Time to bring my Renault 4 back to life..

[branty]

Hi,
We have had a R4 Gtl 1984, 1100, for 20 years, only 25,000 miles on the clock. We bought it from the previous only owner after seeing it sitting untouched on his drive, and used it for our Wedding day car. We bought it 20 years ago and it has sat in the garage/ storage for the last 15. Now our 2 boys are getting to an age to tinker (and we are not so tired!!), we are looking to get it back on the road.

Reading posts on this really helpful site, I have learnt that it will drive on unleaded without conversion- the last time it was filled up, it was with leaded! Amazingly, it starts straight away when turned over, which has happened about once a year in this time.

I guess I need to change the engine oil, drain and clean the water system and change the plugs and filters.I have been advised that the brakes should have a complete overhaul. Also, the clutch does not work and I am not sure if this is 'sticking' ,which I believe can happen, or needs replacing. How can I tell?

I would be really grateful if anyone can give me some tips on these points and if there is anything else that I should do before thinking about MOTs. I am of the generation used to tinkering with cars and I am armed with the original Haynes manual! Still, I am filled with some trepidation but want to try most of the work myself. Or, do you think I should send it to a specialist for an overhaul?

Thanks
Jon

 

[malcolm]

I should do it yourself. I've never been pleased with the quality of the average garage, though haven't tried a specialist.

I'm in the process of recommissioning a car which has been sat around for 10 years. My strategy is replace anything obviously broken and see how the rest gets on in use.

For a car that has been sitting for years a good inspection of anything made of rubber is useful. Check the brake hoses for cracks. Rear cylinders might leak and can be checked by lifting the dust seal to see if there if fluid behind. Check the brake pipes for corrosion. The waterpump seals get tired after sitting around, so keep an eye for leaks under the waterpump.

For the clutch try starting the car in gear with your foot on the clutch. Have the other foot ready to slam on the brakes before you run into anything.

 

[JonathanT]

Sounds fabulous Branty and welcome to the forum. Do post some pictures We never tire of seeing an R4!!!

 

[Bobble]

yes welcome and as Jonathan says pictures would be good

 

[branty]

Thanks for the tips Malcolm.

I will try to post some progress. I have had problems locating a fuel filter from my local motor factors- ant tips on reliable sources of parts?

Thanks

Jon

 

[JonathanT]

Hi Jon There are many specialist suppliers such as Der Franzose
And Melun Retro Passion. Both are mail order but very good

Melun often have discount codes every other weekend

Parts can also be got from Ebay uk France and Spain easily but beware of incorrect listing .

Your local Renault Garage can still obtain lots of parts.

Several members on here can also supply parts

 

[mr-reno-139]

Universal fuel filter will do the job fine get a couple as there could be rust in fuel tank from condensation
R4 has 6mm internal Diameter fuel rubber hose

 

[charlesa]

Hi Jon,
I bought an '86 4GTL a couple of years ago that had been sitting in a garage for ~ 14 years having been given to the previous owner as an engagement present. She got married in it too but then moved to Denmark and stored it in her Inlaw's garage.
I have found Tom at Whitehouse Renault main dealers in Tunbridge Wells really helpful at getting parts. His number is 01892 524655.
Good luck !
Best wishes
Charles

 

[branty]

Hi Jon,
I bought an '86 4GTL a couple of years ago that had been sitting in a garage for ~ 14 years having been given to the previous owner as an engagement present. She got married in it too but then moved to Denmark and stored it in her Inlaw's garage.
I have found Tom at Whitehouse Renault main dealers in Tunbridge Wells really helpful at getting parts. His number is 01892 524655.
Good luck !
Best wishes
Charles

Thanks for the tip Charles,
Branty