Highlights

Older motorhome restoration by specialist K&R Walsh Brothers
Very rare NHS Blood Bank bus with a Lex Tillotson specialist body
Features the famous bulletproof TS3 "knocker" engine that runs well
Recent service, cooling system overhaul and gearbox oil change
Only 56,000 miles from new

The Appeal

If you’ve been sitting wonder how to fill your winter evenings, wonder no more. Here is one of the more interesting projects we’ve seen in a while - a chance to bring a big classic motorhome back to glory,

You’ll be working from a sound base because, mechanically, this 1973 Commer TS3 is spot on. That bulletproof ‘knocker’ diesel engine is in fine health, helped along by a recent service, coolant system overhaul and gearbox oil change. There is even a power steering system fitted - it just needs a hose connected to complete.

Its history is interesting too. It is one of a handful of NHS Blood Bank busses that were specially bodied by Lex Tillotson. It later spent life as a horse box before being rejuvenated by renowned commercial vehicle specialists K&R Walsh Brothers. That work is now looking a little tired, but it could be easily revived.

The displayed mileage of under 57,000 miles is reported to be genuine. The vendor reports that they recently drove it 70 miles without issue. So you could simply enjoy it as it is, or treat it as a rolling restoration.

The History and Paperwork

First registered 1st July 1971 according to DVLA
HPI records first registration as 26th March 1973
Six registered keepers
Originally built as a blood transfusion service unit for the NHS
Converted to a horse transporter before being restored as a motorhome
Restored by K&R Walsh Bros of Manchester
Registered as a motorhome on the logbook
MOT and TAX exempt due to its classic status according to seller
Factory handbook
V5C in current keeper’s name
Recent engine oil change, gearbox oil change and cooling system overhaul
Old photographs of vehicle through its life
Photographs of restoration

The Condition

Bodywork restored to original motorhome configuration
Blue paintwork shows some aging as can be seen
Bodywork is in fair condition with some deterioration
Underside appears to be in fair condition with no reported issues
Interior includes one double room and two single beds
All lights and air brakes are functional according to seller
Power steering fitted but requires belt installation to complete
Presents well but could benefit from interior decor updates

The Mechanics

Two stroke 3,052cc opposed piston diesel engine
Six-speed gearbox
Recent oil change and complete cooling system overhaul
Gearbox oil change completed
Engine starts reliably with half a turn of the key according to seller
Vendor describes that it is ‘ready to drive’
They recently completed a 70 mile drive without issues
We are told that the air brakes work correctly

BEFORE YOU BUY

This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:

✓ The seller is registered as a private seller which means consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not come into effect. However, you are still covered by Car & Classic’s own Terms and Conditions..

✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.

✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.

✓ VAT is included in the buyer's fee. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.

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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it’s worth checking beforehand..