1961 Plymouth Valiant Station Wagon 2.8 petrol

Summary:

Icon resurrected

Faults:

Almost all lamps defective, cleaned corrosion.

Headlamp reflectors rusty.

Wiper linkage broken, fabricated new.

Window cranks stuck, window lifter mechanism rusted, fixed.

Brakes defective and rusted, fitted new kit.

Brake master cylinder leaky, replaced.

Various Brake line and hoses.

Cooling system full of brownish gunk, cleaned, then radiator and water pump leaking, replaced.

Cooling hoses rotted, replaced.

New aftermarket carburetor.

New fuel lines and cleaned petrol tank that was full of gunk.

Replaced all oil in engine, transmission and axle, all looked like tar and not oil.

Tyres dry rotted, replaced.

Etc etc.

General Comments:

Probably the coolest and most unusual car you've seen. Weird styling, but simple mechanically underneath.

Tons of space, space for 6 grown ups and luggage and then 10 crates of beer bottles.

Early slant inline 6 with manual 3 speed. No speed demon, but comfortable and good torque when you finally reached cruising speed.

Had been off the road for several years, found it dumped in the wood. Bought it from the son of the original owner. Looked pretty rough but no serious rust, and the engine and transmission were strong. No idea about mileage, speedometer cable defective for years and son didn't remember any specifics.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 6th July, 2026