MFE 454J - 1971 Morris 1000 Van

Lincoln Co-operative Society

Photograph by Peter Gray

The Morris Minor, designed by Alec Issigonis (who was later responsible for the Mini) was introduced at the 1948 Motor Show, and in 1965 became the first British car to exceed 1 million built.

Over 1.6 million were built at the Cowley, Oxford, plant before production came to an end in 1971. Later models were known as the 'Minor 1000' to reflect the larger engine - this example has the post-1962 specification with a 1098cc overhead valve engine and 4 speed synchromesh gearbox.

This was one of the last Morris Minor vans built, and on withdrawal from use, it was restored by the Co-op Transport Department in their livery of the 1960's, and presented to the LVVS by the Lincoln Co-operative Society.

October 2002 - A new exhaust bracket has been fitted.

July 2004 - A new cross-ply tyre has been purchased and fitted.

October 2004 - It is hoped that a leak in the radiator has been cured by using a tin of "Barrs Leak". New heather hoses are to be fitted and one rear light lens has been replaced.

October 2006 - The van has had some welding done to the front offside chassis rail and now has an MOT.

January 2007 - The ‘Moggy’ van has had both front suspension units overhauled and now drives better.

May 2007 - The Morris van and the AEC Monarch Tipper both attended the ‘Great North Road Transport Extravaganza’, hosted by the AEC Society, at the Newark & Notts Showground on the 27 May. A good turnout of vehicles were on display, but it’s a pity the rain also decided to attend on the day.

July 2007 - New webs have been fitted to the passenger seat, the originals having seen better days. New door trims have also been fitted to the front doors. Whilst the van was over the pit a clean and paint of the underside was carried out.

Oct 2007 - The ‘Moggy’ van was on show at the Morris Register National Rally held at Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire on the 12th August.

April 2008 - The 'Moggy' van is in the process of having an overhaul to its cooling system; i.e. new hoses, re-conditioned radiator, thermostat and new fan belt.

July 2008 - A replacement heater matrix has now been fitted to the van, so if it goes out in the cold weather the driver should still be warm.