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MB 448419
Dec 2005. Fittings, tub and engine/trans/txfer all removed from frame. Frame checked for alignment and perfect (to within 1/16") - as per 1803B measurements.
Next step is to remove the springs/axles, clean, paint and refurb the brakes, then frame will be blasted/painted and put back on axles. In the meantime the tub will get a new front floor, blast and paint, then re-assembly can begin properly! March '06 - using paint stripper and a plastic scraper, I uncovered 2" white hood number, although only some numbers were legible. I worked deeper (and more carefully) and uncovered the full number in original Blue Drab!!
April 2006. Frame, tub and all major panels/assembles sandblasted and painted with 2 coats of Ameron 68G Hi Zinc Epoxy primer. I spent 1 week working on the tub welding/grinding marks, which have been smoothed with minimal amounts of filler/putty - too much sanding for my liking!!! Sourced my OD from Tony Sudds (bought 16 litres of his Matt1) and have had it tinted to match several NOS parts I have - effectively reducing the 'too olive/yellow' shade. If you'd like a spraycard sample of this OD, drop me a PM. It's a synthetic enamel so will go onto most primers and I can supply this shade to order, subject to Tony having stock of his Matt1. Next stage is to paint a single coat of Red Oxide on Frame, tub, panels, etc... to act as a wear indicator, then finish off with 3 light coats of the OD (to ensure a flat finish). Through May, I will take my rear axle to Tony Sudds for adjustment, then clean and repaint front/rear axles. Then I can start putting her back together! December 2006 - Got to rolling frame in October and Tub wired and refitted during November. Tub now back on frame and fenders/grille & hood will be refitted this week. MB448419 re-born on Sunday 10th December! Target is to go for 'first start' on Saturday 16th December, then spend the Christmas/New Year holiday fitting the canvas, etc... A frame up restoration in 14 months - not bad considering I've never done anything like this before, but have to say I couldn't have completed it without the superb assistance from all on the G503, or Ken Clay & 'F Mark' - seasoned pro Jeep restorers!!
March 2007 - sold this MB to Steve Burnside (Essex, UK) and purchased a 1943 M3A1 Halftrack, which doesn't need a frame up restoration - just a little 'refreshing'. See you on the Tracked/Armor pages!!
Oct 2014. I learnt that this MB has subsequently been sold to a Military museum in Iceland. Unsure what museum, but if you're ever in Reykjavik....!
| Model & Serial Number |
MB 448419 |
| Registrant's Name |
Chris Warne |
| City, State/Region, Country |
Bishops Stortford, Herts, Great Britain |
| Date of Acquisition |
2005-10-24 |
| Date this SNdb Record Created |
2005-10-27 05:50:17 |
| Date This SNdb Record Last Updated |
2014-10-13 07:00:05 |
