Time to update and slowly close this thread. The suspected release bearing issue wasn't resolved yet. The workshop wasn't able to address it, and I only had a little time to spend on the car lately. I spent the time overhauling my garage before the cold weather hits.
MOT went as a breeze, also suspension is set up to a mix of K.S. and Cup specs. Took some effort because of the shims to be used to set up rear camber.
I have driven now around 300 kms, so far not above the 3500-4000 rpm range, put pulling ok so far. Handling is crisp, car is well planted on the road.
The issues found meanwhile:
- Noise from somewhere around the clutch
- A/C compressor clutch is not engaging. System was converted to R134a, and I also replaced the pulley bearing, hopefully it's only a loose connection around the magnet.
- Oil leak between LH cylinder head and it's front cover, the dreaded shoelace gasket. This has to wait, as I don't wan't to tear apart the whole timing again. Will monitor severity but might wait until the next timing belt change.
- Readjust idle. Now that everything was cleaned, it's around 1000 rpm
We had our local club meet this weekend, finally I was able to attend. Been nearly 3 years since started this thread.