14 replies to this topic

[Zhdanek]

I’m starting a restoration log for my project. The car originates from Portugal. I’m not entirely sure if it’s a Morris, Mini, or Austin—perhaps there are experts here who can help identify the exact model. It has a roof with stamped ribs (ridges).

 

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[Zhdanek]

It is obvious that the underbody has already been replaced, but the condition of the body is excellent; the metal is solid throughout and requires no welding. We are stripping everything down to bare metal.

 

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[mab01uk]

UK spec Morris Mini Travellers/Austin Mini Countrymans did not have the commercial Minivan/Pickup fixed grille panel, unless that has been replaced at some point with a full van front panel or separate van grille panel now available?

 

The front floor tunnel appears to be the later rod gearchange tunnel so confirms like you say that at least part of the underbody has been replaced.

 

All Mini Travellers/Countryman/Minivans had ribs/ridges added to the roof panel from around 1966 to stiffen it, as the earlier smooth roof was prone to flex causing drumming/vibration sounds at higher speeds.

 

Thanks for sharing your restoration project with the Mini Forum.

Edited by mab01uk, 17 September 2026 - 07:34 PM.

[Zhdanek]

UK spec Morris Mini Travellers/Austin Mini Countrymans did not have the commercial Minivan/Pickup fixed grille panel, unless that has been replaced at some point with a full van front panel or separate van grille panel now available?

 

The front floor tunnel appears to be the later rod gearchange tunnel so confirms like you say that at least part of the underbody has been replaced.

 

All Mini Travellers/Countryman/Minivans had ribs/ridges added to the roof panel from around 1966 to stiffen it, as the earlier smooth roof was prone to flex causing drumming/vibration sounds at higher speeds.

 

Thanks for sharing your restoration project with the Mini Forum.

The tunnel is original - only the floorboards themselves were changed. But the front grille is indeed welded from the van.

[mab01uk]

 

The front floor tunnel appears to be the later rod gearchange tunnel so confirms like you say that at least part of the underbody has been replaced.

The tunnel is original - only the floorboards themselves were changed. But the front grille is indeed welded from the van.

The front section of the gear change tunnel can not be original for a 1967 Mini as it is the later rod change shape, which did not appear in production until 1973...

 

 

The earlier magic wand/remote gear change front tunnel section (1959 - 1972) was the same shape as the rear exhaust tunnel with a bulge for the early floor starter button (See photo below).

 

 

 

 

Edited by mab01uk, 18 September 2026 - 11:35 AM.

[Zhdanek]

I think I have one like that.

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[mab01uk]

Yes, that is the later 1973 onwards rod gear change, so it looks like a previous owner has fitted a later rod change front floor tunnel to suit, along with the new floor panels.

 

Although it is easier to fit this conversion bracket (see link below from MiniSpares) to fit a later rod gear change into an earlier 'round' floor tunnel.

ROD CHANGE GEAR LEVER CONVERSION BRACKET - MSSK053
"Kit which enables you to fit a rod change gearbox to an earlier round tunnel."

https://www.minispar...version-bracket

Edited by mab01uk, 18 September 2026 - 02:01 PM.

[Zhdanek]

No, nobody modified the transmission tunnel; it’s factory-original. It’s possible—and that’s what I suspect—that the car was built around 1977.

[copilotChewie]

Hey - nice project :)

If it's a late 70s, and from Portugal - possibly IMA? They started with the barn doors and a unique windy crank rear side window in 1976, then I believe went to the sliding rear windows (as yours). Later, production switched to the single rear door they are known for (could be 77 or 78, not sure).

That may make it one of those between the years ones. Here's a restored one: https://www.instagra...XV/?img_index=4

Best regards,
Jan

[mab01uk]

No, nobody modified the transmission tunnel; it’s factory-original. It’s possible—and that’s what I suspect—that the car was built around 1977.

 

Your post title above says '1967 Mini Traveller'.....!!

Edited by mab01uk, 20 September 2026 - 02:30 PM.

[Zhdanek]

I think I was mistaken after all, and the car is indeed a 1977 model. Moving on.

 

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[Zhdanek]

UnderBody - Done 

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[Zhdanek]

Moving on: we coated the body with epoxy primer and applied seam sealer to the body joints.

 

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[braad]

Looking good. What are your plans for it? Are your restoring it back to original spec?

[Zhdanek]

Looking good. What are your plans for it? Are your restoring it back to original spec?

yes. I want restoring original classic car