This is a thread about my 10th Mk2.
Bought this one back in December 2016, it went a little something like this.
Yep, finally back in a Mk2 and a BBM at that :D
After searching up and down the country (quite literally), yesterday Cupracraig tagged me in one for sale on Facebook.
It's certainly no show winner, but the astounding thing about this one was it was fairly priced!
Knowing I'd have a fair amount of competition, I set sail 1st thing this morning with Paulina and Jimbo.
The guy was thoroughly nice and very upfront about its flaws, so I knew what I was going to see.
After a quick poke around, we were heading home in this little beaut...
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/3C3C086E-55AB-49D8-9F69-E509C381669F.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/3C3C086E-55AB-49D8-9F69-E509C381669F.jpg.html)
It's not a trick of the light, the paintwork is very flat, there's lacquer peel and a few dings here and there.
But the chassis seems in good order and the interior is excellent (could do with a clean though).
None of the paint bothers me, the car was well priced and has left me with a budget to work to.
First jobs to look into are paint and suspension, it's just too low for me!
Well yesterday I finally managed to have a proper look at the mk2.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1447.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1447.jpg.html)
I noticed that the grill badge was incorrect and when I touched it, it fell off!
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1451.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1451.jpg.html)
As I was looking at the front end, I thought I'd have a look at the spot lights as one was pointing into the stars and the other was lower than the dipped beams!
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1453.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1453.jpg.html)
Ahh, that'll be why then.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1452.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1452.jpg.html)
Fortunately, we had another grill in stock, so that went on and took care of all three problems at once.
Also, put the front number plate back on.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1479.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1479.jpg.html)
After driving it about for a week, the suspension was about ready to kill me!
The guy mentioned that it was on coilovers. I've got plans for this car that will require suspension at the right point, so I decided to raise it up in an effort to make it more livewithable for this coming year.
The good news is the coilovers seemed to be a half decent make and adjusted nicely. :thumbs:
The bad news was the tyres on the front were completely shot! :bad craic:
I'm not a fan of stretched tyres, but I'm even less of a fan of illegal tyres (and the accompanying blowouts/crashing!) so on went the Borbets.
To finish off, gave her a clean, the paintwork is still completely shot, but at least a little more presentable now.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1477.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1477.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1483.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1483.jpg.html)
Recently finished Paulinas Corrado reshell, so turned a little time onto the blue one again.
Jimbo recently bought a Corrado G60 for breaking and a deal was done to secure some of the goodies off it.
First to come off the car were the front brakes and coilovers
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/F91A886E-D8EA-4ACC-90A6-E9A63A17B587.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/F91A886E-D8EA-4ACC-90A6-E9A63A17B587.jpg.html)
Nothing wrong with the coilovers, just the Corrado had some rather nice stainless KW V1s.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/CFD5BF97-38F0-4314-A39F-ADAC3303B41D.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/CFD5BF97-38F0-4314-A39F-ADAC3303B41D.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/3B927716-1989-48C9-9217-ABF92FA90A67.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/3B927716-1989-48C9-9217-ABF92FA90A67.jpg.html)
Also had a vintage Scorpion twin outward rolled backbox from back in the day, that I'd been saving for a rainy day.
That went on too, along with the Borbets that came off the Corrado.
All in all, a fair improvement for a days work :smile:
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/5C7780BA-FD5B-4EAE-B6B0-7CF8E4B465BE.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/5C7780BA-FD5B-4EAE-B6B0-7CF8E4B465BE.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/0D13ED60-35C2-4E8F-9AED-35011E8DA124.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/0D13ED60-35C2-4E8F-9AED-35011E8DA124.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/A87A7456-0227-440E-9386-C8BE917A185F.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/A87A7456-0227-440E-9386-C8BE917A185F.jpg.html)
Well, we're getting married this year, so all current car funds are the safety net for that.
The current plan is to do the engine swap this winter, then get the bodywork done this time next year.
Speaking of engine swap, I have already purchased an engine for it....
Only downside is, it's still attached to the car!
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Parts%20For%20Sale/8F19BEE9-A606-4722-9851-AB59B4E47DE2.jpeg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Parts%20For%20Sale/8F19BEE9-A606-4722-9851-AB59B4E47DE2.jpeg.html)
Well this has happened now...
(Mark, you may want to look away)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/147ECC54-DCE4-4219-9EA8-22748AE968B3.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/147ECC54-DCE4-4219-9EA8-22748AE968B3.jpg.html)
Being a nice weekend, thought it would be a good idea to try and address something that's been bugging me for ages.
Namely the bonnet.
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/69CFEC93-C8B5-4042-8297-FC535BD02AE7.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/69CFEC93-C8B5-4042-8297-FC535BD02AE7.jpg.html)
Now it's always my plan to get the whole car resprayed (good god, it needs it), but right now I don't have the finds for it.
So I got a few cans of paint from Halfords and thought i'd give it a go myself, let's face it, I couldn't make it any worse!!
It's a little stripey, but it's still an improvement
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/40C9CFD5-51E0-40E6-A817-3FBE307A587E.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/40C9CFD5-51E0-40E6-A817-3FBE307A587E.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/83943686-627A-41CF-A72E-0247FBED1356.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/83943686-627A-41CF-A72E-0247FBED1356.jpg.html)
Cheers, those others were just too much on the car!!
Anyhow, I've been busy trying to make it less and less shonky.
This time, I decided to tackle the reason the drivers wing sat to close to the grill.
you can just about see it in this shot
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1479.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/IMG_1479.jpg.html)
Didn't take long to find out what was wrong...
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/36C97019-7741-4F0C-A57B-FD80B0B61E9C.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/36C97019-7741-4F0C-A57B-FD80B0B61E9C.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/9F6DD13F-1E60-4B49-B11E-7BBF83751D00.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/9F6DD13F-1E60-4B49-B11E-7BBF83751D00.jpg.html)
Despite the fact it was composed primarily of rust, it didn't want to come out without a fight.
However, the drill, the hammer and copious amounts of swearing later...
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/8E93828A-B274-4C67-B520-C56A3353080C.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/8E93828A-B274-4C67-B520-C56A3353080C.jpg.html)
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/BB931A93-B0E6-48A8-BF22-0E9F3B35144A.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/BB931A93-B0E6-48A8-BF22-0E9F3B35144A.jpg.html)
Offered up the new Heritage part to reveal a good fit :thumbs:
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/72BDDF12-CC3B-4387-BFC3-44B19D3D24E5.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/72BDDF12-CC3B-4387-BFC3-44B19D3D24E5.jpg.html)
Hour or so later and I was much happier
(http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c242/G60dave/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/615F4F4D-0773-434B-AADE-5A09EA150773.jpg) (http://s28.photobucket.com/user/G60dave/media/Blue%20Mk2-Mk3/615F4F4D-0773-434B-AADE-5A09EA150773.jpg.html)
I will get this car tidy
Then, in January 2018, this happened...
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4697/39730474211_a50f480e46_c.jpg)
Didn't get as far as I wanted to, but it's a start
I wasted no time in stripping the engine out and seeing what I had to work with...
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4698/39130252705_5fb6dac088_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4711/26155518198_79a135a5b6_c.jpg)
Condition was not too bad, however with all the foliage in the scuttle, I did expect David Bellamy to pop out at any moment!
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4717/26155517808_3b2a8bc74b_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4757/40028364111_ca0bd833c4_c.jpg)
However, it wasn't long before Paulina came along and got stuck in...
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4609/25157541597_58f61954ac_c.jpg)
...and a great job she did! ironically, the engine bay paintwork was the best on the whole car.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4618/26155515798_a9396d8bc4_c.jpg)
Meanwhile, I set about stripping the GTI body kit off and got to work with the Solution Finish
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4749/25157541527_420d2ae2db_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4625/25157541797_f9471fc6a2_c.jpg)
Next day, Paulina took over the trim restoration while I looked at the pedal box.
Made up a bracket for the DBW accelerator pedal
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4757/39996850462_9193c0ff20_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4700/26155518218_c423e0d13b_c.jpg)
And trial fitted in the car
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4709/40028363671_fc97beb9d3_c.jpg)
Which brings us up to this weekend.
Spent a good amount of Saturday splitting down the TT loom and marked up the remaining wiring for splicing into the Golf
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4744/39498995024_14a3cb58ed_c.jpg)
However, I only got so far before I needed to trial fit the engine in order to work out the best place for the ECU mounting and wire routing. So today, this happened
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4768/26336855948_b4d583645f_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4622/28429637169_219edbe132_c.jpg)
Had the engine for nearly a year, it's almost going to be a shame to pull it all back out again!
Had another busy weekend on the mk2.
Started off by removing the engine and completing the pedalbox and clutch master install
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4659/39585920175_9ce8521ca1_c.jpg)
Also ran the loom in
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4653/40438561022_b3c31af260_c.jpg)
The plan was to have the engine out and back in again in one weekend.
So I pulled the box off to fit the flywheel and clutch, to find out that I've managed to loose the pressure plate bolts :wtf?!:
Which ment the engine and box ended up looking like this:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4760/40481725451_9156664a8c_c.jpg)
Nevertheless, there was still plenty to do, so I moved on to the subfame
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4626/39585916875_5f3811837a_c.jpg)
Paulina got the Krust out and started treating every piece of rust in site, while I refurbished the steering rack and built things back up again
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4617/40438553592_72c7a9f753_c.jpg)
Lick of paint later and everything was ready for the refit
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4669/40481711991_527d92abe6_c.jpg)
Lastly, I bought a set of ARBs off Jimbo and pulled them off his old car.
The front Eibach one was good, the rear Weitec one was pretty rusty, so that was treated and painted.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/25610768507_3888b5588b_c.jpg)
So, another couple of weeks have passed, lots of progress made.
Got the engine in last weekend for the final fit.
That allowed me to measure up the coolant and induction side of things, this week the bits arrived.
Along with this sweet Trackslag system
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4779/38940407790_7a77e5039c_c.jpg)
Can't wait to get it fitted, but the mk4 shifter mechanism has still to arrive.
So I moved on to getting the bay sorted out
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4802/38940427810_e33d8c3e70_c.jpg)
Just the wiring to finish and then I can try to get it started :D
So this weekend, got a little more done.
First off, got the old exhaust off, think it was very much due a change.
Obligatory comparison shot:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4795/26053011187_da483c576d_c.jpg)
Next, my new Mk4 shifter setup arrived, so that got fitted, which allowed me to finally fit the heat shield and awesome Trackslag exhaust.
Also put the rear ARB on...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/807/26053010957_1431c44bf0_c.jpg)
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4788/26053011097_df1a56172e_c.jpg)
Managed to put a little time in on Sunday, but the Snow didn't help!
Got the car turning over, but the ECU doesn't seem to be starting, so no fuel or spark.
Then in March, this happened:
Well, it turns out I'd missed a +12v for the injectors.
Once wired up, this happened...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/785/26163524407_05d26b20d2_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/FRYUhp)
Made up is an understatement! :party!:
I've since tidied up a lot of the wiring and ran the engine up to temperature, so far everything seems to be ok.
I've still got a laundry list of snags to get everything working properly (oil pressure switches, outside air temp etc...), but I can finally see a light at the end of the tunnel!! :D
OK, quick update.
Been busy over this weekend, but got more done on the Mk2.
The hubs were always in a bit of a sorry state and couldn't go back on looking like this.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/806/26294890757_ef1b5a2b54_c.jpg)
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/891/26294882417_3f33ce475c_c.jpg)
Stripped them down, painted them and put new bearings/hub flanges in...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/901/27293347128_eb8cbfc15e_c.jpg)
The wishbones and driveshafts got similar treatment
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/787/27293350928_e98c6864e2_c.jpg)
Then all went (with a fight) back on the car
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/890/40454774304_e0acf07bc7_c.jpg)
So, last weekend this happened...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/785/39515638620_b04162bb8c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/23cRYE9)
So this week, I got the car insured and taxed. It's maiden voyage was straight to get the tracking done, as quite frankly, it was horrific to drive. As soon as the tracking was done, the car started behaving. It's amazing what pointing the wheels in the same direction can do for the handling of a car...
After a fair bit of 'testing', I realised that I need decent tyres.
Unfortunately, I can't have 16s and track rubber, as the sidewalls are too big, so I needed some 15s.
I happened to have some in stock, they came on a valver we bought a couple of years back...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/792/26453441237_98266af097_c.jpg)
I like the idea of Sebrings as they could have been on the car originally and would have a sleeper effect.
But they had to go silver first...
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/819/39516980190_a7178ed028_c.jpg)
There was still a little time left for some badge engineering
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/791/26453368607_a754015785_c.jpg)
(yes, I will straighten the number plate!)
Lastly, it was parked back in the unit, which made for a photo opportunity.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/798/39515664420_966fe20c25_c.jpg)
Been a while since I've updated this one!
Took it to Inters, where it went well round the track, did have a little issue with setting fire to the brakes.
Also the temps started to rise after a while (was a 30 minute session).
Saw the opportunity to get it on a rolling road for a power run while I was there
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1777/42102483485_aca9b93dcd_c.jpg)
Made a fantastic noise! (click for vid)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1809/29131927838_e59f2f5156_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/LohKcU)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/LohKcU) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Along with a stonking 271.9bhp!! :jackson:
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1769/42102483055_3b1ebff3fb_c.jpg)
So fast forward to last weekend, I've got just over two weeks before the annual Nurburgring trip.
Decided to do a couple of upgrades, based on the performance at Inters.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1807/29131768948_3b997e6cf3_c.jpg)
First off was the brakes, I wanted to retain the 15" wheels, but couldn't afford 4 pots etc.
So decided on some Brembo discs, Ferodo Racing DS2500 pads and some Moutul 660 fluid.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/883/29131768358_bc6d2fac0c_c.jpg)
Next was the cooling, in the below pic, you can see I've used a 2nd hand Corrado VR6 rad.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4622/28429637169_219edbe132_c.jpg)
Pretty good for normal driving, but the track on a hot day required a little more.
So on went an ebay special alloy radiator, only £150 and seems pretty well made :thumbs:
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/879/29131769028_8613d4ce81_c.jpg)
I do have some brake ducts to replace the front fog lights (lights are useless anyway!), but I need to make a bracket for them first, so maybe in a week.
Bit of an update.
Gave the old girl a proper clay bar and a wax, something I've never tried as the paint was always dodgy.
Also hit up the plastics with Solution Finish, came up surprisingly well
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1873/43445246255_2932ddb400_c.jpg)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1863/43445246235_0a9ce8866b_c.jpg)
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1872/44350649441_eeec1acca9_c.jpg)
Next stop was the annual Nurburgring trip!
Wasn't completely without fault, car decided not to start one day.
Turns out, in a previous life, it had an immobiliser that was removed and not quite put back together right.
30 mins later and all was well again.
Other than that, the car ran well, got a fair few laps in without any major issues :D
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1886/44350649241_8e5354d34f_c.jpg)
Which reminds me, must actually buy a few of those photos...
Got back from the Nurburgring on the Tuesday and went straight for the National Meet on the Friday!
Then proceeded to hammer the hell out of it for the majority of the weekend, talk about a baptism of fire...
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1861/44350649611_d0ca785b8a_c.jpg)
Must fit that Quaife I've got on the shelf.
Finally, with the weather turning, it transpired that the track tyres were't the best in the rain.
Also, with the possibility of it having to do a lot of mileage coming up, I thought it would be a good idea for a set of winter rims.
When a set of BBS wheels came up with nearly new Toyos on for £200, 10 miles from where I was going to be, it was rude not to...
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1850/44302307472_5627ab63f1_c.jpg)
Well, she's been shipped off for a full, doors off, windows out body resto!
But I pulled out the headlining (or lack of it!) and have been trying the paper mache approach...
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7814/32848305788_51f32ef515_c.jpg)
Going to seal the other side with PVA, which will hopefully give the new Heritage material a better chance of staying put when I glue it on.
Well, I'm happy to say that my attempt at arts and crafts last week has appeared to work.
The broken quarter of the headlining is back on and the whole things feels stable again.
Although I'm not going to recover it until the car is a week or so away.
Speaking of which, popped over to have a peek at it on the weekend.
So far, they have removed the kit, hunted for all the rot on the car and duly cut it out.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4867/46831612751_778d173d33_c.jpg)
Quite pleased actually, that is all the rot they could find on her.
Just waiting on a new sill from Heritage to arrive, then it all starts getting welded back up :smile:
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7927/46831611531_f05e700dbc_c.jpg)
I've been a little quiet on this one of late, just been letting the bodyshop guys get on with it.
It turns out once they started really stripping things down, there was much more rot that first spotted...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7915/46810854214_0f4c870d8d_z.jpg)
Needing a fair bit of work
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7890/46810854624_666ec1bf7f_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7876/46810854834_f7ae96a092_z.jpg)
And a couple new wings
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7852/46619086375_c5b78336bd_z.jpg)
So I left them to it for a few weeks and went in last week to find this
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7808/47534556931_5d44335896_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7874/32592170607_0b5bcb41e5_z.jpg)
No rot in any of the nasty places fortunately
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7874/32592170767_c6d67a68e9_z.jpg)
Wheel arch prepped for paint too
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7816/32592170867_32e59d09a4_z.jpg)
And the nasty holes are a thing of the past
(https://live.staticflickr.com/7814/40568565593_4848cdaf7c_z.jpg)
Can't wait to get her back and rebuilt! :cool:
Ok this update makes me more excited! :jackson:
Bad news, not getting it back this Friday, probably Monday now.
Good news:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32752244447_7cb2cd49b7_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33818030158_df9955413d_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33818030138_0fc449a55b_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47642364682_694ec5089b_c.jpg)
So happy with how it's come out!
Couple of reflection shots...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47642364672_fe04cca763_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33818030108_63ae25d7bf_c.jpg)
Can't wait to get her back and refitted now!
So, the mk2 came back from the painters this week, ready for the refit
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33875218718_4cd6f20c1e_c.jpg)
And was immediately inspected by a seasoned professional
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47752220381_364025439e_c.jpg)
The car needed a little tlc after being in the paint shop for 4 months
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/32808810117_2cb9ba7953_c.jpg)
So before anything went back on...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46835715285_1d1aa27eba_c.jpg)
Forgot just how much crap goes into an interior besides the seats!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47699529992_483c65a981_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33875217608_2f18e42d68_c.jpg)
And finally got the side decals, skirts and wheels back on
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33875204578_d2116aba66_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46835718065_2b4eb01e93_c.jpg)
Car has gone back to the painters now for the snagging, hope to get it back in a week or two :smile:
So, picked her up again on Saturday with a fresh MOT.
Most of the snagging has been done, the underside has been welded where needed and fully undersealed. :smile:
I've been promised a memory stick with a couple of hundred photos of all the work that has been done, so expect a photo dump at some point :wink:
Anyhow, more shiny paint photos...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47045069004_5bcf6e70eb_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/33957315528_cfb2a236c7_c.jpg)
And I bought these badges nearly 2 years ago! Because the paintwork was always awful, I never stuck them on, knowing I'd get the chance eventually
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/47834585921_6070e6d101_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/46918262945_dc182b7e2f_c.jpg)
Question is, do I stick the glove box one on?
Ok, been a bit slack on here as of late.
I've mainly been enjoying the car, with several meets (including the National one) and a track day at Combe.
I've always been aware that the brakes are a little lacking, so I've been doing a little research and found that some of the best ones to use for brake clearance are Compomotive MO5s, unfortunately, they haven't been made for years!
After much looking on eBay, I found a set of 4x100 wheels up in Scotland and the chap very kindly packaged them up, so I could get them couriered down.
Unfortunately, when they arrived, the spigot was too small and there was no bored hole for the centre cap to go.
After a little searching I found out they came off of a Nova rally car in the 90s!
Anyhow, off to my local machine shop they went, who done an excellent job of boring the holes for the spigot and the standard centre caps.
Managed to get them on 2 days before the track day :cool:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381502_5d3b1c45a5_c.jpg)
Had a bloody good day on the track day, right up until I felt the brakes go a little weak.
So done a cool down lap and came in to assess the situation:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948640463_541b84a44f_c.jpg)
Turns out I'd turned all four brake discs blue, burnt the pads (the calipers used to be bright red!) and started to melt my brand new centre caps! :shock:
I put an infra red thermometer on them, to find it went straight into over temp - the thing maxes out at 350 degrees, so no idea what they actually were!!
Anyhow, that ended my track day a little early, but still, a great day was had by all!
But I decided to pull the car off the road to get serious about the brakes.
I'd seen a photo of a set of 312s under a set of 15" MOs and decided to have a go myself:
First thing was to source a cheap set of calipers, after a £45 punt on ebay a full set of (ropey) calipers, carriers and nearly new discs turned up.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948640443_c2150f0632_c.jpg)
So straight into the sand blaster they went and turns out they were in great nick under the rust!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949183141_5cc7455359_c.jpg)
Couple coats of high temp paint (checked the can 800 degrees!)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948639443_ccd4b43931_c.jpg)
Followed by a rebuild
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381912_402c893f0e_c.jpg)
And then they were ready for fitment
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381342_6dd1989d1c_c.jpg)
So next was some trial and error trying to persuade them to fit on a set of G60 hubs.
Turns out redrilled mk6 gti discs fit with 6mm spacers for the caliper carriers works a treat :cool:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381237_9f23f7835c_c.jpg)
So the new brakes were sorted, but I wasn't going to be taking any more chances on the cooling side of things.
First off was to make a bracket for the hub that would take some cooling ducts...
Quick CAD template
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381872_6a6b6573f5_c.jpg)
That's Cardboard Aided Design :wink:
Followed by a metal counterpart, think 3mm plate might have been a little OTT, but with the m12 bolts, it'll hold the duct in place!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48949381162_77d15e20ea_c.jpg)
Should give you an idea of where we're going with it.
Quick splash of paint
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948639778_d35ee4aa7e_c.jpg)
And this is the overall idea...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948639863_0a488910f2_c.jpg)
With the business end of the ducting taken care of, it was a simple matter of sorting the feed end...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948640043_1328704cd6_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48948639328_6a06fc8374_c.jpg)
Now I've just got to save up for a decent set of pads!
the DS2500s were great, but I wonder if there is a better alternative out there.
In my experience, DS2500 are a decent fast road pad, but people often complain of vibration which is due to pad deposits after track use.
They are OK but there are far better pads available. The best pads for stock calipers I`ve used are Carbon Lorraine. RC5 or RC6. The RC6 is more track focussed. They run hotter than DS2500 but are in a different class regarding pedal feel and braking performance imo.
Well, as luck would have it, Christmas came around and Paulina bought me a set of CL RC5+ pads :party!:
I held off fitting them until a couple of days before my first track day of the year at Combe.
I'm made up with them, I can now brake so hard going into Tower it makes my eyes feel funny!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49690237107_641f8700c9_b.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49689398373_c4172a9fe8_b.jpg)
Unfortunately, due to a manufacturing fault, my clutch let go towards the end of my fourth session, that prematurely ended the day, thanks Sachs :roll:
Didn't find that out until last weekend, as Paulinas Charged VR build took president of my time.
So this weekend, I could turn my attention back to playing with the car.
First up was the installation of a set of Corrado seats that I'd had retrimmed in the stock Ultraviolet material.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49689327288_ff0721a030_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49689327233_50713074b6_k.jpg)
Absolutely love the result! They're much more comfortable than the mk2 seats and the average person wouldn't be able to tell.
Also, as they sit much lower, it means I can fit in the car with a crash helmet on! :lol:
Next came up was a pair of Audioscape door pods. I'd lusted after a set back in the 90s, but could never afford a set.
These came up on Facebook at a reasonable price, complete with Phoenix Gold drivers, so I had them.
Very pleased with the finish of them too.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49690166132_d197cbd078_k.jpg)
On Sunday, because of socal distancing and all, we set our sights on cleaning the cars.
Mine just needed a wash and wax, but paulinas Corrado had been sat in the unit for 6 months.
That took a TFR snow foam, contact clean, clar bar, polish and then a wax before it came up good again, but both cars now look much better.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49690166162_8254e02830_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49689858411_92c2ff80ae_k.jpg)
And finally one of the last parts I need arrived, so I can begin the A/C project...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49690165852_5d91743bc9_k.jpg)
Before we got locked down, I managed to move the car home and stuck it in the (tiny) garage.
I can't do the major works, but at least I can still tinker.
Started off with a very simple mod, but I think it's lifted look of the engine.
By fitting blue (R36) coil pack connector covers
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49828819518_ff4b3a63b5_k.jpg)
Then I gave it a bit of a clean
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829371026_55db8bc628_k.jpg)
So I then moved on to two jobs at once.
About a year ago, Jimbo kindly donated some electric windows to me, for helping chop a car up.
Unfortunately, storage hadn't been kind and it needed a little TLC before installation
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49828820358_358c8f2910_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829350671_1590f9dcec_k.jpg)
A bloody good clean and some Solution Finish later...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829663617_455bfc6cdc_k.jpg)
Before I fit any loom, it always has to get wrapped up...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49828820968_6ce5107aa1_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829663732_3da1ced214_k.jpg)
I was also trying to get the heated seat pads I had installed into the Corrado seats working.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49828821178_e2905c13c8_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829662857_555770ae96_k.jpg)
Jury's still out if they work properly or not!
Lastly, I'd always hated how mk2 battery connectors look like they're ready to fall apart.
So when I broke a mk4 back in the Winter, I kept them, fair bit of difference in cable size too.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49828821023_89dd13841f_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829662862_92de64b337_k.jpg)
Much better
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/49829351211_7638fd2e80_k.jpg)
I really should keep on top of all the updates!
I bloody love a BBM Mk2! One of the best colours easily. Tastey power plant too, always fancied doing a swap myself. Do you know what front splitter it is your running? Seems a bit deeper/flatter than mine and I dig it.
Love the Sebrings .... needs a nice 16v in it now...
Love the Sebrings .... needs a nice 16v in it now...
You do realise you're recommending an engine conversion?
It was originally an 8v!
Love the Sebrings .... needs a nice 16v in it now...
You do realise you're recommending an engine conversion?
It was originally an 8v!
That’s the ultimate upgrade....
Next time you turn your back, Vinnie is getting a valver...
I bloody love a BBM Mk2! One of the best colours easily. Tastey power plant too, always fancied doing a swap myself. Do you know what front splitter it is your running? Seems a bit deeper/flatter than mine and I dig it.
Sorry Matt, missed your post!
It's a standard 8v big bumper one, as far as I know.
I keep forgetting to update this thread!
So during the lock down, I grabbed the mk3 AC heater box and decided to give it a preemptive strip down, decent clean and flap refurbish.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032835947_f69d6d70b7_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032836022_8588ec3904_c.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032039098_797139d6a2_c.jpg)
But that's about as far as I've got with the AC project so far.
The other day when I did the battery cable mod, I noticed the power steering reservoir looked particularly grotty.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032039038_983c2a7d47_c.jpg)
A fresh genuine one later...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032835877_d8b0c6e983_c.jpg)
Lastly, going back to my 90s fashionable mods, the 'ultimate' strut brace to have was an Eibach one.
Don't know/care if it did anything for the handling, but it was one of the must have mods back in the day.
Picked this one up, that needed a little TLC, but was in great shape.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032577301_21a08ce6d5_c.jpg)
Couple hours with the metal polisher later got it respectable again
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032039163_5aaf4d376f_c.jpg)
Then, as my top mounts needed doing, I pulled the struts out and bolted it up.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50032039208_1829838b77_c.jpg)
No idea if it's made a difference, as dropping the struts off affected the geometry and it's quite frankly terrifying to drive in anger before I get the tracking sorted!
Bit overdue for an update.
So the old airfilter has seen two years hard service and was looking a little past it's prime.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50497748418_a8163669a3_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWjahN)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWjahN) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
So a new ProRam filter was brought in as a replacement.
Being a little larger, the MAF has to move around a bit to give everything room, but it's fitted in and working.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498582287_5b4dbe7a81_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWoraR)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWoraR) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Also, after having a couple of beers one night and thought it would be a good idea, I ended up buying a number plate for it!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498551902_7ee4ffcd0c_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWoh8Y)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWoh8Y) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
And gave her a wash to celebrate!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498402891_df728c2b5d_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnvQP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnvQP) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50497688563_d4932cf749_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWiRuP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWiRuP) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498552377_a5c40cdbd2_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWohha)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWohha) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I've been planning on a slight refresh of the engine bay for a while, first step was having go at painting the spare inlet manifold.
Primer
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498549117_59c0b3b4da_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWogiX)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWogiX) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Freshly painted
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498402326_5ef4b562b1_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnvF5)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnvF5) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Can you tell where this is going?
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498550837_04361f011e_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWogPB)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWogPB) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
End result!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50498404011_e7b2c3ab3f_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnwb8)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2jWnwb8) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Quite happy, in real life it looks very much like the black engine plastics you get on the mk4 platform cars.
G2 WOA?
Wanky Old Automobile?
I was thinking it was to do with there being plenty of horses under the bonnet and your reaction when you stamp on the brakes.....I was obviously wrong.
;D
I was thinking it was to do with there being plenty of horses under the bonnet and your reaction when you stamp on the brakes.....I was obviously wrong.
;D
That was the initial plan, but then my mates came up with other ideas.
Worn Out Anus seems to be the current favorite!
OK, so had a couple of days off work before lockdown and decided to finally get a job done that I'd started about a year ago!
But first, had to MOT it.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569406871_ef06be4fce_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqRn)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqRn) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
On that day, it was about the only thing than went smoothly!
So with a fresh MOT (no advisories) I set about the latest project:
Around a year ago, I'd bought a Polo GTi rear axle setup and refurbished it ready for the conversion
The idea behind this is the Polo GTi setup uses cartridge bearings (like a mk4 golf), as opposed to the mk2/3/Corrado taper style ones. Best bit is the polo setup also uses the mk4 style rear calipers and bolts directly to the mk2 rear beam.
Meaning the bearings will last longer, put up with more punishment and not loosen off every other year!
The night before, I cleaned up and got everything I need laid out.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50568657828_6dbd2a2b5a_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAbQ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAbQ) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I'd been talking with Tim on the Mk2 Golf Channel and invited him down for a day of filming it.
So he came down for what was supposed to be a simple swap...oh dear!
The plan was to whip off the whole beam, stick it in the vice, swap the hubs over and do the rear beam bushes while I was at it.
As most of it was being filmed, I didn't take any before shots.
Got the beam off easy, but then it came to getting the old and very rusted bolts off.
It also appeared I was not the first person there and the caliper carrier bolts had been pre-rounded for me!
After several hours of swearing, welding new bolts on, trying again, hitting things with hammers, getting bigger hammers, I finally had the beam stripped down and ready for a rebuild.
So I went for the rear beam bushes I'd bought a few years ago 2nd hand (but never fitted) and tried to fit the new bush.
Only to find out I'd purchased Corrado VR ones, which had a bigger bush than a mk2!
OK, so I wasn't going to get the beam back on today, I quickly ordered fresh bushes for the next day and mocked up the rear brake setup for Tim to get a few after shots.
At this point the day was over and the rear beam wasn't looking too great, so the next day I returned with some Hammerite and the grinder with a wire wheel. I also replaced all the flexi and solid brake lines.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50568658088_ec00a3a176_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAgj) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAgj) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50568657803_b466148c6f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAbp)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAbp) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I also installed a stud conversion and fitted a 15mm spacer (to match the front)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569406656_abf29c3962_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqME)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqME) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569406546_f1081799d9_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqKL)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqKL) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
After ECP getting me the wrong bushes and my having to get more from Amazon (Sunday delivery too!) I finally managed to get everything bolted up and back on!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50568657753_1b440ef04a_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAax)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3zAax) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569406781_f707e2c194_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqPP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqPP) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Though from the outside, you'd barely notice anything, it's made a decent difference to the handling (old beam bushes were shot), it's one of the last major jobs left on the car (A/C still coming) and I no longer have to worry about the bearings come MOT time!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569540907_df2e6d5b07_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3E7Gk)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3E7Gk) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50569406556_dd9def5d33_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqKW)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2k3DqKW) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
All this spare time .....was thinking children would slow you down...You need to do my tt rear end
I was thinking the same... I obviously spent too much time on the feeding and nappy changing. Monkey must have got it sussed like a slick pit stop.
I think I saw a similar rear disc brake set-up on a circa 2004 Polo TDI a few years ago in a lcoal scrappy. Should have done the same to mine.
It helps I've got a VERY understanding wife, who I may have built a couple of cars for in the past ;)
In all honesty though, he really has changed my world. This is the first big thing I've tackled since the boy came along, my other updates have all been the result of 10 mins here and there. The inlet manifold, I was stopping in after work, putting a coat on, then leaving again every day for a week.
Now on Youtube! 8)
https://youtu.be/Dg-KbVQO-GM
Great video, watched it as my lunchtime treat :D
Tim is getting some decent content on his channel.
Can I have your autograph
Can I have your autograph
Pretty sure it's all about the selfie nowadays
Can I have your autograph
Pretty sure it's all about the selfie nowadays
When I was young “selfies” made you go blind ....
They don't, I've tried!
So I bought a 3D printer for christmas and have been getting to grips with it.
My goal is to print some brake ducts to help cooling, but also anything else I need on the car, that I can print!
So started off small, I needed a couple of window switch blanks, but couldn't find any that weren't expensive!
Out came the CAD...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859281792_8331266444_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7yQ)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7yQ) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859282132_8f020649d7_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7EG)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7EG) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Took a bit of tweaking here and there
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859188736_82ef759c4a_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCUq)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCUq) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
But finally got something that was near mm perfect
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859188031_187fb86dea_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCGg)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCGg) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Really happy with the outcome
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859281872_e83b7abe2c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7Ad)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7Ad) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
With the first success of the 3D printer, I thought I'd expand a little.
Found a design for a gauge holder on Thingiverse.
I want to go back to having a head unit at some point, so I fired up the printer again!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50858468798_5fd301a002_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kubWTG)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kubWTG) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50858468793_29056b2b21_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kubWTB)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kubWTB) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Not a bad result
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859282067_ea17eb8421_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7Dz)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kug7Dz) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50859188516_410f4aca51_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCQC)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2kufCQC) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
It'll need a little fettling, but there's a good fitting kit behind it and I think it'll be good once fitted
Looks superb - 3D printing, specially now that it's reached the home use level is just amazing to me, I think it'll be the salvation of many a potential classic now that cars from the 80's have entered that category.
It's inevitable that eventually most things that were previously unobtainable could be recreated. Peugeot have said they're going to use it to make their factory approved restorations possible, says it all about where things are going.
Hope home metal printing develops in the same way, imagine what that'll be like?
Must admit, I had no idea they'd dropped in price so much, I used to think they were at least £1400, but you can pick them up for less than £200 now!
I'd been curious about 3D printing for a while and had some Christmas money and went for it.
So glad I did as it's opened a world of opportunities, like you said, with the constant progress in this area, obsolescent parts could be a thing of the past!
I'd absolutely love to get my hands on a metal printer!
What is the model of your printer? Looks like a decent machine, been wondering to get one myself too :hmm:
It's a Creality Ender 5, I'm really happy with it. :)
Must admit, with all the attention I've been spending on the red one, this one has been forgotten about.
I've also forgotten to update the thread with bits I had done!
Either way, in the interest of continuity, I've done a few more things on the old girl.
Starting off with an update on how my crackle paint experiment turned out, quite happy with the results
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51680641072_0bf22fe270_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN4J)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN4J) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
You can see why I'm going to be putting a fresh slam panel on!
You can also see that the front end needs a bit of a tidy up in general, the headlights were milky and the grill was cracked!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51680641257_f57df29557_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN7V)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN7V) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I bought some new Hella headlights, but couldn't find decent make spots new anywhere.
So I pulled them off the car, bought new clips and started the clean up...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51682322265_4385772d08_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJZpPP)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJZpPP) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Masked it up and sent it into the sand blaster
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51681436501_462d8d871f_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJUSw2)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJUSw2) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Primed
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51680641282_d7bb34d237_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN8m)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJQN8m) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Painted
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51681436576_f94c270b7d_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJUSxj)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJUSxj) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
And re-assembled
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51681694903_e4ac774e1a_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJWcke)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJWcke) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Found a great condition grill and put it all back together.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51681694928_d2ae8d4c5e_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mJWckE)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mJWckE) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I think that's about it for now
I had milky driving lights so whilst I had the grille off to paint the faded red trim I gave them a fettle.
I used a washing-up solution with a baby bottle brush. I was surprised a layer of dirt had made them milky...but no issue with the headllights or foglights. It was during a hot summer week so the light soon dried outdoors.
Re the aircon.
FYI Rubjonny is using a MK4 HVAC which means minor modding of the bulkhead. He is also planning on using MK4 piping which all goes down the drivers side inner wing and a MK4 dryer to maintain the same pipe fittings. Looks like that might work better in your engine bay?
My install is parked until the good weather returns. Hopefully I'll have stripped the aircon wires out of the MK3 engine loom and I'll get the custom pipes made-up and fitted.
Yeah, to be honest, the headlights weren't milky, they were just heavily stone chipped and the clips were broken.
Waited for one of their bigger discount offers and went for a pair from Euro Car Parts, only cost me £80 for the pair.
As for the AC, that's on stop while I restore the other one, but I very much want to get it going again and complete for next summer.
I've heard that mk4 units fit better, just need to get hold of one now and have a play.
I've installed the mk4 stuff in a mk4 before and it's all solid with not much play in anything.
I think with my engine, that won't leave any room, so I'll stick to the flexible stuff for the time being.
Also, with my condenser being a lupo one, it's got a dryer as part of the assembly, so I can use that.
It's actually a project I'm looking forward to getting stuck back into, just have a couple minor jobs to finish on the red one first! :))
Just realised I'd not followed up on the clocks and gauges switcharound.
Well after seeing those new Blaupunkt retro head units, then falling over seeing the price, I decided to save for four months till I could afford it and if I still wanted it, then I'd go buy it.
So naturally, this happened!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51687180169_3f997c0503_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mKqiUM)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mKqiUM) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
I think it looks properly at home in the dashboard.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51686496306_edc0d6503c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mKmNC3)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mKmNC3) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
And the colour is adjustable, there are a couple of hundred different colours/tints.
So I could match it up just right to my LED swapped heater panel.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51687401720_89c66e586c_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mKrrLC)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mKrrLC) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
So that just led me to relocate the gauges to the centre console.
I wanted to make it completely reversible, so I 3d printed a bracket that could be stuck to the inside of the console and the plate was screwed to that instead.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51687180649_cb940c8cdb_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mKqj44)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mKqj44) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
And I also have a mk4 shifter, but I really wanted the golf ball gear knob.
So I found a mk4 anniversary one, but that had 6 gears, so I bought a mk3 anni one and swapped out the 5 gear shift diagram.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51686772483_db87407517_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2mKodHH)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2mKodHH) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Bit of a long way around, but I'm happy with the results.
If it was going in the red one I'd have been looking for mint items, but this is a very much used car and I don't want to be too afraid to drive it.
Blaupunkt really have nailed it with these... best of both worlds, but wins on looks alone.
Are you old enough to remember the 'key cards' some of the top end units had?
Blaupunkt really have nailed it with these... best of both worlds, but wins on looks alone.
Are you old enough to remember the 'key cards' some of the top end units had?
I have one in a cupboard somewhere
I remember the key card units, novel idea, shame they never caught on.
But Blaupunkt was always a little too expensive for me back then, I was more into the cheaper and flashy looking Kenwood or Alpine units!
Amazing project, a great read, thanks for sharing.
Thanks!
I do plan to revisit it for some more tweeks - air conditioning being one.
But right now, the red one is taking up all my time and money!!
What ate the chances of you printing another gauge holder? I have a boost gauge rattling around loose in that location so I was thinking along the same same lines as I really don't want to screw or fix into the dash or console...
I can print another, sure.
How many gauges you after?
Amazing, I'd be looking for 3 holes like yours...Let me know how much 8)
Will do, I'll fire up the printer when I get home from work and let you know.
Amazing, I'd be looking for 3 holes like yours...Let me know how much 8)
Sorry, this completely slipped my mind, are you still after one?
So it's been a while since I've done any update on this one.
To be honest, all I've been doing is giving it a kickings from time to time, or taking it to shows/meets.
Case in point, couple weekends ago, there was the National meet, where I gave it a thrashing on the Saturday and Paulina on the Sunday, thanks to Ben for the photos BTW...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273971035_a87da9ef51_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDgLoF)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDgLoF) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Nice to see it picks up a wheel
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273502918_dedc48b8f6_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDeneG)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDeneG) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
So we got back from the meet with the only failure being the rev counter (looks like the Ardunio unit is dead).
Considering the absolute hammering she received, I'm quite pleased with that, but there was no rest for her.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52272510232_b06d88a594_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nD9h9q)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nD9h9q) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
On axle stands, fresh brake fluid, oil/filter and a general check over as Wednesday I was off to my favorite place on the planet...
That's right, a queue!
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273743389_b15dd21f77_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDfAHK)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDfAHK) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Yes, with covid out of fashion, we can once again resume our pilgrimage to the Nurburgring, been three years since I was last out there and you can certainly see how it's affected the accommodation industry. So many places have shut down and the ones who survived are struggling to get staff, as most moved on to more robust industries. But they were doing their best and it was a nice place to go to, will definitely be going back to see how things are picking back up.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273971815_e81976029b_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDgLC8)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDgLC8) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
First lap out, had a huge brake vibration after the first few corners, so limped the rest of the lap and returned to the hotel to investigate. Odd how as it cooled the vibration completely went away. Turned out to be the brakes expanding with the excessive heat was just enough to start rubbing on the inside of the wheel! :o
Fortunately, it was part of the caliper that was not bringing anything to the party and could be removed without an issue.
So into town we went and I picked up a file (some great stores in Adenau). Once a mm or two had been filed off, the area was marked up with pen to monitor any further contact and back out we went! This time it was much better, and I managed a fair few more laps before starting to feel the bearings complain towards the end of the trip. But the tyres were finally starting to let go, so I thought it best to rest the car for the journey back and just to the tourist thing.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273743639_f31db91da1_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDfAN4)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDfAN4) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
The return journey was pretty quiet, car ran absolutely fine, but she needs some TLC now, two suspect wheel bearings, four definitely knackered tyres and a worn thrust bearing. So I'll probably take her back off the road soon to start looking at a minor refresh in general, as well as a few upgrades.
She's put in 4/5 years hard service since the original conversion and has done me proud.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273483526_fb0bd67128_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDegtm)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDegtm) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52273483661_c5eb20db53_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2nDegvF)Untitled (https://flic.kr/p/2nDegvF) by Dave Ackerman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152481044@N07/), on Flickr
Looks like you had great weather at the ring and nice photos too. Is it your front bearings that have gone? I've seen a post somewhere about using redline cv2 might be worth a look for the hard use you give it?
Amazing, I'd be looking for 3 holes like yours...Let me know how much 8)
Sorry, this completely slipped my mind, are you still after one?
Yes please