. Restoration

Restoration

We have a fully equipped workshop and with a dedicated professional restorer. Using the knowledge and experience we have here at Blakehill Body Centre, we are able to carry out all work within the premises.

We can restore any model of Mini regardless of condition, this is due to vast amount of original parts still available on the market. It is in fact quite normal to replace 70% of a car’s body panels.

Our aim is to restore the car to its original factory specification and of course we can also accommodate customers 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 exactly what work we have carried out 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 / Heritage body panels, however if these are not available we use reproduction panels made to the highest possible standard.

Where an original panel is corroded, wherever possible we replace this with a completely new panel. If a repair has to be made to any area of the body where replacement parts are not available, we then weld a new section into place using other material (normally steel) leaving no signs of repair.

Next we seam seal, prime and paint the bodyshell. When we weld the body panels together we use a weld-through sealer and areas which become inaccessible after fitting, are painted prior to welding.

After the shell has been seam sealed, it is then etch-primed, etch primer is used as the first line of defence against rust.

The underside of the car is then stonechiped to protect it from everyday road salt, grit and dirt etc.

The next stage is to prime the shell before flatting this back, then the top coat can be applied. These processes are applied to the inside, outside and underneath of the bodyshell.

This work is completed by injecting all cavities with an anti-corrosion wax. It gives the maximum protection possible and safeguards your investment. We now begin to re-fit the car.

Once the top coat has hardened, the external paintwork is then flatted back before buffing and polishing.

Wherever possible we re-use and recondition original major components such as castings, pressings, instrumentation etc., but obviously some components will need to be replaced as part of the restoration as they will be beyond saving. All parts of the restoration will be discussed with the customer before and during the process, so no work will be carried out without the customer being aware of it.