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tpickering
Unregistered guest
Posted From: 124.182.161.106
Posted on Monday, 18 May, 2015 - 16:03:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Hello
I have been offered a 76 Shadow and would like to know what are the weak points of this car and where to look when making a decision.

many thanks

Trevor

(Message approved by david_gore)
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David Gore
Moderator
Username: david_gore

Post Number: 1611
Registered: 4-2003
Posted on Monday, 18 May, 2015 - 20:21:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Trevor,

You really need to go through the Silver Shadow topic on this forum and read all the posts as a lot of the Shadow I discussion also relates to the Shadow II.

Suffice to say the following general principle applies:

"Every extra dollar you spend to get a good car saves you at least two dollars in repairs."

I note you are located in Australia and I suggest you have the car inspected by a local R-R/B specialist before making a final decision as they will be able to advise on the overall condition of the vehicle and the cost of any repairs needed both immediately and in the immediate future. If you can tell us your location, our members may be able to assist with suggestions for a reliable and knowledgeable specialist who can undertake this report for you.

I would be very wary of purchasing a car of unknown provenance as there are a significant number of RHD Shadows imported second-hand from Hong Kong and the UK in Australia and these cars often have serious corrosion problems or excessive engine wear depending on their origin and the original owner. This aspect is covered in some detail in the Shadow section.

There is no substitute for experience when assessing Shadows for purchase and this is why I am suggesting you consult a specialist before purchasing one.
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Bob UK
Unregistered guest
Posted From: 188.29.165.164
Posted on Tuesday, 19 May, 2015 - 04:49:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Before having the car inspected by a specialist. Drive the car for at least 50 miles.

(Message approved by david_gore)
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tpickering
Unregistered guest
Posted From: 58.169.243.241
Posted on Monday, 18 May, 2015 - 21:51:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Thank you David
I will do as you suggest and read all the posts on the forum.
I live in WA and own two RR a 53 Hooper SW and a 47
H.J Mulliner Sedanca de Ville
I am exerienced at working on classic cars doing my first restoration on an Alvis nearly 50 yesrs ago!

(Message approved by david_gore)
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David Gore
Moderator
Username: david_gore

Post Number: 1613
Registered: 4-2003
Posted on Tuesday, 19 May, 2015 - 09:39:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Hi Trevor,

I am assuming you are a member of the RROC[Australia] West Australian Branch, if not, I suggest you should consider joining as you will find a group of Shadow owners who can help you with advice on restoring and maintaining a Shadow.

Also please join our Forum and also browse the separate Technical Library where the Shadow workshop manuals and other technical information is archived and can be downloaded free-of-charge.

http://rrtechnical.info/

I can highly recommend Bill Coburn's Tee One Topics and Robert Wort's "Crewed Jottings" as these contain a lot of specific information for DIY R-R/B owners. Both these publications are archived in the Technical Library and can be downloaded free-of-charge as well.

As always, our Forum members are usually available to contribute advice and suggestions on specific problems you may encounter.

Good luck with your evaluation and may you find a Shadow to suit you.
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Jan Forrest
Grand Master
Username: got_one

Post Number: 799
Registered: 1-2008
Posted on Saturday, 23 May, 2015 - 21:19:   Edit PostDelete PostView Post/Check IP

Just think of it as though it's an old car that may, or may not, have been well maintained throughout its life. I've seen Shadows that look and sound as though they have just been driven from the showroom. I've seen others that are as rotten as a tractor left in a field for 3 decades. Yes; even Rolls Royces can rot!

2 years ago I 'rescued' all 4 wheels with white wall tyres and a brand new exhaust system from a car being broken up. All 4 wings were almost entirely eaten away by the tin worm along their lower edges and the engine compartment looked like it had been used by a nest of rats to raise several generations of their young! Don't even ask about the remains of the interior!