OK, I'm frustrated. I'd hoped this wouldn't be that difficult.
I noticed yesterday that the plugs in my engine were only hand tight. =
That would certainly explain my "exhaust leak", wouldn't it?
Anyhow, when I tried to replace them (they were badly worn) I noticed I =
couldn't get the first plug without moving the alternator. I thought =
that was a bit odd, but I noticed I could use new belts, so what the =
Hell...
As I removed the bracket for the alternator, I noticed the alternator =
would hit the cylinder head before I had enough slack to remove the =
belt--or install a new belt. So, I guess I have to remove the entire =
alternator to change the belt.
Furthermore, the long bolt that holds the alternator in place hits the =
oil filter when slid backward and the radiator when slid forward. So, I =
guess I have to remove on of these two pieces to changed the belt.
Then I tried to remove the radiator. I figured I could flush out the =
cooling system while I at it, anyhow. As I tried to remove the shroud =
(is that the right word?) that covers the radiator, one of the bolts =
seized up (apparently from rust) and I can't turn it anymore.
What's the point of all this? I'm trying to figure out if I'm missing =
something. I know that the engine is a 1493 Triumph Spitfire engine, =
but I figured they would fit better than this. Did I buy the wrong year =
car? I just wanted something fun to drive and tinker with.
Does anybody have any similar stories that would make me feel better =
about this, or am I just a fool?
j. michael
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