Prescott hill climb, in the 390SE
Discussion
Well today I decided it was time to risk the 390SE and give it a decent blast. Since I got it going again I've only "done" the local lanes so a 100 mile round trip was a little concerning. As it turned out it got me there and back with just a couple of minor issues.
On the way there I stopped for fuel and when I came to start the starter lacked any power and indicators and boot latch were not operating correctly. When I pulled up at Prescott I had a good nosey around and found the main power lead off the alternator was literally hanging by a thread. Out came the extensive tool kit and spares supply and I had the right sized connector so stripped the buggered old one off, cleaned up the cables and crimped a new lug on - all sorted. On the way home I also noticed the temperature gauge fairly rapidly oscillating between 80C and 100C. Not sure if it's a gauge issue or thermostat issue, or voltage stabliser? A little investigation needed.
Apart from that, all good. Four Wedges there - Ade, Tim, myself and Simon Coles 4.6l racer. Tim's car was looking immaculate, mine less so despite washing it last night. Heavy rain and filthy dirty lanes due to local farmers ensured the Wedge was not looking its best by the time I got there.
I was somewhat surprised with fuel consumption. I knew it was running rich and needs a proper rolling road set up but fuel consumption was an impressive 12mpg! I won't be taking it to the BBWF if it's not had its RR session.
A few pics:
And yes it was actually washed only last night.
On the way there I stopped for fuel and when I came to start the starter lacked any power and indicators and boot latch were not operating correctly. When I pulled up at Prescott I had a good nosey around and found the main power lead off the alternator was literally hanging by a thread. Out came the extensive tool kit and spares supply and I had the right sized connector so stripped the buggered old one off, cleaned up the cables and crimped a new lug on - all sorted. On the way home I also noticed the temperature gauge fairly rapidly oscillating between 80C and 100C. Not sure if it's a gauge issue or thermostat issue, or voltage stabliser? A little investigation needed.
Apart from that, all good. Four Wedges there - Ade, Tim, myself and Simon Coles 4.6l racer. Tim's car was looking immaculate, mine less so despite washing it last night. Heavy rain and filthy dirty lanes due to local farmers ensured the Wedge was not looking its best by the time I got there.
I was somewhat surprised with fuel consumption. I knew it was running rich and needs a proper rolling road set up but fuel consumption was an impressive 12mpg! I won't be taking it to the BBWF if it's not had its RR session.
A few pics:
And yes it was actually washed only last night.
mrzigazaga said:
Looked like a fun day....I think that black Wedge shaped thing looked the best though...
I agree but don't tell Tim or Ade. Simon's rip snorting 4.6l is something to behold though. It is just soooooo fast! Would be good to get some technical details of the upgrades he's made to it.KKson said:
I agree but don't tell Tim or Ade. Simon's rip snorting 4.6l is something to behold though. It is just soooooo fast! Would be good to get some technical details of the upgrades he's made to it.
They are all awesome mate...Out of interest i think the 4.6 belonged to Paul Jackson and was one i had lined up to buy when my inheritance came in...Unfortunately that took longer than anyone could wait..Even me....I know it was a well sorted machine....
12 SPG ?...Thats not a lot mate....Whats the WOT PSI......
Edited by mrzigazaga on Saturday 28th May 22:28
Terence said:
Hi Keith on the temperature fluctuation issue, I had a very similar problem on a V8 SD1 many years ago. It turned out to be a leaking radiator cap preventing the system from fully pressurizing.
Thanks for that. It may well be the issue as when I pulled over in a lay by to investigate I did note the trail of coolant from the overflow pipe. I'll get a new shiny one and see how things go. Don't worry - it's the 350i's turn for use this week.Gassing Station | Wedges | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff