2016-06-05 12:08:25 | pauls writes:

Car was at auction 3/16 but withdrawn:
classiccars.brightwells.com/viewdetails.php

Auction description;
Lot number 57
Hammer value WD
Description Daimler 2.5 V8 Saloon Automatic
Registration DSA 674B
Year 1964
Colour White
Engine size 2,548 cc
Chassis No. 1A 5501BW4A5846
Engine No. 7A5959
Documents V5C; MOT until September 2016; Heritage Certificate

According to the accompanying Heritage Certificate, this example was manufactured on 27th July 1964 and despatched to New Zealand to the local Daimler agent, Williams & Adams. It was first registered on 14th August 1964, after which it dissappeared from trace until bought by a Japanese collector in the 1980s who shipped it to Japan to join his private collection. It was to remain there until 2015 when it was repatriated to the UK.

Having travelled more nautical miles than road miles in recent years, this sound Daimler was delivered to Jaguar specialists NJ Restorations of Carmarthen for a full bare metal repaint. They noted that it was one of the best Mk2 body shells that they have worked on and that almost no repairs were required apart from the removal of an incorrect non-standard wing mirror.

Mechanically the Daimler was fettled and recommissioned by Robert Grimes (Engineer) who serviced the fuel system including a complete flush from tank to inlet manifold and a rebuild of both fuel pump and carburettors. The ignition system was serviced, fitting new plug leads, points and spark plugs and just to make sure, the sump was flushed out and filled with fresh oil. The cooling system was checked and the cylinder compressions were declared within tolerance.

The gearbox was also serviced with new automatic transmission fluid and an oil leak from the differential was cured with a new seal and gasket. Almost every bush on the suspension system was replaced including the sub frame mounts, and the braking system overhauled with new discs, pads and a rebuild of the brake calipers. New tyres have just been fitted all round and it has a current MOT until September 2016.

The interior is totally original and is one of the highlights of the car. Trimmed in deep red top quality leather it has aged really well and now exudes a warm patina which is enhanced by the top-quality handmade carpets on the floors.

In superb condition inside and out, this lovely Daimler has clearly made the most of living in dry climates for most of its life and is ready for the upcoming summer show circuit.