The vehicle was sourced from the elderly original owner in Glasgow, following a period of storage. The last MOT expired Feb 2013. This vehicle was an incredible find indeed. The history file details a vehicle which has been meticulously maintained throughout its life. It received regular service and maintenance, even when only a handful of miles were covered each year. The interior was found to be a real ‘time warp’ Covered in blankets (presumably from new) Upon removal, the seats were found to be exceptional, as were the vinyl floor mats and trim. Much care was taken to preserve these items in original condition, for refitting, following the restoration.
Whilst the vehicle had been incredibly well maintained and looked after, the increasing years had taken their toll on the vehicle structure. The normal places, such as sills and inner wings etc., required replacement. A full Bishops restoration was underway.
A full Bishops restoration, means exactly that! The vehicle was completely stripped down to the smallest component. The body shell, carefully media blasted to bare metal. Corrosion was cut out and replaced by full panels. Any joins ‘butt welded’. The chassis and components were also subject to media blasting. Following that, a full inspection, and specialist coating, finished off by two pack polymer paint. No powder coating!
The transmission was found to be a Leyland reconditioned unit, and in perfect condition. The engine was overhauled, along with the final drive components etc. We have a photographic record of the restoration, and further details can be provided. An inventory of the restoration accompanies the extensive history file, for the new owner. There are even period pictures of the vehicles early years in the file.
