Our team has begun removing the chrome on the 1954 Jaguar MKVII in preparation for bodywork and paint. For the majority of the chrome, its a realtivily simple removal, for example, the pieces on the windows are easy to remove however some are more difficult and need extra components removed to get to the chrome.
Following the fuel tank renovation, Ady has fitted the oil sump back underneath the car.
Our trim department has been working hard to get the 1998 TVR Chimaera’s carpet, door panels and other pieces of fabric-to-metal trim stuck and bolted down.
Brian and Kath stripped the TVR out ready for fitting. They started by fitting the carpet to the rear side section where the seat belts fit. Next, they fitted the side sill carpets, wheel arch sections, and cut out the foam to go in rear cockpit section.
Once they had glued the foam into rear cockpit section, the team carefully fitted the back carpet to the rear section of the TVR. They then cut the speaker holes out, glued the bottom carpet to rear cockpit section and glued the carpet to the side of the tunnel. After this was completed, the team could complete the rear section and tunnel section. The speakers and air vent could then be refitted.
After fitting the console back in, Kath and Brian could cut and fit some plywood for the rear compartment covers. Once cut, the pieces could be glued to the carpet. Next up was fitting the underlay to the front footwell section and securing the front and rear carpets.
One of the more challenging parts of this trim restoration was removing the old carpet from the door panel as the bolts were particularly stiff on the door cards. The team glued the new carpet to the door panel and fitted it into to door, as well as fitting the outer section of the door panel to the door. The final touch was to refit the speakers.
We’ve also fitted the seat belts.
Kath identified some rust but we discovered that its only surface rust which can be treated on the surface by filling the holes with rubber flanges and flange sealant to then be primed and painted.
All of the old foam has been replaced with new fresh foam, carpet has been laid in the passenger footwell, the centre console has been cleaned and repaired where needed and the trim has been cut and fitted for the upper footwell.
The board surrounding the battery in the footwell has been modified to fit better and the trim has been replaced with the new fabric. Velcro was then carefully attached so that the board can be easily removed.
The rear carpet has been fitted as well as the door cards and door trim. The leather around the door car was also cleaned before re-fitting.
The boot carpet needed to be re-fit, as did the foam on top of the fuel tank.
Kath has worked on re-lining the TVR’s boot too. She’s taken out the old carpet and fitted a new one in as well as replacing the carpet around the fuel tank and spare tyre section. The boot lid carpet has also been replaced with fresh lining. The next step is to bolt in the seats and service the car.
We couldn’t resist taking the Land Rover out into the snow to get some arrival photos. Since we’re aiming to give this iconic adventure-mobile a makeover, these shots serve as a good ‘before’ look. Stay tuned to see what it’ll look like afterwards…
Its been exactly 60 years since the Series 2a was released and it still has its original power and authenticity in-tact. Whilst these vehicles are known for being glamorised tractors, nothing beats them in terms of authentic adventure. The Series IIa retained the civilian simplicity of the Series I whilst fine-tuning the styling, updating the suspension and adding a larger 2.3-litre four-cylinder. Our Series 2a comes with desirable overdrive and free wheeling hubs which makes it unique for motors from the time.
Land Rovers have now come synonymous with adventure, camping and an outdoors lifestyle, however, they were originally designed as agriculture work-horses. Over the decades, they’ve gained a duality between agriculture and adventure.
This iconic vehicle its reminiscent of the golden era of exploration and was often seen leading the charge on the silver screen. With America’s Jeeps taking the 4×4 lead across the pond the post-war era, Land Rover Series and Range Rover Defenders stood for the UK’s iconic off-roading vehicle. You might recognise a similar green series IIa that featured in the Italian Job alongside a fleet of mini coopers.
There’s a series of complicated but nifty modes on vintage Land Rover so it can seem overwhelming to the novice driver or those experiencing vintage Land Rovers for the first time. The blog below clearly explains what each mode does:
You can expect to see this Land Rover up for grabs in the coming weeks, stay tuned…
February 10, 2021 12:34 pm
Lydia has been making the second front squab seat cover for our 1987 Mercedes 500SL. This included taking the cover off the frame which is something.
Lydia had to start with loosening the sides from the frame by levering the cover off. The next step was to remove the plastic parts by holding the cover down in the centre and shimming the components out. Lydia could then start peeling the cover off the frame completely and take off the plastic rings for the headrest at the top of the squab. The next step is to remove the leather cover and rework that.
Ady, our engine specialist has been working hard to restore our Jaguar MKVII.
He’s repaired the fuel tank plugs and filters by adding new seals. The fourth image shows the fuel tank plug and filter being screwed into the fuel tank after being repaired. The final image shows the fuel tank sender unit being removed, so Ady could fit a new gasket.
We’ve had a new arrival at HQ and it couldn’t have arrived in more fitting weather! This iconic 1964 Land Rover Series IIa has only 60,000 miles on the clock, 2 previous owners, recently restored with chassis and bulkhead in perfect condition.
Known for their iconic styling and character, these Land Rovers were the perfect farm yard work-horse, could tackle all weathers and terrain and were easy to fix with their simple parts. The Land Rover Series 2 soon gathered momentum for the go-to British exploration vehicle as it was proved to be largely indestructible. Now a quickly appreciating car, a Land Rover Series 2/2A is becoming a sought after collectable that is no longer just a workhorse vehicle.
This beautiful British green classic Land Rover will need a service and then it will be handed over to the marketing team to photoshoot and release, keep your eyes peeled…
Here’s our lovely noew eiditon being loaded inot our lorry to make its way down south to its new home with us.
James has been continuing his work with the VW T4 Transporter Campervan. He’s currently tackling the corrosion in the wheel arch by fabricating new elements. James found that he struggled to get his spot welder into the smaller and more awkward parts of the wheel arch, so instead had to fabricate some bespoke patches.
Here you can see his welding and replacement parts. James will need to do the same on the other side next, and then move onto the wings to ensure that all of the corrosion has been address before it enters the paint bay. With properly engineered components, this beloved TR4 will be able to continue providing memorable adventures.
Our side of the trim work has been completed for the 1958 Jaguar XK150. Our job was to only fit the fabric to metal pieces as the customer is restoring the majority of the car himself. Although we previously made the seats, the customer is fitting them himself. Our trim team have done yet another fantastic job to restore the interior in this iconic classic, with the finished product looking spectacular.
The foot pedal carpet did not fit properly so Kath made a new template and cut out new set. She found that her new design glued and fitted in a lot neater. The front tunnel section was also completed by adding some deadening as well as the trim however it originally didnt fit right as it came up too big, so Kath had to pack out tunnel with some extra foam. The trim team cut some millboard out to go over the inspection chamber and screwed it in place. They found that the tunnel was a funny shape so had to modify the design and add some extra foam until the cover fit perfectly. Kath then fit the next part of tunnel by trimming around hand brake gaiter and gluing it all into position to clamp in place.
Lydia has completed another seat cover using the same process as before. Brian and Kath have also been working at creating a cover for the dashboard.
The dashboard process included measuring out and cutting the leather and cutting out holes for the dials, sewing around the edges to make for a neat fold and fit, and then sticking it all to the dash and then turning over the fabric, pulling it tight to create a neat fit.
We’ve been contacted by someone with a unique Honda S800 who was enquiring about getting some bodywork repair done. We’re looking forward to seeing where this enquiry takes us so keep your eyes peeled!
We may be expecting both of these beautiful Morris’s into the workshop sometime in the near future. The photos below are a 1935 Morris 12/4 Coupe 1500cc and 1949 Morris Minor Lowlight. Morris’s are known for their iconic British charm and trustworthy engineering.
Last night we held our live draw to announce the BMW Z3M winner! As always, Charlotte joined us to take a walk through the cars in the hanger and the competition before she announced the winner.
We’re delighted to announce the winner of our BMW is Philip Hatswell with ticket number 3267. We’re yet to hear back from Philip but we’ve sent him a message to let him know he’s won, and we can’t wait to drop it off for him!
You can watch our live draw back here. We also work to capture behind the scenes shots to give you an insight into what we see!
We’ve welcomed back this lovely 1960 MG A for a service. We originally restored this stunning classic and were delighted to hear how happy Mike is with his beloved motor when he dropped it off with us this morning.
We’ve begun by draining the oil out of the engine to replace it as this is advised to do either once a year or every 6000 miles. This is important to do as when the oil has circulated around the engine numerous times, it can collect metal pollutants and lose its effectiveness.
Eye spy a little turquoise mini! A little while ago, we worked on a 1967 Austin Mini 850 for Electric Classic Cars who aimed to turn it into a 300hp electric-powered classic.
Bridge Classic Cars worked on restoring this charming mini and handed it over Electric Classics to finish. Our final touch was the bodywork preparation and paintwork. Our Paint Shop finished the vehicle in a dazzling ‘Surf Blue’.
We love following its progress and can’t wait to see the finished product!
February 4, 2021 8:36 am
We recently had a request in for the valuation of this 1983 Ford Escort RS1600i. As part of our services, we offer classic car valuations, whether its to help a customer decide whether to sell their car or for insurance policies.
Our stunning Jaguar XK150 partial trim restoration is progressing well as the trim shop finish the boot carpet and continue with the other sections inside the made body.
The pre-existing carpet pieces are carefully glued in bit by bit, making sure that each section fits well and sticks.
The process included glueing the hardheaded sections into boot sides, which, once glued in, left room for the boot floor mat to be fitted. Brian then glued the vinyl around the edges of the rear seat and around the hatch to the boot. He made the millboard panel for the hatch and glued the hardheaded sections to the billboard.
Our Daimler arrived safe and sound with Gabriel Oconnell last week. We loaded up the lorry and sent it on its way over to near Cardiff and were delighted to receive a photo of two smiling faces! Gabriel and his wife Margaret were over the moon when it arrived, the smiles tell it all!
We can’t wait to hear about Gabriel’s drives with his new motor as he lives in a beautiful district of wales between Swansea and Cardiff, a stunning backdrop for a stunning car!
This Daimler already has a very special place in their hearts as Gabriel told us he used to visit his brother’s house every fortnight to polish his similar Jaguar XJ. His brother has unfortunately passed away, but we hope this car brings back fond memories.
Gabriel has already joined the Jaguar and Daimler club and has ordered up a car cover to keep his new pride and joy looking show-ready.
Here’s some shots of Russell’s loading up the Daimler ready for its long journey to Wales.
Will you be our next classic car winner? We’ve got a stunning Rolls Royce and a modern classic BMW up for grabs over on our website, check them out!
February 2, 2021 9:55 am
It’s time for another instalment of meet the team! Today we chatted to Mike, our hard-working accountant, for whom is responsible for making sure we have everything we need and keeps us on track. We don’t know where we’d be without him!
Mike is our director Craig’s, Uncle, showing yet again how family-run we really are here at Bridge Classic Cars. Mike has worked with Craig and Gordon for many years from Boots to Inteck and then officially joined us full-time last year after helping out on a part-time basis for a while.
Mike’s first car was a Datsun (Nissan) Cherry, now a much loved classic!
When Mike isn’t pouring over our finances and data, you can find him in his garden, tending to his much-loved flowers and veggies. Mike tells us, “Agapanthus and Peonies are my favourite flowers. For my 60th, I dug myself a new border and planted some more Peonies, Agapanthus and Hydrandreas!”
Some American friends of Bridge have recently sent through some interesting stateside car news and stories.
Our friends across the pond sent us these lovely photos from the Hershey Car show in 2019. We love seeing classics from all around the world as every country has such a unique style. Hershey car show is located in Hershey, Pennsylvania and is dedicated to classic and collectors cars. But Hershey is of course also famous for its famous chocolate and sweets.
The Pontiac GTO Survivor is the iconic American muscle car, its embodies everything that muscle cars are. Tom Kennedy wrote a feature for The Legend magazine about his history with his beloved GTO Survivor, which you can read below.
With 2021 marking Jeep’s 80th anniversary, they’re releasing special edition versions of the Renegade and Wrangler SUVs. The unique editions will come with an “80th Anniversary” badging, unique 18-inch alloy wheels and Granite Crystal paint.
Jeep forged their way into the automobile world in the height of world war two. Jeeps were designed to be nimble and versatile on the battlefield, tackling any terrain and light enough to be pushed when stuck. Although there are many versions of the founding story of Jeep, there are a few facts that remain trusted.
The American Military put out a request to American automobile designers to come up with an appropriate vehicle however the only responses they received were from two, small companies: Willys-Overland Motor Co and Bantam Car Co. However the American Military had it’s concerned so it invited Ford Motors to join the assembly.
All companies produced a vehicle that was intended to meet the specifications however both fell short in varying aspects. The Willys Quad had a powerful 60-hp Go Devil four-cylinder engine which put it head and shoulders above the other in terms of power. The Ford Pygmy unique and advanced craftsmanship, as it was designed with a flat hood and flat fenders that the War Department saw as useful and intuitive features. Bantam, who has previously provided a vehicle design that subsequently failed, produced an updated design that became the lightest and most fuel-efficient of the three.
In 1941, Willys-Overland Motor Co. received their first contract to produce the Willys MB for the American military that featured design aspects from each contribution. A second contract was then awarded to Ford to keep up with the demand. Bantam was given a contract to build trailers used alongside the Jeeps.
After the war, the designs were adapted for civilian use, and so the Jeep franchise grew but not without gaining the ‘Jeep Curse’ as it chewed up and spat out several owners over its long history.
Back in 2018, in the midst of the Beast From The East, we worked on a 1944 Ford GPW Willys’ Jeep that had an issue with a valve stuck open. This model was one of the original American Military Jeeps and an absolute pleasure to work on. Even at 77 years old, nothing could stop this little Jeep.
Last week we delivered our 1979 Chevrolet Corvette to a delighted Lee Bache in Southampton. After only buying a singular ticket for his first competition entry at Bridge, Lee couldn’t believe his luck when his name and number was picked!
Lee told us he couldn’t wait to drive it around the New Forest, which we can be sure, will be a stunning drive to both experience and watch.
Lee was heard about Bridge Classic Car Competitions when his friend, Claudio, told him about the car giveaways. Claudio has entered multiple times with us and it was our characterful yellow Rover Mini that caught his eye. We love to hear stories of friends entering and getting involved with our competitions and can’t wait to see Lee and his friends enjoy this amazing motor.
Lee left a lovely review shortly after recieving his new motor:
“I’m writing this review because I’m telling you now that this is 100% real. I wasn’t sure about it at first because I had mixed emotions, never really participate in things like this. I used to put on football bets for a bit of fun on the weekend and won nothing, I think personally that I have better chances with better odds buying a ticket with these guys. I bought one ticket and mine was the lucky one. I’m so happy. My Chevrolet corvette was delivered this morning and it was a dream. The car is in mint condition. All the staff were very accommodating, answered the phone at any time of the day and gave me all the information I needed. I would strongly recommend Bridge Classic Cars to anyone. With tickets under £10 is nothing. OK, mine was £17.50 but at the end of the day, I own an American muscle car 💪 the buzz is amazing! Buy your tickets and you never know you could be a happy lucky winner like me.”
A big thank you to Claudio who also took some of the photos you see below – thanks for helping us capture this special moment!
If you fancy your chances at being our next classic car winner, check out our current motors! We’ve got two more charming red classics that could be yours for under £10!
1992 Rolls Royce Silver Spirit II
Back in 2019, we shot with Deimante aka @tomboy_a_bit at Bentwaters. Deimante is a die-hard motorbike fanatic and we couldn’t think of anyone more experienced than her to test out our beloved trial bike.
Deimante produced this video seen below where she talks about the interesting history of the bike and the quirks of riding it. From that day, we gathered plenty of photos and videos, some of which you’ll see on our website and other bits you can find on Deimante’s social media, so keep an eye out!
This charming bike is up for sale with us and you can check it out here.
This iconic modern classic has come in for some TLC. As a 1991 VW Transporter T4, this model is often used as a camper conversion, which is exactly what ours is. Using some innovative spatial design, this T4 makes the perfect portable camper whilst still being small enough to navigate those smaller roads. However, much like any well-loved classic, it needs some maintenance to its paintwork.
We’re aiming to correct the rust damage on the lower half as despite having been painted elsewhere recently, the corrosion has already returned. The wheel arch, sills and wings are also showing signs of rust, so it’s our job to correct this! We’ll be taking every measure to make sure the rust is kept away for years, not just 6 months. We’re going to be stripping the bodywork back, remove the rust and then paint the body in a dual-tone with white on top and grey covering the bottom half.
The process of restoring a car is rarely linear, but that’s all part of the car’s journey. The plan for the 1957 Jensen 541R was to have original chrome pieces installed onto the side of the doors however our client decided that he didn’t want these pieces and to leave them off for now. We’ve welded the holes closed and will begin to paint over them. It’s crucial for us that our clients have the ability and freedom to pitch in ideas and change their minds, after all, these restorations are all bespoke for a reason!
This iconic 1958 Jaguar XK150 is known as the grandfather of classic cars, the epitome of class and the ever chased after classics. With only 6,713 ever produced, it lay claim to the greatest post-war sports car ever made. Known for its superb performance, its true testament to great British engineering.
Its currently with us for a partial trim restoration.
As the story goes; the car was discovered having been stored in what looked to be a purpose-built building to hide the car during wartime. Whether this was to protect the car from any war damage or to hide it away from sight. Bought recently by Bridge Classic Cars to restore at leisure is our 1905 Riley 9hp. Let’s face it, it is never going to happen without a new owner eager already secured and a definite date in the diary for us to start.
One of only three in existence; one being in Gaydon Motor Museum, our one and one other. Gaydon Motor Museum was kind enough to give us access to allow us to extensively photograph their car to assist us in this relatively simple restoration project.
Simple as there is not much to it and we have as far as we can see most parts to complete. The main part known to be missing is the superb brass radiator. Which can be re-manufactured.
Amazingly, the car benefits from many brand new parts; five newly manufactured wheels, cycle mud guards, top bonnet area, crown wheel and pinion etc. The wooden body is remarkable for its age and only requires repair and sympathetic restoration. This is not destined to be a new 1905 car. It should be restored, original parts repurposed to show the history and origins of the car. We will use all existing parts that we can.
We have running lights, trembler etc and everything to make her what she was then. The engine has good compression and the gearbox appears to function as we would expect.
The interior will need to be totally renewed but we do have the original to copy and the old will be preserved and framed as a valuable part of her 116-year existence.
We have a current V5 in our name. Three folders of superb history and manuals. This is totally unrepeatable build and history has already proved that a car such as this is very valuable and a growing asset for any collector, enthusiast, but more importantly a major part of any classic collection.
This is as classic as you can get and the only thing missing (well, the main thing) is an owner. We understand that to most people interested in this timeless classic will also want to follow through on the process of restoration. This is why we’ve set the price as POA (Price On Application). We encourage curiosity about this charming motor and would like to hope that an individual who’s interested in purchasing it, would also want to have it fully restored with us.
You can enquire here or send us an email at info@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
Today we welcomed another new project in that will commence in the coming weeks. This 1996 Toyota HiLux is in need of quite some work and restoration, but no job is too big for us here at Bridge! This Hilux needs a chassis restoration and cab refurbishment. We aim to tackle the buck later down the line.
The HiLux models are incredibly reliable and practical for 4×4 pursuits, whether that be farming, off-roading or trade work. Some may remember a similar HiLux receiving an unforgiving battering on Top Gear, who proceeded to prove just how indestructible these vehicles really are. Craig tells us that he worked with this car during his career at the BBC: “I worked there as part of my placement but you couldn’t get anywhere near the vehicle when on set due to the amount of toxic chemical residue left it.”
Here’s some shots of our indestructible HiLux in its current condition:
A donor car if required…
Back in November, we headed over to Hintlesham Hall to photograph our opulent 1973 Rolls Royce Corniche with our friend Giles, who was our talented model and driver for the shoot.
This stunning gold and brown classic is a spacious and dreamy drive, perfect for the road trip and country get away.
This car is currently up for sale with us and could be yours! You can read more about it here.
A while back we shot some stunning photos of our lovely 1988 Ford Escort RS Turbo with model Carnell (@carnage_kicks).
Using a smoke granade to create an artistic approach, we spent the afternoon shooting a series of interesting portraits with the car as well as capturing our standard shots.
This car is currently up for sale, you can see more here.
We may soon be welcoming this 1987 TVR 350i in for some trim work. The client who contacted us is currently in the process of purchasing this beautiful TVR. We look forward to hearing more about this possible project.
The following is what the client has enquired about:
