This is my poor attempt at copying over my thread from the previous forum.
If anyone can do a better job, please do it!
http://www.vwgolfmk2.co.uk/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=15306&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0
I just ended up throwing in the towel and going manual, but only successfully copied my own posts! :roll:
Anyway...
Here are some shots of our newer mk2. In mint condition bodywork wise, unfortunately, the carb is rubbish, but thats not the point! It still looks fab!
It is a Mongoose full system stainless exhaust incase you're thinking...
Let me know your opinions!
(https://image.ibb.co/enDhEa/DSC02907.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/kO7L0F/DSC02919.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/fdDtLF/DSC02920.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/iuC9ua/DSC03079.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/mePB7v/DSC03089.jpg)
Haha, yes you can see a weepy rocker cover gasket, but the shots outside the house were done before its first service since we got it.
It's since had
a new rocker cover gasket,
Cambelt & Tensioner,
oil & filter,
sparks,
dizzy cap,
fuel filter,
new pads and rear drums adjusted,
Next step, replace the carb with a refurbed 2E2.
Yes the exhaust is fab, £250 too, which I dont thik is too shabby, its quiet as a mouse during idle, then roars like a beast when given the beans, but at motorway cruising, it doesn't drone. Highly recommend to anyone wanting subtlety/noise when required.
Pootle, just looked at yours, and its "SNAP" to our other one we have!
Click on the link on my signiture and you will see... I didn't even know what colour it was!
Hi Steve.
Cheers, it is a bit of a quality beast. Cost us 600 big ones 2 months ago which I think is pretty damn good for a car this immaculate!
BUT...
The carb is complete toilet, so we have shelled out £190 on a recon pierburg 2e2. Just waiting for that to arrive. Thought about the Weber, then possibly twin 40's, then thought against that quickly when I found out the price! Embarassed
The carb causes misfires, runnning on, high idle, runs rich, and the wax-stat is sh*gged. So to repair all of the bits would cost more than a recon unit. The Weber 32/34 DMTL required serious consideration, but I have heard of a lot of problems wth icing, bad fuel consumption, and my g/f drives it too and has no idea how to use a manual choke, and at over £250, ruddy expensive, considering I would have to declare to the insurance, so I thought a like-new 2E2 would be just the job, as when they came out they were the badgers nadgers. Only when they got old and poorly serviced they became crud. Also after lots of research, I found out that a new 2E2 actually provides more power than a Weber 32/34, and as I said, more mpg.
My plans so far are to keep it pretty much standard, not going to lower it, or if I do, it would only be by 20mm max, as our road has sleeping policemen all the way down and the front lip is mighty close to them as it is! I want to recon the alloys, or go the BBS route, but I like the alloys its got and I think they suit it quite well, they were just badly curbed by the previous owner.
Our other plan is to possibly put a 4-branch mongoose manifold on it, and braid the brake lines and have a few nice shiney hoses in the engine bay, but the big one will be to re-upholster the interior. Thinking black cloth, with royal blue stitching, including door cars roof lining and carpets. We are doing this because although the interior is generally mint, the old boy who owned it before us smoked in it, and we cannot for the life of us get rid of the stale smoke smell from the interior (Tried Fabreeze). Also the drivers seat has a fag burn in it, the roof above the driers seat is discoloured through fag smoke. AND the headlining at the back is sagging. So we thought to go tastefull, yet matching the exterior colour.
Long post, but I thought I would justify all my points, as I'm expecting some stick for not going down the Weber route haha.
You got any pics of your bad boy GL?
A couple of new shots.
Last weekend whilst the weather was half decent I thought I would give the old bus a good wash to get rid of all the road salt!
(Excuse the quality pics, taken on my phone)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/LGIM0235.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/LGIM0234.jpg)
Newly reconditioned 2E2 carb.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/LGIM0238.jpg)
Here we parked in Brighton Marina car park, came back to our car to find a mk6 next to us, so I thought it was worth a couple of pics. Certainly can still see the resemblance of the models even after 20 years!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/LGIM0240.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/LGIM0239.jpg)
A few more piccies of just before the fateful journey. in which the car was siezed...
After battling the elements on Friday, was umming-and-arring as to whether I should wash it, as it was threatening rain all day. At 6pm, I looked at the forecast, and horrah! It showed clear skies. So off I go, armed with 2 buckets, one for shampoo, and one to rinse the sponge, and a bottle of autoglym super resin polish, and finally, a bottle of Boiled Linseed Oil.
I was the car, just start the polishing on the front wing, then... It rains. :x
So, I wait 30 minutes for the rain to subside, and in the process, give the inside a thorough going over (including back to blacking the black trim).
Rain stops, so away I go vigorously with a chamois to clear the rain, I pray for no more rain, start on the wing again, and... you guessed it. Rain again... 10 minutes pass, so I clean the boot out and sellotape and glue the headlining back up (bodge I know, but better than it was!)
Rain stops again and blue sky appears, so out comes the chamois again, and then time to polish. I go over the whole car and then try the Linseed Oil on the bumpers and black rubber around the windows etc. WOW. By the time I had finished, it was completely dark lol.
I'll let you decide. (These were taken just before setting off for Brighton, the morning after the big clean), but I think it looks pretty darn good!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04034.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04033.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04032.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04031.jpg)
A neighbour of ours has just bought a '10 plate Golf R (oh my God, its so nice!) So thought I'd get a shot of it! :lol:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04030.jpg)
But now the car is locked away in Shoreham impound until Tuesday. :cry:
Nice one. The carb when working well is great. Plenty pokey enough, and very frugal too. Regularly returning 40mpg. As for 47mpg, I can't match that lol.
Yea the car was impounded by the police, fully explained in general chat.
http://www.vwgolfmk2.co.uk/modules.php? ... 73&start=0
Thanks for the compliment on the car. It is really in great nick, and the paintwork is far superior to many modern cars I have seen.
Dubdan, I'm of the opinion that the exhaust is fantastic, I love the subtle looks, and as you say, the sound is superb. Would love to hear it with a 4 branch mani too!
After we retrieved the poor Golf from the impound, I took some snaps whilst the weather was nice and it was still clean!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04065.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04066.jpg)
Here is the chalk pen on the windscreen used by the impound
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04067.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04068.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04069.jpg)
These are the first interior shot I have taken of the car. Pretty good nick, apart from a cigarette burn in the drivers seat, evidence of smoking stains on the lining above the driver, and yes, typical headlining sagging at the rear.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04021.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04022.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04020.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC04023.jpg)
Let me know what you think.
Got a couple of shots without the number plates on.
Looks almost naked without them!
But what a difference a new nice, clean pair of plates from a VW garage gives to the look of your car. Especially as the old front one was really scabby!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/MPHNov09TopGearLive001.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/MPHNov09TopGearLive003.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/MPHNov09TopGearLive002.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/MPHNov09TopGearLive004.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/MPHNov09TopGearLive005.jpg)
Hope you all think it makes as much difference as we do.
Hi. The recon 2e2 carb is fantastic. We have got another problem with the coolant, and a cold start misfire, both hopefully nothing to do with the carb.
On a good run, and a steady 70mph we can get 40mpg easy.
Diesels are good, and I can see the appeal, but they are a bit souless imo... Keep the mk2!
Got a few pics of Gumpert in the snow.
Here are the pics when it first started coming down.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf001.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf002.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf003.jpg)
My stupid dog got in the shot. :lol:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf004.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf005.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf007.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf008.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf009.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf010.jpg)
Suddenly came down heavy during the day, got caught out in it. :roll:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0007.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf012.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf016.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf017.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf018.jpg)
Infront of Gumpert's big brother, Yoda the Skoda :D
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf019.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf020.jpg)
Hope you like!
Just went outside and saw these amazing frost patterns on the Golf and Skoda!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05685.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05677.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05678.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05679.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05681.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05682.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05683.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05684.jpg)
I thought it was impressive anyway!
Well a few weeks ago the poor old bus had a bit of a scrape against a brick wall, thanks to some dozey woman parking her mk3 right at the entrance of our car park, so nobody could get past it. Well, Miss Macmillions thought otherwise and tried to get past. Resulting in this:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf023.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf022.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Golf024.jpg)
:cry:
As you can see the metal was already starting to rust on the surface, even after a couple of weeks!
As it was severely spoiling the look of the car and the rust will only get worse, we decided we will get it sorted.
£240 lighter and this is the result.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05690.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05691.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05688.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05692.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05686.jpg)
Thanks Essex Autospray! The colour match is absolutely spot on, and the repair on the little dinks is not noticeable at all!
Brought our bad boy back to its glory!
Oh, thought I'd add this one too.
My Dad's '03 plate Megane died through not being used in over a month, so our 20yr old beast had to give it the kiss of life!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC05689.jpg)
:lol:
Went out for a drive this evening, just for the sake of it and found this section of amazing country road in the middle of nowhere.
So out came the camera!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06498.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06499.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06502.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06506.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06509.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06510.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06511.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06512.jpg)
^^^ Who needs uprated highlight looms? :P
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06514.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06515.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC06519.jpg)
Hope you like!
Been a while since Gumpert has had some attention.
T'was quite expensive I'll admitt, but it was unfortunately before I had made some contacts who would probably do the job for much less. But they have done a cracking job, so I'm not too fussed. :) Plus there's no way I have the skills/patience/knowledge to do it myself! It would have looked like a smacked bum.
And yea that road was amazing! We were completely lost and just driving round aimlessly and just stumbled upon it! The only sting in the tail is that the journey finished with our alternator dying. :roll:
Lol, it seriously was in the absolute middle of nowhere, in some void between Braintree and Stansted airport. Not a building in sight haha! So I think a horror flick should be set there! Bit of a Blair Witch Project perhaps?
Yea, well Gumpert has been pretty sound, never actually broken down, except the day we picked it up, when the starter motor siezed. I managed to limp home this time with the alternator not charging. Fortunately I think we have a diesel battery on there, as it's MASSIVE! So probably saved us somewhat!
Yea, after finding out I can get the rear damage on the red Golf fixed for £160, I do think the repair on this one was perhaps a bit steep, considering thee red Golf's is more severe! But as said, it's been done to a high standard and I'm happy. :)
After a quick wash today I decided to fit Gumpert's new Christmas present.
One of these bad boys!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07519.jpg)
First of all, it came with a pair of ancient long nuts on the back, which were well past it, so much so, when I attempted to remove them, they sheared off.
Nuts.
So I knocked up a plate at work with some long screws and a pair of penny washers and nuts.
I removed the grille - all clips intact! RESULT!
This was then offered up to the grille:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07522.jpg)
Fitted the badge, refitted grille, stood back and prayed I wasn't tempting fate by having an AA badge on the car!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07526.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07523.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07524.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07528.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07530.jpg)
And one of the backside.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07525.jpg)
Let us know what you think!
Wow, yours looks great too! To cure my OCD, could you not move it up one slat on the grille? :lol:
I was going to fit it on the opposite side, but we have also bought one for the GTI (yet to fit) but figured the GTI badge on the grille would be in the way, so put it on the opposite side on Gumpert, to match what will be on the GTI.
Did you have to make a plate up? As even with the long nuts the badge came with, I doubt it would have fitted securely.
Well Gumpert is back from his sick bed. :lol:
I knew we were tempting fate by fitting the AA badge! :roll:
Had a leaking head gasket, between the water way and cylinder no.1, so was steaming very excessively and running badly. Also using water at a rather alarming rate - 15 miles it would go from fully topped up to empty! :shock:
Whilst the head was off, we decided on getting many things done whilst access was available.
So the head was fully reconditioned, compromising of:
Skimming
New valve stem oil seals,
New valve guides,
New valve seats,
Valves re-ground,
New hydraulic tappets,
New camshaft oil seals,
Not to mention:
Head gasket replacement,
New rocker cover gasket,
Exhaust and inlet manifold faces cleaned with new gaskets fitted,
New downpipe gasket and exhaust clamps,
New exhaust and inlet manifold bolts nuts,
New front engine mount,
New lower arm bushes.
I think that's it!
Running as sweet as a nut now. Performance greatly improved and now no tappet noise!
Shiney new head! (Beneath the old crudded up bits)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07680.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07688.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07684.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07686.jpg)
New front engine mount
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC07685.jpg)
He best behave himself now!
It does make it seem worth it!
If we had had it done and it ran fine, but I couldn't tell any real difference, I would have been happy, but the added performance, smoothness and quietness of the engine is unbelievable! Wasn't exactly a noisey engine to start with, but the tappets really were taking a hammering!
The twin lamp grille is something we have considered, but there's something appealing about the face of Gumpert. Plus, between you and me, I think non-GTI twin lamp fronts look a bit bug eyed... Did I just say that on a Golf mk2 forum? :shock:
The 16V has the twin lamps anyway, so at least we get our fix by looking at that! :lol:
That's good then.
I like the fact it's not a GTI and isn't pretending to be. No wheel arch trims, front splitter or anything. When we bought it, we had the money to buy a GTI, but chose not to at the time.
It's not often you see a big bumper'd Mk2 with single lights that hasn't been modified either.
I don't know exactly. My mechanic said it was merely a preventative as the area around the water way and no.1 cylinder had corroded slightly. He said he could have re-fitted it with just a new gasket and it may have been fine, but for the sake of an extra £50, we both thought it wasn't worth risking, so had it skimmed.
I don't know if it's to do with the timing being set very slightly out (on purpose), aswell as the head work, but the performance is improved greatly. I know it's only a shopping trolley 1.8 GL, but the power delivery is silky smooth.
What a car! :lol:
As you know Gumpert very "uncommon" ly gets any new looks...
But we have just purchased something rather special for him...
*In an Aussie accent*
"Can you guess what it is yet?"
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09333.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09334.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09336.jpg)
Oooo... :geek:
Prepare to be jealous then! Or for those that don't like them, sod ya! :lol:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09337.jpg)
(You know your stuff Neil!) :ugeek:
Managed to pick a set of four including centre caps and albeit knackered tyres for £60 on good ol' ebay! Only an hour's drive too.
A bit of curbing on the edges but the faces are clean and the wheels are straight.
What a result!
Hence why I have been asking odd questions regarding tyre sizes and gearbox final drives and ratios. As they will need new tyres and thinking of reducing the aspect ratio to 45 instead of 55.
Currently sitting with 185 55 R15, but although are the exact same size overall as what's on Gumpert, because Gumpert has 195 50 R15 the tyre for some reason doesn't appear as 'balloon' like.
Let me know what you think.
Took some photos after washing Gumpert today in the surrounding countryside.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09553.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09554.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09555.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09557.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09559.jpg)
(Gah! Had just washed it too!)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09560.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09561.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09562.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09563.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09564.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09565.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09567.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09569.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09571.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09572.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09573.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09574.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09575.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09576.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09577.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09578.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09579.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09580.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09582.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09583.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09584.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09585.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09586.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09588.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09589.jpg)
And now my favourite:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC09591.jpg)
Let me know what you think. :-)
OH yes definately. The Wolfraces (or whatever they are) are going to be the winter wheels. Sebrings still require a light refurb and new tyres. Low on the list of priorities at the moment. Got the red Golf to get shifted by Christmas, as it's in my parents garage at the moment... and they have sold their house! :shock: So money (which we don't have) has to be thrown at that. Plus the small matter of getting married in April...
Gah! Where's my lottery ticket gone?
Haha! Yeah it is a bit of a dogging spot I reckon! There are loads around here! Especially Hatfield Forest nearby us! :lol:
Cheers for the comment though. I love the way the light shines through the trees on the car. Looks great I think!
On one pic, you may notice that the painted area below the rear bumper has got smears on it. This was from nearly 2 years ago where I applied linseed oil and then it rained... then ran... And I cannot for the life of me get the bloody stuff off now! Anyone got any products to use?
Would the white spirit not ruin the paint?
Very funny. Seems to be more Tesco car park burnouts to be honest... Can't do a doughnut in a Saxo!
Tried out a load of new products on Gumpert:
Please bear in mind that I only apply by hand - I don't have a rotary polisher or DA. On my wishlist though. ;)
155,000 miles and original paint.
Started off by rinsing the car off with the good old garden hose!
-Autoglym Shampoo - Two bucket method, of course!
-Dried using microfibre towel.
-Meguiars Deep Crystal Paint Cleaner, to remove fine swirls and paint imperfections. Applied using Autoglym polishing cloth. -Buffed off using micrfibre cloth.
-Poorboys Black Hole to fill swirls and polish. Applied using applicator sponge (never used one before, but was very impressed by how evenly it allows you to apply), buffed off with microfibre cloth.
-Waxed with Collnite 913 Carnuba Wax. Applied using applicator sponge with hot water and buffed off with microfibre cloth. Lovely wax to use. Applies with ease, but more importantly, buffs off with ease. I have some Collnite 476, which is a much harder, allegedly more durable wax, but it's a pig to get off if left on too long and bakes.
-Wheels cleaned with Autoglym Alloy Wheel Cleaner and stiff brush.
-Wheels sealed with Autoglym Alloy Wheel Seal. Sprayed on to alloy directly and buffed off with Autoglym polishing cloth. (Alloys are in sh*t condition, so pretty pointlessm but hey! :lol: ) Can't afford to put tyres on our Sebrings yet!
-Tyre walls cleaned with Autoglym Tyre Dressing. Applied with applicator sponge.
-Exhaust cleaned with Cillit Bang (yes!) and kitchen sponge.
-Exhaust chromed with Autosol Metal Polish. Applied with old rag and buffed off with clean part of rag.
-Glass cleaned with Autoglym Glass Polish.
I was going to apply boiled linseed oil to trim, but the weather was looking murky and I didn't want to apply it, for it to then rain and it run and stick to the paint like sh*t to a blanket... like it has done before! :cross:
Let me know what you think.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0769_zpsafa51cb4.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0770_zps41f21fe2.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0771_zps49e01048.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0772_zps971a882e.jpg)
Pleased with the depth of the black - thanks to the Poorboys, but to get the imperfections off, I need a rotary polisher I think!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0773_zpsbb074d78.jpg)
Nice reflection!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0774_zpsb3a32fe6.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0775_zpsb8fbfc11.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01107_zpse8b611f2.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01108_zps0e0268fb.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01110_zps3080a673.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01111_zpse4418b89.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01112_zps4c9399c6.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01113_zpsc1109c2b.jpg)
Looks fantastic mate :thumbs:
Also I'm delighted to see you have Sebrings <3 love them
Cheers matey. Yeah, the majority of the paint is excellent still, so very lucky. Does have a couple of spots now which need seeing to, like just below the driver's side rear light the paint has bubbled and a couple of small rust spots appearing on the sills now. :(
Love the Sebrings, but they aren't in perfect nick and the tyres are shot. But considering we paid £60 for them, with centre caps, I can't complain!
Shiny !!! Your hard graft has certainly paid dividends, think ill be buying some of those cleaning products soon.
I had those alloys on a vauxhall ashtray donkeys years ago lol
Thanks bud!
Gotta love the Wolfrace's! Pahaha! :lol no: Easy to clean at least, but ours are buggered! (Not by us, I may add! :mrgreen: )
The Poorboys (designed for dark colours, so probably not suitable for your white one!) is really good stuff. I could see the depth as I polished. The wax is something else though. Can't recommend enough. :thumbs:
Gumpert's surprise revealed:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01313_zps759440c8.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01314_zps7121ab0f.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01315_zps100aacca.jpg)
Complete 5dr leather interior, including door cars and 60/40 split folding rear seats.
No rips or tears, with just require a quick going over to bring the cracking areas on the leather back.
I couldn't possibly mention how much I paid either... Otherwise I may get strung up!
Can't wait to fit them!
Thanks Dave.
Indeed it is a standard one, but I honestly think the people I bought it from was unaware of that...
I have been given advice by hankmanus to try out some shoe polish to begin with and let it bake for a couple of days before buffing off. Nice & cheap - remember too that Jo has to have immaculate boots for her job, so that'll be her job! ;) If that doesn't work though, I will certainly try out that kit!
Now I've never removed a whole interior before, is there anything I should know? i.e. How do the rear seats come out? Door cards etc?
Also, as Gumpert is a GL, I think the steering wheel is a bit more luxurious than a standard wheel, feels lovely in comparison to other wheels. 8-)
Well, to say I was pleasantly surprised is an understatement when I took the door cards off.
Check out the door membrane! And all the doors were in the same condition. :thumbs:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01316_zps87136c62.jpg)
Interior fitted:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01319_zps76d31be0.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01320_zps4cbfa2df.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01321_zps8ba67de0.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01318_zpsd6b59df9.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC01317_zps6e162237.jpg)
I must admitt it wasn't all plain sailing though, as I think I may have found the reason why I got the seats for a song.
I failed to notice the non-standard seatbelt lock on the driver's seat... and the fact it wasn't mounted in the usual location on the runner. It was secured on the back hinge bar thing. Perfectly structually secure and safe in an accident, but the actual seatbelt wouldn't clip in to the lock - so not that safe! :lol:
So poor old Gumpert had to donate his seatbelt lock and bracket for the cause! But it did not give up without a fight! The M10 bolt was on so tight I was obviously struggling, as the guys in the dustbin lorry collecting the bins came over and assisted! :thumbs: Legends.
All on securely and as it should be, so not too much of an issue in the end.
When Mrs Mac gets back she will commence the polishing. ;)
Let me know what you think.
P.S. Cheers for the tips on the interior dismantling Dave. Came in use, otherwise there would have been lots of swearing when taking the door cards off. Also how difficult is it to fit the new handbrake bits?
I drove it to Chelmsford earlier today to pick up some bits from VW. It has been overcast all day @ about 20 degrees...
There was sweat.
I had to stand next to the car for about 5 mins before entering the showroom, as I realised I had sweat marks on my shorts! :sorry, what?:
Don't care though! It looks awesome, it smells awesome and is so comfy!
Ah, as they're a bit corroded, I'm going to get some autosol on them to BLING them up! I quite like having some polished metal on show. :)
Thanks very much mate.
May not set the world alight with performance and handling, but it wafts along merrily enough and looks damn good in the process, I think. A really solid, reliable old bus with still lovely paint. Just requires a few areas to get some attention, like many of its age and mileage.
In the process of upgrading the sound system now too. 8-)
Ah lovely, I will look into some of that stuff for sure.
We are upgrading the sound system probably to a small enclosed sub (underseat style, but with a enclosure for added sound quality) with new head unit. Didn't want it to take up all the boot, so just a subtle enclosure for the corner is what we are going for. We already have pretty new Alpine speakers in all the original locations (door, dash and rear parcel shelf supports) so just needed something that will take the bass away from them, so they can concentrate on the mid-high ranges whilst the sub concentrates soley on bass.
Thanks for the offer on the 6x9's but we are going to keep the existing set up, as I said, but with these additions.
I think with the appropriate set-up the Alpine's are very good, but our head unit is as of such that the speakers are trying to do everything and can't cope, so the sound isn't particularly great. Hopefully the addition of a nice Pioneer underseat sub (fitted in the boot, as ironically it won't fit under the seat of a mk2) and new Pioneer head unit with pre-outs will create the desired sound. I.e not shake all the bolts on the car loose, but just add that depth in sound that has been lacking.
Well I've broken down! Accelerator cable snapped and the pedal dropped to the floor with no power! :( am stood at the side of the road awaiting the AA.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1158_zps2bcf9912.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1157_zps23710d01.jpg)
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk
Yes it was a black day. But fortunately was fixed at the side of the road, so the AA can uphold their stats of 9/10 breakdowns fixed at the side of the road haha! The guy was a nice old boy who commented on Gumpert's condition (and leather interior!) And said he used to have an F reg 8v GTI years ago.
Fortunately it was just the accelerator cable had popped of the bracket on the pedal where the bush has worn, so he adjusted the bracket and poked it back in. Will require a new bush though. But a free repair nonetheless! Hopefully yours will be similarly cheap to sort zmuzzy.
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk
So this morning I thought before the apocalyptic weather comes in, I'll get cracking on a few jobs that have been niggling for years!
Firstly, the heater doesn't heat anything more than tepid. The matrix has been flushed (twice) in the past, all the hoses get hot properly, it's had new genuine thermostats, a new rad, water pump and dash temp sensor, so it can only point to one thing:
The foam in the heater box.
So, time to get cracking!
Firstly, remove the bottom parts of the dash (driver's and passenger side storage areas.) A number of screws into the upper dash and centre console. Remember which screws went where, as a couple are different lengths and the thread is different.
Remove gear knob errr knob, by undoing it anticlockwise, pop off the gear gaitor and undo the single screw towards the front. The centre console can now be removed by pulling it forward and manoevering over the gear knob.
The heater tunnel (or whatever it's called) is now exposed.
Unscrew the one remaining screw on the right hand side of the heater tunnel, this will free the lower section and some wiggling will allow that to be removed (Tip: push down into the carpet to give yourself that tiny bit of room required to get it out.)
You should be left with this, the heater diverter box:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1302_zps2097bd2d.jpg)
^^^ I have already removed the black plastic nuts either side of the heater diverter box.
If you're like me, you'll be scratching your head wondering why it wont come out!
Remove the 8mm hex bolts either side of the dash:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1303_zps16031bf8.jpg)
One in the centre section (basically above the heater diverter box)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1305_zps74b3091d.jpg)
One under the glove box.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1306_zps6c0c9a71.jpg)
This will give a bit of movement to the dash with will be imperitive later.
Remove these screws from the dash vents:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1304_zpsef3ec2ca.jpg)
The dash vents shall now pop out (note the little clips on the bottom of them, so push them up into the dash to aid their removal.)
This is what you should be left with:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v511/jonnyspatter/06-12-10/console6.gif)
Remove it by lots of wiggling, making sure the ducts are free from the pipework, this is where that extra movement in the dash is so important.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v511/jonnyspatter/06-12-10/DSCF5442.jpg)
Have a beer to celebrate getting it out.
This was the state of our diverter flap. It should be covered in foam!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1307_zps0970c0f7.jpg)
I used toolbox liner foam to cover it back up. But you can use anything, so long as air can't pass through it. Gaffa tape will do the job lol!
Tuh dah!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1308_zpsa084054d.jpg)
Also, if you open this flap by adjusting the direction of air flow using the dash control you will see behind to this:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1309_zps5ed1e110.jpg)
This is the hot/cold diverter flap. Again, should be covered in foam.
And again:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1311_zps496b262d.jpg)
Refitting is the reverse of removal (as says the Haynes Manual on so many tasks!) But just ensure your heater diverter box has fully located the ducts with the pipework. Also that the flaps fully operate and you haven't gone too over the top with your new foam.
So after all that, did I break into a sweat upon a little test drive?
Did I f**k. :frustration:
So I don't know what the issue is with our tepid heating!
No to feel as though I had achieved nothing, I replaced our knackered kick plate after managing to source one for less than the going rate of 2 million pounds.
Before:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1313_zps420bcb32.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1318_zps8dfded74.jpg)
Also, a new 1G handbrake surround.
Before:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1314_zps88a2746a.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1320_zps32580369.jpg)
And also managed to get hold of some VW floormats to sharpen up the interior further.
Before:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1312_zps03407a4c.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1317_zps73a72bf2.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1321_zpsd482ac3e.jpg)
And finally, we have had the new sound system fitted!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1322_zpsee4676e1.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1323_zps67d71d41.jpg)
May have a go at making a little box for the sub, but believe it or not, the bass produced is superb and the transformation in the sound is incredible. So pleased with it and they have done a great job at keeping it neat and tidy.
But yeah. A bit peeved at losing 2 hours of my life in achieve nothing.
Cheers matey.
Yeah I will be looking into it further now it's on my mind. Thinking about it, the only things that have yet to be replaced are the heater matrix itself, and the heater bypass valve. But the pipes in and out of the matrix are hot!? Gah!
It certainly is yeah. I did test that prior to fitting the foam and afterwards too, to ensure I hadn't overdone it causing to to not close fully.
EDIT: The pics actually show it in the fully hot position.
Gave Gumpert a good old wash and wax earlier whilst the weather was nice and snapped a few shots of him.
Also fitted the known working heater matrix bypass valve. The black platic bit I of the valve I took off Gumpert was in the open position (you could see through it), whereas the new one was closed. Anyway, fitted that, bled the system, but still got bugger all heating! :frustration:
Well here are the shots after I washed him, as I like to whore him out!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02062_zpsb4607ff4.jpg)
Sneaky one of Hollie tucked away in the garage
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02063_zps556a50b3.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02064_zps92c98a83.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02065_zps5a698035.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02066_zps5d366690.jpg)
Shiney shiney!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02068_zps1f65eaef.jpg)
Next door's Limited Edition Corsa (bought in red because she saw Hollie and said, "I love a red car!")
Check out the orange peel! :cool:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02069_zps9296e6e9.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02070_zps5ab8792a.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02072_zps2ff784ef.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02073_zps41e62f1e.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02074_zps0e4a28cf.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02075_zps59b673c9.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02076_zpsfb3fa25d.jpg)
Now I managed to acquire some now indicator lenses which I thought would look pretty neat...
Before:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02078_zps86ca7879.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02079_zpsf43b196b.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02080_zps4350bd68.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02081_zpsbd854ec3.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/DSC02082_zpsae73a0e8.jpg)
:thinking: :thinking: :hmm:
Hmmm... Ahh... Errmmm... I... err...
I'm not sure...
What do you guys think?
Yeah, we are still undecided... They were advertised "would look good on a red Golf," which I agree they probably would, but I thought they may look decent on a black one. Errrrmmm... I can't quite work out if I like it or not.
Most importantly the lenses flash orange, even when using the clear lamps. Witchcraft!
Mrs Mac isn't 100% on them either, so will run them for a couple of weeks and make a decision then. We have the original lenses still and they are undamaged, so can easily revert back.
Cheers for the comments on the lotion skills. :thumbs:
I think Mr Hank Snr will be having his wicked way with this in the spring, as there's a few blemishes which I haven't the skills/confidence to address and I know he is dying to have a go to get rid of some of the swirls and old baked in wax which I applied prior to the National Meet lol.
Cheers Hairy.
Yeah the paint is still his strongest point by far (although the engine is strong too). But upon closer inspection there are a few areas that need addressing before they get any worse. Trouble with it being a daily is new issues appear all the time and if left, will only worsen.
Getting competitive? ;)
You better be coming on the friday, was a good drive last year and Jasmine might bring her bug!
I am competitive by nature. :D
But he's had a bit of a going over since last time, what with the new interior and sound system, so once Hank has had a go, it will look right dead good! Was so annoyed with myself when I had washed and waxed him prior to the last national meet where I had left the wax on for too long so it baked on! :wtf?!:
Honestly, I don't know if we are going to be able to make any of the days prior to the Sunday this year, as we are STILL waiting news on our mate's wedding dates. And there's a big chance it's on this weekend. But we have said we will not drink at the wedding (as it will probs be on a Saturday, like most are) and then drive straight from the wedding to the National and arrive at about 3am Sunday morning lol!...
But only in one car most likely... Oh no! Which one???
Isn't camber also a phrase for, "my suspension looks broken?"
Just walked past him on my way to getting in the Skoda to drive to work and I'm still not sold...
May have to swap them back sharpish if my mind hasn't changed soon!
Ooo no. Not for me I'm afraid. Will most likely just go back to standard if anything.
The grille would definitely stay as standard, as I think that is one of the defining features of Gumpert. 8-)
But perhaps the rears and side repeaters changed too would make it all tie in. Trouble is I've just spent £16 on the side repeaters (new from VW) as both of them would fall off when you cleaned the car lol! So I'm again reluctant to change them too!
Glad you approve though, and thanks. They arrived really quickly! I suppose, as nothing ever changes with the looks, it's a bit of a shock to the system to see him looking different! God knows what it will be like when we (eventually) fit the Sebrings! :terrified:
Been a while since an update on this thread, as all spare monies has gone towards my daily hack, the Skoda - requiring a pair of unscheduled tyres, costing a pretty penny, so it's been a case of little service items here and there to keep Gumpert running at his optimum.
Until now...
Some may remember Miss (at the time) Mac and I purchased a set of Sebring alloys for a song. Always with the intention of getting them refurbed with fresh rubber on them. Well it turns out that's not cheap either! For that reason I decided to go down the refurb route myself and transfer the tyres already on Gumpert, as there's still 5mm of tread left and the sizes match. So I purchased some wet and dry of various grades, scotch pads, took a brave pill and set about prepping them, to then use rattle cans for primer, top coat and lacquer. After posting a question on here, a guy local to us (Pistol P) came round and offered some advice and offered to apply the primer, top coat and lacquer at his business using spray guns, therefore 2Pac paint, as opposed to 1k from rattle cans. The only catch was I was to do the donkey work of sanding them down, removing the curbing and finally applying the key, whilst he'd then have the reqarding part of applying the paint.
Oh, and we wanted to go dark...
Well, I'll let the pictures do the talking.
Pre prep:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0164_zpsc1c0be04.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0163_zps6baa2eca.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0162_zpsb45d77fe.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0165_zps4803795e.jpg)
During prep:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0166_zpsa79c59ea.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0167_zps3194dbc8.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0168_zps1b4c2988.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0170_zps9e7bf72e.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0171_zps8cf02f9d.jpg)
And after paint:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0317_zpsc8f8a311.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0320_zpsab04c5e4.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0319_zpsaa4092a9.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0318_zps777147ac.jpg)
They are Mercedes Titanium Grey Metallic. They are dark, but not black, and the paint has a purple flake in the light and really is quite stunning. Getting the tyres swapped over on Saturday and having them fitted that day.
Big thanks to Pistol P for a cracking job. :thumbs:
Can't wait to see what they will look like on Gumpert!
Well they're on!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0328_zps8a3be833.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0334_zps0898effe.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0344_zps5a59c1d7.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0345_zps5d6dfd25.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0347_zps16e48976.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0342_zps39ff15ff.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0350_zps7e11de83.jpg)
Let me know what you think. :terrified:
Thanks mate.
That was admittedly accidental, but the main intention was to not go black, as pure black on a black car can look a bit crap in my opinion, as there's nothing to break it up. The purple flake in the paint was the main reason for this colour choice though, as Mrs Mac loves purple!
BLSCO, yup the stealth look is progressing a bit, but not sure what to do about the indicators. If we go for tinted, then we probably would have to do the rear lights too, which I'm not a fan of on anything other than a GTI... :hmm:
Gave him a good wash, polish and wax. So time to self whore a bit more. :winking:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0356_zps83943862.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0357_zpsa6dbbf35.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0359_zpsdf34029a.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0367_zpsc9ac558c.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0366_zpsa1170de5.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0365_zps6ae5d5cd.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0364_zpsba354a17.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0370_zpse3a2edb4.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0374_zpsce1d5c3d.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0378_zps3717b4f2.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0379_zpsd9dc69f0.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0380_zps6f20a6eb.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0382_zps94a2497b.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0386_zpse84be034.jpg)
And then on our way home from town we spotted Sam Stirrup and Zach just down the road from us, so had a little meet!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0117_zpsj0flwu9v.jpg)
hanks hairy! Yeah the paint us still pretty good on him, especially considering it's done 163k and is used daily. A few dings and little scabs, but shines up nicely all the same!
Thanks Marco
Lol Bobby, it's a bit of a change I know and is still something we're getting used to. But according to Mercedes it's grey... Well it is, just! As I say, was a bit darker than expected, but hey, they're done and Mrs Mac and I like them lots. If they were just plain black I wouldn't have been happy, but I think they are just grey/purple enough to just break up the black going on elsewhere.
One thing's for sure, I need to get some paint on the drums at the back, they stand out like a sore thumb! Black again? Haha.
Not getting them Photoshop'd, as if I decide they look gorgeouser in silver I won't be happy, as there's no bloody way I'm redoing them haha! What do you think of them though, Mr OEM?
Wish I'd done them Focus ST orange now! :wink: :
Well seeing them in regular silver is good to know, but comparing them against the colour we've got, I'm happy with ours. And as you say they are much better in the metal. Mrs Mac's dad said they look like a spare wheel! Rude. Haha.
Wish I'd done them Focus ST orange now! :wink: :
Well seeing them in regular silver is good to know, but comparing them against the colour we've got, I'm happy with ours. And as you say they are much better in the metal. Mrs Mac's dad said they look like a spare wheel! Rude. Haha.
It's the little things that make the difference.
New genuine aerial fitted today.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG0134_zpsjewkzxz9.jpg)
What a horrid job. Did not take into account having to take the arch liner off (i don't own a jack other than the 'widow maker' - which I refuse to use, so that made getting that off fun!) and feed the cable through the bulkhead, therefore taking half the dash out. Sadly the radio won't work at the moment as the connector for the aerial port in the radio is different on the new one. I tried dismantling the old one to use that but it disintegrated when I so much as looked at it. Nuts.
Oh well, it looks 100x better than the old rusty bent one (thanks to some scrote).
So tomorrow Gumpert is going away for some pampering...
Ooo I cannot wait! :cool:
This kind of pampering:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_7637_zpsutnrjaqp.jpg)
The guy who did the paint on the wheels (PistolP) on here is tidying up some of the rust scabs on the sills and rear lights. Thankfully the update is that it's good old Germanic rust and not rotten. Obviously was hard to tell until you start to remove the paint and see the metal.
Bring on the national meet!
Only minor thankfully, but best to nip it in the bud before it suddenly starts costing £££ as it needs whole new wings/sills/panels welded in.
Will get the hankmanus treatment shortly too as I know he's itching to get his mitts on it!
Got him back. Absolutely top work from Pete. So happy with the results.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0273_zpsxat6bv4p.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0274_zpslnnjtzmf.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0277_zpsoxfshnzo.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0278_zpslrxpwtoh.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0282_zpshttowt5c.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG0283_zps5ifwftwf.jpg)
So much better now! Thoroughly recommend this guy's work as he's great to chat to, knows his stuff and a real perfectionist.
Supersmart Repairs in Whitham.
It's the little things that count.
To clean the front end up I got our old chrome VW badge with lots of chipped paint, flatted it back and sprayed it satin black, swapped it with the current chrome badge and voila!
I do prefer the look, especially with the (nearly) black alloys.
Before
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG1349_zpsrv0vtivw.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG1350_zpsklzqo0cb.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG1352_zpsl9mixqju.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/Gumpert/IMAG1351_zpsp06i02rq.jpg)
It was G who had it. Turned out to be a slipping power steering belt. As the overheating only happened during wet weather and when driving at speed, I put two and two together and realised the belt could be slipping, and only afterwards realised the belt also drove the water pump!
A full service, including new belts, fluids, discs, pads, rear shoes and cylinders and new Michelin tyres on order, all is running beautifully.
The badge I think will look a bit better once I've treated the grille and bumper to some restorer stuff so it is all the same colour.
If we change our minds, the shiny chrome one is tucked away in the garage with the mountain of spare bits. :lol:
It was time today to pop a Brave Pill and have a go at Gumpert's paint with a machine polisher, with the guidance of hankmanus I have acquired some Dodo Juice Limeprime, Limeprime Lite (for maintenance) and a set of 3M 3" pads (Green, Yellow & Blue). Today I set about the swirly paint with a Bilt Hamber clay bar, the full fat Limeprime and yellow pad with the polisher set to 1200RPM. Then go over with Poorboys Black Hole and seal with Collnite 476 wax.
Before:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1521_zpskalky6pg.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1524_zpsggrngrc1.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1522_zps2v39moxh.jpg)
After:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1530_zpstj4dvgjy.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1528_zps3lojbkzf.jpg)
Time for a few of my ugly mug in the reflection! :lol:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1523_zpsmfeaysjk.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1525_zpsyzmhwn0i.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMAG1527_zpsybsbykcv.jpg)
And now just some general shots.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0004_zps7bw4cxhx.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0005_zpsjatqvbxi.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0006_zpsktwpbnpn.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0007_zpsckzhgpaq.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0009_zpsup3agrln.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0011_zpsmxeca9ch.jpg)
Dust on the lens of this pic. :roll:
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0013_zps0sljlq3b.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0015_zpsza1vyiml.jpg)
Showing off his new boots. Michelin Pilot Sport 3's all round.
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0018_zps0r5z9ad2.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0019_zpsfgovswe4.jpg)
Dust already laying!
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0021_zpsundzqnlj.jpg)
(http://i872.photobucket.com/albums/ab287/ali_macmillions/IMG_0032_zpsxk4wiljc.jpg)
Not perfect by all means, but happy I didn't 1. Burn the paint, or 2. Hologram the paint. Could do with a more aggressive cut, but will leave that until I've built up confidence with using the polisher, then will attack it again with Limeprime once more, then maintain with the Lite. As I don't want to make the mistake of continuously cutting back until I've got no paint left!
Let me know what you think. :smile:
Thanks chaps! We do have another AA badge, with a mounting plate that actually works that we thought about fitting to Hollie, but left it as is, so it's a spare. Haha.
Hank, I used the 3" pads. So took a while, but well worth it. As you say, got more depth to the paint.
6 months ago blue smoke started appearing from the exhaust and performance (all 90bhp :lol: ) has been dropping off steadily.
The wife and I decided that as the bodywork is in very good nick and my mechanic assures me the car is very solid, it's time to throw in the towel with this engine and go down the conversion route.
After deliberating for about 3 minutes, we decided on a VR6. After another minute of discussion it was finalised to head down the R32 route.
Finding one, was a different matter, it seems!
After much searching I managed to get my hands on a 61k Mk1 Audi TT V6 that had had a front end whack (barely), but was a CAT D write off as a result.
After having it delivered to Tom Rich's Waterwerks, the strip down began.
Unfortunately I can't take much credit in the work being done here, as I would have set fire to my garage trying to open the bonnet, :sorry, what?: so have enlisted in the skills of Tom Rich (a site sponsor on here) to take on the project. What a help he has been, by the way.
(https://image.ibb.co/h6oUfF/TTdonor2_zpszxsxeswk.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/kpOHZa/TTdonor4_zpsms6fngdq.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/cHJHZa/TTdonor7_zpsdwkgyn8j.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/eMSN0F/TTbay_zpsgwlsoxg4.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/jt8HZa/32_V6_1_zpseuqs16aw.jpg)
Inlet removed for paint. Rocker cover is away too.
(https://image.ibb.co/dekLnv/R32_2_zpsori1ybym.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/mfT6Sv/20170107_105537_zpsyqaktwfp.jpg)
Golf engine bay
(https://image.ibb.co/n11RSv/Gumpert1_zpsni2xlcip.jpg)
A bit less under the bonnet
(https://image.ibb.co/b6wt7v/Gumpert_Bay1_zpsqlt7wjn3.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/fpKfnv/20170107_105407_zps6imunkye.jpg)
The old GL lump
(https://image.ibb.co/dv7pfF/20170107_105530_zpsdjyfccai.jpg)
In my opinion the most exciting part - Quaife LSD
(https://image.ibb.co/fgpPEa/20170105_133511_zpsgcjf5rbc.jpg)
Bird's nest!
(https://image.ibb.co/bUY4fF/20170114_144349_zps0naawcfk.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/fsnKEa/20170114_144418_zpspfdmfeg1.jpg)
A erm.... 'unique' interior on the TT...
(https://image.ibb.co/jCVLnv/20170107_121540_zpsmqnm2rrw.jpg)
Trackslag mid section. Oof. :party!: (https://image.ibb.co/hqreEa/20170117_210737_zpsgeddrqj8.jpg)
Corrado VR6 Subrame and Crossmember
(https://image.ibb.co/gHNanv/20170107_121625_zps0apecilx.jpg)
DSG Box going spare...
(https://image.ibb.co/jP5mSv/20170107_121358_zpsbahrvkoz.jpg)
Can never have too many spare bits!...
(https://image.ibb.co/d5Eo7v/20170107_122019_zpsnefssay7.jpg)
Until you get a puncture on the M25 and have to take it all out again...
(https://image.ibb.co/eJXx0F/20170107_165205_zpskz4r7l0z.jpg)
I'll be keeping the updates coming, as the momentum is going to build up over the coming few days and week!
Cheers guys.
Yeah he's going to be a bit of a weapon, but look nothing particularly special, as externally will be identical, barring the Trackslag exhaust. So Sebrings wheels remain, as well as the GL splitter! Inside we're also sticking with the Mk2 gear knob and 4+E bit!
We'll certainly be giving him a thrashing round the National Meet track! Got to show Tommcc that he should have gone VR!
Yeah Jimmy I've seen your car at Tom's unit. Looks like a good one and they have made your installation look damn nice. Can't wait to see the finished article with ours.
We are running simply G60 brake setup. No point in going for more on the road as it'll just lock the wheels up unless I went for track tyres.
Suspension we are sticking with the Spax PSX shocks and springs but with front and rear ARBs. Was bought for the car before deciding on a conversion, so is mk2 spec. The shocks will be fine but the springs may need uprating to cope with the extra weight. Will see how it rides and handles and if necessary either uprate the springs, or budget depending, go KW Coilovers.
The Trackslag exhaust is also going to have the first production R32 conversion downpipe, so very much looking forward to seeing this!
Bought the LSD from Darkside Developments. Very helpful folk there who talked me through what I needed.
As I'm using a Golf V5 gearbox (shorter ratios and final drive) we required an O2A one, which surprised me!
I've been reliably informed by many though that the LSD will be the biggest single improvement on the cat, so can't wait.
I know what you mean. I should have supercharged it at least!
Haha, cheers. It should be a pretty good one we hope!
Tom and his mate are fantastic at what they do. Very relaxed approach, not pushy in any way, but offer advice everywhere required, plus answer my million questions I've fired at him.
They also are genuinely excited by this project too, which is great as a customer. So everyone is itching to see the finished article.
From what I've experienced so far I would seriously recommend Tom for his work.
The brakes have only sold in principle, but I'm not holding them or anything, so if they sell first then the guy understands. So take a punt, go mad and have some serious stopping power! :D
I'll find out about the spare for you.
Oh... I can only try and flog bits! :angel:
I thought most people were aware we were going down the R32 route as we'd plastered it over most of Facebook, but not on here! :ban?:
I'll find out about the spare for you. Puncture repair kits are bloody usesless!
Will keep the thread updated. Tom has informed me that the project will start gathering pace at an extreme rate this week and next. Can't wait!
And Baz, will be great to see you at the National.
Obviously one thing that can happen when doing something like this is it can bring any flaws to the surface. Generally we were pretty confident the old faithful was in good order and would require minimal work. Well it turns out Gumpert had a secret of his own...
(https://image.ibb.co/mNkxZa/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_4_zpsn86bixcv.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/dvVgxv/received_1087120974744240_zpsbqiqioye.jpg)
This was the offside rear most subframe mount bolt, which had been previously wrapped in electrical tape and impact gunned into the hole, as the captive nut had gone. Basically someone previously didn't want to have to cut and weld a new captive nut in place so bodged it by doing this, putting the occupants and other drivers at risk, as had the other bolts been knackered and it failed we could have lost the wishbone and rear engine and gearbox mount.
What's a little scary is that this car is a 3 owner car - owned by us for 9 years, serviced meticulously by a mechanic we trust, who would also tell me outright if something wasn't right. Previously the car was owned by an old boy who had it since 3 years old. This bodge must have been in place for at least 9 years! All it took though was two turns of a socket, a whack with a hammer and out it came!
It does also make me wonder what some other cars out there are like, especially ones like 20 owner cars, most by DIY mechanics who bite off more than they can chew, bodge it and flog it to the next owner...
Keep your eyes peeled out there folks!
Starting to come together now:
(https://image.ibb.co/iqLmSv/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_1_zpsc4shypyd.jpg)
New polybushes. Have gone for Superpro, due to the stainless construction of the tubes.
(https://image.ibb.co/iGnY7v/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_3_zpskdxmdunr.jpg)
All in place
(https://image.ibb.co/gb4D7v/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_5_zpsxihctgaj.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/gcqWua/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_6_zpsa7hap2mb.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/ihv9fF/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_8_zpsjcx3ias1.jpg)
Fitted to the car
(https://image.ibb.co/mmLxZa/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_7_zpsp5dosns4.jpg)
Another slight gremlin.
Being sorted by the man though.
(https://image.ibb.co/dZ9PEa/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_zps6jsqwxvi.jpg)
G60 calipers and carriers all painted
(https://image.ibb.co/kXScZa/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_91_zpsp2j3i9hx.jpg)
Servo tidied up.
(https://image.ibb.co/kxx0nv/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_93_zpsvev1vuja.jpg)
And now for the best bit. The pedal box
A work of art Water Werks!
(https://image.ibb.co/hmaWua/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_95_zpsqy8kwvvd.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/mHGRSv/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_96_zps92dshlor.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/fkJvLF/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_97_zpshe3kzqqd.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/gExN0F/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_94_zpsttmu5ylq.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/hNw4Ea/Macmillan_Mk2_Jan_98_zpshcwu1yn9.jpg)
Not long now!
I hadn't noticed the lack of clutch pedal! :thinking:
I know that the accelerator pedal is drive by wire and the clutch is hydraulic, so therefore I'm guessing mounts separately?
Sorry, only just noticed this post.
We are using Corrado VR6 radiator and fan setup. Should be ample to deal with the R32.
Well we've ended up plucking for a new 16v brake servo. As nice as the old one looked, it seemed pointless recycling old parts such as that, so went for a new one.
Rear disc conversion is on, V5 gearbox is back from having the Quaife LSD fitted and synchros replaced as a matter of course whilst off the car.
But the most exiting bit is the rocker and inlet are back from paint...
Engine mounts
(https://image.ibb.co/djTRua/20170225_121250_zpssh4jmsyy.jpg)
Rocker cover powder coated in satin black
(https://image.ibb.co/jB3sZa/20170225_125404_zpsyiqs2j9d.jpg)
VR6 Flywheel (using Sachs VR6 clutch kit too)
(https://image.ibb.co/fbfjfF/20170225_125558_zpsfmbdj18n.jpg)
Coming together
(https://image.ibb.co/mfsanv/20170225_143904_zpsqjmxbqbl.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/gv8Fnv/20170226_180939_zpssoz0pwrb.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/jHJsZa/20170226_181020_zpsjqgu77ul.jpg)
Rocker on
(https://image.ibb.co/eopMSv/20170226_181039_zpsawi2onwt.jpg)
Now my favourite bit...
(https://image.ibb.co/g10aLF/received_1116447341811603_zps22n76qva.jpg)
The inlet is actually sex. Plastic primer and high temp gloss black top coat and lacquered for good measure.
Going to go for blue coil pack covers (from the R36) as I prefer the idea of keeping to the theme of having blue and black. Gumpert's old HT leads were blue Magnecor ones and they looked smart against the black rocker cover.
The pace is picking up now. Just some modifying on the front engine mount to be done and then the engine will be in situ, allowing for the Trackslag downpipe measurements to be finalised.
You can certainly have a passenger ride!
We think it's looking fab too.
Mark, just because you don't like seeing the 4 rings on it! It's part of the attraction. ;)
Hopefully it will do well on Curborough, but sadly that may be all undone by poor driving...
It will be good if it does help with Waterwerks business, as their work so far has been excellent and top quality, with continuous updates of what they're doing and how long each process should take.
Engine is going in this week so am awaiting pictures... :D
A few more updates...
(https://image.ibb.co/g0dvPa/Hose_Tidying_zpsi91cryai.jpg)
A few of the required chassis notch... welds left not completely ground down just for some additional strength. Something I'm more than happy with, as I would rather as much metal remains as possible when messing around with the chassis.
(https://image.ibb.co/feTjHv/R32_Notch_1_zpse4egc9uy.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/kpsYAF/R32_Notch_2_zpsi2jbfykw_2.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/k7cN4a/R32_Notch_4_zpsblufwzju.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/gMKrxv/R32_Notch_3_zpsgxdzl4oy.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/ihdJcv/R32_Notch_5_zpsespeyrir.jpg)
Engine and box now tidied up
(https://image.ibb.co/m97N4a/20170310_200935_zpsex5addbu.jpg)
Offered up to the bay
(https://image.ibb.co/jr0LqF/20170310_223344_zps7rfowsgf.jpg)
In situ so wiring and pipe work can be positioned, and also so measurements for a certain section of exhaust can be drawn up...
(https://image.ibb.co/j7CYAF/20170310_223356_zps6n41ikrd.jpg)
t's got a Corrado VR6 subframe and crossmember, so the engine sits slightly lower than if using just a Mk3 Golf VR6 one, not only that but the engine will sit straight too and not on the wonk like so many.
Tom has told me that the piece of metal used for the chassis notch is actually 2mm, whereas the original chassis material is 1.5mm thick, therefore will be more than ample in a shunt, God forbid!
Well after quite a few months of waiting on the development of the Trackslag exhaust to be researched and developed, I receive these pictures from Waterwerks...
(https://image.ibb.co/kzsYAF/R32_Final_Fit_2.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/mdrX4a/r32_assembled_1_35143199054_o.jpg)
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(https://image.ibb.co/mu4kPa/r32_assembled_6_35593993960_o.jpg)
Trackslag downpipe - NOTE: This is a prototype for the production models, so does contain an extra couple of welds that the final version would not have. I'm happy to have this as it is.
(https://image.ibb.co/mwbMxv/r32_system_1_35593994180_o.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/nMFEHv/r32_system_2_35812403432_o.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/hNsGVF/rr32_system_3_35143201924_o.jpg)
(https://image.ibb.co/cFYeja/r32_280brakes_35941652366_o.jpg)
Now the real head scratching was to begin. How do you code an engine, running OEM management that was previously a DSG to run in a Mk2 Golf running original clocks etc?
Then, two weeks after receiving these previous pictures, 10:30pm Gumpert was home.
Could resist in getting some pics!
(https://image.ibb.co/d4cN4a/20170708_225309_35034096803_o.jpg)
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Barely able to sleep due to the excitement we were up bright and early to view the Golf in the daylight.
We were not disappointed.
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Loving the little Waterwerks logo. Black on black looks so cool.
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A very happy Mrs Mac
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A little video of the maiden drive.
https://youtu.be/nNZm0MPplY0
This thing is seriously rapid and the throttle response is electric!
Sounds great too!
https://youtu.be/VRuZADc2PbA
After all the anticipation of this I cannot emphasise at how happy we are at this conversion.
No corners have been cut - although we did specify we want the job done 'right' not, just so it works. The guys at Waterwerks have been on board throughout the entire project and their attention to detail has been second to none.
Anyone thinking of a conversion, or even just some engine work, give the guys there a shout. Don't let location put you off either, we're based in Essex and they're near Bristol but aside from the day we were getting the car back it did not prove an issue.
After 7 months away it was time for a well deserved wash!
No polish though, as it got too hot and I didn't want to bake it on. So that'll have to wait until the National Meet prep.
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Rather looking forward to getting stuck in polishing and waxing this in preparation for the National Meet. :jackson:
oh wow so its finished , looks like theyve done a great job. how much fun was the drive home?
if your going to be at the national ill get to see this on sunday?
We didn't actually get to drive it home, it was delivered! Probably a good thing too as the new 160mph speedometer failed on the way back, so they had to turn back to the workshop and fit the old 120mph one! :lol:
But the morning after was so good! what a barrel of laughs the car is!
Yeah we're going to the meet from Friday until Sunday so will see you there. :bout ye:
So Gumpert went on the track at the National Meet and came back with the trophy for fastest Super Modified (engine conversion) car with a time of 31:20. Absolutely amazed at how this car drives and handles the power.
(https://image.ibb.co/df5azk/20170722_185303.jpg)
The intention was always to upgrade the suspension, and the track session confirmed that the Spax PSX kit, although was capable of handling the car well, perhaps wasn't quite as direct as necessary. So some BC Racing Coilovers were ordered (with the hope of them arriving prior to the National Meet, but only arrived this morning).
Very much loking forward to having these fitted and see what a difference they make. :D
(https://image.ibb.co/mE7GN5/20170725_141836.jpg)
Ha!
No no no. This car is built for purpose. So about the same height as it is now, but with suspension that can cut the mustard.
Well after that talk about not lowering it too much I had the suspension fitted and alignment set for it to come back a little lower than before. And what can I say? I love the way it looks!
It handles soooo much better with the new setup too. The BC Racing Coilovers are so pliant over rough roads and imperfections. It tends to follow the road rather than skipping over the top of them like the old Spax did. The turn in is even sharper than before and is far more composed during hard cornering, especially if a bit eager with the right foot during cornering!
I think it now looks as mean as ever, whilst retaining the sleeper factor.
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/24816138817_53ef5c02f9_o.jpg)
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Unfortunately, even though it's really not that low it very occasionally catches the front arch on high speed dips on motorways etc, and has resulted in this damage on the front arch. :wtf?!:
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/38787094665_098d989849_o.jpg)
I'm a bit annoyed as it's standard Sebrings, no spacers, standard 195/50/R15 tyres and yet its still done this.
So there's two options:
1. Roll the front arches, treat and spray and continue to run at the same height.
2. Buy a pair of new wings and raise the suspension.
:thinking:
Thank you for being patient and copying across
I'm a bit annoyed as it's standard Sebrings, no spacers, standard 195/50/R15 tyres and yet its still done this.
So there's two options:
1. Roll the front arches, treat and spray and continue to run at the same height.
2. Buy a pair of new wings and raise the suspension.
3. Spray Sebrrings silver or fit standard steels for sleeper look
:thinking:
FTFY
Standard springs!??
I would probably crash and die.
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I'm a bit annoyed as it's standard Sebrings, no spacers, standard 195/50/R15 tyres and yet its still done this.
So there's two options:
1. Roll the front arches, treat and spray and continue to run at the same height.
2. Buy a pair of new wings and raise the suspension.
3. Spray Sebrrings silver or fit standard steels for sleeper look
:thinking:
FTFY
Standard springs!??
I would probably crash and die.
Sent from my SM-G935F using Tapatalk
I'm a halfwit and didn't read that properly!
Maybe of the Sebrings need refurbishing in future we may go standard silver...
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Cope, you have a good eye.
It turns out it was running positive camber on the front. That's now sorted and is running -1.5.
And whilst we were at it...
Yes, that's the arches being repaired and rolled (sorry Mark, but the damage was already done!)
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/849/27731304638_bd7af7ebc5_o.jpg)
Numerous door dings, one in particular on the swage line was very unsightly
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Nasty crusty bit around the boot shut. Seems it's had a repair in the past and afer our 9 years of ownership its starting to show through. Best to nip it in the bud! Fortunately it hadn't set in and just required grinding back to good metal, treating and repainting.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/915/27731305058_c8ab623075_o.jpg)
Repairing a ding my mum put in after clunking it with her antique bowl...
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Little rust scab
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Looking like a prop from Dexter
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And yesterday I thought I'd take advantage of the good weather.
Mrs Mac had only washed the car the other day, so I cheated and just used Quick Detailer to shine him up a bit! I will do a proper polish and wax when its not in direct sunlight (I've made that mistake before and had the wax bake on!)
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Looking up the Slag's pipes. Ooo err... :lol:
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Need to clean the engine, but that can wait...
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185k on the body and he still scrubs up ok!
Spent the morning over the bank holiday weekend copper greasing the back of the brake pads, as they squeak.
Considering I've never touched brakes before in my life I was very pleased with myself when I completed the job with no swearing at all!
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Then the misses texts me the next day to say they're still squeaking.
Bugger.
Been a while since an update, but we've been a little busy over the last few months and now in a new house, time to continue the updates.
Firstly, not all has been plain sailing.
We had the car raised on its suspension slightly and also big fat H&R anti roll bars fitted, which have transformed the way the car handles. It's definitely firmer, but the lack of body roll is quite impressive!
Then back in July we had the car remapped at Stealth Racing, squeezing out 285bhp on the rollers. Very happy with that. Sadly prior to the last run (which was only going to be to ensure a little kink at the end of the power run had been ironed out) the clutch failed. A slightly stressful 150 mile drive home with no clutch, I became the master of clutchless gear changes! Only crunched once!
Turns out the clutch fork bent in and just wouldn't engage as a result.
New clutch assembly sorted.
2 weeks later was the owners club national meet. With the aim of retaining the crown of fastest car in the Supermodified category, I was pushing it hard. Out of nowhere the clutch failed again, but in more spectacular fashion time. Dumped all the gearbox oil (not on the track thankfully) and required an AA Relay home 180 miles. This time two out of the 3 clutch plate rivets had failed on the brand new clutch and caused it to rattle around at great speed and gouged a hole in the bell housing... Thankfully LUK covered the cost under warranty for the replacement unit and gearbox repair.
The car ran well after this for about a month... Until a slightly scary sound was coming from the engine sounding like metal against metal. Inspection revealed the harmonic crank pulley's harmonic component had fallen to bits, therefore it was rattling around and striking the chassis leg. Replacing the pulley with a new item is over £250! So a bit of digging around and I found a 2nd hand one from and engine that had only covered 40k for about a 1/4 of that price!
Another few weeks passed and then the rear engine mount perished, so needed a new one. Also there was a squeak coming from the engine bay again, this time the alternator tensioner bracket was the cause, so new one fitted.
Then the car started to feel very vague on acceleration and just a bit unwieldy. Turned out the steering rack had worked loose!
Then, Mrs Mac was driving home and all of a sudden the temperature crept up on the dash and the car started running lumpy and the fans wouldn't cut in.
This time the water pump had failed and overpressurised the coolant system, therefore blowing a hole in the radiator. Not ideal.
Complete coolant system overhaul carried out. New water pump, thermostat, alloy race spec radiator and a few new hoses for good measure. Oh and two new Michelin PS3 tyres. That was an expensive bill!
And finally, just as we thought all was good, it developed a misfire last week. Traced it to the coil pack on cylinder 2, so replaced all spark plugs with NGK Iridium ones and the faulty coil with a genuine unit.
Let's hope that's it for now!
Fortunately when it's working it still puts a huge grin on our face!
Here's a pic of the car at the new home and a gammy coil! (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190120/6e2a858bf00b81795467e2349cea2989.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190120/6c7d82933ec3dd17a90d73723123d106.jpg)
Sent from my CLT-L09 using Tapatalk
MK2 life, R32 running costs.
SMF and a vr6 clutch?
Indeed. Not a fan of these DMFs. Probably a good job too as I dread to think how much these repairs would have cost.
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Great day spent with Ben Straker tinkering with Gumpert to get the car driving so it doesn't kill you.
Went for a spirited drive initially to find out what needed adjustment, in the mean time coming up against a lad with his girlfriend as passenger in a Fiat Punto Abarth who made signals that he wanted to race. Video for lols. I wonder if he still has a girlfriend?
Then was taken out in Ben's track car and came to the stark realisation how a car how should drive and feel. What a beaut!
Anyway, turns out the damper settings were all wrong, and set to very firm. Backed those off to 7 at the front and 10 at the rear.
Raised the rear by 23mm so now has a nice aggressive rake from side profile.
Now to the mystery of it having what appeared as positive camber on the rear nearside wheel. During the conversion a rear beam was fitted along with stub axles attached. It seems at some point a previous owner of the beam and stub axles decided they wanted some camber, fitted some shims behind the axle, then put the disc and wheel back on and then realised they'd put the shims in the wrong place and gave it positive camber!
Annoyingly, the bolts defeated us as we hadn't a spare bearing and they were so tight, no amount of persuasion would get them out. But the main thing is I know what the issue is and can resolve it.
And how does drive? Amazingly. So much more planted, yet softer and confidence inspiring. Thanks so much Ben! You're a legend.(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/21db13ea986977251f7f9a27b0ffec34.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/377a4b6853d553ef6aa290a192290988.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/72914a7656389f0c9978de8cd42da05d.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/56f3447f2698554c4820bbbf881ec908.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/846f15c94e6cea489688475aae10b8bc.jpg)(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190210/cab89326849da01359d652cb50d084b6.jpg)
https://youtu.be/fCCCgg3mWfw
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I want a Gumpert... that is all.
What can I say? It's rather fun! But on the opposite end of the spectrum, so is Ben's precisely setup ABF.
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Sounds like the love is coming back for the old boy [emoji2]
I'd say so too. We need a few months of nothing going wrong and we'll be happy! We had nearly a year of fault free motoring, for it all to go south after the national meet lol.
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For a little while now I've been aware of a ticking time bomb with our 3.2 VR6 in the Black Mk2. The harmonic crank pulley has lost its harmonic properties and where rubber had perished and fallen out, leaving it wobbling all over the place, (see first video) undoubtedly putting a lot of stress on the crank. Not only that, but this was a replacement 2nd hand OEM item from a low mileage car after the original did the same thing.
So I bit the bullet and coughed up for a Fluidampr pulley.
Removing the old one was a daunting task, but thankfully there was enough access to undo the large bolt with a windy gun and prize out the pulley.
Instructions to fit the Fluidampr were straightforward, ensuring the key was in place and then torque to 74lb/ft +90°... aka RFT!
Once tightened to 74 lb/ft the bolt was marked in its present position and where it needed to be. Lots of huffing and puffing, using a mighty breaker bar the torque was met. And now we have a wonderful wobble free crank pulley with alleged power gains of 'up to 11bhp' if you believe the hype!
A job that looked scary turned out to be nice and straightforward!
https://youtu.be/5RWKxYH9kCg
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https://youtu.be/UnsLMsWLNZI
Does look like a nice piece of kit.
That old one looks completely shot! :o
Must check mine at some point!
It's been a while, and a very long time coming (about 3 years of planning to do this) but today I decided to dye the bumpers and plastics.
Firstly, a bottle of Solution Finish at the ready.
(https://i.ibb.co/b7TvQs9/20210414-095614.jpg)
I degreased the bumpers and plastics using Swarfega grease and oil remover diluted to a 1:50 ratio and used a soft brush to agitate the plastics to get rid of years and years worth of tyre gels and bumper trim gels I've used in the past. Leaving them looking very tired and faded. I then jet washed them and dried them using a clean microfibre towel
(https://i.ibb.co/k1RpHcC/20210414-095508.jpg)
Using a foam pad (and wearing gloves) I set to work, carefully applying the dye sparingly. I perhaps could have taken the bumpers off for more ease, but I felt confident in my ability to not dye any bodywork, whilst ensuring full coverage of the plastics.
Progress
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Front done
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Side trims
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Rear bumper - looking very tired indeed
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Actually required two coats!
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Then set to work on anything else I could get my hands on! :))
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So so happy the way they've come out and wish I'd done it sooner. The look is far improved over the shiny, greasy tyre dressing or bumper gel stuff I'd used previously. I lovely OEM matt finish. So time to wash the rest of the car to get rid of the dust and builders dirt that had accumulated thanks to roadworks the last few days!
(https://i.ibb.co/H7Dv6CG/20210414-114812.jpg)
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Everyone - Solution Finish your bumpers and trim!
Great job!
Solution Finish is my personal go to too, not the cheapest, but definitely the best performing!