15th September 2010 - Exhaust manifold (but not much else!)

Today was a really frustrating day, notable more for the things we couldn't do rather than those we could:
1.  We still couldn't fit the fuel pump or filter as Westfield say we need a rivnut insertion tool (to insert captive nuts) - which we've had to order from Amazon as no-one stocks one locally at a reasonable price
2.  We tried to fit the radiator and fan assembly, but found that the bolts supplied are 5mm rather than 6mm and longer 6mm bolts would put a hole in the radiator (which would not be good!)
3.  We tried to fit the battery tray, but the "pre-fitted rivnuts" in the chassis are notable by their absence.

Not wanting to wade into the engine wiring loom without preparation, we were left with a few minor bits and pieces;  Firstly the horn (wow!) and the VIN plate (yes, we're getting desperate now).  Then we put the exhaust manifold on - mainly because its visible progress, even though it will have to come off again to fit the body.  At least it seems to fit well and clears everything and we'll be able to make a template for where the hole in the body will need to be.

The biggest success of the day ended up being the fitting of a part which should have gone on ages ago - the handbrake warning switch.  We finally worked out how it goes on and managed to find a couple of suitable bolts at the village hardware store (there were none the right size in the dwindling box of bolts).

Other than the jobs we failed to do, we think there's just the engine wiring and ECU to do before we start thinking about fitting the body.... although with all the setbacks and winter approaching, that may not now be until next year.