Bodywork Session 7 - Day 1: A bitter/sweet day

Today was a bitter/sweet day.

Today was the first day in which we returned to continue the restoration of CRG163 from that fateful phone call on Sunday the 9th of March this year (2025) when my Dad was suddenly taken ill and died unfortunately and unexpectedly days later.

My Dad had been instrumental from the start in our restoration and preservation of CRG163 since 2002.  He was very much a part of the journey of the vehicle and had supported me in many ways and more which has been documented on this website.

Until today we had not returned, a mix of many things.  However today would be the first day in which we would continue the restoration, in favour of CRG163 and in memory of my dear Dad.

Today was very strange and a mix of feelings.  We were returning to CRG163 to continue the restoration, but unfortunately this was a day in which I would be unable to send my Dad images of progress throughout the day, nor the phone call at the end of the day to summarise everything that was done. 

Here’s to you Dad with much love.

Our first view of CRG163 this morning as we return to continue the restoration.

The new rear number plate fabricated panel compared to the old one which was damaged.

The new fabricated fuel collar cap (right) next to the original on the left.

To be able to access the deteriorated wood work floor in the vicinity of the fuel cap, we remove a double seat.

CRG163’s floor lino is peeled back very carefully so that we can inspect the extent of the rotten wood.

Rotten wood is removed to make way for replacement new wood.

Sion meticulously measuring the area around the fuel cap area of CRG163.

The camera is suddenly turned on the day’s photographer.

The peeled back lino is reinstated for the time being following replacement of rotten woodwork. The long term plan will be to replace the floor lino at some point.

Sion is meticulous as always in the way he replaces the wooden frame in front of the fuel cap area.  Sion is an absolutely fantastic carpenter who ensures high quality at all times. 

Another angle of the the new wooden frame, reinstalled fabricated and new fuel cap collar as well as testing out the frame that will sit on top of the main body panel once fitted.

The new fabricated collar now in place and fitting perfectly.  Just need to test that the underside collar also fits before everything is finally put in place,

CRG163’s main panel is fitted tonight, albeit on a temporary basis to make sure that it fits and supports the fuel cap area that has now received new woodwork, new fabricated fuel cap collar and woodwork  frame.  This will be kept in place over night and fitted properly tomorrow morning.