1968 Rapier Fastback
Printed from: Sunbeam Rapier Owners Club
Topic URL: http://www.sunbeamrapier.co.uk/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=237
Printed on: 08 Jan 2025
Topic:
Topic author: Fastback Thomas
Subject: 1968 Rapier Fastback
Posted on: 01 Sep 2010 19:43:46
Message:
Hello everybody,
Short introduction of myself...
I'm Thomas Crauwels
I live in Belgium somewhere near Antwerp.
I'm 15 years old (for now)
I'm into Sunbeams and Triumphs because my granddad started collecting them about 40 years ago.
As my first car I'm restoring an '68 Sunbeam Rapier Fastback.
The car is in color code 114 (I believe this is Sherwood Green)
I hope to be able to restore thee car before I'm 18...
It's still in the back of my granddad's garage, but I hope to get it in my basement at home so I can work on it during winter time.
Some pictures will folow.
Greetings Thomas
B.T.W. If anybody has any tips I can use don't hesitate.
I like car thath looks normal but can really surprise!
Replies:
Reply author: Holbay120
Replied on: 01 Sep 2010 21:07:29
Message:
Hello Thomas! welcome to the forum (and the club?), most of us would say "you are never to old" but hey your never to young either so good for you - go for it. You will find help on here, do post some pictures soon and once again a very warm welcome!
Best Regards
David McKenna
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 03 Sep 2010 19:15:24
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by Holbay120
Hello Thomas! welcome to the forum (and the club?), most of us would say "you are never to old" but hey your never to young either so good for you - go for it. You will find help on here, do post some pictures soon and once again a very warm welcome!
Best Regards
David McKenna
Thanks David
The "bug" has bitten me very early,
I was allready working on cars with my dad and granddad when I was only 10 years,
and before that I was always looking at what they where doing...
This year and the year before I was allready able and doing things on my own... with a little bit of supervision from my dad...
This is my car.(For now)
I like car thath looks normal but can really surprise!
Reply author: Jon
Replied on: 04 Sep 2010 22:32:59
Message:
Ive sorted the link out to get your pics on you were almost there!
Hillman Avenger MK1 GT,
Commer PB Pick-Up x2,
Commer PB Panel Van,
Dodge spaceavn Auto sleeper,
Triumph Stag MK1,
Chevette HS x2,
Lancia Delta Integrale,
Fiat Mk1 Uno Turbo,
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 05 Sep 2010 18:43:30
Message:
Many thanks Jon.
So, what do you think of my car?
- The front quarter panels need to be replaced.
- The rear of the right front wing also needs replacing.
- The sills are totally rusted.
- The boot has a ventilation hole.
- And there's some surface rust.
The upside is that we have allmost every part necessary
and the parts we don't have are ordered at alpine west midlands, my dad and some friends are going to beaulieu and are picking up the parts.
Regards Thomas
I like car thath looks normal but can really surprise!
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 07 Sep 2010 13:17:27
Message:
Hi Thomas,
That's a very short list of problems - sounds like an easy restoration.
The front wings always rust just in front of the door - the water and mud from the front wheel gets into the spot welded joint.
I got my first Rapier when I was 19 years old, it was very rusty. When I was 22 I spent a whole year of weekends and holidays welding (floor, bulkhead, 'A' posts, sills, rear wings, boot floor, rear wheel arches, front lower panel, wings, rear spring mounts, rear shock mounts, doors), then I rebuilt then engine, gearbox, front suspension, rear suspension and back axle. I would have been easier to buy another one but I love that car 
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 07 Sep 2010 17:40:24
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by 1922
Hi Thomas,
That's a very short list of problems - sounds like an easy restoration.
The front wings always rust just in front of the door - the water and mud from the front wheel gets into the spot welded joint.
I got my first Rapier when I was 19 years old, it was very rusty. When I was 22 I spent a whole year of weekends and holidays welding (floor, bulkhead, 'A' posts, sills, rear wings, boot floor, rear wheel arches, front lower panel, wings, rear spring mounts, rear shock mounts, doors), then I rebuilt then engine, gearbox, front suspension, rear suspension and back axle. I would have been easier to buy another one but I love that car
I understand that completely!
I also found some rust on the right chassis beam.
And ofcourse I also have to rebuild the suspension and drivetrain...
I'm looking for a little bit more power...
My dad met Chris Draycott a few years ago, don't know if you or anybody on this forum knows him, but he makes more powerfull engines.
He also races a Sunbeam alpine SV.
My dad was really impressed about wath he was capable of. He let him hear a 140-150 BHP Alpine engine wich ran very well!
But well is an understatement... It was doing around 800 RPM COLD!! and very smooth! This is really amazing from an alpine engine with that kind of power...
Has anybody a good experience with Chris Draycott or his engines?
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 07 Sep 2010 22:41:11
Message:
I've no direct experience but I have been told that he is good.
Don't forget that Holbay (the 'H' in H120) still exists - they built an 1840cc engine for me twenty years ago that I used for 15 years - I only stopped driving the car because the sills rusted again, the engine is still perfect.
Now they have built a 1922cc engine for me - but I haven't got this in the car yet. I've have always been very pleased with the quality of work and they are nice people to deal with.
See http://www.coltecracing.com/engines.html - note the engine in the second picture.
Reply author: janmarine3
Replied on: 08 Sep 2010 06:56:21
Message:
wow...gimme pse pse pse...
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 08 Sep 2010 14:22:56
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by 1922
I've no direct experience but I have been told that he is good.
Don't forget that Holbay (the 'H' in H120) still exists - they built an 1840cc engine for me twenty years ago that I used for 15 years - I only stopped driving the car because the sills rusted again, the engine is still perfect.
Now they have built a 1922cc engine for me - but I haven't got this in the car yet. I've have always been very pleased with the quality of work and they are nice people to deal with.
See http://www.coltecracing.com/engines.html - note the engine in the second picture.
Yes, I allready found coltec engines and I also recognized the second engine... B.T.W. I know what H120 stands for
I was looking at performance parts, and found the holbay camshaft that coltec is selling for the alpine/rapier 1725 engine. So, for more information I send them an e-mail. I did this twice and didn't get an answer, this kind of disapointed me. So I didn't look any further.
But then my dad suggested that, if I wanted some more power, maybe I should think about one of Chris' engines, because he always wanted one of his engine to use in our LeMans.
I allready told that Chris Draycott races an alpine SV.
Perhaps I'm going to Francorchamps this year, maybe he is to, so IF I see him there I might ask him some more information... But we'll see.
Here's a picture of the interior.
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: argonaut
Replied on: 08 Sep 2010 19:44:18
Message:
Hello Thomas,
that's a nice car you have there, congratulations. I too once had a 1968 Fastback but passed it on to another club member since I no longer had any space for it.
Looking at your list it seems to be a straight forward restoration project, one word regarding Alpine Westmidlands, a long time ago I heard that whilst their panels are good, they will need some additional work to get them to fit properly with good gaps and shut lines.
Also, your door trim panels are unusual, I had a total of 4 Fastbacks at one point but I have only ever had one with those trim panels and yours is only the second car I've ever seen with that style - look after them, they might be rare.
Cheers
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 08 Sep 2010 19:54:54
Message:
Hi Thomas,
Richard Coles (Coltec) is pretty bad at answering emails - he's gets a lot of spam. The best way to contact him is by phone.
Reply author: Jon
Replied on: 08 Sep 2010 21:31:33
Message:
It looks as if your a long way off fitting fast engines you better get the welder out first and cover some of them holes uplol
You better move all that trim and carpet though before you do dont want it goin up in smoke
Hillman Avenger MK1 GT,
Commer PB Pick-Up x2,
Commer PB Panel Van,
Dodge spaceavan Auto sleeper,
Triumph Stag MK1,
Chevette HS x2,
Lancia Delta Integrale,
Fiat Mk1 Uno Turbo,
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 09 Sep 2010 17:53:04
Message:
I'll sure look after them, I already thought they where rare...
We have another one, a white 75 I believe, and I thought didn't look the same.
My dad and granddad already did about 10 restoration and about another 10 small ones (Little rust, engine replacements etc...) and I helped on about the last 7 or so. So I already have a good idea about welding and preparing for it...
I'm taking her apart anyway. Everything is going out so I can find al the rust and repair it, and then everything 's going back in, replaced or refurbished...
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Hanley
Replied on: 11 Sep 2010 16:35:53
Message:
Hey Thomas,
What a cracking start your Grandad and Dad have done, I hope my son (now 6) is as keen when he is 15!
Looks like a great base for an excellent car
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 15 Sep 2010 19:52:38
Message:
My dad and our friend just came back from their trip to the grand autojumble in beaulieu. Whe ordered some bodyparts at Alpine west midlands and some other parts from speedy spares. So now I have al the bodyparts necessary and also al parts necessary for suspension, brakes and clutch.
A picture of the new body panels.
They also found a new front grille.
Pictures of the other body panels will folow soon.
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 15 Sep 2010 20:36:44
Message:
Hi Thomas, I'd be very interested in seeing some more pictures of the wing tip repair sections, may need some myself!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 15 Sep 2010 20:42:17
Message:
I 'll try to make some A.S.A.P. together with some detail pictures of the rust spots on my car and of the replacement parts.
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Holbay120
Replied on: 17 Sep 2010 00:47:12
Message:
Hi Thomas,like Jason I would like to know where you got the wingtip and headlight sections from. a lot of people who think they need new wings could benefit from this,
Best Regards
David McKenna
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 17 Sep 2010 10:05:10
Message:
Dave, the wingtip sections are from alpine west midland, they do a good selection of panels and other fastback parts, you can download a price list from their website.
I would like to have a better look at them before deciding what I do.
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 17 Sep 2010 19:20:11
Message:
Yes, there from Alpine West Midlands.
I haven't been able to get pics of it and probably won't be able to take some before next friday.
I can tell you this, the first time I looked at them I was glad I bought them. They are fully painted in red, and very well painted in the inside corners. They look to be welded very seamlessly. To get a nice finish you wil only need to use some filler on the top corner, as this isn't as round as I would want it. But stil I think they are made very well. But they have to be good at a price of 105 pounds.
I might be able to get the pictures on sunday but i'm not sure...
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 08 Oct 2010 19:20:49
Message:
It's been a while, but i've been able to take the pictures.
The inner side has been welded twice, as you can see on the pictures.
The outside and front aren't flawless, but a little bit of filler would do the tric.
I hope that with these pictures you know and have seen all you need.
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Jon
Replied on: 09 Oct 2010 12:00:30
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by JPSH120
Dave, the wingtip sections are from alpine west midland, they do a good selection of panels and other fastback parts, you can download a price list from their website.
I would like to have a better look at them before deciding what I do.
Ive been told Alpine west mids buy these panels in, you can pick them up cheaper from there supplier
But looking at the prices for some parts Alpine west mids are cheaper
http://www.steelpanels.co.uk/rootes.html#Hunter
Hillman Avenger MK1 GT,
Commer PB Pick-Up x2,
Commer PB Panel Van,
Dodge spaceavan Auto sleeper,
Triumph Stag MK1,
Chevette HS x2,
Lancia Delta Integrale,
Fiat Mk1 Uno Turbo,
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 12 Dec 2010 14:42:47
Message:
Finally got it out of the back of the garage!
Here it is. 
The interior is still in good shape.
There 's a fair bit of rust on the sils, but I have the inner and outer ones to replace.
The car is ready to be taken apart so that the engine can come out.
The guy who drove the car about 15 to 20 years ago. Was a fool!
He installed a device to have a heated seat...
He drilled a hole in the boot to fit a long antena as a radio receiver. Fitted all kinds of switches... He has been fooling with the car... I'll only use the most necessary things...
I have one question... That are coil overs on the rear... I don't think this is original? I also know he added a tow bar, you can see a pair of extra shock absorbers which should help you tow a caravan...
I like a car thath looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 12:42:55
Message:
No the coilovers are not standard, maybe the leaf springs were a bit tired and the coil springs were added for extra support.
Very interesting suspension set up though, I can't work out what the bar is that runs parallel to the leaf spring above the axle?
And one final observation is your centre console extends right back to the rear seat whereas mine stops where the ashtray is, interesting to see the small differences.
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 14:36:50
Message:
Thought so, it just didn't seem right.
The "bar" that runs parallel with the leaf spring... Is actually a shock absorber, there's one on either side, and it is attached to a tow bar... It should make towing anything, easier...
When I have removed it totally I'll take pictures of it and show you how it's suppose to work.
I generally thought that the center console always whent all the way back...
But anyway, I also like the small differences in production ;)
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 16:40:06
Message:
I meant the other bar that appears to be very close to the underside of the floorpan.
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 18:24:44
Message:
I suppose that's the bar where you attach the spare tire...
I think... I'll have a closer look on friday...
When I'm going to take the engine apart so it can come out...
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: arrocuda
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 18:40:17
Message:
I imagine that the coilovers have been added to beef up the rear suspension so as to make the car more stable for towing. Also leaf spring suspension systems are prone to axletramp.... which is a phenomenon you definitely don't need when your towing. On low powered cars such as the Rapier it's not a big problem... but can be quite spectacular on leaf sprung cars with big engines. Too much throttle on a damp surface and you can end up in trouble. I remember a post on the retro-rides forum....one of the guys who has an american muscle car and ended up on the pavement whilst out driving it in the wet. He said it happened when he first bought the car, but has learned to adjust his driving style to cope with a large American car on narrow British roads.
I would leave them on Thomas as they can only serve to make the car more stable. In fact.... I might just see if I kind find some to fit mine.
Building the 'Mark II' fastback Rapier ('Arrocuda').
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 18:48:45
Message:
I don't know about leaving them on... The car feels kind of shaky at the moment...
And there's a big chance that they are leaky or have even dried out over time...
I know what axle tramp is...
One of ours has that to... Weerd though!
But anyway thanks for the information!
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: arrocuda
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 19:20:50
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by Fastback Thomas
One of ours has that to... Weerd though!
But anyway thanks for the information!
One of yours has what too?
Building the 'Mark II' fastback Rapier ('Arrocuda').
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 13 Dec 2010 19:25:47
Message:
Axle tramp
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 15 Dec 2010 13:28:59
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by JPSH120
I meant the other bar that appears to be very close to the underside of the floorpan.
___________________________________________________________________________
I'm sorry, I had a closer look an it appears to be a reinforcement bar for the tow bar... Sorry.
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 20 Dec 2010 16:42:36
Message:
Last friday, engine came out...
Still the original one!
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 16 Jan 2011 15:10:32
Message:
The car finaaly got on to a trailer and then from my grand dad's to my home. Now I can finally get started on it.
It was towed by our Triumph MK1 2.5
I like a car that looks normal but can really knock you off your socks!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 30 Jan 2011 19:05:12
Message:
The car made it down into our basement where I can start on the bigger jobs like the suspension...
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 30 Jan 2011 21:38:18
Message:
Wow - you have a Batcave!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 31 Jan 2011 17:17:00
Message:
haha, nice!
If I could fly out it!
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 22 Mar 2011 19:01:03
Message:
As promised, an update!
The badcave has been painted at least the floor is.
For a couple of weeks I've been working 2 to 3 evenings each weak.
This is how she looks now.
The interior
The doors came out... 
and guess what I found... RUST ... (they made a dodgy repair to this.)
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 23 Mar 2011 19:26:01
Message:
I've seen much much worse.
Can you weld yet?
I bet you will be able to soon
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 23 Mar 2011 19:38:58
Message:
My dad is going to teach me...
I've got ONE BIG LUCK!!!!
The chassis is very solid!!! Only the front chassis rails below the floor are totally gone and so is the floor above it.
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 05 Apr 2011 18:03:21
Message:
Been busy last Wednesday.
The whole wiring loom came out
The heater unit came out without any troubles
and the rear windows (those that go up and down ) came out nicely!
I really think they figured that out nicely, the way you can remove the rear windows. (same way as the front, but less room)
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 05 Apr 2011 21:24:28
Message:
Hi Thomas
It will be very ok to look what is happenig in your garage during the next year.
Very fine that your father helps and teach you.
Regards Jan
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 06 Apr 2011 12:28:00
Message:
I'm now 15 years old, but i think you can easily say I was born with a car in my tummy
I've been helping my dad and grand dad for years and for some 5 years I've been working on all our cars all by myself.
3 weeks ago I did the side cover on the 1725 engine of our Humber sceptre.
I get my knowledge by looking how my dad does it and then I just try it myself...
I'll sure show many pictures of my restoration.
I hope I can do more next week.. Eastern holidays you see..
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 19 Apr 2011 18:09:29
Message:
Just back from a long weekend to England!
I had a great time, and we went to the spares day at the rootes archive center!
I found some great things!!!!!!
1. an H120-bootlid!!!!! In really nice condition!
2. A prop-shaft of an H120 (this can handle more power)
3. an H120-exhaust manifold
4. an original spare key
and some random peaces!
The bootlid!
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 19 Apr 2011 18:55:26
Message:
Looks like you got a bargain with the bootlid Thomas, well done!!
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 19 Apr 2011 19:10:13
Message:
quote:
Originally posted by JPSH120
Looks like you got a bargain with the bootlid Thomas, well done!(
yes indeed! the price is still on, £25!!!
NO RUST!!! only some surface rust on the top!
It was very good protected against rust on the inside!!
Just to let everyone now, I got the keys from the rootes archive center they 've got a bunch of original keys, an if you bring the number on the key you can easily find a spare key for your rootes car!!!!
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 19 Apr 2011 19:38:41
Message:
Was that the only bootlid available?
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 19 Apr 2011 19:45:46
Message:
yes it was!
we were there before 10 (it started at 10)
and we found the only one and some other special peaces...
BEFORE everyone else did!
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 21 Apr 2011 12:26:44
Message:
You do realise that its club rules that if any of us 'real' H120 owners need a bootlid you will have to let us have it!!
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: UMU
Replied on: 21 Apr 2011 21:08:38
Message:
As i too have a spare H120 bootlid, i hope thats not the rule
hahahahhaa
just wanted to show that point off really
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 21 Apr 2011 22:08:28
Message:
Keep dreaming mates!!!
I'm keeping it... and the original one too...
sorry ;)
There was a fibreglass wing for sale there if you're interested...
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 22 Apr 2011 11:24:34
Message:
Don't worry guys you are safe for now, I have a spare;
And if I get really desperate a spare spare;
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: argonaut
Replied on: 26 Apr 2011 21:01:00
Message:
Well done Thomas - that's a nice find and it looks to be in decent condition.
Ref prop-shaft, it's probably been posted before but I and another member here (1922 AKA Derek) both found out that the standard Rapier propshaft gets destroyed very easily if you wheel spin the car - or rather the centre bearing gets destroyed. We both also found out that a standard Hunter propshaft is a straight swap and it's a single piece and much stronger.
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 27 Apr 2011 13:58:53
Message:
yes it's in very good cond. when I've got some time I'll strip the paint of clean all the surface rust off and paint it in VERY GOOD rust resistant paint!
I'm probably going to put it on the car today, just to get an idea of how it looks!
Yes I read it on one of the posts "upgrades for your fastback" or something similar.
And when I found one, I just knew it had to be one!
and I couldn't resist!!!!
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 08 May 2011 15:28:48
Message:
The bootlid went on last week, but I didn't take any pics then!
It looks lovely! I just have to adjust it a little bit more!
I got the dashboard out yesterday, it went out very good!
Some minor cracks that all ready were there before.
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 20 Jun 2011 14:55:30
Message:
Got all the rear windows out yesterday, without damaging the trim or any of the windows.
I couldn't prevent half of all the clips braking as they were corroded very hard!
Some signs of leaks: hard rust on the lower righthand corner and on the shelve inside the car... on the left corner...
Does anyone know:
1. where I can get a rear window seal for the newer trim (see true plastic type) as these should prevent water running in a little better. I read somewhere on the forum that the club was going to have some made??
2. and if it's necessary to cut the metal studs of, that held the clips in place.
Pictures will follow later today.
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Sunbeam-mike
Replied on: 20 Jun 2011 15:39:02
Message:
Hi thomas,
Well done with the trim! What tool did you use in the end?
The little studs I'm afraid got in the way of my front screen 'normal' rubber seal - I had to grind them off. They're quite hard; they took a bit of effort.
When I was researching 'bonded in' glass, someone suggested using a mastic called Tiger Seal in place of the now un-obtainable Rootes bonding kit. I never used this though as front screen rubber seals were available.
Mike
Mike Hooper
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 20 Jun 2011 19:39:06
Message:
I'm cleaning the underside up as well 
I didn't use any special tool at all, it might look drastic but i used something 3 times as wide as a screwdriver and a bit thinner.. AND my fingers... and most of them broke of, I did have to cut some of the bonding because they tried several times to stop it leaking, they didn't succeed in that very good...
The front studs on my car might have already been removed... Somewhere in it's lifetime, the window broke or was smashed and was replaced with a normal seal where the trim fits over the rubber... Like on a Triumph MK1, stag... for instance... (If anyone on here knows them)
So there's a good possibility that the front studs are all ready grinded out... We'll see that when I remove the front windscreen probably during the winter. Ass I'm going to leave it as it's better to transport a car that way...
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 18 Aug 2011 19:19:47
Message:
It's been a while, but I've got some things done!
The floorpan has been cleaned, so the rust can be cut away and repaired.
And the front suspension has been totally removed...
There's not much rust on the floor but the sills are gone...as is the A-post... We took it out... But the inner sills look to be in very good condition!
we grounded most of it of and then I drilled out the spot welds so we still had a template of how it was...
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: turbinecol
Replied on: 19 Aug 2011 09:24:19
Message:
Good progress Thomas, it's at the point where you have all that rust going on that you need to find something to cheer yourself up with - maybe get some bits of engine reconditioned or something. Keep going, at least you have a nice dry place to work. What is the status on the Stag?
Reply author: janmarine3
Replied on: 19 Aug 2011 09:57:48
Message:
Takes guts to tackle a job like that for sure.
Good job so far Thomas.
I wonder if it will help to put horseblinkers on...concentrate the eyes on one rust area at a time so one does not see the rest all at once ? Mine has to be done too, I am looking and learning from the forum .
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 19 Aug 2011 20:32:25
Message:
Thanks everyone!
The stag 's running fine, how do you know about her?
She 's done the first 800 miles on the recondition engine, and is running sweeter everyday! great acceleration to!! ^^
As an in between I'm going to sand my bootlid down to bare metal and paint her in rust resistant paint, She doesn't have any rust on her so I need to keep it that way! 
Hope you can learn something from me to Jan!
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 25 Aug 2011 20:34:11
Message:
Hi Thomas
Good work so far I see.
I have done a lot of welding on my bootlid- prosject. See the pictures on the forum and maybe you can get some inspiration.
I follow your work.
Jan, Norway
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 26 Aug 2011 08:50:48
Message:
Thanks Jan,
Great to hear there is interest in my project!!!
I'll have to get you guys up to date, I've been working on her with my granddad yesterday and off course we cut out a little bit more rust, as you can expect...
MY bootlid is also coming togheter nicely...
I've been sanding for a few hours and there was some nice purple paint beneath the goldish paint... overall no holes nor to much filler.
Pictures will folow!
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: janmarine3
Replied on: 26 Aug 2011 11:00:08
Message:
I am starting to get inspired ( the word that other Jan used ) but....the other words also follow ....respiration and persperation and desperation and hesitiation Once a person starts you can't stop ..like eating marshmellows or chocolate this rust....
Jan
Reply author: 1922
Replied on: 27 Aug 2011 08:56:57
Message:
Nice work Thomas, great pictures and your inner sills look in great shape - your car must have spent a lot of it's life in a nice warm garage!
When you put the outer sills on remember that any water that gets past the seals on the side windows will run down into the sills. So you need good rust proofing and some way for the water to get out.
Be careful car when working on the lower part of the A post - if the A post is not connected to the sill the whole car will twist. The rear end will drop, the roof goes backward, the rear wings bend and the bottom of the A post will move forward.
To stop this just support the chassis under the boot floor (just behind the spring shackles is good).
I learnt this the hard way 
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 27 Aug 2011 17:17:11
Message:
Thanks 1922 the car is still on it's rear wheels so No problem jet...
We were plannig to support the car as you say after we've removed the rear suspension.
We just found out that the top front righthand corner has a nasty hole in it, which they filled up with filler... so I'llprobably have to use my new corner piece... Pics will follow! If I find a minute...
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
There was some nice purple paint under the goldish paint! ;)
BUT NO RUST!!!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 14 Sep 2011 20:24:39
Message:
An update on my restoration...
a nasty hole under the rear air vent...
Front RH wing has had some dents and rust, so we had to cut some of it out...
Front valance has had some accident damage... so removed some pieces
LH wing has some rust to...
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Hanley
Replied on: 14 Sep 2011 21:27:20
Message:
Top quality work there Thomas...I reckon you have a prize winner on your hands there
XJ8, Beach Buggy, ZX9r, ZX6r, BSA Bantam D7 x2 , Gorilla Monkey Bike, Skyteam Monkey Bike , Honda 400/4.....and now I want a H120!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 18 Sep 2011 07:49:22
Message:
Thanks,
I hope I get to that one day... ;)
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 28 Sep 2011 19:27:20
Message:
Some repair panels, my dad brought from Beaulieu...
A side member, for the chassis rail. All new!
Rear wheel arches repair pieces.
The H120 front struts I asked you all about.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 20 Feb 2012 18:57:11
Message:
Some more progress over the last months. Not that much done as I have been waiting for our rotating construction to be fabricated.
Last week we finally managed to get the car hanging in it, and it works fine!
This will make welding a lot easier, as we don't have to lie on our back!
Removed the rear axle while having it almost totally up in the air.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 20 Feb 2012 19:00:28
Message:
Front wheel arches almost totally cleaned off all dirt and sealant.
Next thing: solving the remains with some white spirit and then painting it in red oxide primer.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: janmarine3
Replied on: 21 Feb 2012 04:52:14
Message:
wow.. pro work man ! when the last piece of rust is history your heart will be much lighter !
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 23 Feb 2012 18:22:42
Message:
Haha Jan,
I've been doing some more cleaning today.
The RH side is almost ready for welding the sill and part of the inner sill.
I can't wait, I love doing the mechanical stuff, but first bodywork... 
I don't hate it, but I prefer the mecanical work.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 12 Apr 2012 13:21:19
Message:
Just a small update for you.
Took the engine apart yesterday to get it refurbished,
the engine was stuck, not a surprise after standing for about 30years.
But when I took the head of I discovered that the engine had been refurbished before, the pistons were +0.020.
So now, I 've got my hopes up, that I can still use the piston which looked like new.
Fingers crossed.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 02 May 2012 19:16:41
Message:
Freshly painted suspension and engine parts!
It's going to look great!!!
(not all for my car though) 
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 02 May 2012 21:49:08
Message:
Nice one Thomas, who has been busy with the paint brush 
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Reply author: UMU
Replied on: 02 May 2012 22:02:26
Message:
Hope you know where everything goes too :-)
Good wory mate
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 03 May 2012 19:53:23
Message:
I largely know where everything goes mate!
and luckily it wasn't me who had to paint it...
BUt I did have to clean the real greasy bits
then it was sand-blasted by a friend and then professionally painted
Cost a lot of money, but is worth it in the end!!
Some of it is for my car, some other parts for my grand dad's Sceptre, and the parts furtest are for my dad's triumph MKII 2.5 PI
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: turbinecol
Replied on: 04 May 2012 07:59:37
Message:
Absolutely brilliant photo Thomas. Nothing like having nice clean parts to work with. Enjoy, Colin
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 04 May 2012 12:11:21
Message:
Yes I bet that cost a pretty penny - glad I could get all mine done at work FOC!
Lots of parts shared between you are your Grandad, I hope you get to pick the best ones
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Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 05 May 2012 13:04:32
Message:
Thanks colin, I will!!
Jason: I picked the parts up together with my dad, made sure I got first choice!!! :p
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: janmarine3
Replied on: 06 May 2012 10:43:40
Message:
wow...a brand new Sunbeam when you are finished ! ..only one problem though - what are you going to do for at least five years after completion ?
Jan
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 09 May 2012 16:19:07
Message:
The plan was and still is to use it as a daily driver..
But, I'll probably have mixed feelings about using it during winter for the first 5 years...
but, will see when we get her finished.
I've made some more progress this weekend and yesterday,
She's really going to be brand new as I almost stripped the chassis, wings and floorpan down to bare metal with a hot air blower.
Next up: cleaning it with a wire brush and then painting it in etching red primer.
Than on with the new teroson, to protect it against rust..
Will post some pictures one of these days
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 09 May 2012 16:59:51
Message:
Good job Thomas. Nice to follow your serious restoration.
Regards Jan,Norway
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 09 May 2012 18:43:31
Message:
Thanks Jan,
My parents probably won't agree on this, but I'm a bit of a perfectionist,
at least when I'm working on my car...
Too bad you have problems with your engine..
I wish I could help, but I can't I'm afraid,
if it's any advice at all, from what I've heard you can put a standard camshaft in an engine with 2webers but I don't know about the different cylinder head, if it matters or not if it's a std cam or Holbay one.....
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 09 May 2012 21:13:05
Message:
Hi
The cam is to an iron head engine, so I think I will try the std cam and see what happens.
regards Jan
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 10 May 2012 21:53:06
Message:
Good luck Jan!
I hope it works!
regards Thomas
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 27 Jun 2012 21:34:22
Message:
Finally got the time, now that my school exams are over, to start working on the cars again!
Got my grand dad's rapier fastback's doors finished last tuesday, fresh paint on the open piece of the door cards etc.. so that the car is ready to be driven again within the next week, she'll probably be out by friday so I'll take pictures of her for sure!
Next thing I still needed to do was,
the fact that I still had to thank Glen Mason (fastback spares secretary, sadly not for much longer, because he's doing a very good job!) for the very good job he did, sourcing all the parts we order from the clubs stock!
B.T.W. Glen, the reversing lamp you thought wasn't that good, cleaned up very nice! The inner piece was partially rusted away, but no worries I'm fabricating a little brace so that it's as good as new! After all it was a secondhand part.
To finish of I hope to get welding on my car by the end of July, and will post pictures as soon as possible!!
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: bigt80
Replied on: 27 Jun 2012 21:56:26
Message:
Hi Thomas, Good to hear from you and that work has once again commenced. Who will finish their resto first - you I think. . Glad the Rev Light was repaired and put to good use and that you are pleased with all the parts. We are happy to help, but yes, I don't know what will happen after 1 Aug, so if there is anything else you need: shout now and I will put it to one side for you!
Look forward to see the pics later. I will try and do same on mine - when I make progress!
I will try and post a few pics of Moffat Show which I went to this weekend. Weather was not too great, so not as big a turn out of cars as normal, but still good considering.
Cheers for now.
Glen
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 27 Jun 2012 22:47:42
Message:
Lets hope we can both get our rapiers on the road by next summer? If not, at least the following.. So I can come to England in her and meet up with some like-minded enthousiasts!!
You, Martin (UMU.. ) and anybody else willing to meet up, maybe we could do a tour somehow...
Well, my plans are big, hopefully we can arrange something...
We'll sure let you know if we need something!
Thanks again Glen!
Thomas
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 07 Nov 2012 20:08:16
Message:
It's been a while but I finally found some time to upload and post some pictures on the progress of my fastback!
Somewhere during the summer my engine was reconditioned and I got to paint it a nice blue! 
a few days later I decided I'd start taking the carbs apart so the bodies could be cleaned and the carbs reconditioned.. they looked rather good until I wanted to take them of the inlet manifold.. The base of the carb was basically held together by the gasket.. We suspect this was the reason why the engine was refurbished and after this didn't help the car was put aside... 
Also during the holidays, my dad started sorting all my nuts (mostly the bolts) and taking notes on wether everything was there.. then we looked for the same for my granddad as he's still restoring the Humber Sceptre MKIII Auto. We're going to have the bolts Nickel plated.. (if anyone needs the notes on what we all need for the restoration of our loved ones! I will also buy some SS bolts for some of the parts..
In the mean while I was also doing some bodywork.
Cleaned some of the chassis rails on tried the red oxide paint..
Found a rather big hole in my floor...
but made some repair pieces so my dad could weld them in! ;)
On top of that we finally made some real big progress on the RH front corner.
Still needs finishing..
Half a new headlight circle, the wingtip and some smaller angled pieces
Well now you're all back up to date.. ;) hope next update doesn't take so long to put on here.
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: JPSH120
Replied on: 08 Nov 2012 15:26:02
Message:
Hi Thomas, you have done some fairly serious surgery on your fastback, did you have to weld any reinforcements to the shell before you started chopping out the rot??
___________________________________________________________________________
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 08 Nov 2012 17:00:27
Message:
No I did not.. I hope it wasn't necessary but I'm going to hang a door back in just to have a look at how the wing has to fit so that's going to tell me wether it was necessary or not but the main chassis rails have no rot at all so that's one important thing..
I've also left the other rotten sill in place to keep some strength..
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 29 May 2013 20:14:51
Message:
Got to do some more welding in the last month,
- A-pillar is largely repaired
- inner sills are almost ready for the outer sills to be fitted
- front inner wing is ready for red oxide paint...
- the rear RH wheelarch lower section has been repaired
- the front RH wing has been de-seamed in the front as there was rust in between I wondered why not de-seam it while you're at it so I made 3 pieces out of new steel and welded them in.
Pictures will follow
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Before and after, you can see the difference ;)
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'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 30 May 2013 21:58:08
Message:
Hi Thomas
Very good work. If my car was rusty as yours, I dont think I could do the same work as you do. I am impressed. I follow your work.
Regards Jan
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 31 May 2013 20:38:17
Message:
Thanks Jan,
I'm having difficult times myself too from time to time.
That's why it's taking me a lot more time than I wanted it to take me..
Thanks for your admiration but I'll still be having to work very hard!
Thanks Thomas
'68 sunbeam rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: andyb
Replied on: 31 May 2013 21:32:22
Message:
Top effort !
So pleased mine had 99% of the bodywork done i can't weld to save my life so always impressed when others have a try.
sometimes nothing can be a real cool hand
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 16 Jan 2014 16:33:31
Message:
Another update on the restoration of my '68 fastback!
Everything has been painted in red oxide etching primer to protect it from rusting again!
The front wing tips have both been repaired and fully welded, as well as deseaming where the front valance meets the wings.
Inner sills have been painted ready for the outer sills to be welded in place...
The rear lower part of the RH rear wing has been fully repaired.
Maybe not the most beautiful repair but certainly one of the more difficult ones too as this part of the was build up in 3 layers..
I've also stripped 99% of rubbish of the underside and painted it in the same red paint..
What a feeling you get when you finally see some bigger progress!! ;) only one layer of paint but soon to receive a couple more! ;)
Started work on the LH side by cleaning the floor and partially stripping away what was left of the front chassis beam...
'68 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
'73 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {AAD ..... }
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: arrocuda
Replied on: 16 Jan 2014 19:34:50
Message:
Most people would have caved in to the thought of so much metal to replace. I have certainly seen cars in much better condition than this get broken for parts. I admire your spirit Thomas.... keep up the good work!
Building the 'Mark II' fastback Rapier ('Arrocuda').
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 25 Mar 2014 19:03:42
Message:
finally I was able to fit the RH sills (new old stock) => 90% of RH side finished!!
You can even see the sparks of the spot welder fly! ;)
Now working on the LH- side which is even worse after removing that sill...
LH floor and front cross chassis beam have been welded in place now to be finished will post picture of that and what's left of the sills soon...
BE PREPARED!!!!!
'68 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
'73 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {AAD 781863 }
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 09 Apr 2014 16:48:42
Message:
The LH-side is even worse on rust than the RH-side...
But I'm glad to say progress is being made!!
- Floor has been 90% repaired
- First 3 parts of inner sill
- Front chassis outrigger
All had been badly repaired by previous owners..
On the upside of things I've had some parts painted that now look superb!!
Sills couldn't be any worse...
From this
To This
Outrigger
Paint!!!
Beautifully painted struts to be refurbished with these beauties.
'68 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
'73 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {AAD 781863 }
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 09 Apr 2014 20:27:37
Message:
Hi Thomas
I am still following your work. Great job you are dooing.
Very nice to see. I think you are great mecanic guy when that
work is ended
Regards Jan
Reply author: andyb
Replied on: 09 Apr 2014 20:35:01
Message:
Great work Thomas :)
How about some progress photo's Jan ?
sometimes nothing can be a real cool hand
Reply author: Fastback Thomas
Replied on: 12 Apr 2014 09:10:03
Message:
Thanks Andy & Jabe, I've learned everything helping my dad and granddad,
so by now I'm doing most of the work by my own..
Sad thing is I have too little time and always other things that need to be done..
'68 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {B341006846 OD/LHO}
'73 Sunbeam Rapier fastback {AAD 781863 }
I like a car that looks normal but really knocks your socks off!!
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 15 Apr 2014 23:24:42
Message:
Hi Andy. I have put some Pictures and comments on my Holbay/ Replica H120 side (Your restorations)
Regards Jan
quote:
Originally posted by andyb
Great work Thomas :)
How about some progress photo's Jan ?
sometimes nothing can be a real cool hand
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 14 May 2015 21:49:26
Message:
Hi Thomas
How is your prosject?
Regards Jan
Reply author: jabe1807
Replied on: 24 Mar 2017 17:33:11
Message:
Hi Thomas
How are your prosject? Finish?
Regards Jan , Norway
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