11-06-2023, 05:52 PM
Having driven a few Sevens, some had faired better than others and this was apparent from the driving experience. If a car was properly restored by someone with all the relevant skills - and as a labour of love rather than counting the cost - it might be possible to get it close to original? This would involve paying attention to the drivetrain, suspension, brakes and steering to return as much as possible back to how it left the factory.
Some bits of my car are good - the synchro gearbox and axle are quiet, easy and smooth - but I am not sure that the front spring is the right weight, the rears are set a bit high, and there is a bit of play in the steering box. However, other Rubies have driven have felt very similar on the road. I have never driven a very well restored or original low-mileage car to compare. It is not often that there is the chance - unless you are own one. My current car would need a vast amount of work in every department (except the axle and gearbox) to return it to approaching 'factory' condition - attention that it is not likely to receive (from me).
Given Bert Hadley was willing to drive a Ruby at up to 80mph along normal 30s roads to Scotland, his Ruby must have been different from mine - even taking account of his exceptional racing skills.
Some bits of my car are good - the synchro gearbox and axle are quiet, easy and smooth - but I am not sure that the front spring is the right weight, the rears are set a bit high, and there is a bit of play in the steering box. However, other Rubies have driven have felt very similar on the road. I have never driven a very well restored or original low-mileage car to compare. It is not often that there is the chance - unless you are own one. My current car would need a vast amount of work in every department (except the axle and gearbox) to return it to approaching 'factory' condition - attention that it is not likely to receive (from me).
Given Bert Hadley was willing to drive a Ruby at up to 80mph along normal 30s roads to Scotland, his Ruby must have been different from mine - even taking account of his exceptional racing skills.