History of 1955 86" from Coffs Harbour?

[JimUSA]

I am in the process of restoring a 1955 86" I bought from a guy in Wollongong earlier this year. He didn't know much about it or the previous owner(s) except that it has not been registered in forever. Car number 177600452, engine 170604970 (2 ltr petrol). Major components all appear original.

I had the panels sodablasted and found the remnants of some old painted letters -- see the attached photo. I can make out "Coffs Harbour" and the name "Packham" but not much else. Google says there is a Packham family in Coffs Harbour but does not mention any business with that name. Anyone have a clue on this?

[vnx205]

In the 1950s and 60s, there were an enormous number of Land Rovers used by banana growers.

I lived in Sawtell at the time; the next town south of Coffs.

The name Packham doesn't ring a bell; sorry.

[bobslandies]

Hi,

This vehicle Car number 177600452, engine number 170604970 was supplied by Grenville Motors on 17.5.56 to Claude Smith & Sons who were the Land Rover/Rover car Agents at Coffs Harbour, Bellingen, Macksville and Dorrigo.
It was a STD vehicle (soft top) and had key no 558. No other details listed.

Prior to 1969 it was a requirement in New South Wales to have the owner's name and location, also the tare and aggregate weights painted on the driver's side of the vehicle if it was registered as a "Motor Lorry", etc.

Bob

[JimUSA]

Bob, thanks for the information -- I really appreciate it!