Scottish Elises

I notice the front access cover hinge is operating only after a certain amount of give bending the clam, it also then rubs against the clam as I lift it.

It always done this to an extent but suddenly with shiny paint I want to stop the too surfaces rubbing.

Looking for input on some questions such as: Is this common? Is the hinge just stiff? Should it be better secured to the clam?

And any ideas how to improve it.

:

Sounds as if you need to add more spacers under the top plate to raise it a little.

tut

It could be a simple adjustment, however also check if the clam has a split across the gutter part near the hinge this can allow the clam to slightly deform and drop and can cause problems as above

Clam is definitely in good nick. Access cover is stiff enough to stand up by itself do maybe needs a little lube. Will have a go at adjusting it.

are the rivets holding the hinge to the clam still ok, ended up drilling mine out last year and replacing with bolts (rivet gun was too big to fit into the guttering).

Yup, I'm with Les. Had to replace the rivets in mine a few years ago. Now much better. I think I sprayed some PTFE around the place too

Also be careful when adding washers to space the hinge if you go this route. You will lower the closed position of the hinge which can interfere with the radiator.

Just ask tut...