Well, another day and another bunch of varied and interesting comments.
1986Uno45S
Quite a long and thoughtful post. Thanks for the comments and support. I’m a big fan of all sorts of cars, kits, modified motors, classics etc and dare I say I also own a non standard Chevette? I’ve never been a stickler for originality and like seeing what other people have done to their cars but equally I like seeing old, well restored and maintained cars in their original condition. I’ll cover the parts issue later in this post.
E505jpy
I don’t know if it floats or not. If I ever find myself in the unfortunate predicament of finding out, I’ll let you know.
[ “the rodent of Satan” ]
Now that might make a good bumper sticker…
Cheesemaster
I haven’t got a photo of a complete Rat and so far have been unable to find any. I’m actively looking though and if I find any they’ll be posted on my web page.
Parts:
I'm quite happy to pass on or sell any parts I don't need for the rebuild. Indeed I already have, having sold quite a few parts through eBay last summer when I stripped both vehicles. In my generosity I have even
donated the tailgate to christopher watson free for the betterment of his Panda. I still have quite a bit left that I don't need and will gladly help out forum members if I can.
Just some of the parts I have available are (I have also listed this lot in the classified section of the forum but not many people seem to look there):
The original 1986 1.0L engine that was in the kit when I bought it. It has all the ancillaries which are available separately if required except the exhaust manifold. Also, the thermostat housing was damaged on removal from the vehicle so that will require replacement. The engine ran fine when removed from the vehicle but didn't like running on the choke or idling so presumably the Weber carb fitted requires overhaul/tuning.
The gearbox. Nothing wrong with this at all apart from some wear on the linkages. All gears and 4x4 engagement work properly with no grating or other apparent noises.
Some dashboard and interior trim items, can't remember exactly what. From both the 92 and 86 cars.
The original 1986 petrol tank. No leaks or dents but needs new or good replacement rubber hoses. Undersealed along with the rest of the underside when built so in pretty good shape. Tank sender unit present and working and all connections good.
Original 1986 wiper motor and levers in good working order.
The complete (apart from manifold) 1986 exhaust system in one piece. No holes. When I say 1986 in this case I mean for the 1986 model, not that the exhaust itself dates from 1986! I've no idea how old it is but it was good when I removed it.
Interior heater matrix. This is still in the heater housing. All I can say about it at the moment is that it doesn't leak.
The full brake cylinder/servo/fluid container assembly complete with mounting bracket and connecting rod from the 92 car. In good working order.
One headlight in excellent condition. Can't remember which side though.
Both rear light clusters, again in excellent condition.
This is not an exhaustive list but that's probably all the major stuff I won't be needing for the rebuild. Feel free to ask if there's something you need, whether it's on the list or not.