Target Audience:
Austin Healey Sprite owners with basic to advanced mechanical skills, independent repair professionals, and enthusiasts seeking in-depth knowledge.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information, enabling significant cost savings on repairs and empowering informed decision-making.
Accuracy:
Vehicle-specific, manufacturer-provided (or equivalent) technical data, diagrams, and procedures.
Clarity:
Clear, concise text combined with illustrations and diagrams for ease of understanding.
Completeness:
Covers all major topics, with no missing or corrupt sections.
Resource Availability:
Offers essential information to overcome the perceived difficulty of car maintenance and repair.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine components (pistons, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, etc.).
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, charging system (alternator/dynamo), starting system, wiring diagrams, component testing.
Emission Control:
Information regarding emission control systems pertinent to the 1965 model year, including adjustment and troubleshooting.
Fuel System:
Carburetor(s) (e.g., SU HS2), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, servicing and adjustment.
Clutch System:
Clutch operation, hydraulic system (if applicable), pressure plate, friction disc, release bearing, adjustments.
Transmission:
Manual transaxle (gearbox) servicing, repair, fluid specifications, gear shift mechanism.
Driveshaft Axle:
Driveshaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential servicing, lubrication.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Steering box, tie rods, steering column, lubrication, adjustments, troubleshooting.
Restraint:
Seat belts and mounting points (as applicable for the era).
Brake System:
Hydraulic system, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake shoes/pads, drums/rotors, parking brake, bleeding procedures, adjustments.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, hood and trunk latches, interior trim, convertible top servicing, glass replacement.
Body Electrical:
Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, turn signals), dashboard instruments, horn, wiper system, wiring harness routing.
HVAC:
Heating system operation and repair (if equipped).
Preventive Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, lubrication points, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon vehicle issues.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation.
Technical Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, adjustments, fluid capacities, wear limits.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, though manual will provide specific recommendations.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of chassis grease points required (frequency detailed in manual).
Tune Up:
Regular tune-ups including spark plug inspection/replacement, ignition timing, carburetor adjustment.
Engine Oil:
Specific viscosity (e.g., 20W-50) and API service classification detailed in manual. Consider modern oils with ZDDP additive for flat-tappet camshaft protection.
Coolant:
Water/antifreeze mixture; specific type and ratio detailed in manual.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (verify specific type in manual) required for hydraulic system.
Rust:
Prone to rust, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans.
Oil Leaks:
Common oil leaks from engine seals, gaskets, and gearbox.
Carburetor Synchronization:
SU carburetors require periodic synchronization and adjustment for optimal performance.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear in suspension bushings can lead to imprecise handling and knocking noises.
Manufacturer Origin:
British sports car manufacturer, Donald Healey Motor Company.
Mark Iii Introduction:
The Mark III (AN5) was introduced in 1964 and produced until 1967, featuring mechanical and styling updates over earlier models.
Engine Upgrade:
The 1965 model year typically features the larger 1098cc engine compared to the earlier 948cc units.
Production Period:
1958-1971 (across all Sprite and Midget generations).
Manufacturing Location:
Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England
