🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Austin Healey

Model:

Sprite

Year:

1969

Model Code:

Mk IV

Chassis Designation:

AH SPRITE MK IV

Engine Code Primary:

12C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

Essential technical resource for owners and independent repair facilities of the 1969 Austin Healey Sprite

Advantage:

Provides manufacturer-level technical data, specific to the vehicle, offering greater accuracy than generic manuals

Feature 1:

Vehicle-specific information, not generic content

Feature 2:

Step-by-step instructions with diagrams and illustrations

Feature 3:

Full coverage of all major vehicle systems

Feature 4:

Enables informed discussions with technicians for owners

Feature 5:

Cost-saving potential for DIY maintenance and repairs

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive Service, Repair, and Workshop

Primary Coverage:

All mechanical and electrical systems specific to the 1969 Austin Healey Sprite Mk IV

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, diagnostics, routine maintenance, component overhaul, and bodywork

Estimated Page Count:

400+

Type:

Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

Digital Delivery:

Speed Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starting system, charging system (alternator/generator), lighting, instrumentation, wiring harnesses

Emission Control:

Emission control systems and components relevant to the 1969 model year

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel pump, carburetors (likely SU HS2 or HS4), intake manifold, exhaust system

Clutch:

Clutch operation, hydraulic system (if applicable), clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, flywheel

Transmission:

Manual transaxle (gearbox) overhaul, gear selection, bearings, synchronizers, lubrication

Driveshaft Axle:

Propeller shaft, universal joints, rear axle assembly, differential, half-shafts

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, kingpins/ball joints

Steering:

Steering rack/box, steering column, tie rods, steering wheel, steering linkage

Restraint System:

Seat belts and mounting points

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake, brake fluid specifications

Body Interior Exterior:

Body shell, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, trim, seats, dashboard, interior panels, convertible top mechanism

Body Electrical:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn, wipers, interior lighting, dashboard instrumentation wiring

HVAC:

Heating system (heater core, ducting), ventilation components

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant checks, lubrication points, brake fluid checks, tire pressure

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults across all systems

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, overhaul, and reinstallation

Diagnostics:

Fault finding guides and diagnostic flowcharts

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring schematics for clarity and diagnosis

Depth:

Detailed overhaul procedures, component specifications, torque values, and clearances for expert-level repairs

Target Audience:

Professional mechanics, independent workshops, and skilled DIY enthusiasts

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Compatibility:

All versions of Windows and Mac

Reader Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

Printability:

Fully printable pages for workshop use

Illustration Quality:

Clear diagrams and illustrations

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Displacement:

1275 cc (77.8 cu in)

Bore X Stroke:

70.61 mm x 81.28 mm (2.78 in x 3.20 in)

Compression Ratio:

Approx. 8.8:1 (varies slightly)

Fuel Delivery:

Twin SU HS2 or HS4 Carburetors

Horsepower Gross:

Approx. 65-70 bhp @ 5500-6000 rpm

Torque Gross:

Approx. 70-75 lb-ft @ 3000-3500 rpm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended, may require lead substitute or hardened valve seats for older engines)

Fuel Pump Type:

Mechanical (engine-driven)

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed Manual Transaxle

Automatic:

Not typically offered for the 1969 Sprite Mk IV, manual transmission was standard.

Gear Ratios:

Refer to manual for specific ratios; generally close-ratio for sporty driving

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 80W-90 or 85W-90, check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 3759 mm (148 in)

Width:

Approx. 1454 mm (57.25 in)

Height:

Approx. 1175 mm (46.25 in) (to top of windscreen)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2019 mm (79.5 in)

Track Front:

Approx. 1156 mm (45.5 in)

Track Rear:

Approx. 1150 mm (45.25 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 780-820 kg (1720-1808 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Refer to VIN plate or manual

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Testing:

Vehicles of this era were not subjected to modern crash safety testing standards.

Active Safety:

Responsive steering and braking systems typical of sports cars of the period

Passive Safety:

Seat belts (typically lap belts as standard)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analogue instrumentation. Radio was an optional extra, not standard equipment.

Driver Assistance Features:

None; designed for driver engagement rather than driver assistance.

Connectivity Features:

None.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, refer to manual for exact recommendation

Lubrication Intervals:

Grease points (e.g., suspension pivots, U-joints) every 1,000-2,000 miles

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, points, condenser typically every 6,000-12,000 miles

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH rated 20W-50 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific recommendations, may require oil with ZDDP additive for flat tappet engines)

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility, as some older systems may prefer specific types)

Common Issue 1:

Rust in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans due to construction.

Common Issue 2:

Carburetor tuning and synchronization (SU carburetors).

Common Issue 3:

Leaking seals and gaskets (engine, gearbox, differential).

Common Issue 4:

Wear in suspension bushings and kingpins.

Common Issue 5:

Electrical gremlins due to age and wiring condition.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Austin Healey is renowned for its lightweight, affordable British sports cars, blending performance with classic styling.

Sprite Evolution:

The 1969 model represents the final iteration of the Midget-bodied Sprite, the Mk IV, featuring the larger 1275cc engine and further refinements over earlier models.

Manufacturing Location:

British Motor Corporation (BMC) factories in the UK

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Historical Recognition:

While not receiving specific awards in the modern sense, the Austin Healey Sprite enjoyed significant success in club racing, rallies, and was widely recognized as a quintessential affordable British sports car, contributing to its enduring popularity and cult following.