In the era of the wooden gliders, the schools were usually equipped with a variety of vehicles that were surplus to front line RAF use. In the 1970’s and 1980’s this was usually the Land Rover Series lla or lll, Truck, Utility, ½ ton ( commonly called a Lightweight or “Air Portable” Landrover ).
Currently on loan to ACHF (with a view to acquisition) after extensive restoration this example was originally an ex army (fitted for radio) 24v 1/2 ton Lightweight left hand drive. This example has had all the 24v kit replaced with 12V for ease of use and been converted to right hand drive. Now painted in RAF yellow it looks the part!
Extensive restoration work included a new galvanised chassis, a decent bulkhead, new doors, and a brand new canvas top and metal hoops for the roof. Luckily the (petrol) engine and gearbox appear in good condition.
As good examples of RAF 1/2 ton lightweights are rare (especially after years of being driven by teenage staff cadets!) this restoration is a valuable addition to the ACHF equipment roster, and more common in use in the Volunteer Gliding Squadrons than our original, diesel powered, Landrover
