Practically Classics Forum

I'm not allowed tools in the kitchen any more and I did have to replace the sink for the one she wanted (rather than the cheap one I bought) after being caught cleaning a carb in it a couple of years ago.
More importantly the carb is fine and a HIF38 fits wonderfully to the mog's engine using a minispeed manifold and midget exhaust downpipe.

In the absense of impossibilities, such as being able to turn back the clock and relive past times or control the weather, be able to pack in work (For example by winning the Lottery). That would basically buy me time, so I would find it less of a struggle, to fit in what I want to do. As regards what would I buy, the only things I would really like, in addition to what I have, is a pre war sports car and an antique long case clock (Both of which I may be able to save up for one day). I would no doubt take part in some VSCC events and I expect I would spend some time driving a steam engine at http://www.deanforestrailway.co.uk/. I don't think I would want to do any one thing all the time, as it then becomes too routine. I have just come back from classic Le Mans and I wouldn't mind a crack at that. Whilst I like the pre war cars, I must admit that the GT40s, AC Cobras and Lola T70s were fantastic and I wish I could have seen the GT40s when they were winning the 24 Hours. My father once owned a Fraszer Nash, that had raced at Le Mans (And finished 2nd in class, with a fastest lap in class) and it would be nice to be able to buy it back, along with his Lotus Elan, his first MGB GT V8, the Felday Daimler, perhaps his Cooper Mk 8 and my grandfather's XK140 Jaguar, all of which still exist. My father quite fancies an MG ZB Varitone Magnette. I wouldn't mind a Series 3 Land Rover and a Brian James trailer. Question is, can you have too much of a good thing

I suppose I could sum up by saying I would like to be able to get up each morning as ask myself "What do I want to do today; not what have I got to do today?" In that position, immortality, for me and mine, would be as good as it gets.

Fatbloke wrote:Do you want a fat middle aged apprentice in this business Richard? Gissa job!

Much as I'd love to offer you the job, I'm never going to have enough dosh to make it reality

anyway, there'd already be a fat middle-aged boss, so maybe not enough room for both of us!

My 2c. Sort of related to the OP.

Fix up Freddie, turn it into an Overlander (roof tent, boot full of storage drawers, 4bt diesel engine swap, etc), and drive back to California, "Long Way Round" style (but in a Jeep instead of on an expensive, heavy Beemer bike).

Or (after the cheque from Camelot clears), buy a PBY Catalina (or Grumman Goose/Albatross) and convert it into a flying RV.

tractorman wrote:I suspect most wives/partners prefer to hear the other half banging away at their car in the garage, rather than hear about them banging somewhere else!

That may not be true in the case of Mrs Tailpipe Man (assuming he's married ) but is otherwise a very fair point. On the other hand; a suitable sound effects tape, played loudly in that garage, can mask all sorts of mischief and if you're going to cheat, why not do so right under her/his nose?

UKJeeper wrote:..drive back to California, "Long Way Round" style...

Jeeper,

I`ve give the PBY my vote as well!

Gotta be a PBY. I've got the full workshop manual and parts list already.

Buyers guide can be found HERE. Most can be considered expensive projects.

P45.

i almost had 8 hours sleep last night.. lottie is sleeping through, i couldnt ask for more

JPB wrote:On the other hand; a suitable sound effects tape, played loudly in that garage, can mask all sorts of mischief and if you're going to cheat, why not do so right under her/his nose?

So, how do you explain not being there when he/she brings out a brew yet the sounds of spannering etc can clearly be heard? You've not thought it through properly yet have you?