Susan by Tristared

3 minute(s) of a 45 minute read

Rare that a genuinely pleasant surprise comes about in field of classic car ownership. A recent ebay win bought about just that.

On receiving the car, I was shown that it indeed turn over, needing only the engine and a few other bits - it seemed like it would be a good buy.

I finished removing the lump this morning and found what looks like a 'new' Vege engine!

I've yet to confirm this but under the air filter was a boxfresh single choke Weber carb, new looking core and spark plugs, still blue coolant, and my biggest surprise when I drained the sump - golden yellow oil!

The heater pipes have surface corrosion but other than that the rocker covers, heads, and block are (a) factory black.

I know this isn't exactly conclusive, but I'm feeling hopeful.

3-6-2012

Quick project page update - though these were taken a few months ago...

With renewed wheels - I'm so impressed with the finish of zinc spraying and powder coating, I have sent the rocker box covers and all the pipe work on the engine that is currently being rebuilt to have the same treatment.

Some interesting shots of the interior - The car was in the ownership of SAAB dealer in Scotland for a large part of it's life, which is where I would imagine it received it's unusual extras.

Oh and that engine (that I think is an almost new VEGE unit) I found on ebay in a wreck in Croydon...

My word - it's incredible... It's like being propelled by a giant sewing machine.

I had to seriously consider whether the 1700 motor was worthy of an overhaul.