Having
reached some definite conclusions about Muc-Off hydrodynamic chain lube, I
wasted no time in introducing the Univega to its new chain, cassette and Genetic
flare silicone handlebar wrap. Shimano’s HG50 (Tiagra by another name) requires
little introduction and might be a little workmanlike by some standards.
However, there’s a good rationale’ for running cheaper consumables on
everyday/winter bikes and besides, it shifts pretty sweetly.
More interesting is the KMC X9 chain’s “Eco ProTeQ” anti-rust coating. KMC give little away, other to say it passes the 650 hour salt spray test but cursory inspection suggests it’s a form of nickel plating. Galvanised designs work well-to a point but once it’s worn through, they’ll turn orange at the merest lick from a slushy puddle.
The
Ilpompino wasn’t left out either, courtesy of this perfectly coordinated,
injection moulded Tacx Deva bottle cage, which is a composite in the true sense,
comprising of 40% carbon fibre blended with glass fibre and polyamide. That curvaceous
stainless steel Axiom cage still adorns its seat tube bosses as I like to port
heavier stuff, including the odd NiMH bottle battery now and then.
My MK1 Ford
Ka on the other hand, is considerably low-tech (although even this one gets
plugged into a laptop from time to time). After several soggy weeks second
guessing that tell-tale bubbling around its fuel-filler cap, a temperate
Saturday morning spelt an end to procrastination and hand-wringing.
This
is an endemic weak spot (along with sills and tailgates) that can prove
expensive, uneconomic if ignored. Moisture gets trapped between the rubberised
seal and the recessed section, whereupon it nibbles away unnoticed until those
bubbles start brewing. Hardware is easily removed using a Phillips head
screwdriver and by this stage; a quick shot of penetrant spray followed by deft
taps from rubberised “engineers” mallet.
Fresh
out of traditional freeing agents, Effetto Mariposa “Carbo Move”” proved an
excellent stand-in and thankfully the damage was less extensive than first
feared. Flaking paint and rust dismissed, a quick lick of filler followed by
liberal basting of Kurust left curing for the full three hours ensured a sound,
primer ready surface.
Three
thin coats of high build primer seemed sufficient but wanting to minimise the
likelihood of a more squeamish sequel, I slathered some White Lightning crystal
grease to the rubberised flange, creating a protective barrier. This technique
has proved very effective where rear wiper and tailgate entwine-three years and
no recurrence. Reinstating everything prove the most fiddly job, requiring some
dexterous juggling and positive energy before it would seat seamlessly within
the panel-phew!
