Automotive

Mev Exocet Build Guide

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Mev Exocet Build Guide

The MEV Exocet is a lightweight, high-performance kit car that offers enthusiasts a thrilling driving experience and the satisfaction of building their own car from the ground up. Known for its minimalist design, agile handling, and incredible performance, the Exocet is a favorite among kit car builders who want to create a vehicle that stands out on the road and provides an exhilarating ride. In this MEV Exocet build guide, we will walk you through the key steps involved in assembling your Exocet, from selecting the right components to completing the build process.

Whether you’re an experienced DIY mechanic or a first-time kit car builder, this guide will help you navigate the MEV Exocet build with confidence, ensuring that you end up with a car that performs as well as it looks.

What is the MEV Exocet?

The MEV Exocet is a high-performance kit car manufactured by MEV (Mediocre Engineering Vehicles), a company known for producing lightweight and affordable kit cars. The Exocet is based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata platform, using the Miata’s engine, suspension, and rear axle, which provides a solid foundation for the build. The car’s design is focused on simplicity, lightness, and performance, with the goal of delivering an authentic driving experience that is reminiscent of racing cars.

With its open cockpit, low weight, and responsive handling, the Exocet is often described as a bare-bones” sports car that emphasizes driving purity. It is designed for those who want to experience the thrill of a roadster without the complexity or weight of more traditional vehicles.

Why Build an MEV Exocet?

There are many reasons why car enthusiasts opt to build an MEV Exocet. Here are just a few of the top reasons why it might be the perfect kit car for you:

  • Affordable Performance: The Exocet provides incredible performance at a fraction of the cost of other sports cars. By utilizing the Mazda MX-5 Miata parts, you can build a car that is quick, lightweight, and easy to maintain.

  • Customization: Building the Exocet allows you to personalize the car to your exact preferences, whether it’s in terms of style, performance, or comfort.

  • Hands-On Experience: The process of building the Exocet gives you a unique opportunity to learn about automotive engineering and mechanical skills. It’s a highly rewarding project for those who love to work with their hands.

  • Lightweight and Agile: The Exocet’s lightweight design ensures excellent handling and performance on both track days and regular road use.

What You’ll Need to Build Your MEV Exocet

Before diving into the build process, it’s important to gather all the necessary components and tools. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

Components for the Build

  • Donor Car: The Mazda MX-5 Miata is typically used as the donor vehicle. The donor car will provide essential components such as the engine, transmission, suspension, wheels, and rear axle.

  • MEV Exocet Kit: The Exocet kit includes the frame, body panels, suspension mounts, and a range of smaller components needed to complete the build. The kit is designed to work seamlessly with the Miata’s parts.

  • Engine and Transmission: Depending on the model of Miata, the engine could be a 1.6L or 1.8L inline-4 engine. You’ll also need to choose the right transmission for your build.

  • Suspension and Steering: The Exocet uses Miata suspension parts, including the front and rear suspension arms, steering rack, and shocks.

  • Wheels and Tires: Depending on your performance goals, choose wheels and tires that suit your driving style.

  • Braking System: The Exocet uses Miata brakes, but you may want to upgrade them for better performance.

Tools and Equipment

  • Wrenches and Ratchets: A full set of metric wrenches and ratchets will be necessary for most of the assembly process.

  • Power Tools: A drill, impact wrench, and grinder will help you assemble the kit more efficiently.

  • Jacks and Stands: Since the build involves working under the car, you’ll need a reliable jack and stands to raise and support the vehicle.

  • Engine Hoist: For lifting the engine from the donor car into the Exocet frame.

  • Safety Gear: Always wear gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots to ensure safety during the build.

Step-by-Step MEV Exocet Build Process

Building the MEV Exocet can be broken down into several key stages. Here is a general overview of the process:

1. Prepare the Donor Car

The first step in building the MEV Exocet is to prepare the Mazda MX-5 Miata donor car. You will need to remove the body and most of the interior components, leaving behind the essential parts such as the engine, transmission, suspension, and rear axle.

  • Remove the body panels: Start by removing the body panels, including the hood, fenders, and doors. You can sell or scrap these parts if they are in good condition.

  • Disconnect the wiring and fluids: Drain any fluids such as coolant, oil, and brake fluid. Disconnect the wiring harness and other electrical components that are no longer needed for the Exocet.

  • Remove the suspension and engine: Take out the suspension components, including the front and rear axles. Lift out the engine and transmission, making sure to label any parts that will be reused.

2. Assemble the Chassis

The next step is to assemble the Exocet chassis. The chassis comes pre-constructed with mounting points for the Miata’s components.

  • Attach the suspension mounts: Install the suspension mounting points and secure them with bolts and fasteners.

  • Install the rear axle: Position the rear axle from the Miata onto the Exocet chassis. This part can be tricky, as it requires precise alignment to ensure proper handling.

  • Mount the steering rack: Install the steering rack in the designated area of the chassis. Make sure it is properly aligned with the steering components.

3. Install the Engine and Transmission

Once the chassis is complete, it’s time to install the engine and transmission from the Miata.

  • Position the engine: Using an engine hoist, carefully position the engine into the Exocet’s frame. Secure it in place using the mounting points provided in the kit.

  • Install the transmission: Slide the transmission into place and connect it to the engine, ensuring that the clutch and gear linkage are properly aligned.

4. Install the Suspension

With the engine and transmission in place, it’s time to install the suspension system. The Exocet uses Miata’s suspension parts, so you can easily install the front and rear suspension components.

  • Front suspension: Attach the control arms, shocks, and struts to the front suspension mounts.

  • Rear suspension: Install the rear control arms, shocks, and differential, making sure everything is tightened properly.

5. Final Assembly

Now that the major components are installed, it’s time for the final touches.

  • Body panels: Attach the body panels to the frame, ensuring they fit properly and are securely fastened.

  • Wiring and electronics: Reconnect the wiring and install any electronic systems, such as lights, the dashboard, and the fuel system.

  • Brakes and tires: Install the braking system, wheels, and tires, ensuring they are aligned and functioning correctly.

Testing and Tuning

Once your MEV Exocet is fully assembled, it’s time to test and tune the car. Start by checking the engine, transmission, and suspension for any issues. Take the car for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning as it should. You may need to fine-tune the suspension, brakes, or alignment to get the performance you desire.

Building the MEV Exocet is an exciting and rewarding project for car enthusiasts. From sourcing the donor car to assembling the chassis and installing the engine, every step of the build process offers the opportunity to learn new skills and create a unique, high-performance vehicle. By following this build guide and paying attention to the details, you can build an Exocet that delivers an unforgettable driving experience. Happy building!

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