Earlier this spring I turned over my DeLorean for the first time since early winter (went through some steps to winterize, like eth-free gas) and was greeted with coolant sludge pouring out of the valley of death. Decided to therefore take on the much-overdue project of getting down into VOD and touching things up.
I wanted to keep a bit of a log here and post any questions as they come up. I'm happy to update with more photos or info if folks are interested. I figured it might be a little unique since it's a relatively low VIN and twin-turbocharged.
Before:
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Removed Turbo Pipes & Rear Fascia
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Current State
IMG_0129.jpg
In general, I'm trying not to go too overboard here with restoration. I'd like to keep as much original as possible, but have decided to replace parts with stainless and silicone where it makes sense. As far as I know this is the first VOD teardown the car has seen. Pretty much everything is stock (except exhaust). I really want it to show well & want to fix enough to avoid another VOD teardown for at least 5yrs
Plan:
- Replacing all coolant hoses with silicone
- Buffing aluminum coolant hoses with high grit for a nice shine
- Replacing coolant reservoir? (see below)
- Replacing/rebuilding water pump (see below)
- Moving to Stainless New Style Water Pipe (hope this fits around the turbos!)
- Replacing fuel lines and banjo with stainless
- Painting VOD and Engine Block
- Replacing spark plugs
- Rebuilding idler pulleys (took off the AC belt and the pulleys are a bit crunchy)
- Replacing alternator? (see below)
- Replating yellow zinc components (see below)
- Rebuilding intake manifold - Stainless bolts, replace butterfly flange, paint, etc.
Questions:
- Anyone have recommendations for a good plating service (especially around NH)? I'm looking at doing a DIY yellow zinc plating because I'm really struggling to find someone to do a small batch zinc plating.
- Seems like replacing the coolant reservoir is pretty mandatory? I really like the look of the plastic, but don't want to risk it.
- Any suggestions for how much of the water pump to retain? Don't really want to spend too much time restoring this (happy to follow up with some pics once I tear it down). Currently planning on replacing everything except the Thermostat Cover.
- Alternator is actually 90A Motorola (I think this was done when the turbos were put in in the mid-'80s). It's leaking some mysterious goop and seems to be struggling to keep up with the AC on (though I never got around to checking with a DMM - tsk tsk). Replace it? I love all the options for new units - any suggestions for best alternative?
- Any suggestions for plugging the cylinders + coolant openings? I really want to scrub this thing, but I'm worried about getting contaminants where they don't belong. Really was hoping to find some 3D models to print for plugs...
Some stats:
VIN 1659
16500 miles
3-speed automatic
Island Twin Turbo
I also have a ton of reference guides and pictures I'm taking as I go. Currently building a Notion page, which I can publish as I go (if there is interest).
Thanks!!!