Practically Classics Forum

ooohhh, Gumdrop! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gumdrop_(book_series)
I think everybody loves an Elan. That will be worth waiting for
Have you persuaded Fuzz to call the production company about series 2 yet?

Phil P wrote:After the filming he said. "Some horrible people wrecked my jeep and you think there aren't any nice people around, now you've done this for me it's restored my faith. There really are some nice people about."

That fits with what his sons said: that the destruction of his Jeep had "broken" him. I hope that his spirits and health have been restored somewhat, along with the Jeep.

It's up to NatGeo whether a second series is done. The team hope it will happen and I'm sure discussions are taking place but it's all about positive comments and viewing figures and most important to bring in revenue advertisers. I hope if there is a second series it is done basically as the current one but with a bit more time to do the work. Some cars needed considerably more work than others. The biggest problem is not having X Ray eyes. Without part stripping some of these vehicles on the initial viewing before they are chosen there are always going to be some horrible shocks. The Rover being the perfect example.

I've never been a big fan of the Elan. The engine was ok but it was really a kit car that came pre assembled. I've worked on a few. Oh dear, that's a few more folks I've alienated!

I think that the reason the jeep guy looked a little bemused is that he never thought he would see it back on the road. He used to try and do odd jobs on it in his garage but it would have taken years to do without a huge effort any a big lump of of money, which it got. The team working on it were struggling to hit the target date for handover and at times there were 6 guys all working on it. The smile when it dawned on him and the delight at being able to be driven round by his sons made it worth it.

I know there have been postings about fitting a repro tub instead of repairing the original but watching it on the box doesn't compare with seeing it for real. One posting suggested the 'scripted' Ford tub should be sold to somebody capable of repairing it. It wasn't a 'scripted' tub. At some time a non scripted tub had had a scripted piece welded in. The bulkhead was badly distorted. This was caused by a fire extinguisher that was in the glove box exploding with the heat! It was like a grenade going off. Amazingly there was half a tank of petrol in it that didn't ignite. The radiator header tank had melted. The floor had had so many patches welded on it in the past it was stressed out of shape and the heat of the fire did the rest. The chassis and engine were April 1942 but the tub wasn't. Finding a good ORIGINAL unmolested Ford scripted tub is like trying to find the impossible. There may be some out there but searching the World was not an option and time was at a premium. The main thing is it's another jeep back on the road. Amazingly my 1942 Ford GPW that is currently being restored is also April and not far away from the 'Phoenix Jeep' in frame numbers. Oh yes it's got a repro tub. If somebody capable of repairing the original scripted tub wants to buy it please make me an offer. Oh yes somebody has cut out the Ford script and welded in, badly, a patch. Hmmm...strange that. I nearly forgot it's been used for off roading so the floor at the front is 1/4" chequer plate!! Got to be worth repairing....hasn't it?

Don't forget the Osstin 'eavy 12/4 tonight. One of Longbridges finest. A luvvly mota.

Phil

Unfortunately I don't have Nat Geo, but I did see the Rover P6 episode on YouTube. That is how a classic car restoration show should be done, I know some have criticised the lack of detail of the work, but the human aspects are important if you want to appeal to a wider audience. I loved the chap's reaction when Fuzz drove the bus away to reveal his car. The Austin 12 episode got a mention in our local press because I believe it was filmed in front of our local landmark, Woodbridge Tide Mill. Keep up the good work and keep posting Phil.

At least Tim shows that he is a window licker

Thanks suffolkpete. That is exactley how the programme is pitched. A bit of socialising a bit of resto and a bit of history of the car and why it was chosen. Some will like the resto some will like the socialising and some will like the history and why. Put the three together and you hit a wide audience. The main thing is there is no shouting and throwing things or any of that nonsense. We all had a great time and enjoyed the work. The hours flew by. The result was beautifully restored and recomissioned cars and a series that so far folks like. Can't be bad.

Tim the window licker. Hmmm...... just one up from sniffing a 40year old car seat sponge! One thing is for sure he kept us all laughing. That is Tim all the time. A really nice bloke and makes a good cup of tea.

Phil

Loving the old Austin, built to last back then. Amazing how sound it is despite first impressions, how many Corsas, Vectras or Civics will still be around in 80 years, never mind needing only an 'oily rag' rebuild

I need to watch it again - I didn't understand the cold metal work repairing the top of the head where there was the water leak - what actually seals the gap?

Mike

Topaz wrote:I need to watch it again - I didn't understand the cold metal work repairing the top of the head where there was the water leak - what actually seals the gap?

Mike

More info here http://stitchweld.co.uk/

Phil P wrote:Thanks suffolkpete. That is exactley how the programme is pitched. A bit of socialising a bit of resto and a bit of history of the car and why it was chosen. Some will like the resto some will like the socialising and some will like the history and why. Put the three together and you hit a wide audience. The main thing is there is no shouting and throwing things or any of that nonsense. We all had a great time and enjoyed the work. The hours flew by. The result was beautifully restored and recomissioned cars and a series that so far folks like. Can't be bad.

Tim the window licker. Hmmm...... just one up from sniffing a 40year old car seat sponge! One thing is for sure he kept us all laughing. That is Tim all the time. A really nice bloke and makes a good cup of tea.

Phil

sounds interesting i have watched a few resto type shows & tend to turn over when someone gets a bit shouty.. thats nothing to do with cars, its just some sad git showing off.. ill have to try & find it even though i dont have sky subscription..