Description
By: Practical Classics .
If I remember correctly it was a rather cold spring morning when I drove down to GB Sportscars in Leighton Buzzard to choose a new Practical Classics project car from among the selection of rough Spitfires they had in stock. PJK 393S certainly wasn't the best — in fact it was probably one of the worst cars on offer. But that's what we were after — a tatty, typically rusty Spitfire on which we could demonstrate all the repair and restoration techniques an owner or restorer is likely to need.
PJK certainly provided plenty of scope for that! Consequently this compilation of the whole series is a comprehensive account of Spitfire restoration. Everything an owner is likely to need is covered from chassis repairs to retrimming the interior, an engine overhaul, carburettor work to door reskinning and hood fitting. Extra chapters also cover basic uprating techniques and what to look for when buying a Spitfire.
As restoration projects go, Spitfires have two big plus points. They are relatively easy to take apart thanks to the separate chassis and parts availability is first-rate thanks to specialists like our sponsors Moss Europe. John Williams who, as well as writing and photographing the series, undertook much of the day-to-day organisation and I were thankful that Moss's parts supply network gave us one less thing to worry about! As the early stages of the rebuild show we certainly took advantage of the Spitfire's "dismantleability".
I wouldn't say that PJK was our best-finished project car ever. It wasn't meant to be. D & S Bodyworks were asked to produce a good everyday car, not a concours-winner. However, it was certainly one of the most memorable for me and I think one of the most relevant because of the range of jobs covered. I hope this compilation assists you whether you are embarking on a full restoration, a rolling rebuild or just want to know how to keep your Spitfire on the road.
Peter Simpson Car Mechanics
