Engine and Brakes, Interior Decisions

 Engine update first.  Stuck valve (#1 exhaust) is now free after soaking the stem/spring in PB Blaster and WD40.  Performed new compression check, getting better, #1 went from zero to 90, #2 from 60 to 85, #3 from 40 to 75, #4 from 40 to 70.  Doused all four cylinders in Marvel Mystery Oil and will let it sit some more.

Replaced hoses on radiator and heater and refilled cooling system.  Replaced flexible fuel and oil pressure lines.  Fuel pump makes noise.  Next step after more soaking is to start the engine up and see how it runs.


Meantime brakes and clutch hydraulics would be done except for a new part snafu.  Good thing we ordered all new brake lines, we had four lines break when removed, two due to rusting through right in the middle of the line!  All six wheel cylinders replaced on the drum brakes, new master cylinder for brake and clutch, and new slave cylinder for clutch.  


The snafu we have is the new brake lines will not thread into the stainless braided flexible brakes lines we ordered.  We suspect the stainless lines are the problem.  The old brake line will engage a turn or two, which is marginal, but the new brake lines will not start to thread in at all.  Here's some pics:





Sent required info to Little British Car Company so they can engage their supplier Moss Motors into resolving the issue.  Meantime, we ordered three new flexible lines in the traditional rubber so we can keep moving forward, we'll get LBC hopefully to reimburse us for the stainless lines.


Had the car owner meet us at shop to make some decisions on colors for top and interior.  Result is we have ordered a red top from England (16 to 20 week lead time) with three windows and center window zips out.  We have decided to have Too Tall Tim rebuild our seats and cover the cockpit trim in a matching red color.  We then ordered a red door panel kit (full kit, includes door pockets and rear panels) plus black carpet from LBC.  With these long lead time items covered, now we will focus on getting the car drivable so we can see what else needs attention.

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