Scrap Bin Update - Exhausted

Going in the bin is this exhaust section from an Opel Manta A series, I had been keeping it as a pattern for future reproductions of exhaust systems for the Opel Manta, that won't be happening now.

UK version of the Opel Manta A series exhaust

The exhaust on the UK version of the Opel Manta differs from the European versions because of the compromises necessary to rework the design to suit a right hand drive vehicle.
The downpipes have to merge much closer to the exhaust manifold than on a European car, in order to clear; the steering column, clutch cable and brake servo. Whether or not this restricts the flow and reduces horsepower is a moot point.
To complicate matters further, automatic variants of the Opel Manta A series require a couple of extra kinks in the downpipe in order to clear the much bulkier gearbox. I have even heard that on the last of the Opel Manta A series, produced from August 1974 onwards, had a different design of engine mount, moving the engine slightly further forward and requiring a marginally longer front pipe.

Opel Manta A series Brake Servo

Ian Dove has built a replica of the TransEurope Engineering TE2800 for use at classic rallies. If you haven't heard of a TE2800 before and think it looks like an Opel Manta A series on steroids, you'd be correct. TransEurope Engineering bought partially built bodies from Opel, re-engineered the body and suspension, then squeezed
a tuned (142 bhp) 2.8 litre Opel six cylinder engine and gearbox into a Manta shell with appropriate modifications to the running gear. Performance was: 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds, 0-100 mph in 22 seconds, and a standing start kilometre in 29.2 seconds. Top speed was 130mph. Bodywork was similar to an Irmscher body kit with a bonnet bulge. A rally version was also produced with an engine tuned to give 230 bhp. Some other special parts fitted were Recaro rally seats, 7" alloys, vented discs, LSD, Nardi steering wheel and uprated suspension.

I was able to supply Ian with an assortment of bits and pieces during his build up. He mailed me because his servo had packed up and I knew there was one in the loft, but could I find it? It had somehow got into a box of cables!
Once found I was able to get it boxed and sent off by courier the next day.

Ian Dove's TE2800 Replica - source Ian Hardy

Scrap Bin Update

Dropping into the Scrap Bin today is this Mountney  aftermarket steering wheel off an old Opel Manta A series project of mine. Sadly whilst the car was stripped and awaiting a respray the local chavvers decided it needed further lightening and tried to remove this desirable accessory.
Being as they were intellectually challenged, rather than use a screwdriver they tried to yank it off. The attempted theft was unsuccessful but it left the mounting flange distorted and with some paint fractures.
Knowing how fussy some types can be on eBay these days, I consider it unsaleable, so it is en route to recycling heaven, unless you want to intervene of course.

As with all other items in the Scrap Bin it is absolutely free if you collect, or pay just the cost of postage. The bin will need to be emptied by the end of September.

Mountney wheel - a class item ruined by a bunch of neds

It's all about labels

I have just spent a few hours restructuring the "labels" for this site, labels are a way of dividing up the blog into different categories. I have also added a widget at the top right hand corner of the page that lists these labels in order of popularity. If you click on a label; for example, Opel Manta A series, the blog will re-arrange itself to show all the posts on that subject in chronological order. Neat eh!
Hopefully this will make it much easier to find the articles of particular interest to you.

Find the label - source opel-classic-parts.com

Vauxhall Cavalier Mk1 - Haynes Owners Workshop Manual

Interestingly this Haynes manual is specified for the Vauxhall Cavalier Mk1, of course I am sure you will know that this version of the Cavalier Coupe is a rebranded Opel Manta B series and the Cavalier Saloon is the same as the Opel Ascona B series. There are minor trim issues between the 2 GM brands but they are underpinned by the same frame and mechanical parts.
Covering the period from 1975 to 1977, there won't be any information relating to the later face lifted Opels with their plastic trim sections, fuel injection and 5 speed gearboxes.

Vauxhall Cavalier Mk1 - Opel Manta in disguise

Opel Manta A series - Autodata Owners Workshop Manual

On offer is an Autodata owners workshop manual for the Opel Manta A series. It is very similar in format to the more common Haynes manuals, I've never seen another one like this.
It covers the Manta and Ascona A series models with the 1.6 and 1.9 engines. It is not quite as comprehensive as the equivalent Haynes manual, but does still cover plenty of common tasks such as; rebuilding the engine and major mechanical components.
It is in fair condition, with some oily pages, perfect for the workshop. It can be sent to within the UK for, or overseas, just mail me for a quote.

Autodata Manual - just like the Haynes version

Scrap Bin Update

I have just dug out these 4 plastic sill trims. I think they might be Opel Rekord C series, possibly D series. They bear the following part numbers; 3468175 & 3467366.
They are by no means mint, but might replace a lost or broken one. They go in the scrap bin today and are up for grabs for free. The bin will be emptied at the end of August!

Unknown Sill Trim - Possibly Rekord or Commodore