Introduce your self?

[SpitfirePaul]

I've noticed that we've got quite a few members now, we ought to get to know one another.

I'll start.

My name is Paul, I'm a 24 year old web designer with an unhealthy interest in Triumph sports cars and Sevens, I've got a Spitfire 1500 (hence the username) and a GT6 which I use in the winter. I live in Durham with my wife Aimee and our daughter Chloe.

I got the book last week and I intend to build a car at my leisure, with a target of this time next year for finishing.

Paul:)

[MightyMouth]

I'm Keith, A Yank living in england for most of the past 18 years. I am an IT Contractor and have a small computer shop. I live in Hinckley with my wife Sylvana and our 2 year old son Blaine.

I got the new book last week and am still deciding how I am going to go about the build. I am having trouble finding the right donor so far as I want a 2.0 Pinto with a LSD and they seem to be quite scarce at the moment.

[Chris Gibbs]

Most of mine is in the book!

These days I'm a web designer and graphic artist (and writer) I'm over forty and Me and my wife Julie live with my two teenage daughters Emma (17) and Amy (15) in Sheffield.

My training was in civil engineering and then process engineering.

I'm starting to build my own Haynes Roadster (The yellow/red one belongs to Haynes, although I'm having it for the summer) with a zetec engine, which will be useful for any second edition of the book, as will my brother in law's build of a BMW based Roadster.

Cheers

Chris:)

[Mud]

Here goes!

I'm Mike U Deveraux and i live in Houston Texas USA I'm 52 and divorced (don't ask) I work as a shop teacher, I guess you limeys would call me a metalwork teacher.

Actually I'm half english myself, my mom was originally from Liverpool.

I'm a 4 x 4 racer at the weekend In my self constructed monster.

I've always wanted a seven type vehicle for a fun car, I'm pretty sure that I'm going to build a roadster for myself with a Honda engine, and the school are disscussing making one in shop for the older students (Will we have to buy another book Chris? I read your bit at the beginning!)

I guess you want to know what the "U" stands for?

It's "Ulysees"

Thanks Mom!!! she saw it has her little joke - see the sig!

mike

[G-Man]

Hi my name is steve and i'm an alchoholic (hang on wrong forum):confused:
I just ambled in from the Practical Performance Car forum (some of you will know me from there) i was looking for a mug of tea and a Jaffa Cake but no-one has any:eek: , i plan on getting the book tomorow and (hopefully) starting the project in the summer:D

[NEroadster]

Hi my name is James and I live in Durham with my Wife Elizabeth and daughter Chloe 6 and my Son Thomas 2. I have been wanting to build a seven type for some time but have only rcently finished building my Garage :).

I picked up my donor last week a 1.8 CVH Sierra currently lowering the tone of the neighbourhood.

For the Day job I work as a Mechanical Engineer designing Tanks for a living (the big armoured things about 60 Tons rather than the type that holds fish)

[Renrut]

Hi,

I'm Will live in Wednesbury in the West Mids with my girlfriend Gemma but I'm from the North East originally (little hole called Eldon if anyone knows it). Im 26, an electronics design engineer

Had the old Ron Champions book on my shelf for ages but never did anything about it. Saw the article in Practical Performance Car on the roadster and realised it was time to get my finger out. So I bought the Haynes book and now just have a few things hindering my path:

1 - I have a broken foot, but should get cast off in 3 weeks :)
2 - My garage is only accessible via a 62inch wide alleyway (how wide is the roadster?) although I luckily have a drive big enough to permanently donate an area.
3 - Gemma believes that 1 car is enough for anyone :eek: well she is presuming she has a say in it :cool:
4 - Only ever done a bit of arc welding so this is gonna be a bit of a learning curve.
5 - I dont have a donor but I'm sure I can find one somewhere.

Im aiming to be finished april 08 if I can jump these hurdles.

[Chris Gibbs]

Don't go jumping any hurdles yet!!

The car is about 60 inches wide in old money - a bit tight!

If you're a electronics design engineer you ought to be looking at my crappy indicator buzzer cuircuit and designing something better.

Get Well soon:)

cheers

chris

[Balidey]

Hi, my name is Steve, I'm 31, live in Spalding in South Lincs. I work in Peterborough as a Design Engineer for a commercial vehicle builder, I use Solidworks, Chris, what software did you use for the Book?

I have been wanting to build a Locost for several years but family life has been stopping me from making a start. But I have just been given a copy of Chris' new book and been offered a suitable Sierra for not much money, although I think some haggling is about to start. Hopefully I can make a start on one soon as I have access to welder, laser cutters, mill, lathe, press brake and my father is a race mechanic, so plenty of help is at hand.

My other interests are 50cc Moped racing (yes, really), working on my FIAT Cinquecentos (I have two which are kind of my current hobby cars) and I am also currently helping out my mate with building his Luego Viento with Rover V8. But it appears we are about to embark on a full engine strip and rebuild. Perhaps when he has finished his, he will help me with my Roadster.

[Chris Gibbs]

Hello Steve,

The chassis was designed in Solidworks, converted to Autocad for the 2D drawings.

All the colour illustrations are done in Sketchup.

if you need any help or inspiration there are meetings of the Locost Car Club in Lincoln and in Peterborough.

Welcome aboard!

Cheers

Chris

[Roadster 7]

Hi,Guys,

Just thought I'd better say hello

I have been planning to build my own sports car since the first locost book came out,so i started to gather together some bits and bobs ready for the big start but unfortunately that start never came as i busted a discs and cracked a two vertebrae in me old back so every thing took a back seat....but now seven years later chris gibbs has rekindled my dream,so i bought the book and am starting to clear out the junk to make way for my new toy.

Anyway that's it for now,,,and a big thank you the that man chris gibbs for giving me some thing to aim for.

All the best to you roadster builders and lets see some progress pics soon!!!!!!

Wil

[Renrut]

Don't go jumping any hurdles yet!!

Well I can hop the smaller ones :)

The car is about 60 inches wide in old money - a bit tight!

Thats a bit close, but I knew it was going to be, at least I know I can build the chassis in the garage and only wheel it out when I need to do the final fitting of engine and wheels.

If you're a electronics design engineer you ought to be looking at my crappy indicator buzzer cuircuit and designing something better.

Indicator Buzzer? Not sure what you mean but if you tell me what it is you want I can have a look, only have Trisha and the rest of the daytime TV lot to keep me entertained while disabled. ;)

[Chris Gibbs]

Pay attention at the back!!

http://www.haynes.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=16

Cheers

Chris:D

[ur-s4]

Hello all

My name is Jason,im 36,live in shepshed,near Loughborough.I built a locost frame in early '97,Then stored it (work,house,wife,kid,etc)till lo and behold a chap decided to up date it !! As i have just mot failed my mums 2ltr inj sierra it would seem like the ideal time to blow off the cob webs & start again !

I am in to all things car related especially vw audi related as i run a garage specialising in them.I am an active member of the Loughborough car club,so have a keen intrest in all types of motorsport.

Well done Chris,& thanks,although me wife might not be so enthused!!!!:)

[Chris Gibbs]

thanks for the kind words.

By coincidence I drove through Loughborough yesterday when the M1 turned into a car park!

Cheers

Chris:)

[cooter]

Hi, I am down in west cornwall, bought the book a week ago, read it cover to cover twice and decided not to start a build because if i do it will take over my life and the wife and children and dog will be annoyed, drew up some of the profiles last sunday night and emailed them off for cutting, ordered the chassis 25x25 erw tube for the chassis on tuesday(had monday off work!!), got a guy at work to work out un developed length of pedal box so as to avoid welding and press the bottom folds in, and got hold of a donor for a tenner this afternoon, I AM NOT BUILDING A ROADSTER!.

I live on the back of the beach in Gwithian near st ives bay with Nichola, and my three children, one dog, a datsun 120y and a broken mk1 fiesta, i work for a steel fabrication company and look after a cnc plasma cutter for a living, in a full fabrication workshop, although i can't weld i work with ten blokes who can, and they are all keen to help, and our material suppliers are all very good and give me the best prices they are able to, so if(when) i do decide i have to do this project i can afford to buy all materials new, if anyone needs cad drawings to supply to their local cutting shop give me a shout and i will be happy to help,


Mark

[Mud]

Looks like you got it easy Mark - Give the guys the book and get a beer!

Mike:D

[Matthew]

Hi

I'm Matthew and I live in Liphook in Hampshire. I've been meaning to build a kit car for years and read the Locost book several times but never got around to doing anything about it. Seeing the review of Chris's book in PPC got me interested again so I bought a copy and have started down the slippery slope - bought the welder a couple of weeks ago and the donor (a Sierra Ghia) yesterday.

Matthew

[Chris Gibbs]

Don't forget to check out the anouncement section for updates!

Cheers

Chris:)

[willemv]

Hi my name is willem from south africa, i work in the telcoms industryand am
planning my build

[MikeB]

Hi All,

Spent a lot of time helping a friend race caterhams, could never afford one.
Done up a nice alfa spider and a couple of MGs but got bored of rust.
Finally managed to buy a house with a garage (is it possible to build one in a single?)
The wife doesn't know yet apart from i bought a welder from a friend at work with a wire feed problem (any tips Boc Migmaster turbo 130..)
Not allowed a donor car on the drive so will be searching ebay for bits.
Fancy a Mr2 4-age engine but don't want to shell out £200 for a type 9 adapter plate.
Designed and build a double wishbone suspension system with push rods at uni ( a while ago) before I got into management I modelled vehicle dynamics so was quite good with theory!
I don't believe the £1k estimate in PPC especially if you want to buy bits of the body work!
Looking forward to welding again (or from previos experience blowing holes in bits of metal!)

Keep the faith.

Where's the photo forum?

Mike

[moorem99]

Well I'm new here and I'm enjoying reading all the hints and tips. I've recently come to car building - I sold my Harley Davidson after a really bad near-miss on the M25 and so spent the money on an old Merlin.

I've enjoyed it so much that I've decided to build my own.

I'm going to be different - its going to be all stainless steel. I used to be a self employed turner / welder 20 years ago. I'm now a director of a large Further Education college where I push paper all day.

So I'm going to get my old tools out and have a really nice time with the new Haynes project.

Martin

[frankie boy]

HI, My names Frank.
I live in Chingford London with sharon and my two children Matthew and Faye. I'm a cabinet maker with work shop in brent cross London.
I've wanted to build my own car for as long as i can remember.I've read the book by Ron chapman and was about to make a start but couldnt find the right doner vehicle.
I got chris gibbs book 3 weeks ago and have already built my chassis. Made the pedals today for the pedal box. Hope to get delivery of parts in the week that iv orderd. Hope to have the car finished for next summer.

[Chris Gibbs]

Sounds like you've been busy!

Don't forget to post some pictures

cheers

Chris :)

[CAD Monkey]

Hi, my name's Stewart, I am a designer (degree in Product Design, but I work as a CAD operator and am currently doing website design (just started) graphic design, visualisation etc. on a freelance basis in my spare time.) I'm 28 and have wanted to build my own car for around 8 years. I live in Maidenhead with my other half Kath who is an Off License Manager:D and who just wishes I'd get on and start building - so having ordered my book I intend to start getting creative ASAP. I intend to use some design/styling cues from the Donkervoort models (SVA permitting)...

[MightyMouth]

HI, My names Frank.
I live in Chingford London with sharon and my two children Matthew and Faye. I'm a cabinet maker with work shop in brent cross London.
I've wanted to build my own car for as long as i can remember.I've read the book by Ron chapman and was about to make a start but couldnt find the right doner vehicle.
I got chris gibbs book 3 weeks ago and have already built my chassis. Made the pedals today for the pedal box. Hope to get delivery of parts in the week that iv orderd. Hope to have the car finished for next summer.

Yes, lets have some picture ASAP :)

[frankie boy]

HI. heres some pics from my phone. Not sure if iv uploaded them right.

[Chris Gibbs]

The easy way is to post them to something like Photobucket http://www.photobucket.com and link them from there - that's what I do anyway!

Cheers

Chris

[frankie boy]

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture226.jpg

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture228.jpg


http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture229.jpg


HI ! Not very good with pc bit . Hope thisworks.

[CAD Monkey]

Bloody Hell - I've got a lot of catching up to do!!:( :D

[Chris Gibbs]

W...........O...........W!!!!!!!!

I'll see you at Stoneleigh with a completed car then?

Well done mate

Cheers

Chris :)

[frankie boy]

HI Chris.

Been reading some of the old threads to see if i miss something. Form making the chassis from the book iv found it went together with in one to three millimeters so far! The front frame need me to think about it a bit! also the streering wheel surport isnt to good in the book. Only with commen sence you see how to do it so the secutle fits. I think the book is graet the perthic base to build you own car. I have some idaers for finishing the car and will share the later.

[SpitfirePaul]

I've just made my Steering wheel support and I didn't have any promlems, I think the important bit is to make sure the CP15 plates are in the right place to support the column, you could make the support frame to fit from that.

Paul

;)

[Chris Gibbs]

As Paul says the important bit is the position of the sterring wheel support plates.

I was at MK yesterday and Martin has decided to use bent 19mm round for ths area instead of tubes SW1-SW3, I'll try and get a photo.

frankie, could you let me know what the specific problem was that you had?

cheers

Chris :)

[frankie boy]

Hi Chris.
I cut the sw1,2 and 3 Layed them down and taked them. When offerd it to the frame it wonted to sit on top. I could see this would obstruct the scuttle.
In the book it showes it on top. Iv got over it by marking and gutting to the in side of the frame. CP15 fits fine and so does my colume.

[Chris Gibbs]

It does sit on top!

The bottom flange of the scuttle was trimmed around it.

you had me worried there!

cheers

Chris:D

[frankie boy]

HI Iv just had a look at the mk site. There roadster has it on the inside. I think that mine will be ok. Wot do you think?

[Chris Gibbs]

So long as the support plates are in the right place it should be fine.

cheers

Chris :)

[redbertonex19]

Hi
My name is Jeff am married with 2 kids 14 and 10. Work as a mechanical engineer.
Have restored a Bertone x19 hence the name and a Landrover 90. The Landrover has no gone and have been told! to reduce further (x19, dicovery and mondeo) before I get another. Was going to build from locost book when this much improved one came along.
Have had my doner from scrap yard and striped it, it has now gone back. (this reduced earache considerably). £50 to drop it off at home and collect when finished with along with "if you need anything else just come and help yourself even if I'm not there" from the scrappy (I feel a Zetec coming as he has a couple of old mondeos in).
Have built m y build table ready and ordered the steel through a mate (25 x 25 ERW £6.50 a length).

Hope to start building chassis next week.

Bye
Jeff

[Chris Gibbs]

As ever, don't forget to post some piccys!

cheers

Chris :)

[jabs]

Hi
My names John and I'm in Knaresborough near Harrogate. I have restored a few cars and built the chassis from Ron's book modified for the sierra. Then I bought a Karma dino and sold the chassis, Spent too much money and time rebuilding the Karma (www.hbpsystemsplc.co.uk), then I got married, wife couldn't fit in the karma plus didn't have a decent garage to keep it in so sold it and bought a dutton Pheaton 3 off e-bay for £300. Now, after about 18 months, that's about fully rebuilt so will be selling it in a couple of months and starting the build. Great to have a forum just for the roadster.

[sidewinder]

Hi my name is mike, i am 32 years old and live in perth. I bought the book a couple of months ago and got the box section to make the chasis last week and have just got the donor car today, an H plate sierra 2000E. Plan to start chasis this weekend and was wondering if its possible to run exhaust system under car or through chasis to rear as the exhaust manifold is on the left side of engine and car has a stainless steel sierra cosworth system fitted which i would like to use?

[davie h]

hi

my names David i am 31 and i live just outside Glasgow. i have wanted to build a 7 car for a good few years now but have never had the space and time to do so until now. i am an ex mechanic so have most of the tools required but am finding that even to get started i am buying things that i will probably use once or twice. im currently getting my build table ready to draw the plan out on and pick up my mig tomorrow it feels like christmas when i was a kid. i have also got some steel at £8.25 for a 7.8 m lenght if there are any people building in the glasgow area it would be good to see how you are getting on

cheers Davie

[macdave69]

Hi just to introduce myself, I'm Dave
I live in Burton on Trent with my partner Ruth. I am well in excess of 40 years and work on the railway in Birmingham.
I spent a number of years building, servicing and competing in rally cars as a hobby before realising there was more to life than spending every spare penny, chasing round country roads in the middle of the night, whilst waiting for my navigator to admit he was lost!!
I have previously built a Locost, I bought Ron Champions book, the purchase price left me with £230 to finish the car, the LSD and GAZ shocks saw the budget disappear 2 days later!!
I later replaced my chassis with a MK Indy after realising too late that I had bought the wrong thickness RHS!!. with little time left Martin Keenan helped me out like the thoroughly great bloke he is. However an unexpected divorce, left me unable to complete the build. To be fair, the divorce was a thoroughly splendid idea, shame I hadn't thought of it myself (and sooner)

Since then, with no facility to build a car, I passed my time by owning 2 Midas' and a GTM.

Having destroyed the GTM on a roundabout, whilst running out of talent, last year, there appears to be a gap in my kit car life.

Having sworn never to build my own chassis again, the pain has recinded and the Haynes Roadster looks the way forward for the evolution of the true Locost ethos. Following the completion of the pond, and the necessity to extend the garage, the metal will be on order.

I currently ride an R1 and for me, there can be only one powerplant for my project.

I'm really looking forward to completing this unfinished chapter and I reckon the Roadster could be the car to achieve it with!

[hillbillyracer]

Well I best post here & tell you who I am. I'm Kev, an agric engineer from Cumbria. I've been wanting to build my own 7 type car for ages but dont want to start my build till I've got a few other jobs out of the way.
I've done a bit of autograss racing in class 6 (no limits fwd) but have given over while I build this car, I may go back into it sometime as it's the best value motorsport going.

[Laurent]

Hi!

My name is Laurent and I'm living in France.

As you surely know, it's really difficult to have papers in France for a Kitcar, and for many people, it's unpossible.

I'm dreaming about building my own Locost, and your book Chris, is exactly what I dreamt about!

I have to buy a Mig or Tig, and practice. I have two project; a 65 Mustang coupe and a Locost... two projects needing welding work.... GOOD ! ! !:D

Thank you really much Chris for this forum! and thanks for this thread about conversion to LHD Locost !

Laurent.

[scudracer]

I'm 30 years old, from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Have been dreaming about building my own car since I was playing with Lego, years later I bought magazines, etc. but the one that sort of changed my life was Ron Champion's BYOSC 2nd Edition in 2001 I believe. Since then I've dabbled in product management for a Japanese car company, now switched to the same job for a group dealing in Korean, Chinese & French products. My brother was a design engineer for Lotus Engineering for 2 years, and will be designing, building the car tube by tube on CAD, following Colin Chapman's ideas as closely as possible. :cool: Just bought the new Chris Gibbs book, and it's much better than the previous book. Good drawings and plans for wishbone jigs, etc. Very inspirational!

[Johann123]

Hi
Im 32 years old and from South-Africa.I just returned from a 2 week business trip to the UK and was lucky enough to pick up the new book there.Still not available in SA.My wife is already upset with me for the simple reason that there is a huge piece of plywood and a big pile of steel in the garage.I got of the plane on Sunday and went and bought the steel and ply on monday morning.I have always wanted to build a kit car,but was put of by the price you needed to pay upfront for some kits.With thiskit,I can biuld as I have moneyand time available.Still a lot of Sierras in SA available,A lot of Cortinas as well.Now how can you not biuld a car like this with the nice weather we have here in sunny SA.I have a 1973 Mercedez Benz 450 SLC that is not running but complete.I managed to talk a scrapyard owner into taking this car of my hands and swopping me for the Sierra parts needed as well as a 4AGZE engine and a T50 box.Bargain.

[QuinnyNW64]

My name's Richard and I live on the Wirral with my wife and two teenage kids. I've always enjoyed cars and always wanted an LSIS. I have promised myself that this year is the year but I still haven't convinced myself as to the best way forward for me personally. I am currently putting together a new Autograss Class 9 car (2060cc rwd open wheel single seater) and when that's done, I should have my garage available again. I work in construction (civil engineering) management and spend a lot of time on the road so my spare time is precious and I'll probably cheat and buy a chassis!

[Josh]

Hi, my names Josh, I'm 16 and currently in the lower 6th at Trinity school in Croydon. Im studying maths, physics, electronics and design technology - with the view of going off to do mech. engineering at uni!

My dads been involved in cars since forever, and like father like son...! Iv been involved with my schools racing car team (www.trinityschoolracing.co.uk) since I was 12, and I'v now designed and nearly finished building the new car (TSR-4) (over 500 hours work and its still not finished!) These cars compete in a series called 'Greenpower' (www.greenpower.co.uk), look out for TSR (trinity school racing), one of the top schools in the UK:)

Since I was 10 I'v always wanted a seven type car, and when I saw this book it was like a dream come true! Now that I'm out-growing the electric car racing I'v decided to make this car a 2 year project (is that a bit hopefull?!), ready for when I'm 19 (no-one it seems wants to insure a 17 year old with a Merc V8 powered home built car! how strange...:rolleyes: )

Thats pretty much me!

-Josh

[marcstagman]

I'm Andy 40, (just) and look after my missus who has M.S. On here aswell as Locostbuilders. Can't get my avatar or anything to work, but I will. Starting a new project as my last one and equipment got nicked. Live in Wakefield:)

[garratt83]

Hi

Thought I would give a heads up as I will prob be spending a lot of time on this forum.

Just bought Chris's book and starting to read though. Feeling a bit over whelmed by the amount of work there is to do.

Have many over you done the whole car from scratch, welding. I'm a complete novice and have never even touched a mig.

my profile it
24 from Stockport
Hoping to have the car build by next Christmas 2008. Wanting to get it raod legal so can use it.

[solidedge]

Hi All, I'm Mike from South Wales, 35 yrs old, Just sent the order for the book. Here's to life in the garage. I suppose i have one thing going for me. I live next to a large scrapyard.

Well new to this building thing. Scouted round for a good project to do. I am an avid motorcyclist (XJR1300) but wanted somthing to get some male bonding in with my son (5yrs old) before he does not want to know me:eek: , then only after girls:cool: . (also a bit young to ride on back of motorbike:eek: ).

So hopefully will have the book in a week or so.

[snapper]

It's "Ulysees"

Thanks Mom!!! she saw it has her little joke - see the sig!

My mate at school Vincent Dooley has much to thank his parents about as well:D
Here goes, a bit of an interloper at this stage as i am just finishing a Robin Hood Series 3 stainless steel monocoque 7, rescued after 7 years unstarted in a lockup, and am looking for my next project. The book is a great read and i just may do one as my next project.
I have learned an enourmous amount through mistakes and have amassed a great deal of info on the sierra, pinto, type 9, diffs etc. This is part why i have joined, 1. to add my little bit, if it helps. 2. to learn from you guys, i am always impressed with extra bits of knowledge or tecniques on build forums.

The name is Paul, 50, living in sin with 3 step kids and one of my own, Photography has occupied me for 33 years or so and i feel that i may soon get it right.
Wish i had started building cars 20 years ago, also wish i had not demolished my garage 5 years ago, now building outside only on dry days.

Initials are PMSK, not funny or unusual just shows my parents could not make their mind up.

[solidedge]

Ok, Don't know what happend but i am sure i put a post in this section yesturday. :D

Has anyone finished the car??

[solidedge]

Ah i see whats wrong.

Hi Chris any chance that you can change the board so that the last post is shown first??

Don't know if any one else agree's can we ask

[Theoldman]

Hello, my name is Gerald and I seam to be the oldest person on the thread as yet, hence the handle “theoldman”. Since the kids have flown the coop and I having a mid life crises, all be it slightly late, I have decided to build the roadster. So far all I have done is pass my part 1 MIG welding course and will be going on to part 2 in September. I have been offered a 2 litre zetec engine for free; it was purchased for a different project and not used. Just the rest of the bits to source for various places.

[diko]

Hi
My Name Is Paul I Live In North Yorks With My Wife Julie And Two Teenage Daughters I Am The Owner Of A Steel Fabrication Company , A Hair And Beautysalon And Also A Barbers Shop I Have Just Finished My Haynes Roadster Chassis And And I Am About To Take The 2ltr Pinto Back Out Of Her Tomorrow .iam About To Order Grp Nose Cone And Scuttle Tomorrow So The Project Is Coming On Ok

[AVI]

Great forum! Wonderful book support!

Ordered the book from Amazon.com back in February but they kept on pushing the delivery date forward so I ended up ordering it directly from the UK last month.

My experience with British cars is limited to a 1967 Jag XK-E roadster that I took delivery of at the factory when I was stationed in Germany (that should give you an indication of my age) and drove like a maniac during the days of a Europe with no speed limits, and a number of years later, a '66 coupe with a blown clutch that I picked up for a grand and stuffed a Ford 302 into. (Tried stuffing a Boss 302 into it but the heads were way too wide.)

Now, I'm here sitting looking out at the Lake (big one, Lake Ontario) trying to brainstorm what kind of donor would work on a LHD Roadster since Sierras are in short supply over here, and since there's nothing like raw power, whether a roadster with an LS2 would be overkill or one hell of a blast.

[garratt83]

Just thought I would add mine

I'm Paul from Stockport and seem to be the youngest on here at 24, if anyone can beat that please do. Not got must experience with welding and cars but have always wanted to do something like this

On a very very tight budget so may take a while for me to build

Anyone in the manchester area give us a shout.

Cheers

[Josh]

beat this - i'm 16!:D

[garratt83]

beat this - i'm 16!:D

OK well beaten:(

[Beardy_John]

Hi All,

I'm John, engaged to Kathryn, aged 24, living in Ipswich with the mother-in-law :mad: while my house purchase goes thru. Currently working as a Development Engineer designing new Aluminium based access equipment (Youngmans, if any one knows them!)

Been wanting to build a kit car for years but never had a house/garage big enough till know:D . Hoping to start towards the end of the summer and still cant decide to build or buy (GTS Panther, any thoughts??). Havvent bought the book yet (still working off Ron's BYOSC), but plan to at the weekend.

Mr Gibbs, in earlier posts you mentioned designing the car in SolidWorks. The photo below is the Ron Champion chassis and want to draw the whole thing up in CAD, so I can plan most of it in advance. Have you got the whole car in 3D? If so any chance of a look? Finding engines in 3D hard to find!

Keep up the excellent work!!:D

[Calvin Murphy]

Hi my name is Calvin Murphy / I live in Cape Town South Afirca married to Em/ have three grown sons/
undertake building contracts/ just returned from 15 months in the Karroo/ built a lodge on a game farm/ swapped 2 bottles of whiskey for an almost complete 1939 Chev 3ton truck/been standing in the veld for fourty years/friends (no longer) and I spent 3 days mostly dragging it 450kms home/there’s a bullet with my name on it if I don’t start restoring it soon/ don’t respond well to emails/ they tell me I’m 60/my body thinks it’s 80/my mind thinks it’s 29 and it still wants to play/hence the roadster

[Caleb]

Hello,

I'm Caleb, 24 from Colchester, Essex. Worked on most mechanical things frmo cars to aircraft. Completed 2 apprenticeships in Mechanical Engineering and GRP Boatbuilding, restored the usual classics (Midgets, MGB's etc) and some strage things like a Skoda S100. I bought Ron Champions book when I was about 14 and ten years on got given Mr Gibb's book for my birthday. 3 days, now read cover to cover twice and full of grubby pencil notes.

I'm planning on building with the 1.8 Pinto and lots of carbon fibre, like the floorpan, as I can for not much more money. The hunt is currently on for a Sierra and this weekend I'll try and make a start on the jig.

[garratt83]

Theres a thread in on the locost forum for Rons car but not seen one yet for Chris's Would also like the CAD if anyone has done it. I use pro desktop

Hi All,

I'm John, engaged to Kathryn, aged 24, living in Ipswich with the mother-in-law :mad: while my house purchase goes thru. Currently working as a Development Engineer designing new Aluminium based access equipment (Youngmans, if any one knows them!)

Been wanting to build a kit car for years but never had a house/garage big enough till know:D . Hoping to start towards the end of the summer and still cant decide to build or buy (GTS Panther, any thoughts??). Havvent bought the book yet (still working off Ron's BYOSC), but plan to at the weekend.

Mr Gibbs, in earlier posts you mentioned designing the car in SolidWorks. The photo below is the Ron Champion chassis and want to draw the whole thing up in CAD, so I can plan most of it in advance. Have you got the whole car in 3D? If so any chance of a look? Finding engines in 3D hard to find!

Keep up the excellent work!!:D

[axle]

Hi Mike
Very much sounds like my life story, but here is a tip for your problem with the mig. Have you tried retensioning the wire at different speed, if this does not work probably the liner is worn and need replacing.
Hope this is of some help, let me know if you did not manage to sort it and I might be able to drum something else.

GOOD LUCK Axle


Hi All,

Spent a lot of time helping a friend race caterhams, could never afford one.
Done up a nice alfa spider and a couple of MGs but got bored of rust.
Finally managed to buy a house with a garage (is it possible to build one in a single?)
The wife doesn't know yet apart from i bought a welder from a friend at work with a wire feed problem (any tips Boc Migmaster turbo 130..)
Not allowed a donor car on the drive so will be searching ebay for bits.
Fancy a Mr2 4-age engine but don't want to shell out £200 for a type 9 adapter plate.
Designed and build a double wishbone suspension system with push rods at uni ( a while ago) before I got into management I modelled vehicle dynamics so was quite good with theory!
I don't believe the £1k estimate in PPC especially if you want to buy bits of the body work!
Looking forward to welding again (or from previos experience blowing holes in bits of metal!)

Keep the faith.

Where's the photo forum?

Mike

[axle]

Got me motivated any more please post them on!

Cheers AXLE


http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture226.jpg

http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture228.jpg


http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t137/fayelovesyooh/Picture229.jpg


HI ! Not very good with pc bit . Hope thisworks.

[locostv8]

Hello, my name is Gerald and I seam to be the oldest person on the thread as yet, hence the handle “theoldman”. Since the kids have flown the coop and I having a mid life crises, all be it slightly late, I have decided to build the roadster. So far all I have done is pass my part 1 MIG welding course and will be going on to part 2 in September. I have been offered a 2 litre zetec engine for free; it was purchased for a different project and not used. Just the rest of the bits to source for various places.

Maybe not

Hi I'm Jim I'm 60 and retired my wife and I live in an old school house in the VA Mtns. I'm in the process of building a Lotus type three-7 clone. I'm here because What I came up with is a Mc Sorley 442E with a bit of Rorty mixed in which seems to be similar to the Roadster. Since I'm in the US and finding a proper donor car for the Haynes Roadster would be a trick I will be using the Book as a guide and using somewhat different components.

I have to build a 7 since the cobra won't get up to 60mph in my driveway. By the time I'm done I'm shooting for about 3 lb per hp and somewhere around a 3 sec 0 - 60 time.

Here is what I have on hand to build Shagnasty. Brooklands screens from UK, 12" rosewood steering wheel this is the original justification for the 7 I had to have something to use it in, Fenders from a Rotus, headlight shells from a Caterham with Marchael SEV bulbs, 914 seats, 351 Windsor (roller motor), T5, Cobra alloy 8.8 diff will have 3.55:1 and a Torsen T2 installed, Cobra Terminator halfshafts, Tbird Supercoupe knuckles converted to 5 on 4.5 with 10" disks, Tbird (MN12) knuckles with 11" rotors 5 on 4.5 bolt patern and 99 GT PBRs, 95 Cobra R 17x9 and 17x10.5. I'm shooting at a budget of about $3500 and I think I should make it.


The house. The little truck in the back is a Military duce and a half for scale The boat is a 19' cuddy cabin.
http://wrangler.rutgers.edu/gallery/d/43301-2/DSC00815.JPG

[Mike400]

Hi all, im Mike, 23, married and have a 3 month old daughter

Wanted to build a kit car since I was no age, and always quite fancied a caterham 7. Grew up a bit, realised cateringvans are really rather expensive for what they are, and way out of my budget.

Hope to start building a garage on the side of my house this summer, ready to get building a kit car early next year.

Im being realistic about timescales, like I say ive a 3 month old daughter so I cant devote too much time to this. Therefore I wont be setting any deadlines....

Im a member of the locost builders forum, and was all decided on an MK indy, with a fireblade engine.

Then I got Chris's book for my birthday. Fantastic book, ive read it twice since friday!!!

Its got me thinking - A chassis for an indy is around £800 ish alone. If I followed the book, for the same price I could buy a decent welder, all the materials and probably still have a couple of quid left over. Plus I would have learnt to weld at the same time! And have the satisfaction of building my own chassis!

So im back to square one. Ive gone off the bike engine too as ive realised using the donor engine will save me a ton in costs, therefore getting the car on the road sooner. In theory. Besides, insuring a pinto / cvh based kit is gonna be cheaper to do than with a bike engine. I think lol.

So the plan is, build the garage this year, buy a sierra and strip it / clean up the parts and store them over the winter, then hopefully make my mind up what I want to do chassis wise.......

[NEroadster]

Mike
just replied to another of your posts but forgot to say I have been through a similar trauma of building the garage first and then starting my build (I finished the garage at the end of Summer 2006).I was going to finish a restoration that I started but have moved on to doing thie roadster. Ihave just started the second stage of the chassis build and currently appears to be progressing well. I have two young kids one 7 who is profoundly deaf and the othe 2.5 so I too have set no real deadlines but would like to get it finished by the end of 2008.

[Mike400]

I can learn from your mistakes then lol!!

Hopefully will get the garage built and finished before end of summer - its going to be a glorified carport really - the two side walls are there in the form of my gable wall and my neighbours garage wall. Im just putting in a concrete floor, a couple of brick piers either side of the garage door, and some framework to support the roof which will be a flat wood job. All in it shouldnt cost me too much, and should be finished fairly quickly.

After a day in work researching my build, Ive decided ill at least try and build the chassis myself.

Have you any pics of the build? What way you going to do the bodywork? I was thinking of just buying the grp scuttle, front/rear arches and nosecone, from MK (or whoever are selling at the time!) and doing the rest of the car aluminium as in the book, but without painting. I kinda like the bare metal look. Theres a pic in the book of the roadster sitting on a trailer in the legal section, and the alu is unpainted and it looks really well IMO. Then again by the time ive knocked it all into shape, I might want to paint it to hide my mistakes lol......

So much to think about, im sure ill post on here plenty of times once I start the build proper!

[NEroadster]

I will post some photos of the build progress tonight when I get home from work. I am currently trying to sort out a website for a more permenant location for a build diary (My brother is in the process of organising some things). I will probably buythe cycle wings and nosecone, although I have to admit I have toyed with having a go at making my own. I will make the scuttle from steel originally but may then use it to make a mould for a glassfiber replacement. I am not completely convinced yet. Good luck with your build if you have any question just let me know.

On hte subjects of garages I had to learn to bricklay and then proceed to build most of my garage in brick from below the ground up (I dug the founds, built the walls and built the pitched roof). Not bad really

[Mike400]

Quite an acheivement - you built the garage yourself to house the car you are building yourself lol....

My brother-in-law's girlfriend's dad (thats a mouthful!) is a building contractor, so im going to see if he can "lend" me a brickie for the day once I have the founds and base done.

I really only need two slim piers at the front, for either side of the door, and a small wall at the rear with an opening for a backdoor.

Then ill do the roof myself, just a wood jobbie sloped to the rear for drainage.

Once the roof is on, Ill def be buying a welder, and the donor car. Then I can spend the rest of the year stripping the donor, cleaning up the parts, and learning to weld before starting on the chassis.

But it will be next year before the build proper starts. Like I say, im in no rush

[Username]

Hi all,

My name is Dario Alexandre de Jesus Martins, Portuguese, 22.

I love all that is gadgets, building, destroying, welding, cuting...etc etc..

Because of the above I ended up studyin Mech Eng. at Coventry University, about to go to 2nd year.
And because I ended up in Coventry I ended up encountering a book from Mr Ron Champion in the Transport Museum...I remember staying there for almost 2 hours reading it and geting weird looks from the lady that works there. :D

Bought the new book and I´m off to start building.
Its gonna be a real challenge Building a car here in portugal, parts are hard to find and expensive! The cheapest sierra I can get is 500£:(
...and then got to take the car to UK for SVA, thats gonna be fun road trip with some mates! :D

Well thats about it...theres some steel in the basemente must start cuting:)

Regards
Dario Martins

[copeo]

Hi,
i'm Alberto, 24 and i'm italian. I work in a paint factory near Venice. My dream is to spread kit cars in italy so I put on line a website www.allkitcar.com :D .
Unfortunaly there isn't a real english version because... well i don't speak english! :p

I would like to build the haynes Roadster and follow the building on my website.. my only problem is the registration in italy :mad: but the hope never dies! :cool:

[kmschurchwarden]

Hi to anyone who takes the time to read this!
I'm 51 years old, a Churchwarden,ex mechanic,ex biker(still own a 59 speed twin!)and always wanted a Lotus7 since my first drive of one whenI was 14 I have always owned Fords and have built a couple of seriously hot Capris/Cortinas and still want a "7".
I have a 1600 pinto from a Cortina but would prefer to build with a Sierra or Montego diesel turbo unit as I want the beast for travelling to work in France where derv(bio) is V cheap,
KMS.

[raceral]

Hi
My name is Al, Allan if my mother is in earshot. I live in BC Canada, though my mother was born in Enfield.
I am retired and I currently have a 2004.5 1.8T 4Motion Passat 5 spd and a 1969 AMC AMX, now I have undertaken to build the Haynes Roadster, well at least the front half anyway.
I will be using a 3.4 chevy 60 degree 200 horsepower crate motor with a 5 speed manual and a live rear axle because they are super cheap around here.
I have the bottom of the frame built and am plodding along at a leisurely rate.
I am glad there are no dumb questions or I would be in trouble.
Al

[Matt Mason]

Hi,

I got given Chris' book as a very belated birthday present on the weekned and have read it in coffee breaks during the never ending renovation work on the house.

I'm an ex-pat Brit originally from Stoke-on-Trent, now living in Perth, Western Australia with my Canadian partner, our two dogs and the rat that lives in our loft space! I work on a remote minesite as an apprentice mechanical fitter, which I took up after I got sick of a decade of being a lab technician.

I'm in the process of restoring my MK2 Australian build Morris Cooper S, which is taking rather longer than expected, given the house renovation. But why have just one car and a house on the go? I'll be watching this site regularly to see who is doing what and learning what I can so that I can progress to building a quality vehicle for road and track.

Hope to speak to heaps of you soon, and good luck with your projects.

Matt.

[Chris Gibbs]

Thanks for joining us and for your input so far.

cheers

Chris :D

[Bonzo]

Hi.
I am Ronnie, I live in West Cornwall. Quite close to Penzance.
I have Spent most of my life working in the Marine & industrial fabrication industrty. My latter years have been spent on auto restoration & accident repair work.
My main area of expertise is in the welding field.
I have held ASME Qualifications in both Tig and stick along with BS qualifications in Mig & gas welding.
For a brief period I was a relief welding instructor at my local skill centre. ( Until It closed down, Thanks to HM Government )

Firsly, what a superb forum.

Secondly, What a superb job Chris Gibbs has done with this much needed publication.
I have been planning to build a locost for quite some time. The main problem was a suitable donor. Mk 2 Escorts are classic cars now and are seldom seen in breaker yards.
Imagine my surprise, when during a browse at my local Halfords store I spotted the New book by Chris Gibbs. All based on the Sierra, bingo, donor problem solved.

I have been given a donor and have most of the steel. I am looking forward to making a start real soon. Just have my sons crash damaged Corsa to sort out and the workshop is clear for me to start.

Anybody local having problems with the welding, more than happy to give a little tuition.

Good luck with all of your projects

[bigjoe]

Hi Im Joe,
Im 29 and live in the scottish borders (Innerleithen) but im originally from south east london,i moved up here nearly 4 years for a better life and my wife is from here so its ideal for our 2 daughters ,1 smelly lurcher (Chloe) and a scabby tomcat (Remo).
I trained as a mechanic and welder when i left school although i went into the glass industry so didnt play with cars much for a few years,i am experienced in Mig,Tig,MMA and o/a welding and fabrication and hope to start a locost this year.
Nice to meet you all and look forward to seeing all the locosts growing.

Bigjoe :D

[flyingairy]

Hy folks!

Finally after reading threads after threads I am going in this one!
So, now it's time to present myself:

I am Airy (full name is Airy-Hugues), living in France (in the area of Chartres, 1 hour drive to south-west of Paris), freshly 32 old (just pass the last lap around the sun recently), and I am really fond of everything about mechanics, from sewing machine to warbirds aircrafts via cars, and watch...

I do probably start in "mechanics" when I was around 4/5 years old, when my grand brother start restoration of a 1928 350cm3 bike, thereafter, I started on moped when I was 11 only working on engines of older school friends, thus at 15 I was already preparing scooter's engines to race...softly, as in my area there was only one race a year (I didn't had any transport facilities), so: 3 races, 3 podium, on 50cm3 prostock catg, even running faster than 125 or 250scooters (too big for such small circuits).

It is also at 11 I went encountering workers in an aircraft maintenance workshop (for those light airplanes, with good old wood propellers!). There I helped in a stampe SV4 restoration (just google it, you will see how it looks), being passionate on aircrafts, I spent several holidays working in an association restoring and maintaining old aircrafts, from 1938 Boeing-Stearman to warbirds like AD-4 Skyraider and marvelous 18 cylinders radial engines (around 2800HP), and others Morane 1932, Beechcarft D17S Staggerwing, T-6, Yak11, Yak18, P51-Dmustang, etc...those who are intersted knows about them!


Around 14 I was also maintaining a 100cm3 two stroke 1954 bike for a neighbor, and I did entering my firsts own restoration few months later, working for an ex-race pilot retired and who hadn't time emough to spend on his collection (more than 20 bikes, around 15 cars, and some sailplanes...).:eek:
During this time, I did welded a side car to my moped!
not powerfull enough, but great fun to pilot!!! driving on two wheels at carners.

Following years were not so mechanically animated, as I entered a mechanical university institute, and then by the end getting specialization on quality and management during one year in sweden, having training period in SAAB, or AtlasCopco companies as example.

Ending my army national duties (in the french airforce...as secretary!! don't laugh! please:mad: ), I found job in the automotive industry, after a fisrst company as carmaker supplier, I did found a job in the "carmaker" side in a french-japanese well known company, working as mechanical engineer in the development/industrialization office of small and powerfull diesel engines.

With last years of study, my passion for cars increased a lot when living in Sweden, where I bought a Saab96 '65 with 40hp two stroke engine, ending my studies there I went back to France with this car, using it 2 years before encountering brakes deseases! Not having time and money, I switch to a yamaha 3 cylinders bike. years later I did bought a '81 Honda CBX 6 cylinders bike (marvelous engine, 24 valves, 6 carbs to synchronise, 2 OHC,etc....105hp, 225km/h!!)...
By the way I did obtain my private pilot license, and found an association with some friends to keep them flying (even Fouga-magister jet... http://nostalgair.free.fr (sorry mostly in french, but have a lot at pix). Having in stock a '56 plane to restore, but not having best conditions to work on it, so, it is not going to fly soon.

As daily driving I am using a '71 volkswagen "beettle", and nowadays restoring a second one fully from chassis to nuts.

So, as I received THE famous book on last monday, I did formulate new dreams, and now I wish to go farther than I thought before... always farther in my passion for mechanics!

As you will understand, it is not a project for this year, I am really very busy, but learning about this "Locost" car by reading you will bring me a lot, and I hope I will be able to share my experience in bikes-cars&planes restoration to give tips.;)

It will let me time enough to understand french rules to put such car legaly on the road (otherwise I will have to buy a trailer to run it on circuits only... or making any deal with friends living in UK??)...and time enough to find a good donorcar, as well as a fine engine (I 'd like to find a "good looking" engine too, maybe 6 inline, or smal Vee, like the citroen-SM maseratti one?? whynot? or else.. I precise, I do like to see 2 or 3 webers carbs on an engine!).:rolleyes:

So, now you know more about me,
Wishing everybody the best for their cars,

[Danzetec]

Hi I'm Dan, 25, from Braintree Essex UK

I work with my Dad running a local engineering company (est over 20years). He's highly skilled and experienced at all things welding/ fabrication and has passed this on to me. I've also completed training for machining and went on to a HNC in Mechanical Engineering.

We often help people who are doing kit cars by making bespoke pieces for their build. We got lent the Ron Champion book by a customer and then bought the Tiger book as well as Chris Gibbs. Chris's plans seem the best, but thats not to say we aren't adapting from these already - standard seats are too wide and we really wanted some cobra clubman seats in there!

Whilst discussing the idea with friends, one said I'd best price to make him a chassis at the same time! So here we are building two chassis, ours 2litre zetec and his MR2 powered. Will get some pics up soon and if anyone can help with info on fitting MR2 engine to sierra gearbox it'd be much appriciated!:)

[macdave69]

Will get some pics up soon and if anyone can help with info on fitting MR2 engine to sierra gearbox it'd be much appriciated!:)

Why not just source an AE86 gearbox, it would make things a lot easier for you?

[Alphax]

depends which MR2 engine he's gonna use. if he uses the the 4A-GE he can best use the AE86 gearbox (T-50) or mate it to a type 9. If he's gonna go for the 3S-GE, well, there are bellhouses for that as well, but it's a heavy heavy engine and at 30 degrees also tough to fit.

[Danzetec]

Its a 2ltr '91 MR2 which is the 4a-ge I think:confused: We were thinking the sierra is more common but what models would the AE86 (T-50) be fitted... supra? The other thing would be having to also use the diff as well to keep the speedo correct or the need to get it re-calibrated? Anyway, bar the adapter it seemed easier??

[Alphax]

the 2 ltr isnt a 4a-ge. that is a 1600cc and was fitted until 1988. The 2ltr you have is a 3s-ge. does it have the turbo? the turbo version is very heavy, but a very good engine. I haven't worked with the non-turbo, but I know that the bottom block is really heavy. As far as I know there is no adaptor plate for the MT75 gearbox. We thought about making one, but the weight of this engine is not favorable. If you do want to make one yourself, let me know, we have done half the work for you already.
The T-50 gearboxes were in the old corolla among other models.

[ivan]

Hi all,

I'm Ivan from Chichester, West Sussex. I'm a 42 year old dairy farm manager, pilot and typical winter evening workshop nut! I've part built a couple of aeroplanes and converted a glider to a power aircraft that I now regularly fly from a small airstrip I've set up on the farm.

Mechanically, I'm pretty much like most farm boys in that all my life I've tinkered, fabricated impliments, repaired tractors, cars, bikes, whatever. I stripped and rebuilt my first engine (a BSA Bantam) at 12 and have done far too many since. I must admit, my enthusiasm for mechanics has wained in the last few years, but I'm determined to beat the lazy bug that seems to be creeping in.

As far as the Roadster goes, I'm seriously thinking of starting as I need a car short term whilst my Mrs needs the family one (donor car with a few months MOT would be ideal) and I've no winter project sorted yet. I've always admired the Caterham 7 and similar, and noticed the Haynes book whilst buying some exhaust paint recently.

A couple of qustions do spring to mind which may make a difference, so if possible I'd like to pick your collective minds. The first is insurance ... Is it easy to get for this type of vehicle? and what would it compare with as far as rating goes? I've full no claims ect ect, but don't want to be paying huge premiums for what will basically be a fun car for myself (low annual milage). The other is just to satisfy the boy in me :D I assume the fact that the car is light means acceleration should be good? What would a typical Ford 2 litre engined 0-60 be? and do you have any problem with traction?

Anyway ... that's me,

All the best, Ivan

[MTor9?]

Hi,

I'm Simon from Southbourne (Between Portsmouth and Chichester).
I have been trying to talk myself out of buliding a Locost since I first Bought Champions book in 1996!

Then some inconsiderate so-and-so came along and rewrote it just as I had managed to get it out of my system!!!!

So.... In between trying to placate my expectant wife and demanding 4 year old daughter, I also will not be buying yards of 20x20 rhs, and wondering around scrap yards looking for old sierras and mondeos (Zetec is a legend). I will also not be scouring 'tinternet' for odds, sods and widgets to add to the collection I already have from owning a TR6.

I will definiteley not be buying yet another mig welder, and leaning on all my contacts in the engineering industry, forged by me being group chief engineer for a major food producer.

Similarly I will be giving up drinking beer, eating Doritos and watching football.



Not



Simon

[Chris Gibbs]

Hi,

I'm Simon from Southbourne (Between Portsmouth and Chichester).
I have been trying to talk myself out of buliding a Locost since I first Bought Champions book in 1996!

Then some inconsiderate so-and-so came along and rewrote it just as I had managed to get it out of my system!!!!

So.... In between trying to placate my expectant wife and demanding 4 year old daughter, I also will not be buying yards of 20x20 rhs, and wondering around scrap yards looking for old sierras and mondeos (Zetec is a legend). I will also not be scouring 'tinternet' for odds, sods and widgets to add to the collection I already have from owning a TR6.

I will definiteley not be buying yet another mig welder, and leaning on all my contacts in the engineering industry, forged by me being group chief engineer for a major food producer.

Similarly I will be giving up drinking beer, eating Doritos and watching football.



Not



Simon

Sorry 'bout that mate!

cheers

Chris:D

[ivan]

Hi Simon,

Sounds like you're very close to me. Perhaps when you get started we could meet up?

Ivan

[cheapskate]

Hi I'm Martin,

I'm on the wrong side of 40 :( and i guess this is my midlife crisis :rolleyes: Anyway, the wife said i should find somethig to do, so i've bought the book.

I've started making some of the smaller sub assemblies, until i clear the garage of all the junk and make some space, still it should keep me out of trouble.

As for cutting some of the plates, DS1 - 5mm with pretty shaped holes in the middle, this will take me weeks. Chris if you read this, i'm the reason your ears were burning today :)

[cavalier]

My names Gavin, 38, and i'm a bus depot manager. I'm from Epsom in Surrey but now live with my wife in lovely Hunstanton (should that be 'lovely wife in Hunstanton'. I bought the original book and took some welding courses but never got good enough to build a chassis and people kept telling me i wouldn't fit in one (i'm 6ft 8) so the dream died. Bought the new book last week and am determined to do one this time and WILL get myself to fit in it! Massive respect to all and good luck. Cavalier:)

[macdave69]

Hi Gavin,
Welcome to the board.
I'm 5' 10" and I have 5" of space behind my seat, so you may well be ok with the standard dimensions. other than that and the beauty of the LSIS genre is that you can adapt what you want, there really aren't any rules on building these things, so go ahead and enjoy!!

[jroberts]

Hi,

I'm Simon from Southbourne (Between Portsmouth and Chichester).
I have been trying to talk myself out of buliding a Locost since I first Bought Champions book in 1996!

Then some inconsiderate so-and-so came along and rewrote it just as I had managed to get it out of my system!!!!

So.... In between trying to placate my expectant wife and demanding 4 year old daughter, I also will not be buying yards of 20x20 rhs, and wondering around scrap yards looking for old sierras and mondeos (Zetec is a legend). I will also not be scouring 'tinternet' for odds, sods and widgets to add to the collection I already have from owning a TR6.

I will definiteley not be buying yet another mig welder, and leaning on all my contacts in the engineering industry, forged by me being group chief engineer for a major food producer.

Similarly I will be giving up drinking beer, eating Doritos and watching football.



Not



Simon


Hey Simon,

I know Southbourne well, grew up there, went to the Bourne, my Mum still lives there!

So next time i'm visiting home i'll be round for a cuppa then?:D

ATB

John

[pegan]

Hello, i'm Petros (Peter) from Athens- Greece, i'm 26 years old and have always been around cars, i currently own a 1973 Alfa Romeo GTV 2000 (spica) and a 2002 Lotus Elise and of course i have always dreamt of building my own seven...:D
I have just finished reading the book and in a weeks time i should be able to start the chassis (LHD), still waiting for the tubes and looking for a donor..


Chris thank you for an inspirational read...

[locost-cro]

Hi

My name is Tomislav (Tom), i live in Zagreb -Croatia. till now I've bought Ron Champions "Build your own sports car" and "Build your own Tiger Avon" from www.veloce.co.uk because of the availability of the parts still haven't decided which car to build. Haynes roadster is almost a single donor build... Ford Sierra is very available end cheap and I hope that it will be enough to start building and to pass the homologation (SVA in Croatia) for road use.

Forum is great keep up the good work!

Regards

Tom

[samwise]

Greetings

I am Sam and I am 17 years old from Alton in Hampshire. I own a 1957 Morris Minor Convertible which is my first and only car and I have not yet passed my driving test :(

I have been into cars all my life and my step dad ownes a Jaguar garage not too far away. I sometimes try and help him out at work when ever I can, which usually involves a kettle and a tea bag.

I would really love to build a kit car one day which is why I joined these forums, recently I had a ride in a DAX Cobra and I also got to sit in the drivers seat (I had to pump the brake pedal as my dad was fixing the brakes :D ) but as I am about 6ft 3" in height and of large build it was a bit of a squeeze and the seats were not ajustable, therefore I had no leg room :(

I am planning to take an engineering degree in college and then travel up to Huddersfield university to study motor sport technology/engineering.

[Gazzer]

:) Hi all,
I've wanted to build a kit cat for years. I've read all the books and mags. When Criss's book apeared and I read it, I decided this is the one for me.
As I have a wife and 2 kids and a small garage (full of Bikes and electric cars etc. Who knows when welding will actually start but I have just Bought the welder.:)
As funds and space allow I'm sure the project will advance, probably at snail's pace:D .
I live in Preston Lancashire so anyone who is doing a Roadster nearby, get in Touch.

Gazzer

[Chris Gibbs]

Just a note to welcome our new members, the forum seems to grow every day and we have some very knowledgable people here now.

I'm trying to make buying the book just the begining, together we can make building a car easier and more enjoyable.

Any questions - just ask, if I don't know then someone will.

Cheers

Chris :)

[old_bill]

Hi my name is Bill, 56 years old and thinking of building a haynes roadster.
I've never done anything like this before but am willing to take the plunge and do something other than watch telly and drink beer. I want to build a car and drink beer.
I have some engineering background and have messed around with cars when i was younger.
Would like to meet up with someone who is buiding one and lives in the Glasgow area. You may be able to convince me not to do it.

[macdave69]

some of our best panelling was done after a few beers!!
Enjoy!!!

[The Alchemist]

Hi All,
Got the book last month and have just found this thread- so, for politeness- this is me. :eek:
I live on a farm with my wife, 2 cats, 2 guinea pigs, and 20 chickens, in Broadway/Horton, Somerset.
I'm 29; a marketing coordinator by day for an industrial chemical company (so free supply of degreasers, anti-corrosion, anti-spatter, lube, products etc).

Currently I am mostly being over-whelmed by the amount of work needed for the project (not to mention clearing the sheep cr*p out of one of the out-buildings for use as a workshop).

Never welded or seriously cut metal in my life, but figure anyone can do anything, if you work at it long enough.

3 years, a completed Roadster, and a trip to paris with the wife. That's the goal!
Kieran

[tendoshingan]

Hi folks,
my name's Ian and I am hoping to start building the roadster soon.
Trying to keep costs low as wife will want the same in cash:( .
Managed to grab some bargains off internet auctions (£10 sips mig 130amp welder, £120 fully working xr3i)
Also given a sierra(92) with no engine.
So far have stripped the sierra, gaining running gear and MT75 gearbox (are the diagrams for the conversion correct now Chris???:confused: )
Also, stripped the Escort xr3i of its 1.8 zetec (pre aug 94 no emission problem) and taken out the full wiring loom all labelled (laborious work!!!)
Now just about to start marking up the ply.
I am sure I will be on here asking lots of questions in the not too distant future
Ian

[atone]

Hello,
My name is Allan (why did that sound like i was back in pre-school!). Been following the forum for a while and thought i should introduce myself. I live near Vancouver, BC. I am at the transmission tunnel stage of the frame. Great book with excellent detail but agained foiled by lack of North American donors! Would love to hear from other builders in the US and Canada as far as what they used for donors. As far as i understand the Merkur is the closest we have here. They seem to have a bit of a following so they are not easy to find cheap (so far none!). I also understand they have a different diff (7.5 vs 7.0). Does this mount different (hubs, axles?). I also am not clear on the transmission. Some sources say it is the type 9 while others say the mt75. I guess it is not relevent now as i have started on the tunnel so type 9 it is!
Allan

[raceral]

In my case the only thing that is Haynes is the frame from the seat back area forward, the rest is home grown and based on what is easily available in my location.
You might also find this a help for local info.
http://www.locostusa.com/forums/
Welcome to the forum
Al
1969 AMX Black 390

2004 Passat 1.8T 4Motion 5 Spd

Super Seven clone Wannabe

http://rides.webshots.com/album/559699304eZdWph

[Regis]

Hello
my name is regis, i m 33 and i live near lorient in brittany, france (perhaps someone know the interceltic festival)
i have a 205GTI 1.9 for the circuit but i want to try anything else
so i bought the book in french language and i just begin the chassis
this book is a gold mine, thanks to the author;)

i hope finding lot of informations in this forum

Bye

ps:sorry for the mistakes, i wasn't a very good english student

[Bonzo]

Hi Regis.

Welcome to the forum.

I am sure you will find all the information you will need.

If in doubt, ask. There is plenty of help here if you need it.

Your English is far better than my French. :o :o

Ronnie :)

[Chris Gibbs]

Bonjour Regis,

Bienvenue au forum !

Nous avons plusieurs membres de langue française, si vous devez poser des questions en français qu'est acceptable.

à la votre

Chris :)

[2hyper]

Wow, this has spread farther than I could have imagined. A bit about me, I currently work in a factory making electric transformers. I have worked in a shop as a welder/fabricator and assembled medium duty trucks. I have also worked as a carpenter, construction superintendent, and an ironworker and hold a Bachelor's degree in Business. I'm 37 but act 17 sometimes. I have a little house in the suburbs of Milwaukee, with a 2 and half car garage with a driveway, a rare thing in my neighborhood. Most of the houses were built in the twenties. As for my automotive pedigree, I currently own a BMW MINI S, that I love to drive (ok ok it turns my commute into a chess game) I have rebuild a '76 CJ5 fun project though with its drum brakes all around dicey to drive here in Wisconsin. My other project is a WWII Ford GPW aka a Willys. I got the book a week ago, and it refired my interest in small sports cars. As a teenager I always loved the MGs, and Triumphs that made it across the pond to the states.

A note to those building their own garage, if your local utility allows it, get a seperate power line run to it, that was the best investment I have made in my garage, since welders, saws and air compressors have a very annoying habit of popping breakers when under heavy use. It will also allow you to run multiple tools at once, i.e. your grinder or saw and the compressor and have plenty of light.

[raceral]

A note to those building their own garage, if your local utility allows it, get a seperate power line run to it, that was the best investment I have made in my garage, since welders, saws and air compressors have a very annoying habit of popping breakers when under heavy use. It will also allow you to run multiple tools at once, i.e. your grinder or saw and the compressor and have plenty of light.

In my case when we built the house we had the main feed sized large enough to carry two seperate 200 amp panels, one to the house and one to the 4 car garage which is also part of the house.
Al

[2hyper]

Raceral, you are a man after my own heart. Where I live the garage is detached so seperate service was required.

[tubenut]

Another forum is what the world needs. hope to find useful info. here that i can use. is there a rating system?

[bobbyh]

hi my name is robert harrison i am 19 now but stred building at 18 nealy a yr ago i work at Rolls Royce well i got 2 coll and thay pay me lol

[andybennie]

Hi my name is Andy Bennie (I am 54) and live in Bridgwater Somerset and became a member this week and am thinking about building a roadster. I am a time served mechanic having experience in the past with Jaguar, BMW,Toyota,Alfa Romeo and Volvo, although until last year I was a Production manager for a large local fruit juice and drinks manufacturer (for 19 years). I have owned and built 3 Westfields. I am currently employed locally at Classic Replicas who manufacture and build Ferrari Dino 246 replicas.

[wainerman]

hi all, my name is andrew wainer. i am 19 and in my second year at the university of the west of england, studying motorsport engineering. i have had the book for a few months and have read throught it and want to get cracking, but being a student has its downsides, i intend/hope to get a placement for after the summer and i can start then. i also have the original book as for one of my modules i am investigating the locost racing championship. does anyone know if any of the members are involved in this?? well i guess i will be posting more on here when i start. :)

[Bonzo]

Welcome to all of our new members.

I hope you find the forum as usefull as I have since joining.

It is particulary nice to see a growing band of west country builders. :) :)

Ronnie :)

[Loco_Bill]

Hi all,

I've been on here a while, almost finished fully welding the chassis up. My names Bill and i'm 22, i live and build my car at home in the Cotswolds (Glos.) and am in my 4th year of a 5 year masters degree in Engineering at Loughboorugh Uni. I've never done any major welding before and have coped well with self learning as my project has progressed.

The first thing i have learn't is dont be stubborn and buy a chop of saw for cutting the steel tubing. I have done mine all with a hacksaw and spent countless hours filing the ends square. If i was to do it again.....i'd buy a chop saw with out a doubt!

I'm currently deciding between a tuned zetec or a bike engine - ZX12R, but i'll have to wait till my jan/feb exams are over before i have the time to decide and BUY!

Good luck to everybody

[CurlyBen]

I'm Ben, 20 year old Mech Eng undergraduate in Southampton. Unfortunately my parents are living in Beijing for 3 years so I don't think any building will start before summer '09 but at least it give me plenty of time to choose what to put in.. For the moment I'll have to stick to the uni motor racing team, we've got a Formula 750 car which is undergoing a major rebuild! Other than cars I sail a lot and don't do anything like as much work as I should..

[Josh]

Hi ben, sounds like your doing what I want to do! I'm 17 and taking my A2's this summer, aiming for 3A's and then off to bath uni to do mech. eng.! So far I'm about half-way through building the chassis, and loving every bit of it!

Josh

[CurlyBen]

Be ready for a hell of a lot of work then, and so far none of what I've done really relates to cars! Good luck..

[Bonzo]

Hi ben, sounds like your doing what I want to do! I'm 17 and taking my A2's this summer, aiming for 3A's and then off to bath uni to do mech. eng.! So far I'm about half-way through building the chassis, and loving every bit of it!

Josh

Hi Josh

If I had my time again I would be off to uni myself.

My nepehew has just graduated from Bath university ( Mechanical engeneering )

He loved his time there.
His help with my CAD software has been a great help to me.

I wish you well with your studies.

Ronnie :)

[Josh]

Thanks Ronnie! It's nice to have a recomendation, and to be honest I can't wait to leave the schooling system behind! (and my parents!)

[Bonzo]

Funny you should say that :)

Those were my nephew's final words to me as he left for Bath university ;)

My other nephew is in his third year at Bath. Chemical engeneering.

Study well, but don't forget to have a little me time on your build.

Ronnie :)

[Josh]

Getting some me time is hard at the moment because my parents have placed a ban on any roadster work during term time! Which means all my holidays turn into build-fests! Another reason I'm looking forward to uni, much longer holidays;)

Josh

[rk970]

My name is Robert, I am a Chiropractor by trade, 37year old. I have a BS in human biology and mechanical engineering. I live in the states (Washington). I have started to acquire some parts for the build. So far I have the diff and half-shafts and rear hubs from a murker xr4ti. I also got the front spindles but the rotors and bearings are knackered up. I have been looking for alternative lower ball joints to use (the maxi is kind of non-existent here). I may just go ahead and use pinto/mustangII front spindles (I will not just slap them in, some design work will be involved) since they have a very large after market support for components here.
Engine will be the ford 2.3turbo and T5 trans, engine management will be my own version of MSEFI (custom PCB/code with different connectors)
Right now my plan is to acquire all the components before I start on the frame..
RK

[Chris Gibbs]

Oh thanks Robert!

Getting my hopes up with "I am a Chiropractor by trade" then dropping the bombshell "I live in the states (Washington)"

I was hoping you'd have a look at my back!

I'd be interested to see the stuff on the pinto/mustang spindles if you go that way.

Welcome to the forum,:)

cheers

Chris

[rk970]

Oh thanks Robert!

Getting my hopes up with "I am a Chiropractor by trade" then dropping the bombshell "I live in the states (Washington)"

I was hoping you'd have a look at my back!

I'd be interested to see the stuff on the pinto/mustang spindles if you go that way.

Welcome to the forum,:)

cheers

Chris

Sorry bout that..
anyways.. on the front suspension. If you don't mind. I need a few numbers.
Front roll center height
Scrub radius/distance
Camber gain
Castor angle
ackerman (if any is designed in at all)
RK

[Chris Gibbs]

I don't have the calculations with me but from memory:-

Roll centre at 55mm above ground
Scrub radius 30mm
camber gain is about 4.5 degrees at full bump
castor is about 6 degrees

Ackerman wasn't designed in because we were stuck with the angle of the Sierra steering arms, I think we calculated the covergance point to be about 1200mm behind the rear axle line.

Hope this helps

Chris :)

[roadster v8]

hi my name is john im self employed and 50 years old with 3 kids two boys like cars and i would like to build a roadster. i wanted to build one when i was 20 but never got round to it but now that i have seen the haynes roadster i would like to build one.

i brought ron champions book a few years ago but i did not have the enthusiasm until i saw the haynes roadster book last year i brought a formula 27 chasis off ebay to put a rover v8 in it last year but now i want to build a new chasis to fit a granada cosworth engine. i am going to try and put together a build diary on flickr http://www.flickr.com/photos/roadster_v8__24v__roadster/ this is what i have so far any ideas about a chasis for the granada cosworth

[bobbyh]

sounds like a gud project it will sound really gud

[Tenlow]

My name is tom and I'm 24 for the next few months, building one of these cars has been on my "list" for some time. I'm currently taking a welding class while I work towards a structural engineering degree. Since I am in a full service welding shop 4 days a week from 9am to 1pm, I figure what better way to spend my time than doing something productive? I'm also playing with carbon fiber so I'd like to see if I can make my bodywork out of that instead of aluminium.

I have to clear it with my teacher first, but I doubt it will be a problem as several people have built hot rods during class in previous semesters.

My big problem is deciding what motor to use. While I'd really like to use a motorcycle engine, I sure do enjoy reverse. I'm just going to weld up the chassis and worry about everything else when it comes time to cross that bridge.

[bobbyh]

hi and welcome your build sounds gud on the carbon side of things i'm looking at going the same root but i cant make the stuff my self but ther are place you can buy some of it if you need to

[raceral]

My name is tom and I'm 24 for the next few months, building one of these cars has been on my "list" for some time. I'm currently taking a welding class while I work towards a structural engineering degree. Since I am in a full service welding shop 4 days a week from 9am to 1pm, I figure what better way to spend my time than doing something productive? I'm also playing with carbon fiber so I'd like to see if I can make my bodywork out of that instead of aluminium.

I have to clear it with my teacher first, but I doubt it will be a problem as several people have built hot rods during class in previous semesters.

My big problem is deciding what motor to use. While I'd really like to use a motorcycle engine, I sure do enjoy reverse. I'm just going to weld up the chassis and worry about everything else when it comes time to cross that bridge.

Ummmm Carbon Fiber and just next door to me..:rolleyes:

[Tenlow]

Ummmm Carbon Fiber and just next door to me..:rolleyes:

Heh, well with carbon fiber so far the only thing I've made is a mess. I was a bit impatient so I didn't wait long enough for the resin to set up. Next time i'm going to actually try to do it right. Few more tries and I'll be up to making actual things (albeit simple ones)

[bobbyh]

is it hard to do?? what involved in making it?

[pjwalker]

Hi all

I'm PJ Just about to start my build with a new 2.0 zetec (hopefully) gonna be a long build cause theres a baby on the way which makes money tight. Otherwise it will be a fairy standard build but with creature comforts like a windscreen.

On another note I've seen on here that everyone seems to be happy with 3GE Components has anyone got a link to their site or phone number can't seem to google them fo some reason.

Cheers
PJ

[bobbyh]

it is http://www.3gecomponents.com/

[tkpm]

Hi, mine names Terry i'm 47 and i live in North Devon with my wife Shirley and one my two daughters Marie(20) the other daughter Nikki(19) has just started uni in Wales.

Have been wanting to build a kit car for quit a few years bit i was to bissy riding a Suzuki GSX-R up until two weeks ago, my wife has ask me to stop riding as i have lost two mates this year already.

I got book a few months ago and thought i might make a start on that one day, spoke to my brother inlaw over the weekend about building one, he rings me this morning say i found you a donor car.

So my project start on wednesday evening by picking my sierra 2L Pinto for £150 and free delivery.:)

I have only question at the moment, wheres the best place to get steel from.

Ps, sorry about the spelling

Terry

[frankie boy]

Hi Terry
Welcome to the forum. You can buy complete chassis packs from a company called Amoto there pre cut to the book spec at around £240. I will PM you the telephone number. Good luck with your build. :D

[londonsean69]

I'm not sure if Armoto are doing the chassis packs anymore. I belive it was a lad called Jason who worked there that did them, and he has left.

I stand to be corrected though.

As for steel, it all depends if you want new steel, or are happy to go rummaging/scrounging.

Just do a google for 'steel stockholders Devon'. Although there seem to be quite a few builders based in and around Cornwall/Devon (flabbyass springs to mind) so they might be better placed to advise.

And welcome to the forum, I also have sworn myself off sportsbikes:D Nice metal plate in the wrist for my troubles.

Sean

[Bonzo]

Hi Terry

A very warm welcome to the forum :)

Off to a good start finding a Pinto donor for £150 :cool:

Being in West Cornwall, not too knowledgable of steel stockists in your area.

Perhaps ASD metals in Exeter is within easy reach for you ?

ASD Exeter

Sidmouth Road, Hill Barton Business Park, Clyst St Mary, Exeter, EX5 1AD.
+44 (0)1395 233 366

+44 (0)1395 233 367

exeter@asdmetalservices.co.uk

Enjoy the build :) :)

[jasongray5]

Hi Terry, where abouts in north devon are you? Your welcome to come and look at my progress thus far if you like? Just to see what your getting into!

I managed to get my chassis pack from armoto, but I have a feeling that they stopped making them, I cannot find them anywhere on ebay either.

Depending on where you are your local steel merchant will be able to help you!

Jas Gray

[HandyAndy]

welcome to the madhouse, oops i mean the forum :D

you are located in a very good area for building a roadster , some fairly localish builders around you & some top part suppliers close to you if you need their services.... 3GE supply top quality chassis components based near Exeter & Triton Race Products who can supply superb body kits, either full body kits or whatever you may need, both companies are run by forum members & lots of Roadster builders have used their services.

Various builders such as Jason, Bonzo & Spikehaus are in your area & i,m sure they,d be happy to help with info on a local "ish" nature.

all the very best with your build.

andy:)

[Chris Gibbs]

Welcome Terry!!

It must be something in the water out west, you're in the Roadster building hotspot!

It might be worth getting out the yellow pages and looking for fabricators in your area. They might have an overstocked scrap bin or you can ask them where the cheapest local place is.

Cheers

Chris :)

[thwang]

hi all
simon 41 started out as a light engineer/mechanic then on to a commercial body builder and now currently a sheet metal worker. used to be into bike x7,s and rd,s then moved on too cars i,ve restored a morris cooper then a mk11 mexico and a mk1 mexico the last car i was going to restore was a colt starion but by the time we,d moved to a house with a garage the tin rot had got to her so that why im building a roadster other hobbies mountain bike my dog and high powered led bike lights.
thwang

[peter2482]

Hi all, my name is peter im 27 years old, currently employed as a programmer, using Radan and dabbling in solidworks, I live in kings lynn with my girlfriend and 2 kids
Megan (8) and Keiron (7 weeks).
My interest in the roadster starting a few months ago, when my friend said he was going to build one, so I said I would draw it up, so we could mess with ideas etc, and it evolved in to me buying the book and deciding to build my own,
My build is currently being done at work in my dinner breaks, learning to weld, making jigs, etc, but will be moving to my mates when I start the chassis. Having access to a variety of machines, pressbrakes, plasma, punch, mills, lathes etc (plus I program most of them) means I can get bits done easily.
Anyway bit long, but that’s me
thanks
:D

[andyuk697]

hi all my name is andy im 28 im currently and asistant manager at a building plastics company
i live in a small house in barnsley in southyorkshire with my partner laura been together 5 years no kids as yet so thought id have a go at doing a old car up ive wanted to do this for quite a few years since i built a garage at my mums house but never go round to it

my hobbies so far are too many to list but include woodturning, electronics, electrics, diy, mountain biking, and now welding and fabricatiing etc..

i was looking to do up an old mini but couldnt find one cheap enuff that didnt have too much metal worm!

then i saw this book how to build a sports car for £250 which was funny as thats all i had so thought great il have some of that and bought how to build a roadster on a budget by chris gibbs

so far ive spent £100 on 25x25 steel and 19x19 steel
£118 on a welder
£25 on gas bottle full of gas
£20 on wire and tips
£110 on a rage chop saw
DONT TELL THE MRS hahaha

and i still havent found a doner car!

think thats about it

Andy

[thwang]

hi peter
thats an interesting idea for the adjuster did you fold it out of one blank?
thwang

[peter2482]

yes it was one blank, it seemed easier than welding lots of bits of plate together.

[Spikehaus]

Your build will test all of your skills hobby skills then and you will never have a free Sunday again! Welcome to the club.

[Spikehaus]

Let me extend my previous welcome to Terry as well! Your just up the road from we so maybe see you at the Westpoint show this year? Maybe we could start plotting our locations on a map to see the hotspots at Chris pointed out? Where did I get that idea from. Hehe!! I can help with the 20 mm seamless tube as I have loads off it.

[tkpm]

Thanks for the warm welcome, jasongray5 i'm only just down the road from you in Bideford, i'm picking my donor car up from over your way Wednesday evening, it would be great to have a look at your build at some point.
Thanks for all the advice i've had so far, will be pm'ing some of you very soon.


Terry

[rhys007]

I'm Rhys & I'm in Ashford in Kent.

I'm 33, going on 8:p (according to the wife) & a BR trained electrical/mechanical engineer.

Currently employed on a certain high speed Javelin train through Kent, with too much time sitting on the sofa in front of an xbox & not enough dirty fingernails- that will change:D

Am hooked via the book & a trackday, but will be building ultra cheap- always wanted a sports car but could never afford it:eek:

Chris' book says I can:)

[HandyAndy]

Rhys.... it can be done, my Roadster will be on the road including IVA fee for just under £3k:eek: :D

andy:)

[davielad]

Hi guys,
My name is davie, i'm from tipperary, ireland. I'm 26. I have always wanted a lotus 7 type car and when i saw the book in halfords last year i had to have it. I've been hanging around here for the last couple of weeks, reading nearly every post.

With the recent down turn in our global economy, i now have some time on my hands. I have the garage, welder, tools and as of last week a lovely rusty sierra as my doner. Its 2.0i with 67k on the clock.

The only thing i dont have is the steel. I cant seem to find it anywhere in ireland as it has a limited shelf life. Is there any other builders on this forum from ireland that can point me in the right direction.

Thanks in advance,
DavieLad.

[Bonzo]

Hi Davie

A very warm welcome to the forum

I must say.................. Tipperary..........I bet thats a long way from me :D

Sorry I just could'nt resist, bet you have never heard that one before !!?? :o

We have One or Two members located in Ireland. Perhaps someone will be able to help out with information on local steel stockists ;)

I hope you get sorted soon :)

[Bonzo]

Heres a link to some local possibilies ;)

Linky (http://www.redbook.ie/results.php?subCat=721&coCode=27)

[davielad]

thanks for the welcome,
ha, you caught me by surprise with the tipperary joke.......i had to laugh.
i have tried all the major steel merchants in the country, there not interested in getting it.
thanks for the links, i will try them tomorrow.
i recall my dad using 16 gauge to make bar seating for a local joinery. so i'll try that avenue also.

thanks,
davie.

[londonsean69]

thanks for the welcome,
ha, you caught me by surprise with the tipperary joke.......i had to laugh.
i have tried all the major steel merchants in the country, there not interested in getting it.
thanks for the links, i will try them tomorrow.
i recall my dad using 16 gauge to make bar seating for a local joinery. so i'll try that avenue also.

thanks,
davie.

Sometimes you need to think a bit laterally.

Have a look around and see can you find someone locally who makes gates. They may well stock it, or they could tell you where to get it.

Also, check out any local blacksmiths.

Failing that - buy one of Andys packs:D

Sean

[davielad]

Hi Sean,
I have been talkin to andy already........he is going to give me a price for the pack plus shipping tomorrow.
So if i cant source the steel here i'll just get it from him, which seems the way to go as i don't have a band saw and i was considering cutting the steel with my hacksaw (hardship saw)........!!
I have tried my local blacksmiths and gate/railings makers and they only use
1" with a 2mm wall.
The worst thing about it all is that i'mm looking out my window right now at a huge factory called Tube Rollers,they made erw, which just closed down last year........... its making me sick.......

davie

[VladD]

Hi all, my name is Tim and I'm also a Devonian (just outside Exeter). I've had the book for a while, but never had the facilities. However, the wife and I bought a house in January, so I now have the space.

Job 1 is to get the garage fitted out and organised, so if anyone has any useful hints or tips (or can point me to an existing thread) then that would be great.

Looking forward to learning from you all.

Cheers and have a good weekend.

[kmc]

hi my name is kevin,31 yrs, i live and work in Belfast.
Im partner in a haulage and Truck/trailer workshop but mechanic by trade i also have plenty of welding/fabraction experience so when i heard about chris's book i rushed out and bought a copy, read it, purchased the steel and set about my build,i was looking for a donor for months then 2 came along and bought them in the same weekend..
i got about 2 months into my build and was just about to start the transmission tunnel but work has ground to a halt..
i guess i thought i might have had a lot more time to spend on my build but my partner(Sinead) and i just had a baby girl, and i have had to go back into the workshop so not as much free time.
hopefully going to start back into the build within the next month, now that Erin is nearly a year old and with a bit of help from my brother it should be full steam ahead.

[Bonzo]

Missed the last couple of posts here :o

A very warm welcome to the forum to Tim & Kevin


Kevin.
I bet you are looking forward to resuming the build :)


Tim.
A nice bit of racking & a decent workbench with vice would be a good start in kitting out the garage.
Followed by a good selection of hand tools, small angle grinder, clamps etc

Perhaps we will meet at Exeter this year.

I'll have to get Bonzo printed on a T shirt :D

I hope you both enjoy your builds

[gingea1pom]

Thats an idea,

Haynes Roadster T-shirt with your user name on the arm.:D

We could all put a face to a name and walk around at Exeter giving each other knowing looks!:cool:

[HandyAndy]

We could all put a face to a name and walk around at Exeter giving each other knowing looks!

round my way, if you gave a bloke a knowing "look" you,d get the $h*t kicked out of you :eek: :D
maybe safer to all wear a yellow & red t shirt :D

i,ll get my coat:o

andy

[gingea1pom]

Mate,

I am going to be looking out for people in red and yellow tops now.:D

Sold another car and my steel turns up in about 36hrs:)

[spud69]

round my way, if you gave a bloke a knowing "look" you,d get the $h*t kicked out of you :eek: :D
maybe safer to all wear a yellow & red t shirt :D

i,ll get my coat:o

andy

You're right there Andy, there's is more than good reason to have a faster car than anyone else. Keeps the boy racers quiet too

[HandyAndy]

You're right there Andy, there's is more than good reason to have a faster car than anyone else. Keeps the boy racers quiet too

Spud, you know where i live, :eek: so can,t wait to show my back lights to the idiot boy racers around my home area, in 2nd & 3rd gear of course;)
i,m in M.Keynes at the mo, there are so many roundabouts i,d be needing new tyres on the Roadster after weekend in this town :D

andy (handy)

[VladD]

Missed the last couple of posts here :o

A very warm welcome to the forum to Tim & Kevin


Kevin.
I bet you are looking forward to resuming the build :)


Tim.
A nice bit of racking & a decent workbench with vice would be a good start in kitting out the garage.
Followed by a good selection of hand tools, small angle grinder, clamps etc

Perhaps we will meet at Exeter this year.

I'll have to get Bonzo printed on a T shirt :D

I hope you both enjoy your builds

Thanks for the welcome. I've bought a load of Stanley Garage cupboards and some cheap kitchen worktop so hopefully that will all go in in the next month or so. I work away from home during the week, so weekends is all I have.

I was planning on popping in to the Exeter show, to say Hi to Chris etc, but you're right, it would be good to meet other builders and have a chat.

[Chris Gibbs]

Does anyone have a contact with a t shirt printer, and the time to organise some shirts?

I've got one with the front cover of the book on the front, what about that with the username on the left t*t?

Any more ideas?

Cheers

Chris :)

[gingea1pom]

I dont have the time but we in the army are always getting T-shirts printed I will ask around for a contact.

Ginge

[flyerncle]

Handy/Spud is Cleveland a suburb of Beruit ?

[HandyAndy]

Handy/Spud is Cleveland a suburb of Beruit ?

put it this way Paul,

i,d go to Beruit for a holiday & Afganistan for the second week !!!!:D :D

andy

[Bonzo]

Does anyone have a contact with a t shirt printer, and the time to organise some shirts?

I've got one with the front cover of the book on the front, what about that with the username on the left t*t?

Any more ideas?

Cheers

Chris :)


How about a Role call each day ........ 12 oclock sharp at the 3GE stand. ;)

I'll nominate Chris to take the register, anyone who can't make it for 12 will need to bring a note from thier parents :D :D

[Bonzo]

Handy/Spud is Cleveland a suburb of Beruit ?

:D :D

I live in Sleepy Hollow :eek:

Nothing out of the ordinary happens here. I did see a crate of cabbage fall from a tractor once :o

[3GE Components]

How about a Role call each day ........ 12 oclock sharp at the 3GE stand. ;)

I'll nominate Chris to take the register, anyone who can't make it for 12 will need to bring a note from thier parents :D :D

Don't forget to bring your own cakes & tea!:D

Kind regards

John

[flyerncle]

I used to live in the West End of Newcastle,need I say more......

[car.mad]

hi names jake im 19 and i live in sunny emley, in sunny west yorkshire in sunny england (those were lies)

I bought the book about 6 months ago but have had no time or money to start it. found this forum when i was looking for bits and costs before i start.

im at college at the moment training to be a mechanic and will then probably go to uni to study motorsport engineering.

just finished tidying out my garage and now trying to sell loads of classic mini bits (1989) and a silly 50cc scooter thinggy to make some space and finance a MIG welder.

just thought id bob in and say hello.

ohh theres a printing company called kallkwik that will print t-shirts i think, they have shops all over the country

and is there a post with any book errors somewhere i cant find one

Cheers

Jake

[spud69]

put it this way Paul,

i,d go to Beruit for a holiday & Afganistan for the second week !!!!:D :D

andy

Everywhere has its bad spots, just some are worse than others...;)

Welcome Jake, sounds like your itching to start. Doesn't cost too much to get started it just becomes infectious as you progress and is hard to take it steady.

[Chris Gibbs]

hi names jake im 19 and i live in sunny emley, in sunny west yorkshire in sunny england (those were lies)

I bought the book about 6 months ago but have had no time or money to start it. found this forum when i was looking for bits and costs before i start.

im at college at the moment training to be a mechanic and will then probably go to uni to study motorsport engineering.

just finished tidying out my garage and now trying to sell loads of classic mini bits (1989) and a silly 50cc scooter thinggy to make some space and finance a MIG welder.

just thought id bob in and say hello.

ohh theres a printing company called kallkwik that will print t-shirts i think, they have shops all over the country

and is there a post with any book errors somewhere i cant find one

Cheers

Jake

Welcome Jake!!!!

This thread (http://www.haynes.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=2430) has the book amendments in it.

You're not far from me (Sheffield) and it makes a change to have a new member who's not from the West country!

It's something in the water I think.

Cheers

Chris :)

[nicholas garn]

Hi I,m Nick 34 and I live in Plymouth but work in Dorset. I,ve been a Royal Marine for 10 years (still in) and run a vehicle work shop in Bovington (next to the tank museum) so building the roadster is a little easier than in a garage. Hope to meet lots of you at Exeter kit car show :D

Who's next?
Regards Nick:)

[Chris Gibbs]

See what I mean?!?!?

Welcome Nick.:D

Cheers

Chris :)

[oldtimer]

Hi, I didn't really sign in when I joined up a while ago - due to the totally unnecessary fisticuffs over the locost 'For Sale' joke...

Anyways I'm not THAT old inspite if my site name. I am building a modified locoster with de dion rear, 4age 20v blacktop motor, quaife box, etc, etc. Trying to keep weight and costs down. Part way there - doing some panels now before putting the engine in v soon. This is my second build as I put together a T&J Hornet many years ago - but never like the basic nature / weight of that so decided to build something more agile.

I do ilke how on the locostbuilders site the front page is that long list of most recent posts (yes, I know there is an equivalent on here but it doesn't show as many).

Any ways , Hi to all.

[Chris Gibbs]

Welcome Oldtimer!

I remember you from that other place, feel free to use humour here ;)

Cheers

Chris :)

[car.mad]

yep :)

just out of interest where did people get their welders from and what kind of costs am i looking at, had a look at machine mart but it seems a lil bit expensive for not that much welder

cheers

jake

[Tatey]

I'd recommend buying a second hand MIG welder. I recently bought 1 and it came to a grand total of £200.

£95 for a Clarke 151EN - 150Amp Gas/No Gas Welder
£45 Co2 Regulator
Free - Pub Style Co2 Bottle
£25 - New Gas Valve (mine was leaking)
£11 - New Swan Neck
£15 - 5KG Reel of 0.8mm Wire
2 new insulated shrouds + 5 0.8mm tips

I also bought an autodarkening welding helmet (ask HandyAndy how much easier it is to weld with :D) That cost me £40.

[londonsean69]

yep :)

just out of interest where did people get their welders from and what kind of costs am i looking at, had a look at machine mart but it seems a lil bit expensive for not that much welder

cheers

jake

All depends how much you want to spend really. The clarke machines (from MM) are actually pretty good. There is a guy on the mig-welding forum who deals in them (plus other, pricier) welder - Weldequip. He might be able to do a deal, probably worth a PM.

The other option is fleabay, but postage is usually a problem with private sellers, so you need to be willing to drive and collect.

I had a little Sealey I got from Ebay, disposable bottles, mini reels etc. After using £30 of gas my first weekend, I decided on a bigger bottle. And to have a bigger bottle I really needed a bigger welder. So splashed out on a Portamig from Weldequip.

Not cheap, but lovely to use:cool:

A few points

get one that can take big gas bottles, they are much more economical than the smaller ones. Expensive at first, but they work out at something like 1/5 the price over a decent project. I got a 30 litre bottle last Christmas, have done a few jobs with it, and have an almost entire chassis tack welded, and it is down to 160bar from 200.
Same with wire - the bigger the reel the more economical - I have a 15kg reel in mine, cost about £30 from ebay (a 5kg reel is £17 from MM - do the maths) Thinner wire is cheaper
A euro torch is bloody handy, if it ever goes wrong, just screw a new one on - rather than pay £60+ for a replacement 'bespoke' torch. - my torch is 4m, I don't need to move the welder when working anywhere on the chassis
Get a load of tips and shrouds - they are cheap in bulk (ebay again) and if in doubt - change em out

Maybe not the answer you were looking for, but welders are one thing where it pays to spend a bit more
You are looking for decent wire feed motor, spares availability, service (something MM are lacking at times)

A gas mig is also MUCH more desireable than a no-gas mig

Edit - damn, beaten to it:D

I would also second the auto darkening mask.
Again though, it can pay to spend a little more - I had a £40 ebay special, it has been relegated to plasma cutter duties:D
Parweld are highly recommended for about £60
I now have a £400 ESAB mask, 2nd hand for £120 - well worth it IMHO, it's beautiful, the inside has loads of lights and settings

[HandyAndy]

yes, buy an auto darkening helmet for welding, its amazing how much more control of the weld you get.

andy
ps..... maybe this discussion belongs on another thread;)

[londonsean69]

ps..... maybe this discussion belongs on another thread;)

A lot of other forums have 'stickies' for very frequently asked questions, might be an idea to set up a few here??

Maybe worth a word with Chris

[car.mad]

cheers people
auto darken mask is a deffo and yes a bigger gas bottle is a deffo
at the moment i have 2 small ish bottles with oxygen and acetyline in them so another for the collection should be ok :)
will probably end up buying it through work, mite get a bit of trade discount ;)

[spud69]

Definitely the auto darkening helmet, was the best £40 i spent on equipment.

btw, i have found a local supplier for all gas suppliers based in Hartlepool:

MIG Universal - £35
Pure Argon - £50
Oxygen - £35
Acetylene - £50

All full size bottles and no deposit to pay, beat the BOC rip off.

If anybody's interested i'll pm details.

Not suitable for all but if we can get anyone off boc that'll be fine for me...;)

AndyH

[Bonzo]

I would be interested in some more details of that Andy ;)

My annual BOC rental bill is due at the end of this month :eek:

The 4 full size bottles I have costs me a bloody fortune each year :(




Definitely the auto darkening helmet, was the best £40 i spent on equipment.

btw, i have found a local supplier for all gas suppliers based in Hartlepool:

MIG Universal - £35
Pure Argon - £50
Oxygen - £35
Acetylene - £50

All full size bottles and no deposit to pay, beat the BOC rip off.

If anybody's interested i'll pm details.

Not suitable for all but if we can get anyone off boc that'll be fine for me...;)

AndyH

[car.mad]

Definitely the auto darkening helmet, was the best £40 i spent on equipment.

btw, i have found a local supplier for all gas suppliers based in Hartlepool:

MIG Universal - £35
Pure Argon - £50
Oxygen - £35
Acetylene - £50

All full size bottles and no deposit to pay, beat the BOC rip off.

If anybody's interested i'll pm details.

Not suitable for all but if we can get anyone off boc that'll be fine for me...;)

AndyH

sounds good, the bottles i have at the moment are mine... bought them off a friend of a friend of a friend or somthing along those lines.
if you could pm would be usefull
cheers
jake

[londonsean69]

auto darken mask is a deffo

Found a pretty good deal on aforementioned Parweld mask - well recommended on welding forum

http://www.diywelding.co.uk/product_details.asp?d=9&p={2F535B15-3140-4F87-8F23-2F6763A650AC}
Again, the trader is recommended by many, but I have not personally used

Sean