New Arrivals – 1994 TVR Chimaera and 1994 Jaguar XJS
August 28, 2024
We’ve recently welcomed two stunning 1990’s sports cars to the Bridge Classic Cars Suffolk HQ. Our workshop will be assessing and working on both the
Projects
The Surprising New MG Cyber GTS Concept
August 23, 2024
MG is set to continue its centenary celebrations at the 2024 Salon Privé event, held at Blenheim Palace from August 28th to 31st. As part
Final Repairs
August 21, 2024
These are Jonn’s notes on the final repairs made to our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas before it goes to its new home tomorrow. Attend to
Ferrari Repairs
August 21, 2024
Jon has continued his work on our 1979 Ferrari 400 GT. Here are his notes: Continue repairs where I left off. Boot release cable. New
A Mercedes 380SL Arrives
August 19, 2024
Recently, our 1985 Mercedes 380SL arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. Once it has been inspected and assessed by the workshop team, the plan
A Rover 75 Arrives
August 19, 2024
We have recently welcomed our 2003 Rover 75 Estate into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. The workshop team will now resolve some issues the owner
An Old Friend Returns
August 19, 2024
We have recently welcomed an old friend in the form of our 1955 Austin-Healey 100 back into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
GT6 Photos
August 19, 2024
Before our 1972 Triumph GT6 left the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, Nick took some photos of it outside The Classic Lounge.
Fiat Brakes
August 19, 2024
Steve has reconditioned the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and relined the brake shoes of our 1952 Fiat 1900A. The old cylinders were leaking and had
Ferrari Repairs
August 19, 2024
Technician Jonn has continued his work on our 1979 Ferrari 400 GT. Here are his notes: Continue repairs. Fit new boot cable and handle. Thread
SS100 King Pins
August 19, 2024
Jonn has been working on our 1939 Jaguar SS100. He removed the front wheels and brakes in order to gain access to the kingpins. He
Number Plate Light
August 19, 2024
Jonn has been investigating why the rear number plate light on our 1963 Fiat 500 was not working. He found that a small wire had
Win Our Classic Motorbike
August 19, 2024
Our 1960 Royal Enfield 250 is live and ready to win on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website. The 1960 Royal Enfield 250, also known
Our Boxster Returns
August 19, 2024
We recently welcomed an old friend back into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 2013 Porsche Boxster. This time though, it’s
More Progress
August 16, 2024
The head of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL has been refaced. The block has been bored and honed and the deck has also been refaced.
Door Adjustment
August 16, 2024
During the pre-delivery inspection of our 1954 Daimler Conquest Roadster, Jonn noticed an issue with the driver’s door. Here are his notes on the repair:
MGA Delivery
August 16, 2024
As our 1960 MGA recently finished its time in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, Tony loaded it into the trailer before taking it home.
Jensen Wheels
August 16, 2024
Tony recently collected the wheels for our 1956 Jensen 541 from Wheelworx and brought them back to the workshop.
Dino Progress
August 15, 2024
Christian has been busy fabricating the lower front right valance of our 1973 Ferrari Dino. Tony also loaded up the wheels of this classic sports
Vanden Plas Jobs
August 15, 2024
Jonn has been working hard to get our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas ready to be delivered to its lucky new owner. Here are his notes:
MG Cyberster Named ‘Best Sports Car’ at 2024 Best Cars of the Year Awards
August 15, 2024
MG Motor’s all-electric Cyberster roadster has been given the title of ‘Best Sports Car’ at the 2024 Best Cars of the Year Awards. This recognition
Almost Ready For The Rebuild
August 15, 2024
With the new parts starting to arrive, it is almost time to begin the rebuild of the engine of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL. The fuel
Fiat 500 Engine Back In
August 14, 2024
Jonn has been refitting the engine to our 1963 Fiat 500. Here are his notes: Get car on ramp. Prepare for refitting engine. Clean engine
Win A Pre-War Icon
August 13, 2024
The Austin 7 is a true icon in British automotive history, playing a key role in getting the country on the move and introducing a
Corvette Brakes
August 12, 2024
Here are Jonn’s notes relating to his work on one of our new arrivals – a 1976 Chevrolet Corvette: Inspect brake system. Carry out full
Vehicle Transport
August 12, 2024
Tony recently delivered our 1998 BMW M3 Evo back to its owner in London.
A C-Type Complete
August 12, 2024
Here are Jonn’s notes as he finishes off our 2022 Bridge C-Type Replica: Carry out oil and filter change. Leave to drain for an extended
MG Midget Oil Leak
August 12, 2024
Steve has removed the engine and gearbox of our 1978 MG Midget so he was able to gain access to repair the gearbox leak as
A Cobra Taking Shape
August 12, 2024
Mauro has continued his work on our 1975 AC Cobra Replica and it is now really starting to take shape.
MGB GT Dent Repair
August 12, 2024
An old friend has recently returned to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1968 MGB GT. While it is here, Mauro
New Arrivals – 1994 TVR Chimaera and 1994 Jaguar XJS
August 28, 2024
We’ve recently welcomed two stunning 1990’s sports cars to the Bridge Classic Cars Suffolk HQ. Our workshop will be assessing and working on both the 1994 TVR Chimaera and Jaguar XJS, so make sure to keep an eye on the Bridge Classic Cars news page for more updates very soon.
The Surprising New MG Cyber GTS Concept
August 23, 2024
MG is set to continue its centenary celebrations at the 2024 Salon Privé event, held at Blenheim Palace from August 28th to 31st. As part of these celebrations, MG will present the brand new MG Cyber GTS Concept, making one of its first public appearances after its surprise debut earlier this summer. The concept car pays tribute to the iconic MGC GTS Sebring, which achieved MG’s best-ever factory result at the 1968 12 Hours of Sebring.
Finished in classic British Racing Green, the MG Cyber GTS Concept combines its historic predecessor while incorporating modern electric vehicle technology. The car’s exact technical details are still under wraps, adding to the anticipation surrounding its appearance at Salon Privé.
Alongside the Cyber GTS Concept, MG will also display the Cyberster Roadster. This electric roadster, which has just arrived in showrooms, offers impressive performance with its dual motor version boasting 503 bhp and a 0-62 mph time of just 3.2 seconds. The Cyberster’s long-range battery allows for up to 316 miles on a single charge, with prices starting from £54,995.
“MG is a much-loved brand by so many Salon Privé enthusiasts, and I’m delighted we’re able to help continue its 100th anniversary celebrations in the regal grounds of Blenheim Palace. I’m eagerly looking forward to showcasing the fabulous new MG Cyber GTS Concept, one of the first times it will be shown in public since its world debut earlier this summer. It’s great to also showcase the MG Cyberster roadster, which is now arriving in showrooms after receiving rave reviews in the press. I’m certain our guests will enjoy helping continue MG’s 100th anniversary celebrations in style at Salon Privé 2024.”
David Bagley – Salon Privé Director
Visitors to the event will also have the opportunity to test drive the Cyberster and the all-new MG HS from August 28 to 30, though slots are limited.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Salon Privé’s website.
Final Repairs
August 21, 2024
These are Jonn’s notes on the final repairs made to our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas before it goes to its new home tomorrow.
Attend to oil leak again. Check oil level. Too high. Drain some oil out and recheck levels. Just under max , ok. Inspect around area as ca4 has not been run so cannot be leaking from lift pump gaskets. Timing chain tensioner directly above lift pump appears wet. Clean area down and remove timing chain tensioner adjuster bolt in centre. Found bolt loose. Clean and replace copper washer and secure. Run and test. Still dry. Take outside and carry out road test. Drives ok. Speedo working.
Ferrari Repairs
August 21, 2024
Jon has continued his work on our 1979 Ferrari 400 GT. Here are his notes:
Continue repairs where I left off. Boot release cable. New cable is too short so work out how to join cables at rear. Make bracket to support both cables in boot. Route cables and join at rear.
Not functioning as intended with joined cables at rear. Find new long bowden cable and use inner which will reach to boot lock in old outer cable. Route and mount and join to lock. Adjust and test. Keep adjusting until operates lock.
Finish boot release cable. Adjust and test, ok. Refit boot trims. Restick carpet to offside quarter panel. Resecure boot floor. Tighten connections to boot light, ok. Remove fuel rrturn pipe from filler neck to fuel pump. Fit new pipe and conne t. Fit 2 p clips to chassis to secure pipe. Refit boot carpets. Resecure box with boot and fuel cap release handles next to drivers seat. Hoover out and refit carpet.
Attend to drivers seat runner. Seat base broken. Get captive nut welded to plate to fit inside seat base to secure runner. Tighten runner and refit drivers seat. Investigate door locks not working via key. Lube and eventually get drivers door lock working ok. Strip passengers door and remove handle. Found striker actuator on rear of key barrel broken. Strip and make new piece fron alloy to fit and try.
A Mercedes 380SL Arrives
August 19, 2024
Recently, our 1985 Mercedes 380SL arrived at the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
Once it has been inspected and assessed by the workshop team, the plan is for it to go live on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
A Rover 75 Arrives
August 19, 2024
We have recently welcomed our 2003 Rover 75 Estate into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
The workshop team will now resolve some issues the owner would like addressed before it heads back home.
An Old Friend Returns
August 19, 2024
We have recently welcomed an old friend in the form of our 1955 Austin-Healey 100 back into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
GT6 Photos
August 19, 2024
Before our 1972 Triumph GT6 left the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, Nick took some photos of it outside The Classic Lounge.
Fiat Brakes
August 19, 2024
Steve has reconditioned the master cylinder, wheel cylinders, and relined the brake shoes of our 1952 Fiat 1900A.
The old cylinders were leaking and had contaminated the shoes with brake fluid.
Steve also removed the old fuel pump blanket plate and gasket as it was leaking before fabricating a new one.
Ferrari Repairs
August 19, 2024
Technician Jonn has continued his work on our 1979 Ferrari 400 GT. Here are his notes:
Continue repairs. Fit new boot cable and handle. Thread cable through outer and measure. Remove inner cable and handle and compare to old cable. New cable approx 3 foot shorter so will have to join cable in boot to activate lock release. Cut old outer to length and retread inner cable. Make bracket to mount rear portion of cable. Drill out and mock up to check.
Cable hard to pull and bracket not strong enough. Remake bracket from thicker steel and mount in place. Rear cable section is a solid able and has kinks in inner so this may be reason for stiff operation. Adjust length of new cable.
SS100 King Pins
August 19, 2024
Jonn has been working on our 1939 Jaguar SS100. He removed the front wheels and brakes in order to gain access to the kingpins.
He removed the hubs and noticed that there was shim material in the crossmemeber where the kingpins go through.
He removed the cross member and sent it off to be machined and new kingpins made.
Number Plate Light
August 19, 2024
Jonn has been investigating why the rear number plate light on our 1963 Fiat 500 was not working. He found that a small wire had been twisted around a screw as an earth. Jonn removed the light, made an earth wire, and attached it to the bulb holder.
Once everything was refitted, it all worked perfectly.
Win Our Classic Motorbike
August 19, 2024
Our 1960 Royal Enfield 250 is live and ready to win on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
The 1960 Royal Enfield 250, also known as the Royal Enfield Crusader, is a classic motorcycle that was part of the post-war era when motorcycles were not just a means of transportation but also a symbol of freedom and adventure. The Crusader was one of Royal Enfield’s answers to the growing demand for lightweight, affordable, and reliable motorcycles.
All the information you need is here.
Leave a Reply
Our Boxster Returns
August 19, 2024
We recently welcomed an old friend back into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 2013 Porsche Boxster.
This time though, it’s not in for any work, it’s back so it can soon go live on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
It may be more modern than our usual competition cars but, every now and again, when we see a car as nice as this, we make an exception to give you the chance to win a modern sportscar.
More Progress
August 16, 2024
The head of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL has been refaced.
The block has been bored and honed and the deck has also been refaced.
Door Adjustment
August 16, 2024
During the pre-delivery inspection of our 1954 Daimler Conquest Roadster, Jonn noticed an issue with the driver’s door. Here are his notes on the repair:
Attend to report that drivers door will occasionally open whilst driving. Found catch spring not functioning to maintain pressure on catch. Strip and remove door panel.,found handle mechanism fitted upside down. Remove handle and catch assembly. Fit spring to catch to maintain pressure on catch. Refit to door and test. Ok now and handle sits and operates same as passengers door. Clean and apply double side tape to door panel and refit. Refit handle and test. Adjust striker and lubricate, ok. Remove and restick both front door pocket lining material.
MGA Delivery
August 16, 2024
As our 1960 MGA recently finished its time in the Bridge Classic Cars workshop, Tony loaded it into the trailer before taking it home.
Jensen Wheels
August 16, 2024
Tony recently collected the wheels for our 1956 Jensen 541 from Wheelworx and brought them back to the workshop.
Dino Progress
August 15, 2024
Christian has been busy fabricating the lower front right valance of our 1973 Ferrari Dino.
Tony also loaded up the wheels of this classic sports car to deliver them to be refurbished.
Vanden Plas Jobs
August 15, 2024
Jonn has been working hard to get our 1981 Austin Vanden Plas ready to be delivered to its lucky new owner. Here are his notes:
Remove rear wheels. Remove rear wheel bearings and drums. Strip and remove brake shoes and cylinders. Remove flexi hoses and fit new hoses. Manufacture barke pipes from glexis to wheel cylinders. Clean re usable components. Clean and lubricate backplates. Fit new wheel cylinders and connect. Fit new shoes and secure. Remove rear seatbase and de adjust handbrake cable. Clean and delip drums. Fit drums and adjust wheel bearings.
Bleed rear brakes. Adjust rear shoes. Adjust handbrake cable. Refit rear wheels.
Torque wheels and refit wheel trims. Top up brake fluid. Refit rear seat base. Carry out pdi. Resecure front grill
Strip and remove rear axle support mounts for welding.
Strip and remove nearside rear axle mount for welding. Mount had completely separated
To overcome the problem with the new axle mounts rubber bushes collapsing it was decided to solid mount the axle ends. First the rubber is removed and then a steel plate of the same thickness is cut. The original mounting are then welded to the steel packer to create a solid mount which will locate the axle more securely.
Refit modified rear axle mounting brackets. Align and secure. Refit rear wheels and torque up. Refit wheel trims. Using suspension pump lower suspension at rear. (Hydrogas not hydrolastic). Lower by approx 2 inches. Remove lift pump again as still has a leak. Clean and inspect all mating surfaces and spacer block. All appear fine. Make 2 x new gaskets and refit using derko sealer. Secure and leave to go off.
MG Cyberster Named ‘Best Sports Car’ at 2024 Best Cars of the Year Awards
August 15, 2024
MG Motor’s all-electric Cyberster roadster has been given the title of ‘Best Sports Car’ at the 2024 Best Cars of the Year Awards. This recognition means that the Cyberster will be celebrated at The British Motor Show, running from 15th -18th August, where it will be displayed on the Best Cars of the Year stand.
The international judging panel commended the MG Cyberster for its groundbreaking design, strong sustainability focus, and impressive electric performance. These qualities set it apart as a clear winner in its category.
The Cyberster also gained attention for its high level of comfort and its state-of-the-art interior, which features a wrap-around three-screen cockpit, creating a modern and immersive driving experience that puts the driver at the heart of the action.
Available in both single and dual motor configurations, the Cyberster delivers exceptional performance. The dual motor Cyberster GT, for example, boasts an impressive 503PS (375kW) and 725Nm (535 lb ft) of torque.
With multiple driving modes, the Cyberster offers a tailored driving experience—from relaxed motorway cruising in Comfort mode to a more exciting drive with enhanced power in Sport or Supersport mode. The all-wheel-drive GT accelerates from 0-62mph in just 3.2 seconds, making it MG’s fastest production car to date.
Fitted with a 77kWh battery, the Cyberster offers up to 316 miles of range (276 miles for the GT), and supports rapid charging up to 150kW, allowing a 10-80% charge in just 38 minutes.
Mike Rutherford, Founder and Chair of the Best Cars of the Year Awards, said: “Those who have already seen the bright yellow Cyberster on the Best COTY stand on the opening day of The British Motor Show this week will confirm the car somehow looks even better, classier and more handsome in the flesh than it does in photographs.
“Starting at under £55,000 it offers truly unbeatable value for money. It looks like a supercar – but is in the same price league as some comparatively dull hatchback EVs from rival manufacturers.”
David Allison, Head of Product and Planning at MG Motor UK, said: “The journey of the MG Cyberster, from concept to reality, has been met with overwhelming excitement. The positive reception from both the media and our customers has been incredible. We’re honoured to receive such high praise from the ‘Best Cars of the Year’ judging panel.”
Leave a Reply
Almost Ready For The Rebuild
August 15, 2024
With the new parts starting to arrive, it is almost time to begin the rebuild of the engine of our 1964 Mercedes 230SL.
The fuel injection pump and injectors have been rebuilt and are ready to be refitted. The camshaft is currently at Kent Cams where the camshaft is being reprofiled to the original Mercedes specification. This is because automatic gearboxes don’t respond well to uprating.
The camshaft and new cam fingers should be ready next week when more progress can be made.
Fiat 500 Engine Back In
August 14, 2024
Jonn has been refitting the engine to our 1963 Fiat 500. Here are his notes:
Get car on ramp. Prepare for refitting engine. Clean engine bay and place engine at rear ready for installation.
With assistance refit engine to car. Bolt up gearbox mountings. Route cables and wires and start making connections. Refit rear member bumper and boot lid. Secure rear engine mount. Raise in air and reconnect driveshafts and access starter cable.connect and set/adjust cables to, choke, throttle, starter and clutch. Check choke operation and throttle operation, ok. Adjust clutch cable and starter cable. Refill with oil. Connect battery and disconnect ht coil lead. Crank engine over for approx 1 min. Reconnect ht lead and start car. 1st flick of key. Allow to idle for a few minsand switchnoff. Check and top up oil. Adjust timing tom10btdc and lock distributor. Take outside run and and carry out road test. Stop and adjust clutch a bit more and return to workshop.
Visually check for leaks, ok. Carry out quick nut and bolt check and recheck oil level, ok. Car starts ok every time so not necessary to fit electric fuel pump at this stage. Let customer comeand drive and let me know if all ok.
Win A Pre-War Icon
August 13, 2024
The Austin 7 is a true icon in British automotive history, playing a key role in getting the country on the move and introducing a generation to the joys of driving.
Produced from 1923 to 1939, the Austin 7, affectionately known as the ‘Baby Austin,’ was so popular that it was built under license in countries around the world, and it quickly became a global favourite.
After World War II, many Austin 7s were transformed into ‘specials’ by a new wave of drivers who would go on to shape modern motorsport. Among these were legends like Bruce McLaren and Colin Chapman!
Our Austin 7 is a stunning Maroon Box Saloon, a small but elegant 2-door model built in 1933. It’s equipped with a sturdy and reliable 4-cylinder engine paired with a 4-speed manual gearbox – making it the perfect time machine to transport you back to the early days of British motoring.
We have known and looked after this car since 2019 so we are looking forward to seeing it go to its new home with someone who can enjoy it for many miles to come.
- 4-cylinder engine
- 4 – speed manual gearbox
- Known by Bridge Classic Cars since 2019
- A true time capsule of early British motoring
- Bridge Classic Cars pre-delivery inspection
Enter the draw for just £9.00 on the Bridge Classic Cars Competitions website.
Leave a Reply
Corvette Brakes
August 12, 2024
Here are Jonn’s notes relating to his work on one of our new arrivals – a 1976 Chevrolet Corvette:
Inspect brake system. Carry out full manual bleed of system. Still,think air is trapped in system. Attempt to pressure bleed but unable to seal reservoir. Bleed full system from master cylinder through to each wheel in order. Light still comes on occasionally and pressure at proportion valve seems unequal across the two circuits when unions undone and pedal,pressure applied, making me think there is still air trapped in system.
Looking into why the brake warning light was flashing on. After checking and bleed the brakes we found the new switch in the pressure senor valve was faulty. Also a few things we found which will require attention in the future. A bump stop becoming delamination and the radiator cross member show signs of corrosion.
Clamp off 3 wheels and bleed 4th. Repeat process for all wheels. Pedal good but light still illuminates when pedal pressed. Clamp off both fronts and retry. Light still coming on. Clamp off rears and try to see which circuit has the lower pressure. But light still coming on. Check old switch from old valve. Switch works like a reverse lightbswitch, as 8n when plunger pressed in switch then has continuity to earth, illuminating light on dash. Reiver new switch from new valve and found switch already has continuity without pressing in plunger. Wobble plunger and switch loses continuity. Fit old switch into new valveand test. Hey presto, light no longer illuminates when pedal pressed. Top up fluid. Refit wheels and torque up to 108nm. Clean area and have quick final look over ( see attached advisories). Carry out road test, all ok. Brakes fine and light not illuminating. ADVISE, All wheels show signs of wear where wheel nuts contact. Handbrake has excessive travel. Drivers side rear bumper stop hanging off. Wire to drivers side rear routed poorly above rear shock absorber. Radiator mount/ ember corroded and holed. Plate beneath rear diff insecure and rattles.
Vehicle Transport
August 12, 2024
Tony recently delivered our 1998 BMW M3 Evo back to its owner in London.
A C-Type Complete
August 12, 2024
Here are Jonn’s notes as he finishes off our 2022 Bridge C-Type Replica:
Carry out oil and filter change. Leave to drain for an extended period.clean out filter and housing. Remove oil filter mounting plate. John removed and cleaned pressure relief valve. Carry out nut and bolt check.
Continue nut and bolt check. Refit oil filter mount and oil filter housing. Refit sump bung and secure. Fill with new oil, run and test. Check oil pressure, all ok. At 50 psi plus at idle from cold, ok.
Finish off. Refit air filter housing. Remove wheels and carry out nut bolt check on suspension components unable to access with wheels on. Refit and tighten all wheels.
MG Midget Oil Leak
August 12, 2024
Steve has removed the engine and gearbox of our 1978 MG Midget so he was able to gain access to repair the gearbox leak as well as the engine front cover and sump leaks.
A Cobra Taking Shape
August 12, 2024
Mauro has continued his work on our 1975 AC Cobra Replica and it is now really starting to take shape.
MGB GT Dent Repair
August 12, 2024
An old friend has recently returned to the Bridge Classic Cars workshop in the form of our 1968 MGB GT. While it is here, Mauro has been repairing the dents in the front lower panel. He then primed the panel ready for paint.
Leave a Reply