Barn Finds reader Jim B. writes: Guys – check out the A40’s old graphics. Super cool! Aerial spraying! I think Jim’s right–the graphics really are cool! It looks like someone has thought about turning it into a “gasser,” and the seller mentions that in the ad. There’s an old Nova rear end under the truck now, although the original one comes with it. The A40 is located in Superior, Wisconsin.
As you can see from this view, the fabric roof will need replacement no matter what you do, and the front clip has some issues as well with both dents and rust. Thankfully, a front clip in better shape is included with the auction. I was surprised to find that the Moberg Seaplane base still exists and is located in Bemidji, Minnesota. Maybe an inquiry there could lead to more information about the history of this cool truck.
Aerial spraying and car repairs? Is that what I’m reading? And yes, I noticed the pretty Riviera next to the van!
image courtesy simoncars.co.uk
This is what one should look like. That being said, this one doesn’t have that cool old signwriting!
Normally I’d like to highlight the inside at this point. Problem is, there isn’t much of an inside! I suppose that means you have a blank canvas to put in what you want? Or you could track down original A40 seats and interior items. I know which route I’d take! Which would you do?
Amazingly, the 1200 cc inline four it left the factory with appears to still be in place. Obviously, if one were to go the gasser route, it would be replaced. To be honest, I think I would consider at least upgrading to a B-series 1798 cc engine to try to get adequate power for US highways. Would you swap something else in and go the gasser route, a concours restoration or keep it somewhat original? If you are interested, check out the ad here on eBay where bidding is well under $1,000!
Graphics are period correct, possibly original.
Very Kewl
not that it matters, but I’ve seen this van before–I remember the odd livery it was painted in. I’m not awake enough yet to track it down, for the significant info on whether it is the same seller or subsequent hopeful restorer.
Where is the ad, and what is the connection to a gasser, I’m lost?
Sorry! Fixed now :-)
This looks neet.
I’m thinking xj6 suspension with wire wheels. Red leather jag interior and gauges with wood trim. Modern automatic, 4 cyl with torque. I’d paint it British racing green, big Jaguar cat on the side and lots of English car logos. Car club, vintage parts store delivery, or just for fun. Not for show just to go.
You know I can’t leave well enough alone. The drivers door would have RAF markings, bullet holes in a row and German and Japanese kill stamps under the window.
Gasser
For those not used to these Austin vans the entire rear van section is aluminium (aluminum American spelling) hence you won’t get the rear matching the door patina wise (if you don’t like patina wise then rust wise) hee hee
A barn find possibly driven by a barnstormer… Could be very apropos..
If this was closer, I would be going for it. I would bring it back to original driver level condition and drive it.