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Aarrgh!!
With the starter suitably modified and installed it is time to try and start the engine. We double-check everything and with Linda standing by at the emergency cut-out switch I press the starter button. Howls of laughter from the engine now as the poor old standard starter tries to persuade a not-run-in, 12:1 compression Cozzy lump to turn. I try just long enough to cause the starter to smoke and meltdown and then give up. We will need a new starter. Pity we can’t sell the old one but, of course, it’s probably stuffed now and besides, it only has two mounting flanges. Very useful.
A few online searches suggest that the ideal replacement would be a new race, reduction gear type with adjustable flange. £150.00 plus. Without hesitation we set off to search Ebay for a used one from a Transit van at a price nearer the twenty quid mark (and another hacksaw blade). With the replacement starter modded and installed we try again. It is a shame I haven’t noticed how compromised the main starter cable that runs under the chassis has become, what with all the engine ins and outs and starter fettling and all. Still, the resulting fire caused by an uninsulated area of cable touching a paint-free section of frame is interesting to see.
Power on, button press, nothing. Slight smell of hot plastic, then a spooky dissolving of all the insulation on every current-carrying cable. Much shouting and threatening with the extinguisher. Sum total of that day’s work. A stuffed cut-out switch and the destruction of various cables. Great...