Escort MK2 RS2000 Full restoration
Escort MK2 RS2000 which had been sitting in a garage in Cornwall for about 20 years. Customer got in contact with us to do a full restoration on this car.
Now back at the workshop the next task is to strip and box up all the parts ready for the next stage. Once stripped the body shell is inspected for damage and corrosion.
Now stripped to a bare shell and primary inspection done, its time for the shell to be taken to be heat treated to remove any paint, underseal, filler and sealants . This process will reveal the extent of the corrosion and damage to the shell. After being through the heat treatment the shell is washed and treated to slow down the process of going rusty whilst the fabrication work is done.
Engine stripped down and checked for wear. All components checked , cleaned and replaced where needed. This is done in-house with only machine work done off site. All transmission, suspension, braking, and steering components are all stripped, cleaned, powdercoated or painted and rebuild using new bearings, seals and gaskets where needed.
New panels are ordered for the rebuild. These include rear quarter panels, chassis sections, door skins, bulkhead, front inner wings. The old door skins are removed and the new ones welded on. A chassis jig is made and the shell attached ready for the next stage.
With the jig and the internal braces made, the task of cutting off the old panels can begin. Any of the original panels and sections that can be repaired or retained are attended to first. Making sure the bodyshell does not flex or go out of line is acheived by making the internal and external jigs and braces. Once on the jig and happy that everything is square and lined up, the removal of the panels can begin.
As each panel is removed and area prepped for refitment, the shell is checked to make sure everything stays in line. All areas of corrosion are dealt with as each section is repaired. The shell is now starting to take shape. Once repanelled, the shell can go back for a light chemical dip to remove any surface rust and then primed ready for painting.
Back from being dipped and primed the shell is seam sealed and ready to go off for paint.
