Rolls Corniche FHC advice please...

[v8lover]

Hi everyone,

I am looking at a 1972 Rolls Corniche FHC for sale privately (for my father). Other than the obvious, i.e. full service history etc, is there anything in particular I should look out for, avoid or be careful about? Does anyone have experience of this particular model?

Any tips or advice is most appreciated

[HenryRoyce]

First of all may I congratulate you and your father on your good taste, but also warn you that you are about to embark upon a very expensive, if exceedingly enjoyable, journey.

A correct and detailed service history, carried out by a knowledgeable garage, is more important for one of these than anything else this side of a Ferrari. It will mean that the car will only present you with big bills in the future, rather than humungous ones.

The high pressure hydraulic systems that operate the brakes and suspension can be a money pit if they have not been properly maintained over the years. Repeatedly pump the brake pedal. If the dash lights up like a Christmas tree and a buzzer sounds, walk away from the car (always assuming the warning systems are functioning...)

Check that the self-levelling system is working correctly. With the engine running the car should remain level when people climb in or out.

If the car has spent a lot of time standing, rather than being used, it will quite likely have one or more seized brake callipers.

Find out if any of the eleventy-nine suspension and subframe bushes/mounts and fulcrum pins have been replaced over the years.

Listen for rattling hydraulic tappets.

Check for oil leaks from the auto transmission and check that the transmission oil cooler has not been disconnected and by-passed.

Check that the heating and air conditioning system functions correctly. There are several motorised valves and flaps behind the scenes which can stop working. These are sometimes just fixed in a half-open position as an alternative to the four figure sum it would cost to overhaul the system.

Don't let this put you off, though. Nothing else will give you a better feel-good factor when behind the wheel!

Edited by HenryRoyce on Tuesday 22 March 23:02

[POORCARDEALER]

All good advice also.............



RUST.


Do not buy a rusty one!! They will have all had some paintwork, make sure it is hiding no nasties underneath

[v8lover]

Thanks for the advice guys.... I will keep you guys updated on it, although I won't be purchasing it without a pre-purchase inspection by my local RR specialist

[ADP68]

Check out the RR and B Specialist Association website to find your local reputable specialist. There are other people, however, who are not in the association, like Frank Dale.