🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Austin Healey

Model:

Sprite

Year:

1966

Generation Identifier:

Mark III

Chassis Codes:

AN5/B, AH/S, AH/S2 (depending on specific market/engine configuration)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Austin Healey Sprite owners (DIY enthusiasts) and independent auto service professionals.

Value Proposition:

Provides factory-level repair information, enabling owners to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs compared to professional labor.

Manual Strengths:

Vehicle-specific information, clear text, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications, designed for ease of use for varying skill levels.

📋 Manual Details

Major Topics Covered:

General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft/Axle, Suspension, Steering, Restraint, Brake System, Body (Interior/Exterior), Body Electrical, HVAC

Estimated Page Count:

Comprehensive (exact number not specified, but described as 'full service and repair instruction' and 'all major topics covered complete')

Manual Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain Systems:

Engine Mechanical (including rebuilding), Engine Electrical (ignition, starting, charging), Fuel System (carburetion, pumps), Clutch System, Manual Transaxle (gearbox), Driveshaft and Axle Systems.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), Steering System, Brake System (hydraulic, drums/discs), Wheels and Tires.

Body And Electrical:

Body (interior trim, exterior panels, doors, glass), Body Electrical System (lighting, instruments, wiring harnesses), HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning - if applicable to the 1966 model specification).

Repair And Diagnostics:

Step-by-step repair instructions, diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting guides, adjustment procedures.

Maintenance Tasks:

Routine maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), component replacements, fluid changes.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, covering basic maintenance to advanced repairs and diagnostics, equivalent to factory service manuals used by dealerships.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows and Mac

Printability:

Yes, individual pages are printable

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Required Software:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine Displacement:

1098 cc (67.0 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

80.0 mm x 54.2 mm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1 (typical)

Horsepower Gross:

57 bhp @ 6000 rpm (typical for 1098cc engine)

Torque Gross:

65 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (typical for 1098cc engine)

Carburetion:

Twin SU Carburetors (e.g., HS2)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (though leaded gasoline was common at the time, unleaded is now recommended with appropriate additive or hardened valve seats)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

Automatic Transaxle (less common, but availability needs verification for 1966 models)

Clutch Type:

Single Dry Plate, Hydraulic Operation

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

82 inches (2083 mm)

Overall Length:

144 inches (3658 mm)

Overall Width:

52 inches (1321 mm)

Overall Height:

49 inches (1245 mm) (to top of windshield)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1,600 - 1,700 lbs (725 - 770 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Standards:

Designed to earlier safety standards prevalent in the mid-1960s; lacks modern safety features.

Active Safety Features:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Precise Steering.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap Seat Belts (often optional or fitted later), strong but basic monocoque chassis construction.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM Radio (optional), analog gauges for speed, RPM, oil pressure, fuel, and temperature.

Driver Assistance Features:

None (vehicle predates modern driver-assistance technologies).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for exact recommendations).

Tune Up Interval:

Regular checks of ignition points, spark plugs, and carburetor synchronization recommended annually or every 6,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

SAE 20W-50 (typically, often a high-zinc formulation for older flat-tappet engines recommended).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze mixed with water (50/50 ratio).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Gearbox Oil:

GL4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 80W-90).

Rear Axle Oil:

GL4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., 80W-90) with limited-slip additive if applicable.

Common Problems:

Rust (especially in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans), oil leaks from engine and gearbox, carburetor issues (stalling, poor idling), cooling system inefficiency, electrical gremlins.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Typical part numbers include Purolator L10151, Fram PH8A, or equivalent (check for specific cross-references).

Spark Plug Part Number:

Champion N9Y, NGK BP5ES, or equivalent (gap setting is critical).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Focus:

British manufacturer known for lightweight, affordable sports cars, particularly the Sprite and its MGB sibling.

Sprite Generations:

The 1966 model represents the Mark III iteration, evolving from the original 'Frogeye' Sprite (Mark I) and Mark II. Key changes in the Mark III included a revised chassis, improved engine (1098cc), and updated styling.

Production Period Mark Iii:

1964-1966

Manufacturing Location:

Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

Recognized as an iconic British sports car, beloved for its affordability, simplicity, and fun-to-drive nature.