Some progress
Posted: Tue Sep 08, 2009 4:49 pmSo my Reliant has been in the garage since November last year. (Unbelievable, I know!)
A few days ago I finally was able to test-drive it, and although many things have improved, some crucial things still need attention. I think my mechanic is slowly losing interest/motivation, for whatever reason, which is a pity as he does/did have the most positive attitude (which is everything when this model/year is concerned, at least here).
It rolled quite nicely on the road, but there was some noise as if something was scratching in the wheels (like some break pad or something), so I asked to see what causes that, plus I'm not sure the brakes are working on the left side at all (also asked to have a look.) So far I haven't needed the brake drums Butch kindly found for me, as it was simply impossible to test them in any way.)
Another part in the front wheel (sorry don't have the time to translate right now) is dying (making a rather nasty noise when the wheel is turned) so has to be adjusted from some other make/model again. (LOL, sorry but it seems I can only diagnose the problems by the presence of nasty noises, come to think of it!)
The engine - well, he says the "brains" have been damaged somehow, so (deep breath!) they put in something from an Audi 100. I think my Plymouth is going to end up being some strange mutant after all (IF it survives!) The engine did work quite ok, but not sure about the CO-CH levels yet, those haven't been tested yet. Also the sensor that turns on the radiator fan, is dead.
Will write more later, just wanted to give an update! I hope everyone is well!
Irena
A few days ago I finally was able to test-drive it, and although many things have improved, some crucial things still need attention. I think my mechanic is slowly losing interest/motivation, for whatever reason, which is a pity as he does/did have the most positive attitude (which is everything when this model/year is concerned, at least here).
It rolled quite nicely on the road, but there was some noise as if something was scratching in the wheels (like some break pad or something), so I asked to see what causes that, plus I'm not sure the brakes are working on the left side at all (also asked to have a look.) So far I haven't needed the brake drums Butch kindly found for me, as it was simply impossible to test them in any way.)
Another part in the front wheel (sorry don't have the time to translate right now) is dying (making a rather nasty noise when the wheel is turned) so has to be adjusted from some other make/model again. (LOL, sorry but it seems I can only diagnose the problems by the presence of nasty noises, come to think of it!)
The engine - well, he says the "brains" have been damaged somehow, so (deep breath!) they put in something from an Audi 100. I think my Plymouth is going to end up being some strange mutant after all (IF it survives!) The engine did work quite ok, but not sure about the CO-CH levels yet, those haven't been tested yet. Also the sensor that turns on the radiator fan, is dead.
Will write more later, just wanted to give an update! I hope everyone is well!
Irena
Yes, the parts are a constant problem (and I do thank everyone who has offered help to find them in North America and send them), it's just that with a more or less creative approach a lot can be adjusted, but it does take some figuring out. My mechanic says in some respect it's very similar to the VW Passat of those years.