My new Mk2

[Tibs]

Well ladies and gentlespoons, I waved goodbye to my beloved 1.3 Merit that I have cherished for so long this week, so have been Mk2-less ever since.




Its not been a good feeling, especially as some of you on here have such lovely looking Mk2's and some are already talking about what fun they are going to have this year.....



So, as a result of wishing I still had my Mk2, and also the fruits of a few months ducking/diving/general badgering and financial juggling, I would like to show you my purchase which came home late yesterday. (Been away with missus for the night, so posting now......)

Be kind peeps, as not all of us can afford 300bhp scooby slaying beasts just yet....!





http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021107feb30077.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021107feb30078.jpg

I know it may not be everyones taste, and being honest not everything is mine either.

Will post some more pics soon.

Bit grubby and needs a bit of TLC. Got smaller plates to fit(still legal tho, nothing silly), and think i'll change the front indicators to clear for now, other than that and some tyres, i'm gonna enjoy driving it for a while to get used to it and find its limits.......

Tibs

[norm61]

thats well smart matey! love the wheels and the plate!

doesnt look very rusty at all!

[johnl]

Was going to say it looks very tidy. Is that leather seats I spy as well?

[astrasteve23]

that look quite mint! i like it, is it a 1.8?

[Ian T]

Very nice.

Any plans you want to share with us? :)

Ian.

[the wicker man]

tibs mate i like that!

is it black or purpley (is purpley a word have to check that later lol)

needs some front fogs & look a treat

[astrasteve23]

i like the foglightless look!

[teej]

Cor, that's nice!

What wheels are they?

[Dale]

looking mint, 1.8 8v yer? loving it tho!

[Dave bowers]

hell that looks well. that wants leaving exactly how it looks.

[Ross_Mk2]

Looks well nice mate, don't put the old girl down :D

[mking]

thats gorgeous, one of the better colours imo aswell :thumbsup:

[Ross_Mk2]

thats gorgeous, one of the better colours imo aswell :thumbsup:

Agreed :D

[Tibs]

Thanks for the great comments chaps. :)


Was going to say it looks very tidy. Is that leather seats I spy as well?


You have eyes like the preverbial 5h1t house rat my friend, it has full champion interior, smells lovely!

As said, gonna leave it pretty much as it is for now, just iron out a few small niggles and get it serviced/cambelt renewed.

The colour is a purple shade used on Mk3 Astras and Cavaliers i'm told.

Wheels are 15" OZ Supertourismo, custom machined by OZ at the factory for previous owner.






Looks like an 8v doesn't she? hehehe!!!!!!!! ;-)




Tibs

[bigdrifter]

Looking very nice how it is

[Simon]

Nice mate

[Danny]

Very nice Tibs. Good find. :thumbsup:

[mutznutz]

very, very nice, ive only just read the thread but must say i did notice the headrests aswell!!!! and ive always wanted a gte in that colour.

full champ leather, the purple shade (best imho) ,16v.
all that and your asking us to be kind!!!!lol
this thread will be full of praise!!!
you now own a VERY sexy gte!!!!, good luck with it.

[Black Magic]

yes, very nice

[Tibs]

Thanks again fellas.

Its nice to think that a few others think its as nice as i do.

Suppose i should give a bit of a run down on the spec shall I?

Well................................




ENGINE
1998cc four-cylinder, 16 valve, turbocharged twincam from Calibra Turbo.
Long life custom-built big bore stainless steel exhaust.

TRANSMISSION
Calibra Turbo F28 six-speed manual gearbox converted to two wheel drive.
Quaiffe ATB LSD

BRAKES
Tarox grooved and vented front discs with uprated pads.
GTE 16V rear disc beam.

SUSPENSION
Koni adjustable dampers.
-60mm lowering springs.

WHEELS
OZ Racing 7x15inch Superturismo alloys machined to 49mm offset.

BODY
GTE 8V bodyshell, seam welded.
De-badged, resprayed Vauxhall Aurora Purple metallic.
Aero fuel filler.
VW Golf GTi side repeaters.
De-locked doors.
Bee-sting roof aerial.
Colour-coded front indicators, Door handles and roof gutter trims.
Vauxhall mudflaps front and rear.
Private registration number.

INTERIOR
Astra GTE 16valve Champion Edition Connelly leather Recaro seats and door cards.
Mk3 Astra GSi leather steeing wheel.
Momo leather gearknob.
Lucas boost gauge.
Purple dashboard detailing.
Electric sunroof, windows and mirrors.
GTE logo'd Purple bound carpet set.

SECURITY
Plenty, so its staying mine..........





Think that covers it pretty much, i've probably missed something, but there you go!

[Belmont turbo]

Be kind peeps, as not all of us can afford 300bhp scooby slaying beasts just yet....!

Tibs

not far off tho :applause:

very nice mate. sleepertastic :D

[Steve Heley]

If i believe right, it used to be owned by a lass who was in the VPCC... Nice car :)

[Tibs]

If i believe right, it used to be owned by a lass who was in the VPCC... Nice car :)

Very right Mr Heley!

You know anything of the history? I know quite a bit, interested in more.......

[curly]

if you need clear indicators give us a shout as i have a set of my 8v in the garage!
looking better than mine !!!!
lot less rust

[Steve Heley]

Don't know alot, seen it at some shows and i think it was in an issue of the VPCC High Performer magazine..

[Tibs]

Got a copy of the same mag, was cover car and feature too.

Interested to see if anyone has any pics from any shows she was at in the past.

[GazJevs84]

:grinning-smiley-043 :grinning-smiley-043 :grinning-smiley-043

Excellent car and find fella where do people find these cars!!!!!!!!

Can i be cheeky and ask how much? or area in price you paid fella

[Ross_Mk2]

Well after the spec list..... you didn't mention it was a turbo earlier in the thread did you??? Sly!!!!

[vauxmad]

very nice mate should surprise a few people with the turbo!!!!!!! bit of change from the last one

[exclusivemark]

hell that looks well. that wants leaving exactly how it looks.

AGREED :)

[Graham]

Yeh I recognise that car from vpcc.

Bit of bad news for you I saw it going around silverstone a few years back after a porshe.

next I saw was the GTE in the gravel.

Was owned by a female teacher IIRC.

Nice car.

[BazW]

so you finally got it then :thumbsup: will you be joining us at york dragway then this season to :Banane56: some jap cars

[Tibs]

Yes Graham, I was told of the 'off' before I bought it, its mentioned in the mag feature too. No damage done at the time really. Apparently she saw red when an M5 got inside at a corner and it turned out to be tighter than she thought!

Bought from a teacher, your right. Its been sat for about a year, and wasn't for sale. Just happened to see it one day late last year being mot'd and asked about it. Turned out to be an awful lot more car then my first impressions created..........contacted the owner, much conversation over several months via phone and text, couple of visits and test drives, struck a deal and hey-presto as they say! She has an MR2 Turbo as a toy and a Rover as an everyday car, so it was just living in her garage........didn't want to sell it, but at the same time hated it not being used and enjoyed. I've promised her a good home............Baz had an inckling it was on its way to me, he very kindly supplied me with a copy of the afor mention magazine (thank you again my friend! :applause: ).

Update to follow when i've eaten my tea.........

[Tibs]

Update.......

First purchase for my new Mk2.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_020207feb0019.jpg

Not the best tyres in the world, but nor are they the worst. One of the fronts on the car as I bought it, was cracking due to age, so thought i'd put a pair of new boots on the front. Already running Yokohama on the back, so they kind of match.........besides, cost me £56 for the two, so i'm well happy with them! Haha!

Got one fitted, but the original 'problem' tyre wont come off the rim! Ar5e! Our tyre machine at work wont break the bead on the inner edge, so going to take it back in tomorrow for another go.

Had my first 'scare' on the way back. It bites like a b1tch, torque-steering under power, but it really caught me playing with a Cooper S. Third gear spin up and spit me across the white lines..........PARP!

I'll get used to that. Honest.

[James C]

Certainly a bit of a change from a 75bhp 1300s!

And you don't have to worry about having paid up for membership and not having a MK2! :applause:

Have you got any Daewoo seals for it yet :)

[Tibs]

No seals for it yet! lol!

Managed to get the 'problem' tyre changed over today thankfully. Now have a bit more stability, grip and confidence in the front end.:thumbsup:

Was getting dark as I brought her home. A small fault I knew of before I bought it, but showed itself today, is that when I turn the lights on, the dash goes off.......

I did ask about this a while back and you all kindly pointed me towards the dimmer switch. If i get chance at the weekend, i'll be fitting a brand new one to it, hopefully fixing this fault. Bit of a pain when I have no idea what speed im travelling at and Cleveland constabulary being a little bit anti-motorist at the best of times........:(

Ho-hum..........

Also, got a slight 'knock' when turning at lock. Only sometimes though. Thought it was ARB links, but they look fine.......ideas?

And noticed a 'thunk-thunk-thunk' on some bends under power.....bearing? driveshaft? hub?

The joys of modified metal and an ageing Vauxhall.

[KEV]

Update.......

First purchase for my new Mk2.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_020207feb0019.jpg

Not the best tyres in the world, but nor are they the worst.

.

Every individual has a different 'perfect' tyre depending on they're driving styles. I run Yoky A539's on all my cars, put simply they are the best tyres I have ever had on a car. When I stuck them on the GTE the grip was awesome in the dry and very sure footed and confident in the wet. I'd recommend them to anyone. Alot of people are tyre snob's nowadays which is silly because its needless expense, tyre development has come a long way since the birth of the gte so even whats seen to be cheap and nasty crap nowadays will still be better than the original ones. These tyres are brilliant and cheap which is great.:)

[Tibs]

This week, I are been mostly getting up when its dark and coming home when its dark.

This means not a lot else to report.

Havn't had the car out of the garage since getting the tyres done. But thought i'd use a spare half an hour the other night to fit these.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021407feb40050.jpg

New dimmer switch for the dash, and new bonnet stay clip as the old one had snapped.

In the garage with a torch for 30 minutes saw me have both jobs done. I can now see what speed i'm doing at night, result!

[b32-cabby]

nice lookin car pal i would not expect it to be a turbo lol so wat power do you think she is puttin out ??

[Dale]

sounds good so far, i rate those tyres too always used them!

[Tibs]

not sure what the power would be really, I guess around 200bhp, but thats only a guess!

Need to get it serviced and sorted out before the decent weather comes, then give it a go on the rollers and maybe a run up the strip.

[Tibs]

Run out this afternoon.

A quickish run down the 'Helmsley TT' to Hemlsley, across to Pickering and then up via Hole of Horcum to Whitby for a fuel stop before a dash home.

My mate Steve came along for a blast out, in his 200SX. Stopped at Revieux Abbey for a coffee a natter and a few pics. And again for a few pics here, at the top of Blue Bank near Sleights.......MKing should know this neck f the woods......?

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50055.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50056.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50057.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50058.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50060.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_021807feb50059.jpg

Looks a bit grubby I know, managed to wash her off at home before it got too dark so shes all gleaming again now!

[BazW]

........Baz had an inckling it was on its way to me, he very kindly supplied me with a copy of the afor mention magazine (thank you again my friend! :applause: )..........

no worries mate, it was only sat in a cupboard anyway :thumbsup:

[mking]

Run out this afternoon.

A quickish run down the 'Helmsley TT' to Hemlsley, across to Pickering and then up via Hole of Horcum to Whitby for a fuel stop before a dash home.

My mate Steve came along for a blast out, in his 200SX. Stopped at Revieux Abbey for a coffee a natter and a few pics. And again for a few pics here, at the top of Blue Bank near Sleights.......MKing should know this neck f the woods......?

sure do mate, some nice roads round there for a blast!

car looks very nice, i'm so in love with that colour!

[Sipo]

You bloddy darkhorse - how have you pulled this little beauty out of the perverbial bag?! I love it, what a fantastic car, an excellent find. I was interested to know if you got it for a bargain but can see that conversation was sidestepped :thumbsup:

Im with Baz on this one - I will be travelling up for a blast at York dragstrip early April (as long as the track is open) and definitely think you should be there :)

[Tibs]

Thanks fella, very kind.

I am a bit of a dark horse, never been one to shout and court others attention really.

Right place, right time and being a generally all round top bloke meant that i was able to get my hands on it, even though it wasn't for sale and hadn't seen daylight for about a year and I didn't even know it existed only a few miles from my home and literally round the corner from sister in law!

I know what i paid for it, i think it was a bit of a steal.:)

anyway.....

Will be attending York this year. Ran my everday car there last year, first time i'd ever done anything like it, and was pleased with my results in class.
Bit concerned with running this one, until i've ironed out a few niggles and know its not going to break after a run or two.

Just hope its ok to run and i dont get shown up by a load of regulars with more money than me and fancy jap toys.

[Tibs]

Right, todays work started with painting the bathroom a lovely shade of blue, then onto the important tasks of finding where the gases are getting into the cabin, replacing headlamp bulb and changing front indicators to the clear ones from my old Mk2.

Think I have located the source of the gas into cabin drama. Where the alarm loom goes through the bulhead, there is a grommet that doesnt really fit, and also one a bit further up that is missing. These will be getting sorted soon.

Had drivers side headlamp bulb out, so thought i'd replace the pair with some new ones from Halfrauds. Bit of a chew on with this GTE having all the gubbins behind drivers headlight, but got there in the end. Look better, but havnt tried them at night as yet, so later update to follow regarding that point.

One indicator swapped over.....
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0303march070077.jpg

Two indicators swapped over......
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0303march070081.jpg

Also changed the front number plate to a smaller one.

Think it looks better, only my opinion. Ran out of tar and glue remover, so excuse the bit of residue next to the plate, should have sorted that but light fading and got to get ready to go out tonight blah blah blah.......

I'll get the darn thing polished soon hopefully!

[Tibs]

Still havnt got it polished yet! Darn! Not to worry, had it out of the garage yesterday to go to work and back, noticed the reverse lights are out. Spoken to local friendly dealer who are sending me a switch to work tomorrow, so possibly at the weekend get that sorted. Also still need to get a few rubber grommets and bungs for the bulkhead.

Should give me a few things to do at the weekend if the weather stays fair.....

[ton246]

lookin awesome mate,jammy sod. [i am NOT jealous, and anyway, if you payed anymore than £500 you were robbed ok !!!!!!]:hissyfit:

[Ross_Mk2]

Think I have located the source of the gas into cabin drama. Where the alarm loom goes through the bulhead, there is a grommet that doesnt really fit, and also one a bit further up that is missing. These will be getting sorted soon.


Looking real nice mate!

I don't want to put a downer on your work so far but i doubt that the grommets not being fitted correctly will be leaking dangerous gases into your cabin, as pretty much all my grommets into the cabin were never in the hole correctly from the day i had the car! I have not been gased out as yet! All i get really is sometimes a strong smell of petorl and sometimes oil from the catch tank and a really nice loud sound from the carbs when screaming :D

[Tibs]

Yesterday, my matey from the Vauxhall dealership out in the sticks sent his van driver across to see me at work. He had with him a lovely glossy Vauxhall carrier bag.

Inside were this weeks goodies........

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_03141march070063.jpg

Nothing flash, again, but at the moment the car has non GM wiper blades on it and the drivers door check strap is fitted with a long household screw(!!!??)

So, possibly this weekend, these will be fitted!

[MK2-JOHN]

I hope your going to take me out for a spin in it on saturday when i come round:thumbsup:

[Tibs]

aye!

Dont see why not fella, quick trip up the road and all that, please excuse the state of it tho, bit grubby and needs a touch of TLC (still!!!) hahahaha!

[MK2-JOHN]

Dont worry about it mate, mine's in a bit of a state too as i have been replacing the drivers side rear suspension turret as mine had sheerd off at the top and still aint got the back half of the interior in, but i'm sure i can give mine a quick wash & polish before i pop over depending on the weather, lol

[Tibs]

Today, I have been off work poorly-sick. Man flu kinda thing, felt like poo all day yesterday at work, and groggy as hell this morning. By mid day, the fog outside was lifting to reveal sunshine and i was perking up a bit.

After a spot of lunch with the better half, decided to have a bit of a run out in the old girl.

few pics from today, taken near Captain Cooks monument in North Yorkshire.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0328gte10071.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0328gte10072.jpg

Had a great run out. Stopped for a delicious ice cream at local dairy companies outlet in small village up the road, whilst enjoying said iced delight, i was appraoched by a pleasant chap who had heard and spotted my car from over the river and came across for a chat. Turns out he has a tidy looking 8v at home that he is putting together. I mentioned the site, he said he'd seen it but not signed up as yet, so I told him that your all a bunch of ...........really decent peeps! and he should get signed in! haha!

Got home, give the car a quick wash off and detail over, then decided to change the front speakers for the Kenwood ones I had in the old Green one.

You can see the difference!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0328gte10074.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0328gte10073.jpg

excuse the nasty carpet, but it was in the front room when we moved in and we havnt got round to changing it yet! Check out the amount of cr4p that has gathered in the original speakers!!!!!!!

time for tea, so i'm offski!

[astrasteve23]

every time i see a pic of your car i like it more and more! i want it!!!

[Tibs]

Well, hopefully you will have read about my antics at York Raceway on sunday, possibly even seen the great vids taken by Baz........couple of pics on the general thread.

That was sunday. On Monday, I washed it off after it was covered inside and out with thick dust that was blowing around York all that day.

I had a call from Terry, the cars previous, owner during the week. Asked how the GTE was doing. Said I would call round to see her. So, after a wash and dry off, it was off to see Terry.

She seemed really pleased to see the car again, after all, she had the GTE for about 10 years before I became the owner.

Had a good chat about the car and car related things. Few memories about old club events and shows she attended in the 'purple terror'. LOL!

After a couple of hours, headed home the scenic route, stopping at little vlliage few miles from home to take a few shots and stretch my legs............

Looks great, at least I reckon so.................

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0039.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0040.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0041.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0042.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0043.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0409aprilyork0044.jpg

Hope you like. :)

[richie00boy]

Lovely car, nice one and great results at York!

What's the spec on the engine though, that can't be a standard LET with those times can it?

[GazJevs84]

Gorgeous

[Tibs]

Havnt had a chance to do anything new to the old girl this week, work been mental and weather not the best either.

Mate of mine sent me a couple of pics taken the other week at York though, thought i'd put them on my diary wotsit........


Heading south on the A19....taken from other car.....

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/IMGP1342.jpg


And sat patiently in the queue for the strip........

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/l_c82b2e6b25ae23d851e9de2309242e06.jpg

[Dale]

looking good!

[Tibs]

Well, got loads on at the mo, wont go into them here but its safe to say that I currently have very little spare time.

Due to this being the case, things have been quite on the Mk2 front.

I do have one eye on PVS however, so took the roof gutter trims off tonight as they were held on with sticky foam pads from before I bought it. got a slack handful of new clips from Vauxhall(thank you John....) and pulled them off to clean them up and remove sticky cr4p and old broken clips. New clips on, sticky yuk removed and 'click' all looks pretty good now.....Yay!

Car has been grubby under the bonnet since I bought it also, so I gave things a quick wipe over to see if it would make a difference. It kinda does, although managed to find some less than satisfactory wiring which disintergrated in my hands........result? Car wont start.......Bugger! Arse! and indeed Feck!

think its an earth from the coil pack, so will remedy a quick fix so it runs in the next week or so........

Oh joy! more things to bloody sort out!

[Tibs]

just over 3 months since I last added anything on here, so just a little note on happenings.

PVS went well, great reaction from quite a few people about my car, quite unexpected really. Seeing so many well turned out examples shamed me a touch, so been trying to get things arranged to tidy the old girl up a touch. Been repeatedly let down by so called specialists in the art of dent removal and pee'd off by bodyshops not giving me the time of day, so this has kind of stalled progress a bit.

However, managed to get a friendly chap interested in the cause, so am in the process of having a few chips and marks sorted out, hopefully all will go well and i'll get my backside in gear to post a few pics!

Keep you posted.........

[Tibs]

A few pics as promised......

A few stone chips, a little scuff, a handful of previous-owner paint touch-ups and a handful of dents see me wanting to smarten the old girl up a bit.

The problem being that its a bit of a biatch of a colour to match, so joining panels are gonna stand out like me in a girl guides dorm............

So, theres only one thing for it!

Steve came round, kettle was filled and switched on, tools were dusted off and away we go!

Drivers side side skirt off after front bumper...
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10003.jpg

Small hole found in sill, will get sorted......
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10004.jpg

Not too bad under the plastic trim, passenger side about to come off.....
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10005.jpg

......as Steve attacks back of skirt and mudflap
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10006.jpg

all off this side....
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10007.jpg

Handy floor mat to lay on, eases my old bones on the concrete!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10008.jpg

Front bumper back on, trims removed, looks terrible!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10009.jpg

Next stop............CJK Bodyworks!

[bigdrifter]

How much is being repainted then? Good to hear thats its just as good with all the kit off and out of the way

[Tibs]

Next lot of pics for the diary.


Dropped the car off with Chris at his bodyshop, working on a tight timescale, so its going to be in for a week.

although it is just round the corner from me at work, i was that busy running the gaff on my own that i really didnt get up to see it as often as i would have liked, shame, as he worked like a demon and i only got a few progress pictures.


My first glimpse after dropping it off, its not purple anymore!!!!!

Had him redo the delocking marks as they showed through the old paint slightly. And the awkward dent in the front arch.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10141.jpg

Vents out and sent away for a colour match, took 3 attempts to get the right shade in the end. Everyday Corolla in background saying hello.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10142.jpg

Screen taped for prep, new one on its way whilst car in bodyshop, a small chip and 'sweep' marks spoil the one in the pic, so new one to go in. again, this took three attempts to get the right one!
Few small bubbles were around rhf repeater so thats all done. Sunroof out as tiny blisters were showing near front corner, time for that to get the treatment at the same time.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10143.jpg

Showing work around sunroof and small awkward dents in drivers door being fixed.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10144.jpg

Surprisingly tidy beneath the paint and the trim, thought there would have been a fair amount of rot, but there isnt!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10145.jpg

Bee sting aerial wasnt my favourite part of the car, so thats coming off for good.Spoiler and rear trim off for painting. Area around rear plate had reacted with silicone during previous respray and annoyed me. Also doing away with the full size rear number plate in favour of a trimmed one to match the front.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10146.jpg

Wheres my sparkly purple Astra gone? Haha! Lots of hard work done, more to do!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10147.jpg

Bonnet and bumpers etc painted seperatly on dollies in oven. Old screen now cut out for painting. Slam panel had been brush painted in parts by previous owner and had a small crack and rust bubbles near lock mech, repaired and primed in this pic. Look at the dust!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10148.jpg

More dust hell! Bottom front corner of passenger door didnt quite meen the sill. The sill kind of delved in a bit at the point near the door, so thats getting done today.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10149.jpg

Decent primer coat looks better, well on its way now.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10150.jpg

Getting there! Roof aerial gone, lock marks gone, dents sorted, blisters vanished.......
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10151.jpg

Last pic before dashing back off to work again.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0822wedding10152.jpg

Thats more like it! Purple and shiny again! Few bits to finish off before i get it back, but nearly there now.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0156.jpg

New screen looks great, such an improvement on the old marked one.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0157.jpg

That horrible windscreen company tax holder is first on the list of casualties when it comes home......
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0158.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0159.jpg

Full set of brand new side mouldings fitted look the biz, will get some new bumper ones at a later time.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0160.jpg

Leather is dusty as hell, and all the inside will need a real good sort, but looks well so thats the main thing for now.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0829wedding0161.jpg



I think it looks pretty good, hope some of you do too.

Anyway, back home now and cleaned up again, so some pics need doing of it sorted and putting on here to show.

[MK2-JOHN]

Some excellent pics there Matty, nice to see the old girl tidied up

[Gteman]

"Pretty good" It looks Great http://www.easysmileys.com/img/love_inlove.gif

A lots of work there http://www.easysmileys.com/img/yourock_sign.gif

Where did you get the new bump strips ? the last I asked at my local dealer they had to get them from Germany and I'm still waiting 3 months later.

[Tibs]

Side mouldings took a few days to source, ask dealer to use the parts locator, they are not that hard to find.

[mick g]

That looks great!Its a colour that really suits the car:thumbsup: .

[bigdrifter]

Looking really well there, l'm still hunting new mouldings

[Tibs]

Seriously, speak to your local dealer, they are listed on the Vauxhall parts locator system. It helps that i'm friendly with the guys in my local, but yours should have a look on your behalf.

[MK2-JOHN]

Seriously, speak to your local dealer, they are listed on the Vauxhall parts locator system. It helps that i'm friendly with the guys in my local, but yours should have a look on your behalf.

When Matt says friendly he means very friendly :love-smiley-028: lol

nah man, i remeber you telling me about how you got these, although my main dealer said the same as most others, "cant get them no-more"

car looks awsome too mate, i'll have to pop down again sometime to have a closer look :thumbsup:

[Tibs]

drop me a line with a bit of notice and its no problem. could do with a regional meet upi tho i reckon.....

[BazW]

blimey, your not messing about :) looks great btw

[Tibs]

Thanks Baz, means a lot mate.

[BazW]

could do with a regional meet upi tho i reckon.....

i'm gonna round up all the northerners that will be at the pod on the 22nd, we'll sort something out then

[GazJevs84]

Looking great mate:grinning-smiley-043

[Brett]

that looks brilliant mate:) what a nice colour too!

[Tom]

Lovin the progress pics, looks great matey :thumbsup:

[bigdrifter]

Sort a good result for me too today - l rang my local dealership (who are generally really unhelpful) and managed to get a mk2 enthusiast in the parts department. Managed to get a full set of rubstrips for the O/S ordered in for Thursday, the N/S door strip isn't available anywhere and the N/S wing strip isn't available in the UK according to them. Lucky its the drivers side ones that are needed the most on mine, cheers Tibs

[Tibs]

The job isnt difficult, I can understand if they are a busy dept that its a bit of a pain at times to go searching for discontinued parts, but, thats what they are paid to do(as am I.....).

If you ask nicely enough, and catch the right guy, its not too difficult to locate most bits although a few of are finding that more and more parts are becoming tricky.

Still need to get a few pics of my car all sorted, but time is against me at the moment, just for a change!!!!!

[Tibs]

The one photo from Sunday at Croft circuit.







http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0909croftgt10144.jpg

[Tibs]

This morning, I pulled the GTE out of the garage for the first time in a week, had to jump it off with the Vectra as usual.(Gonna have to get this sorted out with a trickle charger or similar soon as its pi55ing me off.......)

Had it running for a minute or so on the flat outside when i noticed fuel dripping quickly from around the right hand rear of the car, fuel filter and pipework area.

Didnt have time to fix it this morning, as I was hoping to use it to go to VXR Racing Driver Of The Year. Thought it would be pretty cool to park it up with the VXR's.

Went in Vectra instead.

This evening, ive had it running again, but no fuel leak what so ever.

Odd.

Very odd.

Took it for a run round the estate, still nothing. No leaks, dribbles or dampness. None on the car either.

Bloody thing!

Its back in the garage again now, something to keep my eyes on i think.

[Tibs]

Yesterday, first run out for about 2 weeks, so it needed it.

Weather looked pretty good, so the Mrs even joined me, a pleasant surprise!

Run out over the moors towards Whitby, stopping at Ruswarp for a coffee and scenery, very nice it was too.

Only managed the one pic of mine.





http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0930ka10024.jpg


Not the best pic, could have done with the sun hitting it, but we were in a dip and thats that as they say.


Also in the car park was this....

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/2007_0930ka10022.jpg

I put a post in the 'Spotted' section about it.


Great run out though, must get my mudflaps back on it! (mental note to self....)

[Danny]

Your car looks really tidy Tibs.

Nice to see another GTE being well looked after.

[Tibs]

Little update on the car.....

...its still in my garage all tooked up in winter hibernation mode.

But on the positive side, i get to see it all gleaming in this months Total Vauxhall, and so do you lot! Yay!

[ordy]

very nice car m8

[mickytbrookgte]

[lovely motor mate is she 4 sale im interested she is a corker ..........

[Tibs]

not for sale, not just yet anyway. Thanks for the nice comments guys, means a lot. :-)

[sri kid]

:Banane44: Cracking looking motor.....if that was female it would be blonde short skirt high heels......get the pic /

[Tibs]

Cool!

Well said that man!

I like it, hahahaha!!!!

Just my sort.......

[GazJevs84]

Nice feature mate just read it:grinning-smiley-043

[bigdrifter]

Is your's running the standard Cav/Calibra Turbo airbox Tibs? How is it fitted as l'm sure that a Cav one was too big when l tried to fit a Cav GSI one in a mk2 to replace a dodgy cone filter

[Tibs]

Yeah, standard mate as far as i can see. i'll try and get a pic or something for you......shows it in the mag if i remember....

[bigdrifter]

Yeah thats where l noticed it as most run with cones and l'd like to get the box in if it will fit. Thanks

[Tibs]

Well,most of the bad weather is behind us now as we turn the corner towards a brighter season....(he says crossing his fingers and praying)

As a result,the old girl has been hibernating over the winter in the garage. Hasn't really seen daylight since November last year.
I needed to get something that was buried at the back of the garage and as it was sunshine outside, I thought i'd use the occassion to tidy out some crap,rearrange other bits and roll the GTE out into the sun to have a look round it and start it up.

Just as i parked her up, the heavans opened. Bloody typical!

Nevermind, got her out, the rain dusted her off and I got a bit done in the garage too. Not too bad.

Took a few pics to show that I still have the old car, and it hasn't vanished completely!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/car1004.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/car1006.jpg

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/car1005.jpg

[beegee]

Mine goes for mot tomorrow , I bet it piddles down

[mick g]

Its a great colour Tibs, i always have liked the aubergine vauxhall used and yours is very similar

[astravanmk2]

Fantastic car mate looks even more delish in the flesh. was an honour my man.

[Tibs]

Right, decided that I should once again make an attempt to pull my finger out of my backside, and make an effort in putting the car back on the road.

Off road since November last year to keep it away from the worst of the weather, and I havnt been able to afford it till about now(still cant really,but what the hell...).

The thought of Billing coming and going without my attendance has spurred me on, so hopefully tomorrow i'll get it booked in for MOT and I can cross my fingers.

I havnt done anything to the car since last year,so if I get to the show in the Astra,dont expect anything flash, just as it was in TV really.

I will keep you all updated on here, hopefully with some pictures.

[Tibs]

Well, its booked, the MOT that is.

11am tomorrow.

Battery is on charge, and my fingers are crossed already!


*GULP*

[Mick8v]

Good luck with it Tibs, cross everything!!

[johnl]

Good luck

[Tibs]

Well, I'm back from the MOT testing station with the car.





Its 21 years old now, and has sat in the garage since November last year only being started up and moved on the odd occassion, and has looked a bit dusty and sad since then.




Give it a wash this morning before the trip to the garage,just to make me feel a bit better about having an old car taking it to a professional garage filled with modern cars.



Needn't have worried though................








..............passed! Straight through, no problems and sailed along, not even an advisory sheet!


Yipeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!



Onto the Post Office this afternoon to tax the old girl.

[MK2-JOHN]

Nice one Matt, my 04 reg corsa 'c' went for its MOT today and got 3 advisorys, (front tyres, front brakes & handbrake cable)
It was also in there for a service & to get the N/S/F wheel bearing done aswel, the car has only done 46k, luckily for me its my dads garage, lol

[Tibs]

Sat with bonnet up, engine running prior to test.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08001.jpg

The guys very kindly let me have a poke around as they did the work.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08002.jpg

The emissions test! I was nervous about this bit. Nervous about it all actually!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08003.jpg

Brake tests.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08004.jpg

Checking the lights.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08006.jpg

I do like pi55ing around.

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08008.jpg

All done! A pass!

http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/MOT08010.jpg


Hope you like the update.

[Sxi-T40's]

sell me the plates hehe there the bollox

[spuds_own]

sweet mate looks great, will you be at billing this year?

[beegee]

Dam , so your not breaking or getting rid of it then , its always a bit of a nerve twister , Even if you know there's nothing wrong with the car .
Well done .

[beegee]

Nice one Matt, my 04 reg corsa 'c' went for its MOT today and got 3 advisorys, (front tyres, front brakes & handbrake cable)
It was also in there for a service & to get the N/S/F wheel bearing done aswel, the car has only done 46k, luckily for me its my dads garage, lol

And what if he doesnt like you , lol

[MK2-JOHN]

And what if he doesnt like you , lol

Luckily for me he does, lol

2x front tyres, front wheel bearing, discs & pads and handbrake cable renewed, full sevice & mot........£100 (to me) lol :thumbsup:

[Tibs]

I should be at Billing,got the Sunday free.

And I'm not breaking or selling it!

[Tibs]

Been for a bit of a blat around this evening, give my mate a drive of it as he has only ever been a passenger. Made him smile and scared him silly in equal amounts!

It was really running great, so i was pushing on a bit, as you do, but after quite a while there was a loud whining noise from the rear, not under power, but when I lifted off the gas.....

This was at quite a high speed only.

Upon pulling up at home, it seems the NSR brake may be sticking on slightly, as the NSR alloy was quite hot to touch and I could smell the brakes.

Could this be the source of the squeeling/humming noise?

[Tibs]

Pre-Billing organisation continues, ordered fresh cleaning stuff today, should be with me for the weekend, so the turd polishing can begin in earnest!

[Tibs]

Box of goodies just arrived, hurray for international delivery and the friendly people at customs.

[astravanmk2]

Excellent news matey that car is a credit to you.

[Tibs]

thanks!

[Ian T]

It was really running great, so i was pushing on a bit, as you do, but after quite a while there was a loud whining noise from the rear, not under power, but when I lifted off the gas.....

This was at quite a high speed only.

Upon pulling up at home, it seems the NSR brake may be sticking on slightly, as the NSR alloy was quite hot to touch and I could smell the brakes.

Could this be the source of the squeeling/humming noise?

Short answer is yes... That's where my money would be, although I've not really heard of rear calipers sticking.

Handbrake cable / shoes / adjustment ?

Ian.

[Tibs]

Cheers Mr T!

Getting it up on the lift on wednesday next week, sort it, give it the once over for roadworthyness, I know its just had MOT but want to double check, and also try and finally diagnose the front end knocking when cornering under power.

[Tibs]

I got my work days mixed up because im something of a retard, so the car now goes on the lift on Thursday this week.

[Tibs]

Right, i've spent most of my day today bitching about the weather being so awful and the fact that i'm thinking of selling all of my cars to buy a boat in order to get to Billing, it has rained pretty much non stop for 3 days, so the pre-Billing prep has stalled and I was getting a little bit upset with it all.

After dinner tonight, I caught the faintest of glimpses of blue sky from my kitchen window............................................ .................................

Action stations!

Woman, get in your car and go to Ikea or something for a few hours, i'm otherwise engaged so the phones going off the hook too.

One good lady duly sent away, the GTE was brought out of the garage into a blinking evening sun.

Thank Christ!

It was grubby,gritty and dull to look at and had been getting me down not being able to make a start on some sort of cleaning, so some of the new cleaning stock came out of the box to play with my usual gear.

-Grubby and dull, and not feeling too good because of the neglect.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep001.jpg

Dusted off the Gilmore to apply the foam as a pre wash.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep005.jpg

The Astra was all white and foamy,by the time i'd dried hands and grabbed the camera most of the foam had done its stuff.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep002.jpg

Then a big bucket of washing mixture and my Schmitt.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep007.jpg

A full rinse off once washed all the bodywork, not touched the wheels as they will be cleaned off the car later this week.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep006.jpg

Dig out the Sonus towels and spray detailer, covered bodywork with fine mist.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep008.jpg

A careful dry off, and a quick wipe round with a microfibre and more Carnauba detailer.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep009.jpg

Then back into the garage as im running out of time, so thats the first stage done at last!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep010.jpg


Thats me pretty much done for today,been up since 4am for work and got the same again tomorrow.

More updates to follow soon hopefully.....

[Tibs]

Thursday, trip to the garage booked.

Dropped the car off after visiting my friendly little Vauxhall dealer at the village up the road. Picked up filters, plugs and oil at trade club prices, and then on to the garage itself.

Left it with them after a chat, as I had a few errands to run in town. Walked back to them later on, and they were finished, sorted the service for me which I'd normally do but have been pressed for time really with my shift pattern currently. I had also asked him to investigate the knocking noise under load that had been there since i bought the car and i hadnt been able to trace.

Turns out it looks as if its the gearbox mount that is shot, so i'll be looking for a replacement at Billing.

Sorted the sticking rear brake too.

Looking good for my billing prep. Called in at Carsound in town on the way home for a chat, and decided to do something about my choonage requirements....pics and details to follow later.

Right, weather is ok this afternoon, so home for a clean!

Fuel gauge is pratting about now, so thats pee'd me off a bit, but that'll have to wait for now, grrrrrrr!

Managed 2 hours cleaning before it started spitting and the car went back into the garage.

Just out of the garage.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep013.jpg

After a polish, just paintwork, wheels and trim to be done tomorrow hopefully.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep015.jpg

Looking a bit better.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep017.jpg

Getting there.
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep018.jpg

Back to bed as it starts to rain....again!!!!
http://i28.photobucket.com/albums/c229/-Tibs-/billing08prep020.jpg

[mick g]

Its looking well mate, dont worry about billing as its going to be a sunny weekend:thumbsup: