Made a start on the 'big job' at the weekend. Slow progress as I had to juggle wife, kids, dogs etc. so not as much time at it as I'd have liked but the car is up in the air with pretty much everything slackened off and disconnected ready for the beam and tank to be dropped.
Diff mount, arb drop links and trailing arm bushes all seen better days.


Here's where the fuel tank has been leaking from if filled right up

as a result we've had to limit it to only putting in £20 a time. Which hasn't been a real issue as the car is only used ocassionally, but will be nice to get this resolved once and for all
Handy that it has a drain plug, I'd tried to use up as much as possible, needle was the wrong side of empty, but still managed to get about 5 or so litres out of it.
Discovered the rear shock had signs of leaking, which would explain some of the undesired handling characteristics
So I've got a spare set, not new but in better condition from a lower mileage donor. The top mounts weren't as bad as I was expecting but new ones are going in anyway.
Also even though I did the centre bearing I never got round to doing this last time I dropped the prop so I can finish this job properly now, just waiting on delivery.
And a few other rusty bits that are getting replaced

Very eager to get it all finished off now. This is possibly the toughest mechanical task I've ever taken on. I think I'd rather change an engine than have to do this again, but it will be so worth it.
More updates to follow....