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 and con rods 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, con rods, 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 and 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 CMC 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 employed in the steering and suspension, plus water hoses, wiring looms, cooling and braking systems, the clutch assembly and petrol tank. All weather seals are renewed. 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. Jaguar originally specified chrome-plated parts be first copper plated followed by nickel and finally chrome plate. Naturally, as CMC, we do exactly as Jaguar specified. 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 10-year guarantee.