Boley

Good pointers cosreg, I am about 3 months into restoring it and have come across a few of the issues.

• The block sure enough is cracked, also one head and radiator housing. Got the radiator welded but haven't planned what to do with with the head and block, I think I may plate them or was thinking of a good resin, don't want to chance welding. lucky no water leaking into sump so hopefully ok internally.
• Good pointer on the winch, I had already cut the chain link as the winch looked seized but with your advice I think it will remain as a display.
• I mentioned i was restoring it as a commercial but it won't be a working commercial just for fun. At 3.5 mpg and no power steering I won't be going far in it
• I was wondering how to engage the PTO and from your description I'd say it has slipped out of the selector, good to know

Any idea where I'd get a distributor cap? I cracked the original and for reliability would like to replace it, I have a Delco Remy part number but can't source on the internet.

Many Thanks

Hi All

I am restoring a 1950's Thornycroft Big Ben, 6 cyl 11.3 liter petrol engine.

Its been lying up for the past 25 years, it was a commercial recovery truck before that and started life as a military vehicle.

In good shape considering its age.

The plan is to restore it as a commercial vehicle.

A few pictures before I started

Good place for it as according to the drivers manual the 11.3 petrol engine does  3.5 mpg 

Hi All

I purchased this Thornycroft about 4 months ago and have been enjoying the restoration so far.

A big thanks to Cosrec for the warning about the asbestos, I would never have thought of it.

If anyone has any information on the vehicle I would love to learn the history of it.

I also have acquired parts lists, drivers handbook and wiring manuals which I will gladly pass on if any use to anyone.

Thanks

Aidan

Hi everyone,

I purchased a Thornycroft 6x4 10 ton Big Ben and I am currently restoring it.

I seen the same truck mentioned in a previous post. Its an ex military truck converted to civilian use and dates around the mid 1950's although I have a letter from leyland saying it was early 40's.

It has a few minor issues, cracked block and cracked radiator.

It would be great to get lots of information on this model or the Big Ben in general.

I also have acquired some manuals and would be happy to share them.

Thanks