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Craig Ranson

Managing Director – Bridge Classic Cars

Building Update: Doors for the New Workshop Extension

November 15, 2021

Our in-house paint team at Bridge Classic Cars have been busy preparing and painting the new doors for our workshop extension!

These are being painted to match our existing doors and are brand new safety units to make sure not only do they look good but they also will meet the newest safety standards. With the stage that the new extension is at, these will be installed very soon.

Wing Walk – Working on the Rear Wing of the 1951 Riley RMB

November 15, 2021

James has been continuing with the bodywork of the 1951 Riley RMB that is in at Bridge Classic Cars for restoration. Our in-house fabrication team have had the rear wing of the Riley on the workbench to carry on with replacing the areas that needed attention.

Many of the flanges and construction have issues, whether it is rust or bad previous repairs, and needed to be entirely remade from scratch. James used the remaining original pieces to recreate them in the closest materials to the original and used original techniques to shape, move and mould the metal to where it needed to be.

James constantly test fitted pieces to the car to ensure they were fitting correctly and lined up with the original mounting points.

Must Dash – Covering the Dash of the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series III Roadster

November 15, 2021

Brian has been working on the dashboard on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series III Roadster in preparation for the rest of the car being finished off in the workshop over the next few weeks.

Brian, one of our master in-house trim experts, has worked his magic on the dashboard of Fern Grey. Once the original covering had been carefully removed, Brian could then begin to prepare the surface for it’s new cover.

Fern Grey is a special car. Everything on the entire car (not just the interior) has been worked on by our in-house restoration teams. Brian completely recovered the dash in a new black leather piece. But, it’s not just the cover that Brian worked on. The Trim team also refurbished all the trim pieces, especially the air vents on the leading edge of the dash.

Carefully, Brian cut the new cover to accept the dash vents. Then, began to fit them up onto the panel. It looks absolutely sensational.

Primed & Ready – 1977 MGB Roadster is in Primer

November 15, 2021

Whilst the interior for this amazing 1977 MGB Roadster is in with our extremely talented in-house trim shop here at Bridge Classic Cars, the body is in with our paint expert Kris at our in-house paint shop.

Kris has been working on making sure that all the panels and pieces have come off the car carefully and safely for them to be inspected and assessed by Kris experienced eye. From there, Kris could then begin working on the panels to make sure all of the metal beneath the cars dark blue paint was in good order to be worked on.

Thankfully, it was all in really good shape beneath the surface. From that, Kris could then begin to get the car in primer. After several coats, Kris could then begin to test fit the panels back onto the car to make sure before any paint touches the car. The reason for this is to make sure that any working of the panels hasn’t caused them to distort or change shape in any way.

Because of Kris’s experience and care, each panel worked perfectly. Now that the pieces are primed and they fit, it’s soon going to be time for Kris to begin applying his talents to adding colour to this beautiful sportscar.

What Lies Beneath – Inspecting the Sills on the 1992 Toyota MR2

November 15, 2021

As part of any vehicle that comes into Bridge Classic Cars for assessment, the number one priority is the safety of the vehicle. With older cars, this means checking vital chassis points for corrosion, damage or previous bad repairs. The first port of call is normally the sills.

These are the sills on our 1992 Toyota MR2. They’ve seen better days but aren’t in the worst condition that we’ve seen. These have been noted down on the vehicles assessment so our in-house restoration teams can come up with a plan of making this wonderful 1990s Japanese sportscar safe but also give peace of mind that everything has been gone through for it’s owner.

Setting up at the NEC Classic Car Show 2021

November 12, 2021

Our 1967 Austin Mini is ready to be the star of the show this weekend at the NEC in Birmingham. If you are heading to the show, swing by the Electric Classic Cars stand where you will see our collaborative Tesla Powered Mini, built in collaboration with Team C racing take pride of place. Painted by our in-house paint shop, this Mini is now powered by a Tesla motor. Love it or hate it, this Mini certainly grabs attention.

Behind the Scenes – Photoshoot for the 1975 Ford Escort RS Mexico Recreation

November 12, 2021

The Ford Escort Mk1 is an incredible car. But an Escort RS Mexico is another thing all together. This is 1975 Ford Escort RS Mexico Recreation. Think of it almost like an RS Mexico Plus…

This bright green flash made its way down the taxiway of the airbase with its upgraded 2 litre 4 cylinder singing along with all the balance and good grace you should wish from the infamous Pinto engine on a crisp, autumn morning for its date in front of Freddie’s lens. It was time for the customary Bridge Classic Cars Competitions photoshoot with the Escort.

Its stunning green went beyond bright. It was like a beacon amongst the dark asphalt on the ground of the the base. This car features every detail of an original RS Mexico down to everything, including the dials in the dash. Freddie beautifully captured the personality of this car with his photos. A fun and playful character but with a sharp, pinpoint undertone like the racer that inspired it and the countless racers that it inspired.

This amazing 1975 Ford Escort RS Mexico Recreation is currently up for grabs if you fancy being the next owner? All you do is click the link below and enter for your chance to win this incredible car.

Click here to enter to win the 1975 Ford Escort Mk1 RS Mexico Recreation from Bridge Classic Cars Competitions

Refined – Retrimming the Seats of the 1956 Jensen 541

November 11, 2021

The Jensen 541 interiors are special. Each one entirely handmade with the best materials, all crafted and fitted by hand as it would have traditionally been done back at the factory. Kath, our in-house trim expert here at Bridge Classic Cars, has been working on retrimming the front seats of the 1956 Jensen 541.

Those who have been following along will have seen the condition the seats originally came out of the car like. The foam and covering had all but rotted away to dust but the shells were in good condition and reusable. Kath and the trim team refurbished the shells and made brand newly fitted foams to sit inside the fibreglass buckets.

Now, it was time to trim them. On one of the original seat base was a tiny piece of the original leather. A dark, crimson red. This was the colour that was decided on, to be put back to original specification. Kath carefully matched the materials closest to the original colour to be sent to the owner for selection. Once that was decided on, Kath then began the process of getting the coverings cut to shape and fitted. Each piece was templated and the appropriate swatch of material was selected and cut for the job. Using adhesive, gentle heat and small stretching techniques Kath managed to get the covers in place.

The results are incredible. A wonderful testament to not only the skill and craftsmanship of our in-house trim team but to the timeless design of the 541.

Just Like New – Refinishing the Seats of the 1977 MGB Roadster

November 11, 2021

Brian, one of our incredible in-house trim experts at Bridge Classic Cars, has been hard at work rebuilding and refitting the seats of the 1977 MGB Roadster that is currently in at Bridge Classic Cars for restoration.

The seat bases were checked and new rails fitted, to begin with. Then, it was time to begin the process of the new webbing and padding that allows for comfort and support whilst out enjoying these brilliant little sportscars. With the new padding in place, Brian could attach it to the seatbacks and the squab bases. Making sure that the foams for each part were uniform and smooth. Then, slowly and carefully the trim team stretches the dark blue coverings over each of the seats to finish them off.

Once the backs and the bases were bolted together, Brian could then start fitting the handles to the interior mechanisms so the seats would recline and move just live brand new. Then, the finishing touch. The stunning black headrests that complete these wonderfully retrimmed seats.

Final Inspection – Preparing the Triumph TR3A for Birmingham NEC Auction

November 11, 2021

Our in-house restoration technician John has been hard at work getting the 1958 Triumph TR3A ready for its date across the auction block at this years Birmingham NEC Auction.

Upon inspection, it was found that the front main oil seal, sump gasket and the timing cover gaskets were weeping slightly and would need to be replaced. Methodically, John worked through each component carefully to gain access to the affected parts. The entire front valance and radiator needed to be removed due to their proximity to the crank pulley which needs to be removed.

Along with that, quite a bit of the car’s wiring needed to be disconnected in order to safely remove the front valance to gain access. This was also carefully logged and noted for the reinstallation of the components. John carefully catalogued and stored every fixing and bracket to ensure everything went back as it should.

With the front end of the car and the oil pan removed, John could now begin the task of assessing, cleaning and preparing the surfaces for their new gaskets and seals. A crucial process to ensure the best fit and seal for the new gaskets. With the new set of gaskets and seals in place, John refitted the covers and made sure the main oil seal was seated correctly and tight in the crank seal before beginning the process to get the whole car back together.

During that, John also rerouted some of the necessary cables and wires which had been worked on by a previous garage prior to us working on the car to ensure the safety and ease of maintenance were all correct as they should have been.

Once back together, the car was run up to temperature after refilling all the vital fluids such as coolant and oil to ensure that the engine was happy and the car would be in the best condition for its lucky new owner.

Mrs Hughes-Lewis – Suffolk

November 10, 2021

”Thank you so much for doing my DS’s underbody. I’ve had a look at the online pictures, which are fab. I couldn’t be happier 🙂”

Take a Seat – Building and Fitting the Seats to the 1970 Dodge Charger

November 10, 2021

Brian is working on the inside of the 1970 Dodge Charger that is in the Bridge Classic Cars in-house trim shop.

Brian has been building up the seats ready to be fitted into the car, both front and rear. Brian built up the rear seats to get into the car to begin with so that each of the other pieces can be put into place. The rear bench seat splits into two pieces so the careful placement of the covers and fixings to make sure all of the patterns lay straight and true to each other.

Then it was time for the front seats. All the side trims for the front seats needed to be fitted in preparation for them to be fitted into the Chargers cabin. All of these pieces were carefully fitted by Brian as to not mark or scuff any of the plastic trims. Then, once all finished and present they were put into the interior of this amazing Muscle Car.

New Beginnings – Brightwork Off for Refinishing on the 1969 Jensen 541

November 10, 2021

A crucial part of classic sportscars is it’s brightwork. An instantly recognisable symbol for elegance and style, chromework is the cornerstone of a finished classic.

So it’s time to send off all the pieces from our 1956 Jensen 541 that is currently undergoing restoration here at Bridge Classic Cars. These pieces will be sent off to a local specialist to be refinished, polished and cured before being bought back to our workshop and stored ready for when the car is in final assembly.

There will be more on this fantastic project here on the Bridge Classic Cars blog soon.

Issues Found – Looking into an Oil Pressure Issue on the 1973 MGB GT V8

November 10, 2021

Bridge Classic Cars have been working on this 1973 MGB GT V8 that has been in our workshop for a while, and during its testing phase, an issue has been found.

After fitting up, plumbing, wiring and preparing the newly rebuilt V8, the MGB like all of our projects, began its testing phase. After being run up to a temperature several times, our technician John discovered an issue. As part of all engine tests, our technicians remove the oil filter to inspect the condition of the oil and therefore the internals of the engine itself.

Upon inspection, John discovered metal swarf around the inlet of the oil filter. From there, it was time to begin tearing down the engine to get more of a look at what the issue might be. Looking into the oil galleries throughout the block, John found more metal debris. Then, taking his time to carefully remove some of the main caps John discovered them to be quite considerably scored and grooved. Indicative of an oil issue to the crankshaft.

The next step is to take the engine out of the car and begin to take each component apart, inspect and report on each piece.

This Just In – 1992 Toyota MR2

November 10, 2021

It’s not often we get to see more modern classics here in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. But, when we do they are iconic. Take for example this 1992 Toyota MR2 Automatic.

The car is in the process of being assessed and documented by our in-house restoration teams to determine what work will need to be done to make this example of peak 1990s Japanese engineering solid and reliable.

The MR2 is a wonderful mid-engined sportscar. Loved by many throughout the world for its handling, its dynamics and its ease to live with charm. This MR2 is fitted with an automatic gearbox as well as removable roof panels, which add to its everyday usability or weekend fun appeal.

Once the specific departments have looked at the car and issued their findings, expect to see more on this fantastic sportscar here on the Bridge Classic Cars blog.

Final Check-Up – Pre MOT Inspection of the 1984 BMW 635CSi

November 10, 2021

Bridge Classic Cars have it’s latest Bridge Classic Cars Competitions car in the workshop before its draw tomorrow night.

The car is being checked over by our in-house restoration team as part of its delivery and MOT inspection. Our technicians are checking each system is functioning as it should and also that the crucial safety components needed for the MOT are being inspected and addressed if needs be.

There are still tickets available for this stunning 1980s icon! Just head over to Bridge Classic Cars Competitions by clicking the link below.

www.bridgeclassiccarscompetitions.co.uk/product/1984-bmw-635/

Head’s Up – Retrimming the Hardtop on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster

November 10, 2021

From our last post, you saw our in-house restoration technician Scott busy at work in the workshop at Bridge Classic Cars plumbing and wiring the freshly built 5 litre V12 that sits at the heart of this gorgeous E Type Roadster. While that has been going on in the workshop, one crucial piece has been in the trim shop under the talented eye of our expert trimmer Brian.

The hardtop. An important part of any Roadster has been carefully painted by our amazing in-house paint shop in glorious deep black. Then, it was time for Brian to work his magic. Slowly and methodically, Brian began to remove the old headlining to reveal the shell underneath. Some of the material was saved in order to create the templates for the new pieces that would be needed to completely restore the hardtop to a standard matching the car itself.

Brian worked through the hardtop piece by piece to ensure the best and finish possible on such a bespoke project as Fern Grey. Even taking care to form the new openings for the speakers that sit in the pillar behind the drivers and passengers headrests. Once the underlay had been put in and secured, Brian then got to work with the finish touches.

Using swatches of existing black material, Brian took the time to find not only a close colour match but also a complimenting texture to work with the hardtop shell but also the other interior pieces that are in dark green leather. It’s these details that truly make this build, one of a kind.

From Top to Bottom – Treating the Underside of a 1970 Citroen DS

November 9, 2021

Preparing a classic car for winter is very important. And, at Bridge Classic Cars we know what it takes to keep your pride and joy safe. Take for example this 1970 Citroen DS21.

This stunning example of the DS has come into us to have the underside cleaned and treated as part of its winter preparation. For this, it isn’t a case of just laying on a thick coat of undersealer. It takes time, attention, care and an understanding of what each individual car requires.

To begin with, Tamas, evaluated the areas that would require cleaning back more than others. Then to protect the wonderful pale French blue paintwork, he covered the bodywork and delicate components with plastic coverings and specific paint tape as to not damage any part of the car. Then, using a variety of steel, brass and copper wire wheels he removed any contaminants/surface issues. After that was removed from the underside and arches of the car (which on the rear must be removed to take the wheel off) Tamas then cleaned down the surfaces thoroughly and carefully to give the chemical treatment in the undersealer the best conditions to work on.

Over many hours, Tamas patiently applied the undersealer to the bottom of the car. Allowing time between each coat for the chemicals in the spray to flash off and begin to cure. This is crucial in order to get the best coverage and more importantly the best protection for the car over the winter.

Then, the car was left to cure with specifically placed heat lamps to make sure that the treatment cured correctly and evenly on the car.

Behind the Scenes – Making a glovebox for the 1970 Dodge Charger

November 9, 2021

Brian, one of our in-house trim experts at Bridge Classic Cars, has been hard at work fabricating a new glovebox for the 1970 Dodge Charger.

Firstly, Brian created a mockup to use as a template and check the fitment of the piece within the dash itself. Making sure to note down all of the mounts and holes needed to secure it into place.

Then he transferred that onto felt covered hardback to make and bend the shapes needed for the glovebox. Once that was completed, it was riveted together and installed into its final position.

This, is the small but crucial touches our trim-shop are the best at.

Starting Over – Teardown of the Seats on the 1977 MGB Roadster

November 9, 2021

The body for this 1977 MGB Roadster is currently in with Kris in our in-house body shop being worked on to make sure it looks absolutely exceptional when it’s all done. So, while Kris and the body and paint team are busy working on the car, the interior has been handed over to our amazing trim team.

Kath and Brian have been carefully taking apart the original seats from MGB Roadster in the Bridge Classic Cars trim shop. As you can see, the inner workings of the seat need a fair bit of work but that’s no trouble for our talented trim shop.

Piece by piece, Kath and Brian have been dismantling the seats to get them broken down all the way to the frames to assess if anything original can be used.

Keep an eye out here on the Bridge Classic Cars blog for more on the 1977 MGB Roadster.

A Whole New Feel – Recovering the Steering Wheel on the 1970 Dodge Charger

November 9, 2021

Refinishing or recovering a steering wheel is no simple task. The right balance of tactile feel, smoothness, finish and contrast is something that only comes with skills, understanding and complete knowledge of your craft. And that, is why our in-house trim experts at Bridge Classic Cars are the best.

The original wooden wheel on the 1970 Dodge Charger currently in at Bridge Classic Cars for an interior refit had seen better days. It was discoloured, the original varnish has begun to flake away. This just wouldn’t have matched the incredible black and orange theme chosen by the customer. So, Kath recovered the wheel using that colour palette to create a stunning piece for the car.

Kath chose her materials to closely match the existing materials used throughout the iconic muscle car and tie it into the custom interior. Deep black leather with vibrant orange stitching.

Kath measured out the black leather and cut it to size. Allowing a snug but not overly stretched fitment to the wooden wheel underneath. Then, after being hemmed, Kath began to stitch in the piece to envelop the large wooden steering wheel. Something like this, being so intricate and restricted, can only be done by hand and this is where the skill of a true craftsperson shines. The final fit and delicate stitchwork just fit the car, with its custom one-off feel.

With the Grain – Recovering the Centre Console of the 1970 Dodge Charger

November 9, 2021

We have an incredible in-house trim team here at Bridge Classic Cars. They’ve been hard at work on the interior of the 1970 Dodge Charger that is currently in our trim shop.

Here, you can see the work Kath has done refinishing the centre console to match the exterior of the Bright Orange Mopar. Kath carefully removed the original veneers from the piece in order to create templates for the new Orange vinyl that adorns the giant centrepiece of the interior in a wonderful contrast against the rest of the black vinyl.

After cutting out the templates, Kath began to wrap the original pieces after test fitting. Once all in place, Kath cleaned up all of the accompanying brightwork to make the Orange stand out even more. Then, once all the adhesive had correctly cured and settled into place. Kath, test fit the new centre console with the seats just placed in the car.

I think we can all agree, it looks absolutely sensational.

A Delicate Blend – Reworking the Fender of the 1951 Riley RMB

November 9, 2021

Here at Bridge Classic Cars, we have some of the best fabricators in the business we believe. One of the best showcases of this is the incredible work that our in-house fabricator, James, has done on the 1951 Riley RMB.

James has tried to use as much original material as possible during the restoration of the Riley. Only adding in or cutting the panels if needed, or entirely remaking them if completely necessary. Take for example this wing on the RMB, it’s partly original but with new sections, entirely made by hand, grafted into it. Using years of experience, feel and skill, James has managed to recreate the flanged lower section of the wing.

Along with making the panel from scratch, it takes huge amounts of talent that only comes with years of metalworking to carefully and patiently apply his craft to grafting the new piece into the old seamlessly. As you can see, James has pulled off an incredible job!

This Just In – 1970 Citroen DS21

November 9, 2021

It’s always a pleasure to see one of these at our workshop. Such an iconic, fun and interesting car that is beloved by so many throughout the automotive world. It is, of course, a Citroen DS. Specifically, this is a 1970 Citroen DS21.

This car has come into us to be prepared for the winter months ahead. For this, that means cleaning up and treating the whole underside of the car and wheel arches. Our in-house technicians will carefully take back all the road grime and contaminants from the belly of this French marvel and then clean it thoroughly.

After that, it will be treated with a thick coat of under-sealant in order to protect it from the ever inclosing Winter weather that faces all of our classics in the coming months.

Find out more about the process of cleaning, treating and curing the weather protection in our next post about the 1970 Citroen DS21 on the Bridge Classic Cars blog.

Horseless Carriages and Congestion Charges – London to Brighton 2021

November 8, 2021

This weekend saw the running of the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. This years running marks 125 years of drivers pitting their machinery across the roads of the south of this fair isle.

Beginning just before dawn in London’s iconic Hyde Park, the intrepid motorists set off into the maze of streets that web and dart through the capital. Then once out of the hustle and bustle of the busy London streets, the adventurers and their antique machinery could begin to find their way to the south coast.

Through the winding countryside, which must seem so familiar to their aged steeds, the drivers went through village and town. Hamlet and meadow towards the distant lights of Brighton. Then, just before 10 am the first cars appeared on the horizon of Madiera Drive. The ancestral finish line of this historic race.

Throughout the day, the weary drivers and their machines piled onto the pavilion. This, is truly one of the greatest motoring spectacles to be seen for any classic enthusiast.

If you haven’t then we would suggest next year, you make the pilgrimage to the south coast and watch these iron monsters achieve their dreams.

New Arrival: 1972 Triumph Spitfire

November 8, 2021

This absolutely beautiful 1972 Triumph Spitfire IV has just arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in Suffolk, UK.

The car will go into the workshop and be assessed by our in-house team of classic car restoration experts to begin working on a list of jobs that need to be done on this iconic British sports car. We do know that the exhaust is blowing so that will be one of the jobs that will be done by the team.

Keep an eye out on the Bridge Classic Cars blog for more updates on the 1972 Triumph Spitfire IV.

Out & About – Sunbeam Alpine Collection

November 8, 2021

Friend of Bridge Classic Cars, George, got in touch with us recently to show us his amazing collection Sunbeam memorabilia collection!

Here are a few words from George: ”I have had this Alpine for 46 years the colour is Mediterranean Blue. Code 100. The trims on the wheels are not the right ones. But a nice car. Doing metalwork at the front of the cars all seats and Chrome are from 1966. My neighbour a few doors up bought two tickets for our Alpine, it hoping to bring it to the next street they are only 3 in Ayrshire.”

It’s always nice to see true enthusiasts of a certain marque or model so devoted to their car and the culture around them. All the best George!

The Winners Circle – 1983 Ford Capri 1.6 & 1971 Morris Traveller

November 8, 2021

Our latest winners have taken delivery of their cars! Recently we had the draw for the 1983 Ford Capri and then a week later the draw for the 1971 Morris Traveller.

The Ford Capri has gone all the way up to the Orkney Islands in Scotland! Bridge Classic Cars had the car transported to the port closest to the island for a very excited John Macintosh to take delivery of his stunning classic Ford Capri and take back to the island. John’s winning ticket of 3775 bagged him this 1980s icon and we wish him all the best with the car in the future.

The Morris Traveller draw was held the week after the Capri. The car, which was won by John Turner, was delivered down to Devon for its ecstatic new owner. John’s face tells the whole story of this wonderful classic Morris. It’s simple charm and universal love is what a classic car is all about and with the winning ticket of 896, we wish John Turner all the excitement with this wonderful Morris Traveller.

Fancy bagging yourself a dream classic? Then head over to Bridge Classic Cars Competitions and enter now for your chance to win a classic car by clicking the link below.

Click here to enter now at Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.

Coming Soon: 1970 Bristol 411

November 8, 2021

Bridge Classic Cars have acquired this 1970 Bristol 411 on behalf of a customer of ours who lives in Europe.

This particular car will be arriving soon into our workshop here in Suffolk for full assessment and inspection. Also, with the car being sent over to Europe we will be undertaking a very special project on this Bristol.

This car is going to be converted to Left Hand Drive for the customer to enjoy over on the continent.

Be sure to check out more on this car here on the Bridge Classic Cars blog once it arrives here with us.

What’s Underneath – Inspection of the 1975 Ford Escort RS Mexico Recreation

November 8, 2021

It’s always interesting the first time we put a car up on the ramps in our workshop. You find out more about the story of the car from underneath. Clues and suggestions at its life from a viewpoint rarely seen.

Today it’s the turn of our 1975 Ford Escort Mk1 RS Mexico Recreation. It is being fully inspected and assessed by our in-house restoration teams to determine what, if anything, may need doing to make sure the car is in its best shape.

From a brief visual look, the car is in great shape underneath. The vibrant green paintwork extends all the way through the car and the deep, rich black of the suspension and chassis components contrasts against the eye and allows for easy recognition of any issues that might be there.

Find out more about this amazing Mk1 Escort Mexico soon on the Bridge Classic Cars blog.

Bridge Classic Cars are award winning Classic Car Restoration and Maintenance specialists. Your pride and joy is in safe hands with our expert Classic Car Technicians. Take a look at our awards here.

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