Description
This 1989 Ford Transit Mk3 130 LWB twin-rear-wheel high-roof van is being sold as a complete restoration project. It is fitted with a 3. 0-litre Essex V6 petrol engine and a manual gearbox with overdrive. Other unusual features include power-assisted steering, a limited-slip differential and an Explosafe petrol tank.
The vehicle has been SORN and stored outdoors since 2005. It is not currently roadworthy, has no current MOT and must not be driven away. Collection will require a suitable trailer or transporter.
This is a major restoration project, not a vehicle requiring minor cosmetic attention. There is extensive visible corrosion, and further corrosion should be expected in the chassis, underside, structural sections, body seams and other concealed or inaccessible areas. The vehicle has not been dismantled or professionally inspected to establish the full extent of the corrosion or other defects. The restoration work required may therefore be substantially greater than can be seen in the photographs.
A complete mechanical inspection and recommissioning will also be required before any attempt is made to start, move or return the vehicle to the road. No representation is made regarding the present operation of the engine, gearbox, brakes, steering, electrical system or other mechanical components.
Prospective buyers are strongly encouraged to inspect the van personally, or arrange an independent inspection, before agreeing to purchase. The photographs provide a general indication of condition but cannot show every defect.
The sale includes a quantity of accompanying spare parts, genuine Ford invoices and supporting paperwork, together with the original Ford microfiche parts catalogue. The van and parts are being sold together as one complete package and will not be separated.
The vehicle is sold as seen as a restoration project, without warranty. Full cleared payment will be required before collection.
My father bought this van many years ago as an ex-police riot vehicle and kept it because of its unusual specification and character.
A Mk3 Transit 130 LWB with twin rear wheels is uncommon in itself, but this example is particularly distinctive because of its 3. 0 Essex V6 petrol engine, manual overdrive gearbox, power steering, limited-slip differential and Explosafe petrol tank. It has the presence of an old commercial vehicle but with the mechanical specification of a much more specialised machine.
Before the Transit was taken off the road, my father made a considerable effort to preserve its important mechanical components. As genuine Ford parts became obsolete, he sourced replacements while they were still available through the Ford network. The surviving Ford invoices include major components such as the replacement gearbox, overdrive gear-lever equipment, power-steering components and exhaust parts. The original Ford microfiche parts catalogue has also been retained.
The van now needs someone with the ability, facilities and enthusiasm to undertake a comprehensive restoration. It could make a highly unusual preserved commercial vehicle, period camper, motorsport support vehicle or tow vehicle.
Our priority is not simply to extract the highest possible price. My father would genuinely prefer the Transit to remain complete and go to someone who appreciates its rarity and intends to restore it, rather than see it dismantled solely for its mechanical parts.
It is a demanding project, but it is also an opportunity to save a distinctive and increasingly unusual V6 Transit together with its history, paperwork and accompanying parts.
