Just became a member of this forum and club (#4419). My name is Bart and since this summer a A40 Farina mk2 Countryman 1962 is a part of my family life. As far I know, it's the only countryman in The Netherlands. Happy that I found this club for the necessary information sources and exchanges. I've been involved with english classic for some decades (will tell more later) and hope I can contribute in a good way with my experiences.
By the previous owner this car has been refreshed. Originally it was a UK registered car (SFF270). Now it has been converted to LHD and used for some classic car regularity rallies like the Tulip Rallye.
Technically the car has some upgrades like a 1293 "fast road" (uhuh..) engine with twin SU's, a 5 speed Ford T9 gearbox and Midget disc brakes on the front.
So, things like forgotten split pins on clevis pins, leakages, shortcuts etc.
An alloy Morris Minor radiator has been converted for use in the Farina and also got a temperature sensor for switching the electric fan. I love to do the TIG welding !
Why did I choose for an A40 Farina? That's a special story. Earlier this year I lost two classic cars in a huge fire at a storage. My 1980 classic mini and 1978 MGB with v8 conversion were totally wrecked. Short before that I helped a friend buying this Farina. But his true dream was a good Sprite or Midget. When we would find a sound one without corrosion, then I could have his Farina. It happened just a few weeks later already.... I had the mini since 1991.... a painfull loss of a family member. Before scrapping the wrecks, I took off some bits of the cars like the cast iron 4 pot calipers of both cars, but also the remains of the mini engine and the total stainless steel exhaust system. Maybe there is a chance I can re-use the cast iron part of the engine (measure well) to reincarnate later on in the Farina. It is converted for use of a beemer 16v cilinder head. That will make the Farina a quirky and fast toy....
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The work you've done looks great and very professional. I especially like that the car still looks mostly original despite being a little rocket! Several club members have A40s that race at Goodwood every year so you're in good company!
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