Build Session 4 – Headlights, ARB, Brake Hoses and Radiator

A really good session today – felt like I made some real progress.

I started off by wiring and fitting the headlights and indicators following the excellent guide on Daniel French’s site. I got to use my heat gun for the first time, and it worked well on the heat shrink to ensure a smart finish. The cables are pretty tight, I found the key was to use lots of spray lubricant.

Once the headlights had been done, onto the Anti Roll Bar. This, like much of the suspension (!!!), requires a little brute strength. The grommets and brackets fitted easily, but it was hard to tell if the ball was fully in the socket.

It occurred to me that a few photos might help future builders. The below photos show part in and fully in ARB ends. You will also notice that if the ball is not fully in the socket, the bracket sits forward of the chassis.

The Ball is not fully in the socket

The ball is fully in the socket

Bracket well proud of the chassis = Ball not fully in

I found the best method was to keep wiggling, with a decent amount of force, and the ends would eventually drop in.

Next, onto the brake hoses. Once I had established the correct fitting for the calliper (the grey one), these fitted home very easily.

The horns also fitted with relative ease – simply bolt on.

Finally, I managed to get the radiator fitted too. I was a bit stuck at first as the fan didn’t appear to fit, however once I realised that it comes with ears, the rest was easy!

Rachael was also impressed with the progress. She has nick-named the car “Brum” – I am hoping that it doesn’t stick!