New build

[Steve Kerswell]

Been squirreling away a few idea's and parts the last few weeks. Even bought a rusty MX5. So thinking now about a small engine. Like a fiesta 1400 or these 1.25. The easy way is the MX5 engine and box, plus maybe a narrowed MX5 back axle assembly. The mixer is 1800 5speed and a slip diff. Been welded poorly in all the places they rust, but goes really well. Almost a shame to break it up. So back to small engines, any input?

It is going in a B type, which will be small and light, I hope 

[Dave Adams]

its always a bit of a slog Steve.... some days you will spend hours in the garage and it looks like nothings been done other days your in the garage 10 mins and suddenly it looks nearly done... it is very hard and time consuming......

[Steve Kerswell]

My new old build B type is approaching the final chapter. Had a shed load of hassle with my life let alone the car. Anyway it is now up and running on a MX5 engine and box, electrics have never been my strong point, but, big but. It is now finishing, few gremlins to iron and I’ve changed the plan a fair bit. So it starts, runs, stops, lights horn all work, cooling fan spins when it’s told, steering is a bit weird, and the pedals are a tad far away. All new aluminium skin sides and tunnel and bulkhead, but I’m not entirely happy with it. Do I compromise and carry on or strip it back and start afresh. 
mean while the blue B + is needing a body work overhaul, lots of crazing and stress marks, bit like it’s owner, but I will use it this summer and look at it as the winter draws in. 

[Brian Victor Arthur Pratt]

When you say a bit weird how do you mean , I  mean the car not you cos i already know that . I would compromise Steve and just make subtle  alterations after a few shakedown  runs 

[Steve Kerswell]

The front wheels are too big. 7” wide with 215 tyres. My poor little wrist can’t force them around. I’m looking for narrower rims maybe down to 185 or175 tyres. 

[Big Vern]

Steve, how have you mounted the diff?

[Steve Kerswell]

Vern, the diff is a standard live axle, I haven’t got to the mx5 rear assembly yet, that could be work in progress, if I decide to carry on building