Rhodesian Export

[moggalot]

A friend has an early Series 2 which was brought back from Zimbabwe in the Eighties and has over 200k on the clock and a great documented history. There is a little plate attached to the chassis ID plate which reads 'EX 539' anyone know what that means. The chassis number checks out with the age and RHD export status but since the number is >501 it does not look like a prototype. Is it just something to do with an EX port number? Thanks.[frame][/frame]

[PSL184]

Most likely to do with Export status but I don't know what exactly. I would, however, be putting a grommet around the oil gauge pipe where it goes through the bulkhead before it rubs through and spews oil everywhere..... and the other one - vac gauge ??

[moggalot]

Thanks. Not sure what the pipes are, (not my car - sadly!) one looks like a washer water pipe and the other could be the oil pressure as you say but the one on my S2 Traveller passes through just under the starter relay.

[mike.perry]

As you say, EX is normally an experimental department number but these were all below 501 and EX539 is not listed as such in Skilleter's Morris Minor. Maybe the number is listed on the car's Production Trace Certificate

[chrisryder]

not a clue on the 'EX' but i agree with the need for grommets!

i'd have to guess at that tube being for screenwash, most likely with the reservoir bottle mounted next to the battery.

[iandromiskin]

Hi. I have a car too that was originally exported to that Zimbabwe in 1958 direct from the factory and lived out there until it came back to the uk in 2002. I have it now in Ireland. I don't think mine has that plate you speak of but I'll have a look. Good to know my car is not the only survivor.