Pre-War Rileys

The cars produced by Riley Motors in the 1930s were class leaders in terms of driving enjoyment and innovation. They attracted a loyal and enthusiastic band of owners when new and have a dedicated following even in the 21st Century. Several of these owners have paid me the compliment of trusting me to work on their treasured Rileys, of which the examples below are a small sample.

1935 Riley 9 "Kestrel"

  • Serviced and adjusted engine, cured oil leaks
  • Fixed electrical problems and improved lights
  • Renewed brake linings and cables
  • Added discreet flashing indicators

An attractive car in sound condition, just needing a bit of attention to return it to the road

1936 Riley 9 "Kestrel"

  • Rebuilt automatic clutch to cure chronic slipping
  • Improved dynamo output for night-time use
  • Traced multiple causes of poor starting

 

A characterful old car with plenty of get-up-and-go

1935 Riley "Monaco"

  • Replaced dynamo with custom made alternator
  • Lightly modified wiring so it could be reversed
  • Fitted better rear lighting and flashers

One of the finest Riley Monacos on the road, the car drove as nicely as it looks

1934 Riley 9 "Kestrel"

  • Seized-up gearbox restored to working order
  • Complete steering, brakes and chassis overhaul
  • Dozens of lesser jobs to return it to the road

This extraordinary survivor was supplied new to a family in Ceylon. By the 1950s it was still in the family but worn out, and stored in an aircraft hangar in India. I was privileged to get it on the road for its 4th generation owner.

 

Riley Repairing with confidence

Most of the pre-war Rileys that have passed through my workshop so far have been Riley 9 models, having the famous twin-cam 1087cc engine. They often need attention to one or more of the engine, gearbox, steering, electrical system and brakes, but although each pre-war car brings its own surprises, I have proved that I can trace and address a variety of faults, ranging from the mundane to the bizarre. In the past I have owned a 12/4 Lynx so I know my way around the bigger-engined cars too.

To support the work I do on these outstanding cars in terms of spare parts and practical knowledge, I am a member of the Riley Register and I have a good relationship with other Riley specialists. For machining work there are competent local firms, or for specialised Riley-specific knowledge I can use a number of trusted sources all over the U.K.