Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Dan Owen, 26-Nov-2006, 11:42am
Hi Chris,
I also lost interest in PC some time ago, mainly due to the influx of late 80s and 90s cars, some of which are bangers while others are just secondhand, and then of course there's the totally in-practical exotica, but I digress. I do still have a look while in Tescos (if the neanderthal security guard isn't around) and I've noticed some real howlers creeping in, and not just Triumph related. I think a lot of the mag is now written by spotty kids on work experience who would sooner be at Max Power or whatever...
I also lost interest in PC some time ago, mainly due to the influx of late 80s and 90s cars, some of which are bangers while others are just secondhand, and then of course there's the totally in-practical exotica, but I digress. I do still have a look while in Tescos (if the neanderthal security guard isn't around) and I've noticed some real howlers creeping in, and not just Triumph related. I think a lot of the mag is now written by spotty kids on work experience who would sooner be at Max Power or whatever...
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Colin Wake, 26-Nov-2006, 08:14pm
I spotted the bit about the grease as soon as I read the article after buying teh mag Saturday morning.
Email was fired off immediately.
If everybody does it, perhaps they will get the message!
Cheers
Colin
Email was fired off immediately.
If everybody does it, perhaps they will get the message!
Cheers
Colin
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Graham Cowan, 28-Nov-2006, 08:18am
Every manual I have seen tells us to remove the blanking plug and fit a GREASE nipple for lubrication, albeit followed by the recommended use of EP90
oil. So, there really is no excuse for the PC error. However, isn't it about time we all started referring to this as an OIL nipple, then maybe the
message will eventually get across.
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Mike Crewes, 14-Dec-2006, 05:54pm
Guys
I have received the following message from Practical Classics and have been asked to post it on their behalf.
"We wish to acknowledge that we made error made during our regular GT6 restoration and want to reassure you that Graham Flemington, our staff writer, is a talented and knowledgeable classic car restorer who was informed that grease was appropriate by a number of proven resources. Any further help or advice is welcomed by your members.
As for the influx of 1980's and 1990's cars, we feel that there are classics emerging from these eras. To keep the movement alive for the next generation of enthusiasts it is imperative that we represent this sector of the readership in our publication. It is difficult to achieve a balance of the often disparate interests that our readers have and we welcome comments and guidance from those who read the magazine.
Perhaps you could post this on your forum in the GT6 section under the 'Craptical Plastics' topic.
Thank you for your time and should you want to discuss anything in future please feel free to telephone on either number below.
Regards,
Matt Jones"
Regards
Mike
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Chris Taylor, 14-Dec-2006, 11:43pm
THIS REALLY ANNOYS ME! What better source is there for the correct lubrication regime for a GT6 than Standard Triumph? It's not as if the original information is some state secret! And you don't even need the factory service manual as the owner's handbook (and Haynes's manual) tells you what to do!
Unless someone has found a serious defect in the original, or something much better has come on the market since, or originals are completely unobtainable or have been made illegal, WHY CHANGE FROM THE ORIGINAL?
ST no doubt spent 100's of thousands of pounds on developing the cars so I'm pretty confident they know better on most things than many of today's so-called experts.
While not singling out any individuals, or suggesting their requests for help should fall on deaf ears, I am amzed by how many items on this board can be simply answered in one of two (related) ways:
1. LOOK IT UP IN THE BOOK
2. SET EVERYTHING TO FACTORY SETTINGS (as per the book)
If a leading restoration magazine chooses to quote so-called experts rather than consult widely available source documents, then I am disappointed.-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : James Fotheringham, 15-Dec-2006, 10:50am
Chris,
I wholeheartedly agree on the matter of PC not looking up the FIRST thing any Triumph owner is told about; its practically on the the Ten commandments.
"Thou shalt use EP90 in thine trunnions"
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Dan Owen, 15-Dec-2006, 12:48pm
I think we touched a nerve there at PC with this thread! You have to wonder who their "experts" are though, don't you?-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Tim Peacock, 15-Dec-2006, 04:50pm
I lost interest in PC after years of subscription when the editor changed and all they seemed to want to do was stick a Ford Zetec or similar modern engine into anything old with four wheels. If that's your bag then don't buy a classic, buy an MX-5! Oh, hang on, according to PC they're classics as well......
While I respect the journalist&8217;s enthusiasm for classic cars, as a national magazine selling for a not inconsiderable sum, they do have a responsibility to check their facts and print accurate information. As has been said, it's really not difficult to check the Haynes manual.
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : James Fotheringham, 15-Dec-2006, 09:37pm
I agree with the esteemed member that dropping Zetecs in anything over 20yrs old isn't the way forward!
But an MX5 from 91-92 with popup headlights? That is a classic car! -
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Calvin Andrew, 16-Dec-2006, 11:41am
hang on, i want a zetec in my bond equipe, that car was effectively dead and scrap when i bought it and it is now rejuvenated and running, so what if the engine is out of a modern ford. i want an equipe that goes very quickly indeed, that is my bag, classic looks, modern go. Still don't buy practical classics though.
Calvin-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Steve Cureton, 17-Dec-2006, 09:12am
I like PC and have subscribed to it for about three years. So they make the occassional clanger - so what? Everyone does! Don't get me wrong, I'd rather they never made a mistake but that's life so let them know their error and move on. -
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : James Fotheringham, 17-Dec-2006, 02:27pm
Don't get me wrong Calvin there is most certainly a time and place for it, but not every single car!!!-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : David Freeman, 19-Dec-2006, 10:03am
I have rants about PC:
1. If you are a direct debit subscriber, which I have been for years, your copy turns up month after month year after year as promised at the ever increasing rate. But, if you subscribe anew, for 1 year, then you get a nice set of pliers, or screwdrivers or somesuch. Makes me want to subscribe and cancel, subscribe and cancel. Flies in the face of 'loyalty' doesn't it??
2. There have been staff changes and losses over the last few years and freelance contributors have been reduced in number. Younger journos have appeared and old stagers have gone, which is sad as old heads are useful in our hobby. It is not for me to comment on the professionalism or commitment of the new people, and indeed fresh, new, ideas are always needed in a long lasting magazine such as PC, but as has been said before, our hobby appeals predominantly to the over 21s, in the more 'hands on' and 'affordable' sector, and the writing perhaps should take cognisance of this fact. For me, as an avid reader of every word, and not just of the cars which I own or have a particular interest or history, it should be balanced with focussed storylines which are filled with background facts and figures and lots of Practical Classic advice. Humour is absolutely essential and good writing is NEVER wasted.
3. Today I received my new copy. There have been changes in the design which includes the size of the typefaces and the colours and layouts of banners, headers, block underlays etc. I am over 45 and my eyes just can't cope with the tiny size of print used in some articles. The block underlay colours used overprinted by low contrast type, rather than a more distinct print, makes certain bits extremely difficult to read, even with glasses. (The 'Dart' article and inserts are a case in point). Pastel colours may be trendy but not every new design fad works. I work as a television producer and it smells of a classic problem we have with computer designers with little TV experience, who design using, smart, high density Mac monitors and have little idea what a domestic tv with lousy 72 DPI resolution can handle. Printing techniques have improved and for sound business reasons editorial must be compressed into fewer and fewer pages and advertorial increased (which seems to be approaching, or has passed, 50% of the mag), but to antagonise your core readers is dangerous.
4. I am married to the idea that to change and develop is a good thing, but fiddle with your brand at your peril. The 'Beano' and 'Marmite' are classic examples of brands which attempted to change their 'look' and promptly returned to the one everyone loved and understood when sales fell dramatically. PC, please don't destroy the years of instant recognition and loyalty by changing the iconic cover of the magazine!
5. As far as content is concerned, the editor is in charge. He is the arbiter of good and bad ideas, which products, vehicles and special themes to feature. The readership will decide if he is doing a good job. One thing is absolutely clear to me, is that vehicles can be dangerous when not correctly maintained. Engineering tests and MOTs are there for a reason. I fell over when I read the advice on Triumph trunnion 'greasing'. No amount of pleading by an editor is going to cover the fact that this was a fundamental, and safety critical, mistake. Damn good job the writer isn't a surgeon, I say.
I shall now get off my soapbox and into my toolbox for a couple of happy hours under a wheel.
Cheers and Chrimbo geetings to all.
David F
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Kevin Rochfort, 19-Dec-2006, 11:02am
Hey, don't knock the new (February) issue of Practical Classics - I'm in it, along with my RBRR Acclaim (at the bottom of page 16)
Whoooo hooooo !!!!!!-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Vin Poonwassie, 19-Dec-2006, 11:26am
Dude, scan it in for those of us too cheap to buy it and to afraid of the cold to go to WHS to see it on the shelf..... (whoever those people might be....) -
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : John Davies, 19-Dec-2006, 12:09pm
The FEBRUARY issue?
It's not even January yet.
I know you're superfamous and all that, Kevin, but transgressing the laws of time and space?
John-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Kevin Rochfort, 19-Dec-2006, 12:50pm
It landed on the doormat yesterday. It would have been Friday or Saturday, but it had to go via the Royal Mail redirection service to my new abode.
It's not only myself who is in it, but also your good self - unfortunately only half of you, but still recognizeable (just). It looks like Vin was cropped off the edge of the photo, which is about 1.5" wide !
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : John Davies, 19-Dec-2006, 03:44pm
O Time Lord Kevin,
All is explained.
Well, sort of.
On the PC website you can see "Our next issue", January 2007 (!!!)
"available from November 20th"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
So I'm sorry, Kevin, you're demoted to just Doctor's Assistant, travelling in the Tardis that is Craptical Plassics.
JOhn
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Ian Osprey, 19-Dec-2006, 09:36pm
.... and I got an e-mail into spotters corner. Well, a bit of my e-mail.
I do agree about the new layout. Looks good lying open on the table, but god forbid you try to read it in anything but full daylight!.-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Danial Phoenix, 19-Dec-2006, 10:08pm
might as well say my bit. I bought it 3 times in last 4 months, found it full of newer cars and not many Real classics. was overpriced and nothing information wise i couldant have got from a manual, was hoping for more readers cars, restortion stories and a nice range of older cars of all styles modified/origional/updated origionals. is there one like this?-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Mark Stradling, 19-Dec-2006, 10:43pm
Retro Cars...Doh!
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Chris Taylor, 19-Dec-2006, 11:57am
Although 'twas me started this thread (and the title was a joke with a friend over 20 years ago, and was originally something of a term of endearment believe it or not) I have to say that I am becoming disappointed with ALL the classic car mags. While to some extent I suppose after some 20 years one can expect to see similar stuff regurgitated, the modern trend to have a full size article spend much its time talking about the car's style, which we can all appreciate from the (consistently good) photos, there is much less about how the car drives and any decent writing on its technical features; I want to know how they work, and how well they actually do the job they were designed to do, and how well they have stood the test of time.
Sadly there is little attempt at this, and sometimes when it's attempted they get it wrong.
I suppose it is a sign of the times that so much of some mags is filled with adverts, but there are still interesting cars that I have not seen an article on for many years, if ever; Riley Pathfinder, Lancia Flavia, Amphicar, AC Greyhound, Alfa 2600, Fiat 2300S (VERY attractive), the "other" Issigonis designs besides Minor and Mini. And almost the whole of the pre-WW2 scene seems to be left to "The Automobile" for a period with SO much variety and scope. I am sure we can all produce our own wishlists.
Fortunately one gets plenty of the techy stuff on this message board (although sadly less in the Courier) and as long as I can oggle the pretty pictures in the newsagent, I can save my money (and save a tree or two!!).-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Jon Morton, 19-Dec-2006, 12:16pm
Well it would seem that CP are watching this thread. It might be worth venting a bit more then emailing the editor to have another read.
There would seem to be enough info from members on this board to do a yearly bumper glossy Magazine. It could be a nice way to add some coffers to the TSSC bank account.
Jon
P.S: I agree about the decline of techi bits in the Courier, although undoubtedly a wonderful publication, I do find the most well thumbed ones are those with great technical info, like the resent tech article about distributors.
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : George Ralph, 19-Dec-2006, 12:44pm
I think an indication of where all these mags are going (or coming from) is illustrated by the contributors own cars. VW Golfs, E30 banger BMWs etc......'Nuff said!-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Mark Stradling, 19-Dec-2006, 01:12pm
And what's wrong with those cars exactly? When I first started reading mags. like PC it would have been about 10 yrs ago and they were running features on cars like the Spitfire that only went in to/out of production 20 years before.
We are now 10 years on and the cars that went in to/out of production 20 years ago are things like the Mk 1 Golf and E30 BMW.
If it's a question of nationality, do you REALLY want articles on the Rover 213, a car even the photographers best colour effect filter can not save!
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Calvin Andrew, 19-Dec-2006, 01:15pm
what is wrong with Japanese cars?
Calvin-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Vin Poonwassie, 19-Dec-2006, 01:44pm
they stole Triumphs design for the Acclaim and used it one of their Honda's
(ps, any similarity with reality is purely coincidental....)
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : George Ralph, 19-Dec-2006, 03:52pm
I guess I'm just an old fart who struggles with that fact that the cars I am interested in are mostly considerably older than the editorial staff of the magazines that purport to represent that interest!
I read all the mags regularly (I'm a soft touch) and I do perceive that the demographics are changing. At the one end, '80s and sometimes '90s cars are creeping into the classics magazines and the '50s & '60s are gradually being edged out with nowhere to go.-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : David Freeman, 19-Dec-2006, 05:38pm
Try and keep to the thread, all. It's drifting again.
Are we still on the subject of PC or what?
For me, it is still essential monthly reading, despite the changes. The massive oil-stained and well thumbed pile I have in my shed is a testament to that. Yes, they get it wrong sometimes, as would I if faced with some Russian beast with an odd suspension issue, but then again, I don't charge for my services or tell hundreds of people what's what. The mag isn't cheap any longer, but neither is beer. The colour reproduction is excellent and articles and features still numerous, interesting and most are written in a wry or witty style. So what if more modern cars are covered? We're all getting older, as is the tin. For me, modern cars don't ring my bell and tricked Corsas make me physically sick (especially those that tunelessly thump thump on our streets with an Albert Hall PA on board).
If the mag served up an endless supply of 'new' cars less than 20 years old I would seriously consider ending my subscription. The trouble is, surely, that cars under 20 or even 30 years old are...... boring. I open the bonnet on my 98 Mitsubishi people carrier and shut it quickly. There is no soul there at all.
And I need soul in my life.
DF
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : John Davies, 19-Dec-2006, 05:47pm
Oh, come on, David!
This isn't "Question Time".
Or the Parliamentary Labour Party.
Once every one has said their piece about the original subject, either the thread dies or it drifts away, just like any conversation.
Hey, that's a good one, "Old threads never die, they only drift away."
Rather like PC.
There! Back on message again!
John-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : David Freeman, 19-Dec-2006, 05:49pm
Just testing my Dimbleby creds...
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Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Andy Cook, 20-Dec-2006, 00:22am
Crikey, I forgot just how boxy these looked, and I used to own the 216 version back in; the early 90's!
The worst thing about the Rover 213 is that could be said to be the Triumph Herald of it's day!, ie Herald was replaced by Toledo was replaced by Acclaim was replaced by Rover 213!!!-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Richard Green, 20-Dec-2006, 04:40am
whats a rover ???-
Craptical Plastics
Posted By : Clive Speaks, 20-Dec-2006, 04:10pm
and they are printing a correction very soon. also they have decided to alter the font style and background in future editions
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