Ep 6. The Great British Workhorse

For The Love Of Cars season 2 episode 6, titled "The Great British Workhorse," follows car enthusiast Philip Glenister and mechanic Ant Anstead as they embark on a quest to restore a classic British workhorse, the Ford Transit van.

The episode begins with Glenister and Anstead traveling to Portsmouth to meet John Fairnington, the owner of a beaten-up 1968 Ford Transit Mk1 van. While Fairnington's van has certainly seen better days, the team sees potential in the vehicle and are excited to get to work restoring it to its former glory.

The first step in the restoration process is a thorough inspection of the van's exterior, interior, and engine. The team quickly realizes the extent of the work that needs to be done, with rusted body panels, a worn-out engine, and a stripped interior. Despite the daunting task ahead, Glenister and Anstead are determined to bring the Ford Transit back to life.

The next step is to strip the van down to its chassis, allowing the team to assess the full extent of the damage and begin repairs. They start by removing the engine, which is in need of a complete overhaul. The team analyzes the various engine components, opting to replace the old engine with a brand new, more efficient one.

With the engine sorted, the team moves onto the van's bodywork. They carefully remove the rusted metal panels, welding in new ones as needed. They also take great care in restoring the van's original paint job, painstakingly matching the exact hue and finish of the original color.

The interior of the Ford Transit also receives a complete overhaul, with the team installing brand new seats, floor coverings, and door panels. They also add a modern sound system, bringing the vehicle up to date in terms of technology.

Once the bodywork and interior are complete, Glenister and Anstead turn their attention to the van's suspension and brakes. They replace the worn-out shocks and springs, as well as the brakes, ensuring that the van runs safely and smoothly.

Finally, the team tackles the finishing touches, adding custom decals and emblems to the van, and installing a variety of accessories, including a roof rack and tow hitch. After months of hard work, the restoration is complete, and the Ford Transit is reborn as a beautifully restored vintage workhorse.

Overall, "The Great British Workhorse" is a heartwarming episode that showcases the passion and dedication of car enthusiasts and mechanics. Despite the challenges they face, Glenister and Anstead never lose sight of their goal, pouring their hearts and souls into the restoration of the Ford Transit. The result is a beautiful, fully-functional classic van that pays tribute to Britain's industrial heritage.