Good news, but BAD news

[SimonP]

Euro 55 moved under its own power tonight....went for a spin round the block...just to test the clutch and brakes you understand{-}
Everything was going well until there was a nasty screeching from under the bonnet when the clutch was pressed.

My mate said "sounds like crank endfloat, that!"
Sure enough, back in the garage the crank could be slid back and forward by about 2mm.

I AM NOT A HAPPY BUNNY.

Somehow I think my August 1st On-The-Road date has just gone out of the window.

Simon :}

[SimonP]

Panic over.
The cause was the starter pinion not retracting far enough and was fouling on the flywheel.
No harm done, just fitted the spacer plates (one for motor, one for bearing) supplied with the starter (mini Hi-Torque variety).

Strange that the problem never showed up before the body was fitted though.

I'm much happier now.
It's cost me about half a day's build time, but I should still be able to meet my original target dates.
I'm pleased with the clutch - it's not much heavier than the one on my diesel beemer, and the take-up is smooth. The brakes need some bedding in though.

Simon