Well, this morning I went to start the 8v and she sprang into life. I decided before I set off for the MOT, I'd check the voltage output from the alternator. Turns out it is pumping out 13.36V. No worries. Drove to the test centre and left her there while I walked to the pub (fresh orange and lemonade I'd like to add). 5 minutes after the test had begun, he's on the phone informing me he can't open the bonnet to get to the VIN plate. "Has it failed on the first test" I thought? I informed him of the emergency release accesible behind the grill. One hour later, I turn up at the garage and right enough she had failed. 1 blown bulb on the nearside repeater, no rear number plate surrounds (tracked to broken wire inside rubber sheath between boot lid and roof). Rear exhaust hanger rubber missing. Rear seat belts not tested as they were under the rear seat!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Handbrake not working on one side (was working before I put it in, now the handbrake lever points skyward, thinking heavy handed mechanic here). Rear brake back plate not secure or something. Anyhoo, apart from the handbrake, I've sorted all the PETTY stuff out so fingers crossed she'll be ready for the weekend. Who knows, seeing as she behaved, I might treat her to a full Mongoose stainless system when I see the PASS certificate.
