R5GTT Project - Off the road since Sept 1998

[Tuck]

Steve thats brill . Just what im trying to do with my 5 keep it standard and so far so good

[Matt Cole]

Steve, keep us updated in 2015. It would be a shame not to see this complete.:agree:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Steve, keep us updated in 2015. It would be a shame not to see this complete.:agree:
OK Matt, here's the first 2015 instalment...

I received a phone call just before lunchtime today, from Karl, saying they had
been busy since coming back to work this week, and it's only Wednesday! The
car is now mostly in bare metal and it might be time to take some pictures.

On my arrival, it immediately became apparent that stripping back the paint
was the best idea. It highlighted a few places that could become future
problem areas, and possibly defeat the object of doing the job properly, just
once. I'll let the pictures take up the story...

Screen drain hole, passenger side
http://s5.postimg.cc/xfu2lqjef/r5gt15001.jpg

Passenger side front wing
http://s5.postimg.cc/etrb7i6rb/r5gt15002.jpg

Driver's side front wing. Not original and not for a GTT. The mounting
holes are drilled rather than pressed, as is the indicator repeater socket,
just out of shot...
http://s5.postimg.cc/uj2g7po6v/r5gt15003.jpg

Still some paint to remove on the pillar, but a clear candidate
for a bit of repair...
http://s5.postimg.cc/mrlq95k1j/r5gt15004.jpg

...though the drain hole this side isn't quite as bad
http://s5.postimg.cc/9sjx64zav/r5gt15005.jpg

This is possibly the most serious area of rust, part of which is
hidden within the door shut. The door isn't stripped as it will be replaced.
http://s5.postimg.cc/7k5qoss6v/r5gt15006.jpg

At first sight, this rear wing seems okay. However, below the
cheat line, it's a different story. It seems the car has been bumped on its
right side, with this wing repaired and the front one replaced. No sign of which
appears in the documentation!
http://s5.postimg.cc/5gvbh4sdz/r5gt15007.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6kfft3d13/r5gt15008.jpg

The rear door and remainder of the car are just in superb condition!
http://s5.postimg.cc/6mzbfxgon/r5gt15009.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/k6g5lmunr/r5gt15010.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/dhe7jcypj/r5gt15011.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/oi9codqyf/r5gt15012.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lcoqy68c7/r5gt15013.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/9dd8qv2rb/r5gt15014.jpg

Now some close-ups of some of the trouble spots...

http://s5.postimg.cc/qrxgz4zw7/r5gt15015.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qgg0mdjg7/r5gt15016.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ddke33t87/r5gt15017.jpg

That's the choke cable hanging out, and broken...
http://s5.postimg.cc/dsvnw4f5j/r5gt15018.jpg

Now, two pictures of items that are normally hidden from view...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wjxl6a9pz/r5gt15019.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/61jjbb0dz/r5gt15020.jpg

So, nothing too horrendous found, (looks for "sigh of relief" icon). I'm going to
see if the wrong front wing can be replaced with a new correct one. Most of
this work is Lee's and I cannot imagine the amount of dust he created! The
place was spic and span when I arrived.

Regards,
Steve

[rabbitstew]

That looks really solid! Hardly any rust on it at all. I dare not take mine back to bare metal as I think id struggle to find much with all the rot on it.

[Matt Cole]

Thanks Steve. I had no idea you were going for bare metal!

That car is unbelievable a condition for its age. :D
Is this now a nut and bolt restoration?

[Mr Raider]

Steve really does look in amazing condition in the bare metal with not too much to do other than drain hole around the screen and the wing. Definitely the way to go, will it still be tungy grey? :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

Thanks for the kind comments guys. Having chatted with Jason and Lee, before
Xmas, we came to the conclusion that bare metal would be the way to go,
simply to find any potential problems. Seems that this approach has been
justified. I'm certainly not up for ever repeating this exercise, but don't want
any nasty surprises later either! As for nut and bolt restoration, well maybe
not quite to that level.

I certainly won't be doing any part replacements that aren't needed. Looks
like the driver's side wing is staying, for example, though a guy in France
has 5 wings for sale, which was tempting. Although the hole stamps for
the trims are in place, they don't have an indicator repeater socket. :confused:

Once the car is in primer, the engine will be coming out. This to re-grind the
valve seats and to powder coat the subframe, along with clutch renewal etc.
With there being so little welding work to be done, it means that money can
be spent on bringing the car back to mint.

It won't become a garage queen, as I'm intending on having some fun with it.
The car will be staying in tungy grey, though that'll be brought really close to
concours standard. I already have the car booked for a wet-sand and special
coatings to be applied in April.

Regards,
Steve

[markg]

Hi Steve, The new wings, as supplied by Renault, do not have the side repeater holes pre-cut. Seems a bit silly but that's how they come.

[LiamR]

Hi Steve, The new wings, as supplied by Renault, do not have the side repeater holes pre-cut. Seems a bit silly but that's how they come.

Agreed. I bought a new wing many moons ago and it had no side repeater hole. I recall quizzing the renault parts guy and he said that's how they came. Weird but true!

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

I've just realised that I've not posted pictures of my work at home on the
car's interior plastics, some of them having been used to illustrate my review
of the ADS plastic restorer. So here's two close-ups of the finished article.
These are seen from differing viewpoints to try and overcome the nonsense
that the camera's flash presents...

http://s5.postimg.cc/vshfkf7hz/adsplastr05.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vbw7xzjqv/adsplastr06.jpg

This is the interior trim from the driver's side, now cleaned and protected...

http://s5.postimg.cc/b62d9yjsn/adsplastr10.jpg

The rear window levers on the car needed to be replaced, and having bought
2 second-hand, but grubby, replacements, here they are before and after,
again from 2 viewpoints...

http://s5.postimage.org/7ryfif9h3/r5gt15021.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/mg9bti9x3/r5gt15022.jpg

So, the car has been moved back into the workshop for work on the sills to
continue. These have been rubbed-back, rust treated, primed, stone-chipped
and are ready for another primer coat...

http://s5.postimage.org/s5pkdtg3b/r5gt15023.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/uob9ei1tj/r5gt15024.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/9366qw52v/r5gt15025.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/akrn2g9tj/r5gt15026.jpg

Both sides have been treated...

http://s5.postimage.org/e721su5kn/r5gt15027.jpg

One area looked to be really suspect; remember this?

http://s5.postimg.cc/ghnu6kgfr/r5gtt14256.jpg

Seems that there's no hole in the metal after all! Here it is now...

http://s5.postimage.org/5xll0omgn/r5gt15028.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/vcopb6px3/r5gt15029.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/gqxomxt4n/r5gt15030.jpg

http://s5.postimage.org/e8bzm97ef/r5gt15031.jpg

The last picture shows the front wing now correctly rivetted in place at the
bottom...

http://s5.postimage.org/b41bpgqlz/r5gt15032.jpg

All the discussions about this car are about how solid it is for its age. As it's
in the main shop now, it is proving to become a bit of a distraction, with any
visitors tending to drool, even in its undressed state :)

Next step is for the new driver's door to be trial fitted, just to make sure that
seams match etc. I'll also be ordering the new windscreen for delivery before
the end of the month.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Going back to the windscreen...

...and it's Mitchells Renault to the rescue, again. 2 in stock at Renault UK - £120+VAT.
That's cheaper than Autoglass, who incidentally didn't want to honour their written
quote, £147 all in, and preferred to try extracting another 20 quid. That behaviour
adds them to my list of companies I'll avoid at all costs.

So, win win, with a genuine Renault screen :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Good news that Steve. Is your screen tinted? Some fives had different tinted glass, either a green or slight yellow if I remember correctly? Have you managed to obtain any new seals?

[Lowiepete]

Good news that Steve. Is your screen tinted? Some fives had different tinted glass, either a green or slight yellow if I remember correctly? Have you managed to obtain any new seals?
Happily, I'm going to be able to re-use the originals. The guy who took out the
existing screen was keen to preserve the originals because they're much better
at waterproofing. Seems he was right, considering the screen was original and
there was only surface rust behind them. The screen is green tinted. The only
other piece I need is the clip that covers the seal ends, which I've ordered from
Mike.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

That's a big bonus as the seals are non existent!:agree:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

This box arrived in the post today...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cz153wwjb/r5gt15033.jpg

I was amazed by this demo video...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h1P4L7TwV9Q

...where I've seen others cover entire areas, it seems that's a waste. Inside
the front doors, what we'll do is place two mats centrally over one aperture,
with one mat overlapping the other by two or three inches. In the bigger
spaces, we'll place mats side by side with another across the centre of both.
That'll probably become clearer once we get some pictures.

We discussed this round at the workshop and reckoned that by covering the
entire area there was a possibility of creating another "membrane". These
sheets are only meant to take the resonance out of the sheet metal.

So, onto the car, where much work has taken place. The roof is now stripped
of paint and there's been some minor welding work done. Also, a lot more
rubbing down. I'll let the pictures take up the story...

http://s5.postimg.cc/i1dvkygfr/r5gt15034.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/yy2yddnzr/r5gt15035.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/455n92k6v/r5gt15036.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e6ahidx9z/r5gt15037.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xcs9zb35j/r5gt15038.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6wowzoipj/r5gt15039.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5hrxop707/r5gt15040.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pg37dc2bb/r5gt15041.jpg

This inside the driver's side door shut, that troublesome area all tidy! The
door has been removed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wojfgd4fr/r5gt15042.jpg

Some remedial strengthening was done to this rear bumper mount...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6u9mql4fr/r5gt15043.jpg

Now the tailgate. This is mid rust-treatment process, using the Bilt-Hamber
protection pair. I asked Jason for his thoughts, as its his first use of these
and both he and Lee are impressed with it.

One point of mirth came when I asked Lee if he was enjoying the task. Back
came a forthright: No! - which gave him away, instantly :niceone:

http://s5.postimg.cc/kx0m2og53/r5gt15044.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/tk8rjknnb/r5gt15045.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l5t4vhmlz/r5gt15046.jpg

Now to the windscreen surround, all tidied-up and ready for its blanking panel.
These guys prefer card to plastic sheets.

http://s5.postimg.cc/70nbtodkn/r5gt15047.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ohwhlwkon/r5gt15048.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xgr5coeyf/r5gt15049.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/9j90uczav/r5gt15050.jpg

This is the roof, with the aerial removed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6dof45gon/r5gt15051.jpg

My first call into the workshop was on my way to Mitchells Renault to pay for
my new windscreen, where I got a bit of a surprise. It was there, behind the
desk so I took this picture while Paul was preparing the paperwork.

http://s5.postimg.cc/3ma7anohj/r5gt15052.jpg

Did you notice that ring? Well, the screen came complete with both the main
fitting seals. Autoglass wanted another £100 for these if added! Even Mike at
GT Turbo Spares charges £50 for each piece.

So, called into the workshop on my way back to share the good news and in
that time, the screen had received its blanking plate...

http://s5.postimg.cc/xfh7j9d4n/r5gt15053.jpg

So far, there have been a couple of occasions where going to the main
Renault dealers has paid off, handsomely! There's a tangible buzz around this
restoration now :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

I love reading this thread! The car is coming along well. The sheeting you linked a video on, is impressive. Very impressive actually. Makes your car heavier though;)

Great result on the windscreen with it having the two main seals included! Am tempted to buy the other one and get it popped in my parts stash.

So what's the guesstimate for getting some paint on your car?

[robx1r]

how much did the genuine screen cost?

[Matt Cole]

That's great news on the screen! Also the sound deadening sheets. I probably need to do this to mine :agree:

[Jimmy5]

You still need middle seal as only two come with screen but your old one should be ok.

Progress looks great.

[Matty]

Coming along nicely. I can't beieve how little rot there is on it!

Interior plastics have come up well, I'll have to have a look into that ADS plastic restorer you used, looks like it does a good job. :agree:

[Mr Raider]

Coming along very nicely Steve, great work! :agree: :).

[Steven Leece]

http://pages.ebay.com/link/?nav=item.view&alt=web&id=111366877782

Anyone tried this, I think it's the middle seal?

[Steven Leece]

Cars looking very good by the way Steve! Loving the progress pics and looking forward to seeing it in primer next!!

[Lowiepete]

Many thanks for the kind comments guys :niceone:


I love reading this thread! The car is coming along well. The sheeting you linked a video on, is impressive. Very impressive actually. Makes your car heavier though;)
Yes, if you add it wall to wall, but by taking the selective approach and doing a
controlled double-up, I doubt that we'll add more than 3 kilos overall. I've seen
others "carpet" their metal and wondered if it was worth it. I was very, very
surprised when that second shelf was turned in that video. However, when
you think about the physics of percussion, it makes sense.


So what's the guesstimate for getting some paint on your car?
Well, it's in primer next week, then it's engine out, but we're ahead of schedule.
Completion date is intended to be 1st April and I cannot wait!


how much did the genuine screen cost?
See Post # 261


You still need middle seal as only two come with screen but your old one should be ok.
In fact, I think I was in the happy position of being able to re-use all the original
seals. The guy who took the screen out has cautioned against using any seals
that aren't Renault original because it's a one-way ticket to the surround rusting!
So, finding these seals provided was just a lucky bonus!


I'll have to have a look into that ADS plastic restorer you used, looks like it does a good job
Sadly, it looks like the review I did on DW has caused a rush and Matt the EU
distributor is now awaiting new stock from the Far East.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,
So, the car has been moved back to #1 Studio...

http://s5.postimg.cc/pgcuo6y0n/r5gt15054.jpg

The passenger side door being prepared...

http://s5.postimg.cc/9817sgek7/r5gt15055.jpg

Now, round the rest of the car...

http://s5.postimg.cc/sohc18kaf/r5gt15056.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/j1dtrirav/r5gt15057.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mjptnws6v/r5gt15058.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bf5ggdjuf/r5gt15059.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d5ohhv1dj/r5gt15060.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/7k22dt0on/r5gt15061.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d9iay46uv/r5gt15062.jpg

Next stage is some Bilt Hamber anti-rust primer, then an etch primer, then
stage after stage until it has been blocked and primed once more. Sounds
like a week or three more of painstaking work...

...then it's back over to Karl for him to work his magic. I think he's already
aware of how high his brother and Jason have set the bar. His biggest task
will be the 1980's Renault electrics, starting with the "connector of doom"!

Regards,
Steve

[rabbitstew]

Looks like a delorean with all that bare metal showing. Maybe you should just lacquer it and keep it like that! :)

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Part 5 sees the car get a basic detail, visit Snetterton Racecourse and get taken
back into the workshop to get its glass and body-trims removed...


http://youtu.be/F5UhiSyMfFM

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Great film again Steve, Dont think id would know where to start to make one on my car lol. Looking ofrward to the next installment :agree: :).

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

I've not set eyes on the car in nearly 3 weeks. However, I'm told that it
will probably be in primer by the end of next week, with the engine coming
out the week after. That doesn't mean that there's been no progress though.
Detachable parts like the doors and front bumper have been fettled...

Front bumper...
http://s5.postimg.cc/l47r995tj/r5gt15077.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qr446q8c7/r5gt15081.jpg

Passenger door...
http://s5.postimg.cc/qbsudpmev/r5gt15078.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/g844hk5o7/r5gt15082.jpg

Rear door...
http://s5.postimg.cc/jmmaxp12v/r5gt15079.jpg

Some inner seam treatment...
http://s5.postimg.cc/bky2fsibb/r5gt15080.jpg

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, there's more plastics cleaning to do. This time
its the rear speaker pods and parcel shelf bracket...

This won't pass muster!
http://s5.postimg.cc/855y68l2v/r5gt15083.jpg

Much better...
http://s5.postimg.cc/cyuaou6yf/r5gt15084.jpg

...and a kinda 50/50
http://s5.postimg.cc/g9e2az7hz/r5gt15085.jpg

This led to another train of thought. With new door trims, and indeed a new driver's
door, I'm thinking about the paper speaker bellows. Time for an upgrade? Well, with
some sound deadening in the body panels, there should be the opportunity of better
sounds, so maybe time to invest in some nice speakers.

A few days later...
http://s5.postimg.cc/anw8knw6v/r5gt15086.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nzpftuz7b/r5gt15087.jpg

Now it came to fitting the pesky things! Much, much easier said than done.
I didn't want it to necessarily show that there are new speakers installed, so
it meant that the loose bracket and its 4 keeper plates had to be lined-up.
Then it was a question of lining everything up with the existing holes in the
pods. The only way to do that successfully was to insert three of the four
securing screws the wrong way round.

Then I found that my self-tappers were about 2mm too short! Grrrrrr...
What I also found was that it was harder to place the keeper plates with the
keeper thread at the back, and that they stay in place during assembly.
When you have gammy hands, things like this can become quite a challenge!
Twice, I had to start from scratch because one or more keeper slipped off.
Definitely a job for blu-tack!

After much blue language, especially when I lost grip of the screwdriver, here
are the assemblies...

http://s5.postimg.cc/7844b3yyf/r5gt15088.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/75k8o9vav/r5gt15089.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6hbe5bwl3/r5gt15090.jpg

The speakers are entirely secure, with the screws making sure that the back
of the keeper plates don't go anywhere. What I'll do is cover the screw ends,
and with them not projecting too far, that'll be a simpler job.

http://s5.postimg.cc/ag8lo5l87/r5gt15091.jpg

The Philips radio cassette already in the car was a decent unit for its day,
so I'm looking forward to hearing the sound from these speakers. For the
front speakers, I went round to see Jason today because there was a fear
of the replacements being too deep.

Looking at the speaker still in the scrap door, it looks the 46mm depth of the
new speakers will be okay. The existing speakers sit in a cradle that stand it
proud for at least 25mm. I'll be going back tomorrow to confirm this after the
existing securing rivets have been drilled out.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Attention to detail is staggering Steve as always!;)

[mingblus3]

Looks great. Double check the screen seals. They come with the rear seal and inner. Not the outer seal. You will need to buy that separately.

Si

[Lowiepete]

Hi Si,

Double check the screen seals. They come with the rear seal and inner. Not the outer seal. You will need to buy that separately.
It looks like I have quite a choice of seals. The guy who took out the screen was
careful enough to preserve everything and made a point of saying the originals be
kept. So, when he comes back to re-fit the screen, he'll take his choice. The point
he was emphasising was that many after-market seals tend to block the drain holes
and should be avoided. To see seals included with the pack from the Renault dealer
was just an unexpected, but welcome, surprise.

Oh, and if anyone wants the little plastic cover that goes over the seal joint, pop
down to your dealer, he'll charge you the princely sum of: just fifty-eight Pence!!

http://s5.postimg.cc/7g1eih5mf/r5gt15092.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[GTphil]

I really can't wait to see the results from this project. :agree:

Attention to detail is amazing :eek:

[mingblus3]

What I don't understand is why the holes are there. When I removed my screen there were 2 small plastic lugs filling the holes. When I discussed this with the body shop it was decided they were pointless. The inner seal and also the rubber glue blocks the holes anyway..

The screen was factory and the plugs the same, I would say these were to seal rather than to drain.

The other seal is still avail from Renault pic attached better to have a new one rather than the old and the correct style

Si

[Goobie]

That's some luck with the windscreen fittings. :agree: Bare mental body work was a wise move to. :cool: If you put two same cars painted by same person next to each other with one being bare mental job, the differences is night and day! :agree::cool:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Remember this..?

http://s5.postimg.cc/g79ugg46v/r5gtt14229.jpg

...and this..?
http://s5.postimg.cc/gni27qw8n/r5gtt14281.jpg

...and my plans for using this?

http://s5.postimg.cc/bbxd3d7w7/r5gtt14266.jpg

Well, a trip to Aylsham today and I brought back these...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6zgse10af/r5gt15093.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e6n2nn0l3/r5gt15094.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/c0o6fe7qv/r5gt15095.jpg

With a small mod made...

http://s5.postimg.cc/553xwad9z/r5gt15096.jpg

One of the rear door cards...

http://s5.postimg.cc/pgb74ug8n/r5gt15097.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ahssaf16f/r5gt15098.jpg

...with a close-up of the rather smart stitching :niceone:

http://s5.postimg.cc/fzpzbylrr/r5gt15099.jpg

The driver's side door card...

http://s5.postimg.cc/40eh4ng6v/r5gt15100.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4onbnlewn/r5gt15101.jpg

...with more exquisite stitching

http://s5.postimg.cc/pclz2c053/r5gt15102.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cjxv2eojb/r5gt15103.jpg

Two views with the top panel attached but the passenger side door pocket
laid on to give an idea of the finished article.

http://s5.postimg.cc/k2h0b1fw7/r5gt15104.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qu7fdw4vr/r5gt15105.jpg

When I first mentioned doing this to Karl and Jason all those weeks ago, the
response I got was a bit muted. I'm fairly sure they thought I'd go over the
top, with too much red! We did play a little today, to see what the top panels
might look like if also covered but that was very soon dropped. We couldn't
continue it into the rear anyway, even if it did suit the front. Anyway, on my
return I popped round to show them, and got an instant seal of approval.

The trimming was done by Paul Moore in Aylsham and he's done me proud! As
you can expect, it wasn't cheap, but it was money in fair words. Needless to
say, I'm totally thrilled and my thanks go to him for completing the job on time
and on budget :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Goobie]

The red trim sections work really well. :agree: :cool:

[Matt Cole]

I think that's stunning and the design really suits the period of the car! In fact, if Renault wanted to improve the gt at design I would imagine something like this!;)

Really well done Steve. Excellent :agree:

[Lowiepete]

Cheers guys - these red touches, in a car with grey carpet are just what I was
looking for. Matt, that's praise indeed! Thanks.

Regards,
Steve

[Nad-5GTT]

They look really good. Nice work on the stitching.

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Having fetched the correct door pocket and given it a good clean, here's a
proper mock up of the finished door card. I cannot attach it as the torx screws
go directly into the door...

http://s5.postimg.cc/awq9y7iyf/r5gt15106.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/al8tlg2if/r5gt15107.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/dtdayhos7/r5gt15108.jpg

One thing that is amazing with proper leather, it's an absolute nightmare to
cut into. You don't just need a very sharp knife! There are a few more small
holes to cut yet...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

More work on the doors.

This is the new driver's side door, given the once over after coming out of
its factory wrapper. A quick primer coat and then much blocking work later
reveals a number of high points and some pin-prick dings.

http://s5.postimg.cc/4a87irqnr/r5gt15109.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vm3gk3vef/r5gt15110.jpg

Here it is next in line for its second blocking...

http://s5.postimg.cc/3pt6g2xfb/r5gt15114.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5t3lnqx87/r5gt15111.jpg

This is the passenger side, mid-way through its second blocking. With some
"blacking" applied, the process of checking and re-checking for low points
goes on. The methodical and meticulous approach toward getting a perfect
surface is just astonishing!

http://s5.postimg.cc/4cs35lubb/r5gt15112.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pdi4qixtj/r5gt15113.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

The doors are a particular pain on these cars as the metal is so thin. :eek: I've just had a door painted to perfection and being black it had to be perfect. It took the body shop 1.5 days to get it straight prior to paint.

[1988cab]

That will explain why I still have ripples in my doors! Obviously the body shop couldn't be arsed with them:(
Looking good Pete! Can't wait to see the finished article:agree:

[Junglist]

Love that interior mate . Nice job

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

While I'm complaining about parts replacement costs, occasionally you do
get a relative bargain, like these from mister-auto, delivered from Belgium...

http://s5.postimg.cc/vq7udyugn/r5gt15115.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/tmxf6aunr/r5gt15116.jpg

Interesting that one is made in Italy, the other in China :dearme:

Karl has assured me that the existing drive shafts are okay, so I've bought
these boots to refurb them and sell them on...

http://s5.postimg.cc/4i6esvv7b/r5gt15117.jpg

I'm assured that the engine is due for removal in the coming week. So,
maybe there will be a better flow of pictures than recently.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Never seen new shafts for years!:(

[Steven Leece]

Hi Steve

Projects looking good, can't wait to see the finished pics!

The passenger side shaft doesn't look as thick as it possibly should? Drivers side looks right!? Might be worth comparing before you sell the original passenger side shaft?

Keep up the good work!

Cheers

Steve

[Mr Raider]

Nice work Steve, out of interest how much were the new driveshafts from Mister Auto? Need a pair for the raider as keep knocking on corners and roundabouts. :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

Driver's side (http://www.mister-auto.co.uk/en/drive-shaft/skf-vkjc-1038_g13_a050VKJC!1038.html)

Pax Side (http://www.mister-auto.co.uk/en/drive-shaft/skf-vkjc-1034_g13_a050VKJC!1034.html)

£57 each...

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Many thanks Steve, £114 delivered for a pair is pretty good. Do they fit ok, have you
got them on the 5 yet? :agree: :)

Regards

Karl.

[Matt_S]

Are they solid or hollow?

[Lowiepete]

£114 delivered for a pair is pretty good.
That's why I've not let them pass. I've not seen new ones available elsewhere either.

Do they fit ok, have you got them on the 5 yet?
Well, SKF are a renown bearings manufacturer, so I guess they'll fit. They won't be
going on to the 5 until I get the sub-frame back. However, Karl will be doing a good
comparison check well before that...

Are they solid or hollow?
From the weight of them, I'd say solid.

As for the differences in diameter, the guys don't see that as a potential problem, many
other drive-shaft pairs apparently don't match either. Something to do with torque transfer
ratio differences, whatever they are. Maybe, finer diameter for shorter length, at a guess ;)

Regards,
Steve

[Bigfoot]

Surprised there is no surcharge on these items, they are still available from SKF.

[Lowiepete]

Surprised there is no surcharge on these items, they are still available from SKF.
Dale, are these OEM pieces then? Why would there be a surcharge?

It looks like they were standard across the range and fitted a few
early Clio and Megane models too.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt_S]

Surcharge normally for refurbs. Which is what I thought these were, especially if they're solid.

No balance weight on the long shaft though?

[Lowiepete]

Looking at the SKF automotive catalogue, it looks like there are several parts that
are still available for the R5, just need to find a distributor with stock, I guess...

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Thanks Steve, I need to get a pair ordered and for that money seem a bargain, SKF has a great reputation in the world of bearings espicially in terms of quality. Do the shafts appear the same thickness of the driveshafts on the car? Need to buy some just know that I wont be fitting them straight away being the only issue as struggling to find time at the moment.

Regards

Karl. :)

[Lowiepete]

SKF has a great reputation in the world of bearings espicially in terms of quality.
Well, they were fitted to 60 tonne rail wagons as well as many locos, and I never
saw a failure :niceone: With their reputation, I don't think I'll be too bothered by
minor differences, as long as they fit. I've no reason to doubt that they will.


Do the shafts appear the same thickness of the driveshafts on the car?
I'll be able to answer that better once I've been in to see how Karl has got on with
taking the engine out. I'm hoping that we'll get the subframe off to the powder-coaters
very soon.

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

If the bearings are good enough for 60 tonne wagons and loco's then they'll be just fine on a 5. Reminds me of my time working for an industry specific railway publication and attending Railtex in London a couple of years ago! lol. Ok cool, please let me know.

Regards

Karl. :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

Do the shafts appear the same thickness of the driveshafts on the car?
Answer = more or less, at least at first sight. Karl will be doing some measuring,
but like you, we trust the brand...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Can you guys give an indication of what you're using as heat shields for the
starter motor? Cheers.

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

I am using a genuine Renault heat shield. Are these no longer available?

[Lowiepete]

I am using a genuine Renault heat shield. Are these no longer available?
Apparently not - a part #, but no part... :(

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

That is annoying. Fabricate something out of stainless that will bolt to existing mounting points maybe?

[Matt_S]

I am using a genuine Renault heat shield. Are these no longer available?

I pulled my motor two weeks ago. The starter heat shield looked less healthy than some soggy old cardboard outside for 6 months...

I googled it. Found them on CGB. £35. Bought and paid for. Refunded 3 days later (bank holiday).
Mike had one at £95.
Asked Renault. NLA. Not even the Campus one.
Googled again. Found one. £35. Bought it. Refunded two days later.
Decided to bite the bullet with Mikes. He doesn't have them either.
I have a couple more avenues. But not looking good. :dearme::eek::cry:

[Lowiepete]

I have a couple more avenues. But not looking good.
We have a few metal fabricators in Lowie; seems like there might be a demand
for more than one. I'll make a few enquiries...

Is the HP Starter Shield (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HP-Starter-Shield-Medium-Size-Starters-7-x-21-/181663709506?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item2a4c003942) a viable alternative? It seems very expensive...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Making the best of Thursday's sunshine. Man at work: Karl slowly taking
the engine bay apart...

http://s5.postimg.cc/9177rja5z/r5gt15118.jpg

...all of a sudden, there's bags of room under the bonnet...

http://s5.postimg.cc/806z2et6f/r5gt15119.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/x7hv2nwaf/r5gt15120.jpg

There's some rusting around the subframe bolts which Karl has "lubricated"
ready for Monday.

http://s5.postimg.cc/5t2qehnw7/r5gt15121.jpg

The extent to which the starter motor heat shield has deteriorated :(

http://s5.postimg.cc/vtq87cx13/r5gt15122.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e4yhfql9z/r5gt15123.jpg

More plastic pieces collected, ready for a good clean...

http://s5.postimg.cc/uxtqrwncn/r5gt15124.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ao10qiblj/r5gt15125.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/z8d018htj/r5gt15126.jpg

This last series of pictures illustrate the turbo heat shield that I'm hoping
I can renovate. If anyone has ideas on things like heat-resistant adhesives
and aluminium tape to use, I'm open to ideas.

http://s5.postimg.cc/svxureerb/r5gt15127.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/dgpmwsmk7/r5gt15128.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gjuydwqwn/r5gt15129.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/t4vfhbrjr/r5gt15130.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5rxdytbg7/r5gt15131.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/iadzfe8fr/r5gt15132.jpg

Apparently, aluminium tape shrinks a bit when subjected to heat.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt_S]

Buy a new turbo heat-shield.

Your starter heatshield look better than mine!

[Matt_S]

We have a few metal fabricators in Lowie; seems like there might be a demand
for more than one. I'll make a few enquiries...

Is the HP Starter Shield (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/HP-Starter-Shield-Medium-Size-Starters-7-x-21-/181663709506?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item2a4c003942) a viable alternative? It seems very expensive...

Regards,
Steve

That link may be my best option. I have a brother who can fab but I don't have a good shield for him to copy and I can't get the engine to him for mocking up.

[Matt_S]

Do you have the part number for the starter heat shield at all?

I have it, but want to double check!

[Lowiepete]

Buy a new turbo heat-shield.
Ouch, but done...

Your starter heatshield look better than mine!
Do you want me to send it to you as a pattern?

Eventually, I settled on this from eBay (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/281662775518?_trksid=p2060353.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT). Tomorrow, I'm going to taking the gearbox
for a beadblast, and I'll probably be taking the exhaust manifold for wrapping too.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

...After a Meeting with the Magic Sponge

Hello Folks,

It took an age for them to arrive from China, but my bag of magic sponges
have been invaluable when dealing with very dirty plastics from under the
car's bonnet. We start with air intake duct and a 50/50 of the warning label.
I had already attempted one clean before I resorted to the sponge. It was
barely readable before I started.

Before...
http://s5.postimg.cc/z8d018htj/r5gt15126.jpg

50/50...
http://s5.postimg.cc/61dsr2ypj/r5gt15133.jpg


After...
http://s5.postimg.cc/jwc39jt4n/r5gt15134.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/52xfosldj/r5gt15135.jpg


The telephone hose.

Before...
http://s5.postimg.cc/ivbukfc53/r5gt15136.jpg

After...
http://s5.postimg.cc/xh2v8o8xj/r5gt15137.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6xaa6j8dz/r5gt15138.jpg

Another air guide...
http://s5.postimg.cc/6blbafdbr/r5gt15139.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/dp0p9dxdj/r5gt15140.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qug7fhr93/r5gt15141.jpg

The radiator trim. This was very grubby and it took two goes before I was
happy with it.

Before...
http://s5.postimg.cc/p5747fbjr/r5gt15142.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jot1qs7jr/r5gt15143.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/o4bgw1jxz/r5gt15144.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pxedkd54n/r5gt15145.jpg

The slowly disintegrating magic sponge, and a glimpse of what I was fetching
off the plastics. The best bit about this? No harsh chemicals, just some warm
water...
http://s5.postimg.cc/88mmsqtdj/r5gt15146.jpg

Another cowling piece, this is the underside...
http://s5.postimg.cc/yak2f14c7/r5gt15147.jpg

...and the top...
http://s5.postimg.cc/5sktewbav/r5gt15148.jpg

Those coming to my detailing day will be able to pick up a brand new product
that I'm trialling. Coming from the ADS stable, it currently goes by the
acronym of H2O-S. With it being a spray-on coating, I thought I'd give the
very fine spray head a try on the two of these pieces. I'm not going to buff
this until it has fully dried.

This is just after spraying...
http://s5.postimg.cc/k0ai3jnzr/r5gt15149.jpg

...and this is about 10 to 15 minutes later...
http://s5.postimg.cc/mk64xnbjr/r5gt15150.jpg

Overall, not a bad result for about 20 minutes of cleaning, even if I say so
myself :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

The following morning and a quick further buffing, leaves me with this to take
back to the workshop...
http://s5.postimg.cc/5j5bpdlx3/r5gt15151.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5008g3uif/r5gt15152.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4eb9jzzg7/r5gt15153.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/u4r8tityv/r5gt15154.jpg

There's been a bit more painting done in the hidden places on the car. The
roof has also had its initial blocking completed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/8i76fdp2v/r5gt15155.jpg

An empty engine bay...

http://s5.postimg.cc/uy3um4zzr/r5gt15156.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/g4p71ds8n/r5gt15157.jpg

Unlike the new driveshafts, both of the originals have the same shaft diameter
of 35mm...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wc02v6omv/r5gt15160.jpg

Sorry for the camera-shake on this one...

http://s5.postimg.cc/z5ymuw1fb/r5gt15158.jpg

There's a fair bit of cleaning work to do on the outside of the engine, before
the head gets removed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/m86rlaiif/r5gt15159.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/58xt617av/r5gt15161.jpg

The gearbox is now loaded for delivery to the bead-blaster...

http://s5.postimg.cc/720pucshj/r5gt15162.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/c3cp9gpbr/r5gt15163.jpg

The whole of the water-pump housing is also being treated, so all the aluminium,
apart from the head, will look refurbished...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6qnuvc1fb/r5gt15164.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ggb8rvy2f/r5gt15165.jpg

More booty! The replacement turbo heat shield and a new oil-feed pipe
arrived today, along with a starter heat shield...

http://s5.postimg.cc/a3w3i1v07/r5gt15166.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/s45amfn7b/r5gt15167.jpg

One thing that outwardly looks in a bit of a poor way is the fuel pressure regulator.
Is it worth spending £50+ on a new one at this stage?

Regards,
Steve

[Woznaldo]

Nice work on the Heat Shields and Plastics. Looking really good. As for the FPR, they can fail, but it's not that common. I'd be very tempted. If you have the cash and you want the OE look, it's probably worth it?

[Mr Raider]

Good work Steve, so take it the driveshafts you bought from Mister Auto are not right? what were the diameters on the new ones you bought? Was just about to buy some...

Regards

Karl. :)

[Tutuur]

I've seen multiple stories of failed fpr's here in the Netherlands so wouldn't say it's uncommon

[Lowiepete]

Hi Karl,

Good work Steve, so take it the driveshafts you bought from Mister Auto are not right? what were the diameters on the new ones you bought? Was just about to buy some...
Well, the diameters on the new ones are not the same on each side. Apparently, that's
not uncommon these days, so I won't say the new ones are "wrong" as such. I'll
still be fitting them. I trust in the SKF name enough to not be too bothered. There
won't be any centrifugal force upset, indeed, there'll be a bit of a weight saving.

As for the FPR, well, I chatted to the guy selling them and there might be a problem.
The fuel line to the carburettor on the R5GTT is 6mm internal diameter, whereas on
the replacement FPR the connectors are 8mm. He assures me that he's sold many of
these in the past and not had one returned because it couldn't be fitted.

I'm a bit concerned about this because I'm obviously relying on Karl to do the fitting
for me. I'm not keen on straying from keeping things simple. Bearing in mind the quite
parlous state of the original, I've ordered one in the hope we can resolve this easily.
If anyone else has encountered this, I'd be pleased to hear of your solution...

Regards,
Steve

[Matt_S]

Can I ask why it is it that you're not just fitting a new water pump?

Great work on the plastics.

[Lowiepete]

Can I ask why it is it that you're not just fitting a new water pump?

Great work on the plastics.
Cheers Matt, these magic sponges are amazing. I'm giving a couple to everyone
who attends my detailing day on Saturday. The water pump is new, it was only
replaced last April - it's the pump backing plate that mostly needs the bead treatment.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt_S]

Ah I see.

Yes I did see the thread about the valet day.

[Mr Raider]

Found oe heatshield Steve ;)

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/RENAULT-5-GT-TURBO-NEW-ORIGINAL-GENUINE-STARTER-MOTOR-HEAT-SHIELD-HEATSHIELD-PH2-/400907601762?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_3&hash=item5d57f48762

[Lowiepete]

Cheers Karl,

Found oe heatshield Steve ;)
I see that it's already at silly money :( This when you think that I can buy one for
a 1990 Aston Martin for....














...wait for it....






just 18 of our British Pounds :confused:

Regards,
Steve

[Woznaldo]

I've seen multiple stories of failed fpr's here in the Netherlands so wouldn't say it's uncommon

I know that Scoff used run two in parallel on his old C1J as he was paranoid that one might fail. Not sure how much the Malpassi ones are, but they're pretty good quality and a credible alternative to OE.

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

I took my exhaust manifold and downpipe to Fast Eddys in Naaaaarch, for a bit
of help to stay hot...

http://s5.postimg.cc/oiwk0qcdz/r5gt15168.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qsg2xqvxz/r5gt15169.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/oue0dhstz/r5gt15170.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/sa1j9b0on/r5gt15173.jpg

That web in the casting across to the turbo mount proved to be a bit of a problem...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ufvu3t453/r5gt15171.jpg

...mostly as witnessed here. Trying to trap a piece across without it fraying to pieces
proved too difficult :(

http://s5.postimg.cc/y0rpn18on/r5gt15172.jpg

The new FPR has arrived...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6z3z51ik7/r5gt15174.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/79bhodx6f/r5gt15175.jpg

Thankfully, there was just a shrug of acceptance from Karl; I did say he was a man
of few words :)

Regards,
Steve

[Lewis]

Without going too far off topic I thought I would upload some photos of an aftermarket starter motor heatshield. If that is of interest I can find the supplier, looks fairly simple to make one up though. Perhaps a group buy could be arranged and we can stock in the club shop?

[Lowiepete]

Without going too far off topic I thought I would upload some photos of an aftermarket starter motor heatshield. If that is of interest I can find the supplier, looks fairly simple to make one up though. Perhaps a group buy could be arranged and we can stock in the club shop?
Fitting one of those looks like you mean it! :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Bigfoot]

Without going too far off topic I thought I would upload some photos of an aftermarket starter motor heatshield. If that is of interest I can find the supplier, looks fairly simple to make one up though. Perhaps a group buy could be arranged and we can stock in the club shop?

That looks great, be interested to know if that works still with being metal rather than the material the original one is made from.

[Lowiepete]

That looks great, be interested to know if that works still with being metal rather than the material the original one is made from.
Well, the thickness of the OE one means that there's little or no air gap below,
or between it and the starter. With the stainless steel one there is sufficient gap
to allow an air-flow, so it should be just as effective. It certainly won't disintegrate!

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

...upon some serious detailing results :niceone:

Hello Folks,

Remember this..?

http://s5.postimg.cc/720pucshj/r5gt15162.jpg

Well, it now looks like this...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wmdkee7g7/r5gt15182.jpg

A bit of camera shake here, I'll re-take this in the morning, before I deliver it
back to Karl...

http://s5.postimg.cc/zf26koiev/r5gt15183.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xlz9wcx87/r5gt15184.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l28qmcyev/r5gt15176.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/c8hu59bg7/r5gt15177.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cvgqus8c7/r5gt15178.jpg

Remember the water-pump backing plate? So, from this...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6qnuvc1fb/r5gt15164.jpg

to this...

http://s5.postimg.cc/l4sm9722f/r5gt15179.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/a03nnx4c7/r5gt15180.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/57tuch9o7/r5gt15181.jpg

All the cleaning here done by Darren from Suffolk Blast Clean :niceone:

Now, I have a dilemma. I bought a brand new Valeo water-pump last year
for loadsamoney. It's already looking a bit worse for wear, though that isn't
surprising, bearing in mind just how mucky the cooling system was. I got a
'phone call from Darren last Saturday, telling me he was fearful of not getting
glass beads out of the pump bearings and told me I could replace the pump
for less than he'd charge me for cleaning the Valeo one :eek:

So, do I go with a new 18 quid CGBMotorsport special, or stick to my Valeo
one, even if it isn't quite as clean? One will obviously stay as a spare.

Decisions, decisions!

Regards,
Steve

[Goobie]

That gearbox looks awesome! Easily mistaken for new if you didn't know. :cool:

Car coming long nicely, keep the pictures coming. :agree:

[Lewis]

That looks great, be interested to know if that works still with being metal rather than the material the original one is made from.

https://translate.google.co.uk/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fruanovaperformance.com%2Findex.php% 2Fcomponent%2Fvirtuemart%2Fsistema-de-escape-y-turbos%2Fchapa-anticalorica-motor-de-arranque-detail%3FItemid%3D0&edit-text=&act=url

Found the supplier for the starter heatshield, listed at €45. A bargain considering the genuine one went for £120.99 on eBay last night!

[Matt Cole]

https://translate.google.co.uk/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fruanovaperformance.com%2Findex.php% 2Fcomponent%2Fvirtuemart%2Fsistema-de-escape-y-turbos%2Fchapa-anticalorica-motor-de-arranque-detail%3FItemid%3D0&edit-text=&act=url

Found the supplier for the starter heatshield, listed at €45. A bargain considering the genuine one went for £120.99 on eBay last night!

Would members be interested in these if we could obtain for the club shop?

(doesn't help you Steve, sorry! :crap:

[Matt Cole]

That gear box is immaculate! Good find on the cleaning firm Steve. Seem to do a brilliant job.:agree:

[Lowiepete]

Would members be interested in these if we could obtain for the club shop?

(doesn't help you Steve, sorry! :crap:
Yes, but it is time dependent. Can we obtain them before May 15th?
Can they be retro-fitted, or is it only when the engine comes out?

As for someone paying £127 for one from CGB last night, what were they
thinking? (Don't forget the postage) Their normal price was £95 and that
was already way too much, despite including the postage!

I have very mixed feelings about next Sunday's "For the Love of Cars". Whilst it will
no doubt push up the price of R5GTTs complete (at least OE ones) it'll also embolden
parts suppliers to ask for even greater sums, even for worn tat! It looks like our
hobby is turning from happy boosting into a cheque-book sport :(:cry:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Thanks for the kind comments about the gearbox guys. The next stage is to mask-off
the steel end-cap and repaint it. Then the whole lot will get a blow over with a
satin laquer that should slow down any discolouration. Once re-installed, there _will_
be an undertray fitted, even if we have to fabricate one.

http://s5.postimg.cc/6v9qsy8mv/r5gt15189.jpg

Another small haul of goodies arrives...

http://s5.postimg.cc/42gj8x8af/r5gt15188.jpg

Now back to the water-pump dilemma. This is theValeo one that was fitted new this
time last year...

http://s5.postimg.cc/7d4w8sy7r/r5gt15185.jpg

I couldn't get it blasted because of fears around the beads getting into the bearings :(
So, for the same price as a blasting, here comes a potential replacement. No apparent
outward difference, apart from being clean...

http://s5.postimg.cc/u0k5eydrr/r5gt15186.jpg

It's when you turn them over that the real source of the dilemma reveals itself...

http://s5.postimg.cc/fsugqb12v/r5gt15187.jpg

The impeller on the Valeo pump looks like it'll pump twice as much water as the other
one. Could that be why the water was staying too cool when I was running the car?

Regards,
Steve

[Bigfoot]

The thermostat controls the water temp, the water pump has not effect on this apart from speed of water running around the hoses.

[Lowiepete]

The thermostat controls the water temp, the water pump has not effect on this apart from speed of water running around the hoses.
I'm not unaware of that, but could it be being pumped around too fast?

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Another parcel arrived today. With my new speakers going in, I thought I'd go
for some more modern equipment to drive them. Nothing over the top mind,
but at least a bit easier to use than a tape-deck. Quite apart from all that,
the original radio has a loose button, so I'm looking to "retire" it before it drops
out and gets lost. The set will still be kept!

So, for me with my gammy hands, an early CD player gives me more playing
options. Then came the fun of finding one. Oh my goodness, the range of
styles is phenomenal, but I hope I've made the right choice. Here it is...

http://s5.postimg.cc/a8mkterlj/r5gt15190.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pimg0ln3r/r5gt15191.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xpj15x2k7/r5gt15192.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Woznaldo]

https://translate.google.co.uk/translate?sl=auto&tl=en&js=y&prev=_t&hl=en&ie=UTF-8&u=http%3A%2F%2Fruanovaperformance.com%2Findex.php% 2Fcomponent%2Fvirtuemart%2Fsistema-de-escape-y-turbos%2Fchapa-anticalorica-motor-de-arranque-detail%3FItemid%3D0&edit-text=&act=url

Found the supplier for the starter heatshield, listed at €45. A bargain considering the genuine one went for £120.99 on eBay last night!

Did any read the translated description? Awesome!

[Matt Cole]

I would go with the new water pump Steve. Unless your going for big power I can't see it making much difference. I would imagine the flow rate to still be adequate.

[Lowiepete]

Did any read the translated description? Awesome!
...and a one-off buy, forever!:niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

I would go with the new water pump Steve. Unless your going for big power I can't see it making much difference. I would imagine the flow rate to still be adequate.
Well, I'm hoping that I can clean up the Valeo pump. I've bought some stuff that
might help me achieve that. Watch this space...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

I've just collected a pile of photos taken by Karl during and after the process
of engine removal. They aren't in any particular order, but they were mostly
taken as an aide memoire of the re-assembly process. Quite apart from
finding the engine in very good condition, especially the water-ways in the
head, along with tight pistons and clean bores, there were nearly 50 pieces
that were sent to Aerocoat for powder coating.

http://s5.postimg.cc/lgq8r4oc7/r5gt15193k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/z7uptcd9z/r5gt15195k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cumz6jcc7/r5gt15196k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/uw644c6d3/r5gt15197k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wlalynwon/r5gt15198k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/whldw5gl3/r5gt15199k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/icazgli5z/r5gt15200k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/8iydhj5fb/r5gt15201k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6ogxm1t13/r5gt15202k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ucwfhbpkn/r5gt15203k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/fr5et2ss7/r5gt15204k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ghy4yuv5j/r5gt15205k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kbrl80chj/r5gt15206k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/m2am9hu0n/r5gt15207k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wmkjs2yif/r5gt15208k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/iu64wg7qv/r5gt15209k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/470l11jqv/r5gt15210k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/my2ib7ebb/r5gt15211k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wu3lauk3b/r5gt15212k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/clg7p4ks7/r5gt15213k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5akpd04dz/r5gt15214k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/54709wv93/r5gt15215k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d8f4enho7/r5gt15216k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3mljycqif/r5gt15217k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/toee6wc3b/r5gt15218k.jpg

The condition of the head, and even the original head gasket, were just a
source of sheer joy! This is bearing in mind the muck that was drained from
the cooling system last year. It looks like the several flushes, including 2
involving dishwasher tablets, have done their work marvellously...

http://s5.postimg.cc/vwx61z8l3/r5gt15219k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vlfpp7s53/r5gt15220k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ei8cfym2f/r5gt15221k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bkbdm9eev/r5gt15222k.jpg

The block in its undercoat...

http://s5.postimg.cc/sjkc1ipmf/r5gt15223k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/70z50qwjb/r5gt15224k.jpg

Sadly, it looks like no pictures of the removed engine sub-frame were taken
before also going to Aerocoat. Hopefully, the bits will be returned next week.

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Good stuff Steve, that is a clean head, dishwasher tablet does the job ;). Original headgasket still fitted must be somewhat of a rarity! :agree: :)

Regards

Karl.

[Lowiepete]

Hi Karl,


Original headgasket still fitted must be somewhat of a rarity!
What the photo doesn't show, and I find amazing, is that it looks almost in good
enough condition to put back in place! There's been so many pleasant surprises
with this car... :niceone:

BTW, I've pulled out of the retro-kings day. There's been a couple of unplanned bits
and bobs pop up recently, including Tia being poorly :(

There's a small possibility that I will make the Hexham Show on the 16th, fingers Xd.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Despite my being away for nearly two weeks, there's been a bit more progress
on the car's restoration. Next up will be the engine bay, and this is how it
looks at the moment...

http://s5.postimg.cc/71izgwtvb/r5gt15225.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/shkauujav/r5gt15226.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/z6quav4mv/r5gt15227.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/oqaq8j5mf/r5gt15228.jpg

The question came up: Should we stick with black for the brake servo
reservoir?

http://s5.postimg.cc/vs8nuq987/r5gt15229.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/8cqqpdph3/r5gt15230.jpg

Here's the engine block in its new paint...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ag15x1p9z/r5gt15231k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ro7p28d9z/r5gt15232k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/if0xedf07/r5gt15233k.jpg

The gearbox body has been given a quick coat of egg-shell laquer...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6fu0ksyt3/r5gt15234k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hkedsc75j/r5gt15235k.jpg

...and the end cap smoothed over ready for a repaint too...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cctanvqk7/r5gt15239k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/t5ok01smv/r5gt15240k.jpg

Now we come to the cylinder head. This has been partly cleaned ready for
removal of the valves...

http://s5.postimg.cc/esv41q8mv/r5gt15236k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/40xjmmt6f/r5gt15238k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hloblr8zb/r5gt15237k.jpg

Valves removed, showing the starting condition before re-grinding...

http://s5.postimg.cc/jil1qbznb/r5gt15241k.jpg

...and in close-up...

http://s5.postimg.cc/km562akaf/r5gt15242k.jpg

The original stem seals look to be in good condition...

http://s5.postimg.cc/hpdjo9p2v/r5gt15243k.jpg

The re-grinding process begins...

http://s5.postimg.cc/lgn4al2rb/r5gt15244k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/719spff3r/r5gt15245k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/q3t6ccq47/r5gt15246k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/9dhsn0rp3/r5gt15247k.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d0xjt2zw7/r5gt15248k.jpg

New stem seals fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/lfhruwqbb/r5gt15249k.jpg

The head has now been refitted to the block and tappets all set. Next will
be the refitting of the newly powder-coated sump.

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Great work & progress Steve :agree: :).

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Finally, I've managed to secure a new engine bay wiring loom. This is another
of my rare French imports, considering where the car was built...

http://s5.postimg.cc/he25mg1tj/r5gt15250.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jjwggy59z/r5gt15251.jpg

The dreaded "connector of doom!". At least if there are electrical issues when
the car is re-assembled, it'll be easier to track down which side of this
connector it is.

http://s5.postimg.cc/7e2nst16f/r5gt15252.jpg

Now, a variety of 1980's style electrical connectors. I guess this made for
easier identification of where each plug and socket went at original assembly...

http://s5.postimg.cc/sz7qgexx3/r5gt15253.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/edgps614n/r5gt15254.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lhyj178dz/r5gt15255.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/t1rm391kn/r5gt15256.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/q1armpq9j/r5gt15257.jpg

The engine bay will be repainted this week. Getting it back to a rolling shell
will be for next week, then a final push to get paint onto the body. It's time,
as we're way behind schedule...

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

:agree::) Engine loom looks spot on Steve.

[Hoolio]

Is the loom one of the 'remade' one that I've seem recently, which I thought looked excellent as well btw.

[Lowiepete]

Is the loom one of the 'remade' one that I've seem recently, which I thought looked excellent as well btw.
Yes, this is one that Julien was offering us via the RTOC Facebook group.
I think he also occasionally sells them on eBay.fr. I saw one there at a
similar price, but missed the "buy it now" by just a couple of seconds. :eek:

It should save Karl a few hours of wiring-up...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

After a bit of an hiatus in progress, finally the engine bay and front have been
repainted. I'll let the photos tell their own story...

http://s5.postimg.cc/iinjd7f07/r5gt15258.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qa49brj5j/r5gt15259.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/crxczh707/r5gt15260.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/72cj1fbg7/r5gt15261.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vqibsen5j/r5gt15262.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/9h4elurp3/r5gt15263.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4tyck34c7/r5gt15264.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pzs5eof5j/r5gt15265.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ufakjxrjr/r5gt15266.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mu7jogwjb/r5gt15267.jpg

This photo doesn't quite do justice to the actual finish, so some more will be taken...

http://s5.postimg.cc/jkt4i08fr/r5gt15268.jpg

A quick before and after comparison...

http://s5.postimg.cc/71izgwtvb/r5gt15225.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d5u3lc1pz/r5gt15269.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Hoolio]

I've missed updates on this.

[Mr Raider]

Looks fantastic, mmm fresh tungy paint! :cool: :agree::agree:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

As promised, some closer views of the front, including fully painted bonnet hinges.
There's a clue in the first picture as to what's coming next...

http://s5.postimg.cc/opq759cxj/r5gt15273.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mvdcnipx3/r5gt15274.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/j97javjjr/r5gt15275.jpg

The subframe is being fitted, with the wishbone already attached on one side...

http://s5.postimg.cc/hqgqjn2d3/r5gt15270.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4858tm0tz/r5gt15271.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ftff1bmbb/r5gt15272.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/x1ly6iabb/r5gt15276.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6f9hhj647/r5gt15277.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/95iteq2t3/r5gt15278.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/rfzj2g9mf/r5gt15279.jpg

Now, having the engine bay lacquered makes sense. The shine on the tungy paint
matches that of the subframe. Thankfully, whatever rust was on that was only
surface grot, so it's looking superb. We won't be shining up the wishbone tops,
they've got a coat of anti-rust treatment which won't be removed.

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

It's looking great. Top job. I love reading this thread!

Can see the green tint in the tungy on some of the pics. Love that!

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Progress is very slow at the moment, although I'm assured that the engine will be going
back in this week. That is if we can resolve the power steering fitment issues. :smokin:

Here we can see the new power steering rack beside the manual one...

http://s5.postimg.cc/oihrnmxfb/r5gt15280.jpg

At the bottom of this picture, one of the new steering rack bearings / clamps
is seen fitted. This required a quick drop of the subframe to get the bolt to
thread through from the back

http://s5.postimg.cc/w9yhm71kn/r5gt15281.jpg

The new brake master cylinder now fitted, with brake lines replaced, along
with some wiring...

http://s5.postimg.cc/su6dcn4c7/r5gt15282.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l05rr8wjb/r5gt15283.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/siowzvnw7/r5gt15284.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nqaiap3uf/r5gt15285.jpg

3 photos that are slightly out of chrono order. The 2 steering racks compared, just after
arrival of the power rack from a Megane Coupé...

http://s5.postimg.cc/sbp62ttpz/r5gt15279a.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/70rlykblj/r5gt15279b.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/moxej3gl3/r5gt15279c.jpg

The various brackets and mounts from the powder coaters, all laid out...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cawkpuvuf/r5gt15286.jpg

More progress with the rack. Some steps forward, and a few back, though
so far, so good. The track rods on the new rack are too long and they have
a different thread on the ball joint fitting, so the existing parts from the
original cannot be transferred. Some different track rod ends will need to
sought as one has male threading and the originals have female sleeving :(

http://s5.postimg.cc/8d9b0g913/r5gt15287.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/omzh3cjp3/r5gt15288.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5s3qcxjnb/r5gt15289.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/crhscajlj/r5gt15290.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xpnyadjg7/r5gt15291.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3m9fifg6v/r5gt15292.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mtwkf0yif/r5gt15293.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gnq2b5y9j/r5gt15294.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4kkqnln7b/r5gt15295.jpg

More bits are refitted to the engine block. Timing chain cover and sump...

http://s5.postimg.cc/qv8lnkkhj/r5gt15296.jpg

Water pump and pulley wheel...

http://s5.postimg.cc/4i0v0rjjr/r5gt15297.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/y643zp0vr/r5gt15298.jpg

Engine mount bracket...

http://s5.postimg.cc/mwbe4qvuf/r5gt15299.jpg

...with mount bearing attached...

http://s5.postimg.cc/v8755zt87/r5gt15300.jpg

More fittings replaced within the engine bay...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6k1cf0hiv/r5gt15301.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/yucyimzlj/r5gt15302.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/aldu6xkfr/r5gt15303.jpg

Now, have you been paying attention to the detail in these photos? Here's
two close-up clues for you...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6g7iyrc1j/r5gt15304.jpg

This picture is deliberately rotated 90 degrees...

http://s5.postimg.cc/zfxc1059z/r5gt15305.jpg

Now go back up and look at all the other bolts. If that's not a lovingly restored
piece of work I don't know what is. I thoroughly appreciate that level of
attention and care! :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Great work Steve, please PM me the contact no. of the guy involved as I mentioned last Wednesday night my raider needs abit of work soon so keen to pop down and have a chat. ;) :agree:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, the engine is back in and from initial observations, it looks like there
will be plenty of space to accommodate the power steering rack. I'll let the
photos do the talking, with some occasional commentary.

One of the last pieces to go back in to the bay was the new fuel pressure
regulator, so, here it is fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/5k7d8bauv/r5gt15306.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nx7yivlbr/r5gt15307.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ij96bbvlj/r5gt15308.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5mmnhep4n/r5gt15310.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nbee910vr/r5gt15311.jpg

Last minute preparations of the block, like fitment on lifting eyes. The original
one, newly powder-coated, will be refitted once the engine is back in...

http://s5.postimg.cc/lh6551393/r5gt15312.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nj6mja187/r5gt15313.jpg

Fitting the new clutch. For some reason the soft clutch adapter didn't fit,
though Karl reckons he can make some adjustments to make the clutch a
bit lighter...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wyhwiqtvb/r5gt15314.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/n3vcq9fav/r5gt15315.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bl0grn83b/r5gt15316.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cm0pgrp2v/r5gt15317.jpg

Block and gearbox re-united...

http://s5.postimg.cc/jzg3fq94n/r5gt15318.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/owto0ub3r/r5gt15319.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ctocda01j/r5gt15320.jpg

Engine protected from any stray bumps that could scratch the paintwork...

http://s5.postimg.cc/jnyn2yson/r5gt15321.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/z2xo63647/r5gt15322.jpg

Engine still held by the crane, while front engine mounts are fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/5z9g9ui0n/r5gt15323.jpg

Looks like everything is well clear of the steering rack...

http://s5.postimg.cc/4ixxrpf3r/r5gt15324.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kfwpof7hz/r5gt15325.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/92a6d7wzb/r5gt15326.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d55sq1ghj/r5gt15327.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nwyrre6k7/r5gt15328.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d8v0sjwl3/r5gt15329.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vxd2fvnhz/r5gt15330.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/iizzjugtz/r5gt15331.jpg

Quick adjustment to help insert the locating bolts...

http://s5.postimg.cc/9iqslwvcn/r5gt15332.jpg

The rear mount temporarily positioned. Sorry for the camera shake :(

http://s5.postimg.cc/6amb8v92v/r5gt15333.jpg

In this photo you can see the shadow of where the bracket was placed on its
host car. With it needing to be slid along almost an inch, the looped pipe needed
to be raised clear. The alternative was to shorten it, but that would have required
a bit of specialist work. Luckily, there was space to accommodate this quick
work-around...

http://s5.postimg.cc/kmaerigmv/r5gt15334.jpg

The rear engine mount is a composite of 3 interlocking pieces and each piece
had to be fitted over its top securing bolt before the whole assembly could
be refitted. The piece seen in place in other photos had to be removed for
this to take place. There's a lot of patience required in this work!

http://s5.postimg.cc/hygd3ey7r/r5gt15335.jpg

Karl disconnecting the crane from the lifting chain. The engine is securely
back in its bay...

http://s5.postimg.cc/qs79kil6f/r5gt15336.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e5wunoipj/r5gt15337.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pbvr2di9j/r5gt15338.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/40y6y4053/r5gt15339.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pjjdyvt87/r5gt15340.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3lmx53e7r/r5gt15341.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cup3f7n3r/r5gt15342.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/a9exdy8c7/r5gt15343.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xjt39mks7/r5gt15344.jpg

Rocker box refitted, temporarily, for a final tappet check to take place...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6kp8egybb/r5gt15345.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/95ut1znp3/r5gt15346.jpg

The original lifting eye re-fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/m8qfl9dx3/r5gt15347.jpg

We are now at a point where the car can be handed back to Jason for the
paint preparation to continue. He wants to do most of the blocking while the
car is on the hoist. As for the engine bay, I want to get in there with some
protective coatings whilst there is ready access to the painted and powder
coated pieces. We're avoiding doing that now, just in case there are any
potions that aren't bodyshop safe.

Karl in the meantime will be sourcing the pump for the steering, along with
bracket and electrical controls for a trial fit, ahead of removal once more
so the scuttle area can be painted.

I have to admit that the delays were causing me to lose interest in this
project for a short while. However, witnessing this progress, I've got that
silly smile on my face once more. The one I can't seem to get rid of :)

Regards,
Steve

[Alex]

Brilliant work. One small thing I would mention is......... I would have moved that new FPR to a more convenient place so you can adjust it as and when you need to - it'll be a pain doing it in that location. :)

[Mr Raider]

Great work, nothing like a freshly built shiny engine being dropped back in. :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

I would have moved that new FPR to a more convenient place so you can adjust it as and when you need to - it'll be a pain doing it in that location. :)
Alex - isn't the FPR a fit and forget fitment? How often am I likely to need
to get it adjusted? I'm assuming it comes adjusted out of the box. The
new one has been placed in more or less the same position as the old.

Regards,
Steve

[Alex]

Hi Steve. What you have there is an adjustable Malpassi regulator. You'll need to check the instructions to see what the base fuel pressure is (you'll need 4psi) If you're likely to be running more boost in the future you 'might' need to tweek it a bit. :)

[Lowiepete]

You'll need to check the instructions to see what the base fuel pressure is (you'll need 4psi) If you're likely to be running more boost in the future you 'might' need to tweek it a bit. :)
This page on the Malpassi site (http://www.officinamalpassi.it/en/carburetter-fuel-pressure-regulators/carburetted-turbo/252-detail.html) says nothing more than a 1:1 ratio. 4psi seems very
low where in specs for other FPRs the range starts at 14psi. No matter, really.
As for extra boost, forget it, the engine is remaining as close to standard that
I can get it. I'm only going for light touch OEM+. The FPR in that circumstance is
a fit and forget item. The replacement is in the same position as the original
and I'm not sure about giving Karl extra work on this...

Regards,
Steve

[Alex]

4 psi is just base pressure Steve, it will raise with boost. If you run OE boost (~8 psi) the fuel pressure will be 12 psi. I imagine the standard setting is in the right ball park for OE boost.

[Lowiepete]

4 psi is just base pressure Steve, it will raise with boost. If you run OE boost (~8 psi) the fuel pressure will be 12 psi. I imagine the standard setting is in the right ball park for OE boost.
Alex, I was given that assurance by the guy I bought it from and Karl didn't
raise an eyebrow when I presented it to him. I can't imagine any fiddling
with them in the factory, considering the care taken to calibrate them at
time of manufacture.

The only changes under the bonnet are a better air filter, some NGK plugs
and good leads. Now that the valves have been re-ground, it'll be premium
fuel only too. Probably the biggest change involves the power steering.

Regards,
Steve

[Tutuur]

Haven't checked this thread in a while and i have to say woe!

What an amazing attention to detail! Only thing i can comment on is i hope the steering rack won't cause any vague behavior!

It's not only the rods that are longer, it's also the rack itself. So basically you've destroyed the geometry of the wishbone & track rod combination

[Matt Cole]

Great work Steve. Loving the rack!

[Lowiepete]

It's not only the rods that are longer, it's also the rack itself. So basically you've destroyed the geometry of the wishbone & track rod combination
That sounds a bit scary!!:eek: However, with Karl I have a mechanic I can trust
and I have little doubt that he'll find a solution, if he can. I'll mention your
comment to him and see what he says...

Regards,
Steve

[Tutuur]

Well,you shouldn't be scared as it's not like you're going to die or anything.

It'll just kill the feel in the wheel and handling.

[Lowiepete]

Well,you shouldn't be scared as it's not like you're going to die or anything.

It'll just kill the feel in the wheel and handling.
Phew...!!

That wasn't the fear! It was more about tyre wear and loss of grip.
I'm not going racing in the car, though I do hope to enjoy some
fairly spirited runs, occasionally...

It's amazing how views on power steering are polarised. Some say
it's the best thing to do, others offer dire warnings :eek:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

16 more pictures of re-assembly of engine bay components...

http://s5.postimg.cc/mj76jmjsn/r5gt15348.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/iljwu7wzb/r5gt15349.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/upz6b79vb/r5gt15350.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nhnjlwx4n/r5gt15351.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qps0yyjef/r5gt15352.jpg

The eagle-eyed amongst you might have noticed the tiny rust patches
appearing on bolt heads. We've found a solution for that in the form of
ACF50 spray corrosion inhibitor...

http://s5.postimg.cc/5dkj19zg7/r5gt15353.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5p1ze1fw7/r5gt15354.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/a9jkf8a7r/r5gt15355.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/a6zose6k7/r5gt15356.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nvka7rruf/r5gt15357.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/fjoj6iugn/r5gt15358.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e232uyppz/r5gt15359.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5rh9n4u5z/r5gt15360.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/i9xv3pr5j/r5gt15361.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4b5r4zr93/r5gt15362.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/t894lwfqv/r5gt15363.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Steve. All looking great. A word of warning, I wouldn't wrap the exhaust manifold. It being cast iron tends to crack when wrapped. I've had a couple cracking over the years.

Matt

[Mr Raider]

Great stuff, what driveshafts did you decide to fit Steve? :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

Great stuff, what driveshafts did you decide to fit Steve? :agree: :)
The new SKF ones, Karl. They fitted a treat... There's no centrifugal force difference
because all is held in by the wheel bearing.

Regards,
Steve

[Slammed 66]

Any further progress Steve?

[Lowiepete]

Any further progress Steve?

Not much... :(

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Come on Steve, your public awaits!:D

[Mr Raider]

A little progress is better than none, think thats where Im at now lol :(

[Lowiepete]

Well, the power steering pump has new brackets - sent to powder coaters.
Just got to work out how to join rack to track rod ends. Apparently some
lathe turning required. It has got a bit complicated, but no-one has given
up - not yet at least :)

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Steve, will it be ready for next July RTOC national day?;)

[Lowiepete]

Steve, will it be ready for next July RTOC national day?;)
Ummmmmmmmmmmm... :coffee:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

It has been a long time coming, but here's Part #6 of my video series...


here's part 6 of the video series

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Love it. Bare metal for the way!;)

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, Part #6 was a bit delayed, but it's closely followed by Part #7...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDyqDpjBQ5Q

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

While I'm intent on restoring this car, I'm ever mindful of just how far to go
with it. With so much of the original metal to start with and the engine found
to be in good condition, I'm not going to go overboard with replacement of
cosmetic parts, other than those which need replacing, at least, where that
is possible.

In earlier posts I had mocked-up the interior mats and I've finally been able to
source the fixing kits that came with my Laguna mats. When I enquired about
these at my local dealers, they seemed to be unable to find them. Then I
came across some on eBay, with a part number Renault: 7711220013, just
£4.30 exc VAT - yay!

The caps are flat enough for me to attach the self-adhesive badges to, so in
the photo the parts are upside down in the top row...

http://s5.postimg.cc/79tqkndbr/r5gt15364.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6j7qv1zcn/r5gtt14081.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wg1f7o307/r5gtt14082.jpg

It's just a case of making the holes in the mats into which they'll fit.

Another part of the car which would let the side down would be the aerial.
So, a replacement one of those was also a good find.

http://s5.postimg.cc/rrjaa1et3/r5gt15365.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qg6xntttj/r5gt15366.jpg

Then a couple of plugs. The top one was offered at 70% off its original price
and the lower one is the filler / level plug in the gearbox.

http://s5.postimg.cc/ykjn6b5mf/r5gt15374.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/rjr1zsegn/r5gt15367.jpg

Next comes a treasure found on Amazon, from a company in Italy. They were
offered at £24.92 + £17 postage from Milan. I umm'd and ahhh'd for all of five
minutes before hitting the buy button...

http://s5.postimg.cc/3jyp5hquv/r5gt15368.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ouw99r8zb/r5gt15369.jpg

I must have woken them up. When I clicked buy I was buying one of the last
two available. Revisiting the site, I noticed they're now closer to 50 quid with
19 quid's worth of postage and there are 15 in stock! Looking at the cost of
those available for modern cars, it looks like I bagged a bargain. We all agreed
that that its colour would look very subtle on the car.

Now to another service part. During the shakedown we had some problems
with the fuel sender and I happened upon its part number. Doing a search for
it rendered a result of a Valeo one, again from Amazon, for a little over £57.
Then I happen upon a Jaeger one with the same part # on eBay France.

The seller, in Germany, accepted my offer of a similar price which avoided the
risk of one not being forthcoming because of no stock at the Amazon suppliers.
When I handed this to Karl, his first words were: "Well, that's a bargain!"


http://s5.postimg.cc/wjoi7qk3b/r5gt15370.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kj3270con/r5gt15371.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/i5pptqnnb/r5gt15372.jpg

With the instruments being Jaeger, these will be a matched pair with the dial
it feeds..

http://s5.postimg.cc/bukidbmev/r5gt15373.jpg

Having managed to source an engine bay loom, I later became aware of its
companion, the joint twixt dashboard and plug of doom. It came with a
request to return the 90 degree grommet inward from the engine bay...

http://s5.postimg.cc/68y399lpz/r5gt15375.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/f58vd7cc7/r5gt15376.jpg

...in the event, the grommet on the new loom has been mounted the wrong way
round. As ever when dealing with a Frenchman, I only got what I perceived to
be a deep shoulder-shrug when pointing this out. Karl will remedy that before
fitting...

http://s5.postimg.cc/saodjb67r/r5gt15377.jpg

I've also been able to locate some of the side-skirt clips for a reasonable
price. Even GT Turbo Spares in the UK asks £16.50 each, which for what they
consist of is just way too much. This is probably fed by cheque-book sport
folks who bid £76 for just 4 of these clips on eBay. With the postage, they
came to over 20 quid each.

The resale prices of restored cars have yet to catch up with that level of
stupidity! It's still not clear just how many of the thousand vehicles still
extant are OE originals. There seems to be a move toward both the kitting
out of Campus shells to GTT spec, and also the import of left-hookers from
across the channel. Does this mean a severe price-hike is imminent?

I'm also now putting aside several service parts for the future. Things like
spark plugs and filters. One thing I'm quite proud of is the fact that the car
and the majority of its present fittings are those that left assembled at the
factory in the back end of 1989. Okay, so it's not original paint, but that was
taken out of my hands by a vandal keying every panel for me, just weeks
after I purchased it.

Hopefully, the car should be rolling again by the end of the week...

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

I don't know how you do it Steve! I guess you have a knack of sniffing out the bargains and NLA OE parts!:D

[Lowiepete]

I don't know how you do it Steve! I guess you have a knack of sniffing out the bargains and NLA OE parts!:D
It's quite simple - you find a part # then add a French word or two and Google
finds the parts suppliers. Then it becomes more difficult, not many French suppliers
will despatch to the UK, even when you ask very politely in their own language :(
A bit of patience is needed too because there are many blind alleys. Reading the
screen closely pays off. I think I was looking at fuel filters when I came across the
wind deflectors seen as "other options for R5GTT" lower down the page - Yay!

I've managed to find a pair of brand new Siem electric window winders (http://shicaro.com/en/?action=catalog_part_view&data[id_make]=566&data[id_model]=560&data[id_model_detail]=1995&data[id_part]=10851&data[id_group_icon]=10435&data[name_gr]=Comfort%20Systems) - £170 delivered.
Beware the 3 door / 5 door trap!!

Also, found some more wind deflectors (http://www.tekkauto.com/deflecteur-air-renault-super-portes-xml-7_10_11-14062.html). Not tested this for postage costs, but the
starting price is pretty good...

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Great work, you've sourced some real 'gems' there Steve! :agree: :)

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

After a long delay, there's some forward progress on the car. The dash and
ancilliary parts have been removed and brought round for cleaning. Pics of
the finish dash below...

http://s5.postimg.cc/a6wzjldiv/r5gtt16001.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/r8ptlosdz/r5gtt16002.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lbqjim0mv/r5gtt16003.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/w8n9tmy0n/r5gtt16004.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3kex45l87/r5gtt16005.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/entxw0h4n/r5gtt16006.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l2sysonuf/r5gtt16007.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4chl3cpfb/r5gtt16008.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wgfi3vyd3/r5gtt16009.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xwr0m119z/r5gtt16010.jpg

The cleaning was achieved with heavily diluted shampoo very quickly wiped
dry, followed by a generous coating of ADS Blue Lotion. This has really helped
to enrich the finish of these 1980s plastics :niceone:

All going well, there should be more pictures of the week's progress posted
here tomorrow. [looks for fingers crossed icon] :)

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

First off, eight pics of the parts brought round for cleaning when the dash
was removed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/y8mpne2t3/r5gtt16011.jpg

Above and below, the cover under the dash to the right of the steering wheel...

http://s5.postimg.cc/a65vsim5z/r5gtt16012.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/8xi06vu7r/r5gtt16013.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4cvtryaif/r5gtt16014.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gssjlp3uf/r5gtt16015.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/v4c1qlm0n/r5gtt16016.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/usuldu5kn/r5gtt16017.jpg

The white shadow to the top right of the fuel gauge is a fault in the plastic
dials cover. It wasn't on the outside, and it there wasn't evidence inside,
though I couldn't remove it away from its mask. At some point, I'll look at
replacing that cover. If anyone has one going spare...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ywvk6c1iv/r5gtt16018.jpg

Then back to the power steering. Here's the new pump temporarily placed
into its new housing, ahead of its strip back and repaint. The rusty pipes will,
of course be replaced...

http://s5.postimg.cc/scxtx3ttj/r5gtt16021.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xpmob8hpz/r5gtt16022.jpg

The original track rod end...

http://s5.postimg.cc/906xqu46v/r5gtt16023.jpg

...and the piece it screws into...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6gbawqgmv/r5gtt16024.jpg

The thread on the new track rod, the bit that fits into the steering rack...

http://s5.postimg.cc/bt05av4jb/r5gtt16025.jpg

...compared to the one that came out of the original R5 steering rack...

http://s5.postimg.cc/j1bs05h9z/r5gtt16026.jpg

Part #SS2480 - track rods / ball joints

http://s5.postimg.cc/k2c0p9y9j/r5gtt16027.jpg

Now, evidence of the problem...

http://s5.postimg.cc/mv589aylz/r5gtt16028.jpg

New track rod end...

http://s5.postimg.cc/tpfiyzr93/r5gtt16029.jpg

...and the new threaded bar it will be fitted into...

http://s5.postimg.cc/96kmtxdbr/r5gtt16030.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5pn64p3nb/r5gtt16031.jpg

Back to removal of the dash now. It looks like the front seats are going to
need a second clean...

http://s5.postimg.cc/3wk9gdign/r5gtt16032.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/51eblr4xj/r5gtt16033.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4efew881j/r5gtt16034.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/x7w494hiv/r5gtt16035.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/rem28k5vb/r5gtt16036.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/8vcd8nbnb/r5gtt16037.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/dek0gf453/r5gtt16038.jpg

The heater assembly removed so that the heat exchanger can be replaced.
Amazingly, unlike the Valeo radiator, this old Valeo part was in remarkably
good condition. I can imagine Karl having a bit of a swear under his breath,
as most of the dash removal is because of this very piece! Grrrrr...

http://s5.postimg.cc/uo0hf0tyv/r5gtt16039.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nm2jstqd3/r5gtt16040.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ojdkffr93/r5gtt16041.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/e817mrzjr/r5gtt16042.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vvef78k3b/r5gtt16043.jpg

The new dash to "plug of doom" wiring loom has now been fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/pzp2xku5z/r5gtt16044.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bhrvpl2uv/r5gtt16045.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hy0ufobef/r5gtt16046.jpg

Re-assembly begins...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ed4ywg6uv/r5gtt16047.jpg

While the gear knob gaiter was freed, the opportunity was taken to replace
the gear lever return spring. Apparently, the hole in the body where one end
clips in is in good shape, though the original (very thin) spring had long since
given up.

Regards,
Steve

[Mr Raider]

Great work Steve, well worth replacing heater matrix/heat exchanger now as a bit of a pain to do with dash in situ. :agree: ;).

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

More progress... :niceone:

Dashboard back in...

http://s5.postimg.cc/xattoq1tj/r5gtt16048.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/oh7ild48n/r5gtt16049.jpg

Replacement of the broken gear stick return spring...

http://s5.postimg.cc/snnrmyegn/r5gtt16050.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/x0qwj4cl3/r5gtt16051.jpg

New spring and proper clips fitted (not cheap @18 quid!) The hole in the
bodywork where the outer clip fits was found to be in good fettle.

http://s5.postimg.cc/jrczj0nuf/r5gtt16052.jpg

The broken spring...

http://s5.postimg.cc/u97msie2f/r5gtt16053.jpg

Car moved to the preparation studio...

http://s5.postimg.cc/pbu27ec3b/r5gtt16054.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5eo4yft87/r5gtt16055.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/tm8q2zh6f/r5gtt16056.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wud7g13g7/r5gtt16057.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d113nbq2f/r5gtt16058.jpg

All that cleaning-up deserves an undertray (sump guard) be fitted. These are
still available from Renault in France.

http://s5.postimg.cc/wk5owootz/r5gtt16059.jpg

The part is actually from a diesel version of the R5...

http://s5.postimg.cc/7feoj9pdj/r5gtt16060.jpg

Closer-up to show the part #...

http://s5.postimg.cc/n4uex7w6v/r5gtt16061.jpg

More blocking of the doors, this is the 3rd and final rub down before the next
primer coat. Karl is glimpsed applying some power to the window winder to lower
the glass pane...

http://s5.postimg.cc/n2ajadsjb/r5gtt16062.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/k9hbqcs6v/r5gtt16063.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vxfyyn6pj/r5gtt16070.jpg

The car body in rub-down too...

http://s5.postimg.cc/9ezvof92v/r5gtt16064.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/53b9zf25z/r5gtt16065.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kq2jcsfxz/r5gtt16066.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/tnn9a58dz/r5gtt16067.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5xxtlga0n/r5gtt16068.jpg

The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed that the sunroof surround
seems a bit wonky. What's happened is that a small strip of the original paint
has been left in situ until now to prevent a build-up of paint at the edge
itself. The "join", such as it is, will be rubbed-down to provide a perfect finish.

http://s5.postimg.cc/cpo8oaz07/r5gtt16069.jpg

I've just arranged the insurance; it worked out at just under £200 for an agreed value
of £10,500, so, it's now getting a tad exciting once more :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Progress is painfully slow and there's yet another deadline past and gone! :(

Here's the car being prepared for its final coatings...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ll7yoparb/r5gtt16071.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vp19ylgvr/r5gtt16072.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/defyx4kon/r5gtt16074.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/fyg74yxmf/r5gtt16075.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ih1w5njcn/r5gtt16076.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xsbp69gon/r5gtt16077.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kznl6c52v/r5gtt16078.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/f2jppinxz/r5gtt16079.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/p14obzxdj/r5gtt16080.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3sqzukiwn/r5gtt16081.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/khsfqhfhz/r5gtt16082.jpg

It's so smooth, there's even a shine in the primer :niceone:

http://s5.postimg.cc/k7pikvq9j/r5gtt16083.jpg

Now, a couple of teaser pics...

http://s5.postimg.cc/725f11707/r5gtt16084.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/63tnchj1z/r5gtt16085.jpg

The car has had a partial wet-sanding and is looking good. As I write,
it's going through the jeweling stages of polishing. The new windscreen
will be fitted on Tuesday, as hopefully, will the carpet.

Talking of which, after an extended stay in my garage, it was time to give it
a final cleaning, ready for re-fitting. I'd only done part of the passenger side
the first time round...

http://s5.postimg.cc/wauu8g1br/r5gtt16086.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/u8ucu73cn/r5gtt16087.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/nwf7kd0af/r5gtt16088.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cy3y26bp3/r5gtt16089.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/obqhddm7r/r5gtt16090.jpg

It's getting close, but it's painful trying to get this guy to prioritise anything! :(
I'm torn between the anguish of his relentless delays and the final outcome,
which should be outstanding!

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

So, now that the shell is painted and given a polish, it's time for re-assembly to
begin. Some while ago I bought some sound-deadening panels and here they
are finally being fitted. There's 3, placed in a distorted H formation inside the
rear quarter, ahead of the refitting of the rear door-cards.

http://s31.postimg.cc/m1lyo1rjv/r5gtt16091.jpg

It's amazing just how these re-inforce the panels and there's absolutely no
echo when you tap the outside.

http://s31.postimg.cc/hgzs947uj/r5gtt16092.jpg

One each side under where the front seats go...

http://s31.postimg.cc/n6g0tfe0r/r5gtt16093.jpg

Two views of the carpet being refitted. This was given a second cleaning this past
weekend, then given another Scotch-Gard treatment. The camera flash is just as
unkind as ever :(

http://s31.postimg.cc/ltybrjgl7/r5gtt16094.jpg

http://s31.postimg.cc/pp1pu3zqz/r5gtt16095.jpg

Rear quarter glass re-installed...

http://s31.postimg.cc/icw9okhiz/r5gtt16096.jpg

Door cards inserted...

http://s31.postimg.cc/o2ci8vnp7/r5gtt16097.jpg

http://s31.postimg.cc/p61ohyenv/r5gtt16098.jpg

What isn't so clear is the refitting of the inner door aperture trims, along with
the seat-belts and their fittings.

http://s31.postimg.cc/bsyjfc9tn/r5gtt16099.jpg

Rear seats refitted...

http://s31.postimg.cc/ub2vzkrln/r5gtt16100.jpg

Rear quarter glass and passenger seat are back in. I was surprised that both
the front seats had more fungal spots on them. So, it was another session
with the steam cleaner. The back seats were much cleaner than the front ones,
though my work was cut out over the past weekend.

http://s31.postimg.cc/jxb8xtlmj/r5gtt16101.jpg

http://s31.postimg.cc/hvarjknnf/r5gtt16102.jpg

This process is progressing reasonably well. The windscreen should be back
in later this week. Hopefully, the rehanging of the doors can be completed too.
There's a new driver's door which has new hinges to fit, so it's going to take
an hour or three yet...

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Looking stunning already Steve. Great project thread.;)

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

With almost 12 months since I last posted, the reason for no updates is that
there's been no progress. The car was painted, the engine partly refitted and
then I was subjected to the biggest betrayal experience of my life! This went
on for several months.

It ended up making me ill to the point where I was hospitalised last May, just
days before my trip to Cumbria. I missed the Duxford Show for the first time
in 8 years. I'm not going to go into any further detail save to say that I'd not
wish to repeat any part of it, including having to start legal action.

Eventually, the car was returned to my garage, with no doors, bumpers or
glass refitted. These, the plastics and various other parts were not returned.
Following receipt of my solicitor's letter, and 2 days before the parts were
released, there was a mysterious fire at the workshop.

All the car's interior had been refitted, after it had been given a 2nd thorough
cleaning, but left open to getting filthy for a 3rd time. My next worry, with
no doors and the onset of the colder weather was that mice would attack the
new leather in the rear cards. That has been the only part of the resto to go
to plan and be on budget, so any damage to those would be the last straw!

Luckily, the car has now been moved to Karl's new unit. There has been some
progress. Windscreen and rear windows are refitted, and driver's door rehung.
The paint job however, is not up to standard, with marks in the roof letting it
down. Quite what will happen with this is not yet decided.

On a personal level, I'm unsure about keeping the car; it now has some hefty
bad memories associated with it. I was not far from scrapping the thing at
one point! Whether I can rekindle any love for it is moot. I have instead put
down my deposit for #1684 of the 1,955 Renault Alpine Visions for delivery
in 2018. I have the plate V15 XON on retention for the new car.

http://s5.postimg.cc/sq3c5rzef/whitealpine00.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Anyway, after this delay, we come to progress in 2017. Some pictures
are going to appear out of chronological order as Karl has taken several
which will come to me on a memory stick.

Re-assembly of the car has not been straightforward, with several parts
having to be removed to accommodate something else close by. That's the
penalty of delay. So, the car had spent several months in my garage, with a
dispute over the remainder still off-site.

Luckily, they were stored in lock-ups the other side of the access road away
from the workshop that got burned down. That episode brought about some
return of common sense and it was quite a relief to call the dogs off. The
solicitor was intent on going for blood, which even gave me the jitters! Karl
was eventually able to secure return of all the exterior add-ons, bumpers,
doors and side skirts, etc.

Once the colder weather arrived, my main concern was that the local vermin
don't decide to take up residence and chew away my brand new leather on
the rear door-cards. There had been a delay with Karl securing his new unit,
so there was no option but to endure another nail-biting time.

At the point where these photos were taken, most of the bodywork restore is
complete. Only the passenger door needs polishing and that's delaying its
completion, fitting handles, door card and bits.

So, as I walk into the workshop last Friday, the car is identifiable - yay!!

http://s5.postimg.cc/khunmqiyf/r5gt17000.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3vd3dnq0n/r5gt17001.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/k7rqh4tpz/r5gt17002.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6s4prol87/r5gt17003.jpg

The car still doesn't run, with several parts yet to be refitted, wired-up etc.
Hence the bonnet remains off the car. The rear bumper has yet to be secured
so ignore the fact it has a large uneven gap.

http://s5.postimg.cc/ssl28b3w7/r5gt17004.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/77fzkp75j/r5gt17005.jpg

There's some debate over whether to place dummy fixings on the number
plates. Karl was wary of drilling them. I do like the raised characters.

http://s5.postimg.cc/x49nxbat3/r5gt17006.jpg

Here's the parcel shelf in place. I'm just thrilled to bits with how that sits.
Personal opinion is that it's much better than plain black carpet!

http://s5.postimg.cc/55fi6g96f/r5gt17007.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mwr4kwol3/r5gt17008.jpg

I hope you noticed the period decals in the back window.

At this point the paint has not had any cleaning done. In fact, I have put a
total ban on anything but a light dusting taking place. The paint everywhere
except the roof looks to be okay. I have yet to see it outside.

http://s5.postimg.cc/3sxt4kbqv/r5gt17009.jpg

The driver's door has its wind deflector fitted...

http://s5.postimg.cc/3u7qxzdkn/r5gt17010.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cdr4vqlx3/r5gt17011.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6qzdc08s7/r5gt17012.jpg

One problem we've encountered is in securing the bumper inserts. The main
problem with double-sided foam tapes is their thickness which creates a gap
twixt bumper and insert where there should be a close fit. If anyone has
solved this problem, I'd be keen on hearing your solution.

Now we come to the bit where I'm not happy. The roof looks a mess and will
have to be re-done. Lee, Karl's brother, has said that he'll give the paint a
polishing but I don't hold out much hope of it coming up to standard. I'm
sorry about the quality of some pictures, the lighting wasn't helpful.

http://s5.postimg.cc/6fhwz8sc7/r5gt17013.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ad56onf5j/r5gt17014.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/s4gt33uk7/r5gt17015.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Now we come to the interior. The one part of this restoration that has given
me the most joy was restoring the door cards. They came in on time and on
budget, quite apart from being some meticulously completed work. I'll let
the pictures do the talking...

http://s5.postimg.cc/kd034jqev/r5gt17016.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/y7ydn0ktz/r5gt17017.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hlgtdxrw7/r5gt17018.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jejq29d2v/r5gt17019.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/a81fez7uf/r5gt17020.jpg

The sound-deadening panels have really worked their magic. Just closing the
driver's door gives a very satisfying clunk and tapping around the body no
longer gives away its tin-box construction. The doors have had their new
speakers fitted though they have yet to be tested. The gear lever gaiter
isn't replaced, pending fitting of the CD player. I have securely stored the
tape player for its next owner.

Completion should be in a two or three weeks, depending upon what problems
occur under the bonnet. I may yet get the car to Duxford for the first show
of the season late April, despite being 2 years late...

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Steve,

This looks stunning and problems aside will make you very happy when complete I'm sure!

The small attention to detail such as the door cards and parcel shelf make it stand out from the noreal oe restorations although it all seems to fit in extremely well!

If the pictures are a true reflection, this car is worthy of showing at major events. I would start with retro show this year and get it displayed proudly.

Keep us informed!;)

[Alex]

Sounds like you've had a bit of a nightmare with this, thats often the issue when you're having to outsouce work. Bodyshops in particular seem bad when it comes to timescales and agreeing the final bill with customers for restos like yours. I'm glad you got it resolved (sort of!) and now have the car and parts back.

From looking at the most recent pictures it looks like the bulk of the real hard graft has been completed so hopefully won't tak too long to finish it off now. That roof though, I agree it needs rework. Did you not consider just removing it and making the hole solid? A lot of work but I would have probably gone down that route to save further issues down the line.

Whats the engine bay looking like at present?

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

With the car being in the workshop close to a paintshop for such a long
while, the use of any silicones was a complete No-no. So there were some
parts that were refitted to the car without protection. I'd have loved to
give the engine underframe a coating for example, but it wasn't to be.

Another part was the rocker-box cover and that has spent nearly 2 years
with no protection after its powder coating in red. As the focus transfers
from the bodywork to under the bonnet, with the tappets to adjust, I've
taken advantage and got this home for treatment.

http://s5.postimg.cc/b2anf5shj/r5gt17021.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/j6irjwewn/r5gt17022.jpg

I'm amazed at just how much oil is trapped in the bottom groove...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cwnhwwfhz/r5gt17023.jpg

The cleaned article, treated with 2 coats of ADS ArtDeSicko and topped with
Nano Bio Coat. The cap has received its Elf oil emblem and the spark plugs
guide is attached too.

http://s5.postimg.cc/j92n6qik7/r5gt17024.jpg

This shows that rough cleaning _will_ damage the powder coated finish :(

http://s5.postimg.cc/tzq9sew6v/r5gt17025.jpg

I'm rather pleased that the fire engine red specified to the coaters matches
that on the cap decal :thumb:

http://s5.postimg.cc/ozstkgqk7/r5gt17026.jpg

The passenger door has now been polished, had its fittings replaced inside
and out, and also been fitted with its wind deflector. The roof has also been
polished and while it's much better, I still need to see it out in the sunlight
before I decide on what happens next. Pictures to follow...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

...Over Losing the Love.

Hello Folks,

Giving that rocker cover a clean has set off a completely unexpected train of
thought. If we look back at the last time it was depicted, it was clean and on
top of a freshly refurbished engine. Between then and when I recently picked
it up for cleaning, as filthy as it was, what has transpired?

How the devil did it gather all that dirt, especially in folds at the bottom? The
engine has not been started and the car has been nowhere other than stuck
for 2 years in a dirty workshop. The worst aspect of it being that whatever it
is, it has softened the powder coating. There's no hiding from it in these most
recent photos.

One of the things I wanted to ensure was that the engine subframe was
treated to a protective coating yet that, along with all of the engine bay,
is completely devoid of any protection. The concern being that this was
meant as a job to be done once and properly. Instead, if all the grot that has
gathered is softening the surfaces, what has been stored up for the future
instead?

This had been a secondary string to my concerns during the course of the
problems, but completely overshadowed by the friendship/emotional aspects.
What I'm finding very difficult to assimilate now is how hard it is hitting me!
Of course, this is all driven by trying to find a satisfactory resolution without
having to take everything apart again.

Perhaps I've got to resign myself to the inevitable, but trying to retrace the
love with that constantly nagging at me is proving far more difficult than I
could ever have imagined. At present, I'm seeing it all as a complete failure
on my part. At one point I'd imagined being out of the woods; clearly not! :(

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, there were two trips to the workshop last week. One to discuss progress,
and while we were doing that, attaching replacement decals under the bonnet.
Sadly, I left my camera at home.

Second trip was to try and tackle a couple of cleaning tasks. One that went
quite well, the other not so successful. This time I did take the camera but I
got so absorbed in what I was doing that I overlooked taking pictures of the
new decals. With the car partly jacked-up so Karl can turn the engine over
and do the tappets, I've not been able to get more than these two pictures of
the passenger door now that it has been polished.

What this picture also shows is the continuing nightmare that is Renault
plastics. With the mirror brackets staying with the mirrors during the repaint
process, this has been the first occasion that I've had to tackle them. In the
photo the bracket doesn't look too faded.

http://s5.postimg.cc/oaayaunw7/r5gt17027.jpg

This next picture shows the new wind deflector in place along with the new
trims...

http://s5.postimg.cc/f3snnkinr/r5gt17028.jpg

However, in the plastic the mirror bracket was not looking good. There are
some weird reflections in this photo that mask the small area I had treated.
Quite by accident, the vertical edge of the part I had treated lines up with
reflections in the paint...

http://s5.postimg.cc/o03fri99z/r5gt17029.jpg

The completed thing. Treatment was with a newer version of Blue Lotion that
Mak had sent from Singapore before Xmas. This has been my first opportunity
to use it.

http://s5.postimg.cc/9i68jihyv/r5gt17030.jpg

Looking down from above, it looks like I'm able to keep a fairly matt finish
which is pleasing...

http://s5.postimg.cc/nd4j1zcdz/r5gt17031.jpg

The driver's side shows the fading much better. I should say that I'm unsure
about whether or not these brackets were originally black. I'm going to be
happy enough with a darkish grey.

http://s5.postimg.cc/9xm3q9t9z/r5gt17032.jpg

The fading is a tad clearer in this shot...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6fa3tvsdz/r5gt17033.jpg

Bracket partly coated...

http://s5.postimg.cc/4or2seauv/r5gt17034.jpg

Completed and looking okay...

http://s5.postimg.cc/pmx8qhapj/r5gt17035.jpg

The view from above indicates that a second coat might not go amiss. I had
not expected to get this done in one shot anyway...

http://s5.postimg.cc/as8ncb14n/r5gt17036.jpg

The remainder of the cleaning involved a few of the many pipes under the
bonnet. I think I'll wait and chat to the CO2 (dry ice) cleaning guy, in the
hope that he can address the issues. The engine bay is a bit disappointing,
despite all the wonderful attention to detail paid by Karl. It will, by hook or
by crook, have to look the part eventually.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

...If the pictures are a true reflection, this car is worthy of showing at major events.
I would start with retro show this year and get it displayed proudly.
What can I say? Your entire post is one huge compliment and has inestimable value
to me considering recent past experiences. Approbation from one of my peers at that
level humbles me and I can only say a heartfelt thanks.

Thankfully, that little car still beguiles me and it'll start off with shows a tad closer
to home. However, I'm also intending to do a bit of boosting on in-between days.

Regards,
Steve

[Trevhib]

The wing mirror mounts were always an unpainted grey colour on the Tungsten GTTs afaik.

[Lowiepete]

...Completion Maybe This Week!

So, I'm having a bit of a sort-out at home and come across an almost full
bottle of Type D coolant. This was probably surplus from when I had the
timing belt and water pump done on the Coupé a couple of years back.

We had discussed the probability of there not being enough in our store. On
arrival at Karl's workshop, the bottle was taken with a cheeky grin then
promptly emptied into the expansion bottle, with nary a drop left. Not only
that, there's a heat shield in place with its fan sensor in place and all wired up.

http://s5.postimg.cc/lrgzlfl9z/r5gt17050.jpg

http://s5postimg.cc/5ui7opsvr/r5gt17051.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wguodox2v/r5gt17052.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/qh6xa1caf/r5gt17053.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l71yiqs1j/r5gt17054.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/n04v72d87/r5gt17055.jpg

The carburettor has been primed by attaching a temporary power line to the
fuel pump; there's oil in the engine and enough coolant for bleeding, so just
very last tightness checks are left to be made before the key gets turned.
A lot of bits had to be removed then refitted to accommodate other parts so
these checks will be key. Nevertheless, Karl has his video camera on charge
ready to record the big moment.

At home I had arranged for next year's insurance: £177 with all the trimmings.
So, it's just the bonnet to refit then it's along for its MoT. Question is, do
I lose 3 weeks of tax by putting it back on the road on Friday? I think it's
only right and to let Karl give it its full road test - he's earned it!

Other work done has been to remove the gummy stuff from the backs of
the bumper inserts...

https://s5.postimg.cc/o3u1g546v/r5gt17056.jpg

https://s5.postimg.cc/4ahxnfqt3/r5gt17057.jpg

Oh my word, that's a job I don't want to repeat! As you can see, there's
still some stuff to remove, though I gave up due to the fumes from the TarX.
I still have the other front corner to do and the complete rear one, so that'll
get done in bite-size chunks.

Finding a suitable replacement tape may be a job too. It looks like the wider
strip runs along the bottom, so weather-proofing the top is going to present
a problem to solve. These won't be replaced on the car ahead of its full detail,
so there's plenty of time to research suitable bonding materials.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

It's always an exciting moment on first turn of the key. :D my recent maiden voyage was to the mot station in a car untested on the road. Very nervous journey.:eek:

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

I realized, having spoken about fitting the new engine heat shield, that it's
absent from pictures in my previous post. So, a few more pics to include
that and to show the choke cable installed and the throttle cable also in place.
The latter is waiting for its nipple to be crimped (oooer, :o missus) which
requires a bit of care in its placement.

https://s5.postimg.cc/6dafvie0n/r5gt17058.jpg

https://s5.postimg.cc/6eoz2o587/r5gt17059.jpg

https://s5.postimg.cc/9mtgfprhz/r5gt17060.jpg

Also fitted are the replacement pedal rubbers; apparently quite a tight fit...

https://s5.postimg.cc/kax7ek1h3/r5gt17061.jpg

So, as soon as the car passes its MoT it'll be taxed and I've told Karl that
he'll be taking it out on an extended road test. He can pick a co-pilot if he
wants and I can immediately think of a couple of people who will jump at
that chance. Karl is a man of few words, but the expression on his face
spoke volumes :niceone:

More news is imminent...

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

These are some pictures taken by Karl as he's been re-assembling the car.
Certainly, with the delay of re-assembly it has been a case of fit, remove
and re-fit until the reassembly order can be established. I don't think anyone
can question the standard of the finished work!

The first piece is the front bumper...

http://s5.postimg.cc/vkvhdj69j/r5gt16280.jpg

...then ensuring that it lines up with the trims on the wings. That job was
much easier said than done, and what a superb job!

http://s5.postimg.cc/6svv6ap2v/r5gt16281.jpg

Then came fitting the rear door and these two pictures show the sound
deadening material in place...

http://s5.postimg.cc/knu5orjhz/r5gt16282.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/f0xsragzb/r5gt16283.jpg

Next came fitting the brand new driver's door. Again, a lot of care involved
with making sure everything lines up. That wasn't helped by one of the
hinges welded to the A pillar having been bent when the original door was
damaged. Here's the quality in the finished job...

http://s5.postimg.cc/jo3ut24c7/r5gt16284.jpg

Next comes lining up the front bumper on the driver's side after refitting the
side mouldings. The latter have nylon nuts secured into them and nylon
bolts holding them in place. Getting the nuts secured presented a bit of a
problem, meaning several tries at mounting. Here's job ahead of its doing...

http://s5.postimg.cc/sx6136d87/r5gt16285.jpg

Now comes mounting the embossed metal number-plates, front and rear...

http://s5.postimg.cc/f4rm7jmgn/r5gt16286.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cbyenim47/r5gt16287.jpg

So, now to fitting the bits into the driver's door. The difference that sound
deadening has made just has to be heard to be believed, even just as you
undo the catch to open it.

http://s5.postimg.cc/8m3trqgl3/r5gt16288.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/7sm62048n/r5gt16289.jpg

So, are we complete yet? Not quite, the next few photos show the dwindling
but not yet small range of parts of this kit yet to assemble...

http://s5.postimg.cc/4lwofhq47/r5gt16290.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/i43krs29j/r5gt16291.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/elrkve1dj/r5gt16292.jpg

The car has now been started, but there were a few little problems. There
was some fuel loss from the fuel sender, apparently a smaller diameter
connector than hitherto. There was what looks like a dry gasket on the carb
resulting in more leaking fuel. Also, just one coolant leak and a tiny oil leak;
both quickly resolved.

Luckily, I have a carb kit, so that's easily solved. The car started with very
little fiddling and sounded pretty good to Karl, so it'll be nigh on perfect!
Hopefully, MoT tomorrow and my next report is the car being taxed and
a bit of boosting going on.

{{Huge sigh}} Finally!

Regards,
Steve

[Matty]

Great project, looks close to completion now!

Did you have any luck with the bumpers strip tape?

I fitted some second hand strips a couple of years ago, and I found it very difficult to get the ripples out of the strips, any tips?

I also know how painful it is removing the old tape! :mad:

[Lowiepete]

Did you have any luck with the bumpers strip tape?
I won't be able to answer that question for a while yet. The car will first be going
to a professional detailer for him to apply a special 9H coating. I have bought a
couple of tapes, but no tests have been carried out. I wanted to get some 3M
tape but there's a problem with getting both 6mm and 12mm tapes in the
same range, without having to spend nearly 40 quid!

I bought some Yuzet VHB tape (www.ebay.co.uk/itm/292017364129) off eBay and if it doesn't work, then it's at a
cost of less than 7 quid for both rolls. The problem is that the 12mm width tape
is on the lower half, so any apparent weakness will be masked. I have also
bought some 12mm Everbuild Mammoth tape (www.ebay.co.uk/itm/191893556943), so a comparison can be made.
The biggest factor is whether either or both will be the required thickness. If
too thick, the insert sits proud and too thin puts too much stress on the bond.

Apparently, you need a Toffee/Caramel Wheel (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Automotive-Toffee-wheel-Caramel-wheel-Do-Nut-Stripe-sticker-Removal-Wheel-/230957917429) to remove the old foam tape.

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Looks excellent! I'm thinking the sound deadening material will make a big difference.

[markg]

Looking good Steve. Not long now ! :agree:

[Lowiepete]

Enjoy...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjkTFKoeeWc

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

These first two images are the printouts kindly provided by the MoT centre.
While the emissions are not bad, I'm just thrilled with the performance of
the brakes and just how balanced they are, side to side...

http://s5.postimg.cc/latzh1e9j/r5gt17062.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vaovwxpiv/r5gt17063.jpg

Did you note the car's axle loadings?

At last, I have fog lights. These have LED bulbs and I can't wait to see what
they're like in use, not that I'll be encountering fog too often.

http://s5.postimg.cc/m1mpmtgmv/r5gt17064.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5hp10krcn/r5gt17065.jpg

Then it was time to see the car outside a workshop for the first time in a very
long while...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cyy8fsgvr/r5gt17066.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5x0atld9z/r5gt17067.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/96eq021dj/r5gt17068.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6vgnvvqlz/r5gt17069.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6dlig1113/r5gt17070.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ak6cvd0mv/r5gt17071.jpg

This is the passenger side door card, with the cap looking a bit sorry for itself.

http://s5.postimg.cc/yqm23lt2v/r5gt17072.jpg

50/50 shot after a quick wipe-over with some ADS Blue Lotion...

http://s5.postimg.cc/5cqbo0qd3/r5gt17073.jpg

Outstanding jobs I haven't listed includes installation of the replacement
radio / cd player and re-install of the Renault alarm / immobiliser. We have
a Toad unit that could be installed if needs be.

I like the Renault one because there isn't an obvious way of turning it off.
This means that a thief will get deafened inside the car for 30 seconds out of
every two minutes, and this while the car is still or in motion. I caught a car
salesman out with this; he'd pressed the wrong switch whilst out on a test
drive, heheheh.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Oh boy, have I missed this car! Managed to do 27 miles today, mostly around
town and down the A12 a little way. The engine is as sweet as a nut and really
pulls well. A couple of people tried tail-gating me (grrrrrrrrrrrrrr!!) and it was
such a pleasure to show them a clean pair of heels!

Tomorrow, there's a car show at the Ufford White Lion. Google tells me it's
33 miles away and being that it was so well behaved today, I think I'll take
a chance and go. The show's on from 11am, but it'll probably be midday
before I get there. Do say Hi, if you're going too.

I have a few more pictures that I'll probably post tomorrow.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Finally, it's home

http://s5.postimg.cc/c3v5gab93/r5gt17074.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ki66qmmwn/r5gt17075.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/erg0cwewn/r5gt17076.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/4vexd994n/r5gt17077.jpg

Some nice reflections...

http://s5.postimg.cc/r13mhaohj/r5gt17078.jpg

Sally's travel arrangements installed...

http://s5.postimg.cc/8hkqpwfhz/r5gt17079.jpg

Out & About

Then a nice little trip down to Ufford for a car show. These photos taken
after I had moved the car out of the classics field into the vintage...

http://s5.postimg.cc/b0b14bqlz/r5gt17080.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pnbzlzp87/r5gt17081.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/66r9zgu47/r5gt17082.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5iifgivef/r5gt17083.jpg

So, 103 miles later, the car draws plenty of admiration :wave:

I stopped for petrol on the way and got away after fielding several really nice
compliments. If I could collect a quid for every story I hear about encounters
with Fiats, Pugs and Fords of a certain era, I could soon recoup my costs ;)

I took my neighbour out in my "almost looks like new" car and all I heard was
how comfy the seats are, "kinda like bucket seats" and "don't they grip you?".
There was a chuckle as we were on the inside lane and left a potential 4x4
overtaker for dead in the outside. Having said that, I'm not keen on the
run-ins I get with people seeing an old car and come what may (read as
danger) they _have_ to get in front. I might delay their lives by nought point
five of a second. It tends to spoil a nice trip out :mad:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

There has been one small addition. The little yellow "dealer serviced" sticker
sourced, and a facsimile of my first tax disc for the car, in its original holder.
Yesterday I went to collect a couple of bits at the local dealers, drew a crowd
and just mentioned that it would be good to source one; minutes later I have
one and a couple of spares...

http://s5.postimg.cc/xx23p041j/r5gt17084.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

It appears that the original bonnet lagging piece has gone missing, presumed
engulfed in fire. There's no chance of a replacement from France, though I
have a part# 7700 754 120 - I've not found one available second-hand.

So, it comes down to alternatives and the minefield that exists there. I have
managed to find some 10mm, as opposed to Silent Coat's 20mm offering with
both having a sticky backing for mounting and heat deflection by aluminium cover.
I have 4 sheets of 2mm Silent Coat pads to use in the indents and be covered
by the bigger sheet.

However, how messy and afterthought is this...?

http://s5.postimg.cc/jpv92p1tj/r5gt17085.jpg

That's after a day or two since unwrapping and trying to lay the sheet out
flat. Then I had a brainwave...

http://s5.postimg.cc/x825ezdyv/r5gt17086.jpg

I have a small travel iron and without any heat I managed to get the surface
a little smoother. Here's an attempt at a 50/50...

http://s5.postimg.cc/cy4tzuctz/r5gt17087.jpg

I'll probably have another go, maybe with a little heat, just to see whether
it can look a bit better. I'm open to alternative, and tidier, suggestions.

Regards,
Steve

[Matty]

Looks great! Are you going to bring it along to retro show? :agree:

What did you sue on the mirror bases to bring them back to grey?

[Matt Cole]

Very well done Steve and it looks awesome!:agree:

It's great that you have got in it and thought it great to drive especially when you have the Laguna for power and refinement!

My phase 1 is crazy even in its current running in period but great fun. I am looking forward to getting my standard phase 2 roadworthy and would be over the moon if it was as good as yours!;)

[Mr Raider]

Wow!!! absolutely stunning Steve, great to see it all finished off and looking very shiny fresh from the show room! :agree::agree::)

Awesome work :cool:

[Lowiepete]

With the car round at Karl's workshop for a few more snagging items to be sorted,
I took the opportunity to take some pictures under the car, mostly to keep an eye
on any areas needing protection. The rear suspension beam now needs a quick
coating of Bilt Hamber Dynax C and a couple of nuts and bolts need a squirt of
some ACF 50, otherwise, it's looking pretty tidy under there.

http://s5.postimg.cc/y9e3u5cvr/r5gt17094.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lgpzu819z/r5gt17095.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/torxf7t6f/r5gt17096.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vvw634ygn/r5gt17097.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jvfbg5gfr/r5gt17098.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bn8shez5j/r5gt17099.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/chzxh6wdz/r5gt17100.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hfdi2ayd3/r5gt17101.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/uncvv8vw7/r5gt17102.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/k4cw62t87/r5gt17103.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gfn76lj7b/r5gt17104.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3s2ugcewn/r5gt17105.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/43kat3vcn/r5gt17106.jpg

If I get an opportunity, I'll be having a go at removing some of the accumulated paint
shop dust, though it isn't as bad as I'd imagined. The biggest mystery on the snagging
list is why the car still jumps out of 5th gear. The end cap has been off and suspect bits
replaced, with no apparent effect. Also on the list is the choke flap sticking shut.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

As the car progresses slowly toward completion, the snagging stage is almost
over, there's been some expensive spending. We start with replacement
bumper strips. The prices that have been asked for even a split into front or
rear has been eye-watering, so I'm thinking the £150 for the set, even though
they are replicas is not too bad.

http://s5.postimg.cc/x6miixawn/r5gt17107.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/778yjh3lj/r5gt17108.jpg

The originals are a bit scuffed and untidy looking so with newly fettled paint
on the bumpers, these will look the part. I like the guiding inserts which will
make it a little more certain that they'll line up beautifully straight.

Next comes the biggest jump in price of almost anything. When these were
advertised at the beginning of the resto, I could have got change out of a
tenner, including P+P. Then they began to escalate in price to the point where
I asked Karl about the condition mine were in. He assured me that they were
okay, as far as he could remember.

When it came to the final re-assembly, things were not quite as tidy, and it
might be a good idea to find replacements...

http://s5.postimg.cc/as4u2p853/r5gt17111.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/999fxq1kn/r5gt17110.jpg

However, the price by now has multiplied 10 fold, which is just stupid! At least
there was a kind of lottery option where the seller offered a single set each
week in an auction starting at a penny. Some of those auctions were even
more profitable than the fixed £99.99 inc P+P. Can you believe it? :doublesho

Here's the replacements, just the caps, with a saving of 40 quid, but still way
over the top...

http://s5.postimg.cc/6x1g04ozb/r5gt17109.jpg

The last of the R5's 2017 show outings was a couple of weeks ago at Helmingham
Hall Classics. I regularly attend this show with PistonHeads, usually going in the
Laguna Coupé.

On this occasion, being parked right next to a fabulous and rare Prowler in solid
black, I was a bit embarrassed because quite often it was being upstaged by
this wee beastie ;)

http://s5.postimg.cc/by8u1hwfr/r5gt17113.jpg
Photo Copyright (C) Darren Gee 2017

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

Love this thread!

Crazy prices for some items. Even the reproduction stuff is mad at times!

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Thought I'd take the R5GTT out for a spin in the Suffolk countryside today.
Nice day for a drive, even if it was a public holiday. I don't get it, I keep
getting strangers coming up to me offering instant cash for the car.

http://s5.postimg.cc/qp4j25yev/r5gt17114.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5gqukqjxz/r5gt17115.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/56jc1e5br/r5gt17116.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/hwnkehd9z/r5gt17117.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/5ym00l9iv/r5gt17118.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/avzklpbhz/r5gt17119.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pj54h3zhz/r5gt17120.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/84gav3czb/r5gt17121.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ityl13e5z/r5gt17122.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jxipd1yt3/r5gt17123.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/tjc9tcpyv/r5gt17124.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/i89m4zj3r/r5gt17125.jpg

Oh boy, am I enjoying this car? I'm also rather looking forward to completing
the resto, which means more funds put aside. There isn't much remaining on
the snagging list now, thankfully...

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

Your car is looking great in these pictures! A quality restoration👍

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, the R5 is back in a workshop, being readied for its final tickles into shape.
I had intended that it go to Matt up in Oldham, but the mechanical issues,
among other things, prevented that idea of going further. The car is in a
workshop not far away from Karl's and even before I met him, Haydon, in
whose shop the car presently resides, was enquiring of Karl (read that as
pestering) about whether or not I wanted to sell it :doublesho:doublesho

Of course, no sooner than he'd met me, I received the same enquiries, though
with maybe even more urgency. I think it's fair to say that his eyes lit up
when I broached the subject of a damp/wet sanding and final paint / decal
preparation and protection.

So, here's the first 9 pictures of the car in its new temporary home...

http://s5.postimg.cc/9sag05x13/r5haydon001.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6mpu9yeev/r5haydon002.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/y3tfypfuf/r5haydon003.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/coxh0g2uv/r5haydon004.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/3l3ndqqnr/r5haydon005.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jtfa9ha47/r5haydon006.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/suyf0txfb/r5haydon007.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/i6uo1zng7/r5haydon008.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d4dc77e5z/r5haydon009.jpg

Haydon, I did say temporary!! :wall:

The car will receive a full treatment, including caliper repaint, wheels all
re-sealed and the full-fat ADS Octagon Kit, once the surface is flatted and the
OE decals are attached.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

A few more pictures to tempt you...

http://s5.postimg.cc/ljr3qwvo7/r5haydon010.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/jf6qpuown/r5haydon011.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/46gtc1kxj/r5haydon012.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/6nskjc7ev/r5haydon013.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/pg4fmw8xz/r5haydon014.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/cbyva841j/r5haydon015.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wjcb2hyxz/r5haydon016.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/46gtc282v/r5haydon017.jpg

Hopefully, the side-decals go on tomorrow :niceone:

Regards,
Steve

[Alex]

Very clean - I'd be scared to drive it! :)

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, there were periods when I thought this day would never come. There
were some high points and, sadly, some very low points. The highest was
probably the return of the gearbox as almost a work of art :niceone:

There's still a bit of a snagging list; the biggest hurdle being why it still wants
to jump out of 5th gear so easily when it didn't do it during the break-in runs
and to cure the gearbox leak caused by one of the brand new driveshafts and
its faulty seal :eek: It looks like paying premium prices to specialist
suppliers has not necessarily been a wise move toward securing reliability.

I know everyone likes pictures, so here goes...

http://s5.postimg.cc/74jr58mdz/r5gt17126a.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/xpma0sh1j/r5gt17126b.jpg

Revel in the ones that show the new bumper inserts, and also the replaced
side decals.

http://s5.postimg.cc/3xp7lnc8n/r5gt17127.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/se7dg3aef/r5gt17128.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/bqfvdmahz/r5gt17129.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gp3ds4yvb/r5gt17130.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/vxtb5x09j/r5gt17131.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/8wcq05l6f/r5gt17132.jpg

...and outside in the sun; plenty of amazing reflections...

http://s5.postimg.cc/3xp7lnjyf/r5gt17133.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/rbx6xl9lj/r5gt17134.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/t3q5sj393/r5gt17135.jpg

I know how to put on a good scowl!! :D

http://s5.postimg.cc/d5hg2dlvr/r5gt17136.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/99446dlgn/r5gt17137.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ky83uck53/r5gt17138.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/ekj0r4htz/r5gt17139.jpg

See the green tinge in the fleck?

http://s5.postimg.cc/4zze48d2f/r5gt17140.jpg

The new bumper-strips really set the finish off :niceone:

http://s5.postimg.cc/q9n0f2lnb/r5gt17141.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d5hg2eogn/r5gt17142.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/z4nupmkqf/r5gt17143.jpg

Home Once More

http://s5.postimg.cc/csq1w8dwn/r5gt17144.jpg

Missing from the rear door is the spoiler and rear badges, both being at the
paint shop awaiting their own tickles,

http://s5.postimg.cc/j6f4zi5xz/r5gt17145.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/c379jw887/r5gt17146.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/gcbzm1w1z/r5gt17147.jpg

This has been a 4 year adventure that took double the intended timetable and
was kinda over budget. Two things occur from this. First, if I were to attempt
to make a start from scratch today, I'd definitely not be able to afford it!
Second, is the almost meteoric rise in the value of standard cars. Quite where
that will plate out is anyone's guess.

From a cosmetic point of view, the ADS Octagon Kit gives me probably 4 years
of good protection, though I am tempted to enquire about a little more work
on the bonnet to reduce the orange-peel a tad further. The decals on the hub
caps will also need to be re-done, these are in the wrong place.

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Very clean - I'd be scared to drive it! :)
Nahh, I'm driving it like it's intended. I told Haydon, the guy who did the wet
sanding, that I haven't got a museum to put it in and besides there's plenty
more use in the car yet...

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

It's just stunning!:) I imagine thus to be one of the very best in the country.:yeah:

Well done Steve, I'm quite sad this is the finale.....:cry:

[Lowiepete]

It's just stunning!:) I imagine thus to be one of the very best in the country.:yeah:

Thanks for the compliment Matt, but somehow I doubt it. My attitude has been to have
it shiny in all the right places. I have only replaced what you might call "service parts",
at least those with some obsolescence in them, where others with masterpieces can
probably barely point to any part of their car and say it was attached at the factory.

That might produce a stunning looking car, but to my mind, it's only a replica. Each to their
own, but I don't belong to the "I can wave my PayPal harder than you" brigade. It'll still get
driven like I've stolen it! :)


I'm quite sad this is the finale.....:cry:
Nahh, it's just its first curtain call. It's really the start of a "2nd life" for the car and I'll
probably be updating this thread with its ongoing adventures...

Regards,
Steve

[Turbox]

It looks amazing, well done. A credit to all the hard work that's gone into it.

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

An absolutely gorgeous day by the beach at Great Yarmouth seafront, to join
an eclectic mix of ancient and modern American cars, a couple of supercars
and be more or less the only hot hatch on display. The R5 kinda stole the
show, with so many people being quite bowled-over by it. As ever, let the
pics do the talking...

http://s5.postimg.cc/g8rtgqu0n/r5gt17148.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/j2uyu691j/r5gt17149.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/wwjbj8whz/r5gt17150.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/l7fbv92yf/r5gt17151.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/r8d0sc507/r5gt17152.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/d1x9x4p07/r5gt17153.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/v4qcobxpj/r5gt17154.jpg

I have one remaining ambition and that is for one of the previous two owners
to present themselves at one of these shows, not only to meet them but to
see the expressions of probable disbelief at their sighting. I live in hope...

Regards,
Steve

[LiamR]

Love your car and the effort and dedication. You should be proud! An asset to the club 👍

[dmiller1]

Love your car and the effort and dedication. You should be proud! An asset to the club 👍
Hi Steve, the R5 ypu have is stunning. well done on all the hard work and getting to the end after what sounds like a hard slog. Where did you source the gear lever return spring and clips. i have been trying to source. Thanks Dougie

[tubbyG]

Hi Steve, the R5 ypu have is stunning. well done on all the hard work and getting to the end after what sounds like a hard slog. Where did you source the gear lever return spring and clips. i have been trying to source. Thanks Dougie

The spring and clip for the gear lever were still available from renault last year, have a look on this thread for part no's

http://www.rtoc.org/boards/showthread.php?41152-Gear-lever-selector-rod-spring&highlight=selector+spring

[Lowiepete]

Dougie, give this a try...

Renault 7701468199 (http://www.allcarpartsfast.co.uk/search.php?search_query=7701468199+&x=0&y=0)- SPRING G/SHAFT

The fiver postage on top will keep you weeping :(

Regards,
Steve

[dmiller1]

thanks Steve, parts ordered today.

[dmiller1]

Hello all thought id let you know that i Got my ordered refunded as no suppliers have this item left. Finally found it on the french Amazon site. Delivered to me for 17 quid. if you are struggling for parts might be worth a look.
https://www.amazon.fr
cheers Dougie

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Access to the PDF brochure for the new Alpine A110 (http://news.havasdigitalfactory.net/alpine/20171102/en/ALPINE_E-BROCHURE_GB_A4_SANS-PRIX.pdf) came through today and
a fair bit makes very interesting viewing, especially the power diagrams!

However, once in the "stable" I'll have a rather interesting dilemma. It is known
that owners of "projects seen to completion" do tend to be quite easily
persuaded to sell their rejuvenated steed, usually in pursuit of other challenges.
With the value of the OE standard R5GTT cars rising by 86% in the past 12
months alone (that's roughly £7k to £12k) it looks like I'll have one appreciating
vehicle keeping company with another doing its depreciation thing. Whether
one will balance the other is moot.

So to the dilemma. With two pretty toys to choose from and no projects that
worry the heck outta my brain, which one will have to go first, before the
boredom sets in? :burnrubber:

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

...on the outside at least

Hello Folks,

I'm pleased to report that the tailgate is now all spic and span and complete
with its spoiler and insignia in place...

http://s5.postimg.cc/5ofyneysn/r5gt18001.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lzg2jqj07/r5gt18002.jpg

The first clean of 2018. Even though it has its own cover, it was surprising
just what muck came off. The ADS Octagon Kit surface has had time to fully
harden and it was rejecting the ONR with all it could muster. The smoothness
and slickness had to be felt to be believed.

http://s5.postimg.cc/6qq55zch3/r5gt18003.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/73hjc5fbb/r5gt18004.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/49edypkuv/r5gt18005.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Stunning!

[Lowiepete]

...with more questions than answers.

So, beginning with the sales blurb translated from the French site...

This AEI is mounted in place of the origin! No beam modification or
fixation is required.

It allows to:
Adjust your mapping in advance to improve the performance of your engine
Reliabilize your engine with a very fast reaction compared to a RE209 ... but
especially more membrane capsule!

Programme a breaker (avoid over-speed!)

Programme Over-boost protection

Improve startups thanks to an increased lead in the start-up phase

Improve stability of idle speed

Improve the flexibility of the engine, you will not recognise your GT!

The gain in torque and power is immediate compared to a RE209, RE208 or
RE037.

Thanks to its contemporary technology, integrated into the original case, this
AEI will give your GT a driving behaviour that's right up to date! You can set
your lead by connecting a laptop to your AEI, and change all the settings
related to this AEI live. The influence of the advance being decisive for the
performance of your engine, you are finally able to adjust your lead to ignition
based on your engine preparation.

Does your GT have trouble starting? Give it a helping hand by increasing
the lead at startup! The engine clicks at high speed? Calm down in this area,
without losing elsewhere! Do you ride at petrol competition or E85? Exploit
the potential of this fuel with the lead you need ... This is just a glimpse of
what this AEI can do.

There is no more option like the antecedent versions, everything is integrated
basic in the AEI, you just have to connect and exploit or not these possibilities:

Entrance Water temperature:
If you install a T ° probe on your cylinder head (closing plate), you give your
AEI the possibility to program a specific cold advance during the warm-up of
your engine. In the same spirit, you can program a switch controlled by the T°
of water: Your GT is cold, avoid destructive over-revs. Also, in case of
overheating, you can decrease the advance to avoid rattling ...

Entry Lambda AFR sensor or Narrowband:
Do you have an AFR wealth display? a simple lambda probe? Improve your
fuel settings, by logging all engine parameters at the same time on your AEI:
Speed, Pressure, AFR.

Programming Output:
Want to control an instrument with the AEI according to the conditions of
regime, pressure, or temperature? The possibilities are wide, but imagine, be
able to drive a boost solenoid valve, control a WMI, trigger a fan, a shift-light, ...

We ask for a box AEI in advance to the order, with imperatively all the
connectors in the 3 taken, and with a functional coil. The state of the
membrane is not important. The capsule and the case should not be broken
(to make you an AEI in perfect condition).

The AEI is provided with an advance map identical to the 209 or on demand
with an improved engine mapping. A PC + Software communication cord are
also included in the delivery.

So, here it is...

https://s5.postimg.cc/jbdfm7wjr/r5gt18010.jpg

I think the first surprise is that the 3.5mm stereo plug leads to a really old-
fashioned (VGA?) connector. Not found one of those on a laptop for a while.
So, first question is: Is there an alternate lead with a suitable USB connector
and if so, what are the specs..?

Next question is what software gives me access to all the potential controls
that are described in the blurb?

Does it really mean that I need to visit my nearest rolling-road outfit to be
able to realise most of it? I bought this AEI to be able to provide a certain
amount of future-proofing for the car, not least in allowing the engine to be
freed from its lumpy-running past.

That connector seems to indicate that I might need to preserve a laptop in
aspic alongside the car. Please, someone educate me in this sorcery ;)

Regards,
Steve

[markg]

That's a db9 serial connector not a vga. No doubt Amazon or eBay will have a cheap usb to serial adapter.

[Matty]

An RS232 to USB connector should plug straight into that.

I have found that some RS232 to USB leads don't work, but others do.

I just had this with my ecu, I think it's more to do with the driver that gets installed with the cable.

I bought one from Maplins last week and works fine.

[Lowiepete]

I just had this with my ecu, I think it's more to do with the driver that gets installed with the cable.
My question from there is that if I can get the serial port set up, is the control
software already on the AEI?

Regards,
Steve

[Ian S]

A stand alone ECU is hardware, it contains firmware, the computer contains software.

Your PC will probably not know what the device is nor what to do with it.

Does the manufacturer not supply the software?

[Matt Cole]

It appears that ecu is plug and play Steve. I would try it on before doing anything else. As Ian says, you should have some software to load onto your laptop. The ecu would need to connect to the laptop so you can see what's installed via the software.

Great find by the way. Any links to the website?

[Lowiepete]

Any links to the website?
Link to Seb's Gontier Racing site (http://www.gtturbo-online.fr/allumage/635-aei-programmable-gr.html)

There's still some research to go with this new toy. However, I am counting upon
it to "future-proof" the control of the engine. The translation of what attracted me
is shown above...

Regards,
Steve

[Ian S]

It's advantages:
Plug and play into the 5GTT, no wiring or plugs to be changed.
Same map as 209, or better, not sure what he saying.

Disadvantages:
For the cost of it, I'd rather have a proper standalone ECU that could also do EFI, and was a known item for mapping, such as the Adaptronic. And that more features cold be added to, such as wideband lambda, narrow band is a bit pointless really.

[Lowiepete]

Well, it's the plug & play aspect that I see as a route into "future-proofing"
what goes on under the bonnet. I am assured by Seb that this unit povides
a much more fuel-efficient engine (at standard boost, which I'm perfectly
happy with) but without the need of going to EFI. Adding the latter only
brings electrical / electronic complications and is not subtle enough to hide
its non-standard presence below an opened bonnet.

Just the way that the "noise" of an irregular idle is removed assures me that
stresses on the engine will be put to better use as the smooth and improved
acceleration happens. The engine was in quite remarkable condition when it
was overhauled, so helping to improve its running via this simple route will
definitely benefit future keepers, if not its present one. Doesn't that go some
way toward achieving a level of future-proofing?

All that said, I'm glad I got in early as I too would baulk at the current retail
price the unit has crept to :(

Regards,
Steve

[Ian S]

You can't future proof it. In London in 3 years, they are banning non Euro 4 cars, that mean any petrol car older than Jan 2006. Fitting that mappable ignition doesn't make it comply with Euro 4 emissions requirements.

You wont get an improvements in acceleration or smoothness if it has the OE map, which said it comes with. It'll need remapping to tweek it.

My car didn't have an irregular idle once I fixed Renaults laughably poor electrics. Irregular idle can be related to the failing OE Renix units, mine did it and required replacement.

More fuel efficient means he's advanced the timing a bit to use more of the fuel, but that can lead to pinking. And I found that it can run a bit lumpy and weak if lean, but that was adjusting the fuel, which this unit can't do. To really get fuel efficiency you need EFI and a lot of sensors and good flow and mix and burn.

If the carb is not working fully, mappable ignition is not going to fix it.

His suggestion that his map is far superior to Renaults map for the standard car can't be more than a sales pitch as Renault will have spent a lot of money on those aspects of the original car.

This device is about changing the OE ignition map to get better out of more boost and a few modifications and is exactly what the modified car needs.

It's limited in that it only measures revs and manifold pressure. There's not a great deal that can be done with that.

A better solution is to use something that also reads:
coolant temperature,
inlet air temperature,
wide band lambda,
throttle position,
other stuff.

[Lowiepete]

You can't future proof it. In London in 3 years, they are banning non Euro 4 cars, that mean any petrol car older than Jan 2006. Fitting that mappable ignition doesn't make it comply with Euro 4 emissions requirements.
Being 120 miles away in the Suffolk countryside and the car only visiting
London once in my ownership, this presents no threat during my lifetime
and probably well into the lives of future owners.

My car didn't have an irregular idle once I fixed Renaults laughably poor electrics. Irregular idle can be related to the failing OE Renix units, mine did it and required replacement.
Kinda proves my point. With all new electrics to and from the Renix after
the resto, I have no change to the irregular idle found before this stage.
I have no idea if brand new ones are available, though used ones do fetch
stupid money, and I mean stupid for a piece of ancient technology with no
warranty that could break down the very next day. So, the cost difference
toward an upgrade that can be tweaked makes it less of a hurtful spend.

I'll report further once the day of fitting is decided.

Regards,
Steve

[Ian S]

Well, they'll extend that to other city's, then larger towns. Villages and rural areas eventually as they are saying they are ceasing combustion engine by 2040, if not sooner. 22 years probably is a long time but hopefully then I'll still be alive, having fun, and driving.

By fixed I didn't mean change corroded OE for new OE, I meant change for a much better way of moving current around the car. Joining the wires from and to different places. Doing it much better than Renault did. Which is more proof that for something that is going to be used, not a museum piece, sticking with OE is wrong.

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Not long back from the car's first 2018 outing for a PH visit to a Lotus & Aston
dealer just outside Norwich. Some very interesting cars in their workshop!
Recent MOT passed with no advisories and some rather nice compliments
from the examiner.

The value of the R5 from April 2017 to March 2018 has increased by a little
under 50% which I find quite unbelievable. The 80 odd percentile increase of
the 12 months previous was a tad overdue, mostly because spares are either
hard to secure, or really expensive and often both!

These are live auction results, presumably of standard spec cars, rather than
some of the dodgy specimens found elsewhere on-line. So a few pictures with
which to renew my agreed value amount which this year is £16k - it's just
nuts and I fully expect it to reach £20k well before its 30th birthday.

http://s5.postimg.cc/w7docg9hz/r5gt18011.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/mmu1pkzlj/r5gt18012.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/kv12uo8iv/r5gt18013.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/9iohcwup3/r5gt18014.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/lkjv71w7r/r5gt18015.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/fwdkg67av/r5gt18016.jpg

http://s5.postimg.cc/glwcsikp3/r5gt18017.jpg

Yet another day when I got seriously asked to sell it. These are getting a tad
too frequent

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

The question is Steve, how much would you sell it For? 😁

[Lowiepete]

The question is Steve, how much would you sell it For? 😁
At the moment, I could not part with it unless you stole it - and you'd need
to kill me to get past its immobiliser and alarms, both of which have been
very cunningly integrated into its looms. So, you'd need to come up with a
proper life-changing amount.

All these monetary values really become meaningless when you attempt to
assess the sheer fun these cars provide. You should know..!

Regards,
Steve

[Lowiepete]

Hello Folks,

Well, the snag list is slowly becoming a blank sheet of paper, so time to add
some finishing touches. I had planned to cut a sheet of proprietary matting to
the original shape and paint it black. Problem was the horrid creasing that
simply refused to go away, no matter what.

Then, on eBay came the opportunity of buying a new and exact replica, but
made in modern materials. A quick phone call to Karl and we came to the
conclusion that as everything else is so tidy under there, the new mat would
be a much tidier option than our home-made affair, even if we could remove
most of the creases.

So, a large amount of money, produces an equally large box, containing a
very smart looking mat. As with the side panels, there have been a couple
or three sound-deadening panels stuck in the "voids" which should help the
engine sound to become less rattly. Yeah, I know, without a pic, it didn't
happen...

https://i.postimg.cc/13sqzjDF/r5gt18018.jpg

Regards,
Steve

[Matt Cole]

Makes a huge difference Pete. Looks great! :) I take it that the mat is a reproduction item?

[Lowiepete]

Makes a huge difference Pete. Looks great! :) I take it that the mat is a reproduction item?



Then, on eBay came the opportunity of buying a new and exact replica, but
made in modern materials.


Wot he said ^^^ ;)

Regards,
Steve