412 Restoration

[pharris]

I am currently working on getting my very early 412 roadworthy.
This is my first Bristol car and therefore I am looking for information.
Can anybody help me with the following please?
Pictures of the engine bay for an early (1976) S1 412 so I can determine what should go where and also what is missing?

I should like to learn of any good reliable parts suppliers.

Many thanks

[Janne]

Bristol Ltd can sell you any spare parts you need.

For the engine, gearbox and diff, you just need to know the exact model variation, and get the arts from the US.
A new gearbox ( assume Torqueflite 727 / 904) is cheaper to buy brand new from the US, than having it restored in the UK. A mistake I made myself!

( under USD 2000 brand spanking new!)

[Stuart]

Here are a few from my collection, the scruffiest ones are of my early S2 412.... There are also a couple of 412 pics, similar... Let me know if you need better quality of any or any other details, Rgds. Stuart

[Peter.Kent]

I've had my s2 since 1990 and have done a huge selection of jobs on it. Please post some photos so we can see how big a mountain you have to climb! Happy to help. Peter

[GOFFJASON]

I have a 1976 412 S1, and am undertaking a running restoration. I have made a number of engine improvements including a top end upgrade using Edelbrock aluminium heads, carry and manifolds.

I have also just completed refurbishing the front suspension and brakes, incorporating a complete strip down.

If I can assist you with workshop drawings, parts sources or photos, please let me know.

I am moving on to the rear suspension and brakes next....

[pharris]

Thank you all so much!
I shall post some pictures of my car so you can see what needs doing.
All advice and any pictures from your own experiences will be greatly appreciated.
My car is fairly sound with the only rust being the bottom of the spare wheel housing, the bottom plates beneath the floor/sill area (anybody got a pattern for these?) and a couple of spots in the rear wheel arch. The engine is blown (frost cracked due to some less than expert attention. I hasten to add, not the former owner but a tradesperson!) and I have a new one in a crate ready to go in. the gearbox is also out and will be replaced with a new one. all to original spec. trim is not bad, and all the leather is good.
so, it might see the road in 2014.
cheers!

[a40farinagolf]

Hi,
I've just joined the forum as I'm interested in buying a 412 s2 as a birthday present for myself.

All advice wold be welcome i.e how much to pay, what to look out for, spares availability etc and I look forwrd to your responses.

Thanks
M

[GOFFJASON]

If you are in the market for a 412, I would offer the following guide. These comments are subject to what condition of car you are looking for and what level of mechanical acumen you have.

Unless you know V8 Bristols, I would recommend you use the services of one of the few Bristol experts in the trade to assist in sourcing a car. Either source a car through them , or at very least commission them to do a pre- purchase inspection. This will be money well spent, and within reason, you will acquire a car with a complete picture of what you have paid for, and what is left to do.

In terms of part supply, I have yet to strike a problem with mechanical components. Engine/ transmission is Chrysler and easily sourced, suspension is Bristol and all available, brakes are Girling and mostly available at generic suppliers.

My advice would be to buy a car with best possible structural/ body condition, as this area would be the most difficult and costly to fix. Roll hoop, windscreen surrounds and wheel arches are all 412 rust spots. The mechanical components are very durable, readily available and reasonably priced.

Good luck in your search.
Jason

[a40farinagolf]

Hi Jason,
Many thanks for your prompt response it's much appreciated.

Do you have contact details of the Bristol expets based in the

[Kevin H]

also bear in mind that the 412 S1 is almost identical mechanically to the 411 S4 and S5

I'd agree with Jason with regards to a good body being important because a proper strip down and respray of the aluminium body is expensive if it's done well. But also the interior is also expensive to get re upholstered.

There are one or two issues to look out for in the front suspension, mentioned here

Also, check the condition of the upper mounting point for the rear shock absorbers.

[a40farinagolf]

Hi,
Thanks again.

How much do you think a condition 3 (practical classics designation) is worth - i.e it's got a recent MOT cert but needs some TLC?

A ball park figure would be great.

I cut my other response off by accident, contact details for the UK Bristol experts / inspectors would be much appreciated.

[Kevin H]

The only Bristol expert that comes to my mind that definitely offers a pre purchase inspection service is Spencer Lane Jones, in Warminster if my memory serves me correctly.

I'm out of touch with current values.

It's probably best if someone in the UK answers those questions.