Description
Napier Bentley
How many of us have opened dusty old doors hoping that what lie behind them is perhaps something of a rarity and long forgotten? For Mike Miles the dream became a reality when on a visit to Cumbria he located a Napier 40/ 50 engine and gearbox in an abandoned “shadow factory”. After consideration a plan evolved to bring new life back into these First World War designed components.
Mike’s close friend and Bentley Specialist, Peter Butler, was able to supply a pair of side rails, which were fashioned into a 10ft 3in wheelbase chassis to accommodate the longer Napier power unit. A brakeless front axle was also sourced together with a modified Bentley rear axle to carry a single set of brake shoes.
The engine was largely complete and in good condition. The standard 4-inch bores, simply needed new rings. The seven bearing crank was crack tested, and the rods and mains were re-metaled and bored by the Speyer & Walker Company. The head had more comprehensive work undertaken with new, hardened seat inserts, and new valves and springs. The gearbox was stripped and thoroughly cleaned inside and out with the external parts being re-nickeled together along with the hand brake lever.
A new and rather exquisite radiator, re-produced by Star Engineering in Newport, had 350 metres of copper tubing built into the core, which runs cool on all but the hottest of days, even without a fan.
When it came to the vehicle’s fresh bodywork, a suggestion was made that a replica 1922 TT Bentley would be the most fitting, and a true period style for a sporting Napier. With a visit to see Stuart Forsey’s completed car, it was confirmed that the TT style was a worthwhile approach together with the use of the taller 880 x 120 beaded edge wheels and tyres. This body type was fashioned by Richard Davey together with an undertray and outside exhaust system. A re-engineered Sunbeam steering box was fitted, providing an informative ride and setting the car up for long and exhilarating adventures.
After 14 years of research and toil the Bentley Napier was completed in 2014. Since then, many memorable trips and entries to VSCC events have followed along with four successful trips to Montlhery, including the 100th anniversary just a few months ago.
There is something truly special about owning a “one of one” vehicle. You may not wake up this morning thinking you need to buy a Napier, but the low revving 6 1/ 4 litre six cylinder engine is a special sound that will cause an unmatched rumble in the soul. The nickel gated box and elegant dashboard are a joy to behold - this is a car that will not fail to bring something special to the everyday.
The car has been everything that our client envisaged, but the Napier Bentley is now reluctantly offered for sale to make way for new adventures.
What more could the discerning enthusiast desire? Enquire early, to begin your new exciting chapter.
