Vauxhall Cavalier Calibre Restoration Article

Restoration of Mk.1 Cavalier Saloon.

These photographs show the partial restoration of a 1980 Luton-built Cavalier Mk.1.  They are posted on this site as they demonstrate, all too clearly, the main areas of these cars that are most at risk from corrosion.  They also show what can happen when you own one of these that has been subject in the past to piecemeal patching and bodged repair work, where not all the rusted metal has been cut away before new metal was welded over it.

The main areas covered in this restoration were: sills, chassis rails, front floors and foot wells, A-posts, wheel arches, and rear spring mounts.  The car also had new lower front suspension arms fitted.  A replacement front wing and nosecone were fitted as this was less difficult than restoring the originals, which had corroded from the inside outwards.

It is particularly sobering to realise that this car still had considerable MOT on it when it was voluntarily withdrawn from use by the owner, following the discovery of serious under body corrosion.  The tester was reputable; this highlights the speed at which corrosion can proceed, hidden by a layer of under seal or concealed in door shuts.

Study the pictures and then take a good hard look at your own Cavalier/Manta/Ascona!

This is not a nut-and-bolt full restoration, but a very good-quality repair and basic restoration of a vehicle destined for everyday use and occasional display on Club Stands.  All work was undertaken with the intention of providing structural integrity/safety, maximum vehicle life and cosmetic appearance, in roughly that order of priority, depending on the area affected.

The work was carried out by independent local mechanic Nigel Sanderson, located in North Wirral.  Mr. Sanderson has over 20 year’s experience of working on cars covered by our Club.  He began with road performance medications to Chevettes for his own use, and has worked extensively on all three models of Cavalier.   Mechanical maintenance work and modifcations also undertaken.

Contact telephone: (0151) 677 4662 Mobile: 07739 172 968