1971 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow

Description

1971 Rolls Royce Silver Shadow has been stored in a climate-controlled garage for the past eighteen years of ownership waiting for restoration completion. The odometer shows about 30,500 miles (I assume it’s 130,500) but either way that’s low mileage for a 50-year-old car. I started the mechanical restoration about 12 years ago but got side-tracked by higher priority projects. I have since retired and finally realize I will never finish this restoration project and I now need the garage space. The following restoration was completed during this period:
Rebuilt the top portion of the engine with milled heads, new gaskets and a fresh valve job.
Complete rebuild of the automatic transmission.
Installed electronic ignition.
Rebuilt the brake system with new caliper pistons, pads and brake line where needed.
Rebuilt several leaky components of the hydraulic leveling system.
Installed new tires.
Replaced the exhaust system. The rear-most exhaust pipe is not installed. It is in the boot.
Cleaned and reconditioned all the leather seats. All leather is in good condition except for the front seat lower cushions that will eventually need leather replacement.
Refinished the wood on the doors and center console.
There is rust on the driver’s side front fender as shown in the pictures, but minimal surface rust in other areas of the car. Also as shown in the pictures the 50-year-old lacquer paint is quite crazed and will need a repaint. After sitting for twelve years, the SU type carburetors were rebuilt, and the engine oil and filter were changed to avoid any moisture accumulation that may have occurred during storage. The Rolls engine ran amazingly smoothly after warm-up. The car was then driven around the area to loosen up brakes and suspension. I had forgotten just how comfortable and elegant these cars are to drive but it’s time to pass this Rolls Royce on to someone interested in completing the restoration.