3000 Mile service

I had some time free so after yesterdays wet trip I thought it's time to do the 3000 mile service and give the 160 a bit of TLC.

In the seven owners hand book it does recommend using Shell Helix Ultra after going a few local motor factors I just couldn't find anywhere that stocked it, So over to Halfords to get there equivalent 5w-30 Fully synthetic VW504.00/507.00 all numbers matching the shell oil, I did pick up the same oil filter as I used for the 1000 mile service which I'm glad I kept the old box so I new exactly what to get. 

I did warm the engine up briefly before I drained the oil and removed the old filter and all went well. The oil looked fine to me and I would have thought that it could last longer than the 3000 intervals but hey ho, next service is at 6000 which involves a bit more work. 

I did also take all the wheels off to give the insides of the rim a good clean and checked all the bolts taking the rears off meant that I could give the suspension springs and axle a clean too. Now all I need is some warm dry sunny days,....Storm Imogen is not helping! :-)'

Most unusual dashboard

Well going through YouTube with my feet up last night I found this wooden dash installation for the Caterham 160 , personally I'm not that keen on it, A nice carbon one maybe,... http://youtu.be/EHxtRGWCd44 The one item that it seems most people upgrade is changing the roll over bar for an FIA approved one which makes a lot of sense for extra security and safety and also the ability to do some events with the club which I would like to do. I only have the standard rollover bar at the moment so another order looks likely for the FIA one!

I have been out and about in the 160 mainly on the dryish days enjoying the car I do have the half hood on and with the heater on max! Although the wet weather does not put me off too much it's nice to keep it clean so the bucket and sponge comes out after every trip, Roll on spring time.
I'm just under the 3000 mile mark so a service is due soon which I think its just an oil and filter change and a general check over time to check the manual.