LP400 S3 - 1121374 - Nut and Bolt Restoration

I purchased this Nero / Bianco S3 with the intent of bringing it to a concours level condition, focusing on mechanicals, cosmetics, and originality. Work commenced earlier this year, with complete disassembly of the car and stripping of the body to bare metal. Prior to the restoration, 1121374 was a well enjoyed, corrision free car, having spent the majority of its life in California. Here are some pics of the car prior to restoration. Side markers and wing will be removed.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Condition was driver level at 52k KM and a great starting point for a restoration:
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Interior was changed once prior and will be completely redone to factory spec, with dash returned to correct "ultra suede" / alcantara:
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Engine compartment was mostly original, but tired and in need of some attention. Engine and transmission is being completely rebuilt. All numbers matching.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Thanks Pete! As always, I welcome the community's input, knowledge, and constructive criticism. I don't claim to be an expert and am always open to assistance. The restoration is being led by Wade Nunez at Sport Classic and Competition in Abita Springs, LA, who I understand is someone you know fairly well.

 

52k KM on the clock at disassembly, but will be better than new when complete. Once again showing the dash, which was changed to the LP500s two tone leather scheme at some point in its life.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Here is a quick video during the PPI in early 2014. I wasn't exactly looking to take on a project when I started looking for a car, but when I saw and heard this menacing bull coming down the road, I knew I wasn't leaving without this car. I try not to attend PPIs in person whenever possible so I don't make a decision based on emotion, but this is one I don't regret.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jdud86RCHrQ&feature=youtu.be

 

Yes, David Castelhano is a master technician with over 40 years of experience. He is a great compliment to Wade's talents.

 

Original Carello lenses were still fitted to the car. Bumper had an odd textured finish and Campys clearly in need of a proper redo.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Original steering wheel was in suprinsingly great shape and will be reused in restoration:
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

All paint is currently being stripped, body work corrected where needed, federalized side markers removed, windscreen will be removed (fingers crossed) all in preparation for primer. We are inspecting work periodically before the paint shop gets too far ahead to ensure the work is done to our high standard / expectation. There were some hidden areas where paint was found and there was miscommunication on the removal of the windscreen, so periodic inspections by an expert (not me) with full photo documentation, are a good idea.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

We are very lucky to be dealing with a solid body and chassis, with no corrosion.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Carbs have already been redone and look like art!
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

They look so nice, I figured I'd post them twice.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Ok, one more.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Sorry my photos are slightly out of order here. Here is a pic prior to restoration of the suspension. Original Ariston shocks with original stickers?
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Air boxes and other parts refinished to factory textures.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Air box covers
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Cam covers
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Coolant reservoir
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

Shifter has been rebuilt, case degreased, and all castings cleaned. Slave cylinder is being rebuilt. They will be going through the differential and oils sump next week.
Image Unavailable, Please Login

 

That's all I have for today. As mentioned previously, any advice, knowledge, suggestions are appreciated. The goal here is top level, so now is the time to get it right!

I will post more as the work progesses. I am hopeful the work will progress expeditiously moving forward.