![]() |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Got home after work and rechecked the welder, spool, feed etc, then pulled some of the wire out the tip……. Manually.
Sorted. So I started where I left off last night, completing the welds as much as I could be bothered. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Miles from concourse but plenty strong enough imho. Followed by some seam sealer https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So, hopefully the next MOT will be a decent pass. Not quite as good as the last one after it failed on the points below. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Bedtime. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Quick easy job today.
Undersealed the sills, first the inner part and wheel arch. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then masked off the complete sill. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Body covered. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Result. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Happy so far. More to come in a bit for the binge watchers. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So after doing the sills, I refitted the wheels, got it on the floor, refitted the floor mat and seats
Then washed it as it was a bit grubby. While cleaning it I found the rear wiper was dead, and needed replacing, so ran into the local village to grab a replacement. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...4891FDAC2.jpeg Motor factors is adjacent a fish and chip shop. That smell is irresistible, especially the smell of vinegar as well. So I treated myself. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...6469959EB.jpeg I hate eating in my car and as a rule do not allow it, a lesson learned 30 years ago. But the smell got me to cheat. Pensioners portion is a massive pile of chips and a smaller size piece of Cod. All for £3.50 which to me is still a bargain. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...D133CEB67.jpeg After my fishy dinner, I checked up the car’s ULEZ status. This is another London Stealth Tax. If you read what you are paying £14.00 per day to cross a certain road boundary. (I actually drive outside the zone going to one of my hospitals, down the South Circular and technically inside coming back. Anyway……. The Micra is Exempt from that coat, so saves an owner £280.00 or more per month. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...4385D10AC8.png Crazy Crazy this whole stealth taxation system. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Forgot to add these.
No more pics now. I hope. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...E0679A989.jpeg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...3DE4ADA1C.jpeg Other side. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...8B494D7F3.jpeg https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...0CD794878.jpeg Next stop, insure and get to the MOT station. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Got home early from work by 3.15
Shuffled some cars around before even getting out of my work clothes. Took the Micra up to the farm road for a quick test run, makes it a whole 1.5km test run, not even a mile. Really nice little car to be honest. Feels deceptively bigger than its size implies. It started to rain softly, but I hit the brakes at 40mph a few times…… Decent lock up on the left rear. I do hope that it is a bit better on the rollers at the test at 4.00pm tomorrow afternoon. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...0352CF10C.jpeg Back home I parked everything up. Makes my driveway look like a South London Car salesman’s home. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...948990F47.jpeg I hope it is all good tomorrow. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
4 hours insurance bought.
That is EXPENSIVE But all I need. Next option was £110.00 for a month vs £300.00 for a year. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...aFVeX75Hri.jpg Ready to Rock n Roll. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
When one solution creates another problem.
Pumped all the tyres up this morning and took the Micra for a drive, suddenly the brakes worked perfectly, steering is straight. Unequal tyre pressures clearly affect performance, reminder there. Got home and thought I would drop both electric windows. Drivers side, perfect behaviour. Passengers side……. Worked last week. Today……. FCK FCK FCK ! Partially opened, then managed to get it closed,,sounds like the glass has jumped the rail. Any experience or advice on short notice? No, crushing is not an option. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...64AC62A35.jpeg |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
MOT Pass.
Comment from tester was that it is a very clean car for 21 years and 130k miles or 210000km Now of course, having kept my job and company car it will be surplus. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds All up in the air. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Result. Also no advisories, which is cool. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds AND MY 4 HOURS OF INSURANCE JUST EXPIRED. Perfect. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Of course being as it was bought to use when I lost my company car with the redundancy, and everything now back to “normal” it has become surplus to my requirements.
So it needs to go back into the market, ULEZ exemption should appeal to some as well. And a flashback, held back initially. https://youtu.be/7byzFRXrABs Looks a lot better now. Still a 21 year old with it’s fair share of damage and scruffiness. Someone will hopefully find it useful. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well.
Certainly was not part of the master plan. I bought this to be able to get into and out of the London ULEZ ZONE for interviews and any potential jobs when I was made redundant. ULEZ Zone is £300.00/month alone. Of course I got re-employed, given a new title, small increase and got to keep my company car. So now suddenly I have a surplus car, along with the S10 and soon (we hope) the Rezin Rockit, just too many wheels. So I put it on the sidewalk this morning, incase a passerby sees and is interested in it. Far from perfect, but beats riding a Halfords bicycle to work for some. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I feel somewhat guilty toward the car as I had some silly plans for it. But it may be best to just sell it as it stands. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
|
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Mate Craig sent a pic this morning at 06.00 when he was about to leave after filling his tow vehicle.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Yesterday he ran 40 miles into Wales to collect this little “gift” and 210 miles coming down to me today, then 35 to load a bunch of industrial shelving, back here again…… followed by a Turkish dinner tonight and headed home early tomorrow morning. That is a bit of a trip. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well……
Some friends do love to spend your money for you. So when Serendipity smiled upon the planets and @craigrk sent me this Marketplace ad for another dubious item I coveted for a long time, while it lined up with the purchase of a load of serious industrial racking and shelving from “Deleted Profile”, plus collecting a load of American and bootfair stuff from my place, I had to take a look. 1994 Westwood 1012 - £100 The actual description read: Westwood 1012 ride on mower/yard tractor 12.5hp Briggs and Stratton Engine £100 Photos as posted in the ad. Yup, confidence inspired, so I said to Craig how far from his home, keeping in mind he is 205 miles from here. Oh, not far, about half an hour, just into Wales. Perfect. BUY AND COLLECT IF YOU CAN PLEASE. That was Tuesday morning.. Sellers reply to Craig: SORRY, SOLD, Collection this afternoon. Boll0x Photos from the ad . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Craig was in London for work by this time, till Thursday evening. Late afternoon he texted to say seller messaged to say “available again” No, there are no alarm bells here….l move along. So I repeated……. Yes please, buy and collect it. Seller agreed to Craig collecting Friday night after work. I was excited……. At least the odds of me getting something was better than winning the lottery. So I patiently waited. Yeaaahhh Right. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So, while Craig made some major business decisions and transactions in the Big Smoke and ate meals worth a small African countries GDP and shared his views…..
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I did my day job, got a great email from my agency (about money) and got inquisitive and impatient about this thing I was hoping to buy. So I messaged Emma, the seller to ask for some better photos. I was being hopeful here, and did not identify myself as the actual finacier….. So promptly I got these…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed by these. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Much better than the ones in the ad, you will agree. They confirmed to me mainly that it seemed intact, the body was in really good condition for a 28 year old tractor. Also, very importantly, in fact most important, that it was a steel bodied tractor. I have been offered very kindly before, a complete, running lawn tractor by a very good man, but declined because it was modern plastic bodied one. In retrospect of course, one could make up some body, or add a Dodgem body over it with some supports. I forwarded the pics to Craig, without explanation and he assumed that I had pulled them off the internet. When I told him on Thursday that it was the actual tractor, he was pretty chuffed for me. I had hoped that the small trailer I recently tidied up and put new tyres on, would fit it, but it is longer and wider, so I have popped it onto FB marketplace for a trade or for sale, in order to get something a bit bigger or ideally a flatbed chassis that will take the tractor and on decent sized wheels like the 14” this one has fitted. Behind the Rezin Rockit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Somewhat more daring than I am right now, but I love it.
https://youtu.be/g7qEdK_hpks Looks like fun. All on Wheel Horse tractors though, it seems. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Got this pic from Craig on,Friday night when he was leaving Wales…..
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Saturday morning at Stupid-0-Clockthis was happening. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds In order to get this trip going. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds By 9.30 Craig was here and we undid the tractor to get it off the trailer. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Maybe not so obvious, but a complete non runner, no key etc…… But I had to give it a go…. Size fit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After the unload, without even a coffee, we headed out to “Deleted Profile” to go get this lot loaded. The inside of the ML was also loaded to the roof. Great seeing the man a few hours, and loading a load of extra sh!te he had put aside for my shop. Shared between Craig and I later. By 13.00 we were loaded and headed back to my place, via a service station to pump the trailer wheels. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Coffee and a pan full of fried sausages and fresh bread for a late lunch. Followed by packing more sh!te into the ML. Then down to the garage to play for a while. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Back home from “Deleted Profile” we packed more stuff into Craigs ML, amd while he rearranged the load on his trailer, I cooked some sausages for lunch.
After which we put the HOPEMOBILE onto some ramps and axle stands. Battery had changed and trying to start it failed. Cowl hinge attachment points were partly missing, so just rested in place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I also removed all the LED’s from the cowl. Wiring and a switch box will be next, once I figure out how and what needs removing. Craig had a quick nap…… https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Removing the flywheel and cooling fin cover as well as the starter motor cover exposed why, despite a screwdriver in the ignition, it would not start. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Having offered Sally, who was working from 6.00am on Sunday, and Craig dinner, we messed around briefly after seeing problem no 1 and then made a hard stop, closed shop and pushed the tractor under cover. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Dinner was very good, and the company great. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I had also moved Scruffy, the Micra up the alley till Craigs son collects it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So a busy day, and good weekend all together. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Busy weekend with yardwork and “Decorating”
Short video clip showing the tractor being abused by the previous owners brother. So it certainly used to go……. https://youtu.be/0TLZo8mXwWM This week I was also given/offered another non runner……. And a spare seat and some better wheels for the one I have. Thank you to “Unknown Member” who can make himself known here, should he want to. Needs to be fetched about three hours away. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So no tractor or garage time this weekend. Weather still mild, but rain today, may lift later. Yesterday I managed to fall out a tree, off the top of the ladder when it spun around a fixed pivot point. Yes, I landed hard, only sprained my middle finger….. despite caution. Accidents are so instantaneous to happen. I skipped cutting this tree down last year and this year I wanted to cut it below the last pruning point. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Halfway, more to get done. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Thats a lot of branches to process and dispose of. Anything more than a broomstick thickness will be put aside to dry for the fireplace next season. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Much better. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Will go up and tidy all the shoots that are sticking out everywhere. Sally made me a white bread, bacon and two soft fried eggs sandwich today. What a bonus. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
90% rain forecast for Sunday
Perfect weather for a 160 mile trip in the S10 to go load some “spares or repairs” stuff and a few tools from a friend, then driving back. I had planned on hiring a van, then realised the load bed is long and wide enough, and that I already own a truck…… yes it can do the job, rather than sitting looking pretty on the driveway. Then collect @craigrk ‘s son from Leatherhead to come pick up the Nissan Micra that will be headed down to Poole in Dorset Really would love if it did not rain, at least while loading, but the dice are cast. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Winter prep job No 1 completed.
Used the hedge trimmer to mulch and cut up the branches that were left over after cutting out everything smaller than a broomstick to pack away to dry for next years fireplace wood. All the chopped up stuff fitted in the wheely bin after I repeatedly jumped on it to compact further. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Leaving the pile of cut back branches all at around 5 foot or 1.5 meter long. I then used thick string to tie them into 5 large bundles to put out on the sidewalk. Lets hope the recycling guys put them in the truck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds The amount of work it takes to harvest alm of this wood almost does not seem worth doing. But it needs to be processed so I may as well do it right. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Filled the Chevy up last night for Sundays Mini roadtrip Current mileage will slip over to 40k miles or 65k km on Sunday. Really low I guess for a 21 year old pampered truck. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I also took out roadside recovery today. Not something that I ever do. But this truck is so under used, you never know when something does go bang. I expect no trouble but neither did Kennedy Should be a nice trip. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Looking forward to the trip tomorrow
Rain forecast for the whole day, but it should all be fun. Made up.a couple of ramps earlier, including a pair of stops against the tailgate side for when you shove the dead weight of the tractor up there. Rather than have the ramps run away from me. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Tie down straps are also in the truck and some bits of padding. I trust it is all good to go. Off to dinner with friends first, and then hopefully to bead early for an early start. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Headed out just before 06.00
Stopped for a darkness photo. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then stopped for an expensive motorway coffee. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds A fellow motorist pointed out that I have a lovely looking truck, and that my rear foglight was dangling out back. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Carried on driving until I got to this point. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed shortly by this…… 40k miles. Only driven it about 1700 miles in two years. Bit of a waste ehhh? Pulled over to capture these. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Shortly after the clock turned over I got to my destination. Passing this landmark. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And then pulled up here…… Not far from the top secret Secret Volcano Lair. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Walking around while waiting for @frankenhealey to get there from where he was hiding in the mountains……. Parked up and watched farmer Brown drive his tractor and trailer around. Perfect way to be spending time before 09.00 0n a Sunday morning. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Once @frankenhealey got to the Volcano Lair he brought out the donor and spares or repairs mower.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds 14 horse power V-Twin. Missing it’s carburettor a battery and of course not running. Measuring the cutting deck, it became instantly apparent that it was not going to fit between the wheel arches, 47 inchest do not fit into 37 inches. So we had to remove it. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Once loaded up the ramps, I pulled it over to the one side, using the wheel arch as a chock for the rear wheel. Along with 4 corners on the truck strapped to the tractor. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed by adding a roller, Suffolk Punch mower with proprietary Chinese 87cc engine,with centrifugal clutch. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Closed up the rear…… Soft, car like suspension shows the load. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Once the truck was packed, we headed to Frankenhealy’s home for coffee, a chat with Mrs F and of course I got to play fetch with the dog….. best part of my day. Until @Frankenhealey disappeared out of the kitchen for a few minutes, returning with two packs of Mts F’s Amazing, home made Pork sausages. Seriously humbled, as I always am by these very personal gifts. A drive around with Frankenhealey followed by being dropped off back at the truck. After which I headed out homeward in the rain, which had not stopped all,day, except very briefly exactly while we were loading. First stop was at the service station to fill up the truck again. The idea was to see what the truck used empty, bit with the bed covered, compared with the load and no aerodynamics. Return trip report in a bit. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
After saying our good byes, I headed to the first gas station, having done 160 miles or 260km exactly, at the national speed limit, tonneau cover in place, unloaded, I was interested in seeing what consumption the 4.3 liter V6 would return.
Filled up to the neck as before leaving home. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Expensive fuel. The return trip was nonstop rain, some idiots on the road, you know, the usual suspects. Pulled off at J10 of the M25 to make a detour to pick up Kyle at his girlfriends house, then joined the M25 at J9 and carried on home. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds The biggest bummer on the trip was the passenger wiper rubber (they were replaced before Christmas last year) disintegrated partially in the rain on the motorway, leaving a nasty gouge on the screen. I did bend the tip up at one point when I was able to stop safely, but it was too late already. I am not sure if I can have it repaired or buffed back professionally. Any advice appreciated. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds By 15.10 we stopped outside my place. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Safe load, and made back in one piece. The truck was an absolute pleasure to drive, except for the bloody wiper blade. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds After we got Kyle sorted, he headed off to find fuel, and then headed back to Bath by midnight, by way of his,girlfriend. Reporting back that the Micra performed faultlessly. Good news indeed. I pulled the truck back into my back yard for the night. Today I went to fill it again, to,the brim. Same distance and almost the same consumption. So,themload and lack of aerodynamics seem to make little differnce to its performance. It certainly carried the load with absolute ease. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Am I happy with the truck and its performance? Well, yes and no. No, mainly because I just do not use it enough. Done less than 2000 miles in two years. That is wasteful. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Remember the tractor I just collected came without a carburettor and some bits….?
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds @pauly called me this morning. From a Harley Davidson V-twin golf cart……. Carburettor . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Well……
As a follow on, on Sundays visit to @frankenhealey we had the pork sausages tonight. Pork and Leek as you have never had it. Supermarket sausages will always taste sh!t in future. Thanks for the sausages mate, made the trip even more worthwhile. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Also had to Google a Harley Davidson Golf Buggy for myself. And it seems they are real. Also glad @craigrk ‘s boy Kyle picked up the mower deck in the Scruffy Micra to be fitted to his lawn tractor that is still a mower too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds That Nissan rocks for Sure. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Due to a train accident, I did not manage to get a train into London today.
Resulting in closing work down earlier than usual. Also meant I could get this done before dark. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Followed by raising the stakes, well, allof the new V-twin https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Front end as well. Closed up all the holes I could find. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And brought out the pressure cleaner to strip away all the flaked off red paint, as well as the piles of squirrel or rat nest nut residue Plus I cleaned all the oil/fuel and greasy mess with some amonia based cleaner and a brush. Much better altogether. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I have to say, I really do prefer to work on a clean machine. And if the postal service delivers, the carburettor could be here in the next few says. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So the Countax V-Twin has a few bits missing, including the cowl and related parts.
I found this boiler/heading unit cover recently, 1.2mm and shaped front looked interesting. So it went on the pile I also have a stainless steel oil cooler cover from 20 years ago, that was fitted to my BMW 1150GS. Could it be part of the front end, including louvres or something similar, covering or replacing the Vaillant name? https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Propped up on the front of the tractor, it seems to have the needed width. Early days though. Other options may still make their appearance in real life or my mind. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I also ordered a new set of starter gears for the Westwood. At £24.00 delivered it must be worth a punt on a £100.00 pile of parts. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds To replace these. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Last night I connected a battery to the Countax to see if anything moved when you turn the ignition switch. All I got was a red light come on and off on the dash behind the lightening symbol. Probably needs closer inspection of fuses etc. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Did absolutely nothing today.
Watched Rat Rods For Africa channel on YouTube for hours this morning and played with Bonnie. Came home around 3.00pm and made up,a bit of roofing from scrap offcuts I had from when I sealed up the carports last open area. The rain would race over the gutter from the shed roof and end up inside the carport. This should make a difference. I do hope. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Scrap screwed together, two wedges inverted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I also cleared out a bit of lawn and dirt under the pine tree in the garden to lay a few slabs in order for tractor no 2 to have a half decent and dry spot to park, in front of the firewood shed. While digging out the lawn and some serious roots, using an sharp hatchet I had some pork shanks and butternut in the oven for dinner. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Came out really well. Easier to buy at the shop, but none available to buy pre cooked, so I. Just did it myself. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Tomorrow I will get some sand down and then lay the slabs and add the bit of roofing. This is the downwind and away from the weather side. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Small jobs also take time.
And one leads to another. Plan was to find parts for making up an engine cowl and grille …….. Instead I made a parking spot for the Number 2 tractor. Some sand spread, compacted. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Extra bit laid, grouted and pressure cleaned the lot. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Scruffy overhang roof added, made up from scrap, situated in the leeward side of the shed and pine tree, done the supports so I do not bash my head when pushing the lawnmower through there, it should work pretty well along with some canvas to keep it all dry. Cut down bits from the plum tree packed away in the firewood shed, they will be dry next season. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And parked up. Happy with that, sim-le, effective. I hope. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds More later. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Karma.
Always remember. Got into a carpark today and a cabbie with a flat battery. Took about 10 minutes to get him going. He was surprised that I took the time to get him going. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Life is good, if you let it be. Also in the mail yesterday. The replacement ring and pinion gears ordered Friday. Quick delivery. Interesting to see the ring gear is cast ally, and the pinion is nylon/plastic/prayer material. Three days online training and a London training meeting I am running means probably only getting to it over the weekend. It would be very cook if that was the only issue with it. I need to train the oil in the motor as well and refresh oil and filter if it gets to run. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Pretty new parts. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Three days at home with. Key Account Management training had me climbing the walls.
Only George kept me amused. He's such a dickhead. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So today we got a full hours lunch break. And when they closed the Teams meeting down for lunch, my plan was already made. Down to the garage. Pull out the Westwood Spears and Reapers tractor and dismantle the top to get to the flywheel. A multitude of tools needed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Bit of hammering to release the flywheel from the drive shaft. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Removed the shaft key, known also sometimes as a Woodruf key. Important not to lose this little guy. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Got the flywheel off. The ring gear was riveted in four places. So mr grinder brought into service. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Punched out all four. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Reassembled after cleaning with the screws and nyloc nuts supplied in the service kit. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Reassembly looked decent. At which point it was time to go back to class. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I would get back after work, just pulled a canvas over it all as the weather forecast was for a lot more rain. More in a bit for those who like the whole story. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So reassembly.
In the pinion gear, the carrier needs one of these little spring loaded pins inserted, after some struggling I ground it down very slightly and a hammer completed the job. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Result. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Cover had me stumped, until I looked at a photo taken earlier. The mesh spins on the inside, it looks so wrong. . https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds And of course the scrap. Good enough reason to struggle or fail to start. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I thought I would chance it straight away. See if it would start. Video: https://youtu.be/p8B2iFqRTV4 More tomorrow I guess. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
So after changing the starter and ring gears, failing to get it started, I checked the usual suspects.
Fuel pours out after the pancake filter Sparkplug cleaned and dry. Airfilter horrendously dirty, cleaned and removed. At lunchtime I drove the 6 miles to my nearest Toolstation for some “Easystart” came back and tried it before the next online session started. Put out a fire. Laughed and tried again. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I pulled the cup off the bottom of the carburettor to find it pretty bad. Wire brush and wipe out later, removing 28 years worth of crud and rust. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Reassembled, twice. BECAUSE. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Then tried starting it again because that is what I do. Failed again, possibly no fuel getting through. No further fires. But also a dry plug. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I decided to walk away as it was getting dark, despite the lights in the carport. Once back in the house a quick search showed that complete carburettors can be had for £11.99 delivered. Seriously, even if I were working for minimum wage, my time and frustration, spent on a possible rebuild, just is not worth the effort. So after speaking to a human I ordered a replacement part. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Tonight, on the way home I stopped at my local motorfactors to see if they had a battery to replace the very tired on that came with the tractor, in fact, they had two…… priced at £70.00 So I smiled and walked outside, ordered one online for less. Battery is less than 24 hour delivery. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Unfortunately the spares shop is one down from the Fish and Chip shop. The smell of freshly fried chips and vinegar permeates the air late afternoon…… So I promptly spent £2.40 of the savings made on the battery on a bag of chips to eat on the way home. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Friday night. Waiting for the courier to get here with the V-Twin carburettor that @pauly sent over yesterday. Maybe start to play with it tomorrow. I know the FRANKENTRACTOR is missing a few bits. Lets see what we can get done though. Later. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
New Battery for Hopemobile (Westwood) landed early Saturday.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Obviously tried it, unsuccessfully as new carb has not yet arrived for fitting. I also removed a load of wires and switches from the old battery and chassis that used to drive some LED lights on top of and inside the cowl/grille. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Found a broken emergency escape light fitting in a hospital scrap pile, got permission to remove it…… May be perfect for the FRANKENTRACTOR cowl that still need to be made. Right width too. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Carburettor from @pauly landed around 7.00pm on Saturday evening. To add to the rest of the carburettor and breathing parts in the pile that came with the FRANKENTRACTOR and then to try out when the weather eases up from its current unpleasant demeanour. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Got the tractor up onto some ramps and axle stands. Removed all the waterproofing and plastics. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Slipped the carb onto the studs……. Obstruction it seems. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds When that fun stopped I put the old battery onto the tractor and tried the circuit. Lights and quiet noises could be heard. Realised afterward that I had not sat in the seat, or did I ? Anyway. Lights came on. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Cold and with the weather turning,a drizzle starting, I closed up everything and went indoors early. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Had @nickwheeler pop in for a chat and to bring back a small flexi-head 1/4 inch ratchet he had taken to service a while ago.
Once again he stopped my cutting corners on a future project. No coffee, which was the first time ever he declined coffee, must be something wrong with the man. I had a few chores to do in town and needed to get to Sally’s place to do some small daylight jobs. So I Went grocery shopping in the S10 followed by a nice detour drive, once again realising what a cool little truck it is. Parked up in Morrissons car park is seems so small, despite being a long but narrow truck https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Got home, chatted with my returned lodger, one left this week, and one from a previous 5 months stay is back for another 3 months or so. Then Sallys, did the small jobs before dark and settled with her Netflix to watch a few episodes of Better Call Saul. Followed by a very yummy dinner I did not need to cook. At 10.00pm I got a message from a chap 350 miles from home about a possible new shadow thrower for my driveway. And by 11.15 I went to bed. A few more photos, questions which may be dealt with today before making a final decision but I think it has already been made. More in a bit for those who are patient enough. . |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
It is big, it is long.
And yes, I have more stuff than would keep a small country busy for weeks…… The guy who brought the Micra has declined as his rig is not big enough, but I think he prefers quick, local jobs. @paulY suggested I buy and drive it to an MOT station locally……. Where I live. Does insurance cover you driving to an MOT station? I am very risk-averse at the best of times. So have to consider looking at the alternative, which is recovery. SIZE………. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds FAIL SHEET…………..] I think this is within my limited mechanical abilities. Again, seems reasonably driveable, but maybe the law would not be impressed. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Thank you for the advice and laughing. Now just needs fetching I guess……. Road trip anyone? ALMOST AS FAR AS THE REZIN ROCKIT. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Have decided after 48 hours of intense research here and via my USA info sources, to walk away from this one.
Most importantly, got home last night and went to measure my tight driveway, and the car in question would only get down the drive, in reverse, with one mirror tucked in, and then allowing minimal room for error. The car is 2.118 meter wide, so with the mirrors it is 7 crazy feet wide. My drive is max 2.2 meter wide. I have enough to keep my busy through winter, and despite having liked these an unhealthy amount over the years, I do not need another 5.0 liter V8 on my drive. Thank you as always for the input and advice on here. And for those looking and wondering what got me going. 1992 Chevrolet Caprice wagon. If you are interested in buying it, send me a PM and I will connect you with the seller. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Back to work. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Had the truck for two years.
Not done a ton of miles, maybe 2000 Just tripped over to 40k miles a few weeks ago. But 20 years of living out back when driving, took its toll on the vinyl bed cover. When I bought it, the previous owner had poked holes through the bed cover that had shrunk over time, and used cable ties to keep it in position. Recently when I went to fetch the FRANKENTRACTOR from @frankenhealey I had to refit the cover once 5he tractor was unloaded. I managed to tear it badly, trying to stretch it in the cold. Keep in mind it has survived 20 years. Unfortunately Extang do.not make the Blackmax for this model anymore, I called America about it. And it does not seem like I will be finding a used replacement for it in America either. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So plan B for now seems to be to use a local “Sailmaker” who claims he can make something to cover the rear in a variety of fabrics. Multiple colours available. Very tempting is the option to colour match the cover vs going back to black. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So I went to Chatham Pier today, only to find the shop shut. Typical. But at least a couple of pics made themselves available. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds I am also hoping to hear from the guy I bought the wheels from who happens to be a high end upholsterer. Fingers crossed I can get something decent made up. |
Re: GRIZZ’s ‘79 - 2WD BLAZER Challenge over in London, England. “~It’s not a Project
Remember the fog light I lost when I went to @frankenhealey to collect the tractor?
Today after marathon 100 minute Teams meeting I though repairing it was a good way to recover and regain my equilibrium. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds Once repaired I had a coffee and called the MOT station to see when I could go down to have the truck tested. 4.30 today became available just a few minutes ago, due to cancellation, interested? Of course I was. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds They were running late. But we made it onto the ramp and by 5.30 the truck had a fresh MOT. The truck must have impressed the young guy testing it, he told me the emissions were brilliantly in range, and that it was a cool truck, he loved driving it into the shop. https://hosting.photobucket.com/imag...080&fit=bounds So we have a taxed, insured and tested truck for another year. The last 12 months it only did 600 miles, which included the 320 miles it did a few weeks ago to fetch the FRANKENTRACTOR. I really do not deserve to have this truck if I am not going to use it. |
All times are GMT -4. The time now is 04:54 PM. |
Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.8.11
Copyright ©2000 - 2024, vBulletin Solutions Inc.
Copyright 1997-2022 67-72chevytrucks.com