tre_77's graphite 2011

[tre_77]

Finally getting around to making a thread on my build. Bought this in September 2011 and loving every second with it!

Mazda 3 2011- GS sedan



This was around the begining of October. Already installed weathertech digital fit floor liners, 6000k HIDs, tinted windows, blk/grey rally armors, and experimented with VHT nite-shade on the tail lights...

[Hyperion]

Ah. Bought it 1 year after me
Is the nightshades applied in that pic?

[tre_77]

Here's a quick pic of the first time I attempted to tint with VHT nite-shade.... Wouldn't recommend it. I ended up removing the tail lights all together and respraying them in my basement. Much easier and less taping was required!

[Takumi616]

nice attempt though... looks good.

[tre_77]

November:

Strut bar installed.... Took 5-6 minutes tops! Very easy intall.


Winter tires (Bridestone Blizzaks ws50)

[tre_77]

Hyperion,
The first pic is the second attempt. I decided to tape off the white and only spray the red. I couldn't stand the greenish look from the chrome. I currently have vinyl on the way so ill be redoing them a 3rd time.

Takumi616,
Thanks. Tried something different.

[tre_77]

As I've said before, I'm a complete noob at car mods. My goal is to do as many modifications to my car myself rather than paying someone to do them. After contemplating a new deck install, I finally went ahead and ordered the harness, new din, and bought an alpine 103 stereo. Install was very, very simple once I understood how to remove the old one and attach the harness's together. The floor people at my local BestBuy were horrible to deal with. Their install guy was amazing. I just asked him what he recommended and he provided the connectors and advice free of charge.

For those also considering a stereo install, here is a pic of what to expect once the old one is out. Its literally plug and play. For a noob, you'll be fine.

[tre_77]

January 2012:

Took advantage of the Eibach Prokit sale at Alpha Motorsports and install from Jimmy at Street Performance. I've got to say, both were great guys to deal with. Very professional and quick delivery and install. I highly recommend this deal for those thinking of lowering their 3. Excellent experience.

As for the ride. I think it looks great and handles even better now. Of course Im noticing the bumps a little more now, but it comes with the territory.

[tre_77]

More lowered pics


These were taken the day after the install. Apparently they are still going to settle even more

[spartan786]

Car Looks Great, just wait until you put the intake on.

[Kiyomi]

keep the mods rolling.

[Shinglez]

MOAR LOW

[Hyperion]

Shoulda bought mine
Coming off soon.

Yea I coulda told you that you would need to take your lights out.
PITA to do it in.
Could have also told you about the turquoise effect.

[tre_77]

It's too bad they tend to look turquoise. Im just looking to smoke them. Hopefully I can pull off a semi-decent vinyl job on them this monday. I got a 74% in grade 9 art if that counts for anything....lol

[tre_77]

February:

Can't believe the weather! Hand washed....

[Hyperion]

Should consider the OEM window visors. Bit pricy but look great, and actually usefull.
Rear lip spoiler would be nice too.

[tre_77]

I do like the look of the window visors, but i dont want to totally rip u, jackel, and fayvir off. Lol.

Still undecided on the rear lip spoiler. Looks great, but i like the floating wing one too....

Still need to work on rims.......

[Shinglez]

Looks good man!

[chan7]

car looks good . Keep it up!

[tre_77]

Thanks guys!

[tre_77]

March:

Cleaned all the winter salt off. GT rims mounted.Also picked up koni yellows for 380$! Installing shortly.

[zzz3]

$380!! how (unless i missed the fs thread)??

[Hyperion]

Did you change your rear lights back to OEM?

[Jackal]

Great purchase with the Konis. $380 what?!
GT rims look great!!

[tre_77]

Yeah, I saw a guy selling them on kijiji for 420 and talked him down to 380. Can't wait to feel the difference in ride quality!

Hyperion, yeah I spent an hour a few Sundays ago removing the niteshade. I have vinyl ready to go. Just have to watch a couple more "how to" videos so I can muster up the patience to apply it.... if it turns out a disaster, I'll just spray them again.