Classic car mechanic – Victorian times

‘In the corner of the workshop, Olli Ragbin sits watching events unfold before him’

It’s been a funny week at CCM towers. Eric’s behaviour has been increasingly erratic and at times it’s felt like we are all toiling away in a Victorian workhouse.

I can’t quit put my finger on it. It started when Eric asked me if I’d seen his favourite screw-driver. Now as we all know I’m allowed exactly nowhere near any of the tools (let alone any of the customers cars) so I thought it an odd ask.

‘Er…. I haven’t been near the screwdrivers’ said I, slightly confused.

‘You sir, are a liar and a thief!’ bellowed Eric before disappearing in a huff.

Odd.

Young Chris and I exchanged glances, shrugged, and just got on with our day.

It’s a long way to the moon. Long enough if you decide to travel by rocket. Imagine driving there. In fact, imagine driving there on a motorcycle. (Perhaps ‘riding’ is a more appropriate verb in this instance).

This may seem a ridiculous suggestion, but the gent who purchased Eric and I’s mint GSXR 750 has done the equivalent mileage on his very own daily driver (rider?) pictured below.

Ronan (for it is his bike) is clearly a man with an exceptionally keen interest in Suzuki’s iconic 750 SRAD racer, so much so that he has ridden this one 250,000 miles. Astonishing. So familiar with this machine, that this is less of a bike to Ronan, more a natural extension of his body.

All true petrol heads appreciate the passing on of a cherished example to a good owner. Our SRAD couldn’t have found a better home. One thing is for sure, it’ll be loved, cared for and I suspect gently and sympathetically improved by its delighted new owner.

(gone, but not forgotten. Pampering awaits)

We’ve had a new friend in the workshop this week. As we look to invest in talent for the future fettling of classics, Eric has been on the search for a new apprentice to join the team. Part of the interview process means spending a day or 2 in the workshop with the existing crew so we can get a better view on ability as well as the all-important ‘team fit’.

Alfie here, spending a bit of time in the care of Shrimp eye Justin, and as you can see he’s a happy fella.

(Shrimp eye looking slightly grumpy this week because no one took a photo of him moonwalking. Gutted. He’s been practicing day and night)

Requests for help come from many places. I’m just a shade over 6ft and occasionally I can find some cars a bit of a squeeze. Potential customer, JP, has a similar problem. A tall fella with a motor which in current guise brings roofline in contact with top of head.

The achingly beautiful (for a modern motor) Alfa Quadrifoglio we see here is being assessed to see what can be done, potentially with the fitment of a seat more accommodating to gentlemen of more significant height. We’re always happy to offer advice and we will consider most things. Eric is still mulling this one over, but it’s lovely to see this sort of modern machine at the workshop. I like Alfas, they always seem to do wheels so well!

For some bizarre reason, Dr Ray got lost on his way into work one day this week. God alone only knows how he ended up by the coast, but there you have it, who am I to wonder why.

Following his diversion, the Doctor sat down for a late bowl of cornflakes to get himself ready for the day.

Eric sidled over in all his Victorian huffery and enquired if the Doctor enjoyed his breakfast.

‘Yeah, it was nice’ Sayeth Dr Ray. Then looking up to Eric held out his bowl and asked for some more.