Project Bionic Banana

[NMRA Jason]

It needs a name. And a better picture, but this one will suffice for now.

http://usera.imagecave.com/ownedbyhunter/99_GT/P8179777.JPG

Plan? I'd like to see it be a streetable, naturally aspirated, mid eleven second car. Bassani exhaust, SCT Xcal2 tune by Modular Depot, and UPR cold air intake is all we've done so far.

There are 4.30's in the trunk waiting to be installed, along with a custom valve body on the way. Converter to be determined shortly, probably a custom-built B&M unit, running through the stock 4R70W. Later this spring we'll be installing a set of Fox Lake CNC'd 2V heads, a P51 intake, Fox Lake cams, and Jesel roller followers with solid lash adusters. Tuning source to be determined soon, as I'm not sure I can get the car back to Modular Depot to have Bjonnes the Wizard fix me up, and I think it will be too temperamental to do through the mail.

Open to other suggestions, too!

Big bore kit? Stroker? Sticking with the 4.6 block, there won't be a 5.4 going in this pup.

Thoughts are appreciated.

[powerjames]

how about project "slower than project holysh@&"

ha ha!!

I vote big bore/na 4.6L, run low 11's streetable..

JL

[NMRA Jason]

how about project "slower than project holysh@&"

Is that a challenge, boss? :)

[powerjames]

naw, i know better than to talk any real crap :P

[Bill Wolf]

We shall call her ... " THE BIONIC BANANA " .:D

[NMRA Jason]

We shall call her ... " THE BIONIC BANANA " :D

Not bad, Bill. I like it. We shall now christen her "The Bionic Banana."

naw, i know better than to talk any real crap :P

You chicken? I have a nice can of whoopass I'd like to open on you....:D

[powerjames]

You chicken? I have a nice can of whoopass I'd like to open on you....:D

LOL, you're not the only one.

JL

[NMRA Jason]

I guess you're not up for the challenge....;)

[powerjames]

I've got an idea..

How about "Yellow Snail"

I've even got a nice clip art you can use!

http://www.teninchterror.com/iimages/landyellow.JPG

[NMRA Jason]

I've got an idea..

How about "Yellow Snail"

I've even got a nice clip art you can use!

http://www.teninchterror.com/iimages/landyellow.JPG

Now now, Jimmy. Are you SURE that's a can of worms you want to open? Is the challenge accepted?

[Dr. Jamie Meyer]

How about "The Pile That Broke Down in Cinci".

Or, Project AAA for short. lol

Jamie

[NMRA Jason]

See, now that's just not right. LOL

[qwiktim]

How about project "Is that the car Tim's been building but with different wheels"?

Or is that name too long? :rolleyes:

[NMRA Digital]

How about "Looks like the car that Tim's been building just 3 seconds slower and freqently breaks down"

Is that too long?

[NMRA Jason]

Damn....the thing "broke down" ONE time. Even though it was "broken" it STILL drove from Carlisle, PA to Cinci on seven cylinders...that's 452 miles.

Dedication? Stupidity? Either way.....it's the epitome of a daily driver.

[qwiktim]

Just go ahead and call it "Ol Yeller".............. that way you always have a excuse to shoot it when it acts up........

:eek:

[ET/MPH]

How About "warranty Void"
Just An Idea?

[Blown9150]

Jason, I think Kauffman Motorsports can get you fixed up with the tune. Dave is a great guy. Give me a yell if you need a number.

George

[SwillRacer]

We shall call her ... " THE BIONIC BANANA " .:D

Jason's wife has one of those, but it ain't a car!!!

DOH!!!

Just playin man!!:D

[NMRA Jason]

Nice, Lovell.

I'm going to be giving Kauffman a call when I'm ready, George...

I was actually thinking of calling the car Project Wife Swap, since it was her car originally....

Thoughts?

[SwillRacer]

I love you Reiss.

[TEI]

I vote big bore/na 4.6L, run low 11's streetable..

JL


I have one of those. Just in a better shade of yella.

[NMRA Jason]

So talk James into getting me that big bore setup, John...

[TEI]

So talk James into getting me that big bore setup, John...

Sure - 4.0L V6 the newest NMRA approved Modular engine.:rolleyes:

[kanepsycho]

The V6 4.0L twin turbo powerplant would be different with either a T56 or the OD automatic tranny.
Then that car can really be "Peepee in the Wind." Spray some pearl on top of the yellow.

[NMRA Jason]

The Banana has been for its maiden voyage down the dragstrip. Two Saturdays ago, I went to Cecil County for a test'n'tune day.

13.57@100.47 mph, 1.90 60'. Mods at the time were a Bassani catback (www.bassani.com), Bassani OR X-pipe, 4.30's, an Ultimate Converter Concepts (www.ultimateconverter.com) Lockup Converter from Lenny, a custom valve body from Darrin at BC Automotive (www.bc-automotive.com) and a set of 275/40/17 Mickey Thompson ET Street Radials (www.mickeythompsontires.com). Remember that the driver has not been down a dragstrip since 1999. With more seat time, car probably would have gone faster, but time limitations prevented that.

Since then, we've installed a full Fox Lake Power Pack (www.foxlakeracing.com) (heads, camshafts, P-51 intake) along with a set of Hooker longtube headers (ilovemyhookerheaders.com) and X-pipe, all work was done at Mike Dez Racing (www.dezracing.com) in Seekonk, Massachusetts. Other supporting gear was also installed at the same time (an Anderson Power Pipe (www.andersonfordmotorsport.com), SCT BA2400 (www.sctflash.com) mass air sensor, Accufab throttle body (www.accufabracing.com), etc.).

Looking to get back to the track in the next week or so, stay tuned for some new times.

[NMRA Jason]

After lots of testing and more dyno time at PSI Motorsports (www.psimotorsportsinc.com) in Whitehall, PA, the Banana is good for a whopping seven tenths decrease in ET, while gaining 6 mph. It runs like a bracket car. Between 12.83 and 12.93 no matter what the track or weather conditions.

So...with that in mind, check out the NMRA results all weekend long. My local tuner, Matt Hill of Matt Hill Motorsports (www.matthillmotorsports.com) will be racing the car in competition this weekend in NMRA's Vortech Modular Muscle class in Atco, NJ.

This is the very first time a Race Pages staffer's vehicle will make a pass down the quarter mile at an NMRA event.

[NMRA Jason]

Here's a pic of Matt racing it at Atco, where he went out in the second round to Don Bowles.

http://usera.imagecave.com/ownedbyhunter/99_GT/IMG_8941.JPG

After a few months of not doing anything to the Banana, last week I installed a set of the new Granatelli Motorsports (www.granatellimotorsports.com) 2V coil-packs. JR Granatelli was kind enough to donate them to me for the project, and with them (and no additional tuning, I have finally broken the 300 rwhp barrier (all the way up to 306), with an 11 rwhp gain, and expect to go much faster my next time at the track, later on this month. Read below to see why...

I'm installing a new mild steel k-member and Fox Body a-arms, courtesy of Jason Smith at PA Racing (www.paracing.com), lighter wheels from Rich at Bogart Racing Wheels (www.bogartracingwheels.com), new, lighter driveshaft from Ford Racing Performance Parts (http://www.fordracingparts.com/home/home.asp), new, lighter, aluminum-bodied double-adjustable shocks and struts from QA1 (www.qa1.net), new solid engine mounts from Lou at Laurel Mountain Mustang (www.laurelmountainmustang.com), and a set of much more track-friendly 275/60/15 ET Street Radials from Mickey Thompson (www.mickeythompsontires.com). Frank Soldridge from PSI Motorsports (www.psimotorsportsinc.com) will be performing the mechanical work, and we're going to do a little bit of dyno tuning on the PSI dyno again with Matt Hill of Matt Hill Motorsports (www.matthillmotorsports.com) before we head back to the track to see what kinds of gains we pick up from having more power and a suspension that works.

We're expecting to subtract somewhere in the neighborhood of 175-200 pounds from the heft of the Banana, which weighed in at 3550 pounds earlier this season at Atco. Over 100 of that will be in rotating weight, so I'm thinking 12.10's or .20's will be possible with the additional power and lighter weight. The 60' times should improve markedly as well from our previous 1.84's.....Stay tuned!

[kanepsycho]

Wow! You guys busy. Last post of this is over a year ago. I saw the article on this car so what is really happening Jason?

[NMRA Jason]

It's been forever since I've updated this, but that's because I haven't had the Banana in my possession since July.

It's down at Rhodes Custom Auto (www.rhodescustomauto.com) in Delaware. Spence Hart (former DR racer and chassis tuning guru) did a couple things in an effort to make the chassis work better. While the car was there, we came up with a paint and body project to better reflect what's in store for the future of the Banana. It will be receiving an '03 Cobra nose, courtesy of Dallas Mustang (www.dallasmustang.com), a Skinny Kid Race Cars (www.skinnykidracecars.com) sheetmetal wing, painted body color, and a TruFiber (www.trufiber.com) 3" cowl hood. This will be showcased in an upcoming issue of Race Pages.

In addition, something new just showed up at the ProMedia offices for use in the Banana. I'll post a picture of it below, and let you be the judge. All I'll say is...something wicked this way comes. :D More details to follow as they are ironed out. Let's see just how fast we can make this 2V go!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Junk/block.jpg

[Gumby]

Is that one of those mountain motor blocks? :confused:

[NMRA Jason]

Nope. We'll be staying modular...

[Gumby]

Modular like my house?

[NMRAPaul]

Modular like my house?

Is that anything like "manufactured housing," also known in Tornado Alley as a "helicrate"?

[Gumby]

LOL, at least it's a double wide.

[NMRAPaul]

LOL, at least it's a double wide.

We'll inscribe that on your tombstone if you should fall victim to mobicide. :p

[LEON PRINCE]

didnt eddie hill call his car the nuclear bananna

[NMRA Jason]

Just a tease of an article you'll see soon...

http://208.122.20.134/filehost/files/16/P2040361.JPG

[Dave Zimmerman]

Update??

[NMRA Jason]

Coming soon, Dave. ;)

[NMRA Jason]

Here's another teaser. I'll be picking the car up from Rhodes next week sometime, but Spence was kind enough to pass this on to me. The article will appear in the July issue of Race Pages, to be followed most likely monthly with new articles as we turn up the wick with new and exciting things. Stay tuned...I'll be updating this much more often as things progress.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/private/P3200489.jpg

[NMRA Jason]

I've been lax in updating this, so here's a couple of teaser photos.

Many of you may have seen the article on the paint, so here's a full-size shot of that, done by Rhodes Custom Auto Works in Townsend, DE.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/private/IMG_1293.jpg

The car is currently at Team Z Motorsports (www.teamzmotorsports.net) up in Flat Rock, Michigan, where it will undergo the majority of the work to come, including a 25.5 chassis, and new 9" Rear from Strange Engineering (www.strangeengineering.net). No pics of that yet, but I should have some shortly.

And this arrived today from TCI (www.tciauto.com). The transmission itself is in the big box. :D Shooting for this car to be the fastest Magazine project Mustang ever.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Junk/IMG_0263.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Junk/IMG_0260.jpg

[96SOHC]

Nice! What stall is it? I know it could vary based on power, but what was it spec'd for?

[NMRA Jason]

Now I can't go telling you everything just yet, that would leave nothing for the magazine, Jeff! Let's say it'll work just fine with what's to come. :D

[Pwraddr]

Now I can't go telling you everything just yet, that would leave nothing for the magazine, Jeff! Let's say it'll work just fine with what's to come. :D

LOL...I won't tell anyone:D

Regards,
Keith

[96SOHC]

Now I can't go telling you everything just yet, that would leave nothing for the magazine, Jeff! Let's say it'll work just fine with what's to come. :D


OK, so the rumor I heard is true...it's a 500.27 stall converter!

[NMRA Jason]

Yet another piece of the puzzle arrived yesterday.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/private/IMG_3381.jpg

[NMRA Jason]

So I stopped by Team Z Motorsports (www.teamzmotorsports.net) today to see how Dave Zimmermann and the gang were coming along with the Bionic Banana. The Strange Engineering (www.strangeengineering.net) 9" rear is there already waiting for installation, and the old rear is now out of the car, along with the exhaust and all of the rear suspension and gas tank.

Old Rear...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3408.jpg

New Rear..

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3415.jpg

Old parts...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3419.jpg

His crew was hard at work, the complete interior is out of the car already, and they were beginning to cut on the chassis to start the 25.5 buildup. Here's a couple of quick photos, more to come in the coming weeks.

Cutting the floor for the subframe connectors...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3487.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3488.jpg

Stay tuned for other parts of the buildup to appear shortly.

[NMRA Jason]

Dave and the gang at Team Z Motorsports (www.teamzmotorsports.net) are hard at work.

Here's a few more random shots of the work in progress...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/DSC02155.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/DSC02151.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/DSC02156.jpg

Also, Ben Mens and Ron Sharp, along with Leo and the rest of the gang at Roush Competition Engines [734-779-7331] are hard at work getting the shortblock together. Thanks to Jesse Kershaw at Ford Racing Performance Parts (www.fordracingparts.com), the people at Diamond Pistons (www.diamondpistons.net), Cindy at Carrillo (www.carrillo.com), Al and Gregg at Trick Flow (www.trickflow.com), Big Bob at Jesel Valvetrain (www.jeselonline.com), Chris Douglas at Comp Cams (www.compcams.com), Edelbrock (www.edelbrock.com), Billy Carroll at Wilson Manifolds (www.wilsonmanifolds.com), Don at Meziere (www.meziere.com), Ron Rotunno at Fel Pro (www.felpro.com),and Thor at Moroso (www.moroso.com) for supplying various engine parts and pieces.

[Redsnk95]

As always the welds just looks perfect.

[96SOHC]

You do realize you have a LARGE hole in your trunk...right? ;)

[NMRA Jason]

Yessir, I do. Should be able to show you what goes there shortly....and I'll have more update pictures tomorrow or Thursday.

[NMRAPaul]

Hint: It's NOT a solenoid...

[NMRA Jason]

Yet more cutting. Spent the day with Dave and Rob again today...

Bulletproof torque boxes...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3724.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3506.jpg

Cutting out the driver's side shock tower...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3590.jpg

An example of Rob's gorgeous welds...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3533.jpg

Rough-notching of the framerails...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3722.jpg

The finished product...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3624.jpg

Making sure the cuts in the floor are straight for the minitubs...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3728.jpg

Stay tuned for weekly Wednesday updates, more often if time will allow. We're on a tight schedule to get this car done for a Bradenton 2009 debut, so things should start happening with the quickness...

[NMRA Jason]

Time for a new update...

Spent the day with the guys at Team Z (www.teamzmotorsports.net) again today. The minitubs are completely in and welded, the upper coil-over mount is in and welded, and the antiroll bar is welded between the framerails. We also trimmed all of the back seat plastic to fit around the wheeltubs. Enjoy these few photos.

Before...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_3884.jpg

Wheeltubs in and trimmed plastics...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4237.jpg

I think we'll be OK with tire clearance, don't you?

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4028.jpg

Welding in the shock crossbar...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4042.jpg

Shock crossbar after welding...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4231.jpg

Making sure the anti-roll bar is square before welding...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4107.jpg

We'll be installing carpet along with a rear-seat delete in the car once the cage is done. Next week's installment will include bending the main hoop and a bunch of other bars. Meanwhile, Ben Mens and Ron Sharp from Roush Competition Engines are hard at work on the engine combination. Photos on that to come soon...

[Ybuygm_9]

Jason,

looks good! Team z does nice work!

[Gumby]

Looking good!

[NMRA Jason]

Here's some engine porn for ya...

Thanks to Diamond Pistons (www.diamondracing.net), Carrillo Industries (www.carrilloind.com), and Ford Racing Parts (www.fordracingparts.com) for stepping up to support our project..

Also, thanks to Ben Mens, Ron Sharp, and the rest of the gang over at Roush Competition Engines [734-779-7331] for the assembly help. This project is about to take a giant leap forward!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/ModularTurboAssembly1.jpg

[Thriller8]

looks nice. i'm jealous.

[NMRA Jason]

looks nice. i'm jealous.

Thanks!

Keep your eyes peeled both here and in Race Pages for updates.

In fact, I'll have a new chassis update tomorrow night.

[Thriller8]

When I am ready to have my chassis changed I'm bringing my car out there to Team Z. My front suspension is all from them.

How much does Team Z usually run for 25.5?

[NMRA Jason]

When I am ready to have my chassis changed I'm bringing my car out there to Team Z. My front suspension is all from them.

How much does Team Z usually run for 25.5?

You're probably better off calling Dave. I'd assume everyone has a different price depending on options, etc.

[Thriller8]

Yeah, I won't be ready to get that done for quite some time. I was just looking for a figure.

[NMRA Jason]

http://www.teamzmotorsports.net/specials.html

They don't list a 25.5 on there, but Dave follows this thread. Perhaps he'll come in and say...

[Thriller8]

Yeah I've seen him on here quite often.

[stroked 85]

Looks good Jason. You are going to have to have an article wrote about you and the car in Race Pages, in the under construction area. Either way it looks killer.

[NMRA Jason]

Looks good Jason. You are going to have to have an article wrote about you and the car in Race Pages, in the under construction area. Either way it looks killer.

Actually, that article (the first of many) will be in the December issue. Then after that we'll be continuing on with all of the different facets of the build.

[ChargedUp!]

Thanks!

Keep your eyes peeled both here and in Race Pages for updates.

In fact, I'll have a new chassis update tomorrow night.

So where's the chassis update? :)

[NMRA Jason]

I was there on Wednesday, but Dave was pretty busy with another project, so we didn't get a ton done. I'm going back there at 10AM tomorrow, so I'll have a larger assortment of photos sometime over the weekend. Here's what we did on Wednesday.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4291.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4297.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4317.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4341.jpg

[ChargedUp!]

Nicely done! I look forward to more updates.

[NMRA Jason]

Dave only hires guys that can weld as good or better than he can.

More updates from Saturday...all of the bars are fit save for the 2B bars and the FC halo. That should be done later this week. Then it's time to start getting the wiring under control, which will be handled by Tom from Loose Ends Wiring.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4510.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4514.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4405.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4418.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4422.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4448.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4480.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4497.jpg

[ChargedUp!]

Why's the bar swoop down behind the seats rather than go straight across?

[NMRA Jason]

The SFI spec does not require it to go straight across. Dave builds all of his cars this way to maximize room inside the car for intercooler piping, I believe. Once the funny car portion of the cage is added, there's plenty of strength there anyway.

[NMRA Jason]

More parts arrived today...thanks to Brett Clow, Kyle Ficker and Steve Matusek at Aeromotive Inc. (www.aeromotiveinc.com)

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4525.jpg

[NMRA Jason]

A quick update from today....Rob spent the day working on the tin to cover where the rear seat was. I'll let the photos do the talking...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4530.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4540.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4544.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4546.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4563.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_4648.jpg

[NMRA Jason]

Wheels from Champion Wheels (http://www.cwibeadlock.com/DragWheels.htm) have shown up at the office. They'll get photographed with the next model, and then shipped out to me. These things are badass. Can't wait to see how they look on the car! I had Aaron (Fastest Street Car magazine Publisher) take the photos for me.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/1003081138.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/wheels.jpg

Will be back at Team Z sometime in the next few days. Looking forward to seeing what's been done since the last time I was there.

[Byrd Man]

That car really looks good. With all the obstacles. Definetly looks like Dave and Team Z are building a ship in a bottle.

[Thriller8]

Jason, will you be racing the whole series? or will someone else drive it? What about all the stuff you do for the NMRA during the event?

[NMRA Jason]

Nope, I won't. The plan right now is for Dave Z. to drive the car in the beginning. I don't have a competition license yet. Once the car is sorted out, I'll take it to some of the Milan races along with NMCA True Street.

[Thriller8]

Cool, sounds good.

[Bill Wolf]

We shall call her ... " THE BIONIC BANANA " .:D


Damn!! Headed towards three year's now. She really is going for BIONIC status.

Look's good Jason and prop's to Dave as well.

[NMRA Jason]

Damn!! Headed towards three year's now. She really is going for BIONIC status.

Look's good Jason and prop's to Dave as well.

Sometimes even a squirrel gets a nut, eh Bill? LOL

Here's a sneak peek of something that's 'in the mail'...

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_2364.jpg

[Doughty421]

Love those wheels.

[Stangfireman]

Love those wheels.

Wheels? I better go look again. I thought something else was in the mail. :D

[NMRA Jason]

Wheels? I better go look again. I thought something else was in the mail. :D

You could send the redhead too. It would match with the one already here. :D

[Stangfireman]

You could send the redhead too. It would match with the one already here. :D

I don't think your sun burnt head qualifies for a red head. LOL

[NMRA Jason]

I don't think your sun burnt head qualifies for a red head. LOL

I was talking about my girlfriend...

[Stangfireman]

I was talking about my girlfriend...

Post a picture so we can decide. :D

[NMRA Jason]

Nope. I already know...:p

[Rodeheaver]

that thing looks sick!!!

[NMRA Jason]

that thing looks sick!!!

Thanks!

Wait till tomorrow - I'll have a bunch of new photos to post. The cage is just done, and the tinwork should be installed as well.

[NMRA Jason]

Well, I was back at Team Z Motorsports (www.teamzmotorsports.net) today to shoot some photos of the latest work. Dave's been pretty busy building some new parts for Ford Racing, so we didn't get to spend as much time working on the Banana as we would have liked, but enjoy anyway! Next week we should be putting the rear suspension in the car along with the coil-overs.

Tinwork is completed. Just waiting on a fuel cell to finish off the trunk. Keep in mind that this car still has full Mach 460 sound and heat/AC/wipers.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5669.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5666.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5661.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5677.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5684.jpg

Funny car portion of the cage needs a few more bars on the door side to be complete, but Dave's left them out so far to facilitate working on the rest of the car. All of the other cage bars are in and complete.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5685.jpg

I also received this badass set of engine plates (with matching midplate) from Joey and Marvin Bridge at Bridge Racing (www.bridgeracing.com). Quality is second-to-none. Check them out - they've got a large assortment of Modular-specific parts.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5694.jpg

We also had Kip, a friend of one of the shop guys, start work on pulling the engine for us. It should be out of the car tomorrow so we can start to prepare for the new bullet.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_5682.jpg

[Donut]

Jeebus that cage is pretty.

Those engine plates are slick as well!

[Rodeheaver]

man...... I do cages at my shop but nothing that involved, what does something like that cost???

[NMRA Jason]

man...... I do cages at my shop but nothing that involved, what does something like that cost???

I *think* it's somewhere around $15k? You'd have to ask Dave, my deal is a bit different.

[NMRAPaul]

Hulkamania!!!

[Dave Zimmerman]

Hulkamania!!!

I laughed when I saw that too :D

[Larry Geddes]

Jason,

Is there a provision for a clutch pedal? Come on..................Three pedals baby.:p

[NMRA Jason]

Jason,

Is there a provision for a clutch pedal? Come on..................Three pedals baby.:p

I wish, but no. It's going to be enough of a handful to drive anyway...

[Rodeheaver]

any updates ??? i love to see this kinda stuff!!

[NMRA Jason]

Should have something soon. I'm planning on heading over there on Saturday.

[Rodeheaver]

is this going to be a 25.5 car??

[NMRA Jason]

The cage is already done, and yes, it's a 25.5.

[NMRA Jason]

Was out at the shop today.

Rearend is powdercoated and installed, along with the Strange double-adjustables.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6074.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6049.jpg

Fuel cell from Robert at Chiseled Performance (www.chiseledperformance.net) is in and mounted.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6056.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6057.jpg

Front suspension is in. Just waiting on brakes before we bolt everything up, slap some tires and the Champion Speed Star wheels (www.cwibeadlocks.com) onto the car. Then it's off to Tom Frayer at High Voltage Automotive for wiring and plumbing.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6032.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6059.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6060.jpg

Don't know if we're going to be ready for the original March timeline, but at this point my plan is to have it ready for the middle of the season if everything falls into place.

[Thriller8]

Fuel cell from Robert at Chiseled Performance (www.chiseledperformance.net) is in and mounted.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6056.jpg


I'm looking at the stand alone trans cooler from Chiseled Performance. By the way everything looks good, hope to see you at Atco.

[wilky]

wow thats one hell of a build. i thought you said this was going to be a 11sec street car?

[NMRA Jason]

wow thats one hell of a build. i thought you said this was going to be a 11sec street car?

That was a long time ago, in a land far, far away...

Look at the original date on that post. My, how things have changed....

[Redsnk95]

Looks badass Jason! Going to be a badass "street" car.

[amrquick]

Was out at the shop today.

Rearend is powdercoated and installed, along with the Strange double-adjustables.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6074.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6049.jpg

Fuel cell from Robert at Chiseled Performance (www.chiseledperformance.net) is in and mounted.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6056.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6057.jpg

Front suspension is in. Just waiting on brakes before we bolt everything up, slap some tires and the Champion Speed Star wheels (www.cwibeadlocks.com) onto the car. Then it's off to Tom Frayer at High Voltage Automotive for wiring and plumbing.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6032.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6059.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_6060.jpg

Don't know if we're going to be ready for the original March timeline, but at this point my plan is to have it ready for the middle of the season if everything falls into place.

Awsome!!! getting ready to get started on mine doing the exact same mini-tub and finishing the 25.5(just a few bars and the funny car cage) we did most of it last winter, of course mine wont be quite as pretty as Team Z's but none the less gotta make room for that 325 bfg under mine:eek::eek:A.A.

[Larry Geddes]

Jason,

The hotrod is looking good. One question............how BIG is the fuel cel?

[NMRA Jason]

I believe it worked out to be a 12-gallon, Larry. Remember....this is a street car! :D

[Bill Wolf]

Looks killer Jason. Love the wheels too, very BAD ASS!

[NUTTSGT]

Car looks good, but clean that mud/dirt off the quarter panel.

[NMRA Jason]

Shortblock is together. :D

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/private/IMG_6718.jpg

[Dave Zimmerman]

Sweet! I cant wait to drive it:eek:

[speedfreak87]

Sweet! I cant wait to drive it:eek:

I called dibs a long time ago.. lol!

[NMRA Jason]

I called dibs a long time ago.. lol!

Yeah, but he built it, so you're SOL. :p

[speedfreak87]

LMAO!!! yeah I guess so huh? lol

[NUTTSGT]

When did the NMRA start allowing mini-tubs? I checked the rules which never said a thing about them. I thought at one time they weren't allowed. Not that it matters, just wondering.

[myfast70]

Sweet build!! Any updates?

[NMRA Jason]

I'll have some updates tomorrow.

[NMRA Jason]

Here you go, boys. Brand-new Strange Engineering (www.strangeengineering.net) brakes. Tires will be here this week, and then she'll be a roller. I also spent yesterday cleaning out the garage in anticipation of the Banana's arrival.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_7874.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/IMG_7934.jpg

[NMRA Jason]

When did the NMRA start allowing mini-tubs? I checked the rules which never said a thing about them. I thought at one time they weren't allowed. Not that it matters, just wondering.

This is what the rulebook says. Have no idea when/if it changed.

CHASSIS & SUSPENSION
Stock type chassis and stock type suspension is required. Coil-over shocks and springs permitted for both front and rear suspension. Shocks and spring may be re-located. Standard bolt-on replacement suspension and chassis components are permitted. Tubular bolt-in front K-members and A-arm kits are permitted. Back-half vehicles are prohibited. Ladder bars and/or aftermarket 4-links are prohibited. Wheelie bars are prohibited.

[speedfreak87]

you sure they are going to stop the car? they look a little small. lol!

[speedfreak87]

so, any updates??

[NMRA Jason]

It's in my garage now, Joey. Won't be working on it until after the Atco NMRA race, but at that point I'll be plumbing the brake system and the majority of the fuel system before it goes off to get wired. Just got the good news today that I should have cylinder heads in about two weeks, so it's starting to come together...

[speedfreak87]

Well I guess that's an update.. now stop slacking and get to it!!! lol!

[NMRA Jason]

Another critical piece of the puzzle has arrived! Looks like Mr. Mens and Mr. Sharp will be getting back to work soon. Lots and lots of room for porting...:D

Trick Flow's brand-new, 44cc SOHC Modular head. More information can be found on them here (http://www.trickflow.com/egnsearch.asp?N=400098+4294908331+4294867081+42947 27866+115+332844&autoview=sku). $997.99 each - they look to be killer for that price. We'll find out soon enough!

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/tfs1.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/tfs2.jpg

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w34/ownedbyhunter/Bionic%20Banana/tfs3.jpg

[speedfreak87]

bought time there is some progress! :P

[NMRA Jason]

Should be moving along more quickly now, Joey.

Of course, I spent all winter doing nothing, and now that racing season is here, I have no time to work on it. Just my luck lately, I guess. It'll get there...

[speedfreak87]

Weeeellll.. bring it out to NJ, I'll work on it for you.. as well as my own car. :D

[cuttincirclesir]

Looks good...subscribing!!!

[91notchback]

sweet car i like the yellow good luck with it.

[NMRA Jason]

Ben and Ron are hard at work on getting the heads sorted out. Ron has been very, very pleased with them so far. I have a setup coming from Speedwire Systems (http://www.gallo-teck.ca/speedwire/) that will permit me to run all of the accessories the way I need to. Other aspects of the car are moving along, just nothing I can post.

[Dave Zimmerman]

After our conversation this weekend I see a big single in the Banana's future!

[Jeff Chandler]

Definitely a fun build to watch. Looks great Jason and Team Z;)

[adamb]

Could you post some pics with the tires and rims on the car, thanks!

[NMRA Jason]

As soon as I can get them on there, Adam. Waiting on my spindles to be machined so I can put the front brakes back on and drop the car down. Where in MI do you live?

[adamb]

Novi area

[NMRA Jason]

You're welcome to come and look at in person, if you want. I'm down in Petersburg, about 15 minutes south of Milan.

[Stangfireman]

Get that car done J and we can make our own grudge race. Bionic Banana vs Twisted Twins. As soon as I get my lic. of course. LOL

[adamb]

thanks man i appreciate it! any motivation to get my car done always helps!

[5.0kid]

looks good jason can't wait for its first pass, will you be testing in milan?

[NMRA Jason]

Yessir. Likely won't be until next season - just too much going on right now to even work on it.

[5.0kid]

I understand that 100% gotta work hard to keep job security around these parts. You should let us know when you plan on testing some of us local guys im sure would be more then willing to come out with our cars and check it out while making some runs our self

[edtootall]

Those wheels are pure sex!!! I'd love a set for my fox-body car. :cool:

[Bulletbob]

Nice work,can't wait to see more!Hope to get inspired to work on mine.

[biminiLX]

Looking great Jason, looking forward to see it at the track next year.
PM sent also.
-J

[jkstang78]

OMG this is suck a Killer build.

Also Is there any info on 1999 White SVT Lightning - Project Trash Hauler. I have a lightning and would like to see what you are doing to it.

[ModMotor DR]

Hey Jason, Any updates? Waiting to see this beast sitting on the ground.

[TooFast98Cobra]

Nice build jason!!!

[NMRA Jason]

I know that it has been forever since I have updated this thread. Have had a couple of stumbling blocks in the way of getting anything done, chief among them my empty wallet. But I am happy to announce that we are finally moving forward again with the project.

Ben Mens recommended that we go with an inconel exhaust valve, and I finally got in touch with John at Ferrea (www.ferrea.com) yesterday, who agreed to come on board with the project. So valves are being produced as we speak, while I have been quietly assembling more parts that we're going to need for the build.

The entire engine management system is sitting here. F.A.S.T. (www.fuelairspark.com)'s Traction-Control XFI system with their XIM ignition box will be running the engine side of things. They've got me on board for everything down to the coil-packs. I've also lined up a few more things that I can't talk about yet, but rest assured, the project is FINALLY moving along again.

The support from Ferrea is huge, and we're going to be pushing to get this thing down the track somewhere this season. Stay tuned both here and to the magazine for more upcoming articles on the top end of the engine, the turbo system and fabrication, and more. I will try to update regularly as things start happening more quickly.

It should be a roller on Saturday night sometime.

[biminiLX]

Very good to hear Jason, good luck!
-J

[biminiLX]

Whose doing the turbo stuff and what are you going with?
-J

[1Bullitt]

Whose doing the turbo stuff and what are you going with?
-J

I know who should do it....bring that thing down here Jason!!LOL

[NMRA Jason]

Dave at Team Z will be building the turbo system. Manufacturer of the turbo and intercooler is undetermined as of right now.

[saleen_n_around]

...............It should be a roller on Saturday night sometime.

I expect to see some shutter action and the results floating around here!!!!

[NMRA Jason]

If it rains like it's supposed to, you may only see it in the garage on tires. If it is nice I will roll it out and take some photos.