Ranger Cub Page 6

March 2024

March started with a couple of nice days, allowing a little more activity on the Cub.

First was to install a fuel filter between the pump and the carb. I knew the tank was clean inside from when I repaired the fuel level sender, but better to be safe than sorry. I used a metal cased "Sintered Bronze" type fuel filter. I've never been a fan of plastic/glass filters in the engine bay, more so as the pipes sit above the exhaust manifold on the A series engine.

Fuel filter

One of the local car owners club had arranged a trip from Macduff to Peterhead, I knew I would never be able to keep up with the more modern car, but decided it was an excuse for a run. The run there was uneventful, however on the run back I started to noticed that the temperture was starting to climb a little. I pulled into the first available layby before the engine got too hot. On checking I discovered that one of the core-plugs had gone missing. I had previously tapped this plug back in when I was replacing the holded one. With hindsight I should of replaced it at that time.
I called the AA and quite quickly one of their patrols attended. The patrol seemed to think he could put the Cub on his dolly and get it home that way. But I suggested he gave me a lift home and I would go back with my own trailer and recover it that way.

Missing core plug

Waiting for recovery

Rescue started

Once home I replaced the core plug, and refilled the cooling system. I gave it a compression test and there were no signs of any head gasket problems, so I fired it back up and ran it up to temp. There are no signs of water loss or oil/water mixing, so we shall wait and see.

Having had the reverse light fitted for a week or so, the more I looked at it, the more I decided that the squared look wasn't what I wanted. So I went back the the first plan I had had. The hole was extended in width to allow the Mini light to fit in, and the resultant gaps top & bottom filled and sanded flat. I think this looks better, the rounded style matching the MK1 mini tail lights.