richyb66

Can someone confirm if the S7 uses a one piece prop with a uj at each end and a sliding spline into the box? Having done bits and bobs on Stu's car, it's obvious that removing the diff to inspect the prop is pointless. I don't think the prop will move easily on the front splines and the issue seems to be at the front end. If it was me, I'd break out the biscuits, pull out the engine on it's own and then withdraw the box and prop as one piece.This way you can pop the top cover off the box and rotate the input shaft while seeing what's happening inside.

The thing I don't get is that with the prop unbolted from the diff and the box in neutral, I had to use a big screwdriver and a fair bit of effort to turn the prop. This isn't normal.

If the diff isn't perfectly in line with the gearbox (which it won't be) then the spiders in the joints need to rotate as the prop turns. Siezed or damaged rollers in the spider cups would make the prop harder to turn. Consider everything, discount nothing as a possible cause.

Stu, I think you should be looking at the prop. When I unbolted the prop plange from the diff, I couldn't turn the prop by hand, it was very stiff and I had to turn it with a big screwdriver through the joint. (though the car does seem to roll, it does take some pushing) Also, the prop didn't slide easily in and out of the gearbox (again I had to use a big screwdriver to move it). Something isn't right?? As you can't see the front ent of the prop easily, I'd drop the diff out so you can check it runs freely and then have a look dow the tunnel at the prop and see why it's not moving freely in the box.

Plus Keith never likes to stop his car when it's actually running - just in case!

Fingers crossed - about time the club Secretary got a car on the road!!!

Dax Rush Quadra

Stu, don't forget a disguise, just in case you're in the Mini!

For anyone else who's interested, a few poeple are coming early for the all you can eat breakfast at the Malt Shovel. Starts at 0800

If you're travelling to or are around Stoneleigh on Saturday 2nd May (prior to the shows start on Sunday) and have some free time, you might be interested in this (very) nearby event. http://www.classicairforce.com/ Essentially is planes and the website gives fuller details but it might be worth popping down for a look. The venue is lierally a stones throw from Stoneleigh (small stone, big arms). Thanks to local member Steve49er for the heads up.

Ok Mark, will see you some time on the day.

A great read and some inspirational determination on your part Dan. Like you said, such a massive trip in an effectively un-tested car was always going to be a big ask but you made it home under your own power. Lesser men would have surely thrown in the towel after the first problem. Good on you for sticking at it, well done!!

Just in case we get split up when we leave the Malt Shovel, here are the directions. Join A45 at Malt Shovel, exit A45 at BP garage. From the garage: Turn left onto B4113 and follow all the other kits to Stoneleigh.

It's not an epic journey but I thought I'd see if anyone wanted to meet up for a drive to Stoneleigh like we did last year. Meet up on SUNDAY morning 3rd May at our normal place, the Malt Shovel Pub, Coventry Road, Nr Stonebridge, Coventry, CV7 7HL https://maps.google....ingdom&t=m&z=15 Entrance to pub car park is off the A452 Chester Road heading North 50 yards from the island. 0830 onwards for a prompt departure at 0900. Second meeting point is the BP garage opposite the Styvechale Arm pub (and Premier Inn) at the junction of the A45 Stonebridge Highway and St.Martins Road (approx postcode CV3 6PB). Departing from here at 0930.

Next Wednesday, 29th April, 7pm onwards, Malt Shovel Pub, Coventry Road, Nr Stonebridge, Coventry, CV7 7HL https://maps.google....ingdom&t=m&z=15 Entrance to pub car park is off the A452 Chester Road heading North 50 yards from the island. A good chance to get out in your car before Stoneleigh. See you there!

Dash mounted Mark 1 Cortina handbrake on mine. Easy to reach and catches the mot tester out every year.

Nothing wrong with that tracking, a friend helped him set it

Start engine, stick foot on brake and move shifter slowly from Park, through each of the transmission positions (pause in each position for 5 to 10 secs). This should purge the transmission and torque converter of air. Stick back in Park and check level with the engine idling.

Good lad!

I agree with Bob. Check the length of the harness for damage. Maybe it's pulled tight now it's clipped in place and has chaffed on a raw metal edge. Did you put edging around the end of the tunnel near the diff?

That's a good price, they've clearly not seen your driving!

Run 12v direct from battery to coil positive. If that works, you've got a break somewhere in the harness.

Nice use of a velvet pin cushion for the IVA steering wheel pad.

Can't they just stick it in an A3 Jiffy bag and post it?

A mid week car meet that starts at 4 and finishes at 9, is this aimed at Rover drivers who need to get home to hang up their tartan cap and have a cocoa before bedtime?