Early Mk1 Black SR Build

[leggattr]

Well after finally sorting out a photo bucket account I've now started my long awaited project thread. Before questions are asked it is a rep!! So this was picked up a few years ago as a doner for its bumpers tailgate and most important it's 13sb. It was a 5 door so no good for the long term.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/552C45A7.jpg

This has been a very reliable car and only had its first welding done for its mot in November. But over the year it was starting to show its age so I started the long search for its replacement doner and as its to be the last nova I will own it needed to be a good one.

So after a long process of trying to get hold of the ower I went and picked this up. It's a 1.2 4 speed around 60k. It had remote central locking all round and something I've never seen on a nova... Parking sensors!!. Fitted with gte green tint glass, tailgate and bumpers and Sri interior which all needs to go.

* http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/8B623B5C.jpg

I decided to go old and original as possible so need to find the most difficult parts like brown trim, daytonna interior, early clocks etc. I already had the snowplough and a tailgate made up with the spoiler and vinyl. Luckily some helpful members and some trips around the county I managed to get hold of most things. A few orders to to Germany also helped complete the missing dash parts.

Anyway I had to start stripping the new car and get it built up as I needed it on the road before the tax ran out on the 5 door.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2DBA5FF5.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/B98749D1.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/7E5253AC.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/4AE0487B.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/819BA3E3.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/130DC5D7-1.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/9FBEB11D.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/29568BED.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/EB4866BC.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/855E6AF1-1.jpg

Most of the panels and dash came from a stripped sport and the seats were in a early sr but had to change the rear frames so they would fit the push button type seats as they were the pull handle type.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/F967B799.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/AC51256E.jpg

That's how it was left before my holiday in may. Pretty much all there bar a few dash parts.
As I got back I had a few parcels waiting which got fitted straight away, glovebox from brucer and brand new centre console with blanks and insert and ashtray. Also got a large roll of original ochre bumper stripe which will go on at a later date.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/FA968BAB.jpg

More pics to come and updates to come!!

[Balley]

oh i am liking this!

[raf24]

Loving the dashboard in the bath lol

[NoVaBoOt26]

Looks awesome mate :thumb:

[leggattr]

Couple more updates and pics.
Engine sitting in parents garage ready for small rebuild and clean up.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E50C8824.jpg

Also the bronze glass I have managed to get hold of so far. Still looking for fronts if anybody has them??

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/676BEEBB.jpg

[leggattr]

Pic of tailgate on the old shell

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/9255760D.jpg

[leggattr]

Fast forward to this week. Ordered a few very rare parts this week, will update when and if they all come in.
Passed its mot on Thursday with just a new tyre needed. Result.
So decided to fit the one thing that had took me years to find. Pics will do the talking..

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2D8AE6FB.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/1EEE1214.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/CB9BD939.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/9BFE065F.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/50CB1C0F.jpg

[leggattr]

And Also forgot what is sitting on top of the 1300.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E0B6DCA8.jpg

My weber 32/34 dmtl fully jetted and rebuild. I tested it before I took the engine out but idled all over and seemed to want to stall everytime I pulled the throttle. I know there was a slight gap between the inlet and head as I didn't put it on tight so don't know if that's a reason for it.

[Mags]

This looks amazing I have a black m1 too as I'm running a 1300 sr engine but with twin fourties good luck with the build.

[leggattr]

Right I said I was waiting on some orders to arrive... And they all have.
Iv jumped on the band wagon and picked up the rear opening window latches for the nova, along with the bungs, pins, nuts and screws.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/A9381A81-1.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2C38A8D5-1.jpg

Now not sure if I will fit these or not. It means I will have to get the glass and rubbers shipped over. I've already got some replacement rear quarter glass in bronze and I know I can't get both rears in the opening bronze.

[NoVaBoOt26]

Pm'd you mate

[kent14sr]

Richard - this is a great project. Reminds me of the red one I did a couple of years back.

[leggattr]

I remember wanting to buy your red one Chris but didn't have the money at the time.

[Benn]

Loving the head light washers.

[kent14sr]

I remember wanting to buy your red one Chris but didn't have the money at the time.

It appeared on ebay a year or so back but not seen/heard of it since.

However, if you keep on with yours it will be superb and well worth keeping. Your carb problem will indeed likely be due to you not tightening it up fully so I wouldnt worry.

[leggattr]

That's some relief. It's a shame your project had to end, would of been nice to see the A reg on the road.

[kent14sr]

That's some relief. It's a shame your project had to end, would of been nice to see the A reg on the road.

I know, I was really disappointed. The sad part was it was just too twisted to be feasible. On checking, it needed a complete O/S leg, inner wing, cross member, valance, slam panel, suspension turret etc.

It hid the true extent well though - it was only when everything was measured it showed. It is down your way now (Thamesmead) as a grass tracker. Damage aside it was the most solid shell I have seen!

[Calamity Josh]

leggattr- i have a early mirror setup and p/s blank for sale if your interested- would look great on this ;)
edit- i'm in love with the bumper overriders...........

[leggattr]

Update!!!

I've started to fit some of the bronze glass, well just the front quarters

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/DB064DB3.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/98F9DDB7.jpg

You can tell the difference in the 2nd pic against the green tinted opener.
Also fitted the brown knob surrounds, don't slate the knobs as they are going, they just came with the car and the originals were binned.
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/7B0B073F.jpg

Also the parcel shelf and supports arrived last week so got them fitted. They are ment to be brown but have gone a grey/green colour. These were removed from a y reg tho. Any ideas on how to bring back the brown other than paint or retrim?
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/5BAE9F40.jpg

[jafanan]

looks great, i love black novas

[marc69]

Great project.

I assume your idling problem will jusr be due to carb/inlet not being airtight. Get a new gasket when fitting it on.

My 1984 swing parcel shelf was really faded and getting hold of anything up here is impossible so a few years ago i tried painting it brown, it made no difference. I tried several different things but it always dried up the same faded colour. One day i was so fed up I put on exterior black brush paint. Unbeleivable it is now matching dark brown! I wouldn't recomend this though, make sure it is thoroughly cleaned and get a plastic paint in brazil brown, hycote do one.

Looking good though.

[leggattr]

Had some time today before work so got the rear bumper off to get the ochre stripe on and gave the bumper a wipe over with bumper gel.
Still need to replace both brackets on each side as they have rotted away. Also the mudflaps sit at an angle as Im missing the long bracket that holds them straight. Gonna be hard to find them!!

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E0924F16.jpg

[leggattr]

Replaced those shocking door lock knobs thanks to Colin sending some new rods and original knobs.
Now the cheap eBay remote central locking the previous owner fitted has stopped working!! Managed to find a Nova set up but minus the brackets for the doors, anybody have any??

[leggattr]

Got some more bits done today, wasn't the best day to get the windows out. After start and stopping with the rail I finally got there.
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/FD02B9E1.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/94DCA219.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/8F789E26.jpg

First it's green
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/0CE1C8F8.jpg

Then it's ...
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/520F4740.jpg

That's all for now

[NOV4_SPORT]

Looking good mate, it's starting to come together now mate
+rep

Iain

[leggattr]

Cheers Iain its now getting harder to find the bits I need, maybe that's all the fun of building your own nova.

[Steve]

Nice going mate, ive always wanted a black/ brown SR but a rep is probably alot easier than finding a genuine one!

Just fitted a 1300 to my saloon, they really are a cracking engine.

[Balley]

Its starting to come together nicely, are you doing the lower half grey?
Dan

[leggattr]

Cheers guys, still having trouble getting the 1300 apart as I can't get the head off. Along with that a snapped head bolt in the block which I can't sort until the above is off.
I will be doing the lower vinyls, quoted £75 for them. Not sure to fit them or get someone else to.

[kent14sr]

Cheers guys, still having trouble getting the 1300 apart as I can't get the head off. Along with that a snapped head bolt in the block which I can't sort until the above is off.
I will be doing the lower vinyls, quoted £75 for them. Not sure to fit them or get someone else to.

Mine were painted in hurricane grey on the red one - the reproduction lower vinyls never look quite right/least they didnt on mine.

[leggattr]

Small update!!

So today I had a free day to strip out the old central locking and fit the replacment kit. While I was there I had some good under carpet underlay to fit which replaces the stuff that was damp when I got the car.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E96FD8BA.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/5BA82D2A.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/3387446D.jpg
Wiring going in and being hidden away.
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/97E16F12.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/FD6A4853.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E5290661.jpg

And all back together. Still can't use the central locking as I still don't have the clips for the rods!!
Also need to look into getting the cig lighter working for the Tom Tom, previous owner messed with a lot of the wiring and it was hooked upto the central locking, when 1 stopped working both did!!

[nova_saloon]

what are you going to do with the electric window switches? do you have the original surround for it, as i think they only did them in grey not brown, you may have to find one (good Luck, took me forever, and now have two though, just incase) and try and match the color

[leggattr]

The standard mk1 switches are there at the mo. they did make a brown surround but next to none around. Can't get it new or the black as that was the next choice and again nls. I can get new grey ones so the last last resort is to paint one brown.

[leggattr]

Also over the last few weeks Iv removed the silver pinstripe from the bodywork. Took an age and one hell of an arm ache!!
Only one pic at the mo.
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/D7CC2DE5.jpg

[nova_saloon]

where can you get these magical new ones!!!?

[leggattr]

Just another quick one, fed up of wires everywhere and wanted the cig lighter and glovebox light working again.
So 30 mins later
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/CFBB0F44.jpg
Bam!! Not the greatest pic but it's working, including original cut off switch.

[leggattr]

So these arrived to finish the rear end. Very happy to get these and for a good price too. Just need to give them a little clean and will be going straight in.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/7BBCDFD5.jpg

Now just the few Acc bits I need to get hold of.

[leggattr]

So day off today and got these fitted.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/A3424F1C.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/82D5C191.jpg

[leggattr]

Decided while its warm and dry to give the car a quick clean and polish. It's used on the m25 everyday so don't know how long it will say like this!?

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/B4660BE2.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/DCE5153D.jpg

[Steve]

There's just something about black novas!

That looks perfect the way it is, keep it up mate.

[Edd]

That looks awesome

You don't see many black Nova's :)

[sport]

Looks amazing mate, you cant beat a black early SR.

[dannymcc]

Excellent work, looks really well. Very 'retro' looking. :cool:

[leggattr]

Small update....

So following on from my pics in the 'what turned up in the post thread' these bits have been fitted.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/3140C765.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/10C198C8.jpg

Central locking now working a treat. The leccy switch holder was a bugger to fit, didn't realise that I had to cut holes in the console!! So after half hour of drilling it was in.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/0C7C39A7.jpg

Iv got a new screw cover for the front just haven't fitted it yet.

[leggattr]

Update time!!

So yesterday gave the 13sb lump a quick coat of paint along with a few mounts, engine parts and front arb.
Tomorrow all going well il be dropping the engine off at the garage to be rebuilt so had a quick sort out of what parts Iv got and collected over the last couple of years for it. May be a small chance if this going in next week.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/8928213A.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/0350D541.jpg

[NOV4_SPORT]

Looking good mate keep at it !

[jafanan]

looks great, a rare sight but you should treat the snwoplow to some bumper gel to bring it back up, makes the front end look a mix of different colours

[leggattr]

looks great, a rare sight but you should treat the snwoplow to some bumper gel to bring it back up, makes the front end look a mix of different colours

I do use the gel and does the job a treat, I'm just quiet lazy when it comes to washing it first!!

On a positive note the engine has gone in for build, and the guy has quoted £120 to fit it for me too.

[leggattr]

So got the engine back on Monday, have no one around to help get it out the boot tho!! Well chuffed as guy only charged £50 for getting the head off, as well as the snapped bolt, new water pump in, timing and putting back together. Also has priced the engine swap at £120!!.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/BEA37F5A.jpg

Anyway started putting a few bits back on it without making it too heavy for the car. New fuel pump with new gasket and my homemade oil breather gasket and breather have gone back on.
Iv decided not to change the rocker and sump as they were not long done but just gone over both with a load of instant clear gasket gel.

[leggattr]

Have also cut a gasket out for the webers air filter as the new filter should arrive by the weekend.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/F11BEB84-1.jpg

[leggattr]

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/5B111ED1.jpg

Engine sitting in parents garage waiting for fitting, just got the exhaust manifold back on. Just need a clutch and its all good to go.

[DAVIDKEDENS]

Love this, mega jealous. :(

[Count Vaux Alot]

Very nice looking nova there :)

[leggattr]

So received a small package today which included my new coin tray in black. Got it fitted fine and don't think it looks too bad. As the vents etc are black I think it blends in well, plus it covers the hole as I can't find a decent original cassette player.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/06BFBA17.jpg

[leggattr]

So today loaded up the nova with everything for the conversion which is happening from Monday. Iv asked the guy to drill out the port on the 1300 inlet from 2 to 1 as I wasn't happy the weber overlaps slightly where the pierburg used to line up correctly. It doesn't catch but don't know if it will make much difference either.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/9B45FCC1.jpg

[leggattr]

Big day today...

Dropped the car off yesterday afternoon as engine was going to be removed 1st thing today.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E5119E57.jpg

Popped up early to go over a few bits with the mechanic and got a couple of pics. He had only just started so no pics of engine removed.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2375CD69.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/AB50E9E7.jpg

Pic above of the inlet with the centre cut away to allow for weber.

[NOV4_SPORT]

Looking good mate, hope it all goes well for you mate

Iain

[Rickyb]

ive just read this from the start and i must say hats off to you pall and +rep for keeping it as it should be.
Rick

[leggattr]

Well just got the car back. I cannot take the smile off my face!!! The noise is unbelievable and the reason why I didn't put a stereo in her. Full running in issues and the guy has changed the vacuum pipe locations but will have a better look tomorrow.
Have 1 pic of the engine in by photobucket is playing up.

[leggattr]

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/C43462E4.jpg

[NoVaBoOt26]

Looking good mate keep it up

Awesome work :thumb:

[leggattr]

Just alittle update

Fitted my replacement boot trim, the old one is for sale if anybody is interested!

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/6AE0C04F.jpg

Not sure what to do with my faded parcel shelf and supports. A lot of people use brazil brown paint but don't like the idea of sprayed carpets. I have seen 1 or 2 people retrim their supports which I'd prefer but can't find a decent brown material.
What's people's opinions on this?
Here's a couple of pics:

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/BDCFB3B8.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/1F08D2BC.jpg

[leggattr]

So today fitted a fuel filter hoping it will correct some of the weber issues Iv been having.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/54D3270C.jpg

Also finished cleaning up the Daytona replacement section for the sr so will put this in tomorrow.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/53C9C27F.jpg

[Calamity Josh]

i'll keep an eye on what you do with the boot trims as mine are in a similar condition, love the car tho :)

[leggattr]

And today got the trim fitted to the frame.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2D27FE89.jpg

Washed the car today as it was brown. Whilst waiting for it to dry before I polished it, it started raining so didn't bother.

[Steve]

Seats look good, as said at the meet, maybe having the carb on a meter and set up properly would make the difference.

[leggattr]

That's the plan for the new year, all done by eye and ear at the mo!!

[NoVaBoOt26]

And today got the trim fitted to the frame.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/2D27FE89.jpg

Washed the car today as it was brown. Whilst waiting for it to dry before I polished it, it started raining so didn't bother.

Wish I had these seats :(

[leggattr]

Small update.

Fitted a new middle section today, put the ashley on a week ago and thought why not just change the lot, the new front went on when the engine went in. The only old section was the 2nd hand 4 branch. Just can't stand the amount of stickers and labels are put on them, took an age to get them off!!
Also chucked on a new dizzy cap and rotor arm but no pics of that.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/CA0AF985.jpg

[Steve]

Nice one, the exhaust on my 1300 is all new as well. Tbh I don't know why people want to change the exhaust on a 1300, imo it sounds great as it is.

[leggattr]

With the original backbox (that Iv kept) it made it sound so much louder compared to the ashley. I think it's because it's more restrictive. With the ashley it's more of a purr, think the same applys to when I changed the manifold.

[conza123]

Nice one, the exhaust on my 1300 is all new as well. Tbh I don't know why people want to change the exhaust on a 1300, imo it sounds great as it is.

it changed mine cos im hard and it was completely rotten and fell apart on way back from meet

[leggattr]

Just thought I'd post up a pic of my replacement gear gaitor all cleaned and fitted

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/83834FBE.jpg

Also yesterday fitted some good condition replacement sun visors. Over the last few weeks just been looking across Europe for more bits for it so waiting to hear back from some places.
Few weeks back managed to get a passenger opening bronze tint window so both sides are now full sets so started collecting my gm lower vinyl.
Only thing with the vinyl, wanted to colour match against the rest of the car vinyl but can't for the life of me get the upper paper cover off! The vinyl keeps peeling from the vinyl but not the paper covering the face (with part numbers printed on) so if anybody has any suggestions? Only looking at peeling alittle back to see what it's like.

[Nova16se]

They look way better with the snow plow bumper

[NOV4_SPORT]

Looking good mate keep it up

Iain

[leggattr]

Some updates today.

Finally got round to fitting my front anti roll bar that I removed from the 5 door as the weather was good.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/F3741527_zps410addd9.jpg

Also after collecting this sat I got my dad to help me get it fitted.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/A4369FBD_zpsda97c72d.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/05DDC182_zpseb97b359.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/DD173FAC_zps0d02d0f7.jpg

The Haynes did say you need to remove the spoiler but that's not true!!.

Gave the car a quick wash but no pics of that, checked all fluids in the car and found my coolant as brown as the interior. Not good as engine was only rebuilt in November. Doesn't look to be smoking or losing any obvious oil.
I'm gonna drain the coolant anyway to fit a new fan switch but is there any additives I can put in the oil or coolant to combat this without taking the engine apart?

[kent14sr]

Just flush through the cooling system - it has probably just picked up some sediment in a pipe, radiator or block.

If it is mixing oil/water then its likely the headgasket is to blame, or cracked head or block at extreme worst scenario. Usually with this, the cooling system would pressurise, engine may run hot/overheat, heater may be cold/cooling system would airlock.

[leggattr]

Cheers Chris il prob do just that. In hoping its something silly and less expensive like that.

[kent14sr]

Always try cheap first! And give the rad a good flush with a garden hose - its amazing how much crud comes out.

[leggattr]

After a good yet wet meet today I managed to pick up some bits for the nova thanks to dan Stanley and joe Riley.
So finally got hold of a tape deck and also some new original upper coolant tank to rad pipes. Should make an effort to clean up the bay when I fit that.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/50561109_zps3e6ee857.jpg

[leggattr]

So today I drained and replaced the coolant so I could fit a new rad fan switch. Water looks alittle oily again in the bottle but this may be because the coolant bottle was already dirty so don't know now if there is an issue unless I drain and replace again!!
Noticed my heater not blowing as hot as before now, could this be trapped air in the system?
Didn't see the fan kick in at all and have checked it works so could the outside temp at the moment keep this from cutting in?

Also fitted this while I was there, my new gm coolant hose.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/3D8C5471_zps5e259aae.jpg

[kent14sr]

Have you bled through the coolant system?

Sounds like you may have an airlock perhaps. Run it with the cap off and squeeze the hoses to purge out the air - heater should be on hot and setting 3 when you do this.

[leggattr]

Didn't have it on 3 but left the cap off and kept putting water through it before the fresh stuff went in.

[EwanG]

Where did you get the new hose from?

[kent14sr]

Didn't have it on 3 but left the cap off and kept putting water through it before the fresh stuff went in.

If you hold the revs at 3k can you hear gurgling?

[leggattr]

Got it from a member at last weeks meet. Believe he got a bulk load of bits from a ex vaux tech awhile back.

[leggattr]

If you hold the revs at 3k can you hear gurgling?

I first did when I replaced it. Iv had the cap of a few times now, topped it up 20mins ago and let it run for a few mins with the cap open, didn't let it fully heat up. Do you suggest me popping old and running it for a bit?

[kent14sr]

May be worth it - check thermostat is opening, you can usually tell as it heats up to half on temp gauge and drops right down when it opens

[leggattr]

May be worth it - check thermostat is opening, you can usually tell as it heats up to half on temp gauge and drops right down when it opens

So should I do this with the cap off, with an idle and heater on full?
Will it heat up enough for the stat to open with the cap off the bottle?

[kent14sr]

I would check thermostat with cap on, after first checking for airlocks with cap off.

[leggattr]

Thermostat working both times. Seems alittle warmer, perhaps I'm expecting super hot heating when that will never happen in this car!!
Still no fan kicking in as right towards the end it was pretty hot but temp stayed at half

[kent14sr]

The fan should only kick in when it exceeds normal operating temperature - usually about two thirds up on gauge (certainly over half)

My SR used to always run really cool, yet the heater was super warm and I never had the fan cut in other than when I rebuilt the engine and purposely got it hot (ie a good thrash and then held it at 3k for five minutes or so.

[leggattr]

So this weeks small update!!

Been cracking on trying to find the parts for the headlamp washers and this is what Iv received so far.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/7A6EE0E8_zps7b061910.jpg

At the moment Iv got the correct relay and non return valve plus the rubber washer for the joint between the pump and bottle. I went to my local vaux this week and asked them to find and get in the washer hose clamps. They first said I had to buy a bag of 50 from germany until I said to get them in from other branches so will go back tue/wed to see what they got.

With the help of the guys on here I managed to make the wiring loom for it to work, Iv found a block connector for the relay to go in instead of standard blade connectors iv fitted so may order that to make it look more oem.

With any luck my money transfer will go through Tuesday to opel classics (1st time Iv transferred aboard) so I can receive the washer bottle they ordered in for me, plus a few other bits.

Picked up some brown boot clips and also expecting some to arrive from Latvia this week so will update as things happen!!

[leggattr]

Forgot I had these arrive too (thanks Chris kent14sr)
Just 2 more to find.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/1F30D549_zps50b1ef06.jpg

[leggattr]

So I trial fitted the headlamp washer bottle to see how it sat in the bay, not before giving it a good clean, think its been sat on a shelf for years!. Was tight up against the fuel lines but will be fine.
Couple of pics for anybody who didn't know what to put in the space if not running a injection set up.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/506B5DEB_zps684822ff.jpg
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/B19AAC69_zps46ea41d0.jpg

Sorry for poor cleaning standards to the engine bay and front end, the m25 hasn't been kind to me.

And also fitted the toe eye, again difference in colour due to age and dirt but the bumper restorer will bring the colour back.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/7F10BD3E_zpsd9d0e58a.jpg

[Steve]

Nice find on the tank, didn't think it would be that big though!

Coming along alright now mate.

[vessey]

are they black hinge covers got a few spare here pm me

[leggattr]

Nice find on the tank, didn't think it would be that big though!

Coming along alright now mate.

Yeah it is pretty big, think it holds more than the windscreen bottle. It's taken a long long time to find this so happy it arrived and is the correct one. Just need to get it all working now, don't think it will be ready for the meet tho.

[leggattr]

Panel fitted, short of a few clips but they should be with me in a week or so.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/858EF70A_zpsc3cd8884.jpg

[NoVaBoOt26]

Looking really awesome mate love it :thumb:

[NOV4_SPORT]

Looking good mate, keep it up

[leggattr]

Little update, got most of this for my birthday and hopefully the last bit I need will be coming soon to finish off the car.
Also found a fitter that will put the lot on for a very good price so need to rush through finishing the body work.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/FECC7646_zps4885d9ab.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/FECC7646_zps4885d9ab.jpg.html)

Have also sourced new early parcel shelf straps and a few bump strips. Iv cleaned up the others and just waiting on the new tape to refit after the vinyls go on.

[kent14sr]

Are you getting the arches replaced before you fit the vinyl?

If you get stuck for trim tape for the rubbing strips I can point you in the right direction.

[leggattr]

I've got some tape on the way for the strips. Regards to the arches iv not fully replaced but dug the rust out and plated and skimmed over. Need it to last a year or so before I go full resto. I know it may seem a waste putting the vinyls before but as I'm using it for my wedding car in June and need it looking the part. Only having one wedding day!!

[Edd]

I'd spray the sides with upol mid grey and save the vinyl for the full resto, as you'll not find that vinyl again IMO

I'm using the Sport on my wedding day too :)

[Edd]

.

[andyredtop83]

Looking good mate, havent seen many novas with headlight washers, cant believe how big the tank is for the washer liquid!

[leggattr]

Good day today. Got my new headlight fitted, no pics of that in afraid.
But the best is that I fitted my headlamp washer kit and connected up my homemade loom which is to original spec as best as poss and it worked!!
All I need to do at the end of the month is buy some 8mm inner diameter hose to connect to the jets.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/C34A06C5_zpsdb3e9110.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/C34A06C5_zpsdb3e9110.jpg.html)

Also fingers crossed the weather holds out on Sunday morning so my vinyls can be fitted!!

[Steve]

Jeez that's for the headlights? It's 5 times the size of the windscreen washer bottle!

Nice work though keeping it as original as vauxhall intended.

[Southie]

Couldn't you have just wired the washers to the existing windscreen setup? When that mega bottles full your car will via to the right like you've a puncture I reckon.

[leggattr]

I did consider that but when testing it, it only does a small squirt on the lights and shuts off,even if I'm still using it on the screen. If it was wired to the screen setting it would keep squirting for longer and prob do more damage than good.

[Southie]

I'd use the rear wash wipe for the headlights but that's just me I suppose.

[leggattr]

So just got back from the vinyl fitter, pics below of how it went. The drivers side has all original vinyl and the passenger side has the one replica section which is very obvious. Going to look at some products to bring the colours closer together without painting it. The guy showed me some other samples but no other colours came any closer than the one fitted.
Tbh the cut of the replica wasn't the best, couldn't wrap it into the door shut or fully around the rear arch lip.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/4FD5B6C3_zpsa86daa7d.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/4FD5B6C3_zpsa86daa7d.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/EBE238E2_zpseed46202.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/EBE238E2_zpseed46202.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/EBC18CA9_zps000b7384.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/EBC18CA9_zps000b7384.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/C1B6CDA6_zps6a0dc09a.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/C1B6CDA6_zps6a0dc09a.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/178580D7_zpsf061b967.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/178580D7_zpsf061b967.jpg.html)

It's clear to say the drivers side is my favourite side!!

[Vlietje]

Looks great!!

[leggattr]

Looks great!!

Cheers.
Don't suppose you know of stock of the lower vinyl section I need where you are?

[Edd]

Very nice

[Vlietje]

Cheers.
Don't suppose you know of stock of the lower vinyl section I need where you are?

What's the part number?!

[Benn]

Better than factory. Very nice.

[leggattr]

Started getting these ready to go back on this week. Wanted to re tape the lot as when they came off the tape creased, but Iv bloody run out so not enough to finish the top one.
Before anyone asks the missing section is in the boot as it has the colour moulded into it.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/BDA38ED5_zps988482c0.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/BDA38ED5_zps988482c0.jpg.html)

[leggattr]

Took these out today to clean and paint, no pictures of the finished job tho.
Replaced the supporting clips as one was snapped and the other had no spring in.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/1747D572_zpsb703a17d.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/1747D572_zpsb703a17d.jpg.html)

And then refitted the new early supports so back to how it originally was!!

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/A9D2699A_zpsc2a5aded.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/A9D2699A_zpsc2a5aded.jpg.html)

[leggattr]

So this evening I found some time to Plum in the headlight washers. Not as easy as I thought it would be. Had to drill 2 more holes in the upper plough for the hose but shouldn't see anything under the the bumper overiders.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/FA5A3014_zps39a2ccea.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/FA5A3014_zps39a2ccea.jpg.html)

Put my new grill badge on while the bumper was off.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E45F9DDB_zps8cd2ca1e.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/E45F9DDB_zps8cd2ca1e.jpg.html)

Then pic of it all connected via the non return valve.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/E192D17E_zps503dd4df.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/E192D17E_zps503dd4df.jpg.html)

Then it was dark so will test it tomorrow!!

[leggattr]

So update from me, over the last 3 weeks I got married and just got back from my honeymoon in Mexico. As I used my nova for the grooms ride to the venue I got the photographer to get a few snaps.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/40CB2CA9_zpsba6b77ae.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/40CB2CA9_zpsba6b77ae.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/F8775448_zps0ea1051c.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/F8775448_zps0ea1051c.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/6B2A645A_zpsbc90f65b.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/6B2A645A_zpsbc90f65b.jpg.html)
http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/BD0F70C7_zps2056af05.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/BD0F70C7_zps2056af05.jpg.html)

[leggattr]

Also while I was away I made a decision to go twin 40s sometime in the next year, so started hunting for parts and had these when I got back

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/442F0970_zpsc696771c.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/442F0970_zpsc696771c.jpg.html)

Also found a very good copy of a sport throttle lever in America so that's on it's way. I found one of the hoses but not got it yet.

[leggattr]

So haven't done a lot since the summer with this. Today I fitted one of these oil cap stickers from eBay as I had a few £ in the paypal account.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/487B3B23_zps957afb2f.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/487B3B23_zps957afb2f.jpg.html)

Also as I'm still in the process of trying find a good 2nd hand bronze screen I managed to get this fitted cheap this morning. Will do the job for now.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/46A55EED_zps24a7a283.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/46A55EED_zps24a7a283.jpg.html)

[leggattr]

Picked these up last night. Managed to give them a little clean up and found the codes on them. Turns out they are bilstein b8's. Just don't know hold old or use they have had. Just need a front set now.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/73A34B7F_zps98ccecd0.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/73A34B7F_zps98ccecd0.jpg.html)

will just put put alittle paint on the bottoms and pick up some new stickers and they will look good.

[leggattr]

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/4F5B575A_zpseff0ce3c.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/4F5B575A_zpseff0ce3c.jpg.html)

so after finding a replacement screen for the dials I went straight out to replace the broken one. Look brand new.

[Steve]

Very nice, i've got a set of B8s I want to sell, but really want to sell all 4 together.

[leggattr]

So picked this refurb steering rack up a month or so back, this is being fitted Friday along with the new rod ends.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/0A334A50_zpsf98b89f3.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/0A334A50_zpsf98b89f3.jpg.html)

Also will be collecting my wing from the paint shop Friday so hopefully that turns out good.

[leggattr]

Got the wing back from the painters Tuesday, looks great. Needs a clean tho as it's very dusty. Just need to fit the vinyl and bump strip and it can go on.
Decided to leave it without a aerial hole as iv only got it blanked off anyway.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/C89C6724_zps4c339a70.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/C89C6724_zps4c339a70.jpg.html)

[leggattr]

Sundays work on the wing included applying the gm vinyl. Remembered the technique the guy used when doing my car last year. Not a bad job.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/9643A8DF_zpsd907fdc2.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/9643A8DF_zpsd907fdc2.jpg.html)

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/94AB6568_zps6420c4c2.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/94AB6568_zps6420c4c2.jpg.html)

I think il fit the wing before the bump strip goes on so I can get it straight with the door.

[Steve]

Looks like a good finish on the wing, I guess its not a new wing as they seem to come without the hole. My saloon never had a radio as standard and it looks so much cleaner without a hole there.

[Nick J]

Tidy work fella the car looks lovely! Twin 40s will make it sound awesome too!

Nick.

[leggattr]

The wing in a completely genuine gm wing. Been stored in a garage for years. Still has all original gm stickers on the inner side.
In terms of twin 40s that was the plan for this year. Managed to source 2 gm heater hoses, new throttle cable, inlet and a linkage similar to the sports which I found in the USA. But so far not a set of 40s that where the right price for me. Plus hoping of moving house soon and my travel will be longer so not fuel efficient. That's on the back burner for now

[leggattr]

Big update!!!
Huge huge thanks to Iain and a 6hour round trip managed to get me this..

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/924F7019_zps4fcf2159.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/924F7019_zps4fcf2159.jpg.html)

Finally got myself a bronze top tinted windscreen, has only taken a few years to get one!!

[leggattr]

Also collected these last night so hopefully will make a huge difference to the ride height.

http://i1050.photobucket.com/albums/s411/leggattr/Snapbucket/8D9E7346_zpsfc689b95.jpg (http://s1050.photobucket.com/user/leggattr/media/Snapbucket/8D9E7346_zpsfc689b95.jpg.html)

[Iain]

Glad you got it home OK

[leggattr]

Only just yes, let my old man do the return trip and took a wrong turn off so added another 30mins to the journey!!

[Iain]

I did offer to make him a cuppa so he may have been more awake if you'd accepted lol

[Steve]

Glad you got the windscreen back without breaking it, its all the little touches that make a car what it is.

Crack on :thumb: