Project Mk1 Turbo – Part 3: Turbo Refresh Continued

The turbocharged Mk1 build continues! After tackling the clutch, flywheel, short-shifter and the major bodywork reconstruction seen in Part 1 & Part 2, the Lights Up Lights Down team are now pushing forward with the next phase of the restoration, refreshing key components, rebuilding the rear quarter, and upgrading the suspension setup.

This stage is all about strengthening, refining and future-proofing the car for many more years of spirited driving.

Rebuilding the Rear End - Properly, This Time

With the corroded rear quarters fully cut open, the MX5 Restorer team begin rebuilding the inner structure and replacing the rotten metal with newly fabricated panels. Large sections of the sill, inner arch and rear corner have now been remade with fresh steel and treated for long-term protection

Rather than patching over old repairs, the team are making sure every hidden area is rebuilt the right way, returning the structure to original-style strength and finish.

New Panels, Repair Sections & Test-Fitting

Once the inner repairs are solid, the new rear quarter panel is test-fitted in place to check alignment before final welding. With everything clamped up, the fitment is looking spot-on, with great door gaps and panel alignment ready for full welding once the car is back on its wheels

This will ensure the chassis settles in its natural position before final seam welding, crucial for a factory-fit finish.

Suspension Refresh with Upgraded Bushes

Alongside the bodywork, new suspension arms and IL Motorsport uprated rubber bushes have been prepped, zinc-primed, painted and installed into the freshly coated subframe

The IL Motorsport bushes offer a perfect blend of control and comfort, firmer than standard without the harshness of full polyurethane bushes. Ideal for a fast-road Turbo Mk1 setup.

First Look at the New Rear Arch Fitment

With the new quarter panel mocked up and the car finally back on its wheels for the first time in weeks, we get a glimpse of the new stance. The fresh arch profile looks fantastic, offering a cleaner line and improved wheel fitment, just wait until both sides are complete!

Click To Watch Part 3 - Turbo Refresh Continued

https://youtu.be/Sm_07Yeo_YE?si=At4Cv8E0PD1ft0Ts

Featured Products

Thinking of refreshing your own Mk1? Here are some of the parts seen in this episode:

Click here to browse all Mk1 Body Panels & Refurb Parts

What’s Coming in Part 4?

The passenger-side rear quarter… and yes, it’s worse! Expect more fabrication, more metalwork wizardry, and more transformation as the Turbo Mk1 continues its journey back to glory.