Talk Morgan Forums Morgan Sports Cars Classic Morgans (pre-CX) Winter projects

While I have had many ideas running through my head all year, It's time to make a plan for the winter. Looking for suggestions. It's a '73 4/4

Last year I replaced the king pins, replaced the springs, added Avo's and BRBs. Also rebuilt the entire brake system. The Vredestien Classics are 2 years old and in decent shape. New radiator with electric fan.

I've been very happy with way the car is performing, but, oddly, I want more. Since the car is nearly 50 years old I am considering replacing the rear springs, installing a panhard, possibly changing from the Armstrongs to something else.

I have really enjoyed a couple of autocrosses this year, and have done well. I'd like to keep improving the car in that direction. A rough ride on the road is not an issue for me. I'm not apposed to replacing the tires for something stickier.
I've thought about making the camber a bit negative. Shouldn't be too big of a job. Is there a reason not to?

The engine is still stock. I'm not ready to do a cam or head at this point, but have been thinking about doing something with the stock distributor.

I'd appreciate your thoughts and ideas on any or all of this.

Yep - did mine - new 4 leafs from BCC, Panhard Rod and overhauled the Armstrongs and fitted them with adjustable damper valves (from SSL) - much cheaper and less hassle than going for a shock conversion. Transformed the ride. Not quite a 'straightforward job' - the 4 leafs moved the axle back (now perfectly central in the wheel arch) so had to move the Armstrongs position on the mounting plate, and move the tank back a smidge.



Replaced the FoMoCo dizzy with a refurbished H&H Electronic Lucas Dizzy and Dry Cell Coil. Has proved very reliable. If you have a bit more cash, the 123 Ignition Dizzys are multi-programmable and have a good reputation.

My wheels are centered now, so I don't know how that would effect it.

The 123 is on my list. Thanks.

Changing the tacho to be compatable with the electronic ignition and fabricating and fitting a Panhard Rod for Me and the Mog this winter .... and having the new hood made in a couple of weeks time obviously ... however my input to that will be writing the cheque so I don't really count it.

K

Access hole to grease the front UJs via the tunnel for starters

It will be early next year but kingpins/bushes will need doing. Checked yesterday after last greased 800 miles ago and noticeable wear on drivers side, slightly less on passenger after 23,000 miles. Will take off stub axles myself and give them to Cain to be re-bushed with matching new hard chrome kingpins. That way I can paint them up and assemble at my leisure.

I have oil & filter changes planned, plus brake & clutch fluid changes. I have a Sifab sump to fit to my Roadster, and possibly also increase the thickness of my engine mount spacers. I also have an oil pressure gauge and voltmeter to fit to my Plus4, and the heater control needs a look, because it's sloppy, and the heater isn't as hot as it should be.

Oh and a garage clear out. This involves looking at everything. Dusting the shelves, and replacing 99% of everything. It also involves me finding stuff I'd forgotten I had.

Sort out the front indicator...
Polish everything......
Wait for the spring.....

And a major garage clear out. Over the years I've hoarded timber, because it might come in useful, likewise nuts, bolts, screws and even nails. The wood can be cut up for firewood, thank God for the band saw. All slot head screws will go, likewise non metric nuts and bolts and all the nails inherited from my Dad.
I've also got paint and car care products that are not quite empty... anyone remember Lacro car polish from the 1980s? I've got a bottle with contents set hard...!!

Going to finish my 1968 Plus 4 off then get the 1933 Super Sports and 1955 Plus 4 4 seat DHC up to rolling chassis condition as I've got piles of parts scattered around various sheds.

I'm also going to give my 1971 4/4 a bit of a refresh as there is a bit of paintwork repair needed. Will also refit its original cylinder head rather than the non GT spec one that's on it.

Arwyn

I loved reading this list of tasks - i hope everyone manages to share progress and photos. My aim is to stop the brake fluid leak and figure out why it stops after a couple of miles.

I replaced the condenser and blew compressed air through the fuel line - if I ever get it to drive for longer than a mile I'm hoping to get a new exhaust and then it's time to finally get the paint/body work attended too.
The nice thing about breaking down so frequently is the opportunities to chat with strangers