1960 Morris Minor Restoration

Post by **mrgarretsn** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 11:21 pm

This convertible has been in my family since new in 1960. In fact, it was my high school/college car and then a daily driver for my father. In 1979, the fly wheel gears broke and 1st gear as well as reverse no longer worked. I had married and moved and my father could not get this working again (the Internet would have been a great help back then), so he put in on blocks and said someday I'll get it going again. He passed away in 1999 and my mother followed him in 2007. So, the car was mine again. My brother had purchased the house and needed the space, so now I am setting to restore it back to its' original glory. So far, the fly wheel, transmission, clutch, engine and brakes have been repaired. Once the new wheels are installed a "real" test drive will begin. After that, new interior and paint. I am in Southern California and would welcome any suggestions, comments or ideas to assist in this project.
Thank you,
Rob<br>

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Post by **captain_70s** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 11:25 pm

I'm guessing that been stored in a garage for it to get so dusty, and I like the thin white band tires.
I'm guessing that California climate has done pretty well to keep the major rust at bay, it seems to be quite kind to cars from what I have seen.

Apparently there are more wood based cars (woody wagons and the such) in California than anywhere else in the world, guessing its due to lack of wood rot.

Post by **ani** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 11:32 pm

Good Luck with it - you'll get loads of help and advice on here. Looks really nice and with that history it's great that you're going to restore and keep it

Post by **mrgarretsn** » Wed Jul 08, 2009 11:42 pm

Yes, it was on stands and in a garage for the past 30 years. Very little rust, not an issue at all.

Post by **markattard** » Thu Jul 09, 2009 9:15 am

Hi mrgarretsn,

very nice car to restore! The pics below show my cars which are from 1959 and '61, very rewarding once they are put back to their formal glory!

Pl do not hesitate to post any questions here for a quick and precise answer from the real enthusiasts, wish you all the luck with your resto and a warm welcome!!

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linearaudio · Post by **linearaudio** » Thu Jul 09, 2009 10:28 am

Welcome to the forum!

One very serious comment, I would advise cleaning the car as thoroughly as possible, and not just pulling it to bits. I'm sure a lot of abandoned projects are due to the owner opening the garage and seeing a pileof grubby bits, and losing heart! I always clean a car up first, I find it alerts me to odd bits that need attention at the same time, so has a dual purpose!

Looks like a good'un

Post by **mrgarretsn** » Sat Jul 25, 2009 8:43 pm

It is now time to think about the interior. Are there any complete kits or reputable vendors that can be found? I have experience in VW interiors, so completing an installation for the Morris Minor should be OK. I also did the current interior many years ago when I worked in an upholstery shop during high school. I am looking for a supplier that can provide a complete kit in leather which was the original fabric. I would prefer a shop from the US as it is easier to ship/return parts. (or is there much difference ?).
Thanks again for any input.