205 GTi - repairs underway

[Popsicle]

Great work as always Mat, I know you've had a few issues along the way, but it really looks a little gem of a car, good to see the engines healthy and making decent power.

[mat_the_cat]

This went for its MOT on Thursday, with the intention to drive down to FOTU the following day. Things were looking less promising when it failed however. Both brake lights not working, and I admit to not checking them beforehand although working a couple of weeks previously.

Turned out to be the switch which had failed, and nowhere local had one on the shelf, although my nearest factors could get one for lunchtime Friday, which was cutting it fine for getting a retest and travelling down. Where might I find a PSA brake light switch on a Thursday...? 🤔

Poor old BX (temporarily) relegated to a spares car, as the switch was similar enough to be pressed into service on the 205. The end result:

 

And we've now made it down here, although brief traffic stops suggest the cooling fans aren't cutting in. Hope there's not any reason to sit stationary tomorrow.....

[mat_the_cat]

There was absolutely no queue getting into FOTU this year, so the only time the temperature gauge crept up was once we had entered the show, and driving though the crowds of people. And the fans did cut in after all, just slightly higher up the gauge than I remembered/expected. Handling was much improved, and so much quicker round the bends than any vehicle I actually own   Quite a few waves and thumbs-up too! 

@davidfowler2000 followed us briefly, and turning on the headlights for the first time since the MOT I dazzled him with the rear fog light. In my defence I can't even see the switch when driving! Obviously designed for the LHD seating position.

Only problem was that the rebuilt rear axle had an advisory for play, and could hear it squeaking when driving. It definitely looks to have been taken apart, and the other side is perfect - so I'm not sure what has happened. Have to strip it down and see.

[smoggy]

Great to see a lovely 205 gti. Here's my old 1.6. Bought in around 2006 for £1100. Remember those days? I did quite a bit of work on it including the rear beam and 1.9 brakes) and sold it for £4k when prices were on the rise and I needed a house deposit. Still on the road I believe.

They are such great little cars.