The 2CV Update: A Triumph of Engineering and Friendship
In my previous update, I mentioned my unconventional approach to keeping my beloved 2CV running. While it was a creative solution, it was also a dangerous one, and I was eager to find a more conventional way to fuel the car. With the help of my trusty companion, Andy, we embarked on a journey to restore the car to its original glory.
The first challenge we faced was the excessive voltage in the alternator. After fixing the bad connection, the alternator was putting out an impressive 17 volts, which was far too high. We suspected the voltage regulator, and after some careful disassembly, we found a complex-looking unit inside. By cleaning the contact point, we managed to bring the voltage down to a more manageable 12.5-13 volts.
The real test, however, was the fuel tank. When we acquired the car from Stephen Walter Gossin, he had already cleaned the plastic tank, but we soon discovered a hidden issue. The fuel gauge sender/fuel pickup straw was clogged with gray goop, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. We carefully removed the straw and found that it was welded back on in a clumsy manner, with a small hole in the weld. This was the root of the problem.
With Andy's welding expertise, we managed to close the hole and restore the fuel pickup unit to its proper function. Finally, we could fill the tank and drive the car without the need for a temporary fuel can. It was a moment of triumph, and I felt like a millionaire, driving a car with a proper fuel tank.
While there's still more work to be done, this update marks a significant step forward. I'm optimistic that I can finally convince passengers to enter the car willingly, and I'm grateful for the support and friendship of Andy, without whom this project would have been impossible. The 2CV is a testament to the power of collaboration and the joy of restoring classic vehicles.
