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 77 Lancia Scorpion |
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1980 MGB |
Client Project |
Restoration & Engine Swap |
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This classic British sports car is from the last year of the MGB model line. The current owner received title to it in exchange for the years during which it occupied his storage unit. We're told that it was running & driving when it was put into storage several years ago. A fresh set of tires were mounted so that it could be rolled out of storage and winched up onto our trailer for transport to Midlife.
The initial plan was to install a larger and more modern drivetrain along with some sensible upgrades to the running gear and then have it painted by an aquaintance of the owner. However, once here, the decision was made to go ahead and perform a full restoration in conjunction with the performance upgrades.
Stay tuned to see how the project progresses.
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AS RECEIVED | ||
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This B seems to be in solid shape. While the bonnet and boot lid have been kinked, the body and wings (fenders) are solid and straight. Rust seems to have been kept to a minimum. Of course, it will need a new hood (top) and fresh upholstery, but otherwise the interior seems to be in decent shape. The engine bay will be gutted for the new engine (most likely a Ford V6). Overall, we've got a great basis for a nice British resto-mod restoration.
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DISASSEMBLY | ||
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Disassembly of this B was pretty straightforward. Aside from some stubborn fasteners, it all came apart quite easily. During the disassembly, all parts were inspected, evaluated as best as possible, and then inventoried before being placed into storage.
As with most projects like this, the real question as we start is what will we find under the paint, undercoating and general grime collected over 33 years. The outer body blasted clean in relatively short order despite one repaint. And while the liberal use of undercoating added significant time to our sodablasing efforts, underneath it all we found a virtually rust-free unibody. The only rust damage found was on driver's side dogleg just ahead of the rear wheel. Even the battery box looks great.
The engine and transmission were removed as a unit and are bound for listing on Craig's List and/or eBay. The front suspension subassembly and rear axle/spring assembly were sodablasted for inspection prior to deciding on any potential upgrades. All the running gear appears to be in easily rebuildable condition.
Overall, this turned out to be one very solid roadster. The only preexisting bodywork found is on the bonnet, boot lid and the middle of the rear deck. There are numerous small dings, but the only significant bodywork that is required is on the bonnet and boot lid.
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| Send Mail to |
| bob@midlifeclassics.com |
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