This isn't a complete build thread. Just frame information.

The frame arrived in the spring. But I haven't really had any time to work on it. Now that racing season is over, I have more time.



First, I went over the frame carefully, looking for anything I didn't like. The only thing I found was at the seat belt bolt holes. There's a nice chunk of steel backing the hole. But that chunk is only attached to the sheet metal. Probably not an issue. But it made me feel better to weld on another plate, and attach it to the frame.


BTW, I went back and welded the edges better. Again, probably not needed.

Then I wanted to make some simple mods to the frame. I added some grounding studs to the front and rear. Probably should have added more.

At the recommendation of FM, I added some extra bars to the trans tunnel area. Not for strength, but to hang the fuel lines, brake lines, and wires.

I fit and drilled the holes for the front and rear alum panels. I own a bead roller, so I had to find a use for it some where.

 

Now, it's time for paint. I chose simple Rustoleum Regal Red, thinned 15% with acetone. I like the red color. And it's also available in a spray can for easy touch ups. I used a cheap HVLP jamb gun from HF. I think I got it on sale for about $5. I've never use a spray gun before, but the learning curve is not steep.

To start, I flipped it upside down and painted the bottom of everything. I wanted to practice with the spray gun on parts that won't be seen.


After letting it sit for a while, I flipped it over and did the rest. You can sort of see them. But I bolted two hunks of 2x4 to the bottom of the frame, and then bolted wheels to that. Makes it real easy to move the frame around.


This is the "interior". You can see the extra bars welded in to the trans tunnel. The black on the floor is pick up bed liner, for a non-slip surface.

 

Looking good!

 

Wow that is really nice looking work Bob. Looks like a fun project and a great shop for sure. Is your Cobra in storage somewhere?

 

Building this car is a lot more involved than I thought it was going to be. My original intention of this thread - and others like it - was to document the differences from dropping a V8 into a Miata. I wanted this information to be easily found and referenced for the next guy. But keeping these threads updated and organized isn't working out all that well.

So, I built a web site. Racing the Exocet

This site only documents those steps, problems, and solutions specific to the Exocet. I'm sure some of it will apply to a Miata. But since I've never owned one, I can't say. I'll still read this site nearly every day, like I have been. And I still think this is the best site not only for V8 Miata's, but Miata performance in general.

No, this is not a commercial web site. It's for information only. I'm not selling anything, promoting anything, or asking for anything. Peruse the site at your leisure. Or not.

 

Ready for the track! I'm hoping to get some practice time in March. I have a couple of days blocked off. We'll see what the weather does.