1948 Bedford OB Plaxton Motor Coach, Registration no. EAJ 679 Chassis no. OB68823

Odometer reading: tbc
MOT: Exempt

*A classic of British bus design
*Present ownership since 2006
*Extensively restored 2006-2008 (engine rebuilt 2015)
*Driven to the sale

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Rationalising its manufacturing, General Motors moved production of Chevrolet commercial vehicles to its Vauxhall car plant at Luton, from whence a redesigned range of 'Bedford' branded commercials emerged in 1931. In 1939, Bedford introduced the 'K' series which, in common with passenger cars of the time, was more curvaceously styled and featured a rounded radiator grille. The 'K' series catered for 30-40cwt payloads, while further up the scale Bedford offered the 'M' and 'O' series for loads of up to three tons and five tons respectively. Introduced at the same time, the 'OB' was the coach version of the 'O' lorry chassis. Relatively few 'OB' chassis were built prior to WW2, but the model would prove to be an outstanding success with 12,766 produced up to 1951, making it one of the most popular buses of its type ever.
This Plaxton-bodied Bedford OB was purchased by the late owner in 2006. Known as 'Charlie', the coach was in a good running and driving condition but the woodwork and aluminium body required attention. There are bills on file from Bygone Bedford Bits of Poole for parts used during the restoration in 2006-2008 together with others from Vintage Military Vehicle Spares for a replacement gearbox, clutch, manifolds, etc. The engine was rebuilt in 2015 by G S Autos in Honiton, while South East Coachworks carried out extensive repairs to the ash frame and fitted new skinning. There is a photographic record on file plus bills totalling circa £25,000. The coach still presents well, and will be driven to the auction.

£38,000 – 45,000

Vendor Score Total: 100 /100

Bidders should note that the automated 100-point Seller's Assessment is provided by each Seller at the point of consignment using the guidelines below, and is not provided, assessed or verified by Bonhams MPH. Accordingly Customers (Bidders) are on notice that each vehicle is offered "as is / as seen" subject to the Conditions of Sale for the auction, and Customers (Bidders) are strongly recommended to view the Lot(s) being offered, before bidding, in order to satisfy themselves as to their condition; Bonhams MPH will not entertain disputes over Sellers' Assessments.

Key for sellers' assessments:
1/5 POOR. A project vehicle | Requires urgent attention | Damaged | Parts missing
2/5 AVERAGE. Useable condition | Requires some attention | Light damage
3/5 GOOD. Drive away | Presents well | Good history file | Drives well
4/5 VERY GOOD. Well restored | Running and driving with no noticeable faults | Sound throughout
5/5 EXCELLENT. Concours condition | Beautifully presented | Driving very well

EXTERIOR TOTAL: 25 /25
Body Work: 5
Paint: 5
Glass: 5
Chrome/Plastics/Trim: 5
Wheels/Tyres: 5

RUNNING GEAR TOTAL: 20 /20
Gearbox/Clutch: 5
Axles: 5
Suspension: 5
Brakes: 5

INTERIOR TOTAL: 20 /20
Seats: 5
Dashboard/Door cards/Carpets: 5
Headlining: 5
Trim: 5

ELECTRICAL TOTAL: 10 /10
Main components: 5
Ancillary components: 5

ENGINE TOTAL: 20 /20
Starting: 5
Running: 5
Under Bonnet: 5
Mechanical components: 5

Car History File: 5