The Darrin design cues are all over this Kaiser Traveler. Spawned from the Vagabond several years previous, the Traveler was a slightly refined version. The Vagabond was more of a truck with three doors and a long roof, where the Traveler leaned towards a little more comfort. The seats and dash were trimmed out with more aesthetic appeal and comfort in mind, the fourth door was now available as the spare was moved to a well under the rear floor. This particular Traveler spent many years in a collection out in Oregon. Mileage says about 60,000 and we believe that to be correct. We also think that a sympathetic rolling restoration took place at some point in it's life, with probably a repaint, re-upholstery and the under carriage being painted. Aside from some cleaning and a carb rebuild, the Foster Father of Orphaned Souls didn't do much to get this one up and running. The brakes are relatively new, the fuel pump and fuel tank are new, she starts right up and rumbles to life with ease. Truly one of the first SUV's .. though not really S-Sport - more like M - Multi. MUV, Multi Use Vehicle.
The flat head inline six runs strong and smooth, and auto transmission shifts correctly and drives like you'd expect a 70 year old car/truck to drive. No power steering, no power brakes, but the 4 drums do bring her to a halt rather well.
The interior is in very good condition, windows roll up and down, the poor man's AC (vent windows F&R) works as it should and they and close with ease.
The headlights and blinkers work, as does the heat (the blower comes on and moves air but just ever so discernibly) however, the horn, radio and wipers do not work.
The body does show some age in the way of very minor china cracks (you can only see in the right light and at the right angle) and there is some rust discoloration happening on a panel or two, but not real rust or rot. The same holds true for the chassis.
This really is a very cool car that will not be seen at any of your local cruise nights or cars n coffees. Super solid, reliable runner/driver, inexpensive gateway into classic car ownership. Extensive network of parts suppliers plus the seller can also hook you up with names and contacts of parts suppliers.
The asking price on this rare MUV is $12,000
Any questions, for several hundred more photos and video, to arrange a time to see her in person or just to make an offer, please don't hesitate to contact me.
