Dutton Phæton Series 1. Year built 1979

[Harry Newton]

After more than 30 years in storage I have finally transported my beloved Dutton to my home in France. Now to start the restoration of the car. At first look at the body reveals lots of gelcoat blisters and stress cracks, so a major cosmetic job is planned, but the original colour will be retained.
The chassis looks like it has survived the 30 years intact, I did paint it with Hammerite when I built the car and used Waxoyl in the tubes where I could. I will find out more when I remove the body and aluminum side panels, which only have a little surface corrosion.
I know that the bellhousing has to be replaced as it was cracked before I laid the car up. The brake system will need a major overhaul, I have already had to remove a brake drum to move the car on to the trailer. The last MOT it had in 1983 had an advisory of excess play in the steering rack and joints, 30 years of sitting would not have repaired that problem.
The hood and doors were in good order, until I lost the driver’s door on the M1, I saw it was coming loose but couldn’t stop due to no hard shoulder. I will have to find someone to make a new door using the passenger’s as a template.
So as soon as I have finished our study/office and emptied the garage of all the items that should be in the study, the car will be moved to the garage and work started. I have set myself a target for getting the car up and running, 1st May 2022, my 70th birthday.

[Harry Newton]

Provence.

[Garry Parker]

Hello, where about in france are you?