ASHTON BARRY CRAIG FAMILY_AND_FRIENDS FEMALE_IN_DARK_COAT FEMALE_IN_GREEN_COAT FEMALE_IN_RED_COAT FUZZ_TOWNSEND JADE MALE_IN_COAT MALE_IN_GLASSES MALE_IN_GREEN_COAT MALE_IN_GREY_JUMPER MALE_IN_OVERALLS MALE_IN_WHITE_CLOTHING NARRATOR PAINTSHOP_WORKER STEFAN TIM_SHAW TUTOR UNKNOWN_MALE WOMAN_IN_GILET WORKER

NARRATOR
Today, on Car SOS, died-in-the-wool petrol head Tim Shaw.
TIM SHAW
This is one of the best cars I've even driven.
NARRATOR
And mechanical maestro, Fuzz Townsend.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Ah, do you know, I love the smell of gearbox oil.
NARRATOR
Are once again on their undercover mission to rescue classic cars for deserving owners. This time, the boys take on the car that divided a nation.
TIM SHAW
Fuzz, these cars are like marmite, you either love 'em or you hate them.
NARRATOR
The bend end drops off Fuzz's trumpet. Tim, thinks he's a sundial.
TIM SHAW
I am a massive clock.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah. You are.
NARRATOR
And the stage is set to make another automotive dream come true.
MALE IN GLASSES
What a wind up.
TIM SHAW
Are you okay? Do you need a chair?
MALE IN COAT
No, I need a drink.
TIM SHAW
No, I'm sure you do.


NARRATOR
Today, Tim and Fuzz are heading to Dorset to pick up a car that's so contentious we didn't dare tell them what it is, just in case they turn round and went home again.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
So, what are we here to pick up today Timmy?
TIM SHAW
We don't know.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Exactly.
TIM SHAW
We haven't been told. This is one of those things where the producers go "no, we're not telling you". But, every other time that we've not been told it's been something that we've loved. It's a treat.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's gonna be epic.
TIM SHAW
Ah yeah.
NARRATOR
Well, let's just hope it is because today the boys are picking up a TR7, probably the most love it or hate it car ever to come out of a British factory. In fact, when British Leyland launched the Triumph TR7 in 1974, the advert claimed it was the shape of things to come. And from certain angles it almost got away with it. The front of the car, for example, with its steeply angled bonnet, it's futurist black plastic bumper and pop up headlights, were all something of a sensation in the 1970s. But then came the strangely truncated rear half which looked like it might have come off another car. Performance-wise though the car wasn't half bad. Launched with a two litre [UNIT CONVERSION 2000 cc / 122 cu in] engine that was soon upgraded to a 3.5 V8, it gave the car a respectable top speed of 114 miles an hour [UNIT CONVERSION 183 kph], and a sub ten second 0-60. So, in spite of being panned by the critics, over 140,000 people must have liked them because that's how many were sold. And who knows, had British Leyland not collapsed in the 1980s, the TR7 may well indeed have gone on to be the future. Mind you, if the one that the boys are off to see is anything to go by, perhaps it's best to leave it where it belongs, in the past.

TIM SHAW
Converted bus for you?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Ooh possibly so, yes it could be the bus.
NARRATOR
Well today's tatty TR belongs to 58 year old former blacksmith Barry who, ever since he was a young man, harboured a dream to become an amateur race driver. Then, eight years ago, when the opportunity arose to buy himself a former track car he leapt at the chance, not realising that fate had a different and more sombre plan in store.
TIM SHAW
On things for sure, we're gonna love it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
We are absolutely gonna love it. Come on!
NARRATOR
It w as Barry's daughter, Jade, and son, Ashton, who wrote Tim and Fuzz with an impassioned plea for help to get their dad's car and his dream back up and running.
TIM SHAW
Yes.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Maybe, maybe.
TIM SHAW
A motor home, of course it is they're standing in front of it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, of course.
TIM SHAW
We are doing a motor home, Fuzz-bot. Yep. 
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Fantastic!
TIM SHAW
You don't mind having a pair of northern scruffs down here do you? Nice to meet you, alright Tim.
JADE
Absolutely not. Nice to meet you. Jade, nice to meet you.
TIM SHAW
Ashton.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Lovely to meet you.
TIM SHAW
They haven't told us what we're doing yet but we're assuming it's that, it's a camper van isn't it?
JADE
That's not ours.
TIM SHAW
Is it a bus one?
JADE
No.
TIM SHAW
What one is it?
JADE
This one over here.
TIM SHAW
The TR7.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right.
TIM SHAW
Two secs come here, excuse me. I don't like 'em, never have and I know you don't either. What do we do? I'm not, we're not actors.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Just try.
TIM SHAW
Try what?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Smile, that's it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Brilliant.
TIM SHAW
Excellent. A TR7, we're both big fans of TR7s.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, right. Okay first of all.
TIM SHAW
Where are we?
JADE
This is our local garage where dad tends to get some work done and we've brought the car here to pop it into storage.
TIM SHAW
Right, so he thinks it's in storage?
JADE
He does, yes.
TIM SHAW
But it's secretly here and we're gonna take it from here?
JADE
Yes.
TIM SHAW
Fantastic.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, okay, so can we take a look at the car?
TIM SHAW
Yeah.
JADE
Absolutely.
TIM SHAW
Come on then let's have a little peek, here we go.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Let's go take a look.
TIM SHAW
Wow a TR7, a car I haven't seen for a long time and not one ever with a bonnet like that on it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Well hold on this isn't any ordinary TR7, we've got a cage in there.
TIM SHAW
Yeah. Hold on, look at the size of the ducktail on the back of it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Exactly, I mean what's going on. Way hold on, let's take a look underneath here. Look at that!
TIM SHAW
A 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in] V8.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yep.
TIM SHAW
That's bigger than you get in Range Rovers.
ASHTON
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Talk to me baby.
ASHTON
So it's a Rover V8 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in ]. Dad bought it with this engine in it to race with it. And you know, it's a lot of power to weight like you said.
TIM SHAW
Yeah Ashton, that's a monster. I mean that's like they don't do stuff like that anymore.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Okay, so there's a lot that I need to learn about this car.
TIM SHAW
I need to know more about your dad. Jade, so if you and I go and have a chat about your dad, what's going on in his world. Come on, let's do it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Go.
TIM SHAW
[LAUGHS].
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, what's the idea behind this car?
ASHTON
It was a full race car for hill climbs, full race build.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah. Okay the car came to your dad with this engine fitted?
ASHTON
It did yeah.
TIM SHAW
Right Jade, so what does the TR7 mean to your dad?
JADE
Right now I think it's that kind of element of freedom, you know, it's his baby. He can put all the work into it, something that he's been able to do and I think getting it on the road, racing it it just gives him that thrill.
TIM SHAW
Yeah. Is it a project that Ashton worked on with your dad to an extent, because he's into it, isn't he?
JADE
Yeah, absolutely. And I think that's what's quite nice is the pair of them have had quite a big input. So, I think for my brother this would also be quite special for him.
TIM SHAW
It does mean different things to different people. What does it mean to you?
JADE
Oh. I'm about to cry. He's had my back like my whole life. [CRIES]. Sorry.
TIM SHAW
It's okay.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
This sounds like it's been a real sort of passion project between the pair of you.
ASHTON
Yeah it has, yeah. As soon as he bought it we both to get it finished and get it on the road.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, so it needs to be useable on the road so we've gotta have all the normal stuff, lights, wipers, all that kind of thing. The stuff that's all been taken off to make it lighter for when it's used on a track. So we've gotta reinstate all of that stuff. We've got a car that has started to be built, it needs repairs, we've got rot, we've got a number of unknown factors with the engine as it's probably not run up for a little while.
ASHTON
It had run up I believe about a year and a half ago.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
So you know, this has completely bowled me over. I think this is gonna be a lot of fun and I can see exactly why you got drawn into it as well.
ASHTON
Yeah.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Let's get it done.
TIM SHAW
Can we talk about why that car is in the state it's in? What's happened to your dad?
JADE
Back in 2013, he got diagnosed with kidney cancer out of the blue. Very healthy man. He then had the kidney removed and got somewhat of the all clear. And then he got re-diagnosed. He was being checked but re-diagnosed about 2017, just after he'd bought the car. And at that stage it was stage four metastatic cancer, so it had spread pretty much all over his body.
TIM SHAW
And the impact of what you've just said there in those few words is huge, isn't it?
JADE
Mm-hm. He's got tumours sort of scattered everywhere now. His lung, lymph node, pancreas, spine.
TIM SHAW
How is he in terms of sort of physically? Can he drive, can he?
JADE
Yeah, so he still drives, he still has a lot of independence which is really really nice because that, for him, he needs purpose, you know? But, obviously he gets tired very easily, he gets unwell very easily.
TIM SHAW
We need to get the car done quickly don't we?
JADE
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Okay.
JADE
Thank you.
TIM SHAW
Come on, come here. You alright?
JADE
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Come on.
JADE
Thank you. [LAUGHS]
TIM SHAW
Come on, come on let's go and see how he's getting on.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
I reckon we're about.
TIM SHAW
Right Fuzz-bot.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yes?
TIM SHAW
What have you found mate?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Well I've been talking to Ashton and this is just a brilliant, brilliant project.
TIM SHAW
Shall we get it out of here?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, come on then.
TIM SHAW
On my side.
JADE
Thank you so much.
TIM SHAW
Good meeting you.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yo.
JADE
Thank you.
TIM SHAW
Right, see you guys in a bit.
JADE
See you later.
TIM SHAW
See you later, bye.
TIM SHAW
What I couldn't say back there is this, we need to get this car done sharpish.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah? The car's a surprise.
TIM SHAW
Yep.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
But the story is absolutely compelling.
TIM SHAW
Absolutely.
NARRATOR
So, personal feelings about TR7s are put to one side as, this time, turning the car around as quick as humanly possible is gonna be priority.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, to the back. Right, what have we got?
TIM SHAW
Right, well straight away, Fuzz, I can tell you a lot of what I'm looking at is non standard, it's not normal TR7 out of the factory gear.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
No. So, we've got a TR7 back axle, that's for sure. What we have on this is a Watt's linkage which keeps the axle in place, stops it shifting on a lateral basis and moves it up and down in an orderly fashion.
TIM SHAW
Okay, we've got discs and pads on the back, disc brakes which is not standard. These things were drum brakes on the back so that's a modification in itself, Fuzz.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, and then we've got coil overs on the back. Coil over suspension so, again, that is a modification. You can actually see where the actual springs would have sat on the top pads and then these bottom links here, those are a modification.
TIM SHAW
Look at the welding.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's not pretty. But is it holding out? Is it good enough? Well, if it's holding out it doesn't need to be pretty does it?
TIM SHAW
Yeah.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Because this is not a show queen, this is actually just a car that's been built with a purpose. But look, can you see what I'm seeing here? Barry and Ashton have bought this car and they knew that it was a track car so all that stuff at the back end is the stuff they've not got to. But, look we've got shiny stuff up here, things that they've worked on. It's like there's a tide mark.
TIM SHAW
There is, this is must have been when Barry got ill.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Wow what a sad thing. What a goose bump moment.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
We need a plan of action and we need that fast. Come on man.
NARRATOR
Yes, we normally have cars in for five or six weeks, this time we're gonna aim for three. Can it be done? Well the countdown has already begun.


NARRATOR
Tim and Fuzz have taken on Barry's 1980 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in] Triumph TR7, a former race car that needs to get back on the track ASAP.
TIM SHAW
Right, let's take stock and have a look of what we've got. Look at this from where I'm looking Fuzz, I mean look at the state of it. The wiring loom, the dashboard, the wheel arches, the interior. It's every single part of this car needs a staggering amount of work.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It looks terrible at the moment because we can see everything. Everything's exposed, we don't have a dash or anything like that.
TIM SHAW
Man, are these all TR7 boxes as well?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, these are TR bits. Yeah there's loads and loads of parts. I mean, everything has got to be gone through.
TIM SHAW
There's months worth of work here.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
I know. I'm going to have a look at the engine because look, we've got a very big engine, a tiny little lightweight car and given that fact, what we need to also look at.
TIM SHAW
Just give me a job will you.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Brakes. What we cannot have is monstrous brakes on the front and then titchy little breaks on the back like a ballerina.
TIM SHAW
So brakes is one of those jobs that we are doing?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Brakes.
NARRATOR
Yes, there's certainly gonna be no shortage of jobs on this car and with the priority to get the car back to Barry as soon as possible, high on the list is sorting out those boxes of bits. Some parts need restoring, some need replacing but some just need a good wash and brush up. But it takes time, the very thing we don't have. Next, there's that enormous 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in] engine, the heart of any race car. But, in this case, a completely unknown factor. But if Barry wants the car for the track and the road we're not letting it out of the workshop without a full inspection. Then there's the brakes. With that powerful and heavy V8 in the front of the car, the current disc and caliper set up is woefully inadequate especially if the car's going on the track. So, whole upgraded system is gonna have to be found and fitted.



TIM SHAW
Right, uprated brakes for the TR7 is the order of the day. I mean the size of those discs and calipers they're puny. So, found a place down here in Northampton that reckon, hopefully, we can have some bigger gear going on and better stopping ability. So, let's go and see what they've got.
TIM SHAW
Stefan.
STEFAN
Hello.
TIM SHAW
Hello mate, how you doing?
STEFAN
Good thank. How are you?
TIM SHAW
The doctor of all things braking, I need your help.
STEFAN
Okay.
TIM SHAW
These are off a car which is considered to be the ugliest in the Triumph range.
STEFAN
A TR7.
TIM SHAW
[LAUGHS]. Right this one has got upgraded brakes on it.
STEFAN
Okay.
TIM SHAW
Which are those calipers.
STEFAN
Yep.
TIM SHAW
With those small disc and those pads. The car has a 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in ] V8.
STEFAN
I think we need to up the braking slightly, for sure. So a bigger disc.
TIM SHAW
So a bigger disc.
STEFAN
A bigger disc. So, how this works is this gonna be mounted to the upright of your vehicle. It's gonna be solidly mounted, no floating.
TIM SHAW
Yep.
STEFAN
Okay, so then what happens is as you press the pedal fluid is pushed through the mass cylinder, down these lines and starts clamping these pistons together. And in turn, what that's gonna do, is these pads are gonna sit inside your caliper and they are gonna start clamping. And that is what's gonna start slowing you down.
TIM SHAW
Right. Actually, you're just relying on friction?
STEFAN
You're just relying on friction.
TIM SHAW
Which generates a whole lot of.
STEFAN
Heat.
TIM SHAW
Yes.
STEFAN
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
And is heat the enemy?
STEFAN
Heat is always the enemy in a braking system. What you're gonna want is you're gonna want a larger caliper. With all of this you're gonna increase the braking torque by a significant amount and it all in turn, is gonna help dissipate heat a bit better.
TIM SHAW
Okay. What's happening here? What are you guys doing down here?
STEFAN
So, this is our development cell. So this machine is gonna make the brackets that allow you to fit the calipers to your vehicle. That's made out of a solid piece of billing. So, the more interesting part I think for you guys, is gonna be our calipers.
TIM SHAW
Wow. Okay.
STEFAN
So, this is what they look like when they're finished being cast.
TIM SHAW
Right.
STEFAN
Okay, and this is how we then have to work on them to turn them into this.
TIM SHAW
Oh okay. So, that's the before and that's the after.
STEFAN
This is the before.
TIM SHAW
So that is now ready for components. Where do they get assembled and can we go there please?
STEFAN
They get assembled upstairs and we can go there now.
TIM SHAW
Right, Mike, thanks dude.
STEFAN
Let's go.
NARRATOR
So, it looks like the car is set to have a fair bit of stopping power. And, back the engine shop, Fuzz is about to see if it has any starting power.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Now, the TR7 was always built to accommodate a variety of engines including Rover V8s. Now this engine we know has seen a fair bit of work. It's got needle brock carburetor on there, slightly different manifold and also it's a 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in ] so it's one of the biggest versions of this engine that was ever put out there. So, what we're going to do, rather than just strip it down we're going to go for a measure approach to this because perhaps all we'll need to do is give it a service. So, firstly, what we're going to do is give it a compression test. So we're going to take out the spark plugs and then put in our compression test gauge. Now, what we are looking for is around about 130 psi [UNIT CONVERSION 9 bar], so that when the piston comes up on the power stroke and compresses the gases then that means that we want about 130 pounds [UNIT CONVERSION 9 bar] of pressure there. Okay, here we go.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
We have there 150 or thereabouts on that one, so that's good. Release the pressure.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, let's see what we got on this one.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yep, that's good as well. These results are very even across the board, this is good.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
These are good set of readings. I'm pretty happy with that. So, what we'll do now is we'll fire it up and see how it's running and if it runs nice and sweetly then just a basic service for this. But also we'll find out that all important power output figure because that's what we all like, power.
NARRATOR
But with great power comes great responsibility which, in this case, comes in the form of efficient and safe braking.
TIM SHAW
Right, what's this place?
STEFAN
So, this is our race assembly mezzanine, this is where all of our race components are assembled, finished, tested and boxed and ready to go.
TIM SHAW
So, the caliper is built.
STEFAN
Yes.
TIM SHAW
Oh and is this disc here, is that the size we're gonna put on the car?
STEFAN
That is the size you're gonna be putting on the car.
TIM SHAW
Really?
STEFAN
Yep.
TIM SHAW
I mean that's whopping.
ASHTON
It's slightly bigger than the last one.
TIM SHAW
Can we have a pair of these please?
STEFAN
Of course you do.
TIM SHAW
Do you do different colours?
STEFAN
Yes. We do red, blue, black and yellow.
TIM SHAW
Right. I'm going to go red.
STEFAN
Red?
TIM SHAW
Can we have a set of red mate?
STEFAN
Let's do it.
TIM SHAW
Sound. Right, back to Fuzz in the studio. I've never said that before.


NARRATOR
Yes, and back in the studio, Fuzz is about to put a number on it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, mater at the controls, are we ready to go?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Engine speeds increasing but also so is the resistance that we are putting against the engine.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Look at that! Okay, so here's our engine speed along here, along this left hand column, and at 6,200 rpm we've got 258.8 bhp. It might not seem a lot for a big V8 engine, but for an engine of this era and this design that's a pretty good output. Loads of go means that that TR7 is gonna be absolutely fantastic fun on the road and on the track.
NARRATOR
Yes, it looks like Barry and Ashton did a really good job refurbing the engine sadly they never got as far as the body work. But that's okay, because that's what we're here for and our welders are all over that rusty floor and the ill fitting doors. Our grinders and the panel beaters are at it hammer and tong. Why, it's like a conveyor belt of non stop hard graft and certainly no place for a couple of lightweights like Tim and Fuzz. So, they've sloped off to the countryside to see if a big engine TR can wipe away those cliched preconceptions.
TIM SHAW
There's something about this car.
TIM SHAW
What?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's the only car that I've ever been in when you press the throttle it goes vroom, vroom.
TIM SHAW
It actually says it. It actually says the word "vroom".
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It does.
TIM SHAW
Wow, right, this is it then Fuzz.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
I've owned a TR7.
TIM SHAW
Right.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
This is the first time I've actually driven one [LAUGHS].
TIM SHAW
Is it really?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
What?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah. I bought one.
TIM SHAW
Right.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
And I never did anything to it and then I sold it.
TIM SHAW
It's an interest place to be isn't it?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It is yeah.
TIM SHAW
Full of life.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It actually drives pretty well.
TIM SHAW
I mean, what's not to like. It's got a massive throbbing V8, this one's got a 3.5 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 3500 cc / 213 cu in] in it. Barry's one's got a 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in].
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Exactly.
TIM SHAW
I love V8s.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's good isn't it? Come on, here we go.
TIM SHAW
I mean it sounds wonderful doesn't it? It really does.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's a bit of an alligator to drive but once you get to grips with it it's fun.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Ah, listen to that growling up the front. That is a lairy growler.
TIM SHAW
It really is isn't it?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Oh yeah.
TIM SHAW
You started at the same place as me when we picked up Barry's car, you weren't the biggest fan.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
No that's right.
TIM SHAW
But look at you now it's happening.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
I get it, I totally get it. I know why he'd want one of these. This is fantastic. I mean to do competition and road driving in one of these what an absolute whizz. I think it's a great thing to do and Barry's TR7 V8, is gonna be every bit as great as this car. Come on, let's get it done!
NARRATOR
There, never just a book by its cover. The TR7 might have got panned for its appearance back in the day but when it comes to drivability it's clearly got a trick or two up it's sleeve.
NARRATOR
Sadly, the one that we're working on also has hundreds of filthy dirty parts up its sleeve and cleaning all those fiddly bits is one of those workshop jobs that eats up loads of time and time is the one thing we don't have. Luckily, Tim has one of his ideas.
TIM SHAW
Right now bare with me on this one. So, a 100 pieces of TR7 and each of them, let's say they take an hour, how many hours is that? 100 hours for one person. But what about if you had 100 people each doing one each, how long would it take?
TIM SHAW
You could do a bit of sanding. Hiya.
TIM SHAW
Hiya, this is a mad one. I do a TV show called Car SOS.
TIM SHAW
But I mean there are hundreds of parts for this car and we're trying to get it done as quick as we can.
WOMAN IN GILET
Is it just a clean?
TIM SHAW
Absolutely, yeah I mean you can just see like.
WOMAN IN GILET
Yeah I can.
TIM SHAW
Can you see where there's like paint on the lens so that will just scour off.
WOMAN IN GILET
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Yeah, okay.
TIM SHAW
Have you got any more up here? Suggest anyone?
UNKNOWN MALE
Two doors away.
TIM SHAW
Yeah?
UNKNOWN MALE
Yeah, he's a good lad.
TIM SHAW
Is he? Right, I'll try him. Thanks mate.
TIM SHAW
Right I need a hand on something. Craig, come here man. I've literally just door stepped your son here 'cause these guys, along with loads more down the street, are all right now working on bits for a Triumph TR7. The clock's ticking, see you in a bit.
MALE IN WHITE CLOTHING
See you in a bit.
TIM SHAW
[LAUGHS]
NARRATOR
Well, if ever there was a bit of a gamble this has gotta be it. Tim has just put the success or failure of the whole project in the hands of the good people of Walsall. Fingers crossed everyone.
TIM SHAW
Can you help us?
MALE IN GREY JUMPER
Yeah, sure.
TIM SHAW
Mate, you're a legend.


NARRATOR
Tim and Fuzz are one week into the restoration of a 1980 Triumph TR7, a much maligned British classic that in retrospect didn't really deserve all its bad press. 
TIM SHAW (ARCHIVE)
These are off a car which is considered to be the ugliest in the Triumph range.
STEFAN (ARCHIVE)
A TR7.
TIM SHAW (ARCHIVE)
[LAUGHS].
NARRATOR
The car belongs to 58 year old wannabe amateur racer Barry who bought his TR7 with a dream of taking it out on the track. Sadly, Barry's been diagnosed with a stage four cancer that's rapidly spreading throughout his body.
JADE (ARCHIVE)
And it's just a waiting game really and just making the most of every day we have.
NARRATOR
As time clearly is of the essence with this restoration, weeks have had to become days and days have had to become long with the entire team focused on turning Barry's car around ASAP. Even Tim's spontaneously recruited army of part cleaners have, perhaps surprisingly, come up trumps.
TIM SHAW
Morning mate.
CRAIG
Good morning.
TIM SHAW
How you doing?
CRAIG
Alright thanks.
TIM SHAW
Good to see your lovely face. Have you done some bits?
CRAIG
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Yeah, I'd love to. Yeah.
MALE IN GREY JUMPER
How we doing?
TIM SHAW
Alright, are you in your pyjamas, man?
MALE IN GREY JUMPER
I am.
TIM SHAW
Fair play.
MALE IN GREY JUMPER
I am indeed.
TIM SHAW
Oh my word.
MALE IN GREY JUMPER
Here's the box.
TIM SHAW
They look like completely different bits. Thank you so much, take it easy.
NARRATOR
In fact, parts are arriving left right and centre, including from Barry's daughter Jade and son, Ashton who have arrived bearing gifts.
TIM SHAW
Fuzz-bot.
TIM SHAW
Jade and Ashton are in the building.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yep?
TIM SHAW
Alright guys, you've brought us a present.
TIM SHAW
Yes. Ashton is sporting a wonderful radiator designed by your dad, Barry. That is gonna cool that big 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in ] V8 nicely, so get hold of that.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Brilliant.
TIM SHAW
Nice piece of kit that.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Looks cool, yeah.
TIM SHAW
Right, how is your dad?
JADE
He's doing okay, yeah. Taking each day as it comes.
TIM SHAW
Okay, how you doing, man?
ASHTON
Yeah I'm doing alright, yeah.
TIM SHAW
Are you excited to see the car?
JADE
So excited.
ASHTON
Yeah, nervous.
TIM SHAW
What you thinking?
ASHTON
Just if what work we've done is good enough.
TIM SHAW
Really?
ASHTON
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
You don't need to worry about that. Absolutely cool.
TIM SHAW
Have you seen his work? It's absolutely shocking.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
[LAUGHS].
TIM SHAW
When you watch the show you'll see him pretend to do something but it's my hands that are always doing it. It's my hands.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, yeah that's right actually. Yeah, yeah we'll have a little word about that later.
TIM SHAW
Yeah, okay yeah. Come on Fuzz, let's do it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Okay.
TIM SHAW
Right.
TIM SHAW
This is your mate innit, this connects you to your dad very closely.
ASHTON
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
What are you thinking about what we've done so far?
ASHTON
I haven't seen it in this state for a long time.
TIM SHAW
How does it feel to see it?
ASHTON
Good because I know something good's coming out of it. But, equally I'd say a little bit bad because she doesn't deserve to be in this state.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
We're having to go backwards to go forwards again so we need to take ourselves on a voyage of discovery and find out what was what with the car.
TIM SHAW
But, from where it is at the moment it's never gonna get any scary. This is it, this is as bad as it gets and from here on in it's not gonna be far before this car goes into paint, believe it or not. Which is an interesting and exciting time. Okay, we're gonna carry on with this car, we're gonna get it done and I know, stop me if I'm wrong, that you'd rather be doing this with your dad?
ASHTON
Yeah. Yeah without a doubt.
TIM SHAW
We appreciate that right? We know that. Now, have you guys got any suggestions of what we could put on for your dad that is just the perfect place with the perfect people that would just light his day up?
ASHTON
I think like a track day event.
TIM SHAW
Really?
ASHTON
You know, and just have everyone driving around and then I thought maybe have the car drive round into the pit.
TIM SHAW
Right.
ASHTON
And then he's in the pit and he sees his car pull up.
TIM SHAW
Okay, right done deal Fuzz.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, I think that could be a stonking reveal.
TIM SHAW
Yeah.
ASHTON
[LAUGHS].
TIM SHAW
[LAUGHS] Go on, we need to send you home and get cracking, there's a lot of work to be done here.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Alright, good to see you again.
TIM SHAW
Take care.
ASHTON
Thank you.
JADE
See you later.
TIM SHAW
Cheers guys, see you soon.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Take it easy. See you then.
NARRATOR
So, if Barry's dream is to drive his TR around a track, then his wish is our command. And what better track could there be than the historic motor circuit at Goodwood. And with the clock to the reveal now ticking down, Tim has had an idea that really could speed things up.
TIM SHAW
Hi, hello, it's Tim from Car SOS. [LAUGHS] Yeah okay, what do I want? There is something I want and something I'm hoping you can help me with. Look, I need a body shop and a paint shop that it's all they do and I know you've got that place in Coventry. Could we just use it? I mean, could you hit it with a few of the boys, get a few of the boys on it? 40 minutes, an hour? [LAUGHS]
NARRATOR
Yes, it's very unusual for us to take a car out mid resto but there's less than a week remaining. So, while the SOS team divert all their efforts onto the mechanical jobs, over in Coventry, the Eyebox body work training centre, not only has all the latest tech it also has many hands to rush the car through prep and paint. It'll double the workforce, and halve the time.
TIM SHAW
Oh my word, have you ever seen anything like this place? Every single one of these is a paint booth. Look at the floor, it's like being in a car showroom. I've never seen anything like it. This is basically where the action happens and these people are super trained in doing one. Look, don't look at me, look at that and it left us just over two hours ago including transport of half an hour. They've already got filler on it [LAUGHS].
TIM SHAW
How have you managed this?
PAINTSHOP WORKER
Just a lot of hard work and a lot of skill. So it's been prepped prior to filler.
TIM SHAW
Yeah.
PAINTSHOP WORKER
Filler's been sanded and shaped to get the body contours and the body panels in the right shape again.
TIM SHAW
This is what's really interesting to me here, we're filling the door gap with filler.
MALE IN OVERALLS
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
So it's as if the door gap's not there at all?
MALE IN OVERALLS
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Why's that?
MALE IN OVERALLS
Well basically we've filled it from behind so we can, rather than all the filler going into the gap we're sort of like stopping the filler going all in the way in. And I can use the level of the door.
TIM SHAW
So, hang on, so you put the tape on the door to give you the level of the door.
MALE IN OVERALLS
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
And then you're forgetting about that there's a door shut, a gap down it. So, that's the reference point.
MALE IN OVERALLS
It's almost like it's, yeah, so it's almost like it's a repair but without the gap. Find where the door edge is, there, and I'm just gonna.
TIM SHAW
Oh my word.
MALE IN OVERALLS
I'm gonna drag the blade down. After I've scored the line in the filler.
TIM SHAW
Yeah.
MALE IN OVERALLS
I'm gonna remove the tape all the waste, this is all waste, remove all this, remove all the tape and then it's good to sand and then block.
TIM SHAW
Right, so there's too much filler left on it.
MALE IN OVERALLS
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
But the shape is in there somewhere.
MALE IN OVERALLS
The shape is in there somewhere.
TIM SHAW
Right.
PAINTSHOP WORKER
Next step is to get it all cleaned off and then it'll be into primer.
TIM SHAW
But when it's getting painted as in?
PAINTSHOP WORKER
Oh it'll be tomorrow.
TIM SHAW
Tomorrow?
PAINTSHOP WORKER
Yes.
TIM SHAW
That's insane.
NARRATOR
So, it looks like Tim's gamble has paid off.


NARRATOR
Whilst the TR shell is away it means that back at base Fuzz is free to fiddle with the old Watt's linkage, like you do.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Here's the TR7s much modified rear axle. Now, many years ago, in the 18th century, James Watt, came up with an idea. And what this does is it stops lateral movement of the axle. So these ends here are attached on to the body of the car. So, they themselves at this end can't move but the axle can move up and down. In effect giving it this kind of look. But it stops the axle moving from side to side. However, we did find a problem with this watts linkage and it's this one, which has got a bit of wiggle inside here. So we've decided to replace that. And what we have is a new item here. So these are adjustable again. Now, we've got one right hand thread, this is the one. This one is slightly counterintuitive in that it's lefty-tighty righty-loosey. It's a left hand thread. So now, when this is held at either end, if we just turn this centre rod, you can see that the length between the centres here increases. A neat way of being able to adjust the length of this without taking it off the car.
NARRATOR
So, with the back axle good to go and the front assembly coming together nicely, all eyes turn to the body work training centre where the news is that all the prep has come to an end. Shaving days off the schedule and meaning the car is already ready for its first car of Tahiti blue paint. And within seconds of being dry it's straight back to HQ where the rush to get the car finished can begin.
TIM SHAW
The blue duck has landed Fuzz-bot.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
[LAUGHS] Yeah it does. It looks almost nautical, it's like a little boat isn't it because it's convertible?
TIM SHAW
Yeah it is. But the think that's scary is, look at the size of that hole and look at the size of that.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
It's a big engine but that is a big wide engine bay. It was built for it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
But this will go.
NARRATOR
Yes, it came out so it must go back in. And with a bit of gentle coaxing, the engine is eventually hoisted into place.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Look, we've got loads of work to do but we're on our way back to having a complete car.
NARRATOR
And that is the cue for the entire workshop to go into overdrive. All the door internals are squeezed in, race car style body kit is attached, all new suspension struts are bolted in. And the last of the parts return from Tim's army of helpers.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Tim. Does this mean that you can do this every time?
TIM SHAW
No.
NARRATOR
And most essentially for this beast of a car, those brand new upgraded discs and calipers are mounted.
TIM SHAW
Right, so I'm just gonna sort of test fit this stuff for now, just dummy fit it to check it all goes in the right places. So the next thing that goes on is the disc.
TIM SHAW
And this thing should locate nicely on to around the disc. Lugs locate in the back of that.
TIM SHAW
Now in order to put the bigger brakes on this car, it was a compromise which is a slightly bigger wheel. And actually these things are gonna fantastic so 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in] V8 with some 300mm [UNIT CONVERSION 11.8 in] discs, four pots on the front. That is gonna make this car stop and it's precisely what is needed. Brilliant.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Pop up headlamps on a track car are a bit of a luxury and maybe we should just have 'em so that they're permanently up. But, if they work let's have 'em working. And, I can tell you now that oh yeah, they work alright. Right, so on with the cover first.
NARRATOR
Yes, the workshop is now moving as one to get the TR back together in record time. And with the lights fitted attention moves swiftly to the car's roll cage. The custom built radiator is plumbed in, the rear axle goes back in with what we now all know is a watts linkage.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Go on keep coming, keep coming. Keep coming. That's the fella, that's the one.
NARRATOR
Followed swiftly by the refurbed and balanced prop shaft.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Everything suddenly is coming together with this case. The engine's in place, the gear box is in place, we've got the header tank in, the radiator's in and then inside the car, the dash has gone in. So, we've got a dash top, we've got everything in. There's on seats in place yet but the roll cage is bolted in place and it's secure. So that's magnificent. At the back there we have the fuel tank in place, that's all plumbed in ready to go. So, all in all we're probably about 80 plus percent of the way there.

NARRATOR
So, in other words, 20% of the way not there. And, with less than a day to go, yet another big push is needed before the workshop can finally give birth to a fully restored racing TR7. The beautifully cleaned quick release steering wheel goes in as does the start up and kill switch panel. The sporty looking decals are carefully stuck in place including that iconic Triumph reef logo. A set of rally car style spot lights are liberally distributed across the front of the car. So, if the engine starts as planned we will be able to get the car back to Barry in record time. If it starts.
JADE
Okay, so, this is the moment. Couple of squirts, here we go. Come on!
WORKER
We ain't got nothing.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Nothing?
TIM SHAW
We've got nothing.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Have you turned on the mains? There we go. Now try that, come on give it a go.
WORKER
Nothing.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
[SIGHS].
FUZZ TOWNSEND
So, we think we've got a fuse blown.
TIM SHAW
We hope we've got a fuse blown.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
It's got glass fuses in there, old school. No longer the blade type.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
No.
TIM SHAW
It's a proper old fuse, the kind of thing that you get, it looks very much like there you go you can see them there. It looks like the kind of thing you get in a 13 amp British plug.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Let's give it a try. Right, come on then.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yes!
TIM SHAW
Yeah! Yes, it works!
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Okay, knock it off.
TIM SHAW
Right fellas, we've got a few jobs left to do guys.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
We've got loads of jobs left to do.
TIM SHAW
Well, there's loads of jobs left to do, yeah but we've been here before we can it. But let's just stay focused on what we're doing because tomorrow Barry's world, and he's had a tough old time recently, is gonna change big time. So that's what we're focusing on. Let's get it done and get it back to Barry.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, okay right. Come on.


NARRATOR
Nestled at the foot of the Sussex downs, the historic motor circuit at Goodwood has been a mecca for amateur racers for getting on for 80 years. And for our owner, Barry, there could be no finer place to make a long held wish come true.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Doesn't it look great? Even in this rubbish weather it looks brilliant. It absolutely pops.
TIM SHAW
Fuzz, this has been at break neck speeds and we actually are here today at Goodwood with Barry's TR7.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
I know, fantastic. So, wait a minute hold on.
TIM SHAW
What?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
That was a wistful look, a TR7.
TIM SHAW
What do you want?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Okay, come on say it.
TIM SHAW
I love it.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yes! [LAUGHS]
TIM SHAW
Right, don't you wanna know what's happening today?
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yes, I do come on then.
TIM SHAW
Right, if you remember from the beginning.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah.
TIM SHAW
Right at the top of Barry's bucket list was to drive his TR7 at Goodwood.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yes.
TIM SHAW
However Ashton's got a bit of an extra treat for him. Hot laps on the race track with a pro driver.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Okay, cool.
TIM SHAW
In that car.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Oh, in one of those, yeah?
TIM SHAW
Absolutely. So, Barry's gonna be loving that. He's gonna whip in off the track with a huge smile on his face and just about then his real dream is gonna happen.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Fantastic! That is brilliant.
TIM SHAW
That is what we do Fuzz.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Right, we'd better swing into action.
TIM SHAW
Come on.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Let's get it done.
TIM SHAW
Get out of here, get it lined up.
NARRATOR
Yes, it's gonna be quite a day. Friends and family are here to add to the moment but what do they think of the car?
FEMALE IN RED COAT
Oh wow!
JADE
[CRIES] No words [LAUGHS]. Yeah it's gonna mean a lot.
FEMALE IN GREEN COAT
It's absolutely amazing. He'll just be beside him. I think when he sees it he'll be in absolute bits.
FEMALE IN DARK COAT
Really emotional actually because I know how much this will mean to Barry.
NARRATOR
So, looks like it's gonna be quite an emotional day and with everybody and the car hidden away bang on time, Barry and son Ashton arrive for what unsuspecting Barry thinks is a birthday treat from his family. A track day with a pro driver and as soon as he's signed in it's time to blow those cobwebs away.
TUTOR
So just to give you a quick heads up, we've got a couple of cameras in the car there.
TUTOR
Today, cold, damp, wet, this car hasn't been out yet so I'm gonna do a couple of extra laps to warm up the tyres and brakes. So I'm doing the gears manually but we tend to, in these cars even in the dry, we go a gear higher than most cars.
BARRY
Gotcha.
TUTOR
Because of just smoothing out, dampening down that torque.
BARRY
Yeah. It probably would be a good day if I'd got my Eight whenever I get it done to bring it out in this.
TUTOR
Yeah perfect, you know, if you've got a car that's suitable for the track. What car you got, sorry?
BARRY
7 V8.
TUTOR
Wow!
BARRY
4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in].
TUTOR
Oh that sounds interesting.
NARRATOR
So, Barry is enjoying himself, unaware that in the pit lane a very special surprise awaits him.
TUTOR
If we go back in here. I'll come round and sort your stuff out.
NARRATOR
And, with this laps over there's just time to pick up an interview for the organiser's website. Little does Barry know that the Car SOS trap is about to snap.
BARRY
Probably Tony Ponds ex rally car, the TR7 V8. I'd love to go round it in that.
TIM SHAW
What's special about that?
BARRY
So, most maligned car. I know your face, I see you. What are you doing here?
TIM SHAW
Hello mate.
BARRY
You alright?
TIM SHAW
How you doing?
BARRY
I'm doing alright.
TIM SHAW
You wondering what I'm doing here?
BARRY
I've probably got an idea actually. I can hear a Rover V8.
TIM SHAW
You alright?
BARRY
Yeah. Oh.
TIM SHAW
You okay?
BARRY
Yeah [CRIES]. Definitely.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Delivery for Barry.
TIM SHAW
This is Fuzz.
BARRY
Thank you. This is amazing.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
How are you man?
BARRY
I never thought I'd see that going.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
[APPLAUSE] [CHEERS].
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Come forward a little bit.
BARRY
It's amazing.
FEMALE IN GREEN COAT
What do you think of that?
BARRY
It's a monster.
FEMALE IN GREEN COAT
Isn't it?
BARRY
I never thought I'd see her on the road.
JADE
You deserved it [CRIES] everything you've been through.
BARRY
That's amazing, thank you so much. That really is.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
[APPLAUSE].
TIM SHAW
TR7!
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
[WALLA].
NARRATOR
When Barry last saw his TR7 it was less a racing car and more a jumble of old parts, a dream that was far from reality. However, that manky motor has transformed overnight into a full blown track car, styled from top to bottom to look every bit the mean machine. The pared back interior is clean and functional, that huge 4.6 litre [UNIT CONVERSION 4600 cc / 280 cu in] Rover V8 engine is tweaked and tuned, and sounds like it's about to bite. And with new state of the art brakes, this car now has the stopping power to match its get up and go. And with owner Barry in the driving seat, this is now a TR7 that has something to prove.
TIM SHAW
How does it feel now, sum in whichever you like, to be finally sitting in this car?
BARRY
It's amazing, I never thought it would happen. You know, I was pottering away at it bit by bit. You know, I was getting it but I can't do the welding anymore, you know? It's annoying, I was a 30 years welder blacksmith. It's heartbreaking not being able to do it yourself. I'm getting iller, you know, it's just the way it is. You've gotta carry on like you haven't got it 'cause if you start dwelling, you don't live, you know? And I'm a believer that if you stop you drop.
TIM SHAW
Right, just keep going.
BARRY
So keep going, I still work part-time and I've gotta do it for them. It's not about me because it's gonna be easy for me isn't it? Because once I'm gone I'm gone. But you've made it happen and I really appreciate that, you know?
TIM SHAW
You deserve it Barry.
BARRY
You know, 'cause you don't expect this.
TIM SHAW
It's lovely to meet you and this car, for me, has been a journey of starting point not too sure but I've fallen in love with this. So there is only one thing left to do and that is to hand you your matching blue Car SOS keyring and say Barry, you have been Car SOSed.
BARRY
Thank you.
TIM SHAW
It has been an honour to meet you.
BARRY
And you too. It's been a pleasure.
BARRY
That's a bit of a monster innit?
TIM SHAW
Sounds great doesn't it?
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
[APPLAUSE].
TIM SHAW
Right, come on there's only one place left for you to go. That's right. Goodwood.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Into the future.
TIM SHAW
Go on, go and enjoy yourself.
FAMILY AND FRIENDS
[WALLA] [APPLAUSE].
TIM SHAW
You know what Fuzz? That right there is what Car SOS is all about.
FUZZ TOWNSEND
Yeah, making dreams come true.
TIM SHAW
Totally.
ASHTON
Ooh, feel that. Quite a lot of grunt to it innit?
BARRY
Yeah she's powerful.
JADE
Again, he doesn't think he deserves it. And he does. And I just think the fact it's all happened, he's just coming to terms with it and yeah, I think he loves it and he can't wait to get out on the track.
ASHTON
How does it feel though?

BARRY
Nice.
ASHTON
Yeah?
BARRY
Definitely.
FEMALE IN GREEN COAT
It's really nice, nice to see a special moment and nice for the family as well, which is great.
ASHTON
It's been a long time since you've been on this track though innit?
BARRY
Long time since I've driven this car.
ASHTON
Yeah.
MALE IN GREEN COAT
I think it's gonna serve as a lovely reminder of what he deserves really. He does so much for everyone else.
ASHTON
You happy then?
BARRY
Oh yeah.
ASHTON
Yeah?
BARRY
This is awesome.