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Bill started by explaining how his company covered just about every
aspect of Austin Healey restoration and modification, having now brought
in-house some of the services that he once sub-contracted out. This means a
one-stop shop for even the most major restoration work, without the car ever
having to leave the premises. The participants then had a chance to talk to the technicians in the
various departments - mechanical, engine, paint, trim, etc - and get answers to
their questions and advice on issues with their own Austin Healeys. After a very agreeable group lunch at the 'Hen & Chicken' (within
walking distance, but some of us preferred to motor it!), Bill agreed to look
at one or two specific problems. First up was my BJ8 that had some slack in the
steering. After explaining the mechanics of the box, Bill talked us through the
process of adjustment, and then carried out the work. I was delighted, but was
not so happy when my starter motor promptly failed, requiring an ignominious reverse push to clear the space for the next patient! A
push-start (courtesy of Gerald Westcott) was needed to get me on my way home,
but at least I was delighted with my improved steering! Next
job - starter motor. I now know a bit more about how they work, and how
reliable I might expect a modern pre-engaged starter to be (supplied and fitted
by Bill Rawles, of course!). Next up was a 3000 that had serious over-run after switching off the
engine. Conversation and advice ranged through choice of fuel, advance/retard
settings, and clutch and throttle techniques to get an over-eager engine to
stop! The owner's big concern seemed to be his loss of 'street cred' when he
pulled up, switched off, and his 3000's engine would rattle on, and on… I do hope that Alan Cross BJ8 see PHOTOS
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