Project Z Evolution 1 (Stand/Wheel) Page 2/4

The Stand
For the main component, the stand, a professionally manufactured stand was opted due to the reasoning that the main structure needs to be sturdy and heavy enough not to rattle loose with repeated use but also with a relative amount of mobility as well as being aesthetically pleasant. Sturdiness, compact size, the right weight so that it is mobile but heavy enough to withstand repeated use and abuse, enough space for future upgrade add-ons, expandability, racy looks, right height, space to affix both the steering wheel and the foot pedals, and a black finish to match the decided motif of red and black were the criterias for the stand. The result is the purchase of a mini component stereo stand from a A/V furniture store that matched all these criterias.

The stand itself was US$80 and needs assembly, but from assembling it the sturdiness of it becomes apparent. It is made from solid wood instead of lightweight plywood. In addition the 4 pillars that hold up the 3 wing extensions at the top are made from solid metal. Cut out notches in all the boards for the pillars enable the setting of the 4 horizontal platforms in a very tight and neat manner. As is also apparent it is compact in size and easily movable. The sleek and appealing design has just enough space for upgrade parts as well. It is the right height and has space for both the wheel at top and pedals beneath in the base plate. The black finish rounds out the criteria for the color motif.

The Wheel
After clamping the Steering Unit onto the center wing, aesthetic enhancements were acquired and attached as the stock logos and names on the unit were a bit unattractive. Metalized screws on face of wheel as well as adding a MoMo emblem to center hub of the face of the wheel unit. NISMO emblem purchased from a speedshop added to nose of wheel and GT3 logo stickers from Japanese game magazines added to nose and face of the wheel.

Global Modifications
As a large amount of wires will eventually accumulate due to the wheel connections and add-ons something is needed to conceal and organize them. A tube of 2" diameter black vacuum stretch tube was acquired from an industrial electrical supply store to wrap around the front right pillar of the stand and to conceal and run the said wires inside it. (It is similar to the extension hoses of vacuum cleaners. Bendable and stretchable.) A slit was cut along the whole length of it so that it can be opened up and clamped onto the pillar. The wires were then tucked inside.

A roll of 10' X 10' black rubberized gridded metal grip fabric is acquired from an industrial rubber supply store. Pieces are cut out to cover all top facing surfaces besides the main center wing. The left wing, right wing, and foot piece rubber pads are locked into place only by cutting out the shape of the pillars from the pieces to lock them on. A hole is cut in the middle of the bottom foot piece as well to accomodate the foot pedal unit.