I never really appreciated the effort that went into blocking with a paint job because I had picked the best colour for body panels. Jackie was adamant that he wanted this car to be perfectly straight; I even started to lose track of the process, with the Trueno being blocked, spray-filled and then blocked again. Throughout the process, Jackie remained consistent with enthusiasm and attention to detail; most of the time, standing back and admiring his commitment, even after a full day of misery at work, was incredible. It’s been inspiring, and I’ve aimed to keep that mindset in my life as we advance. He wants to do the best he can all the time regarding his craft.
Here are the photos leading up to painting the car. We tried to get the best finish possible because, as I’ve learned, it’s all in the prep.
We unravel a story about an AE86 part while prepping the Trueno for paint.
The Honda Accord Type R was such a blast to bring on track; leading up to the event, we thought the car would tear itself apart on track, but to our surprise, it was perfect; the only letdown was how soft the springs were. We fitted a new clutch and the Max Peeding free coilovers, some sticky used tyres and used brake pads, and a seat and off we went. We added that BTCC-style wing, too, which gave the car a budget touring look. Overall, this was a great success. I’ve thrown some photos from the shoot we did with it and pictures from the event at Mondello, organised by the Hiro racing lads. Top craic!
We take the Crusty Accord CH1 Type R to a Hiro Racing Honda Track day and see if it can survive the punishment.
The TRD wing idea worked out perfectly; it all spawned from having Barry over to gap the panels before we permanently added the hinges and how we would try to make the TRD wing look like it was added from the factory, bonding it on to make the perfect fit was exceptional. These photos are from the excellent weather we had in June last year. It killed me driving up and down to Jdmdistro and then on to work on this, but looking back, Im delighted I committed to the mission; it is all the little things that take forever, but as always, I trusted the process with Barry and Jackie who were always enthusiastic about things related to this car.
Enjoy some photos from that month: Tip led, filling the gaps on the roof, collecting the Goodline bumper and painting the hinges, figuring out the perfect fit for the wing, and Dylan’s virgin S13 purchase; this was a good month!
We get carried away trying to create the perfect TRD wing for the back of the AE86 and Barry Gaps the 86.
Getting gifted a sim rig was such a surreal experience. We use it heavily in the shed at least once daily as we walk past to avoid a task altogether. Honestly, I can’t thank Laurence enough for giving this to us. It’s given us something cool to do when we get fed up with the real thing.
It’s ridiculous that he delivered this in his S13; we are forever in his debt for sorting us out with this. What a lovely moment this was!
Here are a few shots from the RC drift black hole we fell into in January 2023. It escalated, and I’ve loads more to show over the coming months on the channel. Bringing old shells back from the dead and building new cars is all good fun.
The quarter panel repair was one of the most deflating parts of the 86 build. I knew I was in great hands with the lads, but it felt like a massive step back; we had got the car into the primer, and progress was chugging along, but it was utterly overwhelming to see the entire side of the vehicle hacked off. As much as it bummed me out knowing this needed tackling, I didn’t let it get to me.
The AE86 progress takes a step backwards as we replace the rear 1/4 panel.
We check out a Polonez AE86, a Polish car built like a Japanese Corolla and Adam from Nightrides Garage. Happy New Year, everyone!
Here is a little photo dump from our Nightride trip in December. This was a random mission, but it was such a blast. Seeing the Nightride set up and hanging out with the guys for a few days was incredible. It was nice to see a different perspective on things. The journey was a mission and a half, and the Essen Motor Show was a little treat. I made new friends out of this and memories that will last forever. I can’t wait to return to Poland. Im sure you have all seen the video, so I’ll let this little photo dump do the rest.