Making a Rolls-Royce convertible hood from scratch | Classic Obsession | Episode 4

Gary completes the restoration of the Corniche and embarks upon a complete rebuild of the convertible soft-top and headliner. Could this specialist job be one step too far? Should it have been left to the experts?

[@timbrookes3699]

Cannot wait for the next one. This is how a video of this sort of work should be. No irritating Muzak, or smart arsed co presenter, playing at comedian, just a guy who knows what he is doing and explaining the stages viewed in a relaxed, quiet Liverpool accent. Superb, thank you, Gary.

[@richardscally694]

YES! you've said it all, Perfection.

[@brendendale2616]

That car is just beautiful; there is absolutely no other way to describe it. The restoration is perfect and such a credit to your ability and attention to detail. The way you present your fastidious workmanship is enjoyable to watch and commanding in its content. Thank you for taking the time to take us along on your journey with you 😊

[@jackdanielsamarreto]

Hats off to you Gary well done another excellent job in bringing that rolls Royce back to life. 👍👍👍

[@classic.obsession]

Thanks Jack!

[@ianmedium]

My hat is off to you Gary, You took on one of the hardest jobs in car restoration. A job that makes even a time served professional think several times before undertaking and you did the job magnificently. You got all the lines of the seams and the rear three quarters perfectly in proportion. No one would think it anything other than factory original! What a good and worthy home that beauty found in you. I wish you many thousands of miles of wonderful wafting in that beautiful Rolls. Please tell me the XJS is your next project. As a child and teenager in the seventies I instantly fell in love with the shape of it and especially the rear flying buttresess which were very controversial at the time and then of course, it being the second Simon Templer car just cemented my love for it even more! I am really looking forward to the next episode and very much appreciate all the time and effort you put into making this. If you ever venture onto the continent in one of your cars and happen to be in Austria coffee and cake are on this fellow Brit!

[@martinwhelan5415]

Gary, you must have the patience of a saint, Magnificent

[@MrKb1959]

Respect were respect is due .Great job ,brilliantly presented. Thanks .

[@Davidm1956]

"Awesome" is a much over used word these days but as I'm actually in awe of your ballsiness in getting that hood done: Awesome!!

[@aalabbasi]

Watching you working on the Rolls Royce to soothing music is very therapeutic. When I work on mine, the music in my head is more like rage against the machine!

[@classic.obsession]

What are you doing on it at the moment?

[@klwthe3rd]

In the United States, these Corniches were extremely popular among the very rich. What you didn't see here was many of them in the exterior color of black. Until this video, i don't think i've ever seen an left hand drive Corniche in black. To me that really sets your car apart from the rest. You really are a classic tradesman who can fix anything on these old British cars. I really enjoy your channel since it allows me a window into things that i can't do nor will never have in my possession.

[@sambitar8448]

YOU ARE SUPER BLESSED WITH ALL THE TECHNICAL WORK! YOU ARE NUMBER 1.

[@stephensharrock]

What a spectacular job, absolutely hats off to you Gary, I could watch that video a thousand times over, first class pal. Keep them coming.

[@kevinhall8555]

Absolute craftsmanship..and such patience!

[@ivash-dc7xw]

I used to deliver to the Rolls Royce factory in Crewe, I was able to walk around and watch the as the engineers lovingly assembled the cars and talk to them about the processes used. They told me that the cost of their cars came from what you couldn't see, not what you could and seeing the attention to details, such as tinning the engine waterways to ensure the antifreeze stayed the same colour between changes and areas of the brightwork that were exposed to high water volumes. Your attention to detail mimics theirs. Fantastic!

[@psjasker]

This is well outside the ken of even the best mechanics. It’s art, not science. You are more than the sum of your parts mate! (That lacquer finish was worth the price of admission)

[@andrewkatzen9325]

Wow Gary. What a labour of love! Great craftsmanship amd real dedication to getting it just right.

[@carstenrubner520]

Amazing skills from you. Your voice, presentation and craftmanship is out of this world....high praise.

[@RickCT2000]

Documentary quality video. Better than an Attenborough nature film!

[@patrickhostler5939]

I am astonished at the skills at work here… that’s better than a professional could do!!!

[@malikhaider6260]

We need people like this.

[@chrish2996]

Gary. Wow, wow. Very interesting, knowledgeable series. Absolutely honest restoration and old school techniques. Great video thanks 😊

[@PompeyMatt17]

you are far from a "humble home mechanic" Gary...your skills are next level!.. that roof work is impeccable..

[@classic.obsession]

Wow, thanks

[@kevinwestrich1277]

Excellent craftmanship. Such an art. Thank you

[@llamamanism]

Plenty of other people have said this but the way you made the fabric roof was truly spectacular. There won’t be many home restorers who would tackle that job comfortably

[@bigalsplanesimplegarage4288]

Excellent video Gary, thanks for sharing. Looking so forward to the next project

[@chrisjohns7137]

Clever boy... Great watch. Thanks

[@frankparsons1426]

The tempo and quality of your videos matches the Classics you feature in them.

[@derekdalton5658]

Awe struck by the sheer talent of Garry. I'm calling this a BETTER job than "factory". How on earth he judged the correct amount of fabric to allow it to fold taunt is something only a master craftsman could accomplish. I salute you Gary. Bravo! (Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺)

[@vincew8609]

Gary I am blown away by your passion and mechanical skills for Classic cars.

[@Peacekeeper1966]

I very much appreciate anyone who sets about this type of task and gets it done with quiet determination and solving problems as they present themselves. Well done Gary. Presently I am restoring my late fathers' 83 Spur, carefully making up the sections of panel work that have been rusted away, rebuilding it all properly from new sheet steel, basic tools and developing skills as I go. Very satisfying it is and very worthwhile. Thanks Gary.

[@manuelhung7571]

Your greatest asset in these repairs is your endless patience. You don't let anything beat you but rather, methodically and intelligently weigh things up and then set about doing the job right with great finesse and getting fantastic results.

[@classic.obsession]

Much appreciated

[@peterkunz4117]

Lovely video of a craftsman who knows his subject and eloquently expresses his love for the marque, with thoughtful comment. Well done. Love the accent as well!

[@e140403]

I am VERY impressed ! I just discovered your channel and really the quality of your restauration is only equalled by the perfection of the video. Thank you so much !

[@matthewsmith1925]

Absolutely stunning work and result!

[@ianpreece2739]

Just discovered your channel Gary and am really enjoying it. Your Corniche was parked in the same row as my Jaguar XJR at the Arley show a few weeks ago, I got to appreciate in person what a stunning job you've made of it.... it's such a cool car. Getting the story of the cars and their previous owners is really interesting too, great videos!

[@darrenflannery8139]

A real craftsman I take my hat off to you

[@pamelarothwell1320]

Just found your channel Gary. I am so impressed by your true skill, patience and attitude. I cannot wait to watch the rest of your videos. Thankyou!!

[@kevinwright3141]

work of art that, lad!

[@MrSiwilks]

Absolutely outstanding! Your talent for restoration is incredible. Looking forward to more videos Gary!

[@axeljacobs9723]

What you Are doing now looks much better! I can now see some passion in you for this car! I think it deserves it! When these Corniches were new, they cost as much as a 2 story house. Btw, I have a 1984 Corniche! Absolutely love it! Keep up the good work chap!

[@grahamhunter4996]

If Iain Terryle needs to cut corners your could do the whole job. First class.

[@rosscopcoltrain8059]

Tremendous work on the hold Gary. Very inspirational.

[@ThePolarbear64]

I just discovered your channel today. You are a true craftsman.

[@biddlelove2135]

Unbelievable! Top man! 👍👍👍🇬🇧 Beautiful car.

[@tonysinvention44]

Well done Gary (Very well executed) You could (if you would like), start a Craftsmanship class (for all ages but especially for those who have already retired & are bored stiff of their retirement life), which the Government should fund via The British Business Bank !

[@adityabharadwaj193]

Love classic cars so very much ♥️♥️♥️♥️🥺🥺🥺🥺

[@jamesshaw4683]

Brilliant,you are so patient,fantastic job on that roof👍

[@wramaccorsi1357]

I'm very impressed indeed, what an almost superhuman task. What an accomplishment - Bravo truly!

[@perhug]

Fantastic to see this car brought back to life.

[@telsutton]

As impressed watching you restore the ace in the Top Trump 'Cars' pack, as I was watching yer big un soundcheck in The International, 1987. You have an obsessive attention to detail just like Lee, who it's great to hear having fun making music again. Emotional. Subscribed.

[@richardwoodward6702]

The first time I have ever clapped at the end of a KZbin video, what a privilege to be allowed into his world, I actually get excited when the next instalment is released, thank you

[@happyhermit2022]

A fascinating watch and in awe of you standard of workmanship.. Beautiful 🤫

[@tommcguire5525]

Wonderful, stacks of talent and very well presented. Presented by a 'Scouser ' who doesn't think he's on Britain's Got Talent. I'm now a very happy subscriber, all the best ( and that is coming from the arch enemy, a Mancunian ! )

[@mb280sl7]

Magic pure magic.

[@willholland6253]

Love watching your uploads Gary,real proper no BS drama or click bait crap,awesome stuff

[@shelbygtsoo]

How lucky she was for you to save her and who could be so cruel to cause so much damage for such a beauty AMAZING CRAFTSMANSHIP I AM BLOWN AWAY WITH YOUR SKILLS GARY GOD BLESS YOU

[@mikeisaacs2314]

Outstanding workmanship

[@briandurning9211]

Another great video! I love the detailed explanations of the work along the way. Then to finish it off with a ride is perfection. Can't wait for the next video.

[@willardr100]

The craftsmanship! Attention to detail. The craftsmanship! The materials. The craftsmanship! The bloody mindedness to get it right right. The craftsmanship! I’m blown away and I’d never fold this roof, it’s just too good to hide. I can’t image how this must feel to pilot.

[@hansslob6749]

I can only give you a like, it should be a fantastic, marvelous, perfect!

[@no.7593]

A lot of skills on display. Great series, well filmed.

[@andysalter4473]

Unbelievable Gary! You attention to detail and craftsmanship is outstanding. That is an amazing job. There's a Bentley S1 local to me and the hood on that looks bloody terrible and I doubt the owner did it himself.

[@patrickfoteff4994]

Fantastic job on one of my favorite cars. Don't be fooled. He has a lot of mechanical experience and confidence. But with a lot of ability, and some patience, it can be pulled off.

[@fredsalfa]

That was incredible the amount of skill and knowledge you have of everything including French Polishing and even sowing!! Amazing

[@nomebear]

Not a project for one who lacks patience and an exacting eye. Helping a master upholsterer has given me a profound respect for anyone who attempts and successfully pulls off a tough job like this one. For the discerning eye, devil is literally in the details.

[@fingerlakesdiet560]

Excellent video. Great job of editing. Just motivated me to go into my garage and work on my classic motorcycle. Cheers from the Finger Lakes!

[@nigelfranklin3845]

I'm Sure that wasn't easy to do, but i bet it was very satisfying. I Certainly enjoyed watching.

[@nawaznazir3139]

Well done! Tremendous job, on an absolute beauty of a car. I enjoyed the video very much, but looks like you enjoyed it too. Smiles all round. Look forward to more restoration videos, of fine cars.

[@neildonaldsonlotusexcelresto]

No wonder you have 'deep pockets' (according to Iain Tyrrell) with this quality of craftmanship. Fantastic. I could watch these videos all day.

[@Bulletguy07]

Blimey! Body restoration is one thing but making a totally scratch built hood and lining is another skill level altogether! It reminded me of my sister who being an expert on the sewing machine had knocked out plenty of dresses and curtains so one day set herself the challenge of making her husband a suit. She did it but in her words, "never again".

[@classic.obsession]

Exactly. Nice achievement but why would I wanna do that again?!!

[@Bulletguy07]

@@classic.obsession For the next convertible you renovate! 😊

[@garyclark3362]

I recently found your channel and now I'm hooked. The contents and delivery of all your video's is spot on 👍, keep up the fantastic work.

[@stewartevans3875]

Oh Gary - what an absolutely fantastic job you've made of the whole motor. The hood is an absolute masterpiece and must be so rewarding for you to look at as a finished job and know that you've done it yourself. The car is wonderful and so classy and a far cry from the state you bought it in. Dad and I are doing a 1974 XJ12L Jaguar (on carbs) and look forward to seeing you on the XJS - keep up the good work lad and hope to see in you in Broadway one of these days to compare motors :-)

[@pdunn1871]

Stunning restoration Thanks

[@Justkevin377]

Thank you for making this video. I really appreciated this video.

[@stephenhenion8304]

2300 grit rub down on that bonnet! Followed by numerous cuts and bluffs! That's a first for me. I replaced the hood on my Sprite years ago. I'm in Litchfield County ct, and I ordered from Prestige Hoods in the UK. Much easier than a Roller, and I only made 1 mistake... Gorgeous Car Gary.

[@aqa321]

Real determination there, I'm sure it wasn't quite so easy as it looked. Very tough job to get right. Well done and thanks for the videos!

[@borbulet]

The car is amazing and you did an excelent job. Congratulations.

[@peterconnor4193]

I've got a 99 SL500, some of the things I've replaced myself in no particular order, engine and transmission mounts , flex joints, door check straps valve cover gaskets, various trim pieces, all the roof hydraulic cylinders and a lot more but when I wanted a new canvas roof I took it to a shop, he was experienced but not too much with the SL even he had a bit of a hard time putting the canvas roof on and getting it to look perfect, what you did with this roof was absolutely stunning,

[@classic.obsession]

You’ve done a lot of tricky jobs. You should be proud of yourself. The 500 is a lovely car. Many thanks.

[@tentotwo8290]

This guy is amazing, Only just found his channel. He’s smoother than a velvet cod piece. Keep up the good work mate 👍

[@andycreevy1]

Found your channel by accident but what a great channel,and even better, a fellow scouser hosting and doing the restoration, well done!

[@mlgboy1]

what an outstanding video with superb craftmanship going into the retoration of a now stunning car. Huge respect to you Gary for having a go and acheiving such an amazing result. Please do keep producing these great videos coming.

[@backyardjourneyswithamanda1553]

You did a fabulous job and I enjoy every video.❤

[@johncollier608]

Fanstastic restoration, Mr. Mavers. The Corniche is a truly stunning car.

[@LOTPOR0402]

Fair game to you ,a lot of skill and knowledge involved in making a hood at home like that

[@lindathompson2624]

Just simply amazing, such guts to take on that hood replacement, well done you Gary 👍🏻👍🏻

[@KasparArnault]

Congratulations on your superb work in bringing this car back to its former glory.

[@abobharding]

Fair play that's awesome ❤

[@christophegentelet1784]

I'm very impressed by this work of art. These old Rolls Royce have always made me dream. What beauties! Well done !

[@powerglory4022]

Loves the whole series. Amazing workmanship. As a Rolls-Royce owner myself not sure I’d tackle the restoration myself but your philosophy of anything is possible certainly makes me think. Wonderful

[@malcolmpritchard4882]

Your a true craftsman well done 👍

[@arnaud3766]

Well done Gary, I found out that nothing is impossible in DYT. I made my similar experience in a Daimler VdP série 3. Tasteful music and quiet atmosphere help to keep on with the next step recovery. Arnaud in Bordeaux, France. New follower.

[@69BODIE69]

Just discovered your channel, I'm catching up & loving every minute... you deserve 1000x more subs great work

[@mrjohncharlesbrown]

What a skilled man you are, these cars are so undervalued compared to an E-Type I am fortunate to own a 1973 Mulliner Park Ward Corniche 2 Door Saloon in Bordeaux such an elegant car, she's beautiful too

[@radleyg9486]

Amazing skills and patience.

[@colinblick4903]

Well you had to finish at Broadway 😉 I think the car looks at home there, Crackin job all round lovely finish an clean as a Kleenex…….you must be very proud… well done 👍🏼

[@marcusd2380]

Great looking car and when u put the time in and do it your self it’s very special. Love the car.

[@stevesankey6339]

Wow 😛 That took some gut's to do that job, and you did a top job on it as well, hat's off to you. You must be so happy with your self. Well done mate 👍👌

[@adamskikijowski9139]

Well done. I'm amazed you pieced it all together from all the rotten scraps. I had considered a black Corniche after seeing one parked in Fulham (MPW) outside a shady restaurant dodgy club for many years. Eventually realised the task for me was too big and opted for a triple black 98 Azure which ticks more boxes for me as a marque. However I still like the Corniche although all these cars now appeal to a diminishing audience.

[@qvilorio]

You truly are a restoration ace, Kudos mate!

[@briancornish5857]

Timeless..👍

[@gary1705]

Hi Gary, i think a nice set of thin white walls would set it off , great job though , wish it was mine 😉