Article No.10: XK140 Project #2

Welcome to another of our ‘Articles’ – a blog post illustrating the ins and outs here at Carn Bosavern Garage, based in St.Just, Cornwall. Ranging from details on a full restoration, to the intricacies of an engine rebuild, we take a look at both current and previous restorations on vehicles such as MGA’s, MGB’s, plus Triumph TR2’s, TR3’s and TR4’s. We will also give an update on our current stock of classic cars for sale and used cars for sale.

In this article we take a further look at the progress made on the 1956 Jaguar XK140 we are restoring for a customer.

Following on from our last article, the car was recovered to the bodyshop, taken back to bare metal again where it was etch primed, two coats of hi-build primer (blue coat, grey coat) applied, then fully resprayed in the customers colour of choice. The customer went for the original factory colour of ‘Pearl Grey’. The car was then polished before being transported back to our workshop.

With the body reunited to the chassis, we could start fitting various new and reconditioned parts. Items such as the original radiator, spoke wheels, carburetors and steering wheel were sent off to be overhauled and reconditioned, to keep with the cars originality. All original chrome work, such as windscreen frame, bumpers and lights, were all sent off before being professionally re-chromed to a top standard.

All chrome work has started to be fitted, as well as various engine bay components. After installing all new electrical/fuel/water systems, we got the car starting, driving and stopping on the ramp. A massive step in the vehicles restoration journey.

Our next stage is to now start dry fitting the interior, before gluing down sound proofing and carpets. We will then fit the recovered dashboard, plus fit all the newly trimmed cappings, door panels and various interior trims. Once the interior is installed, there isn’t much stopping the car venturing on it’s maiden voyage!

This is the second article in a series on the Jaguar XK140, with the third and final article coming soon.