classic car specialists

Final Inspection – Preparing the Triumph TR3A for Birmingham NEC Auction

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.

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

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.

This Just In – 1992 Toyota MR2

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

Coming Soon: 1970 Bristol 411

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

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.

Off To A New Home – Saying Goodbye to our 1965 Amphicar

Well, it’s always sad to say goodbye. Our wonderful little 1965 Amphicar that we completely restored in-house here at Bridge Classic Cars has gone off to its new home.

The whole car was restored by our in-house restoration team, each playing a role in making this car not only look the absolute business but also fully functional.

It was up for auction recently on Car & Classic and which was by its lucky new owner. So, it was time for her to start a new journey. Sad to see her go but happy that we got the privilege to restore and work on such a unique and interesting classic.

Back in the Game – Refitting the Power Steering Pump to our 2005 Aston Martin DB9

Bridge Classic Cars in-house restoration technician Mauro has been working on refitting the power steering pump to Craig, our directors, 2005 Aston Martin DB9.

After the refurbished part arrived back to us here in Pettistree, Mauro began to get the component set up to go back into the engine bay alongside the famous 6 litre V12.

Carefully Mauro reinstalled the pump back onto the engine and began to close the hoses into the correct positions. After this, he methodically went through every clamp to ensure the seals were right and then topped up the fluid.

From there, it was tested by our in-house team and reinspected.

New Arrival at The Hangar – The 1934 MG PA Midget

Our Director Gordon’s new 1934 MG PA Midget is now safe and sound in our classic and collectable vehicle storage facility known as The Hangar.

Since its arrival, the Bridge Classic Cars team have had a chance to pour over all the small details of this stunning early British sports car. Along with its arrival is the routine clean which all cars have before entering our storage facility by Viper Valet.

There are literally hundreds of amazing bits and pieces on this beautifully proportioned sports car. The large Jaeger clocks, the enormous steering wheels and the temperature gauge mounted on top of the radiator. There is just so many! So, have a look here through a gallery of this brilliant car.

Coming Soon – 1985 Mercedes SL380 in for Insurance Valuation

Bridge Classic Cars were pleased to welcome this stunning 1985 Mercedes R107 SL380 recently.

The owner of this beautiful, classic convertible has asked us to do an insurance valuation on the vehicle for himself and the insurance company. These must be done by a noted and respected restoration specialist which is what we at Bridge Classic Cars pride ourselves on.

The Touches – Retrimming Parts on the 1970 Dodge Charger

Brian, our in-house trim master, has been busy working on retrimming and refitting trim pieces for the 1970 Dodge Charger that is in at Bridge Classic Cars.

To start with, Brian began working on retrimming the seatbacks for the plush, thick black leather bucket seats. Brian created the coverings by hand trying to get the closest he possibly could to the same thickness and quality leather used on the fronts to create one uniform piece.

Along with that, Brian also worked on recovering the seat adjusters in matching black leather for the final finishing touch of the seats.

After that, Brian then turned his attention onto the dash. This along with the seats are the next step for installation into the car. The dash pad and A-pillars were hand wrapped in matching leather to create another uniform look throughout the whole car, just another little touch on this amazing Charger

Just Like New – 2005 Aston Martin DB9 Power Steering Pump Refurb

Our director, Craig, noticed a slight leak coming from his 2005 Aston Martin DB9 recently. So, the team at Bridge Classic Cars set about looking into it.

Our in-house restoration technicians got the car in and began to check over all the systems and hoses in the engine bay. Soon, it was found to be from the power steering pump. Thankfully, these can be rebuilt/refurbished by specialists so it has been removed and sent off for the work to be done.

Once we have it back, we’ll let you know all about it here on the Bridge Classic Cars blog.

Working in the Background – Wiring and Plumbing Continues on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster

Scott has been hard at work on the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster that is being built by Bridge Classic Cars.

Since the last update, Scott has fitted the new radiator along with its dual Spal fans to make sure that when this freshly built 5 litre V12 is fired off for the first time and gets up to temperature, it stays safe and stable in the green zone. In preparation for that important moment, a lot of wiring has to happen along with the plumbing of hoses. Scott has been working on wiring up all the switchgear and gauges so that during the testing period and when the customer is doing many happy miles in the car, they are safe in the knowledge that everything is showing accurately and properly.

The detail of this car is truly amazing. Scott is testing the systems and then going back to make sure all the wiring is bundled and routed correctly to each individual component, should it ever have to be inspected in the future. Along with that is yards and yards of hard and Flexi lines that criss-cross the engine bay. Providing vacuum or air to different systems that run within or off of the V12. The throttle cables have been run from the large disc-shaped rotor out to each of the newly in-house rebuilt Stromberg carburettors so that when all that power is released on the road, it can be modulated and applied precisely.

Importantly aswell, Scott has been working with John to get the brand new belts in place for the engine. In total 5 belts are needed to drive the different systems for the Series 3 V12. These must go on in the right order as they are staggered specifically for the different components they drive. Once the final belt was wrapped around the alternator, Scott could then wire it to the car and its harness so when the car is running it is charging correctly (which will be able to be seen on the dial panel on the dash)

There will be more updates on Fern Grey very soon! Keep an eye on the blog page.

Off to a New Home – 1959 Jensen 541R Princess Grey Goes to a New Owner

We recently said goodbye to Princess Grey. Off to be restored by its enthusiastic new owner who will love and cherish this car.

Princess Grey is a 1959 Jensen 541R which we stored with the prospect of one day being commissioned to build her for a new owner and keep another 541 safe for prosperity and generations to come. That is still going to happen but just not with us.

However, it is really exciting to see it going off to the new owner and we look forward to seeing updates on the car.

In Plain Sight – The 1951 Riley RMB Chassis back from Acid Dip

The frame for the 1951 Riley RMB that is being restored at Bridge Classic Cars has just arrived back from its appointment with an acid bath.

The chassis had been stripped back in-house but was recommended to be chemically treated by a specialist so that our in-house fabrication team could look into the true condition of the chassis. Overall the frame isn’t in too bad of a condition. Areas of it though will definitely need attention before it is to be used again for the car.

James and Clinton, our in-house metal fabrication experts, will be assessing the frame and coming up with a plan.

Inch Perfect – The Frame for the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 Back from Powdercoating

The chassis for the 1955 Aston Martin DB2/4 at Bridge Classic Cars is back from being powder coated by a local specialist. The results are absolutely amazing.

The benefits of powder coating are seen in this example. The even, glossy and complete coverage is the results you get when a chassis is coated and is also more weather-safe than traditional methods.

Now that the frame is back, Lydia is working on preparing the body in our in-house paint shop ready for its slot in the paint booth.

Keep a lookout on the Bridge Classic Cars Blog for more updates on this amazing DB2.

Aircooled Cool – The REC 901 Watch

Bridge Classic Cars Competitions is giving one lucky winner the chance to win an air-cooled Porsche! But, it’s been made into a watch…

REC has launched the 901. A beautiful timepiece inspired by the early Porsche 911 (901) so much so that part of it is actually made from the metal of salvaged Porsche 911.

901 is the reference to the early cars created by Porsche before the dispute with Peugeot over the use of the 901 name. After this, Porsche changed the new cars name to 911. The REC 901’s dials are a reference to the early dials that lay in the minimal and iconic dashboard of the early Porsches. Much like the 911, the 901 watch is a stunning piece of engineering, style and precision that can be worn every day and also like the car, is for all occasions.

On the back of the watch, as a cover for the internals, is a Fuchs alloy. The iconic daisy style wheel that was used on air-cooled Porsche road and race cars all the way to the present day. A lovely little touch to further connect it to the car that gave up its metal to create this stunning timepiece.

Along with this watch, is a stunning print from The Automobilist featuring a fiery orange coloured 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera 2.7RS. One of the most iconic Porsche road and race cars of all time along with being the genesis of the Porsche GT programme.

It is available now to win! With only 911 tickets available at launch, enter now to make sure you don’t miss out on owning this piece of air-cooled Porsche memorabilia.

Click here to enter for the REC Watches 901 911 Watch Bundle.

Sound Control – Fitting and Binding the Front Carpet of the 1970 Dodge Charger

There’s been some big progress on the 1970 Dodge Charger currently in the trim shop at Bridge Classic Cars.

Kath had to cut the carpet to get a good fit during the test fit of the piece but rather than leave it, she has bound the edge to match the original edging fitted to the carpet set. Now with the piece ready to be fitted, it was time to get the final bits of sound deadening in place.

Carefully the trim shop put the new sound deadening material into place using reference photos to get them into the same placement as the original.

Once the sound deadening was firmly in place, Kath then began the process of laying the carpet panel into its place and securing it. Using high-spec carpeting adhesive, the carpet was laid into the Charger’s front footwell and firmly in place.

Next will be getting the trims, consoles and seats ready to go into this iconic American Muscle Car.

Next Phase – Wiring and Plumbing the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster

Scott, one of our in-house restoration experts has been hard at work getting ”Fern Grey” the 1973 Jaguar E Type Series 3 Roadster plumbed and wired.

Recently Scott carefully got the newly built 5 litre V12 into place in the car, taking his time to make sure everything was exactly where it should be and safely locked into place. Then once the engine was in its final position, Scott got to work hooking up the various systems needed to fire this stunning 12 cylinder Jaguar into life.

First up, the team fitted up the newly rebuilt Stormberg carburettors onto either side of the engine. Along with that were the large aluminium intakes that feed the Strombergs. Along with that are the various pipes and hoses that need to be spread across the engine bay and allow the long-legged V12 to run faultlessly and reliably. All of these components needed to go into place first to then get the heater system into place as it sits close to the back end of the carburettors.

From there, Scott worked his way from the engine bay into the cabin with the wiring. All of the related dials and lights needed to be wired up to the engine and the fuse box for when Fern Grey bursts into life. Each of the wires was meticulously run by Scott to ensure they would not chafe or mar the elegant green/grey paintwork that flows with the elegant, iconic lines of this E Type Roadster.

Coming Together – Refit on the 1973 MGB GT V8

Bridge Classic Cars team of in-house restoration experts have been working on getting this 1973 MGB GT V8 we have in all buttoned up and ready to hit the road!

John and the workshop team have gone through hours of wiring checks and small fixes that were needed to ensure the wiring system throughout the whole car was in good working order and each component worked exactly as it should. Along with that, the interior of the car can now begin to go back in. Step by step, it’s beginning to look like an MGB GT again.

Underneath, there’s a brand new exhaust system to help that V8 breathe. Tucked up nearly underneath its brightly coloured body, there will be no doubt thanks to the new exhaust that this is indeed a V8 car. Also, the new brakes and clutch hydraulic systems have been put in, bled and tested passing with flying colours.

All of this means we should be able to test this stunning little sportscar on the road very soon. Keep an eye out on the Bridge Classic Cars news page for updates on the 1973 MGB GT V8.

Back in Shape – Metalwork for the Scuttle/Windscreen Surround on the 1951 Riley RMB

Metalwork on classic cars is a craft. A skill that takes years to master and dedication to conquer. Our in-house bodywork experts at Bridge Classic Cars have those skills, experience and dedication.

Work is continuing on the windscreen/scuttle for the 1951 Riley RMB by our in-house expert James. Last time he worked on the top of the windshield surround but this time, it was the case of the lower scuttle.

Some of the metal bracing and reinforcement had deteriorated over time quite badly. These pieces help give that stunning spilt windscreen its shape and hold it rigid, so their placement and construction are crucial.

Using the existing pieces as a template, James cut the new parts roughly into shape to begin refining them closer to the originals. Then, offering the pieces up to the panel James could work on shaping them more and more till the fit was perfect.

All of the areas underneath the remade panels were rust treated carefully before being welded in.

New Lease on Life – Throttle Cable Install on the 1994 Piaggio Ape TM P50

The new throttle cable for our 1994 Piaggio TM P50 Ape is on the car!

Our restoration technician Mauro has got a long and personal history with this car so it makes sense for him to be the technician to be working on the car. The throttle cable for the Ape is much like a motorcycle throttle cable and it’s routed carefully through the car down to the little single carb at the back.

Now that it is all in place and back together, we can start to test the Ape ready for it’s MOT soon!

Coming Soon – 1969 MG B GT

Bridge Classic Cars will soon be welcoming this stunning 1969 MGB GT into our Pettistree workshop for a list of jobs to get this beautiful white 2 door sportscar back up and running.

There’s a reported issue with the fuel pump, which in turn means that the carburettors will need to be adjusted and balanced. Along with the bits under the bonnet is a service/overhaul of the points and rotor arm in the distributor upon the client’s request. The customer also reports the overdrive only working intermittently so that will be investigated by our in-house restoration technicians then we will advise on any issues.

Around the car, there are a few areas around the car that our in-house restoration teams will also be looking into. Some rubber seals on the rear hatch have perished in places so to make sure the car is weatherproofed and stop any water from entering the cabin. Next up, our body and paint experts will have a look at an issue with tyre fitment. The nearside wheel arch apparently catches on the tyre but there does seem to have been some modifications done to the offside rear arch to stop that from happening.

Keep an eye out on the Bridge Classic Cars news page for more updates on the 1969 MGB GT.

Coming Together – Metalwork on the 1951 Riley RMB

As you might have seen in our previous post on the 1951 Riley RMB here at Bridge Classic Cars, James has been hard at work getting the wings into the best shape possible.

James, our expert in-house fabricator, has been working on the Riley for quite some time. A lot of the panels needed extensive repairs and reworking to be useable in the restoration of this beloved classic. The rear wings are currently the pieces on James’s bench.

After James worked the repair patches into the original wing, he then had to work them carefully and methodically to ensure they met the original shape and dimensions of the car. Also, he has to make sure both sides are identical. This takes a highly skilled hand and incremental adjustments to achieve the finish you see before you.

James has blended new pieces into the originals and almost seamlessly blended new and old together through the medium of metal. Any adjustment to the piece also means that the entire panel must be checked to see if it has caused any sort of distortion elsewhere.

But, these wings are looking absolutely incredible for when they eventually meet back up on the car.