Evo IX and AD08

Yokohama is a tire that I long for. It was a dream come true when all four 09' dated AD08 came with the IX. Again I found similarity more than improvement over the AD07 I once used but disliked. The ride is choppy, grip is dependent on ambient temperature and tire pressure, and noise level not impressive. It is true that it has a great turn-in sharpness, and responsive steering response. AD08 is a more adequate tire than the AD07 and can hold its own against the acclaimed RE11.
Unfortunately and fortunately I wanted to change to RE11 but there wasn't newer 11' tires available. The size 235/45R17 is no longer a popular size.

Evo IX and the Problems

Suddenly I found the feeling on the Evo IX less satisfying. After the morning drive I found the engine losing the sparkling performance and a lot of friction in the drivetrain. I suspect it is caused by the poor engine oil. It is just downright draggy. I changed the oil to a silky Miller 0W40 and it seems to be much better but I could feel the difference. It is just not like that before.

I also find the ride on AD08 rough and intolerably draggy. I will try to inflat to see if it helps but I also order a set of RE11. And I feel extremely guilty about just placing order, thinking I should not be spending more and still getting the same result. But over a late night shower I feel I ought to spend the money and give the Evo IX my best shot to make it tolerable or livable. If it is still not good then I will sell it after a few months.

After driving the Evo X (2008) I think I am more in love with the X. the Evo X simply makes the Evo IX feeling ancient. There is a lack of drivetrain friction. And the car is fast but heavier. It is a totally different Evo from previous Evo. The Evo IX is similar in experience to the Evo IV that I once owned.

Bye bye Corolla!

Finally it is gone for good. It went to an enthusiastic young owner. I cleaned it up real nice and of course I removed all the niceties from it, with battery and stereo to the Evo IX, and BS GR90 and TM spark plugs to the Honda Civic. Even the carpet set was removed.

I didn't want to spend more money on the suspension (lower the ride height and occasional clunking noise). And the windshield cracked by a high-speed stone and the strange noise from underneath the instrument cluster really nailed it for me. It was up for sale to clear up the parking space for the Evo IX.

So long my first Toyota and Corolla. It has been a great 13 months of ownership.

Evo IX Returns from the Shop

Finally a pair of used wheel hub bearing were replaced and the noise problem solved. There is no more draggy feeling and the car feels absolutely right. I also fitted the Acre 800C brake pad to improve bite as well as stopping power. I also rotate the tires front and wear, but it does not solve the problem of the aging Yokohama AD08. Even it was made in 2009 it has lost its stickiness all together and the surface feel hard. And the traction is so so. I am looking to spend more money on tires, BS RE11 preferably.

Evo IX GSR After the First Week

I found a few things about the GSR, although not something new.

But before telling about them, I would like to record the things I have done so far.

1) Replace a Bosch car battery (swapping a newer one from Corolla)

2) Replace a newer Kenwood 2-din unit

3) Replace the rear wheel bearing hub assembly on both sides

4) Rotate the tires front and rear

Back to the 'few things'. First of all, the car is draggy to drive and has a lot of friction throughout the drivetrain, which is completely opposite to Corolla (almost frictionless). Second the 4G63 engine feels powerful and responsive but also slightly blocked by catalytic convertor. Third, there are three parts to the handling. The front will grip as much as it physically can. And when the front starts to slip, the rear with the help of AYC will immediate slide proportionally in order to counter-balance the understeering. This is indeed very effective for almost all kinds of corners, especially the tighter one. However all the magic is gone if one lifts off the throttle, as then one needs to catch the sliding tail. So the best thing to do is to keep the throttle pressed and let the system does its job.

The wheel hub bearing generate somewhat humming road noise especially after 70kph. The Tai Wai garage found out this afternoon that one of the rear bearing was burnt and the other started to do so. And I found the AD08 tires a bit slippery today. I wish the limit could be higher. RE11 in the calling.

Evo IX GSR - The Fifth Day

I like its driving position and the seat. They fit like a groove. The Recaro bucket seat is very firm but comfortable. Superb. The Momo steering wheel could be a tad thicker.

The instrument panel is a tad dark but and the speedo is a bit small. The whole layout of the dashboard I would say is very good and is not unlikely BMW's 1 and 3 series theme.

I absolutely like the notchy and affirmative gearshift. The gear ratios for 1st, 2nd and 3rd are in perfect harmony in daily use. And the gears engaged cleanly.

Normally I am not a fan of Xeon headlamp, but I would say they work great in the GSR.
The paint work on the rear left quarter panel is not good.
I will leave the wheels in black.

But I will change the stereo and add a rear camera.
And I have been trying with tire pressure, now having 30psi/32psi. The handling is good but the ride is a bit harsh and overly firm on rough pavement.

Evo IX GSR

Finally Peter found me a nice all-black mint 2005 MIT Evo IX GSR. It does not have a good price to warrant as stock so Peter suggests me to privatize. And I do listen. It is a kind of Evo I have longed after, perhaps for 6 years since 2004. This is the first day so I make an entry here. It somewhat brought some excitement that have long missed. I can certainly make it a goal to keep it for a long time, as it is the last of its kind. Evo IX should replace the Corolla and SLK350. It also come with the Yokohama AD08 tires that I intend to put on it.

What Is More Appropriate?

From this title question one would wonder why I not say "What Is the Most Appropriate"?

It is because what I am going to consider is hardly the most appropriate and inherently flawed.

Again, for an unknown impulse, I would like to collect another, yet late-model, CL. In my defense (or justification), I would have to give up the Corolla to make space (in terms of parking and monetary). One can call the duplicate a focus, or else excessiveness. Tiki definitely would be against it as she does not need another big car that she is unable to park confidently.

In place of it, I can go back to W202, namely the best W202 in the world - C43. The justification would come from a few places. First Tiki would drive. And I have gained an option to swap the 18" AMG wheel and my beloved PS2 tires from the SLK350 to the C43. But then C43 itself is an ice-stick, as like the CL, which is impossible to re-sell if the situation calls for it.

In this logic, where both CL and C43 are hard to re-sell, then it would only be more appropriate to take the cheaper one if the temptation is irresistible. In both case I would have to get rids of both Corolla and the SLK350.

CL - unity. C43 - diversity. Can I have both?

Nitto Invo (窮人PS2) on CL500

After a horrified 4 days of heavy rain without much wet traction with the Goodyear LS2000 Hybrid II, I decided to get rid of it even though it performs adequately in the dry (chirping and squeaking at moderate cornering speed). I did have a fun session going to and leaving Tai Mo Shan the same day I changed to Nitto. My fall-back choice is the Michelin PSS if I cannot find something inexpensive and appropriate to the CL500. I have considered Toyo (T1S, T1R or C1S) as well as Hancock (V12 Evo). I have consider Michelin PS3 but there isn't stock for the size). I took a leap of faith and went with the Nitto Invo Link to Invo. Nitto is popular in North America making low profile large tires (17" up to 24"). Mother company is Toyo Tire Japan and most likely Nitto tires are made by Toyo as well. Tires (4 x 245/45R18) are made in Japan and date coded 2011 and 2010.

Did a trip from Mongkok back to Shatin and then to Maonshan. Street and highway driving within legal street limit. Compared to the Goodyear LS2000 Hybrid II, I had the following observation:

• Side to side pitching is much reduced, perhaps due to strong tire build.
• Side wall stiffer with reduced tire vibration on road impacts, and yet filters road irregularities and corrugation.
• Ride is firm and slightly harsher (compared to PS2) on road impacts. 
• Rolling resistance much reduced and the tire feels rounded and smooth riding.
• Quiet 
• Slight understeering now gone. Turn-in is sharper, clean and assertive
• Steering effort reduced in both at parking and road speed.
• Steering feel is direct and sharp in the straight
• Great braking response
• The car feels less sluggish
• Poor man's Michelin PS2.

 

Michelin PSS

I would really like to have the Michelin PSS. I am reluctant. First it is for the CL500. Second I want a (second) justification so I don't feel guilty or overspending afterwards. If I can find another car that may use the PSS then this will create justification.

Perfection is all about being appropriate, and not necessarily the best or the very top. PSS is right there at the very top and appropriate to the CL500. What about LS430?

Too Many Cars

I need a new framework of thinking to justify the fleet of cars I owned, as they start not to make sense financially as well as in terms of utility.

I love them, one at a time, especially when I drive them or think of them.

I hate them, in almost the same way, when I drive them or notice the defect.

When I love them, I keep driving them, until a point that I am too aware of the defect or grow tired of having the same experience. Then I switch car so I am no longer obsessed with the negative thought associated with the one I have been driving. But the problem is, the fleet is growing in number. How many is enough?

Is it possible to own merely one car? The answer is yes provided that the period is short.

Would I get tired of LS430?

Finally the LS430 is in my hand, immediately I sold off the RX300 which is also a Lexus.

It has power, and it has the refinement and smoothness. It is big and a handful to park, more so than the longish and biggish CL500. LS430 excels the CL500 with the convenience of 4 doors and the strong air conditioning. The gearbox is one of the best shifting 5-speeder I have tried.

The leather trim is a bit old and worn. The chairs sag.

Loose Thoughts on Corolla, Again

It is a basic and reliable means of transportation, directly addressing the need. It is an object of necessity, for me and in my case. My complaints, if any, would be its spartan-ness and its less-than-cool SUV look, and often forgivable considering the RS trim which makes it nimble and attractive in the first place.

It is simply not feasible to ask for perfection in the form of what it is like to be what a basic Corolla represents. Being spartan and having minor weaknesses are inherently two of the key characteristics of a car addressing purely the need (for transportation). Any more features and additions would likely become a luxury and reflect a desire over need. Here the line is drawn.

The basic Corolla provides freedom to choose and define the object(s), or car(s) of desire, in purer form, thereby freeing one from certain important compromises. These compromise defeats people's choice and decision when combining need and want (desire).

New JVC LCD Receiver for Corolla

JVC KX-AC646 6.1" LCD with RDS Radio

With the consent from my wife I switched from Kenwood 503U to the latest JVC headunit, which is not the top model. The cost is acceptable. It is a great improvement over the previous generation from JVC. I was told a lot of improvements have been made because of JVC's merge with Kenwood early this year.

Anyhow this is a big step towards user-friendliness. The old Kenwood has the operation issues - LCD impossible to see in broad day light and the main control button impossible to use correctly.

The other 'important' thing I fix is the backlit lamp behind the factory digital clock on the center console. It has gone dark for as long as I remember it. And I am glad that I brought it back after losing hope over it.

CL500 Restoration 10

18" Mercedes Eltanin
Front & Rear alloy wheels: 18x8.5" ET47
Wheel part number: MER B66470083
Additional alloy part number: A1404011302 

Over the weekend, I changed the alloy wheels 16" to 18" (both silver Merc factory wheels for C140) on the S500 coupe. Ride is a bit compromised on rough roads but handling is tightened and cleaner, especially in tight corners and small roundabouts. Steering is now a bit numb, heavier but firmer in feel. In general I like the change and they look great. Body roll is reduced and stability is enhanced. The steering vibration seems gone.


The used set of Eltanin 18" was removed from a 98' S500 Coupe in a Kam Tin junkyard. It came with a 08' and 09' Goodyear LS2000 II tires in a reasonable condition (with a bit of excessive shoulder wear on the inner side of the rear tires).  The finish on two wheels are bad and would require some dressing-up later.


The tire diameter is now 2% smaller and seems to me that the car gains in torque during startup. But I can feel the additional drag and perhaps it hurts fuel economy a bit. But the new wheel/tire set is acceptably good and definitely a keeper. But it does not stop me from fancying a nice set of high-performance summer tires.


On the first day I was unaware of the high tire pressure in the front (36psi), I did complain about the rough ride, hardness and vibration. On a second day early morning I set the tire pressure at 31psi in the front and 34 at the back. Immediately the car felt much refined and smooth riding, and much closer in ride comfort compared to the 16" that was fitted before. And the Goodyear tires seem to quiet down on highway after much travelling and rubbing off some block edges. 


I am beginning to think fitting the Michelin PSP, Yokohama AD08 or BS RE11. But I would wait.

BMW 528i (E39)

Accidentally I ran into a 1996 528i two weeks ago. And I quietly fell in love and took it as my personal project car. I push or restrain myself not spending. I am on a tight leash. This bimmer has a very nice all-alum suspension components, sub-frames front and rear, and inline-6 engine. It has just enough power and yet responsive and refined. Chassis and comfort are high, as stress level are low. What has bugging me is the smell of it and the muffled suspension noise. In fact I found it too refined after all the 4 engine mounts have been replaced.

It is a big step forward over the 523i.

It is a good thing to own a balanced car, with not too much emphasis on performance. 528i is such a tremendously well-engined 4-door sedan.

The project was placed on a halt after learning that I need a pair of new rear shocks and rear lower arm bushes which would set me back another $3-4K. I was happy to know that the clunking noise has gone at a cost of $3210, including the front muffled suspension noise. Kin Yip did a good clean job.

Unfortunately, based on the rationale that I'd rather lose $3K on the book than to forking out additional $3K to fix the rear suspension, I sold the car on September 3 to a dealer via Peter. I am happy to see it gone even if I love the car so much.

Here is a note. I like the 528i more before the problems were fixed. This is true especially the engine note and response after changing the engine mounts. The masculine response was gone and there was simply too much refinement and smoothness for a BMW E39.

Would I consider the E39 again? I definitely will as it is the best 4-door sedan. I will consider a 2002/3 525i or 530i, whichever comes first.

Thoughts on Corolla

The Corolla is a basic survival car, especially for the hot summer. It is reliable, low on fuel cost, roomy, stress-free and rather painless to own and run. It has a great air conditioning and yet simple and effective ventilation. It is such a wonderful utility vehicle that reminds us that one can easily live through everyday life without added vanity, luxury and performance.

I found it hard to give up the Corolla. Even if I decide to give up, I would prefer to place the Corolla the last on the list. But in reality I would not easily give up vanity, luxury and performance. So the struggle continues, refusing giving up every want under my desire to address the needs under necessity. The fact is that I constantly refuse to grow out of desire even though I know well that I can survive with just the basic.

CL500 Restoration 9

The final step of restoration was done in another garage in Kwai Chung.

The minor concern of my existing habit is that I drive the CL500 as an everyday car. It is the fuel consumption.

Finally on May 27th I have both the Varta battery in Mongkok Nam Kee and the gearbox oil leak repaired at Tak Po, San Po Kong. With the exception of the very minor steering issue, the restoration is all done. All I need now is to clean the car as it has not received a proper car wash since I moved to the new home.

CL500 Restoration 8

Finally I bit the bullet and took in a brand new and insanely expensive air-flow meter. It was a Mercedes part built by Bosch in September 2010, and a last one in stock. Stephen helped me with the installation. I also replace the air-inlet temperature sensor (measuring the air-density or air-mass, whatever that may be) which is optional and supposed to affect the air-fuel mixture in a slight way so that the mixture would not be too thick. The air temp sensor cost me nearly nothing compared to the  new air-flow meter.

The whole engine and drive-train felt completely different after putting in the new air-flow meter. It is now much more torquey and responsive, and is more wiling to kick down and revvs from 4000rpm and onwards. The idling is now much quieter and even more smoother. The engine sound is healthy. I can finalize say that the engine is 85% to 90% of what it used to be when it was brand new. Although it is a personal speculation, but I am more than happy to feel and say it.

My rationale was that the fuel consumption had been high and I hope the new air-flow meter would correct it. And it feels like it does even though I cannot prove. I have changed every aspect of the engine components and it would be a stupid not to change the most expensive and yet crucial one. Before today, it was a big gamble and I am glad the lottery was won.

CL500 Restoration 7

The CL500 restoration project really is a month-long journey, tough and expensive.


The front upper arms have been replaced. The steering feels wonderful and buttery smooth but still the steering vibration isn't all filtered out. And I wonder if the mysterious steering vibration still exists. I suspect it still does, but at a smaller degree. Anyway I need to plan to have a wheel alignment done.

The crank position sensor (also known as flywheel sensor) has been replaced. The knock sensors were also replaced, which were buried underneath the engine mounts. The engine mounts were also replaced as they sacked and leaked oil. The engine would start very smoothly and willingly now every time. All the engine vibrations have been isolated to a large degree, with or without the a/c compressor on.

Overall the car feels silky smooth and flow through the traffic with grace, and rough roads with aplomb. It irons out all the road impacts and irregularities with the classic Merc signature selected bump-thumps, while keeping the car very quiet and comfortable. The road manner should be over 80% of what it used to be. At least this is what I have hoped for.

The driver side window now goes up and down with some assurance and determination, and not get stuck in the middle occasionally.

I love this project car, but I really spend too much. However, let me borrow from a saying:

‘There are two mistakes one can make along the road to truth…not going all the way, and not starting.’

Oh well....I really go all the way here with CL500. I am slightly upset with the on-going list of parts to change.

Corolla

The idea of giving up the Corolla surfaced my mind yesterday.

Did I have had enough fun with the Corolla? I guess I can say yes.

Is it practical and economic to run and own? However it overlaps with the auto Honda Civic, which receives more use because of its leather seats and auto transmission.

So far I have been the sole user, with a mileage of 4,000kms since end of November - a period of 4 months.

It is the sports car of the pack. At least it is how I use it.

How many cars can I own simultaneously?

Ideally I would like to have 4 to 5 cars, but logistically 3 is the maximum with the current setting. Therefore I must sell the Corolla, to make 'space' for the CL500.

After 2 weeks without touching the SLK350 it feels like a blast to drive. The poor ride quality does not matter, but the responsiveness and agility really impress.

CL500 Restoration 6

OEM Steering Damper
(made in Germany)

Checked with the Tak Po gearbox specialist (where I have the transmission rebuilt) and they suggested I look closely to engine in order to have a better throttle response.

The next easy way out was the spark plugs. I went the factory Bosch spark plugs which were the cheapest I could find. They were actually not bad. The engine now runs quieter and smoother and seems to have a little bit more power and torque across the rev range. The improvement is there, can be felt, but not significantly so. But in the end it is one of the cheapest fixes available.

New and Old Bosch
Spark Plugs

I also had the steering damper (OEM) replaced. The minor and occasional steering vibration still was there but the whole steering action is now better 'oil' damped. It introduces a level of luxury feel to the steering itself. Again it was an inexpensive part replacement.

Members of the Steering Assembly

CL500 Restoration 5

Even with experience and advice, we don't always get the right stuff.

The disappointing Bilstein B4 on CL500

After living with the Bilstein B4 front shocks for a few days, I have had it. The road impacts and poor handling were not acceptable. Bit the bullet and got the Mercedes factory stock shocks at almost three times the price. It was a shock to learn that the Merc shocks were also made by Bilstein with identical parts and construction. And fortunately during the first kilometer on the road after the replacement we could easily tell they are completely different shocks in setting.

Ride is much smoother and the springs seem to do more work. Rebound is well controlled even though I felt the old factory one did a better job. Unfortunately the old shocks were disposed. Now the car sits 3/4" lower in the front and will lean when cornering. I like that chassis dynamics. The magic carpet ride returns, with responsive handling that makes the big white elephant a dream to maneuver in tight spots at speed.

The rear stays the same - no replacement as the rear shocks (factory) seem to be in good condition.

The Merc factory shocks refitted
to solve the ride and handling issue.

I couldn't have loved the car more, as it is, in terms of suspension. The next to attack is the steering vibration which I am not able to detect its root cause. Steering damper? Wheel alignment?

CL500 Restoration 4

Finally got the CL500 back from the transmission rebuild. The performance and kick-down are back but it does not disguise the fact that it is a very heavy car. The big deal is that the vibration is gone all together, with the replacement of the drive-shaft bearing. Also changed is the transmission rubber mount.

But the car came back dirty and a oily smell in the cockpit. Need to clean tomorrow morning.

It is a grateful thought that the CL500 has now undergone more than 60% of the restoration and is enjoyable to drive and own. 

CL500 Restoration 3

Sent yesterday the CL500 to a gearbox specialist for a transmission rebuild. The transmission rubber mount and the drive shaft bearing would be checked and replaced if necessary. I could not tolerate the vibration.

Just found out the front cheapo Bilstein B4 shocks did not do the job right. The damping setting is wrong for my taste and different from the stock shocks. B4 has a strong damping for compression (therefore more road impacts felt and stiff) but a weak damping for releasing the springs (therefore no more floaty magic-carpet ride) that I absolutely want. The handling has worsen - understeering at times and insecure handling in the twisties. I will go for the stock shocks even though they are four times more expensive.

The spending is really getting painful, but what has to be done needs to get done. And it needs to get done quick as long as all options have been considered and taken into account.

CL500 Restoration 2

It has already been two weeks since I owned the CL500.

After spending two full days at the garage the CL500 is now in a better shape in years.
And I bought from a car registration auction a lovely plate for the CL500 : DL 1088.
Yesterday I did the ownership transfer and put the new reg mark on the car. It felt fantastic, as I have done so for a long time (last time was 2006 with the C36).

I have replaced the distributor cap and rotor (a set of two). The car felt a lot lighter and no longer sluggish. It felt like it had lost a lot of weight. However there should be more hidden potential I yet have to release by restoration and 'strategic' part replacement. That's the fun of a project car.

I must slow down the improvement, all except those which are intolerable, or are cheap and effective.

The slow engine start problem had been greatly improved by a proper fuel supply overhaul, fuel injector cleaning, as well as the ignition cap and rotor replacement. It starts now much sooner and smoother. To fully address the issue the crank position sensor as well as the knock sensors must be replaced.

The problem that is bugging me is the vibration issue from steering and body, mostly likely from the three tires that I bought from scrap yard. I don't know if I should simply give them up and get the new ones. But the vibration is annoying and is having my attention in a negative way. I plan to have this problem licked today.

CL500 Restoration 1

Courtesy of Encoh Wong

I lost the central locking on a second day of ownership. A new electric pump under the rear passenger seat was put in. The central lock works again.

Yesterday (March 10)followings were found in 錦田劏車場：
1) replaced a 95' instrument cluster with digital odo and trip displays
2) picked out 3 used Bridgestone GR90 235/60R16 tires.

Today following has been done:
1) change engine oil Fuchs Titan SuperSync 8L and oil filter.
2) replace plastic gear rail head rest driver side
3) change air filter for the A/C
4) wash fuel injectors
5) replace vacumum pipes under valve cover
6) replace withnthe AMG steering wheel from C43. A little odd but I like it.
7) replace a 95' instrument cluster with digital odo and trip displays

Tmw:
1) Replace front shocks
2) Replace front bushes
3) Replace fuel filter
4) Replace fuel pumps (2)
5) Replace tires
6) Replace Varta battery

During the initial inspection we also found the front shocks and lower arm bushes broken. Those would be replaced with new parts tomorrow (March 12).

Restoring the CL500

I have been reflecting the way that the CL500 is to be restored. I have a good starting point which is a great body paint and clean and fresh looking engine bay.

I have no intention to mod, respecting the originality of the old-school design. Adding a set of AMG alloy is perhaps feasible, but is not at the top of the list.

My purpose here is to restore and keep it in prime condition, as much as I can.

My primary attention is about getting it mechanically sound. And the attention otherwise goes to aesthetics, like leather seats and trims.

CL500 (S500 Coupe) W140

W140 S500 Coupe 1993 (Dec Production)

It is official and yet ambivalent of the S-class coupe that I recently acquired. The front-end can be described as between embarrassing and ugly.

CL stands for Comfort and Leicht. Leicht means easy, light, simple, mild, smooth, gentle, effortless, light-hearted...Those are the closest descriptions I could associate with the CL, during the past four days.

The CL 500 was considered by most experts the best model in terms of power, weight distribution and equipment for the base price. The M119 5.0 L V8 engine was considered one of the best engines ever produced by the German manufacturer and being much lighter at the front, the CL 500 tended to have better handling characteristics than the heavier V12 flagship. - A quote from Wiki.

The clean engine bay display really shines for an 18-year old car.

W126 560SEC 1981-1992

I have always had a heart for a white 560SEC, the predecessor of the CL500 you see here. A month ago during a visit to the car junk yard I saw a white sample, which I turned down because it was too huge a restoration project for a beginner like me. So I settle for the second best - an 1993 early year S500 Coupe. It was a little strange as I had been looking for a C43 or C36.

A typical old-school luxury interior from the 1990s.

Best angle for appreciating the whale-size CL.

A clean rear-end treatment.

C43 Temptation

I have no choice. To accept the C43 I must give up the Corolla. That's the beauty of a dilemma - I like both cars but am only allowed to keep one.

Pros of a C43:
In General - Small and easy to park, Tiki can drive, W202 cult, a future classic, in a reasonable collectible condition except the paint work, condition of the AMG alloys and old tires. One of the kinds V8 rumbles and grunt. Firm old school Mercedes ride and handling.
Compared to C36 - 3 years younger, superior interior and seats, V8 vs in-line 6, Xenon headlight, uprated brake system (caliper and cylinder), desirable 18" AMG Alloys, desirable Eibach and Bilstein setup.

Cons of a C43:
Fourth car - really an excess and burden. Duplicate utility as it is the third 4-door sedan same in size as the Civic and Corolla.

Corolla Update - Strut Mount

Brought the Corolla to an annual government inspection. Passed.

Replaced a pair of the front suspension strut mounts. Some clunking suspension noise is now gone. And magically the ride seems to be improved (smoother and more fluid) and the handling sharpened by a slight and yet perceptible amount. In the end I feel positive. This Corolla strut mount comes with two layers of hard plastic sandwiching a rubber and a bearing. It is more complicated than and has more function than I expect.

That's the product description for the strut mount: "Optimizes steering and suspension performance by acting as a pivot for the steering mechanism; Reduces squeaks, rattles, and vibration noise."

Also at the same time I have replaced the right side universal joint/drive shaft. It is quite expensive and a lot of work. Somehow it is better but need to test if grinding noise when during right turn still exists.

The most obvious change to me now is the steering. It is direct and fluid. There is an increase in the connection between the steering wheel and road. The vagueness ia gone. The conner limit has somehow increased, despite the ridiculous ride height. It is good that I can always lower the ride height to sharpen the handling without a change in ride quality.

Simplicity of the Corolla

The simplicity brings joy.

The joy comes from two areas: the car itself, and more importantly the driving and experience of owning it.

One will have to fully appreciate Corolla's strength with tons of driving experience in other cars, and to a fuller extent with other cars in ownership.

Excitement and curiosity often mask the inconvenience and trouble that follow. This joy of owning a Corolla excludes mods as such. My only want is to restore, not mod. So in a way the Corolla is free of such trouble and inconvenience. Its limitation now becomes its edge.

So what is it like if the Corolla is replaced by a C36?

Brake Kit Upgrade for SLK350 (future project)

This would be the last item before the body kit.


The monoblock AMG 6-Pot and the 345mm floating disc are very tempting, not only because of the look through the wheel spokes, but also stopping power that the SLK350 much needed. I can account this under safety and handling department.


But the thing is once the 6-pot is installed there is no going back to 17" wheel without taking the brake kit off. This is indeed a reduction of option. I have a little reservation. And by not doing that I am always tempted.

R171 3-link Front Suspension

Jumping from C36 to R171, I keep wondering about the change of the front suspension. The traditional double wishbone gave a firm and luxury Mercedes ride to the W202. Because of the split installation of spring and shock, it gives a rather stable platform which are strong and reliable. The 3-link strut type came to W203 with a surprise but it did have a much sharper turn-in and responsiveness. While the lower arms are split and deem less stronger in construction, the strut itself tells a different story. The strut is heavy and over-engineered. The trailing front arm would help handle the impact of bump thumps and braking (a pull force), while the lateral arm defining the lateral position and dealing with the lateral force during cornering. It is funny that Mercedes engineers decided to use the steering (tie) rod as a third suspension arm which sits about the same levels with the other two lower arms.

The Thought of Adding a 4th Project Car

This is not entirely a sound idea at all. However the temptation to do so lingers on. 

I have always been in search of a fourth car which is special. I would want it special because it itself must bare a strong justification for its place, competing against my other cars and my guilt (of spoiling myself).

To own the fourth car I must be ready to ditch one of the three existing cars. The likely one is the Corolla which I like a lot, as both a fun car and utility car. 

To ask the right question is important to determine why I need a project car and which project car I will take on.

While getting a project car can be easily justified, getting a fourth car isn't. It is an excess and easily a baggage. Keeping three cars are already a drag. Keeping four would be unwise if the justification is utility related. And then there is the drain to keep the fourth car, along with the other three, at tip-top condition.

So this fourth car got to be very special for its own worth, and must bring a lot of fun, expected and unexpected, as a project car. Financially it would not be a burden, while low initial cost is not necessary if recurring cost, mod cost and resale are taken into consideration. And there should not be any surprise towards the negative end.


Added on Feb 15th, 2011:
Somehow I feel that a project car is a sort of materialistic bondage. I am not saying freedom is good and then bondage is bad. We need certain level of bondage to feel materialistically satisfied and our desire met. But too much of a bondage at certain time can be bad, and easily catches one off guard. So it is important to be very cautious, as a project car, and a fourth car, can easily drain more than one would expect, and can interfere with other aspects of life in the form of a burden.

SLK350 Driving in the rain

This would be the first time I drive the SLK in the rain all day in all kind of wet surface. The traction has been excellent, and the ride has softened up a bit either because of wet surface or softened suspension (just fitted over 2 days ago). The ride, feel and handling are very factory-like.


And the roof holds up quite well, all day in the rain and no leaks.

SLK350 Update

I had no clue that the front shocks of the SLK350 had long gone. I did feel that the handling was weird, clumsy, and twitchy when pushed and at the limit. It came to me that an affordable set of Eibach Pro-kit and Bilstein B8 shock set (so called B12 set in Hong Kong) would alleviate the problem. And it did. Here came the surprise - the front shocks, after removal from the car, were already gone but showing no sign of the completely faded damping. I always have doubt about SLK's handling, but never expected it would be so 'average'. 

The new B8 shocks (Mcpherson) along with the Eibach springs provides a rock-solid and almost unyielding front end, extremely firm but not quite harsh. The folder roof did not complain. The ride and handling are now superb with the top down. While it is still slightly twitchy at the new limit which is now pushed to another height, the handling is different - nimble, direct and clean. I can now feel the body rigidity of the SLK.


In terms of look, the lower ride height (1" approx.) front and rear have the 18" AMG manifested. They now look business with a dice of aggressiveness and 19"ish. 

Let me say the change makes me rediscover SLK again. 

C36 Cruising

On Sunday I used my Canon G11 to shot the footage while single-handed operating the SLK. Then I used iMovie to edit them into a one-minute clip.

I am back! 2011!

CC Library, CUHK, Shatin

This is Feb, 2011. I am back on my car blog. I will move back my blogs between 2006 and 2011 from the Yahoo Blog, an almost 5 years of missing materials. I will also blog the new entries as well. The blogger has improved itself quite a lot now with features I need.


What cars are there in my fleet now?
2004/5 Mercedes R171 SLK350 in Silver (7-G gearbox)
2001 Honda Civic ES8 1.5L VTi in Silver (multitronic)
2004 Toyota Corolla 1.5L in white (M/T 5-speed)


It is a lot of cars but I am not the only one using the fleet. My wife and my brother are sharing the Civic. My wife also uses the SLK as a leisure car, which is my project car (in a lesser sense and I will come to that later). The Corolla is my everyday car and is fun to drive. It is tough  workhorse, and officially my first Toyota, which means a lot to me (I will come to that later).


At this moment I am indulging and contemplating a fourth 'project' car, likely a C36 (again, yes), C43 (or something with a V8), or simply another convertible. Who knows? I am open.

C36 with Manual Transmission

It was Jack's project car - a 1994 mint condition with the 4-speed auto replaced with a 5-speed manual.

The car is spirited, its character totally transformed. My first drive was embarrassing as I could not find the clutch friction point, and the large final ratio was truck-like. Boy, does it have torque and the pulling power? The lack of handbrake on the side does make me nervous. The gearshift is fidgety, light, plasticky yet precise. It shifts like a toy car, lacking even the mechanical feeling of say, a typical German car. A M/T Corolla in comparison has more substantial feel to it. Clutch was not heavy but the feel was vague.

All of those does not stop this C36 as a slightly larger 4-door pocket rocket (its size is the same as my Corolla). The 5-speed does not eat away power like the auto gearboxes do. And the power transmission is direct and clean. And you do feel 280ps under your feet. With the rebuilt engine and the manual transmission, Jack has at least gained 50ps with his C36 compared to other C36s, 4-speed or 5-speed.

The interior and exterior conditions are among the best in the C36s I have encountered. Weaknesses are in the braking (lacking the initial bites) and the suspension setting. As I mentioned before, C36 setup suffered from being too firm (or even harsh) for comfort in the road condition in Hong Kong, yet too soft and bouncy to handle its own weight in the corners. I hope Jack has ideas to cure those weaknesses, which I am confident he will and execute well, with the old-school determination and passion rarely found today.

SLK350 Jan Log

Jan xx - Michelin PS2 and 18" AMG fitted.

Jan 27, 2010 @San Po Kong

Jan xx - AMG Hood Grill fins added.
Jan 27 - Rear spoiler added.

Bridgestone GR90 on Corolla

I didn't know why I resisted so much in fitting the new GR90 on the Corolla. It is all about safety, fun and utility. I drive mostly the Corolla and I love to drive it, but did not change the tires even though it was the first thing I should have done to it, among many things that have been already done to it.

I think I am having a sense of self-denial, working under my skin that I am not aware of. And it is working via my justification to NOT justify it even though practically it is the best thing to do.

Anyway I did the tire change at Jinway for $3000, $750@ on Jan 24th. I am superstitious about Jinway as almost every tire I fitted there ending up replaced shortly. I always fitted the wrong tires there, for some reason, which makes me unwilling to fit my tires there. But I did it there this time, in which with still strong doubt which I need to ignore.

It is the most expensive tires in its size/category, and made in Japan.

The GR90s replaced the Michelin XM-1 (2007). My initial feeling is that its traction is similar to XM1 and lower than the GR80. It is firmer than the XM1 and quieter than the XM1. It is a noise-free tire and resilient. However it does not have the handling and the sure-footed grip and traction of the older GR90, in which the difference can be accounted for by different cars (Civic vs. Corolla) that they each are fitted. GR90, in comparison, is noisy and harsh and yet more confidence inspiring. So far I am happy with the new GR90, as a luxury tire unlike GR80 which is a lot more spirited and sporty in nature.

In terms of side wall, GR90 is both plushier and firmer. It does not steer as quickly as the XM1 and GR80 but the response is smooth and progressive. XM1 has slightly better turn-in and GR80 is simply sharp, in comparison to GR90.

However a fair comment is to be given after initial 1,000 kms. Let's see.

錦田遊樂團

Going out with the HKMB Club gang on a Saturday afternoon to Kam Tin. The goal was to shop for savaged parts for the project cars. I have yet to have a project car. So I went there to see what kind of scraped cars they have in order to limit the choice of project cars I should have gotten myself. Since a project car serves two purposes - restoration and/or rebuild, the availability of salvaged parts becomes a priority.

Cars that are too old (80s') are not suitable, not only they are rare in scraped yards, but also poor in condition. Cars that are in 90s seem to be good, as there are a lot of scraped cars available.

So far I have limited my choice to C36, a car that I once owned.

18" AMG Alloy & Michelin PS2 on SLK350

Finally I bite the bullet (again) and bought a set of AMG 18" wheels and a matched set of good old friendly Michelin PS2. The price is horrible of course at $8K+$9K. It is just right, the handling and the smoothness. I can fault it except the stiff ride, noise and occasional harshness over rough surface. Yet it feel much quickly and natural than the RE11 which has tremendous grip. I like PS2 much better and feel more excited about the RE11. I want to keep the RE11 as I believe it will work in certain car.

SLK350

After getting back the money from the sale of Sunfire, I am deeply addicted to the idea of getting a new set of wheels and tires for the SLK350. I am not happy with the RE11 on the original 17" alloy, now compound with the wheel alignment issue caused by the change of the suspension arms last week. Now I am desperate to get a 18" AMG with the Micheline PS2 for an improved ride and much better look. This is indeed against Tiki's advice.

It is a fact that I regret the purchase of the RE11. It makes me drive the SLK350 less.

It is a paid and expensive opportunity to change it. At least it will look great if the ride is still bad.

I would very much to keep the SLK350, especially after I got the Corolla.

Cars along can't be practical in HK as practical if they are not considered as toys.