Reviving the Renegade

These are unpredictable times, and unpredictable times call for the reliable friend (to quote Clutch).

The 316 was lost to us last week, the Burd is watching Wales in the quarter finals of the Euros and in all likelihood I may feature in either the shadow cabinet or at the dispatch box during PMQs..

Despite a lack of Rocket 88 I could still embrace the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle by putting the 320i back into action, so that’s what I did.

It had been taken for an MoT back in December and was promptly parked back under the tree from whence it came. Since then, A Peugeot 306, Alfa 156, Vectra SRi and the venerable 316 have all functioned as daily driver. Some have been good, others great, but not a one was a patch on the 320i.

Manky Motah makes an appearance.

A freshly charged battery saw it fire right up, so I drew it onto the tarmac to sort it out.

First up, it needed the toyos off the rear of the 335i, as the combo of a 205/55/15 and 175/65/14 would not be a pleasant experience for driver or diff.

Whilst the rear was up in the air, the rear pads stolen for the 335i were replaced and full braking was restored.

the 335i wasn’t looking too clean either

Various lights were cajoled, and a quick fluid check was undertaken. All was in order, despite the usual lying check panel. I decided my time would be better spent filling the tank than washing it.

The Wednesday saw it pressed into service with a 150 mile day, running from home to work, on to a business meeting and finally to the Scotoshite meet with the usual miscreants. It drew many admiring glances at the meet, and even had an artistic critique or two made.

Its now 200+ miles in, and I’m anticipating refuelling at 300 miles due to a duff level sender in the tank. Other than that it is spot on!

No doubt I’ll be cursing it shortly, but for the moment I’ll enjoy he straight 6 howl and the pleasure of the 320i!