It has been a while since our last update, but Patrick and I have been frantically preparing MRS2 for her track debut (but not her race debut.) Like most debutantes, MRS2 required preparation. In this case, that meant lots of horizontal time beneath the sheet metal (on the creeper, that is) replacing hoses, removing the gas tank, replacing the clutch cylinder, etc. Here's a quick run-down of the tasks that we completed in preparation for her VIR debut.
- Removed, delicately straightened (with a 3 lb sledge hammer) and reinstalled the bent panels
- Removed and lightly cleaned the radiator and replaced radiator hoses
- Renewed all brake hydraulics
- Renewed all clutch hydraulics
- Fabricated and installed fancy hood hold-down mechanism (thanks Home Depot!)
- Replaced all ball joints, tie rod ends and struts
- Removed 5/8 coil for all suspension springs
- Stripped the interior
- Removed all glass
- Replaced windshield
- Removed gas tank and replaced fuel pump
- Replaced water pump and timing belt
- Replaced all coolant hoses in the engine compartment (and there are many!)
- Replaced oil cooler lines
- Replaced valve cover gaskets
- Rebuilt distributor
- Replaced thermostat
- Replaced fuel filter
- Changed oil and tranny fluid
