New owner

[Mick]

Hi

Having been an admirer of E-Types for many years I joined the forum in 2018 just out of interest, at that time I had not considered owning one but over time the temptation grew and I eventually purchased a 1967 DHC (opalescent maroon) at the end of last year. The car was imported from the USA in the 1990’s and converted to RHD. The engine and gearbox have been replaced at sometime.

The first year of ownership has been a pleasure with only a few minor issue's. I have recently installed electric power steering, not because I found the steering heavy but my daughter has become a e-type enthusiast and she is from the era that thinks cars have always had power steering. I am also currently experimenting with the installation of MX5 seats using the MX5 runners.

A recent check of the car revealed a weeping rear brake caliper, this led me to have a closer look at the entire braking system which has caused me a bit of confusion as to what front discs and calipers are fitted, I will post my questions in the appropriate section on due course.

I look forward to finally becoming an active member of the forum.

[politeperson]

I have fitted power steering on mine too, its great.
Looks like you will probably have to drop the IRS to get the brakes done unless you are lucky. That could lead to an IRS rebuild. Parts supply is excellent.
Its not too pricey to do but you do have to get stuck in, as its a few days work to do everything.
You will also be looking at the IRS mounts, shocks, bushings, handbrake mechanism UJs and suspension at the same time.
Possibly a good time to fit a remote bleeder.
Compared to over complicated and overpriced modern car parts, its all cheap and easy (reliable and durable too).
Pastparts from Bury St Edmunds recondition calipers on a weekly turnaround for not too much £. Discs are cheap.
Check your diff seals for leaks whilst it is out now is the time. Propshaft uj's too.
Its easy to remove if you have lifting equipment such and a ramp, but more difficult with trolley jacks.
Plenty of guides on line.
The exhaust has to come off too from the middle.
I find the standard braking system OK if in good fettle. I assume you have the remote servo with the reaction valve in front of the master? Or is it the earlier booster system? That later valve can stick, especially if the car is parked up.
Replacing the entire braking system is not too bad of a job and the parts are not too pricey either and once done will last years and years. I recommend Green-stuff pads for squeal.

[Mick]

Thanks for the advice.

I removed a damper to access the leaking cylinder, removing the piston from the cylinder revealed a rusty mess . There is also evidence of leaks from the diff so I think you are right, it is time to drop the IRS. Fortunately I have a four post lift and it looks like I can support the rear of the car at the end of the longitudinal rails with the rear wheels overhanging the ramp and simply lift it off the cradle, I will research the subject before I attempt it. I will probably leave it until the new year as I have some work to do on my daughter’s car over Christmas and don’t want give myself a deadline to get the car off the lift.

I will check out the rest of the brake system at same time but I am a bit confused by the discs and calipers fitted to the front of the car as I don’t think they are original to the car. I will post my queries on the forum once I have educated my self on the subject.

[mgcjag]

Hi Mick....overhanging the rear of the car on the 4 post works well...i done it quite a few times....remove radius arms then support the car on the large bush mount....Steve

[Mick]

Thanks Steve,

It looked practical to me, but nice to have it confirmed by someone who has done it.