Southern Vectis 516 – DL 9706
Restoration 1989 – 2015
The process of restoring this vehicle to original condition was slow, laborious and (most of all) expensive. Initial attention was to the mechanical units. During the 1990’s the engine was overhauled and rebuilt , and many other mechanical parts renovated. At the same time, of course, the condition of the body deteriorated!
DL9706 undergoing mechanical work at Cryers Hill in the 1990s.Photo: J Hinson
Unfortunately, during this time a number of crucial items including the sump and gearbox were stolen whilst not on the vehicle, and replacements were difficult to source. Two scrap bus and one lorry chassis have contributed to the rebuild.
In July 2001, work commenced on the reconstruction of the body framing.
Painting in progress 30/5/13
Photo: J Hinson
Delivery day 26/4/15
Photo: J Hinson
Work carried out, and parts supplied
Engine rebuild | Saunders & Ralph Motor Engineers, Bristol |
Clutch overhaul | Past Parts, Bury St Edmunds |
Brake Servo overhaul | Feeny & Johnson, Wembley |
Radiator Tubes | Vintage Wings and Radiators, Miles Platting |
Radiator assembly | Bryan & Son, Tunbridge Wells |
Lancet Radiator badge | John Golding, Wellow, Isle of Wight (from DL 9077) |
New Springs | Unrecorded firm, Holloway |
Mechanical work, plus stripping and re-assembly | Ward Jones Commercial Vehicles, Cryers Hill |
Body rebuild | Ward Jones Commercial Vehicles, Cryers Hill |
Rear Corner Domes | G P Panelcraft, Wokingham |
Sliding Windows | Lincolnshire Vintage Vehicle Society |
Glazing | Bucks Windscreens, Cryers Hill |
Painting | Ward Jones Commercial Vehicles, Cryers Hill |
Paint | Original shades supplied by T & R Williamson, Ripon |
Interior restoration | Under way (on site) |
Seats | Tim Stubbs, Burton-on-Trent |
2020 engine repairs
Head gaskets | Atlas Gaskets, Slough |
Machining of Cylinder Heads | Classic Performance Engineering, Bicester |