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Don't expect any rapid progress on this build. I am only in the Collecting Parts phase. This is a 59 Model that, at some point, was converted into some sort of Golf Cart. Originally, the car was equipped with a 15 Hp Fiat engine, which is long gone. As is the transaxle, the floor and most of the glass. A previous owner cut out the rusty steel floor and installed a flat aluminum structure which was then screwed and riveted to the rusty rocker panels and various other rusty spots. A Cushman Truckster rear axle was then bolted directly (no suspension) to the underside of the car. The front brakes were disconnected and the master cylinder removed. An aluminum threaded rod was attached to the brake pedal which was then run under the drivers boat seat and on to the parking brake mechanism of the cushman rear end. Since the rear axle is far too narrow to fit properly, some adaptors were made to space the wheels out.
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Complete with gate hinges on the deck lid
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It does not appear that the car ever ran in its present configuration as there is no evidence that any sort of motor was installed.
My plan, which of course is subject to change, is to use narrowed Miata subframes with stock Miata suspension connected by a tube frame and powered by a Hayabusa or similar engine. I have not decided on whether to use a differential with the motor turned sideways or a chain with the motor in its normal position. There is sufficient space for both. I am inclined to go with the chain drive as I am going to try to keep the weight under 1400 lbs. The chain drive would be set up as a spool (less civilized but lighter and cheaper) or with an enclosed Limited Slip Differential. The aftermarket lsd's that I have found are pricey, so I am looking at some junkyard pieces that can be modified to hold oil without the carrier. If any of you have performed this modification, I would like to hear about your experiences. The subframes will need to be narrowed about ten inches and likely be trimmed significantly after the tube frame is in place for additional weight savings. I picked up complete subframes and suspension/brakes along with 4 steel wheels/tires and a mini spare yesterday and carted them home in the back of my Scion xB along with a floor jack, 4 jackstands and tools
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I plan to use an electric reverse, similar to the one that I have on my V8 Daihatsu Hijet Videos Here GRM Thread Here which uses a flexplate and starter from a late model Ford Taurus. It was affordable, works very well and has been very reliable. I also plan to use the original hubcaps from the Daihatsu which I plan to adapt to the steel Miata wheels for a retro / sleeper look with short side wall tires to maintain stock overall tire diameter
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The right rear suspension from the donor car was damaged so the seller supplied the extra parts needed as part of the sale.
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Here are the replacement parts. A little crusty but still good
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I have also accumulated a new windshield, rubber gasket, a new cloth top and various reproduction chrome trim pieces. Currently in search of a wrecked superbike for the donor drivetrain.
