I'll AX this only once... though there is an Echo in here
Discussion
Thanks for your comments all - much appreciated, I managed to make some more progress yesterday too....
That said, I did take it out for a test run before the rain yesterday once I'd finished and it's not as obtrusive or obnoxious as I feared - just a little louder. Having said that, my benchmark of 'obnoxious' is my wife's Triumph Street Triple R on factory fit Arrow unseat pipes, so my opinion might not be valid.... It did make me smile a lot though (and I didn't see anyone wincing)!
This is what it looks like in-situ BTW - turns out the ramps were slightly at an angle, so 'straight' while on the ramps, isn't on the flat. This will be adjusted the next time I have it up for work.
As to the other stuff from yesterday, it was mostly bodywork (not my forte as the bonnet will testify...) The plan was not to have it looking magnificent, I have a body shop for that if so desired once they've finished the Corrado (in 2 weeks apparently), but to stop it rusting more and not look obvious.
Filler primer on top of the corrosion inhibiting primer then prep and a goodly number of coasts of top coat, then 3 coats of clearcoat to finish.
I don't have a shot of the final paint, but it needs tidying of tape lines as a minimum....
I changed the blower motor over for a 2-speed one from an earlier AX, as finding a 3-speed one was proving difficult, and having proved that the resistors advertised online are completely unsuitable a couple of years ago, this appeared my only choice.
Getting it out, was....more difficult than I remember. 'Remove the section under the steering column, undo the two 10mm nuts and withdraw.' says Haynes. This is not the full picture.
What you actually need to do is slacken the dashboard securing nut under the fusebox so that you can attempt the 3D puzzle one-handed, while blind as the other hand desperately tries to create an extra 5mm of clearance to stop the motor housing fouling the rear of the relay and fuse wiring and tearing out chunks of the loom.
Still I managed it in the end, and the two units are very similar externally, the clue being one has a 4 pin plug, and one a 3 pin plug. I shall take apart the 3-speed one to try and find and replace the resistor (probably when the two speed one fails in a week or so....). I oiled the bearings on the replacement unit as well, as it squeaked a lot when first tested....
Getting it back again? Worse than removing it. Considerably worse as you're fighting gravity as well as contorting yourself into the space of the drivers' footwell. Fixing it in place is achieved using the 'Corrado ignition switch replacement' position - back on the floor of the footwell, feet on the headrest while using all available body parts to manipulate sockets, extension bars, flexible extension bars and dropped fastenings. This is the aperture from below:
I also had part of the centre console out to repair the blower knob which had previously failed, been repaired and failed again. This fix may work, but I need to tape over the 'III' position on the dash, as the 2-speed motor clicks to 'I' and 'II' and I don't want to try and rotate it too far and break it again!
I had the steering wheel off to look at the dash illumination (without hitting myself in the face with it - top tip, remove the nut half-way, then loosen it from the splines....), as I bought some replacement bulbs, but to fully extract it will require the disconnection of the speedo drive cable from the gearbox, and this will have to wait for another day. I did take care when reassembling it though, as I think last time I overtightened the nut causing the wheel to rub slightly on the surround behind it.
On to the oil leak - this seems to be issuing from the plastic intake system above the single point injection system over the inlet manifold and running down the block:
I think the pair of O-rings are OK, but perhaps not quite secure, as the connection over the injection system and air filter isn't level with the air filter housing resting on the bottom of its tray. I suspect I've tried to connect the air filter housing first then not properly secured the intake housing, so made some alterations to the levels.
This is just the symptom though, there shouldn't be an excess of oil being flung about by the cams through the breather in the first place. I checked the oil level, and it was slightly over maximum, so I dropped a few hundred mm out of the sump. Then cleaned out the breather hoses in the plastic unit:
I didn't pull the hose with the green valve from the throttle body, as it needs the air filter removing, so that's one for next time... I'll see if the leak persists from the same place.
Other cosmetics? Well, as I can't find the number plate screw kit I know I have, I had to content myself with a new sticker for the rear windscreen:
Not in the same place unfortunately, but as the replacement was designed for internal application unlike the old one which was on the outside of the windscreen, it will do, as the glass bonded to the boot prevents access....
I also secured the loose rubber matt on the drivers' side, as there were two holes in it for just that purpose. Exciting stuff!
The test drive for the exhaust was glorious - mostly empty roads with passing opportunities for the odd slower caravan. The steering is lighter following reassembly, and I was listening to both the exhaust, and a compilation tape entitled 'B-road bad behaviour (Leftfield, Moby, Fluke, Propellerheads etc.).
Splendid!
Off to the garage with it this evening, so someone with a press can do the wheel bearings, although, on the test drive, I didn't head the noise. Interesting....
Bobberoo said:
Re the speakers, are you using an after market headunit?
There are many different ways to get better sound in the little AX, if it's an after market unit then look at either JBL Club or GTO speakers or JL Audio C1 series, if it's not after market then it's not powerful enough to run those speakers, done a lot of audio work over the years, feel free to PM me.
Thanks very much for the offer and information - it's not the original head unit, that went a few years ago when the volume control knob would cause one or both speakers to drop out.... It's a period (ish) correct Clarion unit (with a cassette player). Unfortunately, I saw this after ordering some replacement speakers with a better RMS rating. I may PM you so you can outline me next options when they prove to be no better though!There are many different ways to get better sound in the little AX, if it's an after market unit then look at either JBL Club or GTO speakers or JL Audio C1 series, if it's not after market then it's not powerful enough to run those speakers, done a lot of audio work over the years, feel free to PM me.
Cambs_Stuart said:
Good work. Fitting an exhaust by yourself with the car on stands is not an easy job.
Now, time for a midnight tunnel run?
Thank you - I confess it had its moments, I think I'm getting the day 2 DOMS today from the weekend's contortions. I think tomorrow may be worse! The only 'tunnel' in York is the one by the railway station, which unfortunately has some 4 way lights on it at the moment, making reliable solo access difficult. It's the route I usually take to the motorbike shop otherwise.... I am such a child. Now, time for a midnight tunnel run?
That said, I did take it out for a test run before the rain yesterday once I'd finished and it's not as obtrusive or obnoxious as I feared - just a little louder. Having said that, my benchmark of 'obnoxious' is my wife's Triumph Street Triple R on factory fit Arrow unseat pipes, so my opinion might not be valid.... It did make me smile a lot though (and I didn't see anyone wincing)!
This is what it looks like in-situ BTW - turns out the ramps were slightly at an angle, so 'straight' while on the ramps, isn't on the flat. This will be adjusted the next time I have it up for work.
cavebloke said:
You’ve been at the Copperslip again haven’t you darkyoung? Go on, admit it!
Who...me? I don't know what you mean! Spinakerr said:
I do love that twinpipe - the machining of the replacement nut/collett is impressive, nicely done!
Hope the face is ok after exhaust droppage. I don't think I've ever not dropped an exhaust on my head when looking at them.
Thanks - minimal damage I think, my spine is worse after doing the blower.... I confess, I was quite pleased with making up the fastenings, a real sense of satisfaction.Hope the face is ok after exhaust droppage. I don't think I've ever not dropped an exhaust on my head when looking at them.
As to the other stuff from yesterday, it was mostly bodywork (not my forte as the bonnet will testify...) The plan was not to have it looking magnificent, I have a body shop for that if so desired once they've finished the Corrado (in 2 weeks apparently), but to stop it rusting more and not look obvious.
Filler primer on top of the corrosion inhibiting primer then prep and a goodly number of coasts of top coat, then 3 coats of clearcoat to finish.
I don't have a shot of the final paint, but it needs tidying of tape lines as a minimum....
I changed the blower motor over for a 2-speed one from an earlier AX, as finding a 3-speed one was proving difficult, and having proved that the resistors advertised online are completely unsuitable a couple of years ago, this appeared my only choice.
Getting it out, was....more difficult than I remember. 'Remove the section under the steering column, undo the two 10mm nuts and withdraw.' says Haynes. This is not the full picture.
What you actually need to do is slacken the dashboard securing nut under the fusebox so that you can attempt the 3D puzzle one-handed, while blind as the other hand desperately tries to create an extra 5mm of clearance to stop the motor housing fouling the rear of the relay and fuse wiring and tearing out chunks of the loom.
Still I managed it in the end, and the two units are very similar externally, the clue being one has a 4 pin plug, and one a 3 pin plug. I shall take apart the 3-speed one to try and find and replace the resistor (probably when the two speed one fails in a week or so....). I oiled the bearings on the replacement unit as well, as it squeaked a lot when first tested....
Getting it back again? Worse than removing it. Considerably worse as you're fighting gravity as well as contorting yourself into the space of the drivers' footwell. Fixing it in place is achieved using the 'Corrado ignition switch replacement' position - back on the floor of the footwell, feet on the headrest while using all available body parts to manipulate sockets, extension bars, flexible extension bars and dropped fastenings. This is the aperture from below:
I also had part of the centre console out to repair the blower knob which had previously failed, been repaired and failed again. This fix may work, but I need to tape over the 'III' position on the dash, as the 2-speed motor clicks to 'I' and 'II' and I don't want to try and rotate it too far and break it again!
I had the steering wheel off to look at the dash illumination (without hitting myself in the face with it - top tip, remove the nut half-way, then loosen it from the splines....), as I bought some replacement bulbs, but to fully extract it will require the disconnection of the speedo drive cable from the gearbox, and this will have to wait for another day. I did take care when reassembling it though, as I think last time I overtightened the nut causing the wheel to rub slightly on the surround behind it.
On to the oil leak - this seems to be issuing from the plastic intake system above the single point injection system over the inlet manifold and running down the block:
I think the pair of O-rings are OK, but perhaps not quite secure, as the connection over the injection system and air filter isn't level with the air filter housing resting on the bottom of its tray. I suspect I've tried to connect the air filter housing first then not properly secured the intake housing, so made some alterations to the levels.
This is just the symptom though, there shouldn't be an excess of oil being flung about by the cams through the breather in the first place. I checked the oil level, and it was slightly over maximum, so I dropped a few hundred mm out of the sump. Then cleaned out the breather hoses in the plastic unit:
I didn't pull the hose with the green valve from the throttle body, as it needs the air filter removing, so that's one for next time... I'll see if the leak persists from the same place.
Other cosmetics? Well, as I can't find the number plate screw kit I know I have, I had to content myself with a new sticker for the rear windscreen:
Not in the same place unfortunately, but as the replacement was designed for internal application unlike the old one which was on the outside of the windscreen, it will do, as the glass bonded to the boot prevents access....
I also secured the loose rubber matt on the drivers' side, as there were two holes in it for just that purpose. Exciting stuff!
The test drive for the exhaust was glorious - mostly empty roads with passing opportunities for the odd slower caravan. The steering is lighter following reassembly, and I was listening to both the exhaust, and a compilation tape entitled 'B-road bad behaviour (Leftfield, Moby, Fluke, Propellerheads etc.).
Splendid!
Off to the garage with it this evening, so someone with a press can do the wheel bearings, although, on the test drive, I didn't head the noise. Interesting....
Good news from the garage, it's not the wheel bearings, and the drive shafts look fine as well (confirming what I could see when I was under it at the weekend....). The cause of the noise? A suspected protrusion from the area of the ball joint rubbing on the disc on full left lock that was causing the noise and vibration. It's marked the disc slightly, but not damaged it any way. The cost of the test drive and diagnosis on a 4 post lift? £20 to the garage beer fund. Splendid.
The UHU has glued the heater knob nicely in place which now works on double the settings it previously had - just in time for....oh. Well, I'll appreciate it in the autumn I'm sure.
Onto a 'nice to do' upgrade then - the speakers. Not to listen to bangin' choons, but so the audiobook could be turned up without distorting. Why yes, I AM embracing middle age, why do you ask?
These arrived in the post - an upgrade in potential maximum power and RMS, possibly to make no difference whatsoever given the standard head unit.
Still an easy job, prise off the covers with a flat bladed screwdriver and then undo 4 no. phillips head screws per speaker:
Of course the connections were slightly different, one of the blade crimps needed replacing with a wider one, and for this, there is a tool I'm glad I bought years ago. I don't need it often, but the ratchet action means you can hold the connector gently while positioning the wire, then crimp it to a good finish:
Old vs. New:
A quick test run of them in motion has revealed the sound quality is better at the treble end, although if really pushed (Walk this Land by E-Z Rollers), the bass does distort (on that track, it's really not a surprise though.... Hopefully, this means that the treble will maintain its clarity on audio books which is where it was giving up at high volume previously.
To be tested on the run to Le Mans Classic next week.....
The UHU has glued the heater knob nicely in place which now works on double the settings it previously had - just in time for....oh. Well, I'll appreciate it in the autumn I'm sure.
Onto a 'nice to do' upgrade then - the speakers. Not to listen to bangin' choons, but so the audiobook could be turned up without distorting. Why yes, I AM embracing middle age, why do you ask?
These arrived in the post - an upgrade in potential maximum power and RMS, possibly to make no difference whatsoever given the standard head unit.
Still an easy job, prise off the covers with a flat bladed screwdriver and then undo 4 no. phillips head screws per speaker:
Of course the connections were slightly different, one of the blade crimps needed replacing with a wider one, and for this, there is a tool I'm glad I bought years ago. I don't need it often, but the ratchet action means you can hold the connector gently while positioning the wire, then crimp it to a good finish:
Old vs. New:
A quick test run of them in motion has revealed the sound quality is better at the treble end, although if really pushed (Walk this Land by E-Z Rollers), the bass does distort (on that track, it's really not a surprise though.... Hopefully, this means that the treble will maintain its clarity on audio books which is where it was giving up at high volume previously.
To be tested on the run to Le Mans Classic next week.....
TonyRPH said:
Distortion will usually be due to lack of available watts from the head unit rather than the speakers themselves.
The (one) original speaker you posted a picture of looks to be in quite good condition.
A sure fire way to test them, is to hold the speaker up to your ear and tap the cone gently (tap enough to make a sound, but not hard enough to displace the cone).
The result should be a clean sounding noise. If there's any kind of additional vibration noise then the speaker was likely to be knackered.
The (one) original speaker you posted a picture of looks to be in quite good condition.
A sure fire way to test them, is to hold the speaker up to your ear and tap the cone gently (tap enough to make a sound, but not hard enough to displace the cone).
The result should be a clean sounding noise. If there's any kind of additional vibration noise then the speaker was likely to be knackered.
Bobberoo said:
There simply won't be enough output from the headunit to drive them properly, several options ranging from a new headunit with more power up to a small amp.
Thanks very much for this information both, really useful stuff. PH shows itself to be full of useful information again! I should have done more research before just assuming the cheap (but OK as it turns out) speakers weren't up to the job. The issue lies with the period correct (but low output Clarion head unit. I'll see how we get on, but have eyed up a couple of second hand amps that are for sale on a popular auction site, you know, just in case....Spinakerr said:
Propellerheads...one of the best! Nothing like OHMSS and a night drive.
Both speakers were two way, but is there nyfhing else loose in tge back of the door card?
Such a shame there was only the one album (although the EP was good). OHMSS and Spybreak are both favourites.... Although, there's no bad track on there! Nothing loose in the back of the door card fortunately, just injection moulded polymer providing rudimentary sound damping!Both speakers were two way, but is there nyfhing else loose in tge back of the door card?
The last preparations on the car before the Le Mans trip - routine servicing of the air filter. I'd obtained the Pipercross servicing kit, so out it came:
A couple of loosened flat head screws on the clamps later:
Brush off the loose, apply the cleaning additive and work in with a brush, was the whole thing and leave to dry:
Once properly dry, add other additive to catch dirt, and reinstall (refitting for once is the reverse of removal).
Le Mans or bust.....
Cambs_Stuart said:
Have a fantastic time at Le Mans! Hope the AX behaves.
Thanks, we're on our way, with a friend who's Maserati is playing ball this year (unlike last year...)
This is the first serious long run with the new exhaust, the good news is that it's not a hideous racket at higher speeds.
the bad news is that it did try and gas us.... That's my fault for not wanting to over-tighten the bolts, leading to a slight blow of gas getting into the ventilation intake...
A 10mm adjustment at a planned stop improved matters greatly...
Hard acceleration still gives the odd whiff though, so a little more adjustment needed when we get to our overnight stop in Kent.
Current status?
Chasing something with double the cylinders and who knows how much more horsepower through the lanes of Kent.
A cracking run down yesterday, Rouen, Evreux, Mortagne au Perche etc. via some county D roads which were more fun than the Autoroute, albeit a little slower.
Got camped about 200 yards from the Marshall point on the approach to Porsche Curves in Beusejours next to some lovely local lads.
Super U in Arnage has provided all necessary goods (and then some), and the AX has been getting love from locals and tourists alike - c'est un Eeyex!
Many photos to post, but given the signal strength on the campsite, I'm afraid that will have to wait!
Got camped about 200 yards from the Marshall point on the approach to Porsche Curves in Beusejours next to some lovely local lads.
Super U in Arnage has provided all necessary goods (and then some), and the AX has been getting love from locals and tourists alike - c'est un Eeyex!
Many photos to post, but given the signal strength on the campsite, I'm afraid that will have to wait!
Followed this to Arnage on the shopping run.
Found something similar to park next to when we got there!
Great camping spot, trees and away from too many people.
With this about 100 yards away....
Lots of splendid cool stuff parked up in the campsite. More photos to follow, when signal strength, battery etc. permit!
More random campsite and car park stuff:
In our little shady enclave, there were Porsches of different eras, an RX7, an S2000, a 205 Gti and MI16 and various other old and interesting stuff... The campsite was almost enough. Almost....
The paddocks however were just amazing.
I have more, but as we're travelling through rural France on the N12, the signal is preventing me at the moment.
In our little shady enclave, there were Porsches of different eras, an RX7, an S2000, a 205 Gti and MI16 and various other old and interesting stuff... The campsite was almost enough. Almost....
The paddocks however were just amazing.
I have more, but as we're travelling through rural France on the N12, the signal is preventing me at the moment.
cavebloke said:
Brilliant photos. I remember seeing the Dewalt TVRs in the main race - funny to see them at Classic now. Safe travels home. Look forward to hearing about it all over a pint soon!
Mmmm....a pint of something cold not a cmpsite ambient Pelforth you say? You're on!The TVRs et. al. were running in a separate race to the main classic - Legends of Endurance Racing. Bentleys of that era too!
More paddock photos (from Paddock 5 I think):
This Capri was on a mission on track. Saw it so a spectacular overtaking manoeuvre at the Porsche Curves - up the inside of one, then the outside of the next.
The Howmet Turbine car powered by a C20 (?) helicopter turbine spinning at 57000rpm and putting out 400hp. Apparently there's a diverter valve to manage how much of the thrust goes to the wheels. Sounds eerily quiet on track.
I don't know what this is I'm afraid, but there were 3 of them in slightly different bodywork parked in the paddock, then out on track doing a lap between the grids:
This was the official viewing point at the Porsche Curves about 10 minutes from the campsite. You got a great view of the rear of the cars going into Virage du Pont as well, but I was using a 35mm camera for most of the shots of stuff on track I was taking.
Paddock 1 yesterday afternoon - my favourite personally. Watching a vintage car being hustled round track is soothing special:
It was a much briefer sojourn than I would have liked, but we had to get packed up and head for the booked Le Shuttle.... Once we'd got out of the car park....
A little more Peage than on the way down, but the N12/N154 between Alencon and Rouen was lovely. There was some necessary Jonny Smith inspired stopping on the way...
Made it to Le Shuttle in excellent time, although the new exhaust needs more attention as there's still a definitely leak of gas between the manifold and main pipe which gets into the cabin under hard acceleration. It's less subtle than I'd ideally like too, but overall I'm happy with it! There is less noise from the engine at higher speeds, its all now coming from the back...there's just more of that then there was.
Back up the UK today with about another 1000 miles added to the AX on the trip overall. It's done well so far, especially as it's packed to the gunwals with camping stuff (and wine) and the normally perky handling is rather compromised. The side wind on the approach to Calais yesterday was interesting, and the 2 ton Maserati in my mirrors didn't seem to be having the same problem!
This Capri was on a mission on track. Saw it so a spectacular overtaking manoeuvre at the Porsche Curves - up the inside of one, then the outside of the next.
The Howmet Turbine car powered by a C20 (?) helicopter turbine spinning at 57000rpm and putting out 400hp. Apparently there's a diverter valve to manage how much of the thrust goes to the wheels. Sounds eerily quiet on track.
I don't know what this is I'm afraid, but there were 3 of them in slightly different bodywork parked in the paddock, then out on track doing a lap between the grids:
This was the official viewing point at the Porsche Curves about 10 minutes from the campsite. You got a great view of the rear of the cars going into Virage du Pont as well, but I was using a 35mm camera for most of the shots of stuff on track I was taking.
Paddock 1 yesterday afternoon - my favourite personally. Watching a vintage car being hustled round track is soothing special:
It was a much briefer sojourn than I would have liked, but we had to get packed up and head for the booked Le Shuttle.... Once we'd got out of the car park....
A little more Peage than on the way down, but the N12/N154 between Alencon and Rouen was lovely. There was some necessary Jonny Smith inspired stopping on the way...
Made it to Le Shuttle in excellent time, although the new exhaust needs more attention as there's still a definitely leak of gas between the manifold and main pipe which gets into the cabin under hard acceleration. It's less subtle than I'd ideally like too, but overall I'm happy with it! There is less noise from the engine at higher speeds, its all now coming from the back...there's just more of that then there was.
Back up the UK today with about another 1000 miles added to the AX on the trip overall. It's done well so far, especially as it's packed to the gunwals with camping stuff (and wine) and the normally perky handling is rather compromised. The side wind on the approach to Calais yesterday was interesting, and the 2 ton Maserati in my mirrors didn't seem to be having the same problem!
Spinakerr said:
Ugh that is annoying - good luck wiht the fettling on the Clio. Le Mans Classic next year? AX, Clio, 164?
I would certainly be up for that! Discussions had already begun about next year's Classic, all being well, in the AX again!I'm hoping to get some exhaust investigations done soon, but think the problem may not actually be the joint after all, but the emissions from the pipe....
While I remember, the next Classic is 2025, not next year. Blast. Still that gives me longer to plan a way around Rouen as I won't be able to drive the AX through there by then....
2023 is clearly the year of longer distance runs for the AX though. A phone call yesterday from my in-laws resulted in an unplanned day off today and a rescue trip to Criccieth.
Their Volvo estate was refusing to engage gears with the engine running... It will be recovered to York to who knows what fate, but first job was getting them, their luggage and the dog home.
6am start, queues on the M1 and M62 (no surprises there), but they were collected by 10am.
Back the same way with a quick top up in the services on the M62 on the way back due to a sudden spot of new exhaust induced range anxiety.
A 400 mile round trip, half of which was a lot heavier than the other half (although it is fortunately a small dog...) still saw 52mpg, so I needn't have worried too much!
Says a lot about the AX that I'll happily jump in it to do that of course!
2023 is clearly the year of longer distance runs for the AX though. A phone call yesterday from my in-laws resulted in an unplanned day off today and a rescue trip to Criccieth.
Their Volvo estate was refusing to engage gears with the engine running... It will be recovered to York to who knows what fate, but first job was getting them, their luggage and the dog home.
6am start, queues on the M1 and M62 (no surprises there), but they were collected by 10am.
Back the same way with a quick top up in the services on the M62 on the way back due to a sudden spot of new exhaust induced range anxiety.
A 400 mile round trip, half of which was a lot heavier than the other half (although it is fortunately a small dog...) still saw 52mpg, so I needn't have worried too much!
Says a lot about the AX that I'll happily jump in it to do that of course!
The AX has been busy of late, my other half has been using it to head out to Filey on a regular basis, clocking up the miles. I've also been using it to drop bits and pieces off the the Corrado.
It's blown another nearside sidelight bulb for some reason, same as last time so possibly some issue there...
The new exhaust appears to have liberated some horses too with definite approval given for noise and power. I'm still not sure what the MOT outcome would be, as I'm unsure as to whether the stainless system has a Cat in it or not. One for the emissions test.
In more recent developments, having sold the Volvo estate, then needed a tow car and used the AX for that purpose, time to take it to the next level...
Why yes, that is a full height freezer, why do you ask...?
Crucial to secure the bonded glass and plastic boot lid carefully of course....
A successful trip through torrential rain across town listening to the exhaust in full cry through the open boot!
Load adequately secured and numberplate visible, win. I was going to take the passenger seat out, but I'm glad I didn't in the end.
It's blown another nearside sidelight bulb for some reason, same as last time so possibly some issue there...
The new exhaust appears to have liberated some horses too with definite approval given for noise and power. I'm still not sure what the MOT outcome would be, as I'm unsure as to whether the stainless system has a Cat in it or not. One for the emissions test.
In more recent developments, having sold the Volvo estate, then needed a tow car and used the AX for that purpose, time to take it to the next level...
Why yes, that is a full height freezer, why do you ask...?
Crucial to secure the bonded glass and plastic boot lid carefully of course....
A successful trip through torrential rain across town listening to the exhaust in full cry through the open boot!
Load adequately secured and numberplate visible, win. I was going to take the passenger seat out, but I'm glad I didn't in the end.
Edited by darkyoung1000 on Saturday 5th August 11:17
The AX continues to fulfil the role vacated by the Volvo - Friday was shifting a heavy wooden desk across town for a friend. Who needs a large, easy access boot anyway...?
It's also been clocking up the miles with regular trips to Filey, and yesterday, after some minor fettling to secure a slightly lower indicator, a 200+ mile round trip to the Ingram show.
The car loped along the A19 happily, then enjoyed some fun on the Coldstream Road before driving across a field to allow us to watch Border Collies doing their thing....
Still happily returning 50+mpg on runs like this, although a look at the suspension is in order as there is a definite rubbing noise from the rear wheel arch upon hard cornering....
Please let it not be the rear subframe bushes.
It's also been clocking up the miles with regular trips to Filey, and yesterday, after some minor fettling to secure a slightly lower indicator, a 200+ mile round trip to the Ingram show.
The car loped along the A19 happily, then enjoyed some fun on the Coldstream Road before driving across a field to allow us to watch Border Collies doing their thing....
Still happily returning 50+mpg on runs like this, although a look at the suspension is in order as there is a definite rubbing noise from the rear wheel arch upon hard cornering....
Please let it not be the rear subframe bushes.
Edited by darkyoung1000 on Sunday 10th September 19:25
Ticked over 84365 miles this weekend.
Changed oil and filter (Crossland and Halfords/Castrol 10w40)
Lubricated bonnet catch
Changed number plate screws
Checked brake pad retaining pins (O/S bottom one is seized in place and will need cutting out when pads need doing). Drove out and applied copper slip to remaining 3 then reassembled.
Plenty of life left on pads and disks seem fine (advantage of such a light car).
Applied copper slip to mating face of wheels and hubs as off side was stuck on.
Changed oil and filter (Crossland and Halfords/Castrol 10w40)
Lubricated bonnet catch
Changed number plate screws
Checked brake pad retaining pins (O/S bottom one is seized in place and will need cutting out when pads need doing). Drove out and applied copper slip to remaining 3 then reassembled.
Plenty of life left on pads and disks seem fine (advantage of such a light car).
Applied copper slip to mating face of wheels and hubs as off side was stuck on.
There's a 'to do list developing, just in time for the worst of the weather. The good news is, that some of it will be for others to do...
First up, this gift from a lorry, likely to be an insurance job, although it might be repaired rather than replaced:
The aerial has been snapped off the roof mount in an unfortunate reversing incident, but as the radio has never worked, that's more of an aesthetic issue, and can wait for warmer drier weather...
The thermostat sticking open however, is more of a pain. The output from the heater has diminished considerably, and the fuel economy is worse (the emergency petrol can had to be deployed earlier in the week).
I have a thermostat, I just need a slightly drier day on the run up to Christmas to sort it, before the complicated Christmas logistics happen involving multiple vehicles and Boxing Day workings...
In the meantime, and in Episode 3 of 'We Definitively Don't Regret Selling the Estate Car Honest' have some comedy photos of the new low rider look...
24 no. 450mm2 paving slabs and 6 bags of sharp sand. About an additional 400kg or so, and enough to drag the rear mud flaps on tarmac over bumps.
Still, this:
Was turned into this:
and was celebrated by taking the long way back home to enjoy having a light car again!
First up, this gift from a lorry, likely to be an insurance job, although it might be repaired rather than replaced:
The aerial has been snapped off the roof mount in an unfortunate reversing incident, but as the radio has never worked, that's more of an aesthetic issue, and can wait for warmer drier weather...
The thermostat sticking open however, is more of a pain. The output from the heater has diminished considerably, and the fuel economy is worse (the emergency petrol can had to be deployed earlier in the week).
I have a thermostat, I just need a slightly drier day on the run up to Christmas to sort it, before the complicated Christmas logistics happen involving multiple vehicles and Boxing Day workings...
In the meantime, and in Episode 3 of 'We Definitively Don't Regret Selling the Estate Car Honest' have some comedy photos of the new low rider look...
24 no. 450mm2 paving slabs and 6 bags of sharp sand. About an additional 400kg or so, and enough to drag the rear mud flaps on tarmac over bumps.
Still, this:
Was turned into this:
and was celebrated by taking the long way back home to enjoy having a light car again!
Jhonno said:
Bobberoo said:
You're not going to leave those slabs all uneven like that are you???
Not just me who was getting itchy teeth about it then? 
I'd also be lying if I said that it also didn't irk me slightly (especially the different sizes
). The resident was happy though!Onto some AX stuff though, cooling system related - the suspected stuck open thermostat.
Nice and easy to get to - no drain plug so remove the bottom hose and the rusty looking coolant pours out - that might be why it stuck open then.... Pipe off the housing, pull the old 'stat out and flush both the radiator and block/system with the hose.
Then out with the old and in with the new...
Ah... how very mid-90s French Hatchback of you.
Not entirely unexpected of course, I'm actually surprised if a part I've ordered for this car turns out to be correct first time...
There followed an enjoyable filter across town to the motor factors on the 250 which had been left free for just this purpose!
CTS checked their database again, declared the part they had supplied matched the manufacturer data according to the registration....then said... but there is another listed as well. Bien sur. A quick rummage supplied the correct matching part, a £3 refund and an unnecessary apology. Excellent service from them, they are fast becoming my motor factor of choice!
In the intervening time, it had got dark and started raining, and I had got hungry. Eating didn't make it dry or light, but did provide enough motivation for me to break out the super light and crack on using an appropriate header tank.
Now filled with a mixture of green HOAT coolant mixed 50/50 with de-ionised water and bled up. It's always slightly nerve wracking until the thermostat opens, there's a massive burp from the header tank and you know most of the air is out...
More so on this occasion when the fan seems to take an age to kick in!
That will hopefully make it a little warmer in the cabin for winter though!
Bobberoo said:
Excellent update thanks, good to see it's still in daily use!!
Thank you! It faithfully fulfilled Christmas travelling duties, putting another 400-odd miles under its wheels on Christmas Day - unfortunately, the thermostat change has not improved matters in terms of cabin heat output - or rather, it appeared to have made a difference while the car was static, then failed in real word conditions!The thermotstat opened/opens so its working and allowing coolant to the radiator at a pre-detemined temperature.
It blows warm (not hot) air from the vents when the engine is up to temperature so the heater matrix is functioning.
Above a certain speed however, the warm air vanishes from the vents and cannot be coaxed to return until the car is back to town speeds - given the large amount of dual carriageway driving on Christmas day, this meant an...alert drive home.
My thoughts are either that I have an air lock in the system (I would have suspected overheating rather than overcooling though).
The thermostat supplied has the wrong temperature set, and is opening too early allowing to engine to 'over cool'
The heater matrix is gunged up and needs flushing out.
There's no temperature gauge in the car, and no OBD port, so that makes diagnosis a little tricker. Any other suggestions on what I might have missed? I suppose the first step is to empty it again, flush the matrix with a hose and try and see if I can pursuade my thermal camera into action with a pan of water and the new 'stat.
The MPG remains lower than it has been (about 45mpg) suggesting that the engine isn't operating as efficiently as normal as well which points me towards the 'over cooling' theory...the reason for changing the thermostat in the first place!
bolidemichael said:
I suppose that it wasn't you that I saw in Bodiam, Kent, on Boxing day riding a black Ducati 749, then!
- Not me guv! My OH was in London on a (very long) shift at Haringay, but I was back in York by that point!My wallet incinerating package of trouble is also red
Spinakerr said:
Could you use one of those remote thermal probes to compare to optimum running? Or could it just be the current climate also lowering the ambient temperature too much to get the best mpg (is that really a thing)?
Good the see the AX continuing to excel at all the random tasks and mileage you throw at it.
It has kept on ticking away - I'm waiting for warmer weather and time off to have a proper dig around the cooling system and investigate. The Corrado was overcooling very badly with a dicky themostat (according to the oil temperature reading) which made me assume it was that. I'm not sure the investigation is going to be before our trip to Wales in March unfortunately, but whenever it is, I'll fire up my FLIR camera to see if I can get a better idea of what's going on here. The correctly fitting thermostat works, as there was a rush of coolant and the radiator and fan kicked in. Good the see the AX continuing to excel at all the random tasks and mileage you throw at it.
It doesn't then produce heat in the cabin once you get to a certain speed indicating it's cooling too efficiently (or the heater matrix is full of crud - hopefully this).
I do idly wonder if the thermostat is opening at the correct temperature for the engine, with the adjustments I've made. Looking at the Haynes manual, the TU3 engine (1.4) from the GTi has a different operating temperature range (93 - 95 degrees) wheras the others are 88-100 degrees:
I'll do another drain and flush of the entire system first though!
Cambs_Stuart said:
Always good to see the AX running about. I can't remember seeing another in public for a long time now.
It's still a fun thing to have around - I do think that most of them have rotted away now in the UK - the last time I saw one (well 3) in the wild was in Le Mans last summer. I'll keep it going as long as I can!bolidemichael said:
darkyoung1000 said:
bolidemichael said:
I suppose that it wasn't you that I saw in Bodiam, Kent, on Boxing day riding a black Ducati 749, then!
- Not me guv! My OH was in London on a (very long) shift at Haringay, but I was back in York by that point!My wallet incinerating package of trouble is also red
). On a day to day basis, I probably get more enjoyment from riding the 250!Gassing Station | Readers' Cars | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff