The next modification is a fun but unexpected one. A birthday gift from a friend in who works at the shop I buy some parts through surprised me with my very own Pivot Retractable Headlight Controller. For those who don't know, this is a device which allows the user to set the angle at which the retractable headlights stop on their way down from the up/ON position. Setting the retractable lights between slightly raised and halfway raised achieves the look commonly referred to as the "sleepy eye" or lazy eye.

This is a modification that can also be done by hand or for a rather inexpensive price, so part of the appeal is the authenticity of having the actual unit versus a home-brew approach, but the look can be acquired either way. (Anyone who is interested can email us for more information on either the Pivot unit or how to do it yourself, it's pretty easy--see the contact page.)

The unit is small and easy to fit in amongst the black interior of the S13. I chose to plant it on the inside of the windshield alongside the driver's side A-pillar. In this location I could run the wiring down the A-pillar and discreetly behind the side of the dash trim, where it tucks into the driver's side kick panel.

The actual wiring was very simple. 3 wires are cut in the kick panel and spliced into the controller while a 4th wire goes into a 12 volt power source also in the kick panel. New Pivot controllers have a harness that plugs into them which gives you more splicing room but mine was used and had no harness, so the splicing was a touch more tricky. I also wired a fuse into my setup for additional safety. All in all everything works as it should and I'm satisfied with the results. It's fun to have control of the headlight position from within the car and it makes a great conversational piece.

I also added vent-mounting cellular phone/cup holder by Zax. It fits 12oz soda cans and paper/styrofoam cups nicely but it too small for topheavy or wide-based containers.

With these additions the first stage of the Project S13 Dress-up tune is complete.

By: Ben C.

STATEMENT OF NON-LIABILITY

The author of this website does not encourage reckless driving on public roadways. The driving techniques and vehicle modifications shown in this webpage are intended for off-road use only and some of the modifications may make your car illegal for public road use. If you want to learn about drifting: more power to you but keep it safe and off of the streets; there are many on-track events for drifting, search for one in your area.

This website is about improving the performance and technique of the car and driver, mainly in respect to vehice handling. It deals with exploring the maximum ranges of tire traction, and in the case of drifting, pushing beyond that limit for extended periods of time. The closer a car comes to the limit of traction and the further it moves beyond the limit of traction the greater the chances of crashes when an error in judgement occurs.

If, while attempting to apply any of the ideas, procedures, or advice contained in this website, you should encounter any unfortunate or undesired circumstance, you will have done so through your own conscious descision. I disclaim responsibility for your actions, AND for your accident.