Build Diary 13

Build Diary Page 13

• Rear wheel arch protectors.

To prevent the rear wheel arches being damaged from stones, my Dad made a pair of aluminium protectors.

• More shiny bits.

To cover up the rather ugly gap between the roll bar and the rear bodywork, my Dad made a pair of aluminium covers. Mmmmm!

• 11/06/06 Engine started!

The big day finally arrived, the engine was started. It took a bit of coaxing, the engine was quite tight, but after putting a small amount of light oil into the cylinders it helped to free it up. The first cough (more of a fire ball) came out of the air intake, possibly a sticky valve, it resulted in a melted air filter, oops! Eventually it fired and the oil pressure rocketed up to 70 psi, a healthy start. I let the engine come up to temperature to make sure the radiator fan and thermostat were working. The expansion cap was left loose to let any trapped air come out, there were plenty of bubbles which gradually diminished as they worked their way out of the system. The engine was then stopped, and we checked for leaks etc. Thankfully only a small leak from a coolant hose, so the clip was tightened.

• Seats/Interior.

The trim and carpeting was finished. The drivers seat was fitted along with the 4 point harness. It was quite frustrating fitting the seat because you can't see the bolts when the seat is in place, you have to do it by touch. The passenger seat could not be fitted at this stage because the frame that the car is sitting on was blocking access to the holes.

• Wheels.

The car is almost ready to be lowered down from its frame. So it's on with the wheels! (The Sierra steering wheel will only be on until it passes its SVA.)