And now.... for the dumbest question ever....

[pipnjones]

Yes! My kit has finally arrived! (Although the radiator is not there because of parts shortage, according to the checklist, but there is lots to get on with).

Everything seems to be there, when looking on a very basic level (and not opening every plastic bag and jumbling up the pieces). You know, engine, the correct number of wheels, a gearbox, two (2) seats, a steering wheel, some stickers, etc, etc. I am even nicely optimistic that every plastic pouch really does contain all the right bits and pieces.

Now, I know that I have already printed it off from the website (although 2 sides per page to save paper), but the one thing not included is the build manual. Now I like a challenge as much as the next person, but I think this is perhaps a bit of an oversight. I'll get in touch with Caterham, because I reckon the build manual should be a nice printed, bound document that is up to date for the parts they are supplying, and included in the price of the car (I see it available on the website for parts). I also note that there is a new May version on the Website, so a new printout beckons anyway.

But generally, I think that the build manual is an integral part of the purchased kit -- i.e. it is beyond the ability of the average owner to build the car without the instructions. But am I being naive? Or should I see it as a challenge?

[Red Seven]

pipnjones said:

I reckon the build manual should be a nice printed, bound document that is up to date for the parts they are supplying

Yes, you should have a manual
I requested a copy of the assembly guide before the kit arrived.
I read the guide from cover to cover a couple of times before the kit arrived.
I thought the guide was quite good.
When the parts arrived, I soon discovered that there were subtle differences between the parts supplied, and the assembly guide.......

Help is normally to hand though from either the factory or BlatChat

[DCL]

Yep, you should have a nicely bound A4 build manual - I seem to remember that mine was packed in a strange place, but can't recall exactly where now. It being up to date for the parts supplied maybe asking a little too much though.

[Steve-B]

Ask them for a PDF copy of the Build Manual.

About 5 years ago during the period we were in Sydney with our SV I had an issue and couldn't find the manual.

A call to CC and an appeal on BC somehow a copy was available and I downloaded it.

I now keep a copy on my iPad which can be handy when at a store looking for a nut, bolt, etc....

[pipnjones]

I have downlaoded the newest build manual (May 2012) from the website so all is well. The answer from Caterham was "Didn't you get our letter? we don't send out a build manual." I hadn't heard because I purchased through an overseas dealer, so Caterham didn't have my address.

So all is well with the world, except that I think some things are missing, but I suspect it is an artefact of not needing to meet IVA approval outside the UK. (Grommets on the stalk for the front light, for example).