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Hi,
Just taken delivery of modules 1 &2 last week and am busy planning
my build sequence. Previous to buying the 5Exi i've built a Westfield although this build does look more daunting. I wonder if there is anyone in the Swindon area that has or is building a car that i could have a look at. I've taken the standard 1600k series route as Marlin seemed happier with this setup. One last thing where preferably online is a good source of new or quality secondhand Rover spares.
Nice to another person joining the clan, a good time to start over the winter, I began last February, and am now ready for the body fit. One useful thing I was told, was to mark out the rubber floor mats before starting, by laying the chassis over them assuming you have them. Keep any of the jointing sealnts marlin may have supplied for the bulkhead and floors exc inside as they go hard in the cold.
As far as car parts I used Adrian at British car parts, they export Rover parts all over the world, they are on 01884 35745, tell them you are building the marlin Kit car. Look at what parts you can use, as used and new. Things like caliper carriers are expensive new, but cheap from breakers, just simple thoughts.
For used parts I used a guy called Steve who has a breakers business at Waltham Abbey, he does mail order, 07891 533264.
I too have taken the 16K route, reports are very favourable for perfomance, and this should also help to keep your costs slightly more in check.
Which car have you chosen as your donor?
There are a number of people who have helped me over my time building the car, the forum proves to be a very good source.
I'm building a T series version but based on the 1.6 k electrical and other bits. There's a wealth of experience and advise here. 1.6 K is the easiest route. And looks a lot less complex.
One tip. Fit the rack before the front bulk head. A little arkward if you do. Also get the Which kit build CD as it has some nice tips.
I've already scanned the forum and have already picked up some useful hints like the floor mats etc. I opted for the donor parts to be supplied by Marlin but to be honest there are alot of bits missing and the quality of the other parts isn't good. I've managed to get a unused engine and gearbox from a Rover 25 but missing was the ECu which is a worry and also the engine mounts. I was wondering if it's possible to age an engine from its number as the seller could not give me an age ( possibly 2002) as mentioned it's a 1.6 distrbutorless engine.
Thanks
Mike R
P.S Where are you all based? and yes i'm going for the doored version.
In the matter of the engine, you will need the ecu, 5AS unit that maps to that ecu and the appropiate blip key, that is unless anyone can correct me. You maybe able to get more detals from any of your former local Rover dealerships. If you get the engine number that should hopefully help tp provide the details they want from you. There are a number of companies out there that rebuild / recon ecu`s maybe able to help, or indeed a good breakers yard.
I cant help much on your engine and wiring as i am doing a type-r build
But as to your ecu issue pm Grant620 as he is a rover tuner and may be able to help
