Wednesday 31 December 2003

Trials Skoda For Sale

After much deliberation and due to another baby on the way I have decided to sell my Green Class 4 Skoda(I just can't get 4 in the back !)
Engine
Completely balanced with 4 new pistons and rings, New shell bearings, New Timing gear and chain. Webber 40 carburettur, Tuned exhaust, Bosch Plugs!
 
Gearbox
Strengthened diff carrier and recon box with 짙30.00 worth of enduro competition oil which prevents diff wear. 4.22 : 1 low ratio diff (only ran on three trials)
 
Car
Sports Seats, Totally guarded underneath, waxoil protected inside and out, maplight, New Battery, New front grille, New Accellerator cable, New front and rear pads and shoes, New shock absorbers.
 
Suspension
Lengthened springs, lengthened drive shafts to compensate (good ride height)
 
14 in wheels and tyres as well as a spare set of 13in wheels and tyres
 
Too many spares to list. Ready to trial
 
I will be sad to see it go but it does need a better driver to do it justice.
 
 
짙1600.00 ono
 
tel 01992653977  or 07803830615 Patrick

Wednesday 24 December 2003

Merry Christmas & Thankyou

Hi all
 
Switching off from the information super highway until after the festivities.
 
Just wanted to wish everybody a Happy Christmas and thank everybody who co-operated with the requests to do the event reports for the Restart Magazine. It is appreciated!
 
cheers
Mark
 

Wednesday 17 December 2003

BMW 318i for sale

I have the aforementioned car for sale. I had it in my mind to use it for trials, but
only got so far and then bought an Arkley to use instead. It has 5 months Tax and 11 months MOT. The front bumper has been removed and the indicators and number plate relocated. It has a brand new kenlowe fan fitted with sensor and adjustable cut-out. It also has a new K&N filter fitted (merely to remove weight from the front of the car as I doubt it increases performance much and the original airbox is heavy.) It is a 2 door model with wind up windows so is pretty much the lightest E30 shell in the range. It is a 1987 model and is very sound. It looks as if someone previous to me has had some new panels fitted at the front. I am open to offers. Give me a ring on 01453 833265 after 8.00 pm evenings.

Tuesday 16 December 2003

Sunday 14 December 2003

ACTC Championship Winners

Just seen that Roger Bricknell, Dave Haizelden and Giles Greenslade were the winners. Is Roger or Dave the Wheelspin champion? as they both had 61 points after the non-counters were deducted.
 
Michael

Thursday 11 December 2003

DEFRA Consultation on Rights of Way

Some of you may have seen a small item in this week's newspapers referring to Alun Michael "getting tough with vehicles on rights of way". This refers to the issue of a DEFRA Consultation document entitled "Use of mechanically propelled vehicles on Rights of Way". This has potentially serious implications for our sport on the few off-road tracks which are currently recorded on the Definitive Maps as RUPPS but which users believe should be recorded as BOATS. If you don't know what I'm talking about, please see the rights of way section of my website at http://www.wheelspin.org.uk. I have the consultation document and will be responding on behalf of ACTC after talking to our friends at LARA, the TRF, and the Byways and Bridleways Trust Council. I'll keep you all posted as and when appropriate.
 
Andrew

Friday 5 December 2003

Clee Hills Trial 2004

Just a warning to those of you who have been a little slow in getting your entries in.
Entries are now up to the 70 mark, so there are only a few left.    All classes are well represented, but a few more Class 3's would be nice.
Get That Entry Form posted NOW

Monday 1 December 2003

My Allen Trial

It was super to have real trialling conditions agai, making the hills on good form. I thought the start venue was great. Lets hope we didn't disturb the residents of Donton to much! I managed to get of the re-start at Bitton Lane OK which I don't always. And we got up Guys Hill as well. OK we didn't have a restart but we didn't get up last year. The class eights had it tough. We saw a few of them really try. I gave Dudley's effort 11/10!
 
The halfway lunch break came quickly, but then we realised it wasn't halfway, good planning to get it in before the rain!
 
I thought Burledge was great this year. We nearly got up as well but not quite. It could be done though as we saw both Phillip Mitchell and Giles Greenslade go clean. Talking of Giles. He was on tenderhooks all day with his ACTC battle with David Heale
 
It started to rain about now but didn't have any difficulties until Birch Hill. It was a long way to get to this hill but I think its really worth it. The clay pit was really on form, we gave it everything but came to a stop sweating and exhausted at about the four.
 
We enjoyed John Walker in the dark. I thought it was smoother and Mike thought it was rougher.
 
We signed off at about 5.15 and headed for home stratight away. The M4 was as horrendous as ever and I didn't arrive home until gone 9.30 pm.
 
A good day. (I wonder if Giles won?). How was your Allen Trial?
 
Michael
 
 

Monday 24 November 2003

Which class is an Arkley?

Hello everyone.
   having just got hold of a 1971 Arkley SS bodied Austin Healey Sprite requiring some work, I was wondering which class it could be entered in? It is still essentially a Sprite with a fibreglass nose and tail, but they are of course a different shape to the original body. Is it still eligible for class 5, or do the fibreglass bonnet and boot mean it has been "modified beyond permitted limits" amd consequently push it into class 7? It also has a Midget 1500 engine fitted. Any thoughts appreciated before I begin work!
 
Thanks,
Mark.

Allen Trial Change of Start Location

This message has been deleted by the author.

Allen trial

Could anybody kindly tell me the opening time of Burledge this coming Sunday?

Saturday 22 November 2003

Ford CWP Sets

I received this with my ACTC Hat on, could be good news for all you Ford Axle types out there:-
.

FORD 'ENGLISH' CROWN WHEEL AND PINION SET

For many years, the English Axle was manufactured in vast quantities by the Ford Motor Company and typically fitted on the Anglia, Cortina, Capri and Escort model ranges. During its long production life, it also became the preferred axle used in many low-volume specialist sports cars, and with Fords legendary interest in motorsport, many popular competition ratios were also available via dedicated Rallye Sport outlets.

Now, following major financial investment in production tooling and stock, Lotus Cortina Spares announce their own range of High Quality Crown Wheel and Pinions suitable for the popular Ford English Axle and covering the following ratios: 4.44, 4.7, 4.9, 5.1, 5.3. All ratios have the same tooth count as original OEM and therefore comply with the original FIA homologation papers, which fact may be of interest to those engaged in classic motor sport.

The parts are manufactured using modern production techniques from specially selected high quality nickel chrome steel, which after machining, is hardened with a carefully controlled heat treatment cycle to achieve the correct hardness specification which is comparable with the OEM standard.

The retail price is 짙245 + VAT for any ratio listed above.

For further details, please contact:

LOTUS CORTINA SPARES CENTRE
National & International Supplier of Lotus Cortina Road and Racing Spares and all Ford Race Parts

North Street Trading Est
Crewkerne
Somerset TA18 7AW
Great Britain
Tel: +44 (0)1460 73775
Fax: +44 (0)1460 76855
www.lotuscortinaspares.com

Friday 14 November 2003

Ebay Marlin

There is an unstarted Marlin Roadster Kit (approx 1985) on Ebay at the moment with the reconditioned remains of a Tax exempt Marina. My wife has forbidden me to bid but it was only 짙400 ish last night.

Thursday 13 November 2003

Class 4 Beetle For Sale.

I have a class 4 beetle for Sale as seen on the Mechanics Trial last weekend.  Its great fun to drive and appears to grip well. Most development has taken place to engine which is high compression 1300cc with some head mods  running a pair of weber ICTs.  The car is Tax free has an MOT and come as used last weekend complete with 4 nearly new MX 165 15 Kingpins remoulds.  Ring me if interested and I will give you full details of the mods.  Asking price £1400.00 which cant be bad as it won its first event overall!!!!!Give me a call on 01600 890 218

Sunday 9 November 2003

My Mechanics

Just got home. Got to be quick, got up at 3.45 this morning for The Mechanics and got to get up at 3.45 tomorrow for the business. I have posted a couple of pics. I enjoyed the trial. Well done Stroud for not duplicating the Clouds. What wonderful long sections - fantastic. I thought they were fair but I know a few people thought some of them a bit rough.
 
I finished around 16.00 no delays apart from one I caused with a puncture on the last but one section. Thanks to Mark Linforth and his team for rescuing me. Off to bed now - hope others can fill in more detail as I didn't see much running round at the front of the field.
 
Michael

Saturday 8 November 2003

Mechanics 2003




ACTC Class 7 Specification Sheets

Those of you who have read 'Simon Says' in the latest Restart will be aware that changes are being made, both to the Class 7 Specification Sheets themselves and the way in which they will be administered. As I have already had two panic phonecalls from Marlin owners I think this may need a little more explanation:
 
Firstly, the declaration system is intended primarily to assist scrutineers in determining the eligibility of Class 7 'kit cars'. They cannot be expected to know every subtle variation of every type of car so we are placing the onus on the competitor to check his, or her, own car.
 
Secondly, the 'new style' Marlin specification has not yet been posted on the ACTC website but we hope it will be there in the next couple of days - we are making some very minor last-minute changes to the wording of the 'declaration'.
 
Thirdly, due to the very considerable efforts of Pete Hart in measuring Marlins over the last year, we are 99% confident that every Marlin in current use complies. The only minor 'problem' is that we have chosen to exclude (temporarily) the Alfa-engined option as we could not find any cars in current use to measure. Any trialler with an Alfa-engined car is welcome to contact any of the ACTC Officers and we will review the published specification.
 
Fourthly, we are well-advanced with the revised Liege sheet which will be circulated to a representative selection of Liege owners for comment shortly. We then intend to move-on to the remaining Class 7 'regulars' as quickly as possible.
 
... and finally, this is not an onerous requirement. The new style spec sheets are, if anything, shorter in length and more explicit in nature than the old sheet, but you will need your Blue Book to hand for cross-reference.
 
Now back to preparing the car for tomorrow (Stroud's Mechanics Trial).
 
Andrew
 
 
 

Friday 7 November 2003

2004 ACTC Membership

I spite of the recent problems in the postal service the November edition of Restart has gone out and been delivered (to me at any rate).   It contains the 2004 Championship Entry Form and it would be a great help to me if Entrants and those who want to receive Restart next year would complete the form, write the cheque and get them to me as soon as possible.
 
For those of you who are not currently members, but who wish to join or receive Restart, then there is a copy of the form on the ACTC website.
 
I shall look forward to an avalanche of post!!!
 
 
Chris

Thursday 6 November 2003

Vehicle breakdown recovery.

After 30 odd years with the AA I got around to reading the small print when I received the latest renewal. I did this after reading the latest MCC  Triple regarding the withdrawal of recovery from Trials (clause 18), by the AA.
I have checked other providers on the web, eg RAC, Greenflag, Saga, Britannia, and in the exclusions section of all of them, they specifically say they will not attend vehicles during and in some cases, immediately after a Trial or off road event.
My question is, does anyone know of a company that will attend and recover during a trial?
 
Incidentally, whilst reading the AA's small print I noticed that it will not attend/fix/transport a van anymore, and it has withdrawn some of its european short term insurance for those of you visiting Calais before Christmas, which does not really matter because they will not fix a vehicle that looks like it is over loaded!!!
 

Thursday 30 October 2003

skoda problems

after destroying my diff on waterloo on this years exeter I removed the gear box and found the clutch to be all burnt and worn out I recall a comment about using a sachs clutch and venting the bell housing I bought the clutch but on reading the MSA blue book reg M6.8.3. I am not allowed to drill holes i my gear box/transaxel comments or help please

Sunday 19 October 2003

Jonah forever

Hello - thanks for your membership application but we need to know your real name and where you come from. Check out our rules and try again.
 
Manager

Friday 17 October 2003

Trailers

Does anyone know where I can get a fairly narrow car trailer for my Dellow.  Preferably twin axle and with an overall width of about 6'3".

MCC Edinburgh

Well done Michael with your Class 4 win!
 
Brian Sussex has his Gold & Triple too.
 
Greg Warren overall car Baddaley. Fine Effort!
 
Mark

Thursday 16 October 2003

Cannon

Hello everyone.
 
I am the Black HRG driver who runs in class 7.
Anyway the reason for my post is that I have a friend who is restoring a Cannon and does'nt have much info on it. Are there any Cannon owners out there who may be able to help him?
 
Thanks in advance
 
Stuart Roach

Monday 13 October 2003

trouble logging on

hello mate i cant get on to chat room and other places it keeps saying
members only .do i have to re join. thanks

BARRY

aka dreadless

_________________________________________________________________
Hotmail messages direct to your mobile phone http://www.msn.co.uk/msnmobile

Sunday 12 October 2003

To Dreadless

Hello - Good to meet you today (for info to the group our new member is Laurie Knights grandson). Hope you solve your logon problems. Hope to see you on a trial soon if you can find a suitable car. Nova, Skoda, Golf - anyone got one for sale - Michael

Friday 10 October 2003

Buggy Bouncer Needed this Sunday

I've entered the Gill Morrell PCT this Sunday at Brickhill (off the A5 near Milton Keynes) but carelessly forgotten to organise a bouncer!  If anybody out there fancies a day in the passenger seat please give me a ring - no previous experience required.  I live in the High Wycombe area so we could drive up from here or meet at the venue, whatever suits.  Won't be accessing the web again before Monday morning so best to give me a call on 07855 619580 or 01494 482603.
 
Ian Davis
   

Monday 6 October 2003

Minimum tyre pressures

One comment from a Liege driver.
 
We all run on crossply Avon Speedmaster 5.00 x 16 (motorbike) tyres with very stiff sidewalls, some owners are normally using just 14 psi on the road due to the round tyre profile and the very light weight of the car.
 
We were faced with the requirement to pump them UP to the minimum pressure of 18 psi for the Edinburgh, which I see as a big handicap when compared to other cars using radial tyres at reduced pressures.
 
The only other tyre available for our 16 inch wheels is the slightly wider Dunlop 5.5 inch width but this still has a crossply construction.
 
Any comments?

Sunday 5 October 2003

Exe Valley 2003


Simon's car in background

Some pictures I took on my holiday adventure with Roger Bricknell.

My Edinburgh

First things first - any news re how Brian got on - did you get your triple?
 
Mike Hayward and I met up with a few others at the Rugby Truck Stop and drove in convoy up to the start which was just as sterile as last year! No problems in the night and on to the biggest disapointment of the trial, the breakfast at b****y Bently Brook where we were told it would take more than an hour for our food to come by a lady that appeared to be on the edge of throwing in the towel. Lots of people were giving back there tickets and leaving without breakfast.
 
Running in class four we were denied Bamford and I was very disapointed about that. We didn't have any problems on any of the sections because they were so dry and almost everybody I spoke to claimed a gold!
 
My Beetle ran OK although clubmates neil Bray and Simon Robson both had problems and Richard Tompkins retired with a broken diff on Putwell 1.
 
I liked the dinner in the Pavillion. Hope thats a feature in future.
 
How was your Edinburgh?
 
Michael

Thursday 2 October 2003

Edinburgh Trial - route card help!

I am in my usual fuddle about the "Routes Diverge" bits!
 
Can anyone confirm that Class B bikes DON'T do the Black Harry and Old Longhill sections please?
 
Brian

Tuesday 23 September 2003

MG Streetwise

Hi Michael
 
If we are to have ads for Smarts then one for theBritish MG Streetwise?
 
Photo taken from "Auto Express" Looks like it is already trialing!
 
Mark

Saturday 20 September 2003

I've just been hit by a Virus

My computer at home has just been hit by a Virus. It came in on the e-mail address that I use in conjunction with the web site so it may have come from one of you guy and girls and as you know the sender generaly doesn't know they are infected. Fortunately my Norton stopped it on this occassion.
 
The terrible thing is that the e-mails appeared to come from Microsoft. One was titled "Current Security Pavck from MS Security Support" the other "Newest Network Critiacl Update from MS Corperation Public Services".
 
 
If you don't have any Virus protection on your computer you can get your system checked out for free at  Symantec Security Check
 
Michael

Saturday 13 September 2003

Are Smarts to be banned?

I know a couple of guys were looking at trialling Smarts. The theory being good power to weight ratio. As they have 15 inch wheels ground clerance would be easily raised with high profile tyres. However, I have heard today that the MCC are probably going to ban them on safety grounds as they may tip over backwards to easily!
 
Michael

Friday 12 September 2003

Edinburgh Trial 2003

Reality has dawned - John Aley has sent me the electronic route card so I know its all for real!!!
 
Not done this Trial before and need some advice on overnight accommodation. Need somewhere within walking (carrying?) distance of the Pavilion Gardens for the Club Supper. It will be for Trish and we hope to stay over to make it a long weekend as neither of us know the area so would like to do some exploring on the Sunday/Monday assuming I survive the Trial!
 
Any advice welcomed.
 
Brian
Exeter - Class B again on the TTR250

Monday 18 August 2003

PressureWashers

I had the front (disc) brakes on my Beetle sieze on while on the way to Strouds anniversary trial last year. At the time I changed the calipers and finally got round to looking at the old ones last week.
 
The problem ones weren't that old, around 4 years. When I took them apart I saw that the cylinders were corroded outboard of the sealing ring. The bores inboard of the seal (where the brake fluid sits) and the pistons were fine.
 
The protection seal was fine, no holes and seated properly. I believe that water got in when using a pressure washer to clean down. I am a bit religious with this and jack the car up and take the wheels off to clean underneath. No more pressure washing for me!
 
Michael

Monday 11 August 2003

Dellows for sale from Classic Cars for Sale

Mk2 Dellow Class 8 Recent refurbishment 짙7950 01747 840439 Somerset i think reg plate from the small pic is XMC333
 
and !
 
Mk1 1948 E93A engine tax + MOT £5850 Tel: 01299 402492 Worcs.I can't see the reg plate could be BUY616 or KUY516
 
And I just moved house....
 
Mark

Message to geri4lea

Thanks for your membership application. However you didn't use your real name as your nickname or have your real name within your email address. If you would like to join please resubmit but check out our rules first.
 
Michael

Sunday 10 August 2003

Summer is officially Over

Well, thats it, summer is officially over. The Taw & Torridge regs have arrived.
I will once again remind you folks that have never done this event how much fun this one can be.   Warm sunny day (usually), hills that are challenging without being rough, wonderful atmosphere and a lot closer to the midlands and home counties than you might think.    With 3 weeks between it and the Edinburgh, it is positioned just right to shake the car down prior to shaking it up on the Derbyshire stones.
 
Be there or be square.
(do people still say that?)

Friday 1 August 2003

Message to Foley

Hello
 
Sorry to deny your membership. Please check out rules and reapply using your real name as your nickname and/or a non Hotmail or Yahoo e-mail
 
Michael

Sunday 20 July 2003

Tempest for Sale

I see that the ex-Mike Furse, ex-Simon Robson Tempest is for sale over at http://www.findit.co.uk/cars/kitcar/cars/753731.htm I'm not 100% sure but I think it's Dave Smith who is selling it.
 
Michael

Thursday 10 July 2003

1935 MCC Torquay Trial and Rally

Can somebody enlighten me as to what this trial was all about? Seems like a good excuse for a party in the sunshine in the westcountry to me.

Wednesday 9 July 2003

Hydraulic? Handbrake

I am contemplating the fitting of a hydraulic handbrake to my newly converted Estelle. Do I simply split the front to rear brake line and introduce a cylinder of some type, with brake lever, or is it more complex? What type of brake cylinder is recommended and where from? Is there a ratio between the bottom pivot point of the brake lever and the attachment to the brake cylinder or am I over complicating the system? Does introducing this into the braking system cause problems with the overall braking efficiency and also cause the MOT man to have a fit? As you can see I am not quite ready to go ahead with the installation and any help would be of interest. Thanks in anticipation of advice from all you experts!! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Monday 30 June 2003

stock car drivers

hi michael I had a look at christina dudleys site and I wondered if ther are any x drivers now trialing I raced F2 from 1967 to 1977 and have been mecanic for several drivers since

Tuesday 17 June 2003

Triumph Marlin

I have a very early SWB Marlin Roadster on Triumph Vitesse mechanics, I have had great fun with the car and am loath to part with it, however I would like to try a little trialing just for fun but continue to use it every day as at present. I would prefer to have a reliable car that I would not be scared of breaking and as far as I am concerned I would rather finish last in Class 8 than a non finisher in Class 7. Therefore.... in an ideal world how would you guys suggest I modify the car ( I assume the complete rear end will have to go for starters?), is the front suspension strong enough, is the engine too heavy? , Or perhaps given a blank canvas what would make the ideal car?. 
 
With Thanks
 
 

Rickman Ranger Convertible for sale

Rickman Ranger Convertable
Long-stroke CVH Engine (1769cc), 1.75" SU Carb conversion,
4-Star Diff with 4.55:1 cwp (Transit origin)
Set of 8-Spoke Wellers and various Sierra 14" wheels/tyres.
All the normal trials mods i.e. suspension, sump guard etc.
Strong & reliable trials car, won many MCC awards.
 
Lots of off-road fun and very practical 4 seater convertible
짙650 (to include 12 months MOT)
 
Phone: 01392 661813 (home)
Mobile: 07733 225656

Monday 9 June 2003

ACTC website

Please note that the web address www.actc.org.uk may be unavailable for a few days whilst we make a few behind-the-scenes changes to the ACTC website. The site is still available using the www.ukmotorsport.com/actc address for the immediate future.
 
Andrew

Sunday 8 June 2003

Latest Virus Threat W32.Bugbear.B@mm

The corporate world was hit by this latest Virus last week. It's a new variation on an old theme but you should take it seriously. This especially applies to those of you without Virus protection. You may think you have it because Norton came with your computer but are your virus definitions up to date?
 
In many cases I think not. You got the program for free but you haven't paid for a new subscription to Virus Definition up-date when the old one ran out!
 
In my case this was two months on my new HP!!
 
You can read about the new threat at
 
 
Watch out for e-mails with attachments ending in double extensions ending in .exe, .scr, or .pif
 
Remember that the mail will appear to come from somebody you know, perhaps with a Subject they have mailed you with before.
 
You can download a free check and remove tool from Symentec at http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/w32.bugbear.b@mm.removal.tool.html
 
You can also get them to check out your whole system for free by following this link
 
 
Michael

Monday 2 June 2003

crossply tyres

Greeting all - for those of you running older cars there is an intersing for sale ad on E-bay which I came across this morning for some crossply tyres

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=9903&item=2417799436&rd=1

I hope this will of use to some one !

 

MikeW

Friday 30 May 2003

Bike Pictures

Hi All
 
Does anyone have any memories of the bike photo I posted? I think they must late 60s or early 70s.
 
There are some more of the bike in various states of undress which I do not have yet.
 
Mark

Thursday 29 May 2003

Trials bikes - Ernie Pack




pictures from an old film negatives which have been brought back with some digital help. From Jerry Pack although they are from his father Ernie. His Uncle Roger may be pictured in the passenger seat.
Any ideas of who, where and when?

Tuesday 27 May 2003

Dellow Mk II

1951 Dellow Mk II. Fully prepared and currently used in Classic Trials. Engine 100E 1172 cc Wilment overhead inlet valve conversion. Recent rebuilt Shorrocks supercharger. 105E synchro gearbox. Ford English axle, 4.7/1. Fack 4-star diff. Many spares available - including 16", 17" and 18" wheels. 8,750 ono. 01329 310987.

Brooklands

From Andrea Lane
 

I am an enthusiast of motor racing circuits.

Brooklands has ever been my favourite one.

There is a “refurbishment” plan by DaimlerChrysler, but in this web page there is a much more interesting proposal:

 

http://www.angelfire.com/rings/brooklands/index.html

 

If this proposal has thrilled you, please spread the word through the web ... and among the members of your club!

 

Regards,

 

Roberto Torresin

Tuesday 13 May 2003

Tuesday 6 May 2003

Doug from the USA wants to take part in The Edinburgh

I have had a mail from an American fan who would love to take part in The Edinburgh. Does anyone need a passenger?
 
The correspondence is below.
 
Michael
 
Doug,
Let me answer your questions below
To enter the Edinburgh Trial, which is organised by the MCC you need to be a member of the MCC. You can apply by following the link to their Web Site over on Classical Gas. (any problems let me know). As a member of the MCC you will get the regs and entry form sent automatically. As far as I know you do not have to be a British Citizen or be a UK resident to take part. As the 3 MCC trials are closed to club events you do not need a competition licence.
I see no reason as far as the club is cocerned why you can't run a hire car but if you meab Hertz/Avis etc I am sure they will object! and frankly it wouldn't be suitable, even for Class 0. There may well be competitors "in the trade" that would be prepared to hire you a proper trials car.
Road Insurance does not cover the trial. However the MCC can rrange it for less than 짙10.
I am sure that you could get a ride as a passenger. If you definately want to do this I and John Aley, Pat Toulmin etc will put the word around. The main thing is that the driver will want to be 100% sure you turn up on the night!
So the first step is for you to join the MCC.
Michael
 

>From: "Hagerman, Douglas" <Douglas.Hagerman@hp.com>
>To: <mleete24@hotmail.com>
>Subject: Entering a UK trial from overseas
>Date: Tue, 6 May 2003 16:13:15 -0400
>
>Hi Michael.
>
>I'm probably going to be in England in late September or early October of this year. If I wanted to enter the Edinburgh trial, what would be the best approach? Do I need to get a competition license? Can I run a hired car? Does road insurance cover trials?
>
>I'll be over there by myself, so perhaps it would be better to try to find someone who is already planning to enter and go with them as a passenger. What's the chance of finding someone who would be interested in this approach?
>
>Thanks.
>
>Doug.

Monday 21 April 2003

Trengwainton

Following our President's ideal Land's End Trial in 'Triple' I thought that I would go and have a look at the Trengwainton Hill Climb course as it was Easter Monday today. I have put some photos (I hope) on the website to show what it is now like! It was 40 years according to my records , that our President took his 997cc  Morris Cooper up in 27.10 seconds and won his class and 29 years since I last competed at the last event ( my first year was the same year as our President!)
I can say that the course was severley overgrown, but nothing seemed to be growing up through the concrete course. There were many pine trees where the spectator areas used to be, but these were now dying off so cutting them down would not be an environmental disaster. The start line marks are still there, I should remember them well as I used to set up the timing gear in the later years -----Just a memory???
 John Lees

Sunday 13 April 2003

Message to thatrev

Hello,
 
I have denied your membership as it is not clear what your real name is. Check out our rules and re-apply.
 
Michael

Wednesday 2 April 2003

Kyrle Trial 6th April

Kyrle Trial is all systems go for sunday. 15 sections in all plus 2 special tests. There are 5 new hills for your enjoyment. We are looking at the reality of placing tyre pressure limits on a number of the hills due to the dry conditions. We have a full entry including 29 class 8. To view the full entry list look at the Ross club website www.rossmotorsports.co.uk

Look forward to seeing you on Sunday

Adrian Marfell

Friday 28 March 2003

Message to Nickie

Sorry - have denied your application - if you really would like to join us check out our rules and apply again.
 
Michael

Wednesday 26 March 2003

For Sale: Mk 2 Golf GTi

1989/G, 5 door, black, 8 valve, PAS, electric windows, sunroof, MOT Mid July, lots of parts replaced (ask Murray Mac!).  1 careful  owner for the last 100,000 miles and never raced or rallied as they used to say in the old days!  Still goes well but getting a bit scruffy for work etc.  Just the job for the Summer autotest season or Brickhill etc 
 
No sensible offer refused.
 
Ian Davis
01494 (High Wycombe) 484 444 (w)
01494 482 603 (h)
07855 619580
 

Sunday 23 March 2003

Ebworth Trial - Stroud &amp; DMC - date?

Hi folks
 
The latest MCC News shows the date as 11 October (Saturday) and I had 12th (Sunday) in my LDT Directory - 12th seems more likely - anyone know for sure?
 
Brian
 
www.briansussex.btinternet.co.uk/LDTDirectory.htm

Sunday 9 March 2003

air adjustable shocks

I have in my shed a pair of Monroe air adjustable shock absorbers, would these be of use to anyone?    say £20
phone 01453 763737   Stroud 

Wednesday 5 March 2003

Message to Tris

Hello - Thanks for your application to join. Unfortunately you didn't tell us anything about yourself and I don't know who you are! I have denied your membership so you can apply again in accordance with our rules. All this is so we have a spam free zone to play in.
 
Michael

Saturday 1 March 2003

Northern Classic Trial

Northern Classic Trial Closing Date Extended!
The closing date for entries to the Northern Classic Trial has been extended to 16th March and places are still available. There are 14 sections on this year's event with some more challenging forest sections having been added and the route around Northern Lakeland must be one of the most scenic in the Championship calendar. Don't miss out on some championship points up north!!

Friday 28 February 2003

Message to Trumpet

Hi,
 
I have denied your application as you haven't given us your real name and you have used a yahoo e-mail which is a spamers charter!! As a marlin owner who wants to compete in classic trials we would love to have you on-board. Please read our rules (see menu on lh side) and resubmit your appication in accordance with same.
 
Michael

Tuesday 25 February 2003

Class 8...

I thought this was amusing when I came across it on Findit.co.uk.
 
Trundling across the moors on an MCC trial!
 
 

Friday 21 February 2003

class 3

With the search for a front engined rear wheel drive saloon becoming increasingly difficult, the reintroduction of a split class would open the flood gates to a host of vehicles that at present are considered uncompetetive against the normal all singing all dancing mk1 or mk2 escort, purely because of their engine size.
Those of you old enough to remember when this class was split, allowed a chance for the smaller engined saloons to compete.
This could introduce the use of a Lada and many other Japanise cars, as the search for a reasonable escort becomes more impossible.
Your Comments?

Thursday 20 February 2003

Marlin Question

Posted on begalf of Julian Haines - I am keen to try the odd PCT event or maybe even venture into the odd Classic Trial albeit Class 0 (where applicable) with an early Triumph Vitesse based Marlin. I know that in order to have any success I will need years of practice and a Marina based car but I am kind of attached to my current one and am more than happy to start at the bottom. The car has previously been used for PCT's and currently has a fairly massive 1/8th thick plate undertray and modified diff. Looking underneath the original vitesse sump seems to hang below the main chassis rails by about 2-3" and it occurred to mee their could be scope for a shallower sump. Are there any current or ex Triumph Marlin users out there who could advise on this together with any other bright ideas?
 
Any help would be much appreciated. 
 
Julian

Monday 17 February 2003

From John Aley

Hello Mike
 
I see from your site today that one of our potential LE marshals is querying the MCC video.
 
Yes, there are copies available but I suggest that as far as restarts are concerned he takes special notice of the marshals final instructions which are being issued for this event and which deal very specifically with restarts following the Exeter problems.   The same applies to competitors.
 
We seem to have had some interesting discussions on your site lately - well done.
 
John

Sunday 16 February 2003

Marlin Roadster wanted

Marlin Roadster Wanted
 
Currently seeking Marlin roadster for sale preferably already prepared for classic car trials or a modestly priced un-modified car that is suitable for conversion preferably with 1800cc MG engine (any condition considered). 
 
Please contact Jon Ellwood on 01684 275092 or e-mail jonandhelen@ellwood37.freeserve.co.uk.

Tuesday 11 February 2003

Wheelspin e-mag - February 2003

Now published at www.wheelspin.org.uk with feedback on the "What do we do about Class 8?" issue and a new article on 'My Top Five Sections'.
 
Andrew

Message to Jon

Jon - Hope I haven't done you a disadvantage by denying your membership. Can you apply again with real name and info about yourself - see our rules.
 
Michael

Wednesday 5 February 2003

Message to Mad Maz

Sorry man I have denied your membership application. Check out our rules and if you want to join submit a new application accordingly.
 
Michael - Community Manager

Tuesday 4 February 2003

Welcome to Thomas and Jim

This message has been deleted by the manager or assistant manager.

Wednesday 29 January 2003

March Hare Trial

Murray's March Hare Trial
Sunday 9th March
 
With just over 5 weeks to go entries are starting to arrive. So if you intend to enter then do it now, rather than later. Falcon Motor Club are expecting a full entry of 50 this year.
 
Visit the official March Hare web site at http://www.marchhare.info . Here you'll be able to check out all the details of the event including previous reports, results and pictures. Plus lots more including downloadable ASR's and Entry Form. And you'll be able to view the up-to-date entry list. Have a look now.

Friday 24 January 2003

What to do about Class 8 - an answer to Andrew

Andrew poses this question in his new "Wheelspin" e-magazine. My solution is to create a class 9. This would basically be for "Sporting Trials" cars with lights etc for the road. eg:- Cannons, The Dingo etc. Class 8 would remain for modified Dellows, Buggys, true specials, Trolls (and Dudley). The idea is that you would need an ACTC/MCC certificate to compete in class 8. This would be granted on the basis of your car being truely suitable to drive on the road and not of Sporting Trials origin or intent! Sticking my head above the parapet I volunteer to chair the eligibility committee.
 
You can throw the most severe challenge at class nine (restart on the slab at Simms?) or give them 20 marks penalty before they start an ACTC event.
 
If we want to limit the number of classes to eight then do away with class six. Any Beetles with a standard single Solex carb and an engine capacity of 1600cc or less go to class four. Over 1600 an/or non-standard carb go to class seven. This relies n the honesty of the driver just as it does for 1300 Beetles today in class 4.
 
Michael

Wednesday 22 January 2003

Michelin Tyres

Hello All,
 
Is anybody aware of the product name for the Michelin tyres that most people seem to be using on the Pre War / Class 2 cars?  We are currently on Dunlop's which are like ice skates on the muddy stuff and are coming to the end of their life so its time to update to the latest "covers".
 
Recommended outlets/sources for the tyres and any prices would be usefull aswell.
 
Best Regards
Kevin Barnes - Singer ADU 263

Monday 20 January 2003

Free Kit car ... Ginetta Tora Special

My 2003 Clee

Great trialling weather, nice day with lots of Mud! Scruitineering seemed a bit chaotic and I had only a few minutes for my breakfast despite getting there with an hour to spare. (major black mark if I don’t get my breakfast!). As Simon said in the instructions you had to follow the route card not the car in front as competitors were leaving to the left as we turned right out of the start. We got up Farlow without any problems although I understand quite a few didn’t. After Craven Arms we did the Ratlinghope, Gattens Gamble, Adstone loop first. I really enjoy these three sections even though they might not have a great bearing on the results they are fantastic to drive and with the wonderful views from the top it’s a sense of achievement like climbing Everest! I understand there were problems for class three as they did this loop after Round Oak and found some of the sections closed and the marshals gone.

We were one of the last to get to Round Oak and had a one and a half hour wait. I thought it was worth it as the section is a real challenge of balancing throttle against grip. To much power in the wrong place and you are off into the ditch. This is the problem as when that happened it took up to twenty minutes to tow people out. If Simon reads this, I hope you persevere and keep it in the event!

Hungerford was tricky at the bottom as usual and also at the top on the bump. We ran out of ground clearance here and stopped, in front of fellow Falcons Richard and Ed who gave us a little push and we were away. Giles cleaned this and that put him in the lead of class four.

There was no restart in the route card for Ippikins Route but the start marshal told us we had to do one. This was positioned right on the corner and made it impossible for us. We got going but just couldn’t get around the corner as we didn’t have any speed to bring the back round.

It was just getting dark for The Jenny-Wind where we spun to a halt at the seven (I think). By the time we had the tyres pumped up a bit for Harley Bank it was nice and dark which made this long hill a real adventure. Definitely one of my favourites.

Finally, it was into the estate for a couple of sections and a special test. Personally I didn’t like these as I thought they were out of character with the rest of the event. It was getting very late (we signed off at 6pm) and with a long drive home in front of us (we got a flat on the M6) Mike and I would have preferred to finish after Harley Bank. Others may disagree of course.

In conclusion I really enjoyed my Clee. Some great sections, plenty of friendly marshals. Simon and his team had clearly put a lot of thought into their event and even if some things were not perfect on the day I am sure they will work on them for the future. Well done MAC.

Michael

PS – I thought the different route for different classes seemed a good idea.

Message to Giles

Giles,
 
Hope you got home OK. We had a flat on the M6! I have deleted your membership as requested so you can rejoin. btw - I enjoyed our chats as we went round the Clee together. I am minded of the famous saying by Abraham Lincoln in 1858 "You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time , but you can not fool all the people all of the time". Note for other members. It could be libelous if I explained the context of this "in joke"! but it has no connection with Simon's trial which I thought was truely wonderful.
 
Michael

Saturday 18 January 2003

Message to Zeus

Sorry but I have denied your membership application for the following reasons:-
 
1. You have not used your real name as your nickname
2. You have not shown your real name in your profile
3. You have used a msn.com e-mail which is untraceable
4. I have no idea who you are
 
This is a private community for trials participants and those who are interested in our hobby. It is a reasonably spam free place and we would like to keep it that way. If you would like to join please check out our rules and re-apply.
 
Michael

Friday 17 January 2003

Thursday 16 January 2003

Skoda Estelle Conversions

I have recently aquired a 105S Estelle and am in the process of converting it for Classic Trials. Planned is a 1300 engine, fit front and underbody skid plate (it already has a sump guard), a twin spare wheel holder is now fitted and the front valance is being trimmed of about 5 inches depth with the front wings to be trimmed as well. Am I allowed to replace the existing 1050cc engine with a Favorit engine of 1300 and stay in Class 4? If so, does anyone have any info on that swap? For the Skoda experts, do I remove the anti-roll bar? Are there any other easily available 14 inch wheels, apart from Skoda that I gather are very rare? Should I raise the front and rear suspension and, if so, how? I plan to plate the rear trailing arms with 14 gauge (?) steel sheet. Should both the upper and lower front wishbones be boxed in?  Are there any other areas on the chassis that need strengthening? When I fit the 1300 engine, I understand that fitting an SU carb is recommended. Which one and what manifold is advised? I plan to make a dedicated A frame to tow the car. I know that this is not seen as stricty playing by the rules by some but I live in Carlisle and am the wrong side of 50 now so like my comfort in between going loony (I hope) so towing it will be!!! I plan to use the existing front bumper fitting holes in the chassis, plus another on both sides to make three. I will make up a cross member with new legs to go down the chassis then mount fittings on the cross member for my frame. Any comments about this from anyone who tows to events would be appreciated.
I would appreciate any feedback on any or all of these questions either on this site or via my e-mail of
myke@ talkgas.net or on 01228-530555
In the mean time, I look forward to seeing many of you (I hope) on the Northern Classic.
Many thanks in anticipation
( A brief note especially for Simon Robson. Whilst the Skoda you sold to Chris Veevers is now no more, some parts do live on in my Estelle)
Myke Pocock      

Wednesday 15 January 2003

Message to Martin who has applied for membership

Martin,
 
We need you to let us know your real name. You do this by putting it in your membership profile. Can you do this and write a few notes about yourself. (See Membership rules). I have cancelled your application so you can resubmit.
 
Michael

Sunday 12 January 2003

Beetle for trials

Is anyone wanting to sell a beetle reasonably ready to trial. The son & heir having been somewhat displaced from the bouncing seat by his future stepmother naturally wants to drive. He needs something he can use as an everyday car until his talents are recognised and he becomes really rich.
Tony

Saturday 11 January 2003

1935 Ford C Four Door Sedan

If you are looking for a restored 1935 Ford C 4 Door sedan, red interior, grey external paint work. Original mileage 93,000 miles. exprt form New Zealand can be arranged.
email bruce@whitfield-nz.com.

Thursday 9 January 2003

Wednesday 8 January 2003

New member requires help and advice with mods to midget 1500

Hello everyone,
 
I have just joaned this group and I could do with some help from some very experienced trials enthusiasts. It all started when Stuart & Keith Roach introduced me to the sport and I had my first ride with Dudley Sterry (frightening but great fun!)
 
I have a 1500 midget that I entered on the Lands End, Testing and Edinburgh '02 but unfortunately it suffered much damage.
I am in the process of modifying the front and rear suspension, and could help with some advice from those that have already overcome the minimal ground clearance of the midget. I have already modified the exhaust to go over the axle and I am fitting the fuel tank in the boot.  I have run a 4.25 diff on the Edinburgh which was ok (ish) but the planet gear cross pin broke or I have a 5.3 (but with a couple of chipped teeth), what ratio's would you recommend? how about a fack diff? (where can I get one / how much?). What tyres and sizes would you recommend?
 
Any help would be appreciated,
 
Edward Patient.

Monday 6 January 2003

Exeter 2003 - Simms

Michael,
I have just posted a batch of photographs all taken at Simms, mostly these cover the morning motorcyclists. My quota for submitting pictures on your web page was "used up" hence I have posted some of the car pictures on the Dellow Register site and some on Andrew Browns Wheelspin - I still have about 30/40 car pictures that I am unable to post unless you can advise me how to.
Apologies to those motorcyclists who appear to be going down the hill, who knows who made it to the top and took the easier route back ?!!
Regards
John Mac

Friday 3 January 2003

ACTC Tyre List

I received the following by e-mail. I have put the full ACTC Tyre list here :-
 
This reflects 3 recently approved additions:

* Continental Conticontact CT21

* VTS (Vintage Tyre Supplies) Waymaster - in specific sizes only

* India Super Steel

Both the Continental and India tyres are no longer in production, but have
been added at the request of competitors who have "stock" of them. In fact,
the majority of tyres on the list are no longer in production!

Wednesday 1 January 2003

ACU cards for 2003

The ACU took my 짙10 on 22 November but no card received yet! I must check Exeter Trial instructions but I recall having to produce the ACU card on the Lands End.
 
Anyone had their 2003 ACU card yet?
 
Happy New Year and roll on Friday night ;o)
 
Brian