That was the question addressed to a panel of three Resto-Achievers at the April 2018 general meeting. Actually the question was addressed to the audience by panel chairperson Terry Pollard who had prepared a set of questions and slides to draw out the wisdom of experience from Clive Allan, Axel Bendix and Peter Shackleton. The meeting was well attended and helped many members to consider - or reconsider - their desire to restore a Moke.

Key considerations from the discussion were:

  • Whatever budget you set and whatever time you allow, a restoration will cost you at least twice as much in time and money as you expected.
  • Where will you work? Where will you store? How will you move efficiently between the two areas?
  • The body is the focus. Put your energy into getting it right. The rest is a meccano set you take apart and put back together.
  • As you deconstruct, photograph, label, categorise and store. Reconstruction will be so much easier if you do this well.
  • Some parts of the process might be better passed over to a professional - sand blasting for example.
  • You can do it and you don't have to do it alone. There is always someone in the club who will help you learn.
  • Keep on the good side of the domestic financial controller. Promise of a ride when it's done may not be enough.

Now some words of wisdom from each of the panel members:

Peter Shackleton

peter   This 1979 Moke was purchased in 2004 with a restoration deadline of the 2006 Muster. It was completely dismantled before a bolt by bolt restoration. The shell was in magnificent condition and only had a small amount of rust in the front driver’s pannier box. Bumps and dints particularly to the rear and front passenger side needed work. A rotisserie is an essential piece of equipment and cuts tens of hours off a restoration (including painting). Happy to lend it ... when I finish my next one!

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Axel Bendix

axel   Mokes are a great car to restore as there isnt really any rounded panels and they are about as simple a car as there is. Take lots of photos and label everything. Take your time and enjoy the journey. There is always plenty of people in the club ready to lend a hand and some friendly advice.

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Clive Allan

clive   Don’t be intimidated by people who have done a restoration. You don’t need any particular skills other than perseverance and having the desire to “give it a go”.

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