FOR SALE
A wonderful 1964 Ford Thames Ambulance built by Herbert Lomas Ambulances Ltd for the Royal Naval Armament Depot at Faslane Naval Base. Just 51,460 miles.
EQUIPMENT
Built-in headlamps, optional second seat, painted front bumper, fully opening twin rear doors, 15 hundred weight, sliding side windows, two external mirrors, optional fresh air heater, rubber floor mats, twin combined stop and tail lamps, rear reflectors, licence plate illumination, ambulance bell, oil pressure light, generator light, main beam light, twin vacuum operated windscreen wipers, 2 berth rear conversion, rear storage.
EXTERIOR
This Ford Thames Ambulance retains all the original decals when supplied new to the Royal Navy in 1964 at their high security nuclear base at Glen Douglas. Restored by the previous owner in 2005 it creates an amazing reaction by all that see it. Finished in the correct Royal Navy Blue it has a beautiful shine but the finish is not factory perfect with a couple of small runs. The glass still has etched the naval base identification number 25 RN 66 which was removed in 1989 when the vehicle was first registered for public road use. The lower front valance has some paint blisters and the passenger lower foot edge is slightly corroded. The vehicle has never been welded and is structurally sound. A beautiful example.
INTERIOR
Completely original from the seat material to the rubber floor mats. All the additional switch gear for ambulance operations remain, including a working bell! Being 48 years old the dash paint has worn in a few areas and the drivers seat is torn. The rear section has been refitted to a two berth configuration with ample storage space, however, all the original rear interior fitments are still present. Comfortable, clean and unmolested. A fabulous Ford Thames example.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
The trusty Consul 4-cylinder engine with overhead valves produces 52bhp at 4400rpm and drives wonderfully. The steering column 3-speed gearbox is smooth and easy to operate. There is no synchromesh on first gear. The hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch is light and progressive.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
The pressed steel disc wide base rims are colour coded with perfect chrome centre hub-caps. Four brand new Kleber CT200 185 R15 tyres have been fitted. The hydraulic brake system works well as does the pull lever handbrake.
HISTORY FILE
Kept out of public view at the high security Naval Nuclear Submarine Base at Glen Douglas until 1989 this beautiful and very rare Ford Thames was commissioned and built by Herbert Lomas Ambulances Ltd in 1964. Since its release it has been enthusiastically owned by a series of private collectors, the last a Mr Dobson, embarked on a sympathetic and light restoration including a conversion to a two berth motor home for sleeping at weekend classic car shows. This was carried out in 2005. Having recently decided to downsize his extensive vehicle and motorbike collection this excellent piece of British motoring history is available to enjoy and cherish. Previous MOT history since being released from the Royal Navy help confirm the very low mileage of 51,460.
MOT July 2013 and Tax until June 2013. HPI Clear.
To see a full set of photographs of this car please click on the link below:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/kgfclassiccars/sets/72157631502433282
