ECD Auto Design is world renowned for its bespoke, one-of-a-kind Land Rover Defender, Range Rover Classic and Jaguar E-Type builds. As we discussed in our blog titled Reviving Icons: Inside ECD Automotive Design's Tear Down Phase in Classic Land Rover Defender, Range Rover Classic and Jaguar E-Type Renovation,” the first step is the tear down process for each vehicle. Next, each vehicle is sent to separate product lines. Currently, ECD is running 2 lines, the North Line for Defenders and Range Rovers and the South Line for Jaguar E-Types and specialty vehicles including the new ECD Beach Runner.

Focusing on the South Line, and particularly the Jaguar E-Type, the process is quite different than the North Line, as so much effort and work is performed in the body restoration phase for each Jaguar E-Type as keeping the originality of the body is particularly important for this iconic legend. Before the vehicle enters the actual production area, it spends a significant amount of time on body restoration and repair. We had the opportunity to follow Chad Moorehead, an ECD Auto Design welding and fabrication technician and get some background on what is involved in restoring a Jaguar E-Type body back to its original form.

Key Steps Involved in Restoring a Classic Jaguar E-Type Body

Although the following list is far from exhaustive, it is a representation of some of the key steps that begin the Jaguar E-Type body restoration process.

1. Assessing the condition of the Jaguar E-Type body
2. Part ordering and preparation
3. Maintaining vehicle integrity
4. Restoring the original shape of the body
5. Proper Tool Selection
6. Inspections

Assessing the Condition of the Body

Assessing the initial condition of the Jaguar E-Type body is important. It is this point where the parts to complete the restoration will be determined. In addition, upon careful assessment by the team, a plan will be put in place to conduct the restoration process.

Part Ordering and Body Preparation

Once the body is assessed, the required new parts are ordered. There is typically a two-week period before receiving the parts and this time is spent preparing the body for the new parts.

Preparation of the Jaguar E-Type body is a very delicate and exact practice. Cutting out damaged parts and preparing the areas for the new components properly is important in keeping the integrity of the vehicle.

Maintaining Vehicle Integrity

Vehicle strength and integrity is an extremely crucial factor in the restoration process. “One way that we ensure a high level of integrity is by providing 100 percent welds as compared to spot welding” said Chad Moorehead, ECD technician. “Additionally, cutting parts the right way to get a perfect fit is vital.”

Restoring the Original Shape of the Body

Jaguar E-Types are known for their iconic curves and lines. Restoring one of these classic bodies takes an elevated level of expertise as the technician must keep everything the same shape and form. “There are a lot of challenges” mentioned Chad, “Keeping a focus on the contour of the body and making sure that both sides are symmetrical is essential. Also, working around the wheel wells, and quarter panels and keeping the original streamline just takes patience and a solid understanding of the vehicle body.”

It is an art form that can only come from experience. Knowing the vehicle and knowing how to execute fabrication flawlessly are key ingredients to a successful restoration.

Proper Tool Selection

Working with the right tools is what will get the job done properly, the first time. And knowing what tools to work with are the differences between doing a respectable job and doing a great job. For example, when preparing the vehicle for final stages, you can choose between orbital sanders or Dual Action (DA) sanders. Using a DA sander allows the technician to perfect the preparation before painting by eliminating swirl marks, etc.

Working with the proper tools is an extension of the technician that is preparing the vehicle. ECD collaborates closely with each team to ensure that they are provided with the resources necessary to make every build a masterpiece.

Final Inspections

Final inspections are required by the team prior to moving to the painting process. All areas are inspected including welding, body contouring and finishing, etc.

Final Thoughts

Repairing and restoring a vehicle body is both a science and an art form. A vehicle that is as iconic as the Jaguar E-Type with so many beautiful curves and lines takes the best of the best to restore. ECD Auto Design is honored to have some of the best skilled and most talented trades men and women in the world. When asked what he like most about his job at ECD, Chad said “I am always learning and improving. I get to transform icon car bodies into their original form by utilizing my skillset every day.”