1985 Nova Swing 1,2

[Novasport]

Just been to collect the new toy. It was on Ebay a few weeks ago but me losing internet connection at the last minute made me lose out on the auction. So, I rang the seller and asked him to let me know if the buyer did not collect as they had zero feedback. A few days later I got the call as they had apparently not been in touch(TBH I think it was some dodgy bidding on the sellers part) so I thought I would have a look.
Went for a two and a half hour drive to have a look at it and when I got there I was gobsmacked at how rust free the shell was! It has a couple of dents and scrapes from parking in the garage and has had a little bit of paint on the O/S/F wing but it is a one owner car with only 23k miles on the clock.
We agreed on a price(A bloody good price for me :d) and I left a deposit. After gently breaking the news to the wife and narrowly avoiding a divorce she agreed to take me down to collect it today.
Apart from a flat battery at the petrol station from me leaving the lights and the stereo on it drove home perfectly without fault. Not bad for saying it had been off the road since 2002 and there was torrential rain for most of the journey.

Not sure of the plans for it yet but they will most likely include a freshen up of the paint and some choice period accessories to include...

Opening quarter windows
Electric windows with brown switch panel
Genuine electric mirrors with switch and brown surround for the dash
Headlight washers
Irmscher injection
Same wheels but in 5.5J width
SR clocks
Poss Sport seats
Etc, etc...

Not sure yet but have some Irmscher sideskirts, Irmscher twin lights and an Irmscher rear spoiler I could put on.

Anyway, the pics.....

When I first went to look at it...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110629-00006.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110629-00005.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110629-00004.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110629-00003.jpg

[burgo]

if you got it for 3 figures i would say bargain

[Novasport]

Gave it a good wash when I got home including the engine bay and under the arches...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00022.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00035.jpg

Minty mint arches...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00038.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00037.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00036.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00034.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00033.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00032.jpg

Sills and door bottoms are mint...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00031.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00048.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00047.jpg

[Acerliam]

Looking clean mate !

[Novasport]

Engine bay and battery tray are totally rust free...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00023.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00029.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00026.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00025.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00024.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00027.jpg

So are under arches...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00030.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00049.jpg

Spring has a little overspray from when the O/S/F wing had some paint.

[dannymcc]

Looks very well, like the plans for it also. Best of luck with it. :thumb:

[Southie]

Hates a strong word but yes I hate you lol I want it :p

[Novasport]

Original dealer sticker and plates...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00054.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00028.jpg

Bit dusty but boot floor is solid...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00051.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00053.jpg

Genuine 23k miles...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00043.jpg

Period Blaupunkt stereo...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00044.jpg

Unfaded rear shelf and seat. Mint roof lining...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00045.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110716-00046.jpg

[Novasport]

if you got it for 3 figures i would say bargain

Yep:d, a very reasonable 3 figures aswell

[Acerliam]

Looks cleaner then mine lol , good find mate :)

[Edd]

Looks very very nice Rich :)

:eek: your not going to start using some of your parts stash are you :eek: lol

Plans sound good, not sure on the irmscher stuff tho

[bazil]

Cracking car, :)

[Novasport]

Looks very very nice Rich :)

:eek: your not going to start using some of your parts stash are you :eek: lol

Plans sound good, not sure on the irmscher stuff tho

Yep, will be digging out some of the parts that really could not have been used on the Sport.
I think a Sprint replica would look cool...
http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRFkJ0f-Fjk8FF_29Jn0KkRy1MDD0BeU8tGO2A2K_KFajJBaC-W

[Edd]

That does look very nice, doubt you'd see anything else like it tbh, all Irmscher stuff together would work

Glad to hear you using some parts up too

You built a garage extension ?! lol

[boss]

wow how clean thats just unreal nice to hear your goin to use your stash of rare bits on it

[Mint FRST]

Nice car Rich, reminds me of my old one.

I need another Nova again :(

[peester]

jammy sod. Great find.

[Iain]

Do they have overspray in the arches/suspension from the factory or has it had paint at some point?

[Novasport]

That is the original finish in the arches. There was a little bit of overspray on the spring and inner arch on the O/S/F but it was mostly on muck which came off when I cleaned the arches.

[Novasport]

That does look very nice, doubt you'd see anything else like it tbh, all Irmscher stuff together would work

Glad to hear you using some parts up too

You built a garage extension ?! lol

No but I need one, plan is to get it in the lock up I have but that is currently occupied by a ton of parts. Will be having a bit of a clearout to make some room so a few surpluss bits will be going.

[Iain]

Overspray on muck implies recent paint then? It does look nice though no doubt you have some awesome bits to fit to it.

[Novasport]

Recent being 2002 at the latest as that was when it was last on the road. It has had a very minor scrape to the O/S front corner as there is a graze on the bumper and it has had a new genuine GM headlight. There is no other damage in the surrounding areas so must have just been paint damage.

[Nick J]

Looks like a real good find Rich. You have pm by the way.

Nick.

[Dervy]

proper minter, good find mate, what are you going to be doing with it?

[SRimon]

Excellent Rich, exactly as you said it was at Billing, time to start emptying the loft ;)

[Graeme]

Looks very nice is that a Pearl in the back ground?

[Novasport]

Yeah, its a four door loon Pearl. It was for sale on the bay at the same time but I dont think it sold. Its not bad condition and I think it was another 1 owner low mileage car.

[Edd]

Sprint rep sounds quite good actually

Would you be able to get a good paint match on the bumpers and skirts tho ?

[Novasport]

TBH, I think I would get both sides painted to make it perfect as it has a few marks etc from parking.
The paintwork is not the best but the reason I bought it is the fact that there is not a spot of rust on it and the bargain price.

[Royston]

Excellent Rich, exactly as you said it was at Billing, time to start emptying the loft ;)

He'll never do itlol

Looks a good buy Richard, my first experience on a Nova was a red 1.2 Swing, my 1.6 Cortina couldn't keep up with itlol

[Novasport]

Of course I will :)

It went quite well on the way back, was touching 80 at one point! Went better than I thought, especially as it only has a 4 speed box! lol

[John]

ah-ha! very nice indeed Rich!

[Novasport]

Took the Swing to work today to get it MOT'd and it passed no problem. Couple of advisories on tyres and the rear left brake binding slightly. I think it can be forgiven seeing as the tyres are the original 25 year old Michelin MX's and the car had been standing for nearly 10 years.

Had it up on the ramp after work to drop the engine oil and coolant and replace them. TBH they looked as if they had been recently replaced even though they cant have been done for at least 10 years AFAIK. While I had it in the air I had a good look around underneath and I was gobsmacked at its condition. The car looks as though it has never been out in rain or winter weather which has kept it like new. I'll let the pictures do the talking.....

Front inner arches and front panel totally rust free and spotless inside the box section....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00055.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00056.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00062.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00063.jpg

Main floor, all stoneguard intact, seams and box sections again spotless....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00057.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00061.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00060.jpg

[Novasport]

Rear end a little dusty but again rust free. Brake pipes and plated metalwork also spotless!!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00059.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00058.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00064.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00065.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00070.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00071.jpg

[Novasport]

Rear arches and sills....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00067.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00068.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00069.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00066.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00072.jpg

And those 25 year old tyres :s

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00073.jpg

Took the passenger mirror of and put the blank on as the mirror has come apart and needs putting back together...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00074.jpg

[Novasport]

Went to refill all the fluids after greasing all the pipes etc whilst on the ramp but the 2 poster went clunk and the locks have cut in.
Can't get the ramp back down now as it seems to have gone out of sync lol. So had to leave it at work for the weekend up in the air as I can't be arsed to manually wind it down!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110723-00075.jpg

[Iain]

Argh that's so clean lol Mental condition

[Novasport]

I know, I still can't belive how clean it is.

[Edd]

That is a nova you can seriously call mint

New pics may it look a even better find Rich tbh

When you cracking all your goodies on it ?

[Novasport]

I am thinking I want to do a Sprint replica but I am not 100% happy with the paint and it has a few parking injuries. Sooo, it will be tidied up for now then popped into storage until I can save some money for a respray, find some Irmscher bumpers and do the full on Sprint replica.

[Edd]

Thought you had a set of Irmscher bumpers ?

[Novasport]

No, about the only thing I dont have.
The Irmscher bodywork parts I have are 2x sets of twin headlights with new lenses, a new 3 piece rear spoiler, 2x front lower bumper spoilers, 1x rear bumper spoiler and 2x new sets of sideskirts.

[brainsnova]

It's amazing back in 1998 there was some serious rotten nova's about and the whole time this beauty has been saved from the rust monster.

[Cle]

Sprint replica would be great shell really is mint :)

[marc69]

That car is mint! I rebuilt my swing and it is not as good as yours, seriously jealous! Why make it a sprint? it is pretty cool as it is and it will draw plenty attention in that condition...you even see the spot welding at the bottom of the sills, I have never seen that in a nova in my life!

I am very impressed. If you find another one like that let me know...............................

[Novasport]

Its not bad but its not perfect. I want to get it painted so it would be rude not to put the Sprint bits on as I have them all gathering dust in the loft.
It will all be reversible and I would keep the original parts to return it to standard if needs be.
I thought I would be different as there isn't much in the way of Sprint's over here. There was a genuine red one that got sold then never seen again and there is a white replica that made a brief appearance then vanished.

[marc69]

Very true regarding the sprints.
I suspect it is still one of the cleanest 1985 Novas in existance! Look forward to seeing your progress.

[ryansnova]

welcome to the performance swing club mate lol shell looks really clean dude :)

btw i would like to ask how much would i need to pay to get a origanal radio like yours?

[Edd]

Any idea when you might start doing stuff to it Rich ?

I did see sone new Irmscher bumpers on eBay.de few days ago

[Southie]

I hope you do make it a Sprint, something in that good a condition deserves a little treat IMO

Too many standard MK1's kicking about at the minute so a red Sprint would look fantastic ;)

[NOVA13SPORT]

I thought I would be different as there isn't much in the way of Sprint's over here. There was a genuine red one that got sold then never seen again
.
red one made it to a garage in Ireland
owned by a member on here

a sprint replica would be a great partner for the sport

[cuatrolatas]

It's new!!!!!!!!

I also have a 1.2 red swing, but it isn't so good than yours.

My favourites are the exclusive seats in beige/brown

I think keep standard isn't a bad idea. When i restore my in the future i will decide if keep it standard or with the SR look that has at the moment, because I like both

[Novasport]

I did a little on the Swing today. Took the seats out to wet vac them as they were a little dusty and had a few grubby marks on them. Came up really well and they are in excellent condition...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2042.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2044.jpg

No fading on the rear seat top...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2043.jpg

Going to vacuum the carpet and do a couple of other jobs tomorrow whilst the seats are out

[boss]

any pics of the rare bits your puttin on

[Novasport]

Electric mirror setup. I also have the window setup but dont have any pics of the extremely rare brown switch panel
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1528.jpg
Opening rear quarter fittings and mirror switch surround. Have not got any pics of the glass and seals.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1877.jpg
Headlight washer kit if I stick with standard bumpers
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1520.jpg
Under arch headlight washer fluid tank for use with injection. I have an Irmscher injection kit to fit aswell
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG00108-20101027-1439.jpg
Tool kit for boot(This is the one in the Sport but I have a second
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG00083-20100717-1631.jpg
Mudflaps
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG00059-20100707-1334.jpg
Another boot box and boot liner(Again these are the ones in my Sport but I have another pair)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1690.jpg
Irmscher steering wheel, I have the choice of a four spoke or a three spoke like the one in my Sport
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1673.jpg

[brainsnova]

Some rare tidy parts you have there :thumb:

[Novasport]

One of two Irmscher twin light setups I have which I also have new lenses for
One of two ploughs I have
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF1472.jpg

I also have 2x new sets of Irmscher sideskirts
A new 3 piece Irmscher rear spoiler
A new Irmscher exhaust backbox
A full Irmscher injection kit
Rear arch carpets in brown
Full Sport interior
Sport 6 dial clocks
etc
etc
etc

[pikey1986]

some tasty bits you got waiting to go on, cant wait to see how it turns out

[Novasport]

Had a toch of the OCD when I cleaned the seats and decided to take up all the carpets to check the floor and clean it
Main floor is spotless...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110731-00005.jpg
Rear seat pan also mint. Need to get one more new genuine rear seatbelt to replace the rear pair.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110731-00006.jpg
Boot floor, again mint. Only fault I have found is a hole drilled in the floor to the left of the spare wheel well, no idea what it is for but will just stick a grommet in it.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110731-00007.jpg
Had a quick peek into the sills through the seatbelt bar holes and all appears well. Plenty of wax and no rust, yes Nova's did have cavity wax from new it appear.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110731-00010.jpg

[cuatrolatas]

no words, incredible couple of rare parts.

[Edd]

What's that 3 spoke doing in the boot ? :eek: lol thought it would of had a unused spare

Nice collection of rare bits there as well Rich

[Connor]

This is going to be very unique and alot of cool rare parts are being put on.
Love it

[Novasport]

Not sure where the original spare went. The three spoke and Michelin MXL tyre are brand new and unused. I think it came out of the low mileage four door Pearl they had in stock.

[SRimon]

Looks incredible Rich, get some of those parts on it for god's sake! They're no good in the loft!

[Novasport]

Not much been happening with the Swing. Put all the carpet back in along with the seats and some nice period floor mats.
Tried starting it yesterday after 2 weeks to move it but it would not start. Found no fuel getting through so checked the tank and there was some in. Pulled of the supply hose to the pump and found it was dry. I sucked it through and got a gob full of unleaded which was not pleasant! Put it back on but it still would not start so I took of the air filter and poured some fuel down the carb to get it going. Once it was running for a few seconds the pump managed to pull the fuel through and it ran fine. It starts first turn of the key now and runs like a dream. I suspect the fuel hose has perished and gone porous pulling air in as it also smels under the car. Tried to get some cotton overbraid hose to replace it all from the local factors with no luck and Vauxhall next door wanted £35 for 2x 1m lengths of the new type reinforced stuff and that was at staff discount!!!!! Anyways, I know another place that has it so will get it sorted shortly.
Some pics to keep you going....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110807-00014.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110807-00013.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110807-00012.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110807-00011.jpg

The mats are unusual as the rears go all the way under the front seat and press stud onto the front mats. I was lucky to pick up another brand new set in brown along with some other new period brown mats from Billing this year :)

[scott.parker]

Oh dear oh deary me.. Even i hovered the bid button, as i saw this and the saloon he had, but i thought it looked too clean and in the pics thought it had had rear arches done, plus money not being great i stepped away and let it go, ended on £750 didnt it? And the loon went for a measly £200!

Well that's life, and i did see them mats you got a billing, your nuts, you just keep buying up more and more stuff! lol you could actually start your own museum soon..

Plans sound good, i love the look of it, as it's got some similar things to the Jamaica yellow..

I'll keep my eye on this, and cry most times i think about what i missed! lol

Scott

[Novasport]

The phone call to the bloke before the end of the auction was quite amusing. I asked about the general condition of it and he said, 'I am on the walkabout phone so I'll get the key and look over it whilst you are on the phone'. Bit of rustling later he is there and I fire away with the usual questions.... How is the boot corners inside? Err, they are like new. What are the arch lips like? They are spotless. Hmm, what are the door bottoms like? They are mint. Oh, OK. Battery tray? Like new. Inner wings, like new. Even right in the corners, no rust? Absolutley none. Ahh OK. You don't beleive me do you? Well yes but... Come down, you will not be disappointed. Blah blah blah...

It sounded too good to be true and I have been let down by so called minters in the past(Like a certain black Mk1 on PH at the moment which is a rot box! Its also the early Autodata book cover car but it was not in good nick unfortunately :( )

Could not get down before the auction ended and I missed the end of the auction as I mentioned earlier. Luckily the highest bidder, possibly himself or his mate?!? did not buy so I went down and haggled a price a lot lower than the auction price :)

I dont think the loon sold in the end as it was still there when I collected the Swing. Offer him a couple of hundred quid, might be a good first car for the missus.

As regards the parts, it will all come in handy at some point and the are not getting any easier to find so they are also a good investment if I dont use them

[scott.parker]

Trust me if i had the extra cash i would of bought them both! lol and i would be buying up lot more parts then i already have, tbf i might have to sell some if times don't come good quick..

I'll have another look on ebay for the loon, that was the other thing his seller rating was 2 or something silly low, so alerted me a bit, possibly why it never got lots of bids etc.

Scott

[Novasport]

Well, I smell like an Esso station tonight!
Decided to replace the fuel lines tonight as the old ones looked a little tired....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110809-00026.jpg

The engine bay ones were straight forward but the little 'S' shaped ones needed the fuel tank draining. Not knowing what was in the tank as the sender unit had packed up(Another reason to drain the tank), I started draining it off. I was not expecting much as I had driven back from Surrey in it and to work and back, I ended up getting 22 litres of fuel out of it!
Anyway, the pipes have now been replaced and I shall get a new sender unit in it tomorrow.

[Tim Harpley]

Where did you find the rear spoiler? had a look on Irmscher classic site but they don't list it anymore?.:(
Wish I had a more understanding wife like yours, didn't go down to well when I broached the subject of getting another nova for spares to use on minelol
Cracking car you found there though well done:thumb:.

[wwmnw]

First and last time I look in this thread, never been so jealous lol

[Novasport]

Where did you find the rear spoiler? had a look on Irmscher classic site but they don't list it anymore?.:(
Wish I had a more understanding wife like yours, didn't go down to well when I broached the subject of getting another nova for spares to use on minelol
Cracking car you found there though well done:thumb:.

I bought the rear spoiler brand new from German Ebay about 5 years ago, that was when parts were cheap on there and the exchange rate good. There was someone selling one on Ebay over here for £60 BIN but it was in Europe somewhere. They do pop up on Ebay.de every so often, keep looking.

The wife hates Nova's to a certain extent but she puts up with it. She was on the verge of divorcing me when she found out about the Swing but I managed to talk her round.
Just buy one then deal with the consequences after, you'll be fine.

[amggsi]

Just buy one then deal with the consequences after, you'll be fine.


That's what I do, although she only thinks I have 3, not 6!! Handy having 2 red and 2 white ones, she sees no difference in them!

Looking forward to seeing this completed, will be nice to see something different from the norm.

[wwmnw]

She was on the verge of divorcing me when she found out but I managed to talk her round.

If that's no exaggeration, you're a brave man lol

[brainsnova]

My moto is if you have a garage or space of you own to keep a number of cars then you can buy as many as you want to fill that space.

[Royston]

My moto is if you have a garage or space of you own to keep a number of cars then you can buy as many as you want to fill that space.

I don't think I'll get away with that, Richard knows how big my garage islol

[Novasport]

If that's no exaggeration, you're a brave man lol

I am being serious, she said if I get another car she would divorce me! I always did like to push my luck lol

[wwmnw]

I am being serious, she said if I get another car she would divorce me! I always did like to push my luck lol

lol you ****ing HERO! lol

[Novasport]

I don't think I'll get away with that, Richard knows how big my garage islol

Mmm, you might have difficulty filling that. Mind you, you're not doing a bad job so far!

[Novasport]

I finally got round to taking the sender unit to find out what the problem with it was. The float was half full of fuel and the body was covered in some type of sediment.
I took it apart and cleaned the printed board with meths an rebuilt it. I pulled the wiring back through the hole in the back seat so I could test the sender whilt looking at the guage. It only worked on certain sections so that concluded it was scrap. That meant a trip into my local Vauxhall parts department that only deals in NLS parts(My loft lol) to find a replacement....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110814-00027.jpg

Grabbed one of the four new ones I have and fitted it with a new seal but I tested it inside the car before I did. Good job as one of the tabs was bent in to far stopping the guage short of the full level.
Tweaked it out and it worked perfectly.

Refuelled it and got it running. Got the V5 through last week and I taxed it online so I can take it out for a run. Took it out for a blast and it runs spot on. The missus also had a drive and she loved it :) Looks like its growing on her, she calls it the Postman Pat van lol

Decided this was an ideal place to stop for a photo ;) ...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110814-00028.jpg

Need to try and sort the dent out on the N/S/R quarter panel. I think the first owner must have caught it reversing into the garage :(

[sport]

Looking good Rich, like the sprint replica idea.

[Balley]

This is very clean, your a lucky man :)

[Novasport]

Small update.
After the little running issue I managed to source some new 'S' fuel hoses for the tank so will try them at some point to see if it has cured it.
I have been buying again and have bought some bumpers to help make it into a Sprint repica.
I am waiting for the new rear one coming from Germany and I have received a good condition front one already. I have the Irmscher front grille to match and have bought some new Manta indicators to fit. Just need to save some money for paint now.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110831-00042.jpg

[Edd]

Nice Rich, good to here your cracking on with the Sprint idea

Thought in to how your going to sort the decals out ? Or you not bothering with them?

[Novasport]

I will most likely get some made but I have come accross some genuine 80's decals that I could use if I can get them.

[Novasport]

Nothing exciting done. Just replaced the aftermarket rear seatbelts with new genuine ones.
Had a look at the inside of the rear quarters and arches while I had the panels off. Looks like they went OTT with the paint and sealer when they built this one. Its a good thing though as its stopped t rusting :)
O/S
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2085.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2086.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2087.jpg
N/S
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2089.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2088.jpg
Belts in
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2091.jpg
Nothing much else done really. Need to get it in storage for winter and make a proper start on it next spring.

[Novasport]

Not done a great deal with the Swing over the last couple of months as I have been busy doing other jobs that needed to be done.
Now that winter is just around the corner I decided to get the Swing protected as my spare garage is rammed to the rafters so I cannot get it in there.
The original plan was to get a new 14'x10' shed built at the top of the garden & clear the lockup for the Swing to go in. The garden & 86' foot of fencing took priority over the shed and my lockup looks like this(Although there is a few more bits in there now!)....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20110704-00021.jpg

I got it cleaned....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20111127-00107.jpg

and did a few other little jobs. There was a couple of stone chips on the drivers door that had just started to corrode so Dremel'd them back to bare metal, treated, zinc primered and painted them. I think a full respray is on the cards next year so it did not need to be pretty.
Took it for one last run to dry everything off and put some fuel in it, I think the exhaust needs replacing now as it is blowing a bit lol. Well it has lasted 26 years so I think I will let it off ;)
I sprayed WD40 & Waxoyl on everything under the bonnet and on the arch lips etc.
After a cock up on my order for a waterproof car cover I ended up getting two from the seller on Ebay, a soft water resistant cover & a breathable waterproof cover.
I have fitted them both so it should keep it nice and dry over the winter months...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20111127-00108.jpg

Going to try and get some webbing straps to hold the cover down so it does not blow away.

[burgo]

this thread is very handy for finding out which original bits i need for my swing

[pastry]

what a nice car, i wish my nova was 80% of your car, without the rust!
goodluck with the replica!

[Novasport]

Well I may be going to Plan B with the Swing now after my latest purchase. I will still be going Sprint replica but this time as a Sprint-C.
Here it is, the second Sprint kit I have owned but this is a lot better than the first one I had. It needs a few little repairs to cracks etc but there is no damage.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2283.jpg

Big thanks to Vessey for the kit.

I did not take the wheels as I am not a massive fan of them and 3x of the centre caps were missing.
I have my eye on another wheel design which is identical to the Irmscher wheels(I think they made them for Irmscher)...

http://www.alloys-tyres-wheels.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/r/o/ronal_ls.jpg

Problem is, they are only available in ET25 7.5x15" so I have no idea what the car will handle like on them?!? They should fit OK and the VW boys say a 195/45 15 tyre is the best size for the wheel(And a Nova!) and gives a slight stretch. I will need to fit EPAS which I was planning on anyway as the missus will be driving this car.

[scott.parker]

That kit, them wheels! your now talking seriously nice mate!

[Novasport]

This is hopefully what I want it to look like, the Irmscher brochure car...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2289.jpg

And you can see the wheels are identical...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2290.jpg

[Graeme]

Excellent work Rich you fitting the round lamps?

[Novasport]

Yep, just debating where I could hide the indicators though. Prob best to drill the fog/driving lights and stick a bulb and holder in them

[Graeme]

I would Rich, I love how Rob's spider looks, low and wide ftmfw

[Edd]

Nice Rich, very nice

Will look awesome in red as well, I thought they only came in white

Is it a massive job to fit the kit then? Filler neck and how them rear arches fit spring to mind

[Novasport]

They came in red, silver and white as far as I know and any colour Nova/Corsa A could be converted.

Filler neck is no problem, it just retains the original cap. This kit has no flap but they can be fitted.

Fitting the rear quarters will possibly be the most gut wrenching bit as I need to chop out the rear arches. Not a problem on most Nova's as the arches are usually scabby or rotten but the ones on the Swing are still like the day they left the factory!

[Southie]

At least you know the metal will be decent then, also the resale value on this will be worth more than a Swing in the future.

Looking forward to seeing you build this up Rich.

Cheers
David

[Vlietje]

Nice! OEM Sprint C wheels were ET 28 iirc...

[Trivs_Tom]

If you are interested, my bro has some Lenso BSX wheels for sale, ET20. almost exactly the same but they are fake splits..
on my project thread theres a pic of them on his 306. I know youre going for OEM but thought its worth a shout ;)

Also, super jealous of how clean this is!

edit: i just realised that this has lower miles than both of my C90's lol

[Vlietje]

Nice! OEM Sprint C wheels were ET 28 iirc...

15 x 7 ET 28 to be correct...

[Calamity Josh]

Fitting the rear quarters will possibly be the most gut wrenching bit as I need to chop out the rear arches. Not a problem on most Nova's as the arches are usually scabby or rotten but the ones on the Swing are still like the day they left the factory!

At least you can sell them as arch repair pannels then lol

[Vlietje]

15 x 7 ET 28 to be correct...

Talking about these though:
http://i1224.photobucket.com/albums/ee371/vlietje1/Foto-SLXXOUMN.jpg

[tahir868]

This thread is awesome mate, new rare parts FTW! I love what you have planned for it..

This is hopefully what I want it to look like, the Irmscher brochure car...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2289.jpg

And you can see the wheels are identical...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2290.jpg
I just sold a set of these wheels for a friend of mine! :( But the Ronal LS's are exactly the same IIRC, also they were manufactured by ATS and possibly another make.

[Novasport]

15 x 7 ET 28 to be correct...

ET25 7.5 x 15 are also listed in the Irmscher catalogue as correct fitment with the Sprint kit with special approval for fitment of 195/50 15 tyres.
I would fit 195/45 15.

[Vlietje]

ET25 7.5 x 15 are also listed in the Irmscher catalogue as correct fitment with the Sprint kit with special approval for fitment of 195/50 15 tyres.
I would fit 195/45 15.

Spotted that. Did you know they (Irmscher) still sell these wheels in Germany, NEW that is.
You have a PM regarding the stickers.

[sport]

Well I may be going to Plan B with the Swing now after my latest purchase. I will still be going Sprint replica but this time as a Sprint-C.
Here it is, the second Sprint kit I have owned but this is a lot better than the first one I had. It needs a few little repairs to cracks etc but there is no damage.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/DSCF2283.jpg


This seems all very familar lol
Best of luck for the build, i had thought about this kit when it first went up for sale but ive more than enough to keep me busy at the moment.

[Novasport]

This seems all very familar lol
Best of luck for the build, i had thought about this kit when it first went up for sale but ive more than enough to keep me busy at the moment.

Familiar to me too, been there once before....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMAGE036.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMAGE035.jpg
The victim that gave up its kit...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/Image010.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/Image008.jpg

[sport]

Familiar to me too, been there once before....

Thats what i ment, remembered this from when you were going to do it to the new shell you had at the time.

[SRimon]

Rich RE: Wheels.

Won't MK2 Golf GTi/BMW E30 wheels be more like ET35? They'll bolt on just fine under those arches. They're Ronals IIRC? ET25 seems a bit extreme?

[Novasport]

I would want to fill the arches as best as possible, hence the ET25's. When the wheels are tucked in too much they make the kit look awful. Plus the LS's are a hansome looking wheel ;).

TBH, I am having second thoughts about the kit. I think the work it is going to need to fit it & the butchery of the Swing shell is putting me off big time. I think I will run with the narrow Sprint kit for now then maybe go to the wide arch Sprint kit later.

[krobinson]

Fit it!!

[Edd]

^ agreed

Get it fitted Rich

Think I remember you saying you want to have the whole car painted, might as well fit the kit and have it painted then, do it once, all imo tho

[Graeme]

Come on Rich its only a Nova albeit a fooking clean one, plus you've got the sport to be a purest over, get the grinder out and get some of those bits out of the loft on it and enjoy it, it'll be one of a kind and loved by all, base models don't need preserving, they need modifying

[Edd]

Well said Graeme :)

[krobinson]

When's the last time you saw a 1.3gl concourse mk2 escort? Would you want to drive one? No chance. You want a cossie powered rs2000.

Fit the kit!

[faker]

do the sprint without the wide kit. that wee shell is simply too good to cut up. it wont be long before all the good ones are gone rich, then peops will be kicking themselves down the line. basic mk1 and mk2 escorts are going for a fortune. novas are fast going the same way. you should be ashamed of yourself (kidding) why not find a nova with a few blisters that you would not mind cutting up so much!

[peester]

for bbs-style cross-spoke alloys, another car/fitment to check out is saab 9000 (circa 1988-1991) turbo/carlsson wheels.

[Novasport]

Not really an update, just a condition report and recommendation for outside winter storage ;)
Had to read the gas meter so needed to move the Swing so thought I would check its condition whilst pushing it out the way. The cover had to come off to get in as I had left it in gear.
Well my Ebay special covers have done a cracking job over winter and kept the bodywork totally dry with no condensation anywhere in or out :)
The straps and some selectively placed gaffa tape has stopped any paint rub from the covers.
I have also been looking at the underside over winter and due to air circulating under it outside it has also stayed totally dry.
I was also amazed that the moisture trap inside also had not a drop of water in it!
Will get it taxed in a month or two(Got the Sport & 888 to tax aswell :( )

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20120303-00174.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20120303-00176.jpg

[Edd]

Any plans to do anything to it soon Rich?

Oh and can you text me so ive got your number ? Stupid Samsung phone has deleted all my numbers again ffs, cheers

[Novasport]

Going for a Sprint R replica(Narrow bodied Sprint) as the wide arch kit needs some time spending on it to get it right before it is fitted to anything.
I want to fit all the Irmscher & OE extras I can to it and also fit a 1.3 a 1.4 on Irmscher injection. Fancy a brown leather Recaro interior but that might be pushing things a little :roll:

[Edd]

Sounds good

Going to get much done for billing time?

[Novasport]

Not sure. Got a lad at work lined up to repaint it and his work is spot on. Just need to get everything prepped and save some money to get it done.

[sport]

Rich is it not the Sprint DR your doing as it has the Irmscher bumpers, the Sprint R has standard Nova bumpers.

[scott.parker]

Rich, i still say go wide, you might later regret it, i would.

[Novasport]

I can go narrow, then wide later. It is a little more difficult the other way round. Might look for a good shell with scabby arches to fit it to, less gutting to have to chop the arches out of.

[scott.parker]

I can go narrow, then wide later. It is a little more difficult the other way round. Might look for a good shell with scabby arches to fit it to, less gutting to have to chop the arches out of.

Thing is it's hard to find nova's with just rotten rear arches and nothing else badly gone, but i was very lucky, as that's exactly what my jam yellow was!

Ive been over today with a fine tooth comb to check it's condition, and im shocked how clean it is, TBH i had forgot how good it was/is, an im struggling to think why i would part with it..

[Acerliam]

Any updates on this mate ?

[Novasport]

No unfortunately. Didn't take it for its MOT earlier this month as one of the 27 year old rear tyres has now given up and has a 6 inch split in the tread :S
The tyres are 145R13, a size no longer made so I would have to buy a pair of 145/80R13 as they have to be matching on the same axle.
Been spending on the garage workshop so not had the time or money to sort it. Once the garage is finished I will get it MOT'd and in my other garage which is currently full of parts and make a start on it.

[Balley]

If the tyre has no aspect ratio on the side wall it means standard, which on your car is 80 so you only need one pal. I am a tester my self, I would hope all testers now this to!

[Novasport]

One of the lads said he would pass it but TBH if one has gone that way, the others won't be far behind it. Don't fancy the tyres blowing out on it and dont want to spend on four new tyres when I will be fitting different wheels. Rather spend on tyres for the new rims.

[Calamity Josh]

i have a set of original michelins if your interested?

[Novasport]

Unless they are free it would be a no, thanks for the offer. As said, rather spend money on new tyres for bigger rims.

[Novasport]

One antique tyre that had enough, don't fancy driving on that.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20120919-00433_zps0bc32af1.jpg

Luckily I picked up a set of Revolution RFX's for £100 with four good tyres :) Unfortunately one was punctured but found a new 185/60/14 that had been written off the stock and had been chucked in the loft at work so got that fitted.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/IMG-20120919-00431_zps50f16642.jpg

Got an advise on last years MOT for rear brakes binding, stripped them both to find the pistons in both wheel cylinders siezed solid for the trailing shoes. Got a pair on order for tomorrow for £8 odd each :). Need to get them built back up and the car MOT'd

[Edd]

What's the plans for it now then Rich? Still doing a Sprint?

[Novasport]

Yes, still on for a Sprint replica but will have to wait until next year as the new garage has swallowed up my spare cash along with some unexpected house repairs :(

Finished the brakes today and rescheduled the MOT for next Saturday, just needs an O/S/F sidelight bulb from what I can see.

[sport]

Whats your plans for the sprint replica, wide body or narrow body?

[Novasport]

Narrow bodied Sprint, Sprint-C kit is sold

[novaboy2010]

This is mint m8, got to be best mk1 nova ive ever ever seen do not cut this up please. I would leave it as it is and find another nova to do a sprint replica with. Another one what needs work that you not arsed about cuting up. I couldn't bring myself to do anthing with that. All the best :thumb:

[Novasport]

Dont worry, it will not get cut up. The Sprint parts are all bolt on so it can be returned to standard very easily.
Not done anything with it recently, been too busy with other things. Will just get it stored over winter then see what happens next year.

[Edd]

you still got plans to fit some bits onto it Rich ?

or just happy to leave it how it is ?

be nice to see you crack some of your parts onto it i reckon

[jimbob-mcgrew]

the condition of this is unreal, i reckon youve photoshopped all the pics :P
glad you sold the kit, wasnt keen on that

[Vinnyzf]

Lovely example! Once it's on the road and finished, will be gorgeous!

Good luck buddy x

[Edd]

For a minute I thought there was a update of Rich fitting some parts lol

[lee 16v]

Looks like someone got a good find.

[Novasport]

Yes it was a good find.
Not done much with it over the last year due to getting the Spider. Hopefully get it back on the road this year and get the wife to drive it to Billing if the Spider is getting stripped for a rebuild.
Got a couple of bits to fit to it. Might chuck a set of three spokes on it.

[Novasport]

Managed to source 8x three spoke spare wheels and tyres cheap, most have never seen the road and were new but had some slight marks.
Also managed to get a set of new centre caps plus a couple spare thanks to Niek.
Thought I would get them repainted at work and my paint guy has done a great job. Colour matches the new centre cap pretty well too, not that they ever did originally.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/20140404_171246_zpsd59a4323.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/20140404_171228_zps397f5ce5.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/20140404_171212_zps9440a633.jpg

Just got to get two more repainted to match and put the new Michelin MXL's back on.
Big thanks to Mitch for tracking the wheels down for me :)

[Vlietje]

Wow! Great job!!

[Novasport]

Its good having such a good painter I can use. I really want to get the Spider stripped and ready for him to paint it, I think he will do a superb job.

[Vlietje]

I really like the quality of his work.

[mr sri]

Just sat and read your thread bud and thats one minter you have there, gotta say I'm well envious of you having those three spoke wheels and centre caps great wee read :-)

[Novasport]

There are still plenty of three spokes around if you look for them. Like everything, you couldn't give them away a couple of years ago now everyone wants them.

[Novasport]

All done ready to go on. Put the period Michelin MXL's back on as they were all new having only been new spares.
Got a set of five but taken one back to work as the bead is leaking air slightly.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/20140419_180439_zps8d087de1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v305/NovaSport/20140419_180508_zps11e4ddfd.jpg
Got a set of new caps for them too.

[Kev Turbo]

They look great! Where did you source the period tyres from?

[Novasport]

They were all new & unused spare wheels so the wheels & tyres had not seen daylight. I asked a friend to find me three and I ended up with nine lol

[mr sri]

Wheels look mint as said in a previous post ye couldn't have paid someone to take them years agos as I jad 3/4 sets all with caps n they ended up gettin weighed in to the scrappy :cry:

[Kev Turbo]

If you have any you want to sell I would be Interested - especially with the period tyres