So I've finally updated my signature. "Coming soon" replaced with "Arrived"!!
Managed to get the loose mudflap fixed Friday evening. Had to grind off the outside wheel arch screw heads and drill out one of the interior screws. One came out with a screwdriver which was unexpected.
The good thing about spire clips is that the contact area is small, so corrosion is easier to overcome.
While the wheel and liner was off, I cleaned and Dynaxed everything I could see!
New spire clips, stainless washers and screws fitted, and after about 2 hours and a gallon of copper grease all was back as it should be. Pleased with that little job sorted. Noticed a very small water leak on each side of the rear hatch near the top. Think it's the seal, but investigation needed.
As much as I'd have loved to come over the weekend, events didn't allow. However I managed to sneak out for breakfast at the Southwold Amazon meet at the Pit Stop cafe.
Me and Rod (2x red celebs and a silver turbo) Flory had a little early Sunday morning outing. I'm in Ipswich and Rod's in Leiston, so only about a 45 mins.
Some beatiful Amazons, PVs and the like. Peter the organiser still tows a caravan with his Amazon!
First time I've driven the 480 for more than 10 mins, so interested to see how she behaved. She's done nothing for a few years, so was minded to treat her to a spot of running in. Petrol in the tank probably just as old, so brimmed her with V Power. £55 was unexpected but so was the 40mpg. Impressive!
Initial impressions were really good. The handling and engine are excellent. 5th gear picks ups from just over 1000rpm and is really smooth. Having driven diesel for 10 years, the pick up is great fun and took a few modern cars by surprise. Up to 75 she was super smooth. Suspension is very firm after an XC70! A14 ripples find all the trim squeaks!!
Change into 3rd still a bit sticky. Will see how it goes after more use.
Stereo/speaker upgrade superb. Thanks Will.
Some lovely comments from the other Volvo nuts. VESA wheels went down a storm. Guess they didn't have to clean them. Spokey little buggers!!
I've still got a big list of little jobs to do, but no reason not to enjoy her over the summer.
Big thank you to everyone on the forum. Really couldn't have done this without all of your help.
A few pics. of the weekend events: -
PS Rod's celeb in the picture is now up for sale if anyone is interested.