Description:

This Merlyn has all the makings of one of the most desirable and relatively rare historic Formula
Fords. The chassis has remains of the obligatory "custom" alloy body and side rads which seem to be
de rigueur for older club fords. Despite this the chasssis is in very good shape, all the corner parts
are there and in good shape, and the steering and gearshift mechanisms are complete. The car comes
with a complete Mk8 Hewland and a rebuildable engine core which has at least some uprated parts including
carb and manifold. The car does not have bodywork but this is available from Merlyn (Colchester Racing
Developments, in England) and some U.S. sources. Ths car is also missing a rad. The guages that are
present are non-original. This is an excellent candidate for a restoration project.


History

Merlyn cars were produced by Colchester Racing Developments which is still in business and supports
the older models. The company entered the Formula Ford scene immediately after Lotus and Alexis but
with perhaps a superior product which gave them the lion's share of sales for their Mk11 in 1968.
This F3 adapted machine's reputation was certainly not hurt by Tim Shenken's record of 33 wins from
38 starts! The Mk11A debuted in late '68 and was really just a production engineered Mk11. The 11A
was followed by the 17 featuring a detachable nose, and the 17A. The Mk20 was introduced in late '71 and
featured increased strength through larger diameter frame rails. The 20A was the 1972 car and despite
its designation is considered almost a redesign and known to be a wonderfully balanced car.


Competition History

ASRA, Club Ford

Engine

• Ford Kent 1600
  
• disassembled
  
• some (all?) uprated components
  
• pan, f/w, carb manifold, head
  

Oil/Water System

• 
  
• 
  

Electrical System

• needs rad
  

Body

• none, available from original manufacturer and other sources
  

Chassis

• multitubular space frame, in good condition
  
• double wishbones, coil over
  
• top link, lower reversed a-arm, dual trailing arms, coil over
  
• proprietery rack
  
• Girling discs all around
  
• Revolution alloys
  

Interior

• steering wheel
  
• some guages (tach)
  

Spares

• none