In three weeks time, we’ll be at the Practical Classics Restoration Show at the NEC. Gulp!
Here’s a little update on how far along we are with the winter work. Engine first – most new bits are ordered and sitting on the kitchen table. Crank and head are at the machine shop, and the block is ready to be stripped. At the Stoneleigh spares day I purchased a shiny plated alternator as an indulgent little treat to myself! Also the 1300 profile camshaft from Canley Classics has been delivered, so I’m looking forward to getting the rebuild underway. Gearbox has been painted, front dampers cleaned and painted, and the steering rack has been renewed with a coat of black paint, new gaiters and track rod ends.
Shell wise, we are now in primer, and ready to go with the base coats and clear. I decided the whole car is going to be painted, not just the front panels – the colour match was slightly off and it will annoy me forever. Unfortunately it’s been extremely cold in Britain the last few days – certainly not painting weather, so that’ll have to wait a few days. It’s meant to be warmer next weekend – so fingers crossed!!
Away from the garage (where my water bottle froze) and into the warmth of home, I’ve managed to get almost all of the interior panels re-covered in black PVC leatherette, and a new carpet set has been purchased from David Manners Group. I’m interested to see the quality, but salesman and fellow Midget owner Iwan reckons they’re pretty good. DMG have supplied almost all of the rebuild, coming in significantly cheaper than most places and I know from my Minor exploits their parts are top quality.
I’ve also refreshed the headrest speakers in my newly cleaned MX-5 seats. These were a gift from Tom Morris at Minor Designs Ltd. and the hidden speakers will be paired with a low-profile sub and a hidden bluetooth receiver to give a neat, incognito sound system.
Finally, I’ve welded the plasma cut CAD plate into the dashboard – it’s excitedly waiting some gauges and switches, although a few coats of metallic gunmetal grey will be hitting it first. There’s also the grille, engine, manifolds and a few other bits to paint, but like I say it’s not something one does when it’s minus seven outside!
