As I am now back at home, it is time to catch up with some stuff...... and it is only 2 weeks until we'll be sheltering under the gazebo at Castle Combe (either from the ferocious sunshine, or the howling rain!).
To that end, I have been ordering parts to get my car out of its extended hibernation (3 years since the last MOT) and then get both cars tested, serviced and back out and about. At least, that's the theory, but as with everything, nowt is "equal" and it may be that I only get one of them running, or (more likely) a late night the day before leaving home, followed by a few hours fettling in a field in Wiltshire, to get there.
Still, oil, filters and a new battery should be with me on Monday (I forgot that Angie 'borrowed' my battery 2 years ago for the Corsa when hers was failing, and it never got swapped back before that car was sold) - the one in it is okay for the occasional 'home start' needed during the hibernation as it is connected to a conditioner, but I wouldn't want to be stuck in a field with it.
The first thing is to strip and rebuild the brakes (both cars), then do the oil changes, then see how they feel along the road..... I don't anticipate any issues with the blue one, but as the green hasn't been used, who knows! (I can't remember if I changed both driveshafts last time, or just one - so that may need doing.... which will lead to a gearbox oil change.... and so on.)
Hopefully the tires won't be too 'square', and may be good enough - they look okay, but without driving it's hard to say for sure).
Then it's down to electrics and cosmetics - will the windows work, or is another door-strip in my immediate future?
Eventually, I may even wash it - but that is always bottom of any list.
Anyway, I shall be at Castle Combe in something, so maybe it's time to 'formalise' timings etc, for anyone who wishes to join me (us?) - this is not a definitive list, just a selection of suggestions for things I hope to do, and anyone/everyone is free to join me, or do as they please.
Friday 22nd May
Leave home about lunchtime, toodle up the A477/M4 to J17, and down to
http://www.wiltshirecamping.co.uk/ where I am booked in with Geoff (no, not THAT Geoff!). Sit and drink tea whilst considering the next move, and then erect the tent. Probably getting waylaid by other people, and taking 3 hours instead of the intended 20 minutes.
I shall bring a BBQ and plan to fire it up at some time when it seems appropriate - anyone who wishes can chuck their own stuff on it (or go out for tea if it is pouring down). There is a good supermarket just down the road towards Chippenham (Morrisons, about 5 minutes drive) to pop out for food and drinks (unless it's raining and it will be off to the pub).
Saturday 23rd May
Cup of tea, and a short drive up to J17 and the Pit Stop cafe/services for breakfast. They open at 0800, so I aim to be there for then. (5 minute drive from the campsite)
After breakfast, a drive down to Castle Combe (15 minutes, according to Google) along with anyone who chooses to either eat there or meet there...... timings may well change once Smiffy decides to "not do a convoy" along obscure roads.
Find a bit of grass at the circuit (Mike will already be there as he is tracking, and is always there first!) to set up some sort of informal base. Anyone is welcome to pop in for a cuppa, and either stay or carry on to do your own thing. (Someone may remember to bring the gazebo, and we will all stare at it hoping that someone else will take charge, but it will eventually get put up).
Saturday evening will be off out to eat - traditional curry in Malmsbury or 'local' pub grub - who knows???? it will depend on who else is eating, staying, camping or driving home.
Sunday 24th May
Drink tea, strike camp, drive home
If anyone wants/needs me to bring anything, or I have previously offered to do something for you, feel free to remind me or else I will have forgotten by now!
by dapinky » Sat 07.03.2026, 09:35 
I have a spare pod module repaired with João’s MOSFETs, but it’s untested. You’re more than welcome to take it and try it if you wish.
