View Full Version : Another Stratos project
Stratie.fr
25-01-2021, 19:19
I know there are plenty threads like this on the forum and I hope this another one doesn’t bother too much the audience!
As I experienced in the past other Stratos restoration and preparation in a Corse S and HF3000 done in UK with the helps of friends SEC members,
I think that could be interesting to share this thread with a new build project mainly located in France this time!
For sure at the moment Covid pandemic and Brexit shutdown don’t help too much for it...Fingers crossed!
This project would be a Darniche Red Chardonnet 1975 replica (with a LB STR still in order...) powered by one 3.2 GTA engine which I intent to prepare for Tarmac and race track events.
Here a few pictures of the engine I’ m beginning to dismantle and clean up before some refurbishment and upgrade with new performance parts
Guy Mayers
25-01-2021, 19:24
These are th best sort of threads Frederic - no need to aplogise! Keep them coming, its always great to see another car in build and how it progresses. Says Guy with a stalled build in the garage....
Guy
Stratos Fear
26-01-2021, 12:24
Good to see you back again Frederic - keep the posts coming!
Normb666
26-01-2021, 15:22
Great stuff Frederic - another one in the works! Looking forward to seeing how it turns out :)
Stratie.fr
27-01-2021, 13:29
Thanks Guys for your nice comments and encouragement!
Some new parts are collected recently ( reinforced clutch lightened flywheel, new pulleys and Quaife diff )
Stratie.fr
31-01-2021, 10:13
A few progress are done on the engine after some efforts and a bit TLC for very dirty parts like gearbox and oil sump!
That gearbox is superb considering that it doesn't look as if it's been dismantled. How was it cleaned?!
Stratie.fr
31-01-2021, 10:31
That gearbox is superb considering that it doesn't look as if it's been dismantled. How was it cleaned?!
All parts are cleaned with hotwashing by hand after applying some cleaning products and only the gearbox needs to be sandblasted for obtaining a satisfying aspect!
1984SCRS
02-02-2021, 19:34
Are there any Lister Bell replicas in the USA.
I am looking for one
ITFCFAN88
02-02-2021, 21:12
I believe, if not mistaken, the LB website refers to a couple being sent to the States. I also thought I read of one to Indiana, possibly one to Michigan and one in California in the Alitalia colors.
It's amazing what you can clean with the right techniques.
My box was dismantled and vapour blasted
https://live.staticflickr.com/8650/29313174136_b75e2f0fdb_c.jpg
https://live.staticflickr.com/8150/29059384240_b67a6ec422_c.jpg
Lancialulu
03-02-2021, 07:51
I like Frederic’s authentic look! Especially if the gearbox was good. No point in my book stripping a box just to clean the outside.
Stratie.fr
03-02-2021, 08:20
It's amazing what you can clean with the right techniques.
My box was dismantled and vapour blasted
https://live.staticflickr.com/8650/29313174136_b75e2f0fdb_c.jpg
https://live.staticflickr.com/8150/29059384240_b67a6ec422_c.jpg
That’s a great job our gearbox looks superb like new! Well done Leigh!
Stratie.fr
03-02-2021, 08:29
I like Frederic’s authentic look! Especially if the gearbox was good. No point in my book stripping a box just to clean the outside.
Agreed with you Tim, I dismantled the unit for refurbishing and replacing new parts like the Quaife!
That’s a great job our gearbox looks superb like new! Well done Leigh!
Box was fine I think but was high miles so decided to pull it apart to check eveything, replace the breaing and fit the quiafe. I then went a step futher and had the casing powder coated to keep it looking nice!
https://live.staticflickr.com/4533/38582326641_08aaa5aec7_c.jpg
Apologies for hijacking your thread.
Leigh
Stratos Fear
03-02-2021, 09:57
Are there any Lister Bell replicas in the USA.
I know there is a white one in Michigan - it was in the SEC calendar 3 or 4 years ago
Normb666
03-02-2021, 13:10
Chaps, just a gentle reminder - this is Frederic's build thread so going off at a tangent and asking about available cars is a bit rude. If you want to discuss LBs in the US, you can create a new thread somewhere, although you might be limited in which genres you can post if you're not a paid-up member.
Talking about mucky gearboxes is, in this instance, fine, as Frederic did post pics of his not-so-oily bits and that generated a slight side-topic. Leigh, I can imagine you shuddering and having to have a lie-down at the mere thought of that box going into your car in such a state ;)
Just to avoid any doubt, I'm not looking to slap any wrists or get heavy - it is, as I said, just a gentle reminder. It's easy to get diverted (I know, I've done it...) but whatever you post should have some sort of relevance to the thread.
OK, headmaster mode off - back to the action :)
Stratos Fear
03-02-2021, 15:55
You're quite right Norm - my fault ! (Wrists duly slapped )
Normb666
03-02-2021, 16:05
You're quite right Norm - my fault ! (Wrists duly slapped )
Pete, it's OK, you were just being helpful.
Anyway, I hope you weren't implying I'm a slapper...
Stratos Fear
03-02-2021, 16:08
---- Groan !
Stratie.fr
04-02-2021, 10:26
No troubles Chaps with the hijacking on my build thread!
That makes me laugh we discuss here of cars in USA...I don’t know any VIP there since Donald leaves the white house!:D
It’s nice too to see others gearboxes or parts nicely refurbished on forum whatever the thread !
Stratie.fr
05-02-2021, 16:05
The engine in standard version is almost completed...awaiting a next fitment with the gearbox!
Very nice!
Where do you get the carbon belf cover from, I've seen them before but never seen anywhere selling them.
Come to think of it the ones I've seen are for all V6s EXCEPT the 166 - any idea why? They look the same shape to me!
ducatiman
05-02-2021, 23:11
Carbon Timing Belt Cover.....................is this home made or available from manufacturer ???
Googled it, found this https://www.alfaowner.com/threads/busso-v6-carbon-cam-covers-carbon-alfapart.1188852/
Stratie.fr
06-02-2021, 07:34
The original cambelt cover was damaged and broken, also I decided to replace with a new one from a friend Alfa classic seller
They are a few suppliers of carbon parts in UK like ACT or Alfa carbon parts where you could order one!
I found that post too. £550! What is different about the 166 that means a gta version won't fit?
AndyGuyton
06-02-2021, 10:43
I like it! I've had very brief discussions with a fellow forum member about making one of these...but time is a bit of an issue at the moment. I didn't realise it had already been done. The quality looks great! Also looks to be moulded in 'pre-preg' too.
How much of that part is visible when looking at the engines in our cars?
I like a bit of bling but not quite sure what I'm looking at :confused:
Stratie.fr
06-02-2021, 13:28
How much of that part is visible when looking at the engines in our cars?
I like a bit of bling but not quite sure what I'm looking at :confused:
For sure the engine isn’t the most visible thing on our cars when we drive! ;)
Bling cosmetic isn’t my main goal, the use of carbon parts aluminium sheets and light materials is also to lighten the LB chassis and improves its performance!!:o
Bling cosmetic isn’t my main goal
It might be mine but I'm not quite sure how much of the bling is visible. :)
, the use of carbon parts aluminium sheets and light materials is also to lighten the LB chassis and improves its performance!!
I'm currently working on a means of reducing the weight of the car by about 10kg (or 1.5 Stone in old money) but it's not easy, particularly now that the gym is off-limits.
Guy Mayers
06-02-2021, 14:55
I'm currently working on a means of reducing the weight of the car by about 10kg (or 1.5 Stone in old money) but it's not easy, particularly now that the gym is off-limits.
Simples. Cut the tank in half. You'll be able to to the next petrol station quicker! ;)
Stratie.fr
12-02-2021, 12:16
That’s a bit shiny now ( maybe too much?!? ) after heat lacquering protection:p
Stratie.fr
13-02-2021, 07:38
Exhaust
The 3 in 1 group 4 exhaust and silencers from LB is great and still in my order but these original pipes were in my basket too!
This original gr4 exhaust could give with no doubt an amazing sound with the Alfa V6.
Obviously with no silencers/calalysers the noise level/ emissions are high and prohibited for IVA/MOT but this one could be used in some events like on this LB at Montlhery!
https://fb.watch/3CEQWziISA/
skoolsen
13-02-2021, 09:06
Exhaust
The 3 in 1 group 4 exhaust and silencers from LB is great and still in my order but these original pipes were in my basket too!
This original gr4 exhaust could give with no doubt an amazing sound with the Alfa V6.
Obviously with no silencers/calalysers the noise level/ emissions are high and prohibited for IVA/MOT but this one could be used in some events like on this LB at Montlhery!
https://fb.watch/3CEQWziISA/
I like your gr4 exhaust ;)
I wonder if there is a sound difference from the Dino engine and the Alfa with the same gr4 unsilenced exhaust?
Strat Fan
13-02-2021, 09:21
I wonder if there is a sound difference from the Dino engine and the Alfa with the same gr4 unsilenced exhaust?
I think the Alfa engine has a much "bigger & deeper" sound than the Dino engine due to is longer stroke.
Even with the Gp4 silencers fitted then there is a fair amount of exhaust noise, adding reprofiled cams increases this level.
Running a 3.2 on ITB's and reprofiled cams with open pipes certainly makes the earth move (and your neighbours ornaments).
As the revs rise and the load increases then the note sweetens and is maybe less offensive but on tickover then they are loud.
Even with the Gp4 silencers fitted then the previous car we had on the rolling road received complaints from their neighbours which was apparently a first for them.
I think Vince also got some complaints at Silverstone a number of years back when he fitted the straight through pipes to his car?
ProtoTipo
13-02-2021, 09:36
I think Vince also got some complaints at Silverstone a number of years back when he fitted the straight through pipes to his car?
Oh yes, the organiser in golf buggy incident...
Stratie.fr
13-02-2021, 09:55
That’s a funny drawing and we could imagine the scene like in a Benny Hill show!!:D
Running a 3.2 on ITB's and reprofiled cams with open pipes certainly makes the earth move (and your neighbours ornaments).
As the revs rise and the load increases then the note sweetens and is maybe less offensive but on tickover then they are loud.
Sounds ideal. Sign me up for that. :D
Sounds ideal. Sign me up for that. :D
Bloomin' hooligan!
ProtoTipo
13-02-2021, 12:13
That’s a funny drawing and we could imagine the scene like in a Benny Hill show!!:D
Yes Frederic, with 'Yakety Sax'?
Stratie.fr
13-02-2021, 12:38
Yes Frederic, with 'Yakety Sax'?
Yeah I like it! What funny memories in my youth with that!:rolleyes:
Normb666
13-02-2021, 12:56
Somebody should tell that golf buggy driver his buggy's illegal - tyres protruding beyond the bodywork. Bet it's never been put through an IVA either. :)
skoolsen
15-02-2021, 07:34
I think the Alfa engine has a much "bigger & deeper" sound than the Dino engine due to is longer stroke.
Even with the Gp4 silencers fitted then there is a fair amount of exhaust noise, adding reprofiled cams increases this level.
Running a 3.2 on ITB's and reprofiled cams with open pipes certainly makes the earth move (and your neighbours ornaments).
As the revs rise and the load increases then the note sweetens and is maybe less offensive but on tickover then they are loud.
Even with the Gp4 silencers fitted then the previous car we had on the rolling road received complaints from their neighbours which was apparently a first for them.
I think Vince also got some complaints at Silverstone a number of years back when he fitted the straight through pipes to his car?
Ok, makes sense.
Stratie.fr
19-02-2021, 14:37
Wheels
Coffin spoke wheels are lovely pieces of art at my opinion ( I could display them in my living room if my wife would agree!) but not only...they also need to be resistant and light enough for sport or rally cars!
Those Mg 15 ” ones should permit to save a few kgs more on the build! :o

How many wheels can one man have!
Stratie.fr
19-02-2021, 21:43
Two sets with dry and wet tires ! More one pair of rear Hawk 12x15 ” 5 studs in 98 PCD for sale (PM if interested)
Two sets with dry and wet tires ! More one pair of rear Hawk 12x15 ” 5 studs in 98 PCD for sale (PM if interested)
They wouldn't fit over the big brakes I have on the rear of my car unfortunately!
Stratie.fr
20-02-2021, 06:18
The Hawk and Original Campagnolos in 15” fit over the LB standard brakes with 305 mm discs but not the biggest in 335 mm and Marvic ones need smallest in 285mm to fit well!
Stratie.fr
24-05-2021, 13:36
Another project started a while ago nor a Stratos but a Lancia though !
At last the full restoration of this car is now finished !
The paintjob has been done with an original Lancia Rosso Arancio and the car was fully prepared in group 4 specs for regularity rally events
... Ready for enjoying on roads again
Normb666
24-05-2021, 15:32
That's lovely. I do like Fulvias!
ProtoTipo
24-05-2021, 15:33
That's lovely. I do like Fulvias!
There's one here Norm?
1600 HF. RHD
Lancialulu
24-05-2021, 16:42
Hi Frederic looking good. Keep the brake fluid topped up though.....
Stratie.fr
24-05-2021, 17:24
Hi Frederic looking good. Keep the brake fluid topped up though.....
Hi Tim
Thank you! I will do ;)
Normb666
24-05-2021, 19:58
Where's that, Chris? No link....not that it matters really, got no money. Well OK, I have, but....just stop tempting me, world!!!
ProtoTipo
25-05-2021, 08:06
Where's that, Chris? No link....not that it matters really, got no money. Well OK, I have, but....just stop tempting me, world!!!
You'll be driving past it soon Norm.
It's an ex HSCC 70s road sport race/road car, but a proper S2 HF with 5 speed box, wider rear arches etc.
Lancialulu
25-05-2021, 09:28
Here's one I am building - Rosso York 1600 HF Lusso
Normb666
25-05-2021, 11:29
That'll be nice when it's done, Tim. Is this an addition to the fleet or a repaint of your existing one?
Looking fwd to seeing that one you mentioned, Chris. Is it your brother's car? Thought he'd sold it!
Remember going down to the BBC at Shepherd's Bush in 1977 to look at a 1600HF with a pal - it was being sold by William Woolard, the Tomorrow's World and Top Gear presenter. Lovely in Lancia Blue and in great nick....needless to say, he bought it. For £1400... seemed a lot of money back then!!
Lancialulu
25-05-2021, 11:45
Its another!!!! V low mileage... Hence keeping as Lusso
ProtoTipo
25-05-2021, 12:44
Chris. Is it your brother's car? Thought he'd sold it!
He had two Norm, he sold the S1. My brother's HF is exactly the same as Tim's and has the same potential.
Stratie.fr
25-05-2021, 12:54
Its another!!!! V low mileage... Hence keeping as Lusso
Looking good!I believe you could open a Lancia collection museum at home!:cool:
AndyGuyton
25-05-2021, 16:00
Here's one I am building - Rosso York 1600 HF Lusso
Very much looking forward to seeing that in the car park of 'The Sun' Tim!
Lancialulu
25-05-2021, 17:54
Very much looking forward to seeing that in the car park of 'The Sun' Tim!Andy, Peter and Paul - I look forward to a pint at the Sun before then!!! Seriously though I hope to finish it this year....
Stableblock
26-05-2021, 07:27
Yes a pint would be good, even better if its dry.
Peter
Andy, Peter and Paul - I look forward to a pint at the Sun before then!!! Seriously though I hope to finish it this year....
Stratie.fr
06-08-2021, 17:34
A few progress since a while!
The gearbox, clutch and flywheel are fitted now and the chassis is started…A few more months for next steps!
1855718558
Ken Tomblin
09-08-2021, 16:36
Frederic, when you replaced the gear box bearings how did you remove the outer races from the end cover! And what final drive ratio did you go for.
Regards Ken
Ken - do you mean the top one here:
https://live.staticflickr.com/4410/36609057266_08a9fb43b2_c.jpg
When I did it, I stripped the case of everything, removed the small plastic spacer you can see and put the whole lot in the oven at about 150c (I think).
I just fell out after about 20 mins or so.
Didn't seem to want to come out using localised heat.
Horrible smell though s there were traces of gear oil in it. Luckily it had dissipated by the time the OH came home :)
Pretty sure the bottom one isn't replaceable as the bearing on the end of the shaft that locates there is the one that cannot be removed.
Sorry for butting in Frederic!
Stratie.fr
10-08-2021, 14:15
Frederic, when you replaced the gear box bearings how did you remove the outer races from the end cover! And what final drive ratio did you go for.
Regards Ken
Ken I used a pneumatic hammer for removing them and kept the standard drive ratio.
Stratie.fr
04-02-2022, 07:01
There is a few progress on the TDF 75 replica build! :)
1918619187191881918919191
Stratie.fr
05-02-2022, 18:30
Very nice Frederic!
Thank you John!
A long project to go!:p
As some fellow members know this project is to build a replica of the original car winner of the Tour de France 1975 (the same one won Tour de Corse and others rallies in this period) after some thoughts and interesting discussions with Bernard Darniche (the original car is owned in Japan since a long time with Tour de corse livery and normal front spoiler)
Tom R has a great Allora of this Red Chardonnet Stratos but a TDF replica was never built at my knowledge!
It’s not a Le Mans Str long wheel base but a normal car with both front ends for Tarmac and rally stages!!
Stratos Fear
06-02-2022, 16:30
Great project Frederic - good luck with it ! Hope it doesnt take too long !
Stratie.fr
06-02-2022, 16:56
Great project Frederic - good luck with it ! Hope it doesnt take too long !
Thanks a lot Peter!
Hope so It doesn’t take too long but patience is needed as for many others builds experienced here… the longer the better!:p
Gerry (Hawk Cars) has a Giro de Italia replica
Stratie.fr
06-02-2022, 20:30
Gerry (Hawk Cars) has a Giro de Italia replica
yes it’s a great looking car I have seen few years ago in his workshop!
Stratie.fr
23-02-2023, 15:23
It’s a long time I didn’t post about this project!
The build is coming nicely with a few progress despite all difficulties experienced since latest years!!
Stratie.fr
24-05-2023, 10:39
Due to a lot of troubles my LB build is coming for sale
The minus car job is almost finished and still in LB workshop!
The car could be sold with a full restored 3.2 GTA engine and gearbox with a set of Magnesium original coffin spoke from Marvic…
It’s for sale with no benefit at the price of parts kit and job…
If anyone is interested and would avoid a long wait for a nice LB group 4 with high spec and two front bonnets (for roads and tarmac) let me know with PM or contact LB!
Darkspeed
25-05-2023, 09:15
I have had a look down the back of the sofa, and the GBP 3.40 I found, together with any likely funds generated by the sale of the GP4 Melon are, I think, unlikely to meet the required amount.
Oh well, back to painting ball joints ....
Stratos Fear
25-05-2023, 10:23
Hi Frederic - sorry to see you are selling (but understand !) I know from my own recent experience that there are a lot of interested parties out there - particularly for a LHD .
Stratie.fr
25-05-2023, 18:13
Hi Frederic - sorry to see you are selling (but understand !) I know from my own recent experience that there are a lot of interested parties out there - particularly for a LHD .
Thanks a lot Peter!
It’s a long project started more 5 years ago before Brexit Covid and others bad times but it’s causing plenty difficulties and disappointment
The car couldn’t obtain registration in France as a LB STR at last and now there is a lot of extra charges and taxes for exportation
A shame and a sad end!!:(
Hope the car could stay in UK and will enjoy a new british owner!
Stratie.fr
25-05-2023, 20:21
Andy
Thanks for your PM
Unfortunately there is too much taxes for exportation since Brexit, the best solution would be to finish with engine and gearbox fitting and get V5 registration but after more 5 years I have no more strength and patience to do that…
Also I think it’s better to sell it and move on with other easiest projects!
I have had a look down the back of the sofa, and the GBP 3.40 I found, together with any likely funds generated by the sale of the GP4 Melon are, I think, unlikely to meet the required amount.
Oh well, back to painting ball joints ....
Darkspeed
25-05-2023, 22:40
Andy
Thanks for your PM
Unfortunately there is too much taxes for exportation since Brexit, the best solution would be to finish with engine and gearbox fitting and get V5 registration but after more 5 years I have no more strength and patience to do that…
Also I think it’s better to sell it and move on with other easiest projects!
I will start playing the lottery - It will need to be a big win, needs to cover another house with motor stable as the lean-to I have at the moment will not do. ;) That TDF homage body is rather special - I like that alot.
Stratie.fr
20-06-2023, 19:43
The LB build is no longer for sale
This is the end of this long project!
Many thanks to all friends and SEC members who helped me for this one along these latest years!
Another news are coming soon!
Car looks fantastic Frederic - well done!!
Very cool - what happened to the front end with the deep spoiler thingy?
It's being polished! Frederic has two complete front clams. Lucky guy!
It's being polished! Frederic has two complete front clams. Lucky guy!
This apporach would be the best solution to mounting my lamp pod. One clam with, one clam without (so no holes needed)......
Stratie.fr
26-06-2023, 15:03
Here the TDF front clam almost finished…;)
rutthenut
06-07-2023, 17:59
This apporach would be the best solution to mounting my lamp pod. One clam with, one clam without (so no holes needed)......
I managed to set mine up with just two holes for the mounting bolts, one each side, plus a removable badge through which the wiring connector goes. Can see you may want to avoid visible holes entirely when no pod mounted though.
I think Guy uses the mounting bolts for power and earth for the lamps, which is pretty ingenious.
Guy Mayers
06-07-2023, 19:57
I think Guy uses the mounting bolts for power and earth for the lamps, which is pretty ingenious.
Sadly not John - my car already carried a nose badge as a Stradale so I merely drilled a big hole underneath it without stopping to think.....
rutthenut
07-07-2023, 08:07
Sadly not John - my car already carried a nose badge as a Stradale so I merely drilled a big hole underneath it without stopping to think.....
Ah, ok Guy, sorry as I thought that's what you had done.
Still an option for others if wanting one less hole in the clam for removable lamps
Hi Startie,
Congratulations for this great achievement,
I am a rooky on this forum, that is my first post, and as you are located in France like me, according to your profile, then I get in touch with you first.
I am a bit intimidated with this forum, I have so many questions I don't where to start from for instance:
1-Which kit is the best between LB and Hawk?
2-Any idea of the price for the construction kit? (LB just answered me their order book is full for the next 2 years and they don't accept new orders) I didn't ask to Hawk
3-Any possibility to make it street legal in France?
Any info where to go on the forum to find answer to these questions are welcome
Thank in advance and best regards
Erwan
Longtimefan
18-07-2023, 08:11
Laurant,
Welcome to the Forum, don’t be intimidated, we are a friendly and helpful lot. I see you are a Free User, may I suggest that you pay the small annual subscription and become a full member, which at just over half a Euro a week is very good value, and allows you to access all areas which includes many very interesting Build Streams, and will answer your question on Forum access.
Robin.
Any info where to go on the forum to find answer to these questions are welcome
Thank in advance and best regards
Erwan
Guy Mayers
18-07-2023, 09:16
Welcome to the forum Erwan! Asking which is the better car won't be answered definitively. What I can say is that Hawk have also closed their order books with a 3 year waiting list with deposits paid. There is a list of people who want to order a kit from Hawk and your name can be added to that.
I can't answer the question about registration. I believe it's possible now in most European countries (you can ask owners of cars already registered how they managed it) but rules change from year to year and what is possible now may not be possible in 5 years.
The easiest route to ownership at the moment is to buy a fully built and registered car and export it to France for registration there. Either manufacturers car can be converted to left hand drive but the LB is definitely easier to do. I wouldn't recommend it on the Hawk.
The best place to find a car for sale is through full membership of this forum and club but suitable cars rarely come up for sale and get bought quickly.
Good luck with your search.
Guy
Thank you for your kind answers,
I don't mind to pay a little fee as I understand such a forum cannot have thousands visitors and the related advertising incomes.
Since 1996 I have a BMW 635 Csi 1988 Shadow line with little mileage, and its price has been moving up these last 10 years, so I was planning to make a swap for a Stratos kit.
I am afraid a ready to drive model would be above my budget, and to find one with the driving seat on the left might be even more challenging.
But before to register, any rought idea of the price for a kit?
A special question to Robin, I am not a digital native so I am very impressed when you mention Laurant, I would be happy to understand, it would expand significantly my Digital culture.
Thank you again and best regards
Erwan
Stratie.fr
18-11-2023, 17:33
There is a few progress recently with the shoehorned fitment of the 3.2 powertrain…No fingers stay there fortunately but some drops of sweat!!
Excellent work! Looking great.
Stratie.fr
20-11-2023, 16:36
@Leigh @John ...Thank you for your encouragement!:o
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