sadly missed by so many, so competing at the Colin McRae Forest Stages is a small tribute to Colin and his fans. It was an honor to be invited to compete last year with so many rally legends, the atmosphere was amazing,” explained Block. “This year I’ll be in my usual Subaru, it’s an extremely powerful car, and I’ll make sure to put on a good McRae-style show for all the fans!”
Block’s Gymkhana Subaru STI also made the trip across the Atlantic for a rare display appearance and as a bonus for the fans, Block is scheduled to perform a short driving demo with his course-opening Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally car on Friday night at the Perth Racecourse, where the rally headquarters is based.

Subaru Rally Team USA is proudly supported by Subaru of America, Inc., Subaru Tecnica International (STI), Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT), DC Shoes, BFGoodrich Tires, DiRT2, RECARO, Alpinestars, Motul, Exedy, GReddy, and Vermont SportsCar. For more information on Subaru Rally Team USA, as well as exclusive photo and video galleries visit rally.subaru.com and for the latest news follow the team on Twitter: twitter.com/srtusa.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C - JDM-Bound And Down

Hard-Core Impreza WRX STI Spec C Hits The Street In Tokyo

Subie fanatics know the Spec C moniker has been long associated with hard-core, rally race-inspired editions that are solid, invigorating rides. Subaru has bestowed the vaunted badge on the latest iteration of its flagship performer, the WRX STI. Unfortunately, the Spec C is a JDM-only model and, sadly, Subie is only pumping out 900 units.
Visions of what could have been start under the hood where Subaru's 2.0-liter boxer engine (JDM STIs still run EJ20s) sports a remapped ECU and special low-friction ball bearings in the turbo. This nets 304 bhp at 6400 rpm and 311 ft-lbs of torque at 4400 rpm. Subaru reports the goal was quicker response and improved acceleration, not a big jump in peak power. An intercooler water spray setup was added to enhance system efficiency.

The handling was also addressed with a fully retuned suspension, chassis-rigidity mods, a redesigned steering system, LSD improvements and more serious rolling stock. Spec Cs roll all-new lightweight 18-inch wheels wrapped by 245/40 Bridgestone Potenza RE070s.

An aluminum hood, mini battery and lightweight Laminar glass shave precious pounds in the front of the car and at high center of gravity points to optimize handling. Man, it's 2009 and the Japanese market still gets high-tech hot rods we can only dream about.

AEM COLD AIR INTAKE REVIEW

COLD AIR INTAKES 101

Cold air intakes are a common modification because they tend to be relatively cheap, easy to install, look good and often improve engine sound significantly. All in all, a must have in every tuning project. For those of you who are totally sure of installing a new intake system for your car, you should realize one fundamental point before you modify anything on your ride. As a rule of thumb, always ask why the stock setup is the way it is. Engineers invest numerous hours designing an intake system to be the way it is. Stock set-ups are typically designed foremost with noise restriction in mind. In addition, they are also designed to preserve your stock air filter by protecting it from harmful elements such as water, dust and other road debris. When you replace your stock intake unit, note that you are compromising these important attributes. You should also realize that your power band will be affected as well. A cold air intake will often improve upper power band at the cost of diminishing power in the lower rev range. However, power gains typically vary in the range of 0-15 HP in the top end. In some forced induction applications, you might even be harming your power band all together. If you're not after high end power gains, you probably shouldn't get a cold air intake system.

AEM'S SYSTEM

Common weaknesses in AEM's Cold Air Intake system relate to weaknesses in the filter flange. Other common complaints relate to the quality of the filter itself (it's not always a K&N). While all CAI filters get dirty far more easily then the stock set-up (reasons stated above), the filter provided in the AEM kit was reported to be particularly weak and fragile. Common complaints relate to the filter flange itself. This can be particularly troublesome considering that replacement filters for these units can cost as much as $100. I've also heard complaints about the quality of the aluminum itself. Some people reported that compared to other cold air intakes, AEM's are made of a much thinner aluminum. For those who constantly work on their car, this can be a headache as the intake requires constant removal.


CONCLUSIONS

All in all, there isn't much that differentiates the AEM kit from its competition. It's basically redirecting intake from the top of the engine to the bottom of the car. Note that this does imply that air will have to travel through allot more piping to get to the engine. Hence, this is why you will lose low end power. AEM kits are common because they make a broad range of applications for different types of cars. But if you own a common car like a Honda Civic, chances are that you'll find other kits which are much cheaper. Take your time to shop around before you jump into the AEM kit. Most of these kits will use the same routing to get to the cold air so they'll be more or less the same on the dyno. However, be careful so as to avoid a brand that comes with a cheap filter. If dirt or dust does make it's way into your engine, you could compromise your throttle body, mass air flow sensor and other vital engine parts. One more thing, wider isn't always better with intake systems but you can trust that AEM chose an optimal diameter.

HOW TO KNOW IF GPS RADAR DETECTORS ARE RIGHT FOR YOU

Radar detectors and GPS detectors might sound like something straight out of Star Trek or The Jetsons, but they are truly can't-live-without car accessories for many drivers today. With the ability to detect radar and laser detectors from long-range distances, they give drivers the ability to slow down before it's too late. Radar detection technology has been around since the late 1970's for regular drivers on the road and they have literally changed the way that some people drive. Now, with the advent of GPS, radar detectors and GPS have come together for one amazing device: the GPS detector. How do you know if one of these is right for you? If you sometimes go over the speed limit and occasionally run a red light due to being distracted, then a GPS detector is right for you!

One of the tell-tale features of GPS radar detectors is its ability to adjust its sensitivity based on how fast your vehicle is traveling. Because these units know the location of speed detector cameras and red light intersections, they can alert the driver of impending detection in an instant. This can immediately get the driver's attention and allow them to slow down in time to avoid an accidental moving violation. With a city mode and highway mode in these devices, such as is available with the Escort Passport 9500i, 9500ix and 9500ci, a driver can instantly know when it's time to slow down.

Another great feature on the GPS detector is its ability to pinpoint the location of speed cameras and upcoming police speed traps. This doesn't mean that your GPS detector will tell you where the nearest local Chinese food restaurant is, but it will be able to alert you of speed traps that you may be approaching as you drive through the streets. This is crucial to its unique ability to keep track of intersections that have speed cameras and red light cameras installed. Though nowadays a machine can issue drivers a ticket for breaking the law, it's the GPS detector that can prevent the ticket from happening in the first place.

These GPS detectors work best through one simple feature: they have a pre-loaded database of thousands of known speed detectors and red light cameras. These are known throughout North America and the device will alert the driver when an affected intersection is being approached. For the busy mom on the go, the businessman talking on his hands-free set, or the everyday commuter with a full cup of hot coffee, having a GPS detector in the car to help avoid a virtual speed trap is an invaluable thing!

GPS detectors also have the capability to learn with their drivers. When a new speed trap is encountered, the driver can put it into the database and the unit will add that specific GPS location and issue to its memory and warn about it next time it is approached. Another great bonus is that with these types of radar detectors, false alarms are nearly non-existent because the unit remembers what type of signal was a false alarm; with input from the user, it will be muted next time that signal is picked up.
So whether you like to drive fast and push the limits or if you get occasionally distracted by everyday life while driving, a GPS detector can truly make a world of difference in your overall driving experience!

RZST Clothing, the clothing, the life-style.

RZST was formed in 2001 with its core philosophy stemming from the “Can you Resist” graffiti campaign started right after the tragic events of September 11th 2001. The campaign was started by Bobby Holland, a painter, tattoo artist, graffiti head and musician. Shadow Becker a veteran clothing designer with roots in urban and fashion, partnered with long time friend Holland to launch RZST as a clothing collection in 2002.

The two debuted the new line at Pool tradeshow in 2002 where the mainly knit collection garnered much success with nature, religion and politics being the main focus of the first collection. Trademarked images created by RZST were the Gangster Bunnies, Squirrels and Deers with AKs and Guardian Angels packing 50 Caliber machine guns. Slogans like Embrace Change, Open Your Eyez and Can You RZST were all staples of the newly launched RZST collection. "These were the subject matters people were talking about around the water cooler, but everyone was too afraid to bring these ideas and concepts into the fashion industry. We set out to push the envelope, to inspire thought, to provoke awareness, and clothing was going to be our medium! People were taking a chance on us, being cutting edge and new a brand, but we produced, shipped, and resold extremely well!" says Shadow. Today, the brand continues to expand and along the way they're helping to show people that caring for the world is very fashionable!

It's probably really hard for consumers these days to see that RZST seems to be the original thought provoking clothing line, especially with the amount of new and old clothing lines claiming the same thing. “People just need to wear what feels authentic and our clothing will leave you feeling empowered, competent and stylish!” says Holland.

RZST Clothing is also supported by a wide range of talented people who consider us like minded friends, such as: The Wu-Tang Clan, Felix Da House Cat, Avenged Sevenfold, Slash, Sean Paul, DJ AM, Izza Kizza, Lennox Lewis and Ultimate Fighters like Forrest Griffin, Chuck Liddell, Mike Whitehead, Vitor Belfort, Renato Babalu Sobral just to name a few.

People of all walks of life appreciate what RZST stands for and the amazing fashion they create.

As for us at RZST Racing, we support our big brother, because with this we have that art and creativity in all of our clothes, and even our cars.

Check it out

My Civic Type R Drifting Practice Fun Untill Rent-A-Cop.

Practice drifting in my 97 Civic Type R at our local mall, fun untill one of there rent a cops tells us to leave.

Please be nice about the video, this is one of the first times I've tried to drift with e-brake.

Mishimoto Carbon-Fiber Fit Intakes

I've been surfing the web and came across these:



If your project car is in need of an intake, but you don't want to resort to yesterday's systems that call it quits with a tube and filter, Mishimoto offers something new with these carbon-fiber/carbon Kevlar kits. Like the one pictured here for the '03 and up 350Z, all intakes are engine/chassis specific and engineered to isolate the cleanest, coldest supply of air while saving weight and thwarting heat with their composite design and cotton/aluminum filter. Systems are available for the: evo, rX-8, rSX and, of course, the civic, with more on the way.

www.mishimoto.com

Most likely I will be picking one of these up for my Civic Type R, if and when I will be posting a review on it.

My New 97 Civic Hatchback - Type R Conversion

So here's what happen, some stupid highschool kid rear-ended my DA Integra, and his insurance totaled my car. And I ended but buying this great piece of honda.

It has :

Carbon fiber hood and duckbill
Si Cluster
16" Rota Grids
B20 W/ Type R Vtec Head











So here are the pieces that I will be putting into my car.


TYPE X RACING SEATS - 15-604 Black w/red trim RACING SEATS
http://www.shophyperformance.com/cgi-bin/hp/001307.html?id=o6x7RUUh


VIS Racing Carbon Fiber Hoods - EVO
http://www.andysautosport.com/honda/1996_2000_civic/exterior/hoods/carbon_fiber_hoods/vis_racing/visr00026218.html