One from the rebuild:
And one from Tajikistan:
We rebuilt this car between 2016 and 2018 to drive to Mongolia for the Mongol Rally in 2018 (we made it there and back) and raised money for charity. No expense was spared and the following work was carried out:
- Replacement chassis, in excellent condition with no nasty patches.
- Vitesse Mk.2 3.89:1 Differential (good condition, no whining)
- Rebuilt gearbox, with rebuilt synchro hubs, new seals, bearings, * layshaft and thrust washers.
- Rebalanced propshaft + new universal joints
- Rebuilt driveshafts, new quality bearings and universal joints.
- Rebuilt type 14 calipers with trunnionless uprights, quality wheel bearings.
- Kunifer brake lines, all new brake/clutch components
- Rebuilt 1296cc engine (Herald 13/60 small-crank), reground, rebored, high capacity oil pump, low-mileage factory USA-spec unleaded cylinder head, tri-metal bearings, new valve springs, new rocker shaft, new timing chain, new timing gears.
- Alternator conversion, upgraded electrics with relays, fuses and H4 headlight units.
- Upgraded wide, 3-row radiator.
- Polybushes throughout (except lower wishbones, and rear spring)
- Koni rear shock absorbers
- Mk.1 MX5 seats fitted, originals supplied too.
- Wheels powder coated and Hankook tyres fitted (fronts are new)
Since this work the car has done around 20,000 miles, taking us to Mongolia and back with very few issues. Following the rally the car has had a full service, front springs, shock absorbers and new brake pads fitted, we planned to travel across Ukraine in it this spring but unfortunately couldn’t due to the situation.
When we rebuilt this car we focussed entirely on mechanicals, the bodywork requires attention as can be seen in the photographs and i would seriously stress that this car must be viewed before purchase to ensure the new owner is happy with it.
I can also supply what I believe to be the original 1147cc engine, but this is in poor condition. As the old cliche goes, literally thousands spent, but we’ve had our enjoyment and hope it can continue to put a smile on someone else's face. Can supply lots of pictures to verify the rebuild process.
There's some details in my build thread (forum.retro-rides.org/post/2316363/thread)