April 2003 

Well, its been a LONG winter for Daisy. Next to no work done, due to the weather and the bad light. However, that's now changed. The evenings are light again, and the sun is shining. I have been outside working on daisy this month, and things are coming along.

So......... any news.... well yes, remember the bolt on the thermostat that snapped?

Well, thanks to a recommendation in 'Practical Classics' I went out and bought myself a Tap and Die set (Something I did not know existed 2 months ago) from Machine Mart (www.machinemart.co.uk).

For automotive & general mechanical workshop use, this 28 piece tap & die set, made from high quality tungsten steel, serves to create and repair popular metric threads. Tap & Die sets from 3x0.5mm to 12x1.75mm. 1" OD split dies Supplied with tap wrench, die handle, T-handle tap wrench & metric screw pitch gauge. All neatly presented in a metal storage case. Product Code: 040210303

I had to drill out the old bolt, and re-tap (create a new thread) the (now bigger) hole. Not such a big deal I hear to cry......... but my hand has been bruised for days !! I had to hold the tap at such an angle, and apply the force necessary to re-thread my new hole, not easy. But, now done. The set cost 25 quid, and includes all sizes needed for Daisy, so it is a good deal, also, what is bloody handy, is a wee thing that you get with the set, that allows you to gauge the thread size of a bolt, very handy, when you haven't a clue about bolt sizes!

What else..... oh yes, I have found a garage near hand, that will sort out the welding on the suspension strut (finally!), the mechanic is coming around in a couple of days to "see what needs done", Daisy will have all four wheels on the road again!! Hopefully.

 May 2003