Tuesday 27 December 2005

New Trials Venue

Question? Is there any news about the possible new single venue trials site near Ellesmere that was mentioned some months ago on this site?

Sunday 18 December 2005

Famous Hills postcard in Triple - page 35

I am puzzled by the hill named as Dean Steep. The only Dean Steep I know is a fantastic rock climb (worthy of an MCC hill) just  SW of Buckfastleigh - that is clearly not the one in the picture! Anyone know where it is please?
 
Also, what would you date the postcard as?
 
Brian
 
PS I have only ever seen Beggars Roost in the dark and I always imagined it as tree lined?

Imp Engines

I need some help in trying to identify which gearbox fits on the back of a imp engine without an adaptor plate. I seem to remember that one of the cars on the ACTC's stand at the Historic Motorsport show had this arrangement. Anyone got any ideas?
Cheers
Stuart

Sunday 11 December 2005

Exeter 2006

Exeter paperwork should be on its way to you as I type this. Been out today 'improving' and inspecting some of the hills and bumped in to a group of barely recognisable ramblers we felt may have had motoring perhaps trialling connections. Or was I just imagining things. In deepest darkest Dorset. Beware big brother is watching, hee, hee, hee.

Thursday 8 December 2005

Question


Hi

My email provider has recently installed spam
filters that have prevented receipt by me of some emails. I have been
receiving some but not all emails from Classical Gas. My provider
has said if I can ask legitimate senders to contact them at postmaster@talkgas.net.uk with
headers of bounced mail they wil ensure they are sent. Have you received any
bounced mail and could you help with this?

 

Myke Pocock. 

Sunday 4 December 2005

CAB 282 Airborne Nailsworth Ladder

One of around 50 piccies I have of CAB 282 1947 -1951
 
 
CAB is almost finnished now after 42 years off the road ....................its a long long story but surely the ultimate off roader??
 
Peter 

1948 Gloucester

Should have this available soon on DVD. Not long as just a few minutes but prototype Dellows (including mine CAB 282),plus Allards, V8 specials and MG's etc.
 
How about a vintage trialling photo archive guys?
 
 
Peter

Saturday 3 December 2005

Camel

I am passengering Simon Groves on my first Cornish one day trial. I plan to post live hill by hill reports over at http://spaces.msn.com/members/classicalgas/
 
If other competitors would like to help then touch base with me at the start so I can give you my mobile number. This will enable you to post your reports as well by text message.
 
Michael
 
 

Sunday 20 November 2005

WANTED - help to claim a byway!

I guess this is a wanted ad really! Sorry for a bit of hijacking but at the end of the day the outcome might be nutually helpful.

I am trying to catch up on a few claims that are for lanes where Devon County has just plainly got the status wrong and hasn't got it sorted in the 50 years they have had to do so thus leaving it to us amateurs.

I am desparate for some user evidence forms for the old road that goes under the North Devon link road at Riverton (SS6382 2999 to SS 6386 2976) which is wrongly designated as Swimbridge Bridleway 20. The section used on the MCC LE Trial is the southern end of the bridleway where it magically transmogrifies into a County Road - clearly a nonsense that I must try and sort out. I understand that the NDMC might use this route as well.

If you know anyone that has used this old road and is willing to help, can they please email me at briansussex[@]hotmail.com and I will return a reply with a pre-filled evidence form template.

I am already in touch with Roger Ugalde and hoping to hear back from John Barthram.

Brian

In this case with my Devon TRF Group RoW Officer's hat on....

Saturday 19 November 2005

Hardy 2005




Most Pictures on Boarsbarrow

FOR SALE - Triumph-based Class 8 Special

MFB 196 - The Triumph "Sixpence"
Spitfire 1500cc engine on twin 1.5" SUs with fast road cam.
Independent rear suspension with needle roller diff pin.
Full weather equipment. Large spares package available.
This car has obtained numerous MCC medals and PCT awards.
A unique and ready-to-trial Class 8 car.
짙3,955
Steve Holder
01242-680620 (Office)
07973-128189 (Mobile)
For more details and lots of pictures see
http://www.knightlybrown.net/public/002/index.htm

Friday 18 November 2005

Need a passenger for the Exeter?

I'm still not driving and I will be passengering on the Exeter with Simon Groves. This leaves my regular passenger and friend Mike Hayward available for the Exeter. If you need a passenger please contact Mike at mike_hayward34@hotmail.com
 
He's great company and knows all the Exeter Hills.
 
Michael

Tuesday 15 November 2005

Welcome John Rhodes (YellerDutton)

John tells us that "Due to a recent brain transplant with the village idiot I rebuilt a Dutton and can now go trialling more often."

Sunday 13 November 2005

Do i need to sign back up?

Do i need to sign back up to clear my nickname ?
 
regards
 
daniel

Welcome to Roger Hoskin (Hifor2) and Daniel Nikel (conker_skippy2k)

Welcome to Roger and Daniel. It took a few days to process your applications as you didn't apply according to our "use real name as your nickname" rule. Please remember to sign posts with your real name.
 
The key to nicknames can be found here Membership List - Key to Nicknames
 
You can add information about yourself here Our Members - Add your own Info Here
 
I have applications from "YellerDutton" and "Gizmo20051". I am sure you are both bona fide but you didn't give me enough info. We need to know your real name.
 
Michael

Thursday 3 November 2005

Differential starts

Just an idea following Dave's comments on the Tamar...
 
Had a lightbulb moment while pondering all this earlier - why not have differential start lines but for all novices, not just class 1?  As Dave quite rightly points out, he doesn't need the advantage but wants to find ways of encouraging new participants.  Thinking back two years, I would have found differential start lines to be a big encouragement.
 
See you on Sunday,
 
Pete

Wednesday 2 November 2005

Edinburgh Result??

I've just been looking through the summary of Edinburgh results and see that Mike Chatwin has been given the overall. However shouldnt this have gone to Richard Peck in his Class 6 Beetle as he got a Gold and had a faster speed test time. Does anyone know if this is an error in the results?

Tuesday 1 November 2005

Bodmin Trial

Can anyone please tell me what time the Bodmin Trial starts this Sunday?
 
Thanks in advance

Monday 31 October 2005

Message to Andrew Rippon

Hello Andrew,
 
I have sent an email to your Hotmail address.
 
Michael

Friday 28 October 2005

Wanted Teenage Kicks by The Undertones

I know its trivial compared to Simons post but can anyone help. I need an MP3 of Teenage Kicks by The Undertones. ITunes don't have it (would have paid). Can anyone help?
 
Michael

Thursday 27 October 2005

Pete Fear

Alas, it is with regret that I have to announce the death of Pete Fear after a long struggle with cancer.    He had not been well for some time, but went downhill quite rapidly over the summer.    Our thoughts are with his family.

Monday 24 October 2005

Tamar

After another very enjoyable and surprisingly tough event, I was pleased to see quite a large FWD class tackle the event. The one thing that became very obvious was how disadvantage we are in class 1, The hill in question which I was observing was Mineview in which the FWD's where required to start with there driving wheel's on the hill. None off the cars moved off the start line then along come's the other classes who are allowed to start 10 feet back on the track. Doesnt seem fair.
 
Too add more insult the penultimate hill New Langlys, class 1 had to get there driven wheels out of the section to go clear and the remainder of the classes came up 10 feet short to claim a clean.
 
The new blood in our sport need some help to keep them going, not spinning on the start lines.  Number's are dwindling.

Sunday 16 October 2005

Tyre pumps

Does anyone have any suggestions to speed up the process of pumping up tyres at the end of a section? We currently use 2 small electric pumps but they do seem to take a long time. I noticed a pump/tank for sale on this message board last week, where can you get them from? I know that you can use a scuba diving bottle, how big do you need? Or a really powerful foot or hand pump? Any other suggestions?

Chris Clarke

Tuesday 11 October 2005

Photos

Mike, I have another 40 odd photos that I am unable to load as I have exceeded my web space. I have downsized them all to approx 100 is this enough? what should I do next?
 
EdN

Monday 10 October 2005

Edinburgh 05




Bamford, apologies for some of the photos, but new to this digital camera

Monday 3 October 2005

Message from Ian Bates

Ian called on Sunday night and asked me to tell you that the ladies at Hollingsclough Village hall took 짙450 for the excellent tea and cakes they served. Ian tells me that they were delighted and we are welcome back next year. Thats super because we should be OK to use the nearby Rakes Head section.
 
Michael

Wednesday 28 September 2005

Live Edinburgh Reports

I plan to post section by section reports live from The Edinburgh Trial over on Michael's Blog. It isn't 100% reliable but that's the plan!. I am with Simon Groves in the last car. If any other competitor or marshal would like to help out with info email me at mleete24@hotmail.com and we can exchange mobile numbers.
 
Michael

Wednesday 21 September 2005

Hardy Trial

After much burning of the telephone wires, and much politicking I can confirm that this years Hardy is most definately on.    The new clerk of the course is Ben Johnson; sometime passenger for Tony Young, and the secretary of the meeting is Nick Ryle who may be remembered as a VW driver by those who are old and grey.   Tony Young is very much the power behind the throne, and I expect the revitalised event to have his stamp on it.
The new team NEEDS your support and I would hope that as many people as possible turn out to compete.    If you can't compete, then maybe you can volunteer to marshal - I don't suppose they will be exactly swamped.   e-mail your intent to Ben: BENJOHNSON0101@aol.com or Nick: albanyow@aol.com

Tuesday 20 September 2005

Exe Valley

We enjoyed a very dry day out on Sunday on the Exe Valley - bit of a contrast to the previous weekend.  Funnily enough though there had been a heavy local  shower at the second section to make it more interesting...unlike at Simms - was this the driest it's ever been?  Even Dave H struggled to find any puddles and arrived at the finish in shorts and flash new trainers. 
 
Excellent route card and lots of markers meant there was no danger of getting lost.  We finished at 3.15 and would have got home by 8 if the M4 hadn't been full of rally spectators coming back from Wales in their Imprezas
 
Many thanks to Roger, James, Zoe and the team for all the hard work that made it run so smoothly

Wednesday 14 September 2005

Message to Johnflyfish (John Goreham)

johnflyfish
I like the grass roots of motor sport and the friendly and not too competitive side of classic trialling
johngoreham@hotmail.com
 
Thanks for your application to join. You are now a member. We are a real names community. I guess your name is John Goreham but I am not sure. It would be super if you can go into your profile and change your nickname to your real name. Also to go to Our Members and add a few words about yourself.
 
Hope you enjoy your membership.
 
Michael
 
 
 

Monday 12 September 2005

Friday 9 September 2005

Exeter Trial - Cornwall start venue

Just in case whoever needs to know hasn't spotted this...  I have driven past Trewint services twice this week and it is looking very closed.  Everything is boarded up and the whole site is fenced off.  This looks like it is closed for good rather than for refurbishment.  Thought I would post this info in case another start venue is needed.
Pete Barr

Thursday 8 September 2005

Edinburgh Trial 2005

The Entry List, Competitor's Scheduled Time Calculator, and a revised-and-updated Spectator Sections page are all now available on the MCC website from this link:
http://www.themotorcyclingclub.org.uk/events/edinburgh_2005_intro.htm
 
Andrew

Tuesday 6 September 2005

Roger Pole Taw & Torridge Start Times

Competitors should note that it is the number that is on the entry list that is your correct number.   The organisers snuck two late bike entries in after the scrutineering cars had been printed and this shuffled all the numbers along.
For those who are struggling with the maths of half minute start intervals, I recon that the first car starts at 09:20hrs and the last at 09:55hrs.
Enjoy your day.. 

Friday 2 September 2005

Passenger required

Slightly off topic, but still:

As it just happened, my usual passenger was made unavailable for this weekends PCTs. Anybody interested in bouncing an Austin 7 uphill this Saturday and/or Sunday in North Wales?

Saturdays venue is here:
www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=53.2928&lon=-3.3854&scale=100000&icon=x
Start at 12.00 PM

Sunday Start 10.00 AM here:
www.multimap.com/map/browse.cgi?lat=53.1958&lon=-3.6555&scale=100000&icon=x

Should anyone out there be interested, I can be contacted on 0791 3344550


Thomas Aldrian

Edinburgh Route Book

Just been speaking to Dave Nash who tells me the Edinburgh Route Card is a tulip diagram. Sounds interesting. Anybody seen one?
 
Michael

Wednesday 31 August 2005

In-car Air Pump and Tyre Pressure Gauge

For sale - one in-car air pump never fitted to a trials car. Originally supplied by Dave Turner this is as new and is complete with air tank. These little pumps fit in the car and run off the battery. When you are driving along the pump pressurizes the tank so that when you reach the top of the section you can have an instant air-line. I have a photo if anyone wants to see what they would be buying.
This is a bargain at 짙60.00.
 
Also - a longacres pressure gauge in excellent condition. Reads from 0-30psi. 짙20.00.
 
These both belonged to Graham Brasier and the pump would need to be collected from Janette Brasier in Tywardreath, Cornwall, unless you can wait until someone in that area can pass it along.
 
The gauge can obviously be posted by Janette at cost.
 
If you have any questions on either let me know.
 
Giles

Saturday 27 August 2005

205 for sale

class 1 205 set up for classic trials 1900 running on twin 40 webbers (120bhp at wheels ) raised suspension ,4 pin diff,power steering ,lead ballasted ,sump gaurd ,grp tail gate .colway cmt tyres ,very compedative car , atrue golf beater  £1800  phone adrian on 01579 320473 / 07791986584  hand injury forces sale

Friday 19 August 2005

Hydraulic Handbrake on E-Bay

Have a look at
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7994049477&fromMakeTrack=true
A CNC "Staging Brake".   This must be the easiest way for any non-technical person to fit a hydraulic handbrake to their car.   Everthing is included in the kit, all you have to is decide where to fit it, cut into the front to rear brake line, flare and attach the cut ends to the cylinder, bleed the brakes and go.    With one of these you can hold the car on a one in nothing with just your finger tips.   Makes restarts and reversing back a breeze (not that I ever have to do that!).    As used by Simon Woodall, Ade Marfell, Hans Viertel and others.
I'm not saying mine is good, but a sharp tug will lock the rear wheels at 30mph. 
(e-bay item number 7994049477 if the link doesn't work)

Thursday 18 August 2005

reliant robins banned ?

I see the regs for the exe valley exclude 3 wheelers driven by 2 rear wheels is this just this trial or a ban for all trials  I for one would be sorry to see the likes of john beaumount and the old spot piglet to disapear

Wednesday 17 August 2005

Welcome Phil Tucker - Phil9165

Phil welcome to membership. We like real names here so it would be good if you can change your nickname to your real name in your profile. More details about Phil here Membership List - Key to Nicknames
 
Michael

Tuesday 16 August 2005

For Sale Golf GTI 16V

FOR SALE
Golf GTI 16V 1800cc
G Reg. Metallic Black, sunroof and alloys.
It is currently SORN but has approx 11 months MOT.
Price 짙900
The car is in the South Oxfordshire area.
Please Contact John White on 01491 201807
 
Posted by Nicola Wainwright
 

Monday 15 August 2005

fiat twin cam spares

Has any one got any info on spares suppliers for a Fiat or Lancia twin cam i ame finding difficulties in sourcing spares locally . Also a book now out of print Tuning Twin cam fiat & Lancias or any tuning info .
 
 
dave grose

Friday 5 August 2005

Ian Bates has found a new Trials Venue

Just had a call from Ian who has found a super single venue trials site at Ellesmere in Shropshire Click Here for Map. There is excellent parking and facilities for camping and caravanning on site so it would be possible to run an event over two days. The trials area has good gradient and it would be possible to run lots of sections.
 
Ian would like to gauge interest before going ahead and approaching a suitable club. He would appreciate feedback on what support he would get if he runs an event in this area. Please give Ian some feedback at ibates5198@aol.com or post a message here.
 
Michael   

Tuesday 2 August 2005

Top Gear

I watched Top Gear on Sunday evening, the first time for years. Frankly I was appalled, what a terrible advert for car enthusiasts, especially being proud to destroy a feild. I know the 4 x 4 community get a bad press but the guys I have been out with a couple of times pride themselves on things looking as if they have never been around.
 
Then there was the driving on the"test track"!
 
Michael

Thursday 21 July 2005

Class 7 Specs

Updated Specs for the Melos Marlin & Liege are now available on the ACTC site.
 
Don't panic amendments are only minor.
Melos
New format, spare wheel carrier dimension added.
Marlin
Fiat engine location added. Engine/Gearbox mix and match allowed.
Liege
A series rear axle permitted.
 
These are now ready for owner certification.
 
Cheers
 
Pete

Sunday 10 July 2005

suspension mounts?

The recent MCC warning of rule enforcement concerning suspension pick-up points not being altered.....surely this has been in the rule book for....at least a century?
 
However....inside a certain (extremely useful) magazine  there is a build of an Escort with fuel infection, etc.....also recently run in the same mag was an article detailing 5 linking an escorts rear end.
 
This I think involved the elimination of the leaf spring in favour of coily-overs?
 
This may have been on the same car, or may be  an idea for the trialler...especially as one of  the virtues of the setup was improved axle articulation.
 
Would this sort of setup not contravene the "suspension pick-up points" rule?
 
Also..one for Simon Woodhall....is it within the rules, on an independant rear suspension, to NOT use the original/same manufacturer's hub/brakes, or even suspension arm, as long as the original pick-up points were used?

Need a passenger for The Edinburgh?

With no prospect of having my car available for The Ediburgh I have been asked, and accepted, to passenger for Simon Groves. My regular passenger Mike Hayward is available for anyone that needs a passnger. You can contact him on mike_hayward34@hotmail.com
 
Michael Leete

Wednesday 22 June 2005

Skoda Estelle

This may be a long shot but there may be someone who can help me out. In the 80's Cars and Car Conversions magazine apparently modified a Skoda Estelle for rallying. There were 3 articles published and then the car was offered as a prize in the October 86 issue, so I am told. I cannot find when the conversion articles were published however. I am particularly interested in the engine conversion details. Does anyone have back copies that they can look through and let me know when the articles were published so I can try and get back copies. Alternatively if anyone could photocopy the article/s I would be only too please to pay. I can be contacted on 01228 530555 or myke@talkgas.net
 
Myke Pocock.

Wednesday 15 June 2005

For Sale from Ken Green - Marlin owners look at this

Hi Mike
 
I am having a clear out and have the following for sale.
Could you please add to the web site.
My computer will not let me log on to Classical gas ( or any other MSN site) but I still get the weekly bulletin - strange eh !!
Thanks
Ken
 
FOR SALE
1963 Wolseley 1500 for spares or repair has new V5C
 
BMC Marina 10cwt Van axle ideal for Marlin complete with brakes and drums ready to fit.
 
I was going to fit the axle into the Wolseley but have changed my plans
 

Saturday 4 June 2005

Troll Chassis

Brand new Troll Chassis, wishbones, uprights,trailing arms etc. I have everything from bare chassis to fully panelled with fibreglass bodywork. Built under licence from Peter James a few years ago by Arch Motors to the same quality as Caterham Chassis. For sale at really good prices due to a small glitch in my health and closing down my business. I can be contacted by E-mail troll@terrynightingale.co.uk or by mobile07711 642442

Thursday 2 June 2005

Way to go in Class Three

Interesting day at The Enfield Pageant last week.
 
Lee Lawrence had his Escort there complete with Zetec Engine.
 
 
 
Is this the way to go in Class 3? Why not if you are allowed a Type 4 engine in a class 6 Beetle.
 
More stuff, including a picture of the MCC's new Class 2 Ready Mix Lorry on my blog. http://spaces.msn.com/members/classicalgas/
 
Michael
 

Wednesday 25 May 2005

Well done Michael

I note that this is the 2000 message - thanks to what Michael started and has worked so hard with, to do us all a good service. Other than counting messages I also noted a Trials Car for 99p on Ebay - Item 4552499967 (yep its a full size one with road fund). An AX GT. Regards Jonathan

Sunday 22 May 2005

Classic Car Show

Members may be interested in a friendly Classic Car Show in the village of Maxey, which is just north of Peterborough, for 'Classic Cars' read 'Interesting Cars' as it covers the whole range from vintage through to 70's/80's and kit cars & car clubs (I fancy an Ultima!).  It takes place on Saturday 13th August 2005 and further details can be found on their web site www.maxey.co.uk/carshow_2005.htm

Friday 20 May 2005

Welcome to Steve Nikel (hespian)

Welcome Steve. As this is a real names community it would be super if you could go to your profile and change your nickname to your real name. Otherwise can you sign your contributions with your real name please.
 
You can say a few words about yourself at Our Members

Thursday 19 May 2005

Having Trouble Signing In??

If you are having trouble signing in, it may be because Mr Microsoft seems to have changed his Passport System without telling anyone.

To make you passport work again, go to www.passport.com, and choose to update your profile.    You will then be forced to answer a number of pointless, and IMHO intrusive questions, after which your passport will work again.  (Or at least mine did).
I answered "other" to all the job related queries, gave my age as over 100, and Mr Microsoft's data validation isn't good enough to notice that XX1 1XX is not a valid postcode!
 
Drive and Enjoy

Tuesday 17 May 2005

Ilkley Passenger Wanted

Ted Holloway needs a passeneger for this weekend. If anyone is interested contact me mleete24@hotmail.com and I will put you in touch.
 
Michael

Monday 16 May 2005

Mazda engined Hillman Imp trials car for sale

Posted on behalf of Jim Scott

For sale: Class 7 rotary engined Hillman Imp trials car.

Orange coloured strengthened shell fitted with Mazda RX7 engine, VW Transporter gearbox, modified Datsun driveshafts, 14inch BMW wheels, disc brakes all round, Saab front seats, front mounted rad, 2 spare wheels on rear engine lid, on board engine driven air compressor etc. etc.

Developed and reliable, class winning car competed on the Manx trial and subsequent MCC and ACTC events but unused and dry stored for a few years. Engine using some oil so needs attention or easy conversion to Ford engine.

Offered at fraction of build cost at 짙1000 o.n.o. due to imminent storage problem.

Contact Jim on 07860 213880 (Oxfordshire)

Tuesday 10 May 2005

Marlin wing

Does anyone have any good Marlin wings ? Urgent need of a N/S wing or rear section only. Richard 07768 104132

Monday 25 April 2005

How was your Kyrle?

I had an exciting day on the Kyrle, passengeing Simon Groves. What a rough tough day it was. The hills were really steep and like all the other Escorts we suffererd major problems with ground clearance. Therev were quite a few retirements and quite a few cars with damaged bodywork, including ours, which you can see if you check out my blog http://spaces.msn.com/members/classicalgas/.
 
I have posted the results as thete were read out at the finish over at http://www.classictrials.co.uk/Gas05061.htm. Robert Grounds has posted a ggod range of pictures which you can find byclicking on these links.
 

Friday 22 April 2005

Dutton Knowhow

Sorry that my first message on here is a begging letter, but I have just aquired a Dutton Melos which I would like to fettle for MCC trials. However at the moment it is too low slung to drive on anything but a billiard table. As other members of this species are often seen in MCC events, It must be possible to raise them up from the dust. Is it a matterof  different springs/shock-absorbers etc or are there recommended chassis mods? Can anyone please give me the benefit of their knowledge on this?
 
Many thanks in advance
Chris Jones
 

Gerry Marshall

I understand that saloon car racer and legend Gerry Marshall has died.
 
Michael

Thursday 21 April 2005

Check out the Google Maps

Message to 658HLC

Hello - As I didn't get a reply to the email I sent a few days ago I have assumed you don't want to continue with your application. I have denied it so you can always apply again if you want to.
 
Michael

Sunday 17 April 2005

Bovey Down Trial

The Windwhistle MC organized an excellent trial last sunday in the "Normans Hump" & "Clinton" woods.   25 sections, all of MCC/ACCT difficulty, all in daylight all in sunshine and no road milage.
 
Thanks to Tim Whellock, the other organizers and marshalls.
 
Peter Mountain

Thursday 14 April 2005

Liege Wheels Questions

I'm having a hard time finding Liege information on the web; perhaps someone can help me with these questions about the cool Liege alloy wheels.
 
- What size are they? 16x3.5" is what I remember.
- Will they fit on an axle with Honda bolt circle dimensions? I'm guessing that the Suzuki and Honda wheels are interchangeable, but can't verify it.
- How much do they weigh?
- How much do they cost?
- What kind of tires--oops, tyres--can you put on them? I'm particularly interested in low rolling resistance tires.
 
I want to put them on a Honda Insight, which uses the same wheel dimensions as the Honda Civic. The Insight (in America, at least) comes with a 165/65R14 Bridgestone RE-92 tire which is particularly good for fuel economy, but dodgy in all other ways. Perhaps a 135/60R16 is available?

Wednesday 13 April 2005

Monday 11 April 2005

Great Day Out

Congratulations go to The Windwhistle Motor Club for putting on their second Clubsport Classic trial in Bovey Down woods last Sunday. Tim Wellock set out a wide variety of sections, including Clinton and Normans Hump. 25 sections offered a full days sport to the experts and beginers alike. Over half entered as MCC,with a few well known faces driving other peoples well known cars. Terry Flay,the year round castodian of the woods was sprung a family suprise to find his name in the entry list with the family Troll (and he had a great day). Arron Homewood split his Skoda`s sump - are we surprised he changed it?maybe but to carry a spare bolted to the floor pan and to reuse most of the original oil - had to be seen. I recall a competitor changed a 2CV engine in the same wood ,then completed the Exeter trial, some years back. Who was it ? The results
well we were all winners due to the slick organisation, good sections,very friendly and relaxed atmosphere - brilliant weather and a pasty van on site. Next years great day out will be over subscribed - don`t miss out.

Class 8 Special

Whilst idly contemplating my new transport, one 1100cc Fiesta automatic, that will transport me around whilsy my ankle surgery heals I got to thinking Class 8 Specials. Take a small hatchback, Fiesta, Citroen AX, Peugeot 205 etc, junk the engine and box. Rip out the back suspension and floor and install a 1600cc or larger engine, box and suspension unit from another source. Other requirements would be ease of raising the supsension or fitting larger wheels or both and front suspension with not too much low down to get in the way. Leave the radiator in the front and plumb through the cabin, fit fuel tank in the front end and replace rear windows with acrylic sheet etc etc etc.
Just a thought! Any comments for, against, advantages, disadvantages or just to confirm that I want my head tested as I have a Locost to complete, a JC Midge to reinstate for the road and an Estelle to continue to modify.
 
Myke Pocock.   

Sunday Past Times

Did anyone else catch a glimse of a programme called "Sunday Past Times" on Sunday lunchtime?   I just caught a minute of it whilst setting the video.    It had shots of the 1948 or 1949 Gloucester Trial.    By the time I had recovered the two minute sequence was almost over, but I did catch some good stuff on the Nailsworth Ladder.   In particular what is now Roger Ugalde's Allard making an extraordinary climb.
If anyone knows about or has the technology to transfer VHS to a PC I'll put the 30 seconds on the site.   (With glorious Pathe News style comentary )

Saturday 9 April 2005

Phil Pontin's VW Chenowth

For those that do not see the MCC News of the Week..........
FOR SALE: Yellow VW Chenowth.
Recent 1913cc motor / twin dellorto's / full oil cooler and filter system. Transporter rear axle and CV joints.
Plus 2 new spare wheels and tyres and 4 non-trials oversize wheels and tyres.
Divers gas cylinder and regulator set-up for tyre inflation.
A-frame towing attachment. - No trailer required
Should climb anything with right driver.  A bargain at £4,500
Phil Pontin  01803 529307 or 07734 466564 or pontins@zebbiedog.wanadoo.co.uk

Sunday 3 April 2005

Yet another threat to motorsport?

Please read the two latest posts on my Rights of Way News website at http://www.wheelspin.org.uk/rownews/index.htm. I'm afraid that the situation is as bleak as it looks and could be a major threat to our continued use of farmland for classic trials and PCTs unless we can make it worthwhile for the farmer and that, of course, means more money.
 
Andrew

Saturday 2 April 2005

Welcome to Richard Clarke

Richard has joined using the nickname "NoisyCheney". His email address is richard.clarke@gvagrimley.co.uk and in his application he says - So I can be part of the build-up and follow up of the 3 greatest trials in the world !
 
You are welcome Richard but as this is a real names group we would like you to go into your member profile and change your nickname to your real name. Also it would be nice if you could add a bit about yourself in the "our members" section. If you have technical problems with this then please sign your contributions with your real name.
 
Michael

Classical Gas Members.xls

Thursday 31 March 2005

Trials car project wanted

I am looking for a light wt car .Cannon, Buckler etc to build for field trials and perhaps longer events.Must have infomation to gain a V5.We all know what the D.V.L.A. require.Thank you

Sunday 20 March 2005

Lands End In the Daily Telegraph

A nice write up of the Lands End in yesterday's Motoring telegraph.   If you missed it, you can find it on the paper's web page.
 
But you may have to "log on" to get there. 

Journalist Pete Cross does a fair job of getting "our" point across, but it is curious how similar his writing style is to John Aley's!!

Monday 14 March 2005

Presidents Trial - 17th April

Due to an early Easter, this year's Presidents Trial will be on the 17th April 2005. The majority of the sections are traditional classic lanes with the route focused in the Bodmin, Liskeard and Looe areas.
 
The events starts in Bodmin but trailers can be left all day at the finish venue, Jamaica Inn on the A30 between Bodmin and Launceston, to give a quicker journey home.
 
Please contact me for Regs or more details by email: celfworks@hotmail.com
 
Thomas Bricknell

Sunday 13 March 2005

MARCH HARE Results

A summary is available here http://www.marchhare.info/50804.html.
 
Full results will be published in due course.

Murrays March Hare - BRICK HILL PHOTOS....

I took over 300 photos at Brick Hill whilst Marshalling I've put nearly 200 up on the internet... If you were there... you are on our website... www.hertsvwclub.org
 
More photos will be added by others soon... just wanted to get mine up before you all finished!
 
If you see a photo or 2 that you want in higher res, please email me at julian@hertsvwclub.org
 
Cheers!
 
Julian
   
 
Many more at www.hertsvwclub.org !

Saturday 12 March 2005

Video/DVD

Northern Classic Trial
The video of this event is now available and contains footage of the Start and Finish, Buttermere Old Road, Hobcarton ! (bikes only), Lothwaite Side and Sandale. It is available in video or DVD format and runs for about 75 minutes.
If anyone wants a copy, they are 짙4:50 for either DVD or video with postage of 75p for DVD or 짙1:15 for video.
 
If you want a copy please send a cheque, stating DVD or video to:
Myke Pocock,
14, Balfour Road,
Carlisle,
Cumbria,
CA2 7DU. 

Monday 7 March 2005

Tyres & bits for sale

I have 4 x unused Michelin MX Pattern, (still the best for mud) 165 x 13 remoulds for sale. Singley £18 or all 4 for £60.
I also have a number of new unused inner tubes at £5 each or discounts on mutliples.
 
Call on 01462 - 451139 ( no later than 9:45pm please) or e-mail simon.robson_trepolpen@ntlworld.com
 
PS: I still have a genuine Skoda cylinder head ( ex factory rally team ) and a complete set of brand new cylinder liners with pistons, rings, and head gasket directly from the factory rally team source. If you are interested in these special parts please contact me.  

Saturday 5 March 2005

Archive film

did anybody catch the archive footage of trials cars and bikes, shown on ITV (Yorkshire, at least)...1930 hrs, last Thursday, titled "The way we were?"
 
intersting film archive, but a tad short.....was that a Vale special?

Friday 4 March 2005

March Hare Marshalling Party 13th March

The Classical Gas Marshalling Team will be running the two new sections near Hemel Hempstead (J9 on M1). We would welcome assistance. If you can help please email Michael mleete24@hotmail.com We will need to be there from around 13.30 to 16.30. Hope to see you there.
 
It's pretty near a full entry. You can check it out at http://www.marchhare.info/50804.html
 
Michael

Tuesday 1 March 2005

For Sale Mk II Golf GTI

Mk II Golf GTI 8V
F Reg
3 Door / Green
Mot Sept 05
This car has been regularly used on both ACTC & MCC events. 
Modifications include:
Sump & Fuel Pump Guards
Raised Suspension
Ballast
Perspex Rear Window
Ideal cheap introduction into Classic Trials.
Sale due to change of class.
짙500 o.n.o
Tel Tim on 07769726654.
 

Wednesday 16 February 2005

ternational Historic Motorsports ShowI

Just a reminder to you all that the 2nd International Historic Motorsports Show is on at Stoneleigh on 25-27th February, just one week away.
The empasis at this show is MOTORSPORT, not posing. and I would recommend it to everyone to come along and have a look.
 
ACTC/MCC are sharing a stand to show off out sport, thanks to the efforts of Bill Bennett.   Come and have a chat   Its not all just static displays, there is a autotest, an Historic Rally Stage with drivers including some of the greats of yesteryear
 Tickets are just £15 per adult.   Stoneleigh is just off the M40 at Warwick J15

Monday 14 February 2005

Classical Gas Site

Sorry there are problems with www.classictrials.co.uk at the moment. I uploaded some video which has caused the bandwith to go over the top and the ISP has removed the site. Hopefully I can sort this but it may take some time.
 
Michael

Tuesday 8 February 2005

Secure Storage in Cumbria

Just a note for the most northerly members; I can offer reasonably priced secure storage in the Carlisle area for vehicles or any other belongings you may need to house.

Quite handy at the moment for flood victims, my Dad included!

Many thanks

Mark Milne

Monday 7 February 2005

trailering to events

Over the years I have noticed competitors becoming more reluctant  to drive their steeds to events, preferring to trailer instead. Not so long ago this practice was frowned upon....and indeed, MCC events make little or no provision for those who trailer their vehicles.
The pro's to trailering are obvious, especially with bikes and older cars.....even if only to recover the steed once bust.
 
However, I have come across an even more compelling reason for trailering to events.....namely, insurance proviso's.
 
Like all honest trails car operators, I have declared all my modifications.....recieved the usual stunned silence from my  usual insurer, and been compelled to look elsewhere to even get a reasonable level of understanding, let alone premium.
 
So I took out cover with a well-known advertiser in Restart, expensive, but I can do more-or-less what I like, tuning-wise.......competition cover, such as it is, is included........BUT.....there is an annual mileage limit of 5000 miles.
Although I have negotiated an agreement that this does not include actual event mileage, that still leaves very little leeway with travelling to and from events.
Living as I do sort of north east, attending events down in the heartland of trialling soon clocks up the miles......I used to allow, for  a Land's End trial, fuel for 1500miles, including event.....
this also limits other uses of the car.....all my trials irons have had to do service getting me to work as well...if only to justify their existance on the driveway, to other houshold members, especially the "handbrake!"
 
Do other competitors have these insurance limitations?
 
Do they find it a handicap?

Friday 4 February 2005

Info about our members

I have added a Menu Item called Our Members This is where you can add a few words about yourself. In particular it would be good if those members who do not use their real name as their nickname could fill this in.
 
Michael

Wednesday 2 February 2005

class 5...section 2....questions?

the new subsection to class 5 rules...namely non-production cars made from pre ww2 parts.?
 
Exactly what pre WW2 parts are needed to fulfill the criteria?...suspension, I can understand...engine/gearbox, perhaps....but does the rule also require a pre WW2 chassis?...steering?...axle?....or could I build a special just using pre WW2 running gear and engine?
 
Also, in view of the additional vehicles mentioned in class 2 regs, eg Ford sidevale uprights, HRG's Morgan 4/4 seeries one, etc....would mechanical and/or chassis components from THESE be eligible?
 
or will my CAnnon, with it's pre war axle, sidevalve engine, and rubbish driver still be condemned to class 8?

Tuesday 1 February 2005

Toyota Starlet for Sale

A rear wheel drive Toyota Starlet for Sale. 1000cc engine and low mileage. On the whole avery sound and original example of this excellant little car. No tax or M.O.T. although all running well. Had a plan to modify and trial on MCC events but lack of time forces sale. A very very cheap price to the trials community.
Once owned by Shakleton's great grandaughter (the Antartic explorer!) This car comes from Devon and is ready for some adventure. Interesteing no. plate A148 MOD.
Car located in South Gloucestershire
Ring Laurence on 01454 218 391 or 07795 618 513
Attachment: starlet_4.jpg

my exmoor 2005

Well done to John Barthram and Rodney Murch on another great Exmoor. My passenger and I had a really enjoyable day, The severity of the sections was just about perfect for my class and I would say about right for most of the others judging by the results.We finished well within time, luckily just before the rain started! We blotted our copybook in Molland woods, thanks to the previous competitor digging out half the hill, but then, thats trialling I suppose. Never mind, cleaning Floyds more than made up for it! ;-). Once again thanks to all concerned for a well organised event, roll on the Lands End!  p.s. Most of the lanes used on this trial I play with on a regular basis, why do they seem to be more difficult when you are being observed?

Monday 31 January 2005

Cotswold Clouds 2003




Kyrle 2004




wanted ford escort mk1 bodyshell

I need to reshell my mk 1 escort and need a bodyshell and a 1600 cc engine and box.  Alternatively  a complete car, nothing too rotten as we have one of those! give me call - 01788 572848 (H/W) or mobile 07843269865 .
 
 

Tuesday 25 January 2005

scrapheap challenge

Did any one else see it.
 
Basically a track on the Yorkshire dales with Julian Fack as the expert.
 
It was stated that the track has been used since 1928.
 
Question is what section is it?
 
Mark

Monday 24 January 2005

vauxhall nova trials car for sale

1.4 nova  gets round nicely all usual mods ready to trial
good car to get an introduction into trials
MOT AUG 05
48,000 MILES --- FULLY SERVICED  SEPT 04
짙600 ono
Tel-------01747830182
 
Time and money force sale.   Hope to come back next year
 

Rights of Way News

To keep up to date on the latest rights of way developments - start here
 
Andrew
 
 

Sunday 23 January 2005

My Clee 2005

As I am not able to drive in trials at the moment Mike Hayward and I decided to marshal on the Clee. We were on Phils Foley, the one where you turned left at the tank before Gattens Gamble. Our problems started early on when the driver of the Discovery recovery vehicle went up to the hairpin and decided that he would get his vehicle to muddy, went back to the farm and spectated on Gattens Gamble for the rest of the day. After this, the four of us really struggled to run the section and had to call on competitors and the farmer to help us.

 

As you know the morning conditions defeated class 5. Jeff Buchanan couldn’t get his Reliant round the corner, he was really stuck and we had to go and ask the farmer for help and he came with a Mitsubishi 4WD but even that struggled and it was more than 30 minutes before we got him out of the section.

 

Then David Bowlas got his Midget stuck in the same place but we managed to turn him round in the field and gave him a run at the section. However, he half slipped of the bank on the escape road and in the end, the only way we could extricate him was to lower him down the bank with a rope and winch (the farmer’s idea).

 

The farmer bought along his JCB and scrapped the mud of the hairpin, coming down to a stone surface.

 

When the class eights came along most of them got round OK and those that didn’t 3 point turned and made it without assistance. However, there were some nastys on the escape road and when Andrew Martin slipped off into the barbed wire on the section itself we had a group meeting with the experienced competitors in the queue and decided to call it a day!

 

How was your Clee (I would really like to know as I need a lot of help for my report!)

 

Michael

Wednesday 19 January 2005

Books for Sale

Hi Michael

Some of your web site readers may be interested to know that I have just
listed a couple of my spare books on Ebay.  They are 'Wheelspin' by C A N
May and 'Rallies and Trials' by S C H Davis.  They can be found by searching
either the book titles or by my nom de plume 'hespian'.  They have been
listed today, 18th January, on a 10 day listing.

Best Regards

Steve Nikel

Wednesday 12 January 2005

Prospective new members - please read our rules

I have just denied a couple of applications because:-
 
The applicants didn't use their real name as their nickname, the email gave no clue to real identity , no notes (like Mark who has just joined sent me).
 
We love new members but only according to our rules!
 
Michael

Welcome to Mark Simpson

Mark welcome to membership. We prefer members to use their real name as their nickname and you will see most of the regulars do this. You can go into your member profile and make the change.
 
Michael
 
Mark says -

massimps says:

I'm Mark Simpson, long time member of South Of Scotland Car Club.
Have been interested in Trials for a number of years passengering on sporting trails and spectating on the Northern Classic. Main interest was in Rallying but the sport has lost the plot as far as i'm concerned. The revival Rallies may be the answer, I hope so.
Anyway, keen to see if our Club can't find some suitable tracks for trialing, and revive the sport north of the border.

massimps says:

I'm Mark Simpson, long time member of South Of Scotland Car Club.
Have been interested in Trials for a number of years passengering on sporting trails and spectating on the Northern Classic. Main interest was in Rallying but the sport has lost the plot as far as i'm concerned. The revival Rallies may be the answer, I hope so.
Anyway, keen to see if our Club can't find some suitable tracks for trialing, and revive the sport north of the border.

Exeter Scrut didn't like a lot of lights

I would like to chip in on Stuarts point about the lights. I heard quite a few people got a similar ticket. Apparantly they were checking if both rear lights were visible from a certain angle. Which means one of them was not obstructed by the spare wheel carrier when looked at from angle. Anyone know any more?
 
Michael

Tuesday 11 January 2005

First Liege to clean 'Simms'

Congratulations to Colin Marshall and Geoff Hughes for climbing to the top of 'Simms' on the 2005 Exeter Trial.
 
This is the first time a Liege has cleaned this classic MCC hill.
 
Also congratulations to Howard and Graham Blackwell for winning the 2004 'Keith Nicholls Trophy' for the best performance in a Liege on the three MCC Classic Reliability Trials. They beat the 2003 winners Simon and Matt Robson by only a couple of points.
 
Peter Davis
 
Colin in his Liege, pictured in action on the Cotswold Clouds
  
 
 

Monday 10 January 2005

Message to masimp

Hello,
 
Thanks for your application. Can you re-apply using your real name as your nickname.
 
Michael

My Exeter 2005n

Unfortunately I had to non-start but passenger Mike and I went down and took pictures on Wooston Steep. The marshals said the last bike went through at 9.30 but the first car didn't arrive until gone 11.00 and then there was only a trickle until 11.30 when a steady flow began.
 
The early numbers struggled, especially those who had to restart and the hill definately became easier as the day went on and the wheels wore the greasy top away. We were standing at the fork and saw Michael Collins miss the turn for the lower classes and go straight up the steep hill. He realised to late but perhaps he should have carried on as I think he would have got up! There were no signs or arrows and it must have been confusing.
 
My vote for best climb goes to David Wall who pulled away without and wheelspin and was still accelerating at the top.
 
The Marlins were interesting, lots of different styles and results. The ones that got up were going at a fair speed, without any wheelspin, by the time they got to the fork. Sympathy to Mal Allen, something went wrong and he ran back a couple of feet on the restart before getting going and making a smooth climb.
 
Lots of pictures here on the group by Johns Salter and Lees and from me at http://www.classictrials.co.uk/Gas05021Pics.htm
 
How was your Exeter?
 
Michael

Sunday 9 January 2005

Stolen

Andrew Brown's Marlin (belived stolen) un-confirmed sighting at the "TOP" of "Simm's". Anyone who has seen it at the top please contact the owner with proof.

MARCH HARE 2005

Entries are now open for Murray's March Hare Trial to be held on Sunday 13th March.
 
Regs, entry form etc can be downloaded from the March Hare website at http://www.marchhare.info/
 
Falcon Motor Club invites you all to consider entering this friendly but competitive event.

"MARCH HARE TRIAL" 13th MARCH

Entries are now open for Murray's March Hare Trial to be held on Sunday 13th March.
 
Regs, entry form etc can be downloaded from the March Hare website at http://www.marchhare.info/
 
Falcon Motor Club invites you all to consider entering this friendly but competitive event.

Thursday 6 January 2005

COTSWOLD CLOUDS 2005

If you haven't yet received your Regs by post, they can be downloaded from:
 
Andrew
 
 

Wednesday 5 January 2005

Trials Beetle For Sale

I have a 1300cc Class 4 Beetle for sale. It is fully prepared with sump gaurd wheel rack raised suspension twin carb motor etc. It is Tax free with 12 months MOT and ready to trial. Can be seen in action on this weekend Exeter driven by a friend of mine.
 
This car is rock solid and is very presentable in orange, I have built it to the same spec as my crackington winning car but this one is much tidier!
 
For sale with as much advice as required  Call Adrian Marfell  01600 890 218

Cheaper Petrol on the Exeter

Those of you with a keen eye on your wallets might like to note that rather than paying motorway prices for Petrol at Exeter Services, there is chaeper petrol ( 4p/ltr at the beginning of December) at Sainsbury's.   On the Route Card after Exeter Services follow the route to the point wher it says   "Take first exit at the island dp Ide".   take the 3rd exit instead, and Sainsbury's is just half a mile down the road.   Follow the signs for superstore as it is a strange junction.   After filling up, return to the island, and continue towards Ide.
Locals (Dave H?) might confirm to this group that the price difference is stilll there.