Vehicle Type:
Compact British sports car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts and owners of the Austin MG Sprite and Midget 1971 models seeking authentic factory repair information.
Authenticity:
Actual genuine factory repair manuals, not third-party alternatives, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Comprehensiveness:
Covers all styles and aspects of repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
User Friendliness:
Designed for ease of use with clear, step-by-step instructions, illustrations, and diagrams.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform their own servicing, saving on labor costs.
Engine Service:
Full engine service, repair, overhaul, and tuning procedures.
Transmission Service:
Service and repair of manual transmission systems.
Brake System:
Detailed coverage of hydraulic and mechanical brake components, including adjustments and relining.
Electrical System:
Comprehensive coverage of all electrical components, including wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, and component testing.
Suspension:
Service and repair of front and rear suspension systems, including alignment procedures.
Steering:
Repair and adjustment of steering column and linkage.
Cooling System:
Maintenance and repair of the radiator, water pump, thermostat, and hoses.
Fuel System:
Service and repair of the fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, and carburettors (SU HS2).
Emission System:
Coverage of emission control systems relevant to the 1971 model year.
Chassis Body:
Repair and maintenance of the vehicle chassis and body structure.
Differential Drive Axle:
Service and repair of the rear axle and differential unit.
Interior:
Procedures for interior trim, seats, and dashboard components.
General Maintenance:
Routine checks, lubrication, fluid changes, and filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic guides for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues.
Rebuilding:
Complete procedures for engine, transmission, and other major component rebuilds.
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance for restoring the vehicle to its original condition.
Tuning:
Engine tuning procedures for optimal performance.
Depth:
Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures, suitable for both professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostics:
Advanced troubleshooting guides for diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults.
Engine Code:
1275 cc OHV Inline-4
Bore X Stroke:
70.6 mm x 81.3 mm (2.78 in x 3.20 in)
Compression Ratio:
8.8:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 65 bhp (net) at 5500 rpm
Torque:
Approx. 72 lb-ft (net) at 3000 rpm
Top Speed:
Approx. 90-95 mph (145-153 km/h)
Carburetion:
Twin SU HS2 (1.5 inch) semi-downdraft carburetors
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Type:
4-speed Manual Synchromesh
Gear Ratios:
Manual transmission gear ratios vary by specific model and differential, but typical ratios for the 4-speed gearbox are covered.
Transmission Fluid:
Hypoid gear oil, API GL-4, SAE 90 (Specific part numbers and capacities will be detailed in the manual).
Length:
Approx. 138 inches (3505 mm)
Width:
Approx. 57 inches (1448 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48 inches (1219 mm) (Convertible top up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550 lbs (703 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 81.5 inches (2070 mm)
Track Width Front:
Approx. 47.5 inches (1207 mm)
Track Width Rear:
Approx. 46.5 inches (1181 mm)
Crash Safety:
As with most vehicles of this era, comprehensive crash test ratings as understood today were not standard. The manual will detail chassis and structural integrity for repair purposes.
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes.
Seatbelts:
Provision for seatbelts (often optional or lap belts in this era, manual will cover installation/repair).
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Manual will specify exact intervals and oil types.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of suspension and steering components as per manual schedule.
Engine Oil:
API SF/CD or equivalent, SAE 20W-50 recommended for many classic applications. Manual will provide precise factory specifications.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Manual will confirm specific ratios and type.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic fluid (Manual will specify exact type and capacity).
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, floor pans, and boot floor are common areas for rust due to the unitary body construction.
Engine Wear:
Timing chain wear, oil leaks from the rear crankshaft seal, and worn main bearings are common on high-mileage engines.
Carburetor Tuning:
SU carburetors require periodic adjustment and maintenance for optimal performance and fuel economy.
Marque Legacy:
MG is a marque synonymous with affordable, classic British sports cars, known for their handling and spirited performance.
Sprite Midget Lineage:
The Midget and Sprite were essentially badge-engineered versions of the same car, evolving through several Marks. The 1971 models represent the Mk IV Sprite and Mk III Midget, featuring the larger 1275cc engine and often disc brakes up front.
Manufacturing Era:
The Austin Healey Sprite and MG Midget were produced from 1958 to 1979. The 1971 models fall within the later part of this successful production run.
