Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to post some pics of my completed turbo build and also thank everyone for posting some great info. on this site, definitely was a huge help in getting this completed, so thanks everyone
I've been around the car scene for a few years(don't want to put a date on myself)but this was my first attempt with boost, so definitely had to start from scratch on this one. There was alot of headaches with it that involved a blown headgasket, and tearing the block completely down to replace stuck oil control rings, but other than that, I think it went fairly smooth.
The goal was to put a reliable turbo kit together for around $1000 and run about 7-8psi of boost. I can't believe what some companies are charging for turbo kits for these cars, when you can do it yourself for a hell of alot less.
Anyways, I'm glad that I did it, cause the car is an absolute blast to drive!!

Here's a few pics of my ride. It's an 1995 M-Edition with 85k miles.





Here are the main components of my kit:
-Homemade TIG welded manifold using Schedule 10 SS pipe fittings
-2g dsm T-25 turbo
-E-bay FMIC kit
-E-bay 2.5" SS downpipe
-1g dsm BOV
-Olderguy O2 clamp
-MSD ignition timing retard box
-can't remember the name FMU
-VDO boost gauge
-Innovative WB

Obviously, with a budget build I wasn't planning on making huge HP #'s, but just wanted something more and to make what I think is a pretty slow sports car alittle more fun to drive. Getting waxed by SUV's and sedans just doesn't cut it.
Also, for anyone contemplating doing this to their car, I say go for it. Just do alittle research ahead of time and it can be tough at times but also a great learning experience.
Thanks again!

 

Can't see the pics on my end (my issue, not yours) but the description is pretty close to what I did, other than adding my ECU. Welcome to the forum!

 

I can't see the pics either... and I want too. Sounds like a good build. Welcome.

 

no pics either

 

Sorry about that, I was using an old Geocities site for my pics.
Should work now, thanks!

 

What diameter IC pipes did you use? Looks like 2 inches to me.

Did you have to chop up the hood to let it close?

 

That's an attractive color in the sunlight. And that's a simple, straightforward build. At those power levels, it should provide you with many years of enjoyment.

Unless, of course, you decide to go to the next level.

Now you get to enjoy it!

Edit: It looks lowered. Did you change the suspension?

 

did you have to cut the hood?

 

Yep, 2inch IC pipes.
I did have to hack into the the hood alittle bit right where the 90deg. bends are going down to the intercooler. I didn't have to remove too much material and the hood seems structually sound.

Yeah, I did alittle suspension work. I'm trying out that rediculously cheap e-bay coilover kit and it actually works pretty good for the street. Also, I installed Koni str.t struts all the way around. Tire Rack has a pretty good deal on those right now if anyones interested.

 

Can you post a pic of the cut up hood? I am changing my setup to an over-the-rad with an evo intercooler and would like to see how much you're butchering to get it to fit.

 

pipefather.......i am wrapping up my "over the radiator" install in the next few days. when i am complete i am going to do a quick write-up on it.

:hint: You'll see that the butchering is not necessary.

 

sure you can tilt the radiator on the lower bracket right....but its good, do the writeup I'm curious. What intercooler are you using >?

 

just the puny MSM IC (but an upgrade to a larger IC should be easy at this point)......i have a good pic of what modification is required of the lower bracket.

 

Did you chop into the radiator support?

 

sorry sam......we've highjacked his thread enough. i'll start a new one.

 

Looks great man, good job. I'm sure it's a riot. The best part is knowing you built it yourself.

 

i like that set up..

 

Looks good!

You might throw some shielding between the hotness and the BMC reservoir.

 

Here's a couple pics of my hack work on the hood, I just hit it with some spray paint I had laying around to prevent rusting. Its a tight fit, I would think if you went bigger than 2" IC piping, you'd have to cut into the rad. support.



Thanks all for the comments!