New Van (for me), First Post, Lots of Questions, (HZ Sandman)

[willturfdog]

Hi, I have lots of questions regarding my HZ Sandman.

First, is it an original Sandman? I have checked all I can on websites and think it is, but just want a pro (one of you guys) to let me know what you think.

I bought this a couple of months ago, have always wanted one, finally the stars aligned and now I'm happy. But I want to make it better, not really after an original restoration, just want to make it straight, go well and look good.

Also going by the codes, what colour was the van originally (and interior trim colour?) And what type of grille is on the van?

I have a heap of pics on my profile, with compliance plates etc to check the info.

Also if anyone recognises the van would love some history on the vehicle.



Thanks for the help!IMG_6825 (1024x683).jpg20131029_192313 (1024x576).jpg20131027_143353 (1024x576).jpg20131027_143343 (1024x576).jpg20131027_143311 (1024x576).jpg20131027_143317.jpg

[Innuendo]

Paint Code: 567-30525 = Atlantis Blue Metallic
Eng: L32 = 253ci V8 Trans: M20 = 4 Speed Axle: GV7 = 3.55:1
Trim: 18V = Black
The grill appears to be HZ Statesman (Not correct to the Sandman).

Appears to have be made in Pagewood, Sydney

[Frosty]

Welcome Dude. Your right, it's a sandman. 18v is slate interior (Black) my favorite. That makes it a Sandman or a GTS HZ.Doesn't look like a GTS so it must be a Sandman.

[Big Rob]

I love it! Don't change too much, it looks cool. HZ Statesman grille is what I'm looking for if you decide to change to original.

Nice van, enjoy it!

[chrisp]

Someone's gone to alot of effort to make it NOT look like a Sandman.
Colour, spoiler, black bits (body paint plus door handles, glass trim), bumper, front panel, grill, mirrors, wheels etc

[Taily]

Welcome to the forums Will. Looks like a nice starting point to work with.

Grille? From what I know of them: HZ Statesman De Ville.

[Blocker]

Dave the first thing you can do is turn the headlight surrounds around.

The curved edge should be on the grille side to match the outside of the indicator frame.

[willturfdog]

Great stuff heaps of info there, appreciate the effort.

Apparently the sunroof is out of an old van, going to have the whole thing taken out altogether, not replaced.

Will spin those headlight surrounds around, that's something i'd never have known, the attention to detail: Love it.

I am having the interior totally redone, was thinking of going for something in greys and blacks, but was originally thinking fabric, so it doesn't get too hot in summer. But have been thinking that going back to the black original vinyl would look better, and hopefully put a bit of value back into the van. Would I be right in thinking this is the best approach?

Also the back of the van is the bit i spend most of my free (work) time daydreaming about, but I can't find many pics of custom jobs in this department. Do most people go simple and plain?

Thanks.

[Sandman]

Someone's gone to alot of effort to make it NOT look like a Sandman.
Colour, spoiler, black bits (body paint plus door handles, glass trim), bumper, front panel, grill, mirrors, wheels etc

Not wrong there!!! Why would you change GTS mirrors for base model ones?

Welcome Dude. Your right, it's a sandman. 18v is slate interior (Black) my favorite. That makes it a Sandman or a GTS HZ.Doesn't look like a GTS so it must be a Sandman.

Frosty.... No such thing as a GTS panelvan or ute mate.... Vans and utes were Sandman or nothing.... Sedans were GTS.

[HK1837]

Hard to see on my iphone but the grille looks like a HZ Caprice, is the top bar alloy or stainless?

May not be original plates to the body if so much is changed, grab the number off the firewall and i'll know from that if I can read the chassis number.