Frequently Asked Questions

Is the FSOC a commercial business?

No. Like most car clubs, the FSOC is run entirely by unpaid volunteers in their spare time. We’re registered as a company limited by guarantee, which simply protects members from personal liability other than a maximum of £1 per member if we ever became insolvent.

The Club's constitution stipulates that we operate as a mutual, selling only to club members. This also means that we do not pay Corporation Tax on any surpluses other than investment/deposit account interest. All FSOC assets — including our premises, spares stock, and other resources — are owned collectively by current members via our limited liability guarantee company.

Where can I get a copy of Sidevalve News, the Club's magazine?

The Sidevalve News magazine is mailed free to all members, with the latest issue sent to new joiners. Non-members cannot request copies, but can view them at shows where the Club has a stand.

Does the Club advertise vehicles or parts for sale?

Classified advertisements appear in Sidevalve News and on the FSOC website. Sidevalve related adverts for vehicles and spares (Sale or Wanted) are free to place for both members and non-members (private individuals only). Non-members can view “Vehicles for Sale or Wanted” online. Visit our Classifieds page www.fsoc.co.uk/classified. Parts are only in the magazine or within the Member Services area.

How do I advertise a car or spares that I wish to sell?

The Club publishes free ads for Ford sidevalve-related items in Sidevalve News and online. Only private sellers (no traders) may use this service. For all advertising (sales or wanted) please complete the form here www.fsoc.co.uk/classified

How do I join the Club online or by post?

You can join online via the Membership tab at www.fsoc.co.uk/join-us, or download and post the application form to the Membership Secretary (see our Contacts page).

Exports to Canada or the USA

The Club’s insurance policy now includes sales of new or second hand parts to residents of the USA and Canada or UK members intending to export cars to which FSOC parts have been fitted, to the USA or Canada.

Is there a current spares list?

Up-to-date spares lists are published in each issue of Sidevalve News, (including remanufactured, new-old-stock and second-hand items for all models catered for by the Club) and also online, (Benefits & Services www.fsoc.co.uk/spares-and-regalia). Spares are available to members only. To order please go to the Member Services area. We also hold a large stock of vehicle body parts which are not listed - email our sparessecretary@fsoc.co.uk.

Manuals and some regalia (badges etc) noted on our spares list are sold through the spares department

Wearable Club regalia is sold through our online store (Member Services Area).

Do you cater for customised or modified vehicles?

Modified and customised Ford sidevalve vehicles are positively welcomed, along with originals and specials. The Club supports restorers, modifiers, and competition drivers alike, and was was originally founded by enthusiasts who often modified their vehicles.

Vehicles built by individuals or specialist companies, based around Ford sidevalve components, are welcomed by either our Specials or Specialist Applications Registrar (Contacts page).

Can I reclaim an original registration number with or without registration plates, DVLA documentation or V5C?

There are two options: Registering your car without a V5 and re-registering the car with its original number. For full details please refer to our Benefits and Services pages and click on Reclaiming Registrations. There is a useful link to a table that will help you decide which type of application is applicable. In either case the FSOC can assist whether or not you are a member.