Has anyone used Vantage Engineering?
Discussion
Hi Guys,
I hope that you are all well. It has come to that moment when I need to replace my clutch
I have had a look at Bramford Rose and they are a trusted supplier but they are too far away especially in the current climate. Vantage have quoted the same price for their clutch and flywheel upgrade and just wanted to see if anyone here has used them?
Thanks
I hope that you are all well. It has come to that moment when I need to replace my clutch
I have had a look at Bramford Rose and they are a trusted supplier but they are too far away especially in the current climate. Vantage have quoted the same price for their clutch and flywheel upgrade and just wanted to see if anyone here has used them? Thanks
Aston Martin DB9
Suspension Improvements-Vantage Engineering
Towards the latter part of 2016 I had the opportunity to purchase a 2005 DB9 coupe.
As this was a long-held aspiration, I jumped at the chance. The car was in pristine condition, with no modifications, Blue Sapphire with Sandstorm interior and 32k miles on the clock.
I was in total awe of the car, revelling in its performance, comfort, looks and noise.
As time has passed, with the clock now showing 40k miles, I have become aware of some of the less desirable elements of the driving experience, the ‘crunchy’ suspension, the somewhat vague feeling that the rear end was not always where I thought that it should be, the dip of the nose under firm braking and the fight with the turn-in on higher speed corners.
I had done much reading of the plethora of forums that exist that confirmed that my car was not in any way out of the ordinary, so I suppose that I had concluded that I was going to have to put up with these minor imperfections. The only modifications that I have made during my ownership were the fitting of a new set of lighter weight rims (Carbon Black edition) accompanied by titanium wheel nuts and Michelin tyres. I should state at this point that I did not want a track car, nor even do I want to hurl it around pot-holed roads; I would like a comfortable, fast road car.
The real turning point in this whole process occurred when I drove a slightly younger version of the same car, but one that benefitted from having the Sportspack modifications. The major difference that I immediately noticed was that the suspension was more supple and didn’t exhibit any of the rather rigid characteristics that my car did, despite having higher spring rates.
Further reference to forum material confirmed that much of the overall problem was most probably due to the OEM shock absorbers, the Multimatics Dynamics dampers. I therefore set about identifying a suitable brand of dampers to replace these items, knowing that mine were in working order, with no evident leaks, anecdotally a common problem.
I contacted several suppliers and organisations each one of which possesses a reputation for remedying the particular characteristics that exist with un-modified, standard vehicles, which, in my view, take the shine off a beautiful car. I was fairly disappointed with the response that I received from several of them, which simply immediately offered their off-the-shelf solution, without even asking what was my requirement.
I eventually found an advertisement for Vantage Engineering bespoke shock absorbers that offered a damper that could provide various ‘stiffness’ responses as well as height adjustment, characteristics that were admittedly on offer from other suppliers.
I contacted Vantage Engineering and after voicing my problem was put through to Terry Couzens, the owner. Vantage Engineering is based near Horsham in West Sussex and has a well-equipped workshop that carries out maintenance and modifications to solely Aston Martin cars, both recent and vintage. The big difference was that Terry listened to my description of the problem and then suggested what nobody else had, that I bring the car to him and he would drive it to ascertain any issues and then recommend solutions!
This I duly did; Terry was broadly in agreement with my concerns and recommended that he fitted a set of Vantage Engineering’s own brand of dampers, using the existing road springs. Terry agreed to set the damper responses and heights that his test driving and ‘feel’ identified, followed up with a complete geometry check and re-set.
After the initial work had been completed, I was invited to Vantage Engineering’s workshops in order to test drive the set-up that had been implemented.
In a nutshell, I was amazed at the difference! I wouldn’t go as far as say that a complete transformation had been effected; it was still the same basic car, with the same springs, rims and tyres, but suffice to say that I was absolutely delighted with the result! Terry had lowered the front of the car by approximately 15mm and the rear by 10mm. The damper response had been adjusted to settings that Terry considered appropriate. Both ride height and damper response settings were well within the range offered by the bespoke shock absorber units. The geometry has been adjusted to remain within overall factory recommendations with the rear wheels having been toed in slightly, whilst caster has been removed from the front wheels. The suspension is now far more accommodating and compliant, with no jolts or crashing, with more travel in the suspension afforded by the new set up. There is considerably less dip on hard braking and the rear of the car feels much more secure. There is no longer a fight with the turn in. The whole car has become more comfortable, combining suppleness with control. I am over the moon with the result and now consider that I own the car that I really bought. Huge smile on face!
The real message of this post is that it is clear to me that it pays to have work of this nature carried out by a properly qualified motor engineer who understands the complexities of suspension and geometry and can ‘tune’ the component parts to provide the optimum solution. I consider that I was most fortunate to have found Vantage Engineering and asking them to carry out this work and did not rely on some other organisations that would have merely provided their stock response without driving the car and listening to my requirements.
Well done Vantage Engineering, I wish you every success in the future and rest assured I will strongly recommend your services to others.
Bob Haywood
Suspension Improvements-Vantage Engineering
Towards the latter part of 2016 I had the opportunity to purchase a 2005 DB9 coupe.
As this was a long-held aspiration, I jumped at the chance. The car was in pristine condition, with no modifications, Blue Sapphire with Sandstorm interior and 32k miles on the clock.
I was in total awe of the car, revelling in its performance, comfort, looks and noise.
As time has passed, with the clock now showing 40k miles, I have become aware of some of the less desirable elements of the driving experience, the ‘crunchy’ suspension, the somewhat vague feeling that the rear end was not always where I thought that it should be, the dip of the nose under firm braking and the fight with the turn-in on higher speed corners.
I had done much reading of the plethora of forums that exist that confirmed that my car was not in any way out of the ordinary, so I suppose that I had concluded that I was going to have to put up with these minor imperfections. The only modifications that I have made during my ownership were the fitting of a new set of lighter weight rims (Carbon Black edition) accompanied by titanium wheel nuts and Michelin tyres. I should state at this point that I did not want a track car, nor even do I want to hurl it around pot-holed roads; I would like a comfortable, fast road car.
The real turning point in this whole process occurred when I drove a slightly younger version of the same car, but one that benefitted from having the Sportspack modifications. The major difference that I immediately noticed was that the suspension was more supple and didn’t exhibit any of the rather rigid characteristics that my car did, despite having higher spring rates.
Further reference to forum material confirmed that much of the overall problem was most probably due to the OEM shock absorbers, the Multimatics Dynamics dampers. I therefore set about identifying a suitable brand of dampers to replace these items, knowing that mine were in working order, with no evident leaks, anecdotally a common problem.
I contacted several suppliers and organisations each one of which possesses a reputation for remedying the particular characteristics that exist with un-modified, standard vehicles, which, in my view, take the shine off a beautiful car. I was fairly disappointed with the response that I received from several of them, which simply immediately offered their off-the-shelf solution, without even asking what was my requirement.
I eventually found an advertisement for Vantage Engineering bespoke shock absorbers that offered a damper that could provide various ‘stiffness’ responses as well as height adjustment, characteristics that were admittedly on offer from other suppliers.
I contacted Vantage Engineering and after voicing my problem was put through to Terry Couzens, the owner. Vantage Engineering is based near Horsham in West Sussex and has a well-equipped workshop that carries out maintenance and modifications to solely Aston Martin cars, both recent and vintage. The big difference was that Terry listened to my description of the problem and then suggested what nobody else had, that I bring the car to him and he would drive it to ascertain any issues and then recommend solutions!
This I duly did; Terry was broadly in agreement with my concerns and recommended that he fitted a set of Vantage Engineering’s own brand of dampers, using the existing road springs. Terry agreed to set the damper responses and heights that his test driving and ‘feel’ identified, followed up with a complete geometry check and re-set.
After the initial work had been completed, I was invited to Vantage Engineering’s workshops in order to test drive the set-up that had been implemented.
In a nutshell, I was amazed at the difference! I wouldn’t go as far as say that a complete transformation had been effected; it was still the same basic car, with the same springs, rims and tyres, but suffice to say that I was absolutely delighted with the result! Terry had lowered the front of the car by approximately 15mm and the rear by 10mm. The damper response had been adjusted to settings that Terry considered appropriate. Both ride height and damper response settings were well within the range offered by the bespoke shock absorber units. The geometry has been adjusted to remain within overall factory recommendations with the rear wheels having been toed in slightly, whilst caster has been removed from the front wheels. The suspension is now far more accommodating and compliant, with no jolts or crashing, with more travel in the suspension afforded by the new set up. There is considerably less dip on hard braking and the rear of the car feels much more secure. There is no longer a fight with the turn in. The whole car has become more comfortable, combining suppleness with control. I am over the moon with the result and now consider that I own the car that I really bought. Huge smile on face!
The real message of this post is that it is clear to me that it pays to have work of this nature carried out by a properly qualified motor engineer who understands the complexities of suspension and geometry and can ‘tune’ the component parts to provide the optimum solution. I consider that I was most fortunate to have found Vantage Engineering and asking them to carry out this work and did not rely on some other organisations that would have merely provided their stock response without driving the car and listening to my requirements.
Well done Vantage Engineering, I wish you every success in the future and rest assured I will strongly recommend your services to others.
Bob Haywood
Jimbo255 said:
Hi Guys,
I hope that you are all well. It has come to that moment when I need to replace my clutch I have had a look at Bramford Rose and they are a trusted supplier but they are too far away especially in the current climate. Vantage have quoted the same price for their clutch and flywheel upgrade and just wanted to see if anyone here has used them?
Thanks
Bamdford Rose offer a collection service, but if you’re near Horsham that could work out pretty spendy.I hope that you are all well. It has come to that moment when I need to replace my clutch
I have had a look at Bramford Rose and they are a trusted supplier but they are too far away especially in the current climate. Vantage have quoted the same price for their clutch and flywheel upgrade and just wanted to see if anyone here has used them? Thanks
Vantage Engineering used my existing springs. We did discuss installing up-rated springs to match the Sportspack ratings, but decided to stick with what we had since I was not looking for a track car.
The dampers were then, as far as fit was concerned, like-for-like replacement for the original Dynamics kit, except of course they could be adjusted for height and response.
I did ask Terry who made the shock absorbers, but since he has spent many hours developing them with 'a well known manufacturer', he chose not to disclose that information. (And I don't hold that against him!)
They come with a 3 year warranty and can be refurbished if needed, unlike the Dynamics dampers, which have to be replaced if there's any trouble.
All in all, the best of many worlds.
With regard to Vantage Engineering's workshop, it is most impressive. There was an extensive range of Astons being worked on and it appears that VE are able to carry out nearly all types of engineering work at the workshop.
Not only was the work of the highest order, the car was returned to me in absolutely sparkling condition, but I considered that it had been carried out by professional staff who really knew their trade and enjoyed it!
The dampers were then, as far as fit was concerned, like-for-like replacement for the original Dynamics kit, except of course they could be adjusted for height and response.
I did ask Terry who made the shock absorbers, but since he has spent many hours developing them with 'a well known manufacturer', he chose not to disclose that information. (And I don't hold that against him!)
They come with a 3 year warranty and can be refurbished if needed, unlike the Dynamics dampers, which have to be replaced if there's any trouble.
All in all, the best of many worlds.
With regard to Vantage Engineering's workshop, it is most impressive. There was an extensive range of Astons being worked on and it appears that VE are able to carry out nearly all types of engineering work at the workshop.
Not only was the work of the highest order, the car was returned to me in absolutely sparkling condition, but I considered that it had been carried out by professional staff who really knew their trade and enjoyed it!
Hi Bob
That's fantastic information. I am in the process of deciding on which new toy to buy. I think I've narrowed it down to V8 Vantage, DB9, 4.5 Cerbera or T350C. I know of a good TVR specialist in the south but I have been wondering what the recommendations were regarding Astons.
This is probably a cardinal sin of a question from someone considering buying an Aston Martin but how do Vantage compare pricewise? Not ignoring the fact that it's better to pay a bit more and get a proper job!!
That's fantastic information. I am in the process of deciding on which new toy to buy. I think I've narrowed it down to V8 Vantage, DB9, 4.5 Cerbera or T350C. I know of a good TVR specialist in the south but I have been wondering what the recommendations were regarding Astons.
This is probably a cardinal sin of a question from someone considering buying an Aston Martin but how do Vantage compare pricewise? Not ignoring the fact that it's better to pay a bit more and get a proper job!!
Toby,
Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
Just thought I’d jump on this. I can’t recommend Vantage Engineering enough, I sent my 5 there last year to be restored a bit as it was getting rather tired. The paintwork, trim and just about everything mechanical was seen to and I agree, Terry is very knowledgeable and was great in advising potential upgrades - the brakes are maybe even a little too harsh?! I haven’t tried their dampers but they were shown to me by a member of their team. As with my car also it was returned looking incredible after having their detailer “correct” the paint and ceramic coat it. It’s worth popping over and seeing the guys there, for a young company they seem to be doing something right!
Bob Haywood said:
Toby,
Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
Thanks Bob, really useful info.Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
All I need to do now is decide which car I actually want to buy!!!!
Thanks Bob for the info you have given regarding VE, until today I had not heard of them.
I live about 5 miles from AHM and so far they have been very good and with Adie the owner actually racing cars he understands set up however, they recommend the Bilstein route which by all accounts is a good set up but you have my interest now with VE.
I'm aware that Nitron are in the process of signing off a road biased version of their coil overs for the Vantage but I wouldn't like to be the first to put a set on mine.
I will give VE a looking at now based on your recommendation.
I live about 5 miles from AHM and so far they have been very good and with Adie the owner actually racing cars he understands set up however, they recommend the Bilstein route which by all accounts is a good set up but you have my interest now with VE.
I'm aware that Nitron are in the process of signing off a road biased version of their coil overs for the Vantage but I wouldn't like to be the first to put a set on mine.
I will give VE a looking at now based on your recommendation.
Edited by BiggaJ on Tuesday 19th January 16:59
Bob Haywood said:
Toby,
Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
Do you mind me asking how much it was? Have you got any pictures of the products/set up?Before I committed to Vanatge Engineering, I did a quick shop around, contacting the usual suspects.
I was pleased with VE's quote as it was entirely consistent with the cheapest option that I had found, (buying Nitro dampers and having my usual mechanic fit them, but without a full geometry re-set), considerably cheaper than going to another organisation that offers many modifications to AM cars and hugely cheaper than going to an AM main dealer, buying the upgraded Bilstein dampers and springs and again having my usual mechanic fit these.
So, VE offered a good price, which they stuck to and provided the excellent service referred to above.
Hi All,
I thought I would update this post as I finally got round to booking in the car for some work and I decided to go with Vantage Engineering.
I decided to pop down to the workshop unannounced to see what they were all about and wow was I glad that I did! Terry gave me a tour of the workshop along with the a look at some of the most amazing cars I've ever seen under one roof. What was apparent from Terry was the passion to not only the business but each and every car that comes into their care.
I decided to book my 2006 Vantage in for a service along with a new twin-plate clutch and a Quicksilver catalyst. The communication was excellent and emails were responded to by Rob in minutes not hours. I did receive one nasty shock which was that a couple dampers needed replacing but the way that this was communicated to me was very sensitive along with a couple options. One of the options was to have the "Vantage Engineering" designed adjustable dampers that Terry had shown me during my tour which is what I went for.
When I picked up the car it was beautifully presented with lots of little things like the boot being adjusted so that it is aligned all done without even asking, it was these little things that really put a smile on my face but the biggest smile was that the car had been overhauled and with the new clutch and the new dampers (which have been expertly setup to my requirements) the car is spectacular and like a new beast.
Long story short, am I glad that I went to Vantage Engineering? Yes and I would highly recommend these guys to anyone that has an Aston that needs work doing or at least go down and see them as the workshop alone is a beautiful piece of artwork in its own right.
Thank you to all the guys in the posts above as it seems that they all also had a great experience.
I thought I would update this post as I finally got round to booking in the car for some work and I decided to go with Vantage Engineering.
I decided to pop down to the workshop unannounced to see what they were all about and wow was I glad that I did! Terry gave me a tour of the workshop along with the a look at some of the most amazing cars I've ever seen under one roof. What was apparent from Terry was the passion to not only the business but each and every car that comes into their care.
I decided to book my 2006 Vantage in for a service along with a new twin-plate clutch and a Quicksilver catalyst. The communication was excellent and emails were responded to by Rob in minutes not hours. I did receive one nasty shock which was that a couple dampers needed replacing but the way that this was communicated to me was very sensitive along with a couple options. One of the options was to have the "Vantage Engineering" designed adjustable dampers that Terry had shown me during my tour which is what I went for.
When I picked up the car it was beautifully presented with lots of little things like the boot being adjusted so that it is aligned all done without even asking, it was these little things that really put a smile on my face but the biggest smile was that the car had been overhauled and with the new clutch and the new dampers (which have been expertly setup to my requirements) the car is spectacular and like a new beast.
Long story short, am I glad that I went to Vantage Engineering? Yes and I would highly recommend these guys to anyone that has an Aston that needs work doing or at least go down and see them as the workshop alone is a beautiful piece of artwork in its own right.
Thank you to all the guys in the posts above as it seems that they all also had a great experience.
I purchased my 2010 V8 Vantage Roadster in 2018 and used main dealers for the first year while under warranty. Not particularly impressed with the main dealer experience I went looking for an independent specialist to look after my car and was directed to Vantage Engineering by a local AMOC member.
Pre-covid, VE used to host weekend coffee mornings so I went along to find out what they are all about. Terry showed me around the wonderful selection of heritage and modern cars in the workshop and talked me through their services. For me, being 100% comfortable leaving the car at a workshop is so important and that box was firmly ticked. The enormous passion shown for the brand, knowledge demonstrated and 'fix it', rather than replace till we find what's wrong mentality left me feeling that this would be the place for me.
I have been now been using Vantage Engineering for 3 years for routine servicing, MOT and also other work including fitting Quicksilver sports cats and the AMR twin plate clutch and lightened flywheel. The service has always been friendly and professional from this group of guys that really understand what ownership of these cars means to the owners. It is always a great experience to go there, chat all things Aston and look around the latest array of cars and projects ongoing on the workshop.
If you need anything, give Terry or Rob a ring.
I went along
and car
Vanatge
Pre-covid, VE used to host weekend coffee mornings so I went along to find out what they are all about. Terry showed me around the wonderful selection of heritage and modern cars in the workshop and talked me through their services. For me, being 100% comfortable leaving the car at a workshop is so important and that box was firmly ticked. The enormous passion shown for the brand, knowledge demonstrated and 'fix it', rather than replace till we find what's wrong mentality left me feeling that this would be the place for me.
I have been now been using Vantage Engineering for 3 years for routine servicing, MOT and also other work including fitting Quicksilver sports cats and the AMR twin plate clutch and lightened flywheel. The service has always been friendly and professional from this group of guys that really understand what ownership of these cars means to the owners. It is always a great experience to go there, chat all things Aston and look around the latest array of cars and projects ongoing on the workshop.
If you need anything, give Terry or Rob a ring.
I went along
and car
Vanatge
I've just had a lengthy conversation with both Rob and Terry re what they can offer me in terms of a more compliant ride.
Basically replacing my Dynamix suspension with their own developed system.
I have to say both guys very good, easy to talk too, listened to what I wanted. Terry mentioned they have just improved the shocks but now await new stock, once it comes in they will call me so we can book my car in, take it for a drive , assess what I'm looking for and go from there.
From what I've described to them it appears the basic system is all I require however, they can tailor the set up to whatever I feel... At a price.
Obviously the manufacturer will not be disclosed however, the VE system has been jointly developed with an ex Beneton F1 suspension engineer and Terry and all produced by a very reputable producer of suspension systems.
Just now waiting for my email with photographs.
Basically replacing my Dynamix suspension with their own developed system.
I have to say both guys very good, easy to talk too, listened to what I wanted. Terry mentioned they have just improved the shocks but now await new stock, once it comes in they will call me so we can book my car in, take it for a drive , assess what I'm looking for and go from there.
From what I've described to them it appears the basic system is all I require however, they can tailor the set up to whatever I feel... At a price.
Obviously the manufacturer will not be disclosed however, the VE system has been jointly developed with an ex Beneton F1 suspension engineer and Terry and all produced by a very reputable producer of suspension systems.
Just now waiting for my email with photographs.
I became aware of this new outfit about a month ago, my interest is in finding somewhere to do engine work on my classic V8 without insisting on a full megabucks engine out rebuild. I'm in process of uprating my 1979 V8 to full Vantage spec, and even here in the UK where the cars were made, there are very few reputable heritage specialists. I have talked to almost all of them over the course of the last year or so, and sized them up.
I visited the relatively new workshop and talked to Terry at length last week. It is clear that here we have the real deal, a specialist with a level of heritage understanding and technical ability that I would have only have hoped to find in Newport Pagnell circa 1965-1985. Its clear with a heritage engine build/restoration back story at gold-standard outfit RS Williams, here is an outfit I for one will be willing to trust my classic to. Works are to involve some fairly extensive machining and porting of heads and manifolds, and new valves, cams, carbs etc. With in house designed big bore lightweight pistons for the heritage inline 6 and V8 motors, these guys are clearly gunning for the small handful of established gold heritage players with real engine building ability, Works, RSW, Aston Engineering etc.
I am going to book my car in with these guys - they are so busy it will take time, but I am comfortable. If interesting to others on this forum I will update on how my old Oscar India is doing. It is being upgraded to and evolved from original Vantage spec in 3 stages, cosmetics (done), transmission, which is removal of the awful 70's 3 speed slush box and installation of a DB7 Vantage Tremec T56 6 speed manual box (almost done), then lastly the engine.
As regards the modern stuff - the South East of UK has been absolutely crying out for a decent VH specialist for years. I have long had to go all the way to the midlands if I want anything doing on my V8VS, usually meaning two full days off work each time. As the Vantage Engineering guys build experience with the Gaydon-era stuff I'm sure they will develop into a useful option for those of us a bit too far from the default Gaydon specialists, Bamford Rose, especially for more routine stuff. Most of the usual upgrades for the Gaydon cars, manifolds, shockers, clutches, brakes, chassis plates etc are pretty well known by now, but even with the latest diagnostics, the ability to understand and resolve all the myriad niggling electrical and mechanical faults that can develop with those sometimes rather highly strung beauties might take a little while to fully develop.
I visited the relatively new workshop and talked to Terry at length last week. It is clear that here we have the real deal, a specialist with a level of heritage understanding and technical ability that I would have only have hoped to find in Newport Pagnell circa 1965-1985. Its clear with a heritage engine build/restoration back story at gold-standard outfit RS Williams, here is an outfit I for one will be willing to trust my classic to. Works are to involve some fairly extensive machining and porting of heads and manifolds, and new valves, cams, carbs etc. With in house designed big bore lightweight pistons for the heritage inline 6 and V8 motors, these guys are clearly gunning for the small handful of established gold heritage players with real engine building ability, Works, RSW, Aston Engineering etc.
I am going to book my car in with these guys - they are so busy it will take time, but I am comfortable. If interesting to others on this forum I will update on how my old Oscar India is doing. It is being upgraded to and evolved from original Vantage spec in 3 stages, cosmetics (done), transmission, which is removal of the awful 70's 3 speed slush box and installation of a DB7 Vantage Tremec T56 6 speed manual box (almost done), then lastly the engine.
As regards the modern stuff - the South East of UK has been absolutely crying out for a decent VH specialist for years. I have long had to go all the way to the midlands if I want anything doing on my V8VS, usually meaning two full days off work each time. As the Vantage Engineering guys build experience with the Gaydon-era stuff I'm sure they will develop into a useful option for those of us a bit too far from the default Gaydon specialists, Bamford Rose, especially for more routine stuff. Most of the usual upgrades for the Gaydon cars, manifolds, shockers, clutches, brakes, chassis plates etc are pretty well known by now, but even with the latest diagnostics, the ability to understand and resolve all the myriad niggling electrical and mechanical faults that can develop with those sometimes rather highly strung beauties might take a little while to fully develop.
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