This will be a picture enhanced story of what may be the most legendary transporter in racing history. Previously I only knew the small piece of history during the time it was hauling around the Shelby Daytona's and Cobra's. I quickly learned about many more pieces that show the history extends well beyond, both before and after. The list of owners and automotive marques they raced are legendary. I'll keep this thread in chronological order and progress through each owner. Feel free to add photos as we get to each time period.
The '59 Fiat 306/2 Bartoletti transporter was the transporter chosen for hauling the Shelby Daytona Coupe's and Cobra's in Europe. The base unit was a Fiat Tipo 'Alpine' bus chassis with the custom coachwork completed by Carrozzeria Bartoletti. (That process should sound familiar to Shelby enthusiasts.)
Here's a photo as it current appears.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819111809.jpeg)
Most articles have noted this transporter correctly as a '59 Fiat Bartoletti. However, several note it incorrectly as a '56 Fiat Bartoletti. They also incorrectly note it was built for Maserati's F1 team, for the 1957 F1 season. They continue the wrong storyline noting it was sold used to Lance Reventlow. Photos of the Maserati team transporter, from 1957, show it is a different cab configuration along with differences in the open hauler section. The Maserati Transporter was a Fiat 642 RN2, not the Fiat 306/2 that Shelby's team had.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819114902.jpeg)
Rich, thanks for starting what I'm sure will be an interesting thread, have already learned something from your first posts.
Mike
Where is it now?cool thread...
The CONFUSION started here;
Lance Reventlow of 'Reventlow Automobiles Inc." bought two different Fiat Transporters.
The first transport (he bought it used) was a '56 Fiat 682 RN 'closed' transporter. It was based on a truck, NOT a bus chassis. In 1956 Maserati commissioned it to be built to transport their F1 race cars for the 1957 season. They had it painted in a solid gray with the Maserati logo in the center of the sides. Although winning the season championship, once the season was over Maserati withdrew from F1. They sold the 'closed' transporter to Reventlow. He shipped it to the US and repainted the closed transporter in white on the top half and blue on the bottom half. Reventlow transported his Scarabs Roadster to various US tracks starting with the 1958 race season. This was NOT a Shelby American transporter, but somehow people get the story confused between the two.
Here's Maserti's livery from 1957 (and how it appears today)
This was never a Shelby American transporter!
Next up...what Reventlow did with it.
Here's some photos of Lance Reventlow's '56 Fiat 682 RN 'closed transporter. He used it from 1958-1962!
Again this was never a Shelby American transporter, but the model year and story are often confused with it.
Here we see the first Reventlow Fiat 682 RN closed transporter parked inside 1042 Princeton Drive around July 1962.
and
some additional photos of it from unknown locations with the Scarab roadsters.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819204016.jpeg)
The true BEGINNING of this storyline;
In 1960, Lance Reventlow was ready to debut their new Scarab F1. Reventlow needed a second transporter, this one for Europe, so he commissioned a brand new one. This was the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 transporter with the open back. (Chassis: 306/2 *001625*) It was built from a bus chassis with a single rear axle and painted in a light sky blue.
(The Scarab F1 debut was a bit late. It finally appeared at the Monaco Grand Prix in May 1960. This was the 2nd race of the season. Reventlow's F1 Scarab's proved to be an outdated design with their front engines and did not fare well. In 1961, F1 rule changes shifted to only rear mounted engines and left the F1 Scarab's with few places to run. Its best result was in May '61 at Silverstone. He abandoned the remainder of the season.)
With little to no success in Europe, Reventlow rents the '59 Fiat Bartoletti transporter to Lotus for the remainder of the '61 season. It was believed to have been sold to Camoradi "Casner Motor Racing" after Lotus finished the season, but it seems Camoradi did not enough funds to complete the transaction. Since Camoradi could not afford to pay for the transporter, it was sent back to Italy late in 1961. It remained there through 1963.
(Note; Carroll Shelby drove for Camoradi in a Maserati at the end of 1959 and in 1960)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819224129.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819224247.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-100819224400.jpeg)
The Transporter was sold in autumn 2018 to some germans I know personally.
https://www.chromecars.de/highlights/1960-fiat-bartoletti-306-2-shelby-cobra/
Quote from: Kent on August 11, 2019, 05:10:55 AM
The Transporter was sold in autumn 2018 to some germans I know personally.
https://www.chromecars.de/highlights/1960-fiat-bartoletti-306-2-shelby-cobra/
Thanks Kent!
I was not aware it sold yet again in 2018. I wonder if the price (offered or sold for) was published anywhere?
https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24878/lot/252/
The story was pinned down recently in petrolicious.com.
It was reunited at Goodwood FOS some weeks ago with PBX2299 and PBX2287(Peter Brock) Daytona recreations and just recently I stumbled over the transporter last week at the Classic Days at Castle Dyck.
(http://www.ponysite.de/Bartoletti_Dyck2019web.jpg)
Quote from: TransamEd on August 11, 2019, 02:37:34 PM
https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/24878/lot/252/
The story was pinned down recently in petrolicious.com.
It was reunited at Goodwood FOS some weeks ago with PBX2299 and PBX2287(Peter Brock) Daytona recreations and just recently I stumbled over the transporter last week at the Classic Days at Castle Dyck.
(http://www.ponysite.de/Bartoletti_Dyck2019web.jpg)
Thanks Wolfgang!
I thought the Bonhams auction/sale was in 2016. Maybe just a typo in my files.
It sold for $200K less than in 2012! Ouch!
In late 1962 the IRS forced the closure of 'Reventlow Automobiles Inc.' after 5 years of tax loss claims. The race shop was at 1042 Princeton Drive; Venice, CA. Carroll Shelby took over the lease around late August or early September of 1962.
By 1964, Shelby needed a hauler for the European race events in the 'Sports Car World Championship'. The Reventlow '59 Fiat Bartoletti could fill that void, except for one big issue. The Cobra Daytona's were much heavier than the Reventlow F1 cars. A second rear axle was added behind the first to handle the extra weight. That helped to give the transporter more support and stability. It was then repainted to match the team colors in Viking Blue.
Although the transporter was mostly needed for the Daytona Coupes, they also carried some Cobras around as well. The transporter was driven by Ermano Coughi to all the events in Europe. The first photos of it as a Shelby team hauler are from May 17, 1964. The team was getting ready for the race at Spa in Belgium. Here we see it parked in front of the S.A. Garage. (Is that the Shelby American garage? We can see a Goodyear sign too. I've always wondered where the cars were kept while waiting for the next race.) During the first half of the season the transporter was not identified with a team name as we can see in these early photos.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819132714.jpeg)
Photo taken by Bob Bondurant
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819132813.jpeg)
Said to be the Ford Garage S.A. (Societe Anonyme = AG) in Spa/Belgium. Picture from Bob Bondurant
Looks like a central downtown garage of the period.
https://thecobraferrariwars.com/64-photos.html
Quote from: TransamEd on August 12, 2019, 03:47:49 PM
Said to be the Ford Garage S.A. (Societe Anonyme = AG) in Spa/Belgium. Picture from Bob Bondurant
Looks like a central downtown garage of the period.
https://thecobraferrariwars.com/64-photos.html
Thank you once again Wolfgang!
I had to look up the S.A. meaning for further clarification. It makes far more sense it would be a Ford Garage in Belgium.
There is a small Ford sign extending off the building for passerby's to see.
Thanks also for the note on the photo source and photographer!
I'm glad Bob Bondurant had the foresight to take this photo which might not have meant much back in the day.
The next race was the big one at 'Le Mans'. Here's are several photos from around that time before and maybe after.
The first two photos show of the freshly finished Daytona Coupe of csx2299 and csx2287 ready for the 24 hour event.
The 3rd photo here shows the transporter loaded with the Daytona's passing through a checkpoint (likely between Italy and France).
Both Daytona Coupe's appear fully prepped with race numbers and loaded on the upper deck.
Even the white nose paint is visible on the front car, csx2287.
This last 4th photo appears to be taken at the track in Le Mans. Here we see each of the Daytona's loaded on a different deck level.
#5 CSX2299 finished 1st in GT, 4th overall
#6 CSX2287 was DQ, disqualified for a pit violation
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819204853.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819204955.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819205137.jpeg)
Bruce Dowell photo
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-120819205243.jpeg)
Notice the Man sitting up inside the trailer at the front of car #5. Must be getting out of the sun?
Quote from: 69mach351w on August 13, 2019, 07:09:55 PM
Notice the Man sitting up inside the trailer at the front of car #5. Must be getting out of the sun?
The suit is hiding in there very well. Getting out of the sun is a good guess for why.
This is the first photo I noticed the spare tire blatantly hanging off the tail end.
The second rear axle does not appear to be part of the driveline, just their for support with a single rim/tire per side.
The first rear axle is a dually.
The transporter and the 2 digitally scanned (from the originals) and detailed PBX2287 and PBX2299 recreations at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year..just for a THEN and Now impression. (Picture from GW FOS photogallery)
Quote from: Richstang on August 13, 2019, 08:09:33 PM
The second rear axle does not appear to be part of the driveline, just their for support with a single rim/tire per side.
The first rear axle is a dually.
Yes, commonly called a "Tag Axle" and is a "dead" axle; a popularly added component, as in this instance post the original chassis construction from the manufacturer to permit increase to the vehicles G.V.W.; and or just improved stability particularly if the intended weighted load location should be move rearward thereby relocating the center of gravity to far back hence unloading the front steer axle and overloading the single rear axle.
I suspect the vehicle increased some in overall length in this process also? ???
Scott.
Quote from: TransamEd on August 14, 2019, 01:48:14 AM
The transporter and the 2 digitally scanned (from the originals) and detailed PBX2287 and PBX2299 recreations at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year..just for a THEN and Now impression. (Picture from GW FOS photogallery)
Nice to see the transporter is continued to be put on display for all to enjoy.
Those recreation Daytona's are interesting. The originals finish results were;
csx2299 #5 finished 1st in GT, 4th overall
csx2287 #6 DNF'd (DQ for pit violation at lap 131?)
https://www.racingsportscars.com/results/Le_Mans-1964-06-22.html
Quote from: pbf777 on August 14, 2019, 11:36:20 AM
Quote from: Richstang on August 13, 2019, 08:09:33 PM
The second rear axle does not appear to be part of the driveline, just their for support with a single rim/tire per side.
The first rear axle is a dually.
Yes, commonly called a "Tag Axle" and is a "dead" axle; a popularly added component, as in this instance post the original chassis construction from the manufacturer to permit increase to the vehicles G.V.W.; and or just improved stability particularly if the intended weighted load location should be move rearward thereby relocating the center of gravity to far back hence unloading the front steer axle and overloading the single rear axle.
I suspect the vehicle increased some in overall length in this process also? ???
Scott.
"Dead axle" that was the term I was looking for. Thanks!
The Reventlow F1's were substantially lighter so adding the 'dead axle was an absolute necessity for hauling the Cobra's/Daytona's.
I don't believe they lengthened the transporter. The overhang was quite long in the single axle configuration.
Tandem rear axle with single dead axle backwards today.
Just noting some differences, changes/additions, deletions, references...
Well done JD!
You've pointed out some of the clear differences between the initial built Reventlow version and the revised Shelby American conversion.
On the Reventlow version, I did notice the wide arch over the singe axle rear wheels before (orange arrows), but not the stepped down open section behind it (circled in red) or the small half arched opening in front of it (circled in purple). Maybe the small section was a foot step?
Your vertical lines show the dead axle was an add-on behind the existing driveline tandem axle.
Looking at the older photos and the new restoration I noticed another detail change. The lower chrome horizontal strip disappeared at somewhere in this past. I will address that as we get to that in the chronological order.
In early July 1964 the Shelby American transporter arrives in town with the Cobra Daytona's ready for the Reims 12 hour race. Dave Friedman took a nice sequence of photos here while they were unloading the two coupes from both decks. A small crowd gathered to watch while the first coupe CSX2287 is unloaded from the bottom deck.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819171859.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819172111.jpeg)
The crowd dissipates to only a few spectators by the time they start unloading the second coupe CSX2299 from the top deck.
We also get a glimpse as the ramps are getting disassembled.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819172636.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819172741.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819172828.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819172923.jpeg)
Quote from: JD on August 15, 2019, 03:59:14 PM
Just noting some differences, changes/additions, deletions, references...
It looks to me as though it picked up some length ahead of the front axle, with perhaps longer front doors, this perhaps providing better ingress and egress for driver and occupants, and also again aiding in the endeavor to move the center of gravity forward? Perhaps, my observations are just illusions within the photographs, or perhaps I'm just determined to argue that the dog-gone thing got longer when the axle was added! ???
Not me, but come-on, somebody has to have one of those fancy-dancy computer programs (the "Stanley" held up to the screen ain't get'n it!) that would take a measurement from say the steel wheel ring and then compare this value to the overall length of the vehicle for a better determination, at least within the accuracy permitted from the photographs and considered angles? :o
Scott.
BTW: if you prove I'm wrong, do me a favor, keep it quiet, please? ::)
Shots from last week for comparison.
Thanks, some more profile reference points...
Quote from: pbf777 on August 16, 2019, 01:43:30 PM
Quote from: JD on August 15, 2019, 03:59:14 PM
Just noting some differences, changes/additions, deletions, references...
It looks to me as though it picked up some length ahead of the front axle, with perhaps longer front doors, this perhaps providing better ingress and egress for driver and occupants, and also again aiding in the endeavor to move the center of gravity forward? Perhaps, my observations are just illusions within the photographs, or perhaps I'm just determined to argue that the dog-gone thing got longer when the axle was added! ???
Not me, but come-on, somebody has to have one of those fancy-dancy computer programs (the "Stanley" held up to the screen ain't get'n it!) that would take a measurement from say the steel wheel ring and then compare this value to the overall length of the vehicle for a better determination, at least within the accuracy permitted from the photographs and considered angles? :o
Scott.
BTW: if you prove I'm wrong, do me a favor, keep it quiet, please? ::)
Fancy computer programs...HA! Do you mean software programs like in the movies when they make stuff up. "Enhance photo. enhance it again. Oh look now we can read the license plate from 100 feet away in the dark on an 85 degree angle" (CSI Miami) :P
(Actually I'm thinking of the remake of 'Italian Job' when they measure the ground distance on the armored cars). I seriously doubt anyone here on the forum has anything even close to doing that. JD's paint program photos are about the best we can expect to get to compare the profile points. (thanks JD)
Well, I see what you mean in the early photos compared to the current photos on the cab doors. I think it may be an optical illusion, but you never know what they did in the restoration. Do you see that from Reventlow's version 1 to Shelby's version 2?
Quote from: TransamEd on August 16, 2019, 03:47:48 PM
Shots from last week for comparison.
Thanks for that rear view looking inside at the lower deck.
I was wondering how it was set up when we see the cars lifted up at the front when loaded on there.
It appear to be a fixed ramp with a slight lit up off the deck. That might have been useful for minor engine work, back in the day.
This photo appears at the track in Reims. I suppose the constables were there to keep spectators away while unloading.
Unfortunately both cars DNF'd due to gearbox issues.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-150819173818.jpeg)
By September '64 the transporter appears at the Tour De France with team lettering on it. Large bold letters "COBRA POWERED BY FORD" were added to the front of the cab and side storage panels. Other sponsor logos were also added such as "Goodyear" above the side storage panels and "BP" with a checkered flag on the cab doors. A rear view photo can be found on Getty Images...
https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/no187-bob-bondurant-jochen-neerpaschs-shelby-cobra-daytona-news-photo/567807153
#21 CSX2299 finished 1st in GT, 3rd overall
#22 CSX2287 finished 8th in GT, 11th overall
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-160819185425.jpeg)
Dont understand the "Danger Air Brakes" bumper sticker at reply #28.
Air brakes Dangerous? Since when ???
Using Air brakes downhill in the Alps for example the follower does not see a brake light, that's probably why (at least back then?) I am no trucker:-)
Quote from: TransamEd on August 17, 2019, 06:18:05 AM
Using Air brakes downhill in the Alps for example the follower does not see a brake light, that's probably why (at least back then?) I am no trucker:-)
That is a good reason. I was assuming it was a requirement for vehicles equipped that way.
Here's a strange photo (Dave Friedman photo) from Reims that appears to show a large flat panel sitting on top of the transporter.
It looks to large to be one the side storage panels. Were they removable?
(I know its sitting on the SAI transporter from a few other photo views)
Should be easy for race mechanics pulling the pins of the hinges and detaching the flap supports which allowed taking them off, but laying one or two on top of the truck...there must have been a real good reason and some muscles available.
Maybe it was done to create a shaded area on the lower deck for one of the cars. The Reims 12 hour event was in July, but that would be a lot effort.
With the doors swung open on the side, the canopy would create a descent sized area for any team member to hide from the sun if needed.
Amazing photos!
Hard to believe that these Shelby Daytonas are worth millions today :o
By looking at the photos, the folks in them are merely clueless to what these race cars values would be in the future ;D
For the 1965 season, I believe Alan Mann takes over transporting responsibilities for Shelby. The transporter was repainted again in the new team color Guardsman Blue.
The large bold lettering "COBRA POWERED BY FORD" remained, but they added "ALAN MANN RACING LTD. BYFLEET, ENGLAND" in smaller letters below it.
The pictures here are at Spa around May 16th, 1965. We now see the newer Daytona Coupes csx2601 and csx2602.
The Cobra is csx2345 and still numbered #21 from the previous Oulton Park race from May 1st. It did not race at Spa, but did practice.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819105844.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819105935.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819110032.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819110121.jpeg)
Sorry for answering so late ...
i am just sitting here and my eyes fall out ...
So much Pics and Information about this ONE Transporter is just amazing.
not much i can say about this Transporter ... only there is a 1.18 Modelcar for 299 Euros and sometimes when i have a bear
to much i hardly think i must buy it for my collection ;D
Greets and please go on, i have much fun to read all of those thing
^^^Wait till we get to the time after the transporter hauled around the Shelby Cobra's and Daytona's.
Still at Spa around May 16th 1965,
The transporter is in the background as the Daytona's have already been unloaded. The storage panel doors are open while a crewman prepares for the race.
We also get a glimpse of one of Ford's Econoline service vans used with the GT40 program. This appear to be the same location as the previous photos just looking in the opposite direction.
#20 CSX2601 finished 1st in GT, 5th overall
#21 CSX2602 DNF'd with an engine issue
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819205906.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-180819210014.jpeg)
Rich, great photos, and the story behind them 8) isn't the American flag shown upside down a distress signal ?
Mike
Quote from: 69mach351w on August 16, 2019, 08:27:57 PM
Dont understand the "Danger Air Brakes" bumper sticker at reply #28.
Air brakes Dangerous? Since when ???
Quote from: TransamEd on August 17, 2019, 06:18:05 AM
Using Air brakes downhill in the Alps for example the follower does not see a brake light, that's probably why (at least back then?) I am no trucker:-)
On a straight truck, function of the brakes air or hydraulic, or even the combination of, still generally requires actuation of the foot pedal, and with this one should enact the electrical brake light circuit luminating the bulb(s), always, at least if all is well.
As far as the signage declaring that the vehicle is equipped with air brakes and potential danger, I believe it is intended to serve as a notice to those with involvement of the vehicles' functioning as there are unique concerns for such verses the hydraulic or mechanical systems, and not all persons may be permitted to operate the vehicle equipped as such. ???
An example: say the operator of the vehicle jumps in the drivers seat, after a long duration of stoppage, this permitting the air pressure to be lost, starts the engine and places the vehicle in motion prior to permitting a duration of time to pass permitting the air system to regain sufficient pressure, there will be no brakes! My M911 Oshkosh Military Tractor addresses this issue by making the throttle pedal to fuel injection pump (diesel) an air operated function, therefore: no air, no throttle. ;)
Or perhaps to remind the operator that excessive repetitive actuation of the air brakes may tax the delivery rate from the air compressor hence draining the air volume and therefore pressure leading to loss of brake function; this being evident in city traffic congestion, or perhaps long down hill runs, both where the operator would be on and off the brakes and the engine R.P.M.s may be low thereby reducing the pumping rate for the compressor and air supply delivery. :(
And then maybe as a reminder that when parked, engine off, in the early years of air brakes, you might "set" your brakes and walk away, but when the air pressure bleeds down the brakes will release, as "spring-lock" air cans were developed later. What this vehicle is equipped with I have no idea, but one should always "set" the mechanical parking brake or chock the wheels when the vehicle is unattended, to avoid surprises upon returning to where one thought, they left their vehicle otherwise. :-\
Generally, particular training is required for the operators of air brake equipped vehicles to address these and other concerns unique to it's operation; that meaning that the sign might really be saying: if your not trained and certified to operate vehicles equipped with air brakes, stay away, as otherwise you present a danger to yourself and others! :o
Scott.
Cool thread
Great photo history!
True, Scott, I thought the air brakes could be activated downhill by hand as well, since i noticed some additonal valves in old diagramms, but makes no sense at all, there would be fading brakes anyway :-)
Actually I mixed that up as well with an eddie current brake function (>year 2000).
Seems there is a more actual Napa truck air brake system in the transporter today. I think in those days they only had a one-line brake system, which would not be road-approved today anyway.
John Grant - ex-mechanic of Alan Mann said, they had a lot of trouble with the engine during their operation time. Might ask him again about the brake system some time.
The photos in reply #12 might indicate a brake issue. ???
Having trouble with the overworked and underpowered Fiat engine, Alan Mann had it changed to a Leyland driveline.
When that change happened is not exactly clear, but I assume it was sometime in 1965.
Just before Lemans in 1965, the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 transporter gets another tweak.
The lower center side section has the "ALAN MANN RACING LTD. BYFLEET, ENGLAND" letters removed.
Those letters are now added above the "COBRA POWERED BY FORD" lettering, across the top of the hauler in a larger size.
This photo was taken at Alan Mann Racing in Byfleet, UK.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-190819170732.jpeg)
Quote from: TransamEd on August 19, 2019, 04:37:15 PM
True, Scott, I thought the air brakes could be activated downhill by hand as well,
I believe what you are referencing would be the trailer brake control handle, generally today located to the right of the steering wheel and mount high, perhaps emanating out of the dash board for easy access, of "T" handle configuration being quite popular, that allows thru it's travel as pulled rearward supplies a modulated braking effect on the trailer brakes only, of a tractor trailer truck configuration. And the rear brake lights are intended to luminate when such is applied, as generally a hydraulic pressure switch within the system would be tripped. ;)
And yes, quite often used in excess of the original engineering intention for such things as down hill runs, as often the driver may own the tractor but is contract hauling the trailer, and prefers to wear out someone else's brake hardware, even if it is not a proper or even safe technique. :o
Scott.
Quote from: Richstang on August 19, 2019, 05:11:17 PM
Having trouble with the overworked and underpowered Fiat engine, Alan Mann had it changed to a Leyland driveline.
This would be inevitable! First off, how could a proper Englishmen with the intent to "show-up" the Italians on the track, but then needs a Fiat to get them there; and on top of that, none of the wenches (Whitworth) in the toolbox fit either! ::)
Scott.
By August 15th, there was one last race in the '65 season for the Daytona's. The 'Coppa Citta' di Enna' 500km was held near the town of Enna, Sicily.
Here the transporter is hauling the two Daytona's CSX2601 and CSX2299 to the race.
I just noticed the added driving lights attached to the transporter's front bumper.
#24 CSX2601 finished 1st in GT and 3rd overall
#20 CSX2299 finished 2nd in GT and 4th overall
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-200819210718.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-200819210841.jpeg)
In 1966 the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 transporter had a new mission. It was hauling Ford's GT40's. I believe Shelby sold it to Alan Mann for this purpose.
Photos of the transporter in 1966 are rare. Here it appears before the June '24 hours of Le Mans' race with two of Alan Mann's lightweight Ford XGT's.
We also see a Ford GT backup car P/1012 still painted in white from the previous race at Spa.
Ford MKII XGT-1 DNF (6 hrs in) clutch
Ford MKII XGT-2 DNF (8hrs in) front suspension)
After the Ferrari purchase debacle, Ford decided they didn't want an Italian transporter hauling their American GT's. Soon after the 1966 Le Mans race it was sold.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-210819111832.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-210819111915.jpeg)
Awesome thread
Sometime around 1967 the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 was purchased by John Wolfe Racing in England.
It is once again repainted, now dark blue with twin yellow rally stripes on the cab nose and roof.
Large yellow lettering was added on the top sides as "JOHN WOOLFE RACING EATON SOCON HUNTS ENGLAND" along with a yellow Wolfs head logo on both cab doors.
The front grille appears to have been change (maybe broken and repaired)
Coincidently, John owned an AC Cobra. Other cars included the 'Hustler' a Chevy powered t-bucket type of hot rod and the "Hustler II" a V16 rail dragster.
John was tragically killed while racing in a Porsche 917 at Lemans in 1969.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-220819133537.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-220819133455.jpeg)
Quote from: Richstang on August 21, 2019, 12:38:48 PM
In 1966 the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 transporter had a new mission. It was hauling Ford's GT40's. I believe Shelby sold it to Alan Mann for this purpose.
Photos of the transporter in 1966 are rare. Here it appears before the June '24 hours of Le Mans' race with two of Alan Mann's lightweight Ford XGT's.
We also see a Ford GT backup car P/1012 still painted in white from the previous race at Spa.
Ford MKII XGT-1 DNF (6 hrs in) clutch
Ford MKII XGT-2 DNF (8hrs in) front suspension)
After the Ferrari purchase debacle, Ford decided they didn't want an Italian transporter hauling their American GT's. Soon after the 1966 Le Mans race it was sold.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-210819111832.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-210819111915.jpeg)
I know somewhere I seen an exact replica diorama of the hauler with the #8 GT40 and other #7 GT40 and the one loaded in front , and even had the figurines kneeling/standing.
I cannot remember where I seen it. Maybe old forum??
Yes, I've seen that one before as well. 1/43rd scale. The die-cast company made the SAI livery in Guardsman Blue.
They also made some of the later livery versions. All were very expensive including the car which were sold separately.
Sometime later in 1969, the transporter was sold to David Piper with the Acto Racing Team.
The transporter was yet again repainted, this time in BP green. Noted by some as a Lotus race car team, it was actually hauling Piper's Porsche 917 team cars.
There are no photos of the transporter in its entirety that I'm aware of during this period. We only get these small glimpses in the background with race cars.
A few photos of it appear in April 1970, in France, at the Dijon 1000 KM. No photos have been found showing if it was lettered with the team name or if it had any logo sponsors.
We can see the team support van is lettered "DAVID PIPER ACTO RACING ENGLAND" so the transporter probably was lettered like that as well.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-230819132100.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-230819132314.jpeg)
Still in 1970, in between June and November, David Piper rented the transporter to Steve McQueen.
McQueen used the transporter for several roles in his "Le Mans" movie.
It was noted as painted in Gulf colors for the Porsche transporter and painted again in red for the Renault/Mirage hauler.
(No photos have been found of either the Gulf or Mirage team liveries. It was mentioned that these versions may have been edited out of the film.)
Finally still painted red, a simple logo change made into the Ferrari transporter. It remained in the Ferrari paint scheme after the film.
David Piper was one of the movies hired race drivers and suffered a severe injury during filming.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-230819133841.jpeg)
Quote from: Richstang on August 22, 2019, 11:30:29 PM
Yes, I've seen that one before as well. 1/43rd scale. The die-cast company made the SAI livery in Guardsman Blue.
They also made some of the later livery versions. All were very expensive including the car which were sold separately.
to this i can say my 50 Cents of thougths...
There are 2 Shelby Hauler Models ..
the one with the Daytona Coupe is from EXOTO in scale 1/43 and it totally overpriced, i dont know when it comes on the Market,
but for me it is way to much money, even Scale 1/43 is not big at all ...
(https://abload.de/img/_611pku5.jpg) (https://abload.de/image.php?img=_611pku5.jpg)
second one is from NOREV in scale 1/18 which means it is nearly 80 cm long when you mounted the Ramps...
it cost about 300 Euro at the Moment and comes about 1 Year or so on the german market ...
There we have it with the GT40`s on it ...
(https://abload.de/img/norev_1_18_fiat_bartoeyk61.jpg) (https://abload.de/image.php?img=norev_1_18_fiat_bartoeyk61.jpg)
for more pics check the Homepage i linked ... i looked several times on it, at one time i will hit the push button :o
https://ck-modelcars.de/de/norev-1-18-fiat-bartoletti-306-2-shelby-cobra-renntransporter-alan-mann-racing-ltd-187700/p-49641/
the company build it also in a Ferrari Livery ...
https://ck-modelcars.de/en/norev-1-18-fiat-bartoletti-306-2-racing-transporter-ferrari-jcb-racing-red-187700-187701/p-50356/
Szabo,
The small scale that I remember seeing even had the small men figurines in their exact positions shown in Richstang's post #53
In 1971 the '59 Fiat Bartoletti 306/2 transporter is once again sold. This time it is purchased by J.C. Bamford.
It appeared at historic race events still painted red from the Steve McQueen 'Le Mans' movie, but now with "JCB" logos and larger "Ferrari" lettering on the sides. The transporter carried several different cars during this time. This included the Cobra rivals once again such as a '63 Ferrari 250 GTO and a Ferrari 365 GTB 4 which seems almost sacrilegious. There was even a Maserati Birdcage.
At the least we see the front bumper is back to silver and the grille has been repaired correctly. The bumper light are not present in the first photo, but are back by the third photo.
It also appears the lower side molding had been removed by this time as discussed earlier in the thread.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-250819102144.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-250819102233.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-250819102312.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-250819102350.jpeg)
From 1976-79 the '59 Fiat Bartoletti transporter is rented to GTC Racing (Harley E. Cluxton) for his newly acquired Mirage team.
It is spotted at vintage races at Le Mans still retaining the JCB logos.
We finally get to see a top view of the transporter and the ramps, including the removable sections for loading/unloading.
Not we see the spare tire a mounted on the back too.
(I really don't like the truck in Ferrari colors, I so glad it got restored back to the Guardsman Blue)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-260819204542.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-260819204630.jpeg)
In 1979 the transporter was purchased by Michael Shoen and exported it to the USA.
Shoen wanted a special hauler for his Daytona Coupe and Cobra's. (Which Daytona is that?)
It remains painted red with the JCB Ferrari livery. Notice the spare tire is not hanging off the back anymore.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-260819205944.jpeg)
Amerco takes ownership of the '59 Fiat Bartoletti transporter in 1988 and it is parked in a dessert lot where it sat for nearly two decades.
In September 2005 it was photographed with extremely faded red paint from sitting for years in the Arizona sun. This is worst it will ever get.
:'(
The Ferrari logo is barely visible on the sides and although a mess it appear all there, even with some door panels falling of there hinges.
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-270819121801.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-270819121840.jpeg)
(http://www.saacforum.com/gallery/204-270819121918.jpeg)
Maybe a bit late but shelby transporter reg no, HMF 107B ( visible on thread page 2 ) is still on the UK DVLA database giving info:-make FIAT......colour BLUE ........fuel type DIESEL first registered 31 DEC 1956