Fresh Suppliers?

Thurs.28.09.09. The day has been slightly thwarted because Chris had become slightly irritated when he discovered that he would encounter problems fitting the new engine panels. They were not exactly identical to the superfluous ‘gash’ ones that had been used before as ‘patterns’. The ‘hic-cup’ was duly remedied necessitating more of the body tub to be cut away facilitating a snug fit. Having to retrace his steps was frustrating especially as Colin was due on Friday to complete the ‘return folds’ on the bonnet edge. Chris the perfectionist struggled to create the fine line that he had previously achieved but after many attempts, together with careful filing and cutting the panels were masterfully in place.

I had spent the afternoon rescuing the brake callipers. Sanding away with worn out toothless wheels was not the most efficient way of removing the topcoat of rust but with patience after a few coffee breaks I was reasonably pleased with the outcome. They are in remarkable condition probably coming from a cherished or recent running vehicle. This particular J14 is the later type of brake calliper that had been fitted to Mk 3 and 4 Spitfires; nevertheless it would still be compatible for the 1360. The prospect of replacing chromed pistons, calliper seals and the grease nipples for £14.70 per side very much appeals but not just for the monetary saving but for the sheer delight to see them when they have been painted bright yellow to appear audaciously on the car. We can honestly claim that ‘we did that’.                                                                                                                       Mark from Jigsaw Racing was also keen to place a bid for the parts that we still require but our feeling is to offer only the drive train re-build and possibly the suspension set up to Mark purchasing the remainder from John at Paddocks. It would be foolish not to use Paddocks: we can scrutinise and examine the parts before we commit thus avoiding the problems that we had encountered earlier. I had spoken to John in the morning to price the missing track rod ends but also to enquire about minilite wheels or very early GT6 or Vitesse ‘5 and half inch golf balls’. He couldn’t help, but he gave me the name of Max of Totally Triumph at High Lea near Macclesfield who specialises in various types of wheels. After a brief chat I quickly realised that Max was another long lost brother of Richard and Steve: when previously I had imagined they were twins they were in fact triplets who had been separated at birth. A visit to Max, who sounds even more insane than either of the other two, is a must. I can’t wait to meet this guy. Maybe tomorrow, maybe someday.