The Astra-Mk2 trackday at Blyton on the 11th served as a useful test to shake the car down and set up the suspension ready for the next few events. Ive borrowed a few of Harveys photos as I didnt get any on the day but a group of us from the forum camped the night before and a couple more came on the day.
We had significantly changed the spring rates on the car to 340lb front, 255lb rear and also removed the front ARB but hadnt changed the damper settings to suit. We therefore spent the morning making changes to rebound, high and low speed bump on the rear which took the car from being snap oversteery to being very predictable through the corners. Didnt
Then spent the afternoon doing some passenger runs to build up confidence in the car and myself.
We did however get a nasty noise from the box when we pulled in after one of the runs - 4pm ish so we put it on the trailer after a little diagnostics. When stripped I found one of the diff bearings was very tight and gritty and needed replacing. This is the bottom of the diff cover - lots of metal paste - and the bearings were covered in it too.
Bearings changed, new oil seals, various bits cleaned up and refitted..
Then (with some help) cracked on with spanner checking, engine oil change, sealing a few holes, quick clean and got her ready for next weekend.
Next stop, Donington Park on the 25th October for the Rainworth Skoda Dukeries Rally - http://www.dukeries-rally.co.uk