Latest News

Jul 31, 2009

GT-R Meet : End of Summer at SP Engineering

SPFlyer1

SP Engineering is hosting an end of summer GT-R meet and BBQ September 19,2009 9am-4 pm. All Nissan GT-R’s are welcome, heritage and current. 424 Turnbull Canyon Road , City of Industry, CA 91745

Sign up at NAGTROC

SPFlyer2

Jul 26, 2009

Full Carbon Fiber Body Hakosuka

narimatukgc102

I saw these pictures over at the GTR.co.UK forum.  Very cool.  Doesn’t everyone love carbon fiber ?  I know I do.    I have to dig around for some details on the car.  I wonder how much lighter it is than a standard car. Some carbon fiber work, is not actually any lighter, depending on what backs it, and how its done.  Lets just hope its good lightweight stuff, and it turned this car into a real rocket.

narimatukgc10 image038y

Jul 24, 2009

Motor Trend Long Term test : 2010 Nissan GT-R

112_0909_01l 2010_nissan_GT_r front_view

Motor Trend Magazine just welcomed a 2010 Nissan GT-R into their long term test fleet.   The $84,040 GT-R drags an extra $2950 from your bank account vs the 2009 model. The minor updates for 2010 are five more horsepower, a new Transmission control computer for the GR6 transmission, new spring rates and revalved Bilstein dampers, darker wheel color, and standard side and curtain airbags.

3.5 seconds to hit 60 and 11.9 seconds at 120.1 mph to eclipse the quarter mile. The GT-R's handling and braking did not disappoint, either, registering 0.98 of maximum lateral grip, 24.4 seconds at 0.81 g through the figure eight, and a scant 103 feet halt from 60 to 0. Perhaps most impressive, the GT-R puts up these astonishing numbers while delivering 16/21 mpg city/highway fuel economy, thus avoiding the gas-guzzler tax (a claim an M3 can't even make).

 

 

Source : Motor Trend

Jul 22, 2009

Update to ICE , DOT, EPA Investigation on Kaizo

I spoke to a person today that informed me that they had a call from ICE on their vehicle.  The ICE agent asked to come out and take photos of the vehicle.  The person that received the call asked if the car was going to be seized, and the ICE agent said that it was not going to be seized.  I advised him that he should speak to a lawyer before he allows anyone to come and investigate any of his property.

What I think that ICE wants to see is the body and the engine together.  They are still investigating Kaizo, and looking to see if they supplied engines and bodies together.  If anyone else gets any calls – please email me to tell me what was said.   tyndago@gmail.com .  I want to stay on top of this, and see where its going. 

All "public interest" legislation (and any distribution of money taken by force from some men for the unearned benefit of others) comes down ultimately to the grant of an undefined undefinable, non-objective, arbitrary power to some government officials. The worst aspect of it is not that such a power can be used dishonestly, but that it cannot be used honestly. The wisest man in the world, with the purest integrity, cannot find a criterion for the just, equitable, rational application of an unjust, inequitable, irrational principle.
-Ayn Rand

The law was made for one thing alone, for the exploitation of those who don't understand it, or are prevented by naked misery from obeying it.
-Bertolt Brecht

Jul 20, 2009

RB26DETT Gaskets

Intake Manfold Gaskets , Exhaust Manifold Gaskets ,  Gasket Kits.  You always seem to need the gasket that you don’t have.  Back in 1999, when I started dealing with the Nissan Skyline GT-R, gaskets were few and far between. These days, there are a lot of places that make them here in the US,and a lot of places that stock them.

Jul 15, 2009

Letter From New Jersey DMV Requesting Vehicle Inspection on Nissan Skyline

NJDMVletter

I posted up a few days ago, that I had heard that someone with a Nissan Skyline that did NOT come in though Motorex got a letter from the DMV. The former owner of the vehicle, he had since sold it, called the NJ DMV for clarification. His story follows.

First I spoke to the "Vehicle Title Stop" Department. They are responsible for looking into possible title fraud for such things as illegal VIN swaps, stolen vehicles that slipped through the cracks, wrecked vehicles that should have a salvage status and are currently on the road, and vehicles that NJ feels are unsafe for operation on NJ roads. After being on hold for 10 minutes they transfer me to the investigator handling my title. At first he was very vague in why I received the letter. He initially explained that, like the letter states, my vehicles title has been revoked and my registration has been suspended. After I explained that the car was sold about 5-6 months ago he asked who it was sold to. All I told him was some guy in NY. I asked if there was a problem with the sale paperwork as NJ is very big on collecting the proper sales tax. He went to on ask why the car only has an 11 digit VIN. I responded that the vehicle was imported from Japan a number of years ago and that DMV has documentation of the VIN plate and the etching from the VIN on the firewall. He then asked if I had the car upgraded to meet State and Federal Emissions and Safety standards. I responded that the vehicle had 2-3 prior owners before I purchased it and that it was titled, registered and insured at the time I purchased it. "Is the steering wheel still on the right side of the vehicle?", I responded, "Yes". Then he asked if I supplied the buyer with the proper bond releases and I advised him that the only documentation I received was the title and copy of the registration which was all given to NJ DMV when I transferred the title and registered it in my name. Then he started to open up a bit. He stated, and I quote, "There have been an abundance of imported vehicles in the state of NJ and when a vehicle is was manufactured in 1995 and doesn't have a 17 digit VIN it should have a DOT and EPA bond release in order to received a title in NJ. Other states may have different rules, but that's what we require." He explained that the letter never should have been sent to me and that it should have been sent to the new owner. NY sent the paperwork to NJ advising them that the vehicle was sold and requesting that NJ release the title to NY that's how it "landed on his desk". He said that since I no longer have possession or ownership of the vehicle I am not responsible for having it inspected, but if the new owner wants NJ to release the title to NY they must being the car for an "in-depth safety & emission inspection" and supply the proper bond releases. When I asked what would happen if the vehicle meets all the safety and emission requirements (which we all know it won't) but cannot supply the bond releases, he replied, "Then the new owner will have nothing more than a decoration for his garage since it's legally not roadworthy".

All I have to say, is that things are happening.  Its hard to say where its all going, or how widespread this investigation is going to be. 

Jul 14, 2009

Go Go Girls at Hot Import Nights Chicago

Nothing to do with GT-R's, but not all my posts need to be.

Hot Import Nights, and girls draw a lot of people. I always have to go to at least one or two HIN's a year. Its always a good place to meet up with people and talk about business.

1999 Nissan Skyline GT-R : Show or Display Exemption

DSC00028
While talking about importation, Motorex, and Nissan Skyline GT-R’s in general on the R35 GT-R Forum – NAGTROC , I was informed that on the newest Show or Display list, that an R34 GT-R was on the list.  I found this interesting, as the car they listed did not exist.  I let the guys know that I would call the NHTSA- OVSC to get some clarification on it.
I talked to the NHTSA - OVSC yesterday.   I spoke with Dick Merritt there that handles the Show or Display exemptions.   The good way to get him going is to mention Skyline.  We had a 20 minute conversation, about many things Skyline related.   I mentioned to him that I met him in 1999 when I went to DC to talk to the OVSC then. 
When I asked for clarification what the R34 on the Show or Display list was, he said 1999 - Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 Vspec , Early.  He said "they made less than 300."   
That is not true.  Vspecs were more popular than regular models .  http://www.gtrusablog.com/2010/02/nissan-skyline-gt-r-r34-production.html . I don't have the exact numbers but 5536 R34 GT-R's were sold in 1999.  Over the entire run of 12,175 cars , 7338 were Vspec;Mspec,VspecII;Nur , and 3962 were standard.
Anyway. He called Skylines "rocket ships" more than a few times. He said he would never want a car with so many computers in it, like the Porsche 959.  He wondered how anyone could, or would work on Skylines.
He said that he did not want the management to pass the R34 for Show or Display, but it was done without his approval.
Then he mentioned that no R34 has been brought in under the Show or Display exemption, because no one can do the EPA side of the requirements.

Jul 11, 2009

JDM Work Equip 17" Rims 240SX RX-7 SUPRA Widebody Huge Negative Offset


Nquip
Used huge lip , negative offset JDM Work Equip 17" wheels. The sizes are
17x13-24 114.3 (5 lug)
17x14-36 114.3 (5 lug)
These are for a widebody car.  If you have stock fenders, don’t even bother trying to make these fit.

RB Motorsports 15110 East Nelson Avenue Unit C City of Industry, CA 91744 (626) 961-9213 (626) 961-7803 FAX OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 11:00- 7:00 Pacific Saturday Noon- 2:00 Pacific After hours inquiries please email us |  www.rbwheels.com | Ebay Store | Become a fan on Facebook

JDM ARC INTAKE BOX SKYLINE R32 GTR RB26

ARC Airbox Used ARC intake box, it will fit R32 GTR RB26 Nissan Skyline GT-R.  Check out the auction for a few more pictures. This is the ultimate GT-R airbox.

Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 Production Information

 

us41-101902-051 1989-1994

R32 GT-R(43934 total) production

1989-4555

1990-8426

1991-7081

1992-7961

1993-6204

1994-7465

Variations of models 
  • Standard-40390

  • Nismo-560

  • vspec-1453

  • vspecII-1303

  • N1-228

  • 32GTR

Dates of Production and Prices 8-21-1989 to 2-14-1994
1st model 8-21-1989  4,445,000 yen
Nismo 3-11-1990     4,441,000 yen
2nd model 8-20-1991  4,510,000 yen
3rd model 2-3-1993 4,545,000 yen
Vspec 2-3-1993 5,260,000 yen
Vspec II 2-14-1994 5,260,000 yen

    aau    

Paint codes

AH3 - Red Pearl Metallic
AN0 - Wine Red
BL0 - Greyish Blue Pearl (special order)
KH2 - Gun Grey Metallic

GunR32rear

KG1 - Jet Silver Metallic
KL0 - Spark Silver Metallic

94 R32 silver #2

TH1 - D ark Blue Pearl

326 - Crystal White

skylinef

732 - Black Pearl Metallic

Coefficient of drag

CD 0.40

CLF 0.20

CLR -0.15

nick02 abs

R32, R33, R34 GT-R – 300ZX Hicas Self Diagnostic Procedure



If you are having issues with your HICAS system, such as a trouble light in the dash, or heavy steering, here are the procedures for self diagnosis.  These are 25 to 30 year old computer systems, so they don't pick up every fault or issue with the system. However knowing the codes, if any will certainly aid in troubleshooting.  It is common to remove, lockout, or delete Super Hicas.  A bad alignment, the wrong steering wheel, the speedometer not working, and a low fluid level can all trigger Hicas lights. We also commonly see Hicas lights on cars that have a failing alternator. If you only see it under certain conditions, but then goes away. 

R32 GT-R Hicas Diagnostic


Self-diagnosis procedure

a) Input starting conditions for self diagnosis
1) Turn ignition switch "OFF"
2 M/T : Set shift lever to netural
   A/T : Set shift lever to "P" or "N"
3)Start engine
4)Turn steering wheel from left to right (at least 20 deg from the netural position) 5 times or more, then depress the foot brake pedal at least 5 times, all within 10 seconds after ignition switch has been turned "ON"



b)Input self-diagnosis item
1)Depress and release foot brake pedal
2)Turn steering wheel from left to right (at least 20 deg) from the neutral position.
3)M/T vehicles. Depress clutch and move shift lever to any gear other than neutral, and then return clutch and shift lever to original position
A/T vehicles. Disengage and engage parking brake lever. Move shift lever to any position other than netural or park, and return it to park
4) Move car at least 2-3 meters (7-10 feet) forward and proceed at an indicated speed of at least 1 mph in self diagnosis mode.

c)Self diagnosis codes - R32 GT-R
1) RH solenoid output
2) LH solenoid output
3)Fail-safe valve output
4)Power steering solenoid output
5) Vehicle speed signal
6) Steering angle sensor
7) Steering angle neutral signal
8) A/T parking brake signal, M/T clutch signal
9) A/T inhibitor signal, M/T neutral signal

Reading Hicas self diagnosis codes

d) Self diagnosis display pattern
1) When all systems are normal
     A) HICAS light flashes at 0.25 sec (4HZ) intervals
2) If fail-safe system was operated(fail safe valve is operating) when ignition switch was last turned OFF, fail safe items will be displayed in numerical order in modes indicated. After all items are displayed, display is repeated again.

e) Cancelling self-diagnosis
Three methods
1)Turn ignition switch off, or
2)Drive over 19 mph, or
3)After 5 minutes, the self diagnosis procedure will automatically cancel.

400 R33 GT-R
400R R33 GT-R. Only 40-44 cars made

R33 GT-R HICAS DIAGNOSTIC

Self Diagnostic Procedure 

1. Start the engine 
2. Within 10 seconds after turning the key to 'ON', start the engine, turn steering wheel from left to right 20 degrees from neutral 5 times or more times & pump the brakes 5 times. Then press the brake pedal again to enter the test mode.

Diagnostic Item Input 

1. Move the vehicle one or two meters at a very low speed
2. Turn the steering wheel more than 20 deg right to left once or more.


Diagnostic Item 

11 HICAS control unit

12 HICAS motor power supply not present

13 HICAS motor output not present

21 Vehicle speed sensor not present

22 Steering angle sensor not present

23 Steering angle sensor neutral or not present

24 Rear main sensor input not present

25 Rear sub sensor input not present

31 Parking brake sensor input not present

32 (Auto) Inhibitor switch input not present; (Manual) Neutral switch input not present

33 Engine speed signal not present


MVC00157
R34 GT-R Hicas Diagnostic
Self Diagnostic Procedure
1. Start the engine
2. Within 10 seconds after turning the key to 'ON', start the engine, turn steering wheel from left to right 20 degrees from neutral 5 times or more times & pump the brakes 5 times. Then press the brake pedal again to enter the test mode.
Diagnostic Item Input
1. Move the vehicle one or two meters at a very low speed
2. Turn the steering wheel more than 20 deg right to left once or more.
Diagnostic Item
11 Control unit
12 Motor power supply
13 Motor output
21 Vehicle sped signal
22 Steering angle signal
23 Steering angle netural signal
24 Rear steering angle main sensor signal
25 Rear steering angle sub-sensor signal
33 Engine speed signal
41 Yaw rate signal

300ZX Procedure
Turbos come standard with High Capacity Actively Controlled Suspension, a fancy way to say 4 wheel steering. There's a visual diagnostic mode to check for problems in the HICAS functions. The 90-93 TTs have hydraulic HICAS running off the power steering pump, where '94+ utilizes electric actuators to handle the rear steering chores. Their codes are a little different, but the procedure is the same. It might required a few tries to make it work. Be persistent!
Procedure:
1. Ignition switch 'off' manual tranny in neutral or A/T in 'P'
2. Start the engine
3. Within 10 seconds after turning the key to 'ON', start the engine, turn steering wheel from left to right 20 degrees from neutral 5 times or more times & pump the brakes 5 times. Then press the brake pedal again to enter the test mode.
4. Turning the steering wheel left or right past 20 degrees from neutral will cause the rear wheels to turn slightly (~1 degree) (1.).
5. Drive the car forward 15 feet under 9mph to enter the full diagnostic mode.
6. The HICAS dash light will flash a code indicating any problems. Long flash is first digit, short flash is 2nd digit.
7. Diagnostic mode is exited when: ignition is turned off, vehicle speed exceeds 9mph, or diagnostic has operated for 5 minutes.

HICAS light codes for '90-'93:
1. HICAS solenoid R.H.
2. HICAS solenoid L.H.
3. Cut-off valve
4. Power Steering solenoid
5. Vehicle Speed sensor
6. Steering angle sensor
7. Steering Neutral positon sensor
8. A/T: Parking Brake Sensor M/T: Clutch sensor
9. A/T: Inhibitor sensor M/T: Neutral sensor
HICAS light codes for '94-'99:
11. HICAS control unit
12. HICAS motor power supply not present
13. HICAS motor output not present
21. Vehicle speed signal not present
22. Steering angle sensor angle signal not present
23. Steering angle sensor neutral not present
24. Rear main sensor input not present
25. Rear sub sensor input not present
31. Parking brake sensor input not present
32. Inhibitor switch (A/T) or nuetral switch (M/T) input not present
33. Engine speed signal not present

Jul 10, 2009

New Jersey Suspending Titles of Non- DOT/ EPA Compliant Cars

Over at Supraforums, a member posted up the following.

 

FYI, if you are own a Skyline or any imported non US compliant car in NJ, NJ DMV is going through their database to do visual inspections and document inspection, NHTSA and EPA paperwork, if they are not provided they are suspending the registrations and titles.
How do I know? I have a friend who received the letter and spoke with DMV.

Based on the information I have recieved over the last few weeks, I think that the government is going after all imported and non-compliant vehicles in the US. The state titled cars, the kit cars, parts cars , every car.  I had some doubts until I saw this latest post. It seems like this will be very big, and affect a lot of people, and a lot of cars.

 

Source: Supraforums

Jul 9, 2009

R33 GT-R Custom Titanium Exhaust $2,200.00

 

R33 GT-R Custom Titanium Exhaust

$2,200.00

Custom Titanium Exhaust for R33 GT-R, including down pipe.

 

We have hundreds of sets of used JDM wheels in stock. Check our eBay listings or our webstore for more JDM rims. Refinishing service available, please email us for pricing. www.rbwheels.com

Jul 8, 2009

2006 Volkswagen Jetta for Sale

JettaThis 2006 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0T was the official aftermarket project vehicle for the 2006 LA Auto Show. It was displayed in the lobby of the show at the Los Angeles Convention Center and was featured in the 2006 LA Auto Show Official Program (copy included with car) and on the LA Auto Show web site that year.

Jul 7, 2009

TommyKaira R33 Nissan Skyline GT-R For Sale

California legal. EPA and DOT legal.

The only Tommykaira R33 Nissan Skyline GT-R in the US. Now located in Tampa Florida, originally this was a California car.

Jul 6, 2009

Ken Block on Top Gear


Jul 5, 2009

AUTOS: Camry Tops List of ‘Most American’ Vehicles


According to Cars.com, the "most American car" is the Toyota Camry, Ode to transportation appliances. Nothing says ," I don't care about cars", like driving a Camry. Its interesting it has outpaced the Ford F150 as the "most American" vehicle. It really starts to play towards what some people may consider domestic or import vehicles. While the Toyota headquarters may be in Japan, they still employee a lot of people in the US.

Car.com’s study rates each car and truck sold in the United States based on where it’s made, its percentage of U.S. and Canadian content and its annual sales results. Vehicles that are being discontinued, such as those from the doomed Pontiac brand, are eliminated.

The 10 Most-American cars are:

1 - Toyota Camry
2 - Ford F-150
3 - Chevrolet Malibu
4 - Honda Odyssey
5 - Chevrolet Silverado 1500
6 - Toyota Sienna
7 - Toyota Tundra
8 - GMC Sierra 1500
9 - Ford Taurus
10 - Toyota Venza

Source: Speedtv.com



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Jeremy Clarkson tests the Skyline R32 GTR in the 1990's

Some cool footage of early JGTC, although it would have been more appropriate to have some Group A.

Testing Modified Twin Turbo Pipe


We posted this a little while back on the UK GT-R Forum.
In with keeping with the mostly stock look for Jeffs R32, its going with a twin GT-RS setup, and the stock twin turbo outlet pipe. We have seen some modified pipes in the past, and decided to make one up for Jeffs car. By keeping the front turbo from meeting the rear turbo at such a 90 degree angle, it should help with the balance between the two turbos, and might even help out with power.

Jeffs car is still going together, so we decided to test the modified pipe on the orange R33 . The orange car is Stock engine, stock turbos, aftermarket downpipe, exhaust, intake, Apex intercooler, Power FC.

The starter on the orange car was starting to click, but it would start about every other time. While dynoing another car, Josh put some more pump gas in it, and pulled the front propshaft so we could run it on the dyno.

The last time on the dyno boost was about 14.7 psi and the car did a max of 346 whp. Click though for the test results.

This time boost was up to a peak of about 19 psi and the car with the modified outlet pipe did 378.3 hp , 380 hp, and 378.8 hp. Josh changed the outlet pipe back to a stock pipe, went to start the car, and the starter just clicked. Time to change the starter. 20 minutes later, with another starter in it, do a couple pulls. 361 hp first pull , then 371 hp , then back to 361 hp. Boost was around the same 19 psi, but the car was a lot less consistent.  Stock turbocharger compressor outlet gasket x 3 per car(you only need 1 if just doing the pipe) - 14465-05U11



Divided Twin turbo pipe. It is this simple to do. 




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Jul 3, 2009

1994 California Legal Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 For Sale : SOLD

Edit: this car has been sold, if you are looking for a car, email me

description:

This is a 94 nissan skyline gtr. I believe a late model which has the updated crank collar for a wider drive for the oil pump. It’s also a pull style transmission, same as r33. Cant really know unless you remove the pan and pump and make sure. The car for sale is a legitimate California legal car. It has the CARB label. I purchased this car roughly 1-2 years ago from an older gentleman in Burbank, CA. The car was mostly stock besides the hks shroom filters and turbo timer. It even had one of the modified exhaust to pass smog, a LOT of cats. The stock turbos have ceramic exhaust wheels and are known to snap off. I went with simple mods and to keep the engine bay as discreet as possible. To keep it as a true California car. All mods are new and have less than 400 miles. The car is currently untuned as I’m breaking in the clutch but will schedule tune in mid to early July, unless buyer wants it done sooner. Should make at least 450-500awhp, may go more but don’t want to on a stock internaled motor. I have receipts for most of the stuff. The r32 gtr has a removable fuse to make it full time RWD, in addition, I added a 4WD controller which allows the car to act more 4WD-ish during turns. I’ll let the pictures and mod lists say the rest.





the bad:

-radio doesnt work, turns on but no sound
-drivers side rear c pillar panel unwrapping itself
-drivers side rear fender has a quarter sized blemish because the wing is rubbing it, not visible when trunk is closed
-passenger side front fender missing side skirt garnish
-hicas light flickers but who needs 4 wheel steering
-wheels are pretty bad, scuffed and ugly
-speedometer starts at 15mph

-drivers side window seal slightly torn

mods: the goal was to keep it all discreet to keep it “California legal”

-ngk bcpr7eix (12 new replacements as well)
-mobile 1 10w30 charged every 2000 miles
-tomei poncam 260 w/ 9.15 ex type b
-tomei poncam 260 w/ 9.15 in type b
-shims checks and in recommended range

-koyo radiator
-nismo adjustable fpr (stock as well)
-sard 800cc fuel injectors (stock 444cc as well)
-tomei in-tank 276 lph fuel pump (stock gtr pump as well)
-gates timing belt
-tensioner and idler replaced
-n1 water pump
-DCB heavy duty clutch - extreme single plate (very easy to modulate)

-new nissan throw out bearing
-gt2860r-10 dbb (x2)
-1 bar actuators (x2)
-ported stock cast exhaust manifold (less prone to cracking than tubular)
-nismo air flow meters (x2)
-stock airbox (no cop bs)
-modified/divided twin turbo pipe (reduces lag and shuffle and increases resposne)
-power fc stand alone
-pfc boost control kit
-pfc commander (got the wrong one, waiting on new one to arrive)
-blitz bov kit in stock location (x2)
-skylab 4wd controller
-suede inserts in doors, shift gaiter, ebrake gaiter
-attain carbon exhaust shield
-seibon carbon hood (stock available as well)
-trust downpipes
-sard catless torque valve
-hks hi-power exhaust

-hawk HPS pads up front

-spectra pads in the rear
California Legal R32 GT-R For Sale.




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Nissan Skyline GT-R ATTESA System Transfercase

Nissan Skyline GT-R ATTESA System Transfercase over view of internal workings of the transfer case.


This is why you can run a GT-R rear wheel drive on a dyno. With no pressure to the clutch pack, the chain that drives the front wheels does not move . Or you take out the front propshaft and there is no longer any drive to the front wheels.


I am working on some other GT-R technical videos.






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Jul 2, 2009

Learn More You Tube: Partner Video Downloads

You have the option of downloading and storing your favorite Partner videos and watching these videos even without an internet connection. To download Partner video:

1. Find the video you'd like to download.
1043 whp R33 Nissan Skyline GT-R on the dyno
Ford GT40 Palm Springs - In Headlight Video

2. Below the video's play bar in the lower left hand corner, you'll see a 'Download' button.
3. Click the 'Download' button to indicate that you'd like to download the video.

Please note:

* Not all videos have the option to download enabled. Only certain Partner videos have this feature. If you do not see the download button below the video, it means downloading is not yet enabled for the video.
* Partner videos (that permit downloading) are available for download in MP4 format only.


Purchasing a video download

Some videos require purchasing before you can download them to your computer. Once you've opted to download the video you will be directed to Google Checkout to finalize your purchase:

1. On the Google Checkout page you'll see the video you'd like to download and the cost of the video.

2. You'll need a Google Checkout account in order to purchase the video download through Checkout. You're required to create this account in order to ensure the security and confidentiality of your personal information when purchasing content from YouTube.

3. Enter the required information (including your email address, credit card information, billing address etc.).

4. Once you've entered all the information and created your Checkout account you'll be directed to the Confirmation page. Here you'll have the chance to double-check the download you're about to purchase and the cost of the download.

5. Your purchase will then be 'Authorized' and completed. You'll receive a 'thank you' message confirming that the transaction was successful.

6. Your new download will appear in the 'Purchased Videos' section of your YouTube account (under 'My Videos'). You can now enjoy your new download! For more info about your download rights, please see the 'Learn More' link located next to the video's 'Download' button.

Download some videos

Source : You Tube

Kaizo Industries Updates on Investigations



Lots of people looking at this page. Its March 3rd, 2010, and I have no real updates. No more cars have been seized that I know about. I have not talked to Daryl in a long time.  If I hear anything, good , bad or indifferent, I will post it up on this blog.At this time, its just lawyers talking on each side.  

June 9th , no new updates yet, although I have had contact with a lot of people with concern over what will happen next. It is hard to say exactly what is going to happen. It will all depend on the attorneys office and what charges are brought up.
July 1st, still nothing new except the Kaizo website is down. I have not heard of anyone having any other issues yet, but I still get a few emails a week from people asking questions.
July 2nd , the inital investigation was to check out charges of smuggling and violations of the Clean Air Act. The government always goes after the Clean Air Act. Everything is still in a holding pattern until any actual charges are filed. I also found out besides the "buggy" car that was not impounded(it had a VW engine in it), the black R34 had no driveline in it.

EPA requirements.

B. (2) Engine not in Vehicle or Chassis

EPA regulates the entire vehicle, not individual parts, for cars, light trucks, and motorcycles. If an engine is not installed, and is to be used in a car, motorcycle, or light truck, it may be imported as an automotive part. No approval or Customs bond is required by EPA. Importers should be aware, however, that replacement of an engine in a U.S. version vehicle with an engine of a different type or model year which is not currently covered by an EPA certificate or will be covered by an EPA certificate prior to introduction into commerce may violate EPA regulations.
The EPA regulates only complete cars. It says it right there. They also say that without an engine a body is just a part.

Now heres some conflicting information, also on the EPA's website. This section under "kit car policy".
The production, sale and importation of automotive bodies alone (i.e., no chassis, engine or transmission) are not regulated by EPA since such units are not considered "motor vehicles" under the Clean Air Act. EPA form 3520-1 is not required for imported automotive bodies. A motor vehicle from which the engine has been removed is still a motor vehicle and is not considered a body.

So does the EPA even read their own regulations ? A little bit of conflict there. One section says no engine is just a body, and its legal to import. The other section says if it has no engine then its not a body. Does the EPA even have a leg to stand on in court ? Do they pick and chose what section to pay attention to depending on what they are charging someone with ?

No engine and no transmission is significant in accordance with DOT requirements.
A disassembled vehicle that is shipped without an engine and transmission is treated for importation purposes not as a motor vehicle, but instead as an assemblage of motor vehicle equipment items. Such an assemblage can lawfully be imported into the U.S., provided any equipment included in the assemblage that is subject to FMVSS, but was not originally manufactured to comply with that FMVSS or was not so certified by its original manufacturer, is removed from the assemblage prior to entry into the U.S. Equipment items that are subject to the FMVSS include tires, rims, brake hoses, brake fluid, seat belt assemblies, glazing materials, and lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
That is direct from the DOT website. So as far as importing car parts, or a disassembled vehicle to the US, its legal as long as the parts aren't anything that is covered by FMVSS.



Lets see what happens. How this plays out. I am going back to some of my old research and notes, and see what I can come up with.

Jul 1, 2009

California adopts first-in-nation approach to keep cars cooler


New standards will block sun's heat-producing rays through
windows

SACRAMENTO- Today, the California Air Resources Board adopted a
regulation that will require new cars sold in California,
starting in 2012, to have windows that reflect or absorb
heat-producing rays from the sun. This will help keep cars
cooler, increase their fuel efficiency and reduce global warming
pollution.

Cooler cars mean less air conditioning thereby increasing fuel
efficiency and preventing about 700,000 metric tons of carbon
dioxide from entering the atmosphere in 2020 - roughly the
equivalent of taking 140,000 cars off the road for a year.

"This is a common-sense and cost-effective measure that will
help cool the cars we drive and fight global warming," said ARB
ChairmanMary D. Nichols. "It represents the kind of innovative
thinking we need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from our
vehicles and steer our economy toward a low-carbon future.

A variety of new and currently available approaches will be used
to achieve the standards including adding chemicals to the glass
during manufacturing to absorb the sun's energy and using
laminated glass coated with invisible microscopic specks of metal
to reflect it. Windshields that comply with the standard will
continue to offer full visibility.

Compared to cars currently in showrooms, windows that comply
with the standard will block 33 percent more heat-producing rays
from the sun. This will cool the vehicle's interior by
approximately 14 degrees Fahrenheit for a car and 12 degrees
Fahrenheit for a pickup or SUV. Lower temperatures require less
use of air conditioning, both upon starting a car parked in the
sun and while driving in sunny conditions.

Other benefits include a cooler interior upon entering the car,
less time for the air conditioning to reach a comfortable
temperature, and reduced fading of upholstery and cracking of the
dashboard.

The regulation has two steps. Over a three-year period starting
in 2012 windows in new cars sold in California must prevent 45
percent of the sun's total heat-producing energy from entering
the car, with the windshield rejecting at least 50 percent of the
sun's energy.

In 2016 car manufacturers will be required to install windows in
new cars sold in California that prevent at least 60 percent of
the sun's heat-producing rays from entering the cars interior, or
propose alternative technologies to achieve an equivalent
result.

Costs for the windows are expected to average $70 for the 2012
standard, and about $250 for the 2016 standard, with annual
savings in gas of $16 and $20 respectively. Costs would be
recouped over a five to twelve year period.

This initiative follows on the heels of a series of other
measures adopted by the Board under AB 32 (NЗЯez, 2006),
California's pioneering climate change legislation, to reduce
greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. These include a standard
for cleaner lower-carbon vehicle fuels, and a regulation to
ensure tire pressure is checked at smog check, oil change and
other maintenance facilities.

California is also awaiting approval of a waiver from the
federal government to enforce standards under its Clean Car Law
that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions 30 percent from
vehicles over the next seven years.

The Air Resources Board is a department of the California
Environmental Protection Agency. ARB's mission is to promote and
protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through
effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and
considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air
pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain
health based air quality standards..

Starting today ocean-going ships off California's coast must use clean fuel

Starting today ocean-going ships off California's coast must use
clean fuel

Requirement will reduce exhaust and annually prevent thousands
of premature deaths

SACRAMENTO: Beginning today, July 1, all ocean-going vessels
within 24 nautical miles of California's coastline must use
cleaner burning diesel fuel in order to comply with a new state
regulation aimed at reducing the emissions of oxides of sulfur
and nitrogen and diesel particulate matter, a known carcinogen.

The requirement, adopted in 2008, will annually affect nearly
2,000 ocean-going vessels, both U.S. flagged and foreign-flagged,
visiting California. The vessels will have to use lower-sulfur
marine distillates rather than the highly polluting heavy-fuel
oil often called bunker fuel.

"This comparatively simple switch for ships will have huge
benefits for Californians," said Air Resources Board Chairman
Mary D. Nichols. "People living along the coast will see benefits
overnight: cleaner air and better health."

Using the cleaner fuels will be phased in, but significant
emission reductions will be immediate. Initially, 13 tons-per-day
of toxic particulate matter emitted from the vessels' diesel
engines will be eliminated. Reductions will increase as the fuel
sulfur content is progressively lowered through the regulation's
phase-in.

Today's switch will eliminate about a 75 percent of the diesel
PM, over 80% of the sulfur oxides and 6 percent of the nitrogen
oxides. In 2012, when the very low sulfur fuel is required,
reductions of diesel particulate matter will be 15 tons daily, an
83 percent reduction compared to uncontrolled emissions. Sulfur
oxides will be reduced by 140 tons daily, a 95 percent reduction
and nitrogen oxides will be reduced by 11 tons per day, a 6
percent reduction.

Reducing ship exhaust will eliminate an estimated 3,600
premature deaths between 2009 and 2015 and lower the cancer risk
by over 80 percent. In addition, the emission reductions will
assist the South Coast Air Quality Management District meet its
2014 federal clean air requirements for fine particulate matter.
The reductions are also needed for ARB to achieve its targeted 85
percent reduction of diesel PM by 2020.

Air board representatives explain that the regulation is
extremely cost effective. The fuel is readily available and
complying with the regulation would typically add $30,000 to a
California port visit, roughly one percent of the typical fuel
costs for a vessel crossing the Pacific Ocean. The shipping
industry maintains that a typical voyage for a container vessel
from Asia to U.S. west coast costs a company two to three million
dollars. For a container ship with consumer products, this cost
increase equates to an extra 12.5 cents in the cost of a plasma
TV. For a cruise ship passenger, using industry's numbers, this
would add about $15 to a fare.

Diesel exhaust contains a variety of harmful gases and over 40
other known cancer-causing substances. Currently, diesel PM
emissions from ocean-going vessels expose over seven million
people in California to high cancer risk levels in excess of 100
in a million for lifetime exposures.

In 2000, the ARB developed its Diesel Risk Reduction Plan that
set the goal of cutting diesel emissions by 85 percent by 2020.
The plan includes a series of measures designed to achieve that
goal. As part of that plan the Board has adopted measures that
require the use of low sulfur diesel fuel in most applications
statewide, tighter tailpipe limits on in-use diesel trucks and
buses and to control emissions from port equipment and ships
operating in California waters.

Go to online version for a map showing California populations at
risk from uncontrolled emissions from ocean going vessels:
http://www.arb.ca.gov/newsrel/nr070109.htm

For more information on the new regulation covering vessels go
here: http://www.arb.ca.gov/ports/marinevess/marinevess.htm .