PAG 19, page 16
SVA—A practical view continued 2
The other difficult points were brakes and noise, as you can’t test them before the test (if you see what I mean). Phil sent some baffles which got me through the re-test easily, but the brakes are a problem and as I write I have a new master cylinder, drums, shoes and pads to fit.
The tester is not some alien being, and in most cases will bend as far as he can to help you, so talk to him (or her) and build up a rapport. During the test they won’t say much, but those are the rules so don’t get concerned about it. If they fail you on anything, then discuss with them what you would need to do to satisfy them
Summary
Even though I failed, I have to admit that the test is a good thing despite being stressful. It is logical and it can be passed with a little forethought. Remember that if an item can’t be touched with the 100mm sphere it can’t be tested, so use that to your advantage. Also remember that they test the car as presented, so if it isn’t fitted it won’t be tested, so test the car in its most basic form and add the “frilly” bits afterwards. Also, first impressions count, both for you and your car so make sure it is at least clean.
The SVA and MSVA are almost identical (I’ve cross checked the SVA manual with the MSVA rules on the website); if anything the MSVA is easier. So your car can pass whether it has 3 or 4 wheels and regardless of the engine, you just need to know the rules and think laterally occasionally.
Finally, if you have any questions you think I can help with, then feel free to get in touch.
Letters to the Editor
2 copies—A feast !!!! -
Thanks for the 2 back issues of ‘Pembletons are Go!’ I am please my membership situation is now sorted. They are 2 of the best yet. Nice to read about the hill climb success. I was also most interested in the Park Rash event. I have driven my
Pembleton up through the Dales to Lancaster, a most beautiful route– the roads suit the car perfectly.
I used to compete with an MG and a Fraser Nash in my
distant past and would like to try a three wheeler competition. Have you any dates sorted for meetings or competitions. ?
David Stevenson
Re—Racing Notebook-
Hi Ian—Thank you so much for your thrilling story about your hill climb. I felt as though I was behind the wheel myself.
Wonderful stuff. You could possibly reduce the understeer with some super sticky motorcycle tyres on the front (just for the hill of course) What do you think ?
Regards
David Goodsir
Dear Algy
Many thanks for an excellent newsletter. More reading matter than ‘Kit Car’ !
Would there be any possibility of info regarding the dreaded SVA ?
I hope to complete the build in time for Stoneleigh but fear complications over seat belts etc.
Once again many thanks
Roy De Boise
(Great idea about passing on info about the SVA. If any of you road legal chaps have any tips send them to the P.A.G. office and I’ll put them in print. Crack on with the build Roy and I’ll see you at Stoneleigh—Ed)
Dear Ian and the Baroness
Thanks for the latest copy of Pembletons are Go !
The articles and photos are that good they would be accepted for publication in any Kit Car Magazine.
Have a go ! It’s easy.
Eric Holdsworth
Dear Ed -
Many thanks for the continuing supply of the newsletter—Excellent !!!!
Just a couple of suggestions—
A separate ‘For Sale’ page as there must be surplus ‘Bits and Pieces’ out there in need of new homes.
A photographic build story—No not me ! my photographic skills with a camera are too limited.
David
(Like the suggestions David. I’ll print any ‘For Sale’ ads sent to me as long as they are Pembleton related –Ed)
Hi Algy-
As promised a photo of No11 and No4 parked up snugly in the shed, out of all the bad weather. -Liz and Dave