Projects

This Bristol 401 was a major restoration project.

Abundant with steel/alloy corrosion, much of the bodywork had to be cut away and replaced with handmade aluminium panels. The bodywork was then in desperate need of a full paintwork renovation. With the owner feeling that current colour of Highgate Gold (a fancy name for light beige) 'did nothing for the car', steps were taken to ensure the new colouring matched the client's specifications. The final finish was a metallic Auto Grey, a nod towards the car's origins but with a modern wink. To boot, all the bright work from wheel caps to bumpers and grilles was re-chromed to the highest quality.

The entire engine required a re-build, as well as the gearbox and running gear. Although this was a time-consuming task it was also a labour of love for the team who are equally passionate about classic cars as their owners. It was a rewarding job to get the Bristol in perfect running order. The steering rack and assembly were re-built and the disc brakes upgraded.

As classic cars age, wires get dirty and brittle and lose conductivity. Distributors and coils cannot work efficiently if they do not get the full voltage they require. This case was no exception so the wiring has been updated to meet modern specifications as many of the wiring harnesses and switches would have been over half a century old!

As well as the extensive mechanical work, the Bristol was treated to a completely new leather interior. After toying with the notion of bottle green leather, the owner resolved to have a contrasting light burgundy interior. With such a wide stock of quality leathers at HC Classics and a team of expert trimmers at hand, one really is spoilt for choice.

From receipt of the car to delivery back to its owner, it took the team 18 months to complete the project.