Mark's MX-5 Build

[Nismo1982]

After spending some time getting the man cave in order and treating myself to some new tools I eventually got started on the build.

Build table's first load test thanks to Nismo the cat...


Finally level and ready to go:


All marked up and blocks in place:

[Nismo1982]

I had planned to wait until the chassis was complete before getting a donor car...but thought I would keep an eye on the local ads anyway just in case. Eventually spotted a little beauty only a few miles away so went along for a look and a test drive. A short while later it was back in my driveway!




I had to wash it when I got it home as it had been a bit neglected over the winter...now it looks great. It's a 1.8 Eunos and had failed its MOT on rotten sills but had no other issues. Engine & box seemed strong so I will hopefully just be able to chuck it straight in the roadster when I'm ready. Longer term plan after IVA will be to rebuild it and stick on a wee turbo.

[Nismo1982]

Steel arrived and I got cracking on with the base rails:





The Rage3s mitre saw I am using works a treat - great for cutting the angles with its laser marker. I had great fun laying the base rails and got them all down in one afternoon.





That's me up to date now. I have not done anything for the last 2 weekends as I am waiting on welding gas but also had to make sure I spend some time with the girlfriend - need to keep her on side!
We are out for the whole afternoon today but tomorrow = build day!!!

Will be aiming to get the front frame done, all the base rails tacked up and maybe started on the uprights.

Cheers

Mark

[ayjay]

Looking good
Keep the pics coming

[Dualist]

Thats a nice donor, shame to pull it apart. Good strong table too.
And most important of all quick access to kitchen.. and fridge.. and beer

[Nismo1982]

Yes it does look a good donor in the pics but it really is quite rotten underneath and had many attempts to fix / hide it by the looks of things.

Got in the garage on Sunday to have a couple of attempts at the front frame! Nice wee pile of scrap metal starting now. Think I'm happy with the 2nd attempt as it fitted back into the jig after being fully welded (a tad too hot as well I think!). Got all the base rails tacked up and the uprights started as well so quite a productive Sunday afternoon.

[thailoz]

keep up the good work

[Nismo1982]

Had a few days work on the chassis since my last post. Loving seeing it take shape now! Just wish I could get more time in the garage. After summer hols I will get some time off work to push things on a bit!

[Nismo1982]

[Oscar]

Very nice, taking shape quickly!
You made sure it'll get out of the door before you go too far