Seems a bit odd

[Chris Williams]

Just been through the resto photo's and bills for my minor and there's actually a bill for cutting a hole in the bulkhead (my car is a 1961 948) and a before and after shot just so there can be a fresh air pipe going to the heater,as seen on all 1098 minors,is it just me or is this a bit of an odd job to carry out?!

[liammonty]

Not really, but think it was considered an upgrade back in the day as the fresh air heater (introduced a year or two after your car was built) was/is much better than the recirculating type. It's possible your car didn't even have a heater fitted originally, in which case it's likely the type that was current at the time the mod was made would have been fitted. If memory serves, I believe there's even a section in the workshop manual on how to fit earlier cars with the fresh air heater.

[Chris Williams]

Thanks Liam,a common upgrade then.I had another 948 with an original heater in it and it was pretty woeful,I suppose it's not a major job for a minor specialist.When I lifted the bonnet at a recent event it got accused of being a fake car,i.e a 1098 car with the 1961 interior,engine and identity,but it has the 1961 dashboard and it has a huge history file to back the status of the car up.

[liammonty]

I think people have latched on to the idea of 'fake' cars at the moment, which is a good thing, but not great when they don't know enough to be able to get it right! It's like the 'experts' who delight in telling me that my 1962 highway yellow Minor isn't original because 'they never made them in that colour'! Sounds totally legitimate with the history you've got. Enjoy the car, together with the improved heat!!

[John Naylor]

I use the hotter thermostat and the heater is absolutely brilliant. I only need the blower in slow traffic. It would be even better if I fixed the draughts from the travellers window seals...

[SteveClem]

Unless you are really into 'original ' cars I wouldn't be concerned. Lots of things happen to a car over 50+ years and a number of owners. I live quite happily with old car quirks. I once admitted to being sanguine about squeaks and rattles...not a good idea.

[Andy W]

I live quite happily with old car quirks. I once admitted to being sanguine about squeaks and rattles...

Hear, hear!

[bmcecosse]

As others have said - common upgrade, although I hate to think how much the owner was charged for the work. Anyone judging your car to be a 'fake' based on a fresh air trunk obviously hasn't a clue - and should be treated with the 'respect' they deserve,,,,

[Chris Williams]

Thanks chaps!It's definitely worth doing,if you don't have any draughts All I'll say to my response to my car being 'fake' is the second word was off!

[mike.perry]

My attitude is that if I have owned the car for 37 years then I am entitled to stamp my personality on it.