Poorly GTE slow progress+random pics (56k get your coat lol!) [Archive]

rhydgte

05-10-2005, 02:19 PM

i like the pug and they have very good road hanling but they dont even come close performance wise to the GTE! :D

Agreed. It's nowhere near as quick as the gte and doesnt have the guts either which is suprising as they have similar bhp etc on paper (when it's going lol) but corners far better. It has black diamond drilled/grooved disks all round and greenstuff pads so it stops on a dime!(pug) unlike gte :D

Sipo

05-10-2005, 02:42 PM

That pug was a recent sale on ebay wasnt it? Keep us updated with the Astra matey :D

rhydgte

05-10-2005, 03:06 PM

That pug was a recent sale on ebay wasnt it? Keep us updated with the Astra matey :D

Yes my brother did try selling it a few times on ebay, but has now given it to me to restore it totally over the winter. I must say it looks better in the pics than it is, mostly small fiddly things that need doing but for a 87' F reg there's not a spot of rust anywhere!

Yes will keep updating this thread with the gte's progress..

the wicker man

05-10-2005, 06:30 PM

i love 205gti's used to have a sorrento non-sunroof 1.9 cracking car so much fun always wanted to Mi it but never got round to doing i had the engine & eveything i needed just waiting sold it to a mate after i got bored off it braking down evey two weeks

rhydgte

09-10-2005, 01:25 AM

A few pics of today's 'method of moving complete engine+box without a hoist/crane up and down steps and out of car boot with only my mate dan to help me..' :D

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/826/pic10ck.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Was going so well until car creeper broke :rolleyes:

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/2330/img2104large9wh.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/5262/img2102large7vg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Dan's run out of ideas - time for yours truly to come up with a plan...

http://img331.imageshack.us/img331/8006/img2105large8og.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Once jacked up on blocks dan says, ''..Rhyd what's this red stuff?? I think it's bleeding..''

http://img331.imageshack.us/img331/9030/img2107large3jb.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img331.imageshack.us/img331/2963/img2108large7gm.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/3048/img2110large5vy.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/7463/img2109large8we.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img26.imageshack.us/img26/7923/img2111large2fe.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img284.imageshack.us/img284/6416/img2112large1xx.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Car was clean enough inside..

http://img284.imageshack.us/img284/5343/img2103large4jq.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Basically just slid it all along the wooden pieces then up the 'ramp' into the shed!!

Took around 1 1/2 hours to get it from boot of car to the shed from when we arrived back from JoOboy's place!

Many thanks to JoOboy and his mate 'Nova' Dan for all there help earlier on in the day!

:cool:

JoObOy

09-10-2005, 10:21 AM

Is that a scratch on the car bumper or just a sweat stain?

I gotta say it was pretty surreal seeing my engine in Wales on a monitor in the office what seemed like moments after you guys waking me up this morning. ...

I am truly sleep deprived.. I think I had 2 hours after working Friday night..

You's look knackered in those photos .. heheh, I thought it might be harder getting it back out again..

I just hope it is all worthwhile in the end..

rhydgte

09-10-2005, 10:26 AM

Is that a scratch on the car bumper or just a sweat stain?

You look knackered in those photos .. heheh, I thought it might be harder getting it back out again..

I just hope it is all worthwhile in the end..

Yeah just seen that mark in the photo - will check the bumper today :(

Yes dan did look knackered in the pics lol

Will be worthwhile, I'll tidy up this one now hopefully this week then get it up to the workshop (where the car is) and get it put in - well thats the plan anyway!

Cheers

Rhyd

rhydgte

10-10-2005, 05:58 PM

No further updates at the moment - was too tired on sunday ended up at the in laws for lunch etc..

Will keep you all updated as the week goes on..

:cool:

rhydgte

11-10-2005, 07:39 PM

Differences between newly aquired 20SE engine and my original 20SER have now been worked out!

tomstickland

11-10-2005, 09:50 PM

I was driving up round your way this weekend. Friday was Glos-Ross-skirt round Hereford on B roads-Kington-Aberystwyth (approx spelling). Then up to Dolgellau.
Monday Dolgellau to Machynlleth. Then 3pm left Machynlleth, 4pm at Newtown, 5pm at Leominster and Gloucester by 6. All great roads too.

rhydgte

11-10-2005, 11:15 PM

As soon as I can open second page I will resize pictures as when I try opening this thread now it keeps timing out - sorry

Rhyd

rhydgte

16-10-2005, 05:03 PM

Quick run down of the last few days progress,

'New' Engine stripped of all ancillary components and block painted in VHT Matt black paint.

Replacement rocker cover polished up and fitted with new rocker gasket.

Cambelt and waterpump removed and thermostat housing (all of it) removed.

A lot of detective work carried out to see if any physical differences between SE and SER - They're identical (apart from the engine code :p )

Spent most of the afternoon resetting the valve clearances on a 1.3 Fiesta :eek: (with no manual....)

Just having a quick sit down before I go back out!

:cool:

rhydgte

19-10-2005, 06:32 PM

I now have an engine crane!!

Should make things a little easier getting the 'refurbished' block back in!

http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/4138/crain2zo.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

:cool:

rhydgte

23-10-2005, 07:04 PM

Right then quick update (of last few days)-

1. Old core plugs removed ( :rolleyes: ) ready for the new ones
2. Block is now all painted
3. Rocker cover polished and refitted
4. Top end all cleaned up
5. Various new seals & gaskets fitted
6. New spark plugs fitted
7. Oil valve removed/cleaned and refitted
8. New rotor arm fitted

Jobs still left to do -

1. Fit new core plugs
2. Refit engine mount & bracket
3. Test and refit starter motor
4. Refit PAS pump and mounting
5. Fit new water pump
6. Fit all new belts
7. Rebuild Inlet manifold/TB and Injectors/Rail using new gaskets
8. Renew sump gasket

Probably more things left to do but that's all that comes to mind at the moment.

I'm enjoying the project so far and have not had any real problems (as yet)

Sorry no progress pics as digi-cam has now died, will have to get around to borrowing one soon.

Cheers

ehoulton

23-10-2005, 07:27 PM

Agreed. It's nowhere near as quick as the gte and doesnt have the guts either which is suprising as they have similar bhp etc on paper (when it's going lol) but corners far better. It has black diamond drilled/grooved disks all round and greenstuff pads so it stops on a dime!(pug) unlike gte :D

Hi m8.. the pug is nowhere as quick compared to the astra 8v? as the pug has more bhp and it's lighter as far as i know. good luck in your project m8, keep us posted.

rhydgte

23-10-2005, 07:35 PM

Hi m8.. the pug is nowhere as quick compared to the astra 8v? as the pug has more bhp and it's lighter as far as i know. good luck in your project m8, keep us posted.

Nah the 1.9 GTi's are 124 or something bhp mate, yes it's lighter but no where near as solid on he road (scary at speed really) as the 8v. The gte is also a very light car 900 odd kgs iirc (someone correct me :D )

Straight line on private test track my 8v beat the gti...(two months ago)

Perhaps it was all down to the driver who knows.....

ehoulton

23-10-2005, 07:47 PM

When i had my ex nova gte.. it use to scare me on high speed's too... unlike the astra. It feel's solid. I enjoyed every single bit when i was doing up the 16v, anyways good luck m8, hope all goes well.

GazJevs84

24-10-2005, 03:01 AM

my mate had a 1.9 gti when i had my 2.0l 8v and mine beat his aswell he wrapped it in the end trying to keep up with me he lost it on a roundabout that my gte went round with no probs hehe

cielo20

24-10-2005, 03:14 AM

my mate had a 1.9 gti when i had my 2.0l 8v and mine beat his aswell he wrapped it in the end trying to keep up with me he lost it on a roundabout that my gte went round with no probs hehe

All french cars are known for their roadholding abilities! and the 205 is a good example! its not what car you are driving! its hoe well you know the car and how able you are to play with the handling! a good driver who gets used to a crap handling car would go round corners way faster than an average driver in a very good handling car!

The 205 would not beat the Gte at power but on handling im sure the 205 is way ahead!

rhydgte

24-10-2005, 09:05 AM

All french cars are known for their roadholding abilities! and the 205 is a good example! its not what car you are driving! its hoe well you know the car and how able you are to play with the handling! a good driver who gets used to a crap handling car would go round corners way faster than an average driver in a very good handling car!

The 205 would not beat the Gte at power but on handling im sure the 205 is way ahead!

Agreed.

Now anyway, that's enough talk of the french cars!!

:cool:

rhydgte

25-10-2005, 06:21 PM

No more progress (awaiting delivery of some parts) but took a few quick pics anyway today..

http://img358.imageshack.us/img358/2466/engine19bx.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img358.imageshack.us/img358/3488/engine26zg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img358.imageshack.us/img358/696/engine39wc.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img358.imageshack.us/img358/5272/engine44jg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

P.S Yes I know it's only an 8v.... :rolleyes:

richie00boy

26-10-2005, 02:12 PM

Good stuff. You're going all out fitting new core plugs aren't you?!!

Tony K

26-10-2005, 02:43 PM

http://img358.imageshack.us/img358/3488/engine26zg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

P.S Yes I know it's only an 8v.... :rolleyes:

Did you just paint the cam cover?

P.s. 8v's rock!

rhydgte

26-10-2005, 08:59 PM

Good stuff. You're going all out fitting new core plugs aren't you?!!

Well they're only a few pence each for new ones and while its out of the car.... :D

P.S Baileydog, no paint has gone anywhere near the cam cover thats a few hard hours work with blowtorch, wet&dry, metal polish etc etc..

rhydgte

29-10-2005, 08:55 PM

Core plugs all replaced and inlet manifold all reassembled!

Spent most of the day working on my bro's mk3 astra which has been rear-ended :(

Kris

29-10-2005, 09:44 PM

Nowt wrong with 8v fella ,pop down to machine mart and get an engine stand there only about £30 and make life so much easier .I bought one to do my rebuild and it helps for painting the block

Kris

29-10-2005, 09:45 PM

what colour are you painting the block ?

rhydgte

29-10-2005, 10:10 PM

I've got an engine stand but to use it I'd have to remove gearbox - which I don't need to do so have left it on blocks.

Pics make it seem on the floor but it's stood on wooden blocks..

P.S with the engine crane 3 miles away at my other garage how would I lift this engine up to secure it to the stand on my own?? ;)

Kris

29-10-2005, 10:16 PM

rhydgte

29-10-2005, 10:20 PM

Better get eating your wheatabix then :o

LOL :D

rhydgte

01-11-2005, 10:50 PM

I now have a new workshop that can accomodate the jib crane!

So soon as the weather clears up I can get this engine in...

:D

richie00boy

02-11-2005, 12:09 AM

Hurry up cos I want you to come and help me do mine after xmas :D

rhydgte

02-11-2005, 12:14 AM

Hurry up cos I want you to come and help me do mine after xmas :D

:D I'm trying not to rush things, yes would happily help out with yours mate :cool:

Kris

02-11-2005, 12:51 AM

Pay my train fair and ill travel anywere and build and fit it for ya ,lol

rhydgte

06-11-2005, 10:02 AM

Rain has stopped play for this last week or so and I've also been busy with other things :(

Managed to find a spare few minutes to 'glue' part of the sagging headlining up yesterday - hopefully it'll stay up for a few weeks.

Really want it back on the road now but need to sortout a few more things before then..

rhydgte

13-11-2005, 12:53 PM

Got the car and engine crane moved to the new workshop yesterday - will hopefully now have the work all done in the next few weeks..

Cheers to dan for all his help and the farmer for the use of his tractor...

rhydgte

18-11-2005, 10:45 PM

All day tomorrow on the GTE!!

Will post some more progress pics tomorrow or sunday

:cool:

Sipo

19-11-2005, 04:55 PM

Another "proper project" ;) - loves it! Had t laugh about the rooflining, my car did the same, used to bug the hell out of me! Used carpet adhesive spray in the end, but where it had been sagging it had stretched and never went back up properly!

rhydgte

19-11-2005, 08:31 PM

Talk about bollock god damn freezing today..

I gave up after three hours - hands were numb and was like I had two left hands trying to work on the car :rolleyes: lol

Left the car as is, no bonnet, no front wheels, no bumper, up high on stands and pisd off home lol

Looks like towing the GTE (loads) and braking with no servo assistance has fecked my n/s caliper - brake fluid dripping all out from it..

Black Magic

19-11-2005, 09:03 PM

rhydgte

20-11-2005, 09:21 AM

mines getting towed everywhere aslo, as i can seem to get mine going. Hope i dont knacker my calipers :eek:

worked on mine yesterday doing my loom. a few cut fingers & some frostbite later, i got it in. went to start engine (hoping by now it would work) & still didnt work.

driving home, still wonderring why it aint working now, i remembered!

it'd help if i plugged the ECU in :o

when u fix ur GTE, u can do mine :p

Well by now when it's being towed the brake pedal is rock solid - so they'll need bleeding now I guess, once engine is in and running

Going back up today to carry on - well I'll see how long I can last in the freezing cold..

So why have you been messing around with the loom then?

Yeah hopefully going to rent a nice warm unit soon so anyone welcome to pop down (or get towed here!) lol

rhydgte

20-11-2005, 07:50 PM

Random pics from today, too cold to do much on my own tbh..

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/733/sun36qm.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/4866/sun28av.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/7968/sun15fg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8646/sun69fi.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

richie00boy

20-11-2005, 09:02 PM

Looks quite tidy -- no real rust around those bits normally covered by the bumper.

rhydgte

20-11-2005, 09:31 PM

Yeah she's not that bad tbh...

A closer pic of the o/s under bumper area for you ;)

http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/4530/sun75te.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Jon S

20-11-2005, 11:49 PM

nice amount of space to work in ,

Black Magic

21-11-2005, 01:51 AM

im doing the loom cos mine wont start, & im somewhat confused on why it isnt firing up. Its also hard doing it on ur own.

got room for another GTE? :D i could do with some help on mine, as im sure, u could do with some help on urs

rhydgte

21-11-2005, 05:33 PM

You'd be more than welcome mate - but as were moving house within the next few weeks I will be loosing my rental on the barn and my workshop at home as were moving 20miles away :(

Hopefully I will sortout a unit or something asap in Newtown (Powys) and you're more than welcome to bring it down then mate :cool:

Black Magic

22-11-2005, 01:10 AM

hmm, newton is further south.... that could be a problem!

rhydgte

22-11-2005, 08:14 AM

hmm, newton is further south.... that could be a problem!

Newtown ;) It's about 50miles from Shrewsbury...

Black Magic

22-11-2005, 05:27 PM

can u not go 50 miles further north? :P

Sipo

22-11-2005, 05:43 PM

or swap sides of the bridge?! :D

Black Magic

23-11-2005, 07:13 AM

hmmm, think my idea is more viable

rhydgte

25-11-2005, 05:10 PM

Today's progress pics, sorry no 'minute by minute' pics as I'm on my own, so took a few pics as and when I had the chance! :cool:

It's out!

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/2125/img2205large8se.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/1655/img2206large8pk.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The two sods that have been holding me back... :mad:

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/4641/img2207large1eo.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/5396/img2208large9qc.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/2440/img2210large3jl.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

New found rust patch (n/s wheel well)..

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/129/img2209large0pb.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Moving the old block (who said 'blue' cord is weak?!)..

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/2783/img2214large3kj.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/3439/img2215large6al.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/1346/img2216large8le.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/4613/img2217large9cp.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Couple of bay pics..

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/3866/img2211large1to.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/5170/img2212large6us.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Rear end shot..

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/3406/img2222large1ym.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

The trusty 'Diesel' (Good old workhorse :D )..

http://img494.imageshack.us/img494/7493/img2223large1kb.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

There you go!

P.S When removing n/s driveshaft, drive two screwdrivers in top and bottom in between the shaft & casing, tap them one at a time progressively working the shaft out of the diff until it pops free! Did no damage, and was far easier than the other techniques I tried including hammering a chisel up into the diff to try and release the shaft! :rolleyes:

richie00boy

25-11-2005, 06:19 PM

Regarding your rust patch, check second pic:

http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1776

rhydgte

25-11-2005, 06:42 PM

Cheers rich!

Was going to sortout getting it welded, might as well, it'll only get worse otherwise..

pajero1

25-11-2005, 07:17 PM

ive got a pair of later ate calipers and discs if your interested

rhydgte

26-11-2005, 09:51 AM

Fingers crossed replacement engine going in today!

Yes interested in the calipers etc, dependant on price as I'm skint lol

rhydgte

26-11-2005, 11:04 PM

Another busy day...

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9363/img2224large0gp.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8153/img2225large8rx.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Me making sure it's going in without breaking anything else :rolleyes:

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/7751/img2228large5rv.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Engine in place..

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/7428/img2229large0vx.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5594/img2230large9xe.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8370/img2231large5af.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/7717/img2232large1sh.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/6260/img2233large1xd.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/5695/img2234large2oc.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/1183/img2236large9vd.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/9819/img2238large9bm.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Back on it's wheels, out of the way..

http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/8255/img2240large8na.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

:cool:

GazJevs84

27-11-2005, 12:38 AM

looking good dude keep up the good work

very tasty pizza by the looks of things lol

Black Magic

27-11-2005, 04:53 AM

cool. if urs runs, ill need ur help on mine ;)

Harvey

27-11-2005, 10:26 AM

Don't you mean WHEN it runs!!!

rhydgte

27-11-2005, 06:07 PM

Got most of the ancillaries back on today anyway..

Now need some new locknuts for the c'arm balljoints and the new oil cooler pipes made up this week

:cool:

Black Magic

28-11-2005, 03:27 AM

:( :(

rhydgte

28-11-2005, 08:28 AM

:( :(

:confused:

Black Magic

29-11-2005, 05:28 AM

help? lol?

think im going megasquirt route

rhydgte

30-11-2005, 07:35 PM

Talk to Rich, he knows a bit about the megasquirt setup..

I need these new oil cooler hoses made up and a few more bits hopefully should be running on saturday fingers crossed

:cool:

Black Magic

30-11-2005, 11:13 PM

then u can pay me a visit & show me how its done! :D

whos rich?

rhydgte

30-11-2005, 11:19 PM

richie00boy :cool:

rhydgte

04-12-2005, 11:08 AM

Everything all back together now, just waiting for the oil cooler hoses etc.

Forgot to take the camera yesterday :rolleyes:

My brother has had a good look at what needs welding as is going to sort it all out for me in the next few weeks

rhydgte

07-12-2005, 10:33 PM

Brother and I checked it all out, and he's going to sortout all the welding that needs doing on the car for me!

Will be very little progress for a week or so now as we're moving house so I'm busy packing!!

But 2week holiday approaching and perhaps I can persuade rich to come up lend a hand... ;)

Black Magic

08-12-2005, 09:05 AM

whats left that needs doing?

rhydgte

08-12-2005, 05:58 PM

whats left that needs doing?

Few bits and bob's mate ;)

richie00boy

08-12-2005, 07:35 PM

LOL you done all the hard stuff, what you want me for? ;)

rhydgte

08-12-2005, 07:42 PM

LOL you done all the hard stuff, what you want me for? ;)

LOL, just for general mk2 mincing ;)

Keep in touch matey, packing up the PC in a bit..

rhydgte

01-01-2006, 02:58 PM

All settled in new house, still not set up the pc/internet yet but got the gte moved to the new place yesterday, many thanks to my dad and dan for their help!

Two doors down is an old mate of mine that I used to be in school with, he works for Harry Hockley Motorsports and owns a mint A-Reg White Mk1 GTE (pics to follow :D), he also has a big shed full of GTE bits including a mint mk2 shell that I can have!

Will keep you all updated :cool:

P.S My GTE will be running by the end of the week.. :D

GazJevs84

01-01-2006, 09:49 PM

good stuff mate glad you have settled in ok mate some pics of the mk1 will be cool dude i like a good old mk1 lol

rhydgte

08-01-2006, 05:02 PM

GTE running (started first time :D ), still a number of niggling faults though that I'm working through..

GazJevs84

09-01-2006, 06:28 PM

glad to hear it is finally running mate have you got you internet bk yet dude?

rhydgte

10-01-2006, 10:29 PM

Internet is setup but pc isnt setup yet (no room for it!)

:cool:

GazJevs84

11-01-2006, 04:49 PM

there's' always something is'nt there lol

Black Magic

12-01-2006, 12:35 AM

wots the niggly things?

Kris

12-01-2006, 01:00 AM

Good stuff fella ,sohow long has it been of the road ?

rhydgte

12-01-2006, 12:47 PM

wots the niggly things?

http://www.astra-mk2.com/forum/showthread.php?t=3705

:cool:

rhydgte

25-01-2006, 10:13 AM

All running now!!

:cool:

Gteman

25-01-2006, 09:10 PM

All running now!!

:cool:

What was up then m8 ?

rhydgte

25-01-2006, 09:32 PM

Gear linkage was loose and had slipped out of alignment hence the lack of 1st gear!! :D

Gteman

25-01-2006, 10:20 PM

Gear linkage was loose and had slipped out of alignment hence the lack of 1st gear!! :D

http://www.clicksmilies.com/s0105/aktion/action-smiley-034.gif

rhydgte

31-01-2006, 11:55 PM

Couple of recent pics - camera phone quality is not great but you get the idea, bottom one is new engine all in and working..

http://img456.imageshack.us/img456/6785/image0751bc.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img456.imageshack.us/img456/651/image0787lj.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

rhydgte

11-02-2006, 09:55 PM

Got some new number plates today with 'CYMRU' (Wales) on the one side, has freshened up the look of the car no end!

Only £24 too!

rhydgte

25-02-2006, 11:57 PM

Started the tedious job of fitting the new suspension bushes,balljoints,link bushes etc today. God I hate doing these sort of jobs, taken me ages today to get hardly anything done, every nut and bolt ball achingly tight and plenty of cut knuckles as well.

Nothing worse than being halfway through a job and realising that you don't have the right tools (27mm hub nut in a deep socket) so I couldn't undo those today - typical..

Anyway everyday spent on the car improves it, however slight so I shall carry on with it...

Astra Dan

26-02-2006, 11:47 AM

27mm hub nut?? Every Vaux I'ev have ever worked on is a 30mm...

rhydgte

26-02-2006, 11:51 AM

Could well be mate as I only guessed as I don't have the right socket..

GazJevs84

26-02-2006, 07:34 PM

yeah it is 30mm if i remember rightly

richie00boy

26-02-2006, 08:44 PM

I got my socket from the local car spares place, made by Draper and marketed as Vauxhall hub socket.

rhydgte

11-03-2006, 11:45 AM

Fun day ahead!

Replacing the following..

Top mounts, ARB Link Bushes, CV boots, Control Arm Rear Mount Bushes, Lower balljoints, Tie Rod ends, Front Shocks

Wish me luck hehe

whitegte

11-03-2006, 01:03 PM

good luck mate, this morning ive replaced top mounts track rods bottom joints cv joints and polly bushed, both sides started about 8ish and just off to get her tracking done pukka just like lego these things

richie00boy

11-03-2006, 05:14 PM

Watch the lower wishbone poly bushes, they cut into the mounting... Check 0ddball's posts.

whitegte

12-03-2006, 12:44 AM

which ones mate front fronts, or front rears or both

richie00boy

12-03-2006, 11:30 AM

Well only the front has wishbones ;)

whitegte

12-03-2006, 12:55 PM

yeah but there is 2 bushes on each wishbone front or rear

richie00boy

12-03-2006, 01:10 PM

Think it's the front one, as I said do a seach on 0ddball's posts to check.

whitegte

12-03-2006, 01:17 PM

cheers mate will do made hell of difference tho

rhydgte

12-03-2006, 11:02 PM

Pretty much a succesful day got the front legs all undone and all refitted with new inserts/top mounts etc..

Just this snapped bolt in my way now :grumpy:

rhydgte

15-03-2006, 12:09 AM

Few more progress pics..

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/94/img2325medium8iz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/9018/img2326medium5cx.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/3266/img2327medium8in.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Front legs with new inserts and top mounts..

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/4181/img2343medium1cm.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/7515/img2348medium2kp.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/3746/img2349medium6uv.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img86.imageshack.us/img86/1140/img2350medium5ew.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

All good fun!

richie00boy

15-03-2006, 09:35 AM

All coming together at last, looks clean.

rhydgte

18-03-2006, 12:08 AM

Got a bit more done today, driver's side all refitted anyway!

rhydgte

18-03-2006, 08:48 PM

Done about 70miles in her today without a fault!

Looking forward to the delivery of my nice new grooved discs and then sorting the fuel lines out and rear shoes.

Also got to get the tracking done, it was all wandery today, I was hoping it would be a lot more solid with all the new components but it was very dodgy almost!!

Brett

18-03-2006, 10:12 PM

looks like some good work. Probably one of the the best things you can do to a MK2, freshen up the front suspension. Costs feck all to.

Dont know why you say thats not that tidy, looks pretty damn clean to me!

Also get some arch liners if you dont have any, unless you dont value your inner wings and front bumper mounts:D

Nice one matey!

rhydgte

18-03-2006, 10:23 PM

Cheers bud, yes I'm missing the driver's side arch liner (been like that since I had the car :( )

Yeah it's all worth it in the end!

richie00boy

19-03-2006, 11:49 AM

I'll bring you an arch liner up when I come over. It's possibly got small holes in I think where it's had mudflaps fitted, but it might be OK. Better than nothing anyway.

Unless you want to buy a new one. About £13 IIRC.

rhydgte

20-03-2006, 09:22 AM

Cheers Rich that would be great matey!

As you know the Water Pump died yesterday (brand new item bought approx 3months ago) and only done about 150miles on the car :(

Got it relayed home for free though :Banane47:

Black Magic

20-03-2006, 05:49 PM

u sure it wasnt the seal?

find it hard to believe the pumps gone. gutted if it has mate :(

rhydgte

23-03-2006, 08:12 PM

Yeah it's the pump,seal hasnt failed (no loss of coolant) got my nice new discs on today..

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/4746/fc1b4gz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

rhydgte

26-03-2006, 09:44 AM

Got the pump off - all good, however the cambelt has been stripped. My fault as I'd fitted a rounded toothed belt to a square toothed sprocket :duh:

Havent foundout what is causing the grinding noise though, was 99% sure it would be the pump bearings..:confused:

stt

26-03-2006, 10:46 AM

you sure its not something simple like the belt catching on the plastic guard?

rhydgte

26-03-2006, 10:56 AM

Well the belt was catching the cover so I modified it slightly :)

However before I removed everything with engine running and cover off the belt keeps being pulled slowly off the top pulley as if it's not running true if that makes sense?

I'd stop the engine push the belt well back on to the top pulley and start it again and it will pull the belt back out until about 3mm of the belt is sitting proud of the pulley

:confused:

Gteman

26-03-2006, 01:05 PM

Not having much luck m8ty are you :(

Are you sure the water pump is ok ? Have you looked at the pulley with the engine running ?

Is the belt tension tight enough ?

rhydgte

26-03-2006, 01:25 PM

No lol I never have much luck with cars!

The water pump spins freely and there is no side to side movement in the pump pulley so assume bearings are fine..

rhydgte

08-04-2006, 11:52 AM

Wrong pump fitted so am picking up a new one today and will get it all back together

appytiser

08-04-2006, 07:11 PM

DOH !!
oh well could of been worse fella, at least the belt didnt go
nice new shiny bits are ace arnt they ? ha ha everybody loves new shiny bits

rhydgte

08-04-2006, 07:42 PM

New pump is in place but I got rained off before I could time the engine up and fit the new cambelt..

rhydgte

10-04-2006, 05:44 PM

Sortout out my tailgate today (wasnt locking correctly) swapped the catch for a good replacement one I had spare, moved the little bar or whatever it is up a bit and now it closes and clicks nicely into place first time! :)

Also sorted out my shed

rhydgte

12-04-2006, 03:17 PM

Bit of a slow couple of days, got the new water pump and cambelt on today and fitted a new backbox rubber mount :)

Will get some coolant tomorrow and get it running!

rhydgte

13-04-2006, 05:17 PM

Oh yes it's alive again!! :D

rhydgte

14-04-2006, 09:50 PM

Topped up coolant, checked plugs (all nice light brown colour) CT of 180psi on each cylinder :) and road test revealed all is well hehe

Ground back a bit of the backbox bracket thats been knocking against the spare wheel well (any excuse to use my grinder!).

Oh and gave the headlining another dose of spray adhesive to keep it up out of the way again for another few months!

SO, got this g'box leak to sortout, new fuel lines and hoses, fuel filter, rear brake shoes, windscreen (:( ) and that's about it for the mot afaik, but no doubt It'll fail lol

astrachamp

14-04-2006, 10:50 PM

not much left to do then :D

rhydgte

17-04-2006, 06:58 PM

Finished draining fuel tank, removed rotten fuel lines and started cutting rotten metal out of the footwells today with my grinder ready for welding :)

So fuel tank to come off now, possibly tomorrow..

Then clean up the rest of the floorpan to carry on undersealing :D

Kris

17-04-2006, 07:08 PM

Ill get the cl motor posted tomorrow due to easter post fella.

rhydgte

17-04-2006, 07:45 PM

Cheers matey :D

rhydgte

19-04-2006, 01:19 PM

Couple of pics..

Rusty footwell

http://img129.imageshack.us/img129/6863/img2677small2yr.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Wheelie tastic lol

http://img19.imageshack.us/img19/747/img2678small3xg.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

If it stops raing I'll get on with things a bit more...

rhydgte

19-04-2006, 01:31 PM

Couple more pics..

Rotten fuel lines

http://img107.imageshack.us/img107/940/img2680small0oz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

New fancy discs rusting :(

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/3272/img2683small1vf.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Club sticker

http://img85.imageshack.us/img85/3679/img2684small4qt.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

MK2-JOHN

19-04-2006, 05:26 PM

Do you fancy coming to Newcastle to help me? lol
i'm shit with mechanical things, give me a shell to restore anyday, lol
i've just been quoted £96 to get my rear beam & petrol tank powder coated white

rhydgte

20-04-2006, 03:15 PM

Weather still poor, but I managed to get some more undersealing done today, and sprayed up the plates and brackets which make up the fuel pump/filter mounting. I will get this reassembled and refitted tomorrow now, once dry.

Still havent got the tank off yet :duh: but that'll be next for a nice clean up and respray.

Then all rubber fuel hoses and clamps will be getting replaced on it's refitting.

Gearbox gaskets arrived today so once I find a suitable replacement driveshaft (equal length jobbie) I'll get and drain the box and fit the new gaskets.

:)

richie00boy

20-04-2006, 03:45 PM

I've got deva vu of mine this time last year!

rhydgte

20-04-2006, 03:56 PM

I've got deva vu of mine this time last year!

Lol, it's definatley worth doing imho, can't believe how much better it all looks cleaned up!

rhydgte

21-04-2006, 09:21 PM

Fuel tank removed, cleaned up and resprayed, fuel lines fitted, fuel pump mounting all refitted and rubber hoses replaced.

Just need the engine bay hoses now..

A bit more undersealing tomorrow if it's dry, then I'll refit the exhaust.

astrachamp

21-04-2006, 09:22 PM

sounds like u spend all ur time under that car, :D

rhydgte

21-04-2006, 09:23 PM

sounds like u spend all ur time under that car, :D

Was under it all day today anyway!

Not easy with it just on stands tbh, but I make do :)

Black Magic

22-04-2006, 01:26 AM

sounds like ur doing all the same things im doing.

just done my tank, lines & pump/filters etc.

bloody awkward holding up the tank, whilst trying to bolt one of the hinges in.

Rhyd, why do i ge t the feeling ur car will be finished the same time as mine? lol?

rhydgte

22-04-2006, 09:14 AM

rhydgte

22-04-2006, 08:01 PM

Hey good news shes alive again!

Chucked the drivers seat back in and went for a quick spin, and all is well :)

Black Magic

22-04-2006, 08:33 PM

slowly, but gettign there. Im just waiting for bits so i can finish it all.

next problem i got, is finding a way to bolt the Gear selector housing down, & fit the 16v linkage mechanism, then i can finish off installing my dashboard centre console.

rhydgte

01-05-2006, 10:20 PM

Went to Speedshow today, and left the GTE at home...

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/1498/img2766small6tt.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Black Magic

02-05-2006, 01:21 AM

that house is mint. how much rent/mortgae u paying p/w btw?

rhydgte

02-05-2006, 09:21 AM

£400 pcm mate (renting)

Black Magic

02-05-2006, 07:46 PM

not bad. include bills too?

rhydgte

02-05-2006, 08:01 PM

not bad. include bills too?

No chance!!

Bills,council tax,rates etc all on top..

richie00boy

02-05-2006, 08:43 PM

That's 2 houses i.e. a semi isn't it? So you have the right hand side one?

rhydgte

02-05-2006, 08:50 PM

Yes mate it's a semi

richie00boy

02-05-2006, 10:56 PM

OK just wondering where we will be doing my car lol

rhydgte

02-05-2006, 10:58 PM

Hehe, I'll move mine and park it at my mates house (couple of houses down)

It's a nice space to work in front of the house with plenty of room, and handy wall to put all tools on :)

richie00boy

02-05-2006, 11:00 PM

OK. Just sold some stuff on ebay including FSE so will have to get my finger out now and get ordering. Would like to complete in time for Retro.

rhydgte

02-05-2006, 11:01 PM

Good man, I'm hoping to be at retro too, fingers crossed

rhydgte

01-07-2006, 12:26 PM

Ok so crappy camera phone quality, but you get the idea ;)

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/1929/picture51xv.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/442/picture71fz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img309.imageshack.us/img309/3375/picture89yu.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/5411/picture93hz.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/3382/picture100vo.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Rear engined nova lol..

http://img336.imageshack.us/img336/6398/picture116rp.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/8280/picture124xl.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/7424/picture137lj.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/4295/picture144dk.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Will update with further progress pics later on in the day...

:cool:

rhydgte

13-07-2006, 11:49 PM

Welded it myself, and refitted the interior tonight, so have a guess what I've been driving around in :D:D

richie00boy

14-07-2006, 10:15 AM

nice one mister!

rhydgte

04-08-2006, 10:10 AM

Quick recap, got it on the road and front brakes had seized on :(

So parked it back up to then see brake fluid dripping out of the rear drum.

Got all this sorted over the last couple of weeks (been busy with other projects).

Should've gone for it's mot today but couldn't make it due to a duff battery, should grab one today/over the weekend and hopefully mot on monday fingers crossed :)