1962 Rover P4 (restoration)

Pickards Automotive is excited to announce the start of the restoration of a 1962 Rover P4.

We are big believers in working with the owners of these classic vehicles, so that we can make their vision and ideas a reality. Restoration of a classic vehicle is a long journey that can be hard work, but it is exceptionally rewarding for all involved when you get to the finish line. At Pickards we see ourselves as the brushes and the owner the artist, as we work together to create their masterpiece. It is something we are very passionate about.

So a bit of back story first.
This particular P4 has been in the owners family since it was new in 1962. It was the families daily driver up until 1998, at which point the Rover was parked up and hasn't seen a lot of action since.
The P4 was brought to us with the intention of a full restoration of the vehicle, which would be undertaken over a two year period. Overall the condition of the P4 was not too bad. It had the expected rust in the sills and A and B pillers, but there was no signs of crash damage or poor body repair work which is a big plus. ​As for the mechanical systems of the car, the expected items such as brakes were seized but overall everything was in its place, as expected and operating to some extent.

Before any restoration we like to assess the vehicle, decreasing the chance of unexpected issues arising further into the process. This involves running the engine. After a few checks it was in with a new battery and engine oil. First problem: we had to free the starter. Second problem: no fuel to the engine so we needed to use an external pump. The final hurdle was a faulty condenser which we replaced.

After over 18 years, the engine fired up on all 6 cylinders which we thought was very impressive. On completion of the checks it was time to strip the vehicle back and ready it for the next phases of its restoration. 
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Stay tuned for further updates.