List Of Problem

I have compiled a list of possible problems since STELLAR went back from Haji the mechanic.

• Dashboard indicator light intermittent
• Fuel gauge shows low, or under redline (recently happened)
  
• Oil pressure very low
• Misfire at idle
• Bubbling at part throttle
• Bang or explosion on acceleration
• Toe out at front

STELLAR has not been tuned properly, especially the ignition timing. But I have tinkered with the mixture.

OK that is all.

Not Waking Up

Starting, non-starting.

The latter, happened twice today.

Crazy!

I was in Shah Alam meeting a supplier when the first happen.

Then at night, at Petronas Precinct 9 Putrajaya, it happens again.

With all options checked, I have probably left out the connection at the battery posts. Must check that one later.

I even managed to switch sides the signal toggle switch in the process of opening the steering console.

Idle Run

STELLAR still do idle runs when I ease off the throttle.

I think the fuel mixture is still rich.

I don't know whether its the carb, the timing, or the needle profile.

But I'm gonna start experimenting myself with each of them

Plug Cable

STELLAR starts with a backfire or two most mornings.

To describe the sound, it's like an air compressor tripping. With a loud "pssst".

But I think I cured it, by changing the plug cables.

Now it rarely does that.

But I still need to idle for a while. Or run slowly if I ever need to move straight away.

Belt Slip

For several days, I thought I heard the fan belt slipping.

So today I really did something to cure that.

I pulled the alternator a bit more upwards, and tightened the nuts.

I also eased off the clutch adjustment nut a bit, hoping to get more throw.

I hope all goes well when I drive it this evening.

Long Vacation

STELLAR finally went back last night.

My veteran mechanic did a terrific job, nonetheless. I think the charge is fair enough. I saw only pleasant stuffs in my engine bay. The wiring was revamped, and all the unsightly big looms are replaced with proper insulation and heat shrink rubber sleeves.

Most improvements are noticeable. The electric fan was louder, suggesting higher running speed. The wiper was damn fast, compared to last time, I think the speed doubles.

There are one or two flaws in the electricals still present, probably due to loose earthing. One is the indicator sometimes not emitting, and that is solved by tapping the relay body underneath the dashboard. And then this beam light sometimes flickering when it is activated. That's all, nothing major.

But the one bugger was the clutch. The adjustment probably was not right. So it's just trial and error for me.

But surprisingly, when I did have a go at adjusting it, all was easy it seems.

Hope it stays that way. And I will have a pleasant ride home tonight.

Later, I will write a full description of what my mechanic friend did to my car.

Issues

As Haji said, the electrical was quite, to say the least, "too far gone".

And as one of his workers said, "I feel like vomiting".

But then again, he will do it.

The main thing to do will be,

• front sidelights
• brake lights
• brake master cylinder
• starting system
• I can't remember.... hehe...
  

The optional jobs are,

• hazard lights
• wiring for immobilizers
• rear drum brake shoes
• reversing lights
• etc..
  

I forgot to add the horns, but there are issues, so I don't mind just yet.

The big issue with STELLAR's electrics was that, it's just that in the past, too many hands had touched the circuitry, and mixed it with lots of wrong color coded wires. And probably added too many extra wires for the extras like spotlight, hazard, etc.

Not to mention, lots of extra meters like ammeter, voltmeter, oil pressure etc.

Reasons..

I have no time.

I have no space.

I have no skill.

I'm still weak from all the fever last week.

Thus off to Haji Yahaya STELLAR will be.

Tonight, I'll try fiddling with the electrics for the last time. Maybe it WILL, start, who knows..

No Life

I was feverish. Or so I feel.

But I have got to go to the office today.

Thus, I think I might drive.

But no, the very fortunate STELLAR won't start. Won't even budge!

I think I also saw a small spark under the dashboard. Oh NO!

OK, rest as you may brother, but soon enough you will HAVE TO MOVE!

1275GT Electrical Circuit

Am studying this for my upcoming repairs. This includes :-

• Brake Light
• Front Indicators
• Rear Indicators
• Hazard Light
• Rear Demister
• Horn
  

Actually it seems pretty easy, but in real life, not really.

Add to that the tiny allowances of space for your forearm, and the insufficient length of cables usually found in Minis, it poses a beautiful challenge.

I'd say, bring it on!

Jump In

Nearly missed the bus this morning.

Lucky I asked my love while she's still half awake, about her brother wanting to use his own car today. So I jumped in STELLAR straight away.

And instinct told me to drive a bit faster too, albeit worried about the steering rack's looseness.

One tip from me to all bus catchers; always use only minimal electrics of your car, unless you want to end up draining your car battery over a forgotten switch!