Restoration
Using the knowledge and experience we have here at Blakehill Body Centre, we are able to carry out all the work within out own premises.
We can restore any model of Mini regardless of condition, this is due to the vast amount of origanol parts still available. It is in fact quite normal to replace 70% of the cars origanol panels.
Our aim is to restore the car back to it's origanol specification but we will also accomodate customer specific requirements, such as a change of engine spec, bespoke interior, special paintwork etc. Every restoration comes with a photographic record so you can see the work that has been done during the restoration.
The Restoration flow
First we remove every component leaving a bare shell.
The next process is to get the shell sand blasted back to bare metal. This removes all traces of rust.
We can now start to re-build the bodyshell using genuine Rover or Heritage body panels. If these panel are not available then we will use good quality reproduction panels.
Where an origanol panel is corroded we will try to replce it with a completely new panel. If a repair has to be made to any area of the body where a replacement panel isn't available we weld in a new section (Normally steel). this is cleaned back so no sign of repair can be seen.
Next we seam seal, ecth prime, prime & paint the bodyshell. When we weld the body panels together we use a weld through primer/sealer on all panel joins.
The whole shell is etch primed as this is the first form of defence against rust.
The underside of the car is stone chipped to protact it from everyday salt, grit & dirt.
The body is fully primed then flattened back before the top coat is applied. this is done inside, outside & underneath of the body.
The body is completed by injecting it with cavity wax prior to re-building the car.
Once the paint has gone hard the exterior of the car is flattened back before buffing & polishing.
Where ever possible we will try to retian/recondition all major components such as casting, pressings & instumentation. Obviously some components will have to be replaced due to excessive wear.
Cooper shell etch primed, primed & painted engine bay, interior & boot also underside.
All Interior parts of car masked off so etch primer can be applied to exterior
High build primer then sprayed over top of etch primer & a black guide coats applied.
High build primer is then flatted back & any marks removed before the top coat is applied.
New Engine assembled Painted ready for instalation.