Belgie The LHD 33

[Kenr]

Well did you think I would really not have anything to put on this site? Really?

This is the starting 'post' of what will be most likely the biggest project that I have tackled for years, if ever.

The story of how Belgie came trundling out of a local garage (well local to Essex Daf's anyway) has been touched upon elsewhere, so I shan't repeat it unless Pete or Matt does.

Belgie will need a goodly amount of bodywork, mostly on the floor section, the rear arches, the lower bits of the rear 1/4 panels and of course, the wings (in the usual places). Darren has kindly offered to help out with the weldy bits - cheers mate.

I have no idea what the engine or transmission are like and will have to rely on help from other folk to fettle that aspect.

The other bits of bodywork look pretty good actually and the interior will need nothing more than a damn good clean, but as that seems to be my forte, I am not worried.

It's gonna take a while but hey, it should be good learning curve. Oh, nearly forgot. There is also the fun and games associated with getting her registered in the UK as she is still on Belgian plates.

So, a couple of piccies to start with:

















So, that is the stating point! Wish me luck

[macplaxton]

Good luck

[33grinder]

Ach! Bit of P38 and some t-cut, you'll be fine - don't know what all the fuss is about, really! ;D

Seriously though, locating the panels will be key here. We can help with one arch, hopefully Danny can help with t'other.

The engine does turn over too and with a minor fettle will probably run.

[Kenr]

The wings may actually repair, I will know more when the stripping down starts. The nearside arch actually looks repairable, the offside one is crispy crittered. The sills and floor panel don't worry me, Danny has sills if need be. Glad the engine turns, maybe just a basic service to start with. Oh arse, it'll need a new battery. Hmm, maybe an MG one for now. I must admit that I love the colour of this car.

[Kenr]

Oh look, a new avatar! Cheers Pete.

[33grinder]

Mar 19, 2013 22:14:38 GMT Kenr said:

Oh look, a new avatar! Cheers Pete.

You're welcome mate, you and TB are now intrinsically linked so you can't forget about him! ;D

[thebear54]

I wish you all the best with "Belgie" Ken.

I know it will be a challenge (to say the least) getting her body panels squared away. Seems like all the "A Bodies" rot at the outer front wing very fast....but how many of you know why ??

**I do! It has not been my first Rodeo with rotted wings.


Can't wait to see the first progress photos appear, so get cracking Ken. ;D

John

[Kenr]

I think the best thing to start with is stripping the seats and matting out and then removing external trim. Then petrol tank removal (clean, clean and clean again - I have learned my lesson here). Then I can further assess the grot in more detail. I think sorting the floor pan out first is the best thing as this will give a bit more rigidity.

It will be a start!

[spunkymonkey]

Wow, you're a brave man with that one Really look forward to seeing the progress as it happens!

[33grinder]

Brave indeed!

Ken, most of the rigidity is in the central spine/transmission tunnel.