Thread: Barney - a 1958 Series II

It really is the most ergonomically unfriendly vehicle I’ve ever sat in. My elbows actually hit the bottom of the steering wheel when I’m driving and I find myself looking for ways to get more space.

Is it legal to shorten a steering column? I know you are not allowed to weld them.

Also thinking I could take some foam out of the seat back and gain an inch or two there...

Originally Posted by OneOff

The new indicator switch in all its resplendent old style glory. It’s not self-cancelling, but neither are the blinkers on any motorbike I’ve ever owned, never been a problem. It’s got a bright flashing light in the middle, I don’t think I’ll forget to turn it off.

Question is, do they need to be self-cancelling for QLD rwc?


If it helps, I wired in a $5 piezo buzzer from Dick Smith back then, which worked in unison with the lamp.

If it helps, I wired in a $5 piezo 'buzzer' from Dick Smith (back then), which worked in unison with the lamp. I also replaced the genuine cushions & seat backs with a couple of thin bucket seats. Being 6' it helps, but still not ideal.

Did a bit on the weekend, built a tow hitch.
Had a oh **** moment when I was told it wouldn't be legal due to not being ADR plated, but my AULRO friends put my mind to rest on that score. Barney is of course pre-ADR regulations.

I still have the front guards and apron panel to refurb and paint and then it will be close to getting roadworthy (apart from replacing the rear seal on the transfer case, the rear diff seal again and the right hand swivel seal...)
But I seem to be willing to do anything rather than panel work, hence the tow bar.

Here it is - I seem to specialize in blurry photos these days, I might take up a career as a UFO photographer...













This tongue is borrowed off the Defender and will be too low for my trailer on the Series, so I will need to get another one.

That looks heaps stronger than the factory one.

Turn it over?

Brilliant job on the Towbar. I'll give you the tip, that is stronger than a lot of 'plated' ones i've seen .


hmmm . might copy that idea !!

Originally Posted by JDNSW

Turn it over?

yes... I did that but it looked a bit high then. The thing to do will be to put the trailer on and see.

I built it strong, it's more likely to pull the rear cross-member off before it breaks.

Originally Posted by OneOff

It really is the most ergonomically unfriendly vehicle I’ve ever sat in. My elbows actually hit the bottom of the steering wheel when I’m driving and I find myself looking for ways to get more space.

Is it legal to shorten a steering column? I know you are not allowed to weld them.

Also thinking I could take some foam out of the seat back and gain an inch or two there...

I am not certain, but later series 2A's may have a shorter steering column.
Worth investigating if you are a bit cramped in the cockpit.
Someone on here will be able to confirm it.

Cheers, Mick.