Mechanical Restoration Services
If you have a vintage British or European automobile that needs repairs or may need complete mechanical or electrical rehabilitation, Import Specialties will schedule time to inspect the vehicle, so that we can give you an estimate of the needed services and repairs. The inspection includes the engine and all components: Transmission, clutch, carburetors, fuel delivery systems, filters, hoses belts, exhaust, complete braking system, suspension-shocks and struts, power steering systems windows and doors, electrical including wiring, battery, starter, alternator gauges, instrument cluster, power windows, operations of convertible tops, wiper motors & more.
We inspect all visible engine parts – block, crankcase, head, transmission housing, etc. – for leaks, cracks or other damage. We can do a compression test on each cylinder to assess the condition of the engine.
If internal engine problems are found, we can inspect all moving parts including the valve train, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, oil pump, bearings and bushings, flywheel, water pump and other internal engine components. Internal engine parts will be machined or re-manufactured to bring them within specifications. If problems are suspected with the transmission, clutch, differential and all other moving parts of the drivetrain, we will disassemble as necessary to inspect and repair these components.
1970 Jaguar E. Restoration Details
We were asked to restore this beautiful Willow Green 1970 Jaguar E-Type to running condition after it had been parked for 10 years. This is a very good example of what it takes to mechanically bring a car back after a long time without being run at all.
Inspection Restoration
- Inspect the condition of the frame and chassis.
- Check for short circuits.
- Visually inspect the drive train components.
- Test the engine for compression.
- Inspect the fuel system and ignition system (i.e., fuel tank, lines, filters, carburetors, fuel pump, spark plugs, distributor, wires, distributor cap, rotor, and points/condenser).
- Check engine timing.
- Check brakes, bearings, axles, driveshaft, mounts, wheels and tires, and clutch function.
- Check lights, horn, and other electrical components.
- Check the function of doors and windows.
Findings Upon Inspection
- The front control arm bushings and sway bar end links are rotten and torn.
- The front wheel bearings are loose.
- The upper and lower ball joints have play.
- The steering rack is leaking.
- The clutch master and slave cylinder are leaking and need to be replaced.
- The brake master cylinder and brake booster need to be replaced.
- Gauges, dash lights, all exterior lights, and wipers do not work.
- Starter wire should be repaired or replaced.
- Recommending an oil change and engine tune.
- The carburetors need to be rebuilt.
- The fuel tank needs to be drained and cleaned.
- Fuel screen, fuel filter, air filter, and fuel line need to be replaced.
- Battery needs to be replaced.
- Numerous hoses are dry-rotted and need to be replaced.
- The heater control valve has failed and needs to be replaced.
- The exhaust system leaks at the exhaust manifolds.
- Reverse lights wiring has melted and needs to be replaced.
Repairs Completed
Engine
- Removed and rebuilt the carburetors.
- Drained the fuel tank, removed and replaced the fuel screen, fuel filter, fuel line, and fuel filter gasket.
- Adjusted engine valves and replaced the valve cover gasket.
- Removed and replaced the ignition points, rotor button, condenser, spark plugs, and timing distributor.
- Changed the oil and oil filter.
- Adjusted the carburetors, fuel mixture, and idle speed.
Engine Exhaust
- Removed and replaced the exhaust manifolds (2) and gaskets.
- Removed and replaced the entire exhaust system with a complete new stainless-steel exhaust.
Electrical
- Removed and replaced the battery.
- Diagnosed/repaired or replaced electrical wiring for backup lights.
Cooling System
- Removed and replaced the heater control valve along with heater hoses and seals.
- Removed and replaced upper and lower radiator hoses.
Clutch - Removed and replaced the clutch master cylinder and the clutch slave cylinder.
- Bled system and adjusted for proper operation.
Brakes
- Removed and replaced the Brake Servo (Booster).
- Removed and replaced the brake master cylinder and hoses.
- Filled system with specified DOT fluid and bled system of air.
Steering and Suspension
- Removed and replaced control arm bushings, ball joints, and tightened wheel bearings.
- Removed and replaced rear sway bar link bushings.
Interior
An upholstery shop made new floor mats and replaced all the carpet with special-ordered material to match the original color.
After months of meticulous work, the Jaguar E-Type was finally ready for its first drive. The engine purred to life, and the car rolled smoothly out of the garage. The restoration had not only revived a beautiful classic car but also rekindled the passion and joy of driving a true automotive masterpiece.
How long does mechanical restoration take?
Mechanical restorations can take weeks or even months to complete. Parts often must be remanufactured. Some parts take weeks to obtain. Once all the repairs are completed, we will fine-tune the engine and test drive repeatedly until we are satisfied the vehicle is ready to deliver to you, the customer. We want happy cars and happy customers. Contact us with your questions about mechanical restoration.
Schedule an Appointment
Use the button below to set up an appointment to bring in your vehicle.
