Aston Martin DB6 Mk1 Vantage
Description
This rare Aston Martin DB6 MK1 Vantage came to us for a variety of maintenance work.
The enthusiast owner of this Aston Martin is a true driver and uses all of his cars regularly. This DB6 was already fitted with an upgraded 4.7-litre engine and had plenty of power and torque for spirited driving. However, upon inspection it was clear that other mechanical components required maintenance and upgrading to ensure safe, reliable performance.
The first major task involved a rebuild of the factory Vantage triple 45 DCOE carburettors. The seals naturally wear over time, but we are finding that the increased ethanol content in modern fuel accelerates this process. The carburettors were completely disassembled, vapour blasted, ultrasonically cleaned, and then fully reassembled with new butterflies and seals.
The second major task was a full differential rebuild and upgrade. Early Powr-Lok differentials were an option on the DB6 Vantage, and this car did not have one fitted from the factory. Age, mileage and arguably the increased power and torque of the 4.7-litre engine had completely destroyed the existing differential. The wear was so severe that the unit could not be saved. This presented the perfect opportunity to upgrade to a factory-specification Powr-Lok unit. This led to another common DB4, DB5 and DB6 issue: seized hubs and half-shafts, which required specialist removal. The half-shafts were equally worn due to the differential failure and were replaced as well.
With the axle removed, we also completed a propshaft rebuild, which showed excessive play and wear.
While working on the rear end of the car, it was decided to upgrade the rear suspension with our Hilton & Moss telescopic shock absorber conversion. There are various kits available on the market, but many have not been carefully engineered for optimum safety and geometry. Our kits are precisely designed and CNC-machined.
To finish the project, we fitted a bespoke free-flowing stainless-steel exhaust and completed a major service, renewing all remaining oils and service items.
