Issue 273 September – October 2020 COMPLETE 1000s BESPOKE JENSEN TRIMMING OF PARTS RESTORATION SALES SERVICES IN STOCK

01962 779 556 Unit 1, Itchen Abbas Business Centre, Main Road, [email protected] www.jensenparts.co.uk Itchen Abbas, Winchester, SO21 1BQ 3

Disclaimer The ideas and opinions Jensen Owners’ News expressed in this publication are purely those of the JOC Forum Having some fun contributors and should The Forum is one of the busiest classic car As we were unable to display our precious not be construed as the forums around. The forum has answers to some this year one of our club members son’s policies of the Editor, the of your technical questions, the latest JOC decided to have some fun with his 1962 Committee, or the Club. events and shows are detailed in the regularly (called Miles). I have attached the link of a Whilst every care is taken to ensure the information updated JOC calendar. video he created of his mini alongside his in this publication is father’s Jensen Inteceptor. correct, no liability can be Club Shop https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=dpTwib accepted by the authors of Visit the Jensen Owners’ Club Regalia online Zvuq0&t=13s the Jensen Owners’ Club store (the club’s shop) Email: [email protected] Thank you Steve Upton. magazine for loss, damage Phone: +44 (0) 7740142583 or injury caused by errors in, or omissions from, the Jensen Owners’ Club Events information given. For upcoming JOC events, please go to https://www.joc.org.uk/events/diary Publication REGALIAREGALIA The Jensen Owners’ Club magazine is published bi- monthly on the 1st of each Rajmattie Mangroo month starting in January. Rajmattie Mangroo The submissions deadline JOCJOC Regalia Regalia Secretary Secretary for the Nov/Dec issue #274 Phone:+44Phone:+44 (0) (0)7740142583 7740142583 is Friday 9th October and Email:Email: [email protected] [email protected] these must be sent to the Editor only. Articles for the magazine are welcomed for publication by the Editor, TheThe Jensen Jensen Owners Owners’ Club’ Club Regalia Regalia Shop Shop and andClothing Clothing has hasbeen been running running for overfor over 15 years15 years together with electronic plusplus and andwith with every every passing passing year year—we— aimwe aim to bring to bring you youfresh fresh and andnew new merchandise merchandise as well as well copies of photos which are as someas some of yourof your old oldfavorite. favorite. We Wehave have endeavor endeavor to keep to keep the theprices prices to our to ourmembers members below below preferred to maintain the the Retailthe Retail Market Market Price Price where where possible. possible. highest printing quality. The Club endeavours to take good care of all WeWe stock stock an arrayan array of items of items such such as: as: material submitted, but  Richard Richard Calver Calver—All— theAll Models;the Models; Jensen Jensen Genome Genome & Service & Service Bulletin; Bulletin; cannot be held responsible  Workshop Workshop Manuals; Manuals; Handbooks Handbooks and and Parts Parts Catalogues; Catalogues; for loss or damage, nor can it guarantee a specific  Wire Wire Diagrams; Diagrams; Models; Models; Custom Custom made made Over Over mats; mats; Custom Custom made made car carcover: cover: publication date. Advertising and andMetal Metal Polish Polish is accepted on the basis  Grill Grill badges, badges, Pins, Pins, Cufflinks, Cufflinks, Ladies Ladies Leather Leather Handbags' Handbags' and and Men's Men's Leather Leather that there is no guarantee WalletsWallets of a specific publication  And And much much more more date and that the Club has the right to refuse or CheckCheck out outour ournew new site siteat: https://joc.org.uk/shop at: https://joc.org.uk/shop and andfor ourfor ourrange range of clothing of clothing this this withdraw advertisements can canbe found be found at: https://www.totalclothingshop.co.uk/joc at: https://www.totalclothingshop.co.uk/joc at its discretion, nor does it accept liability for clerical or printer’s errors although every care is taken to avoid mistakes. Digital copies Digital copies of the magazines are available to view online in the members’ section of the website. To get access to this please contact the club’s IT Officer, Mrs Raj Mangroo – [email protected] – please note that these electronic magazines are restricted to Jensen Owners’ www.joc.org.uk/events/diary Club members only.

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 4

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Welcome nbelievably, we are already halfway through the year, and now suddenly, we find ourselves in a summer defined by face masks of every variety. To add to your collection, our Regalia Secretary Uhas arranged for all members to receive a complimentary Jensen Owners Club face mask; you can never be too safe.

In this issue, the Committee has several announcements for you and I would like to draw your attention to pages 50 to 52. It appears that car events are slowly starting again. I attended the London Concours in August and the Concours of Elegance in September. Our newly appointed Area Coordinator, Adam Fischer, has proposed his first event, which is currently advertised on the forum. Further information on the event which will be held at Bicester Heritage, can be found within the events section on our forum. Another date for your diary is Friday 13 - Sunday 15 November 2020. The JOC will be exhibiting at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show, with Discovery in Birmingham at the NEC. Members save £2 off adult day tickets booked in advance. Use the club code CC212 to receive your discount. This year’s show is not just about seeing stunning cars on display; it’s about reuniting our community and bringing friends together. Hence why the motto for the show is ‘Wheel Meet Again’. You will see this used on the Classic Motor Show’s social media channels as they start sharing various memories of the NEC Show from previous years. We are invited as a club to do the same using the hashtag #wheelmeetagain. Finally, our market has seen three new Jensen sales in the last few months. Two Jensen FFs priced in the region of £140,000, and a Jensen SP priced in the region of £90,000. Neither of the owners have owned Jensens before, so I am looking forward to welcoming them to the club soon..

Leah

Photographer: Alex Lawrence Instagram handle: a.d.lawrence Location: California Photoshoot: Editorial for Piloti and Classic Driver

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 6

The Leading Jensen Specialists All work performed in-house. Trim. Restoration. Mechanical. Upgrades.

www.cropredybridge.com 01295 758444 [email protected] 7 Committee Contents Chairman* General Secretary* A view from the bridge Shaun Winfield Chris Reed Chairman’s Interception 9 07969 129382 (07778) 195753 By Shaun Winfield [email protected] [email protected] 255 Staines Road, Twickenham, Jensen Stories TW2 5AY The Story of S34 the Treasurer* 1938 RAC Rally car 10 Ian Roberts Membership Secretary by David Davies (07920) 055153 Darren Barnes [email protected] 07973 961640 Technical Edwinstowe, Hambledown Road, [email protected] Confuse the Issue 19 Denmead, Waterlooville, 26 Foster Park Road, Denholme, By Kevin Bax Hampshire PO7 6EP Bradford, W. Yorks BD13 4BE Installation of a GM 4L60E 21 International Weekend C-V8 Registrar By Chuck Huber Stuart Allan John Staddon (07712) 767533 07759 909443 Jensen Life during Lockdown 25 [email protected] [email protected] By Tony Cope Owner Stories Concours Secretary Interceptor Registrar David Pearce Neil Bennet Interceptor Floor Pan 26 [email protected] [email protected] By Jon Miles Concours-winning restoration Regalia Secretary Int’ceptor Variants Reg. Jensen C-V8 MKIII 28 Mrs Raj Mangroo Tim Clark By Dennis Drenthe 07740 142583 (01322) 333484 If I were you I would [email protected] [email protected] not start from here 36 Press Liaison Officer FF Registrar By John Staddon Nic Cooper Dave Barnett Member Interview (07860) 467253 (01708) 456439 Question Time [email protected] [email protected] 41 By Leah Guilliard-Watts IT Officer Jensen- Reg. Area News Mrs Raj Mangroo Rob Heydon Area Representatives 44 07740 142583 (07771) 556230 Latest news and events [email protected] [email protected] Register News Early Cars Registrar S-V8 Registrar PT1 - My Love of Jensens 47 Joerg Huesken Chris Watts by Neil Bennett +49 172 3543210 07973 135219 [email protected] [email protected] Membership New Members 48 541 Registrars Area Coordinator New members joining and their cars David & Jane Turnage Adam Fischer The Leading Jensen Specialists (01206) 273140 07943 323305 Committee Announcements [email protected] [email protected] Announcements 50 Keeping you up-to-date All work performed in-house. * Executive Committee Members Trim. Restoration. Mechanical. Upgrades. Marketplace Advertisers and Classifieds 53 Magazine Services and sales Concours-winning restoration Editor, JOC Magazine VACANT Assistant Editor Leah Guillard-Watts & Advertising Asst. p28 [email protected] TEMP 01775 725020 (Office hours only) [email protected]

Honorary President and Club Archivist John Lane. Tel 0151 9249621. www.cropredybridge.com 01295 758444 [email protected] 8

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www.joc.org.uk 9 A view from the bridge BY SHAUN WINFIELD

ello and welcome to issue Now, club appointments: 273. I hope you are all • Many of you will no doubt know that Colin and well and safely easing out Diane Mayes have resigned from the Committee of lockdown; we really are and I must record my thanks to them for their efforts Hliving in such strange times. and enthusiasm over the years. • Consequently, Norfolk and Suffolk areas are now Taking into consideration the current East Anglia with Peter Heywood taking a watchful situation, I have been thinking about eye on things in the east of the country. how the Club could help its valued • The position of Assistant Editor is currently vacant; members. I have some thoughts which please email [email protected] or [email protected] for I need to run past the Committee; however, any ideas that further information on the role. you have on the matter are welcome. • Furthermore, we have a new Area Coordinator in I want to say, if circumstances allow us, I would be Adam Fischer, Adam has agreed to undertake this looking to work with Stuart to make next year’s International role, so please support him. He will no doubt be one to remember, for all the right reasons. No idea of the chasing Area Reps up for information on future INTERCEPTION CHAIRMAN’S venue yet but watch this space. meetings and alike shortly. Moving onto other Club matters, we have a club • And finally, we have a new Interceptor Registrar, presence at the Hampton Court Concours on the 5th of Neil Bennet. Neil has taken over from Stuart Turner. September and a stand at the NEC in November, it will Many thanks to Stuart for his input over the years be a basic stand with no bells and whistles this year due and still hope to see you around. Neil has been a to COVID and the safety restrictions. I am looking for cars club member for many years and was FF registrar for the NEC event in November to fit the theme of “the for some time in the last millennium. Please don’t post-war years”. Early Interceptor, 541, C-V8, Interceptor, hesitate to contact Neil if you need valuations, car Jensen-Healey. If anybody is interested, please get in touch information and give him your support. with me by the 15th of September 2020. So this brings me to next year, the Club’s 50th anniversary. Well, that’s about it from me for the time being. My Another challenge for those interested, I am looking for car has moved to a new home which is very similar to the someone to design me a logo for the 50th anniversary to old one. No pictures yet as I haven’t finished painting the go on clothing, radiator badges, beer mats etc. The Swiss walls or floor. I have almost emptied the cardboard boxes boys did us proud for the Interceptor/FF 50th; therefore, I following my move and hopefully will be fully settled in by am looking for something along the same lines. the next edition.

The photograph is of two Tonys. Our JOC Tony Marshall and the legendary Tony Curtis

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 10 The Story of S34 the 1938 RAC Rally car

BY DAVID DAVIES JENSEN STORIES JENSEN

CAC 41 in the 1938 RAC Rally

www.joc.org.uk JENSEN STORIES 11

n one of the most dramatic photos of a pre-war Jensen, Bates Mason was a director of the company alongside the the 1938 RAC Rally car chassis S34 registration CAC Jensen brothers. 41 was pictured close to the summit of Bwlch-y-Groes in Wales. David Davies first saw this S-Type Tourer in Alan Hess reviews the Jensen - 27 April 1938 I2004, shining like a beacon through the gloom of a dealer’s CAC 41 was lent out for road tests and rallies. Alan Hess, the car storage in Switzerland, offered with virtually no Brooklands racing driver, commentator and editor of Speed history. He wondered what stories it might tell if it could magazine, was the first to give his impressions of the car in talk. Once it arrived in the UK, David began researching his weekly Motoring Commentary in the 27 April 1938 issue its history. He relates its fascinating story and how he of The Bystander magazine: ‘I can say in all honesty that I gradually discovered it. have nothing but praise for the performance and handling of the new 3 ½ Litre Jensen. Its 30-h.p. V8 is powerful George Bates Mason – Limited and smooth, the modified induction system giving amazing Fortunately, the original Warwickshire vehicle registers still acceleration and an all-out speed of well over 90 m.p.h. exist. They show that CAC 41 was first registered on 24 Coupled with this is the perfect Burman Douglas March 1938 in the name of G B Mason of Jensen Motors with its excellent high ratio. The car corners confidently at Limited, at his home address Spring Coppice, Avenue Road, speed holding the road as though it were running on rails’. Dorridge in Warwickshire (the house has not survived). He also stated that he had persuaded Jensen Motors to George Bates Mason, then aged 32, was the main financial ‘allow me to enter one for the Royal Scottish Automobile backer of the Jensen brothers before the war. His father, Club’s Empire Exhibition Scottish Rally early in June’. In also called George Mason, had started a retail provisions the 8 June 1938 issue of The Bystander he says: ‘the car I business in his name in 1909 and by the time of his death am taking through is the 3 ½ Litre Jensen of which I wrote in August 1934 had built up a chain of around 385 stores. recently in The Bystander’. CAC 41 was that car. His son was also involved in the business. It was sold later in 1934 to International Tea Company’s Stores Ltd for a RAC Rally – 26-30 April 1938 substantial sum. Early in my research, Mike Williams, the Early Cars Registrar The Masons had a financial interest in the established in 2005, alerted me to a couple of photos in The Klementaski W J Smith & Sons which made commercial Collection showing CAC 41 at the end of the 1938 RAC vehicle bodies for the George Mason grocery chain. The Rally. This was the first I had heard of the Klementaski Jensen brothers joined the firm in 1931 to modernise its collection or that CAC 41 was in the RAC Rally. It gave me processes and started Jensen Motors within the firm to make hope that I might eventually discover more of its history. car bodies. Jensen Motors Limited was incorporated in The photo shows the car at the end of the rally in the driving 1936, absorbing the original coachbuilding business. George tests in Blackpool.

Left: George Mason in the late 1930s. Right: Mrs Mason and her eldest daughter Diana posed for photos in front of Spring Coppice in late 1937 with a white S-Type Drophead Coupé. Several pictures were taken, one appearing in the Tatler magazine on 24 November 1937 and another in the 3 ½ Litre brochure.

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CAC 41 on 29 April 1938 on Middle Walk, Blackpool Klementaski Collection

CAC 41 was driven by the rally and trials driver Hubert Kenneth Crawford (known as ‘Ken Crawford’). In the previous year, he had competed in the Welsh Rally in the first production S-Type Tourer with the registration EA 8272. In the 1938 RAC Rally he started from Leamington Spa on 26 April 1938 with two other Jensens: a Jensen 3 ½ Litre Saloon in metalessence blue, registration BJW 800, driven by Jensen friend Alan Hunt and navigated by the Jensen Sales Manager, Major Weir, and a unique K-Type Drophead Coupé in red with a Steyr 2 ¼ Litre engine, registration EA 9396, driven by another Jensen friend John Hathaway. They covered around 1,000 miles during the next three days arriving in Blackpool in the late afternoon of 28 April Alan Hunt and Major Weir in Blackpool 1938. Alan Hunt’s car won the Coachwork Competition for 4-door Closed Cars. Sadly, EA 9396 and BJW 800 are not CAC 41 was also pictured in the coachwork competition known to have survived. on the promenade. Ken Crawford is on the left. Unusually, CAC 41 had its wire wheels painted in its body colour rather than the more usual black.

CAC 41 in the coachwork competition on Blackpool seafront John Hathaway in EA 9396 at Leamington Spa Klementaski Collection www.joc.org.uk JENSEN STORIES 13

I traced Ken Crawford’s son John Crawford, who still drive is brought into play, giving the very high top gear of retained all his father’s rally and trials cups, and he provided 2.9 to 1 and corresponding raised indirect ratios’. me with the wonderful opening photo of CAC 41 on Bwlch- The highest maximum speed achieved was 89.1 mph. y-Groes. The full Road Test is reproduced in the book Jensen 1934- 1965 published by Brooklands Books. Royal Scottish Automobile Club Scottish Rally – In the complete set of Autocar at the British Library I 6-10 June 1938 found that Michael Brown had also assembled material for As already noted, CAC 41 was lent to Alan Hess for the an article that appeared in the 1 July 1938 issue of Autocar Scottish Rally. He can be glimpsed in this photo next to the following the route of the ancient Fosse Way from Axminster Alvis of John Barber. It is the only known photo of Hess in in Devon up to Lincoln. that rally.

Near a remote bridge over the River Avon Alan Hess glimpsed in the white Jensen in the 1938 Scottish Rally

In his weekly Motoring Commentary in the 22 June 1938 issue of The Bystander, Hess enthused: ‘The Jensen 30-h.p. Jensen Tourer which I took through this year’s Scottish is one of those comparative rarities – a car which “looks a million” and performs at least as well as it looks . . . Its times in all the special tests against dozens of super-sports cars, were so creditable that it secured fifth place in its class’. Hess drove CAC 41 in the Welsh Rally in July 1938 but had to retire after he broke the reverse gear. The following year he would drive S44 registered AEA 311 in the RAC and With the hood erected Scottish rallies.

Autocar Road Test – 17 June 1938 In the 17 June 1938 issue of Autocar a Road Test of the ‘3 ½ Litre Jensen Tourer’ appeared, using CAC 41 as the test car. The Assistant Editor of Autocar, Michael Brown, conducted the test over 700 miles. It is likely that the test took place in May 1938 before Alan Hess used the car in the Scottish Rally. Michael Brown commented: ‘the car possesses capital acceleration, a fine range of top gear performance and a notably effortless manner of travelling. Also, this is a first-rate example of the modern four-seater open tourer. A smart and individual appearance has been achieved, from the clean-cut lines of the radiator to the shapely tail of the body. Plenty of power is provided by the side-valve V-type eight-cylinder engine. The use of a stout cruciform-braced frame gives the whole car solidity. One of the most important points of the Jensen is the provision of a dual rear axle ratio. A pull and push control on the instrument board having been moved and the clutch pedal being depressed, a supplementary final In Devon on the Fosse Way

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub JENSEN STORIES 14

Another shot in Cornwall

Speed magazine Road Test - December 1938 In the December 1938 issue of Speed magazine, a review of the 3 ½ Litre Sports Tourer was included written by ‘J.H’, probably John Hathaway who competed in the 1938 RAC Rally and had owned Jensen-bodied cars for several years, as he says in the article. The pictured car was CAC 41. Hathaway collected the car from British and Colonial Motors Ltd in Long Acre near Covent Garden, the London and Home Counties distributor. He commented: ‘the first thing that impresses itself when driving through the West End traffic is the exquisite road manners of the V-8 engine. The car would crawl along at 4 mph in top and Michael Brown consults the map accelerate from that speed without snatch or judder’. Opening the car up beyond Esher, he continued: ‘the When I owned CAC 41, I managed to find the locations sensation of doing sixty with the engine turning over at a on the Fosse Way where these photos were taken and had leisurely 2,100 rpm is uncanny in its absence of mechanical a lot of fun in doing so. noise’. Once at Brooklands, with the windscreen down, he Richard and Elizabeth Jensen’s honeymoon – achieved a maximum speed of 86.5 mph. July 1938 According to Richard Calver, CAC 41 was used as Richard Sale by the factory and Elizabeth Jensen’s honeymoon car. As noted in the It is not known how long CAC 41 remained with the Mason previous issue, Richard Jensen and Elizabeth Dyson were family at Spring Coppice. According to his daughters, married in Great Malvern Priory on 1 July 1938. While the Malvern Gazette of 2 July 1938 grandly claimed that ‘the bride and bridegroom left to spend their honeymoon abroad’, Richard believes that the couple went to Cornwall. Two grainy photos that appeared in the October 1938 issue of Motor Sport and the December issue of Speed magazine (in which the registration is visible) may well have been taken on their honeymoon.

CAC 41 in Cornwall July 1938 George Mason in the RAF www.joc.org.uk JENSEN STORIES 15

their father joined the RAF in 1940, later becoming Wing He was an apprentice at Carbery Garage in Carbery Row, Commander Mason, and did not return until the end of the Southbourne Road in Southbourne near Bournemouth in war. Given the VR on his lapel, he may have joined the the 1950s. It used to repair vintage cars including Volunteer Reserve a few years earlier while continuing his and O.M.s. The proprietor, Alfred Carlile (known as ‘Carl’), civilian occupation. George Mason’s eldest daughter, the acquired the Jensen from a friend in Rhyader in Wales late Diana Mason O.B.E., remembered in 2006 ‘two white around 1955 who ‘had found it locally’. Carl owned the car Jensens being laid up with dust covers over them during the until about 1957. It was painted green. Carl had ‘endless war’. As noted above, CAC 41 was in British & Colonial trouble with it overheating’ so the young John Humphrey was Motors Ltd in the autumn of 1938 when picked up for the despatched to Norfolk to collect a new ex-War Department Speed magazine Road Test. It is not known whether it sold, Ford . He provided the photo of the car outside so it may have returned to the Masons until 1945. George Carbery Garage. The original fog light, horns and side lights Mason left Jensen Motors in 1945 and became a farmer. had all been replaced with non-standard ones. Possible adverts for the car appeared in 1946 issues of When I visited Warwickshire Record office, a record Autocar at Brooklands of Bond Street in London. card for the car showed that the last UK owner in 1963 was a Dr P W Wynn Griffiths of Felton in Somerset. I managed Post war history to 1963 to trace Dr Griffiths’ widow, Naomi Griffiths. She explained It was initially difficult to establish any history for the period that her husband purchased the car the month before they 1945 to 1963 so I wrote to The Automobile magazine with got married in 1962. They were heading down the A4 a photo. Many weeks later I heard from a gentleman called towards Savernake Forest when they decided to stop at a John Humphrey who had not even bought the magazine garage, later confirmed to be the famous Halfway Garage but by chance happened to see his brother’s copy. (Padworth), a mecca for pre-war car enthusiasts at the time.

At ‘Carbery’ Garage in Southbourne around 1955

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub JENSEN STORIES 16

While the couple lived in Felton in Somerset, Naomi interests in real estate in downtown Pittsburgh. He also Griffiths said that the Jensen was kept at her father’s house owned a historic steam locomotive. at Avebury Vicarage in Avebury, Wiltshire and little used. Rick Kriss and his father, Peter Kriss, restored CAC 41 The proprietor of Thornfalcon Classics responded to my between 1971 and 1973. Rick first remembered seeing Automobile letter: as a boy he saw the Jensen in the barn at the car in 1964 while still at high school. It was in a large the vicarage when on a school trip. parking garage owned by Stern among numerous pre-war I managed to access the original stock books of Halfway English cars. He recalled that it was ‘moss green’ in colour, Garage (Padworth) still held by the family of the original ‘shabby but solid, the paint peeling in places with some proprietor. The records showed that the Jensen had been evidence of filler inexpertly applied. The interior leather was purchased from a Mr Samuel Williams of Milton Road, cracked and had obviously been recoated in a tan colour’. Pewsey for £125 on 21 April 1961 and that the garage sold Kriss said that from 1974 the restoration workshop it to Dr Griffiths for £185 on 8 June 1962. It is believed became known as Stern’s Motor Museum and Restorations. that Williams was a metals dealer. He sometimes traded It was in Irwin, Pennsylvania. There was a workshop on cars rather than break them. The proprietor of Thornfalcon the ground floor with restored cars on the upper floor. Classics recalled Williams having another white Jensen It was open to the public and had a sign outside. Stern Tourer around 1957/58. This was not CAC 41 as by then it had several storage depots to store his huge collection, was green. It may have been S29 registered DOV 815 or H6 including disused cinemas that he owned. Kriss said that registered AEA 269 as both these Tourers were white at the Stern’s main interest was in buying the cars and following time and later passed through Halfway Garage (Padworth). their restoration. Cars in the display area were taken on A job-move to North Wales resulted in Dr Griffiths a trailer to Hershey or Classic Car Club of America events advertising the car in Motor Sport in March 1963 for 220 from time to time though usually Stern did not go himself, guineas. It was described as ‘in excellent condition and the mechanics going instead. The cars were never driven recently overhauled with a new engine not yet run in, with to the events. a new hood’. Naomi Griffiths remembered the car having Stern died in 1989 and the collection was gradually sold to be steam cleaned before it was crated up for export to off with the Jensen being advertised on commission by the the USA. Pennsylvania Motor Company in 1996. It was later offered at a Brooks auction in Carmel California in August 2000 and Ernest Stern collection (1963 - 1996) sold to the dealer Charles Craik, who a week later sold it When I bought the car from Oldtimer Galerie in Switzerland to Al Gugisberg of Oldtimer Galerie in Toffen, Switzerland. all the proprietor could tell me was that it ‘used to be in The car was placed on commission with Fantasy Junction the Stern Collection in the USA’. He had no other details. garage in California, then Paradise Garage in London, finally Searches on the internet did not show any Stern Collection arriving in Switzerland in 2003. in the USA. I eventually managed to find a clue in a US Association My ownership of CAC 41 (2004 – 2009) of Jensen Owners White Lady magazine dating from 1977 Initial re-commissioning took place in the workshops of the which reprinted an advert from a business called Rick’s Haynes Motor Museum in 2004/5 and included a complete Antique Auto Parts in Kansas. It boasted that it had been overhaul of the suspension, steering and . The car able to supply a screw-in condenser for the Mallory ignition had been restored by Stern as a static exhibit. A gearbox of ‘Ernest Stern’s 1937 White ‘H’ model Jensen’ (in fact it rebuild was completed by the early Ford V8 specialists was a 1938 ‘S’ model). The advert added that ‘Rick Kriss of Belcher Engineering. The stone guards under the wings and Stern’s Motor Museum and Restorations was in a bind and wing stays had not been reinstated so the wings flapped. wanted to get the car ready for a show in a couple of weeks’. Belchers recreated these. I acquired a Columbia twin-ratio Some club members later visited Stern’s Motor Museum and rear axle for the car as the original had long since been Restorations to have a look at the Jensen. I also established removed. This was bought sight unseen on Ebay in the from early JOC magazines that ‘E. Stern’ in Pittsburgh was a USA and fitted by Belchers. The replacement engine was member of the JOC, member number 73. exceptionally sweet, possibly still not yet fully run in. A further search on the internet showed Rick Kriss’s business telephone number in 2005 as he was advertising for parts. I called him out of the blue and he immediately started explaining in detail what was done to the Jensen over 30 years previously. Subsequently, I visited him near Pittsburgh. I found a good obituary of Ernest Stern and other articles in the Pittsburgh newspaper archives and obtained a copy of an interview with Stern on TV in the USA. Ernest Stern was a major collector, amassing a collection of around 400 cars, including Bugattis, Rolls Royces, Bentleys, Alvis and many American makes, especially Lincolns. He was a multi-faceted entrepreneur owning and running, with his cousin, a large chain of movie theatres in six states. He also owned a luxury yacht building business, an airline and a hotel in the Bahamas. He had substantial The front compartment www.joc.org.uk JENSEN STORIES 17

The V8 engine Taking John Crawford for a drive

The car did not have any side-screens or tonneaus so I George Mason, had acquired the car on 24 March 1938. It had those made up by Matthew Turton of Strong & Turton, was a special day. along with a new hood bag. They managed to find in the In 2009, I sold the Jensen at Bonhams following some USA a roll of the obsolete hood material used by the Stern surgery. It was acquired by the Studio 434 collection, where Collection workshop in the 1970s. Matthew Turton also it remains. renewed the carpets. I was delighted to meet John Crawford at the JOC David’s love affair with the Jensen S-Type Tourer International in 2007 and took him for a long drive in the resumed in 2016 when he bought S44 registration AEA Jensen which his father had rallied nearly 70 years before. 311, the 1939 RAC Rally car. The history was sketchy so a Then we visited the late Diana Mason O.B.E. whose father, search to discover its full story began!

Diana Mason O.B.E. with CAC 41

Acknowledgements With thanks to Valerie Mason, John Crawford, John Humphrey, Naomi Griffiths, Rick Kriss, Mike Williams and Richard Calver. Other sources include the Klementaski Collection, the LAT Archive, Autocar, The Motor, Motor Sport, Speed magazine, The Bystander. Britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk; ancestry.co.uk; the White Lady magazine; Jensen Owners’ Club List of Members 1976.

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 18 Confuse the Issue

BY KEVIN BAX n the 8 years ownership of our MKI J-H, 1140/10091, it has left me stranded twice at the side of the road. On both occasions this was traced back to the same fault. The first time was within a few months of ownership on Ithe way to a show. A return trip on a flatbed was the result of that. I found the fault to be in the fuse box where a feed is taken off to the fuel pump. The end cap of fuse number 2 is used as conductor to supply 12v to the pump. The fuse was slightly loose in the holder interrupting the circuit. A clean up and squeezing together of the terminals that hold the fuse rectified the problem.

Roll on just over six years and I had been asked to help out with a Owners’ event that was passing through just a few miles from where we live. Two hundred metres out of the gates on the way to the event and RTC 956L lets me down again. A quick dash to get the everyday pick-up to tow our J-H back up the hill and into the drive. Once back from the Maserati event I traced the fault back to the same problem. I knew I couldn’t leave it like that to fail on me again sometime in the future. A modern upgrade to blade fuses was the answer. A small 6 way fuse box was bought online for the price of a couple of coffees to replace the original

TECHNICAL 3 way box. A visit to the forum was the first port of call. As always plenty of useful advice and it seems that, with the help of David Devine pointing me in the right direction, Peter Heywood had carried out the same modification some 13 years previously with exactly the same 6-way fuse box that I had just purchased. So, I knew it could be done. I realized that once I started this I couldn’t go back so I removed the fuses and pulled the terminals out of the rear of the fuse box which also straightened out the terminals .

Original fuse box with fixings removed

Fused box removed

www.joc.org.uk TECHNICAL 19

The new fuse box needed to be mounted onto a new panel to close the large hole left in the bulkhead. I used the outline of the existing metal plate to cut a new plate out of an aluminium composite material approximately 5mm thick. I marked and drilled holes to match the existing fixing holes in the bulkhead. I drilled two 20mm holes for the ends of the cables to pass through and bonded grommets into the holes. A slot was cut to allow the panel to fit over the existing wiring loom. As a safety measure I had some intumescent sheet left over from a fire door closer and again used the template to cut the flame proof material to go against the bulkhead.

Mounting panel in situ and wires terminated.

The intumescent material and the mounting panel could now be offered up. In hindsight, 25mm diameter holes with grommets would have been better as it was touch and go if all the terminations would pass through the 20mm holes. However they did and I used snipe nose pliers to push the terminals onto the rear of the new fuse box.

New fuse box, mounting panel and intumescent sheet.

The next step was the part I wasn’t looking forward to. To cut off the existing terminals from the exposed wires and solder on female blade terminals. Gallons of tea helped with this but certainly no going back then! With only around 50mm of each wire protruding through the bulkhead it wasn’t easy to solder on the new Replacement fuse box terminals but I managed it without having to extend any of them. I thought I would need to remove the bonnet but I have installed 15 amp fuses into the holders and managed with it in place. I also had to make some links to have yet to identify each circuit to their individual fuse connect some of the terminals together on the feed side as but everything works on the car that should work. One I was doubling the amount of fuses. problem solved, I’m sure I could find a few more to solve.

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Classic Jensen Insurance for JOC members

20% discount for Jensen Owners Club members.* Multi-vehicle and limited mileage policies available. Free DNA+ protection kit with each policy. Simple and free agreed value service. *Subject to minimum premium and normal underwriting criteria. Terms and conditions may apply. Please ask for details.

0333 003 8162 Facebook “f” Logo RGB / .ai Facebook “f” Logo RGB / .ai www.cherishedvehicleinsurance.co.uk Calls to 0333 numbers are charged at ‘normal’ rates from landlines. Cherished Vehicle Insurance Services is a trading name of A-Plan Holdings who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered Offi ce: 2 Des Roches Square, Witney, OX28 4LE. Registered in England. Registration Number 750484 CVI 083 01/17 21

Installation of a GM 4L60E Electronically Controlled

BY CHUCK HUBER

n December of 2016, I began the replacement of my at Phoenix Transmissions in Weatherford, TX. Phoenix has ailing 727 Torqueflite, with a modern, electronically lots of experience with these types of transmission swaps, controlled, 4 speed automatic transmission. The GM and has supplied a number of transmissions to Interceptor 4L60E (electronic) features overdrive, and a locking owners in the past. Itorque convertor. The 4L60E transmission is used in GM This conversion project yielded a much improved car, vehicles (Corvettes and Camaros, among other). In addition, yet remained true to the spirit of the - I added a “lower” gear in the differential (going from a 2.88 “The Gentleman’s Express” - a high speed touring car. The rear end to a 3.54 rear end), which will be discussed in a GM 4L60E allows me to take advantage of the power / follow-on article. The genesis of this conversion was based torque available in my 440 motor. on conversions done to Big Block / MOPAR vehicles here in the United States. The conversion is not uncommon, The critical things that had to be done to make this and the majority of the parts are available “off the shelf”. conversion successful were: 1. Purchase / install a rebuilt 4L60Etransmission (1972 Jensen Interceptor Mk111, 2. Purchase / install a Wilcap “Chrysler to GM”

133-5597, Tucson, Arizona) Transmission adapter / crank spacer / flexplate. TECHNICAL The goals for the conversion were: 3. Purchase / install a Chrysler “mini-starter” from late 1. Get a reliable and robust transmission in my car (my model Dodge Dakota V8. Torqueflite was weak, slipped all shifts, didn’t kick 4. Purchase / install an Electronic Transmission down, and constantly poured fluid on the ground) Computer / Controller (HGM COMPUSHIFT II). 2. Provide high speed cruising at low engine RPM 5. Install a carburetor-mounted Throttle Position (aiming for ~75 MPH at ~2300 RPM) Sensor (TPS). 3. Increase performance as judged by “off-the-line” 6. Modify and lengthen the driveshaft to match acceleration differential splines. 4. Improve gas mileage (this was a low priority 7. Implement switching for Park / Neutral start, and to objective) control reverse lights. 8. Modification of the shifter to GM 6 Position (Park/ There are a few other “common” transmission upgrades Rev/Neutral/O-Drive/3rd/2nd/1st) available for the Interceptor that could achieve the above 9. Drive speedometer cable (the GM 4L60E doesn’t goals. One solution is the use of the Chrysler 518, which is have a cable drive) a three speed box with overdrive, and can have a locking 10. (O p t io nal) I n s t all a n ad di t io nal, s e p a r at e Tr a n s mis sio n torque convertor, but requires an aftermarket bell housing to Cooler and associated plumbing. mate to a 440. In addition, the 518 was originally intended 11. (Optional) Upgrade the rear end ratio using Dana 44 for small block MOPAR applications. Another option was the components (future article) installation of a Gear Vendor Overdrive (GVO) unit, but that would not help with my failing 727. The GVO solution has I purchased Phoenix’s PT4L60EST transmission, which is challenges due to significantly reduced length. rated for up to 500 HP and 525 ft-lbs of torque. This unit is My car was taken on a ~1000 mile drive from Tucson, “overbuilt” for my current motor, but who knows what the Arizona, to Weatherford Texas, to have the conversion done future will hold (see Figure 1). Figure 1 – Transmission Assembly

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub TECHNICAL 22

Using the HGM Electronics’ COMPUSHIFT II, the system will have an electronic controller for monitoring transmission performance, and modifying shift points and torque convertor lock-up. The COMPUSHIFT system requires a carburetor-mounted Throttle Position Sensor, but primarily gets data from the electronics internal to the transmission. The conversion was performed with the car up on a 4 post lift. Once the car was raised, the driveshaft, and 727 Torqueflite were removed along with the required ancillary components (the flexplate, starter, linkages and harnessing). No removal of the engine was required. The exhaust system was removed to allow additional access for the installation. An initial concern was fitment of the 4L60Ein the vehicle without tunnel modifications. While it was a tight fit, the adapter plate, and the transmission fit within the tunnel without modification to the engine location mounts. There was no disassembly of the interior, with the exception of the removal of the shifter assembly. The shifter required minor modifications for the P-R-N-D-L (Park/Reverse/Neutral/ Drive/Low) function. A standard GM Manual Lever Position Sensor (MLPS) switch was utilized. The MLPS switch provides the starter lockout function (my vehicle will only start in “Park”), and also provides the Reverse Light function. As a note, in the 727 Torqueflite, the reverse lights are turned on via a switch on the transmission, and there is a special harness from the transmission that controls the starter lockout (allowing starts in Park & Neutral), and operates the reverse lights. Unfortunately, Figure 2: Wilcap Bell Housing Adapter without installation of the 4L60E MLPS switch, there is not such an external function on the 4L60E transmission. Prior to final transmission install, while the team had An additional “quirk” with my Jensen manual shifter access to the transmission tunnel, the shift lever assembly assembly configuration is that the shift lever is unable to modifications (installation of the MLPS, and electrical command the 4L60E’s first (low) gear, although (of course) connections, and shifter cable adaptations) were performed. first gear is available via electronic control when the manual Minor rerouting of the hardlines from the transmission to the shifter remains in the “D” (Drive) position (which is most of front of the vehicle was accomplished. Once the work within the time). Custom fabrication was required in three instances. the transmission tunnel was completed, the transmission The ministarter and the 4L60E bellhousing required a bit was bolted in place, the fabricated rear cross member of clearancing for correct fitment, easily managed with a brace was mounted, and the majority of the “heavy lifting” grinder. A custom rear support bracket was fabricated, which was completed. The rear transmission mount is shown in supports the tail of the transmission. This was a relatively Figure 3. straightforward project, but required custom measurement A new driveshaft was fabricated from .093” (2.5 mm) and a good bit of fabrication and welding. Transmission tubing, with premium, greasable 1330 universal joints. The mount locations were relatively comparable between the driveshaft was fabricated to length, verified, and balanced. 727 Torqueflite and the GM 4L60E Transmission (see Figure 3). Finally, a custom driveshaft was required, both for length, and for adaptation to the drive adapters (U-Joints) on the 4L60E and the rear differential. Adaptation of the Chrysler block to the GM transmission was provided by a Wilcap 426-350AT transmission adapter kit (refer to Figure 2). The Wilcap kit provides a block-to-bell housing billet adapter plate, flex plate, hub adapter and bolt kit (for convenience, WILCAP can also source a compatible gear reduction starter unit, but we chose to use a local source for the generic starter). Once the transmission was test fit and the minor fettling of the starter was performed, assembly was begun in earnest. I selected a Phoenix PTGM18SS locking torque convertor (which provides higher efficiency at highway cruising speed by eliminating all torque convertor slip when engaged). This convertor has a stall speed between 2000-2200 RPM. Figure 3: Fabricated Transmission Mount www.joc.org.uk TECHNICAL 23

In my implementation, I utilized the stock transmission cooler on the left side of the radiator, but then the output of the primary cooler was routed to an additional air-to-fluid cooler mounted in front of my A/C Condenser / radiator assembly. It was a very minor plumbing change, and an easy mount to the front valence, behind the grille. The primary electronic control function is provided by HGM Electronics COMPUSHIFT II controller. This electronic computer is programmed for transmission control, and receives the majority of its information from the transmission directly. In addition, it requires the installation of a Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) tied to the carburetor throttle linkage. The COMPUSHIFT II provides a controller “pod” that allows real-time monitoring of transmission parameters. The COMPUSHIFT II electronics box was mounted in the cockpit, under the passenger seat. The HGM package provides all the harnesses, and wiring needed for installation, including the TPS. The newer generation COMPUSHIFT System uses more modern electronics and interfaces. Figure 4 shows a picture of the COMPUSHIFT II control pod, and the status display normally provided. The controller also allows modification of the transmission & engine parameters that control the transmission operation (shift points, convertor lockup, etc.). Minor bracketry was required to mount the TPS to the carburetor base (as each vehicle will have a potentially different mounting requirements), but the kit came with the linkage needed to connect the sensor to the carb. The TPS configuration is shown if Figure 5. The final step in my installation was development of a speedometer cable drive system. The GM 4L60E Figure 4: COMPUSHIFT II Display Pod

RPM Engine (Revolutions per Minute) MPH Miles Per Hour (can be set in Km/H) GEAR Transmission Gear (1-4) TCC A Torque Convertor Locked (On/Off) TEMP Transmission Temperature BATT Voltage at Transmission Electronics TP Throttle Position (in %) PRB Shift Pressure (as a % of total hydraulic pressure)

Figure 5: Below Throttle Position Sensor Installation

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transmission does not have a cable drive interface, so the team installed a speed sensor in the transmission casing, Phoenix Transmission in and used this to drive a Dakota Digital speedometer cable driver. This is just a box with a motor that drives the cable at Weatherford, TX the appropriate rate, based on the vehicle speed. This unit A little info on Phoenix’s resume.... Did you know they was mounted under the driver’s seat, and an appropriately built performance automatics for ? shortened speedometer cable was utilized. After the car From Greg Ducato (Phoenix Owner): was delivered, I found the cable routing was eased by using “The short story is we were building custom a New Old Stock (NOS) Smiths BG 2413/00 90* cable transmissions for an exporter that was supplying adapter at the back of the speedometer. products to Aston Martin. This was in 1985, when Prior to my pick-up of the car, the Phoenix team went Phoenix had only been in business for two (2) years, through the car, reinstalled mufflers, and installed a metal and was doing many specialty projects. Phoenix was closeout plate between the block and transmission. The final approached by this exporter to build a number of steps were the calibration of the COMPUSHIFT II system transmissions for Aston Martin, as they (Aston) were to match it to the engine and transmission parameters. unhappy with the Chrysler-sourced 727 lockup units Minor calibration was also required for the Dakota being used at the time. Digital speedometer system. There were a few unplanned Aston Martin liked the Phoenix product and we challenges in this swap due to the Jensen’s design that had to soon found ourselves building all of their production be overcome. The Jensen Shifter Linkage behaves opposite automatic transmissions until 1987, when Aston Martin of what was needed for the 4L60E. The shifter linkage and was bought out by Ford. Our company continued cable was re-engineered so that the end of the shift cable supplying transmissions to Aston Martin dealers in the would operate appropriately for the 4L60E. Additionally, U.S. as replacement transmissions. in a standard Interceptor, the throttle cable attaches to Phoenix personnel were fortunate to be able the carburettor at the front of the engine, but this required to spend ten days in Newport Pagnell at the Aston reconfiguration to correctly operate the TPS. Nevertheless, factory modifying a number of the former Chrysler these and all other modifications were set up so that the car sourced transmissions and developing some higher could be taken back to stock. No irrevocable changes were performance units for the Vantage and Zagato models. made to any of the linkages, cabling, or harnessing. Phoenix personnel also attended the Birmingham show The car was driven back across Texas to Arizona with Aston Martin upon the unveiling of the Vantage without incident. It was a transformation of the vehicle. It Volante later that year. It was a fun project and a real now lopes along at 70+ miles an hour at 2300 RPM, and honor to be working with such a storied manufacturer has the power/torque to spare when the “loud” pedal is and group of enthusiasts.” depressed. It was an excellent modification that has proven Phoenix Owner (Photo Supplied by Phoenix to be trouble free. Transmission)

Links: Phoenix Transmission – Performance Automatically! http://www.phoenixtrans.com/ Wilcap Adapter Plate & Source for Mini-Starter http://www.wilcap.com/wilcapstore.html#!/426-350-AT/p/54397325/category=14420228 HGM Electronics – Source for the COMPUSHIFT Electronic Transmission Controller https://www.hgmelectronics.com/ Dakota Digital – Source for Speedometer Drive Unit https://www.dakotadigital.com/

Interceptor Mk 111 after Modification in West Texas, USA

www.joc.org.uk 25 Jensen Life during Lockdown

BY TONY COPE JCCA VICE PRESIDENT JOC AUSTRALIA REP

hat an incredible period we have all experienced, and more to come as the world gets back to what will inevitably be a new Wnormal, whatever that is. For me, I was looking forward to the Jensen Car Club Australia (JCCA) National Rally at Katoomba high up in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney in late May. As the lockdown rapidly progressed the JCCA in mid-March made the right call to defer the National Rally for a year. It was entirely understandable and very much acknowledge many people were much more deeply impacted both by the Still more work to do lockdown and losing loved ones to the virus. The C-V8 MKIII was already at the body shop having a grease monkey at a workshop at Harbord Beach in Sydney. nose job after I knocked the front of the bonnet last winter One of those small workshops with a few petrol pumps on with the nose job stretching to a full back to gelcoat respray. the forecourt; not many left nowadays. Mitchell, now based It was due back late April so that I could reinstall the in London as a Senior Chartered Surveyor, got permission interior, the new plexiglass side windows, the newly re- to work from Sydney during the lockdown and visited his chromed front bumper, and other bits and pieces to have it old workplace where the proprietor Scott was thinking of

ready for Katoomba. closing down for a month as work had dried up. So I called TECHNICAL Scott up and asked if was interested in doing work on my Interceptor MKII to keep him occupied such as re-bushing the front suspension, replacing the engine mounts, fixing a leaking diff. I planned to do further work in the future, he said “That would be great, it should take a few weeks”. So I finished off reinstalling the re-chromed front bumper and refurbished drivers side stainless steel sill before delivering it to Scott.

Re-chromed front bumper

However, with the lockdown, the body shop stood down most of its staff, so little work was done to the C-V8, and at the time of writing in mid-June, it is still a month away from completion. The work done so far is of a very high standard, so looking forward to seeing the final product!

The rainmaker undergoing work

The Interceptor turned out to be a rainmaker (or work magnet as Scott called it) and having it visible on the hoist drew in several other classic car customers. Within a few weeks, Scott had a Jaguar S Type, a , an early Nissan Patrol, a VW Type 3 and an old Kombi all booked in for attention. So like the C-V8, progress slowed on the C-V8 restoration paused Interceptor, but as it was no longer for the 2020 Katoomba Rally, it did not matter. Over the next month, both cars When my son Mitchell finished school in 2009, I got should return home – and will be in fine fettle for the him a pre-university vacation job as the pump jockey/ delayed Katoomba Rally in 2021!

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 26

Interceptor Floor Pan

BY JON MILES

I bought the Jensen in 2015 to add to the The appeal of owning a Jensen was so infectious that I following collection: ignored all the alarm bells ringing in my head and handed • 1964 Ford Thunderbird Coupe, 390FE, 3 speed over the money. At least the leather interior and exterior OWNER STORIES OWNER auto. paintwork were passable when wearing sunglasses on a • 1967 Daimler 2.5 V8 saloon, factory 5-speed rainy day. manual. During the subsequent five years of restoration, it has • 1980 Mercedes 280SL , factory 4 speed enjoyed short journeys between no less than nine different manual. specialist garages where all aspects of the car have been • 1987 Mercedes 300SL convertible, auto meticulously restored, or modified to my specification. Here is the story of how the partly rusty floors and sills he previous owner managed to convince me that were removed and replaced. it was a rust-free example, having had its sills and inner wings replaced by a previous owner. I was Prologue also told that the overheating 440ci engine and The floor pan on each side of the car comes in four sections, Tpudding-like automatic gearbox would be easy to fix. total cost £546 + vat, duly supplied by Martin Robey Ltd.

Interceptor Sill Close up of sill requiring repair

www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 27

Interceptor floor pan replaced

After the floors were carefully removed with cutting discs and cold chisels, further rot was discovered to the inner and outer sills. Replacement were duly ordered from Martin Robey’s at an additional cost of £533 + vat.

TOOL Dictionary HACKSAW: Of the various garages who looked at my Jensen’s floors, it is fair to say that most of them cowered away. A young welder quoted 5 days and then changed his Further work on the floor pan mind, or had his mind changed for him. Finally, the nice guys at Jensen specialist Pale Classics Dave is a professional photographer and a first class took an interest and the car was quickly put on a ramp for welder with an exceptional eye for detail. He got stuck in work to begin. and sent me updates of his progress via WhatsApp, some of After a few days of swift progress on ancillary repairs which you can see in this article. and daily updates, the lines of communication suddenly I was well aware that Interceptors had originally been went quiet and by the end of week two I began to worry. hand built at Jensen’s Kelvin Way factory in West Bromwich, On at the premises I spotted a note taped over the but it had not occurred to me that every car is unique with letterbox: ‘Deliver all parcels next door’. many parts fabricated and finished by hand. As a result, it The chap in the neighbouring unit took delight in my turned out that the replacement floor panels from Martin look of horror as he explained to me that “Pale Classics had Robey were a good starting point, but would require hours ceased business and the whole operation had been cleared of fettling for an exact fit. out, with only one ramp left standing in the otherwise Fortunately Dave Ward was up to the job and worked empty unit.” tirelessly to finish the job, often late into the night. After a theatrical pause for effect, he mentioned as an After about six and a half weeks, just as the pandemic afterthought “Oh, there’s an old car stuck up on the ramp was looming, Peter secured a new workshop and Griffin without any wheels on”. A glimmer of hope… “Is it dark Classics was born. Pete and Dave delivered the Jensen blue?” I asked. “Could be” said chap. “Has it got silver to the new workshop and Pete began stone chipping stripes?” “Yes” he said. The chap, who now appeared to the underside and rust proofing any interior exposed me like a winged angel Gabriel, scribbled down a phone steel. He seam sealed the new floors and fitted layers of number and a few seconds later I was talking with one of sound proofing. The electric harness was checked and all the lads from Pale Classics who told me of his intention to instruments and switches were tested before re-installing. set up a new business with the same crew and my Jensen Then carpets, rear seats, front and rear interior, seat belts, would be first in, first out. Hallelujah. front seats and centre console and the exhaust system. Under the hood we replaced the master vacuum unit and HAMMER: Originally employed as a weapon of war, the the pedal box was removed and reconditioned. New brake hammer nowadays is used as a kind of divining rod to discs and hoses plus new pads and wheel bearings were locate expensive car parts not far from the object we are added to improve the ride and drivability of this Interceptor. trying to hit. The results of Dave and Pete’s work are almost too That all happened in September 2019. Meanwhile good to hide away under stone chip and dark blue carpets, Peter Griffin, the soon-to-be proprietor of the phoenix-like but knowing that the work has been properly done brings garage, was busy scouring the area for a suitable unit to site me peace of mind. The cost is significant, but it’s nothing his new Jensen business: Griffin Classics. compared to the satisfaction and sensation of the Jensen As the weeks flew by, Pete kept in touch with regular driving experience. updates, but suitable units were apparently in short supply. Sensing my desperation to have my car back on the road, Garage: Griffin Classics, Jensen specialist he arranged for his welder, Dave Ward, to take the car to Contact Details: [email protected] his unit and carry on from where Pale Classics had left off. Dave Ward(welding) [email protected]

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 28 OWNER STORIES OWNER

Concours-winning restoration Jensen C-V8 MKIII

BY DENNIS DRENTHE | PHOTOS: JERÔME WASSENAAR, ANTON RAAYMAKERS

www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 29

he Jensen world is relatively small and most people A word of introduction know each other but this beautiful example of In 2011 Anton b ought one of t he 127 Jens en 541s pro duce d by the Jensen C-V8 MKIII attracts a new group of Jensen Motors Ltd (JML) which was an exceptional example, admirers at every event it appears in. It isn’t only a factory demonstrator with headrests incorporated into the TJensen owners who appreciate that this car has been front seats and first sold to John Boex, the managing director restored to a level beyond anyone’s expectations, experts of the Norcross Group, JMLs parent company. After a year and collectors of other marques who respect top quality Anton realised that the chassis of the 541 was suffering from show their admiration too. People are often surprised that a severe corrosion and required extensive restoration. In 2013 C-V8 was chosen for restoration and not the more common he ordered a new chassis to be built in England, a job that Interceptor. The reason for this is simple; this story should was expected to take 3 months, but 3 months turned into 5 have been about the restoration of a Jensen 541S by Anton years and in the meantime, all Anton could do was search Raaymakers, but sometimes a project turns out differently for parts for the car while the rest of the project gathered than planned. dust.

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Chassis Repair Further Chassis Repair New chassis built in England

Chassis Inspection

Chassis ready to come home www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 31

During one of those quests for parts, Anton came into contact with a member of Het Jensen Genootschap Holland (HJGH) who had a C-V8 for sale and soon, after a full inspection by a Jensen specialist, Anton became the new owner of a C-V8 MKIII. But although inspected and assessed to be a car that could be restored with little work, it turned out that the chassis, side and door frames of the C-V8 were in extremely poor condition and would need to be repaired. Anton therefore had a choice: sell the car, carry out a partial rebuild to make the car safe and drivable, or carry out a complete nut and bolt restoration. Anton decided on the latter. Full of enthusiasm once more, Anton was able to get back to work on a part of Jensen history, albeit a C-V8 MKIII instead of the 541S as planned. (For the Jensen data addicts here are the details: C-V8 MKIII VIN 112/2419 ex- factory on March 30, 1966.)

Anton’s new hobby

Meticulous restoration of my Jensen CV-8

Anton had no such plans when he decided to give the C-V8 MKIII a total body-off restoration but his California Sage Jensen C-V8 MKIII from 1966 has become, after an intensive restoration, his calling card. During the restoration, the team of Jasper Beukenkamp, of JB Classic Cars in Bodegraven, worked closely with Anton’s extensive network of contacts. You might say that this car is a tribute to the entire Jensen community. The fact that a Dutch owner and a Dutch restorer have achieved this result has become known internationally, though it is the British who have the most praise for the most beautiful Jensen in the Netherlands, and that has resulted in an ever-growing trophy cabinet. Ironically, the Jensen C-V8 was described by one journalist at its introduction as “A superb concept carefully disguised as the ugliest car in the world.” This was mainly due to the nose design with its striking slanted headlights. The initial concept was to use Perspex covers over these Building the C-V8 history file but this plan did not reach final production due to concerns over reduced light output. But with the changes to the MKII The alternative project and ultimately the MKIII, the polyester body was further For Anton, the C-V8 MK III became an alternative challenge modelled and perfected. And so a serious “Gran Turismo” to his 541S, a Jensen to refurbish quickly in between other was born as a that could compete with, amongst projects. At that time he didn’t know that the restoration of others, the Aston Martin DB5. It is notable that the best this car would eventually compare with other top quality known ‘gentleman playboy’ of all time, Sean Connery, restorations. chose a Jensen C-V8 for his private motoring and not the He also didn’t know that he would acquire a new hobby: Aston Martin DB5 which earned him iconic status in his participating in many Concours d’Elegance. role as James Bond.

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In the 1960s the Jensen C-V8 was what we now know as Since 2004 Anton has been a member of the Jensen a hybrid, an English car with an American engine. The 6.3 Genootschap Holland (HJGH) and became Chairman in litre Big-Block from Chrysler in line with the fine Chrysler 2013. The HJHG membership base extends to Belgium Torqueflite automatic, powered the C-V8, pure American where there is a subsection (Jensen Owners Belgium, muscle, coupled with innovative design from the British JOB) and the club, founded in 1981, has through its long firm of Jensen in the 1960s. It was not only one of the fastest existence, made many contacts in other car clubs all over cars of its time, but with four wheel Dunlop disc brakes, the world. All this was invaluable both when researching one of the most advanced cars in terms of technology and the authentic details of the car and in the search for original driving comfort. parts, as only 181 C-V8 MKIIIs were made between July 1965 and December 1966. That was more than half a century ago….

The alternative gets underway Only a light restoration was thought necessary when the C-V8 was purchased. But as Anton says; “When we started it was all very disappointing. The car turned out to be very bad. I was disappointed with this and decided to remove the entire polyester body from the chassis. Both the chassis and the body then underwent a complete restoration. After this the car was ready to be rebuilt again”.

On the same lines Powerful heating system Anton found JB Classic Cars through Edgar Kramer, also a member of HJGH and a fanatical Jensen enthusiast. Jasper The powerful heating system taken from the first Beukenkamp and his team, concentrates mainly on special Interceptor (Early Interceptor 1950-1958) provided adequate and exclusive cars and has a lot of experience with English heating and ventilation even in typical British weather. makes so the Jensen marque was definitely not unknown Journalists asked at the time why all cars couldn’t be like to him, but Anton’s C-V8 surprised him. Jasper talks about the Jensen C-V8. Jensen’s cars were, however, always a his acquaintance with the car: “The chassis and body had bit of an unknown to the general public, at least until the already been restored elsewhere. The chassis needed some arrival of the later Interceptor and as Jensen weren’t active extra attention and reworking, but the paintwork on the in motorsport it was a case of ‘unknown makes remain polyester body was to an exceptionally high level. I had unloved’. never seen anything like it before. Because I saw that Anton only wanted to achieve the best results, I got the feeling that Anton and Het Jensen Genootschap Holland we might be able to work together”. And so it proved and (HJGH) the car was moved to JB Classic Cars. A “nut and bolt” restoration is something you don’t just Jasper Beukenkamp also says this about the start without some serious preparation. Which specialist collaboration: “That Anton was able to open doors that for will carry out the restoration? Is this specialist sufficiently others might have remained closed meant the car could be skilled, knowledgeable and informed about the specifics restored to an exceptionally high standard. And we cannot of a Jensen? Can he provide references that meet the over emphasise the importance of a strong marque club. customer’s requirements? These are just a few questions to This has enabled us to make even the rarest part on this car be asked beforehand. And we must not underestimate the fully functional. Anton can talk about that for hours”. support and advice available from an owner’s club and its members who keep an old car marque alive. Behind workshop doors From the moment the C-V8 was delivered into the hands of the experienced JB Classic Car team that was used to working to the highest standards, Anton knew that Jasper would do everything possible to show everyone that a Jensen could stand alongside the best restored classics in the world. At times like this a good network of Jensen experts, specialists and keepers of records is worth their weight in gold. For Anton doors opened that for others had been long closed. Because of this, the most meticulous restoration of a Jensen CV-8 ever could take place. This is really a top level. And everyone in the Jensen world seemed to participate to make it work. It’s a beautiful story that everyone in the Jensen ranks should be proud of. The result is stunning. A beautiful, original Jensen C-V8 MKIII with details that most Engine being loaded in Jensen aficionados can only dream of. www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 33

Take the car radio, for example. The Motorola 808T was A C-V8 with an Aston Martin colour made especially for Jensen with a Jensen logo that only glows Jasper: “The original colour of C-V8 MK III 112/2419 was brightly when the radio is turned on. All these little details California Sage, a light green colour. What Anton forgets in this car are fully functional! The Armstrong Selectaride to say is that he thinks this colour is terrible. But fortunately shock absorbers were overhauled and made electrically being a Jensen purist, Anton found himself unable to choose adjustable again, as they should be. It wasn’t an easy job another colour. Everyone agrees the final result is beautiful to make them work perfectly, but it was a must for both and they wouldn’t think that if the car had been simply Anton and Jasper Beukenkamp. The original steering wheel, been painted bright red. This colour is now known as Aston designed by Jensen and made by Bluemels, was present but Martin green. Few people know that Jensen patented this had lost its original shine and splendour over the years, but colour and sold the patent to Aston Martin, you only learn it was meticulously restored to its original glory and now that from someone like Anton”. occupies a prominent place in the beautiful interior. Obviously Anton has the original documentation and the complete history for the car, including the factory service file from Jensen Motors. Also the original tools, the jack and even the first aid kit from 1966 are present, exactly as shown in the brochure from 1966.

Colour now known as Aston Martin Green

Now that the car is finished, the proud owner is sometimes asked why he didn’t choose an Interceptor. Anton: “It was not a conscious or deliberate choice. When I bought the Factory Service file from Jensen Motors C-V8, I had an Interceptor MK2. I could have restored that instead. It just turned out like this; it is something that just Pleasure in restoration happened. Now, four years later, I think the uniqueness and Usually, the JB Classic Cars team are not keen on taking the challenge of the C-V8 did help determine my choice. over partial restorations, because these are often stalled, The fact is that connoisseurs of the classic car world are very and very disappointing, projects that can be very costly to appreciative of the fact that I chose a C-V8. This has resulted put right. That is something that you as a client do not want in the many invitations I have received to participate in to hear, but that is the reality. In this case, the message to Concours d’Elegance. Financially it would not have been the client was no different. But because Jasper was quite more beneficial to restore an Interceptor in the same way. clear and knew what he was talking about, Anton gave him But, I do think the market value of a fully ‘body-off’ restoration instructions to “finish the car”. That collaboration worked of an Interceptor to its completely original condition (like my out very well. Anton again got pleasure in having the car now restored C-V8) will be higher than for the C-V8. The restored and went looking for all the original parts that were Interceptor is, partly due to the many restomods available, missing. Parts finding became a sport for him. better known and popular, at least with the general public. Jasper adds: “Anton is good with his hands, but preferred But the real connoisseurs know otherwise. Witness to this to leave the specialist work to us. What made it especially is that Jay Leno recently purchased a Jensen C-V8 MKIII. ” interesting for us were his contacts in the Jensen world. For the enthusiast :(https://www.youtube.com/ Anton was able to find parts that you would otherwise not watch?v=vyuhTW7aeWI) be able to get. Anton also knew in his head what he wanted, he is irritated by a car that he believes has imperfections, ‘if Search for a painter it can be perfect, it must be perfect’, he told us. Knowing Anton’s enjoyment is obvious when he talks about trips with this we were able to come to an agreement, but Anton had this car and he continues: “Just because I like driving a car to get used to our rates first!” doesn’t mean I don’t care if it’s scratched. For a long time Anton: “Sometimes it hurts financially when you see I was looking for a painter who could bring the polyester how much time and man hours there are in a project, but bodywork to perfect condition but everyone who offered Jasper Beukenkamp takes a realistic approach to such a ‘to wash this pig for me’ left me disappointed. If they even project and that makes it all worth it, though the truth is that came to inspect the car at all, prior to making an offer, they every now and again then we took a break so that I could would casually stand with their belt or the zipper of their collect parts and cash again”. jacket against the bodywork. When I had something to say

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub PeterBest_Jensen_Advert_297x210.pdf 1 11/09/2019 16:59

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OWNER STORIES 35

about that, and I really had to hold back, they all reacted casually: ‘Oh, we’ll sand that out, mate!’ as if, because they were all able to restore and spray polyester, I didn’t have to worry about it!” Anton had almost come to an agreement for spraying his classic car C-V8 with a boat restorer, but just in time he got a golden tip, through a Lotus specialist familiar with polyester body restorations he ended up talking to Harteveld in Wateringen (NL). insurance Anton explains why he is so thankful for the advice: “Harteveld really had me and others amazed”. It is not for nothing that the speaker said on stage at the Concours d’Elegance Soestdijk: ‘Folks, if you don’t see why this car PBIS specialises in classic car insurance, Policy benefits may include: won, you have an eyesight-problem’. I am very proud of that. as well as insurance for other collectable classic One of the things that stood out for me with Harteveld • Free agreed valuations vehicles. As a company built on passion, was the quotation process. With several other parties I Winning cups is addictive only got a price indication. Harteveld on the other hand, we strive to deliver exemplary levels of service • Roadside assistance and recovery within UK/EU albeit at my request, sent an overview of all resources and no idea about its specifications and driving capabilities. By and customer satisfaction. materials to be used. What was especially noticeable was putting the car in competitions, and simply driving it there, • Limited mileage options that all the components needed for spraying the body came instead of trailering it, more car enthusiasts can discover We have been arranging insurance for • Discounts for multiple car ownership from one and the same supplier and so one could be sure the Jensen C-V8. In addition to the facelifts ‘in period’, it your classics for over 30 years, so we that the products used would all be compatible. Make no is mainly the passage of time that helps us to look at the know what is important to you. • Club member discounts mistake; we are talking about a spraying session that took C-V8 differently today. Because not only are unique cars 440 hours. And Harteveld usually gives a 3-year warranty, nowadays more popular than ever, the fact that this Jensen but for this project has extended this to no less than 7 years, is also exceptionally fast remains impressive. For owners

C ask us today about our classic car cover unprecedented for a classic car with polyester body”. who cherish and use such cars, it is also nice that the build M quality was of a high level. This means that this classic car Ready for the competition? can be used today for travel and other enjoyable trips. In Y call now for an instant quote addition to the pleasure of the restoration process and the CM driving, Anton also discovered his new hobby, participating MY in every possible Concours d’Elegance. It turns out winning

CY cups is addictive. And you must know that Anton has started part two of CMY 01376 574000 his Jensen 541S restoration in high spirits, though everyone K or get a quote online by visiting: around him is taking a rest for a while, they think! www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk Results Concourse d’Elegance After an extensive, complete “nut & bolt” restoration over almost 4 years, this “matching numbers” car was returned to its former glory, valued for insurance purposes and was then ready to “hit the road”. On June 20, 2019, she made her Finished and ready to show to the world maiden voyage back to the UK where she participated in the concours at the 2019 International Meeting of the Jensen At the end of the restoration, Jasper Beukenkamp Owners Club. The car received the following 4 awards: encouraged Anton to enter the car in various competitions. President’s Cup | 1st Prize concours | Best Jensen The world should be allowed to see the result. The fact C-V8 | Members choice that a Jensen C-V8 is now invited to take part in prestigious competitions shows how well the car has been received. Subsequently, the car also achieved the following results: Anton: “I really hate cleaning and polishing, so my initial • Concours of Elegance 2019 | Hampton Court Palace UK reaction was that I am not a concours guy, I am a driver and • Pre-1980 | Class Winner my cars will never be a trailer queens, but participating in • Concours d’Elegance 2019 | Royal Palace Soestdijk‎ competition turned out to be more enjoyable than expected. • Forgotten British Sport Pioneers | Class Winner With the C-V8, I have already driven a few thousand miles • Classic Wings & Wheels 2016 | Gilze Rijen after the restoration. First to England in the pouring rain, • Class Winner then later with my wife to Germany, and in between I took the car for some relaxed rides”. This year, at the invitation of the well-known English journalist James Elliot, the car will appear and participate in Winning cups is addictive the prestigious London Concours 2020 at the Honourable At its introduction, the Jensen C-V8 was considered not Artillery Company grounds in London. The car will also be necessarily beautiful, but good. Now people look at it presented as a valuation vehicle on the FEHAC valuation Peter Best Insurance Services Ltd differently. Non-connoisseurs see a beautiful car, but have trade/training day. Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration No. 307045 | Registered in England No. 2210270

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 36

OWNER STORIES OWNER If I were you I would not start from here Early Interceptor Number 88

JOHN STADDON

t is an old joke, the city motorist asks the country case of ‘our mechanic could have got it started if we had yokel leaning on his gate for directions to Lower Much let him’, as the auction company that sold the car told me, Rusting and the country yokel, after due consideration, I found the engine was frozen solid as a rock. Before we pronounces, “well if I was you I would not start from consider where we went from ‘here’ we must consider Ihere”. Wise words but of little use when you are ‘here’. where we started from, that is me and the car. With me it is simple, somebody posted a link on Facebook to the early Quite when I got to ‘here’ with No 88 I am not sure, perhaps Interceptor No 88 for sale at an auction in Scotland. The when the first holes in the chassis appeared from under accompanying photograph showed the car looking mean the underseal, or when Kestrel Classic Cars pronounced and moody in black and I decided there and then I wanted that one side of the car was 18 mm shorter than the other, it. As for Interceptor 88 that started life in 1957 when it was and 9 mm higher, or when I found that far from being a registered to Jensen Motors Ltd as REA 581.

www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 37

Top left: Denys Stoner Crowther Left: Basil Walpole owner No 2 Above: Lurking in a garage in Kirkcaldy

Number 88 was the last of the early Interceptors and it Crowther & Sons of Milnbridge “Manufacturers of Woollen differed from all previous cars as it was fitted with the Austin and Worsted Cloths”, though his involvement with the firm DS7 engine and a Hydramatic 4-speed gearbox, it also had seems to have been as a director of the pension fund. disc brakes all round. The romantics postulate that it was Denys Crowther was also a District Councillor (Chairman used as a test bed for the DS7 engined 541, the pragmatists of the Finance Committee), a member of the British Legion point out that Jensen Motors Limited would simply have and the Rotary Club. The Crowther family must have had finished the last Interceptor using the mechanical parts they some social standing too, his sister Stella, “a noted beauty”, had to hand, and as they were building the DS7 engined became Countess Széchényi in 1936. Denys Crowther only 541s with a 4-speed box and disc brakes, at the time that is kept the car for a few months and in January of 1959 it what Number 88 got. was sold to Attwood & Sons of Wolverhampton, probably What JML used the car for we don’t know, again the dealers as in March of 1959 it passed to Walpole Bothers romantics will say it must have been a Director’s car, of Sloane Street, Irish linen manufacturers. Denys bought perhaps even used by Mr Alan or Mr Richard, but it could a MkII Jaguar 3.8 to replace the Jensen but after owning a just as easily have been a works hack and a loan car for succession of Jaguars, including E-Types, he returned to the customers whose Jensen was at the factory for work. JML Jensen fold when he bought a ‘60s’ Interceptor MKI. didn’t keep No 88 for long and in May of 1958 it found a We don’t know who at Walpole Brothers bought the car, buyer in the person of Denys Stoner Crowther of Partridge though Basil Walpole, a director of the company, bought Green, Sussex. C-V8 104/2039 in 1963. Basil Walpole lived in Ireland Interceptor 88 wasn’t the first Jensen that Lieutenant Commander D S Crowther RNVR, to give him his full title, owned, there was a convertible Interceptor before that (cream with a red hood but chassis number unknown). Denys Crowther was a Lieutenant Paymaster during WW2(Lieutenant Commander by 1946) and reference to the Naval Lists shows he was serving on HMS Capetown, a light cruiser, when the ship was torpedoed by Italian MTBs in the Red Sea in April 1941. Happily, HMS Capetown, and Denys Crowther, survived, though the ship was out of commission for a year whilst being repaired at Bombay. Denys stayed with Capetown until late 1942 when he returned to the UK after falling ill in Sri Lanka (his son David told me he “succumbed to the climate”). Before the war Denys Crowther had been an accountant by training but by 1957 he was a farmer, or perhaps gentleman farmer would be a more appropriate Number 88 on my drive in London, appearances can be description, and also a director of the family firm of John deceptive

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub OWNER STORIES 38

1 6

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5

1: Evidence of John Kellock’s handy work, note the vertical weld 2: The rear floor pans were good, but the chassis legs were rotten 3: Another image of where the rear floor pans were good, but the chassis legs were rotten 4: Chassis tube, you can’t patch a patch 5: How many tools does it take to strip out an interior 6: Early Dunlop ‘round pad’ disc brakes 7: The front end removed and JS contemplating the radiator 8: The came straight off www.joc.org.uk OWNER STORIES 39

and there is nothing in the information to hand to suggest and there it stayed until 2017. As I have said I saw the car on that the car was ever in Ireland so though Basil is a likely the auctioneers website and decided I wanted it, but then candidate we cannot say that it was him that bought the car. reality kicked in, the auction house was near Dundee and Less than a year later in January of 1960, the car was sold I live in London, viewing would be difficult and I wasn’t to I A Campbell of Arduaine near Oban in Scotland. Captain going to buy it unseen; but a few weeks before the auction (Temporary Major) Iain Arthur Campbell, son of Sir Bruce I was helping on the JOC stand at the NEC classic car show Atta Campbell KCB, CBE, TD, served with the 7th Battalion and found the auction house had a stand at the NEC as well, The Argyle and Sutherland Highlanders, commanded by his and of all the cars the auctioneers could have brought to the father until 1938, and won the Croix de Guerre in 1944 show they chose No 88, viewing problem solved. (not an unusual CV for a Jensen owner before the advent I looked the car over as best I could (attracting a of celebrity owners in the later ‘60s). It was while Major crowd in the process) and found it was very original and Campbell owned the car that The Accident happened. almost complete, only a couple of interior light switches During the strip down of the chassis it became evident that were missing, there were obvious rust issues underneath at some point the car had suffered very heavy damage to its but not that bad, I decided it was worth bidding for. The offside front quarter but the following information has only bidding I did on line from the comfort of my living room recently come to light. and I did submit a winning bid, though not before another In 1960 the car hit something; we do not know what determined bidder had pushed the price to slightly over the but something more unforgiving than another vehicle. top estimate. After The Accident the car was sold ‘as is’ and bought by With the car safely delivered to London I decided to Collieson Briggs of C&R Briggs of Kirkcaldy (whose son have some fun with it before doing anything serious and remembers that the car was “previously owned by a retired arranged to show it at the London Classic Car Show. If Major, or Colonel who lived, I think, around Oban” which anyone has been to the London Classic Car Show they will ties in neatly with the information in the logbook), at this know that a garage find Jensen isn’t the usual fare, but the point the offside front chassis leg and suspension had been organisers of the show were game and even gave the car a pushed back under the engine and the offside front quarter page in the show programme. of the body was missing altogether. C & R Briggs was an Unfortunately a couple of weeks before the show I had engineering firm and opposite its premises in Kirkcaldy a nasty accident, while cleaning the car I walked backwards was the body shop for the Alexander Bus Company where off the end of my drive, a 5 foot drop, and landed on a pot worked John Kellock, an expert on aluminium bodies on plant! Not any pot plant but an Agave with spiny razor edge separate frames, traditional bus construction in 1960 and leaves that lacerated two of the fingers on my left hand and also the construction of the Interceptor. severed the tendon in a third, a visit to A&E was followed Collieson Briggs entrusted the wrecked car to John by an operation on my hand which was in a plaster cast Kellock who set about repairing it. The mangled front chassis for a week and then bandages and a splint, nevertheless I quarter was cut off and all of the welds split (the chassis is finished cleaning the car quite literally single-handedly and a box section at the front where it carries the suspension it was shown and proved very popular. and engine mounts) and the individual plates of steel were After the show I simply had to wait as I could not do dressed flat on an anvil before being welded back together any work using my left hand, even tying my shoe laces was and then back into the chassis; new suspension components forbidden at first, and it was 10 weeks before I was given were sourced and then John Kellock fabricated a new front the all clear, after which it started to rain, every day for quarter for the body from sheet aluminium formed on an weeks, and with the car outside I could not do anything to English wheel and using the undamaged nearside as a it. It was May before I could really start to discover the car. template. All went well at first; the rear of the car was in surprisingly John Kellock didn’t quite get it right, hence the mention good condition, but the further forward I progressed, the of shorter and higher at the beginning of this account, but more evident the rust became. I had supported the car on he saved the car and it was put back on the road in 1962. axle stands under the chassis tubes, substantial 5” diameter For the next eight or ten years the car was used by the affairs just like a 541, but when my headroom under the Briggs family and it towed a caravan around the highlands car started to reduce I realised the weight of the car was and islands of Scotland, and probably further afield as we crushing the tubes which were paper thin in places, but found it was fitted with French Marchal lights at the front rusting from the inside out. I had already discovered that (headlamps adjustable for LHD and RHD driving) and a the original Austin chassis legs were rotten at the bottom substantial ‘GB’ sign was mounted at the back. At this point so I had to re-support the car on the spring pans, about the it is worth adding that the car has twin petrol tanks and is only solid places left to support it. fitted with a very heavy tow hook, who fitted these isn’t I attacked the car from the inside too and stripped out clear but if it left the factory like that it would help explain the complete interior, just leaving the dash and steering why Collieson Briggs thought it was worth saving. wheel, and cleaned up the floors and interior panels, rust, After 10 years or so the now 13 year old car was paint and decades of dirt came out by the dust pan full. On pushed into a garage and there it stayed until 1996, still reflection, I think it was when the chassis tubes started to owned by the Briggs family, at which point it was briefly collapse that I realised that a full restoration was going to be recommissioned and over the next four years covered all necessary and as I had already planned for this possibility, I of 400 miles, as borne out by surviving MOT certificates. sent a few emails and made a few phone calls and lined up In the year 2000, No 88 was consigned to the garage again Kestrel Classic Cars to restore the body and chassis and a

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub OWNER STORIES 40

mechanic friend (who prefers not to be named) to help with 9 10 the mechanical refurbishment. I met Alan Bray of Kestrel Classic Cars at the 2018 JOC International and we came up with a plan of action, we (that is my mechanic, as I shall call him, and I) would finish the strip down of the car leaving a body shell on dollies, Alan would restore the chassis, we would restore the suspension and Alan would put the car back on its wheels once we had done our bit, and then carry on with the body restoration. Once Alan was finished, we would take the restored body and rolling chassis back and start building the mechanical parts, which we in the meantime would have restored, back on to the car. By September of 2018 the car was in the workshop of my mechanic and we began the final ‘tear down’ by 11 removing the one piece front body, that took a day and a half, and over the next few weeks we gradually stripped off the suspension and disc brakes (early Dunlop round pad type), removed the engine and gearbox and everything in the engine bay, impossible without first removing the front body, then the prop shaft (and made a mental note that the prop shaft cannot be removed from the transmission tunnel unless the rear axle or engine and gearbox, which must be removed together, are removed first so it must go back before one or the other) and finally, the rear axle. My mechanic assessed each part for the condition and I started a Google Sheets spread sheet on which we recorded where everything was stored (workshop, loft, my house, specialist restorer) and what needed doing to it, and of course, what needed to be replaced. We found more evidence of the accident when we stripped the offside front 12 suspension, the bottom spring pan was bent as was the pin on the lower end of the steering idler and even the stator tube in the steering column was cracked (John Kellock probably didn’t take the steering column apart 60 years ago but he shouldn’t have used the damaged steering parts again, but no doubt there was a tight budget and someone thought they would do). The cylinder head came off the engine with no fuss, though I had read horror stories of cars being hung from the rafters until the car dropped off the cylinder head like a game bird hung by the neck, and then the engine itself was freed off with a substantial amount of perseverance and a 13 little heat, that allowed the gearbox to be separated from the engine as the engine must be rotated to bring the fixing bolts into line with an access port one by one. We stripped out the wiring loom, then the dash board instruments followed by the dashboard itself. I had already bought a set of wheeled dollies and my mechanic adapted them to fit the Interceptor’s suspension mounting points. We reassembled the front end on the now bare body and chassis so that Alan and his men would know how it was attached and on the 19th November 2018 the rolling chassis was despatched to Kestrel Classic Cars. 9: TBC 10: What a mess, engine out 11: The rear axle was a What happened next will have to wait for Part two of pig to remove, but succumbed eventually 12: Working taking this story. place in the body shop 13: Assessing the progress

Acknowledgements David Crowther, son of Denys Stoner Crowther, Penny Harris, great niece of Basil Walpole, even if it wasn’t him. Colin Bryan, grandson of Collieson Briggs, Alan Bray at Kestrel Classic Cars And not least my mechanic for taking half of the photos and taking the car apart. www.joc.org.uk 41 Question Time

LEAH GUILLIARD-WATTS INTERVIEWS CHRIS REED

Please give me a summary of what you do? If you had asked me a week ago, I would have said I am a pre-sales consultant for an American software company mainly selling into the IBM z/OS Mainframe market. But unfortunately, as of Friday 8th August, I have become a victim of the Covid-19 pandemic. I have been “let go” as the Americans euphemistically like to put it as if in some way that lessens the impact of losing one’s job! I will now have more time to do some of the projects that have been waiting for me to do. Previously I worked as an Analyst / Programmer at Texaco and before that for an engineering company MEMBER INTERVIEW supplying pipes for oil rigs in the North Sea. That was in the days of punched cards, one program we had calculated the stresses in pipes at bends and joins depending on all the variables. We calculated the runtime of this program by measuring how many inches of punch cards were being submitted. These days no doubt the program would run in a few seconds but back then the IBM Mainframe had 512k memory, and the program would typically take around 4 hours to run - expensive if a mistake had been made. Outside of this, I have a wide variety of interests and pastimes. I have been an Observer for the Institute of Advanced Motorists since 1997, and this involves helping people to improve their driving skills to pass the Advanced Driving Test. On cars, I have always performed my maintenance and repair work doing everything from oil changes to engine and transmission rebuilds.

When did your interest in cars begin? At a very early age, I had a collection of Spot-On toy cars and was always playing with them. My favourite was the Vauxhall PA Series Cresta and even then decided that was what I wanted, a dream I finally realised much later. My father used to get press day tickets for the Earls Court Motor show and took me every year and we would tour all the stands collecting the brochures returning home with bags and bags of them. I would read them and learn all the details of the cars and each model. By the age of 10, I could recognise just about every car on the road, even at night by the relative position of the side and headlights. That was in a time when every car had a distinctive design and of much more individuality.

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 42

In Whitby in June 19

What was the first car you owned, and what do you own Stag, a Major, classic Range and now? of course the Interceptor. All with V8s at the front driving My father promised me a Super Minx as a 17th the rear wheels or in the case of the Range Rover, all 4. My birthday present on one condition which was to stay off newest car is a 1995 classic Range Rover. motorbikes. He also told me that girls would be much more interested in going in a car than on the back of a motorcycle What do you think is unique about the Jensen marque? (he was right about that too but that’s another story). The It’s not so much about the car; it’s more about the people. engine was burning oil and smoke coming from the exhaust Jensen cars seem to inspire marque loyalty, and many but being still at school and only having a weekend job; I Jensen owners have owned their vehicles for many years had two choices; fix it in the street outside or don’t use it. and we’ve made some very good friends through our So, at the age of 16 for my first repair job on a car I bought connection to the marque. That is something quite special. a socket set, some spanners, a workshop manual and took As for the Interceptor car itself, it is an instantly recognizable the head off, dropped the sump, removed the pistons and design with that huge rear window, and it represents to me, replaced the rings and then put it all back together again. the ultimate car from the 1960s to early 1970s, the period of Best of all it worked, and I passed my test in the car six motoring that I like best as it was what was around as I was months later and then drove to Cornwall on holiday. On growing up through the ‘60s and into the ‘70s. People out seeing the effort I was making, my father also treated me to and about instantly recognize the car and want to ask about a Williams Superslim torque wrench, a tool I still use to this it, one time, in the centre of Ypres, two people stopped day. Today I have a small collection of classics, a Triumph and waited by it to hear the sound when it started up and

www.joc.org.uk MEMBER INTERVIEW 43

drove away. I obliged with suitable engine revving! The single day. It’s only let me down twice, once on a motorway Interceptor is undoubtedly good for my ego! when, at 70mph, the fan belt snapped and tore into one of the oil pipes. After almost ten years of use, it is now What journeys have you taken in your Jensen? becoming a bit tired around the edges and rust showing I acquired my Mk2 Interceptor at the end of 2010, it had through so 35 years after its last respray it needs some TLC been lain up in a barn in Jersey for almost 10 years and to bring it back. recommissioned it for the road in 2011. It still had tyres on it dating from 1986 when it had some attention before the Where do you want to see the Jensen marque in 5 years? previous owner acquired it. (In terms of values recognition etc.) That’s a difficult one to answer. I didn’t buy my Interceptor Trips: specifically as an investment, but I am happy that I’m • Missed the JOC International in 2011 and took a trip to not losing money on it as it is appreciating rather than Yorkshire and the Newby Hall show. depreciating. I think the thing I like is that there are cars to • 2012 we then went to Classic Le Mans followed by ten suit many budgets, I bought mine at a time when prices, in days in the Dordogne. general, were relatively low, I would not be able to afford • 2014 we toured the Netherlands to buy the car I have today. In respect of the Interceptor, I • 2015 we went to the Netherlands again and Germany think there are still too many bad stories abounding about • 2016 was the Interceptor 50th anniversary trip to Turin overheating, unreliability and so on and I think I’d like to see and back more of these myths dispelled. Whenever the unreliability • 2017 the Saxony trip which we drove to via Prague. This, question crops up, I always point out the many long- in addition to numerous tours in the UK to destinations distance trips that I and many others have done; we need to ranging from Yorkshire to Cornwall. shout out more about these. In terms of values, I think the The Interceptor has proved to be a supremely capable and balance in the market between top value cars and ones at reliable car covering almost 24,000 miles in the time I’ve the lower end, albeit they will probably need a lot of work, owned it, on one occasion covering nearly 600 miles in a is just about right and I’d like to see it stay that way.

With Giuliana painting during one of the trips to Saxony via Prague

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub 44

AREA REPRESENTATIVE AREA COORDINATOR

North West London S. Thames & Surrey BY ADAM FISCHER DAVID MANOCK STEVE HODDER ( 07506 001431 ( 07970 973672 Meet the new Area Area Coordinator * [email protected] * [email protected] Hello all, if you are a frequent reader of Cheshire South Downs (W & E Sussex) our superbly put together magazine, you ADRIAN HOWELLS DAVID WRIGHT have most likely seen me and my Healey ( 01270 664609 ( 01903 746101 * [email protected] * [email protected] mentioned a few times. I am Adam, 25 years old and have an MKI Jensen- Warwicks, Worcs., & W. Mids Essex Healey and this is the first car of which I have owned for STEVE ZACAROLI (ZAC) DAVE BARNETT ( 01905 610908 ( 01708 456439 almost three years, during which time I have carried out * [email protected] * [email protected] fairly extensive work and thoroughly enjoy driving it. Throughout my ownership, I have attended several South Bucks & Oxon Thames Valley SHAUN WINFIELD BRIAN & JOAN RAPER local, national and international events, ranging from the ( 07969 129382 ( 01256 780718 small garden centre shows to 2,500-mile road trips across * [email protected] * [email protected] Europe. They were kindly organised by our hard-working, South West Suffolk/ Norfolk/E Anglia dedicated Area Reps and members which I hope will JOHN PYM PETER & LYNDA HEYWOOD continue. ( 07831 777665 ( 07434 524072 I was asked by our chairman recently if I would consider * [email protected] * [email protected] taking over the Area Co-ordinator role and thought why Southern Kent & S.E. London PHIL FISH / EDWARD BROWN not, let’s give it a go. So far, it has been warmly welcomed TIM CLARK ( 07952 942048 ( 01322 333484 of which I am very appreciative and hope to fulfil the role ( 07976 282667 * [email protected] to the best of my ability. * [email protected] My aim with this responsibility is to ensure the smooth Ireland Scotland GERRY FITZSIMONS running of all future events, provide support where needed RICHARD GIBSON ( 00 353 86 2557889 and work with our committee to find the best way forward ( 01463 794402 * [email protected] * [email protected] with any problems we may encounter. Linc & Notts In light of many events being cancelled, one has South Wales PAUL HOGAN RICHARD STREETER emerged that will be Covid-19 compliant. * [email protected] ( 07717 674670 This is The Classic Car Drive-In Weekend held at * [email protected] Bicester Heritage over 17th – 20th September 2020. Areas coordinator We are planning on taking part over the weekend 18th N. London, N. West & Central ADAM FISCHER AREA NEWS CHRIS GALE * [email protected] – 20th Sep 2020. (The JOC is not endorsing this, so it’s ( 07746 381506 entirely up to you as to whether you’d like to come out) * [email protected] To gain free entry with a designated club parking area, London West we would require 10 – 25 cars. DAVID DEVINE The first 25 will be registered on a first come first served ( 0208 8452765 * [email protected] basis) For more information please email me at areas@joc. org.uk or visit the website: https://bicesterheritage.co.uk/ whaton/c ... inweekend/ Thank you and I am looking forward to meeting you soon. VACANT CUMBRIA • WESSEX • NORTHANTS • YORKSHIRE • THREE COUNTIES if interested contact Areas Coordinator for details INTERNATIONAL AREA CONTACTS LINC & NOTTS AREA CANADA: BY PAUL HOGAN Ontario – DAVID RODGER ( 905 889 1882 Victoria – Rowland Atkins ( 250 544 1702 Event: Roger Dudding classic car collection USA: California – BOB ADAMS ( 858 487 6371 * [email protected] Date: Tuesday 6th October 2020 Eastern USA – BOB LASATER * [email protected] Cost: £30 per head Western USA – BOB LASATER * [email protected] Los Angeles – ERIC SCHWARTZ * [email protected] I have organised a visit to the Roger EUROPE: Germany – JENS JANSEN ( 0049 172 8568 468 * [email protected] Dudding classic car collection on Tuesday France – NIGEL PICKFORD ( 0033 682 591 479 * [email protected] 6th October 2020 at the famous Studio Switzerland – FELIX KISTLER ( 0041 79 736 06 41 * [email protected] 434 complex in Luton. Entrance is £30 per Norway – OLE JON TVELTO ( 047 9300 4093 * [email protected] Denmark – POUL – 0045 3391 8913 * [email protected] head and they require a minimum of 10 East and Poland – SZYMON (SIMON) RAJWA ( 0048 601 255 629 people to open it. If you are interested in going, please AUSTRALIA: – TONY COPE ( +61 448 400 160 * [email protected] contact me via email on [email protected]

www.joc.org.uk AREA NEWS 45

SOUTH DOWNS AREA LONDON WEST BY DAVID WRIGHT BY DAVID DEVINE

August Informal Gathering Jensen Event Ace Café What a joy to meet friends again! Although the official Jensen event at the After total abstinence from Jensen events Ace Cafe on 8th August 2020 was cancelled for over four months, for very good due to COVID-19, a few of us attended reasons, it looked like the time, and the individually for breakfast and a chat. weather was right to venture out to our local hostelry. This could be the first event we have attended this So a few of us decided we’d visit the White Horse in year, so it was nice to get the Jensen-Healey out and see Maplehurst, home of the South Downs Area, for a drink a few other owners. When we arrived, there were four and a meal out. Simon and Beth, our C-V8 owning hosts, Interceptors in the car park but by the time we had got a had taken all the steps necessary to comply with COVID cup of tea, Adrian had left having already had his breakfast, guidance, which meant that all the garden tables were sorry we missed you. spaced accordingly, and very few people were inside! After our meal, we had a good chat with Steve, Eddie, You can see from the picture that everyone was Neil & June and of course the bonnet up moment in the pleased to meet up again, albeit not on our usual night. car park. We heard from Neil of his endeavors to revamp the role of Hopefully we can hold a proper event next year in 2021 Registrar for Interceptors, visiting many local members, and and I will let you know a date. harvesting their details. Alex’s Interceptor is now on its final primer coat, and ready for being transformed into Brienz Blue again. A number of those present were planning on visiting the London Concours, so should see Anton with his C-V8 on show. We’ll be picnicking later in August, alongside carriages and horses, so watch this space for horsepower at its best!

Ace Cafe Meet.

David Wright August gathering Jensen-Healey day out

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Our policies can offer breakdown cover, owners club discounts, limited mileage & business use availability, agreed value, foreign use, glass cover, legal expenses cover, plus lots more.

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jensen Advert AIB A4.indd 1 03/02/2018 19:49 47 Part 1 My Love of Jensens

BY NEIL BENNETT / JENSEN-HEALEY & GT REGISTER

irst, I would like to bring you the words of Andrew are in an especially, does the engine run I can build on Edwards (Cropredy Bridge) in JOC Issue 36, Jan numbers known in the JOC reaching points un-heard of 1980 – “The petrol pipe in the Engine compartment but in today’s global Internet world we can now share all must be protected. The petrol pipe comes up by the and any Interceptor whereabouts. My initial dream is to Fdistributor and the curves around into the carb. It should find all Interceptor , these being the easiest to be covered by a finely woven silk-like sleeve which helps find and the smallest in number to locate. Let’s all find our to prevent the petrol vaporising with the heat generated Interceptors so we know where we are and then hopefully in the engine compartment.” I will bring you more about I can report one day on the colours, the on the road status, the options available for MK1 to MK4 Interceptor in today’s off road status and so much more. world to protect both the Ethanol petrol mix and the safety One more dream is if everyone can start their ; of the engine bay. We laughed in the pub this week what would happen to the world if we all started our 383 and 440’s at the same time in I am incredibly happy being Interceptor registrar as I am the world all at once, now that would be a great feeling. In

receiving contact daily. The best this month was from a simple terms if we all have an Interceptor that can start, run REGISTER NEWS gentleman who had 5 Interceptors in the 1970’s and and ‘provide the Jensen ‘SMILE’ as I know for sure every he kept coming back for more, ending in an Interceptor time an Interceptor starts it smiles and chuckles just as we Convertible. Unfortunately, we have found ‘so far’ only one do as drivers knowing we are up and running, as every start remaining off the road in Brisbane Australia. Plus a Jensen of a 383 or 440 is a real experience. Interceptor find in Wrexham, Wales where an Interceptor I would love to mention two very enjoyable journeys has been found slumbering for decades, last being on the this month, both in 30+ degrees and once started the road 34 years ago and now lost in brambles and … no idea engine ran cool at 60 degrees, covering a good distance if lost or just lonely. More to come on both of these, I hope. of 150 miles across and round Sussex, you feel so good My ideas in the Interceptor role are many and varied, driving a Jensen. I’d love to start reporting on how many Interceptors we I leave you to enjoy your wonderful Jensen’s and hope in the JOC actually know about and then on a regular to hear about your stories especially your challenges basis; as hopefully would you all drop me an email, when you come to start your engines ensuring that your please, to, [email protected] to let me know you fuel is safely being delivered from fuel tank to a nice cool own one or more interceptors and what condition they carburettor when you start up.

Pictures of Interceptors – Engine bay and fuel pipes

1: Fuel Pipe to thermoquad Carb 2: Mechanical Fuel pump with pipe going up to carb – Note. Not protected. Please protect safely 3: My own engine bay, once again fuel pipe unprotected, needing action ASAP

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub MEMBERSHIP www.joc.org.uk A list of people who have joined since the last issue of Jensen. We club. Jensen. our to of all you issue welcome last the since have joined who people of A list New Members

a box full of 1970’s cheesy to play tapes while cruising given was I boot the In works!still mobile Radio track 8 the even immaculateand condition,in is It 2015. in factory, the it left well until present the owner bought it previous owners and had in been same family the since sell Interceptor. the The V5 shows car the had just two he had owned Jag the for long avery time, he decided to had to go, it was either Jensen EType the or the Jag. As in that time. He was selling his house and one of his cars 5 years, past the but had only driven car the 1,500 miles The chap who I purchased car the from had owned it for Interceptor,the it was love at first sight.boughtSo I it! at Jensen. the course, way, the is Of as often Ifell in love thought I would combine a visit to mum’s house and look I lives, so mother my where near iswhich Ringwood in a more reasonable price than many The others. car was I came across this Mk III advertised on Car and Classic at time. quitesome for classifieds off looking the and at on I have always desired aJensen Interceptor and have been have managed to get through quite afew 911’s. However 4x4!for a Since have I then mainly and Porsches owned much but when my wife fell pregnant Ihad to trade it in Jensen Healey in early the 1990’s, which Iloved very I am not totally new to Jensen ownership, Ihad as ared : R U O L O C IAN TANDY 48 CAR:

beige leather interior leather beige Yellow blacka vinyl and Mustard roof with Jensen Interceptor III Mk Jensen MEMBERSHIP 49 #jensenownersclub @jensenowners • @jensenowners NEW MEMBERS NEW @jensenownersclub • @jensenownersclub Jensen-Healey MKI Jensen-Healey Yellow

CAR: The car had a full respray and complete gearbox and and gearbox complete and respray a full had car The I managed to contact by Calver in Richard Australia I live and work in Plymouth, and so hopefully club I am which attached some photos I have Finally JOSHUA DALLIMORE JOSHUA I have attached a photo of the car on its French its on the car of French attached a photo I have present. at I have all is as that plates In terms of interesting history, I believe the car the car I believe history, interesting of terms In was provided FOC to Donald be excellent Healey will this of proof full get I can if from which new the for car. provenance I am currently in the process of re-importing it from from it re-importing of the process in currently I am France. COLOUR:

engine rebuild in 2002, and has only covered 3,000 miles miles 3,000 covered only has and 2002, in rebuild engine much the use car to I intend remarkable. is which since, miles 3,000 around doing anticipate and regularly more a year. email, and he has confirmed that the caris completely match. numbers engine and the chassis and original as specked all are interior roof and vinyl colour, car The There example. a nice I have Sothink I new. when as the handbrake, such need attention, that things are park in engage to reluctant also is it and useless, is which the duff with handbrake along which a wiggle, without ais concern. to near garage a recommend to be able members may Interceptor. my on work to competent is me that so wish. you if magazine the club in use to you for happy down the street with the windows down. However it it However down. the streetdown the windows with was rumble the engine that realise to me long take didn’t experience! bettera much listening 50

political and environmental influences. If we are to defend the use of historic vehicles, then we need to act and act National Historic now. The Federation needs your help. The FBHVC is in the process of carrying out its 2020 National Historic Vehicle Survey, an update to a similar survey undertaken in 2016. If Vehicle Survey we are to represent the case for historic vehicles in the best possible way we need to have up to date information about BY SHAUN WINFIELD the movement and how important the movement is to the economy, particularly in current COVID-19 circumstances. The answers you give in this survey, will help shape the Please complete the National Historic Vehicle future for historic vehicles within the United Kingdom for Survey to keep transport heritage on our roads. the next 5 years. he Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs The FBHVC aims to lobby Government against adverse are having to make the case for historic vehicles legislation and restrictions that may affect the future retaining their current access and freedoms on our for historic vehicles. But, in order to achieve a positive roads more and more strongly in coming years, as result, the organisation needs to have reliable data on the Twe navigate the most challenging period in our history. In significance and size of the historic vehicle movement order to defend the future of historic vehicles, they need to hand. The survey takes approximately 15-20 minutes your help by completing this crucial survey. to complete depending on the answers you give. Please complete the survey in one sitting. The Yorkshire Post recently quoted Grant Shapps, On submission of your questionnaire, you will be Secretary of State for Transport as saying “I’m sorry internal given the opportunity to enter a prize draw to win one combustion engine fans, I think its days are overall likely to of the following prizes: A year’s Club Insurance policy to be numbered.” the value of £250 including IPT, courtesy of Peter James A local authority, in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, recently Insurance, one of three pairs of tickets for the 2020 debated a motion, which was fortunately defeated, to Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show with Discovery, cancel its historic vehicle rally and parade. Courtesy of Clarion Events, or one of 15 display copies of The historic vehicle community, its events, freedoms to the FBHVC’s historic vehicle wall chart. use the roads and even the fuel we use, are under increasing Complete the survey here: https://www.fbhvc. threats and pressures amidst a changing landscape of co.uk/2020-enthusiast-survey

ANNOUNCEMENTS Jensen Owners’ Club Website/ Forum – Change is coming

BY RAJ MANGROO IT (CO-OPD)/REGALIA SECRETARY

t is with great pleasure I can now officially inform you • Your account – will feature items such as that as your temporary IT Secretary the much-needed • One login ID and password for all our access change to the club website and forum will go live in • your membership status September. The exact dates will be announced via our • your invoices Isocial media pages and the forum and e-mail. • your shop current and previous orders • access to change or update your contact details and ability to re-set or change your password What will be new • One location for everything, from events, to shopping, New Forum Terms and Conditions (T&Cs) will be to our Forum, etc. introduced to help our members, feel safe; know what is • A fresh clean theme to our JOC website expected of them; and who to contact if any matters arise. • Easier navigations around the website We want to facilitate all users of our forum to feel that • Shaper images on pages they can have a bit of banter with fellow car enthusiast(s) • Improved language functionality (for our overseas but not to be offended, or ridiculed for their views, beliefs members – basic google translation option) or comments. The change to the T&Cs is to evolve with • Membership registration and renewal with PayPal, the times, take advantage of software possibilities but also Bank transfer or Direct Debit options to comply with the current regulations on data protection

www.joc.org.uk ANNOUNCEMENTS 51 while at the same time retaining the ethos of our great club. If you are not already on our Facebook page, Instagram The committee takes all complaints seriously and will or Twitter page, why not join so that you can be kept abreast always investigate the matter with all the parties involved. with updates, activities and activation. If you prefer, please We rely on our administrators and moderators (who are all feel free to reach out to your area representative who will volunteers like the committee) to handle the forum matters endeavour to keep you informed of the time frame. professionally and diplomatically. We will strive to ensure all active users are provided I have received several suggestions and advice on with the right support and information they need to get what the site should look like, what should be available back into the swing of things when we go live with the and how it should be presented. As you can all appreciate new website. everyone’s “nice to have” ideas have been taken into consideration and built to the specification provided to me Acknowledge by the committee. We will always endeavour to improve My sincere thank you to our Registrars, Member Secretary, continuously. and various committee members who all inputted in I hope you will be pleased with the outcome of the building the backend of the system making storing newly revamped website, forum, merchandise shop but and accessing your data more accurate and secure. In most of all your accounts areas that will make access much particular, I extend my warmest and genuine thanks to more straightforward. Zachery Marshall (Zac #1 as he is known to some), the clubs previous IT Secretary. What will happen next and when Zac has supported the platform, improved performance For this transition to take place, there will need to be some of the system and provided a service to the club members downtime of our website and forum. This is to enable me and committee. to transfer all of the data from the old platform to the new On a personal level, thank you to Zac for all his platform before the new site goes live. support, guidance and most of all, patience during the The downtime will be approx. 48 hours but it will be handover, transition, building and testing. From my short worth it. During this time the club website, forum, shop and time in the club, I consider that without Zac’s support that all backend access will be closed to ALL users. Once the site the committee and members would not have so many goes live, you may be asked to change your password[1], features. as we may not have been able to transfer all of your login As we advance, I will always welcome Zac assistance credentials to the new site. with the IT role should he tire of his day job.

Restoration Race Prep With 50 years of experience, Chris Marsh can solve any problem on any marque. Servicing Purpose built workshop on site at home 10 mins Sales from M4 J17. Can potentially collect.

Storage Enquiries to [email protected] or see www.chrismarshclassics.com

Be part of the Marsh family story & its unique place in British Motorsport history

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub ANNOUNCEMENTS 52

Thank you to all those members that took the time to enter their cars. Concours As with any event like this, it requires a team effort to pull it off, and I would like to thank the rest of the team for Report 2020 helping to organise this. Thank you to: • Judges Helen Newby, Adrian Howells and Paul Bridges BY DAVE PEARCE, CONCOURS SECRETARY • Mark and Caroline Newby for counting the scores • Raj Mangroo and Zac Marshall for all their efforts with the IT. his is my first year as the Concours secretary and A big thanks to Helen Newby, the previous Concours maybe the first person in this role to cancel the secretary for all her help and advice in my first year. competition. However, with the backing of the committee, it was decided to organise a virtual Tcompetition with entrants submitting photographs of their cars. Trophy Winners Virtual As owners had extra time on their hands during the lockdown, they kept themselves busy cleaning and polishing Concours 2020 their cars. I was pleased to get a fantastic response from the members with 37 entries spread well between the three Gold Class 1st Place Christian Cartwright (WGA410) classes. Gold Class 2nd Place Anton Raaymakers (GJF17D) As this was a virtual event, it meant that many members Gold Class 3rd Place Phil Hayes (FNJ640L) from abroad had their first chance to enter their cars and it was pleasing to see entries from as far afield as Australia, Silver Class 1st Place David Booth (OU07FKP) New Zealand and America as well as Europe. Silver Class 2nd Place David Wright (FYF8C) The standard of cars that entered the competition was Silver Class 3rd Place Anton Raaymakers (00-34-XA) fantastic; all classes were represented well. It was terrific, especially as many had never entered a competition like Bronze Class 1st Place Martin Hearse (JI383) this before. Bronze Class 2nd Place Richard Fischer (NDC3L) Arranging the event looked to be a daunting task for the Bronze Class 3rd Place Clive Bishop (TGF139L) judges who had never marked cars from photos; however, they all did an excellent job. Best Early Car NO ENTRIES All cars were marked by four judges with no conferring Best 541 Christian Cartwright (WGA410) or reference to each other score sheets, and I am pleased Best CV8 Anton Raaymakers (GJF17D) to say that when Mark and Caroline Newby revealed the Best Interceptor Eddie Harrington (CEA 1J) results our marking had been remarkably consistent. Many Best Interceptor Variant Phil Hayes (FNJ640L) places were won or lost by a minimal margin. Best Sports Car David Booth (OU07FKP) Hopefully, we will be able to hold the International and usual Concours next year, but I am pleased to say even Members Choice Phil Hayes (FNJ640L) in such strange circumstances the club still managed to Chairmans Choice Stephen Upton Int 3 TGU164L have a Concours this year. Strathcarron Cup Christian Cartwright (WGA410)

www.joc.org.uk 53

BRAKES 541 · CV-8 · Interceptor · Healey Professional remanufacturing service BRAKESfor all Jensen brake calipers In house541 service, · CV-8 every caliper· Interceptor has full zinc plated · finish,Healey new caliper pistons, seals, bleedscrews and pad fittings. Rears are complete with reworkedProfessional hand brake assemblies. remanufacturing All are fluid pressure service tested and carry 12 months warranty. Available off the shelf for exchange or your own units re-manufacturedfor all Jensenexclusively forbrake you. Dunlop calipers piston and cylinder assembliesIn house also service, remanufactured every caliper hasusing full stainless zinc plated steel finish, inserts new caliper pistons, seals, bleedscrews and pad fittings. Rears are complete with reworkedCalipers hand brake assemblies. All are Servofluid pressure assemblies tested and carry 12 months warranty. Available off the shelf for exchange or your own Pricesunits are perre-manufactured single unit exclusively forPrices you. Dunlopshown forpiston reconditioned and cylinder unit - Ex 541 Dunlopassemblies also remanufacturedF £168 using stainless steel inserts 541/CV-8 lockheed remote £215 541 Dunlop CalipersR £185 Servo assemblies Interceptor girling direct £200 541R/S/CV-8 F £168 Prices are per single unit Prices shown for reconditioned unit - Ex 541R/S/CV-8541 Dunlop R F £185£168 Dunlop FF servo £250 541/CV-8 lockheed remote £215 Interceptor541 Dunlop MKI F R £168£185 Healey servo £135 Interceptor girling direct £200 Interceptor541R/S/CV-8 MKI R F £185£168 541R/S/CV-8 R £185 Dunlop FF servo £250 Interceptor MKII/III F £74 Master cylinders MARKETPLACE Interceptor MKI F £168 Interceptor MKII/III R £185 HealeyReconditioned servo master cylinders£135 - Dunlop Interceptor MKI R £185 Healey F £44 cylinderMaster single linecylinders as fitted to 541 and Interceptor MKII/III F £74 CV-8 to 1965, reconditioned with stainless Piston/cylinderInterceptor MKII/III R £185 Reconditionedsteel sleeve, masternew seals cylinders etc - Dunlop £155 cylinder single line as fitted to 541 and PricesHealey are per single assemblyF £44 CV-8Dunlop to 1965, cylinder reconditioned tandem with as stainlessfitted to CV-8 541 early Piston/cylindertype F £72 steeland sleeve,Interceptor new seals to 1968etc reconditioned £155 541 earlyPrices type are per single assemblyR £72 Dunlopwith stainless cylinder tandem steel sleeve. as fitted to CV-8 £155 541 early type F £72 541R/S/CV-8 F £72 andGirling Interceptor replacement to 1968 cylinder reconditioned to replace the 541 early type R £72 with stainless steel sleeve. £155 541R/S/CV-8 R £72 original Dunlop tandem cylinder £155 JOC Technical Advisors 541R/S/CV-8 F £72 Girling replacement cylinder to replace the Interceptor MKI F £72 Interceptor MKI/II Girling 7/8” £155 541R/S/CV-8 R £72 original Dunlop tandem cylinder £155 The following members have volunteered to try and solve Interceptor MKI R £72 Interceptor MKI F £72 InterceptorInterceptor MKI/II MKIII Girling Girling 7/8” 1” £155 £155 any problems that you may have with your Jensen. Do Interceptor MKI R £72 Caliper seal kits InterceptorInterceptor MKIII MKIII Girling FAG 1” £155 £125 take advantage of this service but remember to call at a Prices areCaliper shown for axleseal set ofkits seal reasonable time of day. You can of course, write to them if InterceptorHealey sports MKIII GirlingFAG original £125 £155 All DunlopPrices are shown for axleF set of seal£35 the problem is not urgent. Healey sports Girling original £155 All DunlopAll Dunlop R F £28£35 Master cylinder Jensen Interceptor All Dunlop R £28 Interceptor MKII/III F £28 Masterseal cylinder kits Alan Smith...... 01380 726876 Interceptor MKII/III F £28 seal kits Interceptor MKII/III R £28 CV-8/Interceptor MKI to 1968 £28 Tony Davies...... 01270 761444 Interceptor MKII/III R £28 Healey sports F £16 CV-8/Interceptor MKI to 1968 £28 Healey sports F £16 Interceptor MKII 7/8” £22 Interceptor MKII 7/8” £22 Jensen FF Caliper pistons Caliper pistons InterceptorInterceptor MKIII MKIII Girling Girling 1” 1” £22 £22 Dave Barnett...... 01708 456439 PricesPrices shown shown per per single single piston piston HealeyHealey sports sports £22 £22 ...... [email protected] InterceptorInterceptor MKII/III MKII/III smallsmall FF £18£18 InterceptorInterceptor MKII/III MKII/III largelarge FF £18£18 PricesPrices plus plus VAT VAT and and carriage carriage Jensen C-V8 Interceptor MKII/III small R £18 Interceptor MKII/III small R £18 MailMail order order service service - export - export Chris Walton...... 0121 3547441 InterceptorInterceptor MKII/III MKII/III largelarge RR £18£18 AllAll major major credit credit and and debit debit cards cards Healey sports F £14 accepted Healey sports F £14 accepted David & Jane Turnage...... 01206 273140 CLASSICAR AUTOMOTIVE ...... [email protected] Ron Smith...... 01283 760535 CLASSICARUnit A · Alderley · Chelford AUTOMOTIVE · Cheshire · SK11 9AP UnitTelephone A · Alderley 01625 · Chelford 860910 · ·Fax Cheshire 01625 860925 · SK11 9AP Jensen-Healey Telephone [email protected] 860910 · Fax 01625 860925 Martin Shirley...... 02476 385535 [email protected] ...... [email protected]

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub MARKETPLACE 54

CBB209BHEADER £ .98 129EXC.VAT FREE £ .98 155FOOTERINC.VAT 508 PAGE CATALOGUE 0UT NOW! WHERE QUALITY SUPERSTORES CALL COSTS LESS 65 NATIONWIDE 0844 880 1265 29978 HIGH VELOCITY PRESSURE INVERTER FANS WASHERS GENERATORS FROMHEADER ONLY £ .98 1100W 179EXC.VAT TOOL OVER £ .98 215FOOTERINC.VAT FROMHEADER ONLY Produces sine CHESTS/ 50 £ .98 wave & stable MODELS 59EXC.VAT CABINETS IN THE SIZES UP £ .98 power, essential for TO 36" 71FOOTERINC.VAT computers & RANGE FROMHEADER ONLY sensitive equipment £ .99 MODEL TYPE EXC.VAT INC.VAT 36EXC.VAT 5 CBB209B 9dr chest £129.98 £155.98 £ .39 14 CBB217BHEADER FOOTER MODELS CBB217B 7dr cabinet £249.98 £299.98 £ .98 13 44INC.VAT MODELS CBB205B 5dr chest EXC.VAT ELECTRIC IN THE MODEL £109.98 £131.98 249 MODELS IN IN THE & PETROL CBB203B 3dr step up £72.99 £87.59 £ .98 RANGE SHOWN 299FOOTERINC.VAT THE RANGE RANGE MODELS IG1200B MIG WELDERS TURBO AIR ALUMINIUM COMPRESSORS RACING JACKS GARAGES/WORKSHOPS FROMHEADER ONLY 30 £ .00 IDEAL MODELS • 14.5cfm NEW • 3HP 3 229EXC.VAT ALL-WEATHER IN THE • 50 litre MODELS £ .80 FOOTERINC.VAT RANGE IN THE 274 PROTECTION RANGE Extra tough triple layer weatherproof cover Heavy duty powder coated steel tubing OVER Ratchet FROMHEADER ONLY tight tensioning FROMHEADER ONLY 80 MODEL FROMHEADER ONLY £ .99 GAS, TIPS, MODELS SHOWN LOW 94EXC.VAT SHROUDS £ .99 £ .98 MODEL 124EXC.VAT IN THE 16/550 89EXC.VAT ENTRY MODEL £ .99 & WIRE IN SHOWN £ .99 £ .98 ONLY SHOWN 113FOOTERINC.VAT STOCK 135TE 149FOOTERINC.VAT RANGE 107FOOTERINC.VAT 85MM CTJ1250AB

3 EASY WAYS TO BUY ZIP CLOSE DOOR

IN-STORE TELESALES ONLINE MODEL SIZE (LxWxH) EXC.VAT INC.VAT BRIGHT WHITE LENGTH CIG81015 4.5 x 3 x 2.4M £229.00 £274.80 SUPERSTORES NATIONWIDE 0115 956 5555 machinemart.co.uk INTERIOR UP TO 24' CIG81020 6.1 x 3 x 2.4M £279.00 £334.80 CIG81216 4.8 x 3.7 x 2.5M £279.00 £334.80 Calls to the catalogue request number cost 7p per minute plus your telephone company’s network access charge. Calls may be monitored. CIG81220 6.1 x 3.7 x 2.5M £349.00 £418.80 All prices correct at time of going to press. We reserve the right to change products and prices. All products subject to availability, E&OE. CIG81224 7.3 x 3.7 x 2.5M £419.00 £502.80

www.joc.org.uk MARKETPLACE 55

Send your classified advertisements to: E: [email protected] Oily Rag Classics All classified advertisements are FREE to members Jensen Restoration Specialists and non-members alike, provided that they are not businesses or trade adverts and are motor related (see rates panel). You may include a PHOTO free of charge, which will be used if space permits. Photos cannot be returned unless you include an SAE.

Advertising rates as of January 2018: Full page: £220 Double page spread £400 Half page: £115 Quarter page £60 From Rusty Wrecks To Concours Cars Eighth page: £39 • Complete nut and bolt restoration • Engine rebuilds Trade classified ad • Engine bay restoration (up to 10 lines) £15 • Braking system overhaul Leaflet inserts: £350 • Steering and suspension rebuilds • Competitive rates with no VAT No VAT is payable, we are not VAT registered. Traders’ • Fully insured invoices are sent out with a copy of the magazine in which the advert appears. Payment is due after receipt Contact Dave to discuss your project of invoice. Tel: 07930 923407 Email: [email protected] FINAL DATE FOR SUBMISSIONS: Friday 9 October Please note, free classified adverts will only be View our current and past projects at reprinted if you contact [email protected] www.oilyragclassics.co.uk by Friday 9 October

PARTS FOR SALE

K&D Jensen provides a wide range of quality new and used Interceptor parts with worldwide shipping daily. We are also home to many unique upgrade and hardware kits. Visit our website www.interceptor.org or give us a call 425 788-0507 (Eastern time in the U.S) We look forward to hearing from you. How to submit articles If you would like to contribute to the magazine here are the guidelines for how articles and images should be sent to the Editor:

Submitting articles for print Issue 10 Winter 2019 £5.95 • Please create your article in a word file and save the file as the

author name. Send your article via the link on the Jensen owners OWNERS’ CLUB website. • Please state in the article where you would like your photos to be Issue 269 January - February 2020 added (e.g. Image 1 here) • Please image reference and caption all photos in a list at the end OWNERS’ CLUB of the document • All images should be sent separately (Please save images with names e.g. Image 1) • Digital photos would benefit from being taken at the highest mega pixel resolution supported and sent via WeTransfer to

[email protected] The technical guide to all Jensen models Submitting adverts for print: • Adverts should be supplied as a CMYK PDF X-1a where possible • Images should be 300dpi • Fonts should be embedded in the PDF file • Include crop marks and 3mm bleed on full page adverts

@jensenownersclub • @jensenowners • #jensenownersclub Classic Parts Specialist for GROUP Jaguar and Jensen Cars

Visit our new website...  Modern Design  Privilege Discount Pricing  Trade Discount Pricing  More Vehicles Available  More Illustrations  Responsive Web Deisgn

GEAR KNOB C/W PUSH PULLEY PAS HUB CAP CV8 CONNECTION HOSE 1/2 BUTTON & SPRING ALUMINIUM EMBLEM £11.85 Ex. VAT £119.33 Ex. VAT 2660357 £91.79 Ex. VAT 3698826 £32.13 Ex. VAT 23238 CT1125

FUEL TANK HEALEY DOOR HANDLE TANK SENDER RADIATOR ASSEMBLY ALUMINIUM GASKET KIT UNIT HEALEY ALUMINIUM £457.88 Ex. VAT 97508 £11.05 Ex. VAT 90350K £59.66 Ex. VAT 91169 £319.13 Ex. VAT 90554AL

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