February 2014

Wednesday 26 February 2014

With the frame being welded, to keep the thumbs from twiddling, I have placed the engine and transmission on my old portable workbench.

It weighs 181lbs, or 82kg in new money (12.9 stone). I was worried the bench would buckle under the weight, so hung it from the ceiling too.

Thanks for the help Terry. Lifting, balancing etc. definitely easier with two of us!

Now it's sitting in the middle of my garage with good all-round access, so bring on the carple tunnel syndrome!

Time to get busy with the degreaser & polish.

Friday 14 February 2014

Dave 'the wheel guy' worked his magic and laced up my wheels for me.

Got the tyres popped on and here we go!

Front wheel still has the blue powder protecting the white wall, it cleans off.

Very chuffed with the results. Was a little worried about mixing an 80 spoke rear with a 40 spoke front...... I shouldn't have fretted, it looks tasty.

Off to P&D customs tomorrow to get my frame sections sorted along with the rear axle and spacers machined.

Thursday 6 February 2014

I have just ordered a 'Cole Foster' tank.

Perfect combination of classic lines with a modern twist. Just what I'm aiming towards.

These tanks are as rare as hens teeth!

I tried everywhere. The USA manufacturing depot has just moved apparantly and there is at least a 3 month waiting list to get on the manufacturing list, even then the guy seemed shady about promising even 3 months.

I have been looking for one since November and just found one on a dusty shelf in Australia, the only one in the shop. it's on its way now (by sea - 3 weeks) mighty chuffed!

Here's what they look like. The flush cap and protruded spine drew me to the design.