Author: Matt Haugness

Matt created ImportMeet.com in 2011 after noticing a lack of media websites dedicated exclusively to import cars. Although he's employed as an engineer and has no formal training in journalism, his skills continue to develop as the editor for the site. He enjoys writing feature car articles, technical build/project articles, and organizing events. Matt drives a 2023 Honda Civic Type R and a 1990 LS-swapped Mazda RX-7.

Check out our Nissan Fest coverage! This year Northwest Nissans is taking their annual Nissan gathering to another level. On March 25th, 2012 Nissans (and other makes) will descend upon Evergreen Speedway in Monroe, WA. There will be a car show that is open to all makes organized by NWMotiv.com and a Drifting Demo along with a Pro-Am and Pro Sponsor Package competition. Nissan Fest is open to all makes and models and general admission is FREE. The event starts at 10am and the track goes live at 11am. Media and Sponsorship Drift Registration should be completed by 3/15/2012.

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When I was deciding on an engine swap, two of my deciding factors were ease of installation and cost. Right around the time I started to research potential swap options, a company named Ronin Speedworks released prototype photos of their FC RX-7 LSX mount kit. These photos helped make my decision a little easier. Typically, swap kits for non-standard engine swaps can sell for over $1000. Ronin Speedworks sells their Supreme kit for $569 plus shipping. Their Supreme kit includes everything required to mount an LSX engine and T56 transmission (transmission mount not shown). Since I wasn’t too keen on…

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A key area that many people overlook when building a track car is engine oil management. Track cars are typically exposed to greater lateral forces than street cars which can lead to oil starvation issues. Oil starvation usually results in a blown engine that requires an expensive rebuild. Most aftermarket baffles combat oil starvation by preventing the oil from sloshing against the walls of the pan (i.e. away from the pickup). Since Project LSX-7 will be used for amateur drifting and autocross, I decided to source a baffle to help ease my worries. Although a dry sump system would be…

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From this post forward, Project FC RX-7 will be referred to as Project LSX-7. After purchasing the L33 engine, numerous parts were required to make it fit in the RX-7. The search began by looking for accessories and an oil pan from an F-body (1998-2002 Camaro/Firebird). After searching for nearly a week on LS1Tech and Seattle/Vancouver Craigslist, a blown LS1 engine from a 2004 GTO was found in Canada. The ad description was minimal and didn’t include photos but I decided to email the seller anyway. I asked if the intake manifold and accessories were included and he sent me…

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About two months ago I was on the fence as to which route I was going to go for the engine swap on the RX-7. My choices were between a 2JZ-GTE, an F22C, and an LS1. After comparing the cost , power potential, and weight of all three, I ended up deciding on an L33 engine. The L33 is a small block Chevy that is very similar to all LSX engines. The key difference between an L33 and an LS1 is the slightly smaller bore resulting in a displacement of 5.3L instead of 5.7L. One of the big advantages of…

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It’s been awhile since the last update on the RX-7. Unfortunately, the cold and wet Pacific Northwest weather hasn’t allowed for much progress lately. Since the day the shell was purchased back in October, I’ve been searching for a shop that would allow me to install an engine and work on the car. Everything that I found was either too large or too small and the rent was always higher than I wanted to pay. Luckily, v8rx7guy (Matt K.) was able to find an open shop on a family member’s rental property. The new renters didn’t want the shop so…

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Many enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the release of the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ in the United States. Scion has an interesting contest to make sure that the most devoted fans have the first chance of buying an FR-S prior to the official launch day. On January 12th from 12:00pm to 8:06pm EST potential buyers can place a purchase request for the FR-S on www.scionfirst86.com. By picking their desired color and transmission in the 8 hour and 6 minute long window, these contestants will have a chance of being one of the first 86 owners of the FR-S in the…

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