First Line Ltd is gearing up for a busy summer

As the classic car season shifts into high gear, First Line Ltd is gearing up for a busy summer of servicing and restoration, with demand expected for its Borg & Beck classic product range. The message to the trade is clear: now is the time to stock up.

With thousands of classic vehicles set to return to the road, First Line believes the call for OE-quality parts is growing louder. From keeping icons, like the Jaguar E-Type, roadworthy to restoring classics, like the Mazda MX-5, the right components are important – both for performance and authenticity.

First Line Product Director, Kelvin Olds, said: “Summer always brings a spike in demand for classic vehicle maintenance. Workshops need trusted components that install without issue, and motor factors need to know those parts are available when required. That’s exactly what Borg & Beck delivers, heritage fitment backed by modern engineering, with coverage across more than 65 product ranges.”

With a history stretching back to 1903, Borg & Beck’s classic range spans clutches, braking systems, suspension, filtration and cooling, all designed to meet or exceed OE specifications. And it’s not just about the vintage greats – like Austin-Healey and Triumph – modern classics such as the BMW E30 are also firmly in scope.

Modern engineering for heritage fit

While generic replacements may suffice for some, First Line reported that its Borg & Beck parts are engineered with durability and correct fitment at the heart of every design. The brand’s clutch kits, for example, are backed by the in-house technical clutch centre at First Line, where they are rigorously tested against OE standards – even for vehicles that left production decades ago.

One specific example lies in clutch release bearings. Many classic vehicles originally used carbon bearings, which were never designed for prolonged pedal engagement. As driving habits have changed – with many motorists keeping the clutch pedal pressed down at traffic lights rather than shifting into neutral – carbon bearings can wear rapidly, leading to premature failure.

To solve this, Borg & Beck offers clutch kits fitted with ball race bearings, which are designed to withstand constant rotation and contact. The result is a longer service life, and a clutch system better suited to today’s road conditions – without compromising on originality.

Choice, fitment and peace of mind. 

Classic car owners and the trade can choose between the original carbon bearings or upgraded ball race alternatives. The ball race option is available across a range of applications, including:

• Jaguar E-Type, Mk II and XK models (1950–1970) – HK5229HD
• MGB and MGB GT (1962–1969) – HK9679
• MGC (1967–1969) – HK9636HD
• Austin-Healey 3000, Jaguar Mk X, SType and XK – HK9702HD

Support for the trade 

Backed by First Line’s stockholding, trade customers benefit from access to a wide inventory, clear cataloguing and technical support – helping them match the right part, first time.