The other problem is a clunk when changing gear, or especially when pulling away. This has become increasingly annoying / worrying, and is sometimes accompanied by a grating noise at low speeds. In fact, it's similar to the behaviour that Thomas (the car's previous owner) described here. The noise seems to be worse at some times than others, but the clunk is constant.
Anyway, I popped up to my parents' house today to get a good look around the car in daylight (my first opportunity without rushing!). I got my father to slip the clutch against the handbrake, and saw the whole engine move back about 2 inches! I'm now sure that the mounting bush Andrew mentioned in the thread linked above is dead, and that replacing it will cure the clunk. This will be done this week, as long as the Stealer can come up with the part.
I got to pull at the roll control linkages behind the front wheels today too. The car did roll both ways, but it took quite an effort. Is this normal? Also, it didn't seem to return when the linkage was released, but only when I pushed it back. It's probably fine, and certainly seems to drive OK. I probably haven't got a mechanic's grip! Any opinions appreciated.
Apart from the clunk and the brakes, the car is still GREAT to drive. Fuel economy is poor (roughly 20MPG), but that's to be expected when I take it for a 12 mile spin over the Pennines at lunchtime (just for fun!). Don't know if anybody knows the A58 between Littleborough (near Rochdale) and Baitings Dam (near Ripponden) but it's a safe and exhilarating way to enjoy an Activa in your lunch break.
James
I spray the linkages where they run through the blocks with spray grease from time to time and when I'm feeling like doing the job properly, dismantle them, clean them and give them a proper greasing.
) and because the WD40 always removed the noise, I ruled this possible cause out.