Episode 87: Meet the team that built the Lightweight E-types (Part 2).
This unique gathering was organised as part of the launch of the book ‘Strictly No Admittance!’, which tells the definitive history of the lightweight E-type programme. Written over the last eight years by former Jaguar Competitions Department engineer, Peter D. Wilson, it covers the design build and racing history of all the twelve original Lightweights. Wilson has added to his prodigious memories with painstaking research that has enabled him to produce a book that covers this fascinating topic in amazing detail but remains readable and accessible.
The first Lightweight built, 4 WPD, (which took 4 victories in 1963 piloted by then F1 World Champion Graham Hill and one further win in 1964 piloted by a then promising young Scot called Jackie Stewart) was brought over to the event on behalf of owner Shaun Lynne by keepers CKL Engineering, who maintain the car.
This was the first time the team have been together with a Lightweight E-type since the factory racing programme ceased in late 1964 but the bonds of friendship this small programme wrought were obvious to see as they discussed the car’s details and shared memories. The team’s thoughts were recorded in this interview conducted by Wayne Scott for the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust, this episode presents the second of the two-part series. You can hear part 1 in episode 86 of the Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club Podcast.
The interview has been reproduced here with kind permission from the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust archives.
For more information on the book.
https://www.paulskilleterbooks.co.uk/product_info.php?products_id=185
In introduction to the interviewees:
Peter Wilson, author and former Jaguar Competitions Department engineer. Helped build the cars at Browns Lane and would accompany them (especially 4 WPD) to test sessions and race meetings. Also wrote our book on XJ13, and before that, Cat out of the Bag - memories of working for Jaguar 1959 - 1964.
Frank Philpott, former Jaguar Experimental Engines Department engineer (suffers some memory problems as mentioned). Started as an apprentice at Jaguar in 1948. Much involved in modifying and bench-testing the lightweight engines.
Roger Shelbourn, former Jaguar Competitions Department technician, often worked with fabled body man Bob Blake
Brian Martin, former Jaguar Experimental Department electrician. Responsible for wiring all the lightweights (and XJ13 as it happens)
Gerry Beddoes, former design/development engineer. Joined Jaguar in 1948. Gerry was an extremely talented mathematician and engineer who worked on the C-type, 'light alloy' prototype, D-type, and made a very significant contribution to Jaguar's engine programmes. He became Chief Engine Development Engineer in the early 1970s before moving to more senior positions in other areas of the industry.