🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Austin Healey

Model:

Sprite

Year:

1968

Generation Designation:

Mark IV / Sprite Mk4

Chassis Codes:

AN5 / AN6 (depending on specific market/engine configuration, though 1968 models are predominantly AN5)

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Austin Healey Sprite owners, classic car enthusiasts, independent automotive repair shops, mechanics.

Value Proposition:

Provides expert, vehicle-specific repair information identical to that used by authorized dealers, enabling significant cost savings on maintenance and repairs.

Unique Selling Points:

Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specific technical data, comprehensive system coverage, exact dealership-level information.

User Empowerment:

Empowers owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance and repairs, facilitating informed discussions with technicians and fostering self-sufficiency.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Scope:

Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Workshop Procedures

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for this era's detailed workshop manuals)

Manual Classification:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language Of Publication:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams.

Emission Control:

Early emission control systems relevant to 1968 regulations (e.g., PCV systems).

Fuel System:

Carburetor service (e.g., SU HS4 or Stromberg CD), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank.

Clutch System:

Clutch operation, master cylinder, slave cylinder, friction disc, pressure plate, release bearing.

Transmission Manual:

Manual gearbox overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, synchronizers, bearings.

Transmission Automatic:

While the 1968 Sprite was primarily manual, if an automatic option existed or was retrofit, this section would cover it. (Note: Automatic transmission was not a standard factory option for the Sprite Mk IV).

Driveshaft Axle:

Rear axle assembly, driveshaft, universal joints, differential.

Suspension System:

Front independent suspension (lower wishbones, track control arms, coil springs, shock absorbers), rear leaf springs, rear shock absorbers.

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, steering wheel.

Restraint System:

Seat belts (lap belts typically for this era).

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake lines, master cylinder, brake booster (if applicable), parking brake.

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panel repair, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, seats, dashboard, convertible top mechanism.

Body Electrical:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, interior lights, wipers, washer system.

HVAC:

Heating system (heater matrix, ducting), ventilation, air conditioning (rare and likely aftermarket for this era).

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, fluid checks and replacements, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnosis of common problems, symptom identification, root cause analysis.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.

Diagnostics:

Detailed diagnostic procedures for all major systems.

Wiring Schematics:

Complete electrical wiring diagrams with component identification.

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.

Depth Of Information:

Full workshop level, suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed component overhaul and rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Document Type:

Digital (PDF)

Printability:

Fully printable, allowing users to print specific pages or the entire manual.

Binding Description:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF - user prints and binds as desired)

Paper Description:

Not Applicable (Digital PDF - user selects paper type for printing)

Reader Software:

Adobe PDF Reader (or compatible)

Operating Systems:

All versions of Windows and macOS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Engine Displacement:

1275 cc (77.9 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

Approx. 70.6 mm x 81.3 mm (2.78 in x 3.20 in)

Compression Ratio:

Typically 8.8:1 or higher

Horsepower Gross:

Approx. 59-65 bhp (depending on tuning and specifics)

Torque Gross:

Approx. 68-72 lb-ft

Carburetion:

Twin SU HS4 Carburetors (standard for most 1968 models)

Fuel Type:

Leaded gasoline (2-star or 4-star, depending on octane rating and market, lead substitute may be recommended for modern fuel)

Oil Type:

SAE 20W-50 (traditional recommendation, often with ZDDP additive) or equivalent modern oil.

Coolant Type:

Water/Antifreeze mixture (e.g., 50/50 ethylene glycol based)

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox Type:

4-speed Manual Synchromesh

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate, hydraulically operated

Automatic Transmission:

Not a standard factory option for the 1968 Sprite Mk IV.

Gear Ratios:

Manual: Typically 3.63 (1st), 2.15 (2nd), 1.38 (3rd), 1.00 (4th), 3.89 (Reverse) - Ratios may vary slightly by specific model/market.

Gearbox Oil:

GL-4 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 90 or SAE 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 145 inches (3683 mm)

Width:

Approx. 55.75 inches (1416 mm)

Height:

Approx. 46.5 inches (1181 mm) (Convertible top up, to highest point)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,730 - 1,850 lbs (785 - 839 kg)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 79 inches (2007 mm)

Track Front:

Approx. 48.25 inches (1226 mm)

Track Rear:

Approx. 47.25 inches (1200 mm)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Information:

No formal crash test ratings available from modern agencies for this era and vehicle type.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes (approx. 9.75 inch), rear drum brakes (approx. 7 inch).

Seat Belts:

Standard fitment of lap belts for driver and passenger.

Body Construction:

Body-on-chassis construction with integrated safety features for the era.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

Optional factory fitted radio or aftermarket installations. Primarily analog systems.

Driver Aids:

None (basic mechanical systems only).

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months.

Tune Up Interval:

Every 6,000 - 12,000 miles, including spark plugs, points, and ignition timing.

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of chassis grease points (e.g., kingpins, steering joints) every 1,000 - 3,000 miles.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check specific recommendations in manual, typically non-silicone based for this era).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 7 Imperial pints (3.9 Litres)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 9.5 Imperial pints (5.4 Litres) with filter change.

Common Problems:

Rust ingress (wheel arches, sills, floors), electrical gremlins, carburetor tuning issues, overdrive (if fitted) reliability, oil leaks, suspension wear.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Origin:

British sports car manufacturer, known for lightweight, affordable performance vehicles.

Sprite Lineage:

The 1968 model is part of the Mk IV generation, a refinement of the earlier Frogeye and Mk II/III models, featuring improved styling and mechanicals, including the larger 1275cc engine.

Manufacturing Location:

Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England

Production Period:

Mk IV production ran from late 1966 to 1971. The 1968 model falls within this period.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Awards:

While specific awards for the 1968 model year are not prominently documented, the Sprite range as a whole was highly regarded for its value, handling, and motorsport heritage.

Reliability Ratings:

Reliability is highly dependent on maintenance and previous ownership. Classic car forums and owner surveys often highlight specific recurring issues rather than formal ratings.