History File

Our 1976 Ford Transit Custom was originally delivered to France before it was rescued by a German enthusiast and private restorer in 2021. Ford produced their first generation Transit in many guises from 1965 – 1977 and in various counties too. The UK, the Netherlands, Belgium and Turkey all played their part in supplying the huge demand for this incredibly versatile chassis which was sold in several guises. This original Flatbed example was in surprisingly rust free condition when found, and was quickly decided to restore and display. Altogether, it’s been calculated that over 700 hours have been invested in this wonderful frame-off, nut and bolt restoration. The result is incredible and the below pictures speak for themselves, with just a fraction of information listed below. It’s now German Historical registered and was recently underwritten with a Condition 1 Valuation.

Exterior

Our Pick-Up was originally painted in red before receiving a full stripped back restoration and re-painted in an original Ford colour of Bermuda blue with contrasting white trim, which suits the package very well. The Iron chassis was completely stripped back, powder coated and rust-treated before re-painting. New rear wings cover the rear double restored wheels and the flat-bed is made of Douglas Fir wood, well known for its dimensional strength and its resistance to natural elements. Both side panels fold down on new hinge brackets and the rear is open with two simple rope elements.

Interior

The interior has a received the full works and professionally ret-trimmed with replacement headlining, door cards, new rubber flooring throughout, along with a new front windshield and seals. The classic 3-spoke Ford steering wheel is indicative of the period as are the new pvc seat covers, professionally re-covered. Coupled with the cars exterior Bermuda blue dashboard, it almost feels and smells like a new car. A period radio has been fitted and our Ford Transit Custome comes with 3 keys: ignition, doors and tank.

Engine & Transmission

The original 1.7 Litre (1699cc) Taunus V4 engine offering 65ps, has undergone an engine out rebuild and there is simply too much to mention. The pictures speak for themselves but, needless to say the following have either been replaced or have been overhauled: camshaft, engine bearings and connecting rods were all replaced. Underneath, the rear axle was sandblasted before painting and re-sealed; a complete new exhaust system presents well and sits next to a new petrol tank and petrol lines; new shock absorbers all-round and a new clutch pressure plate have also been fitted. Under the bonnet is like new and shows a new: generator, battery, water pump, radiator and hoses, wiring loom and all ignition cables.

Wheels, Tyres & Brakes

All seven wheels (spare included) have been completely stripped back and powder coated before being painted and are depicted accordingly in the Restoration Section. Now covered in new Uniroyal 185 R14 C tyres, they make a wonderful impression. Naturally, the brakes received a complete overhaul including new master brake cylinder, brake-pipes.

Underneath

Restoration