Mechanical restoration is equally thorough. The engine is stripped
to a bare block where it goes through a series of chemical washes to
remove all grease, paint and carbon deposits. The water jackets are
cleaned with acid to remove all internal corrosion, ensuring that there
are no future problems. At this point the cylinder block, crankshaft,
conrods etc are all inspected before the various machining processes are
carried out.
Every tolerance and dimension is checked and machined to achieve an
as new standard. The crankshaft assembly, pistons, conrods, flywheel and
clutch are dynamically balanced to ensure a perfectly smooth running
engine. The cylinder head is first pressure tested and checked for
dimensional accuracy prior to being fitted with bronze valve seats,
stainless steel valves, valve guides and bucket guides. This enables the
engine to run on lead free fuel.
After all machining, tolerances are again checked for dimensional
accuracy before another comprehensive cleaning process takes place. Only
when all components are clinically clean does the assembly of the engine
begin.
The majority of parts fitted during assembly of the engine are new. We
routinely fit new camshaft sprockets, idler gears, tappet buckets etc.
It is only by fitting new parts throughout that we are able to ensure
the quality and performance of these legendary engines.
The gearbox and rear axle are stripped and rebuilt to the same
exacting standards. We employ Dana Spicer (formerly Salisbury Axles) to
remanufacture the rear axle. As the original manufacturer they are able
to carry out this operation in a more cost effective manner than we can.
Components of the steering and suspension systems as well as the
heater unit and window winding mechanisms are shot blasted, zinc plated
and where appropriate powder coated. This process is applied to all
items, even those which are concealed from view. All perishable
components are replaced including those of the steering and suspension,
water hoses, wiring loom, cooling and braking systems, the clutch
assembly and petrol tank.
All weather seals are renewed and chromium components
are either replaced with new parts or re-chromed to concours standards.
Re-chroming like every other part of the restoration process is critical
to the overall look and appearance of the finished vehicle. We as Jaguar
originally specified have our re-chromed parts first copper plated
followed by nickel and finally chrome plate. It is the copper plating
that dramatically extends the life of chrome parts. Other parts always
replaced are the splined hubs, chrome wire wheels, spinners and tyres.
The exhaust system fitted is of stainless steel and carries a ten year
guarantee.
