Jaguar MKVII Engine Leak – The Process
February 4, 2021
We’ve diagnosed an oil leak in the Jaguar MKVII as a result of a faulty component. Take a look at the walk through below to
Craig Ranson
Managing Director – Bridge Classic Cars
Our Peony Red Jensen Has Blossomed
February 4, 2021
Yesterday afternoon was the moment we’ve all be waiting for. The first drop of Peony Red paint has been applied to our 1960 541S Jensen.
Electric Classic Cars – February 2021
February 4, 2021
Eye spy a little turquoise mini! A little while ago, we worked on a 1967 Austin Mini 850 for Electric Classic Cars who aimed to
Chris Harris Drag Races His Citreon 2CV
February 3, 2021
An interesting video for those looking for an entertaining tea-break watch! Back in December 2020, Chris Harris and friend, Andrew Frankel, settled their long-debated question
Suzuki Fuel Tank Redesign
February 3, 2021
Craig’s 1984 Suzuki GSX 400T has had its fuel tank redesigned by Clinton from Holdsworth Artisan Metal Craft. This has been done by reshaping the
New Carpets In The MGB
February 3, 2021
Our 1975 Tundra Green MGB has popped back in for a new carpet before its stored with us. Brian in the trim shop has recently
Ford Escort Valuation
February 3, 2021
We recently had a request in for the valuation of this 1983 Ford Escort RS1600i. As part of our services, we offer classic car valuations,
Austin Nippy Regaining Its Spirit
February 3, 2021
Our Austin Seven Nippy engine has recently been sent off to Ian R Bancroft Restorations to make sure everything is moving, turning and working as
TR5 Update
February 3, 2021
The reverse lights have been fitted to the TR5 along with the fuel gauge sender unit fuel return pipes and fuel hose filler. Rubber and
Jaguar XK150 Carpet Progress
February 3, 2021
Our stunning Jaguar XK150 partial trim restoration is progressing well as the trim shop finish the boot carpet and continue with the other sections inside
The Peony Red Jensen Is Almost Peony Red
February 3, 2021
Step by step, our Peony red 1960 541S Jensen gets closer to actually being Peony Red. We’ve been referring to it with its colour but
Local Couple Convert Rare Van Into Off-Grid Home
February 3, 2021
A local couple from Southwold have recently bought their second van that they plan to turn into their own portable home as they get set
Daytona Masking
February 2, 2021
The Daytona is days away from entering the paint shop and we can’t wait! Scott is currently masking it up to protects elements of the
T4 To Be Rust T-Total
February 2, 2021
James has just begun disassembling the VW T4 Transporter Campervan ready for its bodywork and paint. This includes taking off the bull bars, the glass,
Black Jensen’s Snag List
February 2, 2021
We’ve created a simple video walk around for our client to see his almost finished Jensen. As he lives in Germany it means that it
Building Suspension…
February 2, 2021
The front suspension has been finished and fitted back in. The brakes have also been bled. Tom has been working on rewiring the rear lights,
Jaguar MKVII Renovation Begins
February 2, 2021
The stripping process has begun for our Jaguar however the preparation procedure itself isn’t a quick job. There are lots of parts that need our
BMW Portraits From @Tomboy_A_Bit
February 2, 2021
Deimante has sent us these stunning portraits that her partner took when they came to visit our hanger last week. These stunning photos really do
Jaguar E-Type Redesign
February 2, 2021
We’re working on a full restoration for this lovely Beverly Hills 1973 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12. Originally sourced by us from Beverly Hills Car
Another Happy Winner
February 2, 2021
Our Daimler arrived safe and sound with Gabriel Oconnell last week. We loaded up the lorry and sent it on its way over to near
Aston Martin Arrival
February 2, 2021
Craig has recently purchased a new car which we’re sorry to say isn’t our next competition car. This beautiful modern Aston will be Craig’s new
New TVR On The Block
February 2, 2021
This stunning blue 1998 TVR Chimaera has come in for some interior trim work. Its in need of new carpets and some leather work. We’re
Meet The Team: Mike
February 1, 2021
It’s time for another instalment of meet the team! Today we chatted to Mike, our hard-working accountant, for whom is responsible for making sure we
Stories From Across the Pond
February 1, 2021
Some American friends of Bridge have recently sent through some interesting stateside car news and stories. Hershey Car Show Our friends across the pond sent
Mr Bache – Southampton
February 1, 2021
“I’m writing this review because I’m telling you now that this is 100% real. I wasn’t sure about it at first because I had mixed
Jeep’s 80th Anniversary: From Willy’s To Wrangler
February 1, 2021
With 2021 marking Jeep’s 80th anniversary, they’re releasing special edition versions of the Renegade and Wrangler SUVs. The unique editions will come with an “80th Anniversary” badging, unique 18-inch
Another Happy Winner
February 1, 2021
Last week we delivered our 1979 Chevrolet Corvette to a delighted Lee Bache in Southampton. After only buying a singular ticket for his first competition
tomboy_a_bit – BMW Z3M Feature – January 2021
February 1, 2021
We’ve been incredibly lucky to have Deimante aka @tomboy_a_bit down at our hanger at Bentwaters again to shoot with some of our cars! Deimante and
tomboy_a_bit – Francis Barnett Feature – January 2021
February 1, 2021
Back in 2019, we shot with Deimante aka @tomboy_a_bit at Bentwaters. Deimante is a die-hard motorbike fanatic and we couldn’t think of anyone more experienced
Eva’s Handbrake Gaiter
January 29, 2021
Kath has been making the handbrake gaiter for our 1961 Morris Mini Deluxe, ‘Eva’. Kath made this by measuring out a pattern against the old
Jaguar MKVII Engine Leak – The Process
February 4, 2021
We’ve diagnosed an oil leak in the Jaguar MKVII as a result of a faulty component. Take a look at the walk through below to see what the issue was and how we resolved it…
Image 1: MK7 jag engine with the sump off to allow Ady to start working his way into the engine. The sump, or the oil pan, is a metal dish that covers the bottom of the engine block and holds the engine oil when it is not circulating.
Image 2: Oil filter housing.
Image 3&4: The engine sump
Image 5&6: This is the cork seal which we discovered has been fitted incorrectly which lead to the engine leak.
So now what? We’ve identified the issue, its time to fix it!
The cork sealant had been attached incorrectly, meaning it had twisted and more importantly, been let oil out. Ady, our engine specialist has got some more cork and new gaskets to fit either end of the oil sump and across the edges, meaning that the oil will stay where its meant to be.
Our Peony Red Jensen Has Blossomed
February 4, 2021
Yesterday afternoon was the moment we’ve all be waiting for. The first drop of Peony Red paint has been applied to our 1960 541S Jensen. For months we’ve been watching our skilled technicians work on rebuilding and reworking the body of this Jensen and finally its entered the paint shop.
This is a very exciting development in this restoration project as it’s now starting to resemble a classic car! With this fresh layer of paint on, our beautiful Peony Red Jensen is blossoming into the iconic classic it should be.
Chris has been focusing on preparing other exterior elements for paint. Here Chris is working on a front bumper shield.
Our specialist paint technician, Chris, has been dedicated to preparing, masking and painting our beloved Peony Red Jensen. He began by applying primer and guide coat to the bonnet, panels and body. He then rubbed the car down with 320 and 500 sandpaper grit ready for paint. Once the car was masked up, it was ready for paint. Car masked up for a ‘Verkehrsgrau’ grey roof and red bottom. Once the two tones had been applied, Chris could paint on the clear preservative coat.
Electric Classic Cars – February 2021
February 4, 2021
Eye spy a little turquoise mini! A little while ago, we worked on a 1967 Austin Mini 850 for Electric Classic Cars who aimed to turn it into a 300hp electric-powered classic.
Bridge Classic Cars worked on restoring this charming mini and handed it over Electric Classics to finish. Our final touch was the bodywork preparation and paintwork. Our Paint Shop finished the vehicle in a dazzling ‘Surf Blue’.
We love following its progress and can’t wait to see the finished product!
Chris Harris Drag Races His Citreon 2CV
February 3, 2021
An interesting video for those looking for an entertaining tea-break watch! Back in December 2020, Chris Harris and friend, Andrew Frankel, settled their long-debated question over who’s Citroën 2CV was faster.
Suzuki Fuel Tank Redesign
February 3, 2021
Craig’s 1984 Suzuki GSX 400T has had its fuel tank redesigned by Clinton from Holdsworth Artisan Metal Craft. This has been done by reshaping the side panels to allow the rider’s knees to sit more comfortably around the sides. Although this is more of an aesthetic refurbishment, it’s still just as important.
New Carpets In The MGB
February 3, 2021
Our 1975 Tundra Green MGB has popped back in for a new carpet before its stored with us. Brian in the trim shop has recently fitted the new carpet sides around the pedals.
For those that might not remember the Green MGB, here’s a photo of it when it first came to us.
Once the carpet had been fitted, we loaded it up onto the lorry to transport it to our hanger.
Ford Escort Valuation
February 3, 2021
We recently had a request in for the valuation of this 1983 Ford Escort RS1600i. As part of our services, we offer classic car valuations, whether its to help a customer decide whether to sell their car or for insurance policies.
Austin Nippy Regaining Its Spirit
February 3, 2021
Our Austin Seven Nippy engine has recently been sent off to Ian R Bancroft Restorations to make sure everything is moving, turning and working as it should be as we discovered a crack in the crankcase. Once this comes back, Ady, our knowledgable engine specialist can continue to rebuild the engine.
TR5 Update
February 3, 2021
The reverse lights have been fitted to the TR5 along with the fuel gauge sender unit fuel return pipes and fuel hose filler. Rubber and material covered sills have been fitted between the glass and the door panel on the front door windows to allow the glass to move up and down without moving.
Jaguar XK150 Carpet Progress
February 3, 2021
Our stunning Jaguar XK150 partial trim restoration is progressing well as the trim shop finish the boot carpet and continue with the other sections inside the made body.
The pre-existing carpet pieces are carefully glued in bit by bit, making sure that each section fits well and sticks.
The process included glueing the hardheaded sections into boot sides, which, once glued in, left room for the boot floor mat to be fitted. Brian then glued the vinyl around the edges of the rear seat and around the hatch to the boot. He made the millboard panel for the hatch and glued the hardheaded sections to the billboard.
The Peony Red Jensen Is Almost Peony Red
February 3, 2021
Step by step, our Peony red 1960 541S Jensen gets closer to actually being Peony Red. We’ve been referring to it with its colour but its been nothing more than various shades of white or metal for quite a while. Soon, we’ll be able to honestly call it Peony Red.
Chris has been applying the guide coat onto the body and smoothing down all the surfaces, ready for it to be masked and painted.
The Jensen is now sat in primer and once dried, will be painted the infamous Peony Red.
Local Couple Convert Rare Van Into Off-Grid Home
February 3, 2021
A local couple from Southwold have recently bought their second van that they plan to turn into their own portable home as they get set to venture off around the world post-pandemic.
Abbie and Toby (@our.roaminghome) have been planning towards an off-grid lifestyle of travel in their own-build campervan, a classic 1984 Freight Rover Sherpa named Betty. They spent the first lockdown building Betty into a campervan from scratch and their plans haven’t stopped there.
Now completed, the pair are putting Betty up for sale after finding their dream van, a rare 2004 Mercedes Vario, named Vinnie, for which they plan to convert and travel in.
Toby told the Ipswich Star in a recent interview, “We never wanted sales jobs, but we have always wanted to travel and spend time on the roads.
“We love the idea of being independent and living off-grid, being amongst nature. There is so much more to life, and happiness is much more important than money.”
In their new van, they’re aiming to build a platform bed with storage space underneath, a kitchen, shower, compost toilet and a large seating area. Using the intuitive spatial design, Abby and Toby will be able to create a compact but cosy space to live in.
However they’re not just stopping at the basics, the couple is also planning on installing an instant boiler and log burner for those colder trips, a projector fitted in the ceiling, solar panels for on-the-go electricity and a wooden roof deck, perfect to take in their surroundings and watch the sunset.
Their long-term plan is to buy a food trailer to pull behind Vinnie, earning money as they go.
Here’s a few photos from Abbie and Toby’s Instagram page: @our.roaminghome where you can keep up to date with their restoration and travels.
Daytona Masking
February 2, 2021
The Daytona is days away from entering the paint shop and we can’t wait! Scott is currently masking it up to protects elements of the body we don’t want to be painted such as the sills.
We’ve also engineered a frame for the Daytona to sit on to allow Scott to get under and around it easier.
T4 To Be Rust T-Total
February 2, 2021
James has just begun disassembling the VW T4 Transporter Campervan ready for its bodywork and paint. This includes taking off the bull bars, the glass, doors and side panels so that we can tackle the rust.
The inside of the front bumper and all the front supporting structures have been taken apart as well as the side panels and doors taken out to start in-depth work on busting that rust. As a result of the wing and rust removal, James has fabricated the missing areas and welded them in.
Once James had finished removing the rust, he welded new parts in place for each part, as seen below:
Black Jensen’s Snag List
February 2, 2021
We’ve created a simple video walk around for our client to see his almost finished Jensen. As he lives in Germany it means that it isn’t very easy for him to pop over and see his car. We thought it would be easiest to send this in-depth video so that he can see what’s been done, what’s left to do and if there are any adjustments he wants to be made.
Building Suspension…
February 2, 2021
The front suspension has been finished and fitted back in. The brakes have also been bled.
Tom has been working on rewiring the rear lights, indicators and front lights too.
Jaguar MKVII Renovation Begins
February 2, 2021
The stripping process has begun for our Jaguar however the preparation procedure itself isn’t a quick job. There are lots of parts that need our attention before it sees the paint shop.
Ady has been working to restore the fuel tanks. Our 1954 Jaguar MKVII has two fuel tanks rather than the standard one however one of the fuel tanks is suffering from severe rust which we are beginning to tackle.
The chrome has also been removed and the parts ordered to fix the engine leak issue. Once these bits have been fixed, this Jaguar can get ready for paint.
Tom has been attending to the wiring in the front of the Jaguar, especially the front headlights which he’s been removing.
BMW Portraits From @Tomboy_A_Bit
February 2, 2021
Deimante has sent us these stunning portraits that her partner took when they came to visit our hanger last week. These stunning photos really do justice to just how stylist this BMW is!
Don’t forget the live draw is tomorrow night, so get those tickets whilst you can!
Jaguar E-Type Redesign
February 2, 2021
We’re working on a full restoration for this lovely Beverly Hills 1973 Jaguar E-Type Series 3 V12. Originally sourced by us from Beverly Hills Car Club in America, we imported it for the client. The importance of it being from California is that we know it’s been living in a dry state, meaning that the chassis and body work is more likely to be in the best condition. The client aims to keep this e-type over in Germany to be used in Europe, hence the need for a left-hand drive.
The restoration will lead with Californian classic to take on a more traditional British Fern Grey with an Olive or Moss interior. The engine also needs to be rebuilt.
Another Happy Winner
February 2, 2021
Our Daimler arrived safe and sound with Gabriel Oconnell last week. We loaded up the lorry and sent it on its way over to near Cardiff and were delighted to receive a photo of two smiling faces! Gabriel and his wife Margaret were over the moon when it arrived, the smiles tell it all!
We can’t wait to hear about Gabriel’s drives with his new motor as he lives in a beautiful district of wales between Swansea and Cardiff, a stunning backdrop for a stunning car!
This Daimler already has a very special place in their hearts as Gabriel told us he used to visit his brother’s house every fortnight to polish his similar Jaguar XJ. His brother has unfortunately passed away, but we hope this car brings back fond memories.
Gabriel has already joined the Jaguar and Daimler club and has ordered up a car cover to keep his new pride and joy looking show-ready.
Here’s some shots of Russell’s loading up the Daimler ready for its long journey to Wales.
Will you be our next classic car winner? We’ve got a stunning Rolls Royce and a modern classic BMW up for grabs over on our website, check them out!
Aston Martin Arrival
February 2, 2021
Craig has recently purchased a new car which we’re sorry to say isn’t our next competition car. This beautiful modern Aston will be Craig’s new everyday car which will bring a dash of Aston class to our staff car park! Its come all the way from Southampton and was collected at the same time we dropped our Corvette off with its new owner. We love it when a plan comes together – two new happy owners in one day.
We expect to be doing a few touch ups on it however its not in need of anything major. The first step is a thorough service.
New TVR On The Block
February 2, 2021
This stunning blue 1998 TVR Chimaera has come in for some interior trim work. Its in need of new carpets and some leather work.
We’re incredibly lucky to have our own in house trim shop and trim team which is now three strong! Over the last year, we’ve gone from one trim technician to a whole department with its specialist team. This means that everything is done under one roof, ensuring that all our restorations are up to the same quality. Its also reduces outsourcing, meaning the time frames are shortened as we rarely have to wait whilst trim parts are ordered in or fitted elsewhere.
If your car is needing an interior trim freshen up, don’t hesitate to get in touch! Give us a call on 01473 742038 or pop us an email on info@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
Meet The Team: Mike
February 1, 2021
It’s time for another instalment of meet the team! Today we chatted to Mike, our hard-working accountant, for whom is responsible for making sure we have everything we need and keeps us on track. We don’t know where we’d be without him!
Mike is our director Craig’s, Uncle, showing yet again how family-run we really are here at Bridge Classic Cars. Mike has worked with Craig and Gordon for many years from Boots to Inteck and then officially joined us full-time last year after helping out on a part-time basis for a while.
Mike’s first car was a Datsun (Nissan) Cherry, now a much loved classic!
When Mike isn’t pouring over our finances and data, you can find him in his garden, tending to his much-loved flowers and veggies. Mike tells us, “Agapanthus and Peonies are my favourite flowers. For my 60th, I dug myself a new border and planted some more Peonies, Agapanthus and Hydrandreas!”
Stories From Across the Pond
February 1, 2021
Some American friends of Bridge have recently sent through some interesting stateside car news and stories.
Hershey Car Show
Our friends across the pond sent us these lovely photos from the Hershey Car show in 2019. We love seeing classics from all around the world as every country has such a unique style. Hershey car show is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania and is dedicated to classic and collectors cars. But Hershey is of course also famous for its famous chocolate and sweets.
1969 Pontiac GTO Survivor
The Pontiac GTO Survivor is the iconic American muscle car, its embodies everything that muscle cars are. Tom Kennedy wrote a feature for The Legend magazine about his history with his beloved GTO Survivor, which you can read below.
Mr Bache – Southampton
February 1, 2021
“I’m writing this review because I’m telling you now that this is 100% real. I wasn’t sure about it at first because I had mixed emotions, never really participate in things like this. I used to put on football bets for a bit of fun on the weekend and won nothing, I think personally that I have better chances with better odds buying a ticket with these guys. I bought one ticket and mine was the lucky one. I’m so happy. My Chevrolet Corvette was delivered this morning and it was a dream. The car is in mint condition. All the staff were very accommodating, answered the phone at any time of the day and gave me all the information I needed. I would strongly recommend Bridge Classic Cars to anyone. With tickets under £10 is nothing. OK mine was £17.50 but at the end of the day I own a American muscle car 💪 the buzz is amazing! Buy your tickets and you never know you could be a happy lucky winner like me.”
Jeep’s 80th Anniversary: From Willy’s To Wrangler
February 1, 2021
With 2021 marking Jeep’s 80th anniversary, they’re releasing special edition versions of the Renegade and Wrangler SUVs. The unique editions will come with an “80th Anniversary” badging, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and Granite Crystal paint.
Jeep forged their way into the automobile world in the height of world war two. Jeeps were designed to be nimble and versatile on the battlefield, tackling any terrain and light enough to be pushed when stuck. Although there are many versions of the founding story of Jeep, there are a few facts that remain trusted.
The American Military put out a request to American automobile designers to come up with an appropriate vehicle however the only responses they received were from two, small companies: Willys-Overland Motor Co and Bantam Car Co. However the American Military had it’s concerned so it invited Ford Motors to join the assembly.
All companies produced a vehicle that was intended to meet the specifications however both fell short in varying aspects. The Willys Quad had a powerful 60-hp Go Devil four-cylinder engine which put it head and shoulders above the other in terms of power. The Ford Pygmy unique and advanced craftsmanship, as it was designed with a flat hood and flat fenders that the War Department saw as useful and intuitive features. Bantam, who has previously provided a vehicle design that subsequently failed, produced an updated design that became the lightest and most fuel-efficient of the three.
In 1941, Willys-Overland Motor Co. received their first contract to produce the Willys MB for the American military that featured design aspects from each contribution. A second contract was then awarded to Ford to keep up with the demand. Bantam was given a contract to build trailers used alongside the Jeeps.
After the war, the designs were adapted for civilian use, and so the Jeep franchise grew but not without gaining the ‘Jeep Curse’ as it chewed up and spat out several owners over its long history.
Back in 2018, in the midst of the Beast From The East, we worked on a 1944 Ford GPW Willys’ Jeep that had an issue with a valve stuck open. This model was one of the original American Military Jeeps and an absolute pleasure to work on. Even at 77 years old, nothing could stop this little Jeep.
Another Happy Winner
February 1, 2021
Last week we delivered our 1979 Chevrolet Corvette to a delighted Lee Bache in Southampton. After only buying a singular ticket for his first competition entry at Bridge, Lee couldn’t believe his luck when his name and number was picked!
Lee told us he couldn’t wait to drive it around the New Forest, which we can be sure, will be a stunning drive to both experience and watch.
Lee was heard about Bridge Classic Car Competitions when his friend, Claudio, told him about the car giveaways. Claudio has entered multiple times with us and it was our characterful yellow Rover Mini that caught his eye. We love to hear stories of friends entering and getting involved with our competitions and can’t wait to see Lee and his friends enjoy this amazing motor.
Lee left a lovely review shortly after recieving his new motor:
“I’m writing this review because I’m telling you now that this is 100% real. I wasn’t sure about it at first because I had mixed emotions, never really participate in things like this. I used to put on football bets for a bit of fun on the weekend and won nothing, I think personally that I have better chances with better odds buying a ticket with these guys. I bought one ticket and mine was the lucky one. I’m so happy. My Chevrolet corvette was delivered this morning and it was a dream. The car is in mint condition. All the staff were very accommodating, answered the phone at any time of the day and gave me all the information I needed. I would strongly recommend Bridge Classic Cars to anyone. With tickets under £10 is nothing. OK, mine was £17.50 but at the end of the day, I own an American muscle car 💪 the buzz is amazing! Buy your tickets and you never know you could be a happy lucky winner like me.”
A big thank you to Claudio who also took some of the photos you see below – thanks for helping us capture this special moment!
If you fancy your chances at being our next classic car winner, check out our current motors! We’ve got two more charming red classics that could be yours for under £10!
1992 Rolls Royce Silver Spirit II
tomboy_a_bit – BMW Z3M Feature – January 2021
February 1, 2021
We’ve been incredibly lucky to have Deimante aka @tomboy_a_bit down at our hanger at Bentwaters again to shoot with some of our cars! Deimante and her partner took some time to shoot with our beautiful BMW last week and produced some stunning shots!
You can check out her post here or view them below!
tomboy_a_bit – Francis Barnett Feature – January 2021
February 1, 2021
Back in 2019, we shot with Deimante aka @tomboy_a_bit at Bentwaters. Deimante is a die-hard motorbike fanatic and we couldn’t think of anyone more experienced than her to test out our beloved trial bike.
Deimante produced this video seen below where she talks about the interesting history of the bike and the quirks of riding it. From that day, we gathered plenty of photos and videos, some of which you’ll see on our website and other bits you can find on Deimante’s social media, so keep an eye out!
This charming bike is up for sale with us and you can check it out here.
Eva’s Handbrake Gaiter
January 29, 2021
Kath has been making the handbrake gaiter for our 1961 Morris Mini Deluxe, ‘Eva’. Kath made this by measuring out a pattern against the old on and working new leather into a gaiter to mimic the old version.
