Project 3000


A photographic record of the construction of a NEW chassis and substructures of an Austin Healey 3000.

This particular vehicle will be a useable “Rally Replica” for the road using some alloy panels within the substructures, modified LH Pedal Box to accommodate tripple carburettors, larger adjustable rear dampers and the omission of rear seat pans. All modifications will be done in a “period” style. This project is to showcase the workmanship and fit of the panels produced by Dave Hardwick Engineering. 

Although this is a slightly modified vehicle a standard or more radical Healey can be constructed to suit the customers requirements.


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Chassis Extensions and welding fixture



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Suspension tower struts and welding fixture

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Main floors with reiforcement plates

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Inner sills and floors welded in position

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Front bulkhead centre section positioned

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Centre section welded in position

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Outer footwell side in position

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Hinge panel and reinforcing panel “gripped” in position

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Crossbrace assembly position checked with the original front shroud

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Rear bulkhead centre section positioned

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Trial assembly

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Trial assembly

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Checked with rear shroud

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“B” Post

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“B” Post

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Hood mount

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Hood mount

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Aluminium boot floor and landing plates welded to rear cross member

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Boot floor held in position prior to riveting

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Front Aluminium arch and mounting plates

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Aluminium arch

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Both front arches in position 

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DAS 10 Damper and New Mounts

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                                 Front cross brace and arches in position

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                                         Alloy scuttle top in position

Strengthened Engine mounts.

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Adjustable Damper mounts fitted with the aid of a fixture manufactured from original drawings.

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Original panels trial fitted and Shroud put back to the correct shape, also the shroud has been shaped to suit the Grille Surround.

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New alloy wing !!!!!

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Not Good !!!

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The poorly shaped and positioned sidelight platform has been flattened out and my press tool clamped in position.

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The finished result.

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The rear wings are not that impressive!

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A certain amount of reshaping the top wing line is required to make it straight.


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 enquiries@davehardwick.co.uk   © David Hardwick 2011