Morris Minor Car Club of NSW Inc.

1951 Morris Tourer
1951 Morris Tourer
Briefly, it’s a '51 tourer which I have partly restored over 15 years. In total it's been off the road 35+ years. Unfortunately, business commitments changed for me 5 years ago and I have no opportunity to work on the car. In addition, the storage facility in which it has been kept will shortly go on the market and this sounds the final siren for me.

One of the early ‘transition’ models (No. 91,826) - 1951 Low-light body with hilight guards. At last search (2004) the original no plate (SA)311-477 was still available.

When Morris decided to export the car to the U.S. in 1950-51 they discovered the car wouldn’t meet regs as the low light version’s headlamps were below regulation height. Hence the “hi-light” guard was designed and fitted to low-light bodies from about mid ‘51 as there were plenty in store. That guard was standardised forthwith.

Originally found in a shed in the mid 90’s, the car had been well stored for about 16 years. The car was covered in oil-soaked hession bags. Partial restoration has been embarked upon and the car has now been off the road for over 35 years.

I decided to fit hi-lite guards (even though low-lite guards could’ve been used) because I prefer them. I think hi-light Morries are more attractive than the “bullnosed” low-lights. Easy conversion to lowlight is possible if preferred, by fitting low-lite guards, grill & surround.

One major influence on my decision was the national Morris Concours Winner from 2003. This car captivated me with its style and colour scheme and I decided to replicate it. The judging was in SA and I was able to touch and smell it!

‘Mr Morris Minor’, Murray Webb, did the bodywork repairs/rust removal in 2007. Murray’s work is the considered the best by those in Morris Minor circles in SA and is a credential for the car.

Much of the major work has been completed and I’ve invested lots of time and money doing everything properly to safeguard the car’s heritage.

• Side valve engine stripped and inspected by my mechanic (not original motor according to engine no.). Engine was in good condition
• Head modified for ULP. Larger valves fitted ex Nissan Pulsar
• Induction and exhaust manifolds cleaned up
• Gearbox reconditioned and new parts manufactured to suit
• Upholstery done in fawn with maroon piping because the body was to be maroon
• Hood material matches the seats. Hood bows and timber rails obtained
• Wheels rolled and primed
• Springs reset
• Under body sealed with 2 thick coats of chassis black brushed on
• Radiator recond
• Brake master cylinder replaced. Wheel cylinders recond
• Recond pedal box

While I have heaps of parts the car is not complete in every detail. For example, some chrome fittings, most glass, wiring, and side curtains are required.

I have spent over $7000 thus far and hope to get offers between $4,500-$6,000. I think $5,000 so this would be a realistic price.

Regards
Mark Jones 0407717861
mark@PPandS.net.au

November-December 2021