Over a two year period the engine was removed (not easy !) to facilitate the replacement of the fluid flywheel output shaft oil seal.  About 100hrs work for a £2 seal.

Saracen owners beware......  if you leave the vehicle in gear for to long, when you are stationary, this oil seal can get to hot and fail.

While the engine was out, all exterior sheet metal and accessory's were shot blasted and repainted.

The hull was stripped of around 10 layers of old paint and painted.

The interior was restored and all the wiring checked and replaced as required.

The engine was serviced, tappets adjusted, new belts fitted,spark plugs replaced etc. The multitude of grease and oil points were lubricated.

It was a great feeling to start her up after the restoration - but it was short lived as, after driving for a couple of miles, it was found that the brake power hydraulic unit was leaking.

Major job to replace said item... with engine now back in place...   but still less than taking the engine out again !!

A replacement unit was obtained from the Tank Museum at Bovington (many thanks to Mike Hayten and the team for their help.... and for giving me a great day out as well).

She was superb to drive. The Rolls Royce B80 eight cylinder engine sounded magnificent. Brakes were very positive and steering easy thanks to substantial power assistance. Top speed is around 50mph and fuel consumption around 3mpg.

Finally everything was done.....  and guess what...... after two years of hard graft..... I felt I needed a change and sold the Saracen !!

Thats Life !!!!

THE END

(Back to Top of Page)