TR2/3/3A Mounting TR3 Body to frame with front apron on?

[karls59tr]

Is it possible to mount a complete TR3 body shell to the frame(engine and trans in place) without removing the front apron? Anyone done this?

 

[TR4nut]

Yes, I helped do that exact operation a couple of years ago for a friend in my local club. Actually he did it, I was just manual labor. He had the restored frame and engine ready to go, complete with radiator, and he had a freshly painted 3B body on a spare roller frame. We did it entirely with manual labor, about 6 people I'd estimate. Obviously things like the front bumper bars etc were not attached at that point.

 

[TR3driver]

I believe it is possible only if the car has the later 'split' steering column. In fact, ISTR that was the exact reason for introducing the split column.

 

[karls59tr]

Thanks for the info guys. Good to know about the steering wheel issue and that it's doable.

 

[Geo Hahn]

I've certainly seen photos of it being done -- the assembly line in Coventry!