I needed to get a few small jobs done on our 07 Vantage, so I ordered some parts from Stuart at Velocity to get me started.


I had a small exhaust leak at the passenger side converted so I was going to realign the coupling flanges but the passenger side clamp bolt broke while trying to take it off. I could tell it was starting to twist but decided to replace both clamps so kept going. While the clamps were on order I removed the 4 bolts holding up the rear most vertical hangers so I had more movement to get the flanges centered. I also made sure the pipe with the adjustable flange was loose so I could get the non adjustable one centered first. All went back together with no problems.


Today I replaced the hood and door struts. Hood is an easy one but as per other threads on here you have to remove the inner fender to gain access for the door struts. Overall an easy job but the passenger rear most inner fender torx bolt would not come out as the nut was spinning in the chassis. I had enough room to make a slot in the inner fender and remove it assed the bolt. Not sure it I can easily fix the nut so may just leave and slide the fender back in using the small slot I made.


Well after getting this far I'm thinking of doing the annual service myself. Just need to order the filters etc... We intend on keeping the car for a long time so thinking I might as well start doing this type of work myself vs. the dealer. Done this work and more on our other vehicles but was thinking if we sell it might be best to have a dealer record, but if we intend to keep it and I document the process I should be good.


I have the Jag thermostat on hand so I'll do that service as the car seems to be taking longer to warm up and I had an emissions service light come on a few weeks back. Maybe not connected but needs to be done anyway.


My fulltime job finished up last year so doing a bit of consulting which allows me time to get projects like this done.


Cheers


Dave