138 replies to this topic

[Mat Jackson]

Had Gertie (NA VX) a couple of years now and always intended to keep a record / blog of the work done, but never got around to it so here it is...

 

Used to have a Westie, but my two small kids were getting more and more interested in going out in it and it was a bit too hard-core, so the VX was a much more practical option.  Found this forum fantastic help when doing the jobs covered so far, so thought I`d return the favour and try and cover all the jobs I`ve had to do - including a look back over the past few years....

 

So, Gertie joined us a in Jan 2014 - a 55,000 Mile NA with a couple of upgrades already in place - VSE, Uprated heater, 4 Channel ABS, Polly bushed suspension and HiD Headlights.  Long (and Wet) drive home, but here she is as she arrived....

 

 

[Ali87]

Nice silver...

Edited by Ali87, 27 September 2016 - 11:32 AM.

[H1 HWK]

Nice silver...

Ultra Camo silver.....no pics Mat?

[Mat Jackson]

Sorry - Been struggling with photos....  And yes she is silver...

 

[Mat Jackson]

Just for interest, here's what went to make room for her.....

 

[Mat Jackson]

So lets bring this upto date...

 

First jobs when she was bought was sorting out some of the small niggles - Spring 2014 saw rear view mirror fitted and a new boot carper as th eold one was missing!!

 

Also had rear brakes binding so striped them off and had them refurbished and recoated.  All new now!!

 

[Mat Jackson]

Spring 2016

Suspension looking a bit tired and noticed a weeping shock absorber, so time for a refresh...

Before Hand:




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[Mat Jackson]

Took lots of effort to strip down, but getting there!!!





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[Mat Jackson]

Took the chance to clean up the chassis whilst there, cane up great with the help of WD40...


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[Mat Jackson]

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[Mat Jackson]

All old parts striped, cleaned and powder coated... Shinny new bits ready to go on!!




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[Mat Jackson]

Then the rebuild...

All new bushes and ball joints and drop links, and full new bolt set throughout.
Suspension all upgraded with brand new nitron street series...



Looks too good to drive now!!!!


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[Mat Jackson]

All back together, and then fully corner weighted and set up at QMech. Andy really knows his stuff, car handles like an absolute dream!!

Brakes also full upgraded with new discs and Mintex pads all round.




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[Mat Jackson]

Set up with my ballast and half passenger weight - perfect set up for me and one of the kids!!




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[Mat Jackson]

Also came across this....
Gertie is famous!!!




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[paul_mck]

get to the good bit

[hairy]

Good work Mat!

[Mat Jackson]

Later in 2016, a bit of external cosmetic work...

Noticed the front and side grills were looking a bit stone rashes, so time for some TLC


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[Mat Jackson]

All asked up ready to paint...




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[Mat Jackson]

Several light coats later...



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