Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[dusty450]

Hi

Despite having no experience whatsover I have acquired a half dead Fisher Holivan with a view to restoring it - no Cath Kidson in sight in case you were wondering!

I would therefore be eternally grateful for any hints or tips as I don't really know where to start - it's a bigger job than I thought but I have nothing to lose by giving it a go as it would be a shame to allow it to continue to rot away.

I know that some (most) of the timber frame will need to be replaced and the main board holding the front window is leaking on the corner ( I am thinking use marine ply?) All window seals are also perished so will need replacing and compete new wallboards as water has got in (it would actually be easier to tell you the bits where water hasn't got in!) Finally there are some good revering scars on the rear off side which will need bashing out and eventually a lick of paint is needed!

Have I bitten off more than I can chew ?? Discuss

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[dusty450]

Thanks Gary,

Doesn't sound so bad when you put it like that! I am in the process of looking for a lock up/ shed as at the minute it's parked on my veggie patch! I looked at your blog for inspiration and I shall set too once it warms up a bit. Will post some pics when able if anyone is interested!

[EcclesE10]

Hello, you were asking for hints and tips with regard to restoring a Fisher Holivan, can't give you any specific to a Holivan, but a couple of general ones may be of interest? I am plodding through some restoration work on my Eccles, and what has already been said is very true, about taking the outer panelling off undercover and replacing all rotten woodwork, it is not very complicated, the most complex joint I have found so far on mine is a halved joint! I would say that probably the most important thing to do before you start taking it to pieces is to level it accurately, with a spirit level on the chassis, and make sure it is well packed and secure, that way when you are replacing components you can at least get a datum using a level for the new bits if things have dropped... Photograph everything before you dismantle it, that will make it easier to remember where it all goes, and remember all marine ply is not the same! "Marine" is not actually a grading, the grade normally refers to the glue lines and therefore how likely it is to delaminate. It should be at least "WBP" which stands for water and boil proof, and if you want a deluxe job, use BS 1088 plywood, which is what we use at work for sailing yacht bulkheads. It is a bit more expensive, but you won't be redoing the job a few years down the line... Any help with woodworking queries, please ask!! ( I am a bench joiner at a boatyard) Good Luck, Matt

[dusty450]

Thanks Matt ,

Apologies for starting thread then disappearing -password issues!
The van is currently at a trailer workshop getting the chassis and wheel hub sorted so at least she'll be towable!

Now desperately seeking a barn or shed to rent over the summer so I can start the rebuild- can't wait to get going!

[christine lowery]

hi
all the above post have been spot on, but get out the camera or video and take pictures as you strip her down.
its always something to check against when you start to reassemble the van.

i have done about 10 Royales, and i and my friend do them in the street
its not the best but it's all we have
you can do most of the work from the inside
so have fun and post pictures we all love to see what others are doing

christine

[dusty450]

News from the workshop is £1,400 to get chassis ,brakes ,coupling repaired and replaced. No point getting that done till I know I can sort the main body which i won't know until i start! Cannot find a workshop and hubby(and neighbours!) not keen on it being worked on in the garden. Looks like its going to have to go . I really don't want it to be scrapped - I'm in a dilemma !! I don't really expect a solution here- just ranting !

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[dusty450]

I'm in Bucks- yes replacing everything but the A frame! Can't get any parts to fit otherwise .

Anyway- it's on eBay if anyone fancies a bargain. I can't post the link but its easy enough to find!

Thanks for all your input- hopefully I'll be back with one that just needs some new Cath Kidson curtains !