ZT 190+ comm number 468
 

FOR ANYONE LOOKING AT THIS AND SEEING BLURRY PHOTOBUCKET PICS. IF USING CHROME THEN THIS EXTENSION WORKS
https://chrome.google.com/webstore/d...bifiaedg?hl=en


Ok most will know I have picked a cheap early ZT 190.

https://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...d.php?t=215081

Thought I would start a project thread here to monitor progress:D

List of defects found so far which need sorting:eek:

Mechanical
Noisy timing belt tensioner- Complete
Poor handbrake- Complete
Knackered lower engine mountComplete
Cooling fan brushesComplete

Bodywork

Bonnet stone chipComplete
replace front and rear MG badges-Complete
Pink trim on rear bumper Complete
Door mirrors laquer and paint peeledComplete
Rust bubbles on exterior chrome handles ( OSF, OSR lock cover, NSR Handle)-Complete
Replace number plates-Complete

Electrical

Both key fobs knackered-Complete
ABS warning lightComplete
Airbag warning light-Complete
NSR central locking solenoid-Complete
Zenon headlamps V cloudyComplete
Front ZT indicator cracked-Complete

Trim

Rear window trim rubber finish in terrible state-Complete
Chrome tread trims need replacing on OSF (Glued) and OSR (dented)-Complete
Carpet edge trims missing-Complete

Seals

OSR door seal torn-Complete

Interior trim

Drivers seat bolsters worn-Complete
Passenger side back pocket ripped off-Complete
Cup holder jammed-Complete
Radio missing-Complete

Wheels

Alloys badly corrodedComplete

Planned upgrades (with MG/Rover parts)

DD radio-Complete
Auto wipersComplete
Auto dim mirror-Complete
Rear parking sensors-Complete
Plenum Mod-Complete
Bonnet release cable modComplete
Twin Exhaust with correct trim platesComplete
message centre IPK
Possible fit MG rover skirts (not sure at the moment:shrug:)

Areas still to look over:eek::-

Chassis underside
front suspension
rear suspension
front brakes
rear brakes
Engine bay
Steering
Ancillaries

here starts the journey:D

i have a fully working 3 speed fan in its cowl foc if you want it ?
pretty sure I have a cup holder too
and a auto dim mirror

all you need to do is get it to you :)

Blimey Jon, that's some list, looks like you bought a lemon... ;):D

No, seriously, good luck with it, will be watching the thread with interest :}

Good luck! How many miles has it got? Are you fully restoring it? Will keep an eye on this thread!

Update 19/05/15

Ok so finished going over the car this weekend and did a couple of small jobs.

Firstly the list is now full:D and list added to in red

Mechanical
Noisy timing belt tensioner (Change belts, Tensioner and water pump)-Complete
Poor handbrake-Complete
Knackered lower engine mountComplete
Cooling fan brushes (Cooling fan works in all 3 modes:D)
Thermostat body weepingComplete
Back 3 cylinders rocker cover weepingComplete
Full serviceComplete
Shannon tube missingComplete
Change bonnet cablesComplete
Renew brakes front and back (only to bring them to new:D)Complete
Restore rear suspension (showing signs of wear and surface corrosion). Complete
Spring protectors not fitted to front struts [/COLOR] Complete

Bodywork

Bonnet stone chipComplete
replace front and rear MG badges-Complete
Pink trim on rear bumper Complete
Door mirrors laquer and paint peeledComplete
Rust bubbles on exterior chrome handles ( OSF, OSR lock cover, NSR Handle).-Complete
Replace number plates-Complete
2 x Jacking pads missing-Complete
Underseal and rust proof as this car no visible Complete
Bootlid hinges loose:shrug:Complete
Blast and paint underbody fittings (fuel tank straps etc)Complete

Electrical

Both key fobs knackered-Complete
ABS warning lightComplete
Airbag warning light-Complete
NSR central locking solenoid-Complete
Zenon headlamps V cloudyComplete
Front ZT indicator cracked-Complete

Trim

Rear window trim rubber finish in terrible state-Complete
Chrome tread trims need replacing on OSF (Glued) and OSR (dented)-Complete
Carpet edge trims missing-Complete

Seals

OSR door seal torn-Complete
Boot seal torn-Complete

Interior trim

Drivers seat bolsters worn-Complete
Passenger side back pocket ripped off-Complete
Cup holder jammed-Complete
Radio missing-Complete
Rear door cards need the clips replacing-Complete

Wheels

Alloys badly corrodedComplete
OSR tyre has a screw in itComplete

Planned upgrades (with MG/Rover parts)

DD radio-Complete
Auto wipers-Complete
Auto dim mirror-Complete
Rear parking sensors-Complete
Plenum Mod-Complete
Bonnet release cable modComplete
Twin Exhaust with correct trim platesComplete
message centre IPK
Possible fit MG rover skirts (not sure at the moment). Didnt bother preferred OEM look so sold them on

Some pictures of the underside which I took whilst underneath

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Had a spare Front bumper MG badge in the garage so decided to swap out whilst I was looking over the car:D. I know its not the most important job but hey:getmecoat:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Hi Steve,

It has 90K on it all warranted and yes hopefully a full restore in the areas that need it:eek:

Hi Paul,

Yep a real lemon:D:D:D:D:D

I'm over the moon with it mate. To be honest I could do the tensioner and drive it as there seems very little wrong for a car of that age but I wanted a project so here it is. I need to start breaking the other one which I will hopefully start this weekend:eek: Let me know if you need any V6 spares.

Had a feeling it was an honest car Jon (not hiding any nasties... :D) - glad you bought it and are happy :}

Thanks for the offer re: V6 spares, but concentrating on finishing off the CDT Tourer at the mo. It finally got it's new MOT last week & drove to Haynes, but still a couple jobs to do - as always !!

Keep up the good work :}

Wrote an update up last night but lost it for some reason.:duh: not sure why but it was late:D

Anyway as some of you are aware I have started work on the car. My plan is to go from back to front starting in the boot and at the back of the car working forward then go underneath.

So starting at the back:-

Boot and rear before I have started

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and with everything removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

The rear end as I picked the car up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and now with bumper removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

The boot seal needed replacing, The drivers side boot vent was perished so I replaced it and sealed both vents for future posterity. The boot was cleaned out to a nice shiny finish:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Cleaned out

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and with new seal fitted and a pre project tool kt

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next was to fit this little lot for reversing sensors. I decided to use the oem system.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I was lucky enough to have the original loom fitted and the connection was tucked away under the rear quarter

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

next was to fit out the mounting plate, control module and internal loom which goes out through the rear bulkhead in the centre of the boot

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next job was to cut the holes in the bumper, spray the sensors in solar red and fit along with the external loom. Will update later as I have to go out :D:D

Superb work. :bowdown:

Now down to prepping the rear bumper.

The good thing is that MG Rover in their wisdom had the bumpers marked when moulded which made cutting out really easy. They show the centre of the circle and the centres for notches:bowdown:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

I then used a cone cutter to cut out to the 27.5 diameter circle and trial fitted each finisher in their own position

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Next I sprayed the sensors to match the bumper

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

and then once dry fitted them to the bumper holes

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Whilst the bumper was off the car I decided to prep it by fitting the twin exhaust outlet. I am very lucky to have a correct V8 \mk1 drivers side trim so it was down to a lot of marking out (once , twice and three times to make sure the positioning was right:eek:) and then cut the bumper and fit the trim

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

All I had to do then was fit the loom to the sensors. These clips were really tight

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Now the bumper was finished I went back to the car and gave all the metal a good clean down and a coat of wax. Yep I know you wont see it but it gives the metal a but of protection under the bumper:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Now for replacing the beam and the re worked bumper

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

and I am happy with the finish on the sensors they seem to match the bumper quite well

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next step was back to the boot and to clean the carpet and side panels. Wow the carpet was dirty I had to clean it twice:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original


Once all cleaned it was time to rebuild the boot and the finish cameup really well even if I do say so myself. I will probably make a new board for on top of the wheel as this one is a bit warped but as it was not water damaged I decided to leave it

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

The rear end with the additional exhaust trim fitted in readiness for the twin exhaust

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

The sensors are all working but there is no buzzer at the moment. I just need to find out which buzzer I am going to use from the other car. Either from the IPK or parcel shelf. I cant remember where the buzzer was coming from when I drove the car last:duh::duh:

Next step is the wobbly boot hinges and then the rear window trim (which i am not looking forward too :eek::getmecoat:)

Nice work :bowdown:

Excellent Work
 

Excellent work.

Watching this with interest as my registration is BU51OZV - comm 472.

Great photos of the sensors, added to my huge 2Do list!


Keep up the great work.

Agree with the above comments, superb work there Jon :}

Looking at how clean the shell is, it's such a shame to think that this one might of been scrapped... :duh:

Regards the reversing buzzer, didn't the Mk1 cars use the parcel shelf one, whilst face-lift used the IPK ?

Thanks to all for your kind words. As Paul knows I wanted a project and after the disappointment of the blue one this kind of makes up for it.

Paul is that the case about the mk1 and mk2 buzzer? I was not so sure because this car has the basic ipk but the blue one has the message ipk so I wasnt 100% sure. As I cant remember :duh:I thought I would remove the IPK from the blue one and look for a buzzer before attempting to strip out the back and go hunting in the parcel shelf:D

I am going to send the message ipk to klarzy to repair the lines and virginalise it so it was coming out anyway:shrug:

Well done its coming along very nicely. You have more skills than me I can see! Keep us posted.:}

I can't say for certain Jon, but it's in the back of my mind from when I re-soldered the IPK buzzer on Oxfordblue's facelift 75.

His buzzer wasn't working (although he has factory reverse sensors), I know he looked into this and I had it in my head that this was the case - however I may have dreamt it !!! :duh:

Might be worth a post in the technical section, just for confirmation ?

buzzer ipk
 

This might help but I'm not sure when the buzzer got moved to the ipk ?

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...5&d=1433269603

Cheers Paul and Oxford.

I will take the IPK out and see if there is a buzzer as in the photo. If not it must be in the parcel shelf :shrug:

Dams I feel a photo opportunity in the future :D:D

For sure. :D :D

Great work Jon by the way, very thorough & looking good , that red really suits it :)

Some more stuff at the rear end sorted this weekend

Firstly the issue of the knackered keys was resolved. From the keys I picked up:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

To this. One of the keys is a pre project the other is one from the internet and possibly not the best quality but it works well so will do as the spare:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next was to change the worn rear window ZT trim. A job I was not looking forward to. So it went from this

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

To this. Not a perfect example but its a lot better:}

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

But getting there took a good couple of hours.
Firstly I carefully unclipped all the surround clips using a trim tool.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I had 4 x clips break which was not too bad and I cleaned out the channels and sealed the bottom clips in case they decided to leak in the future:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

The clips were then refitted and broken ones replaced
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Then it was clipped back in to give me the finished article
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Next was the wobbly boot hinges. I have not seen this before on a R75/ZT but they were really loose:shrug:

A second hand set were sourced, cleaned off and Sprayed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and then fitted. I left the boot lid in place and did one side at a time so I could manage the panel gap. There was a lot of muck behind the hinges:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

whilst cleaning the muck away I also cleaned the channels and polished them to match the newly sprayed hinges

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

The boot lid was then cleaned and polish internally to match everything else:D:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

These hinges are a lot better and very sturdy so I am not sure why the others were so worn. Finally the panel gaps were checked which seem good but that is with my eyesight :D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

There is only one more really important job to do on the rear end which I cant do at the moment so its onto the interior which I have just started

Hi Jon the work looks stunning as always. Really impressed.

Hopefully get to see this one soon.

Found the reversing sensor buzzer on my old car :D:D:D:D

Under the parcel shelf on the passenger side so I need to change it over to the new car. I hope the wiring is already there:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

At least if the wiring is missing in the red car, you can swap it across relatively easily (without having to make a new loom :}).

And Jon, I hope you didn't paint those hinges too thoroughly - I'm sure the original factory finish would of had some bare patches... :D

Hi Paul,

Yep hopefully the loom is there but if not at least I have one. :D:D:D:D:D Yes mate the hinges are better covered than Rover managed when they sprayed them on the car.

Cheers Thomas,

After seeing you I have decided to fit an electric blind on the red ZT and I am hunting the cargo nets.;)

Welcome up any time mate to have a look

Ok a bit of an update after this evenings working on the car.

Firstly the reverse Sensors are now working:party:

After removing the parcel shelf the wiring loom was there for the buzzer and the rear blind.

blind connection

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and Buzzer connection

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Removing a foam blank found the correct hole for the push connection for the buzzer mounting and 20 second later the buzzer was fitted:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Tested the car by reversing towards the Supra:eek: and low and behold it worked perfectly but blimey is it loud without the parcel shelf in place:duh:

The next job was to clean out the back of the car. When I removed the seats (I used this way to release the seat back https://uk.video.search.yahoo.com/vi...chr-yo_gc&tt=b) I was met with 14 yyears of crud :eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

I disconnected the seat belts and removed the trim panels and gave everything a really hard clean down. Boy the colour of the water when I finished was gipping but the end result was pleasing.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

I have also washed down the foam insulation and it is now in the man cave drying out.

I had one job to do to finish the back of the car off but couldn't do it at the weekend because the bits had not arrived.

both bits arrived today in the post and were fitted :D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Yep fitted new boot and MG badges to finish off the back:o

A small update and a bit of a productive few days:D

Before replacing the interior back end parts there were a few things I wanted to do.

Firstly now the reversing sensors were fitted and working after visiting Thomas the other day I thought it would be nice to fit rear blind:duh:

Anyway I managed to pick up a working blind on the wrong colour parcel shelf so I needed to fit it to my shelf. I could have done the wheeler dealer thing of spraying the shelf but I don't like this it seems a bit a bodge.

The shelves already have the cut outs marked on the carpet side and on the hardboard

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Because I was cutting from the underside I marked the moulding with black pen and also measured from the original shelf that came with the blind additional areas that needed cutting out and drilling.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Using a sharp Stanley knife I cut out carefully along the lines I had made to give me the opening

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The next thing to do was recover the mounts from the original shelf and clean them up for glueing to my shelf. Only 2 of each are required as the centre mounts are already in place

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Using the centre mounts as a datum I bolted and clipped the blind in place to give me the positions of the other mounts. There are indents in the moulding to show where they get glued but I wanted to mount the blind to get the exact position. 3 of the mounts use plastic clips and 3 use screws to fix the blind in place.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Once the position was gained I glued the all 4 mounts in place and left the glue to dry overnight.

The next day I clipped and screwed the blind to the mounts and fitted the end finishers.

Then using a 12v supply I tested the blind to make sure it operated ok:D:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Then cleaned the shelf up ready to fit to the car

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next job was to get the rear seats back to a decent standard.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

as you can see they needed a really good clean. I used a carpet/upholstery cleaner and was brutal with it to get the alacantra clean.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

the colour of water tells it own story :eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The seats were left in the sun to dry and then the alacantra was rubbed down with 160 grit wet and dry (in the dry state) to de bobble.Yep I did say rubbed down with 160 grit:D:D. the seats were then brushed off and the leather was deep cleaned and treated with conditioner to give the finished articles

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

The last thing to do was fit a rear cup holder.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

As with everything I have done on this car I cleaned the parcel shelf, trims etc before refitting everything.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Then the parcel shelf was fitted. I found it easier to fit with the side trims and aerial amps removed:shrug: When I removed the grey side trims I found that someone else had been enjoying the car at some point. I have not found anything else to suggest the little fella is around but I fitted a replacement trim:D:D:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The parcel shelf was fitted and was definitely easier with the trims and amps removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

I then refitted all the trims which again had been cleaned up.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Then refitted the seats

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next up is the front seats, carpet, centre console, handbrake compensator etc:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Hope this gives everyone a bit of an update on progress. Some of the replacement oily bits have arrived which have been put away for the time being. I will have to complete the breaking up of the blue car before I move onto the oily bits:}:}

Oops forgot another couple of bits that were done.

The chrome tread plate on the drivers rear was changed and the whole area cleaned and polished. To be honest there are some pretty deep scratches here so maybe a bit of a paint job will be needed at some point:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

and the passenger rear door seal was changed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Nice easy jobs to sign off:D

A busy weekend and not as much done as I would have hoped but thats always the way:duh:

Firstly I stripped out the whole interior so that I could clean everything a do a couple of jobs in the cabin

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Firstly the carpet was hoovered and washed. Blimey it was dirty

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Next was the front seats. I am using the drivers seat from the blue ZT but I was going to recover the passenger side seat.

Passenger side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Drivers side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original


I decided to use the red Zt's back pockets but both needed repairing:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

This is quite an enjoyable job and very satisfying when repaired.
Firstly I removed the seat backs as stated in the tech section. This is the hardest part of the job:madhttps://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...ad.php?t=60562

once the back is off then the pockets can be stripped down to their component parts.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

First thing to do was to clean the pockets. It was easier to clean with it in bits as there was sticky toffee and a degrading lollipop in there:eek:

Next the frame was removed from the pocket and cleaned up. On this frame only one lug is snapped which was good news. On the worst seat the frame was snapped in half so I had to use one from one of my spare seats

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

With the frame and pocket cleaned they were then threaded together. I had to do a little repair on the top corner where it had torn slightly when it had been pulled down the seat

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Next the frame is fed through all the holes in the seat back

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

and then fastened on the lugs using the fastenings.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Now the trick I used where the lugs were broken was to use the fasting as a washer/spacer and use a self tapper to screw into the lug. This gave a really tough clamp and good finish

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

The only problem is that where the toffees and lollipop were they have bulged the shape of the pocket:shrug:

next up I cleaned the seats with an upholstery cleaner and agin they were fifthly :eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

They were left to dry overnight and then sanded with 160 grit wet and dry to de bobble again in the dry mode

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Finally the leather was cleaned and treated and the seats built back up. I had an issue with the drivers seat I was using as the height adjustment was not working. I fixed this whilst I was there but the seat does need a tiny bit of welding on one of the front cross beams which I will do in the week.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Next I wanted to inject wax into the sills whilst the carpet was out. I knocked off the foil covers over the holes and removed the blanking caps in the A posts

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

As we know there is corrosion within the sills so I had a quick look in where I could:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Then injected into the sills until it was running out the bottom. I forgot to cover the drive initially which upset the wife:getmecoat:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

The next job was to change the hand brake compensator for a Harry adjusted one. The difference is huge

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I always find it easier to do this with the seats and carpet removed:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

next I cleaned out the cabin under the carpet and built it up ready to receive the cleaned carpet:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

the fight with the carpet was then undertaken to get it back in the car. Anyone that has done this knows the fight I was about to have:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

That was all that was achieved this weekend. A hangover today didn't help :o
and getting the drivers seat height adjuster to work took ages as I had to strip off the bottom rails etc to get it built back up.

Great work.

Really enjoying the thread.

Good Luck :}

I have made a bit of progress on the interior and some upgrades over the last couple of days:D

Firstly After fighting to get the carpet in I cleaned all the parts I would need in the interior around the carpet and replaced the missing carpet edge trims by the door. Whilst the centre console was off I also added an auxiliary charging connection in the cubby hole.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next I wanted to swap the headlinings. There was a coupls of reasons for this:-

1. The previous owners had the drivers seat at his maximum height and the headlining above the drivers seat was pretty grubby from where hair had been rubbing the lining for years.
2. The wiring loom for the auto dim mirror and rain sensors are glued to the replacement lining.

Firstly I removed all the handles

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

and then the sunshades. Im not interested in the lit mirror shades but the shades off the red ZT were the same material as the headlining (Was this changed during the project drive?) so I decided to keep them and clean them up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

next I removed the interior lights. The front light cluster is held by two self tappers under the plastic cover and clips

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

and the rear light cluster is just clipped in. I also removed the cover on the high level brake light and disconnected the wiring.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Finally the rear quarter panels were removed around the rear window and the earth was disconnected on the drivers rear quarter

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Lastly I unclipped the door pillar interior trims. Do this carefully to ensure the clips stay in tact:D. I left the door rubbers holding the headlining in place unit I was ready to drop it then I just unclipped the rubbers form the lining

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

I removed the headlining through the passenger front door. Its a bit fiddly adn i can only imagine even more fiddly with the centre console and seats in:eek:

Here are the two headlinings side by side. The right hand lining is the grubby lining which you can just see in the picture:getmecoat:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next I got the headlining into the car and used the door rubbers again to hold in place. I then started with the handles and the sun visors replaced everything. I was lucky that the block connector for the headlining loom is the black type which means the additional wiring for the auto mirror and rain sensor clips right in:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Once everything was bolted back on I began the job of clipping everything back in around the carpet and headlining

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next I fitted up the centre console. For those that dont know there are 4 screws under the dash

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

2 x screws either side of the console by the seats and two bolts under the rear ashtray which bolt onto the cover which goes over the brake compensator

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

With all the bits put back in the carpet and headlining were fully back in place

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next job was to build up the dash around the radio. Firstly the cup holder was replaced for a good one and I fitted a single hole switch panel for the blind switch.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

With the switch in I tested the blind:D:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Next I fitted the AC controls. I have covered the black cover with 3M carbon fibre. Dont worry I have also kept the original cover so it can go back to OEM look if needed.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

At this point I tested the ATC controls but had an issue. Everytime I tried the controls fuse 33 would blow:mad::shrug: after a little investigation I found I had damaged the drivers side seatbelt tensioner wiring. I think It had got caught under the drivers seat whilst I have been working on the interior and chaffed the insulation :shrug:. Obviously this needed fixing before I progressed. I intend changing the connectors when I bolt the seats down so its no really big issue although it did flummox me for a while:D

The DD head unit was then fitted. This is only a WINCE unit but it covers everything I need and to be honest with the oily bits coming up my money will be better used in other areas :D:D:D. Theunit is pretty much plug and play. I just had to hunt out the steering control wires and attach the head unit wiring. This car could not have had a Kenwood with IR controls as it had a stalk operating unit wired in:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next up I had the controls and IPK for a message centre. The IPK has been sent to Klarzy for line repair and virginalising (is that even a word:o) and the stalk with the computer end button was fitted.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

I am waiting on the wiring connectors for the under seat wiring then i can bolt the seats back in. Next job will be door cards, Windscreen for the rain sensor, corroded exterior handles and the defective actuator

Worked a bit on the car over the last few days around some jobs around the house:duh:

Although there wont be many pictures there was a fair degree of work completed. All the rusty door handles/lock covers have been replaced, all the loose door cards have new clips and are fitted correctly, 2 x door straps that were clonking badly were replaced, passenger rear lock actuator was replaced and the handle mechanism, Door switch black covers were covered with 3M and I also polished out the scratches under all the handles. Doesn't sound much but there was fair amount of work involved:D

I wont show every door but this gives you an idea of what was done all the doors (This is the drivers door)

Original handle with rust coming through the chrome and the paintwork heavily scratched :eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Handle removed which shows up the scratches even more. To get to the clips holding the lock covers in can be a bit of a pain on the front doors:mad:
This link shows you how to remove the handles however I did it slightly differentlyhttps://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...ad.php?t=55324

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Out came the Polisher and the paintwork in the handle recess and around the handle was cut and polished back to get rid of the scratches.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Then the paintwork was polished to protect it :D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

The replacement door handle was then fitted after a good polish

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

The door casing was sprayed with waxoyl and the water membrane refitted and the door card was cleaned and fitted with the correct clips in the correct place as per this link https://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...ad.php?t=79190

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Door card and switch panel were fitted

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

You get the gist of what went on on each door. I had spare door card clips for the main areas but I bought new fir tree clips for the top corners as they were all worn and broken causing the loose cards.

The clonking door straps were due to corrosion and wear

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

so were replaced and lightly lubricated

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

All the rusty worn bits ready for the bin:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

The passenger rear door actuator was broken and I found the lock indicator in the bottom of the door:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and a couple of the interior door handle were repaired in a tidier way than glue:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

I also removed the last door tread on the passenger front and cleaned and polished around the area.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

I know it does not seem like much is done but there was quite a lot of work involved to get this done.

I am still waiting on the electrical connectors for under the seats so they are not bolted down yet:mad:

Looks like its coming along nicely. I need to change the speakers in my car but I can never get the door card to catch at the top so have been putting it off!:o
You seem to have the skills and eye for all those jobs others have missed.:}

A little bit of an update with some work complete.
The long awaited electrical connectors arrived so I could do the airbag wiring and complete the interior.

The connectors arrived in a kit form but are waterproof when built up and seemed good quality when they were put together and connected:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Firstly the old connectors were removed and the wires prepared. the first thing to put on were the small watertight grommets then I crimped and soldered the metal connectors

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

then the connectors were built up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

The same was done on the car loom in the opposite orientation

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

then both seat were connected

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

and tested and the good news is the airbag light has extinguished :clap::clap:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and the cables were tidied and clipped up. I couldn't use the original clips to connect the connectors to the seat bases so had to use tiewraps :mad:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

I then gave the carpet and final hoover and bolted the seats in and replaced the headrests.

The glove compartment lid was badly scratched on this car so I changed it for the one out of the blue ZT which was in really good nick:D

Before and afters just to remind how the interior has changed

Before
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

After

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

before

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

After

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Before

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

after
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Before

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

After

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Before

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

after

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Thats the interior complete well almost:getmecoat:

I have to fit the IPK with message centre when I go for the T4 session and I will get a professional to change the windscreen for the one with a rain sensor on it. I know I can fit a sensor but I want to keep the OEM look of the masking out:o

Thanks for all your kind comments so far I know its not of interest to everybody but I hope some of the info helps fellow members in some way or another. I realise it seems a bit **** about face to do the interior first but I wanted to get as much out of the blue ZT so starting on the interior made sense to me.:shrug:

Its onto the really interesting oily parts now but first I need to finish breaking the blue ZT so I can this one into the garage this could mean it may be a bit of time before I post any more updates:D

Extremely impressive work Jon, and a very interesting thread for any enthusiast to follow :bowdown:
Looking forward to the next instalment.

Cheers,
Karl.

Super impressive work Jon. :bowdown:

Karl, Dallas,

Thanks for the kind comments. Hopefully I will get my finger out and get the other car broken quickly so i can move onto the oily bits:D

I look forward to posts like this!:} I built up the courage and changed my speakers and the door cards went on perfectly. Wouldnt of done it if it wasnt for Jon and his posts lol.;);)

A lot of work! Well done!

So glad you bought this car Jon, you really are doing a superb job :}

I'm glad its of some help mate. If you have any queries on bits I have done then you can always PM me I dont mind helping people where I can.

Thanks mate. It just my hobby after work and this car was a brilliant starter for 10

Hi Paul,

Thanks for the kind comments. Are you going to Mt Edgcumbe on Sunday? I will be going but wont be showing either of the cars.

I have not made much progress on breaking the other car over the last couple of weeks but hopefully will get amongst it this weekend:D

With a bit of luck I'll be there Jon :}

Just a quick update:D

Nothing done on the red ZT but the blue one is slowly being dismantled giving me load of spares:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Interior is nearly all gone so it will be onto the mechanics next:D:D

This is a really useful thread. The detail you have gone into makes this invaluable to club members like me struggling with just taking the seats out!

P.S. Thanks for the carpet!:}

Thanks John,

A real pleasure meeting you today. I still cant believe you got stitched by someone on here with your new purchase but being the Gentleman you are with not naming them is very magnanimous:bowdown::bowdown::bowdown:.

Dont hesitate to ring me if you need advice or any spares off the blue ZT

I would prefer to give him the benefit of the doubt, as the car is basically sound. It will be in tip top condition when it's finished. Thank you for your offer of advice and help, that's what this club is all about.

Enjoyed reading about your progress so far - wish I had the time to give my ZT that much care and attention.

Can I ask what you were using to polish the scratches out from behing the door handles? I saw red t-cut in some of the pictures, was it really as simple as that + elbow grease or is there a trick to it?

Re: you milky headlights - not sure if you have got them sorted yet but can totally recommend the 3M headlight restoration kit if you have not. Certainly cheaper than acquiring new headlight units :)


It's going to be a stunner when you are done!!!

Thanks Giles,

The blue Zed is now fully broken so hopefully I can get her shipped out by the end of the week and get back to this one. My next step is to get the engine running properly (which why the original owner got rid of her) and then I can drive her whilst I overhaul the suspension and brakes (Taken from the breaking car:D)

Anyway back yo your query. I removed the handles as seen in the thread and then used Farecla G3 cutting compound with an electric polisher. Because of the curvature I didn't press hard as I didn't want to thin the lacquer on the edges. I would think T cut and elbow grease would do as well but in my opinion its easier with the handles removed.

With regards to the headlights thanks for the recommendation. They are really quite rough so I may have to start with wet n dry and make my way through the grades before I start polishing. The good news is I have a decent set of xenons already from the car I have broken which I polished up a couple of years ago so the ones presently on the car will be spare ones:o

Thanks for the kind comments and I should be back to her very soon :party:

Hi Jon,

Great to see you are making progress, just one quick question: Are the sills on the blue car solid ?

I only ask as it might be worth cutting off the outer sections & inner mounts before you get rid of the shell - as far easier to do this at home (with a power supply & all tools to hand) than trying to do it in a scrapyard in years to come :}

Would just be a shame to bin two good (and sure to be required in the future...) repair panels !

Cheers,

Paul.

Hi Paul

I was thinking about this after your repairs. The body is now fully stripped and waiting to go to the scrap yard (and I mean stripped:D).
The drivers side sill is good right along its length

The passenger side only the rear end is good. The front all the way back to the b post is full of filler from the bodged accident repair:mad:

Where would you recommend cutting to give good sills along the floor and the swage line for chrome sill covers or higher?

I am just about to undertake this I was nervous about cutting the parcle shelf but looks easy enough ;) thanks for the detailed write up on it ... I hope it fits with the harman Kardon rear sub system :bowdown:

personally I'd go 4-6 inches up each post and cut the floor inside

you can never have too much over to work with

Hi Jon,

Well, as t5tart says, you can never have too much !! :}

But if I'm honest, I've never actually seen major rust in the sills other than around that rear jacking point. I cut the whole inner & outer sills (complete front to back) from the donor car - which took me around 2hrs per side...!!! Yet only ended up using the small outer section at the rear.

So realistically, I'd suggest retaining the rear outer sills, from wheelarch to B-pillar as a minimum.

Cutting along the top of the sill above the chrome strip with a cutting disc fitted to an angle grinder or similar. Lower edge would either need to have the spotwelds drilled out (bit awkward if you're on your back) or cut along the lower edge of the inner sill, again with the angle grinder, then drill out the spotwelds on the bench (slightly easier ;)).

Don't forget to try & save the lower corner of the inner arch as well, mine had pin-holed due to wet dust that had collected behind the plastic liner.

I'm pretty certain these sections are the only one's we're going to need for these cars long-term :}

Yes it will mate. I am.going to do the same with the wifes contemporary and I have measured up. The parcel shelf is a nice tight fit m8nd:devil:

Fair point. I will get the angle grinder out and start cutting:D

Ok a quick update.

The blue ZT has been totally broken down and all the parts boxed and stored:duh:

Today the scrap yard pick the shell up

waiting at the end of the drive for the lorry

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Car gone and an empty trolley (Sorry forgot to take one one the lorry:duh:). Massive thanks to RPB in Plymouth who picked up the shell :bowdown:. Scrap metal going at about £10 per ton at the moment so not worth anything:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Man cave ready for the red ZT

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The car is now tucked in and the next stage is the engine gremlins and detail the engine bay (It is chucking :eek:).

Once I have done this I can drive the car whilst I do the front and rear suspension:D

Great work Jon, always a shame to see one at the 'end of the road', but looks like you saved just about every single useable part !! Well done that man :}:bowdown:

Cheers Paul. Yep everything I could use was saved for a rainy day:D

Now onto the exciting stuff of the oily bits. I really want to get the engine back to spec so I can driver her then rebuild the front and back suspension from the bottom up using the subframes from the blue car so it can all be done off car:D

I need one of these lol thankfully have a big driveway

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...18aec6d928.jpg

I want that man cave!:drool4:

Yea I had to figure out how to get a shell out of the garage and down the drive. I never ditch much so had some 5 x2 and 4 x 4planks in the roof of the garage and some 100kg rated wheels on a shelf so knocked up the trolley once I had stripped the shell, rolled it underneath and removed the axle stands. It worked a treat:D

Cheers mate. Its 8M x 4M and I built it myself about 3 years ago out of log cabin style timber (5x2 tongue and groove). Our last house had a normal block built double garage but it was useless as a man cave if two cars were parked in it so I decided to design and build this one over wide ( based on can I work on all 4 corners of a car easilly with shelves fitted in) and long enough so that when the car is in the garage I had a good a couple of metres between the end of the bonnet and the bench.

I built it out of the solid log cabin wood as people live in these things in the snow. Its the warmest and most dry garage I have had:o

It may be the 'end of the road' for this car, but it's breathed new life into mine with a cracking new carpet.
http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...0&d=1443043312

Thanks Jon

This car is a credit to you! Absolutely love the hard work that you have put into this car.

I wish I had the same motivation and willingness to do what you've done.. My ZT-T needs love, alright!

Thanks for the kind words mate. The engine bay is the next port of call. I have gathered most of the stuff I need so will start on it v soon.

Hi Jon,
I read in your thread that your headlamps had gone 'milky', mine were exctly the same but also quite pitted and scratched. I used the 3m kit and got some amazing results, before and after below.

Jon, amazing, a real credit to you and that mountain of hard work. You have put mine to shame, she really needs the tlc you have lavished on your car! A very interesting and informative thread to read, thank you very much! :)
I noted the rear screen section in particular because mine is like your 'before' picture and I have been scratching my head as to how to achieve your 'after' look. Just one more thing on my list...

Thanks all for your kind comments. I wanted to put this thread together to help others as I am planning to do most jobs you see on V6 190:eek:

After breaking the blue ZT a new puppy has arrived so spare time has been at a premium:duh: however I have managed to get a couple things done over the past couple of weeks:o

Firstly I managed to get a set of number plates with the original dealer details:o
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

so off with the old and on with the new (photos not so good as I forgot to tunr off the flash:duh:)

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

and I finished the rain sensor and self dipping mirror install. I installed the loom earlier in the thread when I changed the headlining but as some will have read I was going to swap windscreen from the blue ZT however that one was cracked so I went with plan B.
Firstly I took a template of the blacked out area from the old car
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original
and tidied it up and made a card template
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original
Then did a drawing taking measurements
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original
Talking to a firm who make windscreen shades and vinyl stickers they laser printed a new black out area for me. They actually printed 3 x stickers so I could have a play:bowdown:
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

After some trial and error I managed to trim the outer of the vinyl to look the same as the OEM so fixed this to windscreen

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

I was very happy with the look as it does look quite factory fit.

Next I fitted up the prism, Module, Mirror and cover

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

The end result was as good as can be expected (apart from a thumb print:duh:) without changing the windscreen now for the T4:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Next up was the bonnet underside which as the rest of the car was filthy:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Everything was stripped off and either refurbed or renewed (the rubber strip was replaced).

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The bonnet was then cleaned which was harder than I had thought it would be and polished

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

and then everything was refitted giving the finished article.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next into the engine bay:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Its good to be back on the car even if it is in bite size chunks due to the new addition to the household:D

Quick update but no pictures sorry:duh:

Car will be driveable tomorrow as I decided to get the belts and the noisy idler changed.

Found out an additional problem so decided to rectify that as well. The auxiliary tensioner bearings were also shot :eek:

So Coming to the end of changing all the following:-

1. Water pump
2. All the timing belts
3. Timing belt idler and pulley
4. Auxy tensioner
5. Auxy pulley
6. Auxy Belt

As most know this is the big part of the V6 5A maintenance so a clean bill on this side for another 5 years. I will change the plugs and filters and fluids as well and then get her out on the road to find out how she really drives:D:D

My time is at a premium at the moment due to a heavy work load and the puppy so I have been lucky that a local garage are doing this for not a lot of money as they know me and I supplied all the parts. I don't tend to use garages for repairs only for MOTS and stuff I cant do because I need specialist tools but as I have no time this seemed like the sensible option:o
Still loads to do but this was the reason the original owner sold the car:bowdown:

Will be great to see you driving this one at last Jon, I'm sure all your efforts will be well worthwhile :}

Some truly spectacular work on this car, Jon! I'm extremely impressed, and reckon a ZT doesn't get any more iconic than a Solar Red mark 1 190 on Straights!

A bit of an update.

I spoke to my mate this morning and the engine was about to let go and the timing was out which would explain the loss of power that the original owner was talking about.

The idler pulley was being held in place by the timing belt and the timing belt was half its original thickness:eek::eek: He reckons the belt may even had skipped a cog or two

Very lucky this engine was not written off.

Frazzle, Paul thanks for your comments.

I have hairpins and the straights on the car so I am in a dilema about which way to go but seeing your comments about Solar red and straights it has me thinking:D

Blooming ek! :eek: some great work, :bowdown: amazing results.

Would luv to see it in the flesh when its all finished.

Ok quick update,

Picked the car up and changed most of the fluids (apart from the brake fluid) and now she is on the road:D Just got the air and pollen filter to change.

Still a whole load of work to do but I can drive her to find out any more issues whilst driving:getmecoat:

Superb work so far Jon, the car's looking fab :D
Quick question, what did you use to clean the under bonnet soundproofing?

Thanks Steve,

The original sound proof was fairly well embedded with crud but I had a couple of spares which were not covered in oil. I gave them a brush off and a wipe down with degreaser and then sprayed it with hi temp satin black which I had in the cupboard.

managed to get some work done over the Christmas period.

Not as much as I wanted to but that's always the case:(

Anyway the next area to look at was the front windscreen and plenum chamber moving into the engine bay.

The front windscreen surround was not fitting correctly on the passenger side and there are signs this windscreen has been replaced at some point.

Ill fitting surround

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original


http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Removing the surround.

This is the same process as the rear surround and the clips again are brittle when removing.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

With the surrounds removed and the plenum cover removed.
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

and cleaned up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

I had already sealed the Plenum cover clip sockets as I had a leak when I bought the car so this area just needed a clean up.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

I found the reason the surround was not sitting as it should do and it was down to a couple of broken clips. The top surround is the good one which I fitted in place of the damaged one.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Then the surround was refitted with replacement clips. Iwas careful to align the males with the females and did not use too much force to clip it all back in

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

and the main culprit now replaced

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

As I was in this area the next thing to do was to start on the plenum.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

But that's for another evening :D

Love the attention to detail Jon. Will have to pop by somewhen and have a nosey:}

Onto the Plenums.

I stripped out the back plates behind the engine and the windscreen wiper assembly. I did leave the master cylinder in place:}

On strip down this was what I found (not unusual) and I had cleared the drain tubes when I bought the car but as every 75/ZT owner know these should be checked regularly.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

So I gave everything a good clean out.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and fitted a new pollen filter

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next up was the suspension tower tops and the tops of the plenums

Before

Drivers side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Passenger side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and after

Driver side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Passenger side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original


Next up is the inner wings as these are also chucking.

First issue on strip down was that the battery had leaked into the battery box.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

I had to drill out 3 of the securing bolts to get the box out. I had a spare box so I prepped that ones base to get rid of all the rust

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Primed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

painted and laquered

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

and re assembled when all the paint had cured ready to bolt back in with new fastenings

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Also the Airbox support bracket on the passenger side inner wing was quite corroded so treated to the same process

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next up is the passenger side inner wing and then build up what I had completed so far before moving onto the slam panel.

Hi Thomas

More than welcome to come up mate. Week days are a bit chaotic but weekends are a bit easier.

Jon

Top work Jon
You probably know every inch of these by now (probably more inches than me)!!

Would recommend you get some sort of agreed value insurance from someone like Peter Best if your annual mileage isn't too excessive?

Good luck
Jules

Thanks Jules,

My Supra is insured agreed value but I hadn't thought about doing it for the ZT. Not sure i know every inch:eek: still a lot to do:D

I dont have OCD or anything but do like my cars. When Paul (ALA Sonic) found this one I thought it was the ideal opportunity as a project to get a really good example of an early ZT.:cool:

Once the parts are stripped away on the passenger side of the engine bay the inner wing and gearbox etc are very accessible. You can see where I had cleaned the suspension turret and then moved forward.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

A good clean down and polish and all was done. The Engine bay fuse panel wiring loom is connected with multi cable connectors (as is the one in the passenger foot well)so once unbolted it was easy to unclip to gain full access:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Now all this had been cleaned one of my jobs I had listed was to change the starter motor as I had fitted the replacement contacts and plunger on the starter I had fitted to the ZT I had broken. Easy job to do I would highly recommend doing it if you have the original Starter.

http://www.dmgrs.co.uk/products/rove...nger-nad101500

Arctics how too explains. although this is for a diesel the actual starter motor repair is the same

https://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...d.php?t=227317

The starter is easy to remove on a V6 once the air intake box is removed.

3 x wires to remove (DISCONNECT THE BATTERY BEFORE REMOVING:eek:)

one is a push on spade connection, The positive from the battery which secured to the solenoid post.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and the earth from the battery is connected on the long top bolt of the starter.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

There are two bolts to undo and the starter the drops out into your hand. Motors side by side ready to swap

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and fitted

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Next was to build eveything back up before I moved across the front of the car starting with plenum area.

Firstly I cleaned and polished the back panels. I know these can be covered with a soundproofing but I am not sure if this is the case with the early cars?:shrug:

Passenger side with ECU mounted internally in the plenum (Hence clearing the drains is so important:D)

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Drivers side closing in the master cylinder

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and the back panel which you remove when changing the spark plugs. I know I could have done this at this point but I am doing all the engine work seperately and remember I still drive this car at the moment:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Then the Plenum mod was conducted (All newbies do this:bowdown:)

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

and panel fitted with rubber grommet pushed into the new hole

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Scuttle panel fitted. This needs to be squeezed slightly to get between the bonnet hinges but is fairly easy to fit. There are 7 scuttle clips along the top to push into the sockets which i have sealed and 2 x Scrivets at each end.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

With the covers fully fitted

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and the windscreen wiper arms fitted after a bit of spray job with new wipers. These are held on with a collet and nut under the plastic cap. I always find these a bit fiddly to get off whilst they are under tension against the windscreen:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Next up is the build up of the passenger inner wing and moving onto the slam panel and front end off:D

small update. I forgot I hadn't shown the rebuild of the passenger side inner wing:duh:


Once everything was cleaned or sprayed and allowed to cure it all got bolted back with new bolts

Air filter mount re mounted after respray

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Battery box fitted after restoration. I used the same black star drive bolts as per original fit.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

and with air inlet filter body fitted.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

All the black covers will be treated to hydro dipping (I have originals to keep also for originality;)) so they got a quick clean.:o

Next up is the front bumper off. I have already prepared a decent set of lights and a slam panel has been restored and I am working on fitting a 2 speed fan with resistor. All photos to follow:D

Don't forget to fit one of these to protect the plenum area from debris :smilie_re:


Plenum Shield
http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...ad.php?t=68328

Or whole shop here
http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...splay.php?f=74

Another small update.

I have a spare slam panel so I refurbished it ready for fitting.

This panel came with the twin horns so I will be retro fitting them to the red ZT:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

The panel was stripped of the everything fitted to it.
Then all the rust was removed and the panel rubbed down and de greased ready to prime

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and so were the metal parts for the bonnet latches and horn brackets

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Everything was primed and rubbed down

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Then sprayed black

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

and lacquered.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I stripped down the bonnet catches, cleaned them up, rebuilt them and lightly lubricated ready for putting it all back together.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next to build it up. The red ZT has the early PPD slam panel stickers on it but they were too far gone to save which is a shame :mad: so I have bought the one available from Rimmers:o

It will be like a new car soon!
Where do you get time to go to work :)

:D:D:D:D:D:D

My work is full on mate so this is done in the evenings and weekends around the wifes (and the dogs:duh:) requirements. After 25 years she has got to used to me:D. The Supra takes its fair share of tender loving care as well (expensive car to keep maintained well). My cars tend to be my hobby alongside Football and I find them a good way to relax.

I will be in touch soon as I need a few bits :bowdown:

John another similar early Solar red here.
Looks quite a decent one :smilie_re:

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MG-MGF-ZT-.../172074981658?

Wow.

That has to be one of the first ones on that reg:shrug:.edited. just read the advert and its 2004. Must be a private plate.

Looks top notch as well. Surely this must go to an enthusiast and not me because my wife would kill me:D:D

There must be someone on here wanting this.

Blooming ek John :eek: superb work, :bowdown: very impressive.


Thats a lovely ZT Jules, glad to see a nice example one holding its price, I think the low mileage helps a little. :}

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MG-MGF-ZT-.../172074981658?
Some of those photos look as if they were taken in your yard Wes:D

Lol, scary! :eek: I see what you mean, could even be my ZT. :}

I haven't posted for a bit but I have been beavering in the background:D

Next job up was to strip off the front end of the car:eek:

Which is not as scary as it would seem:D

Firstly its off with the bumper. I always place them on a sheet so I dont scratch them.

The bumpers are held on with 9 x fastenings across the top through to the slam panel, 2 x screws (one each side) on each inner wheel arch cover that go up into the wing, 2 x screws (one each side) through the arch liner to the bumper (these are often left off is soemoen has removed a bumper previously) and the line of screws and Zeus fastenings underneath.

The fastenings across the top

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

The screw through the liner onto thee bumper. This also shows the additional section on the arch liners used for the ZT

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Once all the fastenings are off the bumpers are held on snap clips on both wings. I tend to mask the wing before removing so I dont scratch the wings. These need a sharp pull to brake their grip.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

The bumper is then removed and Like I said I always put it on a dust sheet.
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

At thsi point the bumper loom is still connected on the passenger side and on mine the headlamp washer system is still connected to the second pump. Omce disconnected the bumper is lifted clear.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Next off is the lights. 4 x M6 bolts holding these in place 2 on top and 2 underneath and the loom to each light is disconnected

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Next off is the crash beam. Held on with 8 bolts and 2 x nuts.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

You can now see the fan and the whole of the slam panel.

More tomorrow as it late:D

Good time to test your cooling fan is working on all speeds John :smilie_re:

http://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/foru...9&goto=newpost

Next up was taking off the slam panel. Firstly I unbolted the power steering cooler (Held on by 2x M6 bolts to the bottom of the panel). Disconnect the bonnet catches which I did by unbolting the latches from the panel but it would be better disconnecting at the joiner. Disconnect the plug outboard of the passenger side front beam. All that needed undoing then was the 2xM6 bolts on the wings and the star drive bolts on the straps for the radiator grill.

Down to the fan

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

To take the fan off there are 2 x M6 bolts halfway down each side of the cowling, the twin loom connectors outboard of the passenger side front beam. The next bit is either trim the left hand side of the cowling around the AC pipes so the cowling can be lifted off or empty the fridge gas system and disconnect the pipes. I went for the latter knowing the AC condensor/dryer would be knackered. As a qualified fgas engineer I had the gas recovered.What others do in their own garages is up to them:shrug:

I then took the straps of the top of rubber mounts so I could lift the cowling off of the radiator. You also need to undo1 M6 bolt on the coolant header tank and remove the tank from two lugs.

With the fan and cowling off the state of the condensor could be seen:eek:
Admittedly I did brush the fins just to prove how worn they were

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

2 x long M6 bolts that go through the radiator and the condensor lifts off leaving the rad which although dirty was in good nick:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next it was back to the cleaning mode whilst I waited for a new condesnor/dryer for Jules:bowdown:

Right hand leg (wiring and pipe bracket removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and cleaned off

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Passenger side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

and clean

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original


Next job was the fan. This was an original 3 speed fan the low and medium speeds were not working.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

To remove the fan from the motor I held onto the centre nut with a box spanner and turned the fan impeller (anti clockwise I think:duh:) to take the fan of its lugs. The motor is bolted to the cowling with 3 x M5 star drive set screws.

The fan can be broken into by straightening the 6 x split lugs on the body passing through the cover.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

once these are straight the cover lifts off and the brush mounting board can be lifted out

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Once lifted off it was easy to see the two brushes that had totally worn down (the ones on the top in this photo).

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

I already had some good quality replacements so I cut off the worn ones and soldered on the replacements.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

I then tested continuity between all the brushes and their connections in the control box before re assembling. The hardest part was keeping the brushes stowed in the housings as you slid the mounting board over the commutator. I used tie wraps to hold the brushed in and cut them once slid over. The cover was then replaced and the lugs bent back. I added a little grease onto the shaft bearing at the same time.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

The motor was then tested with 12v supply by connecting the +- like this in the control box:

1. Speed one: red + black -
2. Speed two: red and grey + black -
3. Speed three: red and grey + black and purple -

All 3 speeds worked so I cleaned the fan up and re sprayed the body.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

next up I deep cleaned the fan impeller and cowing plus I cut the plastic of around where the AC pipes would be so the cowling could be lifted off without dropping the A/C in the future.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Items cleaned

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Impeller fitted back onto motor

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Motor and impeller fitted to cowling

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

and the wiring clipped back in.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Finished article ready fro refitting

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Here you can see the material cut away so the AC pipes dont need disconnecting again when the fan fails:getmecoat:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next up more cleaning and fitting up of condenser etc.:eek:

New Condenser I hope coz that one looks shot :cool:

Yes mate definately. You sent me a new one last week and I have just returned the shannon tube I ordered so you can send me the 190 one:D

Of course
Senior moment there :duh:

Next up I cleaned all the A/c pipes to and from the condensor (the aluminium pipes running down the right side of the engine bay

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Fitted the New condensor drier from Jules (Thanks mate:bowdown:), fitted new seals on the condensor pipe connections, oiled them and fitted them into the condensor.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Next I bracketed the A/C pipes in position using a refurbished bracket on the RH leg.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

When I was working in this area I noticed the power steering hose was pretty scabby where the power steering reservoir had been leaking. I don't believe this is from a leaking cap but from a pressurised system because of internal leaks in the rack.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

And changed for a new hose

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Next i made sure the left and right legs had protection on their leading edges where the looms go across the leg. Recent posts on the main forum have highlighted this need:eek:

Left side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Right side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next up I fitted the overhauled fan and cowl to the condensor, replaced the bolts on the side and fitted the rubber mounts on top.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

I also wax-oiled the legs and the chassis box sections at the front of the car.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Also replaced the Xenons with some good ones I had off my old car. I polished these back about 18 months ago so know they have good lenses. I will keep the old ones as spares.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Now for prepping the rest of the front and building up the slam panel but that's for another night.:D

What is your day job Jon ?!!

:D:D:D
I am an engineer in the Marine industry. More management than on the tools for the last 15 years or so hence the need to disappear into the man cave and open up the tool chest in the evenings and weekends:getmecoat:

Ive always spent my leasure time with cars either building, restoring or tinkering.:o

Looking superb Jon, hats off to you for the detailed work and showing us how you are getting on!:}

Amazing level of detailed work , you set the bar so high. Wish mine was half as good .

Thanks gents :bowdown:,

This car deserves a bit of care and attention because of her commissioning mumber . She wont be perfect when finished but she should give me many years of happy motoring when finished. I don't tend to show cars as I prefer to drive them:D

Now I am ready for the slam panel so it was time to build it up.

Everything has been either refurbed or renewed (cables).

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Firstly ran in the electrics and re fitted the clips.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

and fitted the horns

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

next was the bonnet locks and cables. I lubricated the cables to make sure the wires saw oil all the way through the sheath (knowing what a weakness this area can be:duh:)

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Finally fitted the bonnet release. You will see I used all new fastenings to get rid of the old rusty ones. All are M6 fittings mostly 13mm long and the bonnet catches bolts are M6 x 30.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I then offered the slam panel up to the car and held it in with a couple of bolts place before fitting the wiring and bonnet release cable.

The cable was fitted to block with the block turned on itself as recommended by many on here

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and clipped home

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

wiring loom was connected, Horns and bonnet switch tested and then the connector was clipped into place on the drivers side leg

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Power steering cooler was refitted to the bottom of the panel

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

and the panel was fitted in place

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

followed by the crash beam. I did lift the slam panel slightly to try and close the gap between the bonnet and bumper but until final fitment of the bumper i wont know how the adjustment looks.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

next up was the lights. At this stage I only fit the bottom bolts on the sliders and leave the top bolts off. This helps the lights move and fit into position when the bumper is fitted and then fit the top bolts after the bumper is on.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

As ever test everything before final fitment:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and then everything was fitted ready for the front bumper

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next up the front bumper

Amazing! and I thought mine was clean. :duh: Jon, you fancy doing another to the same standard? :D

Let's see.
At a guess between 50 & 100 hrs even at minimum wages would be..........


Quite a lot :cool:

:eek: Let me finish mine first mate

Would love to get our cars together for a photo shoot when mine is finished as they are so close off the production line:D

Yea I would not want to add up the cost in hours:getmecoat: Just as well Im not a business man:D

Jon, that would make a great pic. :D

May I ask, are you doing it up for keeps, or are you planning on selling?

Keeps mate. I have a bit of a quandary because the wife has started making noises about a Chelsea tractor in the future (maybe next year) but she asked which of the three cars would go if we ended up with said tractor. I immediately said none but I could tell she wasn't happy with that answer:D

No the ZT is for keeping and the Contemporary would probably be the car that moved on:mad:

Firstly the bumper was stripped down and cleaned inside and out.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Once on a stand the state of the fittings on the underside were quite bad:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

So the were drilled out

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and refirbed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

with stainless fittings

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Then bumper was stripped out and cleaned on the inside

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and the paint was cut back with a machine polisher

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and polished. I always find it easier to do the bumpers on a stand rather than on the car when machine polishing:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Then bumper was built back up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

before refitting the bumper another pressie arrived from Jules:bowdown: so was fitted with the bumper off.
http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Shannon tube fitted

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

The bumper was then offered up and reconnected to the main car

Water for the headlamps washers

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and the main loom for the bumper on the passenger side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

and clipper up as per the OEM design

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I then offer up the bonnet and clip it onto the wings.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

With the lights just held on the sliders they move to accommodate the lights into the light apertures. The 9 x bolts were then added on top inot the slam panel. Also the screws go up through the arch covers into the wing on both sides and through the arch cover and onto the bumper. At this point I didn't do the under tray fittings as the under tray was coming off for the next job:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I took this shot to show the difference between the bumper which has been mopped and polished and the wing which has not

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and the finished article which really shows the difference between the bumper and the rest of the car (which will get the mop and polish treatment):D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

The front end finished from the top

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

and from the front

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Next up the right hand side of the engine bay to complete and onto the jobs on the engine its self:duh:

Well done you.
I would get an agreed value insurance policy for at least 5k before you start using her again just to protect all that hard effort ;)

Thanks mate. I couldn't do this without people like you supplying parts and having such a good service.:bowdown:

You really think £5K:eek:

Jon as said many times before and again ill say it,I really dont know how you have the time to churn out such a well finished product.

Hopefully get to see it soon:}

Thanks for keeping us updated tis a lovely looking car you should be rightly proud:}

Thanks mate.

Your collection is look good buddy. I am hoping to get this one on the road for the spring. Probably nit fully finished but looking good at least. I think the underside rebuild will probably be in the summer:D

Well Jon
You really need to tot up the hours spent on it at say £20 per hour for insurance purposes.
Add the initial purchase price and parts spent.
It won't be far off.

An agreed value is simply that but obviously the more you want it covered for the higher the premium.

I have one insured for 10k for £160 per year.
Maximum mileage I chose was a mere 1,500 per annum.

Agreed value cars are not considered daily use vehicles due to the limited mileage brackets offered.

Good luck

Just a quick update.

Last area to clean around the engine bay was around and under the hydramount.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original


With the engine supported from underneath on wooden blocks I undid all brackets etc and removed all the supporting aluminium.

Once I was down to the mount I found it was knackered:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

I removed the mount with a strap, all the wiring and you can see the years of crud:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

So degreased and cleaned

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Next up was to clean back all the aluminium for this part of the engine mount.
The replacement bottom mount had arrived by the time I took this photo but I was waiting on the hydramount.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Only a small update as I am now onto the engine :D.

Dont forget the bonnet pull mod!;) Looking great as ever!

Hope to see your car in the 'flesh,' watched it's progress with great admiration for your attention to detail.
My ZTT that now has your carpet installed is coming along, having bit of an issue with corroded brake pipes for the MOT! Look like it's going to be a little costly :-(

Yep all done mate. :D

Cheers John

Are you not going to do the pipes yourself? I think the only difficult bit is up over the fuel tank.

I will definitely drive up and see you when its done. I am hoping to get her looking good on top in time for the spring then work on the suspension running gear and brakes to the same standard whilst enjoying the car using all my spares over the summer:eek:

I have already started buying the bits I need for the suspension but the rear shocks are worrying me a little:shrug:

Look forward to seeing you, perhaps a spot of lunch when you come up or meet in Exeter what ever suits.

I would have a go a the brake pipes but my work load at the moment just about gives me time to put fuel in it! In all honesty doing the brake pipes might be a tall order for me. I had a quote from one garage and they were talking about £600! I gave them a wide birth!The phrase ' You cannot be serious ! ' springs to mind!

I have been working on the engine on and off recently but not achieved a lot due to work:duh:

Firstly with the cover away a quick picture of the engine as it was.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

All the engine plastics etc have been degreased and gone for hydro dipping:D

and the throttle body removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Next up inlet manifold electrics and vacuum pipes removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Once all this is done there are 6 bolts to remove. 4 along the front

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and two on the back which are difficult to see. I removed the rear bulkhead plates for ease of access.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

I then eased the manifold off. As it was fitted last year brand new it came off the O seals on the inlet castings very easily:eek: I do have replacements ready to fit in place.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Once off I noticed the coil on No.4 had only been put on with 1 x bolt. Obviously a spark plug change in the past was as struggle:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

Next up the wiring loom was removed out the way. This meant disconnecting the injectors, coils and various sensors. I placed the wiring loom over to the passenger side out of the way.

Next up I undid the fuel rail and removed it totally

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Now the extant of the lub oil weeps and 15 years of crud could be seen on the rocker covers

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Now the coolant was drained through the Engine drain plug and lower coolant hose on the radiator. I did capture it as the garage had only just filled it when I had them do the timing belts and water pump.

https://www.the75andztclub.co.uk/for...ad.php?t=54248
I then removed the inlet castings. These are held on with 7 x bolts on each casting.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Once both intake castings were removed the extant of the leak on the thermostat could be seen and the crud in the V.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

I then removed the thermostat and pipes. In true V6 fashion the plastic 90 degree bend had to be broken to get it out:duh: Every Thermostat I have changed I have done this way. I would not want to do it through the key hole method as I would get too frustrated:mad:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

I then cleaned the V out.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

the injectors have gone for ultrasonic cleaning and I have now removed the cam covers and started cleaning them:D

Very nice Jon. I'm going to have to do that to my new launch car soon as the manifold is noisy.
Your car is going to look better than new soon

Great work Jon :} so thats what the 'V' section looks like when everything has been taken off. :eek:

You fancy doing my thermostat Jon? :D

Cheers Thomas.

She will never be as good as new but once finished she should be ready for another 15 years.:D. As I have said loads of times she was a really good base of a car for a project like this and the previous owner always paid to have the correct maintenance done:bowdown:

Give me a shout if you need a hand when you get around to your manifold.

:D:D yea it does seem a bit daunting doesnt it but its only nuts bolts and wiring:getmecoat:
As I said I wouldnt do it the key hole way as my hands are quite large so I like access:D and I have the luxury of not rushing

Thanks Jon will do:}

next job was to remove the cam covers, clean them and fit new gaskets and breather mesh.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

the smaller breather holes weer both blocked on both covers

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

cleaning process using degreaser and water

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and the finished products. I'm not a fan of polished bling in the engine bays so decided to leave them natural

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Replacement meshes bought for the breathers

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

the holes unblocked

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and the mesh fitted. 4 are needed in two pairs for each cam cover

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

I had a complete engine gasket set already in the garage after picking it up as a complete package with loads of other stuff from an old member on here:bowdown:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Covers fitted and bolts torques down to 10Nm in accordance with the tightening pattern
7. 6. 3. 14.

8. 1. 2. 13.

9. 10. 4. 5. 11. 12.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

some of the brackets attached the covers taken back to bare and sprayed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

The covers torqued in place ready for the next stage

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

Next up was the fitting of the replacement thermostat and pipes. I applied a little silicon grease to the O seals to aid fitting but still pinched the 90 degree bend seal and had to replace it:duh:

I also connected the 3 x coolant hoses at this point as access would be limited after the intake castings went back on and my fingers are too big:getmecoat:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original


Whilst the engine was stripped and the rear bank was easy to get to I changed these bad boys as well. These are NGKs

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next up I decided to give the alternator a bit of a clean. Again not into shiny bling I just cleaned the aluminium to clear it of the grease,

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

An easy job of releasing the tensioner to remove the belt and then 2 x bolts and the alternator lifts out

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and cleaned

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and back in the car

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Next up was to clean and degrease the intake castings and fit the injectors. All ready to fit with new gaskets

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original

Fitting up is farily easy. Fit the aft set first and torque up the bolts to 25Nm and then fit the fwd set and torque up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Next up was to fit the fuel rail. I removed this in one piece so fitted it back in one as well. I put a little silicon on the 6 injector O seals and pushed the rail over the seals (took a bit of effort because they were tight:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

once all the connections are pushed onto the injectors there are 6 clips to clip the injectors and the rail together

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and 4 M6 bolts (2 x each side)

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

Next up is the electrics and ignition system followed by the vacuum pipes and build up the cooling systems

Great work Jon
Interestingly we check all KV6 breathers now on a service especially the small ones.
A 1.5mm drill bit works fine and offers instant pressure relief for a completely blocked system which either pushes the dipstick out mid journey resulting in complete oil loss. (Similar problem on diesels as we all know !)

If dipstick doesn't get pushed out the pressure tends to blow the crank seal at the flywheel end.
Usually the above problems happen after the 100k mark

Cheers mate

Yea this engine has 90K on it and regularly serviced all its life but the small holes were blocked. I am surprised it wasnt something like a 5A to take out the breather mesh and clean/replace as well as checking the holes are clear.

Obviously due to forums like this we know about these sort of things:D

I think a lot of the gunk on the front camcover was coming from the filler cap. The seal was brittle and flat so I can imagine was passing oil.

Common as muck now these red ones :smilie_re:


http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2001-MG-ZT.../272189337199?

ooh nice car and an early example. Red ZT's with straights are just sooo common:D

Hopefully some of it will be of help to others. just noticed tonight this thread has had over 10k views :bowdown: so heres hoping it has helped others:shrug:

I didn't do as much as I wanted to today. A long walk with the dog and then Football so the day spun by without me noticing :o

Anyway all the wiring was run in on the front bank and the ignition system was put in. I replaced coil number 6 as it looked like it had some melting on it. I did'nt notice anything whilst running but as I have loads of spares I thought it was worth it:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

and then the same was done with the rear bank. Some of you that know these engines will notice I had put the rear bolts in on the fuel rail:duh: these had to come out again so the wiring could be fitted.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Just a couple of points to note:-
1. I Made sure the green seals go back into the injector connections.
2. I made sure the look was clipped back into position with the correct clips etc.

Next up I made sure all the coolant hoses were connected. Only the expansion tank and hoses to fit but I am painting the tank black so its not ready yet:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

The final bit I managed to do tonight was fit the breather hoses. This was more of a conundrum than the rest of this build on the engine but I got there in the end:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

you can see the T on the line across the engine has been replaced in the past so I think I will order a new set of lines.

Next up is to remount the engine on the drivers side with the new mounts and/or cleaned mounts

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

The throttle body is in the process of being cleaned and all I need to do with the inlet manifold is check the Vis motors but I am not expecting any issues considering it was brand new last september:eek:

Whilst the coolant system is empty I also want to remove the lower steel pipe and treat the corrosion on it

A couple of things done today.

Firstly the throttle body was stripped and cleaned. I left the TPS in place so it didn't need setting up again and protected it in a plastic bag. I have seen many a TPS taken off throttle bodies and then not put back correctly:D

Firstly I stripped down the throttle body and removed the the Idle air control valve to clean it and give it an overhaul.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

all the parts were cleaned and the body cleaned inside and out and rebuilt

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

Then the idle valve was cleaned and refitted with an overhaul kit

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

And the finished throttle body was fully assembled ready for fitting

Before a clean when it was removed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

and After the clean ready to go back on the car

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...7.jpg~original

And as clean internally which is the important bit:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

Next up the manifold was cleaned and proof of how new this manifold is:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and vis motors tested. I made this unit myself from info on this wonderful forum:bowdown:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...0.jpg~original


Next up to fit these bits onto the engine. Cant wait to get my fingers in the back end of the manifold to do those 2 x pesky M6 bolts up:getmecoat:

Jon I would just clean the T piece pipes as it looks as if the previous owner has used rubber connectors to prevent them getting brittle and breaking. You will not see them under that engine cover too. And I wont tell anyone.;)

:D:D:}

Yea I was thinking the same tonight mate when I had the manifold and throttle body on. To be honest the repair done on the t piece is better than original as what someone has done is fit a replacement T and heat shrink the three joins over the T. Probably a waste of money replacing it for new now especially as it will be hiding under the newly hydradipped engine cover:D

By the way hows the Beamer? Missing us yet:D

I managed to get into the man cave this evening for an hour or so after work.:D

I fitted the inlet manifold and the throttle body connecting all the remaining electrics and breather hoses.

Whilst fitting the inlet manifold the hardest bit for me is reaching the small rear mounts. I tend to leave the small brackets unbolted and push the manifold on and bolt it down on the front bolts then fiddle in the back of the bay and fit the small brackets to the rear mounts normally muttering about design:D

One of the small brackets and mounts

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...4.jpg~original

the whole unit fitted and the front bolts torqued down

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Electrics, hoses and fuel pipes fitted on the throttle body side

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

and the same on the vis motors and the loom is bolted to the manifold

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...6.jpg~original

Now for the mount on the driver side and take out the lower steel coolant pipe.

The engine plastics are due back this week from the dipping process:drool4:

Agree those blue T pieces last far longer than the OEM arrangements

I love reading through the posts like this but Im happy at the moment with the old Beemer lol. Might be selling it soon for a 2007 model fingers crossed. Its all a new learning curve and cant get used to the "notchy" gear change on the rearwheel drive box but It had a new clutch and the garage no doubt just bunged any old oil in so ordered 2 litres of this today.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/1520205017...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

Keep up the good work on your car its going to be a belter!

Didn't have much time this weekend but managed to mount the engine back on its new hydramount tonight.

After all the engine work this was the engine bay cleaned ready to receive the mount arrangements

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

and all the ally bits cleaned and the brace re sprayed ready to be put back on.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

I did take more photos of the build up but the flash didnt work so well:duh: so only a couple came out any good:getmecoat:

New hydramount, bottom mounting plate to engine and top mount fitted and torqued up

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

top mounting plate fitted onto the lower mounting plate and across the the hydramount. This needs fairly careful alignment and I have always found that cleaning out the threads first before assembly allows you to do all the bolts up by hand until the ratchet is needed. This stops forcing the bolts and possible damage of the aluminium threads:eek:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

and the finished article mounted

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

I will post a before and after once the engine plastics come back form their makeover:o

Small update as I have been busy doing other things:duh:

Firstly I thought the expansion tank looked a bit naff in its traditional off dirty yellow colour.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

Now I know ZT's didn't have black expansion tanks but the black looked better than the later ones so the tank was degreased, cleaned internally and externally and sprayed black. I used plastic primers so hopefully it can withstand the water temps:shrug:

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

and fitted back in place

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...8.jpg~original

Next the engine plastics returned from their dipping. They achieved a much better finish than spray paint and I love the finishing even if its fake:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

After I received these bits I finished off the driver side of the engine bay around the mount area. As promised a before and after:D

Before

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

After

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

Next up I supported the engine underneath the gearbox and removed the gearbox bracket. The steel piece was really corroded from the battery acid leak.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

so was taken back to bare and sprayed

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

the remaining part of the inner wing on the passnger side was cleaned and prepped

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

one last job I managed to do was rebuild the engine cover after its return.

Firstly the impact adhesive was added to the cover and the cleaned (As good as I could get!!!) foam

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

the foam was added and clipped into position. I then refitted the grommets and ferrules into the holes for the cover bolts.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

I then gave the top a final polish

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...9.jpg~original

added the V6 badge

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...3.jpg~original

and fitted to the engine just so I could stand back and look:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

It looks gold in the light but its not really:D::getmecoat:

Thats is for now. I have trial fitted the catch can on the rear panel behind the fuel pipes so now i need to make a bracket. I will also put the gearbox mount back on once the paint has fully cured.

As always top work and patience Jon.
A beautiful 190 nearly ready to use on dry days for sure and certainly keep it away from wintery salty roads like the plague.

That way your stunning work will be preserved for many years to come !!

I then gave the top a final polish

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...410_194309.jpg

added the V6 badge

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...410_194533.jpg

and fitted to the engine just so I could stand back and look:o

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...410_194902.jpg


Jon

Excellent job, and like Jules has mentioned, will be a great Summer car.

Had my plastics hyro-dipped around a year, and still looking as good as they did they day I get them done

Keep up the good work

Stu

Cheers Jules,

Comments from people of your calibre in the 75 world mean a lot:bowdown:

The plan is to keep her for a long time and use her all year but on an occasional basis. I have never been a fan of cars sitting around (apart from when I have been working on them:D). I'm not a fan of car shows either but I suspect I might come to a couple this year just to meet fellow members:o

She wont be a daily driver though.


Cheers Stu,

Yea I took the the idea for the hydro dipping from you:o:getmecoat: some of the paint jobs on the plastics that I have seen did not cut it for me and when I saw your plastics I was floored. Glad they still look as good. I do have a worry about the expansion tank because although I used plastic primers I am not sure on the longevity when the water starts heating:shrug:

OMG! :eek: it just keeps getting better and better. :bowdown:

No no no no no, keep the engine cover as was made and the biggest sin I cannot forgive Jon, Im sorry but Reebok trainers are a no no again!:eek::D

Cheers mate. Shes not perfect but she should be good for many more years

:D:D:D:D sorry its not to your taste coabs:getmecoat:

Dont worry I have all the original black plastics as well for originality but I m just not a fan. Real carbon fibre is the way to go but I couldnt afford that.

All comments welcome though as we all have personal tastes:bowdown:

You should be wearing slippers as you spend all your time in there!:} I hope you are putting all these photos in an album it will be so nice to go trough it in many years time recollecting what you have done bit by bit.:bowdown:

Jon will have the album in chronological or alphabetical order I'm pretty sure!

I'm usually a fan of OEM and originality and everything that goes with Concourse but with a couple of exceptions................and on this occasion I have to say the carbon fibre cover looks fabulous Jon :bowdown:
(show us a daylight photo of it as I'm sure the blackness will show up better)


A couple of other exceptions in my book are the stainless mesh I've added to our ZT MK2 front bumper instead of the rusty chicken wire MGR decided to downgrade to!

Also the extra walnut add on bits in my Conn SE interior don't look out of place IMHO.

:D:D:D:D:D:D

This conversations sounds like I have OCD:getmecoat::eek:

Yea I have loads of photos. I tend to keep photos of most of my projects:D

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...1.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...5.jpg~original

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...p.jpg~original

There are also some phots (pre digital) somewhere of a Manta GTE restored and a Lotus 7 style kit car build:p:

I'm not sure they are all catalogued though:D:D

Cars have always been my hobby ever since I started driving. It may seem like I spend a lot of time in the man cave but its not as much as you think and instead of watching TV I would rather be doing something around the house or cars when I finish work:devil:


I agree with Jules about the awful mesh of the facelift ZT's. I fitted a ZT bumper to my wifes contemporary R75 and changed the mesh for Mk1 ZT stainless mesh.

http://i1111.photobucket.com/albums/...2.jpg~original

I just spent a couple of hours going through this thread

:bowdown::bowdown:

I realised the following things
- There are many places in my ZT I haven't seen yet
- I really need to spend more time with my ZT (limited miles/year, could benefit from more TLC)
- The 5k agreed value mentioned somewhere in the thread isn't exaggerated
- Jon hasn't got OCD ... he prefers a proper job and the letters in alphabetical order: CDO
- I like the hydrodipping as it adds a personal touch and it's more than spraying something black to restore the finish. I would be tempted to have the same done to the parts of the interior (the ones in the door and return the airco unit to standard black)
- I wish I could read the next 20 pages right now.

Deep respect of the work done.