Introduction After installing the Speed Source shifter bushings it is time to tackle the other end of the shifter mechanism. Namely, the rubber bushings at the end of the shifter cables. By replacing the rubber cable ends with solid bushings, the shift mechanism is made that much more precise. Also, unlike the rubber bushings, these solid bushing will not wear out and deteriorate overtime. Tools...
Introduction What Speed Source offers with their solid aluminum shifter bushings is nothing short of amazing when you realize just how profoundly these bushings alter the feel of the Spyder. By replacing the factory rubber bushings with solid aluminum units, the Speed Source bushings banish the spongy, lacking feel of the factory shifter. The shifter now exhibits the urgent, mechanical feel it...
Introduction Let’s start with semantics. With the mid-engined, transversely mounted Spyder, you basically have a fwd Corolla engine sitting behind the passenger compartment driving the rear wheels. This means the transmission and differential are part of the same unit and sit in the same housing together. So changing the transmission fluid in the Spyder is the same as changing the...
The ScanGaugeII is a small automotive computer that interfaces with the OBDII port of the MR2 Spyder. It contains a small LCD screen that can be used to display the motor’s factory sensors in realtime. Although the ScanGaugeII is a multipurpose device that can display a wide variety of values ranging from MPG to cost per mile most enthusiasts will use this gauge to measure up to four...
I must admit that this is a first for me. I have never installed a head unit in any car that I’ve owned because frankly, I am not an audophile. I always figure that if I am going to spend money on a car, that money will be spent on performance. However, in adding aftermarket gauges to the MR2 Spyder, a unique set of issues presented themselves that ultimately led to modification of the...
We all know how important it is to define goals for any project car and from the beginning I’ve described project MR2 Spyder as a daily driven commuter that needs to have a healthy track appetite. In working towards this goal, I plan to reach a sub 2100 pound curb weight with somewhere close to 200 whp. I plan to do this while including some sort of roll-over protection and retaining...
Ok so maybe it will. But I ask should it because this article has nothing to do with flexin’ yo’ 20’s fo da bling blang. Or in the Spyder’s case, some oversized 18″ rims. Something that I unfortunately witnessed the other day on a MR2 Spyder as it slowly crept through the left hand turn where I sat, mouth agape, contemplating whether or not I would go blind staring...
Introducing project MR2 Spyder (MR-S), my daily driver. I might as well come clean up front, I wouldn’t want you guys to think I am going soft, or crazy for that matter as the MR2 is not the best choice for a drift platform. It really is simple though, my passion for motorsports extends beyond the world of drifting. Not only do I love drifting, I enjoy auto-x, road racing, rally, time...
Chris Simmons is a race car driver, instructor, business owner and all around gearhead. His passion for motorsport started in the drifting community and progressed into wheel to wheel racing of all kinds. When off track Chris can be found training and working on a myriad of projects. After a hiatus from writing, he is back to share his passion, knowledge and experience in regard to motorsports on and off the track.