VFF 631 - 1953 Reliant 'Regent' 748 cc goods tricycle

Simons Group

This vehicle was donated to the Society in 2006 by Simons Group Ltd, who had acquired the vehicle in 1989 as a replica of the very first vehicle owned.

The origins of Reliant vehicles can be traced back to 1935, when a Mr T.L. Williams took over the design of the Raleigh 3-wheeler van with a single front wheel. From 1939 the Reliant was powered by the company’s own version of the Austin Seven engine, which was used up until 1963.

The Reliant 'Regent' was produced from 1946 to 1954 - this is one of the later versions which included luxuries such as side windows in the doors!

The history of this particular vehicle is uncertain - 'VFF' is one of the unissued 'age related' registrations that was released by the DVLA in the 1980s / 90s. Any more information would be welcome!

July 2007 - Work has commenced on the bodywork framing renovation.

Oct 2007 - John has now removed the engine and gear-box from the van. The cylinder head is cracked; so the Society is on the lookout for another head! This is a side valve head of Reliant manufacture, not the Austin 7 type. [update September 08 - a replacement has been found.]

January 2008 - The van’s floor boarding has been replaced with new wood. The metal sides have also been refitted and rubbed down ready for repainting.

April 2008 - Another cylinder head has been acquired and fitted. New brake cables have been fitted and a new exhaust system will be fitted shortly. Three new tyres have been fitted.

July 2008- John has now started to paint the van and it should be finished in time to go on display at RAF Waddington Airshow. Following the Waddington weekend, it has moved into the Museum building and is now on display.

October 2008 - The van has now moved from the Museum display area into the Spares building so that restoration can be finished - i.e. the brakes and refitting the remaining glass in the rear doors and side panels.

January 2009 - The van's front wheel and hub assembly has been removed and stripped down, the brake shoes have been relined; after Christmas the unit will be refitted and 'set up'.

October 2010 - The Reliant is in the new workshop receiving attention to the electrics. The rear door glass and the two small side windows have been refitted with new rubber seals. New engine mounts have also been fitted.

July 2011 - Work on the paintwork plus sign writing is progressing well.

NOTE - This vehicle is not currently on display in the Museum.

LINKS Reliant Owners' Club R3W - Reliant Forum