At KWE, we find that most classic car owners prefer the features of modern in-car audio systems, but not many customers are satisfied with the way modern head units look once fitted.

In cars built in the 90s onwards it is common to have non-standard single DIN units whose apertures, when removed, will not suit standalone aftermarket units. This Jaguar XK8 is a good example of a modern headunit that can’t be retro-fitted with an aftermarket Bluetooth unit.

While the FM radio facility has not changed much in the last 40 years, the sources of recorded music have. We started with 8 track cartridges followed by cassettes. The digital age produced CDs and devices such as the Apple iPod and MP3 music files capable of being stored on a USB memory stick. Advances in technology now allow drivers to stream directly from a smartphone to the headunit via Bluetooth.

But what if you want to

As one of the UK’s leading restorers of luxury classic cars, we come across all sorts of common problems that require the attention of our specialist engineers.

At KWE our aim has always been to ensure our customers receive a ‘better than new’ restoration service for their Jaguar XJS, XJ, XK and Aston Martin DB7 vehicles. So, we believe it’s important to share information that will ensure these vehicles maintain their reliability and roadworthiness.

We’ve noticed an increase in the number of classic cars being delivered to us for restoration with fuel system failures. Here we offer 7 preventative tips that will keep your vehicle in good condition and help avoid expensive remedial repairs.

Rust and sludge

The primary problem is due to the accumulation of rust and sludge in the fuel tank.

Even though high quality fuel filters are used in the fuel system, fuel pump damage and clogging of the injectors can occur.

While external crash damage to a vehicle is clearly noticeable, other parts are less so and therefore require thorough checks and repairs before a car is deemed roadworthy and safe to drive.

A car’s powertrain comprises several important components that are prone to serious damage if a vehicle is unfortunate enough to be involved in an accident.

In most modern vehicles the powertrain includes the engine, transmission, drive shaft, differential and the final drive. Together, these components transmit the engine’s power through to the road surface.

Our workshop technicians have been kept particularly busy recently with two Jaguars XJSs that [...]

The classic car industry is international, and so are KWE – we’re wherever our clients are. Over the past few years, we have seen a steady increase in the number of international clients. We’re thrilled that our hard work and dedication has resulted in KWE developing its international profile. The secret is out!

The current favourable exchange rates are particularly good news for international customers, whether sourcing a car in the UK or shipping one over for restoration. Post-Brexit, it makes smart financial sense to take advantage of the weaker pound. As Classic & Performance Car reported in July 2016, British classic cars are currently much more appealing on the international market. They’re now approximately 15% more affordable in the U.S. – plus, the exchange rate will effectively pay the cost of shipping the vehicle.

One

Are you a true classic car enthusiast? If you can recognise three or more of these tell-tale signs then the answer is probably yes!

You enjoy nothing more than socialising with like-minded motor heads. Joining a classic car club gives you an opportunity to celebrate the life of your vehicle, and the pleasure attached to owning it, with people who care. You regularly attend events where you bond over fond memories of your prized possession, exchanging tips on rust prevention and what makes the best chamois leather.  

Christmases and birthdays have become synonymous with receiving classic car-related memorabilia and merchandise in a variety of forms. Your office has become awash with replica models, mugs, stationery, and various other car-related oddities.

Your car (an inanimate metal object) has

Earlier in 2016, KWE reported on the meteoric rise in the value of classic cars in general, and the Jaguar XJS in particular. The XJS has been widely documented as the next modern classic, with prices set to go up year on year.

We’re happy to report once more that the Jaguar XJS is continuing to rapidly increase in value, from a slow start up to mid-2015 to a rate of 5-25% a year. The big stars are the rare 6 litre convertibles, and the pre-HE (1975-1980) coupés. It would be fair to say that the XJS is ‘doing an E-Type.’ In other words, as good examples decline in availability, the XJS is becoming very sought-after, with prices soaring due to the investment potential.

Although all examples of the XJS are rising in value, it is not too late to grab one at a reasonable price. However, a good un-restored example that cost, say, £5000

We’ve got our hands on this XJS convertible in Jaguar Crimson, available for sale now.

The car is ready to drive off in, but it could also be upgraded to the full KWE specification, offered at cost price. So whether you want it as is, or would like to see some changes made, this car offers plenty of options!

KWE has already assessed and refreshed the car with our usual attention to detail, carrying out what little maintenance it required. With low mileage and only 3 owners, it’s in excellent condition.

You can read the current specification and see the stunning new photographs here.

For enquiries, please contact KWE by calling +44 (0) 1635 30030 or emailing [email protected].

KWE has developed a way of repairing the Delanaire Mark 2 aircon servo amplifier. Spares are unobtainable and the amplifier has a limited life. The symptoms of failure of this device are a lack of temperature and air direction control, even though the heating and cooling systems are working.

Similarly, KWE can now replace or repair the Delanaire Mark 3 frost thermostat,