“Molly” the first, or Molly I

This project started in 1994 when for £350 the car was purchased along with a 1098 cc engine and gearbox, the original 948 cc engine and gearbox were well past their best.  A small amount of work was undertaken to get the car on the road and the rolling restoration started.  The 1098 cc engine/gearbox proved to be good and this helped it keep up with modern traffic.  This is the only modification to the standard specification (except headlights now sealed beam units not bulbs)

The car was quickly named “Molly” by a very understanding wife and since that time this name has stuck, even at the workshops where the welding and spraying has been done.

“Tinworm” was found in the normal areas; sills, door hinge posts, front passenger chassis leg and rear chassis leg sections.  A decision was made that all “tinworm” affected areas would be totally removed and complete panels inserted to ensure that the car would last for many years to come.  To aid this old engine oil was liberally sprayed in all box sections, allowed to drain and then hot Waxoyl sprayed in to complete the job.

By 1996 the floor, sills and cross member had been totally replaced.  In 1997 the entire front was cut off with new inner and outer wings, engine tie plates, and hinge posts being welded in whilst the engine was removed for major overhaul by myself.  The car was towed home from the garage and the newly painted engine and gearbox replaced.

The interior has not been neglected; all the interior metal work was stripped and repainted from aerosol cans of the correct paint made locally.  The original roof lining was torn so this has been replaced (not a job for the faint hearted!) along with all seat covers, glove box inners, parcel shelf and carpet.

In 1998 the final bodywork was done with the bands holding the rear wings being replaced and yet another re-spray!  However, we now have started to enjoy “Molly” in all her glory at as many shows and events as possible.  The restoration has taken 4 years and was finished in 1998.  She was used almost daily at that stage but due to a change in work she is now used on nice days and for shows only.

Tinkering continues as with all old cars, Greasing trunions, hand brake cables, cleaning brakes to name but a few regular tasks.  The list of small things to be done seems endless, there always something you can spend time on.

The final note must go to my dear wife, thanks for putting up with “Molly”, “Molly II” and me!