News 2017
News ~ December 2017 |
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I have started to put together a web page for "The Brian Archer Trophy". |
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Darryl Davis of Moto-Build Racing Ltd tels me "We have just remoulded the original Ashley fastback style roof for the Frogeye Sprite. We managed to find a perfect one to copy, and can supply this roof in kit form, unpainted but including all windows, rubber seals and gutters to be fitted. Our price for the kit is £1000 + VAT." |
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Kristian Jourgensen from Copenhagen, Denmark tells me that his brother Lars has recently acquired this Frogeye with Monza bonnet and DHMC hardtop No.356 - that makes 30 of these hardtops on our record. |
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NICK CONKLIN is looking for a RH sidescreen (or pair) of the early polythene/celluloid type like these. If you can help, please email him |
With Trevor Mcilroy's Christmas message came this photo of some of his cars awaiting hibernation until next season. |
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AND TONY STEVENS FOUND THIS FROGEYE |
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RANDY ZIMNMERMAN directed me to this unusual Frogeye hardtop the like of which I have never seen before. presumably designed and built in the States its on ebay there at $699 in Reading, Pennsylvania |
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ROBERT VISSER'S RESTORATION OF EX-WORKS RALLY CAR
XOH 276 How about this for a backdrop (left) and look at the detail in that cockpit - amazing!! |
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NICK CONKLIN has kindly sent in these sheets showing the DHMCo's Q part Numbers which John Hopwood was looking for. Prices are of course in US Dollars. Would there have been more numbers between 1961 and 68 - probably? |
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FROM DAVID MORYS: |
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SVEN'S PICKUP
"Merry Christmas - I just picked up our Christmas tree |
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May I wish all you Sebring Sprite enthusiasts a Very Happy Christmas
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The SPEEDWELL SPRITE which was for sale on ebay (see lower down this month's page) has now been SOLD at £7,100 |
HALL's GARAGE (BOURNE) - TIFOSI SS |
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BILL RAWLES CLASSIC CARS: "After work hours Charlie Rawles is making an aluminium Sebring bonnet for his Sprite - using the fibreglass bonnet as a buck - the wheeling machine, edge shrinker, fitting pieces together and tig welding up before final shaping - the bonnet will be lighter, more robust and traditional " See his many other photos on Facebook |
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1960 AUSTIN HEALEY FROGEYE SPRITE ID AND HERITAGE CERTIFICATE - ON EBAY |
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MARTIN HULL - THE SPRINZEL TROPHY RALLY & DVLA RULES |
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CHRISTMAS SALE |
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FROM PETE TAYLOR: "Here is a short video of our LM Sprite replica being tuned at Willshires Garage by the tuning maestro Peter Baldwin. The Rolling road has since been retired and we will miss this facility". LINK |
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ANDREW STORER'S FROGEYE |
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UWE QUACK tells me that the car below was made from a kit - ex Kurt Sturm from Baden Baden in Germany. Uwe's own car is shown right and left at the time of the Tulip Rally in 2009. |
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From Albert Voogd: "Last summer I paid a visit to Aaldering Classic Cars in Brummen and to my surprise found a Sebring Sprite parked outside by another visitor. I spoke to the owner who’s name is Quirin Walraven. Quirin told me that he had bought the car as an unfinished project from Classic Car Clinic in Nijmegen. He had finished the car and made the special items like the wooden grille, dash and brass sidescreens by himself. It all looks very special and a bit extravagant to me! Looking at the missing raingutters I don’t think the coupé top is an Archers replica, maybe it’s one of the copies made by Classic Car Clinic from Archers kit no. 20(?). Quirin allowed me to make pictures and said he was okay if I’d sent these to you" |
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MEMORIAL SERVICE FOR THE LATE TONY BENNETTO
Bob Blayden reports: "I will miss Tony Bennetto. I had formed a good friendship with him over the years, despite his good-natured banter that my car was mostly plastic. He was a purist regarding Mk I Sprites. I drove down to Melbourne for his memorial service. It was very sad and he will be missed".
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And also from Bob down under: "Russ and I are planning a trip next year, driving around Australia in his Mk I Sprite. It should be a real adventure - Russell'ls car being prepared for our trip around Australia (note the new aluminium radiator) We mhope to set off mid April or early May". |
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There is a lot on the Hemmings website about WSMs |
Advertised on ebay are some items to enable a Climax engine to be fitted in a Triumph Herald. the seller also has a sump and backplate to suit the MG Midget engine and gearbox. |
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SPEEDWELL SPRITE FOR SALE ON EBAY
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This looks like a nice little project for someone. Currently (7 Dec) bids are at £3,605 with 9 days to go. The owner states: "Up for sale is my Speedwell Sprite which I have owned since 2005, but due to my advancing years and numerous other projects, I have decided to sell. The car started life as a standard Cherry Red Frogeye during 1960, but was modified by Speedwell Performance Conversions, London, I believe during the late 1960's (unfortunately I do not have any paperwork to back this up). From what I was told by the person I bought it off it was used for racing during the Seventies, then stored for many years and re-registered during 2002. The bodywork is fairly rusty, particularly in the floor pans, but I have a very solid American shell which goes with the car. The shell was used for racing in the USA and appears to be straight (although rear wheel arches have been modified/flared) and very sound in all the areas normally rusted out on the home market cars (chassis legs, sills, floors, Spring hangers, doors etc... See pictures). Please feel free to contact me to arrange to discuss or view the car - this would be adviseable prior to bidding so that you can see exactly what you are getting. Happy bidding". NOW AT £7,100 (27 bids) with 25 hours to go. |
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DONALD HEALEY MOTOR COMPANY Q PART NUMBERS JOHN HOPWOOD, one of the MSA Eligibility Scrutineers, who races his own Sebring, is "trying to track down a Healey competition parts list that shows their Q part numbers to try and expand on the options shown on the Sebring homologation form options page". Does anyone have a copy of such a document or any idea who might? Feedback |
SEBRING REP FOR SALE: DTA 949C is up for sale again, now with a central white stripe and priced at £22,450. Built a while ago by Severn Classics for Stephen Griffiths on an MG Midget base. Find details here . |
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SIX HOUR RELAYS AT SILVERSTONE 1963 to 67 |
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"More from the 6 Hour Relay: a very wet spell in '63 or '64 - I had the only open car but running on Dunlop SP's so was sent out when the rain came down. Nearly missing the team manager with the sash. Then EAC in colour and 1967".
[Dudley Lucas - Facebook] |
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"Two more from 1967: in the pits ready to get back on the circuit, waiting for the sash, and a reminder that in those days the lap times were in the 1:13 to 1:14 range. I wonder what we would have done with the power units of today - probably gone into the scenery very quickly!" [Healeysport - Facebook]]
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THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS - TO WHOM I SEND MY GRATEFUL THANKS:
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News ~ November 2017 |
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SARAH GOLD, daughter of the Late Tommy Gold sent in these photos of her father and Mike Hughes on the 1962 Tulip Rally. The car had been re-badged as a Sprite (earlier a Midget) and was one of 3 lightweight aluminium bodied works rally cars. They finished 39th overall and 3rd in class.
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SPRINZEL TROPHY
"The Austin Healey Club Eastern centre own this Trophy that was awarded to John Sprinzel for third place overall in the Liege Rome Liege Rally 31st August to 4th September 1960. |
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KERMIT'S NEW GRILLE [Steve Nash, Facebook] |
STEVE NASH'S REBUILD OF KERMIT IN SEBRING GUISE is really worth a look. Starting with a basket case of a body shell his photos take you through the lengthy process:
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NEWS ON THAT PETROL TANK OF RICHARD ROOKS ~ FROM TOM COULTHARD:
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CHARLES CLEGG
says, on Facebook: " 184 FGJ at Goodwood chicane in 1963 vs 2017...54 years later!" Just to get the facts straight: Not actually the same car except for the alloy fastback bodywork which adorned S221 for a time (S221 lost its reg no. and used JT 51 and 184 FGJ with the fastback body before the original no. was recovered and new coupe bodywork created) |
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Andrew Hedges trying hard to keep EAO on the island at Aintree during 1961. [Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird] |
Paul Slangen has a Sprite for every kind of weather in his stable. [Facebook] |
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WROXHALL ABBEY - MASC SPRITE 60TH ANNIVERSARY WEEKEND ~ AUGUST 24 to 26TH 2018 |
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While chucking out some old copies of "Old Stager" I found an article written by John Sprinzel about his outing in the 1991 Classic Marathon with Willy Cave. The car was converted from a Sprite Mk 2 re-imported by Dave Matthews. The PMO registration no. was borrowed from John's sister's Volvo! |
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CYNTHIA LONGHURST: "Thanks for the update. I saw the pics of Peter and Paul's replica on your website and agree Ian would have loved it too. I agree with you that they should be the very worthy winners of the trophy for this year. Thanks once again for everything you do to help with Ian's legacy - The Brian Archer Shield". |
FROM ALAN ANSTEAD OF MIDGET & SPRITE CLUB: |
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STEPHEN BOWEN: "What about Pete Taylor's Le Mans Replica. He started with the Gibson Brothers' body and then years at Archers untill eventually Brian Wheeler and Colin Sandwell basically started again. This has taken a lot of time, cost a lot of money but the result looks fantastic". |
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RICHARD ROOKS: "I have a new project, finding the source of this gas tank that was installed on my car in 1961. I have no idea, but because the corner has such an indent and the car has no need for this shape. It could be from a truck or farm tractor. Here are some photos that maybe someone is very good at identifing gas tanks". Anyone know: Feedback please.
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ROGER FRIEND REPORTS: |
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OXFORD UNIVERSITIES MOTORSPORT FOUNDATION
display their partly finished Sebring at the NEC |
I understand the bodyshell was donated by British Heritage (how come it has quarter-elliptic floor mountings?) and the body kit by Halls Garage. Let's see it finished guys. |
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IAN HULETT OFFERS PARTS perhaps for use by a builder of a Sebring Sprite: |
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EARLY MIDGET HARDTOP for sale. £500. Contact Steuart Crofts by email or Mobile: 07966 25678 |
ANY SUGGESTIONS AS THIS YEAR's WINNER OF THE BRIAN ARCHER SHIELD ?
As I didn't manage to get to the NEC this year I'm not sure which cars were on display and who might be the appropriate holder for the forthcoming period? Feedback please |
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ALISTAIR ROSS found these early photos of the then new MK 1
Austin Healey Sprite in the "Sheet Metal Industry" journal of 1960 and thought they might be of general interest to the Sprite clan. [Cambridge University Library]
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Spridget 60 Meet Zandvoort 2018 - Shigeru TANAKA from Japan is the 2nd official entrant for the Spridget 60 Meet and will be bringing the original LWD 959E Works Targa Florio 1967 car. |
'ASHLEY BONNET' FOR SALE Steuart Crofts has this NEW bonnet with fittings. Contact him by email or
Mobile: 07966 25678 |
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.....AND THEN THERE WERE ELEVEN !!
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WARWICK COUNTY RECORD OFFICE HEALEY ARCHIVE |
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Carmelo Oliva's post on Facebook showing the Aaaltonen/Baker entry for the Targa Florio in 1965... |
...and the Hopkirk/Wisdom car 693 LAC at the previous year's event |
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7080 AC in the hands of Jack Wheeler and Martin Davidson at the Targa in 1968 |
and 693 LAC again in the same race |
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AVAILABILITY OF SEBRING FASTBACK BODYWORK Marcus Fellowes who is a good friend of Andrew Forster tells me "I have begun the production of Ali-bodied fastback Peel based Sprites with Andrew's help. I currently have one in full build in prep to be raced in the 2018 season both internationally and Nationally. Two more bodies have been completed and await donor chassis for building or sale. More bodies are planned after Christmas. So, in short, the fast back bodies are available through either myself or Andrew in either fiberglass or Aluminium". Contact Marcus or Andrew via email. |
DIMENSION WANTED PLEASE |
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NEC CLASSIC CAR SHOW |
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SPRITE CALENDAR 2018 Just released by the Healey Museum at €14.95 whose address is: |
THE HEALEY ROADSTER |
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Petition: "Stop Classic modified vehicles losing their original registration number"A quote from the petition's creator: "I have been a classic car enthusiast for a long time and have built, maintained and modified cars to a very high standard. I think to lose the vehicle's original registration would be a shame . But I agree that the build quality needs to be kept a check on" . So, PLEASE SIGN NOW (6,556 have done so to date (3 Nov 2017) |
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Femi also has these spares for sale: Sebring bonnet; a pair of Frogeye doors complete with Speedwell door handles; semi-elliptic axle casing; wishbone pans with spring supports; spring shackles and base plates; door latches, etc as photos. He is looking for £800 for the lot. Contact him by email. |
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THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS - TO WHOM I SEND MY GRATEFUL THANKS:
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News ~ October 2017 |
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AND, TALKING OF GARAGES:
Despite having plans to move North early in 2018 we have, as yet, no garage facility to move the cars to. We are negotiating to purchase a little piece of land among the trees opposite our cottage (seen left in my brother John's drone picture). Then we have to get planning permission which in an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' can be tricky! [MEI] |
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"Hi Friends, The attached is for all of You, who are to some extent interested in my automobilistic career. These pics illustrate the latest status of my new extended multipurpose garage/workshop/men's refuge/party marquee. A few explanatory comments: |
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46 BXN ~ damaged at Goodwood earlier this year. |
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SEBRING BODY PANEL SUPPLIERSI receive quite a lot of enquiries for Sebring bonnets and tops and with the demise of Archers Garage these are the firms I am recommending. However I believe none of them has a mould for the Peel Fastback and gather that Andrew Forster is making 1 or 2 in his spare time - still contactable on archersclassicccars@supanet.com CCK Historic, Rosehill Farm, Burnt Oak Road, High Hurstwood TN22 4AE Midland Classic Restorations, Unit 4 Woodfield Business, 2 Kidderminster Rd, Ombersley, Droitwich WR9 0JH Halls Garage,
Folkingham Road, Morton,Bourne,
Lincolnshire, PE10 0NS |
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WJJ 998
is now owned by Lawrence Maudsley who is clocking up a few miles. "She has been set up nicely by Barry Hathaway who auto-crosses and is converted back to the Cobra seats originally fitted by Brian Mulcare. I have also put in a carpet set to smarten up the cockpit and am hoping to do a few track days in 2018". |
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Petition: "Stop Classic modified vehicles losing their original registration number"A quote from the petition's creator: "I have been a classic car enthusiast for a long time and have built, maintained and modified cars to a very high standard. I think to lose the vehicle's original registration would be a shame . But I agree that the build quality needs to be kept a check on" . So, PLEASE SIGN NOW (6,518 have done so to date (30 Oct 2017) |
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TOYOTA T50 5-SPEED GEARBOX CONVERSION What appears to be a complete Frontline kit is currently available on Gumtree for £600 (Derbyshire UK) [I have one in JJO as does Derek Stewart in his Fastback] |
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793 XPP |
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728 H was a registration number which seems to have been used by Speedwells on several of their cars. I have just put together a web page which mentions two of them. |
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TRAGIC NEWS ~ TONY BENNETTO DROWNS ON HOLIDAY |
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The 4444 DA web page has now been up-dated. |
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PETER BOWER HAS BEEN ENJOYING RACING HIS FROGEYE (ACQUIRED EARLIER THIS YEAR). |
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FROM KEES van BEIJMERWERDT: |
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I spotted a photo of a Speedwell GT on Facebook so copied it to Speedwell guru Alistair Ross. He replied:
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KEN GRASING flew in from Oklahoma City over the weekend to inspect his new Sebring in the making. Here he admires Darren Welch of Creative Classics' amazing bodywork - the car now at CCK Historic to be put on its wheels. He is talking with John Baggott while Daniel Lackey makes notes. In one day Ken was also able to see JJO, WJB 707 and the Lumbertubs and his own new car so went off to his hotel quite intoxicated with Sebrings.
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FOR SALE - 1961 AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE MK 1
Very good condition, 1275cc engine, refurbished gearbox ( Ribcase) New front disc brakes, new rear dampers, new dynamo, new master cylinder and much more.
Very good and solid body, Royal blue with red interior in also good condition.
Original and rare steering wheel, steel bonnet in mint condition, This Healey sprite is one of the best sprite avaliable for the price. Comes with new hood, Tonneau cover and Sidescreens. Original gearbox and wheels comes with the car aswell. Danish V5 and Heritage certificate. Worldwide delivery possible. £18.000 Contact Nikolaj Mortensen via email if interested |
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A COMMENT ON THE DVLA REGULATIONS DEBACLE:"As someone who has yet to tax their sebring replica, it having been SORN for best part of 10 yrs, this is causing me a great deal of concern! |
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MIKE HEATH:
"As hardtops seem to be the flavour of the month I thought I'd seek the assistance of you and your "family" to try and help resolve the Serial Number riddle on my hardtop. It sits atop my Ashley Mk 1 bonneted Sprite and landed along with the bonnet at some point in the early sixties. The serial number is affected by corrosion, particularly the first digit, which could be an S, 8, 5 or more unlikely 3. I'd always assumed it to be a BMC item but now am beginning to have my doubts as I can't imagine that they produced 5 let alone 8 thousand. Also on the subject of identification, has anyone ever seen what looks like some form of build documentation attached to the transmission tunnel?" |
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SORRY TO BE THE BEARER OF FURTHER WORRYING NEWS |
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BOB HINCHLIFFE ON DAVID PRATLEY'S STORY |
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XSC 500 - Standard-bodied Sebring Sprite
After Ben Tyer sold on his ebay project 458 STJ, he bought this lovely SBSS. Sadly "in 2007 due to wear and tear the owner changed the original engine and some of the front brake parts including the Girling calipers. The 'Sebring' parts (brakes and pedal box) were painted red. I have been in touch with him but none of the original parts were kept". Never mind - a lovely example. Perhaps a candidate for one of Sven's new hardtops? |
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4444 DA Sven dropped by yesterday with DA on the trailer. A bit battered around the rear end - genuine rally damage I gather - the interior now resprayed in Cherry Red (Stan Annis left those parts in original colour when he repainted the exterior and Sven wants to keep it authentic) |
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Paddy Greenwood has sent me these photos of Sven Eckhardt's replica DHMC hardtop and says:
"For the benefit of anyone considering buying one of these, the quality is quite simply superb- far better than the original. Typical German quality!" |
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IMPORTANT: A BIG THREAT TO THE FUTURE OF OUR SPORTFrom Carol Spragg - Historic Motor Racing News: Below is an open letter from their CEO addressed to all of us: Dear Motorsport friend and colleague, Please respond BY OCTOBER 20th to the EC Review Consultation - https://ec.europa.eu/…/cons…/finance-2017-motor-insurance_en by using the simple ‘MIA Response Guidelines’ which can be downloaded here. This will take LESS THAN TEN MINUTES – a short time commitment to keep motorsport alive, and the jobs it supports, in place. It is most important that you estimate, if motorsport were to cease, how many jobs will be lost directly from your organisation and indirectly by your suppliers or the sport, as this significant economic impact will influence the European Commission. Click the link below to read all about this matter: Public Consultation on REFIT review of Directive 2009/103/EC on motor insurance
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Stop Classic modified vehicles losing their original registration number"I have been a classic car enthusiast for a long time and have built, maintained and modified cars to a very high standard. I think to lose the vehicle's original registration would be a shame . But I agree that the build quality needs to be kept a check on" . |
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DEREK STEWART HAS FINALLY GOT HIS COVENTRY CLIMAX ENGINE INSTALLED IN HIS SEBRING FASTBACK: |
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"Some Memories of 1960's Sprite racing" by David Pratley
I spotted David Pratley's name on a letter he wrote to Classic & Sportscar magazine recently and managed to track him down. As a result he was able to fill me in on a lot of the history of UMV 685, and as I now have 4 bpictures of that car I have prepared a new web page in its honour. I wonder what became of it. [Photo courtesy of Ted Walker, Ferret Reprographics] |
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JOHN BAGGOTT has kindly supplied me with a couple of photos from the FIRLE HILL REVIVAL 2017, depicting Pierre Lequeux in 2080 PO and his daughter Camilla's Frogeye in the paddock. |
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GRAHAM BISH: "Have you seen the following films of the 1963 Le mans on the British Pathe site? https://www.britishpathe.com/search/query/le+mans+1963 |
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Bob Blayden on the "Bay to Birdwood Rally" in Adelaide, South Australia which had 1600 cars. Appropriately Bob ran as No.1275. |
AN ATMOSPHERIC SHOT from Woolmer Classic Engineering shows the Robson and Corry Sebrings waiting to go on track |
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ANOTHER MEMBER FOR THE SEBRING FAMILY:
JOCHEN SCHMIDT, from Aumuehle, near Hamburg, Germany bought his Frogeye 182 DAL in 1982 in Doncaster and used it as his daily driver (in summer) until the early 90s including several local races and numerous runs on the 'Eifel Classic' on the Nordschleife. In late 90s corrosion forced a storage period. 4 years ago it was restored and back on the road and widely enjoyed by my son. In the early 90s Jochen used to co-drive in historic races at the Nurburgring with his friend Martin Burhenne, several of them in S221 during Martin's ownership. During these times he was lucky to buy a DHMC hardtop locally, whichhe has now fully restored. |
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MG CC 4 HOUR RELAY RACE AT SNETTERTON |
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MORE ON SEBRING BONNET FITMENT - from Paul Slangen |
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THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS - TO WHOM I SEND MY GRATEFUL THANKS: |
News ~ September 2017 |
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SEBRING BONNET HINGE FITMENT "I used Sikaflex on my Sebring to fit the rear body, where I used it in conjunction with pop rivets. It was very good but where I used it on its own it became unstuck over time and this was in an area with no torsional strength. I think for any type of hinge on fibreglass, bolting and plating at the back is the only way to go. Ian Watts"." |
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CONGRATULATIONS TO PHIL ZAMLYNSKI WHO HAS JUST GOT HIS NEW SEBRING REP ON THE ROAD |
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THANKS TO CLIVE COOKE
for these action shots of David Abram and Steve Casson taking part in the Tunbridge Wells Motor Club's sprint at Goodwood last weekend. |
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CAN ANYONE HELP BOB HEPPELL WITH THIS ONE? "What is the best bonding agent for fibreglass to metal - I was going to use Sikaflex 91 to fix the front opening bonnet hinge." Feedback please |
JAMIE COIA is offering this painting of his late father Ronnie's cars for sale on Facebook. Unsurprising the current owner of OFH175 Mark Warne has already expressed interest. |
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RICHARD ROOKS is working on some lovely side-view drawings of the various Sprites including the W & P Sebring: He is looking for side view photos of Ashley, WSM, Lenham etc: "The greater distance from the side would give me better view of the front and tail details (like a mechanical drawing). Here is the update version of the Sebring".
If you can assist please send photos to him by email.
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FROM JOE ARMOUR: |
ALAN ANSTEAD: |
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TIFOSI OPEN DAY
Jason Elliott reports " Our TIFOSI, Midget and Sprite Open Day is on 14th October 2017 at Hall's Garage Morton Lincolnshire between 11:00 to 4:00". |
DAVID SCOTHORN AGAIN: |
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ROGER FRIEND:
"I think this sums up the new DVLA regulations, this will be the final nail in the coffin for the cottage industry that makes these replicas and parts". |
RTL 304 FOR SALE WITH PENDINE IN OXFORDSHIRE I couldn't resist reproducing these beautiful photos of RTL - surely one of the best looking of all the Sebrings [they're all lovely though aren't they?] despite the original owner calling it an Austin-Healey 1000GT and saying that the Sebrings were the enemy! Now on the market at £75,000 http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C914540 |
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BEING OFFERED ON EBAY and stated to be a Sebring Sprite Formula Junior Head, block Crank etc (but for a 1071 engine which was transverse) at £2750 |
"Having a "power to weight ratio of more than 15% in excess of its original design, unless such a modification took place before 1988".
This must cover just about every Sprite on the road these days not to mention the 1000s of other classic cars which have undergone even minor upgrades in nthe last 30 years! MEI |
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MARK WILSON: |
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"Martin- I certainly enjoyed seeing the photo of the transporter loaded with the Team cars and headed for Sebring 1963, but one team car is conspicuously missing. It's the Sprite prototype 58 FAC driven by John Colgate and Clive Baker. Unfortunately 58 FAC was destroyed in an accident later that year at Le Mans. As an interesting side note Stirling Moss was the Austin Healey team captain for the 1963 Sebring 12 Hour race. He was unable to participate as a driver due to a recent injury. |
David Scothorn: "Re: 40 Year MOT exemption.I would like to know what/ who is 'professional advice' and who polices it". [GOOD POINT] |
BOB HEPPELL is "looking for set of Frogeye Sprite steel wheels, with hub caps if possible. Will buy or exchange for new set (4) Mini- lites telephone 01386 860499 or email |
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MOT EXEMPTION FOR 40 YEAR OLD VEHICLES Graham Bish asks: "Did you read that the DFT have finally announced in making 40 year old vehicles exempt form MOT testing. This is unless they are substantially modified or on a Q Plate. https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-registration/radically-altered-vehicles" Stuart Brown of 3D Engineers Ltd says on LinkedIn: "The DVLA has today published draft guidance re Vehicles of Historical Interest (VHI) that have undergone “Substantial Change”. Proposed implementation is 20th May 2018 and it must be remembered that the consultation period came and went in 2016. This is happening. Only changes to detail remain. The draft guidance builds on the existing eight point rule system, the variation of which is not known, but does appear to lean towards being more onerous. Substantially changed classics are broadly classed as: |
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FROM STEVE NASH:
"Interesting to see the comments on wiper arms. I chose to park mine to the left to keep them out of driver line of sight. I used the TEX adjustable bayonet arms and 11" blades. Looking at photos of other cars, it would seem I'm in the minority though". |
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CLASSIC UPDATES & MONTE NEWS FROM DOUGLAS ANDERSON |
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A QUESTION RE: FITTING SPOTLAMPS TO A SEBRING " I have a pair of Lucas 5¾” Lucas rear-mounted spotlamps. Looking at historical pictures they look to be widely fitted to Sebrings and Frogeye's just like yours Martin. As my bonnet is fiberglass I am concerned that the central mount will put stress on the bonnet due to vibration and ultimately crack the surrounding fiberglass. Can someone please advise what they have done to reinforce the mounting area and stop this happening? Pictures would be excellent, Many Thanks, Graham Bish". Feedback please. [To be honest - I just bolted mine on and they've been on and off the car over the last 25 years with no sign of any stress cracking, thouigh I'm on the 2nd bonnet now. MEI] |
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"Looking at the Tex web site recommended by Graham, below, the alternatives would seem to be the U80 Range 5.2mm Spoon/Wedge Lock arms (cranked left) which are adjustable between 220mm and 285mm (or the similar A8 Range one) and the B00310 - 10" blades". [MEI] |
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FROM GRAHAM BISH - HELP WITH WIPERS |
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WIPER ARMS AND BLADES FOR SEBRING REPLICA Can anyone advise Keith Egar where to get these items? Mine are 10" blades and have cranked adjustable arms about 10.5" long. Is that what most people use? Where is a good place to buy them? Feedback please. |
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DENNIS WHARF AND THE TARGA FLORIO |
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RICHARD PUGH'S FASTBACK SEBRING REPLICA IS UP FOR SALE
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PLANNED HOUSE MOVE As many of you will know, Susan and I have been renovating a cottage in Teesdale in County Durham. Originally intended as an occasional hideaway we subsequently decided on a permanent move there. As a result our Kent home is now on the market (anyone interested in a 2/3 bed character property 4 miles from M25 yet in rural surroundings, having a large 2 car garage/ workshop with heating, plus another large timber garage?) and I have a mountain of Sprite parts to sort out and find new homes for before we can leave. Please forgive any breaks in the flow of the website while all this turmoil gets underway. MEI |
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FROM JOHN POULTER |
MY REPLY: Yes, of course John, I should have said "The most original of the remaing W & P bodied Sebring Sprites". As you say there is 2214 UE and also 52 LPH in Ireland - perhaps others. Very many thanks, Martin. |
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"PUTTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT"THE TRUTH ABOUT WJB 707'S LONG HISTORY - on PDF |
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12 NEW SHOTS OF PETE TAYLOR'S AMAZING LE MANS REPLICA |
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Trevor McIlroy had a great weekend at the Bo'ness Hill Climb, breaking the class hill record twice & won the class. 16th overall, out of 118 starters. Not bad for a 1959 Sebring Sprite |
The above shots show Pete Taylor's replica of one of the works Le Mans Sprites from 1965 under construction - can't be long before it's cruising down the Mulsanne!
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All packed up and ready for Sebring 1963. Maarten Engels has 54 FAC today and Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird, 9253 WD |
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ENGINE FOR SALE Mark Warne has a 1000cc engine for sale. It is currently with Andrew Forster at Aldons. Price & photo follow. Contact Mark can be contacted by email |
ARMSTRONG ADJUSTARIDE REAR SHOCKS
Ken Grasing is short of a set of the DAS 9 shockers for one of his 3 cars but has heard that the larger DAS 10 ones designed for the MGB have, on occasion, been fitted to Triumphs fitted initially with the DAS9. "There is a bracket/adapter for fitting the larger shock as the center-to-center dimension of the mounting holes is larger". Anyone familiar with doing a similar swap on the Sprite? If so Ken would love to hear. Feedback please. |
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WINDSCREEN & SIDE-SCREENS WANTED Bob Heppell, who owns Archer Sebring Rep No.17, seeks a Frogeye windscreen and side-screens. NOW SORTED THANK YOU |
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SPEEDWELL GT COOLING
Alistair Ross has sent these 2 new photos of Richard Rooks' engine bay showing his Fiat 1500 engine, now with aluminium radiator: "Richard say that this conversion has cut the running temp by a good 20 deg from a constant 200F to 160/180F" |
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ANDY ACTMAN'S SEBRING REPLICA No. 1 - 108 CPX goes up FOR SALE |
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[Reproduced from Facebook's Sebring sprite Group page - PETER MAY ENGINEERING: Based on an original 1960 Austin Healey Frogeye Sprite, this car was the first replica Sebring to be built in 1991. Converted by County Lane Classics using a shell sourced from America, the car was sold the current owner straight after completion.
Since then the car has gained extensive competition history, winning many international rallies awards, hillclimb and sprite class win as well as countless class victories racing include overall title honours in the Austin Healey Championship. The car is fitted with a Peter May full race 1380cc engine and straight cut gearbox. It features the original steel rear body, a carbon fibre Sebring hard top, (which is removable), and fibreglass Sebring one piece bonnet. The car also has a spare Sebring front and is fitted with fibreglass Sprite doors. The original steel doors are included within the spares package. It is currently fitted with a polycarbonate screen, but comes with laminated screen as a spare as well. The Sprite is currently fitted with lowered quarter elliptic rear springs with telescopic rear dampers, 600lbs front springs and Peter May uprated lever arm dampers and top link kit. The car has been developed regardless of cost and features a very high specification of components including; a full roll cage, Caterham race seat, plumbed in fire extinguisher, Maniflow exhaust system, front and rear brake bias and separate front and rear racing brake master cylinder. The car will be sold with a comprehensive spares package including diffs, spare cylinder head and numerous spare wheels as well as a host of other parts. This very successful competition Sprite is available for £35,995. Contact us for further details or complete spares package and further details of this well-known and very competitive Sprite. |
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FROM ALISTAIR ROSS:
"Reading Douglas Anderson's comments about trying different engines reminded me of Speedwells using the FIAT 1500cc engines in two of the GT's, both Richard Rooks car (MM) and my car (HX), these engines made about 75hp. Richards car still has the engine to this day and was the first of the two to be converted, this being done following discussions the then owner Dave Hurn had with Speedwells. My car was also fitted with this type of engine the only difference being that Speedwells cut the chassis rails so the engine would sit lower. Both cars suffered from over heating. Richard has cured this problem by fitting an aluminium radiator and I believe ceramic coating on the exhaust manifold. Attached are couple of pictures of Richard's engine in situ, these pictures were take some years ago so don't show the aluminium rad. HX lost its engine some years ago because of the overheating problem then going back to the 'A' series unit". |
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SPRITE 60 - AUSTIN-HEALEY CLUB SPRITE 60TH CELEBRATION WEEKEND AT CHATEAU IMPNEY, DROITWICH, WORCESTERSHIRE 18TH TO 20TH MAY, 2018 Get your booking in now if you want to be there. Read more on the website. |
News ~ August 2017 |
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XOH 276 Robert Visser is making great progress with the rear. |
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ADO 34/50 DEVELOPMENT PROGRESS DOUGLAS ANDERSON reports: "We are trying out a different engine. I hope this doesn’t upset the purists!!! My MG 1500 is now the test mule for the ADO34/50. I am using it to test some engineering alternatives to the standard car. |
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FIA APPENDIX K TRACK WIDTH
KEN GRASING raised the following question with JOHN HOPWOOD, MSA-appointed Registrar: |
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"MOUNTAIN LEGEND" - DAVID SCOTHORN points out that: |
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JOE ARMOUR RECOMMENDS THE DVD: "MOUNTAIN LEGEND" - 1965 TARGA FLORIO |
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A PROMPT REPLY FROM BOB HINCHLIFFE " In Menorca at present so it took a while to search out the Ashley bonnet car in your photo as I had to do it on my phone. The car is UMW 685 which was the subject of my original enquiry to you. In March 2015 you published a photo of it competing in the NSCC Silverstone meeting. I bought that photo and the other one of it when painted white, they are framed and hanging in my garage. Regards Bob". |
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CHANGE OF OWNERSHIP US based Lew McAllan has sold his Sebring Fastback body (No. 80 on the Archers Replica List) and bonnet to Jim Fletcher in Elgin, Illinois who plans to mount them on a Mk2 Sprite bodyshell. Lew has retained his own chassis and plans to build it up as a Barchetta with Sebring bonnet and aero screens, perhaps later with a removable Sebring top like Andy Hide's car. Lew asks where he can buy a Sebring top these days to which the answer is CCK Historic or Midland Classic Restorations or Halls Garage. |
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2 FREE TICKETS FOR THE BEAULIEU AUTOJUMBLE ON 3RD SEPTEMBER
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WISCOMBE PARK HILL CLIMB ~ 15/16 May 1965 I recently purchased these 2 not very good quality prints on ebay. On the left E700 (Stan Annis's Sebring) being driven by J. Kennard. David Pratley (right) in a Sprite with Ashley bonnet with various cut-outs and raked screen. It looks vaguely familiar but I can't read the registration. Feedback ? |
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RTL 304 This top photo makes the car look very like a WSM but it is fitted with" a Lenham Superfast bonnet – cribbed directly from Doug Wilson-Spratt’s one for the WSM" The lower shot shows the car in its new colours copied from WJB 707. |
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SEBRING IDENTIFIED - BY TOM COULTHARD - EYE 206
" Geoff Courtenay Broome was said to be a successful Harley Street ophthalmologist – hence the registration on his car ‘EYE 206’ (this was the original Douglas Wilson-Spratt 1961 Monte-Carlo Rally Sebring Sprite – not the standard Frogeye (XNB 712) onto which the alloy fastback was later transferred). I have found no entry for Geoff Courtenay Broome on the RAC Rally up to 1965 – so either the rally pictured was after that or another event – the Scottish, perhaps?" |
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Corry Motor sport are offering For Sale
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"Ex-Mike Youles car; Extensively reworked in our ownership; Fully rebuilt prior to Goodwood 75th Members Meeting; 1380cc on single 45 Weber; New adjustable Armstrong dampers all round; Gearbox fully rebuilt by Peter May Engineering; New Clutch; New 3J LSD; New adjustable pedal box w/AP Cylinders; Fully re-plumbed; Available on wire or steel wheels; Far too much spec to list, please contact for further information. Car is on the button and ready to race. Can be used in a huge variety of HRDC/HRCA/Equipe GTS as well as being highly competitive on Hillclimb and Sprint events". |
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MORE ON THOSE EUROPA/INTATRIM SEATS - FROM STEVE NASH |
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IAN WATTS on fitting Sebring Sidescreens: "Mine have quite large gaps at the bottom rail where it meets the door and dispite being a little drafty has never let in rain , even when used in really bad weather , I think the gutter deflects the water away . Also when I once said to Brian Archer that I was thinking of removing the gutter he said it would let loads of rain in.Hope this is of help. IAN" |
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ON XSP ENGINES: Neil Blaney reports: "HAN8.R.202 (is fitted with) XSP2604. Spare motor with Fuel Injection – XSP 306236, sitting on floor beside 5 speed gearbox. You already have XSP 1736-3 on the 1961 Sebring Sprite. The spare motor I told Joe Armour about and he contacted Jeff Brenner about it but couldn’t do a deal with him. I visited Jeff Brenner in May 2003 and obtained the info off the cars myself so it is reliable info. (being cheeky)"
. [N.B. The engine Owen Tyson asks about is fitted to a 1964 Mini Super Deluxe converted for racing in 1969 so is a transverse unit while my list is of mostly in-line motors.] Owen says:"We'd like to know a bit more about where these engines were built and who would have been likely to have worked on the engine? The owner was based in Birmingham, athough there is is a receipt for parts from Downton Engineering and a Jack Knight gearbox". |
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COMMENTS ON THE PHOTO OF EAO [which came from the BMC Comps Dept Facebook Group] |
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DAVID MORYS: "Could the background be the exit of Druids going down into Graham Hill corner at Brands Hatch?" DENNIS WHARF: "It appears to be Brands Hatch, probably pre-full GP circuit days. If I recall correctly, didn't the original paddock run along where the tunnel road was constructed later, enabling cars access to the circuit from the new paddock, roughly where the Kentagon now stands?" |
JONATHAN WHITEHOUSE-BIRD: "I believe the photo was taken at Brands. It's an early (damp) morning shot - so some time later in the 1961 season.
410 EAO is still owned by Andrew Hedges at this point; both the Mini and FJ single seater belonged to John Whitmore. Incidentally, the Mini was the car with which John won the '61 Championship. All three cars were equipped with A-series engines, tuned and built, by Don Moore. |
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DAVID NUTLAND: "The Mini was lent to Steve McQueen for this race as the title was his before the final round". |
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410 EAO in a paddock (where?) close to an early 'works' Mini, TMO. [Pablo Raybould] |
TREVOR McILROY BUYS LENHAM LE MANS |
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MORE ON THOSE SEATS
"Further to your piece on seats on the website I believe that these are the same as those featured. However they are direct from the manufacturer and are cheaper. You are also able to choose the colour of both the vinyl and the piping. If you send off a cutting from underneath your existing seat they will match it. I have plans to buy some for my car this Winter. http://www.intatrim.co.uk/apollo.html Regards Bob (Hinchliffe) |
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SVEN ECKHARDT ON DHMC HARDTOPS
"I would like to share the trouble I have had fitting the tall sidescreens to DA. |
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XSP ENGINE ORIGINS? |
DOUGLAS ANDERSON has sent me this image of the official poster for the UK Start of the Rallye Monte Carlo Historique and Classique 2018. The main picture is of him and his wife in their Mark 2 going off to Monte Carlo as the course car in 2015. |
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STEVE NASH'S SEATS |
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RON SCOMA WROTE TO NICK CONKLIN ABOUT 8427UE/1413 WD "I had sold it to Dick Skipworth in the late 90's, a factory team car. Don't remember the chassis number off hand but the Registration number was 8427 UE when racing at Sebring; Walt Hansgen - 4 hour and Joe Buzetta / Glenn Carlsson - Prototype Class . After returning to the works it was re-registered to 1413 WD, the number used when it ran at Le Mans. One of the few cars, of any make, to run at both Sebring and LeMans using the same original engine. At LM it ran under the Ecurie Ecosse flag. I want to say Ninian Sanderson and Bill McKay were the drivers - they crashed early on. I haven't thought about the car in 15 years but somewhere I have a file. My friend, Graham Gauld, wrote the book on EE, helped arrange the sale to Skipworth. Because of the car (as opposed to my charming personality...) I was invited to the 1994 (I think it was '94) EE Christmas banquet in E'burgh, David Coulthard was the guest speaker that evening. David also arranged for me to drive the new (at the time) Mclaren F1 road car which was one heck of an experience in London traffic. Also met Allen McNish and David Leslie........" [I presume Ron was the guy in the States who sold the 'remains' of the original car to Dick Skipworth enabling him to build effectively a new car as a re-creation of the Le Mans Sprite 1413 WD] |
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2 GREAT PHOTOS OF "THE ROADSTER" ON FACEBOOK The one on the right was taken "at the SOVREN Spring Sprints Pacific Raceways, 28th April 2013. |
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PAUL SLANGEN: [See photos below right] "For sealing the sidescreens at the doorskin, I used special black foam rubber. It is perfect to have a piece which can be folded and put under the aluminium frame. Due to foam can be pressed almost to 1/2 of original thickness, it will fit without any problem and always presses itself making a tight fit sealing. ( open ends of folding should be inside the frame. outside looks as nice round rubber seal. They call it neoprene rubber. They sell in several thickness, on the roll or as a plate, here at a specialized rubber shop ( seriously, No joke !!) Also used for race motor bikes when saddle is too much weight. It can stand water etc, not absorbing. Hope it is clear. Best regards, Paul" |
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A NICE SHOT OF THE COCKPIT OF PETE TAYLOR'S LE MANS REPLICA |
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And from PAUL SLANGEN: "for sealing the sidescreens at the doorskin, I used special black foam rubber. It is perfect to have a piece which can be folded and put under the aluminium frame. Due to foam can be pressed almost to 1/2 of original thickness, it will fit without any problem and always presses itself making a tight fit sealing. (open ends of folding should be inside the frame. outside looks as nice round rubber seal. They call it neoprene rubber. They sell in several thickness, on the roll or as a plate, here at a specialized rubber shop (seriously, No joke !!) Also used for race motor bikes when saddle is too much weight. It can stand water etc, not absorbing. Hope it is clear. Best regards, Paul" |
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In reply to Mike Curtis, from Lew McAllan: "A few pics to show the I channel and rubber seal (trial fit). I am going to use a big Healey seal to seal better in the corner". |
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PAUL STAVENDEN asks: "I have been looking at the photos on your 'Sebring Sprite Latest News' page of the 8-port head and Lucas fuel injection. I note that the one illustrated is cast iron with downdraft ports, as used on the last Healey-made aerodynamic Sprites. Is this the Works head which was abandoned in favour of the Arden / ST head? I am interested to know how these two heads compare with each other in performance terms. Thanks for any comments, Paul Standeven. |
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Above: 4444 DA back on its wheels (Sven Eckhardt). |
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CAN ANYONE HELP SVEN EXKHARDT WITH HIS LOCKHEED THIN DISC BRAKES ?"Hello everybody, Hello Martin,
I have put 4444 DA back on its wheels in order to take her across to the UK. |
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PETER BOWER owns this '59 racing Sprite, which spent 40 years or so as a race car on the West Coast in the USA. He plans to convert it to FIA spec with an alloy body and maybe in Sprinzel or Peel fastback guise. He says:
"It is a very sound shell with a modified Kellison bonnet I believe. It's not to my taste but is a nice period piece I guess. I am just having a straight cut box repaired and will fit that and try it out in a race meeting and see how it goes....". |
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FITTING SEBRING SIDE-SCREENS
Mike Curtis would like helpful advice: "A question for you…what do most people use to seal the gap between the sebring sidescreens and the door skin. Needs to be fairly flexible I guess, but without it I anticipate getting very wet!" Feedback please. |
CAN ANYONE HELP ME IDENTIFY THIS (?)PEEL-BODIED SEBRING? Colin Barnett posted it with the caption"Broome - 1963 RAC Rally).Could it be 52 LPH or 2214 UE or E 700 ? |
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Throttle bodies on 8-port head, unfitted |
Lightening holes in lower door. |
Lightening holes in front edge of door frame. |
Clip to retain side screen at speed. |
KEN GRASING'S PHOTOS FROM THE 2017 AUSTIN-HEALEY CLUB USA CONCLAVE IN TEXAS |
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Throttle bodies on 8-port head, fitted on HAN9-R-238 |
Metering pump with toothed belt. Note crossmember narrowed for clearance. |
Metering pump with toothed belt - note drive cog on cam extension, forward, through timing cover, and drive belt crossing behind generator and water pump drive. |
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With one exception the above photos are of HAN9-R-238, the 2nd 1968 'works' Le Mans car (the one that didn't race but went on to race at Sebring and at other international circuits in private hands). Now owned by Steve Coleman in Texas.
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D20 AT THE BOXING DAY BRANDS HATCH MEETING IN 1961 [From Facebook]
Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird: " A rare shot of the W&P, alloy bodied coupe, Sebring Sprite D 20 in action - ![]() ![]() |
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GRAHAM BISH WAS AT THE HAREWOOD SPEED HILL CLIMB LAST WEEKEND: |
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"Spent a good Saturday with the family at the Harewood Hillclimb. I introduced myself to David Abram. My good friend Peter Green used to race with David in the 80's and we discussed the two racing at the old Longridge circuit. Colin Gale was equally chatty and we enjoyed watching the final ascents of the day together". |
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Colin Gale |
Dave Abram |
Steve Casson |
Garrow Shand |
WINTON FESTIVAL OF SPEED 2017, Victoria, Australia. Simon (Sprite) & Damien Meyer (Midget), left, prepare for their race which included 4 other Spridgets. According to Wikipaedia the circuit, Winton Motor Raceway "has a combination of long fast straights and twisty and tight bends. It is also known as "Australia's Action Track". Bob Blayden tells me: "The Austin Healey Sprites cleaned up! The class results show how well they performed against much more powerful cars under wet and cold conditions". |
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PETER BOWER has "acquired a '59 racing Sprite, which has spent 40 years or so as a race car on the West Coast of the USA. He plans to convert it to FIA spec with an alloy body of either Sprinzel or Peel fastback guise". |
STUART JAMES has "this year completed an Archers replica on a late model Midget shell YBX886V. Its taken about 5 years but of course is always undergoing tweaks. I imagine it was around the 100th supplied. The car is unusual in that it is a barchetta style with a small full width racing deflector, inspired by images of 678XUM which I believe is a French or Belgian vehicle". |
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TREVOR MCILROY'S NEWS:
"I've enclosed a few images of our cars in 1/42 models, commissioned locally. We've been campaigning XXC818 in France, Scotland, England & of course Ireland over this season. New engine, gearbox & diff fitted. Just back from Shelsley Walsh a few weeks ago & off to Bo'ness Scotland 1st September. A couple of home hills & sprints to finish the busy season". |
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JUST A SELECTED FEW FROM DENNIS WHARF'S EXCELLENT PHOTOS |
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Ollie Friend's antics |
James Willis |
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Richard McKoen |
Jim Mackie |
Asher Robson |
Dennis's Midget |
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Charles Rainford |
Tony Davis |
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Great photo of Steve Casson at Lower Esses, Shelsley Walsh last weekend, 29/30 July. |
Ton Blankespoor's Lenham GT [Photo recently posted on Facebook] |
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TZA (pictured below), the Alec Poole/James Thacker racing Frogeye is featured in this week's 'MotorSport News' under 'Historics' on Page 11 so rush out and buy a copy. [2 Aug 2017] |
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A MOMENT OF PANIC! when TZA failed to start at Chateau Impney - it turned out to be a loose wire under the dash! (Photos: Gary Lazarus - many thanks) |
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OUR HERO JOHN SPRINZEL
is included in the list of 2017 inductions to the US Hall of Fame "Won the British Rally Championship and his class at the 12 Hours of Sebring behind the wheel of an Austin-Healey Sprite, one of the best known racing and rally drivers of his era". |
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THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS - TO WHOM I SEND MY GRATEFUL THANKS:
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News ~ July 2017 |
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SPOTTED by Michael Davis - the 'Speedring' at Castle Combe over the weekend. (The name was given to it by its builders Bill McDonnough & Dave Groves). Now owned by Mark Warne - thank you Derek. |
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AMENDED PRICE TAG: BILL PROUT is offering his Sebring bonnet and rare W&P detachable hardtop for sale in the States. He is looking for £3,500 for the pair which are understood to be in good condition. Bill can be reached by email
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RESTORATION OF TOM COULTHARD'S EX-BILL FRANKLIN/DENYS BURGESS RALLY SPRITE WER 354 BEGINS. |
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GRAHAM BISH met up with Bob Hinchliffe, owner of USU 607 at the 'Classics on the Common' meet at Harpenden
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SPRIDGET 60 MEET AT ZANDVOORT 27 - 29 JULY 2018
Ian Grainger: "Had a great weekend of Healey racing at Zandvoort recently. Already organised for the last weekend in July next year,to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Sprite. An international Sprite race with a grid of 48 Sprites from around the world. The Healey Museum is providing a large camp site with facilities for the event". |
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FROM PHIL ZAMLYNSKI IN THE STATES: |
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Terry Driscoll (via Facebook) has had these Sebring badges 3D printed and is having them chromed. If anyone would like one
the large one is 12cm at about £65 and the small one is 8cm at about £50. Not quite the same design as the originals but attractive nonetheless. If you would like one please let me know via Feedback and I will pass the message on to him |
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THOSE 'HEALEY' ROCKER BOXES
Ian Grainger was quick to respond to my question and says: "These were copies of my rocker cover on 2341 UE, still with the car in the Healey Museum. Colin Cooper had a batch of copies made, when he owned Frogeye Spares here in Oxfordshire. Unfortunately, there was some unexpected shrinkage which caused problems with rocker clearance, I believe". However I don't recall any clearance problems when using mine. |
ARCHERS' FIBREGLASS PANELS
I hear that Andrew (Forster) is working on the first of his Peel Fastbacks since closure of Archers Garage. He only has limited spare time in which to do this work as he has a full time job, and a family to enjoy, but it's good to hear the supply of these components goes on, albeit slowly. |
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THE FIRST OF SVEN ECKHARDT'S REPLICA DHMC HARDTOPS LEAVES THE MOULD
Sven has "made a set of holding brackets as well as sourced rear screens (perspex for the time being glass is possible at a price). The clamps fitting it to the windscreen are available from Moss or AH spares". He has made a trial fitting of the prototype hardtop to one of his cars - more soon. |
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Steve Nash: "So, went for the first drive in Kermit for some 27 years. Just been for a drive around the farm. A few jobs still to do, but Kermit lives again!"
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Does anyone recall who produced the rather attractive Healey rocker covers? Might be worth getting some more. Feedback please |
WJB 707 I have now added the 'Octane' article to the list on the 'Articles' page now that you have all had a chance to buy a copy! |
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ONE OF A CONSIDERABLE NUMBER OF SUPPORTIVE EMAILS RECEIVED FROM CONTRIBUTORS (THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH) FOLLOWING PUBLICATION OF THE FACEBOOK MESSAGES SHOWN LOWER DOWN THIS PAGE:
"Hallo Martin |
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ANOTHER MEMBER FOR THE SEBRING SPRITE FAMILY "Hi Martin, Would like to join the "Family". Own a 59 Sprite MK1 special (998 engine with approx. 65HP, LSD etc.) Also building an Ashley on 59 MK1 base with original 1960 fiberglass hardtop, bonnet and rear. Engine will be supercharged 1098 with CR gearbox and 3.7 LSD. Regards, Kees van Beijmerwerdt Extra: I am quite happy with your set up of the site. If you open it like Facebook the risk of on-going arguments (true/fake) will go on forever! Just leave (it), if somebody really wants to help you he should just do it, not just commenting....." |
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PIERRE LEQUEUX
has finally fitted his DHMC hardtop (No 300) to 2080 PO and just needs to find an upholsterer to refurbish the original screens...."i painted it old English white to match the car ....so much more headroom when you seat in the car...." |
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FROM BOB BLAYDEN DOWN UNDER: |
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FROM MAARTEN KRIKKEN: "Hi Martin, Look what I found today while on holiday in Normandy. Great to see Sebring Sprites pop up in the most unusual publications, just a shame it is described as a plastic car... All the best, Maarten" Maybe Jonathan can tell us more about the photo. |
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FROM FACEBOOK GROUP: Austin-Healey Historic Pictures (read entries in reverse order) |
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Richard Hart has for sale on ebay
a genuine Paul Ivey EN40 race crank for the 948 inline A-series – i.e. for Sebring Sprite, Midget, Austin A35 and the early production-based Formula Junior engines with standard 1.75 inch main bearings, and wet sump. The crank is brand new old stock, never used. They went out of production when Paul Ivey retired about 5 years ago, and will never be made again. Click on the link above. Expires 23 July. Asking £2,600 |
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TZA & JAMES THACKER AT THE RECENT CHATEAU IMPNEY HILLCLIMB
James tells me: "My ex Midget racing friend Peter Richings and his wife, Joy, came to watch me at the Chateau last weekend and Joy sent me a plethora of photos which she kindly took on Sunday. Peter went on to race F3 and clubmans [won the championship again last year] and has this year retired as a director of JLR. |
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Nick Conklin still has still a few replica winged 'Supercharged' badges at US$ 75 plus $12 p&p. |
" |
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Paddy Greenwood has pointed out that:
"there are potential issues with headlight/ sidelight alignment with replica (Sebring) bonnets and buyers should check this alignment before accepting their noses". |
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Robert Visser is nearing completion of his restoration of the ex-works rally Sprite XOH 276 seen here using its sister car's registration plate. "Touring abroad, a practical guide to Carefree Motoring" from Tommy Wisdom. |
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Great to see more Sebrings Reps being built including this one for Keith Egar |
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"I've been building a Sebring replica for the last 18 months. The car is nearing completion, and is intended for use as a race car.
Most of the hard work was completed by Hall's Garage at Morton, who did a lovely job fitting the bodywork and glass. The side screens are also from Hall's.
The aim is to race, later in the year. I have a 1293 engine and 1380 for the car. I went with the Speedwell Blue. The car will be road legal and MOT'd. It’s not intended for much road use as the interior is bare and fairly stiff suspension. My aim is to race it in the Equipe/Swinging Sixties and European circuits. The shell is a semi-elliptic1965 on a 'C' plate. Registered on the same day that I was born. |
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SVEN ECKHARDT on progress with reproducing DONALD HEALEY MOTOR CO HARDTOPS
"I went to my friend Martin Unzeitig day before yesterday and asked him what progress he had made as my last information was that he was getting the old hardtop ready to take the mould off.
He said I couldn´t see the hardtop really because it was in the mould.
Obviously I had to have a look and the mould is well on the way. |
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LEW McALLAN has been concentrating on the mechanicals for his Sebring Fastback:
"Thought I should provide you an update on Replica #80 ! Have made substantial progress over the last 2 months and actually fired the car up last weekend. Car has a 1275 recent rebuild with "fast street" cam, smooth idle with 45mm Weber DCOE, Pacesetter headers and a straight pipe to Monza dual tip exhaust. Nice and throaty. Need to bleed brakes and clutch this weekend and I may sneek a drive before bonding the fastback. Decided to get the car to driver level before the bonding. A few pics attached". |
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Anyone recognise this Frog's bonnet? Could it be an early Alexander. Andrew Vigor took the photo on TV from "Shadow of Fear" Feedback |
Steuart Crofts |
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SEAN SANDOE |
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PETER FELLOWES' SEBRING ROADSTER |
News ~ June 2017 |
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My sincere thanks to all of those who have contributed to this page during the month of June. |
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The "FOR SALE" PAGE has been UPDATED |
Bill Emerson's WSM Sanction 2 is currently on display in the BRITISH SPORTS CAR HALL of FAME in Virginia alongside a 1948 Healey Westland and 1955 Austin-Healey 100S. |
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It is worth getting the August edition of 'Octane' magazine which features Stephen Bowen's ex-Ian Walker Sebring - the one all the replicas are modelled on. |
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DAC 952C on the road. Enjoy this little video posted by Bruno Verstraete |
20 new shots of 138 DJB at MG Live, Silverstone taken by David Morys at jacobsmidget.com |
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THE EX-STEVE NORTON, EX-SIMON DURLING REP FOR SALE at £28,500 through Paul Matty Sportscars See Pistonheads |
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Bruce Small in Oz wanted to know the colour of Mike Haigh's car so: " ..on the paint colour for the Lenham Le Mans. It is one of the Aston Martin colours virtually, slightly amended but not much, as we were trying to match to the original paintwork we discovered under many layers of paint on the bulkhead! Please see the enclosed colour basis that was used. Good result at the Harewood Hillclimb Classic and Vintage Meeting 2 weeks ago I won the up to 2 litre class outright and had second fastest FTD overall for the meeting! All the best Mike". |
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BRYN ROSSITER has one of those MG things! and has installed my first Sebring engine in it: |
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Here are a few pics of your ex-rally engine in its new home. Replacing the 1098, it is 998 now to Sebring Sprite competition spec., apart from smaller carbs for throttle response and economy on the road. Gearbox is 1275, rebuilt with heavy duty clutch and roller release bearing. I have added a mild anti-roll bar with up-rated front dampers (ex-Roger Friend). The wheels are from my Sprite Mk1, refurbished. Other than the Les Leston steering wheel and an ammeter, the remainder of the car is standard. Cheers, Bryn |
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A PAIR OF SPEEDWELL DOOR HANDLES + DOORS on ebay |
BARRY SIDERY-SMITH I was very sorry to hear that one of the real characters of MG club racing known as Barry "Sideways" has died aged 81. See MGOC report |
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LENHAM LE MANS COUPE PROJECT FOR SALE Rod Allsworth is offering his Lenham project for sale with W & P bonnet (see full specification on PDF) £3,500 for the kit or £12,000 for complete project. Rod can be contacted by email |
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ANYONE NEED SOME OF THESE? Mark Boldry does and is thinking of getting some made. They are SU return spring mounts. If you are interested please let me know on Feedback. |
The owner of this 1958 Sprite would be very interested to know who built its alloy bodywork, when and where. The car formerly resided in Lisbon, Portugal and is now in Belgium. Nothing is known of its history before 1982. Feedback please. |
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MIKE THOMPSON (FORMERLY OF SPEEDWELLS) ~ WHERE ARE YOU ?Alistair Ross says "I am trying to retrace Mike Thompson who worked for Speedwells and went
with the Streamliner to Belgium. Mike has moved from his house in
Norwood and the new owners don't have forwarding address" |
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1963 Austin-Healey Sprite Mk II - For Sale US$ 21,000 obo
The subject of a ground-up cost-no-object professional restoration using all factory parts costing roughly $30,000. A rust-free California car, stripped to bare metal and professionally repainted. Its 1275cc engine has been lightened and balanced with all new internals giving 85 to 90 estimated horsepower. Cast aluminum valve cover with quick release cap. New SU HS2 carburetors with Les Leston air horns and foam socks. Many parts under the bonnet are powder coated. Everything on this car was either new or rebuilt. Lowered 2" and rides on new wire wheels. Stainless steel exhaust and Jet-Hot coated headers. New quarter elliptic leaf springs and shocks. Suspension and transmission completely rebuilt. This car drives and rides like new. Lucas PL headlamps, new cloth-braided wiring harness. NOS Les Leston steering wheel and shortened shifter. Robbins Everflex top and Robbins Everflex tonneau which was never installed. Custom made interior and Wilton wool carpets. Interior was professionally installed and is not a kit. Reproduction Donald Healey Motor Company baby seat. If anyone has any interest in a professionally restored Sprite MkII built to the highest standards, send me an email to discuss. Jay Fishbein, Wallingford, Connecicut, USA. |
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OLIVER FRIEND
"Picture from Silverstone MG Live - Oliver started from the back row of the grid (28th) and finished 6th overall, track temps exceeding 47 degrees !! Results sheet from race two on Sunday. Saturday's race was a disaster as he was shunted off whilst lying in 3rd place dropping down to 20th and then on the 7th lap ran out of fuel , - my fault, didn't allow enough for the hot track temperatures, Roger". |
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SEBRING/SPEEDWELL GT REP FOR SALE
Steve Pye Cars of Lancashire are offering this kit of parts which appears to include a fibreglass Speedwell GT top and Monza bonnet. Offered on ebay at £5,490. Interesting!!! Looks like this lot has found a buyer (23/6/17) |
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EARLY MARK 2 SPRITE FOR SALE |
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DAVID LOVEGROVE HAS FOR SALE: |
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PADDY GREENWOOD'S ALLOY COUPE
I spent a very pleasant hour or so the other evening with Paddy Greenwood who has several Sprites including this alloy coupe built on a new Frogeye Spares chassis by Craig Chapman. Paddy says: "My body chappie is very happy with it- everything fits and door shuts are all fine". He is also building another car with a Shorrock C75 supercharger. |
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Hi Martin, A question from Oz if I may thanks? Just wondering if it is possible to determine what the paint colour is that Mike Haigh used on his wonderful restoration of his Lenham LM Rego HYL 838C. The paint colour just looks so striking on the Lenham body shape and my AH enthusiast friend here in OZ and I were debating if it was a Aston Martin colour.I look forward to your response. Kind regards, Bruce Small. |
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Anyone wanting to continue following the progress of Rob Clubbe's Lenham GT Sprite build, keep an eye on either Corry Motorsport's, or the Lenham GT group's Facebook pages or Rob's own website http://robslenhamgt.weebly.com |
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AN APPEAL FOR PARTS - REAR MAIN CAP & LIGHTENED FLYWHEEL
Alex Robertson sent me this request: "Hi Martin, I am looking for a rear main bearing cap and a well lightened flywheel for my spare 1275 engine. Can anyone help out? I have sent a photo of one of my Spridgets in action at Morgan Park Raceway in Queensland a couple of weeks ago. I also drove the same car on a 5300Km trip to Victoria & back to join a Sprite tour of the eastern Victorian highlands in company with another 24 cars. (20 of them were Spridgets.) Cheers from Alex Robertson. (Sprite Car Club of Queensland.) Email him if you can help, please. |
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KEN GRASING'S ALLOY SPRINZEL COUPE
Latest photos show the car fitted with its side-screens. Shortly to go back to CCK Historic for partial assembly prior to shipping across the pond. Beautiful work by Darren Welsh of Creative Classics |
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Track Days with MGs ON TRACK ~ 2017 Calendar |
JJO's SHUNT on the Tulip Rally back in 1995 (mentioned below). A rather sad sight after its shipment home from Metz in France. Partly my fault for braking suddenly when I misread a junction but largely due to the driver behind reading his map! |
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23rd JUNE:
26TH JUNE: 7TH JULY: 21ST AUGUST: 1ST SEPTEMBER: 2ND OCTOBER: 13TH OCTOBER: 31ST OCTOBER: 4TH DECEMBER |
CROFT CASTLE COMBE NORTH WEALD BLYTON PARK CASTLE COMBE DONINGTON PARK ANGLESEY GOODWOOD BRANDS HATCH |
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Ian Polley racing the '68 Le Mans 'works' Sprite at Brands Hatch in the late 70's |
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MAARTEN KRIKKEN'S PHOTOS
from the Tulip Rally in April 1995 (22 years later I receive some great photos of our rallying efforts which I had not seen before). |
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"I have just sent you the pictures I took of JJO and Stephen Bowen's blue Sebring during the Tuliprally (1994 I believe). It was the first time I saw a Sebring Sprite. I was following the rally as a 17 year old photographer aboard an Alfa Romeo 164 which was organised by the Dutch Austin Healey club as a quick support vehicle with Mark Schmidt of LB Racing driving the car. For me it not only sparked my interested in special Sprites, but it also delivered my first publication of my pictures in a classic car magazine as I was introduced to Peter Ecury (yes, he of RTL 304) who used my pictures in his report on the rally (in Auto Motor Klassiek). As I was still learning a lot about photography at the time, these are not the greatest action shots, but nevertheless I hope you enjoy them. I have got no idea in what position both of you finished the rally..." Well, sadly my rally, with Andy Gibson navigating, ended in quite a nasty accident when we were rammed from behind by a Jeep at a junction. The car was badly damaged and Andy spent a night in hospital. Brian Archer rebuilt the rear half of the car and it was soon as good as ever. Stephen's car was newly built at the time and had been meticulously prepared by friends. He got a special mention at the end of the event as he and his co-driver dropped down the ranks after stopping to assist another Healey competitor and fitting a new fuel pump for him. |
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FROM BERNARD CARPENTER: "You may be interested in seeing how this car (a Tifosi Rana) was produced from a dodgy MG Midget. It's quite a lengthy story, but all inspired by my ownership of a Speedwell Sprite, 1526 UE, back in the early sixties. This was my attempt to recreate that car, with limited resources, but with an ability to 'keep up with the traffic!" |
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ANDREW LOWIS NEEDS A DOOR SKIN |
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STAN ANNIS GUIDES SVEN ECKHARDT ON THE REBUILD OF HIS FORMER RALLY CAR, 4444 DA"The Halda Speed Pilot looks like the Speedpilot Neuere Ausfuhrung in Black nothing to reflect light for the navigator, he also had a Magnified map reader with a plastic bottom with a miles & inches scale on it which he used on the 1 inch to a mile map. The speed pilot was used mostly on long sections so that we did not exceed the 40mph average over 20 miles on public roads. We did not use it on special stages. Most of the rallies in the UK were on Ordnance survey maps that were 1 inch to the mile; the navigator was given the map references of the controls & the direction to approach - he then had to plot his route, he was also given the times allowed. You were allowed 29 minutes lateness before you had a failed section so you could make up time between controls but 30min late at a control was a failed control The navigator also had a black curtain to stop reflected light on the screen so has not to effect the driver. Today it seems that it is one special stage after the other; this is because we could not average more than 30mph on the roads by law which soon became very easy. My navigator Richard Binns was the first to set a rally on Forestry roads where the 30mph did not apply & the special stage was born; it was The Express & Star Rally. Hope this of interest for you it has been a nostalgic trip for me." |
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SVEN ON THAT ANTI-ROLL BAR: "Well whatever it is I´m pretty sure it ain´t Speedwell. TRV/UYU had an ARB fitted which looked like the one on Tommy Gold´s car 642GEH and the one in the big Speedwell catalogue and it looks different to that one. I shall send a picture. You can however make it out on the first picture of TRV202´s subpage. The other 2 are AH100 and ain´t looking like that one either though". |
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Rob's Lenham Day 6 Quick view of the outer arch taking shape. Some English wheel action and a LOT of hammering. Just a little dressing into the fibreglass required tomorrow. |
Rob's Lenham Day 7 It's on, aligned and all welding complete and ready for bonding. . . |
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Mark also has A COMPLETE FROGEYE WINDSCREEN with glass to give away to a good home. It's in rough shape and one of the tips of the alloy frame sides has broken off but it might be useful to someone. He is in Horley, Surrey. Email him if interested. |
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MARK MAGUIRE'S ANTI-ROLL BAR Fitted to his Frogeye when he bought it, he wonders if it is a Speedwell one? Can anyone identify it please? Feedback |
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SVEN'S LATEST NEWS |
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GRAHAM BISH was at the Tatton Park (Cheshire) Classic Car Show on Sunday (4 June)...... |
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He Says: "Spent a good day at the Tatton Classic car show yesterday on the Austin Healey Club stand. My car sat next to Emryn & Pauline's Sebring. There was a suggestion that it was the first time that Sprites had out numbered their big brothers on the stand!" |
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ROB'S PROGRESS More photos of Rob's Lenham GT under construction courtesy of Will Corry |
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FOLLOWING UP ON MICHAEL BERG'S ENQUIRY ABOUT SEBRING FRONT & REAR SCREENS...
I contacted Andrew Forster who still has both and can supply him... Alan Anstead replied: "Pilkingtons at Queensborough will make a Sebring windscreen. I had contact with them, albeit 14 years ago, and was told that it would have to be cash and collect. I have the 'part number' if needed". ... and Sven Eckhardt: "As far as I am aware there is still supply from Archer´s supplier, a screenglass manufacturer in Birmingham I can´t remember the name I´m sure Andrew would be willing to help. If there is no luck (there): The front screen of my Archer´s replica first time round is still there. It did not get damaged in the crash. Its a very early screen and Andrew told me even though it is safety glass it might not comply with Automotive regulations which is the reason I replaced it with one from the new suppliers when we did the rebuild in 2014. Sven" |
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FRONTLINE FROGEYE An article by Simon Charlesworth published in Dep-O magazine back in 2012 but worth a read. |
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EARLY ASHLEY HARDTOP FOR SALE
Michael Berg is re-offering his hardtop on ebay. It has been renovated to a high standard, has no cracks, a fresh gel coat and paint . All the trim is present, incl rear glass, aluminium gutters and hinges . Buy Now at £840 or open bidding at £600. Expires 12 June. Located Aarhus, Denmark. |
Michael is also looking for Sebring Front and Rear Screens. Any suggestions please via Feedback |
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STEPHEN BOWEN ON STEERING RACKS: |
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ROB CLUBBE'S LENHAM GT BUILDWill Corry and Pete Moorland-Moore is building this Lenham GT for Rob Clubbe in Northern Ireland based on a Mk 2 Sprite and is to be completed to HRDC spec with an engine used in Will's Weslake Trophy entry at Goodwood earlier this year. It would appear that the bonnet is an Ashley Mk 2 type. The good Mk 2 rear bodywork is up for sale. |
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News ~ May 2017 |
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AN INTERESTING POINT FROM STEVE NASH
Has anyone wondered why there is a spacer under the LH steering rack mount on early RHD Spridgets? It's because the rack originates from a Morris Minor and if it was bolted directly to the cross member, the column angle would put the steering wheel touching the door! Have a look at the rack. It is not straight across the car with the spacer installed. If you try to leave the spacer out, it preloads the pinion against the column.... not a good idea! I'm sure it must be the same on LHD cars, but with the spacer under the RH mount. {Facebook} |
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Healey Motor Company Archive Catalogue Launch Day – 22 May, 2017Nick Maltby reports on the event at the Warwickshire County Records Office, Warwick, England. [Thanks to David Scothorn for passing this on to me] |
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WANTED Iain Prince is looking for a Sebring bonnet for his Frogeye. If you have one going spare please contact him via email |
SHORROCK SUPERCHARGERSHaving received an enquiry for the name of a repairer for a Shorrock C75 I have added Keith Luck's name to both the Shorrock page and the Parts Suppliers page. |
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WHEN THE DONALD HEALEY MOTOR CO..... |
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JOHN BAGGOTT reports on |
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Pole man Stephen Collier leads the pack |
Richard Wildman was penalised by a jumped start |
Ed Reeve took the trophy for a second time |
Paul Campfield - 2nd overall and took Class E |
Carl Chadwick won Class B despite a 10 sec penalty |
Class D went to Nigel Lackford |
and Kim Dear won Class C |
The Everitt Trophy |
MORE FROM ALISTAIR (ROSS): |
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SAD TO RELATE THE LAST OF RAY ENGLISH'S MARQUE ONE MAGAZINES (No.100) DUE OUT SHORTLY. Our thanks to Ray for his brilliant journal produced over the last 25 years and to his wife, Diane, who ably shared the publishing chores. |
VERY MUCH STILL GOING HOWEVER IS THE MIDGET & SPRITE CLUB'S "MASCOT" published by GARY LAZARUS. |
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IDENTFYING SPEEDWELL GTs |
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From GORDON ELWELL: |
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PHIL ZAMLYNSKI reports on his Sebring Rep: "The Sebring is awaiting gas in the tank. All else is done.Will keep you up to speed as the car gets sorted out". |
ARCHERS SEBRING SIDE-SCREENS I am pleased to report that 11 sets of alloy framed side-screens have now been completed, despatched and received by those who requested them. A further 5 are on a new list. |
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PAUL TARRY |
IAN TURNER |
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UNidentified Sebring - whose is it?
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A nice early Gilbern GT - probably 948 s/c
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A trio of Turner BMCs |
Space framed 'Mini' with 4 litre range Rover V8 - scary! |
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(Above) David Morys took his camera to a Round Table or Rotary Club do at Prescott last weekend 13/14 May. |
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Sven Eckhardt recently purchased a photo of E700 on ebay (above left) taken by Guy Griffiths, of Jim Kennard at Bugatti OC Prescott on 12th July 1964 when he won his class with a time of 62.995 secs. "Having read the history of the car again I wonder if there is anything in the story of a restoration of the car going on.
I wonder who would have had a go at it and what the state of it might be". It would be good to find out. [Readers may recall that the car was rolled spectacularly by the late Gabriel Konig who some years before her death claimed to still have the remains and planned to rebuild it]. The other photos arte of the engine which Sven bought with 4444DA: "As I said I have put one of the heads I modified on it. It is the one which came with the MK II, which had been ported quite nicely.
I had changed the combustion chambers to a similar shape as the ones depicted and fitted 1 1/4 valves on the inlet and 1 1/16 on the exhaust. Hardened valve seats on inlet and exhaust.
You can make out the large capacity sump on the other photograph.
The depicted head is the Cape modified head stripped to have valve seats fitted. I had it back yesterday it needs to be put together.
I am in two minds whether to put it back on the Cape engine (which is going quite nicely as it is) or whether to keep it for a rainy day.
Cheers Sven" |
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Many thanks to all those who responded to Sven Eckhardt's plea for a 1098 block. He has received two offers of complete engines as well as one of a block. Isn't it great how these things work on the 'net. |
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IDENTIFYING 7140 RO FROM 137 VMX |
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137 VMX |
7140 RO on the grid |
VMX on another grid |
7140 RO in action |
Another Speedwell GT once owned by Bill Graham which seems to have disappeared is 137 VMX above. Anyone know anything of it, please let me know through Feedback ? [Photos kindly supplied by Alistair Ross]
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7140 RO
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Another photo of 7140 RO supplied by Alistair Ross with Jack Mathe at the wheel |
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REVS LIBRARY, STANDARD UNIVERSITY Ken Grasing has reminded me of this wonderful source of Sprite (and other) racing photos: https://revslib.stanford.edu/?utf8=%E2%9C%93&f%5Bmodel_ssim%5D%5B%5D=Austin-Healey+Sprite&view=detailed&q=&search_match=any |
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MORE ON PANHARD ROD FITMENT I was talking yesterday to Keith Ashby who has raced Sprites since the early 60's and learned that he had a panhard rod fitted to his car for the 1965 season. An Aston Martin employee Chas Beatty fitted it for him. Any advance on 1965? Our conversation then turned to the Speedwell GT 585 MY which Keith tells me he owned in 1970. I have added a paragraph to the relevant web page: "Keith Ashby bought the car in 1970 from a dealer who had somehow managed to register it as a new car with a 'J' registration. It was then painted Harvest Gold. Keith had the car for only a year and before selling it, stripped out its 1293 engine, close-ratio gearbox, LSD and competition shock absorbers. He recalls that he sold the rolling shell for £300 to someone in the Vale of Pusey". The car is now owned by Guenther Lainer in Germany and is for sale at 115,000 Euros. Keith's own Sprite 6209 AH he bought in January 1963 and has owned ever since - that's 54 years and I thought I'd had my Gilbern a long time (48 yrs). I will be prepping a web page on Keith's Frogeye's racing history in the coming weeks. |
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Re: Derek Stewart's wheels below. My apologies, the email link was not working correctly - now sorted. |
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MG MIDGET MK1 PROJECT FOR SALE
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Open to sensible offers Mk1 Midget suitable for further renovations or Sebring /Lenham conversation. All welding completed to good standard and many new panels fitted good panel gaps maintained. Rare BMC hardtop in excellent condition. Engine / gearbox present condition unknown. Some history and V5 present. Please contact Steuart Crofts for further details . Via email or Mobile: 07966 256787 |
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5½J WIRE WHEELS & TYRES FOR SALE
Derek Stewart is offering these four MWS 5½ X 13" wire wheels fitted with Yokohama A539 tyres which have done under 2000 miles. They would cost around £900 today - his asking price is £600. Contact him via email. NOW SOLD |
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MORE HISTORY OF PIERRE LEQUEUX' 2080 PO UNFOLDS
Pierre recently heard from Christopher York, now living in Alberta, Canada: |
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STEVE EVERITT MEMORIAL TROPHY
Dennis Wharf has sent me a large batch of photos he took at Brands Hatch a couple of weeks ago when Ed Reeve took the bronze trophy 30 years on from Steve's untimely death. Report and many more photos to come shortly. |
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ALAN GILBERT has enquired: " I was viewing the website today and notice the STEVE NASH SEBRING REPLICA. I have a question for Steve regarding the timing cover on his new engine as to whether it was a chain or belt engine and who made his cover for him? It looks very engineered!!" |
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1:43 scale AutoCult Sebring Sprite Model on ebay |
www.frogeye.smugmug.com
Gary Lazarus: "Please check the photographic database of UK registered Mk1 Sprites to see if yours is registered there. There are also over 100 period adverts and magazine articles. Thanks" |
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STEVE NASH ON FASTBACK RIGIDITY
"Regarding Lew McAllan's questions about platform rigidity. I can see the point with semi-elliptic springs having load transferred at the rear. However, the structure is in the frame over the arch and the box section around the inner arch. The outer skins have little effect as the rear of them is cantilevered off a boot floor extension". ... And PAUL SLANGEN: |
... AND MY OWN
"As to rigidity, the Spridget does not rely on its outer panels for body stiffness. I did a similar exercise when building a racing Frogeye many years ago. I bonded a fibreglass rear body section on to a semi-elliptic shell having converted the scuttle, etc just as you have done. I rivetted the back edge to the floor and in the B post area, then bonded with fibreglass all round the rear arches. I did stiffen up the top of the shroud but that was purely because I had opened out the area behind the seats. I raced the car for a number of years and it was stiff as could be. I even bounced it off an Armco barrier at the Castle Combe circuit with no ill effects except a bit of crazing to the fibreglass, Martin". |
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THE WARREN CLASSIC & SUPERCAR SHOW |
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TONY GRIFFITHS' PARTS FOR SALE |
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GABRIEL KONIG & E700 |
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I was fascinated to see this photo which shows the rear end of the car we know as 770 KNX fitted with a new registration DAC 951C. It ran alongside the new streamlined car DAC 952C at Sebring in 1965 but I had not realised before that it had been re-registered. It continues to puzzle me that the car has completely vanished from sight. [The other car in the photo (from sebringrace.com) is the Andrew Hedges/Roger Mac ex-Jacobs MG Midget]
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A QUESTION ABOUT FASTBACK BODY RIGIDITY FROM LEW McALLAN |
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"I have a question regarding the Sebring fastback implementation. My car is based on a Mk IV '68 Sprite body, with all square panels removed. I have also replaced B panels with new Bugeye panels, new Bugeye outer wheel arches and even replaced the scuttle with new Bugeye scuttle. Floors (without strengtheners since Mk IV) are original, Tunnel, rear bulkhead, rear floor and inner wheel arches are unmodified. Having removed the square body and potentially some body rigidity provided by the cockpit structure, are there any concerns with body flex and strength ? I am sure others have created fastbacks with semi elliptic spring setup so would be interested to know if any additional framework or bracing is required. Thoughts? Lew McAllan" Feedback please |
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SVEN ECKHARDT'S ENGINE TROUBLES:"I´ve been a busy boy engine-wise with some failures unfortunately: |
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The Lenham Le Mans on its side, further down this page, is that of Andy Southcott, which was built by Ian Langford.
See Utube video |
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BOB BLAYDEN has been to the Morgan Park Historics in convoy with his chum's Morgan: "Had a great trip travelling with the Morgan covered around 1300 kilometres the green car never missed a beat. The Morgan & Sebring attracted a fair bit of attention. Hope all is well in the UK. Cheers Bob (Sydney, Aus) |
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DAVID MORYS'S PHOTOS FROM SHELSLEY WALSH ~ 6TH MAY |
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"Quick trip to Shelsley Walsh today for a couple of hours - flipping freezing and a total contrast to Prescott last month with tee shirts etc! Just one Sprite to interest readers but there were two other Frogeyes one quite unusual in that it was left hand drive. This was obviously an American import, ex competition with SCCA "dragster" type roll cage (driver protection only) and small fly screen (below). The photographs don't show it clearly but the magnesium Minilite wheels looked well past their best and not something I would trust racing on. I have attached a few photographs for the site if you think them suitable - the trouble or should I say quaintness of this hillclimb is the infuriating pigsties they keep the cars under hopeless for photographs so please excuse the posts. Kind regards, David" |
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GURSTON DOWN HILL CLIMB A nice photo from Chris Burch of Steve Casson's Sebring Sprite in action. |
Some poor soul managed to tip over their Lenham at Brands in the Lackford Engineering Midget & Sprite Challenge |
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ASK PROFESSOR SPEEDWELL (ALISTAIR ROSS) ABOUT A SPEEDWELL GT AND BACK COMES THE ANSWER: |
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JONATHAN has also recently discovered, quite by chance he says, a whole series of photos on the website www.sebringrace.com of which these are just a very few. Worth a look.
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JONATHAN WHITEHOUSE-BIRD ON EAC 90C |
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New Photos of Pete Fletcher's Fastback (Archers 103) He also owns Coupe 103. See his photo gallery here. |
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STEVE NASH SEBRING REPLICA tells me: "Finally have paint on Kermit. Just needs some final polishing and I can start bolting bits back on :-).
Period replica, it ain't! But I'm really looking forward to driving him again after 25 years". |
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LACKFORD ENGINEERING MIDGET SPRITE CHALLENGE BRANDS HATCH 2017 RACE 2 (TWO TEAS RACING TEAM) |
Watch a good dice with Carl Chadwick (car 52) pretty much throughout the whole race... big brakes… and wide (but old) slick tyres versus big engine power and less rolling resistance on skinnier slicks. Enjoy! |
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OLLY FRIEND'S 2ND RACE ~ BRANDS HATCH
A pole position, a 3rd place on Saturday and 4th on Sunday with fastest lap!!. OllY was lying 2nd when Saturday's race was red flagged. Not bad for a rookie, eh? "Pictures of Olly in a very closely fought battle, work will start soon on the 1300 engine, certainly misses out down the straight with the 1100". So says proud Dad, Roger. |
News ~ April 2017 |
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EAC 90C ~ EX-WORKS SPRITE I heard recently that former owner of this car, Dudley Lucas considered my web page had numerous errors. I have since been able to contact him and below is his reply, which will enable me to make corrections: "Being home again, having dealt with the first needs, I can now update the post-works life of EAC 90C. I bought the car as raced but fitted with Dunlop SP tyres on a very good-looking set of magnesium alloy wheels from which the much less attractive Healey wheels were copied. It was fitted with the 1293cc dry sump engine and 4 speed gearbox, ~ at no time in its career did it have a 5 speed box. Nor did I ever fit a 997cc unit although I did have an ex-works dry sump engine of that capacity several years earlier that went into my Mk.II Sprite in which I did many club events. EAC did many UK club events, being part of the winning Sprite team in the 1967 6 Hour Relay and 1968 4 Hour Relay. It was also used on at least one occasion before it came into my possession because I was recently shown a photo of the car in pole position, next to John Willets in the Sebring car, at Oulton Park and I have no recollection of this event at all - it would be nice to find out more. The 1970 Mugello race crash was preceded by an attempt to sabotage the car. The day before the event Arthur was invited to move lodgings by some people attending the event, which he did. Then on the first lap he noticed the water temperature rise alarmingly, which had never happened before, and stopped t the pits to investigate. The radiator was empty, further scrutiny revealed that the Jubilee clip securing the bottom hose to it had been undone and was now hanging loose. The Sprite was hardly a threat to the big cars but would have stood a good chance in the class. Anyway the Abarth driver put paid to that. The car was broken up and the undamaged parts sold off although the unfortunate new owner of the gearbox had trouble with it as the force of the accident had distorted one or more of the shafts. The body went to a local scrapyard and I doubt it ever got buried! To the best of my knowledge l have never met a Dave Groves, a Richard Groves certainly, and my wife never had a cousin of that name. I would love to know how these things start. I have in my possession numerous photos of the car, also the Healey works specifications, several sheets op of details, which Geoff Healey gave me when I collected it. If you want anything I can scan and email to you, or if there is any other information you would like I will do my best to supply same. Hope this provides a more accurate history of EAC, had it not been for that Italian moron I would still have the car today... |
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THE ECURIE ECOSSE SPRITE ~ WESLAKE CUP ACCIDENT |
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Re: PANHARD RODS. |
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DID ANY 1/4 ELLIPTIC SPRITES RACE WITH PANHARD RODS IN PERIOD? |
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Paul Slangen can finally sayhis "car is 100% finished and ready for the rally season 2017. The sidescreens are fitted as well are the wider wirewheels and Michelin 175 / 70 series.
Due to these new “shoes”, the car looks much more powerful, but is also a bit faster and runs beautiful and stable. I am quite happy now with the Green Sebring Sprite". Looks great, Paul. |
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FROM MIKE CURTIS: |
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ZANDVOORT BRITISH RACING FESTIVAL 2018
In the summer of 2018 we will be celebrating 60 years since the Austin-Healey Sprite was launched on the market. A big event is due to take place in the Netherlands, at the Zandvoort race circuit, on the 8/9 July. Click here for the Provisional Timetable. Albert Voogd of the Healey Museum describes below the full details of this prestigious event: |
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"Last week registration started for the Zandvoort British Race Festival on July 8/9th. I’ve attached some information about the event. The organizing committee from the Dutch Healey Club (AHOCN) has asked me to enquire if Spridget enthusiasts from the UK might be interested in visiting the event. The AHOCN has made a special “Healey Meets Zandvoort” arrangement for Dutch and UK Healey Club members (including members of Midget & Sprite Club). This arrangement costs € 75.00 for 1 car and two persons, and includes entrance to the track and parking at the Healey Plaza in the paddock on Saturday as well as Sunday, with coffee or tea with cake in the Healey tents and 20 min. track time on Saturday. Also included on Saturday is a concours for “Best Everyday Big Healey and Spridget” and a “longest Healey parade”, to be held on the track and around the village centre of Zandvoort. From 1:00 PM on Saturday the beach pavilion Club Nautique near the circuit entrance will be opened for Healey participants, including use of the private terrace and (a limited number of) deck chairs. From 18:30 PM a barbecue will take place at the pavillion, at extra cost of € 25.00 p.p.. On the menu are shish kebab skewer, Irish Angus beef burger and bass filet. During the evening the cars can stay parked in the paddock (15 min. walking distance from pavillion to paddock). On both days the qualifying and races can be seen from the dunes as well as from all stands and the paddock area. The Donald Healey Memorial Trophy Racing programme is organised by Healey Driver International and Dutch Healey Competitions. Some 25 participants from the UK, Holland, Sweden, Germany and the Philippines have registered by now. Among these, according to the information that I now have, are historic Spridgets who will compete for the John Sprinzel Trophy. I believe that Paul Woolmer is closely involved with this part of the racing programme. Registration for “Healey Meets Zandvoort” can be done my means of a form on the Dutch Healey Club (AHOCN) website (www.healey.nl). However, this is only available in Dutch language, which might be a little problematic to those in the UK. Any UK AH /Sprite / Midget club member who is interested in visiting the event can get into contact with me by email and I will then help to make further arrangements. A group of Austin Healey club members from the UK with Big Healeys are already planning a visit to the event, with a stay at the Van der Valk Hotel in Breukelen and a visit to the Healey Museum on Friday. This is being coordinated by Rob Hudson. Rob has let us know that he may be able to accomodate a (small) group of Spridgets from the UK. If this sounds like an interesting option, I can arrange contact with Rob." So, How about it guys? Let me know if you are interested in making the trip and maybe we can set up a convoy from the UK. Feedback |
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A complete set of H4 1½" SU carbs removed from 1961 Sebring Sprite.
Nice and clean, with modified manifold.
These carbs are rare these days, and very attractive for APP.K racing in Minis, Spridgets etc.
Worldwide shipping possible.
Price - £550 |
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PARTS FOR SALE
Complete quarter elliptic wire conversion (rear axle,front suspension etc) SOLD |
DAN'S GOODWOOD PHOTOS I've started processing some 40 great shots from the Weslake Cup sent in by Dan Paul, with more to come shortly. |
SPEEDWELL REV COUNTER Mark Wilson has now developed a 10K RPM Speedwell gauge and has one available now, built up with an original Weston case. £245 more |
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Weslake Cup Report nears completion but a large gallery of photos still to add. |
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Part of the unfortunate result of James Dean's collision with Richard Woolmer's BXN at Goodwood. See YouTube |
Peter May Eng are also now offering copies of Will Corry's special bonnet. |
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OLLY FRIEND'S first race, at Donnington, - rotor arm broke after 6 laps due to the dizzy touching the steering column. |
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CAN ANYONE ASSIST TONY HEYWORTH WITH THE RESTORATION OF HIS W & P HARDTOP? Hi Martin, Great website and very interesting to read that William & Pritchard were more involved in the Sebring Sprites than I thought. I acquired a William & Pritchard Sebring Hardtop to replace my works hardtop on a MKIV Austin Healey Sprite. It needs restoring and I've been looking for a restored example to act as a reference or a knowledgeable owner to share experiences and pictures. Sometime ago I met an owner of an MG Midget with W&P hardtop, Damien Saunders and he was the inspiration to find a W&P hardtop. I saw that you helped out another interested party with an introduction to Tim Saunders (not sure if they are related...) It would be great if you could put me in touch. I'm also looking for someone who could potentially help with the hardtop restoration. Many thanks, Tony (Wokingham, Berkshire, UK). |
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LE MANS
START 1968
The Roger Enever/Alec Poole Sprite No.50 about to get under way. [Karsten Stelk] |
James Colburn's WINNING LENHAM GT IS ALSO UP FOR SALE Link |
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SPRINZEL IN ACTION IN THE 60'S |
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"Start of the 1958 Liege, sadly a broken stub axle put us out when very well placed" JS |
"Stuart and I on the top of the lonely Vivionne Pass heading for a class win on the 1959 Liege" JS |
2214 UE Liege - 1960. JS with the car's owner John Patten. They came 3rd overall and won their class. |
JS with Willy Cave and the TR RAC Rally 1962, 15th overall, 4th in class.
[Photos kindly sent in by Pierre Lequeux] |
A SUBSEQUENT EMAIL FROM MIKE CURTIS reads: "Martin, I have now made contact with Peter Caldwell, by email, who was most helpful. Anyone wanting information / prices, make contact direct as per your original web site contact information". |
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ADJUSTABLE LEVER ARM SHOCK ABSORBERS |
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This new book by Pablo Raybould tells of CHRISTABEL CARLISLE's motor racing career £23.50 incl UK post. He can be contacted by email |
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Trevor McIlroy sent in these great images (above) of the first round of the N.I. Hill climb championship held at Croft, Holywood Co Down N.I. on 1st April. This is their standard bodied Sebring, on its first outing in the 2017 season. |
Paul Garside's Sebring Rep which he bought last year from Richard Sands looking very smart. |
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.I hear there is to be a "Spridget 60 Meet at Zandvoort 27-29 July 2018". (I am trying to find out more). |
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PETER MAY ENGINEERING |
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1293cc FAST ROAD ENGINE FOR SALE |
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Goodwood Weslake Cup 2017 ~ I have started to put together a page about the race |
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STILL FOR SALE IN FRANCE - SYLVAIN PROYART'S SEBRING SPRITE REPLICA |
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(1960), LHD. Complete with FIA HTP papers, 2016. Ready to race. and based in France (near Paris). Offers on £32,000. For more information and photos, etc please
contact Sylvain by Email |
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Bill Prout's standard-bodied Sebring For Sale in the USA |
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Finished with the exception of some interior and engine details and presently fitted with a W & P Sebring bonnet and hardtop. The car recently ran at the Lime Rock Park Vintage Fall Festival finishing 2nd in class to an Alfa Romeo Giulietta SZ. Just about everything on the car is new or rebuilt and it has both a Frogeye and Sebring bonnets. Bill has recently spent 30,000 USD on new parts and labor. A short video is on YouTube. The car is now for sale at US $ 60,000. Contact Bill by email if interested. |
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Just 4 hours left as I write if you want a set of Speedwell door handles offered on ebay at 'Buy Now' price of £500 |
Will Corry's Sebring in preparation for the Weslake Cup ~ what happened to him in the race? |
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Bob Hinchliffe recently received his opening left hand side-screen and reports he is delighted with it. |
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Dave Wood of Orson
Equipment reports:
"We have finally finished the (latest batch of Sebring) front hubs – and have also made the “special" (Sebring) spinners. We have a couple of pairs of front (hub)s left if anyone is interested. Contact Dave by email or phone: (UK) 01902 906290" |
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Back at the desk this morning (Apr 5th) after 2+ weeks away so lots of catching up to do, not least my report on the Weslake Cup though it must all be old news by this time. Any photos and stories of the event to complete the 'picture' appreciated. While away my email was hacked so the PC has to go to our local geek for attention leaving me without it for a day or 2.
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News ~ March 2017 |
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DON'T FORGET GOODWOOD LIVE ONLINE SUNDAY MORNING 9 O'CLOCK (UK TIME) |
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I will be away for 2 weeks after Goodwood on 19th March, back at the beginning of April. Until then please keep all the photos, articles and other info coming in so that I can update the website on my return. Thank you. |
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RICHARD HART OFFERS FOR SALE ON EBAY: |
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THAT INLET MANIFOLD (see below) |
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FROM ROGER SIELING: re: RON'S QUESTIONS ON 1½" CARBS (& INLET MANIFOLD). |
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THERE ALL CONVERGING ON GOODWOOD FOR THE BIG RACE - THE WESLAKE CUP |
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Brian Small's Ashley GT gets on its trailer. Fitted with Peter May engine and gear box and prepared by Midland Classic Restorations. [Graham Walden] |
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Will Corry said on 11th March: "It's been a journey to get this car ready for Goodwood Members Meeting 75MM. It is finally ready to test ahead of packing up and heading over next week. Too many people to thank but we will update next week once we land into Goodwood race circuit" |
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Original press photo of both record breakers Austin Healey Sprite and the MG one [karsten Stelk] |
SS 1800 off to Goodwood |
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AND MORE FROM RON GORDON |
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TOM COULTHARD'S REPLY TO RON GORDON"I don’t think we know the ‘as-cast’ internal diameter of the Healey inlets, do we? (That’s ‘Q 2344’, BTW, not ‘O 2344’ as Ron has it – all DH MoCo parts had Q numbers.) It would make sense to cast them fairly narrow so they could be machined out to either size – there must have been a larger market for use on road cars than for track use. Also I gather the problems of shrinkage with alloy casting can be considerable. We know the 1959 works Sprites had 1 1/4 inch carbs on their ‘XSP 1165’ units. There is an engine pic on p 149 of “Spritely Years” (OK, OK, the caption is a very rare typo – you can see they’re 1 1/4”!!). But by 1960 I think all the serious racers had 1 1/2 inch H4s: this carb/size seemed to hit a particularly sweet spot which may have been due to inlet tract length improving torque – the H4 is noticeably long in the body. I am particularly interested in the photo Ron has sent you of his Healey inlets: there appears to be a stamped steel washer between the alloy manifold and the steel flange of the (steel) balance pipe. This does not survive on the original Q 2344s I have – what does it look like dismantled (please)? Does it look original? How does it seal? I have always thought they might have used a shaped fibre washer/gasket – the one that goes between the block and the brass heater tap seemed a likely candidate, though I’ve never actually got round to comparing the sizes. The sealing must be critical: no race engine wants to lose the slightest gasp of inlet vacuum". |
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FROGEYE SPRITE WANTED
A new member of Midget & Sprite Club is seeking to buy a Frogeye in the region of£12,000. Information leading to the purchase of same can be forwarded: enquiries@midgetandspriteclub.co.uk |
S221 & 184 FGJ safely arrived at Goodwood and all set for this weekend's Members Meeting! First time both cars have been out racing together for a couple of years... |
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NO ROLLER ROCKERS OR SPLIT WEBERS IN WESLAKE CUP AT GOODWOOD!! I was interested to learn that these instructions have been sent out to all those competing in the Weslake Cup:
For future reference:
Many thanks, Matt Hearn, Motorsport Competitions Secretary, |
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WATCH GOODWOOD LIVE THIS WEEKEND (18/19 MARCH) JUST CLICK HEREThe Weslake Cup (aAt 9am Sunday 19th) - Entry List |
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MY OWN THOUGHTS ON RON GORDON'S NOTE BELOW: "I would imagine the Healey inlets were made specifically for use with the 1½" SUs as that was a standard tuning modification on Sebring Sprites, but others may correct me? I think a hole appearing in the head casting was not that rare - my first Midget Mk 1 had just such a hole when I bought it and I had to get it repaired, but it would be great if on could prove this was from the Moss car/engine. MEI" |
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FROM RON GORDON: |
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SEBRING SPRITE FOR SALE ON EBAY
This appears to have all the right bits to make it a standard-bodied Sebring and in nice condition. Looks like an age related plate and possibly re-imported from USA, expires 23rd March Buy Now price is £19,495 |
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ALEXANDER ANTI-ROLL BAR
Pierre Lequeux has kindly supplied these photos of his anti-rollbar which has incredibly long arms and as he points out "the diameter of the bar is 16.21 millimetres (about 5/8 of an inch after Brexit I guess..) |
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The Woolmer Classic Engineering cars have been out practicing at Goodwood. Good to see Ian Hulett's black and yellow WSM restored to good health after its accident. |
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Along with 6 other cars being prepped for the 75th Members Meeting at Goodwood is Shaun Rainford’s Lenham GT “SS1800”. The car has not been raced in a couple of years so they’ve been through every nut and bolt, the engine has been rebuilt, and yesterday it spent some time on the rolling road. Shaun will be competing in it in the Weslake Cup. [CCK Historic]. | |||
PMO 15 Does it still exist? Ray English found this in an Australian magazine: Modern Motor. Feedback please if you know. |
PHOTO FOR SALE ON ebay Taken by Guy Griffiths of Jim Kennard at Bugatti OC Prescott on 12/7/64 when he won his class. 1 bid at £9.99 exp 19 Mar |
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FROM SPRINZEL: " While BMC Canada did indeed pay for most of Abingdon and Healey entries at Sebring, Hambros was actually the US Importer for BMC Products; Canada provided a lot of the mechanics, and several drivers and 'Dusty' Miller did the publicity. I seem to remember that they also prepared the MG's that competed. I don't recall the US folks being very concerned with Sebring. J" |
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Another pair of ARMSTRONG ADJUSTABLES being offered by Steuart Crofts on ebay - at the 'Buy Now' price of £500 |
and a 40 DCOE Weber being offered by John Poulter on ebay auction at £42 - expires 15 March |
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ALAN ANSTEAD'S SEBRING REP - 577 DNX
now not only sports its new side-screens but has had a complete re-spray after he fitted a flexible seal between the coupe top and the bodyshell. Very smart Alan - and talking of patience - you got your side-screens eventually! |
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AND, FROM ROGER SIELING (Owner of the Falcon Sprite):
"When I visited Geoffrey (Healey), March 1990, he pulled out his little note book and gave me some tidbits of information. ST401 had two different XSP motors, I believe an earlier one used for Nassau '59 and Sebring, then a new unit for Le Mans and retained for Nassau '60. The later engine is the one I have and the one listed in the book. GH informed me of the number and I wrote it down. That info is in my file cabinet in Ohio and I will let you know the number when I return. |
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TOM COULTHARD'S HELPFUL WORDS ON XSP ENGINE NUMBERS: |
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XSP ENGINE NUMBERS For those fascinated by numbers I have been amending my web page of XSP engines/numbers after Pete Taylor sent me a list published in an American magazine called 'Flash' and prepared by the secretary of the Healey Sports and Touring Club, Del Border, based he thinks in Philadelphia. The article was written in 2010 and can be found on the internet at http://en.calameo.com/read/000075539f07ea94e00bb (pages 18 to 21). It's impossible to know how accurate the list now is, especially as engines probably got swapped from car to car, even at the time they were first raced. |
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Maarten Krikken has recently received the above programme copies and lap chart "from Robert Pennington who is researching the race history of TVR Granturas and saw my website dedicated to the early Marcos cars. It is interesting to read a CMM Williams is competing in a Sebring Sprite at Oulton Park in March 1961 - probably Chris Williams in 52 LPH in standard body form, I would guess? I would also be curious to know who C McLaren was who drove a Sprite. Could he be the same Chris McLaren who drove a Marcos Gullwing and Fastback?". Feedback if you can help please. |
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FROM ALISTAIR ROSS:
Your picture of the back end of VP7 reminded me that I have number of
photo's of VP7 that JVP gave me showing VP7 metamorphosing into a
Speedwell GT. Attached are 4 photos showing the main changes. The photo
of the finished GT at full chat is at Goodwood.
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728 H - SPEEDWELL GT
This car belonged to Richard Melville and was entered, by Peter Jackson, in the Sebring 3 hour race in 61. It was to be driven by Graham Hill and Richard. Graham did the first stint in the race and it suffered with too high oil temperature and was soon retired. It was returned to England and Richard drove it at La Chartre when he was 2nd behind Peter in BXN; he then drove it at Clermont Ferrand in the 6 hour race when it again retired with overheating, and BXN was 3rd in class behind a couple of Abarths. At the '61 Nurburgring 500kms Richard wrote off 728 H in practice and its special Eddy Mayer engine was taken out and transferred into BXN. [Peter Jackson] |
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Sebring Sprite Family now stands at 72. To join send me your home town and your interest in the marque. |
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MORE ON EARLY ANTI-ROLL BARS |
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REMEMBER THAT COLOUR PHOTO I SHOWED LAST YEAR OF AN EARLY SPRITE GRID AT GOODWOOD? The left-hand photo of the grid line-up shows (from the top down) John Gyde Walker’s yellow Sprite and Simon Scrimgeour’s red one being push-started. (At first I thought the shape at the back of his car was a dog – but that of course would have caused major ructions – it’s the moving feet of one of the pushers.) The blue car is a Tornado Typhoon and the yellow Sprite in front of Lord Strathcarron himself is the tall guy facing the camera in the Arran sweater. To his left is the driver of the dark green frogeye (888 HPA) with its bonnet open, George Naylor. Then there is someone who looks like a race official (he is wearing what is perhaps a GRRC armband and is carrying a sheaf of papers). The woman with her back to us is Mrs Beatrice Naylor, who tuned the engine that they appear to be discussing – a remarkable lady, Mrs N. 888 HPA is the only Sprite in this photograph that we know survives. 6 TMT, Wing Commander Ken Mackenzie’s Alexander Team car is just out of shot on the right hand side, having qualified fastest of the Sprites – I believe this car survives though may have been restored as a standard frogeye. Sadly the DVLA website has no entry for VDD 680, either as an Austin or an A-H. |
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MORE ON HENRY ELWES |
Has anyone got a copy of the article shown right entitled "Living the Life", about XWW2? Feedback |
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XWW 2 - SPEEDWELL GT
Another period shot from Maarten Krikken shows the car owned for most of its life by Peter Smith and still used by him in competition. Venue is Harewood, 16th September 1962. Nikk Aveyard adds "that was the first ever Harewood Hillclimb. Several friends of my parents were in attendance (sadly all now deceased). XWW2 was entered by PJ Smith and states 996cc. He won the class with a time of 55.48 (the track was more or less cinder at that date)... a Lotus 11 Le Mans was only half a second quicker and FTD was Tony Lanfanci in an Elva Mk6 racing car only 4 seconds quicker". See results {Thanks also to Tom Coulthard & Mike Curtis on this] |
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THE 1959 WORKS SEBRING CAR DRIVEN BY STILES & SUTHERLAND which was restored by the late Butch Gilbert in the USA is now owned by Jon Curtis (UK) and is registered UWD 97. I have renamed the webpage "sutherland59car" . Watch out for it in the Hertfordshire countryside. |
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FROM GUILLAUME GAGNARD of WG British Racing |
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ANOTHER ONE from Maarten Krikken shows a Monza bonneted Sprite leading one of the Dick Jacobs team MGAs.
Looks like the Autosport 3 Hours 1960 with Henry Elwes in VDD 680 - another shot (right) from Nicolas Billion-Rey. I wonder what became of car and driver? |
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AND MORE: Tom Coulthard points out: "it’s not the Autosport Three Hours and I believe the Marcos is being driven not by Jackie Oliver, but by Ian Walker, WJB 707 by then being sold (or having been sold) from Lancaster Mews. It is the Autosport Three Hours meeting, but as the big race started at 5.30 pm and went on into the darkness – justifying its ‘mini Le Mans’ moniker – there were supporting races for saloon cars, Formula Juniors and the Molyslip Trophy race for GT cars. (This is actually as given in “Spritely Years” page 193!!) Peter Jackson told me he was “trying everything he knew” (which, as we know, as a racer was quite a lot) to keep ahead of Ian Walker in the works Marcos ... which I gather Peter managed for many laps, though neither of them got ‘onto the podium’ in class". [So, is it Peter or is it Melville? More later perhaps.] |
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THAT SNETTERTON PHOTO (3 rows down) |
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RESPONSES FROM TOM COULTHARD ON ANTI-ROLL BARS "One potential disadvantage of the Healey arrangement was that the drop link reduced the ground clearance under the wishbone pan. The Speedwell ARB was a different animal entirely, having a cranked or 'cowhorn' configuration - this pic is of Graham Hill at Sebring in 1961. (Note that the big Speedwell catalogue didn't appear until 1963.) It's not the Speedwell ARB but the Healey Speed Equipment one which is the same as the A-H 100 bar. The shape and fitting was different to the later production ARB as this pic of one of the 59 Sebring works cars (right) shows:" |
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SEAN SANDOE |
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MG Mecca www.mgmecca.co.uk are advertising that they can manufacture 2/3 Sebring Sprites per year from £27,995. |
Kindly sent in by Maarten Krikken this photo of 46 BXN in its original standard-bodied style is captioned "Snetterton 3 Hours 1961 - Jackie Oliver". Looking at the excellent "racingsportscars" website I can't see Jackie in the race, only Andrew Hedges and a D.Randall in Sprites apparently finishing 5th & 6th.
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SEBRING PAMPHLETS & CIRCUIT MAP now scanned to a higher resolution. [Pete Taylor] Click on each to open. |
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VAUXHALL VENTORA DISCS |
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"Talking of Alfa engines, apparently Halls Garage (Tifosi Rana) are looking to fit Suzuki engines & boxes. |
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SVEN HAS SOME ANSWERS: ALFA ENGINE/BOX & SPEEDWELL v HEALEY 100 ANTI-ROLL BARS
About fitting an Alfa engine and gearbox: There was for sale a MkIII on ebay recently with a Sebring front with an Alfa engine and gearbox in it - seemed to fit nicely. It looked like the battery tray had to be modified or removed. I could not make out whether anything had to be done to the cross-member to make the gearbox fit. But it looked like similar problems to installing a Kent block based engine or a K-series.
All of these have 5 main bearings and are a bit longer than the good old A-series. |
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DUPLICATE MODEL BOUGHT IN ERROR Exem EX RLM 008 "Austin-Healey Sprite No.48 Le Mans 1965 Aaltonen/Baker" £29.99 box unopened. Contact John Baggott SOLD |
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EQUIPE GTS TEST DAY ~ GOODWOOD 28 FEBRUARY
'This smart Frog bearing the legend "Friend Racing Developments" looked good through the chicane and had an aluminium bonnet, [Roger Friend's son, Oliver] and Shaun Rainford shakes down son, Charles', Lenham Le Mans'. (Photos/text: John Baggott) |
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KEN GRASING'S DEVELOPMENTS |
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SPOTTED AT LAKE TAHOE in 2002 (Genuine 1959 Sebring team car or a copy?) [Pete Taylor] |
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HNX 456D ~
A photo from Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird of the Baker/Hedges car at Le Mans in 1967 |
and EAO in the SNETTERTON 3 HOURS in 1961 - Andrew Hedges at the wheel |
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MORE PHOTOS OF JAN MUSSCHE'S "ZAGATO SPRITE" PROJECT |
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JOHN BAGGOTT is looking for a pair of Vauxhall Ventora brake discs (a regular mod in bygone days for Modified Midgets) Feedback please if you can help. |
OULTON PARK ~ 30 Sept 1967 (right) |
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MG MIDGET GT (JACOBS REPLICA) PROJECT |
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ANYONE ANY EXPERIENCE OF FITTING AN ALFA 105 TYPE (1300 or 1600) ENGINE AND GEARBOX IN A SPRIDGET? Apparently they are dimensionally similar. Feedback would be appreciated (by David Bruzas, for a friend)(. |
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On 20th Feb CCK were at Brands hatch with Mike Haigh testing his Lenham Le Mans. "The car has been prepped for the Weslake Cup at Goodwood’s 75th Members Meeting, and is performing well with only a couple of jobs to do before Goodwood.
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JUST TO PROVE THOSE ILLUSIVE SIDE-SCREENS ARE FINALLY ARRIVING THESE PHOTOS ARE FROM ALAN ANSTEAD & DAVE MARRIOTT |
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PETE TAYLOR kindly sent in these copies of a leaflet about the SEBRING RACE CIRCUIT in FLORIDA
Unfortunately the resolution is not very high so I will see if I can get a better copy for display later. |
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Oxford Universities Motorsport Foundation Sebring ready for Race Retro |
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JOHN MOON appeals on Facebook: "This is an appeal for a Spridget enthusiast to give me a hand with my racing Lenham GT. The car is very competitive and has been raced at circuits all over Europe. I have a schedule of about 6 races planned for this year, including a trip to Zandvoort. I live near Chipping Sodbury and have excellent workshop facilities including a 2 post ramp. But not enough time! I am currently fitting the rebuilt engine. The ideal person will have racing experience and a thorough knowledge of Spridgets. Modest beer money for the right person but mainly great fun and memorable experiences. PM me or call 07813 084046. John" |
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Ken Grasing's Sebring Coupe makes progress at Creative Classics now that its side-screens have arrived. |
JONAS LINDQUIST (SWEDEN) joins the 'Family' and asks: "What's the difference between a genuine Speedwell front anti roll bar and a A-H 100 anti roll bar?
How do you verify which is which?
Are there any advantages in using a genuine Speedwell front anti roll bar compare to an original/OEM used on later cars? Thanks! Feedback please. Homepage: speedwell.se |
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LWD 959E A new photo, kindly supplied by Steve Nash of the 1967 Targa Florio car, on display somewhere? |
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THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS - TO WHOM I SEND MY GRATEFUL THANKS:
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News ~ February 2017 |
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Described as a Sebring Sprite Tribute this Frog in Southern California was recently on ebay at $12,600. It has a forward-opening bonnet, 1275 power unit and Healey-style grille being a 'tribute' to the Healey 100S. |
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CHARLIE CLEGG'S ALLOY FASTBACK 184 FGJ appears to have a new paint job with a brighter yellow nose. |
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If you are a member of Facebook you may like to join the Facebook Sebring Sprite Group - but please keeping visiting and contributing to this website too.
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Now finished and for sale is MotoBuild's "1958 Austin Healey Sebring Sprite with Monza front. Very fast race car with Neil Slark race engine and sccr gearbox, LSD plus full safety equipment and race suspension to correct historic spec. Available after the Goodwood Members Meeting for £35k. Visit the Ashley website for more info.
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THAT ADO 34/50 PROJECT:
Douglas Anderson explains: "We have now finished the 1/5 scale model of the project and are very happy with the final result. This model will be scanned up to full size and a buck prepared for the production of moulds. It has been designed to fit a standard Midget tub. There is still a lot of work to do but we are very pleased with the way it is going. Our aim is to have a finished car by the end of the year. I would be very interested to hear comments from the Sebring community". Feedback please |
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"In the midst of sorting my garage before moving house, have found a MkII Midget radiator, complete with shroud and drain tap. From memory I think the top tank has a small weep, so although usable in an emergency, could do with some attention". NOW SOLD |
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JOHN SPRINZEL points out that "Ian's car is not really as original as all that. Ian and I delivered it to the new owner, and he crashed it badly at a Brands Hatch open day - on the first go around Paddock I believe. Rob Walker's garage did the rebuild. I think S221 is the nearest to original of the first Sebrings". [See WJB 707 below] |
Roger Friend offers this pair of uprated front shocks for sale 800 miles only ideal for fast road use £100 the pair. Email him NOW SOLD |
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"This photo was taken at a recent Brands Hatch test day when Ian Burford was testing in readiness for Goodwood with CCK in attendance. No.46 is his new Cheetah fitted with an enormous V8. The very tricky conditions with sleet and rain meant they only had time to do some shake downs on the Cheetah, and the Lumbertubs - No. 31 - did not get out. John Baggott, (who took the picture) had an enjoyable morning watching, but it was very, very cold"
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John Egan has posted on Facebook these 2 great photos of the ex-Ian Walker Sebring WJB 707, which he took at the NEC in 2014 - which reminds me that Octane magazine were due to do an article on the car which is still for sale at CCK Historic. I'm surprised someone hasn't snapped it up, being the most original of the 4 remaining Sprinzel cars.
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GOODWOOD MEMBERS MEETING - WESLAKE CUP, SUNDAY 19TH MARCH I gather the Sprites will practice on Saturday 18th and the race will be the opener on Sunday at 9 o'clock so it will be an early start for spectators too. Graham Robson tells me his son Asher now has an entry for his pale blue Sebring replica so that will be 3 father/son duos competing: Chris and Charles Clegg, Shaun and Charlie Rainford, and Graham and Asher Robson. I thought the Woolmers might have made a 4th ? Looks like a great grid. Unfortunately I think all tickets are sold out. |
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There are now 65 Members of the Sebring Sprite Family |
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ARCHER'S SIDE-SCREENS |
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PHIL ZAMLYNSKI'S STORY
"Yes please add me to the Sebring Sprite Family. Address is Allegan, Michigan, USA. |
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WIPER ARMS & BLADES FOR THE SPRINZEL SEBRING SPRITE (COUPE & FASTBACK) |
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EAO - JONATHAN WHITEHOUSE-BIRD RELATES THE RESTORATION STORY ON FACEBOOK
Many of you will be members of the Sebring Sprite group on Facebook where Jonathan is currently telling the story of his discovery and restoration of 410 EAO. If you use Facebook and want to join the group go to https://www.facebook.com/groups/SebringSprite/ The photo, by John Egan, shows EAO in the company of 46 BXN, and 2 Speedwells. |
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The 4 pictures below were sent to me (with no message) by Jan Mussche. They depict his "Zagato-Sprite" which is under construction. I recall his brother Lubbert telling me they had bought the fibreglass body created by Mike Youles for a customer whose name escapes me (I will find it later) from which this alloy body has now been made. |
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From IVO CAPPON
" Firstly I would like to thank you for the post you did, in the "Latest News" area on your website. Naoki Suganu most certainly did a very nice job with the drawing of my RTL304 Replica project. As it (is) still is a ongoing project, I am collecting the bits needed for the FIA approved Fastback Ton Blankespoor is making me. Progress is slow but hopeful. The aluminium fastback body will be finished this spring. Allthough the body of the car nbeds a lot of work done still. I will keep you updated on any news. I also found this ad of an Ashley bonnet offered for sale here in Holland. Maybe someone is interested". Asking price is 500 Euros. http://www.speurders.nl/166952710 |
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A QUESTION FROM BRYAN WELLS who is building a Sebring Replica in Australia: |
GRAHAM BISH has just joined the "Family" and his story is worth recording here:
"Martin, I thought I would send you my application to the Sebring family from my other email address! [austin-healey-sprite@........... ] John Sprinzel commented on it when I bought his book "Lucky John". As you probably can tell, I am very interested in all things "Spridget". A little about me: I bought my 1966 Mk3 Sprite in 1993 and it was my first classic car. The following year I bought an accident damaged Mk2 with a Lenham bonnet intending to make a replica of the Sebring 1961 cars with their fiberglass fronts and rears. I had become aware of Archers Garage through the Austin Healey Club and approached them for one of their fiberglass rears. When I collected it from the garage, Brian spent the whole morning showing me around. S221 was in the workshop at the time and he was only too happy to discuss all things Spritely. Great memories. Unfortunately the body on the MK2 was just too badly damaged and the project was put on hold. The salvageable parts, the rear and panels I'd ordered from Wheeler and Davies came out of storage in 1998 when I decided to restore the MK3. By this point the bodywork was very tired and my desire for the replica had not gone away. With the help of my friend I restored the shell and slowly it morphed into my standard-bodied Sebring homarge. I got married in June 1999 and the finished shell was put in my mother's garage. A new house, family and then another move to Harrogate took priority until 2011 when I finally had time to go back to Liverpool from time to time and build it back up. It's now MOT'd but there is still work to do! My other classic is a 1967 Austin A40 Farina Mk2. My desire for this car came from the fact that Pat Moss rallied one and John Sprinzel used a supercharged one for his company van. My friend calls it the Sprite with the roof! You can see some pictures of the two using this link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/37212640@N03/albums So after all that, I would be very happy if you could include me within the 'family'. Austin Healey Sprite Mk3 standard-bodied Sebring replica. GRZ1264 (formerly GFL232D) - Harrogate, N.Yorks, UK. |
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ANYONE GOT A TICKET FOR GOODWOOD ? I seem to have left it too late, so if anyone has a spare & will sell it me I should be pleased to hear. Martin |
NOT TO BE OUTDONE BY THE 'OPPOSITION' (at Woolmer Engineering): CCK Historic tell me they also have 5 cars entered in the Weslake Cup at the Goodwood Members' Meeting in March: boss, Shaun Rainford will be out in his Lenham GT SS1800, son, Charles will be in his Lenham LM; Mike Haigh, Lenham LM, Ian Burford, Lumbertubs; and the Ashley GT of Larry Tucker. Nothing like a bit of friendly rivalry to make for a good race! I make that 14 Sprites on the grid that we know about, perhaps there are more? |
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2 nice period photos of Donald Healey Motor Co's 5983 AC,
as displayed on Facebook by Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird and Karsten Stelk |
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Graham Robson's WSM Midget race car, 793 XPP, is up for sale. Priced at £74,950 see it in detail on this link. |
And Geoff Hill's luxuriously appointed road/hillclimb WSM 405 is also available (at around £50k) due to Geoff's neck injury. Make him an offer by email. |
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GRAHAM BISH enjoys collecting Sprite and Midget models and has a bit of a collection. He has kindly shared these pictures of the new "Spark" model of 1413WD which he has just received in the post. He says "It's a great model and captures the details of this historic Le Mans entry". Priced (according to Classic & Sportscar) mag at ££51.99 |
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FROM KARSTEN STELK, on FACEBOOK
(Caption on the reverse of the photo reads:) BRITISH MOTOR CORPORATION RECORD ATTEMPTS UTAH 1959 |
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News ~ January 2017 |
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Spotted on Facebook: OXFORD UNIVERSITIES MOTORSPORT FOUNDATION (OUMF) |
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"Today was a momentous day in the build of the Sprite. Steve Hall came down to visit from Halls Garage with a brand new 'Tifosi SS' Sebring body kit! Along with one of his colleagues, he talked us through the whole conversion and answered all our questions - they both know a huge amount about these cars and imparted some incredibly valuable knowledge. We'll have as much as we can fitted by the Race Retro show, so you can come and see the body kit and the car on our stand!" |
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The coming GOODWOOD MEMBERS MEETING (on March 18/19) and the WESLAKE CUP in particular sounds like being quite something.
Paul Woolmer tells me he is preparing 5 cars for the event so our cars should have quite a showing. He tells me these include 46 BXN (Richard Woolmer),
S 221,
184 FGJ,
WSM 202,
WSM 207,
WSM 208,
WSM 401,
1413 WD,
505 BZ and
MEG 199. |
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723 WPCAnyone recognise this number or know the owner of the Mk2 Sprite - whose last MOT was issued in 2014. The car is now black (originally blue) and the first 5 registered owners (until 1967) were all based in Surrey. Sven bought this old log book on ebay. |
SEBRING SPRITE FAMILYnow has 48 members. It has already put two Americans in touch with each other. Neil Anderson has suggested we might make it a discussion forum (or is Facebook doing that already) and Bruno Verstraete suggested "Stuffstory" which could put our details in a closed circle on a world map. Any other suggestions? Feedback |
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SVEN STARTS THE YEAR BY LAUNCHING INTO HIS RESTORATION OF THE EX-STAN ANNIS HISTORIC RALLY SPRITE, 4444DA |
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He explains "I have started work on 4444DA at last. You have seen the pictures - The drivers side outer sill outer footwell panel and A-post, missing floor and reinforcement panel in good condition (note original pic date of the floor section November 1996 - Andrew reckoned Brian Archer fitted that one). Sills, A-post and footwell panel have been fitted and the rear bulkhead tidied up. I have removed the complete passenger side floor section having welded in a new floor strengthener and repaired the inner rear bulkhead. All the repair sections were pop rivetted in. I am going to tidy up the rear outer bulkhead today and start fitting the floor section. Felt a bit bad about chopping up your old bonnet to make it fit but then again there was no other way and its the result that counts ey? Maybe I shall be finished in time to exhibit the complete car at the NEC this year". [The old Sebring bonnet with my racing decals from 1981 was secondhand when I bought it. After a few races on my Frog 5123 YG I replaced it with a Frog one. It then went to Tony Ellshof for his restoration of PMO - ended up with Paul Woolmer following Tony's death, then to Paul Webb and now to Sven!!] |
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THE PARTS BELOW OFFERED FOR SALE BY ROGER FRIEND - EMAIL HIM IF INTERESTED
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Rear frogeye axle casing for wire wheels £100 SOLD
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Rear back plates with new cylinders £30 |
New screw in type coil £10 |
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Part brake kit for FIA spec £200 SOLD |
Oil cooler to fit next to SOLD radiator with pipes and bkt £75 |
Rocker cover with breather pipes £15 |
Refurbished front stub axles for FIA brakes £75 SOLD |
RICHARD HART recently offered this Aquaplane alloy head for sale on ebay, achieving £677. [Unfortunately when he told me I was away.] |
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ZANDVOORT RACING FESTIVAL in the Netherlands is on 8/9th July and includes The John Sprinzel Trophy for "works, period and special-bodied Sprites". Get your entries in Guys! |
Any one need a bonnet hinge for a race fibreglass one piece bonnet/hood/front? If you do this brand new Peter May hinge is on offer by John Egan. He paid £60 - yours for £50 + p&p ovno Email him |
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Naoki Suganuma drew up this image for Ivo Cappon for his Austin-Healey 1000GT web page |
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Peter Fletcher tells me he is "very busy with 3 cars on the go at the same time".
Building a new Sebring Coupe and a Midget for racing he also has his Speedwell/Fastback (above) and a Porsche on his drive. The coupe is just going for paint. |
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If anyone might be interested in buying Pete's well-sorted hil--climb Speedwell please email him direct. |
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Pinched/borrowed from Facebook (Sebring Sprite Group) - below. |
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Pablo Raybould: "A nice little gathering at Gaydon today (14 Jan) at the HRCR open day. Paddy presented an award to Willy Cave before he sets off for another Monte Carlo Historique. A few other ex BMC drivers around PMO200 too - can you name them?" [Paddy Hopkirk, Bill Price, Wiily Cave - can't do those on the right] [Barrie 'Whizzo' Wiiliams, on extreme right(John Egan)] |
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PAUL SLANGEN'S SOLUTION FOR HIS DAMAGED MONZA BONNET
"Due to driving rallies, the bonnet of the Sebring is bumping on the studs of the radiator. |
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NOW 40 MEMBERS IN THE SEBRING SPRITE FAMILY Send in your details now: Home town and reason for interest. Sebring Family Feedback |
GENUINE ORIGINAL CHURCHILL SPRITE REAR AXLE SPANNER FOR SALE -
asking price £100 Contact John Poulter via email |
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MICHAEL BERG FROM DENMARK has acquired Kai Eriksen's Sebring Rep panels so is now offering for sale his early Ashley hardtop fully restored and complete with glass and fittings. He is looking for 1200 US Dollars. If interested please contact him by email. |
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KEN GRASING'S DUMMY BUILD OF HIS BONNEVILLE SPRITE:
"LHD steering column will fit with Shorrock blower. Carb linkage is a bit close, and still need to fabricate cold air box and blower inlet. Engine fits in the hole!" |
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SEBRING FAMILY is now up to 32 members. Please send me your details for inclusion. |
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INFORMATION FROM PAUL SLANGEN TO GUIDE DAN PAUL IN FITTING DHMC SEATS: |
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SEBRING SPRITE FAMILY IS "GO". (23 listed so far including JS as "Head of the Family")
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DAN PAUL SEEKS ADVICE ON FITTING DHMC-STYLE SEATS |
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"Was wondering if you or the wider crowd knew the best way to mount the Archers fibreglass replica DHMC seats? Having to do some adjusting now have a ROPS in the car and discovered that people sometimes take the strengthening fillet out and put it under the car (bit late for us!). Interested in how people mount the seat: plates/bolts/angle of fillet to take the seat etc Also has anyone mounted them with 4 or 5 point harnesses? Considering if you'd need to cut holes in the sides for the lap belts. Had a custom ROPs built by caged laser in Somerset, can only recommend them to any owners in the southwest (not many fabricators for ROPs down here) Best wishes, Dan". PLEASE EMAIL DAN PAUL IF YOU CAN HELP. |
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SOME INTERESTING SNIPPETS FROM RAY ENGLISH'S ARCHIVE (ON PAUL HAWKINS) |
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PAUL HAWKINS Oct 12th, 1937 - May 26th, 1969 |
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WANTED - BY ROGER FRIEND
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SEBRING REP FOR SALE
(ex-Andy Chaffey) £26,990 Only 785 miles on the clock. Located at the 911 Box, Keston 0208 402 7911 Link |
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JOHN WILLETTS I was very sorry to learn from Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird that John Willetts has recently died. Jonathan relates: "I thought I would pass on the sad news that John Willetts, who purchased 9253 WD (one of the four alloy bodied Mk.II Sprites built for Sebring in 1962) from Healey 'works' driver John Harris in 1965, and then subsequently raced the car over 3 consecutive seasons, died suddenly over the Christmas period. John Willetts put the Sprite into storage at the end of the 1968 racing season, after which it sat untouched and unmolested for another 46 years before being restored, and then reunited, with Stirling Moss in 2014 as part of Channel 4's 'Car SOS' series. Thanks to John Willetts' foresight, 9253 WD is now one of the most original Healey 'works' cars extant; without him the world would undoubtedly be minus another racing Sprite. A quiet, genuine, yet straightforward, man with a mischievous wit, John was always willing to recount his days racing with the Sprite and remained interested in the car's 'works' history up until the end of his life. I was fortunate to spend a wonderful day with him at Castle Combe's "Autumn Classic" during the first week of October in 2016. It was a special occasion, as it was the first time John had been in 9253 WD since its restoration, and also the first time he'd been back to Castle Combe since last racing there in 1966 - some 50 years previously. Driving round the circuit with John beside me, recounting how he achieved the Castle Combe lap record, for his class (1966 season) with the Sprite, will be a memory that I will forever treasure. The attached photographs show John Willetts with 9253 WD during 2015 - soon after its restoration in 2014. Also, John revisiting his youth - this time in the passenger seat of 9253 WD - at the "Autumn Classic", Castle Combe in 2016". |
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14 Listed as members of the Sebring Sprite Family to date - still in the trial stage as yet. |
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Clay Reggazoni with Silvio Moser and Clay's first competition car - a Sprite. [Sent in by Roger Friend] |
Bill Postins has this Sebring Rep for sale at a modest £17,750. Bob Hinchliffe thinks it is WJJ 998 originally owned by Brian Mulcare? Link |
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AN IDEA ~ FORMATION OF "THE SEBRING SPRITE FAMILY" ? It seems that I am often putting one person in touch with another, that is of you regular visitors to our website. How would it be if I created a list of members of the Sebring Family just with name, home town, country and car owned or interest. I would then keep a separate record of all your email addresses and, on request, forward messages between you? Please let me knoiw if you think this would be of use/interest, via Feedback. |
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Alan Anstead points out: "Paul Hawkins is one of only two GP drivers who has managed to put a GP car in the harbour at Monaco. The other was twice World Champion Alberto Ascari". |
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"Joe, here's a similar shot to the one you posted earlier. Paul Hawkins standing by S 221 alone, while Cyril Simson takes the photograph. [
Photo is from Cyril Simson's wonderful collection of colour photos taken during the 1960 and 1961 race seasons.] [Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird - Facebook] |
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Australia's Paul Hawkins with S.221. Paul owned a Healey 100 in Melbourne and had driven a 100.S at Albert Park against the internationals. He went to Uk, worked with John Sprinzel and then Healey Motor Co. Later drove 'works' Porsche and GT.40 cars as well as a privateer with his Lola T.70, GT.40 lightweight and a P.4 Ferrari. '
From little things big things grow'. [Joe Armour - Facebook]
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The ex-Andrew Hedges, Williams and Pritchard Ltd., alloy-bodied, Sprinzel Sebring Sprite registered 410 EAO; seen (left) at the 500 Km. race at the Nurburgring in 1961, and on display (right) at 'Midget 50' in 2011.
The car was rebuilt to exacting standards and to it's original 1961 spec' over a 19 year period between 1990 and 2009. The car is currently owned by Jim Lowry. [Jonathan Whitehouse-Bird - Facebook] |
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STEVE CODIANNI asks if anyone knows the origin of his unusual inlet manifold. Reply by Feedback please |