Black '03 Projects

[Joesson]

Thanks @Joesson,

I had figured out that flat section on the mounting hole when putting the strut assembly together, but it span the whole top mount with it as well (didn't have the same problem with the rears). I could have clamped the top mount somehow better I guess!

I did try a few things but couldn't hold that and the whole assembly well enough to tighten beyond a few threads. It was more than enough to secure it and get it on the car though, and then torqued up OK once the car was back on its wheels.

I'm pleased that you were aware of that as at least one member was not and the shocks started moving around!

[Trebordoody]

Another quick but satisfying job this weekend - installing bonnet and engine cover struts!
Not a bad mod for ~£20 each end.

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Also adjusted the handbrake cables to give me another click, and while I was there disconnected and lubricated the cables as described in the how-to section. 

The fact the main connector to both cables went from slightly wonky back to level was also very gratifying!

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Then, as a reward for all my hard work, me and the missus took a nice top-down drive in the sunshine over to Henley for a drink and some B-roads.    

[tricky1138]

Where did you get the struts from? I've been meaning to do this for ages, but the last lot I got didnt fit.

[Gaz mr-s]

Are the handbrake cable end-rubbers intact?

[Trebordoody]

Where did you get the struts from? I've been meaning to do this for ages, but the last lot I got didnt fit.

Both sets from Xiangshang Car Parts store on AliExpress. Took 9 days to arrive but all good so far! £43 delivered total.

Be aware that the frunk plastic interferes with the lower mounting brackets so you'll either need to cut or leave it off (as I chose to) 😉

[Trebordoody]

Are the handbrake cable end-rubbers intact?

Seemed OK to me (maybe I'm just lucky!)
This was more of a proactive maintenance thing than trying to solve sticky cables.

[Alex Knight]

Where did you get the struts from? I've been meaning to do this for ages, but the last lot I got didnt fit.

I am also interested.

[Gaz mr-s]

Seemed OK to me (maybe I'm just lucky!)
This was more of a proactive maintenance thing than trying to solve sticky cables.

I asked because the cables have a ptfe coating & shouldn't need lubed, but it becomes necessary if the rubbers disintegrate & grit gets down them.  Rubber gaiters can be bought that can be modified to fit.   If yours are ok put boot polish or the likes to protect them.

[tricky1138]

Both sets from Xiangshang Car Parts store on AliExpress. Took 9 days to arrive but all good so far! £43 delivered total.

Be aware that the frunk plastic interferes with the lower mounting brackets so you'll either need to cut or leave it off (as I chose to) 😉

I've not refitted it since fitting the strut brace a few years ago!

[Trebordoody]

I asked because the cables have a ptfe coating & shouldn't need lubed, but it becomes necessary if the rubbers disintegrate & grit gets down them.  Rubber gaiters can be bought that can be modified to fit.  If yours are ok put boot polish or the likes to protect them.

I wasn't aware of this (PTFE), so probably wasted effort then! 
Thanks for the boot polish tip though, I'll apply that this weekend.

[Gaz mr-s]

I wasn't aware of this (PTFE), so probably wasted effort then! 
Thanks for the boot polish tip though, I'll apply that this weekend.

I don't know re 'wasted effort'.  If they were smooth, I wouldn't, but since you think they were improved maybe they've been leaking.  On one of my cars mine were almost seized.