New Member - Restoration advice please

[IanF]

Hello to all, I have recently signed up. I would like some advice if I may.

Stored in the garage is my late grandad's Morris Minor 1000, which he owned from new in 1970. It has been stored there since 1992 when he passed away and it is a real shame to see it 'off the road'. It really was my grandad's pride and joy and when I was a youngster he used to take me and my brother out in it. In his later years he used to tend to drive it more towards the middle of the road, which to be frank was quite frightening! On a fairly regular basis he and my grandmother would travel from Dartford, Kent to Berkshire (in the days before the M25!).

Anyway, enough of the reminiscing. I really want to get it back on the road, but have no idea where to start. Can anyone advise on any garages/individuals who could help get it up and running again.

I'm not so fussed about the exterior condition, it does appear to have kept its appearance over time. I want to make sure it is safe, when firstly means getting it through its MOT and also make sure the running gear is sound. I guess I need someone to do a mechanical overhaul on it.

Thanks in advance for any advice. Hopefully when it is up and running I will be able to post some pictures on here.

Edited to say: Vehicle is in the Thames Valley area, but happy to travel within reason.

IanF

[charlie_morris_minor]

hi

welcome to the board, depending on where in the thames valley your are.. chertsey minors might be close..or a long way from you..

this is there web site.. they are friendly and helpful and did a nice job on my convertible

http://www.chertseyminors.co.uk/about.htm

[beero]

Don't be tempted to try and start it without doing some checks first. My Minor sat for 25 years and one of the valves were stuck down. The car is likely to have many problems. I take it you won't be doing much work yourself so be prepared for it costing more than it will be worth in the end, fine if you can put a value on your treasured memories. Good luck with the restoration.

[LouiseM]

Ian, welcome to the messageboard Whereabouts in the Thames Valley are you as it might be worth contacting your local MMOC branch to see if someone there can help. As has already been said the car is likely to need quite a bit of work after sitting for so long but someone local may be willing to look it over for you or provide advice with regards to good local garages / restorers.