Wedge rebuild

[RayVonn]

Hi guys, I have come across an early S1 FHC wedge that needs a full rebuild. The body needs a few tiny repairs/respray and there is a cheap aftermarket sunroof fitted, which I would ideally like to remove and bond in a new fibreglass panel. The chassis appears to be solid although does have some signs of surface corrosion on it. Whether this can just be rubbed down and painted remains to be seen. Finally, the interior is completely shot.

Having owned loads of TVR's before but having never taken on a TVR rebuild, am I crazy even considering a wedge rebuild? or is it a fairly straight forward job as long as it is done in logical steps? I suppose the most daunting thing for me is getting the body off and then back on. Can anyone offer some words of wisdom.

I have the luxury of a biggish garage so it can be done over time without the elements getting to the car, etc.

I don't know if I'm being an old romantic, but I just really feel that this car needs saving. Please help.....

Thanks RV

[TvrJohn]

Not one of the most desirable TVR models, and hence of not much resale value

Suggest you find a 350i convertible, more fun better sound V8

[TvrJohn]

Not one of the most desirable TVR models, and hence of not much resale value

Suggest you find a 350i convertible, more fun better sound V8

[RayVonn]

I appreciate that it is potentially financial suicide, but I just adore the shape of S1 FHC's and if I don't save the car it's going to get broken up and sold as parts on ebay.

I have a 4.5 LW Cerbera which is for speed and power, the wedge will just be a bit of nostalgia really.

[pwd95]

Do the decent thing Ray, bring a rare piece of TVR history back to life

Edited by pwd95 on Sunday 22 July 22:25

[beacon]

Any Wedge save is a good thing , a chance to save a rare and beatiful thing .

[Gav T]

I'd go for it. If I could find a FHC here in the US I would write a check for it in a heart beat. I also agree that saving any TVR is a good thing. Let us know what you decide. Good luck. - Gavin

[ed_crouch]

Ray, ive done something similar with a 390SE. You'll almost never make any money restoring a car, so dont be put off by that argument.

yep, a lot of work, but doable.

When you say the interior is shot, do you have a photo or a description?

Mine looked pretty bad when I got it.

Ed.

[ed_crouch]

P.S. Apparently wedge bodies are flippin heavy, and the best thing is to get a load of mates round and have a wedge-body-off-BBQ. Dont let em at the beer till the jobs done though.........

Ed.

[TVRleigh]

Well been told you can get them off with 2 people if they are beefy but its easier with 4 on on each corner, then not a problem.

[Hamish400]

Ray,

I have changed the chassis on my 400SE. If you wish I can send you a list of the steps taken in dismantling/rebuilding mine. If that would be a help to you please e-mail me.

Rgds
Hamish

[TVRleigh]

Can I have a copy also,

As I plan to re-build mine as my next project, just be interesting to see what's involved.

Thanks
Leigh

[Hamish400]

I'll bring a few copies to BBWF.

Rgds
Hamish

[pwd95]

Ooooh can I have one too please What's your tipple?

[rev-erend]

Ray - you are a brave man.

Before you start a few things :

Have you the enthusiasm for this
You will need loads of tools
It will take a lot of effort / cash
Her in doors WILL resent you spending even more time
and money on an other TVR
It will look like a shed for ages
Still be worth very little

But you will be proud at the end of it.

Hamish - see you at BBWF

[Gav T]

I just heard of a 1985 280 FHC with only 8000mls. If the guy decides to sell I think I will be too tempted to say no.