[{"id": 1873146, "authorName": "HillbillyHeathen", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/hillbillyheathen/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I see the ad says currently running & driving and that it needs a new wiring harness.\r\nAssumed the harness on the floor of the passenger side has been reinstalled then.? \r\nFew more dangling wires show in the ad.....\r\nDo love Morgans, GLWTS", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511552124, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1873223, "authorName": "mr_smee", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mr_smee/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Insert Prince of Darkness joke here. I worked in a car dealership, another lifetime ago, and we had a technician with an aircraft background. Remote start systems were coming on the market and causing people fits and a few fires. Our aircraft trained guy never had comebacks on his installs. Detail makes the difference.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511553205, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1873327, "authorName": "Honest_Karl", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/honest_karl/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "There\u2019s a sea anemone growing in the passenger footwell.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1511554701, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1873509, "authorName": "Zendzian", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/zendzian/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "George Smiley: \"It's far too young for you.\"\nPeter Guillam: \"It's fast!\"", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511556569, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1873934, "authorName": "Benzoferrari", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/benzoferrari/", "bidAmount": 12000, "content": "$12,000 bid placed by Benzoferrari", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1511562633, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1874004, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What a lovely piece of kit! As British as tea and scones, bangers and mash Steed and Mrs. Peel, Jeeves and Wooster! She does need some help though. However, one this old with a decent frame is quite rare. The engine room is rather good. The good news is EVERYTHING is available from Morgan. This one might just be a proper candidate for a body off frame rebuild. Pull the body off, clean and powdercoat the frame. Get suspension upgrades. Fix any issues with the body, and electrics. Put it all back together. And there you have it! A 52 year old Morgan as good as new. Could be worth a pretty penny. Rule Britannia!", "likes": 9, "timestamp": 1511563821, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874099, "authorName": "OttoZohn", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ottozohn/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "My mechanic advised that in addition to a compression check, I'd need a termite inspection.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511570430, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874193, "authorName": "John_aero", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/john_aero/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Dry rot is far more likely than termites! But it all can be fixed", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511576479, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874294, "authorName": "seth_fisher", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/seth_fisher/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It seems as if Seller has arrived at a fork in the road : either sell the car \"as is\" with advice from the \"Morgan restoration specialist\" for the buyer , OR , have said specialist fix the majors and/or minors and bump up the reserve. Since I'm the potential \"bestbidbuyer\" , I'd rather look straight at the Morgan specialist and have him say , \" I wish this were my car.\"", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1511586454, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874391, "authorName": "BigGLG", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bigglg/", "bidAmount": 12250, "content": "$12,250 bid placed by BigGLG", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1511614111, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1874426, "authorName": "eima77", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/eima77/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Crazyas00\nGreat comments on this one! I couldn't keep up with auction watching yesterday. \nThis is such a Beauty!!! Someone is going to get a Wonderful Vehicle to Bring back to its Original Glory!\nVery Best To Seller and Winning Bidder!!!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1511617186, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874442, "authorName": "GlenK", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/glenk/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "It is very well to say buy and ship the parts but that gets expensive. To keep this reasonable you need to have a good cabinet maker to handle the wood side of things. Looking at the rest of the car, with NO air filters oil everywhere on the drive line, I would be suspect of any proper maintenance. Also Slide and Pillar suspensions do wear out if not maintained. Figure in the cost of repairs or do you just buy a well maintained car, you really have to look at it all. I am sure we all know people who have gone way over on a restoration and all just wondered why.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511618250, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874453, "authorName": "eima77", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/eima77/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@GlenK\nSomeone with $$$, Time and Knowledge will have the opportunity to bring this one back to life. I hope to see a BaT Success story on this one. Who hasn't gone over anticipated budget on something in their life? My Son, takes the cake on this issue!", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1511619427, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874493, "authorName": "v8mog", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/v8mog/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Missing a wiper motor and something odd with the wiring, nothing connected to the voltage regulator.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511621930, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874494, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This car deserves a good home ... it also deserves a better presentation. Two essentially useless 15 second videos bring more into question than provide any positive reassurance on what works and what doesn't. Is that snarl of wire in the footwell a usable wiring harness or ?\n\nCome on \"Morgan specialist\" add some value to this sale ... a solid recital of what works and what doesn't plus a potential punch list from an expert will go a long way to getting this car to its new owner.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1511622042, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874522, "authorName": "bj74cruiserguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/bj74cruiserguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "This is what I think of when I think British quality. Unbelievably great classic styling and a wiring harness from hell.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511623370, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874548, "authorName": "SportsCarFan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sportscarfan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Either the car was almost out of fuel when the first video was shot or the fuel gauge doesn't work. I'm guessing the latter.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511624467, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874568, "authorName": "v8mog", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/v8mog/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Upon further examination of the photos, I would have to assume that the only wiring present in the car is what was required to start the car and run it. \nWires are missing to the headlights, turn signals, brake light switch, voltage regulator. None of the gauges except the oil pressure gauge (mechanical) are working, the rest I assume are not wired at the moment. \nAt the current bid, not a bad candidate for a full restoration, if you do the work yourself. If you have to pay someone, you will wind up upside down at the end.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511625595, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874643, "authorName": "Norm_Peterson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/norm_peterson/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Crazyas00; And to you, sir, Non-Redeemable Virtual Bonus Points (NRVBP) simply for mentioning Jeeves & Wooster and Steed & Mrs. Peel, but what's with that \"Rue Britannia\"?", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1511630724, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874676, "authorName": "sjmorgan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sjmorgan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I am not sure why there is so much trepidation about the wiring harness on the Morgan, or with Brit electrics in general. \n\nAll collectable British Cars are wired in the Lucas wiring scheme, with a standardized (standardised) wire color code and wire gauge (strand count on Lucas wires). This applies to everything from an Aston to a Rolls Royce. There are wire harnesses available or you can make your own. \n\nSure, most have only two fuses (one for switched power, the other for unswitched power), but this can be corrected with a fuse block or one of those trick Painless Wiring labeled fuse blocks that include the flashers and horn relays. \n\nBritish Wiring has all the wire and components you need to do an authentic, yet reliable, job. \n\nThe big problem with the early Lucas cars are the components (and the butchering of previous owners who don't understand that every circuit in the car is properly labeled by wire code. The application of , the later switches, and an application of a simple relay here and there will make the car reliable. \n\nThere is no big trick to doing the wiring on a simple car such as the Morgan. Buy the wiring, the switches you will need, and the headlight plugs, spread out the \"scheme\" and have at it. I suggest a good quality ratcheting crimper with dies for both solderless and insulated connectors, a volt meter, non insulated connectors and weatherpac pins, shrink tube and a good soldering station. Be careful about making good crimps or soldering connections. I would even use the Lucas spade connectors and insulators, but with careful assembly. Friction tape, vinyl tape or fabric conduit will finish your harness to concourse winning beauty. \n\nAt first, it will all seem mysterious, as you run wires from front to back, stripping and connecting... But by the 3rd day, you will have an epiphany, and finish the job without even looking at the wiring scheme, referring only to the color code for the circuit you want to complete. It is that simple. \n\nI have wired a few Lotus 7s (about as complex as a Morgan) from scratch, and have wired several Westfield 11s for friends. This is not rocket science, and is relatively cheap to do yourself. It should take about a week. You will find that it is an incredibley satisfying automotive experience, not unlike the first start up of an engine you rebuilt yourself. Really... \n\nThe cars I have wired have had trouble free electrics for more than a decade and 50,000 miles of use. Even the very first one I wired. \n\nI would be more interested in the body wood, and installing a scuttle hoop to stiffen the chassis somewhat, preserving the wood internal structure, and giving the doors a solid base for the hinges. \n\nMorgans are blacksmith cars. Simple, and the parts are not too expensive should you need to rebuild the sliding pillar suspension, or rebuild the leaf springs. The Moss gearbox is usually bulletproof if not abused, and the rear axle is a reliable assembly. The rest of the car is simple, and it is entirely possible for an owner to do a restoration with sufficient room to handle lifting the body and transportation of the chassis and other components for refinishing. Welding might be a good skill to pick up, but this is not like trying to restore a unit body car. A lot of wood, and plenty of information available (and OE replacement parts to match precisely your car) from the factory to accomplish the task. \n\nI would be interested in this car, but I am really in the market for a +8.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1511634251, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874691, "authorName": "MiketheBarbarian", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikethebarbarian/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Curiosity here, not a potential buyer. \n\nWhen these were built, what wood was used? Oak, spruce, different species for different components? Was it treated with anything to delay rot? When a car like this is restored, is only the original kind of wood (and chemical treatment if any was used) considered \u201ccorrect?\u201d \n\nI know if I built something like this, I would probably lay up laminated blanks to machine the components from, and would treat them with the most advanced preservative available.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1511634876, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874709, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@MiketheBarbarian -- ash is primarily used. Prior to 1986 it was typically not treated with any form of preservative. You'll see a reference to Belgian ash in some of the Morgan books but nowadays they use UK-sourced ash (I've read that they encountered too much shrapnel in the Belgian variety, so perhaps it was damaging their cutting tools). The Morgan community is remarkably tolerant of alterations from original specification so you won't hear a lot of tut-tutting about non-original this and that among the other owners.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1511636046, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874724, "authorName": "MiketheBarbarian", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mikethebarbarian/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Thanks for the info!", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511637319, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874834, "authorName": "Irish_Mike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/irish_mike/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "2 honest questions. Is it a year thing the ones with the leather straps for hood hold downs? Seriously I don't know. A business partner of mine is saying when we sell a property we just put up that he is out of the game and he is treating himself but it has to have leather straps. 2. @sjmorgan my father who was a Porsche /vw mechanic said any electric motor or English car is not actually powered by the electric but by the smoke and once you let the smoke out....... Obviously kidding.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511648194, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874836, "authorName": "polopharm", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/polopharm/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Question for the BAT community, how would you describe the driving experience? I mean for a well sorted Morgan. \nIt is hard for me to imagine, and or think of a truly apt comparison to a vehicle that more people have driven. \nMy instinct is to be derisive, but I have no frame of reference.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511648261, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874846, "authorName": "Norm_Peterson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/norm_peterson/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@sjmorgan: I was going to post some snarky remark such as \"Haywire\" until I came across your interesting, informative and most excellent comment, but I'm certain you might agree that Lucas \"Prince of Darkness\" and the English preference for warm beer are nevertheless humorous.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511649549, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874856, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Irish Mike -- the leather straps were added to Morgans for track use since the tech inspectors (such as existed in those days) frowned on the possibility of the bonnet halves flapping open when a Morgan was racing (they don't rise very high, by the way -- I left them unlatched on one occasion). It is/was up to owner preference. Some like having it, but I suspect it's mainly for the look. I don't like that it abrades the paint surface, given enough time (recent cars have a strip of clear shield material across the bonnet to protect the paint).\n\n@polopharm -- a few months ago I went on a drive with our local Triumph club and we swapped rides, so I drove a TR6, TR8 and a Spitfire back to back with my '71 Morgan Plus 8. All three were cushier (soft suspension, body roll and steering feel) than the Plus 8, and the TR8 and TR6 seemed to have more room for driver and passenger. The Morgan's handling felt more immediate and that made it easier to dive into fast corners with confidence than the TR6 and TR8, and the power to weight ratio was in the Morgan's favor. If I'd wanted to drive 2 hours at 70 mph I might have picked the TR8 (although I didn't drive it with the top down) since the 5 speed gave low revs at speed. The level of top-down wind buffeting in the Spitfire and TR6 was more comfortable than the Morgan. Seating position was more conventional in all of the Triumphs, whereas the Morgan is more like the TR3 I used to own -- big steering wheel, up close to the chest. One caveat to my road test -- my Morgan has a low-line body, unlike the 1965 Plus 4 in question. The bonnet, instrument panel and steering wheel are higher on the high-line bodied cars, so they're a bit roomier and perhaps with the windshield a bit higher above one's head, they might be a little less windy. \n\nThe Morgan's 4-speed Moss gearbox with non-synchro first gear takes some getting used to, both in learning how to engage first (and reverse) without grinding the gears and in timing the movement of the shift lever to get the most out of the synchros, which, if they're set too tight, make the gearbox lever movement feel stiff and notchy, whereas if they're too loose (more likely on an older gearbox that's never been rebuilt) it's easy to slip into gear but easy to beat the synchros. But it's a very tough gearbox, which easily handles the 160-200 hp of a Morgan Plus 8.\n\nAnother comparison I did last year left a strong impression on me. I'd driven a C1 Corvette before but not a C2 and had an opportunity to drive a '66 coupe that was for sale. Granted, it wasn't in perfect condition but compared to the Morgan it felt much more like a GT car than a sports car -- perhaps comfortable at higher speed on a long run but loose and soft on any twisty road. \n\nI can also add that a Morgan may feel like it understeers when driven gently, but this tends to go away when pushed hard. This is caused by the way the front rebound springs are set up. I find my Morgan more rewarding to drive hard than to drive gently because of this -- I can steer it with the throttle when pushing it above 6/10ths, brakes are good, steering is predictable, etc.\n\nThe old saw about how hard Morgan suspension is (\"if you run over a dime you can tell whether it's heads or tails\") has some merit but the claim should be taken with a grain of salt. There is indeed little suspension movement but some of the give comes from ... wait for it... yes, chassis flex. It's designed this way, and it works fine. A few years back we bought a '57 Plus 4 that rode like a farm wagon with steel wheels. Refilling the rear lever shocks with oil and tweaking the rebound setting transformed the car into one of the best-riding Morgans I've driven, including those with telescopic shock conversions.\n\nOne important thing about the driving experience should not be left out -- how does it make the driver feel? I prefer driving a sports car that makes people go all smiley and friendly, wanting to strike up a conversation and prefer not to drive a car that provokes envy or disgust in those not fortunate enough to have enjoyed its pleasures. Morgans are the former, and in spades.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1511650559, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874859, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Given the location of the seller, I must assume this is Morgan Motors of New England -- good folks. Also known as Morgan Spares: https://www.morgan-spares.com", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511650778, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874864, "authorName": "MogCottage", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mogcottage/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "A new harness is about $600 so not a big deal. I notice that it has a TR4 with TR3 carb set up. A funny detail is that the firewall shows a missing two bolt wiper motor but a 1965 would have a three bolt motor.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511651319, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874866, "authorName": "sjmorgan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sjmorgan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sure. I have road tested several over the years in my work as a journalist. \n\nThey are stiffly sprung. This is the old tech of trying to force the tires into the pavement with as much force as possible. Leaf springs in the rear, and a sliding pillar front end was the bee's knees in 1912 when it came to independent front suspension. The only other manufacturer that I can think of that had that setup was Lancia. My Dad's '62 Appia Series 3 had sliding pillars. So did the '20s Lambda I once drove. \n\nAnyway, the steering is quick, and direct, even with the old style steering gearbox. Some Morganists prefer the old steering box to the later rack and pinion. I have not decided, as I am looking at an early +8 with the old steering box, Moss transmission, and a much newer one with rack and pinion and a Rover 5 speed. 'Have not made up my mind yet.\n\nThe ride, as I metioned, is stiff (you can run over a dime and read the date and mint mark through the seat), and on smooth roads, the handling is actually quite good. The Morgan is light weight, and has quick reflexes. The steering can be precise if the steering box is properly adjusted for play. \n\nThe frame and body are always flexing, as in any open '30s sports car, if you are senstitive to that sort of thing. The feeling is certainly vintage. If you have any experience with sports Cars of the Pre WWII period, the Morgan will be a precise simulacrum, if a bit tighter. This is a result of being, well... newer. \n\nHit a bump at high speed, you may catch air in the seat, even if you have the belt ciinched down tight. Pushed hard, it will understeer, but can be steered with the throttle when aggressive. You can hang out the tail. If you want to mess with the camber in the sliding pillar front end, you will find the handling somewhat adjustable to taste, if not tire wear. \nNew dampers with adjustments might offer some more handling advantage as well, if not improve the ride somewhat. \n\nThe Triumph powered +4 shown uses a Moss gearbox, which was also used by Jaguar, back before the demand for synchro first gears. It is a reliable, if not crisp shifting 'box, and the straight cut 1st gear makes all the right vintage gearbox noises, and requires the driver to learn proper heal/toe-double clutch technique to engage 1st gear if you are rolling. Avoid grinding 1st or reverse gear by selecting 2nd prior to engaging 1st from a stop. \n\nLater Morgans have synchro gearboxes. And rack and pinion steering...\nI imagine that a Ford Type 9 5 speed might be fitted with a Triumph kit, if you don't like grinding 1st gears. 'Not sure about the fit. This is a question for the guys who have modified more Morgans than I have. \n\nAside from the steering box, and transmission, the cars have not changed much since, um, 1937? I forget when Morgan went from cyclecars (3 wheelers) to 4 wheels, retaining the sliding pillar front end, and adding eliptics and a solid axle in the rear. There have been a bunch of different engines in US bound Morgans, from the Ford cross flows of the 4/4, the Triumph of the +4, and the Rover V8 used in the +8.The last \"classic\" chassis in US trim (\"Roadster\") had the Ford/Jaguar Duratec V6 with more HP than the old V8 and even less weight. Very quick, actually. \n\nThere are few cars that have the performance and personality of a Morgan. Most that are as interesting to own and drive cost many times more, and are much harder to maintain. \n\nI am going to get one, as it is at the top of my bucket list, and have already had everything else that matters. I want something simple to maintain, with some real performance and a V8 that I can play with. My canyon roads are not perfectly smooth, but there have been lots of improvements in dampers over the last 50 years, and there are plenty of suspension bits to further improve what is actually not a bad chassis. \n\nSome may make some reference to the space inside the car, but since I am only 5'5\", I have problems seeing over the cowel on the earlier cars with the air bladder seats. I fit the low line body cars as though they were fitted just for me, which is why I prefer them. The steering wheel is not even too close. \n\nI noticed that another post mentioned the TR-8. I had one of those as well, purchasing the first off the boat back in the day. It was more Mercedes 450 SL than Morgan. I liked the car, but... The TR8 is long gone (replaced by a Porsche in '86, which is still in the family), and there is a Morgan on the way. \n\nAnd about the \"Smoke Theory of Lucas Auto Electrics\", I agree. The smoke stays in the wires, and makes the accessories work and the engine start and run. \nUsually, the smoke escapes and causes trouble when a wire rubs or a connector fails, generally due to a sub standard installation or fabrication. Other than that, I have had excellent luck with Lucas electrics, wiring and wiring schemes, provided good switches are used, and occasionally, a relay or two added to protect the switchgear.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1511651480, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874928, "authorName": "morgannut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/morgannut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "For a Plus 4 Morgan, that drivetrain looks to be tight as a drum. My 67 +4 leaks from every major component except the re-cored radiator and the replaced front crankshaft seal. The rest I've been living with since 1989.\n\nKeep in mind that the sliding front pillar suspension is lubricated with engine oil, provided hot by foot pressure applied to a small valve that looks like a high beam switch on the firewall above the transmission tunnel. Kind of hard to do on LHD cars while keeping the engine revs above idle.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511660588, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874929, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I did a double-take on the advertised year when compared with the chassis number. I owned 5513 and 5515, and those Plus 4 cars were 1963 and 1964, respectively. \n\nGiven there are so many Morgan experts on this thread (real experts, not only commenters, but also the selling dealer), I did an advanced search on eBay for 1962 Plus 4 cars, figuring this car must be in that year range with such a relatively low chassis number. This car is the first one that popped up, as a 1962, not a 1965. It failed to sell on eBay this past Halloween, with Reserve Not Met at $13,000.\n\nSee eBay item number 311987513801. Couple of questions for seller/owner. Can you post a redacted copy of the title? Also, can you report the engine number? Any chance the bonnet fin stamping matches the engine number? \n\nThanks so much. Selling dealer is a top flight USA Morgan business.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511660679, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874953, "authorName": "perry911113", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/perry911113/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The car was submitted to Bring a Trailer as a 1962 Plus 4. Not a 1965. I know this car as I work for Morgan Motors of New England. To answer your comment regarding the engine stamping in the bonnet. Yes it is there and no. The engine number on the engine indicates it was originally installed in a Morgan but it is not the original engine for this car. We have contacted Bring A Trailer regarding the error in the model year and yes we hope that they will correct the listing by Monday morning. Our phone line at Morgan Motors of New England is open for questions Monday morning for those who are interested and have questions. 518-210-1869 Regards Peter", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1511663940, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874955, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Peter, that is helpful. It's quite an investment to make in a car that does not match the build record, but I've noted not too many people care about originality when it comes to these cars. Does the engine have a CT or TS prefix? Assuming it ends in \"ME.\" Thanks.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511664106, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874958, "authorName": "perry911113", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/perry911113/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "BritshIron. I believe and will confirm when I return from the Thanksgiving holiday weekend that the engine number stamped into the bonnet hinge indeed matches the cars build sheet. This imdicates that the bonnet is original to the car. We will also list the engine number that is in the car. From my experience it is alway nice when you have the original engine. Having my own personal garage filled with a number of 60's and early 70's Mercedes and Porsches I understand the added value in the world of those cars. In the Morgan world it doesn't come up as much. The Morgan world is not so strict. So many Morgan's are restored with deviation's the owners want to make either more reliable and more drivable. 5 speed conversions , H6 to HS6 carb changes, front drums to discs, rear teloscopic shock from rear armstrong shocks, shorter intake manifolds to accomidate air cleaners that they never had to name much of just a sliver that we see as common to the maintaing of the Morgan breed. So many cars are aesthetically individualized in details. It's not like the Porsche or Mercedes world by comparison.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511665287, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874960, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@perry911113: Peter, thank you again. It may help sell the car to post the build sheet too. I totally get your comments about Morgan originality, and have a similar, eclectic stable.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511665602, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874971, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The \"sliding pillar\" (a misnomer, since it's the stub axle assembly that slides up and down, not the kingpin, but...whatever) suspension has grease fittings but Morgan conveniently provided a foot-operated valve to dribble cold engine oil above the top of the stub axle assembly, and in theory some of that gets to the upper bronze bushing. I don't consider that a replacement for greasing via the zerk fittings on the stub axles themselves and my car's one-shot oiler is blocked off.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1511667051, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874973, "authorName": "Crazyas00", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/crazyas00/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Norm Peterson : Why Thank-You, Sir! I am most honored to receive my NRVBP's. I will put them in an ash box with the Morgan emblem seared on the top. \n\nAs for your question, might I suggest you have your reading glasses on the next time. When you said Rue Britannia, I was worried that I had consumed to much Stout (warm), and Single Malt Whisky. However, upon further reflection, Britannia does indeed \"Rule\". \n\nWith kind regards! Crazyas00", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511667316, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1874997, "authorName": "TSmisek", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tsmisek/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Is there a top & 4 side curtain set?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511669782, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875018, "authorName": "slowed", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/slowed/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have long believed...no facts...that engine number originality started to be important when folks were creating counterfit SS100 Jaguars from junkyard Mk iv saloons. The \"numbers matching\" idea simply sounded good and spread throughout all collector cars.\nWhatever, MY restored '63 Plus 4 (no 5433) has its original engine. I show the car and believe the engine originality to be important in that environment. So don't count me among those who think less of the Morgan because it is easily altered.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1511672085, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875037, "authorName": "Irish_Mike", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/irish_mike/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@duncan Thank you sir! So no harm no foul if you put them on one that didn't have them? As I said not for me but a business associate. My only experience with British cars is when my pops yelled that mom made him sell his Xk 140 when I was, how shall I say it, the youngest by 9 years. Lol", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511674174, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875079, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Irish Mike -- whatever floats your (or your business associate's) boat. The bonnet strap wouldn't affect the value and I doubt a show judge would even think to ask whether the car originally had one.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511696423, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875080, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@slowed: We have had six Morgans over the years, counting two three wheelers. The two that we have now are low mileage examples that match the chassis records, and have all the original gear. Our 1963 Plus 4 fourseater (5513) has the original short and long tonneau, original hood and side curtains, etc. Regardless of exactly how \"numbers matching\" got into the collector car world as a desirable feature, we deeply enjoy seeing the original handiwork of a hand built car from an industrial era now long gone. And, as hobby collectors who occasionally sell in order to buy another car, I don't think originality ever hurts resale value. After all, Morgan Motor Company must put some stock in the desirability of originality by making Chassis Records available to interested owners.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511696649, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875090, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Britishiron -- I've been noodling over how to characterize the originality issue as I've witnessed it in the Morgan community. A non-original engine or gearbox doesn't seem to carry a heavy penalty in a car that has what I might call \"mitigating provenance.\" Whereas matching numbers might push something like a C2 Corvette into a stratospheric show car market value I'm not sure a super-high value bracket for Morgans of this type exists, which of course is nice for people like you who get pleasure from a car's provenance when you're in the market to buy. Original-spec Morgans that only rack up miles from being pushed off of an onto trailers come up for sale at very high asking prices from time to time, but they don't seem to be perceived to be at the pinnacle of desirability among most Morgan owners. Maybe Morgan buyers generally prefer to buy a Morgan to drive rather than to show. There are certainly all types of owners in the Morgan clubs -- some like a stock example, some want to drive a modified hot rod, some want the convenience of a 4-seater; some are happy to drive hundreds (if not thousands) of miles to club events, some prefer to trailer their car to events. The Morgan owners I've met around the country are a pretty egalitarian and inclusive bunch and whatever pecking order there is among owners doesn't seem to be certainly not off-putting for new members. An owner's interest in and knowledge of the marque is likely to generate higher esteem among peers than which Morgan they own.\n\nA \"slate wiped clean\" restored (or over-restored) Morgan with matching numbers doesn't seem to carry much of a premium. Maybe due to the fact that Morgans are a tinkerer's delight (a high proportion are owned by people with engineering in their background, according to a survey of owners about a dozen years ago) it seems that buyers find it more satisfying to know the car's history and its relationship to its former owners. Each car does have a life story but not all sellers of Morgans choose to tell it (or they don't know it). Watching BaT auctions has made it clear that the perceived value of a Morgan suffers when auctioned without offering the perspective of its historical narrative.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1511699430, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875242, "authorName": "Norm_Peterson", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/norm_peterson/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Crazyas00: You are correct, Double 0, the \"Rue Britannia\" no doubt belongs on a French-car post -- some Citroen, more than likely. My sincerest apologies.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511712767, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875281, "authorName": "Deliguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/deliguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Mike, as Duncan says, the wood used in Morgan is ash for the framing, and I think, birch for the rear wheel arches. This is typical for coach built cars. Ash is lighter than oak and can be steam bent fairly easily. Morgan did use Belgian ash, and sometimes encountered shrapnel. Flat panels such as door cards are usually baltic birch ply.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511716619, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875416, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Duncan: You've correctly categorized our interest in all of our antique sports cars--we prefer the cars to be as original as possible. We simply do not drive the cars enough to require a lot of improvements over the factory build, and truly do enjoy admiring the cars in (more or less) the condition they came off the assembly line. It's a personal preference, and apparently is unrelated to value when it comes to Morgan +4 and 4/4 cars!\n\nThe two cars you sold in 2016 are perhaps the best examples of the sometimes inverse relationship between original Morgan +4's and value. I think your ex-McClain race car, and the trick 1957 restomod, still hold the top auction value record for +4 cars sold on BaT, with a nicely restored 4/4 (non-original motor) bringing good value as well. All of these cars were sold with excellent pictures, video, high positions of knowledge, and were otherwise well sorted and well presented. Your two cars also garnered after-the-sale testimonials from the new owners. I think we can all take a lesson from the way you present and sell these cars.\n\nNow, as to the +4 fourseater now on BaT, I am still scratching my head. If you do a Morgan search on the BaT search window, and look in the \"Stories\" section, you can see this car again, for sale this summer in Virginia. It was a different color blue this summer, Saxe Blue, and apparently had it's wiring harness hooked up then. And, yes, a bonnet belt was present during this previous advertisement. Just a few short months ago, the owner said this car was a \u201csolid combination of original and restored\u2013a beautiful driver you can enjoy with confidence.\u201d The ad goes on to state: \u201cA chassis certificate from Morgan is included. Aside from the fabulous finish, the car features new genuine Lucas Tripod headlights, rebuilt cylinder head, bead blasted wire wheels, new battery, new fender mirrors, new full tonneau cover with zipper for half tonneau use, refinished walnut dash and new leather hood strap. Wood and metal are solid throughout. Original top is serviceable but rear window shows typical wear. Side curtains are included but clear plastic windows could use replacement.\u201d The engine was called out as an updated Morgan TR4 motor.\n\nMaybe Peter can let us know the back story and what happened, but it seems the car went downhill after the owner changed the color from Saxe Blue to Avion Blue? Perhaps took the car apart to paint, and got discouraged about the condition once he got a better look? With our lively discussion about originality in this comment thread, maybe a pursuit of originality ironically stalled this car's intended restoration! Whatever the story, this is a classic example of making sure one knows the past advertisement history of a car before returning it to the auction block.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1511728536, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875649, "authorName": "tsmith", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/tsmith/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "About twenty years ago, I planned a simple re-paint my '60 +4 and took off a few pieces of trim....the beginnings of a complete restoration (new chassis, wood frame, bulkhead and fuel tank)..Mine, a four-seater like this one, looked good, but the disassembly revealed rotted wood and a legacy of quick fixes. Door hinge screws don't like Bondo. While it was agonizing at the time, the result was terribly satisfying and the subsequent 100,000 miles have been a delight. \r\nAs an aside, this is a high-line car which is a bit higher than the later +4's and the four-seaters have some seat adjustment, spring mounted cushions and the windscreen is an inch higher...all resulting in more comfort for taller drivers. The front suspension oiler referenced below has been disconnected and the flex line routed directly to the oil pressure gauge. The kingpins should be regularly greased. The oiler doesn't get much product to the lower bushings where the bulk of the wear occurs.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1511749162, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1875938, "authorName": "bringatrailer", "authorUrl": "", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The seller has confirmed that the car is indeed a 1962 model year. The text of the listing has been updated accordingly. Thanks @Perry911113 for noting the discrepancy.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511796344, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1876023, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Let's hope we get more of the story on this car ... @Britshiron sums it up and asks the right questions ... \n\nI saw the car in Va this summer ... it was on display at Moss Fest and as I remember it appeared to be closer to how it was represented in the BaT Story although I didn't see or hear it running. So what gives? More importantly, seller please give us more info on what this car needs ... if we paid you to do a PPI what would you tell us?\n\nOn the original vs. modified conversation ... as long as you enjoy your car and are comfortable with the decisions you've made (and their consequences) does it really matter? As the buyer of Frank's Moggie here on BaT (Thanks again Duncan) I love the hot-rod old race car yet my XK is \"as delivered\" and will be kept that way. \n\nThere are 4 days to remove some of the clouds hanging over this car ... for the sake of both buyer and seller let's hope we see some progress.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1511799771, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1876113, "authorName": "Deliguy", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/deliguy/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The argument about originality has merit. It is nice to see a car or motorcycle that is essentially as it left the works. What should also be remembered is that for many small, and even some large manufacturers, there was no standard on specs. Bristol,when they do produce cars, don't produce any two alike. Coach built cars exhibit this. For instance, Eustace Watkins had Abbey Coachworks produce Wolseley Hornet Specials and even those few with original bodies show obvious differences. When Bruce McCaw bought the Bentley No. 2 a few years ago, he now has a car that is likely the most original Bentley. However, it will never see the road again due to its fragile state. Conversely, Old No.1, is drivable, but sports parts that were changed out after accidents and in period mods. A comparison of the few remaining, mostly original Austin Seven EA Sports(Ulsters) shows that the distinctive boat tails all exhibit a different shape. Even TVRs, being a small production company, change specs as the cars are assembled.", "likes": 2, "timestamp": 1511803282, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1876232, "authorName": "sjmorgan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sjmorgan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Well, I guess this soapbox will hold together a little longer...\n\nI am torn about originality. A lot of the work I do for friends has to do with \"fixing\" heavily restored cars (everything from COPO Camaros to Noble M400s, Westfield 11s, Shelbys and more than a few Renault R5 Turbos). In many cases, these \"restorations\" have been dissassembled and re assembled at HUGE cost, but just having all the parts screwed together doesn't mean that the car is drivable, even though it may look \"factory fresh\". In most of the cases, the car was never driven after the work was completed, and problems with things like alignment, engine tuning, brakes, hydraulics, electrics and the various squeaks and rattles due to misfit. In most cases, the doors fit, but that's about it. \n\nSo, now I am looking at some Morgan +8s for a long term relationship. One is a very desirable early car, but completely restored, and may require sorting, if not re assembly to suit my expectations. The others are decades newer, with a somewhat more complex (OBD, Fuel Injection) power unit, but essentially the same chassis, construction and fittings. \n\nBy my way of thinking, OBD cars are very easy to service (as I have the \"star tester\") with only the bi-yearly emissions testing to worry about scheduling. The eary car doesn't have any thing electronic but the ignition and lights, with a big, dumb carb, and no emissions test. Also appealing. \n\nWhile I love the simplicity, beauty and slightly lighter weight of the narrow body early car, I really like the fact that the later cars, while newer, are, well... newer, and just as they left the factory as far as original workmanship, fit, finish while being fully sorted. Also, the miles are lower. \n\nProper maintenance is far easier than an act of full restoration, or even sorting a fully dismantled and re assembled pile of parts, as nice as it might all look. There are always short cuts, and I don't l ike surprises. \n\nMy intention is to make some changes to whatever Morgan I buy, as I have always had a very specific idea as to how the car will look and perform. I have already selected the bits and pieces that I would fit to the early car or the newer car. Things like the scuttle hoop on the early car to anchor the body and doors, bigger brakes, knock off alloy wheels replacing the later car's wire wheels, cylinder heads and a lighter flywheel and clutch. \nThe later cars already have most of the inventory of parts that I require. \n\nWhen the car is to be driven and enjoyed, better brakes, later tube dampers (the factory fitted these to later cars) with multiple adjustments, improved bushings in the sliding pillar suspension, scuttle hoops and more power will improve the driving experience, while improving the longevity of the coachwork. Most Morgan buyers are interested in driving the car, even if it is a 100 pt show winner. \n\nIn this way, the Morgan driving experience can be amplified, while retaining performance and response. It's not as though I am changing the suspension (from what the factory may have done to somethign silly like upper and lower arms up front. Yes, there is a kit... If you want a \"Modern\" Morgan, buy an Aero, which is quite advanced in the chassis design and construction, and now available with the \"Classic\" coachwork) or doing an engine swap (Chevy LS7, anyone?). The essential \"Morganess\" will be retained, but slightly refined (maybe). Oh, and there will be more power. \n\nThe simplicity of the Morgan is what really makes the acquisition of either a new one or a restored one attractive to me. If I HAVE to sort a restoration for my own use, I expect to pay less for the car, and have more to spend down the road. Being a bit older now, I am not sure that I want to tackle a full project like that. The act of modifying a later car with a few bolt ons, and a weekend head and clutch swap, along with an E mail order for wheels from the UK is much more appealing. I want a more immediate gratification experience. \n\nWhen it comes to this particluar +4 2+2 Morgan, I would be interested in the quality of the repaint, the fact that the engine compartment actually looks pretty standard, and that it is relatively clean. The car is easy to disassemble and re assemble if one is up to the task, and can be done relatively easily by an owner who will not be paying $100/hr for labor. \n\nThe wood is the hard part, but it may be in good shape. I would hope that expensive paint was not put on unsupported (substandard woodwork) bodywork, especially since repainting would require disassembly of the bodywork. The wood and the bodywork are the expensive parts of this car. The rest is relatively inexpensive and readily available, and fixable with ordinary hand tools. All you need is time. \n\nThe wiring is of little consequence compared to the difficulty restoring the rest of the car. While a few of the comments are adverse to fixing the electrics, they are much simpler than most believe, and repair is within the abilites of anyone with basic DIY restoration skills . Instruments are easily shipped to reputable rebuilders if the gauges are not working. \n\nThe car's origins are important, if only to know precisely what you are buying, and so you can order parts from Morgan and get the build specifications. \nI suggest a good inspection prior to purchase, to ensure that nothing is rusted, and that the paint and body are in good shape. I know, stating the obvious... \n\nI think that this Morgan can be well bought, and brought along for a reasonable price, and enjoyed long enough to get a return on the investment.\n\nIn closing, it is imporrtant to understand that these cars are only original once, and a properly maintained, cared for ORIGINAL car is the best buy. However, when looking at cars that are older, especially cars that are closing in on 60 years, having well maintained originality may be impossible, as the maintenance (deferred or otherwise) may have required a restoration. Remember, for a few decades, these were just old cars, not \"collectables\". They were subjected to daily use, in rain, snow... So now, we have to save them. \n\nFortunately, Morgans are among the most easily restored classic sports cars, with original parts from the factory, still run by the Morgan Family for the last 109 YEARS, with likely the offspring of the original craftsmen building new Morgans and the replacement parts for the early cars. When we have a situation like that, originality is not much of a problem and the cars are more easily enjoyed. \n\nNo need to split hairs on this car. Bid and enjoy.", "likes": 10, "timestamp": 1511807842, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1876524, "authorName": "morganspares (The Seller)", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/morganspares/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "We wanted to respond to Duncan Charton's post regarding the previous article in BAT. This article was generated by the previous owner who resides in VA. This content within that article was written without any consent and with no connection to either the current owner or to Morgan Morgan of New England. This was the previous owner's sales pitch which we can only comment that he was not being truthful in his overall summation. The current owner purchased the car under that seller's advisement that the wood was 100%. Being that the new already has a Morgan at our shop under restoration he has decided to sell it and has asked us to consign it. \nAs to the color blue. This car has the same paint that it had on it when the previous seller advertised it. He called it Saxe Blue and we listed it as Avion Blue which the color that is on its Morgan certification.\nTo clarify the engine that is currently in the car has is numbered CT31419ME\nThe original engine on the certificate is TS82509\nThe car does come with a top but did not come with side curtains. If the reserve is met then we will make sure a wiper motor comes with the car. Again we ask all interested parties to not use the previous BAT article generated by the previous owner as it is not accurate and was not generated by the seller or by Morgan Motors of New England. We invite all interested parties to call us directly at Morgan Motors of New England for more information and to answer your questions and concerns.", "likes": 14, "timestamp": 1511814409, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1877152, "authorName": "Duncan_same_old", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/duncan_same_old/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@morganspares -- minor correction...that was @Britishiron, not me that posted the information about the previous BaT article.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511821523, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1877423, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@morganspares: Thanks for the clarifications on the car's history. This BaT sales venue is usually one characterized by comments and responses on line. Unencumbered by knowledge about the car, the BaT eBay story was a source of information for those of us trying to figure out the car's history. To that end, your response was useful.\n\nYour preference for telephone calls relative to this car is noted. Thanks again for the back story summary.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511825621, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1878245, "authorName": "Eldonixon", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/eldonixon/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I think there are some good options for potentially buying this car. There are so many Morgans out there on the road that have the typical wood issues that this Morgan has.\nYou could buy this car and put a new wiring harness in it and put the interior back in it and drive it as it is and it would essentially be not much different structurally than many other roadworthy Morgans. The other option I think is if I were to buy this car and go straight into performing wood replacement I could carefully disassemble the car and just keep the necessary paint refinishing to the body itself as it appears the overall paint finish is pretty good. Another plus on this Plus 4 is it having 4 seats. 4 seaters essentially drive the same as a 2 seater but with much much room for both driver and passenger and options for a small pet, kid and or luggage. MMMMM decisions, decisions.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1511879582, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1881477, "authorName": "John_aero", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/john_aero/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Wood repair. 30 years ago l bought a morgan with wood issues, fixed it with a marine product called get rot. 10 years latter sold the car and it was in a fire at the new owners home, wood was gone but get rot was still intact. Of course the car was repaired.", "likes": 3, "timestamp": 1511974690, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1884498, "authorName": "Mbuder", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/mbuder/", "bidAmount": 12500, "content": "$12,500 bid placed by Mbuder", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512072189, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1884638, "authorName": "Doritoman", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/doritoman/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Any guesses on the cost to replace the wood in this car? Is it something that can be done by a backyard mechanic?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1512074150, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1884718, "authorName": "SalisburyDave", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/salisburydave/", "bidAmount": 13005, "content": "$13,005 bid placed by SalisburyDave", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512076300, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1884793, "authorName": "Abacot", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/abacot/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@Doritoman\n\nThe folks selling this car are one of the largest suppliers of Morgan Parts in the US. They can provide you with the cost at a piece by piece level.", "likes": 5, "timestamp": 1512079196, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1884813, "authorName": "ebremenkamp", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/ebremenkamp/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I bought a 1968 Morgan four seater through this dealer in August this year, it has been a blast to drive and was exactly as advertised. The car and the company are both class acts.", "likes": 8, "timestamp": 1512080008, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1885075, "authorName": "morgannut", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/morgannut/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "The seller @Morganspares many years ago rebuilt the Morgan that was crushed by Kathleen Turner's character in the filming of the Danny DeVito directed dark comedy The War of the Roses. It already needed a new chassis, wood frame and body. Presumably it folded up just right when the giant SUV was driven over it. In its reincarnation it is a vintage racer. As @ebremenkamp wrote, they run a first rate shop, ready to assist any Morgan owner.", "likes": 6, "timestamp": 1512091041, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1885527, "authorName": "eima77", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/eima77/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Have looked at this Morgan many times.\nStill think it's gorgeous \nVery Best to Seller and Winning Bidder Today! GLWA", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512135551, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1885776, "authorName": "morgan1959", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/morgan1959/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "I have had two Morgan and still drive one - most fun car I have ever had. The driving experience is unique and the simplicity is delightful. When I show people that to adjust the seat height, you blow into a tube to inflate or deflate an air bladder in the seat base, they just look on in amazement. The Morgan takes me back to an effective and somewhat crude days of motoring but one that has to be experienced to understand. I have had many cars from XKE's to corvettes to monster Miatas, but the Morgan is the one I look forward to driving the most.", "likes": 4, "timestamp": 1512143410, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1885853, "authorName": "donqueen", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/donqueen/", "bidAmount": 15000, "content": "$15,000 bid placed by donqueen", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512145240, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1886058, "authorName": "nobrakes", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/nobrakes/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@morganspares considering your expertise, what would be the minimum investment to keep this car in roadworthy frequent driver condition? Not a full cosmetic restoration, strictly structural and operational.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1512151951, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1886070, "authorName": "SalisburyDave", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/salisburydave/", "bidAmount": 15500, "content": "$15,500 bid placed by SalisburyDave", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512152287, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1886077, "authorName": "pre_75", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pre_75/", "bidAmount": 15750, "content": "$15,750 bid placed by pre 75", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512152616, "type": "bat-bid"}, {"id": 1886226, "authorName": "pre_75", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/pre_75/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "Sold on 12/1/17 for $15,750 to pre 75", "likes": 0, "timestamp": 1512156002, "type": "bat-bid-reserve"}, {"id": 1886230, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@bringatrailer: This auction brings up the notion of going back to the former \"BaT Exclusive\" format, where you essentially say : \"Here's the car, call if interested.\" I was hoping to have learned a lot more about the marque through comment discussions.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1512156106, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1886791, "authorName": "sjmorgan", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/sjmorgan/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "What more did you want to know? \nThere was quite a bit of input from Morgan owners. \nIt's hard to estimate the cost of restoration, but the paint was done (and that's expensive to do well), while the rest of the car is relatively simple, mechanically. Think TR3 for the most part. The wiring was of little consequence, as it could be owner done, with a Harness costing about $600 or hand wired from scratch in OE materials at a cost of less than half of that and a week of evenings spend under the dash rather than watching Cable. \nFrom my own shopping experience, it was not a bad deal for an experienced owner/restorer. Less than half the price of a nice restored one. Congratulations to the buyer. \n\nAnd.. Anyone can call if interested. Did anyone ever notice that the bidders just about never post anything?", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1512172112, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1887129, "authorName": "BritshIron", "authorUrl": "https://bringatrailer.com/member/britshiron/", "bidAmount": 0, "content": "@sjmorgan: My comment to @bringatrailer was meant to point out an idea that BaT tried some time ago. The \"BaT Exclusive\" format allowed certain sellers to simply list their car on BaT as a classified ad. The seller could fully describe the car, name an asking price, and buyers would then contact BaT to close the deal. The seller could also revise the listing, lower their price, etc. It just seemed to me this would have been a better format for this particular car on consignment, given that there was not a lot of tending to questions, and a preference for phone calls as opposed to detailed online responses--which are tedious and require quite a bit of time and commitment. \n\nThis discussion also brings up another point, which is there are really two business activities at work here. One is the business of a seller and buyer transaction--BaT turns the parties loose to \"do the deal\" at auction's end. The other is the business of running an on-line auction. Again, it simply seems this BaT sale, and others I have observed, may have been better for the parties if it was simply a classified ad.\n\nI've bought and sold cars on BaT, in part, because I like the business model that allows for buyer questions, seller responses, and interested party comments. Given that the seller in this auction is an organization that all of us Morgan owners depend upon, I was just hoping to hear more in terms of answering the questions a number of people asked. In my view, BaT's popularity is as much about learning about the vehicles through postings and responses, as it is about bring buyer and seller together. \n\nRegarding your last point, I really have not noticed that bidders just about never post anything. When I sold my car on BaT, it was nearly the opposite--almost all the bidders, including the winner, were participants in the online auction. For the car I bought on BaT, I was a commenter for the entire auction. I take your point that smart buyers could be silent participants in BaT auctions, I just never noticed the trend. My instinct is that, if BaT was relying on all its commenters to all be schumks, this auction format may not be successful.", "likes": 1, "timestamp": 1512190746, "type": "comment"}, {"id": 1887409, "authorName