Does anyone know of a paint shop in SoCal who can paint my '63 E? Needs body off and I know that can be problematic; it needs a frame to support it. Also any reliable mechanics in the same general area? I live in Orange. Thanks

 

There is no "body off" (or "frame off") with e-types as it is a monocoque (unibody). There is no frame under the body providing stiffness. The stiffness is provided by the sills, transmission tunnel, floors and other sheet metal panels. The monocoque would need to be jigged or reinforced only if the sills are being replaced but a jig isnt necessary for a bare metal paint job. Here is an example from ClassicJaguar in Austin of that jigging for sill replacement. http://classicjaguar.com/cj/jp.html

The square tube frame forward of the firewall that holds the engine and bonnet can be unbolted but does not provide structure to the body (monocoque) from the firewall back. And that frame was attached to the monocoque when the factory painted the cars.

You may want to check with XKs Unlimited (xks.com) in San Luis Obispo. They are one of the "usuals" for parts and have a complete restoration shop and are e-type specialist.

Good luck with your project!

Jim

 

If you are in the Los Angeles are try Raffi at Car Classic Interiors. He restored the interior and exterior of my 71 e type FHC 5 years ago. The restoration is holding up great. I also used XK's unlimited for all the mechanical restoration. They are simply one of the best. They will pick up and drop off your car if you are in the Southern California area. Any other questions message me.