NNN 295P - 🚗 A Successful Tune-Up for Mildew the Marina!🚗

[ClaytonSpeed]

Many of you will know that Mildew the Marina has spent a few weeks with me for a thorough carburettor service, ignition setup, and a few other key repairs. I’m pleased to share that Mildew is now back on the road and performing brilliantly! Here's a case study and overview of the work completed.

Work Completed:
1. Carburettor Tuning and Balancing:
- Balanced and tuned the twin SU carburettors for E5 fuel, achieving an ideal CO level (~4.3% at idle).

2. Ignition System Upgrade:
- Installed a Luminition Magnatronic Ignition (MTK007) and set the timing to 9°–10° BTDC at idle for optimal performance.

3. Valve Clearance Adjustment:
- Set the valve clearances to 0.012 inches (7 clicks) using the SPQR adjuster tool.

4. Cooling System Maintenance:
- Flushed and cleaned the entire cooling system to improve temperature regulation. The temperature gauge stayed steady below halfway, even in stop-start traffic—something that used to cause the gauge to climb quickly.

5. New Distributor Cap and Spark Plugs:
- Fitted a new distributor cap and NGK BPR6ES spark plugs, correctly gapped.

6. Suspension Greasing:
- Greased up all suspension points to ensure a smooth and responsive ride.

7. Replacement Choke Cable:
- Installed a new choke cable and calibrated it for smooth cold starts.

8. Handbrake Cable Adjustment:
- Adjusted the handbrake cable to improve the holding force.

9. Final Inspection and Road Test:
- Conducted a road test to confirm smooth throttle response, steady idle, and no hesitation at higher speeds.

Review and Feedback:
In the words of Mildew’s owner:

"I drove Mildew home through country lanes, motorways, and busy construction zones. The temperature gauge stayed firmly below halfway, even in traffic—a major improvement! The car idled smoothly at stops, pulled strongly at 50mph, and performed without hesitation, even after extended driving."

Despite the larger radiator contributing to slower warm-up, the choke system functioned perfectly, requiring only partial engagement (~20mm out) during initial cold starts. The owner also noted a plan to upgrade the headlamps for better nighttime visibility after experiencing the original factory lighting during rural nighttime driving.

A Job Well Done:
It's always rewarding to see a classic like Mildew performing at its best. Whether it’s a carburettor tune, ignition upgrade, or cooling system overhaul, it’s a pleasure to help keep these beloved classics on the road.

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If your Marina needs a bit of TLC—whether tuning, servicing, or repairs—get in touch!