Classic, Performance & Retro May 2012 by AV8 publishing Ltd

NEWS - REVIEWS TESTS - SHOW REPORTS - CARREPORTS CLUBS - CARS FOR SALE LATEST NEWS -- ROAD EVENTS - FEATURES - CARS- TECHNICAL FOR SALETIPS - SHOW - REVIEWS

May 2012 - Issue 14

Triumph Roadster

The First Ever Triumph TR?

CLASSICS AT SNETTERTON - BLAME IT ON EBAY - WHITEWEBBS MUSEUM - AND MUCH MORE!

Ford - Chevrolet - Cobra Engine Crate Specialist - Camaro - Corvette

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Editorial Wet. That is the only word to describe it. At the beginning of April, the ‘powers that be’ here in the UK declared that the country was officially experiencing drought conditions. Water companies implemented hosepipe bans and we were all told to use less water. Ironically, since then, it has hardly stopped raining and parts of the country are now facing flood warnings! It could only happen in Britain - the wettest drought since records began. However, the constant rain is taking its toll on many classic car events, as the saturated ground is now considered too soft to cope with hundreds of cars driving on the grass. As we were going to press, we heard that the Bedfordshire Classic Motor Show at Woburn Abbey had been cancelled due to waterlogged ground, and no doubt other events will suffer the same fate. If you are planning to go to an outdoor motoring event anytime soon, it might be a good idea to check the event website or even call before setting out, just to make sure that it is still going ahead. Rumour has it that the sun will come out soon; maybe some of our American readers can confirm that the big orange ball in the sky is still actually there, as it seems like weeks since I last saw it! As always, we hope you enjoy reading this issue of Classic, Performance & Retro. Drive Safe!

The Classic, Performance & Retro team.

Editor: Simon Hazeldine- Designer: Chris Peacock - Sub Editor: David Harrison - Advertising: Tom Saunders - Web ‘Geek’: Luke Mowatt - Marketing: Peter Allinson. The entire contents of Classic, Performance & Retro magazine are copyright. No part of it may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Classic, Performance & Retro Magazine is a FREE monthly publication produced by AV8 Publishing Ltd, Cambridge, England. Contact Details: PO Box 280, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 9DH. Website - www.cprmag.com - E-mail - info@cprmag.com - Telephone +44 (0)1353 777519. We are happy to accept photographs and articles with a view to including them in Classic, Performance & Retro Magazine, but please note: all submissions are sent at contributors own risk and we will not be liable for any loss or damage.

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Triumph Roadster The first TR?

CSCC Spring Meet At Snetterton

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‘While I’m At It...’ Triumph TR3 Restoration

CONTENTS www.cprmag.com Issue 15 May 2012

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CSCC At Snetterton: The Classic Sports Car Club got its 2012 season underway at Snetterton Race Circuit in Norfolk on April 14-15. Simon Hazeldine went along to catch the action on Snetterton’s new 300 circuit.

034

Blame It On eBay!: ‘Avoid eBay if you’ve been drinking’ says Peter Bramble, or you might end up with more than you bargained for, like an MGBGT that will take up much of your spare time for years to come!

046

Triumph Roadster: The Triumph Roadster will probably be remembered as ‘Bergerac’s car’ but in reality it is worthy of much higher accolades. Simon Hazeldine looks back at the car’s fascinating history and checks out a preserved example of this wonderful car.

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While I’m At It...(Part 2): Charles Costa continues with the second installment of the story about his unplanned rebuild of a Triumph TR3, where a broken chassis frame leaves our intrepid restorer dazed...but not confused!.

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Whitewebbs Transport Museum: Located just for the M25 in Enfield, the Whitewebbs Museum of Transport houses an interesting collection of vehicles dating back to the late 1800s. Simon Hazeldine dropped in to find out more.

RegularFeatures: Blame It On eBay!

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News: All the latest news and gossip from the Classic, Performance & Retro worlds.

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Club News: A round-up of news from some of the best car clubs in the world.

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New Stuff: A look at what’s hot...and what’s not in the automotive marketplace.

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What’s On: Never miss another race meeting or car show with our comprehensive events guide.

098

Auction News: A round up of what’s been happening in the auctions rooms around the world.

Classic, Performance & Retro magazine is a FREE monthly online publication produced by AV8 Publishing Ltd, Cambridge, England.

May 2012 7

News

The Latest Automotive News From Around The World!

Triumph TR6/M3 Sells Online For £25,500 A stunning Triumph TR6/M3 has sold on the online auction site eBay for £25,500.00. The car - which was located in the USA - has had a full ground up restoration, but it is the list of ‘modifications’ that make this car really unusual and give it its ‘M3’ tag. Dave DeWalt said that the car has taken him six years to build and that every system has been brought up to 21st century standards. Among the impressive list of ‘improvements’ are: a BMW M3 S50 (OBD1 Computer) engine with Custom Programmed Chip from Jim Conforti; a BMW M3 5-speed transmission; a UUC Motorwerks 8.5lb aluminum ﬂywheel; a Sachs HD clutch kit; a UUC Motorwerks Short Shifter Kit; a Nissan/Infiniti R200 LSD Differential (3.54); custom CV-Joints on rear axles; Richard Good lowered spring set front & rear; Spax Adjustable Shocks on all four wheels; Toyota 4-piston/vented disc front brakes; Custom Wilwood Rear Disc Brake Conversion; Quick ratio steering rack; BMW/BBS 17” Style 5 3pc wheels; BMW M3 Radiator/Cooling System; Custom Wiring Harness; Custom 16 gallon aluminum fuel tank and custom stainless exhaust (w/ oxygen sensor). The owner said: “My intentions were to craft a virtually stock appearing TR6 that performed at insane levels while delivering exceptional reliability. Various V8 engines have found their way into these cars over the years but require many modifications that I was not willing to live with (steering geometry, firewall cutting, weight changes, etc). While this was no mere ‘boltin’ process, the net results lightened and balanced the overall car and required absolutely no changes to the steering and suspension system.” A previous sale of the car fell through when the excited buyer ﬂew in to take delivery and found that he could not fit in the car! We hope the new owner has more luck with it. 8 www.cprmag.com

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H&H to hold ‘Open Sale’ at Festival of Motoring

Auction company H&H Classics will be holding their inaugural ‘Open Sale’ at Coventry Festival of Motoring 2012, on August 25/26. H&H says that the sale will provide vendors with not one, but two novel means of selling their classic car - approaches that have not (as far as H&H is aware) previously been offered on this side of the Atlantic. The options are: vendors can hire a £50 plot from which to advertise their vehicle and, if wished, perform their own sale, or enter the vehicle for the ‘rolling auction’ that will continue throughout the two day event. Such sales have long since been very popular in the USA. H&H’s Marketing Director Richard Caton said: “Our Open Sales will provide vendors with a previously unavailable level of freedom. For example, they can start by operating their own pitch and thereby advertise and attempt to sell their car privately, with the option of switching to the rolling auction at any time. Alternatively they can opt for the rolling auction from the outset. There is no catalogue, no preamble, they just register their vehicle and H&H will do the rest. In common with our General Sales, Open Sales will be subject to 0% vendor’s commission for motorcars, making them extremely attractive financially as well as highly practical and ﬂexible in operation.” Gary Hall, Chair of Coventry Festival of Motoring Organising Committee said: “We are absolutely thrilled that H&H have chosen Coventry Festival of Motoring as the event at which the first of these innovative new sales will be held, and of course it’s yet another reason why Coventry Festival of Motoring promises to be a fantastic weekend of motoring for all the family. As well as moving the Festival to Stoneleigh Park we are adding a whole range of new elements to the weekend’s programme, and we are delighted that the H&H Open Sale will form a major part of the event.” May 2012 9

News

The Latest Automotive News From Around The World!

Last Chance For New MGB Rubber Bumpers Says BMH British Motor heritage has announced a final batch of 100 original-specification front and rear rubber bumpers for classic MGs. The bumpers - produced using the original MG moulds - will be the first batch made since 2005, and BMH say that it will probably be the last time new rubber bumpers will be available. BMH Managing Director John Yea said: “We are obviously pleased to have been able to commission this batch of product. However, owners of the rubber bumper cars need to understand that, while we will retain the moulding tools, it is extremely unlikely they can ever be utilised again. The results of the current run must therefore be thought of as a life-time buy, and once they are gone, they are gone.” The cost of the new bumpers which fit MGB Roadsters and GTs from 1975 on are £625 each for front and the same price for the rear.

Drive It Day Kick Starts Classic Car Season

Hagerty International, the classic car and bike insurance specialist, welcomed over 100 classic car owners and their vehicles to join them in celebrating the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Club’s ‘Drive It Day’ on April 25, and raised over £2,000 for the Marshalls Trust and Hope Against Cancer Charities in the process. Despite the grey clouds and threat of torrential rain, Hagerty started their tour from Silverstone’s Grand Prix circuit to arrive at Donington’s Grand Prix Collection, some 82 miles later. The route took the drivers and their machines on the scenic roads of Northants and Leicestershire. “It’s been a remarkable day with so many like minded classic car enthusiasts joining in celebrating owning these fabulous cars” said Angus Forsyth, Managing Director of Hagerty. “It was tricky driving conditions and a great effort for all those who made to Donington to enjoy the hospitality there. In addition, we have been overwhelmed with their generosity in raising such important funds for this year’s chosen charities, so a huge thanks must go to all those involved with today’s event.” 10 www.cprmag.com

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News

The Latest Automotive News From Around The World!

Ferrari Enzo ‘Not For Sale’ Say Dubai Police Stories suggesting that an abandoned Ferrari Enzo was about to be auctioned off by authorities in Dubai now seem to be a little premature. The car has languished in a Police compound in the Arab state since last August, and speculation spread like wildfire as investors sensed the opportunity to pick up one of only 399 Enzos ever made on the cheap. Now the Dubai Police have stated that the car is not for sale, but is in fact being held as evidence in an ongoing investigation. There are even suggestions that Interpol is interested in the car. It is not uncommon for cars to be abandoned in Dubai, where there are harsh penalties for unpaid debts or fines, and rather than face jail, owners often ﬂee the country and leave their cars behind.

‘RED DWARF’ STAR BEAMS IN FOR CLASSIC CAR SHOW REVIVAL The Classic Car Show & Autojumble at Old Warden Park near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, was always a firm fixture on the calendar until it lapsed a few years ago. Now the highly popular event is being revived and returns to the wonderfully scenic venue on Sunday May 20. Organised by the enthusiastic and professional team at Greenwood Exhibitions, the Old Warden rally will feature ‘Red Dwarf’ star and engineering enthusiast Chris Barrie, who will present his highly entertaining and humorous live show ‘The First 100 Machines’ in which he talks about his seven years of filming for TV documentaries including such diverse cars, planes and trains as the 250mph Bugatti Veyron, Avro Vulcan nuclear bomber, and the mighty Pacific steam locomotive. Several hundred classic and vintage cars from all over the region are expected to attend and will be on display in the picturesque grounds of the Mansion House in Old Warden Park. Prebooked entries receive a charming old-style licence disc memento and winners of the judged classes will receive a commemorative mug and a free entry to the Shuttleworth Collection. Pre-booked entry for classic vehicles with up to two adults and two children is just £3.00 and an application form is available on the Greenwood Exhibitions website: www. classicmotorevents.co.uk. To mark the fact that nearby Biggleswade was home to the Berkeley Car company in the 1950s and 60s, Greenwood is offering free entry to all Berkeley vehicles. The general public is invited and encouraged to attend the rally where they will have the opportunity to see a wonderful collection of stunning vehicles and to meet with the owners. It can be a great day out for all the family as there is also the opportunity to visit the nearby Shuttleworth Collection of vintage aeroplanes and vehicles and the beautiful Swiss Gardens that lie a short walk from the park. Public entry to Old Warden Park on the day will be £8 for adults and £4 for children.

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Old Warden Park, Bedfordshire SG18 9DX A stunning location and the home of Richard ‘Mad Jack’ Shuttleworth the winner of the first ever Grand Prix in 1935 Live arena and commentary Trade stands Entertainment Camping Club entries invited - cash prizes Discounted entry to the adjacent Shuttleworth collection for all pre booked vehicles owners. Trade plots available from £40 Supported by

trackNews

News, Gossip & Views From The World Of Motorsport

New Driver For Audi Sports Car Line-Up Audi is reinforcing its sports car line-up with a new driver. Marc Gené will join Audi as a reserve driver, standing in for Timo Bernhard in the Audi R18 Ultra as early as the second round of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) at Spa-Francorchamps on May 5. This year, Audi again decided to sign a reserve driver for the Le Mans 24 Hours. Head of Audi Motorsport Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich selected Marc Gené for this role, a very experienced sports car racer who brings long-standing Formula 1 experience to the team as well. The 38-year-old Spaniard has been under contract as a test or race driver with Formula 1 racing teams since 1999. He also contested the past five events of the Le Mans 24 Hours, clinching overall victory in 2009. After Timo Bernhard was injured in a testing accident that was no fault of his own in mid-March and is still recovering, Gené will be sharing the number “3” Audi R18 ultra with Romain Dumas (F) and Loïc Duval (F) at Spa. “At our first meetings I immediately had the impression that Marc (Gené) will blend well with our sports car squad,” emphasizes Dr. Wolfgang Ullrich. “We very quickly reached an agreement. It’s very unfortunate that Timo Bernhard won’t be able to compete for us at the second WEC round at Spa as planned. At the same time, I’m pleased to see his recovery making significant progress. That’s why we’re sticking to our original plan of having him run at the Le Mans 24 Hours.” This is not the first time for Audi to rely on a reserve at the most important endurance race of the year. Following Lucas Luhr in the 2010 season and Marco Bonanomi last year, Marc Gené’s nomination as a reserve driver marks the third one in succession. After ten Le Mans victories, Audi will be fielding the first ever diesel hybrid sports car in history with all-wheel drive at La Sarthe in the summer - the new Audi R18 e-tron Quattro. Like its conventionally powered sister model, the Audi R18 ultra, it will make its race debut at Spa.

Status GP Car Crashes During Spa WEC Practice Session Status GP withdraws from Spa WEC event after accident Status Grand Prix was forced to withdrawn its LMP2 car from the Spa round of the FIA World Endurance Championship following a serious accident in the second free practice session on Thursday. The team says it will now concentrate on preparations for next month’s Le Mans 24 Hours. The Status GP Lola-Judd B12/80 Coupe crashed at the fast Radillon corner at the top of Eau Rouge and suffered extensive damage. The team’s regular driver Alexander Sims emerged unharmed from the 6G impact with the tyre barriers, and was subsequently passed fit by the FIA medical delegate. The Status GP crew promptly set to work on the car, but having assessed the situation it was deemed that the car could not be repaired on site in order to compete in six-hour endurance race. The FIA was then informed that regrettably it has been forced to withdraw from the event. The Silverstone-based team, which is competing full-time in the European Le Mans Series this year, is now focusing on continuing its preparations for its debut at next month’s Le Mans 24 Hours, which commences with the official Le Mans Test Day on June 3. The Status GP car had already shown its potential during the first day of practice on its FIA WEC debut. Sims set the second fastest time among the competitive 18-strong LMP2 class in Free Practice 1, before new team-mate Romain Iannetta quickly got up to speed on his maiden run in the Judd-powered Coupe. Then in FP2, Dutch driver Yelmer Buurman set the fifth fastest time during an impressive race simulation run on used Dunlop tyres, before Sims suffered his accident at the end of the session.

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High speed time trial . . . . . Classic motor show Opens at 9am Practice 9am - 12pm Competition 1pm - 5pm

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trackNews

News, Gossip & Views From The World Of Motorsport

Big Names Rev Up For ‘Return To Power’ The inaugural Hall and Hall-sponsored ‘Return to Power’ race for pre-71 3-litre Formula 1 cars at Brands Hatch has attracted some star names and famous cars for its Brands Hatch May 26/27 date. With an entry growing all the time, race organisers have confirmed that three drivers of the period, Derek Bell, Howden Ganley and Jackie Oliver will be present to do demonstration laps and sign autographs, as well as Clive Chapman demonstrating the iconic Lotus 49. Bell will drive Roger Wills’ March 701, the car he drove for Tom Wheatcroft in the 1971 Argentine Grand Prix. The engine blew late in the non-championship Grand Prix and Tom Wheatcroft hung the car on the wall of the Donington museum to stop himself from spending money! There it remained until Wills bought it in 2010. Jackie Oliver, still a prolific historic racer, will demonstrate a BRM P153, the type of car that he guided to his best finish of the 1970 season, fifth in the Austrian Grand Prix. Another former BRM factory driver, Howden Ganley, will be behind the wheel of a Tony Southgate-designed BRM P180, although it was a BRM P160 that Howden guided to fourth in the 1971 US GP at Watkins Glen and the 1972 German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring. March will play a prominent role in the “Return to Power” race entry, headed up by Roger Wills’ the 701, the ex-Bell car that Chris Amon guided to victory in the 1970 International Trophy, and second place in that year’s French Grand Prix. Andrew Smith will drive his Tyrrell-March 701, the car that fellow Scotsman Jackie Stewart guided to success in the 1970 Race of Champions at Brands Hatch. Matra fan Abba Kogan has entered his Matra MS120 (the type of car with which Chris Amon won the nonchampionship 1971 Argentine Grand Prix), while Rob Hall will drive the charismatic Matra MS80 and Tyrrell collector John Delane enters his ex-Jackie Stewart Tyrrell 002. Allan Rennie’s Lotus 35 with its Martin V8 engine is set to race, the car debuted by Roy Pike at Mallory Park on Boxing Day 1966 before Piers Courage attempted to race it in the 1967 Race of Champions. A blown engine in qualifying prevented it from starting the race. Race sponsor Rick Hall, who will race the ex-Piers Courage De Tomaso 505 that the British ace drove for Frank Williams Racing Cars, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring this inaugural Return to Power event. These are cars that don’t get the opportunity to race very often and can be overlooked if they are behind more recent cars. This great initiative gives owners of the cars a chance to race for overall glory and for fans to see an earlier age of Formula 1 car. We are delighted with the response so far and are confident that more cars will be on the grid at Brands Hatch.” The Formula 1 demonstrations will take place on the Sunday lunchtime of May 27, whilst the “Return to Power” will be run over two legs, with a 20-minute race on Saturday and a 15-minute race on Sunday.

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Tell Us About Your Club!

ClubNews Sporting Bears

Want to tell us about your club or event? Then send details into Club News at: info@cprmag.com

TR Register

Club Website Suffers ‘Cyber-Attack’

Bears Raise Smiles At Teeside

TThe Sporting Bears Motor Club held a ‘Dream Rides’ day for children at Teeside Autodrome in Middlesbrough on April 6. The well attended event allowed disabled and poorly youngsters from several charities to experience a ride in a number of very desirable cars, including Ferraris, Aston Martins, Lamborghinis and Porsches. The event was organised by club member Tony Beverley, who said: “ This event is about seeing the children have a smile on their faces and seeing the people who we are raising money for. We brought 40 cars and the drivers took the children, and their siblings, for a few laps around the track. It is fantastic to see the children smiling and having such a good time.” The five charities invited to take part were Zoe’s Place in Normanby, Butterwick Hospice in Stockton, the Educational Centre for Children with Down Syndrome, in Darlington, When You Wish Upon A Star and Kilton Thorpe School, in Brotton. Bear’s stalwart Max Walker, who was driving a Bentley Mulsanne generously loaned for the day by the Bentley factory in Crewe, said: “Days like this mean so much to us. Some drivers have come from London to take part in this. When you take the children out, and you see how much it means to them, it can be really emotional. The hairs on the back of my neck go up. We want to say thank you to Bob Pope from Teesside Autodrome for letting us use the track. We couldn’t have done this if it wasn’t for him.” www.sportingbears.org.uk

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It seems even the classic car world isn’t safe from the threat of ‘cyber-attacks’ as the TR Register found out recently when its online message-board was hacked. The hacker managed to gain access to an automated e-mail system in the forum and sent e-mail messages out to club members. TR Register General Manager - Allen Forster - posted a message on the club’s website stating that no personal membership information was accessed and that payment card information, such as credit card details used in the club’s online shop, remained secure. The problem was quickly rectified and the forum was back up and running within 24 hours. www.tr-register.co.uk

Club Lotus

Club Celebrates Elan 50th At Silverstone Classic This year’s Silverstone Classic will be an extra special one for Club Lotus as it hosts a major event within the show to celebrate the Elan’s 50th anniversary. Alongside the Club stand will be various Lotus specialists, traders and autojumble stands. The club will also have its usual reserved infield parking area for all members who buy advance tickets using the club code, so if you’re not a member, go and join now! Alongside the parking area will be the Elan section with direct access to the circuit for at least one track parade lap session and possibly two. www.clublotus.co.uk

CSCC Spring Meet

The Classic Sports Car Club got its 2012 season underway at Snetterton Race Circuit in Norfolk on April 14-15. Simon Hazeldine went along to catch the action.

breezy and slightly overcast Snetterton was the scene for the first round of the Classic Sports Car Club’s packed diary of events for 2012, and if you like classic cars and racing, then this is one race series that is certainly going to appeal to you. Before I take a closer look at the cars and racing at this meeting, let me give you a little background on how the series started. The Classic Sports Car Club (CSCC) was set up in 2001 by enthusiast racers who wanted to drive in a competitive series at ‘grass-roots’ level. As the name suggests, this series is open to 20 www.cprmag.com

Chris Butler exits the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Palmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; curve on the new in-field section at Snetterton in his Ferrari 328GTB. May 2012 21

Stars & Stripes. Luke Wos in his colourful Corvette.

E-Types, Ford Anglias and even American classics like the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro and Ford Mustangs! Each race is run over 40 minutes and includes a mandatory pit stop. This allows two drivers to compete in the same car (which helps spread the costs) and gives the race an added element of excitement.

Tim Cairns is his Austin Healey Frogeye Sprite. a wide variety of cars; in fact everything from Minis to Ferraris take part which makes it a far more interesting spectacle to watch than some of the single marque races. The club has grown rapidly since its early days and now has over 800 members. It stages ten or more race weekends each year and drivers are encouraged to take part in other European race meetings. The CSCC series 22 www.cprmag.com

Tin Tops is broken down into six main categories.

The Swinging 60s First run in 2003, the Swinging 60s Series is open to a wonderful mix of sports, saloon and GT cars which were built in the 1960s. The range of cars lining up on the grid is amazing, with cars like Triumph TRs and MGs, racing against Mini Coopers, Jaguar

The Tin Tops Series was added in 2005 and caters for more up-to-date cars like the Porsche 944, and modern â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hot hatchesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; like the Ford Fiesta and Peugeot 106. It is aimed at novice racers who can compete in relatively cheap cars and is a great way to get started in motorsport on a small budget. Like the 60s Series, the races are run over 40 minutes and include a mandatory pit stop.

Racing variety! A Volvo, an NSU and a Mini in the ‘Swinging 60s’ series race.

Future Classics Aimed mainly at cars from the 1970s and 1980s, the Future Classics Series sees cars like the Triumph TR7 and Porsche 944 racing against Ford Escorts and Volkswagen Golfs. You will also see Aston Martin DBS V8s and Lotus Esprits going head-to-head in some very competitive racing.

Italian style! An Alfa Giulia exits Murray’s.

Magniﬁcent Sevens The Magnificent Sevens Series is open to any Lotus/ Caterham Seven style cars, such as Westfields, Dax, Tigers and Strykers. Due to the sheer number of different specifications used on different makes of car, the series is split into six classes, based on engines size, type, and induction system, so every driver has a chance to come out on top in their own class, even if overall victory is beyond reach.

Len Allgood checks tyre pressures on his Ford Escort. May 2012 23

Some of the Ferraris came with some pretty impressive support vehicles!

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Clive Tonge and Vaughn Winter’s Mini Cooper S battles with a BMW 1600i.

Special Saloons One of the newest classes in the CSCC, the Special Saloons Series is a series of invitation races that was only launched last year and caters for saloon cars built between the 1970s and 1990s. Usually, the format is based around a fifteen minute practice session followed by two fifteen minute races and classes are determined by engine size.

powered TR7s and MGBs; the Aero Racing Morgan Challenge saw a line-up of 38 Morgan cars on the starting grid; the Pirelli Ferrari Open featured some very quick modern Ferraris and the Pirelli Ferrari

Formula Classic showcased older machines from Maranello like the 308 and 328. The Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club also arrived in force for the ‘Jaguar Classic Parts Jaguar Saloon/JEC Jaguar XJS/XK8

Deutsche Marque Catering (almost!) exclusively for German-built cars, the Deutsche Marque Series features some exciting wheelto-wheel racing from marques such as BMW Mini, Opel, Audi, BMW and Porsche. Races last for 40 minutes and cars a divided int different classes depending on engine size.

A Lotus Elan chasing a V8 powered Ford Mustang.

Impressive Line-Up The Snetterton weekend also featured a few additional races. ‘Bernie’s HVRA V8 Challenge’ saw big American classics fighting it out with V8

Tom Barley in the mighty Chevrolet Camaro. May 2012 25

American ‘muscle’ racers! appreciated it quite as much. Luckily for me, I checked the weather forecast and only went on the Saturday, so I didn’t get too wet.

New Layout

Spotted! This stunning McLaren MP4-12C was seen in the Snetterton car park. Championship’ and the ‘Sports Car Vs Saloon Challenge’ for Jaguar powered cars. Holding the event in the middle of April predictably meant that drivers would be battling the weather as well as fellow competitors, and sure 26 www.cprmag.com

enough we seemed to have all four seasons in just two days as Snetterton experienced wind, rain, sunshine and even hail stones! It led to some interesting driving conditions, although I doubt the spectators

Snetterton as a circuit is undergoing something of a rebirth since its new infield section was opened in 2011 to much acclaim. The old circuit layout is now called the 200 Circuit, while the new extended layout is called the 300 Circuit. The additional tarmac means that Snetterton is now the second longest track in the UK at an impressive 2.96 miles, beaten only by Silverstone’s 3.19 miles. The facilities are good too, and while Snetterton might lack the covered

grandstands that dominate the Northamptonshire circuit, it does have numerous earth banks for spectators to stand on, and some of these give a 360° field of view where nearly the whole track can be seen. Some sort of covered viewing area would be a good addition though, just to keep the spectators happy.

Qualifying The Saturday morning saw an impressive collection of racing machines gathered in the paddock while competitors dealt with the chores of race briefings and scrutineering. The day would be spilt into two halves, with qualifying taking place in the morning, and the races would be held in the afternoon. The qualifying sessions were mostly 20 minutes long, with the exception of the Swinging 60s Series (25 mins), the CSCC Future Classics (25 mins), and the various Jaguar classes (15 mins). The Aero Racing Morgan Challenge got things underway at 09.00am followed by the Pirelli Ferrari Open cars around 30 minutes later. A similar qualifying session was held on the Sunday, albeit without the Morgans who had concluded their business the previous day.

The Race Is On! The Morgans took to the track for the first race of the weekend. The Morgan Plus 8 was the dominant model, but there was also a good selection of Roadsters, 4/4s and an Aero 8. It was a tight race which saw a number of exciting battles for position, although eventual race winner

Bernie Chodosh in his awesome Chevrolet Corvette on the Agostini hairpin.

And you thought it stood for ‘Aston Martin Limited!’

Morgans on track. Keith Ahlers in a Morgan Plus 8 remained untroubled at the head of the pack. Philip Goddard and Matthew Wurr finished in second and third, both also driving Plus 8s. The Pirelli Ferrari Open saw the fastest cars at the event lining up on the grid, which was made up mainly of Ferrari F430s, 458s and 360s. This

certainly isn’t racing on a budget, and to prove the point a glance around the paddock revealed huge support trucks and mobile engineering workshops that wouldn’t look out of place at the Le Mans 24hr Race. Gary Eastwood in his 458 Challenge led the field from the start and racked up some impressive lap times May 2012 27

Paul Bailey burns rubber as he attacks Murray’s Bend. fancy his tyre bill!

V8 Thunder

Nigel Jenkins in his Ferrari 328GTB. before taking the chequered flag in first place. Paul Bailey, in his Ferrari F430GT2, managed to overcome some early braking issues to come home in second. For the first two or three laps, 28 www.cprmag.com

Bailey attacked the corners hard, causing smoke to pour off his front tyres as he braked into ‘Murray’s Bend’ just before the main straight. It looked impressive to the spectators, but I wouldn’t

The thunderous roar of V8s signalled the arrival on track of ‘Bernie’s HVRA V8 Challenge’ cars which were led around on the formation lap by an American Police car. This was probably one of the most interesting races from a technical point of view, as the super-powerful Mustangs, Camaros and Corvettes were never designed to go into corners at high speed - in fact, they weren’t designed to corner at all. But never underestimate the ingenuity of a racer with a tool kit and a disposable income. These

Michael Squire takes his Ferrari 328GTB ‘off-roading’ on the exit from ‘Palmer.’

Gary Eastwood won the Pirelli Ferrari Open in his 458 Challenge.

far from standard cars can certainly hold their own in the handling department, and positively excel on the straights. It came as no surprise then that the top three cars were all Chevrolet Corvettes, with John Dickson claiming top step on the podium.

Classic Ferraris The Pirelli Ferrari Formula Classic saw a total of 21 cars take to the track for the nine lap race. It was mainly a mix of 308s and 328s which gave the race a great 80s feel to it, although the 308GT4s did at least give us a different shape to look at. May 2012 29

Below: A great shot of James Shirley in his Ferrari F360 Challenge approaching ‘Murray’s Bend’.

Again, it was another action packed race with race winner Danny Winstanley setting a blistering 2:14,609 lap time on the second lap, while an unfortunate Michael Squire took his 328GTB ‘off-roading’ in a spectacular spin across the grass. Thankfully, both driver and car remained completely intact and completed the race. 30 www.cprmag.com

Feeling Groovy! Next it was time to put on the flares and ‘rose-tinted specs’ as the Swinging 60s cars lined up for their race. This is one class of racing you just have to see just because of the sheer mix of cars. It produces some almost comic scenes, for example, a tiny MG Midget being chased down by a huge

Chevrolet Camaro. Then there was the Mini Cooper that ran rings around the US muscle cars on the corners, only to lose position again on the straights. It was a thoroughly entertaining race which was eventually won by Luke Wos in a Corvette, with Harry Wyndham second in the E-Type and John Dickson, also in a Corvette, taking third.

Jaguars On Track Race 6 was a mainly Jaguar affair with cars from the Jaguar Enthusiastsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Club taking part in a race which also included Jaguar powered cars. This ultimately proved to dent the Jaguar ego slightly as all the top three cars were not Jaguars...but Caterhams! Among the Jaguar cars on

the grid were E-Types, D-Type replicas, Mk2s, XJS and an XJ12. An impressive 30 cars took part in the race which lasted for seven laps, the fastest of which was 2:21,230 which was set by David Howard in the XJ12.

Smoke & Flames! Time waits for no man, and the same is true of racing.

This is especially true at Snetterton which has a 6.00pm noise curfew, and with so many races to get through, it seemed like the day would have to be cut short. Sure enough, the last race of the day was the CSCC Future Classics race. Again it was appealing for its eclectic mix of cars as much as the actual racing, with a May 2012 31

Slightly modified engine in the Aston Martin V8 Vantage!

Lotus Espirit, Vauxhall Astra, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Triumph TR7, Ford Escort Mk1 and Porsche 911 all battling against each other. One of the 911s in this race was crewed by Sarah Bennett-Baggs and Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay. The pair certainly had a memorable race, although perhaps for all the wrong reasons. 32 www.cprmag.com

Sarah started the first stint from row 12 on the grid, but early signs of promise waned as the rain came down and her windscreen wipers stopped working. A mid-race change-over at the 23 minute mark saw Jay Kay take the wheel of the pink painted Porsche and head out onto the increasingly soggy Snetterton tarmac. Sadly, a short-circuit

started an electrical fire which melted the inlet manifold and caused a loss of power from the Porsche powerplant. Undeterred, Kay pressed on until visible flames emerged from the engine bay and he had to retire from the race with just two laps remaining. Sarah says that she hopes to race with Jay again this season, so look out for the colourful pink Porsche at the next CSCC event. Race winner was Nicholas Olson in his Lotus Esprit S3, while Rikki and Joseph Cann took second in their Aston Martin Vantage V8. Martyn Adams clinched third in the Triumph TR7 V8. Credit must also go to John

The Ford Falcon thunders down the Bentley Straight. Martyn Adams and his TR7 V8 came 3rd in the Future Classics race.

Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay navigates the Palmer Bend on the new in-field section at Snetterton. Hammersley and Simon Taylor who managed to beat all the Porsches on track and snatch 4th place in their Vauxhall Astra GTE. Overall it had been a great dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s racing which produced a superb mix of cars on track. The driving was competitive and the slick organisation saw the event pass off without any major problems. You can find a full list of results for both the Saturday and Sunday races at the CSCC website: (www.classicsportscarclub. co.uk) and the next meeting takes place at Brands Hatch in Kent on May 7. If you like racing and classic cars, it will be one not to miss!

Bought the car, got the t-shirt, so you might as well have the matching seats too!

Sparse interior.

May 2012 33

Blame It On eBay!

‘Avoid eBay if you’ve been drinking’ says Peter Bramble, or you might end up with more than you bargained for, like a 1972 MGBGT that will take up lots of your time for years to come!

his is the story of MGBGT ‘Olga’ or OLG486L. If you are sitting comfortably, I’ll begin. Once upon a time , I came home from the pub slightly worse for wear and I made a classic mistake and went on eBay. Yes I know there should be a breathalysers fitted to computers by now. I was looking for a car to go with my MGB race car that I race in the MG Car Club’s race series, and suddenly, there it was - a 1972 MGBGT. Well with only five minutes to go until the end of the auction and at the bargain price of only £400 it had to be mine. I was sure it had my name on it, however, it had two minor problems; one it had no MOT, and two, it was in Surrey. 34 www.cprmag.com

May 2012 35

Peter strips off the original front wings, ready for the Sebring replacements. Well I have to admit that the idea of a minor adventure deep into uncharted Surrey actually quite appealed to me, so I pressed the bid button and seconds later I was the proud owner of OLGA. The next day I carefully planned the exact moment when I would break the ‘good news’ about my new acquisition to my much beloved. To say she was not impressed would be an understatement! Several days later I was on my way to Surrey in my trusty camper van. For once the Sat Nav didn’t take me down any footpaths or down roads that Hannibal would refuse to cross and I arrived at Bramble close (I told you it had my name on it!) and handed over the money. Taking a closer look at her, she didn’t look all that bad 36 www.cprmag.com

and to be truthful I’ve driven a lot worse. ‘Olga’ started first time and I drove her onto the trailer and returned home to civilisation in Rugby. The sight of yet another MGB on the driveway still failed to impress my ‘other half,’ but at least I had moved out of the dog house, which was always a good sign.

Taking Bets A few weeks earlier I had purchased tickets to Classic Le Mans from Continental Car Tours ( 01304 380244 ) and the idea of taking ‘Olga’ seemed like a good idea. Why have the relative comfort of a camper van or the reliability of a diesel Astra, when you can have an adventure in a MGB! I drove ‘Olga’ down to the local MOT station and after a small amount of welding and

couple of light bulbs, I was a hundred pounds lighter and the owner of a MOT pass certificate. She was insured the same day and taxed as well; for once we were road legal. With the formalities out of the way it was time to get a few jobs done. The cylinder head had some valve noise and had not been converted to leaded fuel, and since I had a spare head lying in my garage, I thought I might as well change it. It should have been a fairly simple two hour job, but it took almost two days as the original head hadn’t been off since it was built. Another minor problem was that she would not start easily, but this was easily fixed by replacing a relay. Having informed my friends at Kilsby MG club that I

was taking Olga to Le Mans, several started taking bets on whether or not we would make Dover or where we would break down in France. That was after they had stopped laughing. I managed to accrue a grand total of thirty five miles in the car before I departed for Le Mans very early one morning. We (that’s me and Olga) managed to make the ferry for our 08:00am booking time. As we were slightly early I spent some time admiring some of the other cars on the docks, some of which were many times more expensive than ‘Olga,’ but most looked like they were rarely driven on the roads.

New bucket seats give the interior a sporty look.

No problems! The route down was accomplished avoiding all the toll roads and I only got lost once in Rouen. To those who have not been on this route before, be careful of what appear to be grey traffic control signal boxes at the side of the road, for they are in fact speed cameras. They usually have another camera watching them as for some reason they keep bursting into flames. ‘Olga’ made the journey down without any problems and we had a good time at Le Mans watching the various different races. We left early on Monday after the racing had finished and headed home on another problem free journey. There were many disbelievers at the next Kilsby club night, at least until photographic evidence was produced. After Le Mans, ‘Olga’ was used as my normal car for a few weeks and then she went on her second foray into Europe.

This time our adventures took us to Belgium. This tour was based around Brugge and I had wanted to go this area of Belgium for some time, because my Grandfather fought over there in the First World War. While I was there, I toured of some of the battlefields, mainly in Ypres, and also saw the Menin Gate. Having done some research before the tour, I went to a little village called Gheluvelt which was where my Grandfather and many of his comrades were over run and captured. Today it probably looks as it did then, almost a hundred

years ago. To understand the slaughter, you only have to visit the Menin Gate memorial where thousands of names are carved to commemorate the fallen. My Grandfather was lucky as he was captured and spent the rest of the hostilities in a prisoner of war camp. Most of the buildings in the area had been destroyed in the artillery bombardments, but had since been rebuilt, and driving about on the almost traffic free roads, ‘Olga’ was in her element. The great thing about a MGBGT compared to a roadster is the amount of baggage you can carry going to an event, and if May 2012 37

The Sebring wings were not a great fit, but went on eventually!

Numbered up and ready to race. you leave the tent and chairs behind as we did at Le Mans, it’s amazing how much wine you can bring back.

Down To Business ‘Olga’ was then put back to use as a normal working car. This was until after just passing the next MOT test when it was decided that before the next test she would 38 www.cprmag.com

need some more welding and some other cosmetic work. Not wanting to be without an MG as my daily driver while Olga was off the road, I purchased a British Racing Green MGF from...yep, you’ve guessed it - eBay. Although it had a high recorded mileage, she lasted for a few years, eventually being replaced by another MGF.

My garage was occupied by my MGB race car, but luckily my friend Paul Tainton offered me his garage so I could work on ‘Olga.’ This was a surprise to his wife who used the garage for storage. I did mention that they could do with a bigger garage and were they thinking of extending it? The garage was eventually cleared to fit in Olga. This was great for a few weeks, but eventually I had to leave because by the time I had finished work, changed clothes, driven to the garage, moved things around the garage, there was little time left to work on it. ‘Olga’ returned home once more where I could work on her when I had time and the weather was fine, as all work had to be done on my driveway. Looking through various adverts, I managed to acquire some

A Weber carburettor has replaced the original SU items. up-rated shock absorbers and springs and a 45DCOE Weber carburettor. I also had some parabolic rear springs that I had at one time fitted to my race car. On the race car they did not work very well; they were too stiff and on more than one occasion lifted the rear wheel whilst cornering. With the GT being a heavier car I was hoping they would work a lot better. I had also bought a new fuel tank, a set of negative camber wishbone arms, a pair of Spax rear shock absorbers and some poly bushes for the suspension from the MGB-Hive.

Cheapskate! Some of these parts were fitted, but at the same time I was going through a break up with my girlfriend, so for a while ‘Olga’ stood neglected. For a year I was living in

‘Olga’ lines up with other racing MGs. Coventry, where on the odd occasion when I did use ‘Olga,’ all the curtains were twitching with the noise she was making. The old exhaust had rotted away and as I am a cheapskate I had fitted a exhaust system that had been banned by the MSA because it was too loud! Ooops. If I had an early start the whole neighbourhood knew

my start time. Eventually I moved back to my old house with Lesley and tried to work on ‘Olga’ in between , work, decorating the house and working on the race car. If I had time to eat and sleep it was a bonus.

Sebring Style I have always admired the Sebring GT, and through the May 2012 39

The car has lost its chrome bumpers and gained a wooden boot prop!

The car looks great with the new paint applied.

Seriously, only £400 off eBay. What a steal! 40 www.cprmag.com

adverts in the MG Enthusiasts website I acquired a set of four Sebring wings and a front and rear valence from Yorkshire. The front wings were fitted outside my house. On one of the wings was writing from where it had not been sold at a auto jumble. As I took the old wings off, all this rusty stuff fell to the floor. I refused to believe it was rust, because everybody knows that MGs don’t rust! Not with all the oil they throw out, or mine do anyway. I treated all the rusty bits with a rust converter, then with liberal amounts of Hammerite paint. it’s good stuff that paint. In fact it’s so good I am still trying to remove it from the driveway! Eventually the wings were fitted along with a previously owned alloy bonnet. The hardest part, as with all fibreglass panels, was getting

Peter had to do much of the work outside on his driveway. the wings to match up to the body work. No matter how hard I tried, the near-side was okay but the off-side front wing was lower than the bodyshell where it meets the windscreen. A month or so later I travelled up the M6 with two front wings fitted and the two rear wings in the rear of the GT, to Entune 2000 near Bolton to have the rear wings fitted. This involved cutting away most of the rear wing from just behind the door to the rear tail lights and from just below the rear window to the bottom sills. It is a job for a skilled person, and that is why I was banished from the workshop and only allowed to make the tea. The new wings were fitted the same day, they are held on by pop rivets and windscreen glue which bonds them to the

remaining metal and they are extremely strong. I visited some of my family who still reside in the Manchester area and returned to Rugby when it was dark. The car now resembled a faded St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flag; its appearance wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t helped due to still being fitted with six inch wheels, which looked

very skinny under the wide arches. Once again eBay came in useful for the purchase of some brand new 15x8 inch wheels; then all I had to do was to find some tyres to fit them. Some 225x50 x15 tyres were sourced from BT Tyres of Rugby. This set-up is approximately the same size May 2012 41

as the original 165x14s, so the speedo did not have to be recalibrated.

Head Ache Nothing happened for a few months due to the pressure of work and the racing season starting. ‘Olga’ did come in useful at Silverstone when my race car was overheating and I thought that the cylinder head was damaged. I returned home, took the head off ‘Olga’ and went back to swap the 42 www.cprmag.com

heads over. Unfortunately this didn’t work. I did see some nice bucket seats on display in the spares village though, and subsequently bought them a couple of months later. After Silverstone, the original cylinder head was refitted and the car was taken to Stanbridge Motors in Rugby for a leak test. The head was not cracked, but a couple of the valves were not seating correctly, and these had to be reground. About this time

the Weber carburettor started to play up, and I had to replace it with some up-rated SU carbs. The Weber was repaired through Tony Lake, a fellow Kilsby club member. Once again, because of work and other things, ‘Olga’ was neglected. I did try to fit the seats but because of they are narrower than the standard seats, I had to buy some seat runners. Unfortunately these would not fit and I had to modify them with parts from

the old seats, so they were not fitted until much later. This year I was determined to finish ‘Olga’ and after decorating the house I started by rubbing down the bodywork in preparation for the paintwork. As previously mentioned, the wings did not fit well and I had to use a small amount of filler to make them presentable. I could not get any etch primer for the fibreglass wings but the paint shop recommended a

has seen the race car knows, it is no Mona Lisa. To paint ‘Olga’ I had obtained some plastic dollies; the type often found at supermarkets with some green trays on top. Four of them will support a GT; the trick is to deflate all four tyres when the car is on the dollies, otherwise the car just flies off the dollies when you push it. I could now push ‘Olga’ across the garage, paint one side, then push it over and paint the other side. ‘Olga’ will never win any prizes for her paintwork, but she wasn’t built to just come out on dry days; she was built to have fun in. The first major outing for Olga was at Curbourgh for the MG Car Clubs Spring Sprint. We had a good time, but ‘Olga’ was misfiring and did not perform well. This was due to the fuel pump not supplying enough fuel to the carburettor, but this has now been changed to a red top pump and a fuel regulator fitted. We have also been out on the MGB 50 from Corby to Gaydon and we both enjoyed ourselves. Unfortunately the The end result is a very exhaust caught the road usable classic tourer. during the trip and it needs some new exhaust brackets from the MGB Hive as they new product to prime them provided the last exhaust, with, but when I applied it, which to my neighbours it just ran like water. ‘Plan delight, is quieter, well not B’ came into effect, and I much. rubbed all the wings down Our next adventure is to again and waited until I could classic Le Mans in July. At obtain some etch primer. I the moment, Lesley is not started again and this time all enthralled about going in ‘Olga’ went well. I applied a coat so I might have to go on my of primer and then a couple own. Must make sure I have of coats of topcoat. I only the British embassy on speed have a small garage, and in dial. The main event one after the past when I have been that is MG 50 at Blenheim spraying, my elbow is touching Palace in September. That is if the wall, and as anybody who I’m not still in France! May 2012 43

www.nationalkitcarshow.co.uk

The Triumph Roadster will probably be remembered as ‘Bergerac’s car’ but in reality it is worthy of much higher accolades. Simon Hazeldine looks back at the car’s fascinating history and checks out a preserved example of this wonderful car.

hen it comes to classic cars, the Triumph TR series is up there with the best of them. The sporty two-seaters gained a reputation for great looks and lively handling, and all the cars, from TR2 to TR8, gained loyal, enthusiastic followings. However, those not familiar with TR folklore always ask the same questions: “Why did they start with the TR2? Why wasn’t there a TR1?” I suppose they are obvious questions; after all, every numerical series starts with number 1...right? So was there ever a TR1? Well, yes. And no. No, because there was never 46 www.cprmag.com

Purpose & poise - the Triumph Roadster certainly looks the part! May 2012 47

48 www.cprmag.com

The car had a very highspec interior for its day.

actually a production car called the TR1. That’s the simple part out of the way. The ‘yes’ part is slightly more complicated. The ‘TR’ moniker stood for ‘Triumph Roadster’ and each new model in the line was given a number. The reason that the line started with a ‘2’ and not a ‘1’ was

that in 1946 Triumph produced a ‘Triumph Roadster.’ Still with me? a car called the Triumph Roadster. Although technically The original 1946 Triumph Roadster was actually quite it has never been considered an impressive car, and that’s as part of the TR line, it was hardly surprising since it was still a ‘Triumph Roadster,’ designed to compete with the so the Coventry based manufacturer could hardly call latest machines rolling off the the TR2 a ‘Triumph Roadster 1’ nearby Jaguar production line. It was conceived during the when there had already been closing stages of World War Two and went into production just one year after the cessation of hostilities.

Rise From The Ashes

The famous Triumph The Elise outside the ‘globe’ badge. Champagne house at Reims.

The story of how the car, or even Triumph itself, came to exist after the war is a fascinating one. The company hit hard times during the 1930s and was forced to sell off its bicycle and motorcycle divisions, but things got really bad in July 1939, when Triumph went into receivership and the name, factory and good will was offered for May 2012 49

Above: The front end of the Roadster is covered in chrome!

Triumph and by 1944 Thomas Ward put the remains of the company up for sale again.

Left: Petrol flap reveals an extending filler neck.

This time the marque was bought by the Standard Motor Company for somewhere between £10,000 and £20,000. The ‘homeless’ Triumph brand was relocated to Standard’s factory in Canley on the outskirts of Coventry where it would come under the watchful eye of Sir John Black, Standard’s Managing Director at the time. Standard had been a supplier of engines to Jaguar since 1938, but that arrangement came to an abrupt end

Below: The square tube jacking point under the front bumper. sale. It was bought by Thomas W Ward of Sheffield who immediately promoted Triumph’s Experimental Manager - Donald Healey to the position of General Manager to oversee the running of the company. Incidentally, Ward’s company is still in business today making domestic boilers at its factory in Sheffield. Car production had barely started under the new ownership when war broke out in September 1939, causing all work to cease. The following year, Triumph’s Priory Street 50 www.cprmag.com

factory took a direct hit from several German bombs during the Coventry Blitz, completely destroying the building and most of the production tooling with it. Things looked bleak for

Jaguar Rival

Looks amazing doesn’t it? The cathedral isn’t bad either!

following an argument between Black and Jaguar boss William Lyons. Some say that Black, envious of triumph’s sporty reputation, engineered the acquisition of Triumph just so he could produce cars to compete with Jaguar, but what ever the reason, Standard dropped all of Triumph’s pre-war models and started from scratch with a new range, the first of which was the Triumph Roadster. Black wanted a car that could compete with the Jaguar SS100 in style and class, and also match the MG T-types for their sporty appeal. The task of producing such a car was presented to a small group of individuals. Standard employee Ray Turner was asked to design the car’s

Above: The boot opens up to reveal two additional seats. Right: The Roadster’s two ‘Dickie’ seats don’t offer much leg room!

May 2012 51

chassis which would be a hand-welded affair constructed from steel tube in a traditional ladder pattern. Under normal circumstances, the body styling would have been carried out by Triumph’s chief designer Walter Belgrove, but as he was already tied up with other projects, the job was given to not one, but two men; Frank Callaby and Arthur Ballard. The design work was mainly undertaken by Callaby, and it was his sketches that were initially approved by Sir John. However, when the final production designs were drawn up, Callaby concentrated on the front of the car, while Ballard designed everything from the B-Post back. During the war, Standard’s factory had been used to make parts and assemblies for the deHavilland Mosquito

52 www.cprmag.com

aircraft. This proved to be a great advantage when building the Roadster since its bodywork was made mostly from aluminium, and the skilled work force at Canley simply switched from making Mosquito engine fairings to Roadster bodies using the same construction methods. One of the stranger features of the design was that Standard’s Engineering Director Ted Grinham specified that the front track be narrower than the rear. There has been much discussion as to why that was the case, but popular opinion seems to favour the theory that the wider rear track allowed

The Roadster’s four-cylinder 2.0 litre engine.

more room for the passengers while the narrower front end meant less structure between the front wheels and helped reduce the frontal area. Credit mast go to Callaby in particular, since it is undoubtedly the front of the car that is most impressive. Those stunningly beautiful front wings sweep majestically along the side of the car and tail off in a shape not dissimilar to the Mosquito’s engine nacelle. They are a stark contrast to the ‘motorcycle style’ wings used on the MGs and Jaguars that it was set to compete against. The upright chrome slatted grille fits with the period and gives the car presence; it also oozes class and gives the car the stately appearance that Sir John so wanted. The grille is also set back behind the front axle line in fashion with the popular roadsters from the 20s

This car is fitted with an after-market air filter kit.

and 30s. In front of the grille is a vast assortment of chrome lamps and horns, along with a small central ring to guide the starter handle.

Different Vision Had this styling continued throughout the car, it would no doubt today be commanding the same crazy prices as the

SS Jaguars, but from the windscreen back, the Roadster seems to be a very different car. Perhaps Ballard had a different vision as he worked on the rear end; maybe Callaby got carried away at the front and used more than half the available chassis for his creation, so Ballard had to May 2012 53

The Roadster was a mechanically uncomplicated car. squeeze his portion of the car onto what remained. Whatever the reason, those flowing lines and generous proportions seem far more constrained at the rear. The doors seem very narrow, although their high sides offer excellent weather protection for the car’s occupants. They also feature wind-up windows, something that MG drivers of the time could only dream about as they fumbled with their side-screens every time it rained. The boot area also has a rather ‘dumpy’ appearance to it, but 54 www.cprmag.com

there is a very good reason for that. The boot is in fact an extra passenger compartment. The boot-lid is hinged at the rear and opens rearwards. The spare wheel is attached to the inside of the bootlid, but inside the luggage compartment are two small fold up seats. The reardecking in front of the boot-lid is in fact a hinged panel and can be lifted up once the boot is open. It has two small windows fitted to it which shield the rear passengers from the wind...and let them see where

they are going at the same time. It is a brilliant set-up, although realistically the lack of leg room means the seats are only really suitable for children. Cars like the Ford Model A Tourer and the Chrysler P6 Sedan utilized similar ‘Dickie’ seats, but the passengers didn’t have a windscreen ahead of them and were considerably more exposed to the elements. Despite the slightly mismatched front and rear ends, the Roadster actually looked rather good.

Uncomplicated Mechanically, the little Triumph wasn’t exactly revolutionary, although it did feature independent suspension down at the front end which was quite modern thinking at the time. Other than that, it was an uncomplicated design. Power on the earlier cars (1946-1948) was provided by a four-cylinder 1,776cc OHV wet-liner engine which produced a modest 65hp, and was more or less the same engine that was fitted to the Standard Vanguard and the much later Triumph TR2/3 and TR4. From 1948 until the end of production in 1949, the cars were fitted with a larger 2.0 litre version of the same engine. Mated to the engine was a four speed gearbox with synchromesh on the top three ratios and the gears were selected by a lever mounted on the steering column. The Roadster’s interior was dominated by its large ‘bench style’ seat which can

The flap in the grille allows access for the starting handle. accommodate three people in reasonable comfort. The inside is also fully trimmed, with a full carpet set and vinyl/carpet panels decorating the sides of the cockpit. The wooden dashboard is solid looking affair housing just two large magnolia-faced gauges. On the left is a fairly standard speedometer which reads up to 100mph, and on the right is a triple-function gauge which displays oil pressure,

water temperature and fuel quantity. An ignition switch and knobs for the choke and windscreen wipers are also prominent on the large carved facia. The interior certainly has a luxurious feel to it, which is in keeping with the classy appearance of the car’s exterior.

Personality There has been much said about the Triumph Roadster

May 2012 55

Caroline Flint with her much loved Triumph Roadster.

over the years, and not all of it kind. Some have said that it looked awkward and dumpy, while one reviewer, speaking shortly after its launch, said that it looked like a ‘stuffed turkey.’ Personally, I quite like the little Triumph, and its slightly quirky looks just add to its personality. One person who shares my admiration of the Roadster is the owner of the car we used to illustrate this article 56 www.cprmag.com

Caroline Flint. Caroline only recently acquired the car at an auction in Kings Lynn in Norfolk, but it was a purchase that saw a lifetime ambition become a reality. Her father had owned a Roadster back in the 1960s, and she still has a photograph of both her parents pictured inside the car on their wedding day. “It was something I always wanted,” says Caroline. “My Dad loved his car and when I

heard that this one was being offered for sale in the auction, I had to at least go and have a look at it. Once the bidding started, I couldn’t resist going for it, and when the hammer finally fell, I was the new owner!” The car is in good condition, but this is no cosseted concours car. It was repainted in the 1970s, and like any older restoration it is starting to show signs of wear. However, it is still in remarkably good condition, probably due to the fact that it has only covered 4,000 miles in the last 30 years.

Dream Starter You might be thinking that like many rarely used cars, it would be difficult to start and unreliable, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, this car starts better than any car I have ever seen! Just turn the ignition switch the engine fires instantaneously.

Who ever set this engine up has done a wonderful job. It ticks over like a Swiss watch and power delivery is silky smooth.

Missing Air Filter So far, since buying the car in January, the only thing Caroline has done to the car is fit a new steering wheel. The old one was wrapped with that plastic tape that was popular in the 1970s and had seen much better days. The new wheel is a reproduction of the original part, and while it looks good, it does flex quite a lot, but I am reliably informed that this is due to the nature of its design and not poor quality manufacturing. Lifting the engine covers reveals the large four-cylinder engine and most of the parts will be instantly recognisable to anyone familiar with the TR2-4 cars. There are some neat accessories hidden away under the bonnet too, with an original pillar jack stowed on the nearside inner wing and even a grease gun secured to the front upper bulkhead. The car is currently fitted with a non-standard K&N air filter assembly as the original ones are extremely rare and hard to get hold of. Caroline would still like to fit one though, so if you know whereabouts of an air filter for a 2.0 litre Triumph Roadster, please get in touch with CPR magazine and they will pass on the info.

Classic Runaround Further examination of the engine bay reveals some of the construction techniques used by the factory to build the car. The aluminium panelling is beautifully finished

Right: Caroline’s parents in her Dad’s Roadster. Below: Caroline and her Husband Murray re-enact the same photo.

and you can clearly see the solid aircraft-style rivets holding it all together. It’s strange to think that the chap who put this car together at the factory was probably building Mosquito fighterbombers just a few years earlier. Caroline says that she is hoping to completely restore the car at some point in the near future, but for now she is happy to use the Roadster for short journeys around the local area, and has even taken it to the local supermarket. Some people love it, some people don’t, but what ever your opinion, you have to admit that this is a car with bags of character. A certain Mr Bergerac made the Roadster famous when he used one in the Bergerac TV series, although the actor who played the leading role - John Nettles was apparently a firm member

of the ‘don’t like’ camp. It might lack the exclusivity of a Jaguar SS100 or the graceful lines of the Jaguar XK120, but at least the Triumph Roadster doesn’t come with the ridiculous price tags that are associated with the ‘big cats.’ It drives well and on a good day it can reach a respectable 77mph, and it can carry three adults and two ‘smaller’ people in the ‘boot.’ In that respect, it is a much more practical option than its Jaguar rivals, and it’s cheaper too. The wonderful character that this car exudes guarantees that where ever you park it, it will attract a crowd of admiring onlookers. The Triumph Roadster might not have been called the ‘TR1,’ but it has same qualities and presence that the later TR cars had, and that alone makes this a very appealing car. May 2012 57

Six Triumph Roadsters lined up in the Ramada Hotel car park in Kings Lynn.

Roadster Road-Trip!

The East Anglia branch of the Triumph Roadster Club met up on March 31st for a mini ‘road trip’ and Simon Hazeldine was there to catch a few snaps with his camera.

t was a chilly spring morning when I met up with members of the Triumph Roadster Club as they embarked on one of their first road runs of the year. The group planned to meet at the Ramada Hotel in Kings Lynn for a quick coffee before 58 www.cprmag.com

heading across the road for the Anglia Car Auctions classic car sale. Despite the chilly conditions, nearly all the cars turned up with their hoods down; a hardy bunch these Roadster owners! A total of six cars arrived at the hotel and it wasn’t long

before all the cars and drivers were assembled on the front lawn for the obligatory photo session. With the team suitably refreshed thanks to the hotel’s wonderful restaurant, the group headed to the auction where arrangements had been made to display the cars outside the main auction hall near the autojumble. Right on cue, the sun came out and the Roadsters sparkled in the spring sunshine. Visitors to the auction must have been eagerly reaching for their cheque books until they found out that the cars were just visiting and not part of the sale.

The cars looked great in the pub car park.

The cars spent about an hour at the auction before the drivers regrouped and sedately made their way back out of the auction and headed out onto the A10. The next destination was a small country pub about ten miles away in the village of Stow Bardolph, and on arrival, all the cars were once again parked in a line. One other Triumph Roadster was already waiting at the pub which brought the total number of cars on the trip to seven, which I’m sure you’ll agree is a pretty respectable turnout for such a rare model of car. I’m not sure the locals knew what to make of the mini Roadster invasion, but judging by the admiring glances, they certainly seemed to be enjoying the cars. It was certainly a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning and it is always great to see such wonderful cars getting out on the roads. If you want to see the cars for yourself, head over to the club’s website at: www.triumphroadster.org.uk and click the ‘Events List’ tab. May 2012 59

TrackdayDiary Links To Track Day Organisers & Racing Circuits Apex Track Days - www.apextrackdays.co.uk • BHP Track Days Ltd - www.bhptrackdays.co.uk • Bookatrack - www.bookatrack.com • Club MSV - www.clubmsv.com • Gold Track - www.goldtrack.co.uk • Javelin Track Days - www.javelintrackdays.co.uk • RMA Trak Days - www.rmatrackdays.com • Track Culture - www.trackculture.com • Wheelsports www.classicgt.co.uk • Snetterton Park - www.snetterton.co.uk • Brands Hatch - www.brandshatch.co.uk • Donington Park - www.donington-park.co.uk • Oulton Park www.oultonpark.co.uk • Knockhill Racing Circuit - www.knockhill.com • Blyton Park - www.blytonpark.co.uk • Santa Pod - www.santapod.co.uk • Silverstone www.silverstone.co.uk • Goodwood Circuit - www.goodwood.co.uk • Thruxton - www.thruxtonracing.co.uk • Rockingham - www.rockingham.co.uk • Mallory Park www.mallorypark.co.uk • Cadwell Park - www.cadwellpark.co.uk • Castle Combe - www.castlecombecircuit.co.uk

Key: db - Decibels • ND - Noisy Day • OPL - Open Pit Lane • S - Sessions • T - Timing/Chrono • RC - Road Cars Only • RCN - Road Car Novice

May 2012 Date Venue

Organiser

Noise Level

Status

Brands Hatch , Indy

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Oulton Park , Full

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Donington Park , National

Gold Track

110

OPL

Oulton Park

Lotus on Track

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , Indy

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Blyton Park , 1.6 Mile Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Silverstone , Grand Prix

RMA

105

OPL

Castle Combe

100

Sessions

Anglesey , Coastal Circuit

BookaTrack.com Ltd

102

OPL

Cadwell Park , Full

Mitsubishi Lancer Register

105

OPL

Mettet , Beautiful Belgium

DriversDays

OPL

Elvington , Airfield

Javelin Trackdays

OPL

Santa Pod Raceway - RWYB

Santa Pod Raceway

N/A

Sessions

Bedford Autodrome

Easytrack

102

OPL

Rockingham (Various Circuits)

Rockingham

OPL

Santa Pod Raceway - RWYB

Santa Pod Raceway

N/A

Sessions

Blyton Park

TrackCulture

105

OPL

Mallory Park

Apex Track Days

105

OPL

Blyton Park

Apex Track Days

105

OPL

Bedford Autodrome , GT circuit

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Abbeville

Lotus on Track

OPL

Santa Pod Raceway - RWYB

Santa Pod Raceway

N/A

Sessions

Croft , Full Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

OPL

Anglesey , GP

Circuit Days

105

OPL

Cadwell Park , Full Circuit

BMW Car Club of Great Britain

105

OPL

Snetterton , 300 circuit

Gold Track

105

OPL

Snetterton , 300 and 200

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , GP circuit

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , Indy

Circuit Days

105

OPL

Knockhill

105

OPL

Abingdon

Motorsport Events

100

OPL

Mallory Park

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Silverstone , International Circuit Silverstone

105

OPL

Snetterton , 300 circuit

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , Indy

Opentrack Track Days

102

OPL

Donington Park , GP Circuit

BHP Trackdays

OPL

60 www.cprmag.com

In Association With

Cadwell Park , Full Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Donington Park

BookaTrack.com Ltd

102

OPL

Donington Park

BookaTrack.com Ltd

105

OPL

Blyton Park , 1.6 Mile Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Snetterton

Easytrack

105

OPL

Oulton Park , Drifting

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Woodbridge

Javelin Trackdays

100

Sprint

Lydden

Lydden Hill Race Circuit

105

OPL

Knockhill

105

OPL

Kirkistown

Trackskills

102

OPL

Woodbridge

Javelin Trackdays

100

Sprint

Lydden

Lydden Hill Race Circuit

105

OPL

Santa Pod Raceway - RWYB

Santa Pod Raceway

N/A

Sessions

Spa Francorchamps

RMA

106

OPL

Keevil

Motorsport Events

100

OPL

Cadwell Park

Easytrack

105

OPL

Oulton Park , Full

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Spa Francorchamps

RMA

106

OPL

Cadwell Park

BHP Trackdays

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , Indy

ClubMSV

105

OPL

Spa Francorchamps

DriversDays

107

OPL

Donington Park , National

Apex Track Days

105

OPL

Hullavington

Motorsport Events

100

OPL

Rockingham (Various Circuits)

Rockingham

OPL

Aintree , Aintree Racing Circuit

Liverpool Motor Club

105

Sessions

Barkston Heath

Javelin Trackdays

100

OPL

Santa Pod Raceway - RWYB

Santa Pod Raceway

N/A

OPL

Blyton Park

Lotus on Track

105

OPL

Wittering (RAF) , 1.8 mile

Javelin Trackdays

102

OPL

Barkston Heath

Javelin Trackdays

100

OPL

Blyton Park , 1.6 Mile Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Spa Francorchamps

Mitsubishi Lancer Register

107

OPL

Castle Combe

BHP Trackdays

100

OPL

Silverstone , GP

Gold Track

105

OPL

Bedford Autodrome

Easytrack

102

OPL

Knockhill

105

OPL

Zolder

Lotus on Track

OPL

Oulton Park

Easytrack

105

OPL

Cadwell Park , Full Circuit

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

Brands Hatch , GP circuit

BookaTrack.com Ltd

105

OPL

Donington Park

Apex Track Days

102

OPL

Spa Francorchamps

Curbstone Track Events

106

OPL

Snetterton , 300 and 200

Javelin Trackdays

105

OPL

This Track Day Diary has been produced in association with MotorsportAds (see www.motorsportads.com). All dates believed correct at time of publishing. Please check with venue before setting off to avoid disappointment.

May 2012 61

December 2010 47

Keeping the great marques alive

www.moss-europe.co.uk Youles Racing supported by Moss Europe Ltd 2010

from a spire nut to a supercharger

Classic Mini

MG T-Type

MGA

MGB

MGF

Sprite & Midget

TR2-4A

TR5-6

TR7

PERFORM

Mazda MX-5

Morris Minor

ONROAD &TRACK Free!

CPR Web Mag. 3

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parts catalogues call 0800 281 182

London

Bradford

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manchester@moss-europe.co.uk Moss Europe Ltd. E&O.E. 2011

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Please visit our Facebook page and click the ‘Like This’ button. It will give you a preview of what’s coming up in the next issue and keep you up to date with any happenings in the automotive world!

NewStuff

Cool Stuff To Spend Your Money On!

Mini Mouse Available from: Mini Shop Price: £33.70 inc VAT See: www.minispares.com When I was asked to review a Mini Mouse, I thought the Editor’s admiration for all things Disney had finally got the better of him. Thankfully though, this is no squeaky cartoon character. The Mini Mouse is one of the latest offerings from Mini Spares and what better way can there be to read your favourite online car magazine (this one!) than with a miniature classic car in your hand! The ‘mouse’ is styled in the form of a classic Mini Cooper, and like the famous cars used in the Italian Job movie, it comes in red, white or blue, with each model having a contrasting white roof. According to the accompanying PR, the mouse is suitable for both PC and Mac platforms and carries the “world’s smallest 2.4G wireless receiver.” The Mini Mouse comes complete with batteries, a soft carrying pouch and a ‘superglide’ mouse mat. At £33.70 inc VAT, it is a little more expensive than a standard mouse, but you cant put a price on class. This is a great fun little gadget and will certainly add an air of quality to your desk. Hand Made Aluminium Radiators Available from: Cambridge Motorsport Parts Prices From: £435.00 See: www.cambridgemotorsport.com Cambridge Motorsport Parts are now offering hand made aluminium radiators for classics and classic race cars. The aluminium radiators are made to order only, with a production time of 3- 4 weeks. They offer significantly improved cooling due to their aluminium construction and modern core design and weight saving is also reduced typically by 50% compared to the original copper brass type. They are superbly detailed and finished in either a satin/brushed or highly polished finish. At the present time, Cambridge Motorsport Parts hold patterns for: Aston Martin, Austin Healey 100/4, Jaguar XK120/140/150, E-Type Series 1 3.8/4.2, Series 2, Series 3 V12, MGA 1500/1600/Twin Cam, MGB (all models) and Triumph TR2/3/4/4A/5/6. However, since they are all made to order, they can make radiators for many other makes and models of classic and kit car such as the BMW example pictured here. Prices start at £435.00 but vary according to vehicle application and customer requirements. Ford RS Anti-Theft Valve Caps Available from: Speeding Price: £12.99 inc VAT See: www.speeding.co.uk Owners of Ford RS cars can add a touch of individual styling to their cars with these neat RS Anti-Theft Valve Caps. Many people have avoided buying bespoke valve caps for their cars in the past, because they are usually only on the car for a matter of days before some young scallywag decides they would look better on his bicycle. Thankfully, that is something you wont have to worry about with these caps. they come with a neat locking screw which are undone with a tiny Allen key (supplied). That means that the caps should stay put... unless of course someone nicks your wheels! A nice touch that will look great on any Ford RS car. 66 www.cprmag.com

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500ml Dispensing and Evacuating Pump Available from: Laser Tools Price: £22.00 See: www.lasertools.co.uk Okay, it looks like something out of a 1950s hospital, but this tool is a lot more useful than it appears. This is one of those indispensable tools that makes awkward jobs so easy, the new Laser dispensing and evacuating pump (part no: 5390) has the added advantage of being able to dispense or evacuate measured amounts of fluid, with metric measurements clearly marked on the tube. It can be used for removing coolant from the cooling system before topping up with antifreeze, or for dispensing gearbox or differential oil. It is particularly useful with automatic gearboxes when the fluid has to be measured at running temperature, and may need to be added or removed to reach the correct level. The pump (or is it syringe?) is available now at a price of £22.00 for the 500ml version, but a larger one litre pump is available at £32.96 for those more demanding jobs.

Steve McQueen Le Mans T-Shirt Available From: Red Lizzard Price: £12.99 See: www.classiccarproducts.co.uk With summer just around the corner (apparently!), you might want to start thinking about your wardrobe. After all, you really don’t want to be seen in something that is soooo last year! Okay, chances are that you care more about the colour of your car than the colour of your t-shirt, but even so, a little street cred goes a long way these days. With that in mind, why not treat yourself to one of these rather stylish ‘Steve McQueen Le Mans’ t-shirts? Printed in multi-coloured plasticised inks onto a heavyweight 100% American cotton pre-shrunk black t shirt, this classic designer t-shirt features the iconic images of Steve McQueen and the Gulf liveried Porsche 917 made famous in the 1971 Le Mans film. The shirt also carried a quote from the film, where McQueen stated “Racing is Life; anything that happens before or after is just waiting.” Available in black only, but comes in a variety of sizes.

Atlas Crown & Pinion Sets Available from: Burton Power Price: £275.00 inc VAT See: www.burtonpower.com When genuine Ford crown wheel and pinions were no longer available for the ‘Atlas’ axle, Burton Power started offering their own high quality crown wheel and pinions as an alternative. Now they have added 3.44:1 and 3.77:1 ratios to their range. These new ratios are ideal for road-use cars. Crown wheel and pinion sets are manufactured on modern machinery from specially selected high quality nickel steel. After heat treatment, finished parts are individually inspected. The Gleason tooth profile on the gears ensures optimum contact can be achieved when the gear set is subsequently fitted to the differential carrier. May 2012 67

Time to get some work done to YOUR classic car?

TRGB are now established as one of the leading Triumph specialists in the country and have extensive and almost unrivalled experience on the restoration and maintenance of these cars. Along the way we have also gained years of experience working on other classic cars. Work and personal projects aside from our Triumphs include: full restoration of an E-type 4.2 Jaguar, full restoration of a ‘Healey 3000’, full engine build on a V12-E and full and detailed restoration of a Ferrari Dino (including full engine build). Our workshop is always very busy and to this end we have decided to expand this side of the business and are delighted to announce a new member of staff: Mr Jason Wright. Jason brings with him a wealth of experience and has worked on many TRs as well as Jaguar and TVR from a well-known leading dealership, and so will add his knowledge to the extensive experience of both Tim and Richard. To promote this new expansion we are offering a 10% discount (£40.50/hr + VAT) on all work booked in during the ﬁrst three months of 2011. If you require any work on YOUR classic car, please call Gary at TRGB.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Unit 1, Sycamore Farm Industrial Estate, Long Drove, Somersham, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire Tel: 01487 842168 or 01480 464443 (evenings) • Fax: 01487 740274 Mobile: 07801 631632

www.trgb.co.uk

March 2011 29

...beautiful, elegant, stunning. TR Register and Stag Owners Club IWE 2012 Combining the Stag Owners Club National Day and the TR Register International Weekend

10-12 August Three Counties Showground, Malvern Come along and join us for a celebration of Triumph sports and grand touring cars in 2012. Weekend Ticket Saturday Ticket Sunday Ticket

£25 £15 £10

> > > > > > > > >

Large trade show and autojumble Technical Seminars Family entertainment all weekend Arena show of Triumphs with interviews and demonstrations Concours d’Elegance and Pride of Ownership competition Autosolo Competition On-site Camping Fri-Sun Evening Entertainment Fri & Sat Gates Open 2pm Friday

Keep it that way. Fully tailored car covers by Specialised Covers Official suppliers to Audi, Bentley and Lotus

See the club websites for further information: www.tr-register.co.uk or: www.stag.org.uk Camping will be available at the showground, but for B&B or hotel accommodation, telephone the Malvern Tourist Office on: 01684 892289 e-mail: info@visitthemalverns.org

www.tr-register.co.uk/iwe12

Tel: 01235 818866

T: 01943 864 646 W: specialisedcovers.com

Charles Costa continues with the second installment of the story about his unplanned rebuild of a Triumph TR3, where a broken chassis frame leaves our intrepid restorer dazed...but not confused!.

s you may recall, the end of the last installment of my saga saw me staring into my coffee contemplating the rebuild

70 www.cprmag.com

of my Triumph TR3’s front suspension. Now while hot, steaming coffee is great, it doesn’t help you visualize the task in mind, so that morning,

the first thing I did after finishing my drink was make that ever familiar hundred and fifty foot walk out to the barn to visit ‘Trumpy’ once again.

(Part 2)

with my lovely wife, Pam. Then after retiring…buying a ’57 TR3 as a driver. Let’s see, what else? Ah, yes! What was I thinking?

Second Thoughts

Although a lot had happened since buying her, it didn’t take me that long to run it through my mind as I made that short trip. Let’s see…buying that new TR3A back in 1960, selling it after joining the Navy two years later, raising a family

I opened the barn door and there she sat with most of her front end dismantled, looking at me as if asking how I could have done this to her. She was a driver, and a good one, too. All I wanted to do was have fun driving around the Boston area and onto the surrounding countryside, hearing her hum while I took her through her paces. Water pump, radiator, sills, powder coating, carburetors. Am I dreaming to think that I can do all this? Did my son Richie really bring me to this point? And now, on my own, was I actually thinking of rebuilding the front suspension? As I entered the barn that day, it wasn’t easy for me to stop figuring how much time this was going to take, let alone how much money it was going to cost. Why not put her back together before this really gets out of hand and drive her for the next few years, doing what I’d intended doing in the first place? Yes, that’s it. I made up my mind. Going over to

the bench, I reached for the front apron, turning to place it between the front fenders… er…wings. It’s British Charles, get with it! If I skipped lunch, I could have her back together and in driving condition by mid afternoon. Richie was right, which is why I felt so confident… “Take lots of pictures, Dad. It’ll make the re-assembly all that much easier.” I was glad I listened to that advice. My mind was racing now. Richie mentioned something about the wiring being hazardous. I could put more tape on it. Then there was the matter of the radiator being suspect. Don’t they sell a solution that you can pour in to fix that? How about that air getting by that loose throttle shaft in the carbs? I could live with that, I’m sure. What’s the big deal of her having a high idle? I’m sure Richie would understand.

Caught In The Act Then, just as I was lowering the front apron between the wings, I heard that oh-sofamiliar sound of Richie’s truck in the front yard. Darn, I’d forgotten it was Saturday. In no time at all he was beside me, staring at that apron in my hands, the engine stand he May 2012 71

The engine was removed from the car and placed on an engine stand in the garage. Left: The TR3 front suspension uses a ball-joint at the top, with a vertical link joining a brass trunnion at the bottom.

72 www.cprmag.com

just dragged in, beside him. I looked up at him. “Dad, what’s going on?” Feebly, I said, “Oh, ahh…nothing…I just wanted to see what she used to look like.” With my voice cracking, and putting the apron in place, I went on. “Ah…She looks good, eh?” Looking over his shoulder, and out beside his truck, I saw that Richie had also taken his tool box with him. He meant business. Then, helping me put the apron back up on the bench, he said. “Come on, Dad. We have to get the engine lift from the back of my truck.” I said, “Oh yeah, we’re pulling the engine aren’t we…I almost forgot.” And so it began. We quickly put the car on jack stands, and in no time at all

he was under the car on his creepy-crawler, lying on his back, looking up at the engine. “Dad, give me that half-inch ratchet, a 5/8, half inch, and nine sixteenth socket. Quickly, I pulled the Bentley tech manual from the wall case and turned to the page explaining how to remove the exhaust manifold. Then just as I finished silently reading the first few paragraphs, Richie yelled to me to lift the header out. Wow, is this the same kid I was wiping drool from a few short years ago?

With 50 years worth of dirt removed, the front suspension looked in good shape.

Shocking Discovery Just as I was putting the exhaust manifold on the bench, I turned to find Pam with a food tray in her hand; coffee, juice, scrambled eggs and toast. It was a God send. We hadn’t realized the time. It was already ten o’clock. Looking at the bench, she said, “What’s that?” I answered proudly, “That’s the header.” “What’s wrong with it?” “Nothing,” I went on, “But we figured that while we’re at Richie then squatted down it… we might as well pull the and started wiggling the right engine, too.” “You’re taking the engine out? front wheel. “Looks like the ball joints need replacing.” He Isn’t that a big job?” said. “Look at that movement.” “Nah,” I shot back, while That’s when he looked up reaching for a slice of toast. into the wheel well. “Wait “We’ll have it out in no time at a minute! The joints aren’t all.” moving. Dad, keep wiggling I detected a slight smile the wheel while I check it on Richie’s face. We sat in out.” As he went around to silence, eating our breakfast, the front of the car, I saw his staring at Trumpy the whole eyes darting to every piece time. Richie broke the silence he could look at. “Wow, look with what would end up being at that! Move it some more.” the most important statement I kept moving the wheel, of the whole restoration. “We and after some silence, he never checked the ball joints, said. “Dad, the whole front did we?” suspension is severed from “Not that I remember.” I said.

the frame. Take a look. It’s split where it meets the frame.” In no time at all, we were staring at the empty underbonnet area, with the engine all bolted to the stand. Getting a better look at the break in the front suspension, I shuddered as I thought of how Pam and I were doing sixty on the highway just a few short weeks ago. There was no question now. If we found that fault with just a brief check…what else would we find as we uncovered more? From then on, driver or not…she needed a complete May 2012 73

John Narducci starts to repair the broken chassis.

going over, and the only way to do that, and be safe, was to give her a complete restoration. My whole attitude had changed now. Richie had probably saved our lives. So, with the engine pulled, and while we were at it, we decided to get the body off and emerge ourselves into this completely, no matter the time or cost.

Safety First

Sparks fly as the cracked chassis is prepared for welding. 74 www.cprmag.com

I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember, throughout all of my years, ever delving into any job as seriously as I did with this ground up restoration. For the next five years or so, all I could think of was doing it right without rushing. Repairing parts when possible, and replacing them when needed; wirewheeling and polishing every bolt, washer, and nut. Again, keeping what I could for

Left: The bodyshell was properly braced with welded steel tube before being removed from the chassis. Above: The pristine bodyshell shortly after sandblasting.

originality, and replacing what I had to for safety. Whenever I found myself in doubt as whether to repair or replace, I thought back to that severed frame, making my decision by asking myself, “Is this a safety issue, or is it for looks?” If my answer was for safety, there was never a question as to what to do. This is just about the time that I met Newt on the internet. While pulling the engine, we inadvertently severely bent the gas pedal shaft that runs along the firewall. Logging into a forum to ask where I could get the part, I met Jim ‘Newt’ Newton, a guy in the Pittsburgh area of Pennsylvania. He ended up sending me a new shaft, and never cashed my check. He just loved LBCs and was more concerned with folks restoring them correctly than his

making money. We have been best friends ever since. Also, Newt has been a great help in all facets of the restoration via email, phone, and ultimately Skyping many times…me with the webcam hovering over whatever project was frustrating me at that moment. To fix that break, Richie called his friend, Paul Narducci from Rhode Island. So as a favor,

along with a case of Guinness, he did a fantastic job fixing that split; a welding job that would easily get Trumpy through any maneuver I could ever possibly push her to do. After that, we had the tub sand-blasted (uncovering lots of body rot and filler) and primed. Then we sent the tub off to another fabricator, Jim Walcott in Rutland, MA. We

Right: The boot area was in remarkably good condition.

May 2012 75

Test fitting some of the body panels.

Rear wings ready for a trial fit. wintered in Florida that year; giving Jim unbothered time to complete the job without my supervision *grin*. He did wonders, doing factory-type work. He replaced the inner and outer sills, along with the B post and surrounding areas. 76 www.cprmag.com

He also installed new floor boards, and did some firewall repairs, while re-fabricating all around the boot area, where he also found safety issues in the rear body-mount area that were completely rotted away. Maybe thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what that

thumping noise was every time I put the brakes on. And another thing; because of Trumpy being a side-screen Triumph, Richie had to weld braces from the A to B posts, and along the sill area to give her strength before removing the body from the frame. The sand-blasting had showed so much rot at the sill area that she would have buckled without that bracing. The condition of the frame was amazing. Even after some fifty-odd years, we still found shiny metal in most places; having been protected by heavy layers of collected grease. To save money, I took on tasks that I was comfortable with; i.e., cleaning

the engine to get it ready for a fresh coat of paint, which was done as a favor by my friend Bob Vozzella, who had recently restored his own 1970 Dodge Challenger. I also completely restored the frame, covering it with POR-15. We then had the rear dampers rebuilt, along with the front disk calipers. Then it was the task of turning the front rotors (brake discs). And may I add here that the guy who did the turning said that he hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seen metal that hard in fifty years. I was very impressed with that POR15, not to mention the Metal Ready, which also is sold as an etching agent used to coat fresh metal surfaces. It has a zinc base to protect against rust while it sits awaiting primer.

Above: The odd-looking master cylinder assembly had seen better days! Right: Same part before removal.

Paint Removal This brings me to the body panels, which I brought down to bare metal by hand, deciding not to have them sand-blasted, for fear of

distorting them. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve read some horror stories about other people experiencing major problems from doing just that. I ended up using Klean Strip Aircraft Paint Remover, and I May 2012 77

Charles starts to paint strip the rear panel.

Paint is stubborn to remove to begin with. was glad I did, although it did a terrible job on the first piece, which was the spare tyre lid. On the second try, and after I read the instructions on the can, I found it did a terrific job on the boot lid. A razor scraper was all that was needed.

Odd Jobs It was then time to take the stripped body panels, along with the patched up tub to the body man, John O’Connor, who also did a great job. The result being that with a little block sanding, Trumpy would be ready for the final paint. So all in all, it was pick and choose. Some jobs I could do, while some had to be sent out, like having a complete re-build done on the carburetors, by Joe Curto in New York. Then, getting back to the engine and surrounding area… Richie installed the new clutch and new ring gear for the fly-wheel, while also replacing the release bearing and cross shaft, putting in new bushings where needed, not to mention 78 www.cprmag.com

The paint-stripped boot lid. re-building the clutch slave cylinder. Then there was the matter of a new slip sleeve to snug up the meeting of the propeller shaft to the universal joint. Finding the gearbox in good shape, I only had to give it a good clean to bring it back to its original brilliance. Referring to the engine, I can’t forget to say how much care went into it’s cleaning before

Bob did paint it, removing everything, and leaving just the short block. I don’t want to think of how much lacquer thinner was used to complete that job, not to mention soap and water. Then there was the new water pump. Isn’t that what started all of this? Next…the new rear brake cylinders. After much reading, I decided on switching from

Charles used aircraft-spec paint remover to get the job done.

The front panel is in amazing condition for its age! DOT 3 brake fluid to silicone. The word is that the brakes have a little softer push with the silicone, but it would be good enough for everyday driving, while at the same time not corroding the paint like the DOT 3 would do. Needless to say that after getting the frame back from Narducci, I did a complete re-build of the front suspension…painting

what took paint, and clearcoating what was raw steel; installing all new bushings, and spacers where needed. There was also the caution of testing the strength of the springs, which checked out just fine. That Bentley service manual was a great help. Putting everything back together, I couldn’t help feeling a touch of pride as I

stood back to look at Trumpy’s rolling chassis. I must say that it was showroom quality. Being so anxious to hear her engine once again, I ‘juryrigged’ a gravity fed petrol tank, hanging it above the chassis. After building a makeshift dashboard out of plywood, with cut-outs for the gauges, I was ready to start her up again. I gathered the May 2012 79

Charles and Richie lift the engine back onto the chassis. to a very nice 800. Richie mentioned that there wasn’t time right now, but later we would synchronize them and said with confidence that we’d be able to get the idle down to 600 or so. Just the same, she sounded good.

It’s Show Time!

Engine fitted and rigged for a test run. ‘usual suspects’ out to the barn, not forgetting arranging to have ‘Newt’ join in on Skype. There were about fifteen of us. Anticipating success, I had a bottle of Champagne hidden away in the fridge. After a few tweaks here and there, 80 www.cprmag.com

along with a few adjectives now and then, she started up. Her idle was a cool 1,200RPM…a far cry from the blazing 1,900 the leaky carbs caused before the re-build. After Richie gave the carbs a few tweaks, she settled down

Since I had not finished the rebuild of Trumpy in time, having no body on the frame as yet, the president of our club, New England Triumphs, suggested that I enter her ‘as is’ in our annual car show at the Lars Anderson Auto Museum, in Brookline, Massachusetts, under the ‘project of interest’ category. I did, and proudly came in at second place to a 1951 Triumph Mayflower. We took two lawn chairs along and Pam sat beside Trumpy

the whole time. My chair didn’t get much use that day, as I was pacing and standing proudly by, most of the time. Knowing how little I knew about the workings of automobiles just a few short months ago, I felt confident that I would be able to field any questions they could throw at me concerning the re-build. I was pleased at how many fathers came over, with their young sons, to point out the usually hidden inner workings of a car. Richie couldn’t be there with us that day to give me moral support, but I was surprised each time I found myself answering their questions with no problem at all. Who would have thought… certainly not I…that a vehicle that I restored, by doing a complete frame-up, could have impressed so many.

Best Teacher Then again, the more I did think about it, I thought of how I had the best teacher around. Thanks Richie, thanks for all of your expertise, and thanks for putting up with me, and especially for your encouragement in doing this in the first place. And thanks for probably saving my life, not to mention your mom’s, my co-pilot. And thank you, Pam, for urging me to buy Trumpy in the first place, and for humoring me with all of your trips to the barn, and making me feel so smart by looking impressed each time I showed you a different stage of the restoration and how much I knew about cars. I would like

The rolling chassis at its first car show. to think that every restorer realizes how important a wife’s support is in the whole process. That’s exactly why, when I do mention Trumpy, it’s always…“Our car!” Now for the re-assembly; putting the tub back onto the chassis and fitting the body panels for their final positioning before painting. It’s far better to do all of the preliminary fitting before the final paint, and not after, to avoid the chance of getting little nicks along the way. So there she is, sitting proudly in our barn, all assembled, with her panels fitted to a tee, waiting for her new paint job. To back up a little, and to impress on you, how difficult it can be to reassemble and line up all of the body parts of an old car, let me tell you what went on with the doors. The driver’s door opening is 3/16 of an inch wider than the passenger door opening. My first thought was that she had shifted, and kinked while the tub was off of the frame. But

that wasn’t the case. Richie had welded those braces on just fine, ensuring that the openings were exactly the same size as they were before. How did I know this? Because the drivers’ door itself, was also 3/16 of an inch wider than the passenger door. Shouldn’t all doors be made the same size? Well, not necessarily. Not if one company made the tubs, while another one made the doors. After doing a little research on the matter, I discovered that the door company fitted each door to the existing door opening of the tub, not making them all uniform in size. Go figure! Regardless, everything fits just fine now. Nice even gaps all around. I can see me and Pam now, driving around on some out of the way country road, listening to the familiar sound of Trumpy’s exhaust, cruising along with the wind in our hair. We decided on red. May 2012 81

us Talk to u o before y r buy you TR classic

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What’son

Find Out What’s On Near You!

Each month, Classic, Performance & Retro magazine brings you some of the best motoring events from around the world in our comprehensive ‘What’s On’ guide. Each listing features a live website link, so if you want know more a single click of the mouse is all you need. If you would like us to include your event, just send an e-mail with the details to: info@cprmag.com

Look out for the awesome Group C racers at the Donington Historic Festival on May 5-6.

May 2012 Date

Event

Website/Tel

Ace Cafe Classic Mini Meet, London, UK

www.ace-cafe-london.com

Abbey Hill Rally Yeovil, Somerset, UK

www.abbeyhillrally.co.uk

5-6

Donington Historic Festival, Donington Park, Derby, UK

www.doningtonhistoric.com

Brooklands Auto Italia Day, Brooklands Museum, Surrey, UK

www.auto-italia.co.uk

5-7

Llandudno Transport Festival, Llandudno, Wales

www.llantransfest.co.uk

Bentley Drivers’ Club Sprint Day, MIRA, Nuneaton, Warks, UK

www.bdcl.org

5-6

Magnificent Motors Eastbourne, Eastbourne, Sussex, UK

www.visiteastbourne.com

5-7

Rushden Cavalcade of Transport, Rushden, Northants, UK

www.rhts.co.uk

Kent Classic Car & Motor Show, Herne Bay, Kent, UK

www.hernebaytp.co.uk

5-6

Berwick Historic Classic Rally, Ashington, Northumberland, UK

www.berwickmotorclub.co.uk

Goodwood Supercar Sunday, Goodwood Circuit, Sussex, UK

www.goodwood.co.uk

Cardigan Classic Car Show, Cardigan Town High Street, Wales

No Website

6-7

Bedfordshire Classic Motor Show, Woburn Abbey, Beds, UK

www.classicmotorshow.com

Duxford Spring Car Show, Duxford Airfield, Cambs, UK

www.iwm.org.uk/duxford

Catton Hall Classic Car Show, Lichfield, Staffs, UK

www.transtarpromotions.co.uk

Beaulieu Simply Ford, National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hants, UK

www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

MGOC Heritage Tour Norfolk, Happisburgh, Norfolk, UK

www.mgownersclub.co.uk

Broadlands Run, East Anglia, UK

www.mgownersclub.co.uk

Nottingham Classic Show, Thoresby Park, Ollerton, Notts, UK

www.classicshows.org

Ace cafe Jaguar Performance Meet, London, UK

www.ace-cafe-london.com

Gawsworth Classic, Gawsworth Hall, Macclesfield, UK

www.gawsworthhall.com

Ace Cafe Classic Car Night, London, UK

www.ace-cafe-london.com

11-13

Monaco Grand Prix Historique, Monaco

www.formula1monaco.com

AMOC Oulton Park Race Day, Oulton Park, Cheshire, UK

www.amoc.org

84 www.cprmag.com

12-13

Rotary Classics at Prescott, Gotherington, Cheltenham, UK

www.cleevevale.org.uk/classiccar

Oxfordshire Classic Show, Wallingford, Oxon, UK

www.wallingfordcarrally.org.uk

Basingstoke Festival of Transport, Basingstoke, Hants, UK

www.basingstoke.gov.uk/leisure/events/thornycroft/

Rover P4 Drivers Guild National Rally, BMH Museum, Gaydon, UK

www.roverp4dg.org.uk

COOC Yorkshire Gathering, Burton Agnes Hall, Yorkshire, UK

www.co-oc.org

VSCC Wiscombe Park Hill Climb, Devon, UK

www.vscc.co.uk

Regency Run from Brooklands, Weybridge, Surrey, UK

www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Crich Morris Minor Day, Matlock, Derbyshire, UK

www.tramway.co.uk

Sandwell Historic Vehicle Show, West Bromwich, West Midlands, UK

www.sandwell.gov.uk

Cholmondeley Classic Car & Motorcycle Show, Cheshire, UK

www.classicshows.org

Fastlane Northumberland Supercar Show, Corbridge, UK

www.fastlaneshow.co.uk

18-20

North Yorkshire Triumph Weekend, Whitby, N.Yorks, UK

www.nytw.org.uk

19-20

Faversham Kent Classic Car Show, Faversham, Kent, UK

www.faversham.org/carshow

Practical Performance Cars in the Park, Mallory Park, Leics, UK

www.ppcmag.co.uk

19-20

Beaulieu Spring Autojumble, Beaulieu, Hants, UK

www.beaulieuevents.co.uk

19-20

HSCC Silverstone, Silverstone Circuit, Northants, UK

www.hscc.org.uk

Ace Cafe Marcos & Morgan Owners Meet, London, UK

www.ace-cafe-london.com

Mini Drivers at Goodwood, Goodwood Circuit, Sussex, UK

www.goodwood.co.uk

Langlebury Farm Classic Car Show, Hertfordshire, UK

www.langleyburyfarm.org

Mini London to Brighton Run, London, UK

www.london-to-brighton.co.uk

Chiltern Hills Vintage Vehicle Rally, Aylesbury, Bucks, UK

www.chilternhillsrally.org.uk

Standard Triumph Marque Day, Prescott, Gotherington, Cheltenham, UK

www.tssc.org.uk

Standard Triumph Rally, Wicksteed Park, Kettering, UK

www.tssc.org.uk

25-27

Enfield Pageant of Motoring, Enfield, Middx, UK

www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk

Liverpool Motor Club Track Day, Aintree, Liverpool, UK

www.liverpoolmotorclub.com

Deal Classic Car & Motor Show Kent, Deal, Kent, UK

www.hernebaytp.co.uk

Brooklands Porsche Car Club, Brooklands Museum, Surrey, UK

www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Cheshire Classic Car Show, Capesthorne Hall, Macclesfield, UK

www.classicshows.org

Porsche Show, Hatton Country World, Warwickshire, UK

www.tipec.net

MGs in the Park, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Burford, UK

www.mgownersclub.co.uk

Brooklands Mopar Muscle, Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, Surrey, UK

www.brooklandsmuseum.com

Classic Car Show & Tour, Haslemere, Surrey, UK

www.jamesewing.co.uk/hccs

Classic Car & Transport Show, Ragley Hall, Alcester, Warks, UK

www.transtarpromotions.co.uk

Scottish Italian Car Day, Cupar, Fife, Scotland

www.aroc-uk.com

Killerton Classic Car Show, Killerton House, Exeter, Devon, UK

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main

Classics Around Dorset, Sturminster Newton, Dorset, UK

www.classicsarounddorset.com

May 2012 85

autodrome

The Preservation Of Automotive History

Whitewebbs Museum Of Transport Located just for the M25 in Enﬁeld, the Whitewebbs Museum of Transport houses an interesting collection of vehicles dating back to the late 1800s. Simon Hazeldine dropped in to ﬁnd out more.

h the joys of being a journalist. The glitzy champagne lifestyle, the exotic locations, mingling with celebs and the upper echelons of society...and yet I find myself sitting on the A10 in the pouring rain just outside Enfield. It’s a Sunday, and I’m on my way to the Whitewebbs Museum of Transport in Enfield. This isn’t one of the biggest or best known transport museums in the country, but it is certainly one of the easiest to get to. It is located just minutes from the M25 and A10, and the only real hold up that hindered my journey 86 www.cprmag.com

May 2012 87

Above: A restored Peugeot 304s Cabriolet and Ford Anglia. Left: Vintage enamel signs adorn the museum’s walls.

was the flooded roads. But then we are in the middle of a drought, so what do you expect!

Pumping Station The museum itself is located inside a rather unusual building. It is a former ‘pumping station’ that was built in 1898 and its purpose was to pump water from the well 88 www.cprmag.com

beneath it to the nearby New River. Work started on the New River in 1611 and it was designed to carry much needed fresh water to the city of London. As demand for water increased in the 19th century, sixteen pumping stations similar to the Whitewebbs museum building were built to help keep the river ‘topped up.’

The building itself originally housed a pair of steampowered Barring beam engines with 16ft diameter flywheels. Next-door in the Boiler House were two 60ft long x 7ft diameter Lancashire Boilers which provided steam for the engines. The pumps and boilers were decommissioned in the early 1960s and the Pumping Station gradually fell into a state of disrepair. The near derelict building was bought by the Enfield & District Veteran Vehicle Trust in 1986 and plans were drawn up to convert the building into a museum where Trust’s collection of historic vehicles and other transport related exhibits could be displayed. The group certainly had its work cut out as it had to add two new floors, all the

Above: A 1931 Ford Model A ‘Woody.’ Below: A rare 1925 Rolls Royce 20hp Doctor’s Coupé.

staircases and install a small restaurant and bar into what was essentially an empty shell. It was a mammoth task, especially for a charitable group run entirely by enthusiasts and volunteers. My first impression on entering the site is that it feels very industrial. The tall main building towers over you and takes you back to the age when steam was King and Isambard Kingdom Brunel was creating his magical structures all over the land. The large arched windows add a bit of character to what is otherwise a square, red-brick building, although the ornate porch over the main entrance wouldn’t look out of place on a stately home of some sort. Car parking is free, and it is only a short walk to the main

entrance. Just as well...it’s still raining.

Wide Variety The ground floor of the museum houses some of the larger exhibits, including a 1929 Morris Commercial breakdown vehicle and a 1906 Riley Tricar. Then there is a

1971 Ford Capri Mk1, a 1925 Rolls Royce 20hp Doctor’s Coupé, a Peugeot 304s Cabriolet and a ford 105E Anglia, so as you can see there is quite a variety of vehicles on display. Most of then seem to have been restored before being put on display, although one or two are still wear their May 2012 89

Vintage vehicles parked behind the main museum building.

Ford 10hp Model CX. original paintwork. You have to remember though that this is a ‘transport’ museum, not a car museum, so naturally there are lorries, motorcycles, tractors, bicycles and even some railway exhibits among the cars. 90 www.cprmag.com

If you are only interested in cars, then this museum wont deliver in the same way as the vast establishments in Coventry and Gaydon. It does however have its own rather unique charm, and if like me, you’re a bit of a ‘petrolhead’

who appreciates anything with an engine, then you wont be disappointed. As well as the cars and lorries on display, the museum’s lower floor is decorated with ancient enamel signs and motoring related artefacts which gives the impression that there are exhibits everywhere you look. One exhibit that I didn’t particularly appreciate was an aging ‘Juke Box’ which was playing 60s music at an intrusively loud volume. I get the idea, that it was supposed to create a bit of ‘period’ atmosphere, but it didn’t really work and was just irritating. If you want ambient noise, its far better to buy a 50in LCD screen and a DVD player, nail it to a wall and play motoring related DVDs on it. Better still, why not give some background about the

Andrew Harrison starts another lap in his XJS. museum on it? Much more interesting and informative than cheesy 60s music!

‘Two-Wheeled Cars’ A short walk up the stairs to the first floor leads me to the museum’s motorcycle collection. ‘Two-wheeled cars’ are not really a passion of mine, but I can still appreciate the engineering and rarity of some of the bikes on display. If you do happen to be a motorbikeist, then machines like the 1898 Holden, the 1928 Matchless T3 or the 1939 Rudge Sport will no doubt be of great interest to you. I’d guess the museum hosts around 50 motorcycles, all of which are in great condition. Up the next flight of stairs on the second floor is a collection of exhibits, most of which are bicycles or mopeds. Over in

A Ford 105E Anglia on the lower floor. the far corner is a recreation of a wooden garage complete with a ‘barn find’ 1939 Standard Flying 12 Convertible which is displayed exactly as found...birds nests and all! Also on this floor was a Champion spark plug cleaning and testing machine. This

brought back great memories as I recall using one in my youth. It would ‘sandblast’ the business end if the spark plug until it looked like new, and when you placed the plug in the test rig, it would tell you how strong the spark was. These days, you just bin May 2012 91

This Mini Van surrounded by various motoring related exhibits makes a nice display.

92 www.cprmag.com

How many exhibits can you fit in one corner!

the plugs and fit new ones. Shame really. There was also a small collection of children’s ‘pedal cars’ which included an Austin J40 Junior, which as you have probably guessed, is modelled on the Austin A40 Somerset. The miniature cars were actually built by Austin at their factory in South Wales using off-cuts of sheet metal from the Austin Devon production line, and I loved the scaled down square gauges and steering wheel that mimicked the ones in the real car. The next floor, or The gallery as it’s known, is crammed with display cases that contain various motoring related artefacts and models. There is also a giant model ‘paddle steamer’ and a collection of uniforms and weapons from World War Two. On this floor you can also see the Pumping

‘Barn find’ 1939 Standard Flying 12. Station’s Engine Room Crane which has been restored to its original glory.

Shops & More! Heading downstairs and out into the back yard reveals a number of outbuildings. The most eye-catching is the New Fire Station which is home to the museum’s 1912 Morris Belsize fire engine and other

Fire Brigade related exhibits. Next to the Fire Station is what appears to be a row of shops, and that description is not far off the mark. The first one is in fact an ‘autojumble’ shop. This is absolutely crammed...and I mean really crammed, with thousands of car parts, some new (old stock), some used, and if there is something that May 2012 93

The museum’s restaurant. 1,000s of parts on sale in the Autojumble Shop.

The ‘Autojumble Shop.’ you really need, it’s probably in here. Next-door to the Autojumble Shop is one of the museum’s two gift shops, and if I’m honest, I found it slightly disappointing. It seemed to be stocked with secondhand magazines, old vinyl records (remember them?), a few books and a selection of model cars. These shops 94 www.cprmag.com

often generate a good income at other museums, and with the EDVVT being a registered charity, I’m guessing it would like to see more money coming in. This is one area that the Trust needs to look at urgently as it could, and should, be a goldmine. Having said that, the museum’s restaurant back in the main building is

excellent and offers a good range of drinks and snacks at reasonable prices, all served by very friendly staff. Overall, I found this to be an interesting little museum. It’s not the sort of place you could spend a whole day at, but if you were passing and had a few hours to spare, then I would certainly recommend taking a look.

Morris Belsize Fire Engine.

Autojumble event at the museum. 1,000s of exhibits on display!

Period charm!

Whitewebbs Museum of Transport The museum is open every Tuesday between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (last entry at 3:30 p.m.) and the last Sunday of each month (with exceptions). Telephone: 020-8367 1898 E-mail: info@whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk Website: www.whitewebbsmuseum.co.uk May 2012 95

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Autoglym offers the most comprehensive range of car care products available. All are fast, effective and will provide a perfect result, inside or out. For the ultimate shine, our recently introduced High Definition Wax is supplied as a complete kit and is quite simply our finest polish ever. Follow JD Classics’ example and use the best care and protection for your car. Find out more about the award winning Autoglym range by visiting our website at www.autoglym.com

For product and local stockist information, visit our website or telephone 0800 515 779.

BYRON_BOOKAZINE5

1/7/09

17:42

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