Spitfire Project Spitfire has new home, mine!

[t8nwa]

I am back in the Brit car fix it mode again. I just got a 79 Spitfire that needs help from sitting a while. Ebay is already my dear friend. It will be my son's first car once we fix it up.

It has a supposedly running motor, no battery, and a straight rust free body. New top in trunk. OD tranny. Allison electronic ignition. And the world's ugliest aftermarket hardtop.

It needs rubber seals everywhere. Hydraulic everywhere from a DOT3 contamination (bpnorthwest). New vinyl interior panels and seat covers from sun fading and wear. Soft frame and hardware (ebay). Tires. Battery. And a paint job, eventually. I am hoping that a little Griot's Garage magic will bring the bumpers back to respectibility and put a moderate shin to the paint.

One issue that I have not figured out yet, the passenger door is stuck shut. How can I get this open?

 

[aeronca65t]

Congrats!

One issue that I have not figured out yet, the passenger door is stuck shut. How can I get this open?

I'd jack up the body (on the frame) on that side and try again. It may be "sprung" slightly. You can shim a Spit body on the frame a bit to correct this condition.

If that doesn't help, try tapping with a rubber mallet and block of wood while someone pulls the door handle (gently). Spray some lube into the latch area first.

If that fails, you may need to remove the innder door trim panel and see if the pull handle rods have come apart.

 

[R6MGS]

This might seam obvious but; make sure it isn't locked...shoot some penetrating oil in the lock and work it a couple times to make sure everything is freed up.