Top Tips

Fuse-box overload
A clue to potential problems: Fuse box gets much hotter than is healthy when full beams, fan, wipers and h.r.w. are required to survive the motorway. Main symptoms: hesitant function on a starter otherwise testing OK; headlights fluctuating bright/dim/bright, and finally main-beam burn out. Various 'experts' failed to rectify these problems. They were finally cured, at a standard call-out fee of £28, the auto-electrician added a second fuse box to the car and attached all the heavy current using items to this fuse box instead of the original. Result, a P6 that can use all its electrical essentials in the foulest of weather and road conditions. Derek Weston

Battery Cut-Off (A simpler solution?)
Further to Derek Westons' sensible advice to use a Rally Cut-Off Switch as a security device in the main power lead on your Series Two. May I make a suggestion to keep your clock going that is certainly quicker, easier and cheaper, and dare I say it perhaps more elegant!
When installing the cut-out switch install an in-line fuse link, in parallel, across the same two terminal points, with a low amperage fuse sufficient to run the clock and interior light, (ensure that the wire is rated well above the blow rate for the fuse).
Power will now flow from the battery, through the fuse link, when the cut-out key is removed, to maintain the normal clock and interior light functions. However should any miscreant (of forgetful owner!) attempt to start the car without re-installing the cut-out key, the increased load will blow the fuse and security will not be compromised. Upon his return to the vehicle the owner will now know that his vehicle has been tampered with, but merely has to replace the fuse at a convenient time to restore the ongoing clock operation. The battery cut-off key will restore all functions while inserted. John Carr

Supplement from editor: This will also serve to power an alarm system so providing extra security!

Emergency Oil Supply
Have you ever needed a drop of oil for your car and haven't got any and you're miles from any where? Then use your dipstick!
There is always a small amount of oil on the end of the dipstick and this can be used for many things around the car. Years ago I was plagued by a squeaking distributor, the noise was coming from the contact breaker heel rubbing against the dry distributor cam. One spot of oil from the dipstick and all became silent again.
P.S. I always carry a litre can of oil in the boot just in case I need more than a spot of oil! Alec Wallis