Bristol 401 Restoration

[Geoff Kingston]

I recently came across a very interesting set of photographs on the website of Lightscarsaction who are restoring a 401 which illustrates the typical rust problems you might encounter on one of these or a 403 if it has not already been done or if it has not come from a dry climate like South Africa or Australia.
I showed it to Mike who did almost identical repair work on one of my 401's so it was a real case of daja vu , we both felt the photographs are an excellent example of what to look for and the work involved in rectifying the rust damage. I am often asked if i know of companies or individuals able to do this kind of work so finding this website was a real bonus as well and they were pleased for me to publish this link on the forum.
Geoff.

https://lightscarsaction.com/bristol...l-restoration/

[Stefan]

Wow! Such detailed metalwork - and alloy welding skills. I wonder what the cost might eventually be?

[Geoff Dowdle]

Many or possibly most Aerodynes in Australia have some rust in the lower door frames and rear supports for the spare wheel carrier, similar to these photos but not to the same extent. It is a usual part of the restoration process here to repair or replace these frame areas.
The rust does not usually extend to the chassis or outriggers from the chassis .

Geoff D

[Geoff Kingston]

Geoff D,
That's interesting as I thought you would have been free of the dreaded rust certainly a MK Vi Bentley I saw some years ago at the Real Car Company was exceptional in terms of its structural condition having just been imported.
I have never liked the way the supports and side panels to the spare wheel carriers were constructed, putting two pieces of mental back to back like that in that position is asking for trouble in fact its not a good idea on anywhere on any vehicle over here as owners of many land drovers and range rover classics would confirm. On the 401/403 then after repair or if sound on acquisition it seems like its a good idea to waxoil those areas first.
Geoff K.

[mikebro]

Yes an excellent set of photos. Very similar to my experience in the UK with my 403. All six outriggers needed replacing or repairing, along with the one spare wheel carrier mounting that had not already been replaced. I did the work myself with a MIG.