View Full Version : Car (or bike) Chat!
dave2010
28-02-2020, 11:41
She wants a Vauxhall 'Astra' GTC' But i said when you win the lotto feel free other than that i suggest a lot more well paid job. Cos for where she goes & the use it gets its crazy wanting such an expensive car. Cant all be pratz like the Swedish Car Guru
You could try Premium Bonds ....
Sounds as though you have suspicions about Sweden .... as do I.
Ali Tait
28-02-2020, 22:33
Eagle F1s are good. That's what I used before the PS4s. If it's 'bang for your buck' you're after, in terms of delivering the best performance in terms of price, grip, comfort and wear, then the Goodyears are good, although a little noisy, especially with low-profile.
The PS4s though, simply outclass them in all areas, so are worth the extra:)
Yeah, best not to take your car to the limits of BHP/torque. Always leave some 'headroom'. You know how it works, same with hi-fi!;)
Marco.
PS4 tyre review here-
https://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Michelin/Pilot-Sport-4-S.htm
Eagle Asymmetric 5-
https://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Goodyear/Eagle-F1-Asymmetric-5.htm
Lot of folk seem to like them.
RobbieGong
28-02-2020, 22:56
One for Marco - :drool: inside and out....gorgeous piccies https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2019-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-PETROL-Manual/264645781086?hash=item3d9e1e265e:g:wy8AAOSwROleU5f o
PS4 tyre review here-
https://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Michelin/Pilot-Sport-4-S.htm
Eagle Asymmetric 5-
https://www.tyrereviews.co.uk/Tyre/Goodyear/Eagle-F1-Asymmetric-5.htm
Lot of folk seem to like them.
Yeah, like I said, based on pure 'bang for buck', the Goodyears are great. But they're not the best, IME, for road noise, especially when you're running low-profiles (30, 35), and things can get a little 'rumbly', especially on our, erm, less than perfect UK roads!
Swapping from them to the PS4s though, was a BIG upgrade, in ALL areas, but of course results will vary from car to car, and how and where you do most of your driving:)
Marco.
One for Marco - :drool: inside and out....gorgeous piccies https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2019-Mercedes-Benz-AMG-PETROL-Manual/264645781086?hash=item3d9e1e265e:g:wy8AAOSwROleU5f o
Very cool, and for what it is, not a bad price! Not sure about the grey seats, though. I'd have wanted something funkier, such as red, or maybe a combo of red and black:)
The wheels are particularly gorgeous, and similar to mine!:cool:
Marco.
If you're into geeky car shit [count me in], this is a good guy to follow on YouTube, seen here discussing tyres:
https://youtu.be/3rQoBeUH9hY
Worth watching for you, Ali:)
Marco.
Ali Tait
29-02-2020, 13:24
Cheers will have a look.
Made in 1968
01-03-2020, 12:28
Well its MOT & Test in the Morning. More expense. But it all ok in our household to spend wads of money on the fukin' car but a slanging match when i want to but a bit of stereo equipment. I spent £48 on a nearly new Cartridge & ended up getting the cold shoulder.
Audio Al
01-03-2020, 12:45
Well its MOT & Test in the Morning. More expense. But it all ok in our household to spend wads of money on the fukin' car but a slanging match when i want to but a bit of stereo equipment. I spent £48 on a nearly new Cartridge & ended up getting the cold shoulder.
Result then :D
Well its MOT & Test in the Morning. More expense. But it all ok in our household to spend wads of money on the fukin' car but a slanging match when i want to but a bit of stereo equipment. I spent £48 on a nearly new Cartridge & ended up getting the cold shoulder.
Lol - don't you have separate accounts, so that what you earn, you can spend on what you want, and vice versa? That's what we do. We have a joint one too, but that's only for the bills. You need to agree who can spend what (on what) in advance, and then stick to it.
That way there'll be no arguments:)
Marco.
Made in 1968
01-03-2020, 13:14
Joint account. All i get is here we go again, i would not mind if i bought expensive gear but i dont. Anyway fuck the whole lot of it.
Well its MOT & Test in the Morning. More expense. But it all ok in our household to spend wads of money on the fukin' car but a slanging match when i want to but a bit of stereo equipment. I spent £48 on a nearly new Cartridge & ended up getting the cold shoulder.
It is amazing how, as a society, we've bought into the cult of the car. Tell someone you've spent a couple of thousand on your hifi and thy look at you like you are bonkers. Tell them you've spent thirty thousand on a car and lost thousands just driving it out of the showroom and they wouldn't bat an eyelid. Too many people are like sheep.
Made in 1968
01-03-2020, 13:18
This is my whole argument with the Car. I never wanted one & the reason i never had a desire to drive but of the cost involved. But that's all ok it seems. If i turned around and sed a wanted a new 'Gyrodec' no way on earth would that go down well but spending £1,000 on insurance is no problem.. Waste of twatting money. & people say Money is not important. All my issues in life are based around money & the lack of it.
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 18:56
Well its MOT & Test in the Morning. More expense. But it all ok in our household to spend wads of money on the fukin' car but a slanging match when i want to but a bit of stereo equipment. I spent £48 on a nearly new Cartridge & ended up getting the cold shoulder.
Probably the way you went about it - I would have suggested "Hey petal, your hair looks lovely like that, and would you like a nice cup of tea? And how about a biscuit with it, one of the chocolate ones, not the ones the kids think we buy. Oh and is it okay if I put in an offer for this bargain price cartridge? I'll probably be outbid anyway"
Rather than "Right, I'm buying this f****g cartridge, and if you don't like it tough tit. I bought some new bags for your hoover last week, so you can't say you never get anything" Sometimes the direct route to what you want isn't the best method - try the scenic route next time :)
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 19:08
Lol - don't you have separate accounts, so that what you earn, you can spend on what you want, and vice versa? That's what we do. We have a joint one too, but that's only for the bills. You need to agree who can spend what (on what) in advance, and then stick to it.
That way there'll be no arguments:)
Marco.
I don't think there's any one way which will work for everyone. Me and Anita don't have 'our own' money. We don't micro-manage all of each others' buying decisions, but we do discuss anything that costs more than £40 or so. Might seem an odd arrangement to some, but it works for us.
Anita is going to Egypt for a week tomorrow with her friend, and I'm not thinking about what it's costing us, rather I'm looking forward to 7 days of loud music and no soaps on the telly :)
RobbieGong
01-03-2020, 19:16
Probably the way you went about it - I would have suggested "Hey petal, your hair looks lovely like that, and would you like a nice cup of tea? And how about a biscuit with it, one of the chocolate ones, not the ones the kids think we buy. Oh and is it okay if I put in an offer for this bargain price cartridge? I'll probably be outbid anyway"
Rather than "Right, I'm buying this f****g cartridge, and if you don't like it tough tit. I bought some new bags for your hoover last week, so you can't say you never get anything" Sometimes the direct route to what you want isn't the best method - try the scenic route next time :)
:lol: quality !
Lol - love it... In a lot of circumstances that would be good advice, and effective, but sometimes it's just best to say it as it is, but of course considerately.
As I said earlier though, it's piss-easy to sort situations like that: have separate bank accounts, which your respective wages are paid into, and an agreement (which is rigidly stuck to) that as long as all the bills and food are paid for (which both partners contribute to equally), what's left in either account can be spent as that person sees fit.
That's what we do, and so Del and I *never* argue over money. In fact we rarely argue about anything, certainly nothing beyond superficial disagreements on petty matters, which are quickly forgotten about. I don't do 'moody mares', never have, and by the same token Del wouldn't put up with being bossed around either, and certainly isn't shy sticking up for herself, which is how it should be.
At the end of the day, it's all about affording each other due respect and consideration, and working together as a team:)
Marco.
Made in 1968
01-03-2020, 19:21
Ah well bollox to it now im done with Hi-FI Buying.. Ive only got myself to blame swapping & changing so much..
I don't think there's any one way which will work for everyone. Me and Anita don't have 'our own' money. We don't micro-manage all of each others' buying decisions, but we do discuss anything that costs more than £40 or so. Might seem an odd arrangement to some, but it works for us.
Anita is going to Egypt for a week tomorrow with her friend, and I'm not thinking about what it's costing us, rather I'm looking forward to 7 days of loud music and no soaps on the telly :)
Not at all. Seems perfectly normal to me, and of course what counts is what works for you. As for holidays, we always go together, as TBH, we'd miss each other too much otherwise. I couldn't bear not being with her for 7 days, and she's the same with me. Even when either of us are out for the day with our respective friends, we'll still call each other or text.
Del loves loud music, and we have very similar tastes (we often listen to music together), so there's no issue there. And if we're not watching the same stuff that we like on the TV [which is most of the time], we'll watch what we want to see in separate rooms/TVs, then join up later. That mostly happens when I want to watch live football.
There's always a way to successfully compromise:)
Marco.
P.S You do realise that she'll be over there looking for some young Egyptian totty?:eyebrows:;)
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 19:37
I couldn't bear not being with her for 7 days, and she's the same with me. Even when either of us are out for the day with our respective friends, we'll still call each other or text.
:spew: You can pack that in, making the rest of us look like crap husbands :steam:
Lol, why? What works for one couple won't necessarily work for another. We've just always been really close:)
That's why I always laugh when I hear guys saying that they can't wait to go down the pub to 'get away from the nagging wife', or similar, as such a concept is alien to me...
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 19:52
Lol, why? What works for one couple won't necessarily work for another. We've just always been really close:)
That's why I always laugh when I hear guys saying that they can't wait to go down the pub to 'get away from the nagging wife', or similar, as such a concept is alien to me...
Marco.
Must be the circles you move in, I only ever come across the "escape the nagging wife" cracks on 70's sitcoms. Me and Anita love each other's company, and why wouldn't we, we're adorable! But at the same time I'm perfectly happy with just meself for company. I'll be getting bored by the end of the week though.
Quite enjoy being on my own most of time now.
Get to do what I want, when I want, how I want.
Not that I don't miss her but it's surprising how you adapt.
Everything has its good and bad points I guess. Well maybe not everything but u know what I mean
Made in 1968
01-03-2020, 19:57
O dear im totally happy on my own.. but ive known nothing else but marriage since i was 17 had a daughter at 17
Must be the circles you move in, I only ever come across the "escape the nagging wife" cracks on 70's sitcoms. Me and Anita love each other's company, and why wouldn't we, we're adorable! But at the same time I'm perfectly happy with just meself for company. I'll be getting bored by the end of the week though.
Nah, I read it on forums all the time, and hear folks taking about it in real life. Not so much on here, though.
Too many people get married to the wrong person, so other than any brats they've spawned, don't have anything else in common! Or end up with someone who's ultimately just all out for themselves. That's the big problem, and why in so many marriages, once the 'honeymoon period' has worn off, which these days often only lasts months, couples grow apart and often end up hating each other.
That's what happens when you rush into things and get too caught up on the 'I must make sure I have a wife and kids, otherwise I'm a failure' thing, and so settle for anything:doh:
Plus, too many men are simply looking for a replacement for their mother, which is even sadder!! I'm happy with my own company too, but only up to a point. I still look forward to Del coming home from work and ensuring that there's a nice cup of tea and/or glass of wine/cocktail waiting for her, and in this weather, her hot-water bottle!:)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 23:10
Yeah I've seen before on this forum, people referring to 'the wife', 'the boss', SWMBO, but I don't believe they all mean it. They are just reinforcing male stereotypes. Like saying you like football, it's the blokey thing to do :ner:
I'm not at all interested in football and mentally 'wince' when people talk of "the wife", when of course they should be saying "my wife".
Maybe I'm not 'blokey' enough. :scratch:
Yeah I've seen before on this forum, people referring to 'the wife', 'the boss', SWMBO, but I don't believe they all mean it. They are just reinforcing male stereotypes. Like saying you like football, it's the blokey thing to do :ner:
Ha - perhaps some do (although I'm baffled as to what the attraction is of making out you're under the thumb), but I also know, having met some of them in real life, that there are plenty of henpecked 'hi-fi husbands' out there, and who are certainly used to being bossed around, not only at home, but at work.
Trust me, it's *the* primo factor responsible for breeding trolls, as their jealousy and resentment towards those of us who don't have a 'boss' at work, or at home, thus take orders from no-one, knows no bounds...;)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
01-03-2020, 23:48
I'm not at all interested in football and mentally 'wince' when people talk of "the wife", when of course they should be saying "my wife".
Maybe I'm not 'blokey' enough. :scratch:
Blokiness only required if you wish to become friends with other blokes. Which I don't. At school I was usually 'picked last' for football, and ended up as goalie. It was exactly like Kes!
Kes - who's he?:scratch:
Marco.
Kes - who's he?:scratch:
Marco.
Pigmy is, I think, referring to the Ken Loach film: 'Kes'.
Never heard of it. I do wish folk, who make references to such things, would make it clear as to *exactly* what it is they're referring to, rather than assuming that everyone will know! We're not all au fait with other people's favourite films;)
Plus, what's considered as 'well known', in that respect, is simply down to what you've personally experienced and are aware of.
Marco.
Maybe a bit too British working class for your tastes.. Was a boy at school who kept a small hawk. Well a kestrel I think. He was bullied at school and home..
Good film, and you'd enjoy it
Lol, I might well do, so I'll check it out. Are you insinuating, though, that I'm some kind of posh boy?:D
Marco.
P.S Just noticed that I was only five when it was released in the UK, so no wonder I'm unaware of it!
Posher than Billy casper in the film lol. You'll like the footie coach/teacher
Maybe a bit too British working class for your tastes.. Was a boy at school who kept a small hawk. Well a kestrel I think. He was bullied at school and home..
Good film, and you'd enjoy it
Talking of 'British working class' films, I saw 'A Taste of Honey' (1961) with Rita Tushingham in her debut role a couple of days ago. I had forgotten how powerful and daring this film was - especially concerning homosexuality as prtrayed by the excellent Murray Melvin.
'Kes' was one of my O level English lit subject books, possibly why I failed it
Lol... Think I'll stick with 'Gregory's Girl', which has similarities and was from my era!:eyebrows:
Marco.
Posher than Billy casper in the film lol. You'll like the footie coach/teacher
What about the footie coach/teacher in 'Gregory's Girl'?
'Kes' was one of my O level English lit subject books, possibly why I failed it
We had 'Death of a Salesman':)
Marco.
Oops - an overlap of posts there. 'Gregory's Girl' is one of my favourite coming-of-age films. I just love the subtle, but accurate humour.
What about the footie coach/teacher in 'Gregory's Girl'?
More like it! Clare Grogan (back then) was more my thing, though;)
Marco.
along with Arthur Miller's 'The Crucible' & Thomas Hardy's 'Far from the madding crowd'. honestly what chance did I stand?
Don't recall getting any. If I did I didn't read it. Rebel without a clue, that was me..
Pigmy Pony
02-03-2020, 06:29
More like it! Clare Grogan (back then) was more my thing, though;)
Marco.
Oh yes I had a thing for Clare too. And that scar on her face just added to the appeal for me
Pigmy Pony
02-03-2020, 06:36
Talking of 'British working class' films, I saw 'A Taste of Honey' (1961) with Rita Tushingham in her debut role a couple of days ago. I had forgotten how powerful and daring this film was - especially concerning homosexuality as prtrayed by the excellent Murray Melvin.
I believe this type of film was referred to as "kitchen sink drama".
Another such film of the early sixties was "A Kind Of Loving" with Alan Bates and June Ritchie. A bit of trivia for you: while much of the outdoor locations were Bolton and Preston, the indoor factory scenes (where Bates' character worked) was the Blackburn Mullard Factory :)
I believe this type of film was referred to as "kitchen sink drama".
Another such film of the early sixties was "A Kind Of Loving" with Alan Bates and June Ritchie. A bit of trivia for you: while much of the outdoor locations were Bolton and Preston, the indoor factory scenes (where Bates' character worked) was the Blackburn Mullard Factory) :)
I have some Blackburn Road Mullard EL34s in my Radford amp. I wonder if they were made by Alan Bates? :D
But joking aside, 'A Kind of Loving' is an excellent film, as is 'The L-shaped Room', both of which explore subjects that, until then, had not been portrayed in film or on the stage.
Talking of 'British working class' films, I saw 'A Taste of Honey' (1961) with Rita Tushingham in her debut role a couple of days ago. I had forgotten how powerful and daring this film was - especially concerning homosexuality as prtrayed by the excellent Murray Melvin.
Back in the day her father owned the general store just down the road from our house. When 'A Taste Of Honey' came out my grandmother went into the shop and gave 'Tushy' (as he was known) a piece of her mind for allowing his daughter to appear in such filth.
With respect though, what business was it of your grandmother's what his daughter did?;)
Sorry, if I've read it wrong or don't know the facts, but I can't stand prudish interfering busybodies!
Anyway, that's another film I've not heard of. All these 'golden oldies' just haven't appeared on my radar:)
Marco.
the attitudes were of the time in older folk. just the way it was. my gran for instance was born when queen victoria was on throne.
With respect though, what business was it of your grandmother's what his daughter did?;)
Sorry, if I've read it wrong or don't know the facts, but I can't stand prudish interfering busybodies!
Anyway, that's another film I've not heard of. All these 'golden oldies' just haven't appeared on my radar:)
Marco.
Irish Catholic, Liverpool, the early 1960s - it was a different world mate.
Can't believe you have never heard of 'Kes'. Not seen it, fair enough, but never heard of it? It's a very famous and highly acclaimed film. Worth watching just for Brian Glover's turn as the football coach.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m000bh0n
Great little documentary about Kes.
got it in my library somewhere.. not sure if its apple or amazon... Not overly surprised Marco hasnt heard of it tbh. Its not really a must watch for an Italian family in Scotland.:)
Irish Catholic, Liverpool, the early 1960s - it was a different world mate.
Can't believe you have never heard of 'Kes'. Not seen it, fair enough, but never heard of it? It's a very famous and highly acclaimed film. Worth watching just for Brian Glover's turn as the football coach.
Lol, as I've said before, "very famous" is subjective and depends on many factors. I'm no film buff (or historian), nor do I pay much attention to these things, so simply haven't been exposed to the film in question. I like what I like, and what I like (and would generally watch) is miles away from that - although that's not to say I wouldn't enjoy it:)
Interesting about the first bit, which is fair enough, but I simply couldn't imagine either of my (staunchly Catholic) grans, or indeed my mum, when they were alive behaving like that - during ANY era. They would've just kept themselves to themselves.
None of my family have ever been ones for interfering in other people's business. It's just not in their nature.
Marco.
Not overly surprised Marco hasnt heard of it tbh. Its not really a must watch for an Italian family in Scotland.:)
Precisely!:)
My upbringing in the UK was completely different from that of most Brits. In terms of TV, as a kid, I'd have watched what my mum was watching, and films like that would've been of no interest whatsoever to her.
Marco.
Made in 1968
02-03-2020, 16:30
Spent all morning up at the MOT/Test place. I was gutted when he said it failed. I said on what?
One of the Headlamp bulbs were out. This pissed me off because only a few moths ago i put the best bulbs i could buy in that car, every one. The other failure was a Rear spring on the driver side had broken. Now only last week i hear a slight creek when going over Bumps. I was 100% it was coming from the passenger side. So got under the car & checked. Seemed fine. Never thought of checking the other side as i was so convinced it was the passenger side. Well i was wrong.
If i would have known prior to MOT i would have just replaced it myself. Only a Ten min job, So that was another £50+ half hour labour + the bulb..
£200 in all with the Service, MOT & Parts. I wernt happy one bit but hey ho its all ok to spend money on that F---in' thing
The other failure was a Rear spring on the driver side had broken...
If i would have known prior to MOT i would have just replaced it myself. Only a Ten min job
Takes me longer than that to change a wheel!
(why didn't you take the car away, change the bulb & spring, then take it back for a retest?)
So the car had a service, as well as an MOT? If not, that seems expensive for what you had done.
I pay £35 for an MOT (£40's about the going rate), so including your new spring that's £90. What's a bulb on a car like that, a tenner? So that's £100... So that leaves £100 labour for fitting a bulb and a spring?:eek:
However, if there was also a service in the equation, that's different:)
Marco.
RobbieGong
02-03-2020, 22:36
Here's another Merc I wanted to show before the one in post #2753.
A bit big for a smaller fella like me but gosh ! Seriously rapid even by Super Car standards, let alone for what is effectively a large, heavy 4 door coupe/saloon - 0-60mph in 3.2 Seconds and a Top Speed of 196mph :eek: :eek: Now that's just mental !!
P.S - It's a special edition and sold in a few days. Some very wealthy so and so has probably moth-balled it and added to his collection of 'toys' https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Mercedes-Benz-GT63-S-4-Door-AMG-4-0-630ps-s-s-Auto-EDITION-1/273995048891?hash=item3fcb60a7bb:g:H7IAAOSw1B9dcM-L
Made in 1968
02-03-2020, 22:59
Takes me longer than that to change a wheel!
(why didn't you take the car away, change the bulb & spring, then take it back for a retest?)
Cos i dont have time, ive had to swap a shift at work so i could go today. plus the fact the retest is free because i had a service, Take it away you pay again. Ten mins to change a rear spring on a Corsa tops.
Made in 1968
02-03-2020, 23:00
So the car had a service, as well as an MOT? If not, that seems expensive for what you had done.
I pay £35 for an MOT (£40's about the going rate), so including your new spring that's £90. What's a bulb on a car like that, a tenner? So that's £100... So that leaves £100 labour for fitting a bulb and a spring?:eek:
However, if there was also a service in the equation, that's different:)
Marco.
Full service inc Oil Change/MOT/New Spring/New Bulb/Labour for fitting the spring & headlamp.
Theres a Service & a full service. Full service every year, Mini service half way thru the year is what i do & no i dont do it myself because i am not spending my time on a car i have zero interest in. As long as its reliable for her lady ship thats all that matters.
InThe Sticks
03-03-2020, 07:00
plus the fact the retest is free because i had a service, Take it away you pay again.
I've never known any garage or main dealer that i've worked for as a tester charge for a partial or full retest, and i've been testing for 20+ years. And also, for some failed items and as long as you bring the car back within the time frame they can't legally charge.
Full service inc Oil Change/MOT/New Spring/New Bulb/Labour for fitting the spring & headlamp.
Theres a Service & a full service. Full service every year, Mini service half way thru the year is what i do & no i dont do it myself because i am not spending my time on a car i have zero interest in. As long as its reliable for her lady ship thats all that matters.
Ah, okies... Alles Klar!:)
Marco.
I feel like an expectant father....
It is MOT time. Once every two years here, but even so it is never easy.
The car is getting on a bit now, so we will wait and see how long the list is.
Last time there was nothing, except uneven tyre wear. Since then I have done the tracking myself as the local tyre centres seem incapable of doing it correctly.
Firebottle
03-03-2020, 16:09
........... as the local tyre centres seem incapable of doing it correctly.
I found that when I lived in France. Took the car back twice and they couldn't get it right. Once adjusted in the UK it was fine.
mot's are a thimg of past for me fortunately, although my last car never failed one in all years i had it..good ol' ford. this one is 15 months old and still under 3k:D
I found that when I lived in France. Took the car back twice and they couldn't get it right. Once adjusted in the UK it was fine.
I think it is a deliberate ploy to make you buy more tyres.
Either that or they employ anybody who.walks in off the street.
Beobloke
03-03-2020, 17:06
The P4s give superb grip in the dry or wet, plus they produce a very comfortable and quiet ride (for 255/30/R19s):)
Right then, Marco, I hope you're right as I've just splashed out on a pair of Michelin Pilot Sport 4s for the front of the Mondeo! I'd love to give you a long story of how this resulted through a combination of your advice plus hours of diligent research, but the truth is that I only ever buy Michelins and, handily enough, Costco have the PS4s on offer at the moment - 205/50R17 93Ws supplied, balanced, fitted and nitrogen-filled for £111 each. :eyebrows:
The car has Goodyears on the front - both are fairly worn but one won't hold pressure and I spotted a bulge in the sidewall of the other one today so they both have to go ASAP!
I feel like an expectant father....
It is MOT time. Once every two years here, but even so it is never easy.
The car is getting on a bit now, so we will wait and see how long the list is.
Last time there was nothing, except uneven tyre wear. Since then I have done the tracking myself as the local tyre centres seem incapable of doing it correctly.
Failed o a headlight being too high by 0.4% and the diesel emissions test due to the new limits in place. Basically, super diesel.for.a few tanks and rev the nuts off it, and a quick turn of a.screwdriver and jobs a good un.
Not bad for a 16 year old car.
checked mine today with all the tyre talk. 225/50/18.. mitchelin primacy tyres. very good in wet
Out of interest, is there anything I can put in the fuel tank to help reduce the emissions for the MOT?
I will be adding some Total Super diesel or whatever it is called. I have two months to sort it out, so time to get a couple of tanks in.
It is about the only decent fuel within my usual travels.
The air filter is about 6 months old, the glow plugs are fairly new.
Heard this is good but not tried it. Might be worth a go.
Archoil AR6900-D Max Advanced Diesel Fuel Synthesis - 500ml https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01IDD99T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3bRxEbSSF31YR
Ali Tait
03-03-2020, 19:37
An injector cleaner might help, also an oil/filter change and new air filter just before the test.
Ali Tait
03-03-2020, 19:38
Terraclean maybe.
Car was serviced (by me) a few months ago.
I will try the add in products before going down the terraclean route.
I hope this is the last CT I do with this car, although with so little points to sort, it would be daft getting rid of it.
It could need new injectors, as it has done 230,000 km.
Heard this is good but not tried it. Might be worth a go.
Archoil AR6900-D Max Advanced Diesel Fuel Synthesis - 500ml https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01IDD99T8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_3bRxEbSSF31YR
Thanks. I will investigate further.
Made in 1968
03-03-2020, 21:00
I've never known any garage or main dealer that i've worked for as a tester charge for a partial or full retest, and i've been testing for 20+ years. And also, for some failed items and as long as you bring the car back within the time frame they can't legally charge.
Im gonna say this again. If you have the service a Retest is free
https://www.autopfect.co.uk/mot/
Beobloke
04-03-2020, 08:42
Out of interest, is there anything I can put in the fuel tank to help reduce the emissions for the MOT?
I will be adding some Total Super diesel or whatever it is called. I have two months to sort it out, so time to get a couple of tanks in.
It is about the only decent fuel within my usual travels.
The air filter is about 6 months old, the glow plugs are fairly new.
Years ago I used the Broquet Fuel Catalyst in a car when leaded petrol was phased out. Not only did it run happily on unleaded (the reason I bought it) but it ran quieter, more smoothly, stopped ‘pinking’ and when I last had it MOT’d, the tester repeated the emissions test twice as he couldn’t believe how low its emissions were!
Works with tractor fuel as well, apparently, so might be worth a go.
https://www.broquet.com/
InThe Sticks
04-03-2020, 18:02
I've never known any garage or main dealer that i've worked for as a tester charge for a partial or full retest, and i've been testing for 20+ years. And also, for some failed items and as long as you bring the car back within the time frame they can't legally charge.
Im gonna say this again. If you have the service a Retest is free
https://www.autopfect.co.uk/mot/
What are you babbling on about?
I tapped the link you posted and this appeared...
https://i.imgur.com/73PfjNg.jpg
:rolleyes:
keep it friendly folks..... be nice:D
dave2010
05-03-2020, 05:08
Apparently there is going to be "new" fuel available soon in the UK. It's not really new, but it has a greater proportion - 10% of bio fuel mixed in than was previously available in the UK - previous 5%. This is supposed to be more environmentally friendly, resulting in lower CO2 emissions. The claim of lower CO2 emissions only works if one considers the way way the biofuel is produced, and accepts the assumption that bio fuel might in some ways be sustainable and renewable. The 10% mix has been available on the European continent for some while.
InThe Sticks
05-03-2020, 20:51
I finally got a settlement from my bike accident last June, and its fairly satisfactory and certainly worth breaking my shoulder for in a pain vs monetary value kinda way.
I’ve had worse.
So the plan was to buy a brand new bike, but much like after the Mitzy Evo and Imprezza got all grown up and boring it seems new bikes have followed suit.
Apart from a MV Augusta Lewis Hamilton or a new Panigale, nothing really gives me (to quote James May) the “fizz”.
But! I’ve owned the earlier (very tuned) V Twin version of this and it was a fucking lunatic, and i mean a complete hooligan of a bike, so my mind is made up.
One of these it will be..
https://i.imgur.com/oC6Tv6m.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/OupHXVI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Td3QkRA.jpg
Yes, it’s a lot for a few year old bike, but i’d rather look out of the window at something i actually desire and cherish rather than a new thing just to one up the hoi polloi.
Congrats, and nice looking Aprilia! I'm not really up on modern bikes, is it a Tuono?
I have bought a bottle of additive that will help clean my engine, apparently.
A new fuel filter is also waiting to be fitted, and I have just picked up a K&N for the car. The theory being that if there is more air getting in, then it should burn cleaner. I had thought about removing the restriction of an air filter just for the emissions test...
My Italian tune up seems to being the job, and there is very little, if any, in the way of a puff of smoke when I accelerate hard now.
I will adjust the headlight soon, and then do the retest with a tank of quality fuel in there.
I think that the “Italian tune-up” is complete.
I fitted a new fuel filter, and the K&N air filter this morning. I have been running some additive for a week and with a hot engine, I am struggling to see any smoke.
I blame the stupid 80km/h speed limit is this part of the world....
I finally got a settlement from my bike accident last June, and its fairly satisfactory and certainly worth breaking my shoulder for in a pain vs monetary value kinda way.
I’ve had worse.
So the plan was to buy a brand new bike, but much like after the Mitzy Evo and Imprezza got all grown up and boring it seems new bikes have followed suit.
Apart from a MV Augusta Lewis Hamilton or a new Panigale, nothing really gives me (to quote James May) the “fizz”.
But! I’ve owned the earlier (very tuned) V Twin version of this and it was a fucking lunatic, and i mean a complete hooligan of a bike, so my mind is made up.
One of these it will be..
https://i.imgur.com/oC6Tv6m.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/OupHXVI.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/Td3QkRA.jpg
Yes, it’s a lot for a few year old bike, but i’d rather look out of the window at something i actually desire and cherish rather than a new thing just to one up the hoi polloi.
Nice, and much more my thing (bit of style to it) than that black thing you've got! And I love Italian bikes. Might be a great bike, but style/individuality will always be a consideration for me when it comes to cars or bikes. Your "Pepsi' classic is still my fav, though!:)
Marco.
Right then, Marco, I hope you're right as I've just splashed out on a pair of Michelin Pilot Sport 4s for the front of the Mondeo! I'd love to give you a long story of how this resulted through a combination of your advice plus hours of diligent research, but the truth is that I only ever buy Michelins and, handily enough, Costco have the PS4s on offer at the moment - 205/50R17 93Ws supplied, balanced, fitted and nitrogen-filled for £111 each. :eyebrows:
The car has Goodyears on the front - both are fairly worn but one won't hold pressure and I spotted a bulge in the sidewall of the other one today so they both have to go ASAP!
Lol, Adam... Soz for the late reply! Let us know how you get on with the PS4s - I'm sure they'll hit the spot. Glad you've signed up to the nitrogen thing too. For me, it's crucial when you're running top-notch tyres, as it helps maintain correct pressures for longer, thus helps ensure maximum longevity.
Marco.
I think that the “Italian tune-up” is complete.
I fitted a new fuel filter, and the K&N air filter this morning. I have been running some additive for a week and with a hot engine, I am struggling to see any smoke.
I blame the stupid 80km/h speed limit is this part of the world....
I must've missed it, Kev, but what's the Italian connection?
Anyway, hope it works for you:)
Marco.
I must've missed it, Kev, but what's the Italian connection?
Anyway, hope it works for you:)
Marco.
Definition below...
Italian tuneup is a slang automotive term for attempting to restore engine performance by driving a car at high engine speed (RPM) and load. The term originated from Italian mechanics in the 1950s using this practice to burn off carbon deposits from the spark plugs of sports cars.
A nice expression for driving the wheel nuts off your car.
Ah I see. Interesting. Not heard of that before.
Marco.
dave2010
07-03-2020, 15:43
I must've missed it, Kev, but what's the Italian connection?
Anyway, hope it works for you:)
Marco.I once tried to "tune up" - or at least refresh my ancient and long gone Morris minor by using Redex poured into the cylinders - which I think was one suggested way of burning off the carbon. Fortunately !!! I was at the time in a relatively remote area. When I eventually set off, the car worked OK, but the smoke billowing out of the rear was of the kind mentioned by Roald Dahl in one of his factual books. I think in that "story" there was an idea to protect oil wells in a country - was it Iran or Iraq? - or another one? - by creating smoke screens so that enemy (presumably German at the time) planes wouldn't be able to see the wells as targets. As he mentioned, it was an imaginatively stupid idea, as the smoke could be seen for miles away, giving pilots a pretty good idea which way to fly in order to find an oil well to hit.
By the time I got to the main roads, most of the smoke had gone, though I felt that it was a bit anti-social for a mile or two.
Firebottle
07-03-2020, 19:00
https://i.imgur.com/Td3QkRA.jpg
That's certainly got the looks for a hooligan bike in my eyes and I've never been a bike rider.
Now give me a 2 stroke paramotor .......
InThe Sticks
07-03-2020, 21:03
Nice, and much more my thing (bit of style to it) than that black thing you've got! And I love Italian bikes. Might be a great bike, but style/individuality will always be a consideration for me when it comes to cars or bikes. Your "Pepsi' classic is still my fav, though!:)
Marco.
The “black thing” i’ve got is awesome at what it does.. like doing 180mph+ (i’ve done it twice and vomited both times with the adrenaline), but i look at it as just a bike, it doesn’t excite me visually at all.
I’d love a brand new bike, but with the cash i have (11K, i don’t do loans) theres little out there of interest.
I’ve looked at Z900’s, Z1000’s, GSX-S1000’s and street triple’s etc and they’re all as dull as ditch water.
And yes, some have fancy electronics and even Bluetooth connectivity, but if one needs Bluetooth on a bike whilst riding then one is missing the point by a fucking country mile somehow imo.
But until i sell her (when clean) the old girl still looks fairly good..
https://i.imgur.com/YcvLVHx.jpg
Lol, I knew you'd come back with that! As I said, I've no doubt that your 'black thing' is a super machine, in terms of performance, but the rather 'soulless' styling does nothing for me. I'm generally not a fan of modern motorbikes (as they all look the same), much preferring something from the 70s with chrome on it and spoked wheels, and more 'character'!:D
Plus, I'm more of a 'cafe racer' kind of guy... This is my sort of thing, just to cruise around and pose on:
https://www.triumphmotorcycles.co.uk/motorcycles/classic/bonneville-t100/t100
Marco.
RobbieGong
07-03-2020, 22:20
Dont worry about 'im-El Captain Jon, some of us can appreciate both.
That is some serious flying machine you've got their seriously modern 'stealth'.
You've some humungus balls taking that thing flat out - Be careful ! :eek:
Dont worry about 'im-El Captain Jon, some of us can appreciate both.
That is some serious flying machine you've got their seriously modern 'stealth'.
You've some humungus balls taking that thing flat out - Be careful ! :eek:
Lol, I also appreciate both, and agree wholeheartedly with what you've said; it's just that I'd be riding the Triumph, simply because it's much more 'my thang'. Just personal taste:cool:
Marco [always preferred to stand out from the crowd, rather than simply blend in].
Made in 1968
07-03-2020, 22:50
Modern Bikes are a big Yawn fest.
Made in 1968
07-03-2020, 23:03
Proper Bike. Edward Turner masterpiece. Ariel Sq 4. A lot more to owning a Motorbike than what people seem to buy modern bike for!
Modern Bikes are a big Yawn fest.
It depends on what you use it for and how much of proper biker you are. Jon's a proper biker, so needs a race-tuned, performance bike . We certainly aren't, and don't.
Marco.
Prefer the black one, not that I'm into bikes now
Which black one? They're both black!;)
Marco.
Which black one? They're both black!;)
Marco.
https://i.imgur.com/YcvLVHx.jpg
Ah, the 'lean & mean' one....
Marco.
Made in 1968
08-03-2020, 11:45
It depends on what you use it for and how much of proper biker you are. Jon's a proper biker, so needs a race-tuned, performance bike . We certainly aren't, and don't.
Marco.
Obviously the performance stand point but i have no interest in high speed, you have a 50/50 chance of not being here every time you hammer it. Na Bikes for me are about vintage & the sheer please or riding on an open road at safe speed.
Me too, hence my preference for the Triumph, which would be ideal for that purpose. But I totally understand why proper bikers wouldn't entertain such, and would want something such as Jon's Ninja.
Marco.
I also like the Benelli Imperiale 400: https://unitedkingdom.benelli.com/product/imperiale-400
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/ZndRva.jpg
Something different/unusual/off-the-wall, so you're not riding the same (homogenised/designed by computer) thing on two wheels as every other fucker! I also feel the same about most modern cars:)
I like something that shouts: 'I'm an individual and not part of the crowd'.....
Marco.
nice vertical bike... i'd ride that :eyebrows:
I also LOVE this, Moto Guzzi V7 III Special:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/njK89N.jpg
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 13:05
Plus, I'm more of a 'cafe racer' kind of guy...]
Marco.
Yeah, but more 'cafe' than 'racer' though... 70% café, 5% racing, 25% toilet visits I would estimate :) Foodie first and foremost, followed by bog botherer. racing a distant 3rd
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 13:08
The “black thing” i’ve got is awesome at what it does.. like doing 180mph+ (i’ve done it twice and vomited both times with the adrenaline), but i look at it as just a bike, it doesn’t excite me visually at all.
I’d love a brand new bike, but with the cash i have (11K, i don’t do loans) theres little out there of interest.
I’ve looked at Z900’s, Z1000’s, GSX-S1000’s and street triple’s etc and they’re all as dull as ditch water.
And yes, some have fancy electronics and even Bluetooth connectivity, but if one needs Bluetooth on a bike whilst riding then one is missing the point by a fucking country mile somehow imo.
But until i sell her (when clean) the old girl still looks fairly good..
https://i.imgur.com/YcvLVHx.jpg
Jon, what you want is a lightweight frame by Harris or whoever's doing them these days, and stick a CBX1000 engine in it. Cool beyond words ;)
Yeah, but more 'cafe' than 'racer' though... 70% café, 5% racing, 25% toilet visits I would estimate :) Foodie first and foremost, followed by bog botherer. racing a distant 3rd
Ha - you know me too well!!:lol:
So what do you think of my choice of bikes - can you see what I mean by how 'racing' bikes today all look much the same, and have rather 'boring' styling in comparison?:)
Too much plastic and not enough chrome! I like polishing things... and not just my knob.
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 13:35
Ha - you know me too well!!:lol:
So what do you think of my choice of bikes - can you see what I mean by how 'racing' bikes today all look much the same, and have rather 'boring' styling in comparison?:)
Too much plastic and not enough chrome! I like polishing things... and not just my knob.
Marco.
Yeah, everything on modern sportsbikes is there to do a job, and for lightest weight, being rigid in the right places, controlled flex in others, weight distribution, aerodynamics - all worked out on computer, so similarities are inevitable. If you're prepared to sacrifice that last bit of performance there's a wealth of interesting alternatives out there...
Yup - it's about choosing the right 'tool' for the job - as Anita knows all too well!:eyebrows:
Marco.
InThe Sticks
08-03-2020, 19:27
Me too, hence my preference for the Triumph, which would be ideal for that purpose. But I totally understand why proper bikers wouldn't entertain such, and would want something such as Jon's Ninja.
Marco.
I thinks theres a slight misapprehension about what a proper biker is.
For me, it’s anyone who enjoys riding no matter what their steed is, whether it be a 50cc geared bike , a 70’s Honda 400/4, Panigale or anything else in between.
It’s the pricks who buy the latest high power bikes and dress themselves in ridiculously expensive leathers and helmets and then shit themselves when approaching even the mildest of corners. You only have to look at the “chicken strips” on their tyres to figure them out.
walpurgis
08-03-2020, 19:38
I thinks theres a slight misapprehension about what a proper biker is.
For me, it’s anyone who enjoys riding no matter what their steed is
Yup. I had a dinky little Suzuki DR-200 Djebel a few years ago and it was a complete hoot to ride.
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 21:06
Yup - it's about choosing the right 'tool' for the job - as Anita knows all too well!:eyebrows:
Marco.
She does refer to me as "That tool" :)
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 21:13
I thinks theres a slight misapprehension about what a proper biker is.
For me, it’s anyone who enjoys riding no matter what their steed is, whether it be a 50cc geared bike , a 70’s Honda 400/4, Panigale or anything else in between.
It’s the pricks who buy the latest high power bikes and dress themselves in ridiculously expensive leathers and helmets and then shit themselves when approaching even the mildest of corners. You only have to look at the “chicken strips” on their tyres to figure them out.
I know what you mean, all the gear and no idea.
No I think I understand what a proper biker is, and it is as you describe. I have a Honda FireBlade, but I'm not a proper biker 'cos it's been sulking in the garage for 15 months since I fell off it. Hope to get it fixed and become a proper biker again before I get too old :)
Made in 1968
08-03-2020, 21:43
Something different/unusual/off-the-wall, so you're not riding the same (homogenised/designed by computer) thing on two wheels as every other fucker! I also feel the same about most modern cars:)
I like something that shouts: 'I'm an individual and not part of the crowd'.....
Marco.
Thats a little tank, looks like it belongs to a Suzuki 'GP100' or summat :D
RobbieGong
08-03-2020, 22:01
Half scared myself to death watching this guy open up his Honda - 299kmh (186mph) - Crazy ! :eek: :mental: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez-A-X4lGrc
InThe Sticks
09-03-2020, 06:46
Half scared myself to death watching this guy open up his Honda - 299kmh (186mph) - Crazy ! :eek: :mental: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez-A-X4lGrc
That speed and no gloves!
That said, if he crashes he’ll turn in to meat rain, so it doesn’t really matter i guess?
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 06:51
I cringe when I see people riding without gloves - maybe they have jobs that don't require hands?
I was struggling to watch that video, and just cringing... Fucking idiots, not just for not dressing properly, but for riding at such insane speeds on open roads, shared by other road users, and endangering the lives of those people in the process, as all it would've taken would've been a blowout or hitting a pothole, when overtaking them, for a disaster to have ensued.
It's just a pity that there weren't any cops around to have caught them and banned them from riding for life!!:mental::wanker:
Marco.
walpurgis
09-03-2020, 08:28
I cringe when I see people riding without gloves - maybe they have jobs that don't require hands?
Having had bloody 'gravel rash' on both hands when I was about seventeen after coming off a bike, I can strongly recommend wearing gloves! :)
I thinks theres a slight misapprehension about what a proper biker is.
For me, it’s anyone who enjoys riding no matter what their steed is, whether it be a 50cc geared bike , a 70’s Honda 400/4, Panigale or anything else in between.
It’s the pricks who buy the latest high power bikes and dress themselves in ridiculously expensive leathers and helmets and then shit themselves when approaching even the mildest of corners. You only have to look at the “chicken strips” on their tyres to figure them out.
Yeah, I agree on all counts, particularly the last bit - and there are similar clueless, 'look at me' show-offs on hi-fi forums;)
But yes, you can be a 'proper biker' no matter the bike. What I meant was, I could well understand why someone like you wouldn't entertain owning any of the bikes I like (and have shown), as these days I wouldn't have the balls to go super-fast on a motorbike, probably a ton, max, and ONLY in perfect conditions.
I just like bikes that (to me) look and sound great, and which I could cruise down some country lanes, at sensible speeds, on sunny Sunday afternoons. Plus, as I said, I like having something nice to polish! Down, piggurs...:D
Marco.
I used to see a lot of people round here riding those sports bikes whilst wearing jeans and trainers and no gloves, but not anymore. I suspect probably because they are now all either disabled or dead.
In my day you got a 'soft introduction' to the joys gravel rash when you came off your pushbike, but I suppose these people did not bother with the nursery slopes and went straight for the hard stuff.
She does refer to me as "That tool" :)
Does she USE you though, these days, or prefer her collection of battery-operated alternatives?;)
Marco.
Video is very confusing, starts with UK registered Fireblades, then suddenly we're abroad and additional bikes come into the mix, but whatever, that sort of riding doesn't belong on public roads, especially not busy ones! One mistake or incident and you've had it, but worse, someone innocent has.
RobbieGong
09-03-2020, 13:58
Video is very confusing, starts with UK registered Fireblades, then suddenly we're abroad and additional bikes come into the mix, but whatever, that sort of riding doesn't belong on public roads, especially not busy ones! One mistake or incident and you've had it, but worse, someone innocent has.
Can only agree, dont want to imagine the carnage at those speeds, doesn't bare thinking about :rolleyes:
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 19:34
Nothing like the velocities Jon has manged, the biggest number I saw on the 'Blade was 156mph, on an empty M61. Never again. Scary how quickly they get there. I then had to roll off the throttle as the jacket I was wearing was quite loose fitting and acting like a sail. The bike's front end went very light. I believe jumbo jets take off at about 120mph, and they're heavy buggers
Made in 1968
09-03-2020, 19:36
I was struggling to watch that video, and just cringing... Fucking idiots, not just for not dressing properly, but for riding at such insane speeds on open roads, shared by other road users, and endangering the lives of those people in the process, as all it would've taken would've been a blowout or hitting a pothole, when overtaking them, for a disaster to have ensued.
It's just a pity that there weren't any cops around to have caught them and banned them from riding for life!!:mental::wanker:
Marco.
Here Here
Nothing like the velocities Jon has manged, the biggest number I saw on the 'Blade was 156mph, on an empty M61. Never again. Scary how quickly they get there. I then had to roll off the throttle as the jacket I was wearing was quite loose fitting and acting like a sail. The bike's front end went very light. I believe jumbo jets take off at about 120mph, and they're heavy buggers
I did 150mph on my ZX6-R - on the insistence of a police motorcyclist... attending a charity run from Norwich to Lowestoft around 1999 when the bike was nearly new and they put all the faster modern bikes at the back. They closed off all the junctions onto the A47, but were keen not to disrupt the traffic too long. I was at the back, pootling along at 70 watching everyone else disappear into the distance - copper on his BMW came alongside and ushered me on until we caught up! I was crapping myself I have to say...
I did max it once, to about 165 on a very open straight stretch in Thetford forest, but never again. I just kept thinking a deer would dash out into the road. A friend of a friend was killed on a bike when his head hit a pheasant, so Bambi would have given me no chance.
InThe Sticks
10-03-2020, 19:48
We had a Smart car recovered in to us today that had apparently hit a pothole.
I think it was more of a sink hole to do that much damage..
https://i.imgur.com/mIIFwTh.jpg
Daughter hit a pothole a few weeks ago and tore her tyre out. Nothing as bad as that tho. Must have hit it some force
Bloody hell... Probably too busy texting someone to keep their eyes on the road!:doh:
Marco.
Bloody hell... And what's that no-name shitey cheap tyre on it, too?:doh:
Always amazes me how folks refuse to spend proper money on ultimately the only thing that keeps them on the road!
Marco.
A Dunlop I believe. ;)
:lol:
Lol - I noticed that. Thought it was some cheap Chinese shite, as I hadn't heard of 'blu response' before:eyebrows:
Marco.
If it was a Chinese tyre, would it have cornervirus?
I think it is an eco sporty model, or some other marketing spiel type of tyre.
If it was a Chinese tyre, would it have cornervirus?
I think it is an eco sporty model, or some other marketing spiel type of tyre.
:D
Yeah, not my bag.
Marco.
dave2010
20-03-2020, 07:58
Have been testing a bunch of different cars - several pure EVs, plus some hybrids and plug-in hybrids. I found a couple I liked - but perhaps they have problems. I was quite surprised that I really liked the new Toyota models - dead easy to drive. OK - I drive a Prius normally anyway, but I didn't think I'd like the newish ones. A couple of snags though. One model of the plug-in Prius from a year or so back has 4 seats - not 5. It has an arm rest in the middle of the back seat - not quite sure why. It's not a moveable one, so probably there's something under it, such as a battery. The one I drove was really nice - but now kind of "remaindered" as the garage is having difficulties selling it. Reason. The next model fixed that problem with the arm rest, so is a proper 5 seat version. It was an order, which was cancelled when the "true" 5 seat version came out. I guess nobody else thinks it's worth it now, even at a substantially reduced price.
What about the new plug-in versions? These might suit some people - though the range is only about 30 miles. They do have the advantage that for people who do shortish journeys mostly they'll be running on electric, but they can obviously go a lot further with petrol in the tank.
What's the snag with those? Well - the para above says the first thing - "the range is only about 30 miles". The second thing is that there's really not much boot space. Over the years with our Prius - which has now done over 130,000 miles, as it has become older I have used it a lot for moving stuff around - now sometimes even quite grubby stuff - loads of junk to the dump etc. Years ago we had a Volvo - that was really good for moving things, and surprisingly had a very tight turning circle. We also had a VW transporter van at one time, which was a motor caravan conversion. That was also great for shifting stuff, but no good for going to dumps - certainly wouldn't have been in recent years the way those places are policed nowadays. A third snag with the car, shared with many other new cars, is it doesn't have even a small spare wheel but only one of those repair kits. I don't mind the lack of a wheel so much as the lack of a sensible place to put one. I thought that if I had a car without a good spare wheel I'd simply buy one anyway, but the manufacturers don't provide anywhere sensible to put one. Should be an option. I don't believe in the small wheels, or the repair kits. Sorry - manufacturers.
So - one big snag with some of the new cars is lack of space for luggage - such as for going on holiday - and for junk - when eventually the poor things get used more for that than anything else. After all, who really keeps their cars in pristine condition after 10 years or more? [OK - I know some do - Marco perhaps!].
Made in 1968
25-03-2020, 12:32
Detest the things. Ten bob millionaires tend to go for em :rolleyes:
Ali Tait
25-03-2020, 14:26
I note Tesla’s are group 50 for insurance..
walpurgis
25-03-2020, 14:34
I note Tesla’s are group 50 for insurance..
They can keep it. My car's group 4.
Ali Tait
25-03-2020, 14:36
Exactly. My 535d is 400 quid or so.
Anyone own a Fiat Multipla?
It looks as awkward as a platypus buy I like the interior lay out .
They never came to the U.S. so I have no idea how good they are but I think they are perfect for a family wagon .
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED-OgnLS7Vw
Used to have a sign on back saying, wait til you see the front. Eek!
Yup a tru 6 seater. Used to rust a bit and the mechanics weren't great but a handy motor if you had a big family and a dog.
Still see the odd one going about too
Pigmy Pony
05-04-2020, 07:52
Used to have a sign on back saying, wait til you see the front. Eek!
Yup a tru 6 seater. Used to rust a bit and the mechanics weren't great but a handy motor if you had a big family and a dog.
Still see the odd one going about too
Yes I've seen ones with a sticker in the rear window saying "If you think this looks weird you should see the front". From a mechanical and practical point of view they were very well reviewed, but I know if I owned one I'd never wash it. Like putting lipstick on a pig.
Just had a google - maybe not that great mechanically.
To bad they didn't do a better job of making it dependable .
The interior is the best use of space I have ever seen.
I like the wider platform, it makes so much sense.
think the late models were a bit more reliable. A neighbour had one for a while, and he joked it was a car share with his mechanic
think the late models were a bit more reliable. A neighbour had one for a while, and he joked it was a car share with his mechanic
That is funny , It is in a race with the Pontiac Aztec or Citroen DS Estate for odd looking that is for sure.
Did the UK import the Aztek? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAf1riXwPOk
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gptoHwHtkxY
Pigmy Pony
05-04-2020, 08:17
Don't have Pontiac anything over here, as far as I know. Citroen have always gone their own way styling-wise. Can be a decent 2nd hand buy, due to their value dropping like a stone as soon as they come out of the showroom.
ah the citreon safari.. yes they were great motors.... Pontiac, no, not here. American car makers never got round to putting steering wheel on the correct side:ner:
The Aztek was our Multipla.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3czTXrT118
americans put v6's in everything:D cool... looks good, and i like the idea of the optional tent
walpurgis
06-04-2020, 10:54
New car sales down 44% apparently. Bet that won't be reflected in a 44% price reduction! :)
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/apr/06/car-plant-shutdowns-may-cost-auto-industry-more-than-100bn-covid-19
Pigmy Pony
06-04-2020, 11:19
New car sales down 44% apparently. Bet that won't be reflected in a 44% price reduction! :)
https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/apr/06/car-plant-shutdowns-may-cost-auto-industry-more-than-100bn-covid-19
It would take a 94% price reduction to tempt me. Might skint me now but I could probably sell it next year at a profit. Fuel is very cheap right now - shame stuff is only affordable when you don't need it :(
Beobloke
06-04-2020, 11:23
Well, given that used car prices are falling and fuel is as cheap as I can remember it for years, I must confess to stretching the government's definition of "essential shopping" to the limit last week...
https://i.imgur.com/2cAKmfE.jpg
walpurgis
06-04-2020, 11:28
And I bought a thirty quid second-hand bicycle last week! :D
not bougt anything for an age bar food.. well whisky is food :ner:
Well, given that used car prices are falling and fuel is as cheap as I can remember it for years, I must confess to stretching the government's definition of "essential shopping" to the limit last week...
https://i.imgur.com/2cAKmfE.jpg
big rangey... car tax is a bit steep mind. looks lovely nick
Pigmy Pony
06-04-2020, 11:49
And I bought a thirty quid second-hand bicycle last week! :D
I trust you've got it in quarantine. Well that's one more chav getaway vehicle off the road.
Pigmy Pony
06-04-2020, 11:51
I'd be interested to see how crime figures are now. I bet burglars have taken a big knock with their income. And car thieves.
walpurgis
06-04-2020, 12:03
I trust you've got it in quarantine. Well that's one more chav getaway vehicle off the road.
It's been outside for over a week and been rained a couple of times, that should do.
It's a folding shopper's bike. A nice one, but not really chav material! :)
Beobloke
06-04-2020, 12:15
big rangey... car tax is a bit steep mind. looks lovely nick
Not quite as bad as you might think due to its age (2005) - £330 per year. Still more than yours, though!
I hope Marco's not going to be too upset that I've now got more power than him... :D
Pigmy Pony
06-04-2020, 12:18
It's been outside for over a week and been rained a couple of times, that should do.
It's a folding shopper's bike. A nice one, but not really chav material! :)
Leave it outside a shop with no padlock, it soon will be ;)
Not quite as bad as you might think due to its age (2005) - £330 per year. Still more than yours, though!
I hope Marco's not going to be too upset that I've now got more power than him... :D
Lol - nice one, Adam! It's not really my thing, as you know, but enjoy (as I know you will):cool:
It's certainly a shrewd investment, and looks in lovely nick :thumbsup:
Marco.
Well, given that used car prices are falling and fuel is as cheap as I can remember it for years, I must confess to stretching the government's definition of "essential shopping" to the limit last week...
https://i.imgur.com/2cAKmfE.jpg
I love it, very expensive to own in the U.S.
It is funny how some of the best old British brands have become Indian owned.
When Conner gets older and goes to collage 8 years from now I am going to get another Motorcycle.
The 3 I like are the Triumph Scrambler, Royal Enfield 500 classic and the RE Himalayan. RE is now also made in India and before long Harley Davidson maybe too.
Made in 1968
07-04-2020, 13:55
I love it, very expensive to own in the U.S.
It is funny how some of the best old British brands have become Indian owned.
I think they still make Royal Enfield motorbikes in India, have done for a good 70 years.
I think they still make Royal Enfield motorbikes in India, have done for a good 70 years.
70 years ,Wow!
If I get a 500 it will most likely be used as they discontinued it for 2021.
RE is changing it's line up to target younger riders .
Pigmy Pony
07-04-2020, 14:05
While Indian motorcycles are made in USA. It's all so confusing.
While Indian motorcycles are made in USA. It's all so confusing.
Yes, I just wish they would fix their dependability issues.
Right now Triumph is building some of the best motorcycles to have ever graced the road.
They are way better than my old British bikes from the 70's, and I don't need Whit worth tools to tighten up half the bike after a long ride.
And a test light to under the seat to trace the electrical issue of the week.
The new Triumphs just work ,as dependable as a Japanese bike but classic British styling.
https://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/classic/bonneville-scrambler-1200
Lovely looking L322 there Adam! At least fuel is cheap at the moment!
Car has not been on for a long time. Starting to wonder if it will start.
dave2010
08-04-2020, 05:37
Car has not been on for a long time. Starting to wonder if it will start.Are you allowed out to try it? I start up our cars every few weeks just to check, and maybe drive them round the front garden - just drive round the lawn once or twice. Really could do with a longer run - but I expect I could do a round trip somewhere to pick up food, which would address that. Best not to let the starter battery get really run down, so makes sense to keep starting up maybe once a week, though having started the car one ought to keep it running for a while - unless you're the sort of person who knows how to charge a battery up. Modern cars are a real pain in this respect. With older cars, like my first Morris Minor, I could easily charge the starter battery up in the car, or if needed take it out and charge it in the garage. Modern cars seem to make this very difficult. Some cars have fairly pathetic batteries, so if the car is left undriven for a few weeks they won't start. I don't want to have to do any call outs during this lockdown period - so I'd suggest finding a valid reason to drive your car a few miles and giving it a treat.
Car has not been on for a long time. Starting to wonder if it will start.
After three weeks of not being used, mine didn’t. I think my iPod drained the battery.
Pigmy Pony
08-04-2020, 07:22
After three weeks of not being used, mine didn’t. I think my iPod drained the battery.
Andre had the same problem with his eight-track stereo. Probably.
dave2010
09-04-2020, 11:40
I was just talking to a friend of mine, and he suggested a trickle charger plugged into the cigarette lighter would mitigate against this kind of problem. I've never tried one of those, but if they work could be a really good idea. He said it worked on his current car - an Audi.
We have just ordered food from a local deli, so hopefully our car will start, and will get a bit of a charge in driving over there.
Note though, that the trickle charge suggestion is just that - it will only top up a battery, not charge one which has run down.
Another issue is keeping the tyres pumped up - to avoid going near petrol stations. I think I have an electric pump which will do that, but never used it for that purpose. It was bought as a battery charger, but has an airbed pump as well - which I think will do tyres. One should monitor the tyres every few weeks, as it's easier to top up a tyre which is only slightly down, rather than one which has gone completely flat.
Ali Tait
09-04-2020, 12:28
Trickle charger will work, other than that start it weekly and run for 15 mins or so. Make sure you rev above 2k when you start it, some ECU’s will not start charging until revs go above this.
I'm confused - how does a trickle charger work when it takes its power from the battery it is trying to charge?
Pigmy Pony
11-04-2020, 11:58
I'm confused - how does a trickle charger work when it takes its power from the battery it is trying to charge?
:lol: Well spotted! Probably made by the same firm that does diesel generators to recharge electric cars :)
Solar trickle chargers mostly but you get mains ones too
Pigmy Pony
11-04-2020, 12:26
"Smart chargers" are good for keeping batteries at optimum charge levels. Oxford Products do an "Oxymiser", which will charge a flat battery up to fully charged then maintain at that level. Fit and forget! They cost about £30.
i used to have a solar one that was fitted in back side window of car. it trickle charged battery anytime it could and it did make a difference. The cheapo ones aint so good tho
Solar trickle chargers mostly but you get mains ones too
Indeed... The best (and most reliable ones) work from the mains. I got caught out too last week, with the Brabster, but simply walked down and borrowed my dad's car to get the battery charged. Luckily his house is only a 5-minute walk, and I always keep jump leads handy:)
Failing that, we're got 'At Home' cover with the RAC, so I'd simply have called them to send someone out. We've always had great service from the RAC, and would never be without some form of 24-hour breakdown cover for our cars.
As for pumping up tyres, I use nitrogen-only in the Brabster's, and simply take the car along to our local ATS depot, as they're currently still trading. No hassles!:cool:
https://www.atseuromaster.co.uk/consumer/tyres/tyre-services/nitrogen-inflation
Marco.
dave2010
11-04-2020, 22:51
Another possible cause for concern is the brakes binding on, so even if the cars do start after a lay-off, they may make a horrid noise for a mile or so - perhaps more - if the rust and grit gets between the pads/discs or the pads/drums. Not sure how to overcome that issue, if we're strictly not allowed to drive anywhere without a very good reason.
Allowed to go for food etc.
Trying to only go out every 5 days, which is about the limit of fridge life for meat from the butcher, and alternating (pun intended) between my car, wive's and my Land Rover - so far they've all started ok, though Landy struggled when it was really cold. I have an Optima trickle charger, but it's currently with my uncle and my motorbike, the return of which is now extended due to COVID-19. Lockdown doesn't seem to have stopped the dozens of bikes passing the house today - I'm sure they're essential workers using they're bikes to get to work (though strange hours?) or possibly medical needs? Be difficult to do much of an "essential" shop on a bike?...
Not mixed with anyone for over 4 weeks. Can't get fresh shopping deliveries from anywhere at all but managed freezer stuff and some butcher meat from a butcher.
Pretty much living out of freezer. Son has a friend who is helping him fortunately as I can't due to risk.
He has one more delivery of groceries that I organised for him a while ago before it went tonto. I will hopefully get milk then, so keep my cereal and coffee going.
Got a saddle of lamb in fridge to cook. Might try it in foodi
dave2010
12-04-2020, 07:28
Failing that, we're got 'At Home' cover with the RAC, so I'd simply have called them to send someone out. We've always had great service from the RAC, and would never be without some form of 24-hour breakdown cover for our cars.
As for pumping up tyres, I use nitrogen-only in the Brabster's, and simply take the car along to our local ATS depot, as they're currently still trading. No hassles!:cool:
https://www.atseuromaster.co.uk/consumer/tyres/tyre-services/nitrogen-inflation
Marco.Re the At Home service - we also have that, with another company. It can be a real pain though, as when the battery on my Prius goes down, the doors lock. Then one has to use the mechanical key to open the car, and sometimes it's necessary to get into the rear of the car. It really is a complete pain. Sometimes also, the car alarm goes off almost continuously while trying to get this done. In addition, some of the breakdown people are more clued up than others, and actually know how to get this sort of problem fixed with relatively little fuss - others don't.
Best to avoid this kind of thing, if at all possible, so probably trickle chargers are the way to go.
Re tyre pressures - we're trying not to go out at all. I'm not sure that going to pump up tyres counts as essential in the current climate - though one could argue the toss that if it isn't essential now, it might be in a few weeks. I have similar concerns about the locked on brakes phenomenon - caused I think by leaving a car standing for several weeks.
if you have to use the car for essential stuff - which you do - then driving around on low tire pressure is a safety issue - so I don't think you'd have a problem explaining that. Seems to me that vehicle maintenance is still an essential.
I get where you're coming from, but Macca's right. Keeping cars safely on the road, for any reason, is still being treated as an essential, which is why mechanics are still working and garages are open.
Also, the thing about Nitrogen inflation is that the correct tyre pressures remain constant for longer [and yes I've tested this over the last three years I've been using it, versus just air], so once your tyres are pumped up to the correct pressure, it won't need done again for a minimum of 6 months.
Once things are back to normal, you should try it:)
Marco.
What's wrong with using a foot pump for those of us without 'fancy' tires?
Pigmy Pony
12-04-2020, 18:08
What's wrong with using a foot pump for those of us without 'fancy' tires?
If I wanted to use my legs I'd just walk. No, who am I kidding, I don't do walking!
Pigmy Pony
12-04-2020, 18:11
I get where you're coming from, but Macca's right. Keeping cars safely on the road, for any reason, is still being treated as an essential, which is why mechanics are still working and garages are open.
Also, the thing about Nitrogen inflation is that the correct tyre pressures remain constant for longer [and yes I've tested this over the last three years I've been using it, versus just air], so once your tyres are pumped up to the correct pressure, it won't need done again for a minimum of 6 months.
Once things are back to normal, you should try it:)
Marco.
Better quality tyre valves might have similar benefits.
Ha, very good!:ner:
You're so full of hot air and fart gas, sweetheart, that your tyres never go down!:D:eyebrows:
Marco.
Been another really nice day, currently 20C, so took the opportunity to wash and wax the Brabster....
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/ae0UR1.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/xEmZR6.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/Ptfe9Z.jpg
The old girl's still looking quite good:)
Marco.
InThe Sticks
16-04-2020, 18:22
I get where you're coming from, but Macca's right. Keeping cars safely on the road, for any reason, is still being treated as an essential, which is why mechanics are still working and garages are open.
Also, the thing about Nitrogen inflation is that the correct tyre pressures remain constant for longer [and yes I've tested this over the last three years I've been using it, versus just air], so once your tyres are pumped up to the correct pressure, it won't need done again for a minimum of 6 months.
Once things are back to normal, you should try it:)
Marco.
Not all of us techs are working. The group i work for which includes Porsche, Ferrari, Aston, McLaren, Mercedes etc etc has only a few techs in to cater for NHS workers and breakdowns and thats it. No servicing or suchlike is undertaken.
80% of all our staff are furloughed.
Also, and i’m not getting into an argument about it, but filling ones tyres with nitrogen will NOT result in no pressure checks required for 6 months unless one is completely insane or ill informed.
I’ve tech’d for a few friends who have spent the price of a house on their cars and have won various championships etc and not a single one of them have used nitrogen or have had any reason to do so.
F1, yes, but they’re hardly daily drivers.
Not a problem, Jon. However, my experience differs. With my car, the pressures *definitely* remain at the correct levels for longer since I've been using Nitrogen, same with my dad's car. I'm certainly not imagining it.
And I'm not going to into an argument about it either:D
;)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
16-04-2020, 19:07
The tyres you are now using may be less 'porous' (which all tyres are to some extent). Also valves and how the tyre beads seat on the rims may play a part. Just my view of course - I could well be wrong.
If your car spends long periods of time not being used I can see some benefits, but it goes without saying that regular pressure checks are still necessary. What do they charge to put nitrogen in your tyres? My Civic's tyres get air for free :) As I've said before, everything I buy is done on a cost/benefit basis.
yup, well looked after
Cheers, mate. Yeah, it's a pampered beastie. The inside is just as clean!
How's your jalopy doing? Does it still start - is it manky?:D
Marco.
Started a few days ago. I got to go around block as I picked up some shopping from sons house.
It could do with a wash but it's been worse.
Missing my runs
It was my escape from house
Yups... I'm certainly not disputing Jon's professional expertise, but I can only comment on what I've observed with my own car/tyres and environment/use, and also from my dad's experience with Nitrogen in tyres on a totally different car, so I don't know exactly what it's down to, but I'm not imagining the results - and neither is he:)
The Brabster certainly spends a significant amount of time unused, especially now, so that could be a factor, perhaps also the very low-profile tyres- dunno... Nitrogen is £1.40 a tyre, so not a hill of beans. Part of the enjoyment for me is experimenting with different things and seeing what they do. I've always been the same with pretty much anything, not just cars - I just don't do 'bog standard'....
And nothing about the Brabster is 'normal', even down to the coolant. Mere water? Pah!:D It insists on supping this:
http://www.evanscoolants.co.uk/Coolants/Performance/power_cool_180
Marco.
The tyres you are now using may be less 'porous' (which all tyres are to some extent). Also valves and how the tyre beads seat on the rims may play a part. Just my view of course - I could well be wrong.
If your car spends long periods of time not being used I can see some benefits, but it goes without saying that regular pressure checks are still necessary. What do they charge to put nitrogen in your tyres? My Civic's tyres get air for free :) As I've said before, everything I buy is done on a cost/benefit basis.
Started a few days ago. I got to go around block as I picked up some shopping from sons house.
It could do with a wash but it's been worse.
Missing my runs
It was my escape from house
Good stuff, mate. I totally understand the last bit, and it's a real shame. Hopefully you'll be able to get out in it again soon:)
Marco.
Thought your be hardcore with coolant.. Sheep urine [emoji23]
Heh-heh... Does it improve fuel burn?:D
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
16-04-2020, 20:18
Yups... I'm certainly not disputing Jon's professional expertise, but I can only comment on what I've observed with my own car/tyres and environment/use, and also from my dad's experience with Nitrogen in tyres on a totally different car, so I don't know exactly what it's down to, but I'm not imagining the results - and neither is he:)
The Brabster certainly spends a significant amount of time unused, especially now, so that could be a factor, perhaps also the very low-profile tyres- dunno... Nitrogen is £1.40 a tyre, so not a hill of beans. Part of the enjoyment for me is experimenting with different things and seeing what they do. I've always been the same with pretty much anything, not just cars - I just don't do 'bog standard'....
And nothing about the Brabster is 'normal', even down to the coolant. Mere water? Pah!:D It insists on supping this:
http://www.evanscoolants.co.uk/Coolants/Performance/power_cool_180
Marco.
Oh yeah, been using Evans Power Cool for years, for peace of mind on cold days :)
Seriously? :respect:
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
16-04-2020, 20:38
Seriously? :respect:
Marco.
Course I don't! Although if I had a car which I felt would benefit then I would. But it's an 11 year old Civic with less than half the power of the Brabster. And it doesn't ever get thrashed.
Awww... You've disappointed me now!:(
:D
One thing I'm loving at the moment when I take the Brabster out [collected a Chinese meal earlier] is because the streets are so quiet, and the ambient noise levels very low, you can really hear the lovely deep GROWL from the straight-through quad exhausts, echoing through the streets - and so can everyone else when I accelerate!:lol:
Yesh, I know I'm easily amused...:eyebrows:
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
17-04-2020, 06:17
Awww... You've disappointed me now!:(
:D
One thing I'm loving at the moment when I take the Brabster out [collected a Chinese meal earlier] is because the streets are so quiet, and the ambient noise levels very low, you can really hear the lovely deep GROWL from the straight-through quad exhausts, echoing through the streets - and so can everyone else when I accelerate!:lol:
Yesh, I know I'm easily amused...:eyebrows:
Marco.
I bet the sheep appreciate hearing you coming too...:eyebrows:
The silence round hear is quite eerie, not just Sunday-quiet, but end-of-the-world quiet. Family across the road have two big-ass Audis (one an RS6, the other is debadged), and they can never leave the house without everyone knowing, and we can set our alarm by the morning sound of them dumping wine bottles in their wheely bin. If they were your neighbours you'd have some serious competition :D
Yeah, quality... Although I'd be a bit more considerate with the wine bottles. We always put our bins out the night before collection is due, around 7pm.
The process for us is particularly noisy, as we have one of those recycling 'trolley carts', with separate bins for paper, glass and cans, and a long stoney driveway (around 150m) down which to wheel them, along with black (general refuse) or green (garden refuse) bins, depending on which week it is, so we're always aware of trying not to disturb people when clunking down!
Love RS6s, and all other Audis worth having, except SUVs, which I'm not a big fan of, from any manufacturer, although Grant's Toyota is among the most stylish. I just like being low down (with a sports suspension), not high up. But yes, the noise is a hoot, and you usually get approving looks from anyone into cars, when they hear the ROAR of dem pipes...:eyebrows:
*THAT* is one of the main reasons why I HATE electric cars, no matter how fast they are, as there's no engine noise!!:doh:
Marco.
Beobloke
17-04-2020, 10:59
except SUVs, which I'm not a big fan of, from any manufacturer,.
What? Not even ones with both a V8 growl AND a supercharger whine?! Remembering of course that if one does require forced induction, the supercharger is the gentleman's way of doing it, not those uncouth ruffian turbo things... ;) :D
Pigmy Pony
17-04-2020, 14:56
What? Not even ones with both a V8 growl AND a supercharger whine?! Remembering of course that if one does require forced induction, the supercharger is the gentleman's way of doing it, not those uncouth ruffian turbo things... ;) :D
Yeah, one of my dream cars would be a Jag XKR, 5 litre supercharged - there's one near us and it sounds the dog ballbag...
rmcin626
17-04-2020, 15:03
Yeah, quality... Although I'd be a bit more considerate with the wine bottles. We always put our bins out the night before collection is due, around 7pm.
The process for us is particularly noisy, as we have one of those recycling 'trolley carts', with separate bins for paper, glass and cans, and a long stoney driveway (around 150m) down which to wheel them, along with black (general refuse) or green (garden refuse) bins, depending on which week it is, so we're always aware of trying not to disturb people when clunking down!
Love RS6s, and all other Audis worth having, except SUVs, which I'm not a big fan of, from any manufacturer, although Grant's Toyota is among the most stylish. I just like being low down (with a sports suspension), not high up. But yes, the noise is a hoot, and you usually get approving looks from anyone into cars, when they hear the ROAR of dem pipes...:eyebrows:
*THAT* is one of the main reasons why I HATE electric cars, no matter how fast they are, as there's no engine noise!!:doh:
Marco.
I’m more than happy with my Q5.
This was my mate's Opel Manta GTE at the Brighton Speed Trials back in the 90's. It had the GM 2.0 litre engine with an Airbrex supercharger and a Richard Lam water/methanol injection system. It posted a reasonable time on the first run but blew the clutch the second time. He later fitted a Saab 900 Turbo clutch which took care of that weakness but the car was written off before he had a chance to run the following year. Apologies for the iffy picture.
https://i.postimg.cc/brWdTb0c/c321.jpg
walpurgis
17-04-2020, 15:24
This was my mate's Opel Manta GTE
Looks like my old one apart from the stickers :).
https://i.imgur.com/6h0SLNa.jpg
Pigmy Pony
17-04-2020, 15:25
This was my mate's Opel Manta GTE at the Brighton Speed Trials back in the 90's. It had the GM 2.0 litre engine with an Airbrex supercharger and a Richard Lam water/methanol injection system. It posted a reasonable time on the first run but blew the clutch the second time. He later fitted a Saab 900 Turbo clutch which took care of that weakness but the car was written off before he had a chance to run the following year. Apologies for the iffy picture.
https://i.postimg.cc/brWdTb0c/c321.jpg
Cool car, I like that :) But I bet it would never stop taking money off you
Pigmy Pony
17-04-2020, 15:28
Looks like my old one apart from the stickers :).
https://i.imgur.com/6h0SLNa.jpg
From a time when cars were proper, not packed full of emission-reducing bollox that no one understands
What? Not even ones with both a V8 growl AND a supercharger whine?! Remembering of course that if one does require forced induction, the supercharger is the gentleman's way of doing it, not those uncouth ruffian turbo things... ;) :D
Ha - absolutely, old bean, but I've always been somewhat of a ruffian!:hotrod:
:eyebrows::eyebrows:
Marco.
I’m more than happy with my Q5.
That's cool, Robin. Enjoy it. It's undoubtedly a nice thing, but you have a different approach to cars than me:)
Marco.
From a time when cars were proper, not packed full of emission-reducing bollox that no one understands
Indeed!! Mantas were always cool things. My uncle had souped-up a black one for years, fitted with a killer stereo... I think it might've rubbed off on me:D
Marco.
rmcin626
17-04-2020, 21:09
That's cool, Robin. Enjoy it. It's undoubtedly a nice thing, but you have a different approach to cars than me:)
Marco.
When I was your age approach was different, but now my requirements are different.
Yeah, defo. Although, I think it'll be a while before I 'grow up'!:D
Marco.
Ninanina
17-04-2020, 22:22
If you like 'pimped up' Mercs I guess...
Still my best car was the W124 Merc and it's the car I owned for the longest, over 9 years... I loved it... apparently it's still running..
When I get round to it I'll get a Boxster
If you like 'pimped up' Mercs I guess...
How very dare you!
:eek::wowzer::lol:
Just for that, you're getting imprisoned in here with Pigmy, for the duration of the lockdown, forced to listen to him farting in time to 'Dancing Queen' by Abba [his fav track of ALL time], and with the windows closed, so you can 'savour' the full intensity of his legendary chuffs....
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/cTWOFf.jpg
First rainy day here for weeks!
Marco
Pigmy Pony
18-04-2020, 18:39
I know you didn't just get out of your car (in the rain) then get in the back just take this picture! Because that would make you sadder than Mr Sadsack from Sadlington, suffering with Seasonally Affected Disorder :ner:
Anyway, once Bev's nose becomes adjusted to my trumps, she will start to appreciate just what delightful company I am...
RobbieGong
18-04-2020, 18:54
I know you didn't just get out of your car (in the rain) then get in the back just take this picture! Because that would make you sadder than Mr Sadsack from Sadlington, suffering with Seasonally Affected Disorder :ner:
Anyway, once Bev's nose becomes adjusted to my trumps, she will start to appreciate just what delightful company I am...
Marco will Soon Answer, Definitely.......;) :D
Tee-hee... Fessing up, I sleep in there sometimes:o
So took the pic when I got up.
:lol:
Marco.
RobbieGong
18-04-2020, 19:07
Tee-hee... Fessing up, I sleep in there sometimes:o
So took the pic when I got up.
:lol:
Marco.
Wouldnt surprise me, in the car, on Abstract Chat via smartphone. Rumour has it you own a hi-fi forum...... :scratch: :D :lol:
Anyway, once Bev's nose becomes adjusted to my trumps, she will start to appreciate just what delightful company I am...
Absolutely, and especially after you've pointed her to 'Percy'.
Marco.
Wouldnt surprise me, in the car, on Abstract Chat via smartphone. Rumour has it you own a hi-fi forum...... :scratch: :D :lol:
Heh-heh... Well the system in there bruv is BOOYAKASHA:wowzer:
And I'm sure Bev would just LURVE the vibration from the SUB.... Trust me, in that respect, sitting on the back seat is better than a sex toy :eyebrows::eyebrows:
Marco.
RobbieGong
18-04-2020, 20:09
Heh-heh... Well the system in there bruv is BOOYAKASHA:wowzer:
And I'm sure Bev would just LURVE the vibration from the SUB... Trust me, in that respect, sitting on the back seat is better than a sex toy :eyebrows::eyebrows:
Marco.
You Hanimal ! :D
Pigmy Pony
19-04-2020, 06:57
Tee-hee... Fessing up, I sleep in there sometimes:o
So took the pic when I got up.
:lol:
Marco.
Time to fess up about the splatters on the windscreen too - it's not really rain is it? :eyebrows:
Pigmy Pony
19-04-2020, 07:02
Absolutely, and especially after you've pointed her to 'Percy'.
Marco.
Correction: 'Percy' is short for Percival. And there's nothing short about Percival :eyebrows:
Time to fess up about the splatters on the windscreen too - it's not really rain is it? :eyebrows:
Why do you think God invented windscreen wipers?:D
I have 'special ones' on my laptop, too...
Marco.
Correction: 'Percy' is short for Percival. And there's nothing short about Percival :eyebrows:
Ha - he'll always aspire to the girth of his big brother 'Terence 'The Terrorising' Trouser Snake, who resides exclusively inside my boxers.
Marco.
Why do you think God invented windscreen wipers?:D
I have 'special ones' on my laptop, too...
Marco.
You have wipers on the inside of the windscreen?
Yesh.... For the "rain" Pigsy's talking about:D
'Released' when I'm sitting in the driving seat, listening to choons, and getting a little 'too excited' at how good it sounds!
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
20-04-2020, 06:08
I was thinking it was on the inside of the screen, but I suppose it could be from your dogging spectators...
Haha - woof, woof... Primo Chorley entertainment at a car park near you!:D
Anyway, dis dude's got in going on in a major way:
https://youtu.be/8CMhddnHZ4s
Now *THAT* is a car and WHAT driving is/should be ALL ABOUT!:eek::lol:
FUCK YER SILENT ELECTRIC SHITE.... Wrap yer lugs around that VVRROOMMM!!!
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
21-04-2020, 06:48
Sounds badass on acceleration, sounds broken when he takes his foot off. That kind of thing draws the wrong kind of attention. Anyway I prefer the sound they make when they're not trying so hard, and when idling :)
That work must have cost a fortune! Would go even faster if he left the cheese 'n' onion pasties alone for a couple of months. I bet the other drivers that have to pass him on the inside because he's hogging the fast lane, only to have him nail it past them, repeatedly, are wishing him dead though :(
My daughter's boyfriend had an AMG 63 a couple of years ago, think it was CLS or something like that. Looked like an old man car inside, and the AMG sound was all but missing. I think maybe you'd have to look for an earlier model, or change the pipes. The Audi S5 he had before that sound much better
InThe Sticks
21-04-2020, 07:26
They do sound brutal, albeit that one is OTT in my humble opinion.
I helped set up our stand at the Warren supercar show in 2018 and was tasked with delivering the AMG’s (A45, E63, C63, GT’s etc) and when we’d set up we had a rev off with the Audi and BMW stands.
My hearing has never been the same since.
Sounds badass on acceleration, sounds broken when he takes his foot off. That kind of thing draws the wrong kind of attention. Anyway I prefer the sound they make when they're not trying so hard, and when idling :)
Completely agree! It's a very cool car, and on acceleration, sounds BRUTAL, but that farty, phut 'pop 'pop', otherwise when the power's off, me no likey...:nono: It's ok, I guess, if you're 17..
The Brabster's much more subtle, in that respect, no farty noises whatsoever. Idling, it produces a kind of menacing 'throaty rasp', which transforms into a progressively deep GROWL, the harder you accelerate, and which is rather satisfying!:eyebrows:
The other thing you wonder about is cabin noise. It's fine getting some brutal engine sounds on a short trip, but on a long motorway journey, it might get on your wick. That was something I was very careful of with the Brabster [when the custom-made SS system was installed], as I knew I'd be using it to go abroad and spending multiple hours per day behind the wheel, and so didn't want a constant 'drone' in my ear.
This is the company who supplied the quad SS exhaust system for the Brabster: https://www.longlife.co.uk/performance
Still, that is one MENTALIST E63, which I'd love to get a shot of!:D
Marco.
They do sound brutal, albeit that one is OTT in my humble opinion.
I helped set up our stand at the Warren supercar show in 2018 and was tasked with delivering the AMG’s (A45, E63, C63, GT’s etc) and when we’d set up we had a rev off with the Audi and BMW stands.
My hearing has never been the same since.
Yeah, as I said to Pigsy, I agree. Brutal, but yes a bit OTT - not in terms of acceleration or speed, though! As far as that goes, bring it on...:D
Really interesting line of work you're in (or were in), Jon, and you must've had your hands on some really special cars (and bikes), and yeah it's so easy to fuck up your hearing with those things, something I've always been fiercely protective of, even when listening to music!:cool:
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
21-04-2020, 21:21
Completely agree! It's a very cool car, and on acceleration, sounds BRUTAL, but that farty, phut 'pop 'pop', otherwise when the power's off, me no likey...:nono: Ok, I guess, if you're 17..
The Brabster's much more subtle, in that respect, no farty noises whatsoever. Idling, it produces a kind of menacing 'throaty rasp', which transforms into a progressively deep GROWL, the harder you accelerate, and which is rather satisfying!:eyebrows:
The other thing you wonder about is cabin noise. It's fine getting some brutal engine sounds on a short trip, but on a long motorway journey, it might get on your wick. That was something I was very careful of with the Brabster [when the custom-made SS system was installed], as I knew I'd be using it to go abroad and spending multiple hours per day behind the wheel, and so didn't want a constant 'drone' in my ear.
This is the company who supplied the quad SS exhaust system for the Brabster: https://www.longlife.co.uk/performance
Still, that is one MENTALIST E63, which I'd love to get a shot of!:D
Marco.
Yeah, proper soundproofing is important if you have a butch engine, loud pipes or low profiles or it would indeed get on your wick. And essential with a top flight sound system. Cancellation of certain bass frequencies by road noise is a real thing.
Absolutely... Effective soundproofing/damping, as far as optimising the sound of the stereo was concerned, is something I've spent a considerable amount of time (and money) on, especially on the boot lid above the sub, as Dynamat isn't cheap. Subsequently, if you knock it, you'll just hear a dull 'thud', and all around that area is the same, and INERT as a very *inert* thing!
But when the guys were designing the bespoke quad SS-exhaust system [choosing the pipe diameter and layout, and performing all the necessary welding], after ensuing maximum performance [in terms of BHP and optimising that in conjunction with the remap], it was all about tuning the sound and obtaining the right 'note' from the exhaust system, plus balance between loudness and 'liveability'.
In that respect, it was considered (and agreed) that the sound when the engine was idling was most important to get right, and indeed that's the coolest bit now about the noise the exhaust makes. When you hear that lovely deep, throaty-rasp, burbling away, it sounds like the engine is ready to mean business...!:eyebrows:
And when you're flying along the motorway, or embarking on any long journey, there's just a rather satisfying, underlying 'growl' - but it never makes itself too noticeable or intrudes upon you talking to someone or listening to music:)
Marco.
Audio Al
21-04-2020, 22:26
Tut Tut , its past your bed time Mr Boss man ;)
Ha - not really... I often stay up much later than this, especially when I'm having a late-night listening sesh... But when I *do* go to bed, it's for 8-9 hours of solid zeds, minimum!:ner:;)
So, see you on t'other side, at around 9.30am:D
Marco.
RobbieGong
21-04-2020, 22:36
Tut Tut , its past your bed time Mr Boss man ;)
Innit just Al, I mean 16 million and 53 posts about that vintage, souped up mobile disco wagon :scratch: get da heck out of Abstract Chat and talk some bloody hifi for crying out loud man! - wot da £$%%& is wrong wid you boss man ??!! :lol: :D
Haha... Hey, I've heard that apparently you've got an SP10! Not that you've been harping on about THAT at all sweetheart, no siree...:ner::lol:
;)
Marco.
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