Morris Minor Owners Club

I'm thinking of satisfying my mid-life crisis with a late-60's Traveller. If so, it will be used most days for my 10-mile commute, so it needs to be sound. I'm new to the classic car world, so I'm not looking to take on anything at this stage which requires too much significant work (more than general weekend tweaks and maintenance).

In the short time researching I can already see that there are a lot of options around, but I'm sure many (most?) are patch-ups.
So, I need friendly advice on what to look for (and definitely what to avoid).

Finally, is there a good specialist garage anyone knows of in the south London / Surrey / Hants area?

All help and advice gratefully received!

With any Minor check everywhere for rot. That includes floor, chassis, inner wings, outer wings, crossmember, sills etc - In fact the only part that doesn't usually rust is the roof and on a Traveller the rear outer panel (alluminium). Additionally on the Traveller the wood is structural so this has to be solid without soft spots or missing bits etc. Don't worry too much about mechanical parts as these are cheap and easy to replace (but use as a bargaining tool if you wish). Advice as always is to take an expert with you as there are many pitfalls for the unwary to fall into. Join your local branch - I am sure they will be more than happy to help out and assist in any potential purchase... Good luck - find the right car and you will be rewarded

I found the New Member sticky at the top of the page really helpful, it contains good reference material, the more you research the better it is.
Like you i decided to buy my first moggie at the age of 53 and having great fun bringing it back to life.
Good Luck
Peter

Travellers really need to be kept dry if possible - or inevitably the wood will suffer.

Yes, they should be garaged but mine's been living outside and used all year round for commuting etc. and the wood hasn't suffered noticeably in 15+ years. BUT, I do have to rub it down and revarnish it every summer.

Chertsey Minors sounds like your nearest specialist. I've never dealt with them so couldn't comment on what they're like though.

Excellent advice already - and so fast. Thanks a lot.

Keep it coming!

If you can't garage the car buy it a cover. Mine lives outside all the time and I put her cover on when the weather looks like v. heavy rain or snow.

i have used chertsey minors and was very happy with their work, attitude and price..

i will be working on my traveller on saturday if you want to have a look over one you are more than welcome to pop in for a coffee..

I use Alan Hill of The Over The Hill Motor Company. He's based in Ripley, near Guildford and his number is 01483 222258. I've used him for about 8 years now and he's kept my Minors in tip top working order, and at very reasonable rates! He also occasionally has a few Minors for sale so it's worth giving him a ring to see what he has, or knows about in the Surrey area.

I've also used both Chertsey Minors and Alan Hill of Over the Hill Motors and have been please with both their work and prices. And both have been free and helpful with their advice too. MikeN.

Stig28 wrote:Yes, they should be garaged but mine's been living outside and used all year round for commuting etc. and the wood hasn't suffered noticeably in 15+ years. BUT, I do have to rub it down and revarnish it every summer.

Chertsey Minors sounds like your nearest specialist. I've never dealt with them so couldn't comment on what they're like though.

Chertsey Minors are very good - they've saved my bacon a few times!