Hi, I'm in the process of running-in my SPF MKII, with only 330 miles on the clock so far. I've noticed a sensation of "looseness" from the front of the car, and some new mechanical noises in time with wheel rotation, particularly on applying steering lock at low speed. On axle stands, there is considerable play in both front wheels on rocking at the 6 and 12 o'clock positions so I'm thinking the front bearings need adjusting.
Now, I'm keen to learn, but my enthusiasm exceeds my knowledge and experience when it comes to things mechanical! I have built and maintain a Caterham, and front tapered bearing adjustment involves removing the brake caliper and adjusting a castellated nut, being careful not to apply too much preload - I am fine with this. However the GT40 setup seems rather different!
Are there any "noddy" guides to doing this on the GT40 or similar cars? I've read all the threads on the rear bearing adjustment (this is definitely beyond me), in which there have been comments that front bearing adjustment is "straightforward", so I'd like to have a go if at all feasible, otherwise i will take it to a local mechanic.
One (or 2) more thing(s) - I've obviously seen all the comments about the bearing adjustment tool, and the tools for pulling the rear bearings from Olthoff. Is the bearing adjustment tool a pre-requisite for adjusting the front bearings, and thinking ahead to when I will get the rear bearings checked later in the year by the mechanic - will they need the specific GT40 rear bearing tools or is it likely they will manage without? The mechanic I have in mind is a Porsche specialist, but has a great deal of experience in 60s and 70s racing cars, including ground up rebuilds of Porsche 917s, and has done some work on an original GT40 (though some time ago)?
Thanks for any advice!
Chris
Now, I'm keen to learn, but my enthusiasm exceeds my knowledge and experience when it comes to things mechanical! I have built and maintain a Caterham, and front tapered bearing adjustment involves removing the brake caliper and adjusting a castellated nut, being careful not to apply too much preload - I am fine with this. However the GT40 setup seems rather different!
Are there any "noddy" guides to doing this on the GT40 or similar cars? I've read all the threads on the rear bearing adjustment (this is definitely beyond me), in which there have been comments that front bearing adjustment is "straightforward", so I'd like to have a go if at all feasible, otherwise i will take it to a local mechanic.
One (or 2) more thing(s) - I've obviously seen all the comments about the bearing adjustment tool, and the tools for pulling the rear bearings from Olthoff. Is the bearing adjustment tool a pre-requisite for adjusting the front bearings, and thinking ahead to when I will get the rear bearings checked later in the year by the mechanic - will they need the specific GT40 rear bearing tools or is it likely they will manage without? The mechanic I have in mind is a Porsche specialist, but has a great deal of experience in 60s and 70s racing cars, including ground up rebuilds of Porsche 917s, and has done some work on an original GT40 (though some time ago)?
Thanks for any advice!
Chris