Diamond in the rough

[Bruce Parker (RIP)]

I didn't think you could find them like that anymore. Nice looking machine with tons of original parts all in their right places.

The 'rook' is a tower. It's the sign for the Central Command in Ontario, circa 1950's.

[John Stickney]

Thanks for the input. I should also mention RCASC is scratched on the side of it. I've been told that S3.913 is not a military number but i think this may have been a trainer or something. Still hoping some one knows.

[Perry Kitson]

John,

Like Bruce has said, excellent hull to start with. A rare find these days. Do you have much of the internals as well? I had a Mk. II for 24 years, lots of fun and adventures. Good luck with the restoration.

Perry

[rob love]

The 53.913 number will be the post January 1943 numbering system for DND domestic vehicles. These numbers remained on serving vehicles even after the CAR (later CFR) system came out in the early 50s.

The significance of the number is merely that it is the 3,914 number assigned. They started at 50.000 for wheeled and tracked vehicles other than motorcycles.

[charlie fitton]

Lets have a bunch more pictures, please...especially of the back deck....says he with ulterior motives...

[John Stickney]

I'm having internet issues tonite so perhaps tomorrow i can put up a few more pics although the plate that hides the diff is also missing but should be an easy fabrication if i can't find one.

[John Stickney]

Hi Perry. I think all in all it's pretty complete. However the missing parts list currently includes carb,fuel pump, generator and fan, all contents of the instrument panel, and spider and small gears in the diff. I'm doubtful the engine is even going to be rebuildable as parts were removed many years ago and it was left open to the elements. Yet all engine covers and gun/mortar brackets seem to be there. Time will tell.

[Paul Dutton]

Very nice find there. We definitely need more pictures now you have teased us. Some nice bits still on it and the missing bits are easy to source.

[John Stickney]

Thanks for the encouragement Paul. I'm pumped to begin but have to finish off a prior committment to a 62 f600 4x4 to make shop space so, likely into January before i can get started. Hoping people here keep sharing their insights with me as to determining the history of this unit. And of course also hoping for required parts.

[Robin Craig]

For my money to find a vehicle this long since it was in service with markings still intact like that is gold, doesn't matter what the vehicle.

That is in remarkable condition and you are lucky to have found it.

Good luck with the project

[Paul Dutton]

Originally Posted by John Stickney

Thanks for the encouragement Paul. I'm pumped to begin but have to finish off a prior committment to a 62 f600 4x4 to make shop space so, likely into January before i can get started. Hoping people here keep sharing their insights with me as to determining the history of this unit. And of course also hoping for required parts.

Just found this thread again.
I've two British Mk1 Mortar Carriers myself needing full restoration that I imported from NZ last year.

[John Stickney]

Many thanks to all so far for encouragement and helping me find what i need. The list is steadily getting smaller and progress here at home will soon free up some needed shop space. Green disease has me anxious to begin.