Restoration of Hull 731- Carrier, MG (Aust) Mortar Carrying

[Darrin Wright]

This weekend I managed to purchase more bolts for the brackets that hold the exhaust system under the hull in place, I also bought some more exhaust items. Will drop back later in the week to collect the rest of it. So with those items I have located and bolted in the 2 exhaust pipes under the hull, the mufflers are 1/2 converted, will finish with the remainder of exhaust items.

Worked on the engine cover as I had some minor tasks remaining, I did manage to find the fuel dip stick still in the holder, unfortunately it was affected by rust & red dust. So I carefully cut the welds and cleaned out the crap, pushed the metal cover back into position and re-welded it.
I also fabricated the tabs the allow the engine cover side panels to be latched closed.
Removed several broken bolts in the rear suspension units and re-threaded some holes, removed the split pins from the spring rods so these are ready for sandblasting. Tried to remove a wheel by knocking out a pin, 1/3 out then the internal spacer may have caught on the recessed section of the pin stopping it from moving further out. Leave that until later...

Tries to start my engine, unfortunately I think the started has a problem as it will not turn over. So I have disassembled that several times and checks the field windings and armature. I think the problem is in the armature, so will take it to an auto electrician next weekend. So it still will not start, but not due to the engine. It may be due to cranking it on 12V, not sure. I have had other starter motors crank on 12V with no problems.

I unwrapped the asbestos exhaust head shields, and they are in better condition that what I remember, so with a lot of green paint I coated them so there will be no dust particles. I will reuse these as there are in really good condition. I also managed to paint a large number of nuts & bolts and smaller fitting ready for later.