>
> OK, I'm frustrated. I'd hoped this wouldn't be that difficult.
>
I'm glad I've got enough experience now with LBCs that I expect the
difficulty and therefore enjoy it, rather than get really pissed off at it.
Whether I have enough experience to actually fix these problems, well... :-)
>
> 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...
Hmm, this seems odd to me too. I don't have to remove the alternator to
get at the first plug in my Spit. The alternator is a little bit in the
way, but I just use a universal joint socket. Maybe the alternator mounting
is different in the Midget. In fact, the plugs in most LBC's have seemed
extremely easy to get at. Especially compared to some Japanese cars, like
those Subarus with opposing pistons, where the plugs are way the heck down
on the sides of the engine... pain in the butt.
>
> 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.
>
I have to admit, I cheated here and used a belt that was one size bigger
than recommended. Doesn't slip, and I replaced it at least a year ago, so I
guess it worked ok.
> 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.
Uugh, you decided to remove the radiator rather than the oil filter? I
think it might have been much easier to remove the oil filter.
>
> 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.
>
Hey, but its this kind of thing that *IS* fun :-)
Jeremy DuBois
Programmer/System Administrator
Thermalogic Corporation
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