Hi Pete.
Yes, like you, I know what is wrong, the engine mounts are behind the turrets instead of in front. The gearbox rubber mounts are really straining rearwards. I have adjusted the shims a bit to clear carbs and achieved sump clearance too. I suspect that the sump can be 'dented in' between the journals but have not risked doing that until I can check. The Vitesse sumps have a ridge swaged in to clear the rack. They won't fit without beating out to clear the long stroke crank. Clutch slave is next to the clutch pedal. Definitely a Vitesse box. The gearbox cover has been cut away to allow the stick mechanism through. Carpet almost hides it.
I have been battling advanced prostate cancer for 2.5 years and sent that into remission with Chemo and Radiotherapy. The car is my 'Diversion therapy'. However, some of these jobs need strength and stamina, I now lack the latter and have to work in short sharp spells.
The propshaft still has some sliding spline length left and I can drive it. Undoing the work of 'Clowns' will have to wait until the Winter when I will do it all properly. Re-position engine after changing the sump then change the prop, gearbox o/p shaft and fit an overdrive that came with the spares. I did all of this in 1974 to my 1600cc saloon. (Wish that I still had it)
I was just hoping that someone might own up to having the car in the past. At least two owners joined the TSSC. Unfortunately, the first two have departed from this planet. I suspect others have now too.
I have already repaired the outriggers that were crushed by jacks, cured the 'Tub spread', revarnished the wood and am re-stitching the vinyl seats right now. (Can do that indoors whilst it rains and rains).
Thankfully I enjoy working on it as much as driving it.
