It turned out the plunger wasn't quite home, so we rectified that straight away. However, even cranking for a minute showed no signs of pressure. Without wanting to do more damage, we called it a night and went back to the drawing board.

The following day, we decided to check the sump, pickup and filter. At the same time, I order a new pump, just in case. Taking the advice of Oilyhands, we cranked the engine some more with the plugs out but still no pressure. So off with the sump, a poke around in the pickup and a swap of filter (they have been known to be iffy), but still nothing found. Not wanting to risk further damage, we decided not to run it, and instead wait for the new pump, the last piece in the puzzle!

The next day, a nice new pump was waiting for me when I got home, and I went round to the garage straight away, and cracked on with stripping the front of the engine. I was pleasantly surprised to find how easy it would be change a timing belt too. The crankshaft sprocket (under the alternator pulley) refused to yield until brute force and two screwdrivers reigned supreme! Off with the pump, and off to the bench. I couldn't see anything amiss with it, compared to the new one, but I still put the new one on, just in case. Refitting the gasket and pump was a minor struggle compared to getting it off, and by about 10pm I was ready to crank!

Nerves tingling, I turned the key... The engine span, the oil pressure needle remained flat... I kept it going a few more seconds... And then some life! The needle sprang in to action and quickly leapt to 60 PSi! You cannot imagnie the complete and utter relief at this sight, I was so happy that I ran around the garden, arms aloft, shouting "CHAMPION!". Cue angry neighbours...

Feeling a whole lot better for myself, I checked the engine bay was back to normal, and decided to call it a day and finish the remaining bits the next day.

Working under time pressure, having to get it ready for the handling day at Dunsfold on the Saturday, was really difficult and I hope I don't have to do it again. The frustration of something going completely wrong, combined with the limited time, funds and motivation, was more stress than I or anyone else could really need.

Still, home stretch now, nearly there. And I'm looking forward to Dunsfold!