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GroupB
10-09-10, 09:58 AM
Hi everyone,
New to the site but very impressed so far with everyone knowledge of the NOVA.
History:
I bought this standard 1988 GTE through a friend 2 days ago, the car has been sat in a garage for over 4 years, it was going to be restored by him but has just sat there being neglected and unloved all that time (poor thing).
Anyway its white bog standard, smelly, musty, and quite tatty.
The bodywork seems solid enough with only a couple of welded patches found so far.
the interior is quite tidy but grubby and will need new carpets, seats and door cards seem ok but I now have a spare set incase i need anything.
It was originally on steel wheels but I have replaced them with the original Ronal 3 spoke ones, but i need to get the centre caps, all new yokahama tyres.

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:00 AM
I will post pictures as soon as i have enough posts! :cool:

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:08 AM
When I bought the GTE i hadn't heard the engine running but was assured it was ok!
Having been stood for 4+ years when I got it home i wanted to check the engine wasn't a bag of bolts (Well wouldn't you?)
So replaced the oil and filter, new plugs and tried to start it - ooops No fuel Derhhhhh!
Put some fuel in, Fuel pump was knack....., replaced the fuel pump turned the key and away she went - sounded good to.
Slight whine from the alternator/ waterpump area but good oil presuure no rattles, bangs or smoke - Sweet.

Back soon.......

bazil
10-09-10, 10:15 AM
What's the plan then? Restored to factory spec with no mods?
I have a 89 carmine red GTE that I'll be doing after my GSI rebuild.

Balley
10-09-10, 10:16 AM
Awesome, can't wait to see it :D

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:20 AM
General check over of the car:

2 x scabby front wings already fitted - need re-doing properly
Electrics on the dash messy not all items working
Piece of Formica used as a parcel/speaker shelf - definatley got to go
Headlining a bit mouldy - needs doing
Drivers door window not working
Rear arches rust starting to bubble through - possible new arch kit to be fitted.All in all not to bad at least its solid enough and not a rot box.....phew!!!!!

Back soon.................

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:43 AM
Plan of action:

I'm going to slowly go right through the car, not necesserally remove and strip everything, but restore as required.

Job 1:


Remove the engine and gearbox give them a damn good clean
Check engine components as required replace worn or faulty or broken parts.
I don't think i'll need to strip the engine right down, lets wait and see.
Check the clutch and replace if required whilst the gearbox is out.
Replace the timing belt and possibly the water pump
Clean, polish and paint engine components ancillaries etcHere she is....................... OOOPs not yet not enough posts.....
Anyhow what do they mean by 15 posts or more?????



Back soon......................

L14MNP
10-09-10, 10:45 AM
Please say this one is staying on trims! If it came that way anyway.

There's not enough of them rocking this look. They look awesome. I look forward to pics/updates. :)

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:50 AM
Its a standard GTE and thats how its going to stay.
Back to factory spec as much as possible.

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:51 AM
I am sure I will be requested help on sourcing some original bits, like GTE badges decals etc.....

GroupB
10-09-10, 10:53 AM
Hi L14MNP,
What do you mean by standard trims?????

L14MNP
10-09-10, 10:54 AM
GroupB I mean the wheel trims/hub caps mate. They are much better than the optional 3 spokes anyway IMO. Although I can see the attraction for them when the car was new.

As for factory spec, I like the way you add as much as possible. I assume your rust proofing will not be done by a lazy blind Spaniard/Brit this time around? lol

GroupB
10-09-10, 11:07 AM
L14MNP,
Sorry know what you mean now, can get hold of a set of steel rims so thats an option.
As far as the rust proofing goes, I'm investing in some sand blast gear to remove the old crap properly before re proofing her, i think thats the best way forward don't you?
I'm in no great rush, just going to take my time enjoy it and do the restore the best i can

GroupB
10-09-10, 11:14 AM
Any constructive feed back as far as originality is concerned will be much appreciated.
I Used to run a totally original Renault 5 Turbo II, I was always getting emails, phone calls and visits from fellow owners checking there spec Vs mine for originality.
(Wish I had kept that one worth over £30,000 now as only 21 left in the country, but flogged it to a bloke in California 5 + years ago)

GroupB
10-09-10, 11:15 AM
He she is.....................................
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/NovaGTE10910.jpg

GroupB
10-09-10, 11:16 AM
I'll post some more pics in a mo when i i've uploaded them

Mazz
10-09-10, 11:19 AM
Its a standard GTE and thats how its going to stay.
Back to factory spec as much as possible.

Good lad!
Standard GTE's look awesome imo :p

Balley
10-09-10, 11:27 AM
Looks fairly clean mate, headlight panel looks spot less :D

GroupB
10-09-10, 11:55 AM
Here she is in her raw sate as of 2 days ago:

Font offside with new scabby wing
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Offsidefront.jpg

Rear Offside
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/offsiderear.jpg


Rear Nearside
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/nearsideback.jpg

Rear Interior, complete with babys Dummie!!!!!!
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/interiorrearseat.jpg


Front Interior
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/interiorfront.jpg


Engine bay.......................
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/engine1.jpg

Boot Area................................
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/bootinterior.jpg

Rear End!!!
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/rear.jpg



Thats all for now folks.
What do you think?
I reckon she'll be a little gem!!

Back soon

Mazz
10-09-10, 12:06 PM
A decent clean in and out will make it look a different car..

Edd
10-09-10, 12:12 PM
That looks not bad IMO

As said good clean and it will transform the car straight away.

Interior looks ok a part from the crap and dirt lol

AlexW
10-09-10, 12:13 PM
Before you do too much id strip most of it and go looking for rust.

GroupB
10-09-10, 12:29 PM
Job List:


Engine and gearbox removal, clean repair, repaint etc
Engine bay, rust removal, repait etc
Underside, remove old underseal, paint and re-rustproof etc
Interior, Strip clean rust removal repair repaint etc
Exterior, repair repaint etc
Then tomorrow, Mot'd & Tax and away we go.......lol :)

Just going to take my time, no rush and enjoy the whole Nova GTE restoration experience.

I'll keep posting pictures as the project develops.

I looking to have it completed, subject to the weather by christmas/early spring. :thumb:

Andy
10-09-10, 12:32 PM
Removing the underseal is the worst job ever,trust me,there is no easy way to do it,its once been described to similar enjoyment as removing chewing gum from your pubic hair.
Anyway if you are spuds deep into it then get it on its side,i did after 3months laid on my back and got it done soooo much quicker

GroupB
10-09-10, 12:49 PM
I'm going to sand blast the underseal off hopefully.

Didn't you damage the car while it was on its side?
How did you do it as it might be an option? :)

Jonezy
10-09-10, 12:54 PM
As said, will look better after a clean. Looking forward to seeing progree. Any pics of you R5T2??

GroupB
10-09-10, 01:05 PM
As said, will look better after a clean. Looking forward to seeing progree. Any pics of you R5T2??

I have loads on one of my old computers I'll try and upload some when i get time :thumb:

GroupB
12-09-10, 04:02 PM
Thursday
Nice day so decided to get the engine out.
Removed the bonnet for ease of access.
Labeled all the wires, drained the fluids
Deciding whether to take out the gearbox with the engine or seperate them.
Started to rain and cos the car isn't under cover have to abandon for the day.
last couple of days been helping a neighbour with his old Audi 80 Sport.
He blew the head gasket so he wanted me to help him replace it.
Should be back working on mine on Tuesday. (Weather permitting)

craig green
12-09-10, 04:33 PM
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/rear.jpg



WHAT! Not powewred by fairydust? lol

Looks a perfect project IMO. Hard to tell but I hope it's not hiding toio many nasties. Should a be a good project & you have the right attitude towards keeping it std. You will only enhance its value as unmolested GTE's are thin on the ground now.

Looking forward to more.

GroupB
12-09-10, 05:00 PM
Yes, B & L Customs don't know who they are, Googled it but came up blank.
Engine sounded healthy.
Just read the whole of Nova Tek's project, hope mine doesn't take that long, but saying that we are coming into winter so who knows.
I've got a garage but its full of stuff and theres no power there, so looking for a kindly neighbour who has an empty gararge i could use!

GroupB
12-09-10, 05:03 PM
Yes, B & L Customs don't know who they are, Googled it but came up blank.
Engine sounded healthy.
Just read the whole of Nova Tek's project, hope mine doesn't take that long, but saying that we are coming into winter so who knows.
I've got a garage but its full of stuff and theres no power there, so looking for a kindly neighbour who has an empty gararge i could use!

Forgot to say gave it a quick wash, looks better already, rear arches may need replacing but not going to worry at the mo as that will be sorted a bit later down the line.

Defo Original cars are the best, just hope I can get it there without costing an arm and a leg.......:)

dj_wudgey
12-09-10, 07:14 PM
origional cars are the best mate!! hope there's not too much rust under the side skirts ect but does look a good project! are you going to do all the welding ect yourself??

GroupB
12-09-10, 07:52 PM
origional cars are the best mate!! hope there's not too much rust under the side skirts ect but does look a good project! are you going to do all the welding ect yourself??

Yep! will be doing all the welding myself, hopefully I will be doing the whole restore myself, may use a mate who owns a top notch coachbuilders to do the spraying but we'll see what needs doing.

I'll keep you all posted.....................:)

Andy
12-09-10, 08:01 PM
I'm going to sand blast the underseal off hopefully.

Didn't you damage the car while it was on its side?
How did you do it as it might be an option? :)
No damage at all,i had a matteress on top of 4 wheels.Basically me and my mate just picked it up and rolled it onto its side.The roof gutter was the only bit resting on it.If i was to do a similar task again i would make an a frame spit in all honesty

burgo
12-09-10, 08:09 PM
Yep! will be doing all the welding myself, hopefully I will be doing the whole restore myself, may use a mate who owns a top notch coachbuilders to do the spraying but we'll see what needs doing.

I'll keep you all posted.....................:)

best way, its so much more satisfying

Spudly
12-09-10, 08:15 PM
B&L Customs wasnt that cucumber fanny and her bloke?


Looks like its a good base to start on there bud:thumb:

dj_wudgey
12-09-10, 09:44 PM
Yep! will be doing all the welding myself, hopefully I will be doing the whole restore myself, may use a mate who owns a top notch coachbuilders to do the spraying but we'll see what needs doing.

I'll keep you all posted.....................:)

yea its the best way i doubt id try spraying mine though my pall offed to do it last week instead off having some where else do it!

and lol spud cucumber fanny lol

MattBrown
12-09-10, 09:52 PM
Looks good mate, looks like it's going to turn into a nice car!

GroupB
14-09-10, 12:24 PM
Well the weather is still terrible here so no work on the car today.

Just had a delivery of the newer Nova Haynes manual delivered, kind chap from ebay must have had a GTE as pages have been marked with GTE comments.

IMPORTANT NOTE:
After reading the supplements in the newer Haynes Manual Book number 0909 I have now found how to seperate the gearbox from the engine!

The supplement states:-

"All 5 speed transmissions built from late 1988 onwards have no threaded plug in the end cover. This means that for all procedures described in Chapters 5 and 6 of this manual which require removal of this plug, the complete end cover must be unbolted from the transmission casing"

Now that may be common knowledge to every PNG member, but when I asked, no-one told me that was the case.

So that means I now can remove the engine without the transmission!!!!!!!

Nevermind I suppose its all part of the learning process, but this simple fact has had me scratching my head for a while, wondering whether I had got a completely different gearbox fitted!

Ongoing Jobs:
Just making up a heavy duty trolley whilst the weather is bad so that I can transport the engine from the car to the "Kids 12 x 6 shed" which I am comendereing for the winter whilst working on the GTE. (Theres only so much cold weather & rain I can stand) Well I am 50!!!!

I've already put electrics in, so now I can install my bench grinder/buffer/cleaner, parts cleaning tank, welder, sandblaster, spraying kit etc.
I think i'll be busy for the next few days.

Well I do like to be organised :)

GroupB
17-09-10, 06:57 PM
The engine and gearbox are finally out!

Thursday:
Decided to to take engine and gearbox out together. Then couldn't get the passenger side driveshaft out.
So then decided to seperate engine and gearbox and just take the engine out. Then couldn't pull out the shaft fom the clutch.
So gave up for that frustating day.
Friday:
Having read some threads on the forum decided to have another go at getting the driveshaft out, and after much pulling and falling on my **** it came out.
Put the bottom balljoints back on so i could sit back on its wheels when i had finished.
Finally disconneted the clutch cable, speedo gable and check that nothing else was connected.
Removed the distributer and radiator as to not damage the.
Hooked up the Engine hoist to take the weight.
Released the engine mounts, removing the one on the offside front completely to give more clearance, tried to remove the passenger side front engine mount to give more clearance but the sod was on solid, ended up ripping the rubber - now need a new one.

Couldn't seem to get the engine out through the top so eventually lowered it to the ground.
Using the engine hoist again I lifted the front of the GTE really high to give enough clearance to pull the engine out.
Lifted the engine onto a suitable trolley and wheeled it to the back of the house.

Phew ! Thank god for that. Tbh it was hader than i thought it would be, but i did do it on my own, until Pete my neighbour arrived to give a helping hand.

Bonnet Off

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/bonnetoff.jpg

Offside front strut with driveshaft removed:
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/OSStrut.jpg


Engine and gearbox out
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Engineandgearboxout.jpg

Engine bay 1 - Abit scabby under the outerwing lip on the innerwing
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/enginebay1.jpg


Engine Bay 2 - Nearside looks good
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/enginebay2.jpg

Ooops the transmission fluid collecting bowl has dissappeard
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/oopstransmissionfluid.jpg


I can now start to strip the engine of all its accessories and start the renovation good and proper..............:)

dj_wudgey
17-09-10, 07:21 PM
nice matey doesnt look as bad as i first thought it may be!! and its a b*stard when that happens and smelly gear box fluid goes every where lol

GroupB
17-09-10, 07:42 PM
nice matey doesnt look as bad as i first thought it may be!! and its a b*stard when that happens and smelly gear box fluid goes every where lol

Thats the third time this year I dropped gearbox oil on the driveway, as you say it stinks!!!!!
Where did you think it may look bad?

G-nova
17-09-10, 09:10 PM
all nova's start rusting in the battary tray, along top of chassi legs, front crossmember, rear chassi legs in the boot area and along the arches like most cars.

GroupB
18-09-10, 10:34 AM
Battery tray looks a bit iffy, I think it has already been replaced or a patch welded in and undersealed - Yuk! won't know until i inspect further.

On initial inspection the top of the chassis rails look solid, and the front cross member may need a small patch approx 30mm square welding in. Rear arches have a few bubbles of rust, nothing major but if they are to bad I'll weld new ones in like Nova-Tek did.
Tbh so far I think I bought a good one and not a rot box, but only time will tell as i progress with the restore.

Today I think I'm going to give the engine a good clean to remove the 20+ years of oil and s..t.
Then I'll start to remove components to give them a more intense clean, paint and polish..............
Where's my Gunk, jet washer,wirebrush, bench grinder and dremmel, they are around here somewhere .....!

dj_wudgey
18-09-10, 01:33 PM
Thats the third time this year I dropped gearbox oil on the driveway, as you say it stinks!!!!!
Where did you think it may look bad?

in the pics where its coverd in moss lol thought it may have rusted like mad!! and yea ive done it my fair share off times mate then my dad ends up taking the jet wash to the drive lol

GroupB
18-09-10, 03:57 PM
Well thats that job done.
I can see the engine!
A good clean makes all the difference, now to remove components clean further and decide what colour to paint it.
I hate working on mucky engines.
Some parts I think I clean and leave, the block Red, clean the cylinder head, Sump, exhaust manifold & gearbox white !!
What does everyone think?

Clean engine:
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/eng4.jpg

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/eng3.jpg

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/eng2.jpg


http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/eng1.jpg

Its not come up bad has it?

dj_wudgey
18-09-10, 11:13 PM
its not come up two bad fella!! bit more off a clean and a lick off paint and shell look top notch!!

id say though paint the block black/silver the head and cam housing silver then polish up the rocker cover!

Connor
19-09-10, 02:19 PM
Nice project you have there pal, where abouts in derby are you and if you ever need a hand give us a shout :thumb;

MK999
19-09-10, 02:24 PM
Don't paint it white, unless your entire car/garage/life is immaculate it won't even last you putting it in before it's filthy and stained. Trust me, been there done that :p

GroupB
19-09-10, 02:27 PM
its not come up two bad fella!! bit more off a clean and a lick off paint and shell look top notch!!

id say though paint the block black/silver the head and cam housing silver then polish up the rocker cover!

Yeh, I've been thinking about it over night - as you do!
I agree with you I'll paint the block and sump black possibly paint the the head and cam housing silver if not just give them a damn good clean and remove the white paint off the rocker cover and polish it.

If it going to be original then thats the right thing to do........:thumb:

GroupB
19-09-10, 02:30 PM
Nice project you have there pal, where abouts in derby are you and if you ever need a hand give us a shout :thumb;

Hi Connor,
I live in Chellaston, thanks for the offer I may well contact you If i need a helping hand.

Have you got any special skills I should be aware of ?

Cos you never know............................:thumb:

MattBrown
19-09-10, 02:31 PM
FFS not white.

Its what chavs in saxos do and say its "sikkk"


Personally, I would paint the block black, the cambox, inlet etc in hammerite silver.

The gearbox in spray hammerite silver

Then put all the plastics in the dishwasher:thumb:

GroupB
19-09-10, 02:35 PM
Don't paint it white, unless your entire car/garage/life is immaculate it won't even last you putting it in before it's filthy and stained. Trust me, been there done that :p

Take your point and had a re-think, so the engine is now going to be staying its original colour.

Black block and polished/cleaned as much as possible.

Thanks again for your comments............:thumb:

MK999
19-09-10, 02:36 PM
Polished stuff and black will be much easier to maintain, it will wipe off for the most part, black wont show anything on it, and polished can always be repolished if it stains.

GroupB
19-09-10, 02:56 PM
Yep! Thats decided then, keep it basic, far less work to do.

On that point. The rocker cover. Is the 1.6 Injection lettering painted in any colour on the original car?

mk1nova_rich
19-09-10, 03:10 PM
looks a nice project you have taken on pal, shell looks clean enough... anyway best of luck with it and i look forward to seeing more progress with it :)

Connor
19-09-10, 03:30 PM
Well my speciality is errmmm strength lol
I am currently at the derby uni studying motorsport technology so still learning but always try and get involved when people do work as you learn quicker that way

GroupB
19-09-10, 04:08 PM
Well my speciality is errmmm strength lol
I am currently at the derby uni studying motorsport technology so still learning but always try and get involved when people do work as you learn quicker that way

Well muscles come in useful on the odd occassion lol as I'm restoring the car on my own and there's only so much my wife can do!!!!!!!

Presumably you staying in digs, so if your ever at a loose end give me a call.
Your always welcome.... PM me

craig green
19-09-10, 04:17 PM
The rocker cover. Is the 1.6 Injection lettering painted in any colour on the original car?

I think the rocker is bare silver with Red inlay in the writing.

Also, painting the cam housing is tricky as the oil residue from the upper rocker gasket will seep between the housing & paint & have it flaking off in bubbles in no time. Bare alloy is the best option, though not the neatest unless polished in which case it's high maintainance.

GroupB
19-09-10, 04:25 PM
I think the rocker is bare silver with Red inlay in the writing.

Also, painting the cam housing is tricky as the oil residue from the upper rocker gasket will seep between the housing & paint & have it flaking off in bubbles in no time. Bare alloy is the best option, though not the neatest unless polished in which case it's high maintainance.

Thanks Craig, I think it is Red too.
I'm going to do some work on the engine tomorrow, I feel that i will leave the cam cover bare metal and just remove all the oily residue from the leeky rocker cover gasket.
I've got to strip the existing white paint off the rocker cover anyway -Cos i think that looks naff.

Damo
19-09-10, 06:10 PM
Nice job your making of this mate keep it up looking forward to see if you replace the arches as i need to do the nearside on mine.

Damo.

vaughanmc
19-09-10, 06:12 PM
Nice job your making of this mate keep it up looking forward to see if you replace the arches as i need to do the nearside on mine.

Damo.

After having the arches done on my Mk1 Nova I'd rather replace the whole quarter panel lol The amount of filler work to get them looking and feeling right is unreal!

Damo
19-09-10, 06:16 PM
After having the arches done on my Mk1 Nova I'd rather replace the whole quarter panel lol The amount of filler work to get them looking and feeling right is unreal!

Well i was hoping to get them something like by grinding the weld back enough and using as little filler as poss.:confused:

vaughanmc
19-09-10, 06:17 PM
Still need to run a line/skim of cataloy the full length of the repair and when doing a back arch is quite big...Entirely up to you

Both have pros and cons

Damo
19-09-10, 06:21 PM
Still need to run a line/skim of cataloy the full length of the repair and when doing a back arch is quite big...Entirely up to you

Both have pros and cons

Tbh vaughan its just from the curve of the arch downwards that needs doing but dont know if thats gonna make it any easier.

Group b sorry for spamming your thread bud.

GroupB
19-09-10, 09:30 PM
After having the arches done on my Mk1 Nova I'd rather replace the whole quarter panel lol The amount of filler work to get them looking and feeling right is unreal!

Do we know anyone who has replaced the whole rear quarter on here?
If so it might be worth reading to see what kind of job it would be.

Tbh though i don't think my arches are that bad, its not a job i'm even thinking about yet :)

When and if i do just replace the arches Damen I'll give you a nudge ..:thumb:

Damo
19-09-10, 09:31 PM
Do we know anyone who has replaced the whole rear quarter on here?
If so it might be worth reading to see what kind of job it would be.

Tbh though i don't think my arches are that bad, its not a job i'm even thinking about yet :)

When and if i do just replace the arches Damen I'll give you a nudge ..:thumb:

Thanks mate that will be great.

craig green
19-09-10, 10:58 PM
After having the arches done on my Mk1 Nova I'd rather replace the whole quarter panel lol The amount of filler work to get them looking and feeling right is unreal!

Replacing a quarter panel is hardly a walk in the park.

The swage line in the C-pillar & B-pillar to line up, the join in the upper sill/door shut to get perfect, lots of spot welds to drill out & re-weld in the window sill, not to mention just generally getting the whole panel flush.

Doing an arch is far less work.

GroupB
20-09-10, 09:19 AM
Replacing a quarter panel is hardly a walk in the park.

The swage line in the C-pillar & B-pillar to line up, the join in the upper sill/door shut to get perfect, lots of spot welds to drill out & re-weld in the window sill, not to mention just generally getting the whole panel flush.

Doing an arch is far less work.

Well thanks for that Craig, the arch kit seems far simpler and less work,
Who knows made just need a bit of filler!!!!! :)

dj_wudgey
20-09-10, 10:47 AM
Yeh, I've been thinking about it over night - as you do!
I agree with you I'll paint the block and sump black possibly paint the the head and cam housing silver if not just give them a damn good clean and remove the white paint off the rocker cover and polish it.

If it going to be original then thats the right thing to do........:thumb:

yea i think that would look the sh*t!! especially with the polished rocker ive done a few off them over my time!!

craig green
20-09-10, 10:53 AM
As this is a restoration, maybe it would be worthwhile if anyone can add any catalogue scans etc from original brochures. Engine bay pics would be beneficial IMO.

GroupB
20-09-10, 07:09 PM
The more info on originality the better, especially pic's

GroupB
20-09-10, 07:39 PM
Started to strip bits of the engine to give them a good clean and where necessary paint.

Removed:

Alternator & Brackets
Exhaust Manifold
Starter Motor
Oil pressure switchMade an electrolysis tank to remove rust from components as described by ? on this forum.
Found a roll of chicken wire and lined a plastic barrel i had lying about.
Found my old battery charger and added some soda crystals from wilko's (Cheap only 59p) then the water.

First component to go go in is the Exhaust manifold.
Hooked it up to the Neg- and the chicken wire to the Pos+ of the battery charger and away we go (Bubbles started almost immediately.
I will look at the manifold in the morning to see how its going

Then to the buffer with wire wheel attachment.
Cleaned the brackets and the casing for the alternator, came up quite well.

But you know when you suddenly question - did i put it back together properly?
Where the recifier bolts to the casing theres a fibre washer - did i put against the casing or against the recifier ?
I'll have to strip it down again tomorrow to check as it is the positive and i would hate to get the engine back in only to find something is wrong...sh.t!

A few pic's for you

The electrolysis tank, chicken wire lining the barrel (seems to work)
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/rust1.jpg

Electrolysis tank covered up for the night
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/rust2.jpg


Polished alternator, using wire brush attachment on my buffing machine
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Polishedalternator.jpg

Alternator blades and bracket bits
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/sprayedandcleanalternatorbits.jpg


Tomorrow more bits off the engine and a good clean and pick up some primer and black paint for the exhaust manifold and engine block...........:thumb:

Rickyb
20-09-10, 08:21 PM
looking good its gonna be a top project.

dj_wudgey
20-09-10, 08:48 PM
i wana see how well that electrolysis tank works!! ohh and the bits are looking top after a buff up matey!!

Prey
20-09-10, 08:51 PM
very interested in the tank! also good to see another one saved, only local too - might see it about sometime?

MattBrown
20-09-10, 08:55 PM
Hammerite is your friend for the block matey!

Or johnsons (industrial)

Probably best giving it a wire wheel, then a good blast with airline, then a nice coat of gloss black!

GroupB
20-09-10, 09:05 PM
I'm always interested in gadgets that a make a job easier and the idea of removing rust by electrolysis seems a good idea as you don't have to struggle to get into those hard to reach places to get rid of those awkward bits of rust.
Couldn't resist checking how the manifold coming along. So i went down to the bottom of the garden to have a look whilst i was having a fag (Be careful - Fags and the Hydrogen given off do not mix - Ooops!) Its been in for about 5 hours and there is a thick brown rust skin already on top of the water.
I'll takes some pic's tomorrow morning and show you how its looking......:thumb:

GroupB
20-09-10, 09:09 PM
Hammerite is your friend for the block matey!

Or johnsons (industrial)

Probably best giving it a wire wheel, then a good blast with airline, then a nice coat of gloss black!

Hi Matt,
Gloss Hammerite black - "Snap" thats the ticket and i'll use some black VHT paint for the manifold.:thumb:

GroupB
20-09-10, 09:28 PM
By the way Thanks to STT for the article on how to make the electrolysis tank,
The Link is: http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=149320

Novasport
20-09-10, 10:14 PM
Hi, nice project you have going. I am also in Derby, I live near Markeaton Park.
If you need any help just give me a shout. Strengths? Err, wiring, trim, part sourcing & knowing Novas inside out.
Cheers
Rich

GroupB
20-09-10, 11:05 PM
Hi Rich,
Many thanks for your comments and offer of a helping hand,
I am sure I will in touch with you at some stage during this project.

All the best

Cheers Trevor

bazil
20-09-10, 11:11 PM
Look after the plastic cam cover, only the early E16 has a round top cover and they are very hard to find new now. If you buy a new one for a E16 it will be a square top and it's not the one that should be fitted ( just to keep it oe spec )

glad your keeping it standard :)

GroupB
20-09-10, 11:38 PM
Look after the plastic cam cover, only the early E16 has a round top cover and they are very hard to find new now. If you buy a new one for a E16 it will be a square top and it's not the one that should be fitted ( just to keep it oe spec )

glad your keeping it standard :)

Hi Bazil,

Not quite sure what you mean about the Cam cover, The one on mine is metal but has been painted white!
I am going to strip it back to metal and give it a good polish when i get some new polish soap bars for the buffer......:thumb:

Novasport
20-09-10, 11:47 PM
He means the plastic cambelt cover

GroupB
21-09-10, 10:03 AM
Drhhhhh !

Thanks Rich...

Sorry Bazil had a bit of a blonde moment, i thought you ment the Rocker cover was plastic!

The Plastic cambelt cover on the engine is in good nick so it'll just need a careful wipe over .................:thumb:

Sloth
21-09-10, 10:17 AM
vht is pants, you want some plastikote bbq paint, b+q sell it. their range of plastikote is good for painting engine parts, as it is a plastic based stuff similar to powder coating, i did my old motor and it worked a treat

GroupB
21-09-10, 10:22 AM
vht is pants, you want some plastikote bbq paint, b+q sell it. their range of plastikote is good for painting engine parts, as it is a plastic based stuff similar to powder coating, i did my old motor and it worked a treat

Thanks Rob,
I'll look into the paints you mentioned when I next pop into B+Q....:thumb:

GroupB
21-09-10, 11:36 AM
11.00am.

Just going to check on how the exhaust manifold is doing in the electrolysis tank.

Well the surface of the water solution has a thick brown rust skin on top so something has been happening
http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Rust.jpg


Disconnect the charger and wires and lift out the manifold.
Its come up well already after about 16 hours in the tank.

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/manifold2.jpg

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/manifold1.jpg

A little bit of rust left so i'll put it back in for a few more hours - but really pleased so far, got rid of the rust without any effort.

I'll put some other bits in just to try.

Engine mount
Manifold stud and nut
Clutch cable securing bracket which mounts on the gearboxhttp://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/enginemount.jpg


Lets see how they come up!

Apparently when you use this process the items your cleaning turn black and so you just need to give the a good brush and wipe to remove any loose rust etc then rinse them with meths or clean water and dry them.
One bloke i was reading about used to put the metal items in his oven at about 60 degrees for 1/2 hour to make sure they were absolutley dry before painting them....

I'll see how the bits in the tank are coming on later, meanwhile i'll get on with some other jobs..................:thumb:

Connor
21-09-10, 01:32 PM
Hi, nice project you have going. I am also in Derby, I live near Markeaton Park.

Rich

Literally round the corner from me, im in the uni halls on nuns street.
Think a mincing meet should be arranged ;)

Novasport
21-09-10, 01:41 PM
Ah, not far away then. Go past there everyday on way to work.

Might be easier to get all your mounts and stuff shotblasted then powdercoated. I get mine done at Derwent Enamellers for a good price. I know a lad there and he is into his Vauxhalls

GroupB
21-09-10, 04:58 PM
Ah, not far away then. Go past there everyday on way to work.

Might be easier to get all your mounts and stuff shotblasted then powdercoated. I get mine done at Derwent Enamellers for a good price. I know a lad there and he is into his Vauxhalls

Hi Rich,
Never had anything shot blasted and powder coated, is it expensive and what sort of things can be done?
Could i use your contact if need be?

Thanks Trevor

GroupB
21-09-10, 05:00 PM
Literally round the corner from me, im in the uni halls on nuns street.
Think a mincing meet should be arranged ;)

Hi Connor,
Sounds good a meet, we will see if we can arrange something in the near future with NovaSport............:thumb:

craig green
21-09-10, 05:13 PM
Electrolysis seems good so far. I agree with having mounts & other items powder coated. Its so much more durable than 'canning' them up with cellulose based paints which is truly disheartening when you watch it all flake off after your best efforts of sanding & priming etc.

Zeus
21-09-10, 11:15 PM
Project going really well, standard is the best look for GTE's especially in white(my fave colour).
http://www.flickr.com/photos/triggerscarstuff/3397773683/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/triggerscarstuff/sets/72157616120879200/with/3397773683/

GroupB
23-09-10, 09:44 PM
Not done anything to the car for the last few days.....Typical as the weather has been great!

Electolysis tank update:
Left the items in for 2 days and checked the results.

Took the manifold etc out of the tank, looked rusty :confused:

Checked the connections to the battery charger and they were ok.
Looked at the chicken wire.......Oooops its rusted through at the top of the water level.

My advise therefore is don't use some old chicken for the sacrificial metal.

Look........Only lasted 2 days

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Tankwire.jpg


Are well, i'll have to use some better metal and start again.......

Novasport
23-09-10, 10:12 PM
I bought some vinegar from Costco and left some bits in that for a few days and that worked really well. Only problem with immersing ferrous metals in any kind of fluid is you get flash rust when cleaning it off.
Dry blasting is always best IMO.
If you are not powdercoating another good option is to clean the metal and use a 2 pack epoxy resin. This is actually stronger than powdercoat and not prone to rust creeping under the paint(Which lifts off powdercoat in big pieces) when the finish is chipped or damaged.

I have found these guys good for various rust removal & prevention products...

http://www.rust.co.uk/

Have a look at my old build thread which shows my rear beam after powdercoating on page 7 and use of acid cleaner & epoxy resin later in the thread.

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=68132

Edd
23-09-10, 10:17 PM
Any links to that epoxy resin stuff Rich ? Or where to get it from ?

Edit: that site is ideal

Novasport
23-09-10, 10:27 PM
See link above, rust.co.uk

craig green
26-09-10, 11:01 PM
Sorry to hear this wont be going any further in your hands. You seem to have a really good vision & attitude towards it.
CG

GroupB
26-09-10, 11:06 PM
Thanks Craig,
I'm sorry too but **** happens as they say, but i am sure someone will get a lot of pleasure from it.
Trevor

scorge01
26-09-10, 11:10 PM
yeah me too was looking forward to the progress on this looks mint good luck with the sale hope someone on here takes it

Connor
26-09-10, 11:14 PM
Ahh such a shame, if i had anywhere up here to store it i would of swiped this off your hands

GroupB
26-09-10, 11:23 PM
I must admit I was really looking forward to getting stuck into it, not that it needs anything major needs doing.
Thats why i bought it in the first place, pretty rare finds these days, just wanted a project i would enjoy doing over the next year

Edd
26-09-10, 11:26 PM
Shame your not going any further with it you seemed to have some good sensible plans IMO

Is it lack of funds or time your reason for selling ?

GroupB
26-09-10, 11:29 PM
Shame your not going any further with it you seemed to have some good sensible plans IMO

Is it lack of funds or time your reason for selling ?


Wife!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:confused:
and she suggested buying it in the first place :confused:

GroupB
26-09-10, 11:31 PM
This car is now for sale:

This is the thread
http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=155934

Edd
26-09-10, 11:31 PM
Taking up too much room ?
Looks unsightly ?
Waste of money ?

If yes that sounds familiar lol

GroupB
26-09-10, 11:38 PM
Taking up too much room ?
Looks unsightly ?
Waste of money ?

If yes that sounds familiar lol

Apparently its all she hears about now, the GTE and PNG.........lol

Edd
27-09-10, 12:09 AM
She will get used to it lol

Just do a little at a time so not to upset her :thumb:

Connor
27-09-10, 12:18 AM
Get her involved :thumb:

GroupB
27-09-10, 04:08 PM
Sorry to mess everyone about but the wife has had a changer of heart and will not let me sell the GTE !

So the project is back on....................:)

Women they are so fickle!!!!!!!

mk1nova_rich
27-09-10, 04:24 PM
nice to hear that youre keeping it! i think a lot of people would have been quick to take it off your hands for the advertised price lol

GroupB
27-09-10, 05:34 PM
Well to say what time i put it on last night I was surprised at the interest.

I'll get back onto it again this week.............:D

vaughanmc
27-09-10, 05:56 PM
Glad to hear your not selling it mate

You'd be gay for listening to your Mrs anyway lol

Crack on mate, progress looks very good :thumb:

Mazz
27-09-10, 07:07 PM
So the project is back on....................:)



Good good, I liked the way this was/is going!

Connor
28-09-10, 04:06 PM
+rep, give the wife a high 5 from me :thumb:

GroupB
28-09-10, 05:45 PM
Spend an hour or so on the engine rocker cover today, its come up quite well.
I thing I'll keep the standard look.
What do you think?

Rocker cover on engine as i bought it.

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/engine1-1.jpg

Rocker cover with paint stipper on it - Just noticed the background, can you read what it says? lol

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/Rocker1.jpg

After cleaning the rocker cover for about an hour, Oh yes and reading the ad's..............lol

http://i864.photobucket.com/albums/ab201/nothills/rocker2.jpg


Polished the fins using 240/800/1200 wet & dry to remove the scratches then I used G3 polishing paste and finally a bit of G2 polishing paste.

Not a bad result...just have to paint the lettering in Red when I get some paint...................
Jobs a good en! :thumb:

Connor
28-09-10, 06:19 PM
Nice one looks 100x better

craig green
28-09-10, 07:21 PM
Glad this is going to continue Trevor.

F*ck the high fives, Big Tens!

Novasport
28-09-10, 09:44 PM
I would mask off around the lettering, not too close & spray them red.
Next mask off lettering plus a bit extra around them then paint the rocker cover black.
Finally flat back and polish the fins again, would look good IMO.

GroupB
28-09-10, 09:49 PM
I would mask off around the lettering, not too close & spray them red.
Next mask off lettering plus a bit extra around them then paint the rocker cover black.
Finally flat back and polish the fins again, would look good IMO.

I don't suppose you have done this to your rocker cover have you and if so any pics?...................:thumb:

Novasport
28-09-10, 09:58 PM
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1661.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1655.jpg

This was powdercoated satin black first. I roughly masked off each side just in case I caught it then rubbed it back with some wet & dry on a block.

GroupB
28-09-10, 10:04 PM
Looks great, might have ago at that,
What engine is it?
You have a heatshield on your exhaust manifold, is that standard?

Zeus
30-09-10, 11:54 PM
Looks loke a 1300 from a sport, could be wrong. Nice effect though.

Novasport
01-10-10, 12:36 AM
Looks great, might have ago at that,
What engine is it?
You have a heatshield on your exhaust manifold, is that standard?

Its a Sport 1.3. The heat shield was made by the first owner and has now been removed as I did not like it plus the will be a 4-2-1 manifold fitted soon.

bazil
01-10-10, 07:24 AM
I don't suppose you have done this to your rocker cover have you and if so any pics?...................:thumb:

danny sp, he done this a week or 2 ago to his GTE cover, here is a link to his thread, ( I really like it )

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=154848

GroupB
01-10-10, 12:52 PM
danny sp, he done this a week or 2 ago to his GTE cover, here is a link to his thread, ( I really like it )

http://www.pngclub.com/forum/showthread.php?t=154848

Just put a message on Danny's post to see if he could send me a picture..

Like you and novasport I think it looks really good so I think thats the way i'll go.........But not sure about the Red lettering............:thumb:

GroupB
01-10-10, 12:56 PM
Its a Sport 1.3. The heat shield was made by the first owner and has now been removed as I did not like it plus the will be a 4-2-1 manifold fitted soon.

From the pics I thought the heat shield looked quite good, but i suppose is all down to personal preference..........
What will you do with the shield once you've changed the manifold?....:)
Are you giving it away to a fellow local enthusiast....:)

Novasport
01-10-10, 09:29 PM
I am not really into bling TBH, thats why I am not that keen on it.
You can have it for me, might not fit though.

Saw your comment about not liking black, what about a graphite grey? It will give the ribs a bit of contrast when polised up.

Pop round Sunday if you like, should be home most of the day. Did I PM you my number, cant remember?

GroupB
01-10-10, 09:37 PM
I am not really into bling TBH, thats why I am not that keen on it.
You can have it for me, might not fit though.

Saw your comment about not liking black, what about a graphite grey? It will give the ribs a bit of contrast when polised up.

Pop round Sunday if you like, should be home most of the day. Did I PM you my number, cant remember?

Love the black rocker cover but don't like the whole engine been black,
and no you never PM'd me you number.
Would to pop round on Sunday but will confirm tomorrow.................:)

Novasport
01-10-10, 09:49 PM
I think I like the sound of a graphite rocker cover better actually.

GroupB
01-10-10, 09:58 PM
I think I like the sound of a graphite rocker cover better actually.

Where did the graphite grey colour come from ?????..............lol
Who mentioned that, it wasn't me...........:thumb:

Novasport
01-10-10, 10:03 PM
Just thinking to myself what a good colour choice I had suggested lol

GroupB
01-10-10, 10:07 PM
Just thinking to myself what a good colour choice I had suggested lol

Thank god for that! I've been reading back through loads of posts thinking that someone had mentioned that colour.......lol

Nova_Tek
01-10-10, 10:09 PM
Liking the project mate, the manifold has come up well by the looks of it. Glad you're keeping it too.

Good work on the rocker cover :thumb:

GroupB
01-10-10, 10:24 PM
Thanks Nova Tek............:thumb:

I need to really get stuck into now, unfortunately the weather doesn't help, wrong time of the year to start when the car isn't under cover.

Novasport
01-10-10, 10:38 PM
Get to Costco and get one of those temp garages.

GroupB
01-10-10, 10:43 PM
Get to Costco and get one of those temp garages.

I'd thought of that there only about £130 aren't they?
The trouble is i might get the neighbours complaining about it on the front, they are a funny lot round here...........:cry:

I mentioned it to the Mrs a while back and she just said "Stuff the Neighbours" get one....lol

Nova_Tek
01-10-10, 10:44 PM
Thanks Nova Tek............:thumb:

I need to really get stuck into now, unfortunately the weather doesn't help, wrong time of the year to start when the car isn't under cover.

No need to tell me fella, nothing but pooh weather. Still got a few things I need to do to mine that would be best done with it outside but there's no way I'm sticking it outside now that it's bone dry.

novaa
21-12-11, 05:52 PM
Did this GTE ever get finished if so any pics