Black Beauty Revamped

Got Black Beauty spruced up last week – she’s looking rather fetching now. The hardtop and lower body kit have both had a fresh lick of paint, courtesy of the Romanian magician with a spray gun at work. Top job, really – he even managed to erase the ghost of a particularly vicious avian assault. Yes, some malevolent bird had unleashed a corrosive payload a while ago that ate through the paint on the hardtop. The side skirts and bumpers were also looking a bit tired – think ‘baggy tights after a long shift’ – so they’ve been revived too.

On the mechanical front, the new fuel gauge sender and sump oil level sensor have landed and are ready for installation. I’m just trying to coordinate it all – ideally before the next ice age.

In a fit of optimism, I thought I’d replace the bonnet soundproofing, since the original had turned to dust and was basically there in spirit only. £28 later, I’ve got a bespoke-cut bit of foam rubber and a can of spray glue rated to survive volcanic temperatures. What could possibly go wrong?

Now, spurred on by a random YouTuber who clearly had no clue but managed not to glue himself to the ceiling, I’ve decided to tackle the sagging headlining in the hardtop myself. It's a 3 to 6 hour job, depending on how many tea breaks and crises of confidence I schedule in. I was going to reuse the original material, but it’s a faff involving new foam rubber on the existing backing – and frankly, life’s too short. So I’ve ordered a new lining from a specialist outfit. The colour's almost right – it’s "magnolia", which is somewhere between clotted cream and “slightly anxious mushroom.” Given that the cockpit already has more shades of beige than a Farrow & Ball showroom, it’ll blend in just fine.

It cost £87 for a 4-metre roll, which isn't exactly bank-breaking. Plus, there’ll be plenty left over – in case I fancy upholstering the cat or starting a side hustle in magnolia-themed accessories.

Only snag is time – the car’s booked for the Chepstow Classic Car Show on 27th April, so it’s all hands to the pump (and headlining) to get her ready.

I've also made good progress on the GT6. The recalcitrant UJ that's been plaguing me since Christmas has finally been removed and the manifold is off. The engine and gearbox are now ready for removal. Space in now the issue.