HIGHLIGHTS
- Endearing commercial survivor
- Unique custom charm
- Replacement 1,172cc side valve engine
- 12-volt electrics
- Very low mileage
THE APPEAL
Ford Commercial vehicles were known as Fordson from 1936, and following the war, the E04C 5 cwt Fordson panel van became a popular choice for small businesses in the U.K.
Based on the earlier English-designed 7Y 8hp van from 1937, and itself, based on the E04A Anglia saloon, this affordable and handy little van sold more than all it’s competitors combined.
Heralding from a simple and far less complicated pre-war era of commercial vehicle design, this particular Fordson quite understandably had a busy working life with it’s first custodian’s.
Inspired by continental holiday locations, cultural experiences, arts and crafts, the latest long-term owner has clearly created an indulgent masterpiece of automotive fun for one and all to enjoy - and perhaps take inspiration from!.
The owner tells us that ”it’s presence always makes everyone smile and be happy”.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
- Originally a butchers van
- Showroom promotional vehicle
- Up to date V5
This popular little van was first registered on the 3rd March 1948, and according to the V5 was originally green and brown.
KCV 544 started it’s working life as a butchers delivery van in Cornwall and later earned it’s keep for an antiques dealer.
In 1993, and after several colour reincarnations, it was purchased by a Mr Howe in Leicester, who swapped out the engine to the slightly more powerful 10 hp 1,172cc unit we see today.
The current owner and car enthusiast has fond memories of driving a 1953 Fordson when he was just 17 and in 1997 had the opportunity to purchase this wonderful example which he deployed as a promotional vehicle for his kitchen and furniture business - John Lewis of Hungerford.
Thirteen years later this much-loved and cheeky little van came to live in the owner’s heated garage at home and was treated to this repaint and his custom-designed hand sign-writing.
Looking online, we see that the last ‘Pass’ MOT was carried out in June 2012 and the exempt tax has been renewed and runs until the 1st June 2023.
A small amount of accompanying paperwork history Includes:
- The up to date V5
- Two old MOT’s
- Two parts and servicing invoices
- A Ford Sidevalve Owners’ Club magazine article
THE INTERIOR
- Great patina
- Newer seats and floor covering
- Functioning electrics
The spartan and functional cab certainly does what it says on the tin but is in no way shabby. A pleasing level of patina is noticeable on the wooden door Cappings and steering column, for example, and could easily be improved if you so wished.
The minimalist painted dash offers a wonderful vintage Cooper Stewart speedometer, ammeter and Smiths petrol gauge. An additional Smiths temperature gauge has been installed.
A dash mounted indicator switch, choke and starter pull switches are in the centre. All the electrical equipment is said to function, although the vacuum wipers are inactive at the moment.
The recovered seats and fitted rubber floor covering are in excellent condition and a bottle jack and tools are neatly stowed in the tool box under the removable passenger seat.
We find a wood-lined load space in the rear, and although the paint is flaking, particularly on the roof and rear door, everything appears sound enough and could easily be rejuvenated with a fresh lick of paint.
THE EXTERIOR
- Unique appeal
- Sound body with some bubbling paint
- Strong chassis
This perky delivery van has lead a colourful life - quite literally!. Originally green/brown and then apparently cream, in 1958 it was then changed to grey. From 1963 it was black, and we can see from the Ford Sidevalve Owners’ Club article from 1996, that it had the original Butchers name reinstated on the sides.
Painted on a sound body around 2011, the Light Green and Caramel glossy paintwork is cosmetically good with no obvious scratches or dings. There is some bubbling to the front wing/body seams and in a few other areas, and some minor surface corrosion is visible here and there (see photos).
The external fixtures and fittings, such as the mirrors, windows, door handles, front bumper and chrome work are presentable. Indicator lights are fitted and one rear light lens is cracked.
The original fabric roof centre section has been replaced with sheet metal and rather than two doors, a more convenient coach built single rear door is fitted.
Peering underneath we find the simple rugged chassis, plywood cab flooring and rear wood plank flooring, and although not immaculate, all looks structurally sound and secure.
Original wheels with five older Avon tyres are fitted.
THE MECHANICS
- Durable, affordable and simple
- Upgraded to a 1,172cc engine
- Very low mileage
A later and pokier Ford 1,172cc 10hp 4-cylinder side valve engine was fitted to this van in 1993 and features a single Zenith carburettor, points distributor and 12-volt negative earth electrics.
The standard 3-speed gearbox is in place (with no syncro’ on first) and with a top speed of around 55mph you should see a fuel return of approximately 35mpg.
With a recorded mileage of 71,133 at the 2003 MOT (and now showing 71,917), this engine has obviously covered very few miles in recent years.
The last service was carried out by local Jaguar and Bentley specialists Robin Taylor in November 2016 (see photo of invoice), and any smaller issues have been attended to by the owner.
The steering, transverse leaf springs and cable drum brakes are in good order and the owner informs us that you will need to add anti-freeze for winter, but otherwise, this side valve is mechanically up together and ready to deliver for years to come.
During the photoshoot, it started easily and ran well with no obvious exhaust smoke.
SUMMARY
This endearing little Ford Fordson delivery van does indeed reflect ‘happy’ times and has clearly been loved and cherished throughout it’s busy lifetime.
There are some body and cosmetic areas which may need attention in the future, but if kept dry, should remain fine for some time yet.
So if you are inspired by this British icon and a relaxed tropical lifestyle, then in the owner’s words: “life doesn’t get much better” than this!.
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