Unique Nomad FF2000 machine returns to action after 42 years
The unique Nomad Formula Ford 2000 is set to return to competition next season, having last been raced by its late designer/constructor Phil Lloyd in 1978.
Lloyd was 750 Motor Club F1300 champion – driving his Nomad Mk2, another self-build – when he joined the Pinto-powered slicks-and-wings category with its successor in 1977.
He evolved the Mk3 into lighter
Mk4 spec with inboard rocker front suspension for 1978, but tragically became quadriplegic when his Frank Bradleyloaned Reynard rolled as a result of a clash of wheels at Mallory Park in 1979.
The bones of the Nomad were sold but were snapped up by 2015 Historic FF2000 champion Tom Smith from an ebay advert in 2016. His category specialist TS Historic team has subsequently rebuilt it.
“We got the chassis, bodywork and front suspension,” said Smith, as Lloyd had cannibalised the engine, gearbox and rear end to build a Reynard show car for Bradley. “It took a lot of work, with photos and info from Phil’s brother Peter, who owns the F1300 Mk2. I shook it down at Mallory in March.”
Smith’s partner Daisy Bellamy did a few laps then, but returned for the recent Javelin trackday. “It’s very different to the kit car I’ve driven, but I really got into it,” she said. “The Falcon has a little tantrum in the corners, but you point the Nomad and it goes where you want it to.”
Novice racer Bellamy plans to compete in selected events in 2021.