CLUB

The Bulletin No. 437 June 1996

•

-. TA14 1946-1996

COUNCll President:

THE AL VIS OWNER CLUB FCll.I'lded 1951

Patrcn C G H F ClI.I'rom Esq. President Emerîtus; K R Day

Ncrrn:l'l WhillŒ"1. 102 Henwcxx:l Green Rood. perrtuy. Tlnlxidge Wells, Kenl TN2 4lN 0189282·2088

Chalrman: .Jd'n 1Mlee1ey, Dubeck, fu.me, GI Ycrrrooth, NR29 3BY, 01692-670294 Vlce-Chairman: Arth..r C For t:on, Caerlc.ettoo, TlTeepNOOd, GaJashiels. TDI 2PV. 01896-860287 Treas urer; Gen. Secretary: Bulletin Editor:

Jim Peace, OyIers Fantoose, Fruwenls, HCl'v\ridusl. CrCJltroc:k, Kenl TN18 5AR 01580-752237 NvJkolm Dave'(, 1 Forge Collages, lillie Bayt-am lornberh.rst. Kenl TN3 888 01892-890043 ..Ic:h1 Priee Wllnams, 9\ Pak Averee, Easlboone. BN21 2XH. 01323-508803 Fax 01323-520554

Technlcal Editer; N J Sirrpsoo, K11ged::i1 HOJSe, Pall-y-Goilre. Abergaverny, Gwent NP? 968 01873-840320. fox: 01873-840504

Competition Sacy Md:. Fle/cher. Rod;v.oood Collage, 5hea1:x:ri:; Rood. BIod:bun, LCI1Cs SBl SAP 01254-260999 Registrar: [)(:Ne a.Asrow, 27 Whileside Averve, Hon lale, Hndey, WIQ<l"I WN2 258 01942-254220 Public Relations: {& celetrity cas} Peler Dickersoo. 48 Swtrlbaru::jl Drive, P..rIgllon BN2 5PH 01273-685640

SECTION SECRETARIES

South East: Brial NIoile. Llllie Heotherselt. 37 Wrct( Lcne, Relgale, SLrrey, RH2 OHU. 01737-245339 South West: OYls Podger, Riverai"!, Ogbcune NIolzey, M:J1bctOl.lljl SN8 lXR. 01672-516705 East Anglla: Roger Gooc:k'lg, 36 Waf Lcne, Walerbeach, Cambridge CB5 9NO. 01223-861003 Midland: eric Ddt, The Pak, SIrCUTlSh:JO, Ullaxeler, Slalfs. Sn4 5AL 01889-567397 North: Corn Newby, cIo Wœers Rociolas Lld, SolJgl Br~ Mil, Cohe Rd. Eaby, Cone, LcrtCs BB8 6RY.

Tel befae 8pm 01282-843151; 9-1Opm 01282-844273 Scotland: Edgcr SIieIds, SInxrl BI:Ji::, Bogcrvie Rood, Cqxr, Fife KYl5 4AH Tel 01334 653180 North America: AH Claksoo, 104 Eogle Lcne, DoyIeslCl'lYTl. Po. USA 18901. 215-343-1967 Denmark: Peler Bemg. Tavel 23, DK-4720 PR- Sn 55-99-16-45. Sweden: G Hervyssm, A/vIs Hi!, SIrOO'lsbcrgsvègen 2, 610 13 Lolap, 5weden. 122-29029 Nelherlands: Hermcrl Sd'ipper, Dr 5<tuI1ooo 10, f\lnspeel, NL8071 AS Netherknds 03412-54354 Swilzerland: D<rIIel Fisdin, Ch ru !Vall BIcnc 16, CH-ll70 ALtx:n'le 21/808/67 68.

OTHER OFFICIAlS

Memborahip Secretary and Distribution: C 0 .Yodc:c:nod1e, 2 SI.my BI:Ji:: Collages, Coils Hill, Copel,Tonb-idge, Kenl TN12 6SW. 01892-832118

Club Photograph Historlan: dTis Hoplon, Wmchlay, ms Lcne, f.Acrchhglon, Ulloxeler.s. Sn4 8LW. 01283-820415 Club Calendar & small ads: N'Id:: Woker, Corrp:ien Close, Corrp:ien HiU, Ilmnglon, Shlpsloo-on

Stcu, WCl"Nicksti'e CV36 4JF. 01608-682589; Fox 01608-682481 Parts location: Eric: OcKrncI1, WHle Ode CI, 28 Slave HiD, Hadirlxlm. Aylesbuy, HP17 8AZ Subscrlptions: LaTOne Smilt\ 5 Wnslon Wa(, Ok:! Woki1g. SLrrey. GU22 9HR 01483-766408

MODEl SECRETARIES

Silver Eagle: Firefly: Firebird: SA Speed 20: SB Speed 20: SC/50 Sp20: 3.5 litre: Crested Eagle: Speed 25: 4.3 litro: Silver Crost: 12170:

Reg (;(055, Snopes Fam. Slari'lgloo Rd. ThcKeham. PUbctoo:1\ w. Sussex RH20 3EO. 01903-745423 Simoo FISher, PO Box 41500. Nai'obI. Kenya.

cJyj; Taylor, 28 The 1Odgeway, Disley, Stockport, crestwe. SK12 2JO NIck Slrrpsoo - Tecmlcal edta. NIck Waker - Calencla edta.

Tony ~lIlps-Smith. Trevcrvas Collage, Trevuvas, Ashloo, Helsloo, Cornwall TR13 9TY .Jo/Ti OrNera, Easl AngrlO Secrelay. Bob NErrill, 950 pakhiU Drive, Boise, IdchJ 83702 USA. Mi:e Ne'M'ncJ1, PapilJoo, Armslroog Raad. Brockerh..rst. Ha1ls. 50 42 7T A. 01590-622824 Wayrte Srod::s. 5ee TB21 beIow. Ardf!N Wisdom 3 Goosefool Close, Solmesbuy, Presloo. PR5 OSS 01254-853476 Beny lO\ll11, Bidsloo, Robn Hood lCJïe, WriçIllilgtoo. WIQa1, WN6 900 01257-252180

TA14: TA21: TS21 : TC21/1 00: TC108/G·Grabo rs

Rob SmltI\ 5 Wnsloo WC/'I. Old Wc»:.i'lg. SuTey, GU22 9HR 01483-766408 Nalcolm KhdeII, 7 Broac:h.rsl Gadens. Easlcole. fMslip, NkIx. HM 9Xl 0181-668 9706 Wayne Brooks, 140 Roce Street. Banbridge, PA 17502 USA lei & fox 717-426 3842 corn Newby. Norfhem secrelay.

& TOfTElTF: Jctn Fox. Graber lodge, Ctaypool lcne, Scathem, lilcoo lN2 2W S poclals : CWe TayIa, ValDs, TnleCs Lcne, Wesl Hasley, Strrey KT24 6.10 Tec hnlca l Advlce: Flrofl y/Flre blrd/12/70 : Jod:: Clava-, The Old Redcry, Woodtoo, BI.ngay,

Suffalt NR35 2LP. 01508-482291 TA'., .JoIn \\11eeIey. CMmxn Pre a nd posl.war s lxe s NIck ~ Tectnlcol Ed ler. PIeose q.xlle rnerrt>ersNp rurber il aTf cooespm::leoce v.ilh officiais end enclose Q1 SAE.

S ERVICES Ins ura nce broke rs: Foalm::rl James & CO.Lld, Walerlon lcne, Ctodey Heath. Waiey, Wesl

MkIcnds 864 6BR 0121-561 4196. Fox: 0121-559 9203. RAC Membe nhip: M:Jlcoim Khdell TA 21 Secrela-y. Club Regalla : Ray f.Ac fotUlen - see beIow lJ'lder Owner's Harlxx:ks. Priees hd.di'lg postoge!choques payobIo 10 !he AMs ~ ObI: I!odga$ - o;r m .oo, sew-en [2.50. brooch 1:2.00, 10. dise i'oIdors tl nl('fTl()\ ex QloClgoo! o;r sllckors bodge en wHle bock!1o...nd I$lole l'.tidi I:l BU! a.J!f lRs 1:4. BIoO; ruIf lRs 1:6. nos 19OM. bl!9. goyl 1:6. Polka bon PQ'l wilh ANis molli 'ri pr8$GOloIlcn box [5, EncrnaI dosh boo-d pIcqJes n50, Key mgs, bIocX a brOMl ~tlClt r2.50,

Alvls "Soollq uo" Jctn v.JheeIey khoi'm::nJ ocxress opposite. Sweol~S. !1(1f. bloo a wHle tIl.5O. PIAoYClS,!1f!"( ex bloo. V Q" rOllld neô:. 1:\6 slze 32- 10 4T - m slze 44- 1046-. ZiPPE!' jOO:;ets, blIe ex !1ey, [\6. Body WO'ITIefS bloo ex ,00 [19.50. U'"rbllllos m .50. Priees fld UKposloge. Ownor's ha ndbooks: coo be bcrrO'-lVed by UK merrbers ooty ogonsl a refLndobie deposil of f.25 by cheqJe payable la AOC Please SE!Od a sepa-ate cheqJe payable la R J f.AcfotUlen fer f.l p&p la R J f.AcMJIen. 56 Wk:Xhom 51 ... Wellhg, Kenl DA16 6Bl. 0181-854 1257. Cordex blnd e ra : These 'NiD occorrmodale '10 BUletns 01 a cosl of f.3.2S i'"d .. dng p&p h lhe UK CheqJes payable la the AOC Avollable trom Eric Siopieloo, WtIIow Cottoge, Uttle Otnmow, Essex CMIJ 3HP. Silve r Ea gle mascota: UK t 50 he P&P. EU odcI D . US end Fa Easl odcI t6. CheqJes UK bai::s er EU er slerfng, payable AOC ErIc Odcrrm. See pais Iocaticn Cha nges of a ddreaa: shcUd be nolifled la the Membership Secrelay.

BULLETIN INFORMATION F\bIica tion dey Is the Ii'sl week of the rT'01lh fer len rTUlths of the yea. Copy Cl"Id plcl\.res la lhe Eciler, Jctn Priee WIIIlams. AD cootrib.rlions rrusl be recelved by the 151 of the m::tllh prier ta trol of p..bIJcalion - !halls, al Ieost a rT'01!h cheod. Plcturea shoUd be copllcned Cl"Id daled end ae reluned if SM is enclosed. COPY 00 Ooppy cise, preferable n WercPerfecl 5.2 er ealler, er typed cb.bIe-spaced; Jegible hc:rld-Miliïg acceptable. P\ease slole Il cise Is ta be retuned, lhe Edler deols v.i!h cisplay cds, but nol smaD cds (see bek:1M. Bulle Un ba c k numbe rs a nd d ollve ry e nqu iri es: la the General Secrelay. Ois pl ay Ad e: avoilable Cfl a per Issue er crnJOI Hen issue) basis. AlnJaI raies: f.450 per fUI page; f.275 per hall page end tl50 pet" q..o1er page. Pa- issue raies ae t75 per page; t40 per hall page end f.25 pa' qxr1er page excepl fer q..o1er page cds fer perSCflOI ca- soles fer v.tIch a speciot rote of n .50 applies. Artwor1c cosls extro if nol suppIled. Sma lt a d s : shoUd be senllo the Colendcr edler Nick Woker. Oeocfne Is the 15th 01 the rT'01lh p-ecedng ~alicn Acis fram meni::Ecs ae free but rrusl relaie la AMs cas er pais. Non-members end traders pay a fiai raie of t12 l'ici VAl

Couer picture: '~luis TA14 by the shores of Loch Maree, Ross and Cromarty': by Gordon Horner. This first appeared as an accompaniment to an article in The Autocar, of 26th February 1954 entitled 'Innocents ouer the Border '. The author, "E. E. ", relates his experiences during a round trip from Surrey to the Western Highlands in the fami ly TA14. Dave Culsh aw writes: 1 managed to speak to Gordon Honter last year about h is TA14 drawings, and sadly il would appear that the original does nol suruiue, nor could Gordon remember detai ls of the Aluis. Howeuer, there will neuer be a better time to reuiue this largely-forgotten p icture, acknowledging ils distillguished art ist, in the year of ils subject 'Cinquantaine "

AROUND THE CLUB

V Tony Phillips-Smith has produced another of his fine drawings (above) . this time for the cover of the programme for International Alvis Day.

V The record of the Scottish Motor Show TA16.95 of 1929 has just come to hand . The Cross and Ellis Alvista is noted as hnving "red Durex upholstery". Must have caused quite a stir.

V The Registrar's fenture in the Bulletin of May 1994 on the connections of Alvis with the A.C. company contained an appea l for information about the two estate cars built for Fairey Aviation. A new member, Bill Hubbard of Newcastle, Staffordshire, has brought one one of these cars to light a nd is to report on ils restoration. SMX 267 (below) has t.hree cloors, one offside, two nearside and a small tailgate. It's equipped as a fishing brake, with racks for rads inside. Its twin, SMV 224, chassis 21307 is still missing.

Cover stories

The 2,OOOth TAU on the front o{Bulletin 171 in November 1967. The former Major Quillon car, chassis 22500, [ormerly GOT 103, is pictured wilh W D Donovan, member 3345, who came second in the novice concours at Northern Alvis Day of that year.

"TA140W7U!1'8 are expected to get to the celebrations al Ashbourne in August by any appropriate means ... " The cover of Bulletin 321 of March 1982. The car, Tickford 21683, Ès nOw owned by Ron Walton.

5

THE ALVIS FOURTEEN COMPANION

As part of the 50th annlversary celebrations of the TA14, Dave Culshaw updates hls feature whlch flrst appeared ln these pages some years ago

Faced with the imposed economies of the post-war period, all manufacturers had to translate the limited resources available into the maximum possible number of cars. .

Government policies introduced to achieve this end were unsubtle. The imposition of double purchase tax on vehicles over ~1,000 crippled prestige manufacturers, and the one pound per horsepower Road Fund licence caned also the drivers of such vehicles which were aIready in use.

It was in this somewhat inhospitable climate that the TA14 had to compete, and whilst it would have been rewarding indeed to have seen the Speed 25 in production again in 1946, this option was a pipe dream. Indeed Alvis possessed the technology, the ideas, the production facilities to have presented the public with something which would have accurately reflected these skills. As so often it was a question of resources, and the only model suited to a revival was the 12170 devised by George Lanchester a decade earlier.

How this model was adapted mechanically to a post-war role is now history; two inches on the wheelbase, four inches on the track, and a millimetre increase in the bore diameter - these were the main alterations. The coachwork story however is rather more interesting. Between 1936 and 1940 Mulliners of Birmingham had built most of the 12170 bodies in saloon, drop-head, and tourer form.

For the TAI4, tourers were left to privateers, catalogued drop heads were dealt with by Carbodies, with Mulliners producing the saloons. In an article in Thoroughbred and Classic Car in January 1983, Brian Palmer relates that the original of the body used for the 12170 lay in a design by James Wignall, for a Rolls-Royce 25/30 owned by Mulliners chief Louis Antweiler, whieh was aetually eonstructed. Productionising for the small Alvis was therefore relatively simple, with 562 subsequent examples being produced.

For this body's adaptation to TA14 production, the door apertures were left intact, and the extra width added at the transmission centre line. SC 12170s had worn the spare wheel on the outside of the boot lid, and this spaee saving arrangement was continue d, though the running boards were do ne away with, in favour of a sill arrangement which eehoed the tidy design used by Charlesworth on their later Speed 25/4.3 saloon bodies. Artistic impressions of the company's post-war intentions began to appear eonfidentially in the motoring press in 1945.

6

A

: .,

FII!ST ANNOUNCEMENT

ALYIS announce the first o f their post-war

models , , . the "FOURTEEN." A new 4

cy linder series traditionally ALVIS in design

w ith ail that this has come to mean in

individuality of performance and road be­

havi our. The reconversion of the Company's

productive facilities is weil advanced and

delivuies will commence in the Spring.

Further details will be announced shortly.

A l V S LI M

C()V(NTR

,',

Owners of Fourteen saloons with the Mulliners' body can identify their example quite easily from a small brass plate (painted), which resides close to the scuttle drip moulding on the nearside. These numbers run from Ml to 1782 Register calculations point towards a production of 401 examples of the corresponding Carbodies drophead coupe.

Considering the heavy involvement of the Charlesworth company with Alvis, in the pre-war period, it is initially surprising that the post-war connection was minimal. One or two Charlesworth bodies of the Speed 25 type did find their way on to.a TA14 chassis. They must have been heavy, and therefore expensive. Charlesworth were, in any case developing a new type of body, with interesting rather than revolutionary construction.

This body found its way on to the Invicta Black Prince, and has doors which are uncannily like the Speed 25s. The cost-effectiveness of the Mulliners' development clearly won the day, and variations of the original Wignall design were to be produced for anther decade - until the last TC211100 left the works -twenty years, and almost 4000 examples after the Rolls-Royce which had started it aIl, took to the road.

To examine further the question of TA14 coachwork, it is first necessary to con si der the sheer numeracy of the problem. It will be recalled that Alvis catalogued and advertised four products under the Fourteen label; Mulliners saloon, the Carbodies drophead, APM's TB sport tourer, and of course a chassis.

First TA21 23803 minus fIrst TA14 20500

= 3303

plus 10 TA14s (23821-30) after TA21 announced

= 3313 minus 100 TB14 sports tourers

= 3213 minus 1782 Mulliners saloons

= 1431 minus 401 Carbodies dropheads

= 1030 sold as chassis

8

INDI VIDUA LITY Through oach year

ostablished the boSI

of dcvolopmcnl, AlVIS Cars have

and mOS! ndvanced standards of

automobile production.

ALV I S L J MITED HOJ~ \' llEAD ROAD COVI~NTRY

G

Obviously, with something like one third of the production sold as chassis, there is a plethora of unusual coachwork waiting to be written about. Some examples have great beauty, others have astonishing ugliness. Not only is great craftsmanship to be found, but also occasionally the clumsy, crude and bodged.

Most of the latter have disappeared, and have thankfully provided a ready source of spares for more desirable examples. The special bodies can be difficult to trace and evaluate, as in some cases the constructors never identified themselves with a plate.

The accompanying commentary is not intended to be complete or definitive. It should be read in conjunction with the forthcoming TA14 register, and will serve to indicate the variety and versatility of the model. Further 'sightings', or photographs, no matter how apparently trivial, will be welcome.

Some speci~l bodies on the TA14 chassis, with the chassis number of known, though not- necessarily surviving examples.

The 'Iickf'ord drophead More substantial than the Carbodies version,from which it can be distinguished by having pram irons on hood. About 77 examples constructed some of them used to re-body chassis which had borne other coachwork.

TheDunœn An attractive pillarless coupe design used also by Healey on their 2.4 litre. Rare open version: 22872, a dhc, with a possible 2 str 21778. Remainder all fr.xed head: About 80 known in total.

The Airflow Streamline Beautiful four door with wings extending into doors. First one registered ANH 47 (Airflow Northampton 1947) by its designers, who referred to it as their 'Woodland' saloon.

Castle Bodies of Kenilworth Several conventional wooden brakes: 20726, 20928.

Richard Mead of Donidge Nicely proportioned dropheads, 20566, 20608, 21021, 21251, 21310, 21654, 21852, 23235.

Knibbs of Manchester Pleasing, close-cou pied dropheads: 20569,20691,20888, 20902, 21003, 21022.

Straeder of Hatfield Possible one-off convertible: 20658.

Pmmock of the Hague Curvaceous drophead: 23494.

10

TlH ALVIS 'fOl,)ftltEN ' ~ALOO N IN 'l'HE COTIWOlOS

STAND NO. 166 EAII,lS COUf\.T

HOLTHE"o • 0 • COV(NTfty

F J Bidée of Brussels One or two sports tourers, aerodynamic, with headlamps behind grille. Became prototype of TB14, which was productionised by APM of Coventry. King and Taylor, Surrey, built one TA4 sports 22568, to Bidée pattern before APM.

Anon of Belgium One-off enclosed 'tank' competition body. Competed Montlehéry 1948, and at Le Mans in 1949 (Eggen) Chas,is 20528.

Mann Egerton Rumoured six-light saloons and woody estates.

Bosistos of Bristol Full-width four seater tourer. Styled rather like Graber. NHW 4. Chassis 23474.

Charlesworth of Coventry A Speed 25 pattern body on the first chassis 20500 (OVC 845), with possibly another on 21826.

Herman Graber of Berne Three 'Tropic' coupés.

AG. Cars ofThames Ditton One, rumoured two, 'Sportsbrake' types: see page 5.

Anon of Devon A Wolseley 14 body fitted ta 21376.

Vanden Plas One, perhaps two replicas of the 4.3 litre short chassis tourer. Extremely desirable.

Bucldand - makers of A.C.'s tourers At least two, probably similar tourers. 20662, 20675.

Anon At least two ice cream vans: 21290 destroyed 1965, and 20686. Very naughty.

Cmmichael - the Worcester fire tender oonstructors Several estate cars, plus a pretty dhc on 21095.

APA One-off tourer like MG-YT, cutaway doors. Competed BARC Eastbourne 1949. Veryappealing. Being restored in Germany. 21908.

12

... l VIS

\ '1

(, NDIVIDUALITy

in perrormance, ~ppeardncc and appointmcnts

THE FOURTEEN ;, typkal of ail that ;, be,t

in BritÎsh motor engineering.

FOURTEEN

LI" 1 l t D HDL'I'UEAD COV~NTI\Y

Vera-u;ysse of Brussels One-off drophead in the woody style. Copy of Chrysler 'Town and Country'.

Worblaufen (Switzerland) Close-coupled drophead, like contemporary Taunus, with semi-swept tail.

Carbodies of Coventry Attractive one-off pillarless coupe version of the catalogued drophead: 20821. Under restoration.

IUverlee of 'IYseley Peculiar, tall six-light utility saloon with 'bustle': 20586, 21294, 21321, 21344, 21739, 2195~ 20680, 2073~ 2105~ 2113~ 2120~

Raine of Spennymoor Two very stylish four door saloons similar to 2Y, litre Riley: 21865, 23608. One of the best efforts. Also made van on 23236. See special feature in this issue.

Rawson of Harlington . Two four-door saloons - like Armstrong-Siddeley Whitley: 20829, 20852.

Jarvis ofWDDbledon 21421 Devised by lnvicta buff Monro {rom former saloon. Cowled radiator and {ront wings like Citroen Fifteen.

Other departures from the catalogued TA14 versions include the following:

A Fourteen chassis of spring 1949, experimental works car converted to coillFS, hydraulics,' TB14 axle, Speed 25 radiator. Experimental six cylinder block. Mulliners Body M1374. lndecently fast for the year.

21458 - One of perhaps two chassis converted privately to take Ford V8 Pilot engine. Once owned by Archie Scott Brown. Lively but probably thirsty. Tickford body.

Unknown chassis with Mk V11 Jaguar engine. Used on stock car racing circuits by one "Long John Fildes".

Several TA14 received twin carb TB14 conversions of which 21805 is one.

Next month: The TB14 and racing TA14s!

14

BIBLIOGRAPHY OF THE TA14

MA'ntamanOBamI mpgln Practical Motorist Feb 1959 Mar 1959 Apr 1959 June 1959

NewneB Automobile Repair page 41-57

General artIç1esz

Autocar 2nd Jan 1959 p 25 .9th Jan 1959 p 60 6th Feb 1959 p 210 29th Jan 1960 p 198 17th Apr 1959 p 676

R Williamson on 14 Throughbred & CICJ8sic Car Aug 1980

rœtak Autocar. "Used Cars on the

Road" No. 1 also "Used Cars on the Road" No. 344 Autocar "Talking of Sports Cars" No. 354

ptv.tqm_ and/cr brier descriptions: Front end view Front end vi~w Export line.up for Cairo GVC 603 near Rotterdam Eggens special at Montlehery prior to Le Mans appearance Carbodies Drophead MZ 6716 Utility by Allsop LAF 946 Drophead by Cooper GAC 197 Worblaufen Drophead Worblaufen Drophead Saloon introduced (desc.) Saloon introduced (desc.) Airflow Stream1ine Kevill Davies & March body Kevill Davies & March body Kevill Davies & March body First Duncan body First Duncan body First Duncan body BrooklandsUtility Richard Mead Coupe Richard Mead Coupe Riverlee saloon Vercruysse Drophead APATourer Car bodies Drophead Carbodies Drophead Carbodies Drophead Tickford Drophead Standard saloon in Egypt 1947 Geneva Show stand

30th Mar 1951/388 18th Jan 1957/81 26th March 1954/44

Autocar 5/6/69 p. 813 Motor 2/7/47 p. 614 Autocar 30/4/48 p. 411 Autocar 1816/48 p. 692. Motor 16/9/48 p. 171.

Motorsport Apr 66 p. 174 Motorsport nec 66 p. 765 Motorsport Apr 67 p. 161. 20723. Autocar 21/3/47 p. 233. Motor 19/3/47 p. 139 Autocar 16/11/46 p. 1016. Motor 13111/46 p. Autocar 16/6/47 p. 399. Autocar 4/7/47 p. 467. Autocar 5/9/47 p. 793. Motor 4/6/47 p. 404. Autocar 4/7/47 p. 563. Motor 16/7/47 p. 660. Thoroughbred & Classic July 1976 Motor 22/10147 p. 294. Autocar 9/1/48 p. 26 Motor 17/12/47 p. 620'. Autocar 20/2/48 p. 172. Autocar 20/2/48 p 168. Autocar 6/7/49 p 680. Autocar 2/7/48 p. 627 MotorSport 4/54 p. 177/178 Autocar 29/10/48 p. 1051 Autocar 2/7/48 p. 627. Autocar 25/9/53 p. 416. Motor 19/3/47 p. 134/6.

15

Andrew Raine with the {amily saloon at the Newby Hall NECPWA Rally On July 16th last year

16

Family saloon Andrew RaIne tells the tale of the car bulll and still owned by hls famlly

In 1893 Herbert Raine, a blacksmith, wheelwright. and licensed farrier, established a business in Spennymoor, County Durham. As weIl as the shoeing of harses and general smithying, the firm engaged in the building of various horse-drawn vehicles and hand carts, and became Raines Carriageworks.

Herbert was joined by his two sons, Arthur and William, the uncle and father of the present partners in the firm. brothers David and Andrew Raine, and H Raine and Sons became the trading title. With the dawning of the motor age the firm progressed to building bodies for commercial and passenger vehicles, in particular buses and coaches, mobile shops, lorries and ice cream vans, building not only bodies but also a reputation for quality which endures to this day.

After the Second World War, with the many shortages of raw materials and the great drive ta export the majority of car production, it was exceptionally difficult ta obtain a new car. 80 for a coachbuilder such as H Raine and Sons, what better way ta get a new car than ta huild it themselves. Furthermore, such an exercise would he a superb advertisement for the skills of the firm. Alvis at that time had just introduced the TA 14, and were able to produce more chassis than their contracted coachbuilders could supply bodies for, and were therefore prepared ta supply other coachbuilders with chassis.

Alvis were approached in July 1947 via their dealer Bedale Garage, of Bedale in North Yorkshire, regarding the supply of a TA 14 chassis. A chassis could be supplied within 12 weeks of the order being placed, but that before accepting the order, Alvis would require details of the coachbuilder, proposed body, and

THE MOTORSHED, MIDDLE ASTON, OX63PX

Probably sel! more Alvis motor cars than anyone else. We understand them because we use them ourselves.

WH EN YOU WANT TO SELL A CAR OF YOUR OWN - WE CAN HELP

We specialise in selling on consignment from our spacious and superbly located premises. You may depend on our integrity.

Tel: 01869 340999 (North Oxfordshire)

17

drawings of the body. This information was supplied, and an arder placed for the chassis on 28th July, 1947, the priee quoted being ~665-0-0d.

Despite a delivery time of 12 weeks having been quoted, delays were experienced, and a letter for Bedale Garage dated 23rd December, 1947 quotes Alvis as follows:

"We very much regret the delay in deliuery as owing to the shortage of supplies our chassis production is weil behind schedule. Just at the moment we are afraid we cannot say definitely when we can let you have the chassis but immediately we see an opportunity of allocating one to you, you will be notified".

In fact it wasn't until 12th February, 1948 that the chassis, number 21865, was finally despatched via LMS Railway Co, arriving at H Raine a nd Sons on 19th February, 1948. However the bonnet, front wings, and front valance between the wings which should have been supplied with the chassis were not delivered until late April, again due ta "shor tage of material".

During the period between the placing of the arder and its fulfilment, Alvis queried cer tain aspects of the design of the body and approved certain modifications. They also expressed concern that, in sorne cases which had come to theïr notice, non-approved bodies had been fitted to theïr chassis, and a n undertaking had to be given that the approved body would indeed be fitted.

The body was designed by Arthur Raine, the partner responsible for aU the firm's designs. He had a girt for amalgamating various elements of contemporary designs in his own work and producing very stylish a nd attractive bodies. Thus in the Raine TA 14 there are elements of Riley RM and MG SA. The cowled headlamps which give the car a hint of Jaguar MK 5 or

CHING FORD AUTOS 61 AUBREY ROAD, WALTHAMSTOW, LONDON E17 45L

Specialis/s ill Service, Maill/ellance & Res/ora/ioll of ail Alvis models.

Contact)OHN PRETTY or ALAN BUTLlN for efficient service or just friendly advice

'1èlephone: 0181 5205698 Fax: 0181 5204811

18

Bentley MK 6 are in faet a later addition, tbe originals being standard TA 14 units. These were upgraded in the early 1950s to give the car an improved appearance and better lighting performa nce and are now one of tbe car's most distinguishing features.

The construction of the body was by light ash framework panelled in aluminium. The roof and rear qunrter s were made up as one unit, as can be seen from the pictures on this page. Doors were ash and steel frames , skinned with aluminium.

There is a steel centre pillar, concealed by the doors which are hung on double self·aligning hinges. The renr wings were steel. The spare wheel is mounted inside the boot which, while allowing a much smoother line thnn the sta ndar d Mulliner design, does restrict luggage capaeity. The dash is a hand·beaten steel

19

assembly which puts the instruments in front of the driver, with a glove box mirroring the instrument cluster on the passenger side.

The seats are trimined in red hi de as are the door trims and the headlining is fawn clotho Originally the car was finished in Copper Metallichrome cellulose, which in 1949 must have looked magnificent, but by the time of my earliest recollections of the car in the mid-50s it was painted cream. It acquired its present black in 1972.

The construction of the body was completed by the end of June 1949, and a letter to H H Customs and Excise dated 29th June, 1949 requested details of the amount of purchase tax which would be payable, based on the chassis cost of !665-0-0d and the body cost of !273-7-1~d. The car was registered KPT 873 on 5th July, 1949. The car was used as the personal transport of Arthur Raine until the mid-50s when a Jaguar MI{ VII replaced it. It was then used as a second car, eventually being relegated to the role of "works hack".

1 remember as a boy in the early 1960s going in the Alvis to collect parts for cars in for repair, a trailer in tow to carry the bulkiest items, such as on occasions a Triumph Herald bonnet assembly, and the rest stuffed into the rear passenger compartment, with scant regard to the effect on the leather!

ln the late 60s and early 70s the car languished in a corner of the works until it was decided to treat it as it deserved, a cherished classic. So over the last 20 years or so it has had much love and attention lavished on it, not to mention

f.~ \3.NGINEERING L1il1 ~ T l'rlJJ)

SPECIALISTS PANT-Y-GOITRE • ABERGAVENNY • GWENT • NP? 9BB

TEL 0873-840320 • FAX 0873-840504

NICHOLAS J. H. SIMPSON MIMI.

* Mechanical repairs, servicing & preparation for MOT testing. * Body repairs, restoration, painting, trimming & ash framing. * Survey service for intending purchasers. * Ali models catered for - 12/50 to TF21. * Estimates given. * Inexpensive collection & delivery service. * ImporVexporVtransporVVAT administration handled. * Storage & maintenance service. * Alvis cars for sale

20

money, to bring it up to the condition it is in today. "Restoration" is too strong a word, l prefer to say that it has been "maintained over the years with a rolling programme of refurbish ment where required".

Work carried out has included re-chroming of bumpers, grille and hub caps, rebuilding the front wings, requiring with a new loom for Autosparks, a new petrol tank, and much detailing a nd polishing. The engine was rebored a nd new pistons fitted a nd crankshaft reground in 1964. Total mileage ta date is about 90,000 miles.

One of the main reasons behind the building of the car had been ta generate publicity for the firm, and this seems to have been successful . as two bodies were ordered by customers, one being a van and the other a saloon a lmost identical ta the original. The van (below) was the first ta be built, the chassis, number 23236, being despatched by Alvis on 24th August, 1949. The completed vehic1e was registered FVN 762 and delivered on 14th February, 1950 to Mr W Dennis of the Black Horse Hotel , Swainby, Northaller ton.

The cost of the body was ~260, with a Notek Foglamp and a tow bar as extra s, at ~4 and ~3 respectively, inc1uding fi tting. There was no purchase tax Iiability on this vehic1e as it "could not be adapted for the carriage of passengers", there being no rear side windows in it, and there was sorne correspondence between H Raine and Sons and Customs and Excise leading to that ruling.

The saloon was ordered by the Spennymoor fînn M Coulson and Co, of Merrington Lane Ironworks. A query to Messrs Doves of Darlington, the Alvis distributors, on 15th August, 1949 produced the reply that the priee of the

21

chassis was .t665·0-d (still) a nd that delivery would be within a month owing to "a temporary hold up on body production".

The order was not actua lly placed until 2nd November 1949, a nd the chass is, number 23608, was despatched by Alvis on 7th December, 1949. The car was not delivered ta Coulsons until September, 1950, registered number LPT 966, colour blue grey. The body difIered slightly from the original in that the sills were incorporated into the door s. The cost of this body was .t333·0-d plus purchase ~x.

1 remember seeing LPT 966 in use in Spennymoor in the Mid 1960s but not since then, and a check with DYLe Swa nsea la st year revealed tha t neither LPT 966 nor FVN 762 ar e currently registered on the computer 1 sQ probably these two vehicles no longer exist. Any information ta the contra ry would be ma st enthusias tically received!

'l'hese days KPT 873 is used for various events, both mobile a nd static. 1 enjoy dr iving the car and like ta use it on events such as the Beamish Reliabili ty Trial, in which 1 have won my cIass on a number of occasions. 1 also like ta who it off, 50 enter it in concours where it has done weIl, winning Many rosettes and cups over the years.

However 1 think 1 get ma st pleasure from the pride and satisfaction which come from the car's uniqueness a nd from the admiration a nd compliments bestawed upon it wherever 1 go. The car is very special, and there is something equa lly specia l about being a ble ta say ta people who ask about the car "we built it" .

.

HIGHTONE restorations Itd. NORTH OXFORDSHIRE SPECIALISTS

Complete restorations. servicing and repair o f ail ALVIS cars. including pane!·making. painting. trimming. ash framing. re-wiring. mechanical rebuilding and servicing. Ali work carried out to the highest standards.

Unit 5, Enstone Ai rfi eld , Enstone, OX7 4NP. Phone 0608 677328 for Personal Attention .

22

TA Tales

Owners of Fourteens tell how they acquired .their cars and what they have done with them

l, Rohert; Redwood Ljchfield. M1dJjners saloon SRE 24Q

This motar car was Cirst registered in 1949 in the name of N Finney at the Duchess China Company. Langton , Stoke· on· Trent. It was then re-registered at a n address in Rhos on Sea, North Wales 5 0 one might assume tha t the vehicle Was a retirement 'perk' for a senior member of the sta ff.

In 1955, it was registered in the na me of Mrs A Finney a L the sa me address; ,a nd in 1961 it was registered in the na me of N Finney of Caverswa ll near Stoke· on-Trent. This motar car was in the sa me [a rnily for twenty years unt il it was bought by a very a mateur restorer who ha d more enthus iasm than abili ty!

Tt was acquired by Mr Redwood, a Chartered Automobile Engineer who completely disma ntled the vehicle a nd rebui1t it - down to the HMV push­butten ra dio; and put back on the road in June 1972, as it is pictured below. During the seventies , i t was used extensively for touring (the origina l purpose of the vehic1e!), mostly drawing a B1uebird 'Europa' tra i1er ca ravan. Two of t he journeys undertaken are worthy of recording. The first was a tour of southern

23

Norway. This involved a sea-crossing from Harwich to Ebsjurg in Denmark, then through Denmark to Fredriskhaven . From there to Stavanger, east to Liilehammer, before returning southwa rds to Oslo. This was before the European programme of improving international trunk routes, and sorne of the stretches of road were quite hairy! The return journey continued southwards through Denmark to Esbjurg and back to Harwich. The total time taken was 22 days, covering 2,000 miles.

The second journey was from Birmingha m to its twin town in the Ukraine -Zaparozhe, The sea-crossing was from Harwich to Zeebrugge, thence across Belgium Holland, West and East Germany, through Poland to the Russian border at Sheggini. The first important town was Lvov, followed by Kiev. Kharkov th en down the broad valley of the Dneiper river to Zaparozh e. The total · distance was 2,650 miles, and the only incident was a blown cylinder-head gasket near Opole in the Middle of Pola nd. Fortunately Red Triangle gar ages had provided a comprehensive set of spare-parts and the r epair was effected without delay.

Fourteen days were spent in Zaparozhe as guest of the Anglo-USSR Friendship Society, a nd the vehicle undertook Many excursions into the Ukrainian countryside. The only regret was that we did not VÎsit Ya lta, which was about 200 miles further south, but the road surface had deteriorated, a nd we felt it would be imprudent to ri sk a major breakdown when there were no fac ilit ies to efIect repairs.

Russia n travel restrictions caused us to return along the same route to Sheggini, and we arrived back in Zeebrugge 30 days aCter our arrivai and having covered about 6,000 miles.

Accor ding to the 1993 Alvis Register, this vehic1e is now owned by Mr A M Johnson of 8, Sene Park, Hythe, Kent.

Rep /acing the head gashet in Po/and . J u/y 1976

24

TA Tales contd ...

2. Jan Smith, Beverley. M I1JUnetS saloon KI,E 19

My motoring career had consisted of a Mini van, Morris Marina, TR7, Lancia Beta etc, etc, and two full seasons hill-climbing and auto testing followed by a season rallying; no real interest in classics. However 1 was sitting on a collection of over 350 model cars and 1 began to realise that their value could go a long way to getting me started on the real thing like a Cortina, MGB or an old VW. The models were sold at the right time and capital raised for The Purchase'.

Unfortunately this turned out to be a central heating boiler so 1 had to start aIl over again! Money-ràjsing efforts' were delayed by a serious illness to my wife leaving me to bring up my two daughters while she recovered but eventually 1 was ready to start looking.

An Austin 12 was seen at a local auction, it didn't sell and although we negotiated we couldn't agree a price. Meanwhile 1 had spied an Alvis in Classic Car Weekly for sale in North London and 1 decided to view it before committing myself on the Austin. As 1 work shifts 1 was able to travel to London mid·week with my family and found the car in a garage in a pleasant residential area.

Although it had a running Chieftan Indian mascot on the radiator (1 am told from a 4.3 Alvis), it was a 1948 TA14 registration KLE 19. It was dusty, a little rusty around the edges and with a few bumps and bruises on the near side but she started first time. Apparently it had belonged to a lady from new; . when she had died it had passed to a relative who did not want the car.

WALKERS RADIAIORS LlO Specialist repairers and restorers of ail types of radiator, heater and oil cooler. Prompt service at reasonable rates with quality

guaranteed (A.O.C. members available for reference). Nationwide low cost collection and delivery service.

Telephone Colin Newby (M.D.) on 0282 843151 (day) or 0282 844273 (eve)

He/p and advice free/y given. / am a/ways p/eased ta chat with fellaw club members.

UNIT 3, SOUGH BRIDGE MILL, COLNE ROAD, EARBy, VIA COLNE, LANCASHIRE

25

It still contained her umbrella, driving gloves, 1941 road map of arterial roads of London, and Boots First Aid tin for cyclists, boy scouts and tourists! There was also the original log book in a Brooklands of Bond Street folder and owners' manual in which the lady had written every detail of what had been do ne to the car. Even the key fob, a St. Christopher medallion, was the one given by Brooklands, the Alvis Agent together with a miniature red Esso bottle used for piercing the seals on oil bottles of the time.

My wife, who had perhaps been fooled by the shiny black paint on the Austin said "It's rubbish isn't it?" as we left the garage but 1 decided to take sorne photos and seek the advice of more learned friends back home. Henry Johnstone at Coniston, Bill's garage, said the Alvis had class, an engine with plenty of pulling power and the bonus of a weB documented history. So 1 decided ta buy: and at a far cheaper price than the Austin!

The Alvis was brought home on a low-Ioader and taken straight to Henry's garage for an MOT which it passed first time although the drag link was found to h ave a little play in it. (A replacement was purchased the following week from Red Triangle and proved to be the most expensive part the car had ever had!) 1 joined the Alvis Owner Club and was welcomed by Mick Fletcher without the usual snobbery that 1 had come to expe,ct from one-make clubs, and was persuaded to attend Northern Alvis Day.

1 attended with my children and Andy Robinson and had a super day meeting Dave Culshaw and John Wheeley and learning more about the car and Alvis in general. 1 do not want a concours car but feel 1 have a genuine one-owner car which satisfies everything 1 ever wanted and will bring much pleasure.

26

Bosistos bolide

This unusual TA14 bas the Bosistos coachwork noted in the TA14 Companion in this issue. Nick Simpson, who acquired the picture reœntly, says that Mr Bosistos of Bristol built mainly on Allards and aIso rebodied a 1936 Speed 20 after the war with a futuristic design. Notable in this picture is the use of the original headlamps let into the front wings. The car was in the club in the early sixties.

CHAIRMAN'S COLUMN

Retirement at 83 AOC life member Rivers Fletcher has decided ta hang up his racing goggles at theage of 83 and for the la st time at the VSCC Spring meeting at Silverstone he waved .Ibye to the crowd from his beloved Speed 20.

Rivers i5 a direct link back to motorsports glary days at Brooklands when at the age of 1 li he sat alongside Sir Malcolm Campbell in a race, not because he was a gift mechanic but because he was smaH and light and his parents were a frierül of Sir Malcolm! And that sowed the seed that was to link Rivers ta motor racing for the rest of his life, despite a terrible accident at Prescott in the fifties while driving a Jaguar. His archive of staries and films has given pleasure to Many of us who have attended his lectures around the country and there can be few enthusiasts who do not own at least one of his 10 books.

Our club is privileged to count him in our membership and we wish him continued enjoyment of motorsport even if it is from the track side.

Club AGM -A~ The main business of the AGM will be reported elsewhere by our Secretary but there are a few point l would like to mention.

First, the good news: Alvis have added another car to their collection. It is a 1939 Speed 25 Charlesworth saloon pictured below and has recently been the Bubject of a comprehensive restaration. What is particularly nice is that the car was initially used by the company as a demonstratar and will again be used by Alvis to ferry VIPs ta and from Coventry. It was in the AGM car park in the care of our member at Alvis, Martin Wickham, and it is good to know that the thirties, probably Alvis's most successful period, is now represented in their collection. More good news: l am delighted to welcome Tony Phillips·Smith as

28

subject of a comprehensive restoration. What is particularly nice is t hat the car was initially used by the company as a demonstrator and will again be used by Alvis to ferry VIPs to and from Coventry. It was in the AGM car park in the care of our member at Alvis, Martin Wickham, and it is good to know that the thirties, probably Alvis's most successful period, is now represented in their collection. More good news: l am delighted to welcome Tony Phillips-Smith as our new Calendar editor - a volunteer is worth ten pressed men! Members will know of Tony as the creator of our splendid Christmas card; l am glad to announce there will be another this year.

Secondly, the .bad news: it is with immense disappointment that l have to announce that John Price Willia ms is stepping down as our Bulletin editor. John now finds pressure of work too much to cope with the Bulletin as weIl nnd will cease his editorship at the end of the year.

l know aIl the membership will regret this as the standard a nd regulnrity of our magazine has never been better and we owe him a great vote of "appreciation. So we are now back in the market for a replacement and l am asking that volunteers form an orderly queue at my door! Seriously if nnyone is interested in this post either John or myself will by happy to give you more details.

80LENT VINTi\CE ~~~ ENCINEEQINC===---'-'Wl..~1\ 115f"1~

Specialist motor engineers to owners of quality sports, touring and racing cars.

Ali aspects of maintenance provided from specific parts to full restoration and rally preparation.

Our facilities include: • Paint • Upholstery • Electrical • Machine shop • Casting • Consultancy • Welding • Fabrication • Components duplicated or redesigned

We are makers of Alvis 4.3, Sp 20 and Silver Eagle cylinder heads and many other unobtainable pre-war Alvis parts.

St Marks Road, Lymington, Hampshire S041 8HA Tel: (0 1590) 671303 Fax: (0 1590) 679 11 6

The Annual GeneraI Meeting

Some 55 members attended this year's AGM at the Allesley Hotel, Coventry on April 14th, writes the general secretary. After acceptance of the minutes, the . reports were presented both on the year past and plans for the year ahead.

The Chairman reported that during the year he had visited all the section days which he found better than ever, had been surprised by the changes in road tax, delighted that Alvis Vehicles Ltd had bought a SP 25 but saddened that John Price Williams has decided to stand down.

He spoke for aU when he outlined the outstanding job which John had done and the exceedingly high standard to which he had taken the Bulletin .. The editor thanked members for the quality of the material they supplied. He had enjoyed bis term but regretted that other pressures now forced him to relinquish the post.

Sadly, Nick Walker a1so had to stand down having edited the club Calendar superbly since its inception. The chairman was delighted to announce that Tony Phillips Smith would be taking over.

The Treasurer reported the club's continuing healthy financial position (see following pages) and the Registrar continued to be delighted with the progress being made by his team of sleuths and the secrets being unearthed.

The overall results were provided by the competition secretary. The Intersection Shield went to the Northern section and the best individual performance and the Ladies' Plate to Eileen Eve.

Reports were given both on International Alvis Day 95, the progress toward the 96 events, the TAl4 celebrations and the activities of the sections throughout the year which were Many and varied.

The meeting ended with the usual AOB question and answer session before members departed to enjoy the forthcoming season.

COVENTRY CAR FACl'ORIES - A CENTENARY GUIDE

The city of Coventry has published an interesting guide to the motor car factories in and around the city. It is based on a study of over 130 motor manufacturing locations that have been identified as having been associated with the motor car industry at some time during the past century. The guide is available from Mark Singlehurst, Development Directorate, Floor 6, Tower Block, Much Park Street, Coventry, CVl 2PY. Cheques for !3.00 (inc p&P) made payable to Coventry City Council.

.JMW

30

ALYIS OWNER CLUB aaB. __ .-=a~DCDD

INCOKE AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT YEAR ENDED 31 oJANUARY 1996

11 IIICXlths ended 31 oJanuary

1995 INCOI1E

29070 SUbscrlpUena 25J3 Not surplus en sundry sales otc (Note 1)

1323 InterOtlt en Deposl t Ac:count -329 LmlSI earparaUen Tax -600 Net intor_t to &par.s Fund

19364 1425 221 370

20380

990 464 32S 171 212 200 448

45 IB6

l237

-72

39S

3204B

23421

EXPEND I TlJRE

Direct Explll1 ...

Net cost of BulloUns Events - A"ards

International Alvl. Day (Note 2) A.G.H. and othor l!IellUnga

Addltional Expons_

Clerical and StaUonory Expensea of Officiais (Postage etc) Sec:Uon Expanses roilnbur.H Bank Charoes Insuranc:e ru:countancy Fee Sundry Expensos R.A.C. affiliatien fee SUbscripUon

8627 SURPLUS FOR PERIOI) BEFORE APPROPRIATIONS

2165

APPROPR 1 ATI ONS

Reserve for list of ~ors and car model Regi .ter.

Reserve for 75th Annlvorsary CeletbraUon of ALYIB Ltd

6462 SURPLUS FOR PERIOI) AFTER APPROPRIATIONS

19394 Addl Acc:ulllUlated surplu.

25BSb BALANCE

Year anded 31 January

1996

31457 1995 30SS

2400 -bOl 25856 -bOO

1199 16216 600

35711 400

17~6

1905B 1654

0 596

21308 2500 -1237

1903 2237

381 3500 435 1500

lB 267 225 as:s 4BI52

47 195

25632

10079

7127 2443

32269

S44B 10067

5 51906

5453 375b

4BI50 4626 1

1 2SBS6

30482 48152

aaaDes.

ALYIS ONNER CLUB --------------BA1.ANΠBHEET - 31 oJANUARY 1996

---------------~--------------- 1996 FUNDS Et1Pl..OYED

Gonoral Fund accumulatvd surplus 304B2 -------Spar_ Fund.-

Balance at 1 Fobruary 1995 17296 Not 1 nt";'_t en cash doposi t 600 Gurpl us en sai •• 164

1 BObO Bpares Fund represented bya

14698 cash en dopDSi t 14BB3 260B stock CIICIO Note 3) 3177

17296 1 BObO

Reserva for 11. sts of l'teIIIbers. car Model Reglet.,.s Bal anca at 1 February 1995 :ssoo Elcpandlture durlng perlod -4448 Allocated far the period S44B

4500 Roservo for addlUonal BulleUn coats 1500

S4S42

EHPLOYMENT OF FUNDS ----------------Current Asseta ------------Stock (Noto 3 ) ·15504 Dobtor. and prepayments 2593 National Bavinos - InvestlMmt ac:c:ount 34133 Cash at bank and in hand 7596

Total current as_ts 59B26

------------------Lelilil Curront 11 ab 11 lUes 5296

54540 InvostlllDntli 1 Bull eU n Pr inter 1

54542

nLV I S OWNER CLUB

VEAIl ENDED 3 1 Jt'\tmARV 1<;><;>b - NOTES TO THE ACCOUNTS

1 IIIOnihs cndcd :U Janu a ry

IY9!i

1020

•• Il lb

'OB

' 00 11 O~

370 ,.0 3S4 201 no ,,, <l 2!i

124b

'" 562 ., 30 '2

25B3

70B

I b84

2392

2b l3

-221

NOTE

Not Sur p lu5 on Gundry and Other Inco~e . Not liurplus on &alos lnuuran c o c ommi&lI i on R.A.C . Commission ValuaUons T . A. 14 Drake av.rhaui man nuals Sundri oll

NOTE 2

Int ernlll 1anli1 Alvi il a ay In cOl'flQ Entry faoil - gata

Enlr y foo s - competit ion

Lous l FolCl1 i ty chan;le

Raff l u roce1pts p r agrammo advert. ood li tand rec e 1pts

Less t EMpund l turo Pl aqu u & Programmas Caterlnll P.A.Sy s lem Sundrv QMpenSe& , transp or t etc. Secur lty Tollot f: .. :11I Uoii

Year ended 31 J anuary

t <;><;>b

0 0

0 0

0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0

,,:16 ". ••• .0 ,. 2.

0

0

0

0

0

ALV IS OWNE R CLUB

YEAR ENOEO 31 JANUARV 199b - NOTE ANO CERTIF1CATES.

--------------------------------------------------------Il month s ended

31 January 19Y!i

2= , .. '" 2>

2bOB

.. 7. 10>0

••• 200

•• 2 •• o

7377 2>0

7 127

NOTE :3

STOCKS Crown wheelll and pinlans T.A. I~ Br ako dust cavers T.A. 14 Horn t .. umpets Sp.r .s

SPARES FUNO STOCK Other Stocks MT M Shlrts , umb .. a l ll111 etc Tl es badg.s .tc 6 1 1 ver E.gl o s Bulletin blndl1rs Vldeoll Publications

Yeil" ended 3 1 January

199b

2025 1014

11 3 2>

3177

3331 ,.>3 . .. .., ,.

Flreflv and T.A.14 Camshaft a and follownra '" 44 b!i

, Lesst Provision fo .. ob.olascunce

NOTE ~

1:!>7:!>4 250

1:!>504

Al 3 1 J.nu~r y lYY6, the Club ~lso . held a balancu of 6q4 pound. des l gnated MAI vi a Ownor Club Brooklands Fund M, reprosenting cont .. lbut lon s mad e b y member s ralatlnQ ta proposais for BROOKLANDS TRACK .

1 have prepared the al tached Balance Sheet a t 31 J a nu. r y IY9b and I ncome a n d E~ pDnd1ture Account for the Vear then ended fr o. the books and .. acord s of the ALVIS QWNER CLUB .

J.N.PIt.rce, T .. e • • u .. e .. 1 b tb .. ch 199b

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE ALV 15 OWNER CLUB

1 haVI! eMaml n ed , wl thout ca .... ylng out a n audit, t h lt ac c oun l books.

.nd o ther .ccountl nll .. ecord a of tha ALVIS OWNER CLUB and he .. uby ce .. llfy th.'

thl1 .ttaChad B.l.nce Sheat at 3 1 Janua .. y 1996 and the Incoma and EKpe ndllu .. ,

Accounl f o .. the yu ... then ended haye b aen p .. ope .. ly p .. ep ... ed ln acco .. dance

lher eWllh.

Sut t an V .. lonce March 19qb

Roge .. V!ckary, FCA Ch . .. tllrud Account anl

TA Carbodies abroad

'l\vo TA14 Carbodies dropheads taking advantage of the sunny climes in which they find themselves. Ahove is chassis 22088, Carhodies 0021, despatched on August 30, 1948, to the British Embassy in Washington for the civil air attaché Group-capt Clarkson. It then passed to mayor of Fort LauderdaJe in Florida and is now in Arizona owned by John C Be'llh in Sun City West (memher 8723)

In Queensland, Austra1ia, memher Dale Hanley is pictured below in his dbC; chassis 23447, at a ralIy in New South Wales in March last year. Dale and his wife oovered 3,000 miles on their holiday. In Sydney, they were hit from behind, suffering bad damage to the rear end 'The Alvis survived", says Dale, "unlike the little Nippon buzz-bomli'.

33

REGIONAL ROUNDUP

Midland

RED HOUSE, CAVERSWALL, STOKE-ON-TRENT. APRIL 9th 1996

Sixteen members turned up on this, the 29th a nniversary of this venue, although Eric Ody wes unable ta he present but he had handed over his secretarial" dut ies ta J ohn Hill ta net on his hehalf. Only two Alvis on the Car Park - the Wildin's were still topless but very shiny and the Tucker SB 20.

Present also were the two brothers Bill and Paul Hubhard who have filled Dave Culshaw's Long-Felt Want (Mail Order only, plain wrapper) by the discovery locally, of a three-door waoden saloon TA14 built by AC Cars for Fairey Aviation.

One person only (Bert Gladwyn, who shall be nameless) compla ined that there should have been a cake for the occasion; we've promised one for next yenr ...

The TA14 estate, pictured in a recent issue of Class ic CarWeekly with n query nttached, was built by my Inter brother-in-Iaw, S H Wyatt. It was one of a pair built together, the first for Robert Johnson, whose business interests inc1uded RGD of Sheffield, the second for J B Swift an associate of J ohnson . Mr Swift had worked for a time for Alvis nt the Stone a nd Stafford shadow factories during the war under Mr Vaux.

Ernest Shenton

South East

THE GREEN DRAGON, BARNET . 14 MARCH

This is a new meeting on the A10S1 by the unusua lly named roads of Da ncer s End and Trotters Bottom. It was instigated and organised by long time club member, Bill Fryer, who felt that it was far tao long since there was a meeting in the London a nd Home Counties area north of the Thames.

There were 19 members at this inaugural meeting and five Alvis, one SA Speed 20, one TD 3 litre, two 3 litre TE's and one 3 litre TF.

The pub is very friendly with proper ale ava ilable. There ls a l 50 a n excellent restaurant in one corner of which the meeting was held. Bill also la id on a splendid buffet at this first meeting.

Those present were: David Clark, Doug & Julia Da niels, John Everett, Bill

34

restaurant in one corner of which the meeting was held. Bill also laid on a splendid buffet at this first meeting.

Those present were: David Clark, Doug & Julia Daniels, J ohn Everett, Bill Fryer, Rex Harvey, Robert Hyde, John J olly, Malcolm & J enny Kindell, Brian Ledwith, Peter Lloyd, Henry Moore, Fred Rolph, Chris Turner, Andrew Webber, Derek & Margaret Williams and your trust y scribe.

There was much talk amongst long-term members of pa st meeting such as the Fox & Goose, The Crown, The Black Bull and The Duke of York. These latter two hosted meetings in the late 50's and early 60's.

It was generally agreed that the meeting was most enjoyable and deserves to succeed. Future meeting will continue to be held on the 2nd Thursday of each month. The pub staff are ma st friendly and keen, so come on you members, and others, support us and make this the best meeting in the South East. It Îs easily accessible for west, northwest, north and east London, Herts, Beds and 'parts of Bucks and Essex. So how about sorne good turnouts for summer?

• AGREED VALUE POLICIES • DISCOUNT FOR CWB MEMBERS , RANGE OF LIMlTED /UNLIMITED MILEAGE • MULTI VEIDCLES • WEDDING lIIRE • LAID UP CaVER

A FULL BREAKDOWN AND RECOVERY SERVICE

35

Mike Pratt

• MAXIMUM DISCOUNT FOR 2ND AND 3RD CAR

• IDGH VALUE EXOTICA AND REPLICAS

• MULTI VEIDCLE POLiCIES

• 'DRIVER' POLIey BASED ON THE DRIVER NOT THE CAR

Speed 20 mystery

An Anglophile Canadian has been trying recently to trace a Speed 20 which he used ta own fort y years aga, and enlisted the club's assistance. Unfortunately. even employing our best brains and technology, we have been unable ta help . may be sorne member cano

When industrial designer Frank Dudas was in England in the fifties, studying at the Royal College of Art, he was entranced by the beautiful four-wheeled machinery which was available at those times, at priees which today we would rather not even think about. Eventually he succumbed ta the charms of a 1934 Vanden Pla. Speed 20 drophead coupe, which he purchased in Sheringham. Norfolk, in the autumn of 1954. Its registration was BGH 572, a London mark which WQS issued in June 1934, but which is unknown ta the club. It is pietured here during Frank's ownership; its colour then and thought ta have been original, was British Racing Green.

When Frank was due ta return to Canada in the summer of 1956, he sold the car ta a fri end in Cardiff, who in turn sold it on some time later to a resident of Bridgend. Sinee then nothing has been heard of it, but it would be somewhat surprising if such a car had Bince been scrapped. Any news will be gratefully reeeived by SB Model Secretary Nick Walker, who will pass it on ta Frank.

RAC MEMBERSlllP

Macolm Kindell , our RAC administratar, encloses a eopy of the latest brochure and enrolment form. Those who would like ta join should fill in the form and send it ta Malcolm with a cheque made out ta Alvis Owner Club. Those who are already RAC members, but not through the club scheme, can transfer witb forms which Macolm bas available. The club henefits by commission. Maleolm's address is 7, Broadhurst Gardens, Eastcote. Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 9JQ.

36

NEWMEMBERS We welcome the lollowing new member.J

8875 SE Mr. M. Plant 130 Church Street, Whaddon ROYSTON, Herts SG85RX

8876 N Mr. E. Whitehcad . 46 Bramley Lane, Hipperholme HALIFAX, W. Yorks ijX38NS

8877 D Dr. D. Rusdca Gottfried-Keller-Str. 36 "D-60431 FRANKFURT Germany

8878 Sc Mr. N. Jamcs Riverbank Cottagc, Byrnhervie INVERURIE, Aberdeenshire AB515JT

8879 Ei Mr. H.G. Millard 6 Glcncoo Lawn Borecnmanna Road CORK, lreland

12150 TJ (Cross & EUis) Chassis No. 9260

T A21 (Tickford) Chassis No. 24740

Speed 25 SB Special Chassis No. 13367

T A21 (Tickford) Chassis No. 25116

Firefly SA Chassis No. 10423

TE21 DROPHEAD

1932 KV 700

1952 MVU 927

1936 BVC 834

1953 NYU 817

1933 ZV 852

A rare opportunity to acquire a unique and original Alvis TE21 DHC.

Only two owners from new, the present owner, a famous actor, has owned the vehicle for the past 30 years.

It has covered only 16,000 miles from new. Metallic sand bodywork with beige hood and leather

and chrome wire wheels. Garaged from new.

For further de ta ils of this special car contact John Holder on 01923 856728 after 7pm.

37

8880M Mr. A.J. Blaclcford TD21 Series 1 (park Ward) 19S8 XDU472 Brook Cottage Chassis No. 2S986 CORLEY, North Warwicks. CU7 8AT

8881 D Mr. R. Schmiti TA14 (Carbodies) 1949 SU-TU 547 Alemannenweg 34 Chassis No. 23098 O-S3332 BORNHEIM-WIDDIO Oennany

8882 SE Mr. R.B. O'Beime Speed 2S SB (Charlesworth) 1937 IV 5916 10 Thurlow Avenue Chassis No. 14393 29 Clarence Parade SOUTHSEA, Hants POS 2ET

8883 N Mr.D.Arthurs Silver Crest Special 1939 HEH 8S6 The Old Vicarage Chassis No. 16160 Streethouse Lane DOBCROSS, Oldham OL3SQX

8884 BA Mr. I.S. McIntyre Forest Lodge, New Road Fritton OT. YARMOUTH,Nono~ NR317HT

888S Au Mr. O.K. Dalliston Silver Crest TH 19.82 (Holebrook) 1938 3 Nevada Place, Oxenford Chassis No. 14196 Queensland 4210 AUSTRALIA

8886 SE Mr. R.J. Bone TA21 (fickford) 19S1 LRW99 IS Beacon Drive Chassis No. 242S7 SEAFORD, East Sussex BN2S 2JX

8887N Dr. C.O. Heijne TA14 (Mulliners) 19S0 KHP S20 7 Well Lane Chassis No. 23822 WEA VERHAM. Cheshire CW83PD

38

8888M Mr. J.H.F King TD21 Series 1 (park Ward) 1961 3748 RA Olen EUyn, Strctton Raad Chassis No. 26538 Clay Cross CHESTERFIELD, Derbyshire S459AQ

8889 BA Mr. J. Francis TA14 (Carbodies) 1948 NE 909 Higb Trees, 194 Fulbridge Raad Chassis No. 22038 Peston PETERBOROUGH PE4 6SP

8890 OS Mr. P.M. Charles TE~1 Series m (Mulliner Park Ward) 1964 WEK 5050 P.O. Box 406 Seri Complex Chassis No. 27202 Bandar Seri Begawan 2604 Negara Brunei Derussalam

8891 N Mr. J.A. Petty TA14 (MuUiners) 1947 JP 6741 Templehurst, Hook Raad Chassis No. 21536 GOOLE, N. Humberside DN145LA

8892 M Mr. G.J. Wilkins TD21 Series 1 (park Ward) 1960 SFF 896 Wavency House, Mixbury Raad Chassis No. 26250 EVENLEY,Northants NN13 SSL

PHOENIX CAR RESTORATION

SOME MOTOR CARS SEING UNRESTORED EXAMPLES REQUIRE DELICATE TREATMENT TO MAINTAIN AND PRESERVE THEIR ORIGINALlTY. OTHERS HAVING SUFFERED BADLY WITH THE PASSAGE OF TIME MAY REQUIRE A FULL STRUCTURAL RESTORATION. WE CAN UNDERSTAND YOUR NEEDS AND CAN ACCOMMODATE WHICH EVER TYPE OF WORK Y~U REQUIRE, INCLUDING ASH FRAMING. ELECTRICAL AND MECHANICAL REPAIRS. SERVICING. PANEL MAKING AND VENEERING.

CONTACT MIKE/STEVE GRIMSLEYTEUFAX 054 46233 THE WHARF EARDISLEYHEREFORDSHIRE HR3 6NS

39

8893 EA Mr. R.L. Smith T021 Series 1 (park Ward) 1960 RSU 662 73 Grove Road, Tiptrec Ctlllssis No. 26167 COLCHESTER, Essex C050JG

8894 M MI. W.D. Hubbard TA I4 (A.C. Cars Ltd) 1947 NSV 525 20 Gamett Road East Chassis No. 21130 Porthill NEWCASTLE, Staffordshire sn 8AP

8895 EA MI. P.J. Kinden TF1 1 Series IV (Mulliner Park Ward) 1965 LOT 253D Selsey. 68 Station Lane Chassis No. 27394 HORNCHURCH, Essex RMI26NB

8896 OS Mt. N. Hughes Cfa FPD Bui lding Cons. Ltd. 12th Floor, Vicwood PlazlI 199 Des Voeux Rd. Central HONGKONG

8897 M MI. K.H.N Sparkes 2 Parkside HENLEY ON THAMES, Oxon RG9 ITX

8898 M Mt. C.J.P Lindon T02 1 Series 1 (park Ward) 1960 YXE 459 Yew Trec Cottages Chassis No. 26252 Victoria Ro.ad QUENINGTON, 0 105 OL75BW

8899 M Mr. D.H. Burton TC2 1 (Mull iners) 1953 SGX 342 53 New Church Road Chassis No. 25267 Wellington TELFORD, Shropshire TF1 IJX

8900 Ei MI. D. O'Donoghue T021 Series 1 (park Ward) 1962 ZV 6104 II Broad Ford Walk Chassis No. 26 197 Ballinteer DUBLIN 16, Ireland

40

890 1 P Mr. J.M.S Pereira Speed 20 SB (MayfaÎr) 1934 ATU 991 Av. Joao XXI, 56· 1° Chassis No. 11271 1000 LISBOA Portugal

8902 SE Mr. J.M.B Sutcliffe Sandford End, Aston Sandford HADOENHAM. Buda HPI78LP

8903 Sc Prof. M. Garraway T02 1 Series Il (park Ward) 1963 JSH 185 Druim Mhor Chllssis No. 26820 by Loch Aivie AVIEMORE. Invemessshire PH" lQB

8904 N Mr. RA French T021 Series 1 (park Ward) 1959 NSK 373 Ash Lu House. Buckingham Road Chassis No. 25983 Conisbrough DONCASTER, S. Yorkshire ON I2 30E

8905SW MT. W.H. Sa lusbury -Trelawny Speed 25 SC (Charlesworth) 1939 BPN 205 Southtown House Chassis No. 14655 West Pennard OLASTONBURY, Somenct BA68NS

8906 M Mr. P.N. Leech 12160 TK (Carbodies) 1931 WV 310 Ingoldsby Farmhouse Chassis No. 9113 Ingoldsby ORANTHAM, LÎncs N033 4EJ

8907 SW Dr. lM. 8ird 3 York Gardens CLIFf ON. Bristol 8S84LL

41

8908 N Mr. J.P. Whittle 28 Brentwood Road, BrincliITe SHEFFIELD Sil 9BU

8909 M Mr. F.C. Keeling 1 Surrey Road, White Hill Kidsgrove STOKE-ON-TRENT, StaITs ST74AR

12no (Mullincn) Chassis No. 15211 TAI4 (Mulliners) Chassis No. 22011

1937 EKO 270

1948

Bal/erina Fatima Brito in Richard Williamsoll 's TAU dhc

1 he opmlons expressed m the Bulletm by contnbutors are not necessanl)' shared by the Alvls OWller club or its officiais. The AOC and ils officiais neithcr accepl responsibility for the result of following contributors' advice, Ilor do the}' necessaril)' endorse the services or products offered by advertisers or ally officiais of the Club in a privale capacily.

Prillied by Manor Park Press Lld. Edison Road, Hampden Park, Easlbourne, E Sussex BN23 6PT TcI: 0\323 -507474/5 Fax: 0\323-509306

42

ALIlIS CAli (j) INSURANCE HOTLINE B efore vou renew your

present policy or when buyi ng you r latest Alvis ca r.

Write. Phone. or Fax for a Guotation to

ne Ert~«..f;a.ftf ~.f«.l"al((}e 81"(Jiel"

TEL: 021 561 4196 FAX: 021 559 9203

Footman James & Co. Ltd. Waterfall Lane,Cradley Heath,

West Midlands. 864 6PU

T GLE The authorised manufacturer and supplier of genuine Alvis parts Conunon I.:me, lienil\\'orth, "'arnickshirt.', Engbnd.

SUSPENSION TAfTF21

Front coil spring C7064 Rear leal spring CSaBQ Rear spring bush N17578 Rear spring Shackle bush C6969 Reat leal spring Front pin C1569

TA 14 Front spring N19044 Front spring Bush N17578 Aear spring N18217 Rear spring bush N17578 Aear spring bush N17579

COOLING SYSTEM TDfTF 21

Healer hase Healer hase Radialor hase Waler pump (Exch.) Radialor (Exch.) Flex air trunking Flex air trunking Flex air trunking Flex air trunking

lAITe 21 Healer hases Heater hases Radialor hase Waler pump (Exch.) Radialor (Exch.) Flex air trunking

C9268 C9269 C9655 C9198 C8253 C9252 C8443 Ca6S6 C9253

Cl1024 C6547 C9655 C6846 C5929

810570

ENGINE TDfTF 21 Engine Bearings

Big end STD Big end 20 Big end 30 Big end 40 Big end 50 Big end 60 Main bearing STD Main bearing 20 Main bearing 40 Main bearing 60

Big end Big end Big end Big end Big end Big end

TAITe 21

Main bearing Main bearing

STO 20 30 40 50 60

STO 20

Main bearing 40 Main bearing 60 Thrus! +003"

TAlTF 21 Oil seal C4332

Full range of gaskel sels decoke and overhaul

Valve TF inlel C I 0724 Valve TF exh. CI 0725 Valve TE inlel C l 0133 Valve TE exh. Cl0525 Valve inlel TAfTCfTD Valve exh. TAfTCfTD Valve TA14 inlel Valve TA14 exh.

C5822

C9527 N15638 C1460

Valves for PreWar cars a/so readily availab/e from stock.

RUBBER SEALS TD {TF 21 Saloon & Drop Head Windsereen seal 811220 Baal seal (10ft 6in) 811290 Tread plaie 811263 Fenee plaie (4I in) 811484 '8' Posi seal (25in) 811181 Vent window BI 1 154 Ventwindow BI 1160 Headlamp seal Valanee piping 8umper Grommels

Saloon Only Rear sereen rubber Cant rail fron t (48in) Cant rail rear (31In)

811631 811217 C6066

811252 811245 811245

Elbow rail (27in) 8 11245 Car set of 811245 (1711 6in) Rocker seal (46in) 8 10968 '8 ' Post & stump (42in) 810968 '8' Posi & stump (27in) 8 10968 Car set of 810968 (19ft)

Drophead Coupe Peak rail (54in) 811475 Head seal (31în) 8 11 245 $creen pillar (16in) 8 11245 Rear posl(l 3in) 8 11 245 Car sel of B11245 (1011 4in) Rocker seal (46in) B 10968 'A' & 'B' post (27in) 810968 Car set of BI 0968 (16U 6in)

POST WAR PANELS Plate 'A'

TEfTF Front wings 811609f lO TD Series 1 Front wings Bl1105f6 TD Series Il Front wings 811423/4 Win9 Nose seellon TEfTF 812070/ 1 Win9 Nose secllon TD 81 206011/617 Headlamp box section 812072 Chrome bezel TEfTF 811630 Doorskin Alum. nfs B11482 Doorskin Alum. ols 811504

RUBBER MOUNTINGS Etc.

TAfTF 21 Engine mount Front bumper stop Front rebound Rear rebound

TD {TF 21 Gear box mounl

TA 21 Gear box moun!

TA 14 Front Eng. mount Rear Eng. mount Rear axle buffer top Rear axle buffer btm

C6034 C5855 C5964 C6185

C9224

N1 8795

NI7763 N18795 N15721 C1691

TIMBER BODY FRAMES

TDfTF 21 Saloon Waist rail Elbow Top rail Top side rail Trim fillels 'B' post 'A' post Rear sereen side Quarter light up Front sereen

Drophead Coupe Peak rail 'A' post Slump pillar

Door skin sleel 811 112/3 Rear wing repair sec. large B11114f5L Rem wing repair lm B11114f5S TD fronl valanee 8 11109 TEfTF fronl valance 8 11634 TD series l1TEfTF rear valance 811636 TD series 1 rear valance 811118 Rearpanel B11436 Rear panel stiffener lor TD series l1fTEfTF 812051 No plate box for 81 11 19series 1 only 811119

STEERING TAfTF 21

8all joint (RH lhread) 8all joint (LH thread) 8all Joint boat

8allpin Bali pin

PreWar

Lignum Vitae bearing Lignum Vitae bearing Bronze bearing (pairs 12/50 type) 8ronze bearing (pairs 12/50 type) Lignum Vitae bearing Spring Lealher washer

C4140 C4141 C4142

N4194 N1 3944

N9693 N1 3255

N3615

N3616 N4191 N3408 N3661

C9S73s Cast Iron

Brake Master Cylinder

To Suit : TD, TE, TF, 21

Limited Stock Available

1 000'5 more parts always in stock for Pre & Post War cars.

HOWTOORDER CONFIRMATION OF STOCK AVAILABILlTY, PRICES, DELIVERY METHODS & CHARGES

œQ WILL BE MADE WHEN PLACING AN OROER. ....

Shop by phone for fast mail arder. Ali major credit cards 8ccepled ~

TEL: 01926 857303 FAX: 01926 857305