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Old 03-30-2011
MrClean MrClean is offline
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Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: Powell, OH
Posts: 170
Default Improvements to PJ #190 (...L-O-N-G...P-O-S-T...)

I posted on another forum and, so far, have had no response. I'd be interested in hearing feedback from all of you.

Prelude Statement: As a general rule, I would agree with those that say don't modify a collectible car. I also believe that you should drive the cars you own, unless your goal is to preserve the car for the next owner - ha ha (I've been there and done that).

Mission: To experience the cars I own in a way that is thrilling, enjoyable and adds value to life.

Objective: To improve my PJ for accomplishing my mission, while noting my prelude statement.

Background: Like the majority of older Americans, I too have back problems (lower, L3/L4). Add to this the fact that I believe the PJ seats are too firm to be comfortable over longer distances and you can begin to understand my need for better seats. My other ride has Recaro Pole Position racing buckets which hold you in all the right places, reduce weight by a large degree, yet are very comfortable for me over long distances. Also, this same car I speak of has very precise and properly weighted steering, which in my humble opinion, is missing on the PJ. This, again in my opinion, translates to losing some potential of this great performance ride.

Whew!


Now that I got all that goal, aligning, clarity crap out of the way, let me tell you about my plans, and then I would like to hear feedback from those that may have similar thoughts or have done similar changes to their Saleen ride.


1) Seats
I am convinced the goal of the PJ seats was almost entirely for aesthetics. Sure they look good, but man do they do a number on my lower back after just a short drive. So, what I'm ready to do is take out the PJ seats (front and back) and replace them with better-fitting, more comfortable seats, while reducing weight (aka the enemy! ). This will accomplish my mission statement while addressing my prelude statement of preserving the original (hard to replace) PJ seats.

Here are the seats we all know (but may not love):

Here is one option that I would plan** to install...

The seat is called Corbeau's CR1 model, which would be covered in black microsuede. I would plan to acquire a 2005+ Mustang rear seat and have it recovered in the same material to match. Keep in mind my background and objective.

**HOWEVER, if anyone out there knows how I may procure some of these, I may go this route instead:



2. Steering:
In my humblest of opinions as a car and driving enthusiast, the PJ's power steering is over-boosted and too light in its duties to communicate feedback desired during the driving experience. This one enhancement that I am going to approach cautiously, though. I may not do anything at all unless I know the outcome is going to add value to the driving experience. Resultantly, this is an area that I really could use input from those of you that have experience with this.


3. Steering Wheel:
I don't know about you, but the PJ's steering wheel is just not as performance oriented as it could be, especially given the PJ's track heritage and potential. I would like to get a steering wheel with a chunkier thickness (if this makes sense). Perhaps something more ergonomic and performance-oriented ala 2012 Boss 302 (for instance). Here's a photo of what I'm talking about:



4. Window Tint
I'm not talking about limo tint or even tinting all the windows. I'm just talking about the driver and passenger side front windows, going 35%-38% in order to mute out the interior and occupants, and streamline the car from a design standpoint. I know this is not for everyone, but I believe it adds to the look of a car when done, tastefully. I did not have to go far to find an example photo of this. I believe this is one of the press photos of the PJ, and guess what the windows are tinted exactly like I had mentioned.

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So, I'd like to hear from those that have ventured into this (sometimes) touchy or controversial area of "enhancements" (notice I did not say mods).

I especially want to hear from those on item 2 above, Steering.
Thanks to all that have endured this long read and are now still willing to post a response.

Cheers!

Last edited by MrClean; 03-30-2011 at 09:11 AM.
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