Ok, I picked her up from the mechanics this morning (and no Jeff, I won't
make it a habit!), and it was just a matter of playing with the dizzy - new
points, new rotor, new cap. Eighty odd dollars (most of it labour - damn
that thesis deadline), and she's running like a dream! The short trip to
Uni this morning showed a better oil pressure (but I still think it's a
little too low at idle - was there ever a consensus on what was
acceptable?), and higher running temp. The bad news? My need for a new
gearbox is looming hard and fast. My new mechanic (great Irish bloke)
recommends a re-build of a few of the gears. This is WAY beyond my current
mechanical skills and I don't know anyone who could help me learn. Now
here's my request for people's opinions - the car is a daily driver, but
she's fairly original including mechanically: 948 motor, drum brakes, etc.
The only mechanical mod (that I know of) is the alternator. So do I
rebuild the bad gears, or do I think about a five speed? And if I do the 5
speed, what's the appropriate donor car in Australia?
Just a comment concerning apathy and clubs - I've joined the local Healey
owners club. Mostly the club is big Healey's, but they welcome the little
cars too, and at the last meet there was my muddy daily driver beside some
real show pieces. They all thought it was great that I actually drove my
car in the spirit it was made, and made me welcome. And the age range went
from 20's to retired. Great people - same attitude as this list.
Cheers
Leigh Ellen
'62 MkII Sprite
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