Parts have slowly been arriving for the Mk2, just about managed to find all the parts I needed to get everything tip top. First job at the weekend along with a service was to give the car a face-lift. When I bought it, all 4 lamps were a bit crappy and one of the main headlights wasn't even secured properly. The red line around the grille was also looking a bit tired. So I've replaced the lamps with new Hella headlights and good used spots. To improve the red stripe I used 2 layers of insulation tape which has a texture very similar to the black plastic. It's not perfect but a big improvement. Some before and after pics....
Over the last few days I've been tackling various associated jobs. I've removed the dashboard to check all of the fixing points and to allow easier removal of the heater box to swap the matrix. The LHS bulkhead fixing point on the dashboard was broken/missing and likely the cause of the wobbly dash that I mentioned in another post. I've fashioned a repair by fixing a new bolt in place with fibreglass, I just hope it is in the right place when I line it up! Heater box came out easily enough and I did the standard refurb of the internal flaps using some thin foam insulation, stuck on with carpet tape and also covered in gaffer tape. I also cleaned off all the adhesive and replaced the various gaskets on the heater components using foam insulation. Flaps covered; New gaskets; I also made a new gasket for the ducting above the fan where it fits against the bodywork, along with my 'engineered' pollen filter which I've talked about on the separate post! All of the heater ducts had a good clean with some APC, hopefully it will smell much better now all the dust and crap has gone! As the coolant system was drained I've also fitted a new radiator and expansion tank. Just waiting for a few new hoses before I can refill the system. Next job is to refit the dash, hopefully my repair will be successful.
You'll notice a big difference with the heater, assuming the old foam was in its usual, ie f**ked state!
It was virtually non existent, plus the matrix was knackered! The heater in my old 8v was incredible so I'm hoping this one will be as good!
I’ve just done mine, what a difference, it’s hot now, do a function test before you refit the dash, although I replaced all the gaskets as well I had leaks between the sections making some squeaky noises. Also gets the last of the dust out and easy to clean up at that stage I may suggest to add a little sealer across the gasket joints if you haven’t assembled already!