70s AUSTIN MORRIS MARINA BRITISH LEYLAND 7CWT VAN RUSTFREE NICER THAN AN ESCORT?

An opportunity to secure a rare Morris Marina Panel Van which could be regarded as an easy project as it requires more mechanical than welding work. In South Africa, these are called Austin Leyland Marina vans rather than Morris. Even in the UK "Marina" never came into the name of the van. BL termed it an Austin Morris 7/10 cwt van.This van has been running a Ford 1300 Crossflow OHV engine in SA. It is removed from the vehicle now but included in the sale should you require it. The gearbox is still in situ in the van; not sure if its the original Leyland one or a Ford one. Looks all original from the underneath.What the van really requires in my mind is taking back to original with the installation of a BMC A series or B series engine. The buyer of this vehicle will perhaps have the correct engine or even perhaps a donor vehicle. This could be a basket case Car, Van or even Camper. It could also be a source of all the nice aesthetic parts missing from this such as badges etc.The bodywork of the van is really quite remarkable for around 45 years old. Panels are very straight with only surface rust in places. Doors are sound, as are the door jambs, sill areas & the underneath. There is a couple of galvanised metal patches welded in the passenger & driver footwells but other than that, all appears original & sound. Front wings, inner & outer are sound as are the scuttle & bulkhead areas. There is slight accident damage in the front valence/front panel but is generally superficial and does not extend to the inner wing or chassis leg. Roof gutter and roof in general all very good, just surface rust in places.Bonnet, while generally rust free is marred by numerous dents and the odd tear. These will present a challenge to the restorer to correct. A good replacement bonnet would be ideal. Bonnet hinges too are twisted out of shape & need work or replacement. Bonnet shut mechanism on slam panel the same.As is often the case with light vans in SA, the rear panels have been cut to accommodate windows for rear passengers. Although uninstalled at present, the proper framed windows are included with the van and are in good condition for re-fitting. Similarly the windows for the rear doors have been removed but again are in good condition & included. You will likely have to source new window rubbers for these. In summary, all glass is included with the vehicle and the front windscreen is in good condition too. In fitting the side windows a small amount of internal bracing has been removed. This would be relatively straightforward to fabricate in the re-instatement of solid rear sides.Inside the cab area, the original beige vinyl seats are grubby but should clean up nicely. (one small split in the driver's seat.) Matching door cards, the same. Note door windows have quarter-lights. The plastic shrouding around the steering column is missing. Keys are missing but I may find one that fits - no promises!I know you will have your own ideas re colour & possible livery for the van but the original colour has been a rather attractive primrose yellow and not a colour BL UK ever did I think.In conclusion, the makings of a really nice van which will give a lot of pleasure along the way to a would be restorer. Nova letter applied for which will help with uk registration. I always say viewing is king as I may have missed things important to you. For appointment call office hours 01723 890060 or Mobile at any other reasonable hour 07889 286559. It's Steve. Criteria > 10 feedbacks to bid without prior arrangement. £ 500 deposit required within 24hrs of fall of hammer. Balance in cash on collection or bank transfer prior. Depending where you are situated, delivery may be fascilitated at mate's rates extra charge. Thank you for reading & good luck ☺ NB Feel free to WhatsApp me for extra photos.

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