Teddythom's Star Silver Mark 2

[TeddyThom]

Well after much discussion, I have finally been persuaded to upload a WIP thread.

1991 Mark 2 Star silver Merit. 1200 carb, 4 speed box. Love that box. Sooo much fun for a small engine.

Any excuse to picture whore as far as I'm concerned lol.

Had a few small issues with her, but nothing that hasn't been sorted already.

Anyways, as said got a few ideas so far, nothing spectacular yet. Being a pizza boy is a right drag when it comes to your finances.

Time for pictures now.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5798.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5799.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5802.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5804.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5806.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5807.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/101_5808.jpg

That's all for now :)

Plans are to get it lowered, a few styling tips and keep it nice and simple, til such time as I can throw a half decent amount of monies at it.

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Well the induction kit is done, and the exhaust just needs welding up - then it'll make the right noises.

Get it dropped and on some nice wheels...then I reckon start messing about with the interior! And fit that damn spoiler!

Lows & wheels first though!

[Andy]

Any plans to remove the dents and scratches?

[mowgli]

i'm confused... teddy thoms project, but pyromaniac yeti is doing the work???

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Both his car and mine have sort of become a joint project lol

If one of us gets stuck or frustrated with something then it's sorta "get out the way, let me have a crack at it" fresh pair of eyes and all that. Plus if you're working on your car with someone who's also got one then theres likely to be bits that they've done before and can save you a lot of time on! - and if all else fails his neighbour is one of those irritating people that comes along out of nowhere and fixes something you've spent 8 hours fiddling with in about three seconds...:d

He spent half of yesterday trying to get my alternator out after it all but fell off on the way back from brighton, whilst i spent the time ****ing about making bits of exhaust fit together to make his backbox sit a bit better. :thumb:

[mowgli]

i am very much like his neighbour....lol

[pyromaniac_yeti]

You know the type then?? Lol

Two days struggling with a wheel bearing, he took one look at it and said "You're both not very good at this are you. Wind the self adjuster in and it'll fit back together"

D'oh!

[brainsnova]

Go halfers on a Haynes manual lol standard nova's are basic to repair

[TeddyThom]

i am very much like his neighbour....lol

lol.

We work on each others novas, luckily enough his needs more work than mine haha so I can always pack up and go home if the needs arise :d

Exhaust is now done and sounds lovely, just ringing the insurance company and lubing myself for some raping :d


Any plans to remove the dents and scratches?
And yes there will be, but getting it on the road is more pressing at the moment :thumb:

[gary_126]

I like it, looks a nice clean base, and you dont see many silver nova's :D

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Get here quicker then gimpy, i want to hear if it was worthwhile me taking a grinder spark up the nose to get that exhaust sitting where i could see it!!

You know, the more i look at that scratch that is precisely the same height as a BMX stuntpeg the more i wonder how it'd look with it done in grey underneath the rub strip thingy on the door like mine is. i reckon it'd be easier to spray the grey on there than to get a decent finish in silver, and it'd cost a lot less for the paint. Photoshop needed!

Wing is a replacement job, the quarter i reckon if you built up the base of the dent with the fiber filler (the realy hard stuff) then skimmed it over with the P40 that i used on my arch then you'd be able to get that pretty much sorted. not sure that popping it out is going to make things any better tbh, cause then it'll be harder to fill it straight, and you run the risk of popping parts of the panel too far out if you know what i mean?

[Rickyb]

looks a good project keep up the good work next door neighbour oh does he have a name? is it flanders?

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Nah, dwayne

[Andy]

Nah, dwayne
Just like the interfering fed in die hard 1 then lol

[brainsnova]

Nah, dwayne

Is it dwayne dibbly lol

[TeddyThom]

lol!

Behave yourselves guys he has been a big help to me :p

[pyromaniac_yeti]

I'll point out at this stage that he's not updated this cause of some rather odd noises that's now leading to a gearbox swap.

He was spotted a few days ago doing this lol:

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/307792_10150961328600054_816330053_21909529_144520 1384_n.jpg

And again yesterday armed with power tools:

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/303133_10150960527980054_816330053_21906126_258816 873_n.jpg

Only other relevant pics i can think of at the minuite would be the finished exhaust & induction kit...

http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/391517_10150937485005054_816330053_21805109_271121 663_n.jpg

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/388922_10150961329100054_816330053_21909536_183532 4395_n.jpg

And he's fitted his 5 spokes (imo, they look a ****sight better than those astra wheels it was on before!!)

http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380125_10150961328800054_816330053_21909530_517635 880_n.jpg

Oh, and on another note completely - the above mentioned neighbours cat has taken to sleeping in the spares car! little sod's small enough to get in through the rear light holes we belive (unless theres some SERIOUS rust we've not spotted yet!!) Opened the boot to be confronted with this:

http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/303100_10150961329020054_816330053_21909534_179048 9829_n.jpg

And i've got proof that it's the fastest 1.2 going. Managed to get an indicated 120mph! Cherry bombs & big airfilters do add at least 100bhp!

http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/315902_10150960527655054_816330053_21906121_114756 0573_n.jpg

Anyone who knows their stuff will know whats going on with that lol

Anyway, that's all ive got at the minuite - hope he doesnt mind me updating this for him, but as im quite fond of taking pictures of everything i thought i'd upload what i've got!

[Connor]

Sick boost pipes Yo lol
http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/391517_10150937485005054_816330053_21805109_271121 663_n.jpg

[shed-on-wheels]

hmm i take it the car was up in the air being as the handbreak lights on lol flat out mid air ftw haha!!

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Lol, jackstands - we were running it to listen for the stupid noise!

Induction kit is a focus kit, adapted to fit a cinquecento, hacked up to fit a nova with a 45 bend off a scrapyard civic :d

[TeddyThom]

Nova has had the gear box changed. Now it won't start, lumpy as fook when it is trying to start, and the gear lever feels like I'm trying to stir porridge with it.

Starting to lean towards the matches again...

[pyromaniac_yeti]

Diddent start because he'd not connected the HT lead from the coil to the dizzy.

Ran lumpy as **** because he haddnt adjusted the timing as i'd advised!

And the gear lever felt like porridge because the balljoint wasnt connected, and neither was the linkage aligned up as per the haynes!!

Where would you be without me eh?? :roll:

[TeddyThom]

^^ You make it sound like you do all the work... I'll remind you of that when you are swearing and cursing and need MY help on your TD ;)

Anyways back to the important stuff, got everything sorted out, t'is running sweet as a nut. All I need now is to get it 60mm lower...

[TeddyThom]

Woot!!

Finally got an update!!

About freaking time haha.

Now not all of this update is good, but I shall deal with the bad news first, makes the good news seem that little bit better.

Bad news is this: Was heading down one of the main roads near me whilst at work, following a black vectra estate. Was quite a bit back, nothign epic, but not tailgating. He applied the brakes, I applied the brakes, I hit an icy patch and proceeded to wallop his tow bar ¬¬ no damage done to his car, no scratches etc. Everyone was alright blah blah.

Here are a few pictures of the damage, yet to take the bumper off and follow it all the way, but initial findings are good (well as crash damage goes lol)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0384.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0383.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0382.jpg

Headlight shot to sh!t (although all the bulbs still work nicely lol), wing dented underneath the light, grill peice that sits under the light smashed, the bumper iron now needs a straighten up, and the front panel needs pulling out. Hopefully it won't have hit the chassis rail too badly (if at all) so I won't need to get jigged and straightened, however once I get a proper amount of time off work, I shall pull it all apart and get it looked at. So fingers crossed all will be fine and relatively easy to repair.

So yeah, if anyone has a Mark 2 drivers side wing and grill in star silver, I'd be very grateful if you contact me, I've already got the headlight sorted out and should be on its way very soon.

Now for the good news!!

Have finally got myself Photoshop so I can start sorting out my clocks idea. Will update that one once I get a bit further with it.

Oh and what has happened here??

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0385.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0386.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0387.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0388.jpg

We are now sitting 60mm lower! Win! Decided on sticking with the astra multispokes for now, as the profile gives me no trouble on the arches and gives the car a wonderful handling characteristic. Once the weather has dried up and got a bit warmer, I have a few country lanes to properly test it out ;)

Almost set for the new steering wheel, just waiting on one more bit, I shall get those pictures up once the assembly is complete.

For now that is all.

[TeddyThom]

UPDATE!

Thanks to Colin (yet again) I have secured the headlight and grill to fix the crash damage. No need for a jig etc to pull out any damage everything is all sorted. Look a little odd with a white grill but nothing I can't spray when I have five minutes :thumb:

Finally got my horn push I have been waiting for to finish my steering wheel build.

Now you can see the results:

Start off with the bus wheel:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/d7bb6883.jpg

Add a steering wheel puller:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/810042c4.jpg

And a man size ratchet:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/645caf38.jpg

Then some fiddling about with said steering wheel puller and you get this:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/05641241.jpg

Then the boss was put on and secured:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/21f32596.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/86f6c555.jpg

Then the snap off hub was attached:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/ca1ea77b.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/0ea79064.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/a16194c1.jpg

Had a scary moment when I thought I had rounded off/cross threaded a bolt but it turned out just fine, no actual problem, just me being a floozy lol

Then the finished product:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/5c1809d2.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/18fed33e.jpg

Next on the hitlist will be the clocks. Am currently working on a few ideas for them.

Will update as soon as I have sorted them out! :d

[TeddyThom]

Another update!!


http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/Photo0387.jpg


See these wheels?? Well they look a lot different now, been busy in the hot weather :d

A friend of mine finishing off a wheel:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/fd32cb0b.jpg

How they all look now, ignore the centre cap, it was just there out of the way, I am two short (and one is cracked) but they will be getting sorted out as and when I have a full set.
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/1b9abbca.jpg
Also managed to sort out the surface rust on the arches, and a few scratches, and due to not having any star silver to hand, went for the two tone look.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/6303ed43.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/2cf31ef8.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/7c310bd7.jpg

And how it sits now:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/e3b53e32.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/6d4c27af.jpg
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/c69e7338.jpg

That's all for now, still having trouble with the clocks, trying to find a break or a short somewhere, as I am getting a dodgy signal from the temperature gauge and the fuel gauge, they like to shoot up and try and push the needle off the chart. Just wish the fuel gauge would read like that all the time and be true! lollol

Once I got them sorted then I will be happy.

Also still undecided on the chassis leg conversion for the TD conversion I have been thinking about, but in order to do that and keep working, I need to find another car cheap, which really isn't easy. :/

Ah well, watch this space, things could be going different soon, I shall try and make up my mind after Billing :d

[Novasport]

What seats have you got in it, Recaro's? How well do they fit?

[TeddyThom]

No, they aren't recaros.

As far as I am aware, they are recovered Manta GTE seats, however, I am completely unsure of this, so your guess is as good as mine tbf.

On the other hand, they a little bit loose, could do with being a lot tighter on the runners, but generally once my fat ass is in them, there is no movement or anything to worry about. I did however have to remove the door pocket, due to width, but no issues with the handbrake etc.

[TeddyThom]

Massive update. Might be a little out of order time wise, I have to go back through my photobucket as I have been very slack in updating this lol

Back in december this happened:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/83071051-69A2-44DC-95B0-648E246FF878-2102-000002686BAB7E69.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/83071051-69A2-44DC-95B0-648E246FF878-2102-000002686BAB7E69.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/69144D87-0EFD-4F5A-8878-A7A468B02A15-2102-0000026877AA83E1.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/69144D87-0EFD-4F5A-8878-A7A468B02A15-2102-0000026877AA83E1.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/64320B99-8CF7-4E16-8E71-17AC94A98728-2102-000002687D4D2E78.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/64320B99-8CF7-4E16-8E71-17AC94A98728-2102-000002687D4D2E78.jpg.html)

Fresh dent due to a corsa side swiping me. Is getting booked into the body shop sometime in the next fortnight:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/AA190D51-4D35-45BE-A75C-71F2EC273E95-2757-0000023BB7226A38.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/AA190D51-4D35-45BE-A75C-71F2EC273E95-2757-0000023BB7226A38.jpg.html)

Thoughts?? I got it for nothing...

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/99142fcc.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/99142fcc.jpg.html)

Cav slabs that have come with minty fresh tyres, of which I am also refurbing.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zpsb2bd0ea2.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zpsb2bd0ea2.jpg.html)

Clear rear lights :d

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps595ddd04.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zps595ddd04.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps99f839b6.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zps99f839b6.jpg.html)


Also have new black door cards with FLI speakers in, and electric windows:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps329b5236.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zps329b5236.jpg.html)

Random pic whore moment.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zpsaff07ecf.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zpsaff07ecf.jpg.html)

That's all for now. Will have more after this weekend as am picking up an engine finally!!

[kent14sr]

Looking good!! - the bonnet vent isnt my cup of tea though.

[bazzap8389]

looks good on the black wheels :thumb:. got to agree with kent14sr though not a fan of the bonnet vent. Each to his own though!

[novadave24]

looking good mate good work :)

[TeddyThom]

More updates!! Shock horror!! lol

Picked this up today...

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps30931eef.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zps30931eef.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps9088acfa.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zps9088acfa.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zpse81548e4.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/null_zpse81548e4.jpg.html)

Anyone care to guess what it is I have got??


looks good on the black wheels :thumb:. got to agree with kent14sr though not a fan of the bonnet vent. Each to his own though!

Well I thought about the trooper vent, but seeing as I got this for effectively sweet fa... I'm just not sure if I want to cut my bonnet for it...

[novadave24]

an engine ?

[TeddyThom]

an engine ?
Funny fcuker :p

[conza123]

what engine is it?

[Steve]

1400 ;) nice find mate, might be as quick as mine when it's finished lol

As for the bonnet vent.. Well, bin it!! lol lol

Is that manual choke?! Also I see it comes with the heater matrix hoses, i'm still after a set for mine for the manual choke conversion kit i've got.

[novadave24]

an engine ?
posted on wrong one lol

[novadave24]

Funny fcuker :p

lol i was thinking it was a 1.3 or 1.4

[TeddyThom]

1400 ;) nice find mate, might be as quick as mine when it's finished lol

As for the bonnet vent.. Well, bin it!! lol lol

Is that manual choke?! Also I see it comes with the heater matrix hoses, i'm still after a set for mine for the manual choke conversion kit i've got.

Yes it is manual choke, I will need the hoses so you can't have them :p lol


lol i was thinking it was a 1.3 or 1.4

And yes it is a 1400 :d

Got some mad plans for it, but I need to get it running and useable first

[brainsnova]

Mad plans must be turbo power

[Steve]

I thought you had some hoses on the shell as well?

[TeddyThom]

I have two on the shell. I have a spare one on the engine itself and I might have another one to make the matching pair. Pop up. We'll browse :)

[Stuart]

Got some mad plans for it, but I need to get it running and useable first

Like new brake discs?

[TeddyThom]

Like new brake discs?
Ha ha bloody ha. I shall sort something out, don't worry.

[TeddyThom]

Very small update.

Finished off most of the interior, got a couple of small modifications to the pillar cover, clip is in the wrong place weirdly, and it is supposed to be like that, can't work out why the clip doesn't fit, I took it out of a mark 2! But 5 minutes with a small drill and it'll be sorted, then I can wire up the tweeters that have been put into it into the front speakers.

Trying to decide if it is worth removing the carpet and dying it black to match the rest of the interior... Thoughts anyone?

Also did a battery test to check my interior electrics, amazingly, they all work as they should, clocks come on, all relevant lights, wipers and jets work, electric windows work, just need to grease them up a bit as they are stiff as hell, not surprising as they haven't been opened in a gazillion years lol

Got to find some bulbs for the front and they should work nicely, I've even got fuel in it lollol

Made a list of the stuff I need to finish off the engine. Feels like a mile long... But shouldn't give me too many problems other than saving up some monies to get the bits I need. Like an alternator.

Got a friend coming to do the body work dents that I have as well.

Also trying to save up for a full re-spray, as I have decided to use the boot lid, I had for sale as it already has the rear spoiler I wanted, saves me drilling the old one. Going to also attach my scoop to the bonnet I had as well. Saves me wasting time and cutting into my silver one. I shall keep those for spares should I ever need them.

Oh so slowly coming together. Just need to find some more monies to get it all together, then I shall finally be back in the nova!

[Steve]

Good to hear it mate, glad you've got the enthusiasm back!

Let me know what engine bits you need as I may know a guy with 1300 head.

[Jeff16v]

Glad the to see the thread being updated Richard, don't forget to post pics as things progress. Good luck.

[TeddyThom]

Thanks Jeff. I think I'm going to be in the running for slowest build ever. And it's only a 1400!! lollollol

OMG? WTF? UPDATE!

Seeing as no one wanted it, I decided to use the boot lid I had going spare. Meant I didn't have to drill a pretty excellent boot lid.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps94bf7066.jpg

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps81a7b9ee.jpg

Yes I know it's white but the car will be going for a full respray once the build is finished and I've got more monies.

Still only doing bits and bobs that aren't costing me any money at the moment. Thought I'd mention that before someone mentions the dent in the side. I've got someone who can sort it for me. It's just having the money which is the usual hold up :/

[TeddyThom]

Yet another small update. Plumbed in the rear half of the exhaust system. Just awaiting a couple more bits then I've got the front half to finish the slight modifications, then fit.

Sits beautifully.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps5c0b212d.jpg

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps7690c4dc.jpg

That's it for the moment.

[TeddyThom]

Waaahhheeyyyy!!!

UPDATE!!

I was a little bit busy yesterday. Managed to get hold of a welder. Fitted up the front half of the exhaust system and welded in the down pipe and now have the full system on. Also checked out the driveshafts that I needed. Found out I didn't need to make up a set, I had an appropriate set already. Just need to repack some grease into them to loosen them up as they have been sat in my shed for a while. But they fit, gearbox seems alright. Obviously I'll need to put fresh oil in the box but that will come later.

Gonna have to start throwing cash at it soon. So fingers crossed a job falls in my lap sooner rather than later!!

[Steve]

Glad to hear it mate, it won't be long till its driving again. I've just bought a 4 branch for mine so that's next on the to do list.

[TeddyThom]

A four branch? Nice. I got one coming later in the year along with some twin 40's and an F13cr gearbox :d

Very minor update got the gasket kit through the post today. Cv grease to refurb the driveshafts shall be along shortly as will the alternator. Still got some dealings with the bloody cam problem :/ got to get the bible out. lol.

Will be be pickin up the cam belt kit next week as well as getting my ATE's refurbed. Then gonna tackle the brake hoses as they are being a right prick at the minute. Then it'll be mot!

[TeddyThom]

Couple of pictures of today's mincing.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps1052f5b6.jpg

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zps62f1913d.jpg

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zpse207af12.jpg

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/null_zpsa3ec7a14.jpg

[therealnovaboy]

love the monster energy can.

good work, the hard bits putting it back together.

[TeddyThom]

That's easy. Got the bible (Haynes manual lol) to hand along with a torque wrench. Having trouble finding a couple of bolts for a few things. Like my cam pulley bolt lol. Hopefully got one coming in the week and having trouble finding a distributor for the engine as well lol

[Damo]

Looking real good mate keep it up.

[Steve]

Cool mate, won't be long now!

[TeddyThom]

Minor update. Had a few "down" days. Looked at it and thought why the hell am I still bothering etc.

However, I have been gathering strength to go at it again. Got myself new driveshafts as the others were shot. And as of tomorrow, I actually face having the nova running! Might not move, but it might just run! Decided against getting shot of the cav slabs, they will make a nice set of winter wheels. If I smash them, then it doesn't matter, the tyres are currently being sorted out as I type this. Amazing what PVA glue can do lol.

Also a massive thanks to Novait and Steve for their help with the wiring gremlins I have been facing!

Will update with some pictures when I have them.

[TeddyThom]

Well... It has been an interesting few weeks. Been having some serious electrical issues with a lack of wiring and having to trace wires from what appeared to be absolutely nothing.

But...

After what has seemed like an age, and various sessions of non starting, I came to the conclusion (via a rather lengthy FaceTime session with Novait) that my bottom end timing was out. Re-timed it, and have got better results on the starting attempts, she seems to be a lot easier in the attempts to fire up. She still isn't firing, but I have compression and spark. I believe I have my ignition timing all in order, but I'm not getting fuel from the tank, so I strongly believe that my fuel pump is buggered. I have one on order so just waiting for it to turn up. Once that is here, it *should* start. I also believe my fuel air mixture screw is slightly out so it will require some fettling. So fingers crossed that the new year will result in me finally driving the nova again.

Some random pictures...

Bonnet refitted:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/30838D9A-8339-40D9-BBAA-1C1C4B2B9DB0_zpsayj1n7zv.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/30838D9A-8339-40D9-BBAA-1C1C4B2B9DB0_zpsayj1n7zv.jpg.html)

Seals all done on the calipers, only got a picture of the one though:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/9EA79BEB-A38B-4E79-AE3E-0EACA94FD5BB_zpsictcjwwi.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/9EA79BEB-A38B-4E79-AE3E-0EACA94FD5BB_zpsictcjwwi.jpg.html)

Alternator fitted:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/8CDF71EB-B54F-4AFE-A6CF-00FCD49C1041_zpsurtfl8yn.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/8CDF71EB-B54F-4AFE-A6CF-00FCD49C1041_zpsurtfl8yn.jpg.html)

Almost finished:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/CEEC873A-3F3E-451D-839A-831396E4DAC0_zpsozdxvkh1.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/CEEC873A-3F3E-451D-839A-831396E4DAC0_zpsozdxvkh1.jpg.html)

That's it for now. Next lot of pictures should be the finished article and awaiting mot!

Then when the summer hits, all the bodywork will be sorted out, got some lovely dents to sort out. Going to get some new wings and generally tidy it up even more.

[TeddyThom]

It is alive!! Alive I tell you!!

Basically got her started for the first time in what seems like an eternity!

However... The head gasket blew within 15 minutes of her starting and running. I believe either the head wasn't torqued down right and therefore need a new torque wrench or the head gasket was dodgy.

So back to square one almost. Not too unhappy with it, I know the block is alright, going to send the head off for a skim, get a new head gasket and a new torque wrench and start again, all the main hard bits are done, all the wiring gremlins have been kicked out, as have the timing issues. Also found out why I wasn't getting any fuel... Fuel pump had gone tits up, but a new one sorted that problem right out nicely.

I have decided that it makes more sense for me to get a fancy cam like an AST2, my twin 40's, four branch exhaust manifold, and F13CR gearbox and chuck them all on and get it running nicely before taking it for MOT, otherwise I'm going to be having it for like a week on the road before I take it apart again... As such, trying to find an AST2 lol, and putting monies aside for the other bits.

Astra vents to be installed when I find a fibreglass bonnet:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/B01A0B61-F6C7-4F21-A3B9-5AC39373FC58_zps8tcpvtss.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/B01A0B61-F6C7-4F21-A3B9-5AC39373FC58_zps8tcpvtss.jpg.html)

Trial running my spoiler in carbon wrap with a scrap piece...

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/7B3D23A5-5EC6-4F94-A72C-E70A6738BA26_zpslxh6rvls.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/7B3D23A5-5EC6-4F94-A72C-E70A6738BA26_zpslxh6rvls.jpg.html)

Fuel pump before fitting:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/1E9F7DC7-08D8-47B5-A1B5-AC0B8CE3FF47_zpssn4o6xdu.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/1E9F7DC7-08D8-47B5-A1B5-AC0B8CE3FF47_zpssn4o6xdu.jpg.html)

Little video of her started... Yes it is white smoke. At first I thought it was just condensation but then found the head gasket leaking just after I stopped the video:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/th_E80312BA-3224-43E1-91B5-3BB351FB3914_zpsvlbtzcey.jpg (http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/E80312BA-3224-43E1-91B5-3BB351FB3914_zpsvlbtzcey.mp4)

That's it for now. Crappy weather hasn't helped one bit but I am confident I shall have it road legal soon!

[Jeff16v]

We'll done Richard, shame about the gasket. Onwards up upwards, as they say!

[Steve]

Nice to see it finally running! But not so good about the gasket, once its skimmed and you get a new gasket on it should be fine, must have been a warped head then if everything you did was fine.

Still, good work getting this far and it will be good to see another nova out in maidstone soon!

[TeddyThom]

We'll done Richard, shame about the gasket. Onwards up upwards, as they say!

Downwards and forwards more like ;) off the ramps and moving again!! lollollol


Nice to see it finally running! But not so good about the gasket, once its skimmed and you get a new gasket on it should be fine, must have been a warped head then if everything you did was fine.

Still, good work getting this far and it will be good to see another nova out in maidstone soon!

God knows what went wrong with it, it isn't hard to do a head gasket lollol

But it will be back and running asap!

[novadave24]

sounds good good work mate :)

[TeddyThom]

Right...

Small update, been taking stuff off the block again ready for a head skim, which should get done by saturday. I also pick up the twin 40s, four branch manifold, and the F13CR box... Only thing I haven't managed to find in time while I have the whole top end apart is an AST2 cam... Seems to be the case of if I don't want one they are everywhere, but when I do want one, they all disappear lol.

Did get a couple of pictures but nothing you haven't all seen before, this weekend should produce some nice results though!

[TeddyThom]

Well... Another update. Unfortunately the weather has held up proceedings somewhat but I'm sure I can battle through...

My brother giving me a hand whilst looking like he has shat himself lollol
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/745A5B87-E1C0-4B5C-B1D2-4AE1884DA944_zps1jmfzlpz.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/745A5B87-E1C0-4B5C-B1D2-4AE1884DA944_zps1jmfzlpz.jpg.html)

Head nice and clean after a skim...
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/E17C68BD-B825-4662-B683-FD2931689791_zpsq0gznjmr.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/E17C68BD-B825-4662-B683-FD2931689791_zpsq0gznjmr.jpg.html)

Twin 40 carbs all built up an sitting on the head awaiting transplant on to the block...
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/E263074A-2EA8-4484-A6B4-CB2C9968F3D4_zpsc26kga3e.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/E263074A-2EA8-4484-A6B4-CB2C9968F3D4_zpsc26kga3e.jpg.html)

the eagle eyed among you will notice that yet are actually solex carbs not webers. Got myself confused with what I was actually getting from Ben lol

4 branch manifold awaiting some bodging to fit the rest of my system...
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/5870C1F2-1F64-412C-89DD-71CAB86A4ABA_zpsuxsrophx.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/5870C1F2-1F64-412C-89DD-71CAB86A4ABA_zpsuxsrophx.jpg.html)

and finally the F13CR gearbox is all in and ready for the linkage to set up, which I haven't done yet...
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/1D44391C-C110-49DF-9D71-1D2A9966DFDD_zpskbea2rap.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/1D44391C-C110-49DF-9D71-1D2A9966DFDD_zpskbea2rap.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/D3AEE42E-21CB-45D2-ACEE-1F82219D08D9_zpshzbstqkd.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/D3AEE42E-21CB-45D2-ACEE-1F82219D08D9_zpshzbstqkd.jpg.html)

all in all not a bad days work.

not long to go before the rest is completed. Then wheels and tyres. Then MOT!

[TeddyThom]

Come across a silver grill. So just had to buy it. It's amazing what difference the right colour grill makes.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/B46CAC92-FF29-4E2F-AC9E-E7016192A232_zpsw7wgqjfq.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/B46CAC92-FF29-4E2F-AC9E-E7016192A232_zpsw7wgqjfq.jpg.html)

Got a slight headache with the carbs at the moment. Got an air leak coming from somewhere. I have a sneaking suspicion that one of the manifold studs isn't doing up right. Need to sort it asap. The bleedin squeak is doing my nut in.

That's all for now. More to come soon.

[TeddyThom]

So. I find my thread in a state of complete and utter unupdatedness.

Might as well add some new updates then!

Got bored of the clear light clusters at the rear. So I did this:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/792BD9EA-91BA-4B55-A5DF-3142766C82C2_zpsalhzjt00.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/792BD9EA-91BA-4B55-A5DF-3142766C82C2_zpsalhzjt00.jpg.html)

Looking good on the car:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/3333149C-A960-451F-ABC9-AA407F9259BC_zpszcqgpsla.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/3333149C-A960-451F-ABC9-AA407F9259BC_zpszcqgpsla.jpg.html)

Oh... What's this?

She is off the ramps!! Brakes have been sorted. And she is now sat on a set of Astra 15's.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/E0E739D5-2033-4FE2-A67A-EFAA10F56239_zpsvnszork8.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/E0E739D5-2033-4FE2-A67A-EFAA10F56239_zpsvnszork8.jpg.html)

just the gear linkage to set up. It's giving me grief as I can't seem to get the hang of it. Bloody thing. Ah well. It'll get done!

Keep an eye :d

[TeddyThom]

So. There is an update to be had. Steve came up to give me a hand with my nemesis. That bloody gear linkage. Thankfully between us, we got it spot on. Gearbox is smooth as a baby's bum. Then this happened:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/23CF2F21-7101-4EBC-933A-B49A454C1ED9_zpschyylhqx.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/23CF2F21-7101-4EBC-933A-B49A454C1ED9_zpschyylhqx.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/0A1063D9-1221-4FA8-9147-6390CBB818E1_zpsylvvumwn.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/0A1063D9-1221-4FA8-9147-6390CBB818E1_zpsylvvumwn.jpg.html)

Took her for a very brief slow run down the road. However the engine is noisy as hell. Slightly tappety. It's got plenty of oil in. Might have to fiddle around with a few settings and see what's what.

It does have new tappets and cam followers... I think these need time to bed in hence why it's so noisy. Anyone got any ideas...?

Just happy as anything that she now is able to move. Once these adjustments are made and things have bed in... It'll be mot!!

[Novaloony]

Said it a few times but them wheels suit it perfectly. White boot needs sorting tho!

[Steve]

Glad we could actually get it off the stands, I was getting sick of seeing it in the air every time I popped over! lol

Its definitely a top end noise, don't know how you adjust the tappets but surely it can't be anything more than that, I just watched your video of when you first had it running and it sounded fine then, so it can't be anything major.

[TeddyThom]

Said it a few times but them wheels suit it perfectly. White boot needs sorting tho!

The boot is white because I stole it off the TD I had. No one wanted it and I didn't feel confident enough to drill the silver boot for the spoiler! lollol




Glad we could actually get it off the stands, I was getting sick of seeing it in the air every time I popped over! lol

Its definitely a top end noise, don't know how you adjust the tappets but surely it can't be anything more than that, I just watched your video of when you first had it running and it sounded fine then, so it can't be anything major.

I have no idea what's going on with it. I'm just gonna try an run it in tomorrow afternoon. I need to get the throttle cable sorted out so it returns properly. That might help. I'll also talk to my next door neighbour and see what he thinks.

But it is very nice seeing it on four wheels and no ramps or stands!!! Happy days :d

[Novaloony]

So cut the lugs off n tiger seal it fool

[TeddyThom]

Now you mention it I have a spare spoiler that I might have a go at doin that with lol.

In other news I fitted the wind deflectors earlier:
http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/2F921097-D8AC-4CCB-B16F-44107D74EFF9_zpseizhncxn.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/2F921097-D8AC-4CCB-B16F-44107D74EFF9_zpseizhncxn.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/BE14DFAF-0A70-43CA-AF22-8D74A811B032_zpsmlhiftcn.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/BE14DFAF-0A70-43CA-AF22-8D74A811B032_zpsmlhiftcn.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/BE14DFAF-0A70-43CA-AF22-8D74A811B032_zpslotka01q.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/BE14DFAF-0A70-43CA-AF22-8D74A811B032_zpslotka01q.jpg.html)

[TeddyThom]

Another update.

Been busy, although it doesn't look much different to the last update. Found out that I needed a couple of engine mounts as mine had expired shall we say, making the engine rock around like a boat in a storm.

Also managed to finish off the arch, it's not pretty but it'll do for mot time.

Went down to Lydden Hill for the BHP show and managed to find some bits I was after.

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/84604025-B3D0-4126-968B-80D5985637ED_zpsxuaa7hqh.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/84604025-B3D0-4126-968B-80D5985637ED_zpsxuaa7hqh.jpg.html)

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/78E79D30-E586-4FAA-BA8C-6135181D80E2_zpsksbt6tar.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/78E79D30-E586-4FAA-BA8C-6135181D80E2_zpsksbt6tar.jpg.html)

also got some aero catches. Will be fitting them to my other bonnet when I get around to sorting it out.

Just gotta find find the sweet spot for the ignition timing then she is finished!

random pic whore moment:

http://i789.photobucket.com/albums/yy173/teddythom/C69DD9A5-205F-4256-85B6-BF09C11C7666_zpscmcorigd.jpg (http://s789.photobucket.com/user/teddythom/media/C69DD9A5-205F-4256-85B6-BF09C11C7666_zpscmcorigd.jpg.html)

[TeddyThom]

Sooooo...

Quick update. Went for mot. It failed. (which I expected anyways) Weirdly, it failed on things I was sure would pass, and the bits I was worried about it failing on passed! Go figure! lol.

The noise from the trumpets is an epic sound!! Addicted already! Have got it booked in for this saturday for it's retest, so hopefully, it should go back through nice and easy.

Also, for anyone paying attention (lol) I am undecided if I want to keep the full leather interior, or go with the bucket seats I have stashed away and strip out the rear half and go with a half cage... Any opinions?

[conza123]

Sooooo...

Quick update. Went for mot. It failed. (which I expected anyways) Weirdly, it failed on things I was sure would pass, and the bits I was worried about it failing on passed! Go figure! lol.

The noise from the trumpets is an epic sound!! Addicted already! Have got it booked in for this saturday for it's retest, so hopefully, it should go back through nice and easy.

Also, for anyone paying attention (lol) I am undecided if I want to keep the full leather interior, or go with the bucket seats I have stashed away and strip out the rear half and go with a half cage... Any opinions?
What about punching a window ;) lol

[TeddyThom]

What about punching a window ;) lol

SSSSHHHH!!!!!! lollollollollol!!!! Massive thanks for bringing that down for me, massively appreciated!