Austin-Healey Sprite User Manual

AUSTIN-HKALEY SPRITE GENERAL MAINTENANCE
To adjust the contact breaker points, turn the engine with the
starting handle until the contacts are fully open. Slacken the
fixed contact plate securing screw '1'. insert a screw-driver in the
slot '2' and move the plate until the gap gauge is a sliding fit
between the contacts
(.014 to .016 in. or .36 to .41 mm.) and
then fully tighten the securing screw. Finally recheck the gap and
replace the rotor arm. B efore replacing the distributor cap
wipe the inside and outside with a soft dry cloth, paying particular
attention to the space between the terminals. Ascertain that the
small carbon brush on the inside of the cap works freely in its
holder and that the terminals are secure.
Coi/t The L.A.12 type Lucas ignition coil requires no attention
beyond checking that the terminal connections are tight and that
the exterior is kept clean, particularly between the terminals.
H.T. Cables: The high tension cables must be c arefully
examined and any which have the insulation cracked, perished or
damaged in any way must be replaced.
Sparking Plugs: The sparking plugs fitted to the Austin-Healey
Sprite are of the Champion N.5 Long Reach type, and as they
are of great importance to satisfactory engine performance, every
care should be taken to fit only the recommended type when
replacements become necessary.
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km.), remove the plugs and clean off
all carbon deposit from the electrodes and plug threads with a
stiff brush dipped in paraffin.
Alternatively the plugs may be taken to the local Austin dealer
for cleaning and testing on a special 'Air Blast' service unit.
Check the plug gaps with the gauge provided and reset if
necessary to the recommended clearance of .025 in. (.64 mm.).
When resetting, bend the side electrode only. Never bend the
centre electrode as this may split the insulator tip.
When refitting the plugs, make sure that the copper washers
are not defective in any way. I f they have become worn and
flattened, fit new ones to ensure obtaining a gastight joint.
Screw the plug down by hand as far as possible, then use a
spanner for tightening only. Always use a tubular box spanner
to avoid possible damage to the insulator, and do not under any
circumstances use a movable wrench. Never over-tighten a
plug, but ensure that a good joint is made between the plug
body, washer and cylinder head.
The sparking plugs should be wiped frequently with a clean
rag, as paint splashes, accumulation of oil and dust, etc., on the
insulator are often responsible for poor plug performance.
T .
— Sparking Plug Gap
The clearance 'A' should be
set at .025 ln. (.64 mm.).
COOLING SYSTEM
HE engine cooling system is sealed and pressurised, thus raising
the coolant boiling point to 224'F. (107'C,). A pressure relief
valve located in the radiator filler cap, opens at approximately 4 lbs.
per sq. in. Circulation is by means of a centrifugal type pump and a
thermostat regulates the coolant temperature.
H40.258.A.
Topping Upt This should only be necessary very occasionally
to replace water lost through evaporation. Use only rain water,
if available, or clean soft water, and fill to the bottom of the
filler cap well when the engine is cold.
¹B.— Under no circumstances should the radiator filler cap
be removed if the coolant temperature is above boiling point or
if the engine is running.
Draining the System: There are two drain cocks; one
positioned at the bottom of the radiator, and the other on the
left side of the cylinder block. Open both cocks and ascertain
that the vehicle is standing on level ground while draining.
When draining in freezing weather, do so when the engine is
hot. Run the engine slowly for one minute when the water has
ceased flowing to clear any water left in the pump and other
places where it might collect. Finally, leave a reminder on the
vehicle to the effect that the cooling system has been drained.
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Austin-Healey Sprite Specifications

General

Brand	Austin-Healey
Model	Sprite
Category	Automobile
Language	English