This Just In – 1930 Packard 740 Waterfield Convertible
September 20, 2021
A rare sight on either side of the Atlantic, this vast and beautiful 1930 Packard Super 8 Convertible is in with us here at Bridge
News
New Life – Refinishing the dash surround on a classic Mini
September 20, 2021
Refinishing a piece of trim is sometimes more effective than replacing it. Although the finish may be work or damaged, the part itself is still
Expert Touch – Rust Repairs on a 1989 Porsche 911
September 17, 2021
Rust repairs. One of the biggest fears when it comes to classic car ownership. However, it doesn’t always have to be that way. Take for
Poise and Elegance – Painting the bonnet on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Roadster Series 3
September 17, 2021
The long, elegant and graceful lines of an E Type bonnet are best highlighted in a flattering colour. This is very true for our incredible
Glorious Goodwood – Where and what to watch at the 2021 Goodwood Revival.
September 17, 2021
It’s that time! The start of possibly the most famous event in historic motorsport, The Goodwood Revival. Now, if you can’t make your way down
Getting to The Bottom of It – Automatic Gearbox Leak on the 1964 Daimler 2.5 V8
September 17, 2021
There is a simple beauty to old Daimler V8’s. This 1964 Daimler 2.5 V8 in at Bridge Classic Cars does have a bit of an
All Hail the King – Inspecting the 1990 Range Rover CSK
September 17, 2021
When Charles Spencer King developed the Range Rover back in the late 1960s he intended it to be a particular, useful and utilitarian vehicle but
On To A Winner – Update on the Norwich City/Bridge Classic Cars Competitions Final Edition Lotus Elise
September 17, 2021
For those new to the project, Bridge Classic Cars Competitions have teamed up with Norwich City Football Club and their charity, NCFC Community Sports Foundation.
Starting Off – Starting a 1990 Range Rover CSK
September 17, 2021
The 1990 Range Rover CSK is important in the history of the luxury 4×4. Built to honour the memory of its creator, only a limited
Just Passing Through – Previous Competition Winners Drop By.
September 16, 2021
Earlier this week, it was lovely to see Peter Atchiston and his wife. They were in the area and thought to drop by while passing
One Step Closer – Update on the Bridge Classic Cars Extension
September 16, 2021
Groundworks are continuing on the extension to Bridge Classic Cars at our site in Pettistree. This will help to expand our workspace as it grows
Boots on the Ground – Tyre Change on the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6
September 16, 2021
One of the key parts of any classic sportscar is handling. That playful, light-handed feeling whilst out on a spirited drive where the car becomes
More Work on the E Type
September 15, 2021
Work continues on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster here at Bridge Classic Cars. Our technician Scott has been hard at work fitting
Kept in Check – Electric Fans on the 1973 MG B GT V8
September 15, 2021
From our last post, we had begun to work on adjusting the radiator fitment for this 1973 MG B GT V8. Thanks to the spacer
Start at the Beginning – Preparing for Work to Begin on the 1999 Mercedes E55 AMG.
September 15, 2021
This 1999 Mercedes E55 AMG was recovered into Bridge Classic Cars recently with a hydraulic issue. Upon inspection, our technicians found that many of the
Run Free – Diagnosing a Running Issue With A 1987 Daimler Double Six.
September 15, 2021
Classic cars all have the little foibles. This has become more apparent with this 1987 Daimler Double Six we have with us at Bridge Classic
Recommission our 1973 MG B
September 15, 2021
In our workshops later this month we will be welcoming our 1973 MG B roadster. Having spent the majority of it’s recent years sat up
A Clearer View – Removing the Rear Window on a 1989 Porsche 911
September 15, 2021
Removal of any piece of glass from a vehicle is a tricky and nerve-racking task for anyone, even professionals. But, with the right amount of
New Shoes – Fitting a Classic Wheel to our 1983 Ford Capri 1.6 LS
September 15, 2021
The wheels. A key element to any classic Ford, especially when it comes to a Capri. Especially a really beautiful black 1983 Ford Capri 1.6
Finding the Leak – Inspecting the Radiator on a 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Convertible
September 15, 2021
The importance of a properly working radiator in any vehicle, not just a classic, cannot be understated. It keeps coolant temperatures in the green when
This Just In – Having a quick look at an interesting old Mini for Team C Racing.
September 14, 2021
Some days are more interesting than others. When you see the remnants of an old Classic Mini being unloaded from a trailer, you have to
The Story Continues – Diving Deep Inside the 1951 Riley RMB
September 14, 2021
Since we have sent the Riley’s frame away to be dipped, we started work on the body. We have begun to go far deeper into
Always Learning – Handing over our 1976 Mercedes 350SL to a marque specialist
September 14, 2021
The story with our Aztec Gold 1976 Mercedes 350SL continues but this time at marque specialist Derrick Wells. After looking into the starting issues that
A New Home – The Final Journey of our 1967 Jaguar E Type Racing Series 1
September 14, 2021
The day has come. Our beloved 1967 E Type Racer has left the building to start its new life on the twisting roads around Blackpool
A New Perspective – 1998 Honda Integra Type R
September 14, 2021
Those following along with the progress of the 1998 Honda Integra Type R that we are currently working on at Bridge Classic Cars will know
In Pursuit of Perfect – Retrimming Seats for our 1960 Jensen 541R.
September 14, 2021
For a handmade classic car, only a handmade interior will do. This is much the story with our beautiful 1960 Jensen 541R we have in
The Tactile Feeling – Retrimming the door panels on our 1987 Mercedes 500SL
September 14, 2021
Interior trim is one of the key elements of any restoration, and we here at Bridge Classic Cars have got probably the best in-house trim
A Tell-Tale Heart – Engine Refit on a 1963 Jaguar MkII 3.4
September 14, 2021
The Jaguar straight-six. A staple of British motoring since its first outing in 1949 and continued in production well into the 20th century. This particular
Tear Repair
September 14, 2021
We have an inquiry as to whether we could repair a rip in the seat of a modern Mercedes. As you can see it is
Goodwood Revival 2021
September 13, 2021
Another amazing year of the Revival at glorious Goodwood! Where would the classic racing world be without it on the calendar for all enthusiastic petrolheads
This Just In – 1930 Packard 740 Waterfield Convertible
September 20, 2021
A rare sight on either side of the Atlantic, this vast and beautiful 1930 Packard Super 8 Convertible is in with us here at Bridge Classic Cars for an assessment of some work and some crucial maintenance.
As with all classic cars, routine maintenance is very important. This is even more important on cars such as the gorgeous Packard Super 8 Waterhouse Convertible.
This particular Packard has lived much of its life in the British Isles, since being imported into Ireland in 1944. The car was previously restored by a specialist in France with its previous owner but now we here at Bridge Classic Cars have the honour of caretaking such a unique piece of automotive history.
To begin with, our in-house technicians will begin work with a complete service on the 6.3 litre 8 cylinder. This will also include timing and spark plug checks as well as adjusting the valves to make sure this special machine idles with a near-silent whisper.
Keep a check on our news page for more updates on this fabulous example of pre-war American luxury here at Bridge Classic Cars.
New Life – Refinishing the dash surround on a classic Mini
September 20, 2021
Refinishing a piece of trim is sometimes more effective than replacing it. Although the finish may be work or damaged, the part itself is still in good condition.
That is the story with this dash surround belonging to our friend Ted at Team C Racing. The paint on top of the veneer had unfortunately cracked in several places over time. But our in-house paint and body team knew just what to do.
They stripped the whole piece back ready to be repainted to match the original paint. Carefully making sure it would be as close to the original as possible and as you can see. Matt and Chris got it absolutely spot on.
Expert Touch – Rust Repairs on a 1989 Porsche 911
September 17, 2021
Rust repairs. One of the biggest fears when it comes to classic car ownership. However, it doesn’t always have to be that way.
Take for example this 1989 Porsche 911 we have with us at Bridge Classic Cars. There was a small area of rust bubbling up from under the rear window seal. In our last post, you saw the removal of the rear screen so our incredible in-house technicians could assess what would need to be done.
From that, our paint and body specialist Matt determined that it was merely surface rust from the seal doing its intended job. Not a problem, our in-house paint and body team stripped back the area and treated it with a rust preventative agent to ensure it will be neutralised.
After that, all that was need to seal the area was a quick blow over with the appropriately mixed primer. But as we all know, you can’t just leave that area in primer. A Paint match was needed.
For this, we called in Dean from GB Refinish. He came around to our paint shop to digitally scan the closest panel to the affected area to get the close match our paint system has. After the analysis was done and loaded into our on-site mixing computer. The closest match for the now 32-year-old Grand Prix White paint was found for this amazing 911.
Next up, painting the area and putting everything back just right for this very lucky owner.
Poise and Elegance – Painting the bonnet on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Roadster Series 3
September 17, 2021
The long, elegant and graceful lines of an E Type bonnet are best highlighted in a flattering colour.
This is very true for our incredible 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster that has been finished in a very rare Fern Grey. Our in-house paint team worked hard to make sure every surface on this vast and prominent part were perfect before even the first coat of primer was laid down.
The bonnet of an E type is such an important and recognisable part of the cars overall character. It couldn’t be anything less than perfect for this particular build.
Matt and Chris worked their magic in our paint booth, getting the right shade to match this very special car.
Next up for Fern Grey, getting it fitted to the rest of the car that Scott, our technician, has worked so hard on.
Glorious Goodwood – Where and what to watch at the 2021 Goodwood Revival.
September 17, 2021
It’s that time! The start of possibly the most famous event in historic motorsport, The Goodwood Revival.
Now, if you can’t make your way down to West Sussex then fear not. You can still enjoy all the amazing races and even more incredible cars thanks to the Goodwood Revival Livestream on YouTube by clicking the link.
If you are lucky enough to be going to the home of Historic Racing, then we at Bridge Classic Cars have put together a list of cars to look out for.
- Jaguar MkVII Touring Car – St Marys Trophy
- Morris Minor being driven by Le Mans winner Richard Attwood. – St Marys Trophy
- Riley One-Five with racing legend Jochen Mass at the helm
- ERA E Type GP1 – Prewar single seater debuting just before the outbreak of war in 1939
- BRM P261 – Driven in the Glover Trophy by Richard Attwood again, this car originally was raced by Jackie Stewart winning both the Italian and Monaco Grand Prix.
There’s a long, long list of incredible machines racing this weekend, but a fantastic time will be had by all attending and all watching on from their living rooms!
Keep an eye out on our social media pages for updates from the event.
Getting to The Bottom of It – Automatic Gearbox Leak on the 1964 Daimler 2.5 V8
September 17, 2021
There is a simple beauty to old Daimler V8’s. This 1964 Daimler 2.5 V8 in at Bridge Classic Cars does have a bit of an issue though. There is a leak from the gearbox, but that’s nothing our amazing technicians John and Paul can’t fix.
After John and Paul had confirmed there was indeed a leak from the automatic gearbox, it then become a quest to find its source. Upon investigating, John found the culprit to be two rubber seals that had perished. Thankfully due to their location, these seals could be removed with the automatic gearbox in place.
Brand new seals were installed by our in-house technicians and the vehicle fired up for testing. The Results? No more leaks for this Daimler V8.
The next job to do on this particular car while it’s in here at Bridge Classic Cars is to look into some radio interference issues.
All Hail the King – Inspecting the 1990 Range Rover CSK
September 17, 2021
When Charles Spencer King developed the Range Rover back in the late 1960s he intended it to be a particular, useful and utilitarian vehicle but with slightly more refinement than the Series II Land Rover.
Then in 1990 to commemorate the great man, Range Rover released the CSK (Charles Spencer King). 200 of these limited edition 2 door Range Rovers were released to the public in either manual or very rare automatic. This one you see here with us at Bridge Classic Cars in number 47 in the series and is one of the incredibly rare Automatics.
It has been stored at our Bentwaters facility awaiting workshop space to begin inspecting what this glorious old girl needs to be useable and splendid once more.
When it arrived for inspection, it was not under its own power. Our in-house technicians here at Bridge Classic Cars believe there to be an issue with the starter motor which will soon be replaced in order to make sure the 3.9-litre powertrain at the heart of this beast works as it should.
Meanwhile, there is quite a lot of corrosion on the underside of this 31-year-old beauty which is being looked at and thoroughly assessed by our amazing team.
Keep your eye out for updates on this incredible piece of 1990s luxury on our projects page.
On To A Winner – Update on the Norwich City/Bridge Classic Cars Competitions Final Edition Lotus Elise
September 17, 2021
For those new to the project, Bridge Classic Cars Competitions have teamed up with Norwich City Football Club and their charity, NCFC Community Sports Foundation.
Giving one lucky winner the chance to own this amazing sportscar. It’s the 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition. Finished appropriately in bright yellow.
Norwich City has an amazing charity called the Community Sports Foundation which massively helps young disadvantaged, disabled and talented people throughout the county of Norfolk.
Look out for the Community Sports Foundation messages around the stadium on Saturday 18th of September before, during and after the game against Watford for more information about the Foundation. But you can also click the link below for your chance to win this 2021 Lotus Elise Final Edition and support an incredible cause.
Enter for the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions – 2021 Lotus Elise Sport 240 Final Edition.
Starting Off – Starting a 1990 Range Rover CSK
September 17, 2021
The 1990 Range Rover CSK is important in the history of the luxury 4×4. Built to honour the memory of its creator, only a limited number were built and even fewer still remain.
This particular example has been stored with us at Bridge Classic Cars in preparation for its move over to our workshop but when that day arrived, unfortunately, it would not start under its own power. This was no problem. Some manpower and our vehicle transportation team in the closed vehicle transporter, the CSK was on its way to our workshop.
Once safely at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, our technician Mauro clambered under the 1990s icon to check over each component of the starting system methodically and carefully. First starting with the battery, which was indeed flat. Putting it on our Sealey battery charger was simple to get some power back into the black beauty. However, this didn’t change the issue.
Checking that the engine was free became Mauro’s next job. Carefully and precisely barring the 3.9 litre V8 over several times to check that it span freely, which happily it did. With the key in the ignition in the second position, Mauro gently clicked it over to the third point on its cycle. Again nothing.
With this information and his experience, Mauro recommended changing the starter motor on number 47 of the 200 Range Rover CSK’s built.
With this crucial part on order. Mauro enlisted the help of the other in-house Bridge Classic Cars technicians to get the considerable car on our 4 post ramp to begin its inspection.
Just Passing Through – Previous Competition Winners Drop By.
September 16, 2021
Earlier this week, it was lovely to see Peter Atchiston and his wife. They were in the area and thought to drop by while passing through the area.
Previous winners of our Bridge Classic Cars Competitions, Peter is now the proud owner of a rather lovely VW Type 2 that was one of our competition cars several months ago.
Always a nice surprise to see some friendly faces.
Remember, you too could be in with a chance to win one of our competition cars. Just click here and enter to win!
One Step Closer – Update on the Bridge Classic Cars Extension
September 16, 2021
Groundworks are continuing on the extension to Bridge Classic Cars at our site in Pettistree. This will help to expand our workspace as it grows in popularity and allows us to take on more projects and vehicle restorations for our incredible customers.
The extension, much like our existing building, will be made around the needs of the vehicles that we take care of as well as our in-house technicians who put their hard work and first-class experience into each and every Bridge Classic Cars restoration project.
Boots on the Ground – Tyre Change on the 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6
September 16, 2021
One of the key parts of any classic sportscar is handling. That playful, light-handed feeling whilst out on a spirited drive where the car becomes an extension of the driver.
Because of this, we felt it best practice to change the rubber that meets the road on our sensational 1989 TVR S2 2.9 V6. The tyres that were fitted to the car were perfectly fine, however, they had been fitted several years before so it was time for some new shoes for this delightful piece of British engineering.
For all of our tyre changes, we use Tyre Assist. They come out to us and are well versed in working on classic and vintage cars across East Anglia.
Keep up to date with this project and all other Bridge Classic Cars projects on our News Page.
More Work on the E Type
September 15, 2021
Work continues on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster here at Bridge Classic Cars.
Our technician Scott has been hard at work fitting up the entirely new braking system on the car. Along with that, Scott has fitted the ducting systems needed for the heater system to work on this incredible classic sportscar.
With the brakes, the E Type has been given a brand new vacuum pump. Complete with all new hardlines to connect it up to the modern brakes that were fitted previous here at Bridge Classic Cars.
The restored and refinished control flaps were also carefully installed onto the stunning Fern Grey bodywork along with the fitting of the matching boot lid.
Kept in Check – Electric Fans on the 1973 MG B GT V8
September 15, 2021
From our last post, we had begun to work on adjusting the radiator fitment for this 1973 MG B GT V8. Thanks to the spacer made up by our in-house technician Ady, the radiator now sits back enough in the engine bay to fit the two new electric fans.
The electric fans, although a modern addition, will help those glorious 8 cylinder classic sportscar conquer anything its owner may throw at it. The cooling system on this B GT V8 has been entirely gone through by the team at Bridge Classic Cars after the engine rebuild to ensure all the work we have carried out works harmoniously with each other.
Start at the Beginning – Preparing for Work to Begin on the 1999 Mercedes E55 AMG.
September 15, 2021
This 1999 Mercedes E55 AMG was recovered into Bridge Classic Cars recently with a hydraulic issue.
Upon inspection, our technicians found that many of the metal lines that run under the vehicle had corroded to the point where some had unfortunately cracked.
Along with the hydraulic lines for the rear brakes and suspension, our in-house technicians also discovered a leak coming from the radiator at the front. On these specific cars, the radiator also acts as a gearbox cooler (with a secondary internal core) which our technicians believe to be the culprit for the suspected leak on the bottom of the pan.
After putting together the list of specific hoses needed to get this exceptional piece of ’90s performance back into safe and working condition, next was the prepare the car for install.
To do this, our technicians had to meticulously go through the rear suspension in order to make sure that the rear axle could be taken out of the car safely and securely. With the rear axle now removed from the back end of the V8 wagon, Paul could start to remove all of the affected hydraulic lines and begin to work his way getting the car ready to accept the new lines.
Expect to see more on this wonderful Super Wagon very soon on our News Page!
Run Free – Diagnosing a Running Issue With A 1987 Daimler Double Six.
September 15, 2021
Classic cars all have the little foibles. This has become more apparent with this 1987 Daimler Double Six we have with us at Bridge Classic Cars to begin an assessment on some rust issues throughout its charming blue paintwork along with several other sympathetic restoration requests.
Dave, our in-house master technician has been trying to get to the bottom of the running issue that we have found with this particular car. The first port of call for Dave was to check the engine was breathing as it should be. On inspection, he found the driver’s intake has no suction through the filter.
After the removal of the airbox, he could feel the suction through to the throttle body. Next in line was to check the spark plugs, no easy feat on one of these with their mechanical fuel injection and the engine bay being a mass of vacuum pipes and necessary parts to run the system.
Dave is continuing to look deeper into the issue to ensure that once all the work has been completed, it can be happily enjoyed by its very lucky owner.
Recommission our 1973 MG B
September 15, 2021
In our workshops later this month we will be welcoming our 1973 MG B roadster. Having spent the majority of it’s recent years sat up in a barn the project will involve getting the car up and running and back on the road.
The owner is in two minds whether to sell up but maybe when he gets the car back on the road he may think again! We’ll see…
A Clearer View – Removing the Rear Window on a 1989 Porsche 911
September 15, 2021
Removal of any piece of glass from a vehicle is a tricky and nerve-racking task for anyone, even professionals. But, with the right amount of patience and care, it can be achieved safely and effectively.
The 1989 Porsche 911 that we have here at Bridge Classic Cars is in with us to take a look at a small rust blemish beneath the rear window seal. For this, that glass has to come out. This involves an amazing group of specialists who handle all of our glass removals and installs. That is, of course, Car Glass and Trim.
The technicians came out to our workshop where they began by inspecting the existing window to make sure it could be removed safely and smoothly.
This involved carefully removing the ground strap for the heated rear window so that it could be skillfully removed and ready for our in-house body and paint specialist to investigate that small rust issue.
New Shoes – Fitting a Classic Wheel to our 1983 Ford Capri 1.6 LS
September 15, 2021
The wheels. A key element to any classic Ford, especially when it comes to a Capri. Especially a really beautiful black 1983 Ford Capri 1.6 LS that we have in with us at Bridge Classic Cars.
The original wheels just didn’t quite fit the majesty and the period fun of this much loved classic blue oval. The 4 spoke RS Alloy was the obvious choice to go on our Capri. With hints of nostalgic racing, Saturday night cruises and fun-filled weekends behind that long, flowing bonnet.
When it comes to fitting our wheels and tyres, here at Bridge Classic Cars we always use Ipswich Tyre Assist for anything involving the safe, correct and confident fitting of the wheel and tyre packages available for your classic vehicle.
The 4 Spoke RS Wheels that are fitted to the Capri are period correct pieces thanks to the amazing reproductions available to the classic Ford community, and we hope that you enjoy it as much as we do here at Bridge Classic Cars…
And you might even be in with a chance of winning this very car and its RS 4 spokes at Bridge Classic Cars Competitions very soon.
Finding the Leak – Inspecting the Radiator on a 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Convertible
September 15, 2021
The importance of a properly working radiator in any vehicle, not just a classic, cannot be understated. It keeps coolant temperatures in the green when they’re running right. But can also play havoc with a vehicle’s well being when they’re not.
This is much the story of the 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Convertible we had recently for service here at Bridge Classic Cars.
When this DB9 came into us for a customer-supplied rotor and pad change, the customer also mentioned a leak coming from the front of the vehicle as well as the air-conditioning system not working as you would expect.
Our in-house technician Paul began to look into the issue so we could then advise our customer of what to do. He found that the air-conditioning condenser had been pushed back into the radiator, at some point in the vehicles life.
The course of action? Removal of the giant radiator designed to cool that amazing 6 litre V12 along with the air conditioning condenser. For this, the air-con gas must be safely removed. Using the proper equipment and guidelines for the sake of our technicians’ health and safety.
After removal, both coolers can be inspected and a plan made to ensure that this future classic stays happy and healthy for years to come.
This Just In – Having a quick look at an interesting old Mini for Team C Racing.
September 14, 2021
Some days are more interesting than others. When you see the remnants of an old Classic Mini being unloaded from a trailer, you have to go outside to take a look. This one is a bit rough around the edges but nothing our in-house team can’t handle should they need to.
We had a look over and inspected this particular car for our good friends over at Team C Racing, the local Classic Mini specialists.
Keep your eye out for possible future updates on this character-filled Classic Mini.
The Story Continues – Diving Deep Inside the 1951 Riley RMB
September 14, 2021
Since we have sent the Riley’s frame away to be dipped, we started work on the body.
We have begun to go far deeper into the 1951 Riley RMB that we have in with us here at Bridge Classic Cars. Our in-house technicians knew that the car was in very rough shape to begin with but the extent of the decay is only coming to light the more layers we peel away on this car.
But, fear not. Everything is fixable with the right skillset. Which thankfully our in-house fabricator James has in spades.
What he has uncovered on the Riley RMB is a series of cut corners to say the least. These were common place years ago but not something that would preserve the longevity of the car, which is what we at Bridge Classic Cars pride ourselves on.
James carefully undid and unwrapped the layers of porous metal that had been fixed one over another to make sure that he, and the other master fabricators that we have, could get at the root cause. This will need to be done before any work can be started on the handmade wooden frames that make up the roof structure, which have unfortunately perished through the many years this car had been enjoyed.
The other issue that the Riley has presented us with is the lack of datum points to create the handmade templates needed for each part. No bracket, panel or edge were symetrical side to side. Each had variations in side, depth and thickness to some lesser or sometimes extreme degree. No problem for our team, just careful removal and methodical approaches to each challenge that a restoration brings.
But that is in essence what we do with vehicle restorations here at Bridge Classic Cars, give new life to classic cars so that they can be enjoyed not just for prosperities sake but for enthusiasts for generations to come.
Always Learning – Handing over our 1976 Mercedes 350SL to a marque specialist
September 14, 2021
The story with our Aztec Gold 1976 Mercedes 350SL continues but this time at marque specialist Derrick Wells.
After looking into the starting issues that we have had with the car since it came over to be with us at Bridge Classic Cars from Ireland, our in-house technicians thought it best to get the opinion of a true singularly focus specialist.
As you may have known, we bought this car on the understanding that it was in good aesthetic and mechanical condition. That didn’t quite turn out to be true… sometimes you do have to be careful with what you buy even with a car such as this.
As soon as we get an update on the car then expect to see that right here on Bridge Classic Cars.
A New Home – The Final Journey of our 1967 Jaguar E Type Racing Series 1
September 14, 2021
The day has come. Our beloved 1967 E Type Racer has left the building to start its new life on the twisting roads around Blackpool with its very lucky new owner.
Those who have been following along with the story of this Volcano Orange E Type will have seen the amazing film and also the wonderful article in Car & Classic about the car. But, like all good things they must come to an end. Our time with this fun in-house built E Type at Bridge Classic Cars has come to an end.
Carefully loaded into our very own enclosed transporter, and safely secured down by our in-house transportation team it was on the first journey of its new life far from us here at Bridge Classic Cars in Suffolk.
As it left, the Bridge Classic Cars team thought about the good times that have been had with this brightly coloured flash of fury. The hours of hard work, devotion and fanatical attention to detail put in by all the members of our highly skilled and enthusiast led team. The film shoot with SuffolkandFast on a misty and foggy morning up at RAF Bentwaters or our very own in-house marketing guru Freddie driving the car back from Helmingham Festival of classic and sportscars while it popped, banged and spat flames as it passed the pub filled with local enthusiasts thanks to its rebuilt engine.
But as the doors closed on our bespoke transporter, we could all smile and know it was going off to be loved and cherished by its new owner. To live and breathe on new roads high above the north/south divide where an entirely new group of enthusiasts and bystanders can enjoy and appreciate this remarkable, one-off road racer.
A New Perspective – 1998 Honda Integra Type R
September 14, 2021
Those following along with the progress of the 1998 Honda Integra Type R that we are currently working on at Bridge Classic Cars will know of the extensive fabrication work undertaken by our in-house technicians and fabricators.
This time we are cleaning up the engine bay before the car goes into our in-house paint team. This DC2 has had many hours put into its sympathetic restoration of key areas but each has been thorough and needed. Cleaning up the engine bay is an important part of the Type R’s journey with us here at Bridge Classic Cars.
As with many restorations, what begins as one issue soon exposes other areas that do require the attention of our skilled in-house technicians.
The surface rust in the Integra’s engine bay was a prime candidate to be worked on. All of this in preparation for its glorious 4 cylinder VTEC screamer to be carefully lowered back into its home once the bay has been cleaned and refreshed.
Once this is complete, our technicians here at Bridge Classic Cars in Suffolk will carry on through their inspection. After all, the DC2 Integra Type R is what many believe to be the greatest front-wheel-drive coupe ever made.
In Pursuit of Perfect – Retrimming Seats for our 1960 Jensen 541R.
September 14, 2021
For a handmade classic car, only a handmade interior will do. This is much the story with our beautiful 1960 Jensen 541R we have in the trim shop here at Bridge Classic Cars for one of the incredible owners, Gordon.
Our beloved Lilac has been in the trim shop recently to have our in-house trim experts begin work on upholstering the seats for this truly unique car. Starting from scratch, our upholsters began laying out the original frames and foams to ensure that the new set, which are handcrafted in-house, would fit. They also had to suit the cars classic but also quite contemporary lines.
The webs for the rear seat needed to include the signature rear hump. This had to be taken into account when making this one-off interior. The rear is a masterpiece of flowing lines that finish in neat and crisp corners that perfectly suit a car of this calibre. The padding was selected to give the most amount of support for the driver and passengers whilst out there enjoying the gorgeous 541R.
Our in-house team of automotive upholsterers took their time to make sure that the front seat also was given the same treatment as the rear. Skillfully matching the compound shapes and curves that make up the best seat in the house when it comes to enjoying a truly unique classic car.
The Tactile Feeling – Retrimming the door panels on our 1987 Mercedes 500SL
September 14, 2021
Interior trim is one of the key elements of any restoration, and we here at Bridge Classic Cars have got probably the best in-house trim shop bar none. Take for example this classic car, Craig’s 1987 Mercedes 500SL which is having a whole new interior done by our in-house trimmers. The fit and finish on these custom-made interior pieces are worthy of an article in themselves.
Those of you following the project will know that the original interior was a, once upon a time, dark royal blue but as part of the restoration of the car here at Bridge Classic Cars, the whole interior is being retrimmed in a deep and beautiful Claret Red.
Starting with the original door cards as a template to work from, our in-house trim experts got to work creating new door cards from scratch in order to create the best fit and keep them as close to the originals as possible. Once the new door cards had been shaped, finessed and test fitted it was time to choose the right hide. Matched to this amazing example of 1980s German luxury performance was stunning deep Claret Red. Every mark, indent or locator was carefully and skillfully transferred onto the new door cards by hand to ensure they were an exact match for the existing interior trim pieces.
The deep red colour of the door cards was carefully selected to match the previous material used through the 500SL. The centre console, dash covering and all the other refinished trim work all match up thanks to the expertise and attention to detail that our interior team at Bridge Classic Cars has and the devotion to their craft.
A Tell-Tale Heart – Engine Refit on a 1963 Jaguar MkII 3.4
September 14, 2021
The Jaguar straight-six. A staple of British motoring since its first outing in 1949 and continued in production well into the 20th century. This particular engine was lovingly refreshed by our in-house engine builder Ady along with some other sympathetic restoration work completed by our highly skilled technicians here at Bridge Classic Cars to make sure this Mk2 3.4 was one of the best out there.
The level of detail put into this engine by us here at Bridge Classic Cars matches the rest of the care and attention lavished on this fine example of this era of Coventry Jaguar. With so much attention given to the build-up of the long block, the install had to be given the same respect.
After a full engine bay respray, it was important to install the engine slowly and methodically. Gently easing the glorious straight-six into its age-old home. Like a well-tailored suit, the engine slipped perfectly into position where it could be checked that it would not interfere with any other componentry and it sat just right for all to behold when the long, elegant bonnet was opened for its tell-tale heart to be on display for all to proudly see.
Tear Repair
September 14, 2021
We have an inquiry as to whether we could repair a rip in the seat of a modern Mercedes. As you can see it is the main seat area on the base and in order to repair properly the entire material from that section would need to be replaced.
The customer has asked whether we can glue up the tear which would is an option. It is not ideal but it can be done.
This may be one for the trim shop in the coming weeks, we’ll see.
Goodwood Revival 2021
September 13, 2021
Another amazing year of the Revival at glorious Goodwood! Where would the classic racing world be without it on the calendar for all enthusiastic petrolheads young and old alike. Since 1998, Lord March has welcomes visitors to the legendary West Sussex circuit which some claim to be the very best on earth to watch vintage motorsport at it’s finest.
This year’s event runs from the 17th to the 19th of September at Goodwood, West Sussex.
For those of you interested in attending or wanting to find out more, simply click here to find out more and get your tickets for an incredible weekend of classic racing and nostalgia-fueled excitement.
