[Tom Ward]

Hi all,

My father in law has had a Moulton Series 1 Standard since new, though it has remained unused for the last 40+ years. I expressed some interest in renovating it a few years ago, and now, having moved to a house with some storage space and a garage, I’ve finally got hold of it. Unfortunately I am a complete newbie to this, so it’s going to be a steep learning curve!!

First things first, I’m tempted to try to ride it before dismantling it, though the tyres are very perished. Am I likely to wreck it if I give the tyres a quick pump and try to ride a few yards? Then, I’ll need to address the rust. It seems from doing some research that powder coating is the way forward – would you agree? How would you deal with the chrome rust pits? Am I right in thinking that if I try to rub it off with wirewool etc. then it’ll need sealing?

Very excited about getting this little beasty up and running and making the most of my new Moulton Club membership!!

[Ian]

If the tyres hold air, you’ll be fine.

Looking at your pictures I would not powder coat the frame yet. I’d try to restore the paintwork with some polish (and maybe T-cut) as the paint does not look all that bad. If you want to clean up the rack rub it back with something abrasive and paint with smooth Hammerite would be fine to start with. If you can’t get a good finish you can get that powdercoated later. Try tinfoil and WD-40 on the rusty chrome. Make sure the rear spindle is free to move and the rear forks are not seized. If they are don’t go riding it too far as that can damage the rear forks.

Looks fun. If you want a ‘restoration’ you have a good bike to start on, if you want to upgrade and improve it looks too nice for that.

The biggest problem will be the condition of the 36h wheel rims I suspect….!

[Tom Ward]

That’s nice to hear thanks! I’ll try and get the frame cleaned up first. Is any metal polish ok, or are there some I should avoid?

Thanks for your reply!

[Les Crook]

On the paint any automotive polish will work. On the bright stuff try Autosol first. It’s brought the exhaust on my Beemer motorcycle up well despite the neglect.

i too am a novice in the Moulton world but have found fellow moultoneers to be a helpful bunch.

keep us posted on your project.

[Tom Ward]

Thanks again, I’ve started posting some pics and updates of my work at http://www.moultontom.tumblr.com . Have a look if you like, and you can all tell me off for doing things wrong 😉

[Author]

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