Classic Obsession : Restoring a Rolls-Royce Corniche | LHM Brake Rebuild | Video Tutorial

Maintaining a Rolls-Royce Corniche requires attention to its intricate hydraulic braking system. In this episode of Classic Obsession, Gary Mavers continues restoring the LHM-powered brake system, addressing rear and front hoses, bearings, and calipers, before using advanced dry ice cleaning to refresh the engine bay and suspension.

IntroCar is again proud to support Gary Maver's on his restoration journey as he covers the essential steps and technical insights necessary for success. Watch the full episode here:

The rebuild starts with replacing rear hoses, a task known for its difficult access and installation challenges.

• The old hoses are removed with difficulty, requiring careful maneuvering around tight spaces.
• Hard brake lines are checked for pinholes—a critical step in high-pressure LHM systems.
• Moving to the front hoses, Gary finds signs of deterioration, prompting a full replacement of all hydraulic lines to prevent leaks.

✅ Key Tip: When installing new hoses, always check fitting integrity to ensure a leak-free system under pressure.
- Browse Replacement Brake Hoses at IntroCar - Corniche 1970-1982
- Shop Rolls-Royce and Bentley Brakes & Hydraulics

With the hoses replaced, the focus shifts to the front wheel assembly.

• Old calipers and discs show uneven wear and corrosion, but some components remain technically usable.
• New bearings, seals, and brake calipers are installed for long-term reliability.
• A proactive approach is taken to prevent future brake issues, ensuring optimal braking performance.

- Shop Rolls-Royce Brake Calipers & Bearings

“Even if a disc or caliper has some life left, replacing everything at once saves time and prevents issues down the road.”

Before assembly, Gary ensures all components are spotless using a bio-environmentally friendly parts washer.

• This advanced cleaning method removes grease, grime, and contaminants without the hazards of traditional solvents.
• A clear view of cleaned parts allows for precise fitting and inspection.

✅ Key Tip: A clean workspace ensures easier reassembly and better long-term performance of new parts.

Proper fitting is essential before finalizing installation.

• Hubs are carefully aligned and fitted with new bearings and seals.
• Beveled washers and hub caps are installed dry, following manufacturer recommendations.
• Bearings are properly adjusted, preventing excess friction or loose fittings.

“Hub caps should always be installed dry—no grease—per factory specifications.”

With the hubs fitted, attention turns to ensuring smooth wheel operation.

• Outer bearings are thoroughly cleaned, inspected, and greased, preventing premature wear.
• The washer and nut alignment is double-checked, ensuring no over-tightening occurs.
• The assembly is finalized, guaranteeing optimal braking and suspension performance.

✅ Key Tip: Always check torque specifications when tightening wheel components to avoid brake drag or bearing damage.

With mechanical restoration completed, a professional dry ice cleaning is performed by Avro Pro:

• Wheel arches, suspension, and engine bay are cleaned using high-pressure CO₂ pellets.
• This eco-friendly method removes decades of grime without chemical runoff or excessive moisture.
• Original paint, decals, and surfaces are preserved, restoring the factory-fresh look.

✅ Key Benefits of Dry Ice Cleaning:

• No water or chemical residue
• Safe for sensitive engine components
• Reveals hidden issues, making maintenance easier

“This technique gets rid of years of dirt without creating a mess—it’s the best way to clean a classic engine bay.”

With the braking system restored and the engine bay spotless, the Rolls-Royce Corniche is one step closer to the road.

Next up, Gary will:

✅ Test the braking performance under load.

✅ Bleed the entire hydraulic system for optimal pressure.

✅ Address any final tuning adjustments before a test drive.

If you’re restoring a classic Rolls-Royce, share your experiences in the comments below!

✔ Front Caliper Leading RH/Trailing LH: GMF1242-X

✔ Front Caliper Leading LH/Trailing RH: GMF1243-X

✔ Front Brake Disc: UR73278-X

✔ Rear Brake Disc: PC113547PA-X

✔ Front Inner Wheel Bearing: UG13552-3-X

✔ Front Caliper Hose: GMF1181-X

✔ Accumulator Return Hose: GMF1081-X

✔ Front Brake Pad Kit: CD6381-X

✔ Rear Brake Pad Kit: CD6396-X

✔ Foot Operated Parking Pads: CD6586OE-X

This guide aims to equip Rolls-Royce Corniche owners and classic car enthusiasts with the knowledge to tackle brake rebuild projects more confidently. For a deeper dive and more detailed explanations, viewing the full video is highly recommended. We encourage sharing your restoration experiences or questions, to help us to foster a community of classic car preservationists passionate about keeping their cars running smoothly.

Gary's restorations are supported by IntroCar, the International Rolls-Royce and Bentley Parts Specialists: https://www.introcar.com.