This was my first time up in my first Excel and I was so looking forward to seeing you lot. But 30 miles or so before I reached Donington, the brake pedal went light and touched the floor...
On the motorway realising that you have NO brakes was interesting
But I was determined to meet you and be part of that convoy so I continued carefully and using the gears and handbrake, we made it just in time to join the other Excels in the carpark
Upon inspection it was discovered that the small copper pipe on the front passenger brake calliper had split, spewing the brake fluid all over the inside of the wheel and wheel arch causing a right bloody mess.
Unfortunately Mike at LotusBits didn't have a suitable pipe link on him but promised to go home and get one if I could stay over. I wasn't planning on staying overnight, but realised this was my best option.
Angus kindly found me a room at the hotel he was staying and gave myself and Sam a lift after the show and back again in the morning.
Mike wasn't able to find a decent pipe so made one especially for me!
Mark (who works with Mike) got on his hands and knees and managed to take off the old pipe and replace it with the new one in the freezing cold, with mini dust storms blowing grit in his face and replaced the lost brake fluid.
And here's where the "thank yous" come in...
Firstly, I have never felt so welcomed before, everyone was real supportive and helpful, even if some of you did take the p***
A big thank you to Mark for all your help replacing the pipe and getting me back on the road - the brakes are fantastic and my confidence is restored! Thanks for helping me out with this mucky, horrible job!
Big thanks to Mike for all your help and advice, for bringing Mark along(!), and making me a new pipe. That level of service is way above and beyond!
Huge thanks to Angus for taking us to the hotel in your Excel and rubbing my face in the fact that yours is smoother, starts first time and both your windows go up and down!
Thanks to Peter for keeping Sam company while I was running around trying to find a replacement pipe.
Thanks also to Chris for your emotional support
and hope you get your Excel on the road in time for next year!So thanks guys and anyone else I missed for welcoming me into the Excel family and making this a fun weekend I won't forget in a hurry.
Next time I'll make sure I bring my "Lotus Bag" with a spare pair of pants!
Look foward to seeing you all again soon
