11 replies to this topic

[jeopardyracing]

Here is a link to my SCCA SSM build log - just getting started and having a ball! I'll be a rookie in 2011. Most posts have photos - click the "continue reading" to access them. Hopefully my log may help other first time builders.

[jeopardyracing]

I haven't received any comments to this thread, even though a bunch of people have stopped by! That's making me a little insecure, since either I'm doing everything perfectly or my project is so far off track people don't know where to start!

[Tom Hampton]

That's pretty typical. I get much the same thing. About 20 visitors per day to my blog. But, very few comments. Don't worry someone will come in if you are found something wrong!

[tony senese]

Just a suggestion.... turn you jack stands 90 degrees and put them on the pinch welds.... I have found that is the most secure place for them.

[jeopardyracing]

I installed the Spec Miata suspension in the right front today - how am I looking?

[Philip Springer]

I installed the Spec Miata suspension in the right front today - how am I looking?

Just read the whole blog from beginning to end. Very cool. I really like the video you included about performance driving events. Good luck with your car! I hope to be building one myself soon.

[jeopardyracing]

Just read the whole blog from beginning to end. Very cool. I really like the video you included about performance driving events. Good luck with your car! I hope to be building one myself soon.

Thanks very much Philip!!

[RacerFrank]

I read part of you blog. I am looking to do the same, participate in HPDRE's until I can get the car ready for spec miata racing.

I see that you have a 91 Miata. Why a 91? I am looking to by a Miata to use as a DD and an HPDRE car for a season or two.

Just curious why you chose a 91? If that is not the year of choice what would be?

[jeopardyracing]

I read part of you blog. I am looking to do the same, participate in HPDRE's until I can get the car ready for spec miata racing.

I see that you have a 91 Miata. Why a 91? I am looking to by a Miata to use as a DD and an HPDRE car for a season or two.

Just curious why you chose a 91? If that is not the year of choice what would be?

There are two Spec Miata classes active in my region (Washington, DC): Spec Miata ("SM") and Showroom Spec Miata ("SSM"). When I decided to make the jump from HPDE to racing, I looked at both classes and came to believe that the rule set in SSM is tighter, which should result in lower costs. I also came to believe that while SSM is truly a club racing class, SM is at least partially populated with folks looking to build a racing career (eventually as pros), and as such I have heard there is more of a reputation for chaos and collisions in SM. I'm not interested in that - I want to go out there and have fun and I don't want to worry about getting punted off track every race. That's not to say I won't ever get punted, but I've heard that SM is much more aggressive.

For those who choose to build an SSM, the 1.6L cars are the preferred model. Although 1.8 cars are allowed, I am told that between the restrictor plate and weight penalty they are not as competitive with the 1.6L cars. So my choice wasn't so much the exact 1991 year as any of the 1.6L years (1990-1994).

I hope that helps!

BTW if any experienced Spec Miatas can correct me when/if I am wrong on something here please do!

[jeopardyracing]

Important note for fellow first time builders: I screwed up one aspect of the assembly of the Spec Miata coilovers. See my editors note on the following post for a correction:

http://blog.richramb...om/main/?p=2070

[davearm]

Really enjoyed the build blog. Currently running a 92 Sm, which I purchased used, but I am getting the bug to build a car, perhaps a 99. This really helps.
Thanks,
Dave
Raleigh,Nc

[jeopardyracing]

Really enjoyed the build blog. Currently running a 92 Sm, which I purchased used, but I am getting the bug to build a car, perhaps a 99. This really helps.
Thanks,
Dave
Raleigh,Nc

Thanks for the feedback Dave!