Caesar the 1275 E - Diary of minor changes

[Vinay-RS]

So, tried to do the front brakes. The nuts for the flexible hoses were really tight and when I tried to turn them, it started to round the head, so I stopped. So, I figured since the wheels were off, I'd fit the new shocks as they were apparently the source of the squeaking.

Then I put it all back together. Torqued up everything. Also, I know the source of the terrible metal-on-metal scratching sound now, it is definitely the drive flange (the bit with the wheel studs). There is so much play there, it is terrifying.

Then I tried to use the bleeder kit I bought yesterday. Turns out it doesn't fit on the front bleed nipple. So in complete dismay, I put the wheels back on, pushed the car out of the tunnel I was using to work on it and parked it at the back.

Oh, and the best part about the shock swap? The squeaking is still there. As loud and annoying as ever.

So now, there are no brakes, the discs were not fitted and I've got no way to fit them. The money spent on the shocks was a waste as they solve the problem and now it means that I'm guessing the full front suspension will need another overhaul (which was done when the new lower arms, bushings, tie rods and knuckle joints were fitted by a professional) and I have no idea where to start now. I had kind of assumed that the pros know how to build Minis, so what could be causing that annoying squeaking sound?

Maybe it is time to take this car to bits and store it somewhere, then eventually restore each and every system, rather than trying to fix things as I go. Or maybe it is time to sell. I don't know anymore.