ARMSTRONG SIDDELEY Restorations

Station Coupe’s Return after 22 years of rest  

"This poor old Station Coupe sat waiting and wanting for 20 years in hope that someone would restore it to its former glory. The previous owner also wanting to see its return, passed the responsibility of restoring to me. I had fond memories of this Coupe and the its earlier owner and driver (now deceased) from childhood, so I had more than a slight interest in restoring it.

I had been associated with Siddeleys for over 30 years, having been dragged around bored witless to various club functions as a child and helping my parents restore their Lancaster during my teens and twenties.

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As you can see, it did look rather unhappy. After clearing out all the rat and possum nesting material as well as a mummified rat carcass from the fire wall, I set about clearing out the rest of the debris and cleaning it up.

While I took on small projects like cleaning, removing old wiring, cleaning, removing panels, cleaning, removing seats and more cleaning, Dad ordered a new wiring loom and new tyres. Once the bulk of the cleaning was done we set about painting the fire wall ready for the new wiring loom. We then had the front end panel beaten which gave the Coupe a much needed face lift. After that, the new wiring loom went in and the brakes were done.  

While the wiring loom went in, Mum and Dad went to work on the interior and the upholstery. Head lights and tail lights went on at this time as well as the grille, bumper, new wiper blades and other bits and pieces. We were now seeing the restored potential becoming a reality and my enthusiasm and excitement was really starting to build. Getting the Coupe back on the road was a must.

During this restoration period I had had the opportunity to drive Dad’s 20hp ( Amy ), Mum’s Lancaster(Bert) and club member, Andrew’s Whitley and Star Sapphire.  By now my mouth was watering with anticipation of being able to drive my own Siddeley without a concerned owner sitting beside me cringing every time I missed a gear or over revved the car. 

It took 2 years to get to the first club outing, and it was finally here. The day was looking wet and windy.   The Coupe handled the trip very well and I thoroughly enjoyed the drive. I look forward to the next drive…but first there is still some body work and interior trim  to be completed…stay tuned for the final story!"