Clive,
Your knowledge on Shorlands is second to none and I hear you about keeping it original. From what I understand this unit my have been used until the early 90’s...
I agree Having her in the GNR livery would be a sight to see, I am quite a fan of it in fact. I am curious as it’s been in a government museum for quite sometime, why it is the color it is, I am assuming that it’s the factory Olive Drab and that the Portuguese never painted it...
actually you struck the nail on the head, I am torn when it comes to this unit as it looks in fair to good condition, but it is currently not running or driving, seller states all hoses and lines will need replacing, IE a complete mechanical overhaul. Invariably I will have to make some sort of comprise between authentic and modern replacement. The interior for instance right away will be an issue, as you have documented on your sight, Trakmark is no longer available in any form. I will have to use some type of heat and sound barrier followed by some sort of interior panelling using a modern material.
I wish to show and drive her so, things commonly done to Series 3 Land Rover would make sense (Gearing, brakes engine mods).
My thought was to fall somewhere between museum quality and resto~mod. Externally period correct but mechanically, modestly modernized.
sorry I got a bit long in the tooth,
I have a very rare, now 1 of 1 boat built in the 50’s and I have the exact same struggle with. I want to be faithful to unique history but I also wish to enjoy and use and enjoy my collection.
thanks
Winston