MR2 Only Magazine Mk1 project back on track

[steveybMR2-173]

It's been over 18 months now since our Mk1 Russell (Hobbs) as in kettle fame retired from track and road with a persistent overheating problem. Since then it's been gathering leaves and dust, while we've been accumulating parts for its rebuild while finding the time to get back onto it in between our other MR2 projects. Recently my brother Andy and I have started to make some steady progress, the car has been jet washed and brought back in doors for work to commence, and the donor engine has been stripped down and on our engine stand for preparation.

Jobs planned
Engine - Strip down engine, separate head and get skimmed, rebuild with head gasket, fit and gasket set, replace water pump, and belts, service ignition parts Fidanza flywheel. Good clean, decoke and paint block, cam covers etc and rebuild, fit into car.

AND dare I say it here, possibly considering a 2ZZ engine swap for the future.

Chassis - Fit Whiteline uprated ARBS to front and rear to accompany KYB shocks and track springs already fitted

Interior - Further strip out to save weight, and fit FIA approved roll cage that we have already purchased

Exterior - Fit new O/S front wing, repair rear arches, paint repaired areas, and mop paintwork, new decals

Welding - Weld in necessary sections for cage fitment, repair minor problem areas underneath

MOT and tax


Work in progress on the MR2 Only Project MK1 MR2, Will keep updates as we make progress.













More pictures here:- http://www.nova-turbo.co.uk/mr2/index.html

Progress diary:-

Last weekend - Exhaust, manifold, gearbox removed

27th March 2010 -
Inlet manifold side removed, injector, fuel rail, and all ancillaries removed down to long block, cam covers removed and flaky paint wirebrushed in prep for repaint.
(sidenote: can anyone tell us what size hex key tool we need to buy to separate head from block?)

[MartG]

Don't forget to give the cooling system a good going over

[emrrtwo]

will be good to read about your mk1 again, from looking at the 3rd pic down do you pay for work done in sweets!

[LimeyMk1]

(sidenote: can anyone tell us what size hex key tool we need to buy to separate head from block?)

The stock head bolts are multipoint, and you need a deep 10mm double hex socket. If you can see a hex key you might have ARP bolts holding the head on.