cdavis1 (aka "CD") Father/Son Project Thread
#1
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
cdavis1 (aka "CD") Father/Son Project Thread
Well, I figured it was time to start a progress thread. Here are a few pics of me, the wife, and my boy.
We had the pleasure of having dinner and listening to Bush speak at the university where my wife and I work.
We had dinner and listened to Condi speak at the university. She is a lovely lady.
We took these in Florida last year. We had a great time!
Now that the family has been represented, the rest of this is...
...stuff!
So, let the journey begin. My TL was purchased from Riverside Acura in Little Rock. My son has been into cars since he was a toddler. Now that he is older, he and I can enjoy this hobby together...so, enjoy our father/son project car. In about 3 or 4 more years, this car will become his.
Here are some pics of the car just over a year ago (May 2011).
At the end of May, we installed some Eibach's and a set of Hi-Performance Designs, Inc. HD Wheels wrapped in Nexen N3000 ZR245/40.
In June, my son and I attended our first AZine National Meet in Kansas City.
The meet give us some great ideas for the car, so this is where the car has really morphed. Since May 2011, we have completed the following mods:
Audio
-Custom "Envy" fiberglass enclosure
-Kenwood KAC8104D 1000w amp
-Kicker CompVR aluminized 4-ohm 12" subwoofer
-Kicker 4-gauge wiring power kit
-External Sirius Sportster V Replay w/remote (hardwired)
-Panavise Custom Mount for Sirius
-USA Spec PA15-HON3 Interface w/text display
Audio Envy is a small shop located in Searcy that does fantastic work. For the most part, they are custom builders, not just installers (big difference). I originally was running two CompVRs, but the box took up too much space and looked awful! After the enclosure was made by Envy, the system sounds better, louder and clearer.
In July 2012, I installed the USA Spec. It took me about 90 minutes. I could have had it done in about 35 minutes, but my hands are large and I struggled getting the plug back in the back of the head unit. I was hesitant adding this option because I wasn't sure of the sound quality...the quality is amazing! I rain the wires under the center console and out the arm rest (everything is hidden). Now I can add my iTunes music and Pandora to my Sirius.
Brakes
-Stage 2 Sport Package
-RacingBrake ultra performance open slot rotors (front)
-RacingBrake ultra performance slotted rotors (rear)
-RacingBrake ET300 brake pads (front/rear)
-Fastline stainless steel brake lines
-Painted calipers
My rotors were beyond shot. I wasn't getting any squeals, but was slowly getting grinding and lots of pulsating vibrations, particularly on the highway. While Acura is great quality, I've heard the rotors are awful and don't last very long. Therefore, I opted for the full RacingBrake package. Hey, why stop at just the rotors? I also installed Fastline SS lines. The upgrade has been amazing. The car can stop on a dime now. The looks...well, no more nasty Acura rust colored rotors.
Wheels/Suspension
-18" Hi-Performance Designs, Inc. HD Wheels smoke machined black 7.5 width + 34 offset
-Nexen N3000 summer tire ZR245/40
-Motorsport-Technology 5mm hub centric/wheel centric spacers (front)
-Akata 15mm hub centric spacers (rear)
-Rolled fenders (rear only)
-Eibach Pro-kit
-SPC camber kit
I initially was running 5mm Motorsport-Tech spacers in the front and the rear. I purchased a new set of Akata 15mm spacers from a fellow AZine member (they shipped him the wrong spacers) and was stressed the entire time. While my drop is minor in nature (I'm a bit more than 1 inch), I am also running 245 tires and zero negative camber in the rear. I rolled the fenders and put on the Akata spacers...they turned out fantastic. There is no rubbing at all, and I didn't have to adjust my camber. I can still run an aggressive tire and have an aggressive stance (subjective - not nearly aggressive as some of you). They've been on for 10 days now. I wish we would have put them on months ago!
Exhaust
-Call it a modified stage 3 (retained mid-muffler)
-Magnaflow mufflers
-Dynomax resonator replacement
-Custom exhaust tips
I initially had my mid-muffler removed, but the cabin drone was ridiculously loud. I drove it less than one day and quickly decided that it wouldn't work. I went back and had the mid-muffler put back on. The Dynomax and Magnaflow mufflers are perfect. The sound is a very deep growl and is subtle...until you punch it. It has the sound I desired. I couldn't be happier.
Tint
-25% wrapped w/ LLumar (front windshield is wrapped at top and bottom)
-Moleskin wrapped doors
I had the windows retinted about six months ago after the popular vertical scratch lines appeared. I installed some moleskin and after six months, no scratches. By the way, the installer didn't charge me the second time. LLumar is, for the most part, fully backed by its warranty. The installer said that it was my fault because of the car's design. I said, "I know it is; however, it is covered under warranty...so fix it." I told them I would install the moleskin, which should correct the problem.
Aesthetic Modifications - Non Functional
-A-Spec kit
-Roof spoiler
-Trunk lip spoiler
-Acura OEM Smoked Window Visors
-Plasti dipped interior/exterior
-Half smoked headlights
Of all TL mods, the A-Spec, I believe, is the most noticable. I started with the front spoiler. I went two weeks before I purchased the rear underspoiler. I went two more weeks before I realized I wouldn't be happy without the sides (one of my sides had a broken clip causing some noises at highway speed). So, I spent a lot more money buying the pieces separate, but it was worth it. The dealer wanted an obscene amount of $ to install it. My son and I did it in less than 4 hours (the sides took all of 15 minutes). A couple of Kool-Aids and slices of pizza later (my son is 11 - smiling) and it was done. In order to spend the money I do on this car, I have had to learn how to do things myself; otherwise, I couldn't afford it.
Non-Performance Functional Mods
-Customized ACKTL05 Tail lights (OEM Base 07-08 tail lights with blacked out diffuser, black painted bezel, remaining lights smoked)
-07-08 Type-S side markers (rear)
-Garmin GPS (hardwired)
-Nokya Stage I hyper yellow fog lights
-V-leds 6k white license plate high power lights
I just installed the taillights about a six weeks ago. On NBP, the "red tails" were just too "loud" for my liking. I had to remove the bumper to install the A-Spec, which I did about 7 months ago. So, you can appreciate it when I say I did NOT want to have to remove it again (at least this soon). The biggest pain, believe it or not, was having to remove my Envy sub enclosure. But, the total install time was less than 90 minutes. Rerunning the wires and LEDs was simple and easy. Of course I couldn't stop there because the bright red side markers stood out like a sore thumb. So, I ordered a set of Type-S side markers and installed those in less than 10 minutes. The wife loved the change. She said it made the back of the car look meaner and cleaner. When the wife compliments your work (better yet, even NOTICES something you've done to the car), that says a lot!
This pic is not mine (just shows a shot of the tails I have)
Performance Modifications (call it quasi!!!)
-K&N Filter
-See exhaust above and see future mods below
Body/Interior Conditioning
-Meguiar's Deep Chrystal Car Wash
-Meguiar's Clay Bar Kit treatment
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (2) Fine Cut Cleaner
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (9) Swirl Removal 2.0
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (3) Machine Glaze
-Meguair's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (135) Synthetic Spray Detailer
-Meguiar's Quick Detailer
-Meguiar's Gold Class Leather Conditioner
-Meguiar's Gold Class Endurance High Gloss Tire
-Meguiar's Hot Shine Gloss Tire Spray
-Zaino Wax
The downside of owning a black car? SWIRLS!!! Since owning a black car, I've had to relearn how to wash, dry, and wax a car. It took about a week worth of researching to find the best way to detail the car, riding it of unsightly swirls. Graden, my son, and I spent a weekend detailing the car ourselves. The outcome? A beautiful black car with no swirls and a refined finish (even seeing the flakes). I can only imagine how many hundreds of dollars I saved on this one! Try taking your car to the painters to have this done...
So, here are some pics of "Zippy" today:
Finally, after one short year, here is a quick before and after pic of the car's transformation:
What is next on the list (future mods)?
-Run 10mm spacers in front (will need to add extended studs)
-Custom headlights
-Cold air intake
-And much more... I have YET to take off the front bumper. I actually want to take it off...but I need something to do. Cold air and headlights seem like great reasons, right?!
Cars are a hobby...it helps me refocus, relax, takes my mind off of life, and gives me the needed time with my son. It has been a great project car for us. Now, what next!?
My son reads this...any comments for him (or us)?
CD & Son
We had the pleasure of having dinner and listening to Bush speak at the university where my wife and I work.
We had dinner and listened to Condi speak at the university. She is a lovely lady.
We took these in Florida last year. We had a great time!
Now that the family has been represented, the rest of this is...
...stuff!
So, let the journey begin. My TL was purchased from Riverside Acura in Little Rock. My son has been into cars since he was a toddler. Now that he is older, he and I can enjoy this hobby together...so, enjoy our father/son project car. In about 3 or 4 more years, this car will become his.
Here are some pics of the car just over a year ago (May 2011).
At the end of May, we installed some Eibach's and a set of Hi-Performance Designs, Inc. HD Wheels wrapped in Nexen N3000 ZR245/40.
In June, my son and I attended our first AZine National Meet in Kansas City.
The meet give us some great ideas for the car, so this is where the car has really morphed. Since May 2011, we have completed the following mods:
Audio
-Custom "Envy" fiberglass enclosure
-Kenwood KAC8104D 1000w amp
-Kicker CompVR aluminized 4-ohm 12" subwoofer
-Kicker 4-gauge wiring power kit
-External Sirius Sportster V Replay w/remote (hardwired)
-Panavise Custom Mount for Sirius
-USA Spec PA15-HON3 Interface w/text display
Audio Envy is a small shop located in Searcy that does fantastic work. For the most part, they are custom builders, not just installers (big difference). I originally was running two CompVRs, but the box took up too much space and looked awful! After the enclosure was made by Envy, the system sounds better, louder and clearer.
In July 2012, I installed the USA Spec. It took me about 90 minutes. I could have had it done in about 35 minutes, but my hands are large and I struggled getting the plug back in the back of the head unit. I was hesitant adding this option because I wasn't sure of the sound quality...the quality is amazing! I rain the wires under the center console and out the arm rest (everything is hidden). Now I can add my iTunes music and Pandora to my Sirius.
Brakes
-Stage 2 Sport Package
-RacingBrake ultra performance open slot rotors (front)
-RacingBrake ultra performance slotted rotors (rear)
-RacingBrake ET300 brake pads (front/rear)
-Fastline stainless steel brake lines
-Painted calipers
My rotors were beyond shot. I wasn't getting any squeals, but was slowly getting grinding and lots of pulsating vibrations, particularly on the highway. While Acura is great quality, I've heard the rotors are awful and don't last very long. Therefore, I opted for the full RacingBrake package. Hey, why stop at just the rotors? I also installed Fastline SS lines. The upgrade has been amazing. The car can stop on a dime now. The looks...well, no more nasty Acura rust colored rotors.
Wheels/Suspension
-18" Hi-Performance Designs, Inc. HD Wheels smoke machined black 7.5 width + 34 offset
-Nexen N3000 summer tire ZR245/40
-Motorsport-Technology 5mm hub centric/wheel centric spacers (front)
-Akata 15mm hub centric spacers (rear)
-Rolled fenders (rear only)
-Eibach Pro-kit
-SPC camber kit
I initially was running 5mm Motorsport-Tech spacers in the front and the rear. I purchased a new set of Akata 15mm spacers from a fellow AZine member (they shipped him the wrong spacers) and was stressed the entire time. While my drop is minor in nature (I'm a bit more than 1 inch), I am also running 245 tires and zero negative camber in the rear. I rolled the fenders and put on the Akata spacers...they turned out fantastic. There is no rubbing at all, and I didn't have to adjust my camber. I can still run an aggressive tire and have an aggressive stance (subjective - not nearly aggressive as some of you). They've been on for 10 days now. I wish we would have put them on months ago!
Exhaust
-Call it a modified stage 3 (retained mid-muffler)
-Magnaflow mufflers
-Dynomax resonator replacement
-Custom exhaust tips
I initially had my mid-muffler removed, but the cabin drone was ridiculously loud. I drove it less than one day and quickly decided that it wouldn't work. I went back and had the mid-muffler put back on. The Dynomax and Magnaflow mufflers are perfect. The sound is a very deep growl and is subtle...until you punch it. It has the sound I desired. I couldn't be happier.
Tint
-25% wrapped w/ LLumar (front windshield is wrapped at top and bottom)
-Moleskin wrapped doors
I had the windows retinted about six months ago after the popular vertical scratch lines appeared. I installed some moleskin and after six months, no scratches. By the way, the installer didn't charge me the second time. LLumar is, for the most part, fully backed by its warranty. The installer said that it was my fault because of the car's design. I said, "I know it is; however, it is covered under warranty...so fix it." I told them I would install the moleskin, which should correct the problem.
Aesthetic Modifications - Non Functional
-A-Spec kit
-Roof spoiler
-Trunk lip spoiler
-Acura OEM Smoked Window Visors
-Plasti dipped interior/exterior
-Half smoked headlights
Of all TL mods, the A-Spec, I believe, is the most noticable. I started with the front spoiler. I went two weeks before I purchased the rear underspoiler. I went two more weeks before I realized I wouldn't be happy without the sides (one of my sides had a broken clip causing some noises at highway speed). So, I spent a lot more money buying the pieces separate, but it was worth it. The dealer wanted an obscene amount of $ to install it. My son and I did it in less than 4 hours (the sides took all of 15 minutes). A couple of Kool-Aids and slices of pizza later (my son is 11 - smiling) and it was done. In order to spend the money I do on this car, I have had to learn how to do things myself; otherwise, I couldn't afford it.
Non-Performance Functional Mods
-Customized ACKTL05 Tail lights (OEM Base 07-08 tail lights with blacked out diffuser, black painted bezel, remaining lights smoked)
-07-08 Type-S side markers (rear)
-Garmin GPS (hardwired)
-Nokya Stage I hyper yellow fog lights
-V-leds 6k white license plate high power lights
I just installed the taillights about a six weeks ago. On NBP, the "red tails" were just too "loud" for my liking. I had to remove the bumper to install the A-Spec, which I did about 7 months ago. So, you can appreciate it when I say I did NOT want to have to remove it again (at least this soon). The biggest pain, believe it or not, was having to remove my Envy sub enclosure. But, the total install time was less than 90 minutes. Rerunning the wires and LEDs was simple and easy. Of course I couldn't stop there because the bright red side markers stood out like a sore thumb. So, I ordered a set of Type-S side markers and installed those in less than 10 minutes. The wife loved the change. She said it made the back of the car look meaner and cleaner. When the wife compliments your work (better yet, even NOTICES something you've done to the car), that says a lot!
This pic is not mine (just shows a shot of the tails I have)
Performance Modifications (call it quasi!!!)
-K&N Filter
-See exhaust above and see future mods below
Body/Interior Conditioning
-Meguiar's Deep Chrystal Car Wash
-Meguiar's Clay Bar Kit treatment
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (2) Fine Cut Cleaner
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (9) Swirl Removal 2.0
-Meguiar's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (3) Machine Glaze
-Meguair's Professional Grade Mirror Glaze (135) Synthetic Spray Detailer
-Meguiar's Quick Detailer
-Meguiar's Gold Class Leather Conditioner
-Meguiar's Gold Class Endurance High Gloss Tire
-Meguiar's Hot Shine Gloss Tire Spray
-Zaino Wax
The downside of owning a black car? SWIRLS!!! Since owning a black car, I've had to relearn how to wash, dry, and wax a car. It took about a week worth of researching to find the best way to detail the car, riding it of unsightly swirls. Graden, my son, and I spent a weekend detailing the car ourselves. The outcome? A beautiful black car with no swirls and a refined finish (even seeing the flakes). I can only imagine how many hundreds of dollars I saved on this one! Try taking your car to the painters to have this done...
So, here are some pics of "Zippy" today:
Finally, after one short year, here is a quick before and after pic of the car's transformation:
What is next on the list (future mods)?
-Run 10mm spacers in front (will need to add extended studs)
-Custom headlights
-Cold air intake
-And much more... I have YET to take off the front bumper. I actually want to take it off...but I need something to do. Cold air and headlights seem like great reasons, right?!
Cars are a hobby...it helps me refocus, relax, takes my mind off of life, and gives me the needed time with my son. It has been a great project car for us. Now, what next!?
My son reads this...any comments for him (or us)?
CD & Son
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IntactACK (10-04-2012)
#3
-Brandon
Really cool that you are doing this with your son. I wish I had done something like this with my dad, but he really isn't into car modification
The TL looks great with the A-Spec, but your front end is begging for some headlight love. Properly black them out and you will be golden
The TL looks great with the A-Spec, but your front end is begging for some headlight love. Properly black them out and you will be golden
#4
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
Really cool that you are doing this with your son. I wish I had done something like this with my dad, but he really isn't into car modification
The TL looks great with the A-Spec, but your front end is begging for some headlight love. Properly black them out and you will be golden
The TL looks great with the A-Spec, but your front end is begging for some headlight love. Properly black them out and you will be golden
Last edited by Steven Bell; 09-03-2012 at 05:08 PM. Reason: Merged Posts.
#5
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CD, nice start for a Progress Thread...you little name dropper, you!
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cdavis1 (09-04-2012)
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cdavis1 (09-04-2012)
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cdavis1 (09-04-2012)
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cdavis1 (09-04-2012)
#9
Bird is the Word
Nice progress, ever thought about debadging the rear? It really cleans up everything back there. I like the tails you got, those are what I want to get down the road.
My only complaint is the wheels. They aren't my style, but as long as you like them that's all that matters.
My only complaint is the wheels. They aren't my style, but as long as you like them that's all that matters.
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cdavis1 (09-04-2012)
#12
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
Nice progress, ever thought about debadging the rear? It really cleans up everything back there. I like the tails you got, those are what I want to get down the road.
I thought about it...but I haven't pulled the trigger just yet.
My only complaint is the wheels. They aren't my style, but as long as you like them that's all that matters.
I thought about it...but I haven't pulled the trigger just yet.
My only complaint is the wheels. They aren't my style, but as long as you like them that's all that matters.
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cdavis1 (09-05-2012)
#14
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
This is a quick shot of the Akata 15mm spacers I put on less than two weeks ago. I was a bit apprehensive (vs. going with a known name like Ichiba, etc.), but I have been happy with these spacers. I must admit that the black color match perfectly with my rims and my RacingBrake rotors.
#17
Moderator
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Chris!
I can't believe I'm just now finding your thread
It's crazy how much progress you've made since the meet last year! Your car has come a VERY long way
If I were you, I would skip the intake and put that money towards a j-pipe. You get more bang for your buck and it doesn't scream for attention.
And DAMN, who's that stud on the far right?...
I can't believe I'm just now finding your thread
It's crazy how much progress you've made since the meet last year! Your car has come a VERY long way
If I were you, I would skip the intake and put that money towards a j-pipe. You get more bang for your buck and it doesn't scream for attention.
And DAMN, who's that stud on the far right?...
#18
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Very nice on the Akata's, Chris. Don't worry about them-mine are fine. I've had no issues with them to date!
That photo looks VERY familiar!
That photo looks VERY familiar!
#19
Safety Car
Great progress so far
#20
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
Chris!
I can't believe I'm just now finding your thread
It's crazy how much progress you've made since the meet last year! Your car has come a VERY long way
If I were you, I would skip the intake and put that money towards a j-pipe. You get more bang for your buck and it doesn't scream for attention.
And DAMN, who's that stud on the far right?...
I can't believe I'm just now finding your thread
It's crazy how much progress you've made since the meet last year! Your car has come a VERY long way
If I were you, I would skip the intake and put that money towards a j-pipe. You get more bang for your buck and it doesn't scream for attention.
And DAMN, who's that stud on the far right?...
Perhaps one day our progress thread will have so many pages, like you, that it will require its own Table of Contents and zip code. HAHA!! I check your thread a few times a week. LOL!
Now, we all just need to add another great photo for next year. Yes, we will be there. Perhaps Tyler too?
Appreciate it, brother!
#22
HE>i
iTrader: (1)
Nice father/son project...Its good to start them young.
My son is already into cars and he is 3 years old. My wife always talks about how I will have him helping me work on our vehicles. I enjoy it and we can have fun together.
Keep up the work.
My son is already into cars and he is 3 years old. My wife always talks about how I will have him helping me work on our vehicles. I enjoy it and we can have fun together.
Keep up the work.
#23
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
Sounds like us! And YOU enjoy those special times and forthcoming moments. It only gets better, my friend.
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Yep, looking forward to our next National Meet in June 2013.
#25
2004 TL SSM w/NAVI
great project love that you are doing it with your son. this is what i always wanted to do with my dad but we didnt start talking until 5 years ago. i will be doing the same as you but with my 2 daughters! car looks great also!!!
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cdavis1 (09-13-2012)
#26
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
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Thanks for the feedback. Enjoy the time father/daughter(s) time.
#27
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Great progress man! Congrats!
#28
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
Thread Starter
We tried getting a group together from Arkansas and Memphis. We had 4 cars, 4 members, and three sons represented. The weather was awful...but we had a good time eating on Beale, cruising the downtown area, and getting some pics.
Here is the next generation of AZine:
Here is the next generation of AZine:
#29
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Very nice get together
When are you properly blacking out those headlights?
When are you properly blacking out those headlights?
#30
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Nice job of getting the guys together, Chris!
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cdavis1 (09-17-2012)
#31
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#34
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#35
Chapter Leader (Arkansas)
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I haven't posted in a while, so I felt it necessary to get "something" on here. My wife and I both work for a university and had Friday off. We took a drive to Little Rock and went to a movie and enjoyed some time together while our son was in school. Here is a quick pic of the lovely wife (excuse the closed eyes!).
#38
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Appreciate it.
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Chris, the car is looking good as ever.