Help!

[Cimla1]

Hi all - on the verge of parting with my hard earned for an S2. Before I make the leap just wondering if there are any S2 owners in the South West region (I’m Taunton based) that would be willing to share their experience and maybe allow me to see their pride and joy? Would be much appreciated - cheers Phil

[GreenV8S]

I recommend joining the TVR Car Club. Most regions have monthly meetings. If you go along to your local one you will probably find somebody with a similar car willing to show you what to look for, they may even be willing to go look at it with you, you may even get lucky and find somebody familiar with the car you're considering.

[phillpot]

You specify S2, have you got a particular car in mind?

[88S1]

Phil

This is on eBay, not too far from you.

[Cimla1]

Hi guys and thanks for your suggestions, I intend joining the club and have arranged to view the one suggested tomorrow morning - it’s an hour from me so very local really.

In no rush, so prepared to hold on until the right one turns up.

Been studying the S series form and being an ex-mechanic I know my way around a car, but if there are any tips they will be most welcomed.

Cheers

[Cimla1]

Hi Lee - got mixed up there, the one I’m viewing tomorrow is on the Wiltshire/Somerset border. A Blue S2 which is currently on PH. The one you suggested is on eBay if I’m not mistaken, but not too fussed on the colour!

Thanks again

[greymrj]

BIG tip. Before you buy a car you MUST buy The Essential Buyers Guide TVR S Series from Amazon. Written by one of the experts in this marque (Richard Kitchen, Southways Automotive, Portsmouth) with contributions from a few of us.
Damn, I was down in Taunton recently with mine (my son is in Bishops Hull) but not due in the S again this year.

[Cimla1]

Great advice.thank you Richard, book just purchased off eBay for £8.20 - could prove to be the best 8 quid I have ever spent ! Cheers

[phillpot]

Top three buying tips for a TVR S Series

1. Check the chassis thoroughly

2. Check the chassis thoroughly

3. Check the chassis thoroughly




Did I mention, check the chassis?

Edited by phillpot on Saturday 10th August 09:27

[Cimla1]

Thanks Mike, message received loud and clear! From my reading so far the complete chassis but particular attention to the numerous outriggers?

[AlfaSpider]

The rear wishbone mounting brackets and the tube they are welded to are very susceptible to corrosion, as is the seat belt and body mount shown in the photo.

[Cimla1]

Are they easily visible or buried in bodywork?

[phillpot]

That is basically the problem, it's the bits you can't see that rust worse.

[Cimla1]

So is it always a leap of faith ?

[Cimla1]

Great advice.thank you Richard, book just purchased off eBay for £8.20 - could prove to be the best 8 quid I have ever spent ! Cheers

[phillpot]

Cimla1 said:

So is it always a leap of faith ?

No, buy one with documented proof of chassis repair work carried out by a known/respected workshop or plenty of before/after photo's if owner did repairs himself.
Or, you allow in the price you pay for repairs inevitably being needed, sooner rather than later

[Cimla1]

I spoke to a chap today who reckons his1988 S2 was waxoiled and is in mint condition never being repaired - highly unlikely?

[phillpot]

caveat emptor!




The second someone mentions "mint" my suspicions are aroused. It's 30 years old, it ain't gonna be mint, trust me

Edited by phillpot on Saturday 10th August 22:28

[Cimla1]

That’s the impression I am getting very very quickly, which is really daunting as I really do like the S series. With a worse case scenario what sort of budget would be required to get a reputable body off repair done by a specialist?

[phillpot]

Phone or message Richard @ Southways Automotive, it's his job he fixes them, get it from "the horses mouth" so to speak.