first impressions

[pinchmeimdreamin]

Well not put enough miles on it yet but must say Im glad i did it, ive actually got a car in the garage i can go and work on rather than just look at

The problem is (prepares to be abused) I bought a cheaper car thinking i would then start the bill paying but i have spent the last 2 nights in the garage looking for problems and Im struggling (so far need new seatbelt, passenger door mirror isnt sitting right and bonnet catches bodywork slightly).

Ok i know Im probably giving it the kiss of death but i thought i would check a few things prior to starting the hard work and.............

Checked the chassis just supperficially for now but all i can see is surface rust (even poked around inside corners ), checked the stepper motor, quick wipe and clean as new, plugs are as new, fan has aftermarket warning light on and comes on and off no worries, no leaks or strange squueaks/rattles creaks, also found in the boot bag full of bits I thought would be old bits replaced but ended up being a firat aid kit for the car (brand new bulbs spare spark plug and extension new throtlle cable, fuses, new temp sensor, jubilee clips, tie wraps) so Im thinking the last owner actually looked after the car.Only problem i may have found is a whine when travelling (bearings/propshaft/gearbox type sound) more investigation needed.
Im going to try and find someone localish who knows Chims to have a listen look for me



So having typed all that no doubt i will be back tomorrow to say the engine has blown up but for now Im a very happy fellow

[Blues]

Well done chap, fingers crossed that all continues to go well.
One bit of car work that does need urgent attention is that Italian photo on your profile

[sapper]

Congratulations on your new baby. sounds like youve found one thats been looked after. If your looking for someone to have a listen then the east midlands branch of the TVR club are meeting sunday lunch time, and south yorks next wednesday evening. Depends where about in notts you are which is easier to get to but plenty of good people with lots of experience at either meet. good luck and welcome

[kenny Chim 4]

pinchmeimdreamin said:

So having typed all that no doubt i will be back tomorrow to say the engine has blown up but for now Im a very happy fellow

Darren, get into the habit of checking the oil and coolant levels on weekly basis. I don't mean to sound patronising here, but don't just pull the dipstick out (once the engine is cold) and think the level looks ok- wipe it, replace, and remove again. The depth of travel of the dipstick of a V8 engine can show the wrong results on a cursory check.

Similarly, check the coolant level by (again, when cold) removing the expansion tank cap (the blue VW one on the top of the rad) and ensure it hasn't drained.

This will minimise the prospect of you finding that the engine has blown up

[roysum]

Only problem i may have found is a whine when travelling (bearings/propshaft/gearbox type sound) more investigation needed.

Might be fuel pump, they can be quite noisy. I believe they are a Ford component, Escort Mk3??
Roy.