In a nostalgic nod to its origins, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has breathed new life into a classic piece of brand history—restoring a 1976 KS11 Elf 350 Tipper to its former glory. The project coincides with the unveiling of Isuzu’s all-new model range, forming part of a broader celebration of the brand’s journey in Australia.

Making its public debut at the recent Brisbane Truck Show, the completely refurbished Elf Tipper was displayed beside the 2025 NKR—showcasing just how far the brand has come, while acknowledging the robust foundation it was built upon. The meticulous restoration was carried out by passionate IAL staff in Melbourne, bringing the once well-worn vehicle back to life.

Past Meets Present

With its unmistakable baby blue finish and factory tipper body, the Elf 350 drew crowds and admiration during the Brisbane showcase. For IAL’s Senior Product Development Technician and lead restorer, Darren Pottage, the moment was a proud culmination of two years’ work.

“It’s been a long road to get this project completed and to see the old Elf Tipper up in lights again alongside its modern contemporary in Brisbane was just fantastic to see,” Mr Pottage said.

“These were one of the first Isuzu models to hit our shores back in the late sixties, early seventies, so this resto has been a fitting tribute to the longevity of the brand here in Australia.”

The KS11 was sourced from its original owner in Sydney—a concrete and formwork company still in business today, albeit under a new name. A rare find, the truck was a true survivor.

Built to Last

The KS11 Elf 350 earned its reputation in the 1970s and ‘80s for toughness and dependability, becoming a popular choice for trades and construction.

“This model in particular really helped cement the Isuzu brand’s penchant for steadfast reliability, quality factory body build credentials and overall versatility,” Mr Pottage said.

Hands-On Heritage

The restoration began in 2023, involving a dedicated team of IAL staff. The crew stripped the truck back to its chassis, removed the tipper body and cab, and began a full rebuild—tracking down original or like-for-like parts to ensure historical accuracy.

“From the very beginning, the vision was to return this truck to its original condition... Whilst still operational, a range of engine componentry needed a lot of attention, including a transmission re-build as well as sourcing a number of replacement parts,” he said.

“Given the age of the truck, sourcing model correct componentry almost half a century later was always going to be a challenge, although with a little help of our parts department here in Melbourne, we were able to get our hands on everything required.”

Crafted with Care

The restoration continued with extensive bodywork, cabin refurbishment, and reinstallation of era-correct glass by the original supplier. Isuzu partnered with trusted local trades for the panel beating, paintwork, and trim.

“We engaged some brilliant local suppliers here in Melbourne’s west that shared our passion for this project and really threw themselves into the work.

“From the interior trimmers to the panel beaters and painters, we couldn’t have asked for a better group to collaborate with on this and the results really do speak for themselves,” Mr Pottage remarked.

The Final Touch

The finishing flourish came with a fresh coat of paint in its classic baby blue, meticulously applied to match the original. The completed vehicle was then reassembled, ready for its spotlight appearance at the Brisbane Truck Show.

“It’s been a challenging, but also extremely rewarding process to be a part of,” said Mr Pottage.

“This is a part of our heritage and as a companywide achievement, it’s a piece of motoring history we can all look back on for years to come and say, ‘that’s us, that’s Isuzu right there.’”


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