Lessons learnt

I have been meaning for a while to create a list of things I have learnt along the way. The aim of this is to warn new builders of some of the traps I fell into, and show some of the tricks I learnt along the way. Some of this is common sense, some of it is the result of hours of rework. I was never able to find a list like this, although many of these answers are scattered across countless forums and build diaries on the Internet. 

• Check every package and delivery the moment you receive it to make sure its all there, and its what you ordered.
• Understand the order of all tasks and the priorities they have to be done in.
• Never put a task off until later because it's to hard. Do it in the right order.
• Avoid putting all the body panels on as soon as you get it "just to see what it looks like"......huge waste of time (I never did this ;)
• Where possible test fit each part for alignment before fixing or tightening.
• Use copper grease on all splines
• Use Loctite on all bolts
• Check and replace spigot bearing ($5 bearing at the back of the motor that supports the gearbox input shaft)
• Don't use rubber hoses for hydraulics
• Don't activate master cylinder pistons with no fluid in them, the pistons will jam.
• Do the wiring as early as possible.
• Test every wire as soon as possible for continuity.
• Don't put the scuttle on until EVERYTHING underneath it is done
• Don't put the nose cone on until the cooling system has been tested
• Test fluid systems for leaks as early as possible when they are easy to fix.
• Don't leave fluids idle for long periods.
• Get everything you can on the motor before you fit it (alternator, starter, induction, belts) - make sure it will fit though
• Test thermostat or replace on older motors, before you fit the motor.
• Don't fit something if you don't understand how it functions first.
• Use the right clamps for the job (i.e specific fuel line clamps)
• Position clamp bolts where you can reach them after the car is finished.
• Make sure the steering rack is perfectly aligned when you fit the steering wheel.
• Use the best fluids.
• Always replace Nyloc nuts when you remove them.
• If something is subject to engineering, check and understand the requirements before you start it.
• Don't be afraid to ask or get help!
• If something is proving difficult or not working, walk away and come back later or the next day....I guarantee you will have solved it in your head and the fix will take 5 minutes to implement!

I am sure I will add to this list as I remember other aspects of the build that have been challenging.