The search begins!

[priesh]

Hi all - I've posted in some of the other threads but thought I'd start a thread to help track any progress I make (if any!)

Have wanted to do this for last 10 years, and finally in a position to actually do something about it.

I think what I want is a black, manual, grooves. I know those all come with gas flap, which I'm not sure if I'll like or not - can always change later on.

I've seen a few listed about - the one in Manchester feels quite expensive to me considering it needs a lot of bits done - the guy did say he is open to offers so I might explore.

I have always dreamed of importing one though - but maybe the dream and reality are not so aligned from a stress perspective! Also the exchange rate doesn't make it as good a deal these days, but you never know what you can find.

I think I want one that does need work - stuff I can do (always willing to learn) - but I also know my limits so extensive frame work etc would be another expense which is probably best avoided? Guess it depends on the price.

Anyways, if you happen to come across one you think might fit the bill, let me know!


Cheers!

Priesh

---

I've seen a Manchester gathering mentioned a few times - when is it? I can't seem to see the thread, but I'm sure I'm just being a bit stupid. Not sure I'll be able to travel that far over the next few weeks but would be good to know the details

[Guinney1971]

if you are importing from the USA, try and get one from one of the 'drier' states (although with recent weather events in the US....). Areas like Montana use a particularly corrosive road salt in the winter.

Ask the seller to email you photos of the frame to put your mind at rest.

[Chris P]

But as someone recently pointed out...where you are buying it from and where it has spent most of its life might not be the same!

Just a point to consider.

[priesh]

There is a big part of me that wants to 'rescue' one that looks a bit sorry for itself - but then there is another part that wants to have a roadworthy one asap - decisions decisions!

[Guinney1971]

that's true Chrispy, mine came from California - via Kansas, Texas, and Virginia lol

[Dangermouse]

(14 Sep 2017, 14:26)Chris P Wrote: But as someone recently pointed out...where you are buying it from and where it has spent most of its life might not be the same!

Sounds like a wise man, whoever said that

[Chris P]

I think it was you Dermot!!!!

[priesh]

I am the proud owner of #1373 - many thanks to all that helped me in this process.

Time to start building a list of stuff to do to it!

[steve.s]

Hi
i know its your car...but if it has a flap keep it, most owners know if it should have or not......

it will grow on you anyway, and you'll get even more whats that questions!!.

most owners with the flap hood missing hanker to replace back to oem, but they dont come up too often and when they do are serious $$$

steve

[Chris P]

I agree Steve, a 'gas-flap bonnet is worth roughly £2k and a plain one about £1k......If you can actually find either one!

Chris N once converted a grooved one, to a gas-flap for me...but its not a cheap process.

[Guinney1971]

yay, another gas flap car

I love mine, saves having to open the bonnet to fill up causing already nosey punters at petrol stations
to have a good gander at whats in the luggage area (or get it soaking wet due to the weather).

[TristanC]

(06 Dec 2017, 08:11)Chris P Wrote: I agree Steve, a 'gas-flap bonnet is worth roughly £2k and a plain one about £1k......If you can  actually find either one!

Chris N once converted a grooved one, to a gas-flap for me...but its not a cheap process.

Funny you mention this as I was casually googling this evening, I came across a page on PJ Grady about the conversion, and then also this YouTube video of a chap carrying out the deed:
https://youtu.be/YKp1-UReEVo

I’ll be honest, my heart was in my mouth as he ground away on that bonnet..... not for the faint hearted!

But I digress.....  well done on your motor Priesh! 
Gas flap or no gas flap..... I love them all

[priesh]

The gas flap is growing on me - like you all say it makes filling up much easier etc

I am thinking of moving away from oem with the struts - the new stainless ones look really nice - one for the birthday list!

Cheers,

Priesh

[Guinney1971]

good man, you cant beat a squeaky gas flap