1. Bodywork and Structural Progress
Stripping and Dipping
The BJ8 was stripped and the inner structure chemically dipped — a process that removes coatings so corrosion and old repairs can’t hide under paint, underseal, or filler.
Structural Repairs
The main area requiring attention was the boot floor. This has now been replaced using the new improved pressings made by A H Panels. These updated pressings offer better shape accuracy and require less adjustment during installation.
Additional structural points were repaired as needed to ensure a solid base before reassembly.
Paint Stage
With the structural work complete, the body moved into the paint preparation stage. The shell first received a coat of epoxy primer, which provides a stable base and protects the bare metal from future corrosion. All body seams were sealed carefully to prevent moisture ingress, a common long-term issue if left untreated.
The inner wheel arches were then treated with stone-chip protection. This reduces the impact of road debris and helps extend the life of the panels in areas that naturally take more abuse.
After priming, the car received five coats of red 2-pack paint to produce a strong, even colour with good depth. Finally, a clear lacquer was applied to add gloss and provide additional protection against weathering and UV fading.
Rolling Shell Stage
With the internal structure complete, the car has been rebuilt to a rolling shell:
- Suspension fitted
- Steering installed
- Drivetrain in place
- Car can be moved and aligned properly for panel fitting
The rolling shell stage is the logical point before outer panels go on.
(In other words: this is the unglamorous but important bit where everything gets made straight before it gets made shiny.)