Windscreens and wiring

Wiring is a bit tidier now

Trial fit of the Brooklands aero screens

Despite a fair amount of time spent on the car this week, there doesn't seem to be a lot to show for the effort. I guess the main reason is that the wiring has taken a lot longer than I imagined. In part this is due to my inexperience of wiring, but also because I have chosen to make connections and not worry too much about the length of the wire whilst I check that I've done it correctly. Armed with my multimeter, I've connected each item and then tested that individual connection. When I had virtually finished the (non-engine) wiring I then set about trimming the cables to create a tidy loom (connectors being pretty cheap, it seemed a good way to go). Apart from the indicators, all other electrical components are now wired up and working so I can finish the aluminium panelling on the drivers side. Next week I shall start on the engine electricals.

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At the moment I'm confused about two things - where the neutral switch is and thus where I will find its lead, and also how the engine stop works as I will not be using the Honda ignition switch within which the stop switch is normally incorporated. I seem to recall being told that the stop switch merely ran to earth but obviously I need to check.

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As I intend to have the upper body panels repainted (the lower half is covered in stainless) I thought I should get the Brooklands Aero screens fitted so that I didn't start drilling the newly painted body. What I thought would be an easy job was not as simple primarily because there are few reference points on the bonnet from which to make measurements. In the end I positioned the screens largely by eye with the help of a piece of masking tape over the bonnet as a point of reference. I must admit that the screens look very tiny in comparison to their predecessors, but I'm very pleased with the effect. Not too sure that Mrs Rog is that impressed though as I received an "even less protection for me then" comment when I proudly displayed my work.

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I've also given some thought to the Facet fuel pump which I am assured is best placed near the fuel tank. As I've removed the front tank, this means locating the pump behind the passenger seat where the battery used to be. I've decided to relocate the battery into the passenger footwell as there is lots of room, and it makes life easier as it will be directly under the electrical connections and fuses. I haven't worked out how I'll fit this yet, but it will be enclosed in aluminium and bolted down (which it hasn't been previously). I'll probably incorporate a footrest for the passenger at the same time, as sitting with one's legs outstretched without some support can be very uncomfortable.

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I do need to make a decision about front mudguards soon as I favour aluminium or stainless and I've seen a couple of companies advertising what appear to be suitable items. I'm tempted to remove a front wheel and take it to the nearest supplier to make sure the radius is suitable.

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With a fine weekend my time has been limited as garden duties beckoned. After a day digging out footings for pathways, and laying bricks, my back is in no fit state to bend over the car anyway. However, as I am now fully retired I should be able to make progress next week.

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Roger