UPDATE // 31-MAY-2023
Yup... still broken.
I think this really is the last chance as far as my relationship/ownership with #165 is concerned. I have arranged for the car to be transported to Mick at Diamond Motors once again in a bid to fix the remaining issues and to try and tease some life and enjoyment out of it. Right now, I'm 50/50 as to whether I want to keep it or sell it.
As it has literally been standing neglected since it broke down last July, it really has suffered in terms of cosmetic appeal. The inside is immaculate despite a brief mould invasion due to a failed window seal. That was cleaned up quickly and it now looks fabulous in there (apart from the melting steering wheel!) But my, the paintwork is a real mess. In cleaning off the green moss and pollen I have found more window seal/bonding issues, leaking lights, and the paintwork has become etched in places from prolonged exposure to pollen, dirt, and poor weather (and the odd bird poop, although I always try and clear those asap). It can be brought back but will require several days with the DA polisher and various pads and compounds. Mind you, it is also waiting to go for partial respray as that was on the cards until it broke down, hence I had to cancel with the body shop last July.
In readiness for the trip up to Mick's on Friday, I decided to at least try and get the worst of the crud and detritus off of it. In a cruel twist of fate, I lost some of the side skirt decal and the resulting message was, I think, quite apt. I kid you not, this was not intentional nor was it done for the likes! It did actually happen and I will need fresh decals. Again!
Despite having to push it around the driveway, I decided to grab a quick photo of the two T44s and the ASBO Abarth.
I'm sure I'll have more news in due course, but I'm still feeling pretty flat, numb and "meh" as far as #165 is concerned. I think our time together may be coming to an end. We shall see.