Russ Weir's blog

Well hello everyone.

As a new member I thought I'd kick things off by introducing myself & my car.

My name's Russ & I live in Gillingham, Kent. I've been into VWs most of my life, but didn't own one until 3 years ago.

I joined Harvey Smith (VWSP162) as his 'pit-bitch' at Big Bang 2007 and was totally hooked, so I have him to thank, but also the camaraderie amongst the other racers was clearly evident. The easy entry & low cost of Sportsman has been the main appeal, and I will be keeping a full financial account of this 2008 'Rookie' season to demonstrate this.

So, the car. Her real name is Miranda, but when the stinger's bolted on she'll be known as Shiftin' Ghia. She's a LHD 1974 Karmann Ghia Coupe, originally a 1500. She's fairly stock. Engine-wise, there's a 'TES' 1641cc unit using a new case/B&P's/heads etc. Bolted to this is a 36DRLA, 009, 8mm leads, breather kit, Empi exhaust and I'm hoping Santa shops at Pertronix and sends me electronic ignition.
As far as the body is concerned, she had some light resto work this year; a heater channel, sill, wheel-arch and rear wing repairs. The front end is balljoint with discs, sitting on a -1" to -5" adjustable beam with 2 sets of castor shims. A 3" narrowed, -1" to -5" beam is currently sitting in my back garden awaiting fitment, together with anti-bumpsteer bushes.

She wears 4 early Riviera wheels which are 5x15", covered with 135/70 Continentals up front and 195/65 at the back, however I'm awaiting delivery of some 185/70 Fuldas to allow a little more clearance as I want to lower her a couple of inches at the back.

Inside she's totally stock save a dash-fitted tacho. I'll be pulling out the seats for a little weight saving when I'm racing though, together with the bumpers and decklid (+spare wheel & jack!).

Oh, and I'll be over the moon if I get an 18, I'll reward my fellow competitors with the contents of my beer stash if this happens.

Here's to a great 2008!

Update - Race stickers have arrived from Slook Designs. I'm very happy with the results