Description
I purchased Bertie in September 2022 from a fellow MMOC member. Since then lots of maintenance has been carried out, along with a few minor mods for increased usability and safety on modern roads. Off the top of my head some things include:
- Approx. £4k spent in January 2025 on a new N/ S floor and full sill along with other associated welding.
- Front Ford disc brake conversion along with new master cylinder and remote reservoir in 2023 (the stopping power is immense).
- Larger 1. 5" HS4 carb for a little extra BHP.
- New exhaust April 2025.
- Highly effective heater out of a classic Mini has been installed.
- Removable auxiliary brake lights.
- New 4. 5" (1" wider than original) pickup/ van rims and tyres in 2025.
- Front end polybushed in 2024. I will note that there is a slight noise coming from one of the polybushes at times.
- The wood has been sanded down completely and treated with Burgess Woodsealer and Burgess Top Gloss.
- Recent oil changes for all four shocks and diff.
Condition:
The bodywork is very respectable, certainly better than 56 years of use would suggest. The black paint holds a very nice shine however there are a few minor scratches here and there and a bit of a paint issue on the front left wing (pictured). As mentioned previously a lot of money has been spent on welding, with evidence of previous owners having done so too. The wood is solid and has many years left in it.
Mechanically all is well. The 1098cc engine pulls well and everything is in a fine state of tune. I seem to remember being told it had a new/ reconditioned gearbox just before I bought it but I cannot verify this. It functions perfectly though and the exterior certainly looks quite new.
Bertie has been completely reliable in my ownership and really is a joy to drive. For a period he was my daily driver and performed admirably. Other people also love to see these cars - be prepared for conversations at the petrol station and people waving as you go by! I have taken him on many happy journeys to shows, the annual MMOC rally (where I sincerely hope to see him in future!) and regular trips around the countryside. I do however find that my use of him has dwindled in the last few months which does not do this lovely Traveller justice. These classic vehicles are meant to be used!!
I will include better underside photos ASAP. If there are any other bits you would like a closer look of or any questions please do not hesitate to message me.
I am also willing to put this car towards part exchange against a VW T2 camper or Triumph Stag.
