We had a real treat this week with a ultra rare Matra-Simca Bagheera. I’d never seen one before and for anyone who appreciates French oddities it didn’t disappoint. 1300cc engine in the back, three seats in a row and classic 1970’s wedge styling. What’s not to like. This one came in for a little carb setup and balance which could only be carried out whilst sitting in the boot.
Yesterday we had two more on the rollers. A beautiful road going Lotus Elan S4 came in running very poorly. It turns out that another firm rebuilt the fixed jet Stromberg carburettors with fixed needles so there was no mixture adjustment. The correct parts are on there way. Peter Blanchett was next in with his 1600cc Austin A50. It came in running very rich but we managed to rectify that and find some horse power.
Our brand new MAHA rolling road has been delivered this morning and is currently being installed. The new single roller machine will handle up to 750bhp without wheel spin. The machine adjusts for the environmental conditions as well as measuring the transmission losses on the run down. The new digital software is as precise and accurate as they come and will provide a detailed print out for every customer.
Today we had two Ford 289 V8 powered cars on the rollers. The first was a Sunbeam Tiger. An initial session found it to be running very lean. Some work will need to be done to the Holley before it goes back on. Fresh out of the build shop is another 289. This one powering a 1965 Mustang race car. This one will be out on track later this season.
