Javelin mechanical check

[ant]

My Javelin 1953 runs well, to me, but I'm not a mechanic. I'm thinking that having someone who knows Javelins driving and inspecting her (or whatever) would be a good idea. Then I would know what work should be done, will soon need to be done, etc and so could plan for that. It would also reassure me that Nolly (NOL471) is safe for me and passengers!
If anyone knows of anyone near London that would be brilliant.
Any other suggestions welcome of course.
Thanks in advance.
And HAPPY CHRISTMAS too.

[David Morris]

Hi Ant,

I am sure some local member will advise, but one solution might be to pop her in for an MoT.

BUT, a couple of words of advice. Firstly, chose a garage that has been around for a long time. You need an inspector who has long experience, preferably on classic cars. Even when new, a Javelin might not pass the kind of tests that MoT inspectors do now. I am thinking here of the new test stations that only require one mechanic and that shake the front suspension mechanically, rather thn having one mechanic in the driver's seat and one underneath, as my old garage used to do.

Secondly, take the Javelin for a reasonably long run, just before the test. Mine always failed on brake balance, due to the linings being a bit damp from standing in the garage, and then driving round the corner to our local garage. The advice from the experienced tester was ' take her for a run, with plenty of pressure on the brakes, before you bring her in next time'. I did that in future, and she passed the test with flying colours! The tester knew this, but with everything now electronically coupled to Swansea, he couldn't let her pass with a nod, as the figures couldn't be ignored and they get printed out on the pass sheet.

So, I suppose getting an MoT is a bit of a douple-edged sword? If she passes, then fine. But if she fails, and now doesn't really need one, what do you do? What's the implications on your insurance if you ignore a MoT failure?

So, finding a local member is probably the best bet? If you were near Bristol, I would gladly help, but it's a long way from London! I don't think Dennis Sparrow, who had his workshop in Hammersmith, is still doing work on Jowett's? He was the 'bees knees' on anything connected with Jowett's. I know Bill Lock might be able to help. Another member, who is not very local is Chris Spencer, but who certainly has tons of experience, but will be very busy with his own restorations.

Anyway, I wish you all the best and compliments of the season,

Best regards,

David

[Keith Clements]

Hi Ant,
When the weather gets a bit more pleasant happy for you to come around to my place and give it the once over.

[ant]

Thank you Keith, for the offer of having a look at Nolly around May perhaps.I'm looking forward to visiting your workshop.Good to speak on Zoom last evening at the Southern section meeting. I did also speak to you at that great centenary event in Huddersfield.

And thanks to David too for the MOT advice and contacts.
Club members so helpful as always!
Cheers Anthony

[Keith Clements]

I can do a quick check before May on MOT type stuff but the suspension set up would need perhaps a couple of days.
So just see when you can get the car here before May and send me an email.