I bought my car just after Christmas and have spent a bit of time sorting a few things, including rebuilding air pump, and replacing all the air springs. I have a few other niggles which I thought I would feed you one at a time!

So firstly , I have noticed, under the car, just behind the engine block, in what looks like a bell housing. there is a hole at approx 2" diameter with 3 bolt holes around its perimeter. Clearly there is a cover plate missing here, so the question is, is it important that I replace it?
(is it a dust cover of little consequence, or should the chamber be full of oil)

That sounds like the inspection plate, you should be able to see flex plate etc through that.. just put 1 back on so no crud/debris gets in

Thanks,

I thought it probably was, but had a nagging feeling that some gearing was being tortured due to lack of oil.

Julian