Castrol Edge Auto Makeover

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2009-01-23T03:06:00.001-08:00

In addition to managing the builds of many an awesome car, Dale Imerman has his personal blog that talks about marketing, social media, food and cars all combined. Click here for great info...

Keep Rollin' Rollin' Rollin'

2007-04-18T02:30:00.000-07:00

The Subaru STi being used in the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover has a very unique wheel PCD. This makes it extremely hard to find wheels that will fit on the vehicle, in turn limiting the variety of styles to choose frrom. A-line wheels, importers of Antera wheels were able to solve this problem for the team...

A custom set of imported Antera wheels were manufactured specifically for the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover. The PCD was altered so the wheels fit on the car and look correct with the Chargespeed Wide Body Kit that brings the arches out over 2cm on either side of the vehicle. Spacers were not used in this case as they put stress on wheel bearings and the hub of the STi.

The silver-coloured wheels have been fitted with Bridgestone tyres for optimum grip and will add an elegant streak to the viscious looking car.

Chargespeeding Ahead!

2007-04-10T07:14:00.000-07:00

After having the new brakes fitted at Sportech, the daunting task of fitting the Chargespeed Wide Body Kit needs to begin for the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover. The incredible body kit, made from both fiberglass and carbon fiber, was sponsored by the Japanese-based Chargespeed and imported by their distributor: Creative Rides. Sportech, where the car is currently at, will be responsible for the pre-fitting, prepping and actual fitment of the body kit - but before this can begin, the car is quickly stripped of its exterior...

The Chargespeed front fenders are bolted on so that they can be aligned correctly with the front door and the new carbon fiber bonnet. The side skirt is held in position for the team to see if any adjustments will be required before sending the parts into the spray booth.

The rear lights need to be removed to replace the OE bumper with the Chargespeed version. As you can see, it is substantially wider and clearly indicated that a larger Bosal exhaust tip will be needed to make any sort of impression.

The most difficult part of the wide body kit fitment is the rear section consisting of the door panels and rear fenders - these body parts are placed over the original panels and need to fit precisely in order for the car to look professional and sleek. Sportech will use fiber glass fillers to ensure that the panels fit together snug. Once this process is completed, the parts will be primered for spray painting.

The last major step of the wide body kit process it the cutting of the Subaru rear wheels arches. A red line is marked on the vehicle to guide the electric hack-saw. The cut panel will be sealed and rust-proofed once it is removed from the car. This step needs to be taken in order for the custom widened wheels to sit flush with the outer edge of the new Chargespeed rear wheel arch.

More to come as the Subaru is visually transformed into a wide body one-of-a-kind STi...

Ferodo Braking System = Improved Stopping Power

2007-04-09T23:16:00.000-07:00

This week the Subaru STi was taken to Sportech where the final phase of the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover will take place. The Chargespeed wide body kit imported by Creative Rides has already been prepped for a pre-fit before it is sprayed and final-fitted to the Subaru...

Although, first order of the week was to fit the Ferodo brake disks and performance pads. The vehicle is lifted off the ground and the original wheels are removed so the brake pads can be removed and replaced with Ferodo Racing Pads.

The Brembo brake calipers are removed from the wheel hub and held out of the way using a cable-tie. In order to get the original Subaru disks off, two bolts are inserted into threaded holes to leverage them off the hub. Once cleared, the hub is cleaned thoroughly to avoid any brake judder and prolong disk life.

The new Ferodo DS 2500 brake disks, which are coated with a hi-heat dry coating are placed on the cleaned hub before the brake calipers are set into their original position.

This upgraded combination of Ferodo disks and pads will ensure ultimate stopping power and ensure that there will be no brake fade during any of the Subarus road or race usage.

Speeding Up the STi Progress

2007-04-09T22:38:00.000-07:00

The Castrol Edge Auto Makeover Subaru is closing in on its deadline quickly. The car has left the coast with incomplete sound and multimedia and arrived in JHB where the final phases will begin. Luckily P&P Car Sound Specialists are a national outfit and can complete the small glitches in order to complete the gadgetry in the STi.

The vehicle was taken to Subaru Specialists, NXGen, who are located in Randburg. The car was lifted onto their state-of-the-art four-wheel drive Dynapack Dyno, so a comparison in power could be assessed after the changes were done. Sensors are placed in the STi motor to gauge feedback so the advanced system can calculate the vehicles performance figures from the test.

A Bosal performance exhaust, ECUTEK engine management software and a DEFI Gauge system were installed. The larger diameter exhaust system fitted runs from the turbo to the tailpiece and allows the engine to breath better. Meanwhile, the ECUTEK engine management software overrides and controls every aspect of the vehicles standard ECU, which was then expertly tuned and calibrated by the guys at NXGen to optimise timing and fuel flow. This in turn means more power, torque and better engine response.

Having completed the necessary modifications, Craig was able to increase the power output of the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover Subaru from 179kW to a staggering 197kW of power - just short of a 20kW increase.

Customised Boot Nears Completion

2007-03-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Richards team at P&P Car Sound Specialists have been working full speed ahead to have the Subaru's boot installation complete for collection. The Rockford Fosgate woofer enclosure is finally sealed and assembled.

A panel housing the two Lightning Audio amplifiers is placed against the enclosure and features a unique badge-shaped window that exposes the back of the Rockford woofers magnet. The blue neon inside the woofer enclosure as well as the standard blue illumination of the amplifiers gives the back panel of the cusom boot a unique glow and space-age feel.

The custom amplifier panels that were upholstered in blue alcantara are applied to the installation that is wrapped in genuine black napa leather.

Richard had the badge-shaped window further customised by having the P&P & RF symbols laser-cut into the glass.

Upping the Current in the STi

2007-03-19T06:40:00.000-07:00

Due to the abundance of audio, video and multimedia products we've crammed into the Subaru STi, the standard battery needed to be swapped out for something a little more... powerful. Kinetik HC Power Cells are used in the "Worlds Loudest Vehicles" and provide a very low ESR and high energy density. We opted to use Kinetik Power Cells as they are acclaimed for being the most powerful, reliable and compact car audio power cells on can buy.

Custom Boot Installation Underway

2007-03-18T23:41:00.000-07:00

The woofer enclosure has been completed by P&P Car Sound Specialists. The face cone of the Rockford Fosgate 15 inch woofer will be seen when the arm rest in the centre of the back seats is pulled down.

Inside the boot, the amps are positioned in a custom back wall. The install is designed in such a way that it gives access to the standard spare wheel.

Richard cuts a custom panel he has designed and built to cover the two Lightning Audio amplifiers.

The capacitor has been moulded into a custom panel - one of many that will fit together tightly to form the complete boot installation which is taking shape very quickly...

The custom fabrication is nearing completion. The capacitor and amplifiers all illuminate blue. The 3Sixty processor has been hacked by Richard to do the same. The badge-shape cut-out will allow the magnet of the Rockford Fosgate woofer to be seen in the centre of the installation. Once all the items have been set in place, the parts will go to CustomEiss for upholstry and covering in complimentary leather and alcantara materials.

Panasonic Head Unit Slides into Place

2007-03-16T03:13:00.000-07:00

The Panasonic CQ-VD6503N head unit has been selected for the Castrol Edge Auto Makeover project. The product is touch-screen operated for most functions. All you need to do is touch the screen and the intuitive graphical user interface will display clear, color graphics and text that let you "touch and choose" what you want - very easy to use.

The double din head unit, which arrived at P&P Car Sound Specialists this week, features a 6.5 inch screen with DVD player and can play back other sources in the Subaru or be used as a source itself.

The Panasonic screen also has a gunmetal trim which matches the Subaru OEM centre console - it will be wired into the system before it is snugly fitted into place.

Tailored Subaru Door Panels

2007-03-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

Today I received images of the latest door panel designs for the Subaru STi. CustomEiss, who employ a bunch of perfectionists, have finally settled on a design that they believe is "the one" - and I tend to agree with them!

The main segment of the door makes use of the same blue alcatara used in the seats, steering wheel, gauge cluster and sun visors. The "arm rest" segment is moulded in carbon-style pressed leather with blue stitching. The top segment of the door panel is finished in smooth black napa leather.

As you can see, the blue alcantara contrasts beautifully with the Rockford Fosgate speaker grill and crossover making these doors unique, stylish and one-of-a-kind!

Video Timelapse: Unpacking Chargespeed Body Kit at Creative Rides

2007-03-12T02:52:00.000-07:00

This video was recorded at Creative Rides when the Chargespeed Wide Body Kit originally arrived. We unpacked it to make sure all the parts had arrived in good order before they are sent to to be prepped, painted and fitted to the Subaru.

Prepping Chargespeed Wide Body Kit for Prepping

2007-03-11T22:14:00.000-07:00

The Chargespeed Wide Body Kit, imported by Creative Rides, was delivered to Sportech in Modderfontein today for paint and fitment preparation.

I unpacked the kit from the shipping boxes and laid them out in the workshop for the second time - I removed the protective padding so I could see the parts in all their glory this time round.

The front fenders are wider than I expected them to be. The indicator hole matches the stock Subaru fender, but the three air vents really set this panel apart - these will be visible from the rear angle in front of the driver and passenger doors.

After unpacking the front bumper and the side skirt I was able to balance the front fender in place to give me an idea of how aggressive the Chargespeed conversion is. The panels fit together beautifully, forming the new shape of the STi.

I positioned the rear door panel and the rear fender together to get an idea of how the Subaru will flair out towards the rear - it's dramatic! The standard wheel arches will need to be cut with a plasma cutter for these parts to fit into place properly and allow sufficient room for the custom 19" wheels.

The two-piece rear bumper, which most drivers will be seeing, gives the Subaru a bulky and sporty look with its carbon fiber diffuser. Like the boot lid, its quality is exceptional!

The Chargespeed fiber glass (FRP) rear wing completes the kit with a carbon fiber top segment. The wing (which is synonymous with Subaru) is fitted further back than the standard wing, it will hang over the boot lid to give the car a GT appearance.

I was handed a wrench by a busy Sportech employee and told I would need to dissemble the carbon fiber parts from the ARP before prepping could begin. I got to work on the four-piece front bumper, removing the bottom segment which is made up of two side pieces and a central carbon fiber lip.

The carbon fiber lip on the Chargespeed wide body kit has a beautiful "Chargespeed" emblem embedded into the black weave.

Next I removed the rear diffuser (which also features the "Chargespeed" emblem) from the rear bumper as well as the top beam of the rear wing, separating all the fiberglass pieces from the carbon fiber so Sportech can proceed with prepping the FRP for paintwork and fitment.

Lastly I laid out all the parts of the Chargespeed wide body kit to show you exactly how many parts will be fitted to the Subaru STi - there are 22 pieces - the bonnet, front scoop and boot lid brings the total to 25 pieces of Japanese beauty!

STi Gets Eibach Pro-Street Flexibility

2007-03-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

The Castrol Extreme Auto Makeover Subaru is nearing the second phase of its transformation - performance. This not only includes power and tuning, but handling - possibly the most vital element in modern vehicles.

This week, the Subaru was taken to East Coast Dyno Tech in Jeffreys Bay by Richard from P&P Car Sound Specialists to have it's new Eibach Pro-street suspension fitted. It was essential that this be installed before Richard can complete the customisation of the vehicles boot. East Coast Dyno Tech were selected due to their high level of expertise and advanced workshop which includes an all-wheel dyno.

The next level of high performance suspension technology, Eibach tuned coil-overs, will be used in the Subaru STi. The system, made up of Eibach ERD Racing Dampers and ERS Racing Springs, is used in top-level racing series all over the world including Formula 1, NASCAR, CART, IRL, Super Touring Car and the World Rally Championship.

The rust-free stainless steel products were laid out in the workshop before the car was hoisted up so the fitment and setup of the suspension could begin.

Jakes from East Coast Dyno Tech begins the process by removing the nuts from the top mounting point of the original front suspension in the engine bay.

The next step is removing the bolts that secure the bottom mounts of the suspension to the steering knuckle - these are found behind the brake calipers and wheel hub.

The quick adjustable Eibach coil-overs are then bolted into the same position as the stock setup.

The difference in quality is easily identified when the car is hoisted up. When lowered on the ground, the only way to identify the upgrade is through the visual stance of the vehicle that can now have its ride heigh and the corner weight of each individual wheel adjusted for precise flexibility on both the street and track.

Let the Games Begin

2007-03-08T05:31:00.000-08:00

Putting a games console into a car is perceived by many to be a simple task - it is not, especially if you want to do it properly! As xbox 360 is a partner in the Castrol Extreme Auto makeover, it makes obvious sense that we're going to be using the console in the STi...

P&P Car Sound Specialists have addressed several issues while planning the installaton of the console, namely; Heat, access, wiring & aestetics. The xbox has a very large air intake with a fan as well as two extractors on either side of the console to keep it running at a low temperature. The unit also requires 220V power, so an inverter is being used to step up the cars ordinary 12V power supply.

After alot of brainstorming, it was decided to custom fit the xbox 360 on the Subarus parcel shelf, between the two back seats, making the task of changing games or DVD's very easy for the passangers. Heat will be addressed by using LLumar window tinting and solar-control film, which is designed to block out the sun and trap cool temperature inside the cabin of the car.

The custom built housing panel exposes the entire front of the xbox 360, and also leaves room on either side for air to escape the console.

At the rear (against the rear window) two sloped moulds are used to cover the power cables and AV cables. The centre is left open for the fan to suck in cool air.

The xbox 360's logo is visible through a slice in the housing and will be linked to the Audiovox AV changer - each passanger in the car can then select the xbox as the source for their very own Audiovox LCD screen allowing them to play games or watch DVD's.

2006 Makeover 350Z Spotted

2007-03-06T22:25:00.000-08:00

I received an email from someone who recently spotted the Nissan 350Z that we build for the 2006 Extreme Auto makeover. The 350Z was won by A. Bremner in November last year at a gala event in Fourways.

The Nissan shared numerous partners with this years Subaru, including; Rockford Fosgate, Audiovox & Sportech.

I'm very proud that people still recognise the car and identify it as the vehicle used in the 2006 project. It further excites me to know that we're planning to expose the Subaru Sti in a bigger way this coming year.

STi Interior Taking Shape

2007-03-05T21:58:00.000-08:00

CustomEiss has completed the seats for the STi and delivered them to P&P Car Sound Specialists. Covers have also been made to protect the leather seats during the 12 month road show that the STi will embark on once completed.

The seats, which make up the bulk of the interior fabrication, are finally installed into the car - it's great to see it coming together!

The Defi gauge cluster has been fabricated in matching blue alcantara. Initially I had my doubts about this being out of place, but seeing the seats in car and noting that the sun visors will match, I'm feeling confident that a constant style, look and feel will flow comfortably through the cars interior.

Is it a Bird? Is it a Plane? No! It's a Chargespeed Wide Body Kit! And it's Landed at Creative Rides!

2007-03-02T05:16:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to get a call from Bryce Roberts at Creative Rides to say that the Chargespeed Wide Body Kit had arrived and cleared customs without any delays. I immediately made my way to the importer, Creative Rides, to unpack and take a closer look at the parts that were sponsored to us by Chargespeed in Japan.

We gathered the five large boxes into an area in the Creative Rides warehouse, unpacked them and layed out all the parts of the 18-piece wide body kit on the workshop floor. We were in awe!

The first parts were the front fender replacements. Almost two inches wider on either side, these are going to give the STi its mean aggressive look! See the hole for the side indicators.

Next we found the rear door add-on panels. These have a lovely line running across them into a 'fake' vent where the new hidden rear door handles will be.

The door panels flair out to meet these widened rear fenders. The original Subaru rear wheel arches will need to be cut out in order to fit this part and make room for the large wheels.

The carbon fiber boot lid was next - it has the best carbon weave I have personally seen. The rear bumper is laid behind that and features a beautiful carbon fiber diffuser at the bottom that will hug the exhaust pipe. At the very back is the new wing which was produced shorter than the standard wing - it is made of an FRP base with a carbon fiber wing top. Its extended base positions the wing against the very rear of the boot lid so that it overhangs and protrudes off the back of the Subaru in a "GT" style.

The Chargespeed Wide Body Kit parts will remain at Creative Rides, sealed in their protective packaging until the STi is back in JHB and ready for pre-fitting, spraying and fitment. I will post more images of the products when they are fully unpacked.

Subaru Audio and Multimedia Progress

2007-03-02T00:19:00.000-08:00

P&P Car Sound Specialists have completed running the power, mulitmedia and audio wiring in the Subaru. Here PJ strips the Subaru passanger sun visor so that he can position the Audiovox LCD screen on to it.

Once PJ has set the Audiovox screen/mirror/light combo in place he strips the driver-side visor too. Both parts will be sent to CustomEiss for fabriaction and upholstry to match the rest of the interior.

Richard fits the Audiovox navigation/rear-view camera mirror into place and tests the system works. The small camera will only be fitted when the car is back in JHB as it needs to be moulded into the new rear bumper of the Subaru.

PJ positions and mounts the Audiovox DVD player into the glove compartment so that the front passanger has easy access for changing disks. The DVD player will be viewable on any of the Audiovox screens in the Subaru thanks to the Audiovox audio/video switching unit.

Barney continues to work on the boot panels which will make up the Rockford Fosgate woofer enclosure as well as the housing for the Lightning Audio amplifiers, capacitor and RF 3Sixty processor. Barney's task is complex as he needs to consider access to the spare wheel as well as the water bottle for the Subaru intercooler spray.

Aquamist Gives the Subaru a Safety Injection

2007-03-01T05:10:00.000-08:00

Most people have heard of Aquamist, but few know what it actually does. The South African agents, Guru Performance Parts, were kind enough to deliver the unit that will be fitted in the Subaru STi to my office today.

The main function of Aquamist is to suppress detonation caused by high temperature and pressure developed within the combustion chamber when the effective compression ratio has been taken beyond the auto-ignition point by either a turbo or a supercharger - phew!

Basically, water (when pumped through the above Aquamist Injection System) has a high latent heat content - this is extremely effective for controlling not only the onset of detonation but also the production of oxides of nitrogen in modern day engines.

Water injection will not increase the power normally. But in countries like South Africa where the ambient temperature is very high, injecting water will lower the inlet charge temperature producing a small power increase.

In addition to the actual pump, the Aquamist Injection System has several other important components. A float switch is linked to an LED light through a relay to tell you when water is running low. Another light linked to the same relay indicates that the system is active. A pressure switch is mounted in the vehicles manifold and set to activate at a specific boost pressure. When the manifold boost pressure reaches the preset level, the relay activates the pump which sprays water into the intake of the motor. Tada!

Take a Seat

2007-02-27T07:02:00.000-08:00

The new one-of-a-kind seats for the Subaru have been completed by CustomEiss. As you can see they are stitched together perfectly using new leather fabrics. The CustomEiss logo is embedded into the head rests.

The door panels have arrived from P&P Car Sound Specialists for CustomEiss to begin fabricating. Panels of fabric are cut to size and the applied to the panels...

The first attempt looks great with the carbon-print leather along the top, alcantara in the centre and napa leather being used for the bulk area of the door.

Various designs will be made up so that the door panels and seats match each other - CustomEiss is aiming to have the full interior design following through the various components that are being altered.

Let us know what you think by adding your comments to this post!!!

Sewing the Seeds of the Subaru Interior

2007-02-23T04:46:00.000-08:00

CustomEiss cuts leather panels with close attention to detail as they enter the final stages of the interior upholstry of the Subaru.

The hand brake cover is wrapped in napa leather and the standard pink stitching is changed to a rich blue colour.

The gear knob is also hand finished to match the other interior components' new black and blue colour scheme.

CustomEiss have converted the steering wheel into a piece of art! The main portion is napa leather and the grip areas are wrapped precisely in carbon pattern leather. Stitching has been changed to blue and the addition of a rally-style-pointer at the twelve o'clock position makes this a one-of-a-kind product.

Materials for the seats are sprayed before they are applied to the seat frames and stitched into place.

The completed front seat cushion shows how CustomEiss has managed to convert a good looking standard seat into a great looking custom interior feature.

Detail shows the level of quality and attantion the STi is getting while in Port Elizabeth.

The arm rest between the two front seats is also custom fabricated so the black and blue theme runs throughout the entire interior of the car. The end result will leave people wondering "Why didn't the car come like this?!".

Custom Seats and Steering Wheel

2007-02-18T23:05:00.000-08:00

CustomEiss is working full speed ahead on the interior of the Subaru STi. Below you can see the first test fitment of the new steering wheel which now sports blue stitching and a blue rally style "pointer" in the twelve o'clock position.

Vincent developes the rear seat backrests of the vehicle by tracing shapes of leather from the original seats.

Drucilla sews the traced material cutouts together to form the back cushions of the vehicle.

The rear seats take shape and look distinctly different to the originals after they have been improved for cumfort.

Below is a close-up of the leather and detailed stitching that CustomEiss offers. Wow!

Bass Baby!

2007-02-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

The standard Subaru STi boot is fairly large and houses the spare wheel under the floor carpeting.

Richards team at P&P Car Sound Specialists need to custom build the boot in such a way to allow access to the spare wheel, rear light panels (for changing bulbs) and the tool kit.

The bass of the Rockford Fosgate sub woofer is mounted and a supawood mock-up enclosure is built to position the speaker in the vehicle for optimum sound.

For best effect, Richards team mounts the speaker so that it is facing into the Subarus cabin between the rear seats. Having the sub woofer fire in this manner will optimise the bass and allow P&P to custom build a visually appealing boot installation that doesn't intrude on functionality and practicality of the vehicle.

Custom Fitting Speakers

2007-02-18T22:10:00.000-08:00

In the past week, P&P has been pre-fitting the Rockford Fosgate 6.5 inch mid range speakers into the Subaru door panels before they make their way to CustomEiss for fabrication. First on the agenda is the removal of the door storage pocket which will remain plastic when the entire door panel is completed.

Richard decides that he would like the Rockford Fosgate mid range crossovers to be seen in the door panels - the devices are traced and the shapes are cut out.

The crossovers are pre-fitted in the door panels to make sure they fit correctly.

A custom spacer is built for the speakers that will be mounted in the rear door panels - this will ensure they are mounted flush with the panels.

The last step in fitting the speakers into the doors is building custom mounting rings.

These supawood rings fit inside the door panels creating a rigid structure to secure the speakers to.

This will eliminating the speakers from vibrating and rattling once they are mounted into the door panels.

Sound Steps to Getting Wired

2007-02-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

Kyle feeds the last of the speaker wire to the doors where the Rockford Fosgate mid range speakers and their crossovers will be housed.

The products are pre-fitted to make sure they fit firmly into the door panels without any rattles. Once completed, the panels will be sent to CustomEiss for leather upholstry and fabrication.

Richard from P&P Car Sound Specialists ticks off another step on his in-depth "to do" list. Now that the door panels have been finalised, Richards team can complete the remaining elements of the car in time for the arrival of the upholstered parts from CustomEiss.

The boot is measured for the custom installation that will house the Rockford Fosgate Woofer, Capacitor and 3Sixty Processor. The Lightning Audio amplifiers will also be incorporated into the boot which needs to be practically designed in order to allow access to the spare tyre.

Barney finalises the various power and speaker cables required for the components that will be placed in the boot of the Subaru.

CustomEissing the Scooby

2007-02-14T22:34:00.000-08:00

CustomEiss, in Port Elizabeth, begins fabricating the smaller items from the interior. The new gear knob, steering wheel and handbrake will all sport blue stitching and a mix of black leather fabrics.

Designers begin tracing leather shapes that will be used to replace the original STi seat panels.

The new leather panels are stitched together and lined up on the original seats.

A closer look reveals the high level of stitch quality that CustomEiss is delivering on the Castrol Edge Extreme Makeover.

Sound Deadening the Subaru

2007-02-08T12:10:00.000-08:00

Now that the Subaru has its interior fully stripped, the boys at P&P in Jeffreys Bay can begin working on the audio, multimedia and navigation systems.

Rockford Fosgate Power cables are run to areas where gadgetry will require electricity in the STi

Barney begins to "sound deaden" the Subaru doors on both the inner and outer metal skins. This effective processess will silence any panel vibrations in the car and also reduce exterior road and wind noise substantially.

Pump it Up!

2007-02-08T07:09:00.000-08:00

As the Extreme Auto Makeover Subaru will also be getting a tweak in the performance department, a few measures need to be taken to ensure the reliability of the car. NXGen has provided a Walbro fuel pump that needs to be fitted to the car before P&P completes the customised boot. Once performance parts are added and the car is tuned using the ECUTEK engine manegement software, the motor will require more fuel - the Walbro fuel pump upgrade will deliver this. Below is the stock fuel pump after it has been removed from the STi:

STi Interior Stripped and Redied for Upholstry

2007-02-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

Barney starts removing the STi seats from the Subaru. P&P and CustomEiss need to work very closely on the Subaru's interior so that this element of the Extreme Auto Makeover runs smoothly.

Once the seats are all removed, they are stripped of their standard covers for the next step...

...Customising!

Ray welds on a bracket that will secure the rear Audiovox screens to the front seat frame before Eissmann can begin upholstering.

After completing the bracket, P&P fabricates the standard STi seat 'holes' so that the screens can be mounted at the right height and angle for the people that will use them in the back of the car. Wiring for the screens audio, video and power are laid inside the seats.

Finally all the removable parts that will be upholstered including the seats, steering wheel, handbrake and gear knob are gathered together so they can be sent from P&P in Jeffreys Bay to CustomEiss in Port Elizabeth for completion.

P&P Gets Technical

2007-02-04T23:12:00.000-08:00

The ICE Map for the Extreme Auto Makeover Subaru shows the layout of the various audio, video and multimedia products being crammed in the vehicle by P&P. Never before has a such a complex array of equipment been used in this manner.

The last of the audio products finally arrived at P&P in Jeffreys Bay. The vehicle is now well underway to become South Africas hottest STi ever built in SA.

Here Richard (Scuba Master) begins to design the enclosure for the Rockford Fosgate Woofer that will go into the car. Many sound installers simply drop a sub into a box without considering the necessary technical specifications required for optimum performance and sound quality.

The STi Gets Exciting Defi Instruments

2007-02-01T22:17:00.000-08:00

"Defi" a French word meaning "Challenge" is the selected brand of instruments and gauges being used in the Castrol Extreme Auto Makeover. Regarded as the best in the business, Defi gauges are perfectly suited for the Subaru in that they illuminate in the same amber colour as the rest of the gauges and also do the "opening ceremony" when ignition is turned on - all the dials in the vehicle jump to their highest setting and back down again.

The Subaru dash will also play host to the Defi Triple Meter Hood which is designed specifically for the Subaru Impreza model. This part will be upholstered by Eissmann in Port Elizabeth and will house gauges for Turbo Boost, Oil Temperature & Exhaust Temperature.

Taking Apart the Subaru STi

2007-01-30T22:09:00.000-08:00

Less than a week after meeting with Richard from P&P, the STi is showing signs of progress in Jeffreys Bay. The front and rear door panels have been removed to begin building the custom panels for the Rockford Fosgate speakers:

The rear seats and boot linings are removed to begin the custom housing for the XBox and the boot installation where the Lightning Audio Amplifiers, Rockford Capacitor and Rockford 3SIXTY will be displayed.

Sound Advice from P&P J-Bay

2007-01-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

At lunch time today we met Richard from P&P Jeffreys Bay. His new branch has taken the renowned P&P name national - for those who don't know, they are probably the top Rockford Fosgate & Lightning Audio fitment centre in South Africa.

This is where the STi will have it's gaming, multimedia & audio systems custom fitted. Richards workshop is situated a mere 80km from Eissmann which will make co-ordinating the interior more streamlined.

Lightning Audio amplifiers that illuminate blue will be used to power a full range of Rockford Fosgate speakers including a massive woofer in the boot and two sets of splits in the front and rear doors.

The new Rockford Fosgate 3SIXTY signal processor will also be used in the car to enhance the sound system. You'll need to come back here in a couple of days to discover what other gadgetry will be crammed into this STi, making it the most advanced audio-visual Subaru in South Africa.

Inside the STi - What are the Plans?

2007-01-25T10:20:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day at the coast! In the morning we visited CustomEiss Auto Leather Design, who will be designing and upholstering the interior of the STi. We sat with Irene and Brian who presented us with a catalogue of very expensive materials that are available from CustomEiss in a wide range of colours.

After a tour of their incredible factory, that prepares OEM parts for Mercedes and VW's (to name a few), we took a look at the car to discuss the style and end result we're seeking from the project.

It was a unanimous decision that we work in three different materials, namely: black "carbon-fiber pressed" leather, deep blue alcantara and black napa leather. Stitching would be blue to highlight certain areas of the interior too.

The First Great Trek

2007-01-24T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today we drove the new STi down to Port Elizabeth with the XBox in the boot. We're here to meet with two partners in the project that will be handling the interior customising of the car.

The trip was great with very little traffic. We stopped off a few times at BP to top up with fuel and made it here in under 9 hours.

Collecting the Project Car at Subaru Bruma

2007-01-19T04:32:00.000-08:00

Today we got the much awaited call from Subaru Bruma... "The car is ready for you to collect!". We immediately dropped everything and headed over to the dealership...

The car was waiting in the very front of the showroom for us when we arrived:

We had to sign a few papers, organise insurance and run through a few finer details before we could take the vehicle away for the project. It was great commenting to the staff that they wouldn't recognise the car in a months time when the project nears completion. There was alot of excitement!

Isn't she beautiful!

The Subaru Gets a Gift from Microsoft

2007-01-18T23:07:00.000-08:00

It's about time we reveal what plans we have for the Subaru. Today a package arrived at our offices...

From this post I'm sure you can gather that the car will be fitted with an XBOX360 - the most advanced gaming console available in the world.

This great device will be fitted in the rear of the car and features wireless controllers for the passangers to use. Visit the site again to see what other technology we'll be cramming into the car!

2007 Saxon Firestorm Chopper

2007-01-12T04:47:00.000-08:00

The Saxon Firestorm in it's standard form is on badd ass bike. Here it is at South Side Choppers where it arrived a few days ago:

Before anything, the bike is immediately stripped for customising. The end result is not yet clear, but ideas for the bikes ultimate look are flowing wildly. Below you can see the motor, front suspension and starter:

The wheels are removed, along with the braking systems. These will be replaced with something very special, but I'll save that for next week once it's confirmed. You will be shocked!

The huggers, fuel tank and rear frame are prepared to be taken away. These original items will actually be used as moulds for a new material that we're going to use on the bike.

We've decided to use the Castrol Power One colours for the scheme, namely red, geen and gold, but a design is still unconfirmed. House of Colour - probably the best paint supplier in the world is suppliying the candy and flake colours through their local agent, Creative Rides.

The desembled parts were loaded up and taken away to a secret location for customising and replacement materials More later...

2007 Subaru WRX STi to be used in the Xtreme Auto Makeover

2007-01-12T00:30:00.000-08:00

After about three months of planning and conceptualising it was decided that we would use the new Subaru WRX STi in the next Xtreme Auto Makeover. It was imparative that the selected vehicle matched and topped the appeal of the Nissan 350Z - a tall order if you ask me!

Castrol, the title sponsor of the first XAM signed up again to take part in the project. Subaru South Africa, who is launching a national production car racing team this year has also joined the initiative.

The car was ordered this week and will most likely arrive on Wednesday next week from Subaru Bruma after its pre delivery inspection (PDI). We opted to go with a Premium Silver model so we could get a great contrast between the air vents, wheels and carbon fiber parts we plan to use on the vehicles body.

The vehicle represents the pinnacle of Subaru performance, the Impreza WRX STI's Subaru Boxer Engine generates 206 kW of power at 5 600 r/min and 392 Nm of torque at 4 000 r/min combining incredible performance with the positive control and handling of the Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Welcome to the Castrol Xtreme Auto Makeover 2007

2007-01-11T23:44:00.000-08:00

For those who don't know about the XAM (Xtreme Auto Makeover), this post will fill you in on what it is, how it came about, who's involved and where it is going in the future.

About the Xtreme Auto Makeover

The XAM project was conceptualised in 2006 by AEC Exhibitions CC, a South African-based events company which owns the Xtreme Auto Show - The Largest Aftermarket and Performance Motor Show in the region. At the time, AEC was rolling out their CHROME Benefit Card which offered members non-conditional motoring and lifestyle benefits. The XAM had three main objectives when it was launched:

1. To encourage membership to CHROME by offering a vehicle that one lucky person would ultimately win.
2. To demonstrate to the public the abilities and availability of aftermarket products and services in South Africa
3. To promote the Xtreme Auto Show

2006 Nissan 350Z

The vehicle used in 2006 was a Nissan 350Z. The car was modified in every respect including performance, audio, mutimedia, aestetics & handling - an all round practical yet unique motor vehicle.

The build process was televised and published in the weeks leading up to the Xtreme Auto Show and thereafter the 350Z was taken on a national road show to promote the CHROME Card.

Finally in November, the lucky draw took place and a CHROME Card holder named Andy drove off in his new custom Nissan 350Z.

2007 Subaru STi

This year the XAM vehicle will be the ever popular Subaru STi.

This blog will be an informal journal of the project and will include all the steps we take, the problems we encounter and the excitement behind the scenes as we race time to have the vehicle ready by the deadline.

As the coming weeks pass we will reveal the various partners and plans we have in store for the car and you will see it take shape.

2007 Saxon Firestorm Chopper

This time round, we're including a custom chopper in the XAS. It will be a 1600cc imported bike from South Side Choppers on Corlett Drive. You may be asking yourself "How can you customise a custom chopper?!" - well, look out because you're about to witness something absolutely world class and unique!

Your fredback and comments are encouraged. Enjoy!