Title: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 15, 2010, 12:52:24 pm
A few of you will remember the saga of getting my old Alfa ready for the classic back in 2008 where I went from this...
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4608069611_0a6f486528.jpg)
To this is just 3 weeks...
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1407/4608641746_3ac3dfd1b4.jpg)
A frantic few weeks were spent replacing the inner, middle and outer sills, complete rear quarter panels and a new rear panel as well as a few minor repairs to boot floor and lower front wings. We just made it-we actually brush painted the back end with red oxide primer the night before heading for the ferry. It made it to Maison Blanche and back (1,240 miles) in fine style, recording a remarkable 84mph average over the last stretch from Pompy to Northumberland.
Well, once home it was stripped back to a bare shell to finish the bodywork, rebuild the engine and box and fit new improved brakes as well as a dozen other mods to suspension, cooling, steering etc.
However due to a crazy work schedule and a move to new premises it sat untouched for most of the last two years. At chrismas i made a start on getting it ready but now with just 8 weeks until the off I'm still some way off. Will it make it there and back again?
Shell is painted and the new alloy doors, bonnet and boot are in primer. Engine and box are back in the hole as is the wiring loom and some of the trim. Suspension is refitted but has yet to be set up (its all adjustable now) and the brakes are still in boxes. Next big job is to send it away for a new headlining before refitting the glass and trim.
There are 101 things to do before the dreaded MOT, once that is done its a case of putting some miles on it to get the motor run in and check everything works.
A few pics of recent progress..
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1294/4608095563_74d40764e1_o.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1296/4608628752_da35884ae6_o.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1385/4608628704_6b7cdf3d04_o.jpg)
Next job is to fit these rather big 6 pot brakes 8)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/4608095561_8c730f02e0_o.jpg)
So start placing your bets, will it, won't it? If all goes to plan we should be on MB for noon on the Friday. We hope to have cold beer with us so come and see if our luck holds out for another year ;)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4608069611_0a6f486528.jpg)
To this is just 3 weeks...
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1407/4608641746_3ac3dfd1b4.jpg)
A frantic few weeks were spent replacing the inner, middle and outer sills, complete rear quarter panels and a new rear panel as well as a few minor repairs to boot floor and lower front wings. We just made it-we actually brush painted the back end with red oxide primer the night before heading for the ferry. It made it to Maison Blanche and back (1,240 miles) in fine style, recording a remarkable 84mph average over the last stretch from Pompy to Northumberland.
Well, once home it was stripped back to a bare shell to finish the bodywork, rebuild the engine and box and fit new improved brakes as well as a dozen other mods to suspension, cooling, steering etc.
However due to a crazy work schedule and a move to new premises it sat untouched for most of the last two years. At chrismas i made a start on getting it ready but now with just 8 weeks until the off I'm still some way off. Will it make it there and back again?
Shell is painted and the new alloy doors, bonnet and boot are in primer. Engine and box are back in the hole as is the wiring loom and some of the trim. Suspension is refitted but has yet to be set up (its all adjustable now) and the brakes are still in boxes. Next big job is to send it away for a new headlining before refitting the glass and trim.
There are 101 things to do before the dreaded MOT, once that is done its a case of putting some miles on it to get the motor run in and check everything works.
A few pics of recent progress..
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1294/4608095563_74d40764e1_o.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1296/4608628752_da35884ae6_o.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1385/4608628704_6b7cdf3d04_o.jpg)
Next job is to fit these rather big 6 pot brakes 8)
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3324/4608095561_8c730f02e0_o.jpg)
So start placing your bets, will it, won't it? If all goes to plan we should be on MB for noon on the Friday. We hope to have cold beer with us so come and see if our luck holds out for another year ;)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Werner on May 15, 2010, 01:04:02 pm
Thumbs up - once assembled, this will be a beautiful car.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 15, 2010, 01:10:46 pm
Thumbs up - once assembled, this will be a beautiful car.
Fingers crossed might be more appropriate ???
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1060/4608052349_5828c9a24b_o.jpg)
Just a little more plumbing and the engine will be ready to fire up again. Its the second rebuild as a faulty chain tensioner failed last month causing the valves to hit the pistons when we fired it for the first time. I'm hoping we have the problem sorted now.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lorry on May 16, 2010, 12:14:32 am
Aaaaaaaaaaagh Dellortos
A friend of mine had one of those - it was mostly rust too. The anti roll bar didn't work as it had nothing to hang on to
A friend of mine had one of those - it was mostly rust too. The anti roll bar didn't work as it had nothing to hang on to
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lord Steve on May 16, 2010, 12:05:29 pm
Thumbs up - once assembled, this will be a beautiful car.
Fingers crossed might be more appropriate ???
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1060/4608052349_5828c9a24b_o.jpg)
Just a little more plumbing and the engine will be ready to fire up again. Its the second rebuild as a faulty chain tensioner failed last month causing the valves to hit the pistons when we fired it for the first time. I'm hoping we have the problem sorted now.
Absolutely AWESOME!!
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Barry on May 16, 2010, 12:48:08 pm
Look forward to seeing the finished article drive onto MB.
I love those Alfa's ;D
I love those Alfa's ;D
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: mike(liverpool boys) on May 16, 2010, 08:30:00 pm
SWEET ;D Keep us posted Dr. I love seeing projects coming together.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Snoring Rhino on May 16, 2010, 09:21:42 pm
very nice.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Gordonwr on May 17, 2010, 09:27:15 am
Superb car and a credit to you !! Hope you get it sorted in time, I'm having a battle getting my '84 quattro sorted as I wrecked the engine 8 weeks ago so have sourced another but lots of work to get it ready. Fingers crossed!!!
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Barry on May 17, 2010, 05:12:02 pm
Superb car and a credit to you !! Hope you get it sorted in time, I'm having a battle getting my '84 quattro sorted as I wrecked the engine 8 weeks ago so have sourced another but lots of work to get it ready. Fingers crossed!!!
Hope you get the Quattro fired up in time Gordon.
Are you aiming to get it done for LM, or the Classic?
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Gordonwr on May 17, 2010, 09:28:56 pm
L M Barry, I couldn't bear it if I had to use the Astra estate!! It wouldn't feel right but loads of time yet, leaving on Sun 6th so 3 weeks yet!!
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Barry on May 17, 2010, 11:10:14 pm
L M Barry, I couldn't bear it if I had to use the Astra estate!! It wouldn't feel right but loads of time yet, leaving on Sun 6th so 3 weeks yet!!
The Quattro has a presence that the Astra certainly lacks. ;)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 18, 2010, 01:58:47 pm
L M Barry, I couldn't bear it if I had to use the Astra estate!! It wouldn't feel right but loads of time yet, leaving on Sun 6th so 3 weeks yet!!
The Quattro has a presence that the Astra certainly lacks. ;)
If it enables you to get to Le Mans, to be sitting in the sun with a luke warm beer surrounded by friends, then an Astra is a fine car indeed!
As my old man was fond of saying 'A second class ride is better than a first class walk!'
Amen ;)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: geoffd on May 19, 2010, 09:23:38 am
L M Barry, I couldn't bear it if I had to use the Astra estate!! It wouldn't feel right but loads of time yet, leaving on Sun 6th so 3 weeks yet!!
The Quattro has a presence that the Astra certainly lacks. ;)
If it enables you to get to Le Mans, to be sitting in the sun with a luke warm beer surrounded by friends, then an Astra is a fine car indeed!
As my old man was fond of saying 'A second class ride is better than a first class walk!'
Amen ;)
Here, Here!!!
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 20, 2010, 10:04:58 am
Another black day. More problems with chain tensioner failure. 4 bent inlet valves and a damaged piston.
On the bright side I now know what is causing the problem and I'm just machining a new improved locking pin. Damaged piston is number two which I can get to with the lower half of the two peice sump pan removed now that the head is off, so the engine and box can stay in the hole.
Courier is on the way with a new forged piston and a set of valves and gaskets. I've fitted another set of valve guides as a precaution (the lathe was spinning late last night!) so should be back up and running this evening.
Third time lucky?
Tired.
Emotional.
Fed up.
On the bright side I now know what is causing the problem and I'm just machining a new improved locking pin. Damaged piston is number two which I can get to with the lower half of the two peice sump pan removed now that the head is off, so the engine and box can stay in the hole.
Courier is on the way with a new forged piston and a set of valves and gaskets. I've fitted another set of valve guides as a precaution (the lathe was spinning late last night!) so should be back up and running this evening.
Third time lucky?
Tired.
Emotional.
Fed up.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: nopanic - neil on May 20, 2010, 12:48:43 pm
Another black day. More problems with chain tensioner failure. 4 bent inlet valves and a damaged piston.
On the bright side I now know what is causing the problem and I'm just machining a new improved locking pin. Damaged piston is number two which I can get to with the lower half of the two peice sump pan removed now that the head is off, so the engine and box can stay in the hole.
Courier is on the way with a new forged piston and a set of valves and gaskets. I've fitted another set of valve guides as a precaution (the lathe was spinning late last night!) so should be back up and running this evening.
Third time lucky?
Tired.
Emotional.
Fed up.
On the bright side I now know what is causing the problem and I'm just machining a new improved locking pin. Damaged piston is number two which I can get to with the lower half of the two peice sump pan removed now that the head is off, so the engine and box can stay in the hole.
Courier is on the way with a new forged piston and a set of valves and gaskets. I've fitted another set of valve guides as a precaution (the lathe was spinning late last night!) so should be back up and running this evening.
Third time lucky?
Tired.
Emotional.
Fed up.
As My mum would say "these things are sent to try us" and my reply was "Yes - and if I knew who was sending the bloody stuff, I'd kill him!!" - as usual, no help there ::)
But I think alot of people would haven given up a long time ago, you have my respect, wish I could mange 10% of what you have done!
Keep Yelling and Cursing but still smile at the end, I'm sure it will all work out in the end, and give you years of driving pleasure. Besides want to see it sometime.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 20, 2010, 01:04:09 pm
It will be there this year if it kills me. I have six free days left before the off. Its going to be almost impossible but I will try!
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Gordonwr on May 21, 2010, 11:05:12 pm
It will be there this year if it kills me. I have six free days left before the off. Its going to be almost impossible but I will try!
I'll be looking out for you as I'm positive you'll make it , remember that's 6 days AND nights !!!
Mine's running now just needs a fuel pump and 4 wheel alignment sorting. ( well I think that's all !!!)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: nickliv on May 21, 2010, 11:37:45 pm
You'll get to the point where the light at the end of the tunnel won't be some f**ker with a torch bringing you more work.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 31, 2010, 09:27:09 am
Some more forward progress.
Exhaust fitted, waxoyl'd, lights in and wired, engine started, headliner removed, starter refitted, carbs refitted, wheel arch liners fitted, doors and bootlid fitted, door glass fitted (nightmare job)
Its now going for the headlining fitting.
Still to do...
Machine polish paintwork
Refit glass
Refit brightwork
Refit door rubbers
Set camber, caster and track steering
Bleed brakes
balance carbs
MOT
Rolling road session
Fill will petrol, cheap booze, tickets and an ipod and make the ferry on time!.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4655511874_3d133a809e_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4655512538_727438db0c_b.jpg)
Exhaust fitted, waxoyl'd, lights in and wired, engine started, headliner removed, starter refitted, carbs refitted, wheel arch liners fitted, doors and bootlid fitted, door glass fitted (nightmare job)
Its now going for the headlining fitting.
Still to do...
Machine polish paintwork
Refit glass
Refit brightwork
Refit door rubbers
Set camber, caster and track steering
Bleed brakes
balance carbs
MOT
Rolling road session
Fill will petrol, cheap booze, tickets and an ipod and make the ferry on time!.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4655511874_3d133a809e_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4030/4655512538_727438db0c_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on May 31, 2010, 09:29:50 am
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4654896301_da1ae2d742_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4654895589_384ee6b6fc_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4655514178_9271f4f60c_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4654895589_384ee6b6fc_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4017/4655514178_9271f4f60c_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Martini...LB on May 31, 2010, 10:16:13 am
Great stuff Si, I am sure you will be all sorted for the Classic. There will be a beer and cigar.
>Martini...LB
>Martini...LB
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: zozzer on May 31, 2010, 06:36:12 pm
Simply fantastic.
Round of applause and a cold beer for that man.
Round of applause and a cold beer for that man.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on June 14, 2010, 03:23:02 pm
A little update on the Alfa. I'm waiting on the trimmer finishing the head liner before I can fit the glass. Apart from a few other small jobs its just about there. I'm hoping to have it running in the next 10 days.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4699455958_d1d9acbc50_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4699456574_89cbd8ffe9_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4698826089_eddd8ccef0_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1306/4699457870_77012d43c9_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4698827833_d835b3048f_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4698828383_3c2f249bc6_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1275/4699460160_16d58bacb0_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4699455958_d1d9acbc50_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4699456574_89cbd8ffe9_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4698826089_eddd8ccef0_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1306/4699457870_77012d43c9_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/4698827833_d835b3048f_b.jpg)
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4002/4698828383_3c2f249bc6_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1275/4699460160_16d58bacb0_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: mike(liverpool boys) on June 14, 2010, 03:26:43 pm
That,my friend is a thing of beauty ;D :o
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on June 14, 2010, 04:45:40 pm
Si, what Alfaholics kit have you used on the car?
Cams
OS inlet valves
race timing chain
Inlet manifold
pistons
rods
exhaust
springs
dampers
anti roll bar
lower arms
spring pans
bushes
bias pedle box
brake hose kits
rear billet calipers
4 pot front caliper and floating discs
adjustable castor arms
steering knuckles
door skins
front panel
rear quarters
rear panel
boot lid
spare wheel well
all rubbers
hoses
oil cooler kit
catch tank
hi- capacity rad
lightweight screen
wheels
GTA door handles and locks
GTA grilles
HID headlamp kit (still to be fitted)
rear lights
number plate plinth
numberplate lamps (carrello)carpet set
GTA head liner
GTA door cards and int handles
badges........
And thats just what i can remember. Its almost the same spec as their GTA replica now apart from they use a modern Twin Spark motor.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on June 25, 2010, 01:10:47 am
Tadaaa ;D
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/4730725835_2d25d56b20_b.jpg)
Up and running this evening. Straight out onto the lanes of Northumberland for a shakedown. Few tweeks in the morning to camber, castor and maybe a little more rear brake bias and she's ready to roll. MOT in the morning. Engine is strong and pulls cleanly from 3,500rpm but didn't like traffic much. Shifting up at 6,000 until it's run-in was frustrating as it's just coming on song at 5,500rpm.
25 miles in total inc some dark running (which isn't easy as it's still light up here at eleven). Didn't have to put a spanner on it it's so good straight out of the box.
One word. Happy!
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1190/4730825689_884b38cc5c_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1387/4731386694_5b371fd5b3_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/4730725835_2d25d56b20_b.jpg)
Up and running this evening. Straight out onto the lanes of Northumberland for a shakedown. Few tweeks in the morning to camber, castor and maybe a little more rear brake bias and she's ready to roll. MOT in the morning. Engine is strong and pulls cleanly from 3,500rpm but didn't like traffic much. Shifting up at 6,000 until it's run-in was frustrating as it's just coming on song at 5,500rpm.
25 miles in total inc some dark running (which isn't easy as it's still light up here at eleven). Didn't have to put a spanner on it it's so good straight out of the box.
One word. Happy!
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1190/4730825689_884b38cc5c_b.jpg)
(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1387/4731386694_5b371fd5b3_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Stu on June 25, 2010, 01:33:42 am
Here wor lad.
LUSH
LUSH
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Jules G on June 25, 2010, 01:13:14 pm
Gobsmackingly beautifull, congratulations 8)
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: powermite on June 25, 2010, 01:14:37 pm
Superb Sconey,looks beautiful
PM
PM
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Andy Zarse on June 25, 2010, 01:53:25 pm
That is a thing of considerable beauty and a testament to the fact that you, Sir, have fingers of scone!
I can't tell you how much I want it.
I can't tell you how much I want it.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Lazy B'stard on June 25, 2010, 04:41:07 pm
I can't tell you how much I want it.
well if it's in the region of £27,500 then it's all yours Mr Zarse although I'm not sure it should be subjected to the willful neglect that the ole green goddess suffers ;D
Seriously though, once back from the classic there is a pretty good chance it will be offered for sale. A new project is in the wings.
Title: Re: Return of Alfa?
Post by: Barry on June 25, 2010, 06:17:14 pm
My accountant will be with me at the Classic, she will take one look at me drooling over the Alfa, and will freeze all bank accounts and credit cards that are in my name.
That is a beautiful car Dr S, and I look forward to seeing it 'in the metal' in 12 days time.
That is a beautiful car Dr S, and I look forward to seeing it 'in the metal' in 12 days time.
