How to spend $5k on a $2k econobox = NOT SWIFT (Geo Metro restoration & mods)

[StudeChamp]

I promised a very long time ago that I would document a 1991 Geo Metro faux xfi build... And in keeping with y "binge viewing" tradition, the build is 98% done and I'm going to recreate a two-year scavenger hunt resulting in this, a restored 1991 Geo Metro with some serious economods. Her name? NOT SWIFT.

[StudeChamp]

So my Studeo builder and BFF Johnny gave me a $400 Geo a few years back. That's actually what kicked off my whole ecomod appetite. John had already collected a few misc parts, too, like moon hubcaps, an xfi brain box, cam, and pulley, and new LRR tires. So I took the car and, being my typical overenthusiastic OCD self thought, *** it, let's build this right.

[StudeChamp]

At John's insistance, the engine came out and apart, and the build sheet grew. Here's what we came up with:

New paint
Fresh interior
LRR 13 in tires
Delete passenger side mirror
Custom kammback
Swift lower front bumper
Swift 3.51 final drive transaxle
xfi gear
Rebuilt engine running 0w oil
Fresh bearings
Rebuilt high flow injector
Restored interior (incl delete belts from door, custom panels)
The love and admiration of friends, family and the community at large

[StudeChamp]

Of course, we were building the Studeo at the same time, so the parts began piling up, including a 5d parts car that was unceremoniously chopped and recycled. The neat trick of dong two at once allowed me to forget about how much I was spending on any one car at a time, which helps in this kind of effort, I've learned. Getting the little gal through smog and back on the street turned into quite the journey. Still, she's alomst done now, and that is what counts.

[StudeChamp]

So, one more post till the pics go up, I think. Looking forward to sharing the build with you.

[Baltothewolf]

Tbh I really want to see this, can't wait for pics!!

[StudeChamp]

I'll just spoil the whole thing by posting pics of where I am at today. Build history to follow.

[StudeChamp]

Oh, nearly forgot (I didn't take a rear-angle shot of the car). Here's a little ecoporn to whet your collective appetite for build posts.

[OG VX]

That Ecoporn at the end is very nice. Man, (and I never thought that in my Tina Turner wildest-dreams I would say this) that is one sweet Metro!

[StudeChamp]

This pic gives a much better view of the Kammback.

All steel with some finish filler. Johnny welded it up himself. Action pics to follow...