Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[claudybird]

I've just inherited from my Grandad a lovely vintage Sprite caravan. I think its 1959 as that's the date on the back of one of the seat covers, but if anyone knows otherwise I'd love to find out???

I remember staying in it as a kid and it was the centre of many memorable family holidays before my time. Needless to say I'm quite fond of it, particularly with my penchant for anything vintage or retro, and I'm looking forward to giving it a new lease of life!

It hasn't been used for 20 years and needs quite a bit of work. I want to have it restored it to its former glory. Its currently in Norfolk and I live in Manchester.

I need to find someone who knows what they’re doing to pay to restore its undercarriage, towbar and wheels and generally make it roadworthy so that I can tow it and continue the cosmetic internal restoration and paint job up here. So I'd love to hear from anyone around the Norfolk area who could do the work.

Please get in touch if you know anyone or could help me with any knowledge or advice.

Thanks, Claudia

[Bayliss Thomas]

Just looking at your images of the van and it is possible that the chassis simply needs grit blasting followed by a good quality paint, perhaps POR15 primer followed by a coat of POR15 chassis black. Perhaps get a mobile grit blasting service to do that work on site and any good local handyman could apply the paint. (best to leave the chassis work until next Summer)

The wheels and brakes could be attended too by a local mobile mechanic.
Assuming that the floor of your van is strong you should be able to tow your van at this point. If the lights do not work use an lightboard, they only cost about 15 pounds.
Hope this helps, somebody else here who has greater experience than myself may be along soon to offer advise. Good luck.

[gillberry]

Hi
have sent you a PM of the man we use just outside Norwich, but it depends on where abouts it is - good luck

[Pauln]

I have recently bought a 1960 Sprite 400 in the same condition as yours. When you get it back it home any chance of having a look as I am also in Manchester.