Welcome
to M-Fix 
News update on
August 25, 2010
site Blog:
I've
found a useful website for M Series Shock Absorbers, Brake Pads, Discs
& Hoses - check
here
I've managed to update the website today and change the menu page
to white at last. I've also added some interesting information regarding
3.4 Litre Essex engines from South Africa (see
here), plus some other info. regarding a carburettor problem which
may be overlooked (here).
MOSS Europe are now selling new rear hub units for the TR6 - at last
you can replace the whole item including flange, stub axle & wheel
bearing without trying to dismantle the old one. Many reconditioned
hubs are not 100% true as I found out when I bought one a few years
ago. Look here: http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=18142
Members
area is currently NOW ONLINE - see below:
Finally
the members area server is now on after a few changes. At present
the site remains as before until I can get time to change things around
to make it easier to navigate and have a better appearance. All current
members will have their memberships extended as an apology for the
length of time the server was offline.
The
server power supply exploded as I turned the system back on today
- seems that it didn't like being off for 10 days. I now need a new
server as it's 11 years old now and has lasted well (was on its 3rd
power supply). I'm now looking into a new server system which will
allow faster access and more storage, plus up to date software which
has been a bit of an issue over the last couple of years for me to
contend with. Members will be given extra membership time to cover
this -- again please accept my apologies. A further update on the
situation will appear on this page as soon as I know more.
Brake
caliper conversion is now finished, photos being compiled for a new
section. The brake pedal travel is as expected a lot longer, so the
master cylinder will have to be replaced with a suitable alternative.
I'm looking into this right away & will get modding. Once complete
I can reveal the info. to make this an easy change for anyone out
there with the same problem.
Started the brake conversion today (29th April 2010) -about time!
All went well apart from the weather. Lucky that I have the necessary
flaring tools etc to manufacture any pipe shape I need - combined
with some Euroquip fittings it's making the upgrade a breeze. Also
as a bonus, the Wilwood calipers fit inside the standard T Slot 14"
Alloy Wheel with a few mm to spare, so that has saved a snowball effect
in terms of cost. Photos not yet published but a full step by step
fitting guide will follow once the job is finished. Next will be testing
and possibly a master cylinder replacement to allow for further pedal
travel which won't be a surprise as there may be more fluid displacement.
I've just received an email from someone selling a few new crated
Ford V6 Essex 3.4L engines, as seen on ebay a while back. Have a look
here for more details.
A
bit of trivia for Easter...I just by chance saw the "Under Pressure"
Queen/David Bowie video from the early 1980's. About 28 seconds into
the video there's a V6 Essex Engine that explodes...noticed it by
the sump shape as it flies through the air! Rewind and pause with
Sky+ and it's definately this engine. An abstract blog maybe, but
I wonder why on earth the engine was blown up - whether it was done
for the music video, or whether it was old footage from some other
test?? Take a look here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtrEN-YKLBM
Router problem sorted, just needed an hour of my undivided attention!
All active members have an extended membership as promised to cover
the time lost. I have also added all the technical questions that
have been piling up since last December.
I'm
just installing a new router, so apologies for members - website is
still down due to technical changes required. It seems all routers
are different and each one has its quirks! Members will get extra
time added to the end of their memberships for this. I have also added
a couple of videos to the M-Fix YouTube Channel (see below). Much
more to follow, those were just a couple I could get done while checking
out the new brake kit I will be fitting.
Interesting website now in my links page - South West Sports Cars
specialise in TVR hire in the south west - see http://www.southwestsportscars.co.uk/
As mentioned in previous blog (below), work now commencing. I have
an HD camera at last, so finally you'll get to see some proper M Series
TVR footage, maintenance & video articles that have taken almost
a decade to appear. I'm just thankful technology has caught up with
the internet at last! I hope to get the YouTube channel up & running
with the first HD video or two in the next week http://www.youtube.com/tvrmfix
I'm
finally getting some more work started on the car - so to follow once
completed will be a step-by-step guide to modifying the front brakes.
This will be a conversion to modern performance 4 pot alloy calipers
& vented discs. I am also hoping to publish video footage of this
mod. and all further published work will be viewable in video to keep
up with modern times. Dashboard refit to follow the brake mods.
The
cold weather is still with us, but I have made sure I get a day working
on the 3000M next week. Will try my best to update the site with some
new photos. I have promised some more photos of the window winder
mechanism. Any more requests for photos showing particular detail
are welcome ;o)
1600M
for restoration up for sale this week - see Marketplace section. Also
the snow has caused the updates to this site to be delayed as I haven't
been able to get the car out since before Christmas. This will go
ahead as soon as the weather improves.
Following
4 days without Broadband, I have aded a few site updates. Check parts
for sale section for 3x V6 Essex engines for sale in Spain.
Dare I say Merry Christmas?
A few updates this week to the Technical questions section. Also welcome
to the new members this week - seems the winter weather means a few
of you have the TVR jacked up ready for some maintenance!
Also
worth a mention is that I'm working on the whole website after Christmas
if the Tax Return takes less than a couple of weeks...
Plans include hopefully adding a new look, better graphics (not difficult!),
more content including plenty of tuning videos, and a much better
user interface. This will also apply to the members area, and perhaps
even involve a new faster web server as the old one has been running
for the last 10 years now!
I
have been working on all types/makes of cars recently, breakdowns
mainly, but the odd tuning job has been there to break the monotony.
This month the interesting job has been a Triumph Spitfire 1500, fitting
a stage 2 unleaded head, 4-2-1 exhaust, and tuning the twin SU HS4's
afterwards. I'm still working on the second needle trial as the first
set are too lean, but having the right tools makes the job easy nowadays,
compared to the guesswork in the 1970's/80's/90's unless you had a
load of cash to spend.
***The last TVR Taimar ever made is up for sale - check the Taimar
for sale page for link to advert***
Pop up ads now gone - I have removed the free web statistics software
as it basically hijacked my site without notifying me correctly so
wave goodbye to those annoying ads, I can live without web stats now
as this site is 10 years old!
New wanted advert this week - someone is looking for a 1600M in Germany.
See Wanted Ads
Just
returned from holiday - apologies for lack of updates since early
October. I have noticed an annoying pop-up advert has appeared on
my site - looking into it as I have not authorised this...suspect
it's the web counter.
I am on holiday at the moment, but have posted this to help someone
out with a TVR:
"Hi.
I've posted this on Piston Heads also.
This
is going to be a strange request, but hope someone out there can help
us.
My wifes
best friend has just had her brother die suddenly in bed at 62. He
owned what we believe was a TVR 3000M. He took the car to a garage
to have some work done on it about 3 weeks before he died and his
wife doesn't know which garage and as yet she hasn't found the cars
log book or any paperwork for the car. I remember seeing it once,
about 5 years ago and it was Black with some stress cracking around
the body. He lived in Farnham, Surrey, near Guildford.
So does
anyone living near there or who used a TVR garage near Farnham know
of a Black car sitting around gathering dust where the garage can't
get hold of the owner?
Any help
would be gratefully appreciated to save this
car and at the moment his wife needs it back to grieve and deal with
his sudden death"
If
anyone out there knows the whereabouts of this TVR, please email tvr@m-fix.co.uk
and I will pass on your contact details to the person concerned. Many
thanks. Note on 24th August 2010 - this car has now been found, many
thanks to those of you who have emailed in your findings.
I'm currently digging out the old film negatives from my restoration
photos to transfer to digital images - will update the complete site
once it's done as they will be much more detailed and less grainy
than the scanned pics you may have seen in places on the site. Also
they will have a large size option so you can see more detail. I'm
also working on some products now - all will be revealed in a few
weeks!
Technical Questions area updated, plus WAP site for members being
updated with more useful data for "at the roadside" assistance.
Also a new addition to the Gallery - an Essex Engined Hot Rod with
nice close up view of its Holley Carb for anyone wishing to know what
the conversion looks like.
Many thanks to James Collier for the following information regarding
suspension on his 3000M:
"I've
just replaced all the rear upper and lower wishbone bushes on the
3000M with the TR6 front lower inboard bushes. As mentioned on your
site the studs which hold the lower outer bushes were ceased into
the upright. However I did mange to replace the bushes without the
hassle of removing the studs. I removed the nut and washer and then
carefully drilled out the rubber, which in turn enabled me to remove
the bush sleeve. Now with a liberal amount of bush grease I was able
to push the new bushes into the wishbone housing over the stud using
a pair of large adjustable pliers.
I thought
that your readers would like to know that this can be done, without
the hassle of drilling, machining and crack checking the uprights.
I also
have Koni part number for the shocker absorbers: 80-2365.
I also
replaced the anti roll bar bushes. The inboard ones are from a Triumph
Herald anti roll bar and the outer ones are a Triumph Herald front
lower wishbone bush which has to be shortened.
I hope
this helps others out when doing similar jobs. "
James
Collier, 7th July 2009
-------------------------------------------------
I
was unfortunately unable to attend the Pre 80's meeting yet again
this year....I hope all of you that went had a good time.
Summer is here - make sure you have got your cooling system sorted
for the hot weather!
2500M V8 for sale in Canada - check out the Marketplace section.
Text and background colours changing on the site to make it easier
to read. Please let me know if you find anything that needs making
clearer, and thanks to the person who let me know about the old colours
making it difficult to read.
Check out this great website if you own a car with a Rover V8 engine,
or need parts for one:
http://www.v8church.co.uk/
- Have a look here at this great site devoted to V8 engined cars.
Some great new parts for sale, plus classifieds for V8 engined cars
(both cars originally fitted with the Rover V8, and also cars modified
to accept the Rover V8 - e.g. Mini, TR6, Capri etc etc
New for May 2009 is the M-Fix YouTube video channel - I have just
posted a couple of test movies from my phone taken this week - take
a look here:
http://www.youtube.com/tvrmfix
More
testing has taken place this week, and more to come. Carbs synchronised
now, jetting is good but fine tuning taking the time. I'm trying to
get an economical cruise along with good power for maximum acceleration.
Seems to be working well and I'm amazed at how far out things have
been. I will have to re-write the members area in the carb tuning
section as I feel like I've just been studying for an exam for the
last year! Working on making a throttle position sensor as another
variable has reared its ugly head - i.e. varying mixture depending
on throttle position at the same engine RPM's!
Work
continued this week on the Triple Weber Setup - perfection is painstaking
but worth it in the end. I hope to come up with a 'good' fuel consumption
on cruise, as well as a great full power setup. Without the aid of
my Air/Fuel test equipment this would be impossible. Will be creating
a vastly updated section on this once completed. After that, the final
tuning is the distributor advance curve adjustment, possibly the only
thing I need a rolling road to do for me but still working on another
method of doing this!
New gallery photos added, T slot wheels for sale - check it out in
the marketplace.
The trip over the Berkshire Downs was a good test of the fuel setup
& I worked out the average fuel consumption was 20mpg, not bad
considering the fairly high average speed on the A roads. There is
still a bad hesitation when on very slight throttle and when accelerating
mildly...this is going to be a new challenge. Also still some popping
back through the carbs. The standard brakes were only just able to
stop the car as required so the 4 pot upgrade is imminent. More work
will take place next week (after Easter) to fit a set of new safety
belts. Full report & new section will appear as soon as it's done.
Spring fast approaching. The 3000M is off on its first trip of 2009
this weekend, I hope to provide a report of the day along with some
MPG figures (or MPL) for those interested in the thirst of a 3.1 V6
Essex with triple DCNF's!
Managed to finally set the rear wheel alignment to more or less factory
setting 0º20' toe-in now I have a set of tracking gauges. The
alignment was found to be 0º30' toe-out after using a basic method
of alignment after the restoration. It goes to show how innacurate
any method can be rather than using the correct tools. Of course the
factory (or TR6) alignment settings are a good starting point but
small alterations may provide better directional stability once further
road testing can be carried out. The front tracking was also checked
& found to be exactly to spec - must have been doing something
right when I set that up. Note the rear toe-in adjustment also affects
the camber - more toe-in increases the camber quite noticeably. Not
yet checked it but it appears to be about 2º negative now, will
report on that in the next week.
I
have also just modified the 3000M's wiper arms to allow the fitment
of new style wiper blades. These are the ones you see on cars such
as the Renault Scenic 2, Espace IV, Modus etc. Ebay sellers do a pair
of 14" blades for under £20 GBP so I have bought a pair
to test. Initial findings are that the clips to attach them to the
arms are rubbish & not fit for the purpose, however the actual
blades seem reasonably good. The driver's wiper blade still won't
work on the extreme right hand side of the screen due to its curvature,
and the new blades showed up the weak springs on the wiper arms. I
removed the wiper arm spring and shortened it making the arm press
against the screen much harder, but still allowing the wipers to operate
well. Now at last the screen is cleared just like on a modern car
- a first! I will move this info & add some pictures into a new
section in the next few days.
Still wanting ideas for remanufactured parts - I am arranging some
batches of parts to be made in the Autumn and so far have had a request
for 3000S door window frames complete.
NEW ESSEX V6 PRODUCT!
A new high good quality rocker cover kit has just been launched by
RegAlia Rocker Covers - click on the link for more details:
www.regaliarockercovers.co.uk
Winter
was 'ere (for once)!
The
cold weather has shown that it's easy to forget we have winters here
in the UK...but "when I was a lad" they were worse (or better
in some cases!) than this year...I think it's just sad that more cars
aren't fitted with limited slip differentials. Not that I wanted to
take out the 3000M in it (no LSD on this one either).....
Front wheel drive cars are a struggle with LSD's anyway, that's why
they are normally found on 4x4's or rear wheel drive cars only. If
one driven wheel spins on the snow/ice on a non LSD equipped car then
you are stuck as the other doesn't move. With an LSD the differential
transfers the drive to the other side, thus making traction better
in difficult conditions. For track use it does the same thing, and
of course means you go forward quicker rather than burning rubber.
The downside is higher stresses in the differential, therefore and
LSD is normally beefed up considerably.
I ended up taxing the Ford Maverick 4x4 so I could get up the hill
and go & do some work done, it has a rear LSD and selectable 4
wheel drive. Not the best as the transaxle has no built in diff so
driving on dry roads means no steering with the large tyres! In the
snow it's great though, went up the hill as fast as I wanted..lucky
I put some Mud & Snow tyres on last time.
Still
not done, but clearer photos will be replacing some of the old photos
on this site very soon due to a new piece of kit I have which allows
high quality digital copies of my old 35mm photos from the 1990's...will
keep you informed as this happens.
More Wanted Adverts this week - please see below for an opportunity
to get a special TVR badge:
"I looked around on the net to find a textile badge identical
to our M series bonnet badge (to be put on a cap). I found a company
who can make them from a picture of the badge, puts it in the computer,
and makes badges. Now the problem is that a one-off would cost me
£100. Is there any of you who would be interested too, so we
can split the cost? Let me know, I’m happy to coordinate all
this. Contact Frank at blue_zeeland@yahoo.com
"
Jan 7th 2009
At last! HAPPY NEW YEAR and welcome to the M-Fix TVR website to all,
including the new members. New additions to the technical questions
section have been added this week.
Again my mobile car repair work has taken up most of my time recently,
with some interesting work on a Chimaera involving the central locking
"black box" controller. Rather than fit a new CDL/Immobiliser
setup I have decided to go down the diagnostic route, and have got
involved in some serious electronics including microprocessor reprogramming
and creating a wiring diagram to allow the complete system to be checked.
More to follow once complete.
I am also looking into getting some hard to find TVR parts remanufactured
in the Autumn of 2009 so please email me here
with any requests/ideas you have regarding this.
NEC Classic Car Show 2008
I visited this show today (Friday 14th Nov). Nice to see a couple
of Granturas & a Vixen there - no M Series cars however so may
try to get the 3000M into the next show once it's complete. The show
was larger than in previous years, taking up 4 halls & there were
a great selection of rare classics were on display.
I have added a NEW section at last! See members area, clutches, added
to assist when deciding whether to change your clutch. Also notes
on sizes and I.D. markings to make purchasing a new clutch possible
without stripping out the old one first.
Things have been busy at work during the last month so updates have
been delayed. Finally sorted out my desk & members area will now
start to be filled with some very useful tuning data, just need a
day to get it all written.
8th
Sept 2008 - 3000M Shells on EBAY UK - only 1 day to go before end
of bidding! Only a couple of bids so far - don't miss out on this
very rare opportunity! All from the same seller. Note this sale is
not related to my website in any way, I just spotted it last night
while surfing! See links below:
1972
3000M Bodyshell
3000M
Bodyshell - front end damaged but rear half ok. Also has fold back
roof (unredeemable the ad says) but maybe could be rebuilt like I
have done? - sold for only £10.50!
3000M
door aperture alloy gutters
New on the links page is the TVR Car Club Italia. Looking on the site
there's a very interesting Turismo (Tour) around the Chianti Valley
- check
it out here! Would be a great place to take your TVR on some of
the best roads & scenery in the World.
Welcome to the new members in the last couple of weeks - quite a few
new ones as I guess it was the holiday season & time for some
repairs!
New service available to TVR S owners (i.e. S1-S4, not the 3000S)
to test/repair your electronic speedometer & test the speedo transducer.
Pricing & details to appear very shortly on my business website
- www.m-fix.co.uk
New Wanted advert for some Vixen or early M series parts
- see here
Work
continuing on fuel jetting.
I'm selling my Ford Maverick, or would swap for a suitable Mini
(original style 1959-1996 - any car considered within reason)!
Is anyone interested in my R reg 2.4 Petrol Maverick (same as Nissan
Terrano)? I've had it for over a year now, rebuilt the gearbox, new
clutch kit, fitted COMPLETE new rear brakes (drums/cylinders/shoes/spring
kits), re-set the front suspension, new Battery in August 2008. Taxed
till end Sept 2008, MOT till Oct 2008, used daily until recently.
Mileage 177000 but engine still very good. Has slight manifold leak
and needs front pads/discs when pads wear out next time, but otherwise
a great towing vehicle and selectable 4x4 for off road needs. As I
said this is my vehicle so it has been looked after - please
click here for more info.
Mark M-Fix (advert updated 6th September 2008)
Air/Fuel calibration now underway with the 3000M, therefore at last
correct carb jetting can be carried out. Initial tests show a mixture
that's far too rich on both acceleration & cruising. Should be
able to save a few £££'s on fuel now & get rid
of the power loss between 1850 & 2500 rpm. Full report to commence
in members area in next few days with graphs, explanations etc.
Taimar spares!
Shame to see it but a good number of rare spares available on this
Taimar shell/chassis that is on ebay. Item has been relisted. Click
here.
Want
to see an ongoing TVR 2500M restoration? Have
a look here at Bill Patterson's photo Diary
TVRCC
Track Day 28th April 2008 - Report
See the full report from an unusually quiet track day - click
here
I am going to try to attend the TVRCC track days this year (see dates
below), hopefully running the 3000M once I've sorted the exhaust (now
in progress), jetting fine tuning, modified brakes, new wheels/tyres.
Just about to purchase an air/fuel diagnostic setup for on the road
fine tuning, may be of interest to owners of older TVRs out there
without fuel injection. I have also been doing more & more work
on Chimaera models recently so am happy to quote for work on newer
TVRs (if under 15k value) now as they are not all that different to
the old ones!
TVR Car Club Track days 2008:
Monday
28th April - Castle Combe (99db noise limit) - I attended but not
in the TVR due to ongoing work.
Tuesday 27th May - Cadwell Park (105db noise limit) - Unfortunately
the weather had been seriously wet and I didn't go simply as the forecast
was bad.
Wednesday 25th June - Oulton Park (105db noise limit)
Wednesday 27th August - Oulton Park (105db noise limit)
Full
report after each day will appear on this page.
April
is here so time to get the car work started again (in-between my usual
mobile car work - http://www.m-fix.co.uk)
RSS
Feed address changed - it may be wise to re-subscribe to this service
as I've moved it to a server that supports rss feeds correctly (the
old one didn't causing problems).
New wanted advert - someone needs a set of triple weber carbs, inlet
manifold & possibly a set of air filters for a V6 Essex. Please
see marketplace wanted ads.
Gallery updated, technical questions updated this week.
Spring is just round the corner, so it's time to check your TVR
over ready for the nice weather.
Engine
- Check all levels, drain/flush/renew as necessary. Check cooling
system for leaks, and make sure the otter switch is working for
your radiator fan. Check the radiator fins are unblocked & straight,
and that the water pump doesn't have a load of crusty deposits under
the spindle hole. If so the seals are worn and the pump could start
to leak especially on hot days/long journeys.
Gearbox & Diff - Check for oil leaks & make sure the levels
are correct - can be tricky to check on some models.
Tyres - Check for damage to the sidewalls & tread (don't forget
to check the inside tyre wall too!).
Suspension/Steering
- Jack up each wheel and check for play in the wheel bearings/suspension/steering,
and spin the wheel to listen for any roughness in the bearing, as
sometimes there can be no play but the wheel bearing's surface can
be pitted. Rear wheels difficult to spin due to drivetrain. While
you're there check over the tyre treads for embedded nails/screws
etc. Check also the steering column top bush hasn't got any play
by holding the steering wheel at 12 & 6 o'clock and pull/push
with alternate hands.
Brakes
- Check the pads & shoes - replace pads if under about 4mm,
shoes if under 2mm. While drums are off, check the wheel cylinders
aren't seeping under the rubber dust cover. De-rust the discs before
using to save the pads from contamination. Adjust handbrake if necessary
& check correct operation. Check cables aren't rubbing on the
half shafts and if so move them away using a cable tie.
Drivetrain
- Grease up the half shaft & propshaft UJ's if fitted with a
grease nipple and check for excess movement in all joints. Check
half shaft central gaiters aren't split or loose.
Windscreen & Wipers - If the car's not been garaged, the windscreen
wipers may have ice damage - replace them if necessary. Top up the
screenwash and adjust/unblock the washer jets if necessary.
Lights
- Check all work ok after extended winter use. Tap each lamp unit
while they are on in case a bulb filament is about to separate.
May save you getting a ticket next time you drive at night.
Locks & Hinges - Use some light oil or spray grease to lubricate
moving parts. Check the bonnet catches work properly & are secure
as the fibreglass can sometimes split around these.
Rare set of new Weber triple carbs & Inlet manifold for sale -
take a look here.
Further photos now available for a nice 3000M for sale in the Marketplace
section. It's an unfinished restoration project car, but with little
work left to do would suit someone willing to do a little work to
finish it. Click here to see the car
(2nd advert from top).
Taimar Engine/Transmission for sale in the USA:
"I have a complete good running Taimar engine/transmission for
sale in PA, USA. This drivetrain is complete carb to pan with
alternator and starter. The engine is currently being auctioned on
Ebay. You can email me at donecam@verizon.net
or bid on my Ebay auction HERE"
See XML link above for latest news. From now on I will use this to
post all site updates as I guess you are all Tech Savvy enough these
days! This is the RSS feed system, which means you will get updates
automatically each time I post a new message/blog there as long as
you opt in using your browser. It saves a lot of typing for me! Any
problems with this, please feel free to email using the link in the
menu bar at the top of this page.
The new M-Fix Workshop Manual version 1.0 is still being prepared
for first issue. Latest news on the release date is now first half
of 2008 - my business work has meant unforseen delays. However, the
manual will include all of the information, photos, data etc available
in the members area, and will be available from the online shop. Updates
will be available as and when deemed necessary. Update packs will
be available to allow previous versions of the manual to be updated.
News of the launch will appear both on the M-Fix RSS feed, and the
homepage here.
Things have been busy since the last update, so I am finally getting
round to some more much needed improvements to the 3000M. Vented front
brake conversion, new wheels/tyres, fine tuning of the triple webers
are all on the way. Not to mention getting round to sorting out the
seats and interior trims. All of this means some interesting new articles
for the website, and also the publishing of the first edition of the
M-Fix Technical Manual. I have been working on a V8S recently - body
off chassis repairs, engine diagnostics, interior electrics, also
have Serviced a Chimaera 4.0. Anyone else interested in some TVR related
work please get in touch - see below for details.
I am now able to do work on a mobile basis - please see the new website
for details here: www.m-fix.co.uk
Rates are really suited to local work however, but I'm willing
to travel outside the area shown if you need assistance on your TVR.
I specialise in electronic diagnostics and have a Rover V8 14CUX dianostic
tool, so am able to fault find most V8 TVRs now.
Again 26th Sept - new wanted adverts for 3000S and 3000M parts - see
marketplace section or click here
Work is continuing on the first hardcopy manual which will be available
for purchase. This means a load of extra work to get into some sort
of useful format, so please bear with me, it's still in progress.
TVR Car Club Oxfordshire Region - Karting Endurance Race at Shennington
Kart Track
It was a wild afternoon, with 11 teams of 3, each driver
getting two 15 minute stints as the driver. The track is one of the
best in the UK and the Karts are twin engined - which makes the racing
much more fun as the speed can reach around 40mph. The weather was
hot & sunny so the grip was at its best, the tyres only losing
grip on the chicane and the two hairpins. Photos to follow, but if
you're interested in karting then check out the Shennington Kart Racing
Club at:
http://www.karting.co.uk/shenington/
TVR Car Club Oxfordshire Region meeting for August 2007
A
good turn out again this month, the weather being kind to make it
a great evening in the car park looking at the cars, approx. 15 TVRs
this time. If you wish to attend, the meetings are at the Foxcombe
Inn Hotel at boars Hill on the first Thursday of the month. For further
info see the TVRCC Oxford region website at http://www.tvrccoxford.co.uk
Some updates coming up this for 1600M engine data etc to the members
area. Data is still currently being collated but will appear soon.
Remember
this question?
Does anyone know what make glass sunroof was fitted to the Taimar?
Also can you tell me what vehicle it was originally fitted to?
Many thanks to John Simpson - he has provided the answer - it was
a Tudor Webasto sunroof.
Just
spotted this
on Youtube - an M Series TVR Video - not sure but looks like it's
a UK owned car. I guess someone needed to get out the house at Christmas
going by the title...
New
item in Store - Gearbox Gasket Set for 4 speed Ford Gearboxes fitted
to the 3000M and Essex V6 Engines (3 Litre).
TVR
Car Club Oxfordshire Meeting 7th June 2007
I
took the 3000M to the Oxfordshire meeting this week - there were 22
other cars there including a prototype 3000S which has no boot! It
was apparently used by the hood makers for TVR and so is a unique
model. See a couple of pic's below:
I have decided to expand the wanted & for sale adverts to cover
all models of classic TVR i.e. any model up to and including the S
models. This is due to the coverage this website is now getting thanks
to years of being online - so I hope it will help anyone who owns
an old TVR find a rare part, or sell their car to an enthusiast and
not a time waster. Send any adverts you wish to display using the
contact link at in the menu bar.
3000M rolling road session report now viewable in members section
- see Technical Manual, Engine, V6 Essex for the report (members area
only).
It was arranged by the TVRCC Cotswold 3 Counties...Interesting range
of cars were there including a TVR Typhon. The power & torque
curve is shown so you can see what was recorded, an see how much a
triple carb setup produces along with the other mods.
Can
you help a 3000M/S owner track down a spare roof/frame assembly? Or
perhaps suggest parts from donor vehicles that can be modified? If
so please see the WANTED ad's page.
For
May there were additions to the new section on MOT Emissions test
procedure (to help those of you who do your own tuning to understand
how the test centre measures your car's emissions). Also is a new
article on Core Plug removal which has been my latest challenge this
week.
I am now Self Employed again and once my 'work vehicle' is ready to
roll I will offer a call-out repair/advice service to owners of TVR
& Essex engined vehicles. Not yet sure on extent of area covered
but hope I can offer something that's of help to most people in the
UK. It's planned to be a home visit service where you can book a visit
to help you sort out a problem with your car, to carry out some maintenance,
MOT preparation or pre-MOT check, or just for a helping hand with
some heavier jobs such as lifting off your bodyshell etc. There's
the possibility of a telephone helpline where you can reach me when
you need to talk about a car problem rather than wait for an email
reply, however this has possible legal implications so I am seeking
advice before going ahead. I am going through the many survey replies
received in the past 4 years to see what else I can offer with this
new venture, including offering work/advice on other TVR models. Please
feel free to drop me a line if anything mentioned above is of particular
interest.
While I will offer the mobile service initially, I am in the process
of checking out some local workshops as I feel this is the only real
way to offer a good service to you in terms of mechanical work. If
this is possible, it will be in Banbury, Oxfordshire or the immediate
surrounding area, although not yet sure if feasable due to the crazy
costs involved and lack of small workshops in the area.
The
above work means I will be working full-time on this business, therefore
expect many new articles, photos and even streaming videos to appear
once this has begun! Also due to popular request I will finally be
producing the M Series Technical Manual in hardcopy which will be
available for purchase.
June 3rd 2007 is the Grand Opening for Bob Carroll's Midlife Classics
business (for Classic Car Auto Restoration and Sales) in Princeton,
Texas, USA. Also on this day is a Classic Car Show - check out the
website for the cars here - www.midlifeclassics.com,
and click here
for the Grand Opening Flyer (acrobat .pdf file). Book your tickets
early for lower prices, and the first 20 registrations receive a FREE
T-Shirt! Also prizes on the day.
Thanks
to Chris Gale for answering the question on suspension from earlier
this month. (I have a 1971 2500 and I have just replaced the front
shocks and springs. I would like to replace the 4 rear springs. Any
idea what weight they should be?). See his answer in Technical Questions
- Suspension.
Finally
I got round to testing the car to see if all the tweaks to the triple
carbs and camshaft have finally sorted out the problem with high hydrocarbons
(HC). I'm glad to report that it now sails through the MOT requirements
but has to be fully warmed up (i.e. cooling fan must have cut in a
couple of times before testing). Full update in 40DCNF section in
members only area! Some updates to the technical questions have been
added this week also.
Other
updates to members area for March - mainly to make printing of the
technical pages easier. Also a new technical question has been added.
For full update please see rss feed (click on XML icon above).
Wap
site in members area updated with more useful data. TVR 3000m 2500m
1600m and Taimar owners check this out!
Another TVR Vixen for Sale advert placed 18th Feb, have a look here!
More
articles to appear soon, apologies for few updates this winter, I
am hoping from spring 2007 the site will be more user friendly &
contain loads more once I've finished some important work on my house!
TVR Vixen for Sale advert, new for Jan - have a look here!
Also, Web Server update ongoing improve the site's speed and address
some worn out components. Please be patient, lots of things going
on behind the scenes. Hope to roll out some new stuff on the site
once all the changes have been finalised. There will be a few technical
questions added tomorrow (Thurs 11th Jan). Once again welcome to the
new members this month.
New RSS feed for this site - if you use Internet Explorer 7 or other
various browsers you can now subscribe (for free) to be notified automatically
for any updates to the site. Click on the XML link graphic above for
the feed.
Sales area updated due to old adverts. Please feel free to send in
your "For Sale" ads for any classic TVR - there are many
site visitors interested in buying classic models of TVR.
Check
out the engine section for a new page for a V6 Chevy conversion to
a TVR 2500 - very impressive! Thanks also for the new info. supplied
regarding the TVR 2500M triple carb conversion info. request in the
right hand column of this page.
Please
keep your adverts coming in for cars for sale, or wanted. The marketplace
section is in need of some new adverts! Ok ebay is pretty much the
top place to find stuff, but don't forget it's free here and most
people looking are seriously interested about what's for sale. Welcome
to the new members this week!
Anyone
have any spare heater or hazard switches? See here
for type required by an owner in Italy. Also does anyoneknow what
these switches were originally fitted to? Please let me know here
if you can help.
New
WAP site now live for members. This will allow you to have technical
data available to your mobile phone, allowing you to look up important
info. at any time - e.g when you need to check your tyre pressures,
have the tracking/camber checked etc. Work is continuing on this new
side of the website.
New site map being compiled to make browsing easy with non Java menus
useful for those without suitable browser or hand held personal organisers.
See lower down this page on the right for the current menus available
in text, and remember to use your browsers BACK key until pages have
been modified to allow navigation to other pages to be possible. Java
menu will still be shown as is much more useful to 80% of users.
The
Cam replacement/timing section in the members area is now fully updated,
and I'm currently working carb jetting, now getting closer to a nice
sounding/running engine at last. Sorry for delays as I have had to
spend a lot of time sorting various things out with the camshaft work.
Spitting carb problem sorted now also. I am now in the process of
sorting out the engine breathing system now, by fitting an oil catch
tank which will vent out to somewhere at the back of the car - putting
an end to fumes entering the car and making my clothes smell.
I am currently sorting out the poor running/MOT nightmare on the M-Fix
3000M due to triple carbs and a road/rally spec cam (Kent V62). I
have changed the cam to a milder spec (Kent V63 Fast Road). The update
to the technical manual for in-car cam changes, plus setting the cam
timing correctly using offset woodruff keys is now available. The
new cam is from a blank rather than reprofiled and allows the steel
timing gear dot to line up with the crankshaft dot - explaining why
the last cam forced the dot to be 1 tooth out when timing in the cam.
Reground cams are offset more due to the regrinding of the lobes being
altered in overlap etc. It is a bit of a chore to set the cam up but
quite straightforward once used to it.
Wanted
ads - see if you have something sitting in your garage that could
help out a fellow TVR owner.
Plans
underway to allow this site to be more user friendly in terms of browser
and mobile phone/PDA access. Please email me your comments especially
if you find the site difficult to access on a certain browser....thank
you for your patience and continued support.
From
June: Engine - full answer for the mystery inlet manifold that has
been on the site for a few months now, thanks to Jason Cooke. Also
of interest is a bargain 2500M for sale - see marketplace section,
and further tech. info on unseizing a clutch plate (in technical questions
- gearbox section). New parts wanted advert on 29th June - see "marketplace".
Please
take some time to fill out the survey form, especially if you are
interested in a new service I am thinking of setting up for those
of you who sometimes need a helping hand doing the work on your cars.
See survey for information.
Thanks
for the "find a T-Slot wheel" contributions - one happy
customer in under 24 hours!
Remember
that the technical questions are for non-members also.
Click
here to see what's been added to members section
...All
new updates from March 2005 (click
here to see what's been added) will only appear in members
area where the articles can also be printed, unlike the free
pages which will still be updated in all areas, except for the Technical
Library. There is a small membership fee to help cover the associated
costs of running the whole site (larger than you would imagine), and
to help with future projects. The members site has NO Adverts as we
think they just get in the way of the important stuff. Subscriptions
are available for 1 Month, and now a discounted quarterly and 6 monthly
option. For costs see Members Area Login/Signup in menu above.
New
section finally started for bodywork resoration. First to appear is
stripping paint to bare fibreglass.
For foreign visitors please try the new Babelfish link on the right
of this page - at last it allows you to translate these pages!! Also,
4 New Technical questions so far this week. Also see M series cars
for sale for new advert. Please also help me by filling in the survey
form on the right.
If
you need a second hand TVR part try Douglas
Valley Breakers - they even have some classic models!
Visit the
M-Fix Store HERE
Exciting
news for anyone requiring an M Series windscreen - new manufacture
with heated option. Also coming soon are heated rear screens. Click
here for full info
38DGAS
stripdown/servicing procedure now in progress, to appear as soon as
I get time - done on 30th Oct. Also currently road testing the 3000M
to get the running sorted since MOT tweeks, some photos to appear
& some tuning info updates to appear in members area. New Autumn
Survey form now on this page on the right below adverts - please help
with future plans and send me your views!!
Many new technical questions, plus new articles in members section
- see here
for details. Links page now updated/amended. New web address for TVR
Car Club North America - http://www.tvrccna.org
+++PLUS+++ New this week is an ebay "window" which allows
you to see a few of the current items available for your TVR - quite
handy I think, no?
M-Fix
shop open again - click on marketplace.
From
August: Members area new information available: Adjustment of
rear wheel bearings. More technical questions as usual. I am currently
spending some time looking into a running fault which has reared its
ugly head again, almost certainly to do with non motorcraft (Ford)
parts for the engine....more on this very soon. Traced it (partly)
to the cap, but also worn distributor spindle bearing at base of distributor.
The bearing had worn enough to let the pressure of the cam gear alter
the centre position of the rotor arm, allowing it to cut away the
HT contacts inside the cap on no.'s 1, 4 and 2. Still getting the
odd misfire now after fitting a new Bosch type non vacuum distributor
from Aldon, but at least all 6 cylinders are working.
I have just discovered a company supplying goodridge hoses for
the M Series & Classic TVRs:
http://www.motechdirect.co.uk/
Castle
Combe Track day - Friday 24th June 2005
Click here for full
report
The
M-Fix Store (in marketplace section) has now reduced the price
of the Graham Robson TVR reference books. There is a £1 discount
for payment made by cheque rather than Paypal (due to Paypal seller
fees). These books are brand new and in stock now for fast despatch!
Also this month - new technical question, also long awaited update
to members area with front brake info, photos and pad/disc/caliper
overhaul procedure when servicing. Also Rear Brake overhaul now available,
finished Sat 11th June 10.30pm. Updates to front and rear suspension
sections also done (added new photos and text). All cars for sale
sections updated - all old adverts were removed (thanks John B for
your survey comment reminding me!)
May 2005 Latest - 3 new technical questions this week.
Also, parts for sale section new advert with parts including a 3.1L
triple carb steel cranked Essex! Take a look in the Marketplace section
under parts for sale, or
click here.
Also
new exhaust section, rear suspension sections now added to members
area - work in progress. Coming after are front & rear brakes
info & photos. Also a new parts for sale advert & 5 new technical
questions answered.
April 2005
V6 Essex Technical Data section started in members area, so far tech
specs on general data, block/cylinder data plus torque wrench settings.
This covers early and late type Essex engines. Now also some 2498cc
Triumph Data for 2500M. Also added in the free area of the site are
3 new technical question answered, plus links page addition.
Following this will be a Technical Manual Data booklet....more news
soon.
Feb 05: Addition to Gallery section.
December
2004 - New article on Propshafts now published & a couple of Sunroof
restoration photos added, article updated.
Thanks
to Clive at TVRCC Sprint magazine for featuring this website. As the
article mentions the scrapyard watch section, please help me keep
it up to date by emailing your "finds" straight away! See
the Car Ads/Gallery section for more info.
Parts
sourcing/price guide page being compiled...available to view from
today (10th August 2004), but still under construction. All your notes
including part numbers from other manufacturers' welcome, I want this
to be a definitive list eventually to sort out these cars once and
for all...
Trade
tips section - ask me and I will try to answer!
At last something useful! Have been extremely busy with other things
hence quiet period. New gallery photos, plus some new tips in the
Wiring section for determining fuse ratings, wire sizes, and fusebox
typical layout when fitting an Autosparks aftermarket loom.
New article on bonnet catches - thanks to Simon for your request for
this item on your survey reply!
New information about converting your M series car to a V8! See Technical
Library engine section
Get Advertising! - If you have any spares to sell for your TVR
or V6 Essex engined car then try the ads section. Plenty of wanted
ads are there too - a good place to look if you have some old unwanted
parts kicking around!
New Body Removal Article - see Technical Library, Bodywork.
Scrapyard Watch section now introduced - to enable M Series owners
to find second hand parts from other vehicles that are otherwise no
longer available. I have put a first entry in so let's see if a database
can be built up enough to enable a list per geographical area. See
classified ads section - update: 3000M seen in a scrapyard!!!
Come on, tell us if you know of any of these in a scrap yard:
Capri 3 Litre, Granada 3 Litre, Scimitar GTE, Triumph GT6, Triumph
2000 (for metal bumpers), Ford Consul (early type for windscreen)
etc etc
New Fuel Sender Modification for cars showing ¼ full on
gauge, but run out of fuel! See technical library under fuel system.
A
new section has begun within the technical library - the diary of
a TVR 3000M owner. This will be updated from time to time with new
articles - already one update!
Castle Combe TVRCC Track Day 2003
Also new is a downloadable TVR M Series buyer's guide, Wiring
Diagram download, Windscreen & Rear Screen removal/refitting,
Bonnet quick release mod, new gallery photo, bodywork tools update
still in progress (more photos & info), new tech questions appearing
regularly...latest one includes a downloadable sketch of safety belt
mount plates.
The
new site's running pretty smoothly now, with plenty more work needed
to keep me busy. I'm trying to get all the sections finished, and
still maintaining a fast response to technical questions (same day
replies in most cases). Keep them coming in - each one then goes onto
the website so in time it will become a useful source of help to others.
Please
bear in mind that some of the sections require a lot of scanning of
photos which is pretty time consuming - so I have to find spaces in
my busy schedule to get them transferred to digital.
Thanks
for all your support of this site past, present & future!
Work on the old Minifix site has now ceased but it will remain online
for some time as is - so please add this new site's address to your
favourites.
For
2004! - this site will begin to offer a few (to start with) parts
for sale relevant to your M series TVR, or Ford V6 Essex engine.
Get Trading - Please see new wanted adverts for second hand parts
- may be of use if you have some second hand parts to sell. Alternatively,
place your parts adverts for free (will add sections if popular).
Also is a new TVR number plates section - for wanted plates or plates
to sell
Click here
to visit these new sections
