UNDER-BONNET JOBS

Air filter Clean the filter housing and replace the element every 24,000 miles or if it’s visibly dirty.

Cooling system Check the radiator, heater matrix, expansion tank, pressure cap and all hoses for damage, deterioration and leaks. Flush and refill with fresh antifreeze at least every three years. There are drain plugs on each side of the engine and under the radiator.

Alternator belt Check condition and tension. Deflection should be around ½in (13mm) under firm finger pressure halfway along the longest run.

Accelerator linkages Sparingly lubricate all moving parts. Wear is a common problem. Remove the air filter assembly and check for wear and play, especially in the ball pivots at each end of the shaft running towards the front of the car from the left-hand side of the bulkhead. New pivots are inexpensive (just over £5 for two).

Engine oil Remove the sump plug (14mm Allen) with the engine warm. Remove the filter casing (17mm socket), clean thoroughly and refit with a new element and a new sealing ring smeared with fresh oil. Replace the sump plug washer if necessary and refill.

Injection system Check all hoses and connections for damage and deterioration. Check for leaks with the engine running.

Ignition system Clean and inspect the distributor cap, internal dust shield, rotor arm and HT leads. Renew anything that’s imperfect. Check the ignition timing, ideally using a timing strobe.

Breather hoses Make sure they’re in good condition and haven’t collapsed internally.

Spark plugs Remove with a 13/16in spark plug socket. Clean the electrodes with a brass wire brush and set the gaps at least every 12,000 miles. Renew every 30,000 miles. Give the threads a dab of copper grease before fitting. It’s a fiddly job. Removing the expansion tank will help.