Monday 2 August 2010

The History of the JB van HDU072.

1971 and "Hercules" is having its first rebuild.

1972

 
1982
 
2002
2010
For the recent work, the van was in the restorer's workshop for about 15 months, while they worked on it in their spare time - rolling new side panels, making new door sills & front wheel arches etc.  It had numerous illustrious next-door neighbours during that time including a Ferrari worth about $300,000 , a beautiful Triumph TR2, a Porsch 356,  and a vintage Rolls Royce. The restorers were very amused, ( & so were we ) because most people who visited the workshop ignored all the expensive metalwork at first and walked straight over to the J van to gaze in wonder and admiration 













2010

It's first big public appearance was a rally in January this year, and once again, the organisers placed it betwen two Rolls Royces !!








It's always extrordinary driving around, because the van gets so much attention, waves & smiles from other drivers, children pointing, etc - much more than any contemporary vehicle ever does.


6 comments:

  1. I saw your van at the RACV Mornington Racecourse show January this year but you were not around
    I had an Army Moke 20 m away under the trees
    I have my eye on a JB got to negotiate yet

    ReplyDelete
  2. If you ever come past Carrum, let me know and we can photograph a couple of JBs together

    ReplyDelete
  3. Love your work, if you do really ever think of giving Hercules a new home I would love the opportunity to purchase from you.I am looking for one in memory of my late grandfather who drove one from new for many many years in Sydney as a carpenter.

    ReplyDelete
  4. I saw your van on the big screen, typically for a J Van it was smoking and being driven by shifty people.
    Kelly

    ReplyDelete
  5. Saw you yesterday in Richmond,thankyou for the chat,awesome unit.
    Any ideas of any for sale,as it would be perfect as a friend for my pre-war MG.

    ReplyDelete