We have spent quite some time in the workshop over the last few weeks, and are gradually moving on!
However, in the spirit of one step forward and two steps back, I have decided to scrap the old calipers for the front brakes and buy new ones. Main issue is safety – it is silly to compromise on brakes, steering and tyres – so ECAS have yet another order from me, this time for complete caliper kits which should arrive shortly. This may have the additional benefit of the disc running smoothly in the centre of the caliper rather than slightly off on the nearside. Big decision in my mind as to whether to publicly announce my latest “doh” moment, but….
The two photos show the front brakes mounted – my first attempt is on the left, the second and correct fitting is on the right. This explains why the handbrake cables didn’t run correctly first time. In my defence, I got confused by articles on the web referring to drivers side which turned out to be for a left hand drive car.
Having got the admission out of the way, I can confirm the following has all been done:
Cleaned fly wheel ready for reassembly with the clutch
Fitted new clutch release bearing
Replaced ignition with 123 electronic
Cleaned and degreased engine shrouds and painted
The fan cowling may need replacement but first of all we can try to fix it with Ed’s TIG welder
In the same period I obtained a few storage boxes – which makes the workshop all much neater. I also recharged my neighbours battery in her beautiful Issigoni mini, much to her satisfaction – and mine because it repays in some way my use of her parking space.
However, I have also tried to fit the Burton exhaust and have been defeated. I have emailed Burton, and from their reply it seems that a (vital) bit seems to be missing from the kit. At the same time I have asked for a practical translation of some Dutch to help me identify some nuts and bolts they have supplied. How to translate:
kacheldoorvoer/remleidingklem
bankbevestiging
handremgeleiding
(answers on a postcard, please)
I have decided that it is time to get the engine re-mated with the gearbox and installed onto the chassis. I can then try to get the engine running and see whether it does need to be stripped and rebuilt or whether I can move on to the next stage of fitting the body tub, That will be our task for next week – we will see how it goes!