130 replies to this topic

[RalphyBMW]

Better pics, frost gone but now a bit mucky, not necessarily a bad thing as I won't be concerned about getting it dirty!

[RalphyBMW]

I had noticed that my brake lights needed a definite prod before they came on, hence my questions about where the switch is located. On the turbo it is under the dash, it is a GM part with a 4 wire plug. Removing the plug makes it easier to remove and refit the switch, but doing that in a gloomy footwell isn't easy. There is a clip either side of the plug, which I only spotted having removed the switch. Removal while connected is awkward but do'able. Refitting seemed more awkward hence a closer inspection and identifying how to disconnect the loom. I had to adjust the plunger in to make them come on earlier, small child kneeling on the passenger seat is very useful, they can shout "RED" or "NOT RED", saves a bit on the contortions. Not so useful when they want to climb in the footwell to help you. Sweet, but not especially helpful!

[Mangham54]

I had noticed that my brake lights needed a definite prod before they came on, hence my questions about where the switch is located.

On the turbo it is under the dash, it is a GM part with a 4 wire plug. Removing the plug makes it easier to remove and refit the switch, but doing that in a gloomy footwell isn't easy. There is a clip either side of the plug, which I only spotted having removed the switch. Removal while connected is awkward but do'able. Refitting seemed more awkward hence a closer inspection and identifying how to disconnect the loom.

I had to adjust the plunger in to make them come on earlier, small child kneeling on the passenger seat is very useful, they can shout "RED" or "NOT RED", saves a bit on the contortions. Not so useful when they want to climb in the footwell to help you. Sweet, but not especially helpful!

Bless her, she wanted to help her Dad.

All I got the other day whilst working on the plumbing, under the sink, was a paw straight between the eyes. I jumped back in shock and headbutted the worktop. 5 seconds later the connection I had just fitted decided to undo itself and fire water straight in my face under high pressure.

Thought I was going to have a black eye as it hit me that hard. Would have been difficult to explain at work.

[RalphyBMW]

Ha, brilliant!

[Mangham54]

I never told you the story about how I broke my nose sneezing... There is time for that story another day. Plus a bruised face and back of my head whilst changing the rear caliper bolts.

[RalphyBMW]

You are nuts!

[RalphyBMW]

Feeling much poorer, but now have a freshly serviced car with 13m MoT.

[RalphyBMW]

Only advisory on the MoT was a sticky rear fog lamp switch, new one on order for circa £24. Longest journey yet in the VXT on Friday, drove down to the Midlands, 260 mile round trip for work. I had been quite concerned about the fuel economy, though my concerns were unfounded; filled up at my local Shell station on Friday morning, and again Friday evening, average for the tank was a very impressive 41mpg! That morning, part of me had wanted to take the CR-V; it is more comfortable, quieter and has cruise, however with the same type of driving I would have struggled to better low 30's. On top of that I found the VXT quite comfortable, just a bit too noisy to be able to use the phone kit. Feeling quite happy about the prospect of using the VXT as my main wheels once the prospect of frost has gone.

[Thealastair34]

sounds good, i did 47mpg to warrington and back yesterday on the motorway some is 50 but the rest was 80

[Mangham54]

They make for efficient cars when cruising. I have long saif that I think the tax banding is way off. Given their dimensions and weight it is ridiculous that they are attributed the same efficiency values and tax and the much much heavier Astra.

[RalphyBMW]

To be fair though, up until that long cruise I had only achieved mid 20's -low 30's, so it does need a long gentle cruise to get the best out of it. I think that an Astra capable of the same level of acceleration would have much higher emissions. Picked up a new rear fog lamp switch from AutoVaux this morning, ordered it earlier in the week, they had it next day, but today was my first opportunity to collect. I was pleased with the service, and a better price than my friendly Vauxhall parts guy. £23.47 if anyone is interested. The switch in the car works, but doesn't "click off" properly. If you turn the headlights off and then back on again, then the rear fogs will be off. My OCD however meant that it had to be sorted. Not got around to fitting it yet, but hoping to get it changed soon. Itching to get the Focus put back together after several more hours with the reciprocating saw last weekend, but Royal Mail have foiled my plans so it will have to wait until some time next week. Still, I suspect any time spent fettling tomorrow would be frowned upon by SWMBO.

[RalphyBMW]

Rear fog switch fitted, astounded at how easy it was to pop the switch panel out. Old switch does seem goosed, no clicks at all now.

[RalphyBMW]

Just wrapped my screen surround



Not really happy with it, but I think I know what I did wrong so plan to buy some more vinyl and have another go. It probably took me 3 months to get around to this first attempt though, so no one hold their breath! Going to see how this one weathers for the time being.

[RalphyBMW]

Some outside pics;





Still needs a wash!

[Ormes]

Nice job

[RalphyBMW]

Thanks, going to have another go when I remove the front clam, I think that should make it easier to sort the bottom of the pillars.

[Mangham54]

Oh that reminds me... Socket and Torque Wrench. /Runs off to add it to his phone calendar.

[turboluca]

Really nice work

[Mangham54]

Maybe an Anthracite wrap on the 'v' now.

[JG]

need to get rid of those tuby wheels, just imagine that on speedlines