Automative fun and frolics. I have two main car projects at the moment. A rolling restoration of a 1979 MG Midget, a bit of everyday maintenance on the runaround, a Renault Modus, and post about other thoughts, tips and tricks.
Is it harder to work on old or newer cars?
It is commonly said that it is impossible to work on modern cars for the home mechanic. Whilst some aspects of modern engineering have added complexity, in many ways other repair and maintenance tasks are easier. Rust, especially structural, is far less of a problem than it used to be, routine tasks such as brake pad changes are generally more straightforward, and parts have never been more easily accessible. Computer controlled fuel injection systems are essentially “tuning free”, unlike carburated older cars, relying more on keeping to routine maintenance schedules and occasional cleaning rather than requiring new parts.
On the other hand new cars can pose challenges due to increased use of plastic covers restricting ease of access, specialist fixings, and diagnostic complexity due to a increasing inter-reliance on many sensors. There are also some systems that are just too complex for all but the most competent home mechanics. e.g. modern auto gear boxes are commonly automated manual boxes with multiple clutches and mind boggling complexity. All of this has helped car manufacturers meet fantastic engine efficiency levels but has added sensitivity to low batteries, dirty oil, and repeated short journeys which don’t get the engine up to temperature.
Recently the old family runabout came to the end of its life with us due to cam-belt failure. This is car number two and used for all the daily local trips, school runs, shopping trips and general duties so replacement priorities were: suitable for a life of short journeys (so no diesels), small enough for […]
Buying a used Mk1 Nissan Leaf – What you need to know in 3 minutes Read More »
Thoughts on starting to weld with this popular unit touted as ideal for classic car restoration Probably the most daunting aspect of embarking on a classic car restoration as an amateur is the bodywork. It is also one of the most expensive aspects to have done professionally. So you are left with a choice. Accept
Clarke Pro 90 Mig Welder Review – A beginners perspective Read More »
Have I found a magic bullet for restoring yellowing headlights? There are two things which make an older car look really tatty in my opinion (outside of actual damage and bits hanging off). Dirty wheels and yellowed cloudy headlights. For the trusty (ish) old Renault runaround yellowy headlights are an issue. Not to mention counterproductive
Headlight oxidation removal and restoration with 3M Perfect it Read More »
An introduction to my rolling restoration of a 1979 Mg Midget 1500 I have owned this car for over 20 years, it was my first purchase after starting work post graduation, and took me on adventures from Cornwall to North Wales, the Suffolk coast to the Goodwood Festival of speed. It also served as my
MG Midget 1500 Rolling Restoration Introduction Read More »
Common issues and fixes for Renault K4M Engine as fitted to the Modus/ Clio/ Megane and more We have been running a 2005 Renault modus 1.6l Automatic for the last 8 yrs and this is an overview of some of the common issues encountered and fixes. All are very achievable to address for the home
Living with the Renault K4M 1.6VVT Read More »
