The real value of R and D.

Tues.18.03.08. The handbrake shroud has had a basic covering of PVA followed by torn newspaper to reinforce the construction, but it is far from being finished. After gathering together all the interior units I reluctantly dragged myself to the workshop for the ‘dry build’. The fearful expectation of witnessing all my efforts ripped apart due to an unwanted, but predictable, inspirational revelation constantly reminded me that there was a definite possibility of change, for simply, the ‘sake of change’. But, my worries were unfounded. For the most part the tunnel sections covering the gearbox, prop shaft and handbrake mechanism were, surprisingly, acceptable. The middle section, however, did not fit due the handbrake being previously located forward by 3cms causing the handle to foul. Removing 1.5cms from the rear edge solved this problem. Creating a slot on the top plate enabled the handle to travel smoothly between the on and off position. 

Widening the existing cut in the new handbrake shroud completed the alteration. Secondly, combining the two units would strengthen the arrangement also encouraging the aesthetic flow from the front of the tunnel to the rear. When trimmed with leather the joint will be placed ‘falsely’ between the prop shaft and handbrake shrouds to minimise the intrusion of a beaded edge. The two loose covers will be secured utilising the four decorative points of contact, namely, the seat belt anchor, the chromed handbrake, gearbox surrounds plus the ashtray unit (ashtray unit, my arse). A further two fixing points will be located in the forward section of the gearbox tunnel to conclude the assembly. Finally, both the leather trim as well as the composite tunnel covers have been designed to be easily removed if any maintenance is required.

The door panels once in place appeared incongruously large and clumsy so necessitate some suitable alteration, or re-cut to form a curved front edge which would then replicate the much more successful rear. The timber top edge of the rear quarter required fine tuning before fitting perfectly: this can now be used as a precise pattern for the genuine unit.

Once all the ‘on site’ minor changes had been accomplished the overall image of the interior looked balanced, professionally crafted, frankly, quite stunning. The year of constant change, re-design and build have all been more than worthwhile. It has been, just as many other elements, a genuine process of research and development; a blank canvass that not only had to compliment the body lines of the vehicle, but be practical, user friendly yet also harmonise the different materials alongside various potential colourways. This has been achieved by determined doggedness, stubbornness but most critically, having the aptitude to recognise what is aesthetically correct against what isn’t. Thank fuck Michael has been on Jupiter for past two months therefore unable to trim the panels.