Out with the old in with the older at Super Southern Swap Meet

15 March, 2016

A vast array of new and used automotive parts were up for grabs at the Super Southern Swap Meet, held at Kustoms Clubrooms in Christchurch on Sunday, March 13. The swap meet was open to automotive items only with everything from tyres, wheels, lights, and the usual unwanted hoardings available for a price.  Several complete cars were even amongst the items with a price tag on them. There was an Mk3 Zephyr that looked like it was pulled out from under some trees, and a 1930 Willys, which had a $10K price tag on it.

For those who arrived early and needed their caffeine fix, coffee and snacks were available. After looking around at the parts and parting with some money, it was time to have a look around the car display, which had a great selection of vehicles on show. Even though there was the threat of Cyclone Pam hitting, it was great to see that the weather remained clear and warm, with plenty of people making the most of it.

1985 Citröen 2CV6 Charleston

Kerry describes it as ‘a very simple car to do’. The suspension can be set to the required ride height. It is essential to weigh each corner to avoid too much weight difference from side to side. The four-speed gearbox was re-built. They are prone to getting a little water in them if not serviced correctly. Water etches into the bearings. The main shaft was also replaced.
But as it was a reasonably high mileage car, Kerry expected a few mechanical issues.
“The lady I bought it off owned it from 900km after it had been sold new to a gentleman in Palmerston North. He found he couldn’t fit into it. This woman in Hamilton bought it and she had run it to a total of 101,000kms. It was brand new in 1985 so it’s done quite a few kilometres for a little car.”
Not surprisingly, these little cars grow on their owners and the previous lady owner is now interested in buying it back.

Get together for Murray Charles

Motorsport enthusiast, Murray Charles (84) passed away earlier this year. Murray’s friend, Danny Robins, contacted New Zealand Classic Car magazine to advise that a memorial get-together has been arranged in Martinborough for 28 November.
“Andrew Shackelton was a close friend and neighbour of Murray. Andrew has arranged an informal memorial for any old chums or colleagues who might wish to get together and
reminisce about the days of New Zealand racing,” Danny said. Murray did drive and was, by all accounts, a competent racer himself.
“He is probably better known for his engineering and mechanical expertise, particularly his contribution as a car mechanic to the golden years of Graham McRae’s Tasman successes.”
Murray provided a photograph of a copy of an Australian motor racing magazine from 1971 showing Murray alongside Graham’s famous car, as well as an informal snap of a younger,
pensive Murray with Kerry Grant at Levin.
The get together will be on the 28th of November, 1600hrs (4.00 pm) onwards at 28 Daniel Street, Martinborough.”