The build's next stage involved upgrades to the stock suspension of the once engineless DC chassis. Edelbrock (yes, musclecar aficionado) provides ride height management duties with its IAS adjustable coilover system and Energy Suspension bushings take the place of the dry, worn-out stock pieces. An Integra Type R five-lug conversion gives Waldo the advantages of the slightly larger discs necessary for slowing down this 500hp brute. Splitting time with drag slicks are Dunlop tires mounted on 16x7 Rays Gram Light 57C wheels in gold trim.
The interior of this monstrous Integra reflects a more subtle feel. Waldo admits not knowing much about JDM parts but reminds us that though it may not be 100 percent JDM, he gave it his own "personal touch." Stock LS-trim seats were removed and swapped for JDM Integra Type R Recaros along with a plethora of other JDM Type R parts including the R instrument cluster, MOMO steering wheel, shift knob and boot. Auto Meter Cobalt series gauges monitor any changes in boost pressure and operating temperatures whether Waldo is running on the track or cruising the streets of Southern California.
The JDM Integra Type R theme is carried over to the exterior as a complete JDM Type R front end sits in place of the once round-eyed U.S.-spec facia. As a sort of signature to his own style, Waldo uses Seibon carbon-fiber fenders, hood, front lip and side skirts; a look he used on his previous project, a second-generation Integra. Other than the carbon-fiber pieces, the rest is resprayed in a brilliant PPG Milano Red-a popular color among Integra owners. A freak accident at a drag event involving an engine bay fire would prove to be a blessing in disguise. The flames gave an engine bay respray that now match the equally glossy exterior. And before you ask, we're not going to ask Waldo if having a red and black exterior has anything to do with his mysterious red and white counterpart. That, of course, would just be too easy.
What's next for Waldo Duarte? He hopes to add subtle touches here and there as he learns more about the many JDM parts available for his Integra. Seat time at the track is also another possibility. "I was very impressed when I ran an 11.7 at LACR (Los Angeles County Raceway) in Palmdale when we first had the motor tuned," Waldo says. "The car started out as a bare shell and I felt like I accomplished my dream."