SixthSpeed Issue 07

September 2008 + December 2008

Make it known that Sixth Speed Magazine does not in ANY WAY endorse irresponsibe driving; if you engage in this pratice then you need to take stock of yourself and definitely come again. The purpose of this magazine is to give you PROPER automotive information first and foremost, as well as help you to enjoy your car RESPONSIBLY, not to mention document history and make you laugh.

The prices are RECOMMENDED & do not reflect/ include Shipping or Sales tax or Additional Charges: USD $3.50 | EC$10:00 | TT$20.00 | BDS $10.00

The Caribbean’s Premier

Underground Tuner Magazine

This is the Grim Locked and Loaded issue with + The World’s FIRST 4WD & FWD B6T Ford KB Lasers + Christian’s Tam’s WRX Market Distressers + Mr. Khan’s Double Trouble Sport Familias

WIN in The Castrol/ Sixth Speed Hamper Giveaway.

FREE DYNO RUN at MAS Tuning with Sixth Speed 7 Call 636.0822 to make an appointment

21

Improving your Suspension

The PRATICAL WAYS to make your car handle better in the AGE of Walking Lamposts, Bad Drives, Endless Potholes and Smokey Wheelspin.

Just text “oil in de coil” to 476.3220

32

Car Terms Explained; Finally!

It’s really simple; if you don’t know what ABS, VVL, HP, Torque or all that confuffle stands for or what they mean to you; then start reading like this article like a jamboree.

09

The Big Question Answered

Asked by US and answered by everybody; What does true speed mean to you? It seems some have forgotten that real speed doesn’t mean driving like a bean

Join the Underground:TEXT IN 476-3220 or 347-2633 | E-mail | send a pigeon or link up on www.facebook.com. Don’t Stick.

Tammy has the LE Vertical Insertion polo. Look at it now cause you may never get one in your lifetime

Be different & represent you. Contact your local distributor to order

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Editor: Linzi Jeremiah Writers: Khaleel Ali, Khayam Ali, Five Forward Contributors: Marvyn Howard Design & Layout: Sev7nth Interactive Media Accounting & Financial: Monique Jones Linguistical & Proof Support: Emmanuel Singh Brent Alleyne, Dwight Titus, #9 Ramnarine Avenue, St. Magaret’s Village Claxton Bay, Trinidad W.I

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The Editorials: We always encourage contibutions to

the magazine, BUT as much as we endorse individual expression, we can’t publish everything; so we reserve the right to use submitted material and editorials as we see fit. All credit will be given where applicable to respective content contributors.

Also the views expressed are those of the writers and NOT the magazine.

The Disclaimer: As much as we here at Sixth Speed

try our best to gurantee that the information in these pages are correct as can be, we cannot and will not be held responsible if you decide to try anything and things go wrong.Any damages to persons and property is not our fault; that burden of responsibility rest upon you shoulders. Don’t say we didn’t tell you pappy.

Richard has the wicked red Better Brake Fast jersey. All sizes but limited colors...as in Red, Black & Grey only.

02 Grinding MiGears:

because the magazine needed somebody with no mouth cap to talk about stuff that you’re afraid to.

Like it, love it; hate it and rotate it, but a long time ago I realized that on the tarmac my life is meaningless to other people. However, as of lately I have noticed that things in general have all gone down hill; rather than people try to inflict pain and torment like they usually do….. there are people out there trying to keel me; and whilst I appreciate the sudden throws of automotive attention, I am not quite ready to drink lemonade with the maker. On average; yes I have been checking; I am given no less than 50 bad drives per day and it seems to be getting worse. I have gotten no indicator side swiping, sudden no reason braking, change lane just so movement, cell phone yapping vehicular indiscretion, stop in the road conversational delay and countless more that makes me always wonder what the hell is going on. I swear that if you can survive driving on the people roads you can and should join the special forces in the army, trust me you’re qualified.

It may seem harsh but here’s MY REALITY; normal daily driving has become more of an undertaking in instinctual short term survival & combat tactics than spates of progressive pendular momentum. And short of buying a rusted, beat down, jacked up 120Y that just screams tetanus, with some crash bars, protruding spikes and a notification sign that says “Come nah I dare you!”, I am faced with the grim actuality that; and I will say it loud cause I DON’T BUSINESS; Trinidadians (and by extension people in general) CANNOT drive to save their lives. Now, you might be saying how could I say such a thing, there are many “good drivers” out there, they have passed though the process, gone through the proper training, legitamately obtained their drivers license and are educated enough to do the right thing. ....just now eh………………………wait for it...........

After a further 15 minutes of conversation the guy eventually bought a subscription, not out of pity but because he realized that he was clueless about his new car. Was I happy; not really, because afterall that long talk my throat was real dry - the least the man coulda do was offer to buy something to wet the gully.

People, you need to know that driving properly involves a lot and not because you have never gotten into an accident that means you can drive the right way; for all I know you may just be VERY lucky and there is a marked difference between luck & skill.

Real drivers and by that we mean professional race drivers know three things – they know their cars, they know themselves and they know their environment (another rant).

The mindset that most people have towards automotive knowledge is traditional don’t care and like I have said before if you hit my lil’ zut zut, sorry means nothing to me; and if you only SAY talk to my insurance we go end up doing a thing. One of the best quotes I have ever heard in my lifetime came from my padre and that is; in an accident NOBODY has the right of way because in an accident everybody car mash up. Understand that 98 percent of mishaps are avoidable and are usually as result of human error - don’t blame the car. Driving careless and with no courtesy is insane apart from being all out reckless and stuipd. Whilst I believe MOST car based companies are socially irresponsible in terms of getting good information to people so that they can understand and make wise decisions; at the end of it all nobody can force your to learn about your car. This is one of those classic cases where the ball is literally in your court and if you don’t hold it and run well you going to be severely screwed – now go buy me a water.......Pleeeeaaaassseeeee. (see, I do have manners)

Real drivers and by that we mean professional drivers know three things – they know their cars, they know themselves and they know their environment

What the financial are you telling me about process; the process that deals with driving is one of the MAIN reasons why people cannot drive in the first place. Plus you have “educated drivers” who are less than educated about the car they’re pumping in; PLUS, you have a lot of people who take driving really for granted; PLUS, you have the total lack of automotive responsibility shown by the masses towards the masses. Education might be free, but common sense isn’t; more so when it comes to driving . Recently, in a sell a magazine conversation; a gentleman of age and stature told me that there’s nothing more he can learn about car; he has been driving about 15 years and never get in an accident. Nothing is worse than a feel they know everything person with an overinflated ego. I personally ent able so as I was about to suck teeth and walk away my mind says to me “Have some fun with this.”

“What car do you have?” | “Brand new so and so.” “……..A new car, nice, tell me; do you know what the O/D button is for?” | “The what?”

“The overdrive button, it’s on your shifter” | “ Oh, I dunno but I do know when I press it the car goes faster!” “……..hmmmmm interesting. I suppose your new car has ABS, do you know how that works or even what it stands for?” | “No but I hear about it before on TV.” “……..lewwe see 0 for 2. Are you aware that your car has 3 forms of active braking. Foot, Hand and Engine.” / “ Engine braking, I never hear ‘bout that!”

“Have you ever read your owner’s manual?” / “Nah, for what; I don’t need that!” “ Do you know what kind of oil you car uses.” / “No, The mechanic does see about that?”

“Partner; you in trouble!” / “………………!?!”

03 Aye Car.rumba: I was one that felt that I could’ve never learned about my car, especially since I am a woman but your magazine has taught me a lot. I really not into speed but apart from the fact that the magazine makes me laugh a lot, I feel as if you guys are talking to me directly in a way I can understand. Thank you, Thank you Thank you!

Vanessa George (Cunupia) What can we say….you’re welcome and it’s a pleasure being that voice of reason in your automotive head.

Guys, Sixth Speed is it. I love how you guys keep it so simple and entertaining. I recently got my driver’s license and want to become a better driver, especially after reading the girl racer section with Sonia/ Sonya that was sooooo cool. I too agree that driving tuition sucks and it really doesn’t teach you to be a responsible overall driver, what’s there for a girl to do?

Stacy Ann Gourmandy (Marabella) Hmmmmm, because you sweet talked us here’s our secret formula to be Professional Driver. 1. Take time out to learn your car and yourself in terms of what can and cannot be done, this way you will know where you fall short and what areas need improvement. 2. Go do a GOOD defensive driving program with more practical & less theory.

3. Get involved in motorsport on some level – SOLODEX is a good start. 4. Play driving videogames, there’s GRAN TURISMO, FORZA – they will teach you a lot in understanding driving dynamics. 5 Read sixth speed….simple!

Gentlemen, I’m impressed with how well Sixth Speed magazine has progressed since the first issue. It seems everything has gotten better, except the errors…you guys need to work on that. Otherwise this is almost a perfect LOCAL magazine that can make a positive difference in the lives of people in many ways. Keep it up! By the way I old try to make the text bigger nah.

Wayne Johnson (Trincity) We are addressing the errors thing and would really like to thank you for hanging in there with us. Sixth Speed will always be improving and with readers like you on board telling us like it is we know that we safe.

finally we give voice to the voiciferous. Here is where you vent about alll the automotive stuff that ticks you off!

Fellas, after doing some research my wife recently bought a brand new 1.6 Subaru and although it isn’t the STi like I wanted (she said is HER car) she’s very happy with the purchase. However, we have a problem since our 4 year old saw the car ad in the last issue he goes around showing it to everyone saying that his mommy car in a magazine.

You guys cause this problem, so you all have to fix it, what you going to do.

Curtis Johnson (Gaparillo) Well geez that simple. It’s clear that your child lacking boost, so mamaguy the misses into selling the TS with the reason that kids who feel constant turbo in the first 5 years of life are 25 times more likely to sleep soundly at night and not get into trouble.

Hey, I’ve read at least 3 issues of your magazines and I found them extremely interesting.

Now please note that I’m not into performance, speed, racing, bikes or any kind of motor sports, but I came into contact with the magazine because my husband suffers from biker-i-tis. It’s so bad that he can hear a bike from about 3 traffic lights away (and mind you he’s partially deaf in one ear- seriously!) and tells you the make and model off the bat….yep it THAT bad. Anyway I am a huge fan of sixth speed and I must commend the writers, you all have a great sense of humor and the articles are all tailored to capture the interest of every one…Continue the good work guys.

Olivia Phillips-Williams (Curepe) It’s very apparent that your hubby has the same issues and we have the perfect treatment. Go buy him a BMX with oversized training wheels, find a nice steep hill, remove the brakes and wish him the best.Trust us, the only cure for Biker-i-tis is utter irrationality and mind numbing speed. Hope this helps:) Guys, your magazine is really cool. I was in a taxi the other day in the front seat and as I reached across to buckle up, the driver cynically remarked, “Wham you feel I go kill you or what, I could drive yuh know!” I couldn’t believe it; I looked at him, steups - was about to cuss him out but just simply left. Accidents happen, why do people, especially those taxi men still insist on not buckling up and worse yet look at people who do as if they are dotish. It not about whether you can drive

or not but rather my safety; where do they come from?

Ayana Jones (California) This is pretty simple – Machoism, Ego, Pride and that extra sensory gift of Dotishness.

Most people especially men feel that an accident can never happen to them, back in the day and even now the mentality of most drivers is that if you wore a seatbelt you’re a novice. To us you did the right thing as and we give you nuff respect for it.

Hey sixth just wanna say you all doing a great job and to keep it up. Tell me what is this place coming to? Young people are losing interest in everything and for some reason you cannot get people to hold down a job for a week. My husband and I have an automotive business and gone are the days when young people would take pride in doing a job; it’s like no one gives a damn anymore – they work how they want, when they want or not at all. We pay WELL and in some cases overpay just to give them the incentive to stay on and still no luck. Is this country “depressed” at this present point; so much to learn, to earn, to live for, and nobody cares. I wish this entire country go on some hardcore counseling ---- no lie.

Sharon Hamid (St. Madeline) You’re so right about getting quality workmen; it tough across the board and young people seem misaligned especially when it comes to the automotive field. Should more be done to encourage them to get into an avenue with massive earning potential in ALL areas; yes, but you have a system that’s geared towards academics and that’s TERRIBLE. And another thing; WHO exactly going to cover the cost for all that counseling; sure as hell not us, we done broken as it is. Rather, people need to get an old school coceyea broom beating and a dread bath with the entire lime tree.

We love you Sixth Speed!

Sherisse Taylor and Family (D’Abadie) Awwwwwwww

Get that Cole of your Chest! text someting: 1.868.476-3220 | 1.868.347-2633 email someting: sixthspeedtuner@hotmail.com link pan the www.facebook.com - we there!

07

04 The Carshaft:

because talking about automotive stuff is pure fun!

The TopTen Best.

Car.nal Lust:

After Race Loss Excuses

NISSAN Nismo 270R | 50 made

Patience is a virtue and virtue is that you will quicker smell the toes of a pink gouti with tasty toejam than get your stub knobs on the 270R. Made by Nismo because we figured they were smoking hevy canca beans, this the S14 that’s makes life seem brighter and takes the stresses away. Only fifty; and yes we said fifty 270Rs were ever built and they were only produced in 1994 –making it only that you will never get one.

Unlike the average silvias you may be accustomed to, this vehicle was built on the S14 with plenty additional goodness. To make the daily dose of 270 spine tingling horsies from the SR20DET; NISMO employed a 3” mandrel bent exhaust, bigger intercooler, revised camshafts, reprogrammed ECU, 440CC injectors and an R32 Skyline GT-R fuel pump.

Furthurmore, the car was lowered about 25mm through a NISMO adjustable suspension comprising of NISMO TYPE D springs. NISMO tower braces and bushings reduced chassis flex & movement and a sweet set of Forged alloy 17’s were in the mix to sweet talk the road. To put down the power to pass there was a NISMO clutch setup with a NISMO 2 way mechanical LSD. Now, with all this how can you have an S15 that looks hum bum; to stand out, all the 270s had the “edge” aero kit for better aerodynamics & visual aggression and were painted mafia black with ‘Nismo 270R’ badging above the rear wheels to seal the deal. At this point; kids, we suggest you take out the writing utensils, together with the cookie scented paper and send old Santa a letter - don’t mind that he will laugh at you, but at least you could say that you tried a ting.

Two Faced:1985NissanSunnyvs.Nissan SunnyTurbo Leprix Dr Jekyll (Trinidad): Lethargically slow, this was

the car that Columbus sailed past on a windless day.

Redemption came by way of nostalgically good looks & the FACT that it was stolen every time you parked it up.

Under the 1.3 with a 2 barrel down draught carb, you maybe could throw on a Weber to beef up the 65 HP but sadly the car would STILL be dead.

Mr Hyde (Worldwide): the Sunny came with the

E15LET. Reaping 115HP on the masses this Sunny was known as the Sunny Turbo Leprix. Differences were; besides the pasty performance; different front and rear end, sport seats, suspension upgrades, bigger brakes and a retarded set fender mounted wing mirrors.

Either way this was the fun car would’ve made old Christopher sell the Santa Maria, Nina & Pinta

The Big Question?

What does speed mean to you.

Robert: speed means everything to me

right now. Don’t mind that the road is chuck full of crazy drivers. It helps me to get rid of after work stress and allows me to be able to spend quality time with my son since we both spend time digging up in the car.

Everyone knows that in an automotive battle of brawn, brain and boost losing is not an option for some. It’ doesn’t look good, your pride is under some blows and your girlfriend may leave you. To keep it real here are the Best Excuses to give when you’re seeing the tail lights getting smaller.

1. Ah miss third gear : this is the easiest and fastest one to remember but note there’s no such thing like missing 3rd twice.

2. I ent gettin’ no traction: can happen for many reason but you can add in I have on some bad tires OR the car have to much power for dramatic effect.

3. The engine was breaking in: good one to AVOID a race to begin with, but don’t race loose and then use it. Trust us you WILL look moronically inept 4. I didn’t have any gas/ Gas run out: it may show that you are too cheap for words; too lazy for though; too ridiculous for chance but it will work; however don’t say this and your gas needle showing F. 5. Wifey/ Partners was in the car – yes toting extra dead weight will make you slower but didn’t you learn in scouts - “be prepared” 6. The clutch slipping BAD – once again another fantastic one. But if your clutch slipping for a whole year then you will be full of it.

7. I ent get a good launch – this one should be used in an extreme because it will mean you will have to run over again. If you got 5 tasker before, you’ll get 10 now.

8. Ah leaking boost somewhere – try to be specific e.g I supposed to be making 10 pong and ah only getting 5, like wastegate gone.

9. Car missin’, it ent wukking good – after you say this just go park up, don’t go race somebody else 10. I let you win that one – use this ONLY and ONLY if you have the bongo bags to back it up. One win is charity but consistent blows makes you look like an empty penna cool pack in a big drain.

Trisha: it’s a joy that I can’t express. You

should see the nods and attention I get wherever I go, especially from kids and fellow women. It’s really cool answering all the questions and taking young people for a “quick spin” now and then.

09

05 SixthSpeed Knews: Speed Promotion Drags:

we scour the planet for wicked automotive news that’s exciting, on the edge and really fast!

CAllAtheRCar TA IL it: News in a Short Short

6th July 2008

With the unfortunate cancellation of S2 promotions event carded for June month end, Speed promotion took up the cause to host an event with more conditions than a divorce hearing. Having to work around a smaller pit area, limited access to the strip itself, no TrackBite and a slew of other restrictions (that to us made no sense) it was a miracle that Speed Promotions was able to pull of the event in such a short space of time. But it happened and although the crowd was less than stellar the competitors came to do it straight up grimey. Things started off pasty with Peter Laquis mint 3 rotor 1st Gen beating Mad Cow by .05 sec at 12.83 even though both drivers had a.6 reaction time. On another run Mad Cow delivered the grass cutting on one of the best bluebirds we have seen, i.e the 4WD U13 piloted by Dane.

Rain fell briefly but as it stopped action was back on the burner. Driven by a tweenager (Keron) with ballasts of board; the white STI Forester was doing consistent 13’s and polishing men from a side including a boosted CK2. Kids; it’s AWD, electronically managed under HALTECH and STI’ed; come nah. As the day progressed times fell like dominoes with Horsie doing a 10.05 in his ZX10 (another person with plenty ballasts), Peter Laquis with a best of 11.7 after sizzling those juicy slicks. Running impressive was Dane’s SSS bluebird 4WD, Lyndon’s starlet powered Toyota Tercel, Rampy’s 4WD B13 and the Trinidad & Tobago 3rd gen driven hard and burned out right by Randy.

+ Southern Sales (Trinidad) has the new CX7 Mazda’s wicked mid-size crossover SUV. Sporting the much hyped about 2.3 MZR turbocharged I4 engine found in the Mazdaspeed 3 & 6 the delivery is set at 244HP@5000rpm and 258lb*tq @ 2500rpm. + TTUMRA (Trinidad & Tobago Unified Motor Racers Association) has changed its name to MATT (Motorsport Association of Trinidad & Tobago) + Ford Car Club of T&T had their Annual Fun and Family day down in Fyzabad. The drive to go was nice, the day was nicer BUT the real fun was the drive to come back home + Stirring things up in the mix of luxury X-over SUV, Subaru has the 2008 Tribeca. With a, contoured cockpit, sweet leather interior, moon roof and room for 7 it’s no wonder that it won the “Best Interior Award” from JD Power. The Tribeca will go head to head with the X5, Q7 and with a 250HP engine it may just pull ahead.

Spice Island Drags

May 25th 2008: Though many suffered “technical” pressure ,the Trinidad contingent that made their way to Grenada did what they went to do and that was take no prisoners in the Digicel (Grenada) Sponsored Drag Meet. Eating their way thru the fast classes and leaving the crumbs for the hosts, the Trinidadians held their own and despite some back pan hair rising moments, some barn animals crossing the track and a wicked Suzuki Jimmy that may not have been the fastest but was popping off ah dem two front wheels whole day to the crowds delight.

9th July 2008: With a “free and fair” election now completed after the much talked about resignation of the prior board due to “issues” Nizam Mohammed has emerged as the New President. What will this mean for the future of motorsport only time will tell but with Oswald Stoute as VP, Tony Samaroo as Secretary (grrrrrrrrr) and Member’s Rep 2 - Clive Sudgden all we can do is ONLY hope & pray that motorsport see upward progression. Afterall this is the only sport that used to shut down cricket back in the day.

Open class B First place Gordon Rooks: Open Class A First place Chevron Rail : 10’s: Scorpion | 13’s: Asif Khan Fastest 8cyl: Luke mint cars rail | Fastest 6 cyl: Scorpion | Fastest 4 cyl: Dezzie | Fastest rotary: Randy Singh Best burnout in competitions was Dezzie in the black S13 Silvia under heavy SR20DET power. Although Mad Cow did impress with some char sue red smoke from a set of Kumho’s he bombed out as he didn’t enter competition.

+ Schulmberger has introduced their new Driver Safe Program to encourage employees to drive responsibly. + The new Jaguar XF is here. Offered as a mid sized luxury the XF was awarded the prestigious What Car? Car of the Year award in 08 and replaces the S-TYPE. With a 4.2 V8 Supercharged it has a lovely 416HP / 413lb*tq and does 0-60 in 5.4 secs. + S2 Motorsport Promotions got the approval of the racing frat by being one of the first to actively involve racers in their decision process. + Kerry a.k.a DK (Drift King) was involved in head on collision with an insanely reckless driver. Kerry we wish you a speedy one and remember we have a touge to run so hurry up. + Congratulations to Jameel Allaham (guy) and Theresha (girl) for figuring out what the new logo represents of the bat. Good job, you don’t win anything but good job.

11

Laughlin has Kumho Run Flat

Laughlin has the Kumho Run Flat Tires and all we have to say is that it’s about time.

Finally, run flat tires have landed on our shores with the retailing of the high performance Kumho Estca KW17

by Laughlin & De Gannes.

Available in our favourite; 205/45/17; the KW has all the bells of a blooming good tire, i.e. rim protector, unique compounds & design to improve grip and reduce hydroplaning and our favourite, a reinforced sidewall. The stronger sidewall allows you to drive on the tire for about 80+ kilos under a puncture or deflation; allowing you to reach home without stopping to change the tire.

People c’mon you really can beat this kind of peace of mind plus it works really well for you lazy ones & those who CAN’T change a tire.

The day was hot and in cases like this good weather to dry clothes; BUT, when most maybe packing on the detergent pan loads of laudry; 40 gear heads from all over the country converged on the people roads to partake in Trinidad’s First Ever All Mazda Drive. Seeing cars from all genre of the Zoom Zoom revolution and a lone Mitsubish Lancer along for the lime, the pace was stylishly quick on the way to the land of beers, beach, bumsee and bake …….Maracas. With the wonderful rumble of piston and especially rotary echoing in the hills; people, especially the kids stood in awe and chose their favourite with the ever popular phrase “Daiz my car, right dey!” At the beach the attention was just as crazy as the drive, with 25+ cars lined up in order form 1st gen RX7 > 2nd gen > 3rd gen > turbo laser > turbo 323 > non boosted 323 > Mazda 3. Never before has there ever been such a wicked sight to behold such as this and we are quite sure that when next it happens and it will be soon as plans are already in the works it will be bigger…..unless police haul the rotaries over for a picture.

Liquid Link in Miami:

Dexing in the ARC on a Dry Day:

To most it may seem as if Solodex is as boring as watching water freeze, but you can’t tell that to the 50+ competitors who showed and proved their driving skillz at the Arima Race Club car park across the seven classes. With a week of rain and a day of hot sun competition was arrow hot with Jodi Ali in his Dream Cars Evo dominating the EP class thus far and blazing the course in 67.45 seconds. But not to be pushed over was Ryan Pinhero in his Subaru STI doing the course in just under 69 secs; in third after some suspension hicks was Devi Nath in his boosted Mirage running a nice 69.85.

The SS class was nicked by William Barrow’s Honda S2000 in 70.41secs with Scott Johnstone’s Runx a full 3 seconds behind in a time of 73.60 and Narend Sooknarine RX7 2nd Gen in at 74.93. Other best course handlers were Amir Hosein doing ESP class in 69.55, Karl Winchester’s “borrowed” Mitsu Lancer in 76.63 seconds for the ES class, Rudy Singh in HS with a time of 78.22.

Class leaders: EP (Jodi Ali), SS (Narend Sooknarine), ESP (Amir Hosein), ES (Kerwyn Charles), HS (Rudi Singh), GS (Sanjay Singh) and NE (Kwasi Lake) Want more: www.carstt.com | www.trinituner.com | Sponsors: Battery Energy Drink & Castrol | Photos: www.trinturbo.com

Linking you up Wholesale & Retail www.liquidlinkmiami.com is offering a fast and reliable service to Trinibago or rather the entire Caribbean. You can now get all the stuff your heart desires; WITH or WITHOUT a credit card, from the good old US of A; and all it takes is a call and an email. Founded 10 years ago, www.liquidlinkmiami. com provides a safe way to order ANYTHING online by acting as your “buy me” representative in the States. Stop waiting on family/ or a partner to “bring it in for you”; once you saw it the net or on TV, by just simply placing a call or emailing a link/ picture with the exact product, you can and will get it delivered directly to you - NO HASSLE/ NO STRESS.

Need Info: Brian 389-7233 or Sastri Ramkissoon 305-495-7858 or info@liquidlinkmiami.net

SEE ADS for DETAILS

2009 Carib Great Race- coverage powerd by SUNOCO RACE FUELS

Who would have thought that for the 13th...no; 14th time Mr Solo in the 1700HP twin engine catamaran would have won the Carib Great Race especially when Team Baico, was giving the 13 time winner a BITTER run for his cola champagne coming down to the end. In front and on the mount Team Baico (Dv-Mr. Brian Branker & Na-Richard Phillips) in the freshly painted Baico 3 with twin 510cc outboards and a terror fabulous 1700HP catamaran until they made a boo boo and missed a marker; which unfortunately costed them a penality and 2nd place overall.

Also making major waves was Rage in the 1500HP V Hull who; as fate would have it were actually leading the bigger HP monsters for the bet-

ter majority of the race. Piloted by Reid Shakeer with support team Jeffrey Simmons & Steve Ghany Jr.; RAGE, who was 3rd overall and the C class champion for 5 plus years stood a real chance of copping victory but for a malfunctioning fire suppresant unit that resulted in a loss of power.....Awwwwww, maybe next time.

Not to be undone or rather underwater was Baico Blaze; the lone female driven boat in the whole peshar. With 2 years in the race Kadra Branker and throttleman Brent rocketed the outboarder in good time to take 4th overall and No.1 insportman class . Are we impressed, yes we are consider that you have to be make of iron to battle them waves on the high seas in an open dec boat.

Toyota White Heat with their 750HP bleeder did what good sportsmen always do best and that’s be consistent in moving the sea blast and well HERO II made it but the boat was stolen which we find just SAD. Either way good job at hauling bass.

Hey Ho kiddies, Mazda is getting ready to launch its fire-breathing Mazda6 MPS in its second generation and we are psyched. Previously, the turbocharged MZR rocked a nice 256 BHP and 280 lb*tq in stock form, but Mazda will up the figures yet again on this hot version of their saloon to a more potent 280+ BHP; AT THE pavement people. Horses will be directed to all wheels like before to maximize traction through a 6-speed gearbox. However, just like Mitsu. in the auto Even though the company has been playing with double clutch like Mitsu, who really cares about automatic when as far as stats go the MPS6 should do 0100km/h in 6 seconds and hold on a top speed of 250km/h. Say it with me; Zoom Zoom!!!

How sick would it be if you pulled up on a date and just so, out of the blue night sky - “Darling what smells so good, is that your cologne.” / “No baby it’s the tires.....it’s the tires.” Or better yet; you roll on rolled off on a lime, so to kill the

pungent stink do a monster burnout on your arm pits. Okay so we gone overboard BUT the Ecsta DX Aroma is Kumho’s All-Season tire designed for trend-setting, fashion-conscious drivers who love to look good and SMELL choice. In addition to delivering an alluring aroma that watered with the subtle scent of fresh lavender, the Ecsta DX Aroma is designed to deliver a comfortable ride and low noise, while blending good wear with dry, wet traction - This is SICK finally another reason to drive

Ah Hear

Truth, Lies and Allout boogangaran

+ Men still getting shaft with KY – is plenty merrier in their derriere + A senior supervisor in a Boost Factory had a healthy serving of Roti and Orange drink on a roadwalk café in the west. It seems that the popular meal of Steam Rice with giggles juice didn’t go down too well. + Apparently a certain carrier has introduced Bluetooth technology to engine management and a certain black madam was the first subscriber. + In central, speed seems to be giving out in unlimited amounts left and right. Apart from that they are also converting signals from Bluetooth back to Digital + A tailor made lancer tuned by R134 has been doing a good job lancing jerseys and evolving them into armless for free + There is NO LIMIT to the engineering skillz by some south tuners but it seems that there will soon B a new victor emerging from 13 champions. + EEEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!! + With the impressive showing of Rotary power across the board, there has been a battle brewing between the Wankel Camp and Essars. Wonder where are all the “fast” Honda’s in all of this. + Honda Hoe went poof undersome heavy tuning in Central. Is this a sign, who knows but he seems to be taking over from the man of steel.

Hello RALLIART EVO X

Mitsubishi announced the launch of the Galant Fortis RALLIART (aka Lancer Ralliart) 4WD sedan in Japan. Like the Subaru WRX is to the STi, the Lancer Ralliart is an up from the GTS but a downgrade of the EVO X. Powered by a turbocharged 4B11-type 2.0-liter 16-valve DOHC MIVEC engine good for 235HP @ 6000 rpm and 250 lb*tq @ 3000 rpm; tt’s not as ballistic as the 300hp EVO X but it still provides a dynamic driving experience for far less the price.

+ Blue is the the new yellow and yellow is the new slow with somebody doing a color swap to make their car faster. + The governing body start back with their backward nonsensical attitude and ways to the way drags are supposed to be held and promoted + Ready for Speed. Round 1; Fight! + men tuning their car for ten seconds but can’t even tune their car to start in the first place.

15

As you may or may not know the new Nissan Skyline is upon our shoulders.

Gone is the R34 with its iconic status and in is a twin turbo, V6, 450HP, 370lb*tq, AWD, 7 speed tranny beast on 20’s. With this kind of palantry Nissan’s Race Academy in Europe will invite every pre-order customer to the UK to participate in driving events at the Nürburgring race track for training. Those attending will be given 45 minutes of flat out track time in a GT-R, drifting lessons in a 350Z, plus lessons geared at fully understanding & exploiting the GTR full potential under race mode. Further, and there is more, participants will be offered time to gain experience and craft their driving skills even further which will eventually lead to obtaining a Motor Sport Association (MSA) approved racing license.

According to the Marketing Directors, “The GT-R epitomises Nissan’s passion for cars and we want to share the excitement with our customers. The aim is to give GT-R customers the chance to spend some quality time with the cars before delivery so that they can enjoy & understand everything about the car. On the one hand, these tailor-made events will wet their appetite for a car which the world’s press is already hailing as one of the most capable all-round supercars on sale today, while at the same time bringing together passionate, enthusiastic GT-R fans.”

Nissan GTR Ultimate Driver Training

SIDE NOTE: Kiddies this is what you call social responsibility by a car company and as you see they’re not just geared upon SELLING a car but making sure the buyers understands the car, improve their driving skills and ENJOY what the car is truely capable of to the maximum. It’s not ONLY about focusing on profits and increasing margins and monthly sales targets but proper involvement in overall driver education. Another thing; Kids, if anyone tells you speed is a BAD thing then that person isn’t thinking straight - if speed was bad then companies wouldn’t make fast cars and test normals cars on a race track. Speed is something that can be enjoyed, but must be done responsibly in a car that was DESIGNED for such.

Car Facts

Interesting car stuff you didn’t know

+ TRD (Toyota Racing Development) is the in-house tuning shop for Toyota. TRD is responsible both for improving street cars for more performance and supporting Toyota’s racing interests around the world. + One of the BEST automotive taglines in history is Zoom Zoom. Used

by Mazda, it was meant to describe “the emotion of motion” + Honda never made any money on the 1996-2001 DC2 Type R due to the high production costs. But they kept it because of the Type R image and brand awareness. + AMG (initially known as Aufrecht Melcher Großaspach (German)), is the high performance division of the Mercedes-Benz car company + Motorsport has long been recognised as an effective marketing tool for automobile manufacturers to gain exposure. + The Trinidad government and related companies unfortunately haven’t realized this as yet...SAD! + Besides the nickname Evo, Mitsubishi’s Evolution series is also known as LanEvo in Japan

07 Tru. J.Spec Sports Car History The Subaru WRX STi aka Scooby

Scoobaru……Scoobaru, where are you???, Shaggy Called… Out of the shadows the sound of 4 off beat pistons on the cold hard ground, gripping at a corner, running to towards Shaggy and the rest of the gang… Raggy!!!! The Blue STI did a 180 degree turn and opened its doors coming to a halt with the sound of a HKS Super Sequential Blow off.

The Subaru did not always start off as a crime fighting canine, it was a simple daily driver created by Fuji Heavy Industries back in November 1992. Fuji was actually the Nakajima Aircraft Company back in 1917, and then in 1954 decided to enter the automobile market. The word “Subaru” came from the Japanese word for the star Cluster Pleiades as seen in the logo… go figure… Although this small to mid-sized sedan was meant to carry the children to primary school, it began a life as the rally god it is today. Subaru believes that handling means safety so most of its models come standard with their stable All-Wheel-Drive. Previously, Subaru rallied the Legacy but weight became their enemy on the grassy battlefields so the Impreza first became a rally car then a road car, not the other way around. Being lighter, better structured it whipped around muddy bends much easier than the Legacy.

The Impreza was given 3 basic trims, base, WRX or STI. The base model was either FWD or AWD but later on the FWD was dropped for the classy AWD standard. The word “Impreza” came from the Italian word achievement or as for the Polish, it means fun… and they were right. Powered by either a 1.6(EJ16) or 1.8(EJ18) naturally aspirated engine it was just normal.

Subaru used the unique boxer style engine to retain better handling and weight distribution.

The WRX came with the decently power EJ20 2.0 turbocharged boxer engine with top mounted intercooler. Power was set at a reasonable 211HP. It came with bigger brakes at the front wearing Subaru named 4 piston calipers and rear disc brakes. It came standard with lower profile tires, stronger suspension components. It was rumored that it became the prime car for getaway bank robberies because of its ability to outperform police at cornering and speed. This WRX became a well liked cheap performance car that young performance enthusiasts can relate to. The WRX received a facelift in 2000 with the much disliked praying mantis eyes (See Car Crazy issue 1 if you were lucky to get a copy hehe!) but with added power of 227HP/217ft-lb torque. The most impressive sub-model of the WRX was the 22B developed in 1998 which came as a 2 door coupe with a 2.2 ripped open bottom end creating 276HP/265ft-lb torque. The gearbox was super close with a stock twin disc clutch. The look was fairly basic with 17” lightweight wheels and a real working adjustable wing. Only available to the Welsh to a lucky 400 it was the best the Impreza WRX had to offer.

Article by: Khaleel Ali

Now the pup named Scoobaru grew up with the STI model, STI meaning Subaru Tecnica International. It was a WRX with crazy stock modifications and also the platform for the rally cars. The Japanese STI still used the EJ20 2.0 engine with a bigger turbocharger, intercooler but now an impressive average bhp of 300HP/300ft-lb torque whereas the US used an EJ25 2.5L with similar power output.

The Japanese proudly claimed that the STI can run the 0-60mph in 5.1seconds. The rally spec STI tore up the World Rally Championship with drivers like Richard Burns at the helm. A Limited Edition was made to honor Mr. Burns but sadly, he died from Brain Cancer around that time making this Impreza very special.

An STI can be easily distinguished from a WRX from its larger hood scoop; Pizza sized 13” Brembo Brakes using crusty 6 pot calipers at the front and 12” 2 piston at the rear.

Also HID headlights, larger wing and premium STI badging. 17x 7.5” wheels (Usually gold) was stitched to 225/45R17 tires. This does not include posing Impreza TS owners that think they are an STI, we know who you are, rear drum brakes sell you out hehe! The STI had manual transmission standard (newer models came Sixth Speed lol!!), with intercooler spray and a driver controller center differential dial.

On the downside it weighed in at a disappointing 3300lbs, but the plus it had a reinforced inner frame and chassis. The interior also emphasizes the STI badging with MOMO accessories, Stock STI Gauges and body wrapping front seats.

Sub models of the Impreza STI to note are the Type RA and Spec C which was an imprint of the rally spec car shedding 90kg of that brown fur. This meant no air condition, power steering, power windows, audio and sound deadening materials. It also had a quicker response steering with stiffer suspension. Electronic ABS was also shed making this STI a “Driver” car. The gearbox was retained as the standard STI with a final drive of 3.9:1. The world market lapped up the STI and WRX being a four-door, AWD sedan or wagon that could give the adrenaline rush or make a lime with friends.

Scoobaru and the gang had this case all wrapped up with the perpetrator caught and in cuffs…Angry and flustered, the Mitsubishi Evo says “I would have won the WRC if it was not for you pesky kids and that darn pup named Scoobaru!!”

2008 Mugen Honda Accord

Modifying is in the blood of MANY companies and right after Honda unveiled the all-new Honda Accord (aka Honda Inspire) for the Japanese market, infamous Honda tuning department, Mugen; which was formed by the son of Honda Motor Company founder, Soichiro Honda; presented their tuning package for the upmarket targeted sedan. Consisting of the usual body kit components, front and rear bumper lips, side skirts, grill and rear deck spoiler, the Mugen Inspire also received upgraded strut assemblies, brake rotors/calipers and a stainless steel cat-back exhaust with dual mufflers. The Mugen Inspire is there to appeal to the dark bliss contained within EVERY one of us; especially those with executive class aspirations and acute sense of individualism.

The 276 HP, V6, 3.5-liter i-VTEC engine, is punchy and features an advanced Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system that switches between six-, four-, and three-cylinder combustion depending on the driving conditions. This is sooo cool because the engine runs on six cylinders during startup, acceleration, and up hills; on three cylinders while cruising; and on gentle acceleration it switches to four. All this adds up to fantastic fuel economy in a mover that is classed with some real gas guzzling luxury cars. You gotta love automotive technology; and they say tuners have nothing to do.

What we voted as one of the fugliest cars of the Y generation has sprouted into a car that is still as ugly as sin; BUT, now boasts 265HP @ 8000rpm & 185lb*tq @ 6000rpm. In a one off project that your wife will rule the grocery parking lot with, the NISSAN March

265 HP NA NISSAN March R

R/ Micra R was completely redesigned by the project team at Nissan UK. This Micra is propelled by a mid mounted engine from the Primera QG20DE found in BTCC (British Touring Car Challenge). A beefed up radiator and suspension, gutted interior, Brembo brakes from the 350Z, some Toyo tyres,18 inch Image Wheels, and some more secret stuff. On point you’re absolutely guaranteed to turn heads and strip tires NAKED with a car built with performance driving in mind, but can be everyday transport as well

According to the chief designer: “It’s easy to build a £500,000 car if you’re doing everything from nil. We wanted to do something that was a dream car, but that you didn’t have to win the lottery to afford. For example the Mini Cooper S in the Sixties was a successful competition car that wasn’t too expensive if you wanted to own one in sporty form.” In the end the March R does the 0-60 in under five seconds and bleed top end at 150mph.

13Suspension Improvements

Tuning Technica:

In the last issue of Sixth Speed as in issue 6/ 2.2…..wait; where’s yours - didn’t we talk about this before? Anyways, we told you almost everything you needed to know about your car’s suspension. In fact, with the amount of killer information we blessed you guys with you should be kissing our turbines and quoting sense from a side especially for people who want to be talking sac passe. Since we covered how the suspension works and you loved it; we know the next question on the cheddars will be how do I make mine’s better? Well relax the zunzi, this is what this part two is about; we are going to tell you EVERYTHING you need to know on how to make your average car, whether it’s sports or a daily dumper, handle much better than what the factory said was “good”........ Don’t you just love us - yes you do; yes you do.

Okay as said before improving your vehicle’s suspension has many benefits and let no one tell you differently. A good suspension makes your car predictable especially in an emergency manoeuvre, it minimizes excessive weight transfer which can cause you to break traction and skid to thy kingdom come; it helps you stop faster in a squeeze bamsee situation, it inspires driver confidence and if you’re into heavy racing like us it keeps the tires firmly planted on the ground by basically putting weight on it, as well as reducing torque steer among many other things. A lot of people are under the misguided notion that a stock suspension, especially in a new car, is the best thing in the world…… this; according to the book of Sixth Speed is hoopla. Few cars are perfect; that’s why God put forth tuners, aftermarket parts, track testing and high performance to take what average man has made and reform it into something BETTER. And better is needed when you consider that a lot of cars’ handling are not optimized for Caribbean roads. Rolling the flavour with this is car companies have to take into account many things when putting a car together, namely finance. Manufacturers make cars at varying levels to suit various budgets or markets and that’s a downer; because with a budget comes limitations, and with limitations comes not the BEST of the BEST parts; it’s not that they are not good; they’re just not the BEST. To take it a step further, with development in motorsport, many companies offer factory upgrades to consumers once they are willing to pay for it, e.g Mazda has 3 stages of suspension upgrades to make the Mazda 3 handle like a razor blade, so to do Honda for their line up as well as Nissan and countless others. Uncle Volkswagen once said, “On the road of life, there are passengers and there are drivers.” ; not every driver wants a sports car and this is true; but, EVERY driver wants to be a true DRIVER. There’re plenty of people content with their stock parts and the performance that comes with them, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make stock better, principally since a lot of people drive outside the limitations of what stock is capable of on a daily basis anyway. Not because the speedo says 240km/p that means the car is made to go that fast as safe as possible with your non driving crocus behind the wheel.

Look, stop arguing and understand that a good setup can save your life and help you easily

avoid an accident, with the bonus side being; if you’re into speed it will help you out perform those pests who always on your bumper just asking for it. Good; with that off our chest, we’re going to do this in stages and remember 1 then 2 then 3 then 4. Find a stage where you are comfortable and work you way around that and ALWAYS remember to do your research and take time out to learn and relearn your car because everything you make a change or modification your baby takes on a new persona.

STAGE 1:

You insist that you’re too lazy to do anything major to your car, you couldn’t be bothered much with the handling since you don’t do that much driving and seldom drive over the car’s or the road limit.

FOR: Normal Drivers, those who just go from A to B like my mother WHAT TO DO: get a good car to begin with and take the time to learn it; also make sure you do thorough suspension checks ever so often. A proper suspension check means EVERYTHING, i.e alignment, camber, bearings, tires, toe, shocks, ling ping (linkage) rubbers,

21

tires, air pressure…. the driver. Your entire suspension works as a team, if one thing is bad then that will throw everybody off, so ALWAYS change what has to be changed and stop playing cheap. Skimping on bad suspension parts can cause unpredictable changes especially under pressure or in an emergency situation and cheap parts, especially rubbers(....where is you mind) DON’T last as long as genuine OEM or aftermarket so you WILL be spending more money in the long run. What’s more, avoid adding excessive weight to your car as this can cause the stock suspension to operate outside its normal tolerance zone, leading to increase wear and tear and unnecessary weight transfer, which is not very good. So what I am telling you here is to go easy on the overloading or hard pong; come nah, do you REALLY need to be moving thru the town with 4 fifteens in your daily driver, oh and put NITROGEN in your tires, you WILL thank us later.

STAGE 2:

So you want something a little better than stock since the soft ride makes you feel queezy and every now and then you want to take a lil’ toosh here and there. This stage is a good start for anyone wanting more out of their car, for daily pulling duties.

FOR: Normal drivers who want that added performance and safety. Or if you are working taxi, also known as pulling bull WHAT TO DO: Here you’ll pretty much do two things and that’s upgrade shocks & springs, as well as rims and tires. A properly lowered car handles much better due to a lower center of gravity, increase damping & rebounding capabilities, reduced suspension travel and less weight transfer (told you to read issue 6). Before going on, there are countless ways to make your car sit closer to the road and honestly 95% of them are pull and sit, but we will get into lowering dynamics next issue. For now, you can go get a set of good performance lowering springs and better shocks together as a combo – some brands like TEIN offer different grades of stiffness and height (1” – 2” drop) to cater to the kinda of driving you do. Whilst you can upgrade the springs alone you will wear out your stock shocks prematurely since the lowering springs hold & release more energy than the stock shocks can effectively dampen/ absorb: more energy = more work = more wear. If you can’t get a matched set for your car and can only find the springs then you can opt for a set of adjustable shocks which allow you to set the damping between hard and soft to match the spring rate for a very comfortable ride.

Another thing is that if you constantly carry weight as in tote people what will happen is that your soft stocks spring will sag after a relatively short period since there were not designed for that sort of pressure. Hence the reason why you see some cars with the front high in the air and the back dipping to the ground - Nissan FB14 was famed for this ready to take off look. Performance lowering springs will help support the additional weight placement and help you maintain an order over a longer period.

Next up is a lighter set of rims and better tires with more bite. Bigger rims that are properly sized to suit your car apart from looking cool allow you to blaze on wider tires. This is good since wider tires have more contact surface with the road meaning better grip and larger tires tend to have stiffer and lower sidewalls (read issue 5 to understand this concept), this reduces flexing and tire deformation when you’re going fast or turning a corner hard. Another thing with tires is try to get a high performance tire with an average threadwear of about 300, the lower the threadwear the better the grip, the better the grip the more power you’ll put down as well as the better you’ll stop BUT the tires will finish faster.

Life is a compromise; do research, choose your components wisely & learn your car

STAGE 3:

This is for the adventurous who want to take things a step further. Not happy with just normal handling, Stage 3 caters for that dark side of you that wants to bring out the true capabilities of the car in terms of performance and added safety.

FOR: Above normal drivers who want more from their car, especially those involved in some form of racing.

WHAT TO DO: This stage would involved tackling 3 main areas that most people usual ignore i.e, sway bars, strut braces, bushings.

Okay, when a car corners in anyway or form the chassis experiences a certain amount of flex or twisting, you may not see it but it happens especially in modern cars seeing that they are made of lighter materials. This flexing causes the suspension geometry to change drastically, which can throw of your line or your intended path of travel.

First is the Strut Tower Bar – this usually goes across the top of the engine to the two shock towers. With the two towers linked there’s considerably less side to side chassis twisting under strain and pressure. Just to make you see things clearer think of your car like a box; remove any two sides parallel to each other and the structure is compromised; however replace those sides and the structural strength is returned. This same principle applies to a car; with the strut bars you’re simply linking the body together thus adding strength.

Second, get rid of all them old rubber bushings and replace it with polyurethane; we could say Teflon that’s kinda extreme.

Throughout the entire bottom of your car there are rubber bushings that separate metal suspension parts. The problem with rubber is that it doesn’t last very long especially when placed under stress – people, you’re talking about something that expands and contracts between heat and cold and this lack of stability can throw of your suspension specifics, which is bad. To make life easy there are many companies that sell stronger, complete polyurethane kits that replaces all

the stock bushing in your car.

Third, Sway bars or anti-roll bars links the left and right side of the suspension to keep everything level; some cars have it, some don’t. When you bubble, weight (and therein energy) transfers itself either from side to side or front to back. Larger diameter sway bars make the suspension stiffer and provide more resistance to chassis movement and thereby reduce that unnecessary transfer of energy. If your car doesn’t have it or you need to upgrade see if you can get one off a performance version of your car e.g. the bars from a 97’ Honda Civic Type R EK9 will bolt right up on a stock 96’ Honda Civic EJ. The type R version has thicker bars front and back as opposed to the stock Honda, which have bars only in the front.

To add or rather compliment the sway bars, you can also throw in a lower tie bar. Applicable to ONLY cars with independent suspension (sorry B14 guys you have torsion beam in the rear) the lower tie bar links the bolt/ pivot point of the lower arms together. The benefit is, once again, reduced flexing of the suspension under load which can actually help reduce wheel hopping under launching if you’re into drags as well as torque steer which is flagged like a bad cheque to FWD cars.

Fourth is taking STAGE 2 a bit further. While you don’t necessarily have too, you can go up in stiffness on the performance spring and shocks so as to provide a bit more resistance to compression. Once again there are companies that sell upgrade kits or those that just have stiff ones naturally - everything really depends on what you’re going to be using the car for. If you are into drag racing or circuit you really should consider this as it could mean the difference between winning and losing. In addition to stiffer shocks and springs you can also go with a more performance oriented tire i.e. a 300 threadwear or lower honey dip – the grip you will get from the things will be amazing and what thread rating you go with will be dictated on what style of driving you intend to do and what form of motorsport you involved in.

Stage 4:

When you are at this stage you want uncompromised performance and you are not joking.

FOR: serious car people, many of you will probably stop at three but four is for diehards WHAT TO DO: In this case, rather than use lowering springs & performance shocks this stage involves swapping this for a GOOD set of coilovers; and by coilovers we don’t meant the cheap crap you get in the fish market. Coilovers allow you to do two things and that’s adjust the ride height and in some cases the damping & rebound ability of the shocks dep. With this adjustability you can fine tune the handling to your type of driving e.g in circuit you can have a neutral weight distribution, or in drag racing a FWD car, you can lower the front and raise the back as well as increase the compression damping so that when you launch weight will remain on the front wheel to give good traction, RWD is the opposite. The downside to really good coilovers is the cost as well as the fact that to tune them PROPERLY is time consuming as well as a bit technical.

Two (yeah we forgot); you can look at enhancing the overall aerodynamics of the car and that can be done in two ways. One is to add downforce and reduce lift so that at high speed there is enough air pushing down on the car for added stability and two is to reduce drag. Drag is basically the air that impedes motion……… okay, when you drive, air basically pushes back at your vehicle thus keeping you back. By reducing drag you are essentially cutting thru the breeze better so the car has to put out less effort in order to go forward faster (and just to get a real instance of drag; drive on the highway with your windows down and drive with them up or stick your hand up like a stop signal and then put it flat). Now that you know this, you can slap on a properly designed wing on a RWD/ AWD car ONLY; so as to provide more downforce on the rear tires thus increasing traction. BUT it only really works at high speed AND it does add a certain element of drag. So, you will get better stability after a certain pace but you will also feel a hold back after a while. In a FWD car you don’t need a wing because your power is on the front, not the back; air pushing on the back may cause the front to rise thus reducing your level of traction and overall car stability. And just because you asked, on generic new cars, “spoilers” & lips are more for cosmetic decoration as opposed to real time functionality.

The next one is to add a functional body kit. It might sound trivial but CERTAIN bodykits add more than just style, they add functionality as well by diffusing air around and thru the car to reduce drag as well as provide downforce where it’s needed – it’s about making the car aerodynamically stable.

Stage 5:

(continued on page 29)

01Double your Pleasure

Article by: Khaleel Ali

There are some people who build projects for all out brute power; then there are some that build under the simply plan of beating the shinglings out of you in a quarter mile; BUT then there are those. Those who want to unc everything thing out of their NA powerpack and do a do that will take corners at ninety, fit in places where most sane men wouldn’t dare, switch lanes like a papa fweh and stop on a bob all the while not spilling your mauby. Kids meet Brian and if any many can Brian Khan. Founded in the old school under 20 years of real hard driving and designed to put down the hurt, never challenge this old guy on a twisting ole road; especially San’do to Couva, ole road – you will feel it trust us on that.

From way back like green canvas on a primary school knapsack Brian always had a pair of Mazda cars; the first dynamic duo was a set of Ford Lasers’; a 5 door hatch and sedan. The sedan was okayish except the hatch waaaaaayyyy cooler as it was a true manual Laser GT brought in through Mc EnEarney Motors back in the 80’s. This came with the then powerful 1500cc E5 engine with twin carbs under high compression; always wanting better he imported from England; a 4.1 final drive that replaced the stock 3.8 to get better acceleration and both were fitted with rear disc brakes and aftermarket under sway bars. With every car guy, there’s a love for cars that goes beyond normal; but just like most car men love of a different kind happens and we boy end up getting marrid (not married). With ring now pan finger, the priorities went upside down and it goes without saying that the old school. Tuner project had to go bye bye.

The Mazda 2001 BJ RS

Fast Forward to the nineties; now well settled in with 2 children (not twins lol), one each lap, Brian’s craving for days of burning nuts on the black top came back like a bad habit burger addiction. Born a Mazda man and always a Mazda man, he imported one of the First Mazda Familia Sport Wagons into the country. Not to be confused as a power starved market bag; this wagon was a ‘matic BJ5W 1998 RS spec with the J-spec only 1500cc ZL-VE Variable Valve Timing Engine. Outputting 130HP@ 7000RPM and 120lb-ft torque @ 4000RPM, the RS was Mazda’s way of bringing the fun and functionality to everyday consumer cars in an age where most manufacturers were border line BORING. The ZL-VE used Mazda patented SV-T system which constantly varied the timing of the intake cam across the board thus improving overall power as well as factory 4-2-1 headers that improve lower and mid range performance. Cosmetically, the normal RS can be easily recognized by white gauges, rear spoiler, fog lamps but looking like everybody else is a trait of Mr. Khan and, since blue is his favorite color – must be a married thing loves blue; the car was painted in the brilliant Blue Mica from Mazda.

Like we said before there’s power, useable power and fun power. Since Brian likes handling, the only engine mod was a custom short ram air intake system; but suspension upgrades was utterly different with swapping of an entire suspension and braking from the BJFW Sport20.

This includes stiffer full gas struts and springs to reflect and absorb anything the road throws at the car. Further building on that Brian threw in

a set of TEIN Luxury Master Performance springs with Tokico HP dampers to improve rigidity even more, all the while providing a stiffer yet very comfortable ride. Building on suspension EVEN more, because in Brian’s world superior handling is the name; the RS smaller 19mm and 15mm sway bars were replaced with 22mm front and 17mm rear from the Sport20 and at the top a front strut tower brace to reduce chassis flew on hard wrap arounds on cane road.

Topping off the suspension fest is a good set of rims and tires; most people take it for granted but in the world of high performance all that power and good suspension WILL go to waste is your pegs are crap. Bessing the 4 small points of contact with the road is a lightweight set of 17” Enkei RSV Bronze wheels of installed with a manifested batch of installed super glue Dunlop Direzzas 215/40R17 tires –treadwear people 300 making it really good for daily driving under pace.

Cosmetically this 98’ RS came with the pre-facelift with the 2 piece headlights, so the entire front was replaced with the “cateye” from the Sport20. The BJ chassis was transformed from the base RS to true J Spec with an original polyurethane bodykit from auto giant Wings West.

Meant for the sedan with originally 7 pieces, Brian had to custom fabricate lower lip in order to finish off the look and functionality. Not like you average fiberglass heap, this kit can take jamming and actually won the best in show at SEMA 2001; with its aerodynamic characteristics the bodykit adds significant downforce to the RS as well as reduces drag by using a front air splitter, side canards, rear vents on side skirts, rear diffuser and bonnet finisher.

Really and truly car is very stable and was be custom design built for extreme handling and braking as opposed to all out muscle, so to maintain an order any practical avenue of keeping the car composed at high speeds the key essentials were not overlooked. During the build the project RS was really a father/ son thing, but like they say the young must take over sometime; under young blood, Brian’s son plans to re-stroke the 1.5 to 1.7 to get more gut wringing low end torque, convert the car to box (manual to you foreigners) with a 4.4 final ratio, pelt on some Prostop Rotors and fine tune the engine parameters with a Greddy-V Manage Piggyback ECU.

The Mazda 2001 BJ Sport20

As any true gearhead would say when opportunity arises, you don’t stick, you chop it’s neck off. In this case opportunity came by ways of an original J Spec, blue, 2001 BJ Sport20 Familia wagon. With no money (like any carhead) Brian sold some of his already balding hair in order to obtain it; after all, it was rare back then and being in his favourite color already; Innocent Blue Mica, he know it had to be his. Released on the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) only and coming fully equipped with FS-ZE 2000cc engine, the Sport20 was Mazda vision of what a NA hot hatch should be.

The Sport20 2.0 FS was derived from the older FS-DE from the older 626 but fully tweaked with a higher 10.0:1 compression ratio, aggressive camshafts, ported head and more efficient crankshaft. Outputting a VERY impressive 170HP @ 6800rpm /140lb-ft torque it was not too bad for a NA performer when compared to other of a similar genre. As with making power breathing is important and with no forced induction every single area of making natural power smooth across the rev rage had to be adopted. The sport20 came with VICS (Variable Inertial Control System), basically it’s an old system that shortens the intake manifold runners to reduce torque drop off above 4750 RPM. Since the cams as well as the ported head together with the custom K&N and Injen air intake allow more air to jump in fas fas; a set of Auto EXE 4-2-1 headers running to an original Mazdaspeed exhaust allow for an equivalent to jump out just as fast thus maintaining a certain degree of backpressure and improving mid range throttling.

Mated to the FS is Mazda’s new active-matic FN4A-EL auto tranny with 4.1 final ratio which allows for reasonable fast acceleration based on the power output. We know you might be saying “ AUTOMATIC in a SIXTH SPEED you guys going sorf or what”! - No we haven’t; well maybe the editor but according to the misses he’s under stress; but we have to admit and only in this circumstance that the bloody car was quick when chooked into manual override and the way the power came in, it was actually very easy to control. The suspension was already good on the Sport20 but Brian upped the dampers with the Tokico HPs on some TEIN H-Tech Springs (a more rigid set over the Luxury Master). The stock the stock

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Sport20 strut tower bars were complimented with already larger sway bars. But this wasn’t enough, they were replaced with massive Racing Beat 25mm front and 22mm rear with that powered red look, making below this car look disgustingly sweet. Next to the out maneuvering is the out stopping; this car can stop in a heart and beat it back. Braking distance is leveraged with Power Slot Slotted and Dimpled rotors designed to dissipate heat and finishing the equation is Hawk HPS brake pads and Goodridge Stainless Steel Brake lines, with Castrol DOT 4 brake fluid running though the veins. Kiddies, make no joke this is a car that takes your dollar give you two bobs and runs you for your change.

To make these 2 BJ Familias true twins, Brian slappy happy on the same Enkei RSV Bronze 17” wheels on Dunlop Direzzas found on the RS. Securing the wheels to the hubs are Moteki Ultra Light Lug Nuts to save weight – practical not really, functional maybe but hella cool; yes. Rounding of the decimals is another 7 piece Wings West Body kit which adds to aerodynamics as well giving these twins matching suits. With both cars already making a damn good name for themselves as the stand out like a ripe mango on a breadfruit tree, the pursuit is to make the sport20 into a 200HP, NA powered, FS-ZE terrorist. With plans already in the makings, this would have the head being further ported & polished. Not to mention the addition of aftermarket retainers & springs to prevent float; with adjustable cam gears to tuner the openings and under-drive pulleys to reduce parasitic powerloss. Putting the full power potential to the ground will be a manual tranny with a lightened Mazdaspeed flywheel and complete engine management will be controlled via Greddy E-manage Ultimate piggyback ECU. Right, that’s it, finitito; as is confirmed, power really isn’t everything and these two cars attest to that; further proof will either require a test drive OR a run up and get dun up scenario. On a quarter the twins will be silenced like patchoi but on a closed circuit short course or bendy boo they are a force to be reckoned with. In fact word is that Brian and his wife are soon expecting a new set of identical twins, using the new BK chassis – BK as in Zoom Zoom – BK as in MZR. So that means no more NA this rounds baby -push…push…. Whaaaaaoooorrrrrrp!!!!

Whaaaooooorrrrrrp!!!

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(continued from page 23)

we not going there as it would involve you going the distance by way of, FULLY reinforcing the CHASSIS by maybe putting in a roll cage apart for safety, complete cross-member reinforcement, , stich/ seam/ spot welding, dibbling with the aerodynamics a bit more, as in under body diffusers or; stitch/ seam/ spot welding, reducing weight and other things which will make your car perform like a ball outta the oval, but let’s just say you wouldn’t be picking up mama from work no time soon in creature comforts.

Real world example suspension example: the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 is a 4 turbo, 16 cylinders, 1001HP, 0-60 in 2.5seconds, 922 lb ft @ 2200rpm, 10 radiator toting monolithic behemoth that costs one bazillion dollars (actually it’s about 10 million TT minus the taxes, but a bazillion is just as much). In order to keep the car stable & safe at its limit of 400km/h or 370ft/sec. they did a number of things at different stages. At 300km/h, the nose of the car is lowered by 2” and the big rear spoiler slides up to provide downforce on the rear tires thus increasing traction and stability; however, the car is limited to 371km/h in this stage because the drag is so great that anymore will literally begin to lift the car. In order to make their quota of 400km/h the engineers were faced with a spiff of a problem; either make more power to overcome the drag - which would cost a mint and reak havoc on the interals OR fiddle with the suspension. They chose suspension and after 371, stage two kicks in; the car is lowered even more and the wing drops back down to reduce downforce and drag, giving the car a very aerodynamic shape to cut air like a hand sharpened 3 line in barrel of rain water.

So here’s the Bottomline:

When it comes to improving your suspension there should be NO COMPROMIZE in terms of quality products used and workmanship – cheap spring loose tension after a short while, shoddy coilovers seldom ever hold their preset and designed characteristics. Remember your life is riding on this and we don’t think it makes sense cutting corners to save a buck here/ there e.g those people who cut their stock springs in order to achieve a lower center of gravity or rather to just drop the car. The ultimate goal of an upgraded suspension is to make your car predictable, get the power to the ground and keep it stable; especially in times of emergency e.g trying to avoid a dog on the highway – if you say go right 10 degrees then it should do just than, not go 20 and you compensate by turning back 10. At all stages of the game make sure an know your car better than the flogging fist and once you maintain the different elements and keep them in good working order then you are orn.

SIDE NOTE:

Suspension design and engineering are extremely complex areas and trust us; there are many ways to screw up your handling. There is such a thing as too stiff for street use, the same way there is such a thing as too low as well as the same way there is too big. Everything thing about proper suspension design is about BALANCE - it’s all about finding that sweet spot between what you want and what’s appropriate for your application. i.e stiffness, comfort, clearance height and what ever else is there.

A note to racers especially those in drags, gentlemen, if you have in any way done a engine swap then you seriously need to consider doing some sort of suspension work, especially if it’s a cross breed. In most cases the weight distribution of the car would have been compromised to a great extent and this would completely throw off your handling as well as put addition strain on certain components. Always remember that all the power in the world means nothing if you can’t put it to the ground and it’s as simple as that.

The Lowering article preview: because this is important

There are a lot of people out there guessing their way around; and guessing, besides making you look idiotic costs you money. A properly lowered car does not ride like stock - EVER, if may maintain comfort charasterics but it will never ride like stock. As a rule of thought the lower the ride height, the stiffer your suspension is supposed to be in order to compensate for the reduced suspension travel and to maintain proper geometry settings. We at the magazine don’t care what kinda of suspension experts you claim to be there is NO WAY you can lower a car by some coco velvet means and make sure that the suspension stays within specifics for a SAFE ride; not just a lowered ride. Too low will place additional strain on suspension components which will cause faster wear; as well, too stiff may cause bump steer as well as ….look is plenty (read issue 8 and get the full 411 about lowering your car). Car manufacturers & aftermarket companies have SPENT millions as well as countless hours testing in racing and they have two proven methods; performance springs & shocks and true coilovers. Now, unless you have done the same, which we seriously doubt, then throw your frame and come again; nobody’s life is worth a poor lowering especially on account to save a buck here or there. With any modification there’s something called a chain effect and it always pays off to do it well the first time and done.

02Juicing in the Deuce One of the best things about growing up in the Caribbean at some point in time everyone would have heard the age old proverb “What’s for you is for you…” or “You will get what coming to you…” For some; especially the hard of hearing, the statement usually ended with the threat “if you don’t behave!” eventually; somehow the very threat usually turns into a guarantee promissory for a properly seasoned cutass.

However, to others; the very said line of preludial discontent was used more for a beacon of motivational illumination to persevere and achieve. Factor in pure HARD WUK and you have an unbeatable combination that guarantees success. It was these words that the Ali brothers (Khayam & Khaleel) used as their line of sight when building their twin or twin project; a 1986 & 83’ KB Ford Laser hatch & sedan.

While both cars are closely intertwined by more than brotherly bonds the journey to building a set of silent torpedos began like everything else in the Caribbean…on a bench, under a street light.

1986 KB Ford Laser Sedan.

Like every normal teenager with a driver license and a hot foot, getting a car to make a turn is a must; and just like any sour fly is the parent; in this case moms, who continuously denies the can I borrow the car request.

Since there wasn’t any negotiation room, the boys together with their cousin (Wazim R.I.P) and a partner (Richard) over some old talk and under the street light remembered a old school Ford Laser that the boys grandpa had.

Used as a delivery car for bird cages, the KB in it prime was mint despite the fact that it passed through twelve owners before their granddad got it. Just like any old school car owner, from the time there was a rotten spot - it was time for a complete paint over and unfortunately just like any other old school car it became the object that nobody in the family wanted. With no immediate owner the car was rolled under a pomerac tree for a year until the boys got a hold of it. Just like bachac on a leave, time wasn’t wasted in getting the laser up to par with young people standards; first series of modifications were a set of BSA 14” rims, a BLITZ Craig DTM exhaust fitted by Specialist 2001 and 5 out of 8 chopped coil spring that had the car riding like a rubbish truck. With nobody being able to talk with the harsher ride, the spring were changed out to Mazda 616 down south & regular Laser up north together with a machined set of shocks by Franz Thompson (Sit n’ Low/ Thompson Machine Shop).

Now a lowered, louder machine the boys made a trip to Wallerfield; gangsta drags nah, where they raced a similar model laser 1.5 carb, manual and laid down the law, not once BUT twice; it was here where speed started. Under new confidence more modifications went in with Honda 400 bike carbeurators but the thing about adding so much more air, is to add the appropriate amount of fuel; so the engine ran REALLY lean and the result was burnt valves and destroyed pistons. Now car less once again, the boys were considering an all out build with race cams, bigger valves, oversized pistons, stroked out block and higher compression pistons but then a partner told them about his uncle who had a B6T in a Laser. After some research, the guys found a guy in Australia who did a similar project (but in a TX3 doing 11’s) and documented the entire build. So it was no surprise that the NA build was thrashed like rice stalk and on went the search for Mazda’s 1600 turbocharged engine. Notice we said search, as unknowing to the boys, a B6T wasn’t so easy to get and the ONE they came across was busted and needed repairs. Bordering on 8 months with no car, no engine, no movements desperation started to set in and the though of pelting in a 1300 starlet engine cross the boys minds but two things stopped them; one was they didn’t like the idea of crossbreeding and two was that they were broken (thinks school and hobby employment).

They say when God can’t come, he does always send a man; it so happened that Shiva Mahabir (co-navigator for Dave Rampersad) wanted to sell out his rally project/ daily driver which was a B6T in a Laser, but the brothers ended up loosing the number. After days looking; by the grace of goodness the found it back and made arrangements for a test drive; and what a test drive it was. With acceleration to peel orange and a wicked power band, Khayam and Khaleel bought the engine by mouth on the spot. In any country mouth currency is kinda worthless so they did what any self respecting broken batch of teens would – board mommy for a loan.

A week later, Shiva Mahabir (the rally driver) & a partner started the transplant from the Laser to the Laser. It took about ½ hour for the engine to go into the laser and a couple more for the drivetrain, larger brakes and upgraded suspension, which the boys didn’t really expect or catered for. When prodded Shiva said that even though everything was for sale separately the axles were to big for the stock hubs, so they HAD to install everything completely for it to work, plus it was much easier…..talk about strange.

Next stop was the electrical; Trevor (an ex employee from the local Mazda dealer) made quick work of things to have the car starting in no time. However, even though the car was bubbling there was a boost breakup; and thoughts of buying a bad engine, to the car being blight and needing a sea bath came mind until the problem was isolated a broken spark wire. With the car was firing on all cylinder, licks started to pass from a side and guy on the underground were running up and getting dun up and the major reason is power to weight – the laser was only 1000Kg.

By this time the Laser was making a name for itself but the faster you go the faster you must be able to stop and the Laser was literally burning up the drums under heavy breaking. Thanks to Franz again the boys got a set of rear disc brakes for the car; but a few days later it was stolen from a mall parking lot. Did they get it back, of course but HOW is the really interesting part; turns out that when the guys installed the brakes at the back they never hooked up the hand brakes cable. So ironically when the thieves stole the car and headed up Maracas to scrap it, they could negotiate the hill properly since it was manual under copper – you can’t ride copper. So minus the rims and the steering wheel the police returned the car intact.

Following two years of racing the car pretty much stock, the first mod came by way of a Toyota Supra intercooler to chill the charge air and therein deliver more power. With a novice Khayam behind the wheel what was supposed to be a late 14’s car turned out to be a late 15’s second car, even under the power to weight advantage and the increase in HP. Twelve months later the gearbox broke due to a combination of abuse and using the wrong transmission oil, so the car was parked up again for 3 months until Dave came to the rescue. Dave had a 2.2 non turbo manual transmission which; after some digging; turned out to have almost the same internals as the B6T box, the only difference really was the bell housing. Not being afraid to get their hand dirty the housing was a breeze to swap BUT the Johnny come lately mechanics caught their nooncah to put up the gearbox; only to realize after FINALLY lining up everything that the clutch wasn’t good. All had to come back down and it was off to Trinidad Brake & Clutch for some riveted copper pads on the disc, and back up again; however despite the fresh copper there was still some slippage because the pressure plate and flywheel was worn.

As the boys moved from totally broken to broken; but just not as much; upgrades went in at a pace. At stage 1, the crappy clutch was replaced completely with a full 4 puk ACT kit by Darren’s Auto Garage thus now transferring all the engine’s power into tire seasoning

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rotational force. Constant wheelspin was now the enemy of the Laser as the suspension was a bit soft and weight wasn’t staying on the lightweight DC2 integra 15’s to push them down under launch. Tokico HP gas shocks and a set of Intrax high performance lowering springs alleviated the problem to such an extent that the times instantly got better from 15.9 to 15.3.

Next was the ignition with a complete ignition system i.e MSD 6A, Blaster SS coil and 8910 Tach adapter; upgraded and KVR slotted brake rotors since the stock rotors under all the pressure was now bizwankay.

A while later boost went up from 10psi to 12 psi via a manual boost controller and bigger downpipe from the turbo so not wanting a lean condition like before they upgraded the fuel delivery with a Walbro 255 fuel pump. Once again, more power in the already light shell had the handling under some strain so more sweat went into the suspension; the entire rear end of the Laser was swapped for a that from a BF323 GT together with a much large rear sway bar and shock tower bars both back and front.

The interior saw a bit of attention with a set of 323 GT seats and Autometer gauges; but that can’t cover up the fact that the car is more race than anything especially if you factor in no hood lining, no power steering, a bear trunk with just a battery and how can we forget no ac to steal power from the engine. According to the boys; ultimately, the plan is to have a very potent mover and shaker with soon to come mods such as Mazdaspeed ECU, 460CC injectors, Hybrid Turbo, race cams, bigger exhaust and engine internals. In the end whilst you really can’t drive this thing comfortable on a hot day, that still don’t mean that you can’t beat the heat.

1983 KB Ford Laser Hatchback

Unlike the sedan which was somewhat of a hand me down the hatch was bough brand new from McEarney Motors. Because the waiting list for a new Toyota Cressida was about 4 years, the boys moms opted for a beige E3 powered hatch with a horizontally disgusting 45HP. Just enough to get her to work on time, the E3 at that time was the only car in the house and was doing EVERYTHING, so you know that when the boys got their DPs she wasn’t lending it at all. Eventually their dad took it over as moms got a Suzuki Swift and he ran the car into the equator; shake down and in a mess the car was parked up in a corner collecting dust.

Remember the rally guys that did the install; Shiva, well he gave the boys a call and

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said that he had Dave Rampersad’s original 323GTX rally car for sale. Though the car was visibly shaken and stirred, mechanically speaking it was of sound B6T mind. Really interested, the boys thought about it; why not take all the stuff from the 4WD GTX and dump it in the Laser, after all, the platform is somewhat similar. But like the saying goes if thoughts were wings then beggars would fly; with just the idea but no bank to back it up the boys had to forget the idea and breeze back.

Three months later, after Hurricane Ivan come and gorn, the owner now had the car up for sale at a giveway price. Was it a sign or the fulfilment of a prophetic monologue; either way it was a once in a lifetime opportunity and stuff like this doesn’t come around everyday. So, like any other sane car enthusiast they drained their savings; still short by some and not wanting to board their moms (they were still owing her) they did the next best thing; board granny. For some cash and a car alarm the car was in their possession and here the weird thing. Recollect, we talked about a certain 323 rally car before; well, turns out that the engine that was now in the sedan was supposed to be the spare engine for the rally car….talk about freaky.

With two cars, a bag of hope and plenty dreams, the boys had NO idea where to start putting things together; all they knew apart

from the fact that it HAD to get done was, dimensionally the cars were pretty much the same, just the hatch was FWD and the GTX was 4WD.

After being turned down left from right by many fabricators they found a guy buy the name of “Coksin” (don’t ask me).

The plan was, with Coksin’s help onsite, to cut out the entire GTX flooring minus the side panels and mount it on top of the Laser.

Under heavy jig the boys, gutted the car and under Coksin advice Khayam measured and removed the GTX flooring. With everything lining up, flooring wise, the next move was to get the car by Coksin for the fabrication and body work. Like any straightener sticking is the order of the day and with everybody on the verge of forgetting that the Laser even exists they towed the car to another bodyshop…..same thing. Six months later Bert from Blue Coral Racing recommended a dude by the name of Perry aka the chassis line up king. Hyped about the project as it has never been attempted before; ANYWHERE, Perry used his acute sense of linear philosophy and structurally blessed the car straight up. Chassis in tact and ready to go, the paint man for the job was Talls. As a perfectionist in his own right Talls took time to make sure everything was fitted properly i.e the dual spoiler & the 323 GTX front and rear bumpers. Count 6 months and after some

heavy filler, arm braking rubbing and throat scratching fumes the car came out CRIPS in a color coded Chaste White.

With all this talk you’re probably wondering about the engine and drivetrain; alright, let’s put your mind at ease. Like we said before the conversion was from a FWD drive car to a 4WD drive car. The engine was pretty straight forward with minor changes to the mounts however the driveshaft was too long so it had to be wee wee’d about 1’ courtesy Franz again.

Another hiccup was with the brakes; you can’t use 4WD brakes on a FWD steering rack; the result as the boys found out was that every time the car would hit a bump the suspension geometry or rather the toe was completely thrown off. To temporarily solve this problem they had to use normal 323 FWD brakes but soon these will be upgraded to GT. With the first documented 4WD Laser know of in the western hemisphere pretty much completed it was time for a little modification. First was a Specialist mounted 2 1/2 in. exhaust front to back with a rally mounted angles barrel. With the car driving and the power getting to the 4 wheels the clutch started to slip, so in went an ACT SS (Street & Strip) clutch kit as opposed to a full copper setup. The reason for this is that in Japan and Aussie land organic clutches allow for some slippage, so that not all the power from the engine is transferred at one time to shock the gearbox and break stuff. A 3rd gen series 7 FD3S fuel pump relaed the one that came stock in the car and the BMW shocks that made the ride hard like banga bean was opted for and original set of GTXs with polyurethane in the rear.

That’s it article dun.

Now to all it may not seem like much but the real story behind these two cars was the inspiration for this article. Yeah modded this and upgraded that is nice but when you boil down all the dasheen what you have let is perseverance to a dream. The base of these two unique, as in ONE of a KIND projects makes it plain to see that you don’t need plenty power but rather a vision on where you want to go and guts to walk the road to achieve success.

These cars are NOT the fastest, neither are they the MOST tricked out; BUT, they are DIFFERENT and that goes a long way as far as Sixth Speed goes because it means that there are people out there willing to do things different and not be part of the in crowd. It shows creativity above all else and the fact that in Speed blending in is never an option........Now buss it.

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14Makin’ Sense of Car Terms

Sixth Speed Sense:

Simple everyday car knowledge for normal everyday people. This isn’t about speed.....really!

As I was mulling through the daily newspapers over a midday porcelain encounter, I had the displeasure of coming across one of the most artistically inept new car ads ever. Usually, in my opinion, they are all vacant chasms of undaunted monotony, but this one was especially stink. Anyways - while going through the pacies I realized that all the selling points of the car were as incoherent as a bald breadfruit going in an oil down; long to short, I didn’t understand one geeeack. All the points of sale were very convoluted; they were not selling me excitement since the ad was woefully stagnant, it couldn’t have been fun, it surely wasn’t sex – what was it.

In an effort to get ahead I called up some natives and asked them exactly what the deal was. PEOPLE - if you thought dotishness, had reached its peak, you should have heard some of the explanations I got. Desperation had me then turning to the editor of this massively popular publication; he has to know; after all, it’s Sixth Speed. His reply to me was call the company…….my reply to him was less cordial and definitely not magazine friendly.

So here I am, calling the car company - frustrated and on the phone comes one of the sexiest voices ever. She was friendly, the small talk was nice, the banter was cute and I must admit that the sales rep had me going UNTIL I asked her what is what………………….Kiddies; it was then I realized that things REALLY bad because what she explained to me simply reinforced the fact that people don’t know car at all.

We love cars – new ones smell good, fast ones make us enjoy life, slow ones frustrate the hell out of us, used ones save us money, modified ones make a statement, normal ones just fade into obscurity.

But across the orange field MOST people are completely clueless BASIC car functions. A lot of cars have gotten smarter and with all

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the tech involved in some cases, they need to be driven differently. Gone are the active days of a simple carburetor, the dashboard fan and Selmar alarms. In this age of ESP, SRC, DSC, ABD, ASS, NESS, ECU, TPS and more, you people need to get smart on what it does and how it affects you; after all what you don’t know can kill you.

Displacement 1300CC/ Engine Size 1.3L: This is the actual size of the engine; how big it really is or how much air it can move to make

power (displacement). A small 1.3L can’t move nearly as much air as a massive 5 liter V8; so that means the power will be much less. Generally, the lower the displacement, the better the gas mileage; but, unless you’re turbocharged; the engine is going to be dead like an after stroke down riser. The higher the displacement, the more power you will get but mind you, it will guzzle. People especially sales reps are known to blind side the masses by saying that everything, no matter the size of engine, is under high performance; between us, this just simply ain’t so - If your engine DEAD it DEAD.

Torque: 125lb*tq @ 2500rpm: This is how much effort your car can put out when you get it. This can get complicated but we’ll attempt to make it simple.

Torque is power or the ability of your car to do wuk; it’s not necessarily how much speed your car has. A car that has a high torque curve has the ability to get moving with less effort in a shorter space of time, for instance; towing vehicles, vans, luxury cars, certain sports cars and the like have a lot of torque to carry the weight of the vehicle from a standstill and to tow stuff.

In any vehicle, TORQUE and when you make it is important because it’s what makes day to day driving more enjoyable and much less laborious in that you’ll have to rev much less in order to get up to cruising speed. Just tip the X and you gorn.

If you have ever attempted to overtake anything with a sports/ luxury car and then an econo car; you will notice that generally, with the sports/ luxury, as you press the accelerator, power comes in fast, you accelerate and you gone. With an econobox when it’s time to

pass, the power takes so long to come in you could have bush tea & salt biscuits. Eventually when you DO get up to speed with the engine bawling, it then takes forever to pass the vehicle.

TORQUE helps you to do everything with less sweat thus making life easier.

For an average driver - you merge into traffic faster; overtake very easily without having to stamp the accelerator; can tow a partner without putting plenty strain on the engine and climbing hills is plenty easier even with weight.

There’s more to this BUT like I said we’ll keep it simple for now. If you are going to buy a car take into account what you are going to be using it for; a 1300CC vehicle will NOT be able to pull as much weight (rims, family, cooler and so on) as EFFICIENTLY as a 2.0L engine would. If you’re going to race, especially drag, TORQUE is what gets you off the line in a hurry - it’s also the thing that helps breaks axles in case you were wondering. Remember you can have a fast car that isn’t necessarily a powerful car. In other words a car that has plenty top end but terrible out the gate.

HP: 30HP @ 6500rpm: This is how much speed you get/ how

fast you go and how long you take to get there. Horsepower is more along the lines of top end or rather speed as opposed to power. If you look at a van/ tow truck they have a lot of power but they are not very fast in that they run out of steam pretty quickly. So you could say that a van has a lot of torque but not much horsepower. At a standstill, the van will more than likely out accelerate the car; BUT the car will eventually pass the van as it approaches its top speed. Horsepower is nice on a long run with open straight road when the car can build up movement and really utilize its potential on top.

In racing, if you can get your Torque to meet / pass the HP then you will do damage, because you now will have the power to get off the line and the speed to keep the car going. Honda’s Type R Integra has to rev pretty hard to make power (low torque) but when it gets up and up it is gone ( high horsepower) – 217HP @ 8000rpm & 151 lb*tq @ 7000rpm, so it will make a very good circuit/ track car/ long distance hauler than a drag car.

SIDE NOTE: Many cars can go to 240kph (maximum top speed). Some sports cars can do so in a very short period of time because of their mix of torque + horsepower (i.e low

down power and high speed acceleration). Average budget sedans may take what seems like an eternity but it will EVENTUALLY get there....eventually. The fact that a car can make top speed isn’t the thing, it’s a matter of HOW LONG / HOW FAST it takes to get to that point.

More indicators: if you look at a brochure there are many tell tale signs of acceleration besides the HP & Torque figures – there is a big difference between feeling fast and actually being fast. A car with a good 0-60mph will accelerate mad – a Mitsubishi Evolution 10 (291 HP @ 6500rpm & 300 lb-tq) does this in 4.9 seconds; a 1.4 Kia Rio (96 Hp & 92 lb-tq) does it in the teens. So on a main road/ street the Evo will get up to cruising speed much faster and in a much shorter distance than the Kia. A 0-100mph gives a good indicator about acceleration on the highway but in the Caribbean we don’t have THAT much open road to fully use this...:(

MPG (Miles per Gallon):refers to how much gas the car really bunning.

Since gas is still relatively cheap in the Caribbean many people don’t really consider this

figure but it’s really important especially if you do a long commute. Basically, given certain factors are constant, the greater the figure the less gas you will drink. In speed/ luxury we really don’t care about this because MOST of us know that the faster you want to go or the more power you have the more gas you have to bun - simple. But, if you are cheaper than a market slippers after a 5 o’clock sale or working taxi then this MEANS don’t but a Hummer if all you have is B14 gas money, a Hummer gets 24 kilometers per gallon; a 1.5 Nissan Tiida gets past 30 somebody. + All the following things help you stay in control and stop you from killing yourself.

ABS i.e Antilock Braking System: came about to help prevent brakes from prematurely locking up and you skidding to your detrimental demise. Used ac-

curately ABS can help decrease the distance it takes to stop and allows you to stay in control of the car. How it works is simple - the system actually pumps the brakes for you when it senses a lockup so all you do is continue steering the car to hopefully avoid the trouble. Yes it may feel weird when you mash a hard brakes BUT DO NOT PUMP the brakes like you used to in you old Ford Cortina as you can confuffle the system. Just keep your foot down, relax and STEER, that is all - just keep your foot down, relax and STEER; simple - STOMP, STAY & STEER.

EBD i.e Electronic Brakeforce Distribution: is an addition to ABS. EBD applies more brakes to the tires that have the most grip on the road (go get better tires) so you get better overall stopping power as well as reducing the chances of premature locking up. This again helps keep you in control and helps keep the car from spinning not to mention you from hurling on yourself.

4models wheel disc brakes:usually reserved for high end cars or the fully loaded in a particular line; brakes on all wheels is an option that is worth it. Four wheel disc brakes help to reduce your stopping distances since disc are less susceptible to brake fade as opposed to drum, plus all discs just look wicked.

SRS: this stands for Supplementary Restraint System or your Airbag. Referred to as supplementary, it’s supposed to work with your seatbelt; which is THE primary safety device in your car. All the airbags in the world don’t really mean a thing if you are not buckled up and strapped down tight because the end goal of an Airbag is not to powder your face but to prevent you from bussing way your chest/ face on the steering wheel/ windscreen. The seatbelt is there to keep you in your seat in the first place.

Electronic Stability Control (ESP): Stability control is an electronic system that keeps the car under control in the event of a

skid by selective braking. What this means is the ECU may automatically apply brakes to individual wheels, such as the inner rear wheel to counter understeer, or the outer front wheel

38

to battle oversteer and/or shifting power to tires that have traction. Also, if things get really sticky the ECU or brain box may also throw in a reduction of engine power; all in an effort to help you stay in control of your car. Once used properly, the many sensors can immediately detect the loss of traction and react appropriately minus the panic with which a human driver would likely respond.

Like we said, cars have gotten smarter, all you do is stay calm and steer safely. Oh and ESC works with ABS; so by pumping the brakes you are essentially reseting the system constantly – not good.

Same Ting/ Different Name: Active Stability

Control (ASC) | Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) | Dynamic Stability Traction Control (DSTC) | Electronic Stability Control (ESC) | Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) | Roll Stability Control (RSC) | Traction Control (TRAC) systems | Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) | Vehicle Dynamics Control Systems (VDCS) | Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) | Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA

+ Power to the ground, baby!

AWD, 4WD, 2WD, FWD, RWD These terms refer to how many wheels on your car actually have

power from the engine delivered to them. If it’s AWD (all wheel drive) or 4WD (4 wheel drive) like a few SUVs and certain sports cars then all four tires have power with AWD having the ability to switch to 2WD depending on the circumstance - 4WD is on fulltime. Four wheels are nice ‘cause they provide better traction on wet roads and makes the car more stable. If it’s 2WD, then only two wheels and in some cases ONE wheel is powered at any time - either the front (FWD) or the rear RWD). 2WD uses less gas as the engine has to put out less effort to move the car but there’s less active traction. Performance drivers prefer RWD since it gets the power down nicely and generally handles better plus you can do some wicked donuts; + Because there is no such thing as a VVL-VTEC engine with MIVEC.

Engine Setups: VTEC, MIVEC, VVTLi - in one way or the

other, they all involve manipulating the engine to breathe better at high rpms and/ or make sure that a good spark is there on cue to give the big bang. It’s really about altering the engine’s base characteristics to achieve optimum performance low down and high up. (continued on page 45)

+ Two Wheel Toaster Conclusion from issue 6 (2.2)

+ Girl racer Conclusion from issue 6 (2.2)

...buy a trail first learn to ride and then buy your fast bike. Don’t buy the fast bike first; you’ll kill yourself, parts are EXPENSIVE plus when you fall on a sports bike it hurts like hell.

..uild, the suspension is fantastic. I used to take corners at 120 and it that’s one of the most exhilarating feelings EVER in a solid car like that; with me, the Golf gave you a sense of being safe on the road.

Have you ever taken a spill?

Yes on my trail bike because it was so high but my worst fall was on my 600 where I was riding with some friends on a wet road. I fell and was sliding but thank Lord there was no traffic and I had on my jacket.

So tell me what’s next on your plate future car wise?

Well I intend to go get my motorbike licence; not to sure I’ll use it as well as my heavy T cause at the end of the day it’s an accomplishment. Who know a bus might not have a driver and I could fill in.

All that and you still riding; I know a couple of riders who fell and that was it for them and bike.

You have to ride for everybody, the rider in front the rider in the back and the cars as well; you just have to be attentive.

Woman can you imagine you behind the wheel of a bus. You’re not very tall so you know people gonna be asking if the bus driving itself. *laughs*

So you’re a die-hard biker; no going back and it seems there’s no changing you, but tell me, have you ever crossed over into anything else?

Well my brother drag races and one day he invited me to go to a test and tune. Driving, I came second out of every body there in fact the only person I didn’t beat was Gary Smith. Soon I got into it heavy and was just beating people, in fact a lot of guys dropped out of 17’s back then because they could take getting licks from a woman. Eventually everyone upgraded their cars to go faster but I didn’t want to do anything with my foreign use 323 Mazda Familia so I left it stock.

Shoot me the last few words of wisdom?

The one point I want to get through has to deal with this; there was an accident some time ago where some young people died on their way to/ from a birthday party. Saw the pictures and it was clear that the car wasn’t properly maintained by the parents. As a youth & a young woman I just want to tell parents that you have a responsibility to teach your kids about driving as well as how to take care of and properly maintain a car.

People have to learn that you don’t just jump in a car and go, make sure everything is good first; tires, gas, no leaks and so on.

Besides drags and ride bike HARD give me a list of all the adrenalin things you have done and we heard it’s a lot.

Hmmm let’s see besides drag race, I also did wind surfing, played squash for Trinidad, some Tennis, roller blade........

Miss lady you have really inspired us and that’s no joke, hardly ever will you find anyone with as much energy for life as you in fact as far as we go you are the true example of a role model.

Thanks

Aye, aye I said a few words but good point again. It never made sense to me that people just loose control of a car. A lot of times the car isn’t fully equipped or properly maintained in the first place which can all increase the chances of you getting in an accident without even going fast.

Agreed, if you don’t take proper care of your car it won’t take care of you.

That is another sick quote, making you cool and prolifically profound; but, time done and I have to beat traffic, so piece in the east!

Later.

03Tobago Terrors by Two

Chances are that if you are a guy, the better part of your existence will be spent waiting on somebody at sometime. Be it your mother, the wifey, granny Mearle, tantie Pearle or your pompek named Brittles, the fact remains that you will just be sitting in the car - bored to death doing absolutely nothing. This is more so going to Sunday market; the grocery is bad but market is worse. Women love it because they get to exercise their flirtatious charms on the male vendors and negotiate the skin of the female ones for best prices on typical food items; which, have seemingly risen like old age blood pressure recently. For men the plan is to either wait in the car and sleep OR wait in the car and read the newspapers; both of which are equally uninteresting – sigh; if only you had a copy of Sixth Speed to keep you company. After for what seems like an eternity, all you do to when mama comes back is to crack the tailgate of her wagon, help he load the groceries and try to enjoy the long dreary drive home. We know; it sounds like a fluff fest, but most guys SUFFER from this primordial pattern of sendicular sedentry and when you consider it’s almost every Sunday; you can see why a lot of drivers look depressed early in the morning.

1999-2000 Subaru WRX Station Wagon:

However this isn’t the case for bago’ born Christian Tam; who, instead of opting of the mundane, has a bitter tasting, going down well with pepper boosted animal in the form of a Subaru WRX wagon. In Tobago you could see that while the life is laid back and cool; most people suffer from the same state of monotony like we described, but not Sir Tam. Initially; Tam got the cabbage toter at a bess price and the plan was simple – sell it. Many came; but after a while the car grew on him as it was quite unusual to see a turbocharged wagon espe-

cially one with the WRX badge. After giving it some thought, he came to the realization that rather than sell the car, why not build the car for some drive back home excitement.

Sporting the EJ20 like its sedan brethren, the Impreza Sport Wagon was know as the Gravel Express overseas and in Tam’s hand this simple but innocent family car went from mild to something that would have you beggin’ to take mama wherever; just so you can do it to men at will.

According to uncle Tam, the 2.0 WRX remained relatively “stock” in many ways as he didn’t really want to go all out to have a track only car; but rather have a car you can comfortably drive everyday-anywhere. However ‘stock’ to some people means modified like piss to others; so with these parameters, the internals of the engine were not touched; but everything else was. The first choka was to pelt way the stock IHI VF22 turbo which was capable of producing about 350HP for a ball bearing enabled GT45R from Garrett with a .63 backend. Unlike the stock turbo, this cucumber is good to about 450HP and with the ball bearing core it gives extremely good throttle response, even with the full 26psi of boost coming in at about 4200rpm. Don’t mind it comes in late; an inherent trait of all WRXs, BUT; when mama comes, she comes on strong enough to have you gripping and gnashing teeth as you are pinned tight in the Recaros, all the way up to the 7500rpm redline. With this amount of boost, fuel from the stock 380CC injector would have be a bit inadequate so Uncle Tam swapped them out for a set of 850CC Power Enterprise injectors; is it overkill, we think so, BUT at least there is plenty room for additional modifications even under the Nissan Skyline GTR fuel pump.

Electronics to tie the entire system together was handled right by an AEM fully programmable ECU with a 2 Bar Map sensor which totally eliminated the restricted airflow meter and allows Tam to have full control and tuning in all the areas that count. Boost is checklighted by a Tial 44mm wastegate together with a HKS Blowoff valve and a TurboXS manual boost controller; yes the clicker type.

While the option for going full electronic was there, Tam resorted to the low budget mod; as, according to him “It does wuk!” With the increase in boost come increases in 2 things – charge air temperature and exhaust gases. A 24x10x3 bar and plate intercooler from a Nissan BNR33 skyline works out the details in cooling the air from the turbo compressor and a 3.5’ downpipe into a 3’ 5Zigen exhaust handles the waste gas from the turbine. Remember just as fast as air gets in it has to get out and with great power must come a better suspension setup. Even though the Gravel Express was already primed with Subaru’s infamous 4WD system, the suspension was still a bit soft for Tam’s liking so a full set of TEINs adjustable coilovers were thrown in to compliment the Subaru already sharp handling. Working in tandem with the TEINs, is a bronze set of 20lb WEDS SA 90 sport wheels, candy covered in some Yokohama 225/45/17 ES100 tires. This combination MADE SURE that the car stuck to the road like a mosquito on an armpit; even when we attempted to power it out on the wet Tobago road, the wagon just held its own and really kinda laughed at us. The brakes were STI Brembos up front and normal WRX in the rear so in addition to reducing the weight transfer under launch, the stiffer suspension with the Brembos guarantees that the wagon stops like a morocoy under bright light.

With all this in a car that we are sure Subaru meant for carrying baskets of toulum, the modified Gravel Express is a hard tomato to come around; however in the unlikely event that any young and green celery stalk upset the salad and spanks the wagon, Uncle Tam will casu-

42

ally go home and bring out the beast for being disrespectful…..

1999-2000 Subaru WRX Sedan:

The beast is a 458HP @ 28psi & 356 lb*tq@7200rpm brute that will have cabbage heads rolling while the lettuce is huddled in a corner quivering for the bandania who is holding on for dear life by heself. Bought brand new from the Subaru dealer in Trinidad (Neal & Massy Automotive Ltd.) in ’99, Tam’s WRX days with the sedan began with endless licks at the good old Wallerfield. In the beginning, while the car was still at 13 psi, Uncle Tam raised the boost from 13psi to 15psi and replaced the stock exhaust with a complete 3” Kakimoto SS breather from down pipe to muffler. Still under the stock turbo and getting average performance by the small mod, Tam wanted to have more control and well as improve the overall efficiency of the entire system. So a Lynx plug & play ECU was jacked in; BUT, the problem was that there was nobody around to tune it - just as fast as it was installed, it was replaced for an Apex’I Power FC under recommendation from then tuner Hitman of Australia. Now under a VF22 as well as management and a HKS front mount intercooler the car became consistent in 13’s, but, like current young people fashion it got old pretty fast and like a greedy chile Tam wanted more.

The VF; which is a major power player in the used turbo market and can give reliable 300+ horses; was swapped for a HKS GT2835. With a T3 flange and .63 turbine A/R the 28 provided boost from the jump but on top it lacked sorely; still, under this handicap the car was consistently an 11.7 car with the best time being 11.3. By now Tammy Tam had outgrown the Apex’I and with more power goals, the stock airflow was glazed for that of a 300ZX; an immensely popular upgrade to allow more air to be metered into the system. With a retune

by Kevin Primus the power increase as well as the drag abuse resulted in the 5 speed gearbox going bye bye; it’s known that whenever you run in excess of 300HP on the stock box it wouldn’t last very long. After changing about three 5 speeds, the final replacement was a FULL STI upgrade with the sixth speed tranny under ACT copper bliss. Good to about 500+ this was a vast improvement over the 5, without having to get too technical by trying to replace the gears with an aftermarket kit. With all this thunder to put asunder, the EJ20 with its horizontal opposite pistons, aluminum crankcase & cylinder head and 8.5:1 compression

held out and proved to be VERY reliable.

As time progressed and the car working fine Christian got up a morning and decided that it was time for a rebuild. We think is was a case of extreme gladness, but lucky for him he didn’t have to shop on the JDM aftermarket place. When the STI made its way to the American market, doors of performance vendors opened up and out flowed Subaru parts at a very reasonable price Blessed with bess deals Tam decided to go down in the gully and “do ah ting”. The block was rebuilt with forged Wiseco pistons and beefier Eagle connecting rods; and fuel saw a Nissan GTR pump just like the wagon and a set of 850CC Power Enterprise injectors just like the station wagon. With more fuel and boost you need proper control over all, so just like wagon; again, Tam installed an AEM plug n’ play ECU. The problem here with this mod is that AEM never made a plug and play system for this year so they had to change out the entire wiring harness for a 2002 aka the bug eye and move forward from there.

By now the car was very brazen but still kinda far from brutal; but events had Tam selling out the entire setup to a fellow Subaru brethren in need. Always known as a good one, Tam transplanted all the bolt on mods

43

minus the AEM into a partner’s car (Derrick Murray) and made a play to come up again…. but this time HARDER. Never known as one to touch the bottle; the GT28 made way for a Garrett TO4Z ball bearing turbocharger with a .63 backend. Good for about 600HP with ease, this turbo provides a good 28 psi of boost from 4200rpm to deliver the 458HP we mentioned earlier, together with the 356lb*tq at the 7200 redline. The ever popular TurboXS MBC cranks up the boost with a Tial 46mm wastegate and HKS Blowoff valve making sure there is no compressor surge to damage the turbo. Cooling all this heat is a Blitz Skyline 24x10x4 tube and fin intercooler; and a methanol injection kit. Just so that you’re not lost; when going up in boost you can do one of many things to reduce the air temp so that you don’t run the risk of discomforting detonation. Methanol injection is one of those things – simply put it injects atomized methanol particles into the cylinders thus making the air denser. In return this raises the compression slightly because water is heavier than air, the alcohol raises your octane level, which will aid in combustion while reducing detonation and water’s natural properties of heat dissipation help get the heat off the piston head, cooling the intake charge.

Set to come in at 9 psi Tam is able to run an extremely aggressive timing setup with little worries of the big bang. A bug eye ignition system lights up the fuel thrown in the fray by an Aeromotive FPR and 1000 fuel pump mounted from a 1gallon fuel cell in the trunk. Suspension just like everything else received some work with a STI strut tower bar, TEIN full adjustable coilovers with damper and adjustable camber plates and a FULL STI brake upgrade which is much more efficient than the standard WRX - this includes 4 pot Brembos up front and the 2 pot in the rear. Road reapers had the sedan under a set of WEDs like the wagon and a set of 215/45/17 Toyo Proxes R888. Getting them somewhere far, these sticky ones are billed as the replacement for the immensely popular RA1s as Toyos ultimate street radial.

Now, we really thought the wagon coulda handle, after all we did press out real hard on some of the BEST touge corners Tobago had. However we were dead wrong as the wagon on them R888 introduced us to a new found meaning of the term “handling like a beehaaa!” With stiffer bead construction, 100 treadwear and wider tread width, the R888 generates more cornering bite to definitively vegetate them there swerves. As far as the interior goes, besides the phantom gauges and the control module for the water injection it’s pretty stock – at least the seats not buss up and the carpet was relatively clean. Either way, with no more future mods in the pipeline; as according to Tam the more horsepower you make the slower you can actually become as getting the power down can be a big challenge. As is the WRX (STI) is ready to slice, dice and puree all and based on what we saw and drove we’ll be sure to walk with the salad dressing for the fass and out of place few…….who say thousand island.

The Big Ups goes to: Neil Cox: Mechanic | Curtis Mitchell: Wrenchman | Terrence (Newab) Frazer: Fabrication | Speedy: Electrical (379-9192) | The always supportive owner of the car Mrs. Tam & the ever charming Daughter.

(continued from page 38)

Mazda S-VT - Varies timing by rotating the camshaft.

Mitsubishi MIVEC - Varies valve timing, duration and lift by switching between two different sets of cam lobes.

Nissan VVL - Varies timing, duration, and lift of the intake and exhaust valves by using two different sets of cam lobes.

Subaru AVCS - Varies timing with hydraulic pressure Suzuki - VVT, Toyota VVT-i - Continuously varies the timing of the intake camshaft, or both the intake and exhaust camshafts (depending on application).

Toyota VVTL-i - Continuously varies the timing of the intake valves. Varies duration, timing and lift of the intake and exhaust valves by switching between two different sets of cam lobes.

Honda VTEC - Varies duration, timing and lift by switching between two different sets of cam lobes.

Honda i-VTEC - i-VTEC system increases engine efficiency by delaying the closure of the intake valves under certain conditions and by using an electronically controlled throttle valve to reduce pumping loss.

Transmission Setups: You already know manual; that’s where

you press a clutch, shift a stick and you out.

If it’s LSD then you are in a gear as you now have better traction with both wheels

biting up to turn over. Then there’s Automatic; that’s where the gears “magically” change by themselves. Usually a blessing in traffic to some, it’s a laugh at in racing; unless you are toting MAJOR power.

CVT - continuously variable transmission – varies the transmission ratio continuously. You can say it’s essentially an automatic transmission with infinite no. of ratios/ gears. As a result, at any time the most suitable ratio can be chosen so that performance and energy efficiency are both optimized.This provides better fuel economy than other transmissions by enabling the engine to run at its BEST in any circumstance, BUT the downer is that you have to use special purpose fluids as the tranny is more fragile than auto and it can’t take much torque so racing is OUT of the question.

Tiptronic - Tiptronic is a registered trademark, and is really owned by German sports car maker Porsche (you learn something here). A Tiptronic transmission operates just like an automatic transmission on one hand, but it also allows the driver to go into a semi automatic mode by pushing the shifter up or down like an “upshift” and “downshift” look for a +/- on the shifter plate. In this sport mode the driver says when the car shifts, so here you can run up the revs to stay in the powerband longer and shift when you want to. ++ Same Ting/ Different Name: Audi: Tiptronic, Multitronic (CVT) | BMW: Steptronic | Honda: iShift, S-matic, MultiMatic | Hyundai: Shiftronic, HIVEC H-Matic | Mazda: ActiveMatic | MercedesBenz: TouchShift | Mitsubishi: INVECS, INVECS II, INVECS III, Sportronic, Tiptronic | Nissan: Tiptronic | Subaru: Sportshift

The Bottomline; Finally: And there you have it kiddies, the basics of knowing what all that garbage spewed at you

means; there’s more, but for now these are the most requested. Most sales people are very lackadaisical and properly educating you about a car isn’t really a priority; knowing this, it’s kinda left all up to you to learn your car. This information will help you to make a decision that you will be happy with, NOT just a choice that you live with. We have NO idea why people ALWAYS advertise features that the average buyer doesn’t know; must be an ad agency thing of wowing you with BS and hoping that you fall for it - go figure. Anyways take time to ask questions and test drive the car to death - it’s a TEST DRIVE; oh and always buy Sixth Speed or else your a/c will never blow cold and your car door will never forever be slammed.

06 The Cartalogue NEW Tial External Wastegate : Genuwine Walbro Fuel Pumps :

Smaller and better than before, the New Tial line of wastegates are designed for those with tight spaces; fitting in the palm of your hand the new line if Tial in all sizes can be mounted in any position and help keep your boost levels in proper check.

Turbo Klub Performance: 1.868.636-5589

Don’t shaft your engine by chinksin’ on the fuel delivery especially in high horsepower or boosted grunters. These fuel pumps (Internal & External) are a bolt-in replacement for the stock fuel pump and comes with all the hardware required.

Applications for both car and boat and available in 255lhp & 190lph models.

BCR (Blue Coral Racing) Limited: 1.868.717-4641

Auto R Grounding Kit The generally accepted theory is that installation of an earthing kit can restore lost power/torque, where the loss is due to inefficient earthing, due to age, wear & tear etc. The New Auto R kit does just that and the benefits include restored horespower include: improved fuel efficiency, stabilised idle, brighter lights, quicker engine starts , reduced audio noise and most importantly better protection from potential engine damage from poor ECU outputs

Street Concepts 1.868.683-6065

COMBO : Welds Racing Rims & Mickey T’s Slicks Forged strong and feather light Welds Drag Light Weld Racing are one of the best forged wheels out there. With the Mickey T’s you have the ultimate traction getter. With a unique compound and available in a street & strip/ full drag slick this rims tire combo gives full bite for any quarter mile junkie looking for good and consistent times

QWKWHIP Co. Ltd.: 1.868.684-2872/ 647-6878

Haltech SR20DET plug n ‘ play ECU The Haltech plug n’ play series of ECUs is packed with more features than any ECU in its class by more than just a quarter mile. The all new line of performance ECUs is for those who want power and need full sequential control for their engine in all aspects.

Central Speed Limited: 1.868.678-3407/ 671-5529

Mazda Protege & Sport 20 Complete Engine Seal Kit

Includes all seals and gaskets that you probably will not get anywhere else

Motiv.Vations: 1.868.678-9182/ 683-2551

TEIN S Tech High Performance Springs

TEIN Springs are an excellent step towards suspension tuning. They offer approximately a 1.5 inch drop for a more aggressive appearance and increased road holding capability together with retained comfort. Designed to be used with OEM or OEM replacement shocks.

Tuner Imports: 1.868.665-6803/ 680-9170

Project MU Type NS Street Brake Pads Project Mu NS Street Pads are designed to provide maximum braking performance in any circumstance.

By using original machining techniques, Project Mu offers reliable strength in an economical street-type brake pad for Evos, Subarus & Hondas

Garvin’s Performance Shop: 1.868.628-1278

MB Quart PVF 216 Component for Subaru

The brand-new component loudspeakers that is made for tight spaces like those found in Subaru; the PCE 216 is gurantee to give quality sound without

by JL Audio A small and potent 4-Channel, full-range amplifier built by one the need for extensive modification to make them fit properly. Developed on the basis of sound innovation, the complete system offers function well in of the best in the audio companies in the arena. The T320.4 excess of those normally found in its class. from JL Audio is a no-nonsense, pure performance amp for rock-solid bass and clean high frequency performance.

Sound and Security Experience: 1.868.662-3007

Total Mobile Audio T320.4 AMP

Acoustic Engineering: 1.868.652-7496/ 783-5064

K&N Air Filter with Heat Shield

Allowin more cool air into the engine the K&N kit is one of the best air filters out there. The heat shield has an opening that allows the fresh air intake duct to feed air to the K&N high-flow air filter and also isolates it from high engine temperature. All this goes towards increasing horsepower.

SAS Racing: 1.868.657-1687 retailer for K&N Filters

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Nissan SR20DET Water Pump

It’s the OEM water pump for your SR20 DET engine. Because proper cooling is critical and preventative maintenance is part of a good regiment, there is nothing better than the original.

XR Performance: 1.868.735-1086

07WhereCar 08SixthSpeed Readers they NOW!

I am sure you all are wondering whatever happened to the legends of the past, the guru’s of Wallers. Where are they now?? Are they in a junk yard; Under a man house; Cyant over on the side ah the road?? Well we go out there; dig up and find out about:

The Infamous Sheriff Lobo

So you like exhibitionism huh? Then send us your NAKED car pics and be part of print media history, afterall it’s you car and your should be proud of it: sixthspeedtuner@hotmail.com or there’s text & facebook.

2005 Nissan K12 March: Kerry-Ann | Accountant Assistant Modifications: Fresh paint, body kit,

carbon fiber type bonnett, clear glass i.e no tint, guages, 17in ADR bronze rims, stock engine CR14DE , some stickers

Why we like it: It still totes the crappy

Back Then: on the track belting plenty men

1.4 engine and is probably not very fast BUT we honestly have to give props to the husband and mainly wife team for taking ONE of the FUGLIEST cars of all time and making it look pretty blimey good. People, it takes carbide to fix this car up right and holisticlly resist the burning urge to put on chrome rims and 4 15’s. Honestly, we would’ve loved the 160SR/ CA18DET conversion but that’s us. Right now we don’t know if it’s the color, the fact that it looks really fast, or the attractive owner; but this car was one that made us kneel really low & say thank you!

1998 Mazda BJ 323: Theron Miller | Electrical Technician

Now:park up on four block in a garage with no engine

Driven by Shamo Mohammed, Sherrif Lobo was an icon back in its day and really concocted to beat the then ranker Cowboys, in the V8 Malibu. Known for monster burnouts on the streets of Trinidad and Tobago as well as Barbados & Grenada; the fully built Kingswood with a 350 Chevy V8 with 400 Chevy Transmission, 350 shot NOS and1050 Dominator Carb.

It’s mentally recorded that when people heard the grizzle start up and roared on the streets man, woman and chile used to run out their house and crowd the road just to see him do a lil’ thing, in addition to; he was also one of the few cars to palanz up High Street in San Fernando with the engine exposed to the ooooohs and ahhhhhhhhs of the public.

Up in the Wallers; the foundation home of drags, the Lobo’s best time on the 1420 was 10.2 and overall it was a consistent 11sec car that gave some of the biggest racers pressure. Man like Flambeaux with the 350 Chevy Escort, Cowboy, Bakery Boys (Kingswood V8), No Problem, Ajmal Mustapha with the Chevy Malibu V8, Ghandi (V8 De ville), Brian Fortune with the V8 powered Rx-7(Rx-8), Crazy Horse and Half Breed. Bringing back memories! The last run was with the infamous SKF Lancer in competition after which Lobo dropped off the scene as motorsport became to political and management was blah. With the engine out in Miami the car is still much intact minus some other parts that were piped out.

In fact rumour has it that the car is going to be rebuilt to come an lay down the law once again.

Modifications: Mazda B6T (1600

Turbochaged) Engine, front mount intercooler, HKS super sequential BOV, Turbosmart boost controller, Recaro Type sport seats, 2.5in exhaust, ACT copper clutch kit ,17in sport rims, black bonnett, guages, some hard pong.

Why we like it: it’s from Tobago

which kinda shows that the sister island has some movers and shakers plus we hear that it’s quick like that. Don’t mind that the car coulda wash but like rain was fallin’ so we could give a bligh.

Kiddies it’s a boosted wagon and you have to wonder why all cars couldn’t be this much fun to drive for half the price - once again tuners to the rescue. Yaaaaaaay-Yay for the good ole ‘bago and yay for a family car that’s used to buss up men from a side iin the land of blue seas and parco water (can you say stand at attention).

2000 Honda Civic: Tricia Mathison | Medical Adminstration Modifications: D15B, 3 stage VTEC,

stock internals, 330CC injectors, 2.5in piping (Specialist Muffler), custom manifold, foreign used intercooler, T25 turbo (SR20 DET), Turbosmart blowoff valve, ACT clutch & pressureplate, Eibach performance springs, upgraded brakes (Honda CRV calipers & Accord rotors), SiR stabilizer & sway bar - front & rear, Apex’i VAFC II.

Why we like it: this car moved on us

like a cocyea whip across a back and we still didn’t know what on earth happened. Kiddies this is the ULTIMATE and we repeat the ULTIMATE sleeper; No tint, no stickers, no massive intercooler, No loud exhaust (strange for a Honda), No oversized rims NOTHING. Absolutely nothing that will give away the fact that the car is under heavy boost and is bitter quick; rounding off the equation is it’s owned & driven by a woman. SWEET!

47

Anil aka “Rampie” 36

sales rep. & mechanic

Reggie

the brother in law

Sariah

cute daughter

Sandy

the wifey i.e the boss

Weapon of Mass Expression

1993 Nissan B13 4WD

Nissan Pulsar SR20DET, Greddy Turbo, FMIC, Blitz Wastegate, HKS BOV, Tomei ECU, 750cc injectors, 300ZX airflow, OS Giken Twin Disc Clutch, Nissan Pulsar suspension, Epgraded Brakes, 3” exhaust, extractor manifold, NO Nitrous

Speed is an expression of life; it is one of the few things that has NO BORDERS and its our individual differences in speed that makes us totally united.