Gordini Europa restoration project 2020

[Gmg31]

My understanding is that once the chassis was found to be bent it was sent to spyder to be straightened and powder coated.   I’m taking the body off again in a few weeks and will post some more photos. 

[Gmg31]

One of the things I didn’t like about my last Europa project was how flimsy and often brittle the 50 year old glass fibre was.   I was always conscious that I was unlikely to survive a crash. So with this new blank canvas I prepared to reinforce some key body panels.   I researched and sourced multi layered woven Combi matting and Crystic resin.  But I also discovered genuine carbon fibre woven matting and with that in mind I began to experiment in small areas to build up my confidence.  The car came with a brand new bonnet and engine cover which did not have cross bracing.  So I made a  template and cut a carbon fibre panel which was secured with resin.   As the resin soaked into the matting it dried in an uneven Matt finish but another top coat of resin left a beautiful smooth gloss finish.  Yes I know I’m adding weight but I hope that the added rigidity and structural integrity will offset the increase.   In the coming weeks I’m working on the rear inner wheels and front floor.   

[BDA]

Those are going to be the stiffest bonnet and boot on any Europa! 

Looks great, though! I know it’s not going to help in a crash, but the area around the windshield could use some stiffening. I might add the carbon fiber with the windshield in place to ensure it will fit after.

[Gmg31]

Busy week getting the body ready to go to the paint shop tomorrow.   Carbon fibre reinforced rear  inner wheel arches to match the bonnet and engine cover.   Engine bay, plenum chamber and front compartment prepped and ready.  Body mounted on a wheelie pallet ready to go. 

[Gmg31]

Body is now ready with some subtle “updates”.  Off to the paint shop

[Sandyman]

The front hood closure system looks interesting. Can you show details?

[Gmg31]

Aero catch mount almost flush.  Easy to install in the front.  Not so easy on the engine cover but watch this space. 

[BDA]

You’ve got a great start for another beautiful car!

[Gmg31]

Whilst the shell was away I got on with  some upgrades on the chassis.  Banks rear disc kit and a little bit of paint on the callipers and dampers. I removed the old style soundproofing and replaced it with closed cell neoprene.  Turns out this is not a repaired chassis it is quite clearly brand new along with Every single bit bolted to it.   

[BDA]

Did you get the springs from Lotus-supplies (Banks)? Do you know the rates and free lengths?

[Gmg31]

Sorry I don’t know the answers.  These were installed by the previous owner.  All I did was re paint them.

[Gmg31]

Body is back from paint.  Chassis is almost ready to be reunited.

[BDA]

Boy! That was quick! 

And pretty!

[dakazman]

  That’s nice 👍👍
Dakazman

[SilverBeast]

I like that blue.