Lancia Motor Club

Model Technical and Interest => Aurelia => Topic started by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 01:54:04 PM



Title: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 01:54:04 PM
I have been searching for a good B12 Aurelia for about 18 months.  
I have looked at cars all over Europe, some good some bad, I found one that I liked, the body and interior were perfect, it went OK, but the front suspension needed some work and there was a little dodgy welding on one sill, the price was right too. I wanted to buy it, but before the necessary funds were available it was sold to a dealer and the price almost doubled, c'est la vie!
I had got to the stage where I thought I wouldn't find what I was looking for, but in a chance conversation with Martin at Omicron, he mentioned that a car I knew about in the UK could be available for sale, and even better it was only 25 miles from home.
So to cut a long story short, I went to look at the car, it was a fair bit more expensive than my budget, but on the other hand it is probably the best B12 anywhere in the world. Deal done! (New kitchen will have to wait – priorities!)  
So today I have become the (very very) proud owner of 130 GMG.
It has fabulous history, built on the 22nd September 1955 it was first registered by Lancia (England) Ltd on the 1st December 1955 and subsequently was road tested by Autocar, and featured in an article entitled 'Connoiseur's carriage' on the 27th July 1956.
It had two owners up to 1971, when it was purchased by the person I bought it from. In the 46 years he owned it the total mileage increased by only 2,000 miles. It was subject to a no expense spared restoration between 1985 and 2005 although many parts of the car are totally original. (The bonnet and doors were not painted as they were in excellent condition). Total mileage to date is just under 72,000 miles.
130 GMG was featured in Neils Jonassens book 'Lancia Aurelia in detail'
It is absolutely amazing to drive, it is just so smooth and quiet, just like an Aurelia would have been when new!  
I just have a bit of a dilemma now, it is so perfect and has not seen a drop of rain for 46 years, but I want to use it a bit.......... I just hope it doesn't rain on the Sliding Pillar Rally this year!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: chriswgawne on 24 March, 2017, 02:17:19 PM
That's a really nice car Ade. You have done well I am sure and I am also sure you will really enjoy the particular characteristics of a good B12 which hasn't been messed around. The rigidity of the body, the original Lancia soundproofing, the torque of the engine, the big brakes and the overall gearing make for a very usable package in todays traffic. And its the right colour combination as well!
The only thing I would be just a little nervous of is the fact that the engine has done so few miles in the last 46 years but you will know all about that and you will keep a close eye on water and oil levels I am sure.
I have yet to meet a B12 owner who hasn't really enjoyed his car.
Chris


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: GreenB20 on 24 March, 2017, 02:19:40 PM
Very nice.   ;)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 02:20:44 PM
Thanks Chris. The engine has been totally rebuilt, so I will just keep to the running-in instructions, as shown below!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 24 March, 2017, 04:28:50 PM
Congratulations Ade!

Lovely looking B12 with a brilliant provenance, wishing you many safe and happy miles in THE car of the Aurelia range.

Stuff it full of one of the anti-rust waxes and rain will hold no fear.

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 05:51:07 PM
Thanks Frank, please don't tell everyone what all the proper Lancisti know, the B12 is the best Aurelia bar none.
Oh wait a minute, we both own one now, you can shout it from the roof tops!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 24 March, 2017, 06:22:04 PM
Excellent Ade! Congratulations !

Looks very nice, especially with the correct hose clamps on the engine to radiator water pipe.
(Distributor cap is from a Flaminia however, as is the coil I think.... ;))

We all look forward to your running and driving reports.

Any pictures of the interior?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 24 March, 2017, 06:27:19 PM
The Aurelia cognescenti have been biting their collective tongues for quite a few decades, but you know the truth eventually leaks out.

Loving the running in instructions, you can almost detect the love lavished on this B12 even from this distance!

Mine is a long way from being fully appreciated, but some day!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 24 March, 2017, 06:43:28 PM

I just have a bit of a dilemma now, it is so perfect and has not seen a drop of rain for 46 years, but I want to use it a bit.......... I just hope it doesn't rain on the Sliding Pillar Rally this year!


Lovely car Ade

Immaculate and I can appreciate your dilemma..... Did you trailer it to that nice muddy farm track in the photo?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: rogerelias on 24 March, 2017, 06:43:47 PM
Well done Ade, that is a really lovely car and was obviously meant to be . Enjoy


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 07:16:54 PM


Immaculate and I can appreciate your dilemma..... Did you trailer it to that nice muddy farm track in the photo?

That 'muddy farm track' as you call it is actually the oldest road in the country..... The Ridgeway, and I was only about 50m from the road, so didn't have to drive through any of the, rather large, puddles.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: the.cern on 24 March, 2017, 07:23:40 PM
You are a very fortunate man Ade!! Your perseverance has paid off and your reward seems well deserved.

                                       Andy


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: JohnMillham on 24 March, 2017, 07:23:59 PM
It looks fabulous. Congratulations.
Regards, John.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 24 March, 2017, 07:25:02 PM


Any pictures of the interior?

Sebastien, if you look in the Aurelia in detail book you will see the interior. It has custom made seat covers in a rather fetching bright blue check. These have been on the seats since the sixties, I even have the original brochure and samples for them.
Tomorrow I am going to investigate and perhaps even take the covers off!  From what I can see the original hazelnut brown west of England cloth is in excellent condition, as it should be after 50 years being covered up. Tomorrow will tell. More photos then!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: fay66 on 24 March, 2017, 09:25:43 PM
Congratulations Ade,
Absolutely beautiful, I honestly don't know how anyone could resist driving it, 2000 miles in 46 years ???

Brian
8227 8)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Jai Sharma on 24 March, 2017, 09:48:51 PM
That really does look mint!
congratulations  :)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 25 March, 2017, 04:42:15 PM
Today's task has been to look at how good the original seats might be under the custom made Regency covers, these have probably been on the car since Lancia (England) sold it in 1957.
The covers on the seats came off reasonably easily, just a case of untying a few cords and taking the ashtray and braided handles off the back of the front seat. The door panels were a bit more work, the braided edge had been removed, so that the cover could be put in place and this was then nailed down with hundreds of small tacks , then the braid was put back on. Easy enough to remove, just very time consuming.
Any way the best bit was what was underneath..... totally original and virtually as new west of England cloth. The covers had definitely been on there for a very long time!  There were even the original labels on the seats with the date tag, 21st February 1955.
I wanted to protect the floors, original carpets in the back and rubber matting in the front. A few weeks ago I purchased some coir door mats from Ikea, nice and large and only £7 each. Two covered the front and rear foot-wells, very easy to trim with a sharp Stanley knife and just the right colour to match the seats
Some photos below. At one point when my back was turned the cat decided that the sunny and warm rear shelf would be a very nice spot to sit!.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 25 March, 2017, 05:01:40 PM
Delightful, and thats just the cat!

It must seem almost Tutankamen like, the B12 slowly revealing its secrets to those who might dare to pry, and then  be delighted at whats found.

No doubt more will be unearthed over time, enjoy!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Niels Jonassen on 25 March, 2017, 06:21:54 PM
Congratulations. "A thing of beauty is a joy forever". I am looking forward to seeing it at the sliding pillar rally.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: frankxhv773t on 25 March, 2017, 07:09:55 PM
Magnificent! Brian will agree Berlinas are beautiful. Watch the cat though. I list a decent early Beta interior to claw stropping.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Brian Long on 25 March, 2017, 09:33:42 PM
Congratulations, Ade! It looks as though the secret is out now; the B12 is the best of the Aurelias.
I've had mine for nearly 45 years and it never fails to delight. They thrive on use and are more than capable of use in today's traffic but given an open road they come into their element....rain, hail or shine!
Happy B12 motoring.
Brian


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: simonandjuliet on 26 March, 2017, 08:58:13 AM
Very nice - Look forward to seeing it in June !

I rather liked the tartan ......


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 26 March, 2017, 03:51:14 PM
These are the pages from the original catalogue for the fabric seat covers by Kumficar of Brighouse in Yorkshire.
The B12 had Skye plaid, I think I would have chosen the Ocelot with west of England backings!!! ;D
Strange that you could have chosen west of England covers.

Simon, If you get yourself a B12 there are a nice set of tartan covers available at a very modest cost....... but then, I would have thought a man of your skills could turn then into a lovely set of seat covers for an Aprilia Cabriolet..?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 26 March, 2017, 04:15:12 PM
Brian, I like the look of your B12 in the all grey colour combination.
I am quite surprised how long legged the B12 is. My B50 had a B12 engine, but only a B21 gearbox. I have not driven far in it yet, but I was cruising along on the local main road and found myself doing an indicated 70mph with ease. Must check out the real speed with Ulysse app on the phone.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: chriswgawne on 26 March, 2017, 05:02:46 PM
We can easily cruise at 130 kph all day in ours and then accelerate from there if necessary. And so quiet with all the original soundproofing, wind deflectors and doors that shut properly.
Lancia only sold 2,400 of them I think but good ones seem to be very sought after in Italy now and come up rarely.
Chris


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Brian Long on 27 March, 2017, 06:49:40 AM
Chris, Ade,

A better photo of my B12 after its body restoration.
Happy B12 motoring to you all!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 27 March, 2017, 08:03:58 AM
Ade,

Your original interior is very nice!
Do you know the name for the color ?
Is it Nocciola (Hazelnut)?
Makes a change compared to the more usual grey (pane grigio)!

Regarding comfortable cruising speed: I can cruise my B12 at an indicated 140 km/h (87 mph) all day. However when I check it with a GPS app, I am only doing a real 120 km/h (75 mph)! I have no explanation why the speedometer is so optimistic. However I find those 120 km/h quite sufficient, and feel safe and relaxed at that speed. As it is also the legal speed limit in Switzerland on motorways, I am not hindering traffic flow :)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Niels Jonassen on 27 March, 2017, 11:22:46 AM
If I am not mistaken there is an old agreement between European car makers to let their speedometers show 10 % too much. With all the cars I have owned this has in any case been so.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 27 March, 2017, 03:06:38 PM
If you caught speeding here in France they immediately knock off 10% to allow for speedo error.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 27 March, 2017, 04:30:08 PM
Sebastien, this is the build data sheet for the car, the interior is indeed Panno nocciola


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: simonandjuliet on 27 March, 2017, 05:13:28 PM
Is this the data sheet from FCA - acquired via their website ?



Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 27 March, 2017, 05:16:17 PM
No, I got it from another source.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 27 March, 2017, 06:14:48 PM
Ade,
Thank you for the confirmation of the Nocciola - it must be very rare, as all the dark B12 I remember are with the panno grigio cloth - apart from the special Bao Dai B12, now at "The Automobile", that has original leather interior, separate front seats, and a floor shift!
Yours is a very late (1955) B12, last one was B12-2380.
Mine is a very early (1954) (LHD) B12S, car B12S-1058. I seem to remember some detail differences between early and late cars, for example the tank fill cover in the boot has a different catch.
I also see from the photos you posted that your car does not have the mounting points for a luggage rack - all other B12 I know have them.
You and your family will enjoy the B12 - it is a fabulous touring car!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 27 March, 2017, 06:32:27 PM
Sebastien, I have seen one B12 painted Bleu Lancia that had a beige interior, but I don't know if it was original.
I can take a picture if the fuel filler flap later in the week.
Another difference for the late cars is the three piece prop shaft, see picture of my car below.

Interestingly although all books say that the B12 was made in 1954 or 1955, in fact the last few were only finished during the first week of 1956, see the production record for B12 2376 (5th from last made) below. This car has nearly finished restoration and is in the UK.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Brian Long on 28 March, 2017, 06:49:49 AM
I think all B12s had a one-piece propeller shaft supported by two bearings as per the photograph. (Never been out in the wet?)
Lancia had on-going problems with Aurelia propshaft vibration and tried all sorts of variations in various derivatives in an effort to cure it. Mine was so out of balance when I first bought it that rear view vision was impossible through the mirror and the glove box lid  would pop open!
We had Dott. Ing. Pianta at Castlemaine several years ago as guest-of-honour and he said, whilst in my B12, that Veglia never really sorted out the speedo gearing in the B12s. Mine reads nearly 20% fast; both indicated speed and distance.
I resisted filling in the roof-rack fittings when restoring the body and they are quite a conversation piece!
A bit of minor fettling on the B12 before this weekend and then off on a 1800km trip to Canberra and back. AutoItalia....hundreds of Italian cars, motorbikes, etc. on the lawns of the old Parliament House there . 


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancianut666 on 28 March, 2017, 01:54:51 PM
Hmmm....if only we could order them still....It looks like my S1 Appia's bigger and more sophisticated brother, the interior cloth is gorgeous shame mine is not like that
Clarkey


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 28 March, 2017, 02:35:43 PM
This is an incredible car. Museum quality and a good museum at that. I'd make my passengers show very recent dry cleaning tickets before I allowed them to sit on those seats.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 01 April, 2017, 05:03:59 PM
Thanks for the comments about the interior, I shall be covering it with a loose throw when it is used, especially in the back where my son sits, and he will not be allowed to eat anything whilst in the car!

I was looking at the original photos from the Autocar road test report taken in 1956 (Sorry, can't reproduce them as they are subject to copyright) and couldn't see any trace of the screw holes for a roof rack. I couldn't see them either in some photos taken in the early seventies. The reason for this is that it never had them. According to the parts book, Tav 60 No 46, they were discontinued from chassis number 2151.

I checked the speedo, it over reads by about 15% which means if the mileage is also 15% higher, the car has only done about 62,000 miles from new.
The photo below is of the boot with the tools. I have most items (Including the wheel brace which isn't in the photo) but a few are still needed to make the set complete.



Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 01 April, 2017, 05:58:24 PM
Incredible quality and originality, am sure you're as pleased as punch, every photo revealing even nicer detail than the last, quite a contrast to mine!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 03 April, 2017, 02:48:29 PM
Nice day for a quick drive, the Oil seed rape comes out earlier every year.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 04 April, 2017, 01:33:13 PM
You've made the tyres dusty! Looks gorgeous. That's a nice line from the roof into the boot.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Dilambdaman on 08 April, 2017, 08:42:28 AM
Just caught up with this thread and green with envy! I got close to buying a B10 long ago and always regretted not doing so. Of all the Fulvias I've owned the saloons were always the most practical and endearing to use so not surprised by the comments re the B12.

Gorgeous car Ade, look forward to seeing it on the SPR.

Robin.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Charles T on 10 April, 2017, 07:30:13 PM
Beautiful car, and she does contrast well in black against the yellow in the background.

I agree with you about the oil seed rape.  My father farmed in Lincolnshire and I am sure it used to come into flower in early May.



Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 11 April, 2017, 03:43:25 PM
I borrowed a friends ramp today, just to make sure the underside was nice and clean  ;D and to do the grease points.
A good excuse to take some more photos. What I really like about this car is that it is totally correct, all the original bits are present and correct, check out the louvered panels either side of the sump.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 11 April, 2017, 03:51:58 PM
Just fantastic, but what about the sleeves on the leaf springs :o ?!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 11 April, 2017, 04:06:37 PM
The rear leaf spring leather gaiters are by Wefco, a period accessory. The previous owner had them made.
I like them so they are staying put.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 11 April, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
Have those gaiters on my Sport 1600. Still going strong after 100,000 miles but not as clean.....


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 11 April, 2017, 04:50:52 PM
It really is fantastic - and great that it's fallen into the right hands to keep it that way.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 11 April, 2017, 06:29:55 PM
Ade, fascinating pictures of the bottom of your car!

I did not know that those louvred panels each side of the engine ever existed!
I checked the parts book, and they are in Tav. 62, pos. 22 and 23, Grembiale destro e sinistro completo (a richiesta) - so it was an option - does it appear on a period price list, I wonder?
There is one type for the LHD, and one for the RHD car! With two small closing plates, pos. 19. and the necessary screws, pos. 73!
Grembiale could be translated "Apron".
I wonder who ever specified this option on the purchase of a B12 berlina.... and how many of those are still existing today..!

I shall from now on check all B12 to see if I can find another one so equiped!  ;)

Well done!

PS: The gaiters on the rear leaf springs are also interesting - I have the same on my Lambda, now I know who produced them!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 11 April, 2017, 06:49:26 PM
Sebastien, I am glad to have enlightened you! I can only presume that as Lancia (England) used the car a a demonstrator they had the aprons to make it look a bit more special. (Not sure what the do for engine cooling though!)
The Wefco gaiters are still available, the Wefco trade mark was bought by Pritchards Coach trimmers of Yatton, just south of Bristol a few years ago.  http://www.wefco-gaiters.com/
A close up of the 'Apron' which shows the closing plates and screws.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: rogerelias on 11 April, 2017, 07:16:53 PM
Hi Ade, are we going to see this car in the flesh at the AGM ?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 11 April, 2017, 07:22:51 PM
Yes, I do plan to be at the AGM in it.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 22 April, 2017, 06:25:21 PM
Another sunny day for a drive, I have now done more miles in the B12 than it has done in the last seven years, and it keeps getting better.
I have added a couple of door mirrors for safety in modern traffic. They clip onto the quarter light windows, so it is not necessary to drill any holes and they can be removed in seconds if necessary.
The side light bulbs have been upgraded to LEDs so that it is more visible if I ever drive it after dark... last minute dash for the ferry comes into mind.
More rape seed field photos.....


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 22 April, 2017, 07:09:29 PM
Ade, achingly fabulous........and thats just the rapeseed field as for the B12, words fail me!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Niels Jonassen on 23 April, 2017, 08:45:20 AM
Provoked by Sabastien's finding I searched the parts catalogue from January 1954 to see what that might reveal. The louvered panels are not there, so they must have been introduced with the B12. Comparing the two "tavole" I found various interesting differences. The most striking is that on the earlier cars the front bumper seems to be mounted on a bolt with a spring at the back. Has anyone ever noticed if the front bumper on a B10 can be pushed backwards? Of course they might have rusted too much. Incidentally there ar no springs on our B20, so presumably they only went on to the berlina models.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 13 June, 2017, 04:51:23 PM
Just returned from the Sliding Pillar Rally, over 500 miles and it just gets smoother to drive.
A bit of cleaning to do now before the AGM.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: chriswgawne on 16 June, 2017, 12:16:56 PM
I thought about starting a new thread entitled 'The long search for an Aurelia B12 number 2' as it took me 3 to 4 years to find ours but as there are so few around I reconsidered and decided to add to this thread.
I am on my own here this week and so its a good opportunity to get on with some car related things so I have started refitting our B20 S1 which has been stripped and repainted its original black colour. This car has never been rusty and so is a pleasure to work on. We have owned and driven it for well over 20 years and being an early car it has a character all of its own.
Anyway, whilst Jacky is away I have taken the  the opportunity to get the front seats in our Fulvia GTE 'daily driver' restitched and refoamed locally. The seat covers themselves are like new.
(The same guy is refurbishing our Ercole leather saddle type seat which is a work of art but that's another story.)
Therefore my current daily driver for the last week has been the B12 and what a capable car it is whether on the Autostrada, in the hills or just cruising around. Its quiet, comfortable and refined with great brakes and I really enjoy driving it.
Chris


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: DavidLaver on 16 June, 2017, 02:23:40 PM

Is that a side exit exhaust...?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: simonandjuliet on 16 June, 2017, 04:02:46 PM
Or the cat with a bandage on its tail

Hoping to see lots more pictures whilst J is away !


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: chriswgawne on 17 June, 2017, 03:03:04 PM
Yes, its a side exhaust on one side only using a 2 into 1 under the floor and its quiet!
It was on this car when we bought it in Europe in the early 1990s. At that time the car itself  was pretty complete but had a B12 2.3l engine (which on opening it up was actually 2.5l!) with a nice pair of Weber 36s on top and a 'longer' transaxle as it was purportedly being readied for La Carrera Panamerica!
Money changed hands to three people in the end - one for the car as it stood, the second for the original engine and the third for some paperwork, the original front axle and the original transaxle.
What particularly attracted me to it was the apparent absence of any corrosion anywhere and at that time I was trying to obtain one each of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th series B20s for future restoration. 1st Series were very few and far between (as they are today) and this car looked like it could be put on the road at minimal extra cost which is what happened and until 3 years ago when the Fulvia GTE arrived it was our daily driver over here in the fine weather.
Over the 25 years or so of ownership I have refitted the original engine (having rebuilt it with new pistons etc) but then a couple of valve springs broke on the M3 and I lunched a piston comprehensively. After that I changed all the valve springs. I have also had the mainshaft in the transaxle fracture - no idea why - but I have grown to like driving it very much as it is so tactile being so light, quiet and nimble. When the Fulvia arrived I decided to have the body stripped and taken back to its original black and this exercise has taken well over 18 months. The end result is superb and I am just beginning to refit the car which is a pleasure as there is no new metal apart from one door skin which had filler in it from a bump and the rhs sill which was the incorrect shape from the same bump by the A post. I have had a complete correct fabric covered wire loom made as this seemed wise so I will fit that and as all the trim is aluminium apart from the headlamp rims, its just needs polishing to bring it back.
Early B20's, particularly S1  now seem to have been discovered by the cognoscenti according to one or two dealers I regularly chat to and so I am looking forward very much to driving it again soon. The only negative is that I think we are going to want to have the car fully retrimmed as it was done in the 80s but not very well.
Chris 


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 20 June, 2017, 09:08:29 AM
Where do you buy sheets of filter foam? Or is foam foam...............?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 20 June, 2017, 09:12:37 AM
You can get the Air filter foam on eBay, generally it is made for motorcycles, search for 'Ramair air filter foam'


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 20 June, 2017, 11:14:23 AM
I have been taking a 'If it aint broke, don't fix it' approach with the B12, (not that anything needs fixing of course) just checking things over where necessary.
I have never been a fan of the Aurelias air filters, the mesh on the wire gauze seems far too open to stop very small particles getting through, and at over 60 years old there is the chance it could start to disintegrate, so I have done the same as on previous Aurelias I have owned and replaced it with a modern foam filter. Easy to buy in sheets, just cut to fit, secure it around the wire cage with tie straps, job done.


Oh no its not original any more :-)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 20 June, 2017, 04:06:14 PM
I won't tell anyone, if you don't!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 20 June, 2017, 04:39:03 PM
I won't tell anyone, if you don't!
Your secret is safe with me......


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: LANCIA on 13 July, 2017, 04:49:39 AM
Ciao su e- bay pubblicita' autoradio condor   per b12   vedi foto .


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 13 July, 2017, 10:10:16 AM
Grazie Andrea, adesso devo solo trovare uno!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 13 July, 2017, 10:41:21 AM
The only time I have seen a radio fitted to a B12 - very nice!
It is not the same as the advertisement shown by Andrea.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 13 July, 2017, 01:49:46 PM
This is the radio I am really looking for, similar to Sebastien's photo but without the push buttons.
But lets not get too picky... either would do!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 13 July, 2017, 03:43:06 PM
I have a radio for mine, a period version (with buttons) but not a Condor ( whats the make on Sebastiens photo?), not seen a B12 Condor radio like that for sale on the net.


None quite the same on this search.


http://www.subito.it/annunci-italia/vendita/usato/?q=autoradio+condor


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: LANCIA on 13 July, 2017, 07:53:44 PM
Incomincia a comprare la pubblicita' su e -bay poi la radio uscira'...........


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 13 July, 2017, 08:47:27 PM
I think the Condor Automatic that Ade is looking for came out in 1958, so it was fitted to late B20s, and Convertibiles, and sometimes retrofitted to older Aurelias.

The radio in the picture I took of the B12 interior should also be a Condor, but of an earlier model, of which I can find no reference on the web. I assume it is of the same age as that B12, which was a very original car in Sicily. What I found amazing then was the front plate, which had exactly the same finish as the dashboard.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Brian Long on 14 July, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
I have an Autovox radio for my B12. It is in two parts; a tuner section which fits in the dashboard and a power supply section which I think is fitted in the alcove up in the bulkhead where the handbrake cross arm goes.
It has push buttons and a three band selector switch. The wiper switch has to be moved to the spare hole under the dashboard beside the heater fan switch, etc to allow the two knobs for the radio to be accommodated.
It has the matching 'filigree' surround, matching knobs etc. Trouble is, it uses a vibrator power supply, vacuum tube valves, but it works. I haven't fitted it because I don't want to punch a hole in the body for an aerial.
If you want an old-style modern radio have a look at the audiolabs website where they have a good range of modern radios with optional 'period' knobs, escutcheons etc.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: frankxhv773t on 14 July, 2017, 08:58:12 PM
http://vintagecarradio.co.uk sell refurbished period radios and also period radios upgraded with FM and I-pod sockets. They aren't cheap though.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: GG on 15 July, 2017, 12:31:09 AM
Slightly off topic - the radio for the 1952 B20 was an Autovox, and predates this discussion by about 6 years. Its restoration was interesting: first, three vintage radio restorers in the US wouldn't touch it. Finally found a vintage radio buff in Trieste willing to take it on! He had to hunt hard, but found a power diagram somewhere, and a power source on Ebay, then proceeded to rebuild in detail. Shipped this 30 lb object back, no joy in that either. Lots of detail in his writeup of the restoration:

https://www.depoi.net/en/2017/restoration-autovox-car-radio-lancia-aurelia-b20 (https://www.depoi.net/en/2017/restoration-autovox-car-radio-lancia-aurelia-b20)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 15 July, 2017, 05:21:26 PM
The radio I had for my B50 Cabriolet was one of the Square type. It was for a B20, but the B50 had a much shorter slot for it to fit in, so I had it converted to modern internals with FM and a fly lead for a external mobile phone connection (The cost is long forgotten.... but I know it wasn't cheap!)

The radio that is currently in the B12 is a modern retro style Blaupunkt, it has the filigree finish of the dash, but it also has a surround, so does not fit as nicely as the ones in Sebastien's or my original radio photos. (The one in my photo does have the  filigree finish, but it is rather worn!!) and doesn't have the lovely matching buttons. I wonder how many of these original B12 radios were made, considering there were (at least) two different styles there can't be that many around.

The B12 already has an aerial mounted on the wing, so I don't have to worry about drilling a hole, but I did have this dilemma on the B50. In the end a very kind LMC member (sorry I can't remember who  :-[) gave me an aerial for under body mounting, this might be just what you need for your B12 Brian.


http://www.chromelondon.com/underbody-chassis-aerial-antenna-new--universal-3598-p.asp


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 04 November, 2017, 10:25:22 AM
The B12 is featured in an article in the December 2017 Classic & Sports Car magazine.
Written by Martin Buckley, who really enjoyed driving it, his summing up reads:- "This is a special example of a special car. Not just one of the great Lancias, but one of the greatest saloons of its time.
"


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 04 November, 2017, 12:21:31 PM
Inspired by Ade and after a shorter search I have also acquired (nice but not as concours as Ade's) from Italy. We drove it home last weekend, and now in the process of registering and giving it good mechanical review and service.

I concur with Martin Buckley's statement that it is a great saloon, with great driving appeal.

Here is our car at the summit of Col de Mont Cenis. We have called her Aurora!!!!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 04 November, 2017, 12:25:15 PM
Congratulations again Tim, looking forward to updates and photos as you find your way around your B12, do enjoy and welcome to the "club"!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 04 November, 2017, 05:30:34 PM
Well done Tim. These cars ooze class.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: tzf60 on 06 November, 2017, 01:48:49 PM
Two stunning cars. Such understated elegance....so far removed the CAD designs of today.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: SanRemo78 on 06 November, 2017, 07:59:31 PM
My copy of this months C&C landed this evening. Apparently I have to do the ironing before I can read it....

Guy


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: the.cern on 08 November, 2017, 07:09:20 AM
Excellent news Tim, I am sure it will continue to give you huge pleasure!!

I'm just wondering how the neighbours will react to the now desperately needed rather large extension that will be needed to the garage!!!!

                                          Andy


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 08 November, 2017, 10:30:08 AM
Excellent news Tim, I am sure it will continue to give you huge pleasure!!

I'm just wondering how the neighbours will react to the now desperately needed rather large extension that will be needed to the garage!!!!

                                          Andy
You are right Andy.... I need to sell a few (but which???? I love them all)


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: frankxhv773t on 08 November, 2017, 06:47:42 PM
I think you need to invest in a storage facility Tim then keep adding to the collection. There must still be some gems that you need to own. After all, they are investments as well as objects of desire.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: fay66 on 09 November, 2017, 01:01:14 PM
When is the collection Being opened to the public ;D

Brian
8227


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 10 November, 2017, 07:56:11 AM
In at number three of this months top features in Classic and Sports Car.........

http://www.classicandsportscar.com/news/seven-unmissable-classic-car-articles-december-issue-csc?utm_medium=EMAIL&utm_campaign=&utm_content=CLAS%20ENews%20Digest%209th%20November%20(1)::Hyperlink_20171109_102333045&utm_source=20171109


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 10 November, 2017, 05:36:53 PM
Lovely piece, but then I'm a tad biased!

Great pics of the B12 on the move, looks a lot more elegant, and all I can say about the leaning on the corners was that it was down to poorly cambered roads!

Martin clearly delights in his older Lancias, long may it continue and thank you Ade for getting the B12 into the spotlight again.

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 10 November, 2017, 06:29:38 PM
Ade, was being facetious, having owned DS/Cx's and 2CVs for a period of nearly 10 years off and on,  am well aware of what body roll/soft ride is,  and in relative terms the B12 doesn't look too bad, but it was of its day and thats how they were set up.


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 11 November, 2017, 01:41:08 PM
Off topic but I loved Dyanes back in the day and loved their roll but I never was in a position to see how the steering coped. It seems to develop a lot of toe-out on extreme angles from your excellent photo.

Back on topic I thought my B12 lent into roundabouts and exits a lot so am comforted that this is a characteristic and that I can put a rebuild of the sliding pillar on the back burner. I was mightly impressed with the handling especially on fast corners, but it does feel like it wants to understeer on slow tight ones. Maybe I should be using more throttle - but it was early days in getting to know the car.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 11 November, 2017, 10:02:17 PM
On a slightly different tack, I subscribe to the other Classic car magazine as normally I enjoy its selection of cars and find the articles of more interest, but having enjoyed nearly as much the Rolls Royce Phantom II Continental article, I've now subscribed to Classic and Sports car too!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: DavidLaver on 12 November, 2017, 10:25:14 AM

Tim - Once you get the measure of it I'd have a chat with Tim Burrett about the handling, tyre pressures, toe in / out, damper settings, driving style.  Maybe have him try it for an opinion.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 17 December, 2017, 05:14:42 PM
I was tempted to put a Photoshopped ticket on the screen for parking in Portofino. Very nice though. If only............


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: GG on 18 December, 2017, 03:45:59 AM
Where are all the people?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Brian Long on 18 December, 2017, 10:49:55 AM
Season's greetings to all us lucky B12 owners!
For too long the B12 has been ignored; thank goodness that Ade's magnificent example has thrown the spotlight on this great car.
Happy Lancia motoring in 2018 to all.
Brian Long.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: GG on 18 December, 2017, 02:23:42 PM
The main photo was taken 10 days before Christmas 2 years ago. It was a grey day in the early evening, so there was hardly anyone about, but it was fantastic to be able to walk around without the crowds. The hotels are also very cheap at this time of year, although there was only one restaurant open...... we had a good meal though!

Thats fantastic. Years ago, my son and I drove from Torino down to Sienna, and he picked this "spot of green" to stop and see nature. Trapped for a while in a sea of vespas, we managed to find some green, some blue water, and a lot of people, no interesting cars! Beautiful spot, must have been lovely off season.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 18 December, 2017, 03:29:39 PM
Continuing the theme.... Happy Xmas and a merry new year from B12-2122 aka Aurora. Now 459 UYY


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 18 December, 2017, 04:13:44 PM
They're beautiful cars. They look imposing enough to have been used for high-ranking government officials. Were they ever?


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 18 December, 2017, 04:20:40 PM
Just magnificent gentlemen, thank you for those uplifting photos, sorry to say I can't post up a pic of mine as it still needs some paint, etc etc!


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 18 December, 2017, 04:32:43 PM
Just magnificent gentlemen, thank you for those uplifting photos, sorry to say I can't post up a pic of mine as it still needs some paint, etc etc!


P
Thank you Frank. We are just trying to motivate you over the line. You have done the easy bit (bet it didn't feel like it!) putting it together will take super human effort but you are more than up to the challenge. In bocca al lupo!!!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 18 December, 2017, 04:37:47 PM
They're beautiful cars. They look imposing enough to have been used for high-ranking government officials. Were they ever?
Well a quick google yeilded the fact that one was used by Bao Dia the last Emperor of Vietnam while in exile in France!


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 18 December, 2017, 05:08:59 PM
They're beautiful cars. They look imposing enough to have been used for high-ranking government officials. Were they ever?
Well a quick google yeilded the fact that one was used by Bao Dia the last Emperor of Vietnam while in exile in France!

Bought by The Automobile magazine and they did a few articles and write ups on it, not sure if they still have it.


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 18 December, 2017, 05:23:55 PM
Just magnificent gentlemen, thank you for those uplifting photos, sorry to say I can't post up a pic of mine as it still needs some paint, etc etc!


P
Thank you Frank. We are just trying to motivate you over the line. You have done the easy bit (bet it didn't feel like it!) putting it together will take super human effort but you are more than up to the challenge. In bocca al lupo!!!

Tim I am plenty motivated, just my body/paint man isn't! I have boxes of spares etc, my mechanic on standby and the strength and tenacity of one of those comic super heroes, as of yet to no avail!

Which reminds me of a mate of mine who did Italian for 3 years at school and when at an Italian restaurant in London, thought he'd impress the waitress with a line or two, alas his memory and or pronunciation weren't up to scratch and instead of saying he was as hungry as a wolf, said he was as randy as wolf, we couldn't understand why she never took the rest of our order!!!!!


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: chriswgawne on 18 December, 2017, 06:26:20 PM
Continuing the B12 greetings theme, Happy Christmas and a Merry New Year to all from B12 - 1755 which is now 580UYO and  its owners.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sebastien on 18 December, 2017, 08:01:10 PM
Another one ...

Happy Christmas and a merry new year from Switzerland and B12S-1058


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: rogerelias on 18 December, 2017, 10:55:33 PM
Looks like the same colour as my Appia, whatever the colour is called  ???


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: stanley sweet on 19 December, 2017, 11:26:23 AM
Stop it! I haven't the money or the space for another Lancia.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 19 December, 2017, 11:27:23 AM
Stop it! I haven't the money or the space for another Lancia.

As the Borg say.......resistance is futile............ ;D


P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 29 August, 2021, 06:56:26 AM
The Classic & Sportsocar article has now been published online:-

https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/seductive-saloon-lancia-aurelia-b12?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_28/08/2021&utm_term=Lancia+Aurelia+B12+link&utm_id=101463&sfmc_id=0034K00000B46UfQAJ


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 29 August, 2021, 03:51:21 PM
Nice article - but then I am biased!!

But you need to find the correct radio......


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 29 August, 2021, 04:19:25 PM
The Classic & Sportsocar article has now been published online:-

https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/seductive-saloon-lancia-aurelia-b12?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_28/08/2021&utm_term=Lancia+Aurelia+B12+link&utm_id=101463&sfmc_id=0034K00000B46UfQAJ

Great, which months edition was this originally in?

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: impaw on 29 August, 2021, 05:14:12 PM
Very nice!
Made me want one  ;D


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 29 August, 2021, 05:24:52 PM
The Classic & Sportsocar article has now been published online:-

https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/seductive-saloon-lancia-aurelia-b12?utm_source=sfmc&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter_28/08/2021&utm_term=Lancia+Aurelia+B12+link&utm_id=101463&sfmc_id=0034K00000B46UfQAJ

Great, which months edition was this originally in?

P

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/223588371468?hash=item340ee7cc0c:g:K2gAAOSw5KVdLMMZ

Answer earlier in thread

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 30 August, 2021, 07:20:03 AM
That's the one, December 2017


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 29 March, 2023, 04:38:42 PM
I have a radio for mine, a period version (with buttons) but not a Condor ( whats the make on Sebastiens photo?), not seen a B12 Condor radio like that for sale on the net.


None quite the same on this search.


http://www.subito.it/annunci-italia/vendita/usato/?q=autoradio+condor


P

Just a belated update, whilst sorting through and cleaning a variety of parts, one of which was the original radio, when finally clean, it turned out to be a Condor, not quite the same as in advert nor Ades, but a Condor nevertheless!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: lancialulu on 29 March, 2023, 04:50:02 PM
Is it like this as in mine - Autotune back in the 50's.

I had it converted to FM but still the auto tune bit works. Magic bit of string....

Yes it was a 2 box device with a powersupply box with valves etc behind the dash.


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 29 March, 2023, 05:05:23 PM
No Tim, had subtle "Condor" inscribed just above the pushbuttons and under the tuning window, so subtle you couldn't read it under the 1950s Portuguese grime. Yes, secondary power supply box too, I dread the thought of opening them and trying to refurbish!

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 30 March, 2023, 06:57:09 PM
As can be seen, needs quite a bit of work, can anyone recommend an Italian/Condor parts source?

Note the automatic aerial reference on the label.

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Parisien on 30 March, 2023, 06:57:46 PM
Label pic

P


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Spider2 on 26 April, 2023, 07:42:58 PM
Are you definitely taking to Ardennes? 


Title: Re: The long search for an Aurelia B12
Post by: Sliding Pillar on 27 April, 2023, 06:02:23 AM
Yes.