Ok, spent my weekend braving the remnants of Hurricaine Dennis to travel to
Maryland and pick up my Alpine. Surprise number one...I pull up on what I
though was supposed to be a series 4 and what do I see but tail
fins....hmmmm....Turns out my new prize accqusition is a 1962 Series 2 serial
number B9109190. The car was exactly as represented via email so chalk one
up on the good side for sight unseen internet sales. Still exactly as
represented and the image in ones mind rarely match, the car is ugly....but
oh so solid. The front valance was cut off to be straightened and is
straight now but will have to be welded back on. The rear 2/3s of the car
are straight and sold, the front end was in an accident at one time and has
since been repaired (with metal, nicely done) but is very surface rusted.
The floors and frame are rock solid. Everything will need rechromed and the
inerior is all there but definitely aged, another redo. Soft top is shot but
the bows and mechanisms are good, hardtop is great but the rear window will
need replaced. Engine is a complete fresh balanced and blueprinted rebuild
that hasnt been run yet. Head was off for inspection and it is like looking
at a new motor. Lots of spares, most I need, oddly enough some hillman parts
thrown in the mix, as soon as they are identified I'll let you folks know.
One definite part avalability is a set of NOS Series 5 taillight lenses,
would like to trade them for some decent taillight lenses for the Series 2
but will sell outright too. Will send more info as I get into the car
deeper, will be starting a webpage to chronicle the restoration. Will post
the URL with the preliminary photos in a few days. Expect lots of
questions!! Initial plans were to resell the car right away or part it out
but...sigh...Im in love....guess my winter is full up now :)
Jim
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