This update is nearly a week late, but its been a busy time so this is the first chance I have had and maybe it benefits from a bit of reflection before posting anyway.

The MG is back home! The respray/body restoration is finally over and the car is back in my possession with its beautiful new coat of paint. I am really pleased with how its turned out and the way that the whole process with Gavin from Reef Paint shop went. Gavin was completely straight with me throughout the process and so its just as I expected, including the final bill. The car threw up a few challenges at the paint shop with misaligned panels and various parts not being willing to fit without a fight. its certainly made me realise that when buying a part restored car, you have to be sceptical about all the work previously carried out, because you just cannot tell from looking whether its been done right. In fairness, despite the challenges, the price I paid for the car still stacks up, so no regrets.

Here are some photos of the finished job, first at the paint shop

• 

• 

• 

• 

Next photos taken at home, I like how the sun bounces off the bodywork

• 

• 

• 

• 

So there we are. Strip down complete, bodywork complete, the rebuild phase now commences. I’ve got some parts on order already (wiring harness, clutch) but I need to order some more to get really started including brake pipes, exhaust and cables to name but a few.

I rang Gavin earlier to discuss care of the paint. He advised that the paint will harden over the next few weeks so it just needs to be left rather than treated. Then, as its been machine polished, it can just be hand washed for some time without the need for any product.

Looking forward to the build phase!