The Stig

Just about to head off to UK and Portugal for a couple of weeks. UK exchange rate is now 1.60 again instead of 1.55 it was a short while back. I can see it will be an expensive trip.

Bit of a pain every time I fill up in NJ where it is illegal do do it yourself but really the only way some gas ends up in the tank and not down the back of the car and on the ground! I just have to use the Gas stations that 'allow' me to fill up myself. Do i need a licence to pump gas or what? Seriously, the aero filler I have and large pipe still makes no difference, I suspect a large vent somewhere would help through.

Ship the car to the factory? That is really funny. Sort of implies each one is different and specifically made by hand. Just how different can they be?

Still looking .............. Missed a couple on Pistonhaeds but they went for top $$

I added a cycle speedo to my previous car (actually the only one that worked) and it can be calibrated perfectly. Cheap too but wireless ones dont work as well.

My Crossflow generally just under 90 pretty much all the time. Fan on around 92 or so and brings down nicely. I did have a previous CF and that ran at 100 all day long. Higher than I liked but was fine.

ANyone replaced standard with one of the really small Jap items? I should think it may help with clearance as the diameter should be smaller. Even with adjustments needed to the mounting, could be a good option?

Initially only the ignition but was using an Omex 600 unit so had the FI capability built in so later upgraded to Jenvey TBs. actually quite a bit of work and probably a bit OTT for a Crossflow. But revved to 8,000 very comfortably!

Apologies, maybe I misled. I have an MSD ignition but standard distributor. You are right, most of the distis looks more appropriate for a V8. Maybe block off half the cylinders or adapt to an Alfa Twin Spark system

I have the MSD but still a distributor with contactless ignition. My previous Crossflow had a full Omex management system and coil pack and no disti which gives great control. The MSD system is superb, starting is awesome. Highly recommended.

I had the ali plates but the O rings went hard and leaked so replaced with the Misabs. On EBay Uk is cheaper than here. I managed to get about 5.5 reading on the balancer. Smooth idle is 800. The MSD I believe helps that as I was surprised how low the idle went and how smooth the pickup. Of course there is a small flat spot but for my road use, really don't care. Can't beat that Crossflow induction noise!

The carb balancer was this one - available on Ebay in the US as well http://www.burtonpower.com/weber-carb-synchrometer-balancer-web98001-000.html Misab plates are the spacers/rubber mounting plates between the carbs and the manifold which are essential to correct mounting of the carbs as they need to have flexibility - partly designed to minimize frothing of fuel in the float chambers http://www.burtonpower.com/parts-by-category/fuel-system/carb-mounting-accessories/sandwich-plates-misab-40-45dcoe-x-2-set-of-4-webmisab.html I am sure there are threads about carb mounting options but I have always used this style.

Not what you're thinking! Replaced the Misab plates, balanced the carbs using the airflow tool and Voila, lots more horses became available! Another benefit is that the induction noise on the Crossflow is now much smoother than the previous 'Subaru style' noise which makes a lot of difference at cruising speeds - that was down the carbs not being balanced. Those simple jobs often produce the most satisfactory results

It seems to be repeated a few times over the next week or so. On XFinity it is also available on demand and for The IPad app..

I joined a few months ago and the mag is pretty good. Arrives on time every month and has some good articles. Still nice to get mail, much nicer than getting everything online! Of course, Blatchat is a very good forum.

Hi. I fitted a Crossflow with an Omex setup. At that time here were no kits but the Omex ECU plus the Jenvey TBs are a lovely setup. The software is easy to use and the wiring loom comes complete with all the right pieces for connecting to rev count etc. check the temp sensor they recommend though as that is critical and may mean drilling the block. For a 1600 or 1700 you wont need more than the 40's. You also won't see a great increase in power if anything but significant improvements in smoothness and tractability if mapped correctly. As well as emissions providing the engine is in good condition. Of course you also lose the distributor for the coil pack which is an off the shelf piece shield it fail and you will need a new fuel pump, regulator and return fuel pipe. Don't forget if you order from the UK you won't pay the VAT! Go for it!

Here is the image of the tunnel top. http://flic.kr/p/cigkxG http://www.flickr.com/photos/25013566@N06/7415297314/

I have the transmission tunnel top that I did not end up using on my car so would be willing to resell that to bring all the pieces together. It is leather with angular stitching and did have foam backing but as that was shedding, I carefully removed it so it really just neeeds some foam sticking to the reverse. It has a built in gear lever gaiter and goes the full length of the transmission tunnel top. I have some pictures somewhere but can retake if you want to send me a PM.

"objects in the mirror are closer than they appear"!

Rats! The cover is blown!!

Guys Thanks for the feedback. The Bell M4 is looking favourite based on what I read about it and I like the larger eye hole. I remember going up to Driving Impressions a year or so ago for a tech session or something and it is a bit out the way but they were pretty helpful.

Hi Tom. I did see that but don't want to roll up anywhere and get turned around if they change the rules!

Unfortunately I need to replace my lovely and very expensive Sparco SA2000 helmet. Now I plan to scale back my track action, I need a reasonable quality and not too expensive SA2010 helmet. Been looking at a few options in the $300 range. Any recommendations on helmets and best suppliers? Thanks

I thought Burton did them but I really can't find those washers and now I think my engine builder made them himself when he did my Crossflow and added the Dry Sump - steel pan but may have come with the bolts and washers. Maybe DIY is an option.

My current plan is we (myself and the wife) to get to the Ship 12.30 to 1.00 for lunch. I think the car is ready but wont get a chance to check it over until tomorrow morning unfortunately. Weather looking good!