Russ's 2.1 SED Auto now in Mandarin

[CitroJim]

Jaap, I've seen HP18s 'sweating' in the past. I always just assumed that it was venting of vapour from the breather...

Driveshaft seals should always be available. If not pukka ones then generic standard ones should do. Anyone have their dimensions?

On the HP20 the driveshaft seals are so arranged that the driveshafts can be removed without spilling ATF - presumably because the 'box is so-called 'sealed for life' - cue manic laughter.

Is this the case on the HP18? If so, a special tool may just be needed to replace the seals as is the case with the HP20...

[Dieselman]

Russ,

Didn't you recently change the ATF, which is why it is low as you used the incorrect measuring technique when filling.

This probably accounts for the slipping 4th gear engagement.

[russ92xmsed]

I think you might be right there Will. I was using Deans method, and just as it got critical measuring the fluid level, I was interviewed by a policeman. So I blame him!

I too am thinking if the slippage on 3 to 4 might be a result of that.... We will see.

But it will be sorted out today. I will do another change soon just to get rid of the fluid I think.

[russ92xmsed]

Just been out in the sweltering heat to polish up the paint work I have been doing on the passenger rear door. ..jeese it is hot!
Not exactly happy with the colour match. I know it was never going to be exact, but it has ended up too dark and charcoaly. Basically it needs more green. Never mind. It'll do for now. This Anthracite colour is a beast to match. Blue, green, grey...it really flips about depending on weather ect.
To be honest both the passenger side doors could do with a re spray anyway at some point. There is more lacquer peel, but it has been flashed over with fresh to seal it. i did not do this...but you can tell. So i think i'll get it all done properly at a later date.

So at the national don't look too closely...I can hear the air sucking now!

[russ92xmsed]

Well it's strange who you might bump into in the street whilst cleaning your car.
This big bald guy, suddenly appeared and said " I used to have two of these. Their great aren't they....brilliant floaty ride."

I was totally shocked... he said his last one was a 2.0 SEi turbo. And let it go reluctantly as the turbo went and it wouldn't go up hills properly! He actually wanted to keep it as a project. He mentioned a long gone company in Gloucester who recharged spheres for 17 quid a go, that he used to use. Wish they were still about. Maybe they are....

Anyway...he was very interested to hear that values are slowly going up, and there is a strong club supporting them.
Seems he knows his Citroens too. he mentioned old red fluid DS's being left at the side of the road with eaten through hydraulics. And also I think he used to have a CX at some point. He remarked how big the safaris were too.

He commented on mine and was impressed at the condition for a K plate car....clearly he wasn't looking close enough!
He left in a massive Audi A8. So still likes a big barge!

Finally finished cleaning the car. I started last night in the cool and shade and polished the bits that would be hit by the sun first. Then this morning got cracking on the rest of it. Looks a bit more presentable for the rally.

[captainhaddock]

Good story Russ. So there you go, he didn't tell you but, secretly, he wants another one but he didn't tell you! In fairness, Audi makes quite beautiful designs nowadays, something Citroen designers should have a look at (I think)

[robert_e_smart]

Audi A8 with Air suspension is a very nice barge indeed, especially the long wheel base model. One of my previous employers had one of these. A very impressive car, despite the German austerity.

[russ92xmsed]

It's quite a nice one actually. The first generation, and best in my opinion. It was Silver. He often parks in the street. See if I can grab a pick of it sometime.
He even knew about Paul Johnson in Oxford who used to run the XM centre. Interesting chap.

[russ92xmsed]

Good story Russ. So there you go, he didn't tell you but, secretly, he wants another one but he didn't tell you! In fairness, Audi makes quite beautiful designs nowadays, something Citroen designers should have a look at (I think)

Well he was very positive about them. Which is great. Infact there is quite a few people around here who admire it and have a chat if I'm with it.

My favourite Audi at the moment is the A7. Large coupe hatchback!......sounds familiar.

[captainhaddock]

A7 should be Citroen, both of us think. You're quite right even though certain things should be more French

Off tomorrow, so sorry chaps, this is my Friday night...