Team Cambridge Monaro

[Grant Sprague]

Paints all sorted by looks of things, I was thinking of the Cambridge cig packets [Ken yr onto it] that's where the true colours came from I would think , must be something on the net .... any way all sorted & guess John went down that track ....well done John

[Grant Sprague]

Well said John, beaut day in Tauranga ............enjoy the long weekend

[Aron Peters]

It's really starting to look good now John - it's pretty exciting seeing colour going on. Congratulations on the work done so far.

[Rod Grimwood]

Hey John Boy, you have cracked it. Remember way back (years) on a visit when you said you to me ' come and look at this' as you took me over and lifted the cover and told me what it was, and I can remember thinking 'holy F*&k there is not much left of that ole girl', but mate you are a Gem.

[kiwi285]

Here is part of the unveiling - will look a million dollars when all of the other bits get added over time.

http://i68.tinypic.com/2zz69dw.jpg

http://i66.tinypic.com/24b9a2g.jpg

[Steve Holmes]

Outstanding effort John!

[Steve Holmes]

Will you be fitting a rear spoiler to it John?

[Steve Holmes]

Absolutely!

[Steve Holmes]

Its all about the details John. The car is going to look amazing!

[Steve Holmes]

I only just noticed you have reverted back to the factory location for the fuel filler. I know you were at pains making the decision on where it should be. What made you go that direction in the end?

[Steve Holmes]

Yeah tough call John, and I wouldn't have wanted to have made the decision. Under Schedule K you MIGHT have got away with it. Its a fairly minor thing, but it was the relocated fuel filler that suggested the link between the car on TM, and the Cambridge Monaro.

But, as you rightly say, you're trying to freeze the cars history to one specific point in time, and in late 1969, that car still had its fuel filler in the factory location.

[khyndart in CA]

John,
I remember reading this in a NZ Classic Car magazine in Dec. 2008.
"35257 "

"A Field Filler ! "

You can certainly answer that last question now.
Congratulations and please take care of her until we can have that beer under the hood !


(Ken Hyndman )

[Jac Mac]

* A beautiful "pair'' of cross-ram webers... * ?? did that mean two DCOE webers on an adapter on top of a 4bbl intake.... I had the impression it was four DCOE's on the likes of a proper cross-ram manifold or similar...??
Probably an over excited journo with wrong words.

[kiwi285]

Here are the latest batch of photos of John's Monaro

http://i64.tinypic.com/9pt449.jpg

http://i63.tinypic.com/2ew0553.jpg

http://i67.tinypic.com/lv0bq.jpg

[Steve Holmes]

Looks amazing! Great work John.

[aussiemonza]

Hi John, great work. An inspiration. If you want to sell the Webers back to me, I need them for the Monza!

[Mark Fiddyment]

It looks fantastic and has come such a long way from the first photos posted. I was wondering if the front sway bar is on upside down for a specific reason as the step is usually down and on the passengers side to clear bottom radiator hose?

[John McKechnie]

Hi John, great work. An inspiration. If you want to sell the Webers back to me, I need them for the Monza!

Rowan -mate. Webers are like women, property and cars.........hard found and even harder kept.
I may have to use super loctite to resist temptation to remove them at any time.
They are still under my pillow rocking me off to sleep...........

[kiwi285]

Here are a couple more photos from John. This like a strip tease in reverse.

http://i67.tinypic.com/2iqfmmh.jpg

http://i65.tinypic.com/2u8l06g.jpg

[Kevin Hirst]

Here are a couple more photos from John. This like a strip tease in reverse.

http://i67.tinypic.com/2iqfmmh.jpg

http://i65.tinypic.com/2u8l06g.jpg

Beer crate would have been full, half full, or full of emptys back in the day

[kiwi285]

When you got to this stage of a built I would imagine that it would be full of empties and there were a few not so happy campers. It would have been by the door to remind someone that it needed replenishing.

[Bruce302]

Well done john,
I will be around for an inspection soon. Exciting times.

Bruce.

[kiwi285]

Here are the latest batch of photos from John. Must be getting close now me old mate. Can't wait to see it completed and on track doing its thing.

http://i66.tinypic.com/2h6g8kg.jpg

http://i68.tinypic.com/14ad1g.jpg

http://i65.tinypic.com/1zy7bk8.jpg

http://i67.tinypic.com/333vg3q.jpg

[seaqnmac27]

Not yours John, but Ron Silvester's 'lost' one

37421

[Terry S]

Not yours John, but Ron Silvester's 'lost' one

37421

Not bad eh? In three posts you have at least one page of each upside down

[Steve Holmes]

Here are the latest batch of photos from John. Must be getting close now me old mate. Can't wait to see it completed and on track doing its thing.

http://i66.tinypic.com/2h6g8kg.jpg

http://i68.tinypic.com/14ad1g.jpg

http://i65.tinypic.com/1zy7bk8.jpg

http://i67.tinypic.com/333vg3q.jpg

Wow, that looks amazing!

[seaqnmac27]

Not bad eh? In three posts you have at least one page of each upside down

I am sorry, but what are you on about now Terry?

[Terry S]

I am sorry, but what are you on about now Terry?

On this thread, in post# 747 the image is upside down.

On the Historic Sports Sedan thread, in post# 876 the image is upside down.

On the Red Dawson Dekeon Monza thread, in post #43 the last page of the images is upside down.

[Oldfart]

On this thread, in post# 747 the image is upside down.

On the Historic Sports Sedan thread, in post# 876 the image is upside down.

On the Red Dawson Dekeon Monza thread, in post #43 the last page of the images is upside down.

Not on mine Terry, and never were? Is it your browser?

[seaqnmac27]

Thanks Rhys, I thought I was going mad for a while.

[Terry S]

Thanks Rhys, I thought I was going mad for a while.

I only tell it as I see it, nothing more, nothing less.

[Spgeti]

Wow, that looks amazing!

Congratulations John on saving a very special car. It looks amazing and I for one cannot wait to see it in the flesh.

Cheers
Bruce

[Grant Ellwood]

On this thread, in post# 747 the image is upside down.

On the Historic Sports Sedan thread, in post# 876 the image is upside down.

On the Red Dawson Dekeon Monza thread, in post #43 the last page of the images is upside down.

Likewise on my IPad, all 3 upside down. Perhaps it's an Apple glitch!

[Terry S]

Likewise on my IPad, all 3 upside down. Perhaps it's an Apple glitch!

That's great. I knew I wasn't going mad. I too am using an iPad.

[Oldfart]

Hood lining is in, rear quarter glass in and rolls up and down, front door glass with front quarter vent, bumpers front and rear on, taillamps, front park lamps in. GTS and Monaro badges also fitted.
Wiring is in, will test lights and indicators.
Been waiting a long time to have a good crack at assembling.
Bruce302 swung by today.......first visitor.
At last its looking like my first love I saw 9 December 1969

Well done John, it's looking absolutely fantastic. Plain packaging law now :)
To be honest I never would have suspected it would have been fully trimmed and with all the windows operating and such like.

[Grant Ellwood]

That's great. I knew I wasn't going mad. I too am using an iPad.

At first I thought the photos were upside-down because they came from your part of the world where everything is upside-down, compared to where I live in USA.....

Back to the thread - John the Monaro restoration looks fantastic in the photos, look forward to seeing it run next time I'm back in NZ.

[Jac Mac]

I see one of the crossram intakes for Webers on a Bizzarini Chevrolet at Goodwood on the live stream that does not look like it will need them for a few weeks John..:)

[Bruce302]

That could be Spinner's right there. Correct colour too.

[Oldfart]

While in Oz last week I stumbled across an article in Unique Car, I think, talking about "white bodies" which were supplied to bona fide race teams in the day, and that most, if not all, Bathurst runners were built from them. Any comments from the knowledgeable?

[BMCBOY]

You may not have seen this photo before John.


38272

[Steve Holmes]

Thats an awesome photo Ross!

[Roger Dowding]

John Mck, this is a photo that may have been on TRS before, Alan Boyle posted it on his Facebook page a couple of years ago,,and as there is interest in rebuilding well known cars - here is this, Mt Maunganui around 1962-63 .. others may know more

38326

and the reason for the photo ..

38327

I think Trevor Benton knows who has it and hopes it will be rebuilt .. as many of us do !!.

[kiwi285]

This photo from John look to me like the car is close to finished - paint wise anyway. I am suer John will add some further comments. Looks fantastic John - a credit to you.

http://i63.tinypic.com/v8d3lh.jpg

[Oldfart]

Simply stunning John. It is great to see someone achieve their ambition, even better when it's a race car :)

[GD66]

Yep, and a horn one at that ! Nice, patient, loyal re-creation John, and thanks heaps for sharing your journey with us all here on The Roaring Season. More power to your right foot, son !
Regards GD :cool:

[khyndart in CA]

John,
That is a beautiful restoration. It never looked better.
Even your trailer is a greater improvement than what Spinner used.
I am not sure on that number though. Was it used on both the Camaro and the Monaro ?
Also not sure when I might show up for that ride with you.
Well done. Ken H.
38340
Spinner's Camaro on the trailer, Morrinsville. 1969.
( Ken Hyndman photo )

[khyndart in CA]

Thanks John,
For keeping the offer open.
Our daughter's wedding is in 3 weeks and that makes home repairs, travel and car restoration seem cheap in comparison !

That number 59 must have a had a special meaning to Spinner.


(Ken H)

[Frosty5]

This photo from John look to me like the car is close to finished - paint wise anyway. I am suer John will add some further comments. Looks fantastic John - a credit to you.

http://i63.tinypic.com/v8d3lh.jpg

An absolute credit to you John Boy.Patience and perseverance certainly pays off. Look forward to doing an audit on this car. Assume you have your COD underway.
Cheers
Dave Graham

[Kiwiboss]

Very impressive John and well done, i've been hard out on that Mustang so i know what it takes!! keep at it. Dale M

[Frosty5]

Yep, all known competition history on page 11 is done.
sticking pix in this afternoon.
COD can only be done when cage is done, and I submit both together.

Top man!!!

[Rod Grimwood]

You may not have seen this photo before John.


38272


Regards #767 photo
Looking at the driver angle and crouch, Helmet etc. reckon that is Rod Coppins driving.

A credit to you John, can not wait to see this in raw flesh, saw it at your place under cover years back and you were just starting on the Falcon. Also thanks for the call today and i felt very honoured/lucky to have the chat. Got me thinking now, foot is itchy.
cheers and again John well done, not only with this project but the work you are putting into the Historic Sports Sedans along with HMC. You are a busy man.

[Steve Holmes]

I can't wait to see this car in the flesh. What an epic restoration!

[Rod Grimwood]

Gotta give you big nudge fella, you are certainly on to it, and are determined to have it right. Good on Ya.

[Steve Holmes]

Great investigative work John! Thats really cool. Its actually quite an obscure choice of rear wing. I've never seen one on anything other than a Chevrolet Can-Am.

How close are you to having the car on the track John?

[khyndart in CA]

December 8/9. 1969. Pukekohe.
Wonderful photo of a young John McKechnie with his mates checking out the Cambridge Team Holden Monaro that had just arrived from Morrinsville and was driven by Rod Coppins.
This is a Jack Inwood photo that was at the Bruce McLaren Trust.
You will note aforementioned rear spoiler. I know John will provide more details such as which one he is in the photo.
(Thanks for sharing John, I might have come close to meeting you that day as all the Morrinsville mob used to hang around Spinner and the crew. )

39838



( Ken Hyndman )

[khyndart in CA]

Oops,
I forgot to post what a great looking spoiler that was installed on the Monaro in 1969.
You would have to agree as you see this example on a Chevy Firenza CanAm.

(p.s. If you have one of these tucked away in the back of the shed, get in touch with John. )


39839


(Ken Hyndman )

[SPman]

Any chance of re-creating that photo......?

[seaqnmac27]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qqm2qCOFVOU&t=37s

[seaqnmac27]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji89nFsNiMY&t=38s

[seaqnmac27]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4G_HzxaoLs&t=39s

[seaqnmac27]

Chris Brauer

[Steve Holmes]

John, that was Chris Brauer in the ex-Bob Jane '67 Mustang. The car was badly wrecked, and I believe Brauer never raced again.

Fortunately, the Bowden's in Queensland own what remains of the car and I assume will restore one day.

[seaqnmac27]

There are pics of it on this thread John. http://tentenths.com/forum/showthread.php?t=21295

[khyndart in CA]

John had recently contacted me here in CA to help find an original American Racing Equipment rear spoiler like the Monaro had when it raced in the seventies. I thought that would not be a problem until I learned the company had been sold and most rear spoilers had been sent to South Africa with the Chev Firenza Can Am cars. I emailed SA without success and after time I had given up but John had not.
He found that George Sheweiry had one from a 1969 Ford Talladega that just needed the paint stripped away to show the original beautiful detailed spoiler. So we all owe thanks to George for hanging on to possibly the only available original ARE rear spoiler out there as John had given up on me. Also thanks to Angus Fogg for reproducing the exact mounting legs for the spoiler and these photos.
Thank you all for getting me "off the hook". A truly magnificent and original restoration John. Well done.
42788

42789

42790



(Ken Hyndman )

[kiwi285]

Truly a great restoration job John with no expense spared.

http://i65.tinypic.com/bde9y.jpg

[Steve Holmes]

John had recently contacted me here in CA to help find an original American Racing Equipment rear spoiler like the Monaro had when it raced in the seventies. I thought that would not be a problem until I learned the company had been sold and most rear spoilers had been sent to South Africa with the Chev Firenza Can Am cars. I emailed SA without success and after time I had given up but John had not.
He found that George Sheweiry had one from a 1969 Ford Talladega that just needed the paint stripped away to show the original beautiful detailed spoiler. So we all owe thanks to George for hanging on to possibly the only available original ARE rear spoiler out there as John had given up on me. Also thanks to Angus Fogg for reproducing the exact mounting legs for the spoiler and these photos.
Thank you all for getting me "off the hook". A truly magnificent and original restoration John. Well done.
42788

42789

42790



(Ken Hyndman )

Wow that looks really cool John! What an amazing effort you've made restoring this car. Really a huge committment, and you deserve a lot of credit. Most people would have simply walked away. But you've brought back virtually from the dead an important piece of NZ motor racing history.

[khyndart in CA]

Hey John,
I have a 97 FORD F 250 HD 351 CD sitting in my driveway full of fuel and ready to go !
I don't need it this weekend so it's all yours. Do have any problems with that ?


Ken H

[khyndart in CA]

Not sure John,
It might end up looking like this !

42810

[khyndart in CA]

About 20 years ago John's Monaro was for sale and I bet he wishes he could have gotten hold of it back then.
(Not a great photo but it gives an idea of how it looked then. 1996-98 )
42816

[khyndart in CA]

John has come across some old paperwork and photos from a previous owner, Paul Horan, who must have been sick to the stomach on seeing how the car had deteriorated after he sold it in the late nineties. So here are some photos again from the 1996-98 period.
Best looking lawn furniture in the country.
42864

42865

42866

42867

42868
(Getting ready to sell )

[khyndart in CA]

Plus here is a copy of the "Vehicle Modifications Declaration Certificate" which included flared guards and roll bar etc. January 1991.

42869

Final photo of some of the hard to find emblems.
42870

[khyndart in CA]

You read about "Barn Finds" and then you see what a "Backyard Find" looks like and then realize what John had to go through and restore this pile to better than new.
He should be knighted for his efforts !
I think these are the last of the "before restoration photos".
My hat goes off to you Sir John.

42877

42878

42879


(Ken Hyndman ..editor )

[Oldfart]

Only two words! Wow, amazing.

[Steve Holmes]

John has come across some old paperwork and photos from a previous owner, Paul Horan, who must have been sick to the stomach on seeing how the car had deteriorated after he sold it in the late nineties. So here are some photos again from the 1996-98 period.
Best looking lawn furniture in the country.
42864

42865

42866

42867

42868
(Getting ready to sell )

These sure are an eye opener! I can't believe how someone could just leave this thing to rot.

[SPman]

Sir John........has a certain...as long as you don't mention Robin Hood.....ring to it.........
Absolutely superb resto sir! May you have much enjoyment, therefrom.

[45DCOE]

42947

Found this in an old Autonews. Looks like Grady has the car on the edge.

[Paul B]

You read about "Barn Finds" and then you see what a "Backyard Find" looks like and then realize what John had to go through and restore this pile to better than new.
He should be knighted for his efforts !
I think these are the last of the "before restoration photos".
My hat goes off to you Sir John.

42877

42878

42879


(Ken Hyndman ..editor )

I could not agree more... awesome effort!

[Spgeti]

I will try to get there John. If I don't I will be thinking of you. Good luck for the day.

Cheers
Bruce

[Oldfart]

Well it's an absolute definite I can't be there, but all the very best for the "Big Day Out" John. What you have done is nothing short of stupendous. Congratulations. I hope it all works out as it should, every other driver and car (and walls) stay well away.

[TonyG]

Congratulations John. From your dream of finding the car in the first place to how it is now is nothing short of astounding. A tribute to you and all who have helped along the way in this journey.
Regards
Tony

[Bruce302]

Ok, so I may as well go to work. No point risking a lovely car in that weather.
B.


Scotty who ran the Meremere dragstrip for 8 years tells me there is very heavy rain at Hampton Downs area tomorrow- 30 mm on rain involved.
The team pulled the plug on the Monaro going out there .
Everyone else has been driving the car but me so far........

[Rod Grimwood]

any photos Johny boy, love that car

[khyndart in CA]

John,
I truly would love to attend and be there for this auspicious occasion. Perhaps at another time. All the best and stay safe.
Cheers,
Ken

[Steve Holmes]

Legendary line-up at Hampton Downs today. Angus Fogg photos:

46878

46879

[Bruce302]

It was a near perfect day at Hampton Down. I can't think of anything negative so it may well have been a perfect day.
Caught up With Paul B and his wife Bibby, and had some great long chats, So neat to hear stories of cars being thoroughly well researched and built to very very high standards, as is Pauls' Falcon Sprint.

The line up of genuine period correct race cars was impressive and I think ever one had a great time. A few cars broke, but that goes with all aspects of motoring.

Thank you John McKechnie for your generosity , and thanks also to Angus Fogg who made it all so seamless, professional and thoroughly enjoyable.

Bruce.

[nigel watts]

46883

46884

46885

[John McKechnie]

Great weather for you and your camera Nigel.

[Steve Holmes]

How did the Monaro go on debut John?

[ERC]

I don't think it completed one of the races. but was still running under its own power when I last saw it Steve. Nigel's pics are so much better than mine! Great stuff. I might have to invest in a better lens...

I did get a couple of pictures with both of John's cars on track at the same time. Still on the lap top being sorted before transferring to the PC.

[John McKechnie]

Steve- Totally Fantastic and the sun was definitely shining for the Monaro and TACCOC.

Thanks to Angus Fogg being there attending to the various cars under his care, nothing was a problem-except fuel guage giving incorrect reading
In the first race, I didnt have enough petrol in, and there was some starvation, so pulled back in to top up.
Rest of the time was spent simply having fun ......best time was 1:24 BTW-much faster than the XA when I first started running it
Craig, Bruce, Tony A and myself were going to all run together
Tony A had brake probs in practice,
Craig had clutch probs was hauled off, later was seen lighting up the Zephyrs tyres while tied on the trailer.
All the stars were in alignment for Bruce, so I said go out and race.
Great feeling having both cars reliable and able to run at Manfield.
Definitely the Monaro is not the race car that the XA is,but racing is not what Historics are all about...I was more than 100% satisfied.
It ticked all the boxes for all those interested, most memorable for me was Dave Graham -he was positively beaming with delight seeing it there finished and out on the track racing.

[Frosty5]

Steve- Totally Fantastic and the sun was definitely shining for the Monaro and TACCOC.

Thanks to Angus Fogg being there attending to the various cars under his care, nothing was a problem-except fuel guage giving incorrect reading
In the first race, I didnt have enough petrol in, and there was some starvation, so pulled back in to top up.
Rest of the time was spent simply having fun ......best time was 1:24 BTW-much faster than the XA when I first started running it
Craig, Bruce, Tony A and myself were going to all run together
Tony A had brake probs in practice,
Craig had clutch probs was hauled off, later was seen lighting up the Zephyrs tyres while tied on the trailer.
All the stars were in alignment for Bruce, so I said go out and race.
Great feeling having both cars reliable and able to run at Manfield.
Definitely the Monaro is not the race car that the XA is,but racing is not what Historics are all about...I was more than 100% satisfied.
It ticked all the boxes for all those interested, most memorable for me was Dave Graham -he was positively beaming with delight seeing it there finished and out on the track racing.

It was one of the best things I have seen in a long time. I grew up with these cars. Particularly Team Cambridge Racing Team. There were many different cars in these colours and to see one of the most iconic cars of that team back out on the track in its livery was spectacular to say the least. Well done John, you persistence and determination to see the project through to the end is nothing short of amazing. An absolute credit to you. regards, Dave Graham

[ERC]

Just for you John! I haven't started posting on my own thread as yet.



46949

46950

46951

[John McKechnie]

Thanks for these Ray, really neat. Bruce and i will get together with you to get the pdf and take some prints.
Ahhh....at last clarity .
Every time I get the Falcon back there are these mysterious unexplained flat spots, usually told- leaving the car standing too long when they are hot- now I know better.

[Bruce302]

Thanks for these Ray, really neat. Bruce and i will get together with you to get the pdf and take some prints.
Ahhh....at last clarity .
Every time I get the Falcon back there are these mysterious unexplained flat spots, usually told- leaving the car standing too long when they are hot- now I know better.

It was that guy in the Belmont Coupe, he 'brake checked' me....

[Kiwiboss]

It was that guy in the Belmont Coupe, he 'brake checked' me....

WOW one race and you're a TRUE racer Bruce........lets "blame the other guy" ha ha...........you'll fit in perfectly.......hey that's a good time you done mate you're a natural............Dale M

[John McKechnie]

the racing is over, and the car is now resting in my garage.
I drove it into the same place as it was standing for all this time, yet now it is what I could only imagine and convince myself it would be
Somebody who is close and knows what i have been through with the Monaro has just said this to me-

Apart from the immense feeling of satisfaction it must have been a somewhat surreal sensation owning, restoring and finally driving an actual childhood dream.


Yes, it is exactly what he says.
The dream hasnt finished, the surreal- unreal, fantastic- part is that I now own and have driven my actual childhood dream.
A car is a car when you can start it up and drive it,

you turn it on and it returns the favour

All the restoration work was never ever part of my dream
Bruce will feel the same when he does the same in his Firebird.

[Bruce302]

WOW one race and you're a TRUE racer Bruce........lets "blame the other guy" ha ha...........you'll fit in perfectly.......hey that's a good time you done mate you're a natural............Dale M

It is a well set up car and pretty easy to drive, it just needs to go on a diet.

B.

[Bruce302]

the racing is over, and the car is now resting in my garage.
I drove it into the same place as it was standing for all this time, yet now it is what I could only imagine and convince myself it would be
Somebody who is close and knows what i have been through with the Monaro has just said this to me-

Apart from the immense feeling of satisfaction it must have been a somewhat surreal sensation owning, restoring and finally driving an actual childhood dream.


Yes, it is exactly what he says.
The dream hasnt finished, the surreal- unreal, fantastic- part is that I now own and have driven my actual childhood dream.
A car is a car when you can start it up and drive it,

you turn it on and it returns the favour

All the restoration work was never ever part of my dream
Bruce will feel the same when he does the same in his Firebird.

You are so right John, Knowing what is waiting at the end drives the restorations. You have done a phenomenal job.
You deserve all the kudos that comes your way.

Bruce.

[John McKechnie]

It is a well set up car and pretty easy to drive, it just needs to go on a diet

Bruce- But there is no Diet Avgas................

[khyndart in CA]

46883

46884

46885

What superb photos of a superbly restored historic race car. Thank you Nigel. John, everyone who knew that car from its original racing days must be thrilled and amazed at the workmanship you have achieved. "Spinner" always favored the Camaros and I don't think this Monaro ever looked this good. That rear spoiler was worth the search ! Take good care of it my friend.
Just one question; Are you letting "Grimmie" behind the wheel ?

(Ken H)

[SPman]

Bloody brilliant!
Well done John - a reward for all the hours put in, finally come to fruition.
We all owe you a debt of thanks for putting another racing icon, back on the map.
John L.

[nigel watts]

47112

[John McKechnie]

Wow, I thought I had run out of superlatives to describe your work Nigel, but I will raise the bar just as you have here.

THIS IS TOTALLY SMEGGING UNBELIEVABLY BRILLIANT, YOU ARE A GENIUS WHEN IT COMES TO ANTICIPATING.
Follow the leader, well I did tell Bruce to stay close to hit the apex.
I hope you are coming to Manfield and enjoy the BBQ on Saturday.
As the car is now finished and racing , this is my last post.

[Paul B]

Well everything was great on the day, cars, weather, people.
A few pics
47113

47114

47115

47116

[Paul B]

These 2 cars first met in Baypark December 1969, again Easter Baypark 1970
48251
On behalf of John Mc

[John McKechnie]

Thanks Paul.
Monaro is doing selfies with all his old buddies.-so far 6 of the originals.
First meeting at Baypark Dec 1969, both had engine problems
next time Easter 1970 at Baypark, it was all on between Jim and Grady.
Pix and results are on this thread.

[Steve Holmes]

These 2 cars first met in Baypark December 1969, again Easter Baypark 1970
48251
On behalf of John Mc

This is a cool photo and so good to see these two cars reunited.

[Milan Fistonic]

Instead of my photos going from John to Bruce to Paul and then to TRS, I might as well put them straight here.

George Bunce getting a bit of air at Pukekohe March 9, 1975

49256

[Milan Fistonic]

George Bunce at the 1975 NZ Grand Prix Meeting

49257

[Milan Fistonic]

George Bunce leaving the chicane on the back straight at Pukekohe on 9 March 1975

49288

[John McKechnie]

Milan....neat,Very crisp, clear pix from an excellent position

[Rod Grimwood]

Great photos Milan, will show them to my mate (best man) Lyall, as we were only talking about ole race cars he painted over years. Top bloke and top painter. Silcock, Millens, Clayton, Coppins, Buncey, Bailey, Collier, just a few, actually most of the crew back then from saloons to Pacifics. Even mine, the lucky bugga.

[Steve Holmes]

Love the pics Milan. Thanks for sharing them.

[Paul B]

December 1969 at Baypark- 2nd meeting car attended
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49420


Levin
49412

On behalf of John Mc

[John McKechnie]

49449
Many thanks to Milan Fistonic for his pictures.

[John McKechnie]

49450
Many thanks to Milan Fistonic for his pictures.

[Milan Fistonic]

Found another one John. From 9 March 1975.

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[John McKechnie]

Milan- Flinko told me he was very impressed with your storage area, I am rapt you are still finding these gems.
Hopefully George is seeing these pix and wants to see it at Taupo.
Monaro is now running on all 8 cylinders and hopefully will look more exciting on the track .

[Milan Fistonic]

Taupo - 20 January 2018

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[khyndart in CA]

I had the great honor of being scooped up at Auckland Airport by John McKechnie and Bruce Thompson and being driven to Taupo on Friday Jan. 19th. with the Cambridge Monaro in tow. I sat back and relaxed, ate cherries and pies and listened to all the fascinating stories told and smiled a lot rather in contrast to the journey back where I was a tired lad after 3 exciting days. What a memory.
50109
Leaving the airport and I am thinking I came all this way, I certainly hope it does not rain for 3 days."No worries" it was going to be fun.
50110
Sitting in the back. If you are not on the right side of the road the other side must be the wrong side !
The cherries were all eaten by now ..sorry Paul !
50111
Stopping in Tirau at "Poppy's Café" for a "cuppa". Plus meeting the friendly couple of Peter and Jillian Hooper who were also Taupo bound with their very competitive 1982 Toyota Starlet # 7
50112
After unloading the Monaro at the Taupo track the rain held back and it made the magnificent Monaro look even more majestic.
(Remember John when you did not have enough photos of the car back in the day, well I think we are making up for it now.
50113
I think it looked happier when it found it's brother from the other side of the tracks.

[khyndart in CA]

50115

Check that left rear tire.
50116

50117

50118
Out where it belongs. John driving the Monaro.

(Ken H photos )

[khyndart in CA]

The Cambridge Monaro engine.
50163

John McKechnie enjoying driving his beautifully restored Monaro at Taupo. Jan 20th 2018
50164

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[khyndart in CA]

After the last race on Sunday it was time to load the Monaro and head on out.
50273

On Monday morning as we headed toward Auckland we decided to visit Morrinsville in the chance we might meet Spinner Black who was not able to make it to Taupo. When that was decided, John and Bruce kindly let me guide them through the back roads to Kiwitahi where I made an emotional stop outside my old home next to the "Swap / Hyndman Quarry". I don't know why the old 1940s garage is still standing as it was a problem when I left in 1972 ! Kenny's bedroom window is the one marked above the Audi. Anyway I did appreciate the stop. Thanks guys.
50280

Then we drove on into Morrinsville to Spinner's boatyard and he came to meet us. It was a great experience seeing one of the "Grand Old Masters" of NZ Muscle Cars light up and show so much interest in the car and John's wonderful restoration to the original " Cambridge Racing Team" Monaro.
Here are some photos of our time with Spinner. One even showing the Police showing a lack of interest in probably the fastest car in town that day !
50281
Bruce Thompson, John McKechnie and Spinner Black

50282

Hyndman is all smiles as I am reaching into Spinner's back pocket for the overtime pay he owed me from 1971 ! (Just kidding.)
50283

[khyndart in CA]

My last Monaro photos of a wonderful trip that brought it back to it's roots in Morrinsville.
Across the road in the blue building, now the Morrinsville Sandwich Bar, is where Spinner had his shop where all we local "grease monkeys" would gather to hear all the racing stories and escapades of the likes of Rod Coppins and Spinner etc. Some of us may have been there to also inhale the racing fuel fumes ! (Almost as bad as being next to Bruce Goodwin's 1965 Mark 3 Zephyr when he fired that up at Taupo !)

50284
Spinner checking one of John's early photos after hearing the engine start up.

50285
My last photo shows Spinner / Spencer Black, the original owner driver of the Monaro and John McKechnie the grand restorer/ owner of this wonderful machine.
Thanks guys, one for giving me a job and the other for taking me along for an unforgettable ride.
All the best,
Ken H.

[Roger Dowding]

My last Monaro photos of a wonderful trip that brought it back to it's roots in Morrinsville.
Across the road in the blue building, now the Morrinsville Sandwich Bar, is where Spinner had his shop where all we local "grease monkeys" would gather to hear all the racing stories and escapades of the likes of Rod Coppins and Spinner etc. Some of us may have been there to also inhale the racing fuel fumes ! (Almost as bad as being next to Bruce Goodwin's 1965 Mark 3 Zephyr when he fired that up at Taupo !)

50284
Spinner checking one of John's early photos after hearing the engine start up.

50285
My last photo shows Spinner / Spencer Black, the original owner driver of the Monaro and John McKechnie the grand restorer/ owner of this wonderful machine.
Thanks guys, one for giving me a job and the other for taking me along for an unforgettable ride.
All the best,
Ken H.

What a great adventure Ken H and to John M, thanks for arranging it for Ken .. wish I could have got to Taupo to catch up, maybe next year, will be in the Bay of Plenty by then.

Cheers

Roger D ..the retired - expired ex Healey Guy ..

[Kevin Hirst]

After the last race on Sunday it was time to load the Monaro and head on out.
50273

On Monday morning as we headed toward Auckland we decided to visit Morrinsville in the chance we might meet Spinner Black who was not able to make it to Taupo. When that was decided, John and Bruce kindly let me guide them through the back roads to Kiwitahi where I made an emotional stop outside my old home next to the "Swap / Hyndman Quarry". I don't know why the old 1940s garage is still standing as it was a problem when I left in 1972 ! Kenny's bedroom window is the one marked above the Audi. Anyway I did appreciate the stop. Thanks guys.
50280

Then we drove on into Morrinsville to Spinner's boatyard and he came to meet us. It was a great experience seeing one of the "Grand Old Masters" of NZ Muscle Cars light up and show so much interest in the car and John's wonderful restoration to the original " Cambridge Racing Team" Monaro.
Here are some photos of our time with Spinner. One even showing the Police showing a lack of interest in probably the fastest car in town that day !
50281
Bruce Thompson, John McKechnie and Spinner Black

50282

Hyndman is all smiles as I am reaching into Spinner's back pocket for the overtime pay he owed me from 1971 ! (Just kidding.)
50283


Good to see the police keeping an eye on you guy's, they must have long memorie's or still have wanted poster's up.

[John McKechnie]

Kevin-Talking about posters , I have a couple left over from Taupo....would you like a nice big glossy poster featuring the Monaro from 1969 and a current pic incorporating the advertising poster for the Taupo F5000 Historic Grand Prix
Caption- I was with the F5000s at Baypark December 29 1969, and am proud to still be with them now.
If so pm me with your address or will make sure you get one next time out.

[Kevin Hirst]

Kevin-Talking about posters , I have a couple left over from Taupo....would you like a nice big glossy poster featuring the Monaro from 1969 and a current pic incorporating the advertising poster for the Taupo F5000 Historic Grand Prix
Caption- I was with the F5000s at Baypark December 29 1969, and am proud to still be with them now.
If so pm me with your address or will make sure you get one next time out.

Yes please John, I will catch up with you at the next meeting, have not been to many lately as clashed with lot's of other less interesting event's, thank's in advance. cheer's.

[John McKechnie]

On Saturday morning at Taupo racetrack , a guy came up to me and said I was in Aus yesterday and bought Australian Muscle Car mag Issue 101 at the Airport and read all about this Monaro on the flight home.
Next day I come here and see the car...small world.
Anyway , if interested. Issue 101, not on shelves yet, but close.

[khyndart in CA]

John,
I'd love to have a copy of the magazine. Can I order it through you ?
Some of my Monopoly money is still good !

Ken

[John McKechnie]

Hi Ken.....will purchase stock from shop for distribution to (overseas) friends

[Steve Holmes]

Not sure how I missed it but I just noticed this car has always raced with a standard non-GTS hood.

[John McKechnie]

Yep, all model HK always had non vented bonnet,
HT, HG GTS models had this feature

[John McKechnie]

Just got Australian Muscle Car #101 from a Caltex petrol station...BP , Shell doesnt get it,Mobil hasnt got it yet.
Anyway Monaro is on page 18,19.
Still have to get Kens issue.
Sometime the full story may make it to a NZ mag


And thats all folks.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.

[John McKechnie]

But wait , theres more, found this on South Island Motorsport facebook, Grand Prix 1975...Robin Tanner , Firebird 25 and my Monaro in Bunce colours just behind it.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=197293994247655&set=g.431588630352950&type=1&theater&ifg=1

[Milan Fistonic]

I've just found another shot of George Bunce in the car at Pukekohe on 9 March 1975.

54194

[khyndart in CA]

Thanks Milan, that is a wonderful photo.
Ken

[Rod Grimwood]

I've just found another shot of George Bunce in the car at Pukekohe on 9 March 1975.

54194

It looked mean and was fairly mean in this style, last before it "disappeared". Sat at North Shore Automatics for along time, and then went walk about. Glad it was found and gets second chance at life.

[John McKechnie]

One of the best things is that Milan was round then to capture these pix , keep them for all these years AND be able to post them here just so we can look at them here .......great work mate.
Safe to say that these pix kept my spirits up bringing the baby back to life.
Australian Muscle car #101 - currently on sale- features the car pages 18-19 for some glossy pix

[George Sheweiry]

That's a nice looking rear spoiler on that car Johnny------lol

[John McKechnie]

Yep, I was soooooooo lucky that a kind hearted man looked after me.

[Paul B]

I saw this old footage of Warwick Farm (if you have not seen it already)


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwIjhL1J2eg

[John McKechnie]

Dont worry about looking at MK2 Cortinas, -Have just found a neat action pic on South Island Racing....Team Cambridge Monaro, followed by Camaro then Paul Fahey, red Dawson and Graeme Crosbie...here is the link-

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=671179269896849&set=gm.983156395196168&type=3&theater

[khyndart in CA]

John,
That is a great action photo of the Monaro. I wish I could get it in a larger format.
It is neat how these pics. from the past keep showing up. May it continue.
Cheers,
Ken

[Roger Dowding]

Digby Paape, from the Motoring Paape Family.
His Father Godfrey was a stalwart of the Otago Sports Car Club and others - ran a Austin A90 Atlantic back in the mid - late 1950's and was an organiser of the early Dunedin Street Races - early 1950's on.
This from the weekend 11/11/2018 .

58493

No doubt there are more photos out there !!

[Roger Dowding]

Photos " Borrowed " of course.. with acknowledgement to the photographer !!

58501

58502

[John McKechnie]

Roger- thank you for finding these and posting them
Yep, not a garage queen, we were here to race..was running 1.23 all day and was running close to everyone in all 3 races.
Best place was 4th in a handicap...no one was going to let the secretary have a moment of glory
This makes the Monaro quicker that my XU1 V8 Torana a couple of years ago.

[Roger Dowding]

Roger- thank you for finding these and posting them
Yep, not a garage queen, we were here to race..was running 1.23 all day and was running close to everyone in all 3 races.
Best place was 4th in a handicap...no one was going to let the secretary have a moment of glory
This makes the Monaro quicker that my XU1 V8 Torana a couple of years ago.

Must have been a great weekend ..

Cheers.

Another Monaro .. another weekend .. another Track .. Pukekohe 1971 Yours looks great .. Cheers
From TRS website

58528

[BMCBOY]

I recently found these shots of George Bunce from Pukekohe 1975

62216

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62217

[Steve Holmes]

Wow, those are awesome Ross! Thanks for sharing. George is really throwing it through the Puke chicane.

What exactly is the material on the bonnet? Looks like black carpet.

[Bruce302]

Wow, those are awesome Ross! Thanks for sharing. George is really throwing it through the Puke chicane.

What exactly is the material on the bonnet? Looks like black carpet.

That was just thick flat black paint. Hid a lot of the transition with the hood scoop.

Great pics, thanks Ross for sharing them.

[Roger Dowding]

Came across these recently - think John Mck has seen them - went back as far as early 2016 and didn't see them on here - so ..

Wigram 1970 - Bill Pottinger archives.

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