IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A GENUINE HISTORIC RACING SPRITE LOOK NO FURTHER
AS S221 IS ON THE MARKET AT £135,000 THROUGH RACECARS DIRECT & DUNCAN HAMILTON

(Thanks to Mark Turner and Alan Anstead for alerting me to this)

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS IN OKLAHOMA FROM KEN GRASING

"Still working through the lesser know bits of the Sprites, and Sebring Sprites.  These are;

1. As previously related, I’m still trying to work out the Girling 64067580 slave cylinder arrangement.  I suspect the Girling slave cylinder came about as part of a package deal from Girling, hence the use of the 8” Girling rear drum brakes, rather than the Lockheed 8” drum from the Wolseley.  Reading Brian Moylan’s work, “Anatomy of the Works Mini” and his discussion of the Lucas reps onsite while the cars were being built suggests to me that it might have been a case of giving basic specifications and parameters to the vendor and letting their people sort out the details. It would be interesting to go through some of Geoff’s work papers to see how he addressed this sort of issue. 
   
   2. Two-speed wiper motor, as described by John Sprinzel in Modified Motoring et al.  I’ve gotten one installed, in the red standard-bodied Sebring Sprite, using a two-speed Lucas DR-3A.  I’d like to convert a Lucas DR2 75213 to two-speed operation by including an overwinding, rather than a resister.  I thought I had located the specification of the correct nichrome wire and number of turns, but seem to have misplaced it. We do have the wiring and switch issue sorted for the two-speed wipers, so only a matter of getting the motors built/modified. I’m also working on the early Sprite wiper motors with the “domed” style parking brake switch housing for two of the early 1958 cars.  Mostly a matter of sorting out which bits and pieces we have put together one or two.  The gear assemblies with the correct sweep arc (degree) for the Sprite are getting harder to find, so we may have to watch the YouTube videos to learn how to change the sweep arc.   
   
   3. Lucas C40 generator with RB310 control box, as used on the 1959 Sebring Cars.  Still looking for the rather distinct tachometer drive used on Sutherland car (see attached).  I’ve located a somewhat similar unit used on agricultural equipment, but have not yet determined the ratio.  I’ve also been referred to pictures of a power steering pump drive off the aft end of the generator as a possibility.   The combination of right angle tachometer drive and double bearing generator seems to be somewhat unique.  The double bearing competition generator referred to in Modified Motors as a Lucas 22290 is still being researched.   I did note that John Sprinzel had included the wiring steps necessary to convert from the 5 terminal RB106/2 control box to the 3 terminal RB310 control box in Chapter 5 of “Modified Motoring”.    

4. John Sydney Limited “Trafalgar” windscreen washer system, as noted in Service Parts list AKD829.  Quite similar to the Trafalgar system used on the BN6, with reservoir, pump jet et al being same BMC part numbers.  I’ve never seen the Trafalgar system on a Sprite, nor pictures of one, much less with a glass reservoir.  The later 5th ED of AKD829 shows the part number for the glass reservoir, 17H579, as not available with plastic 37H9798 being the replacement.  I have found a couple of the 37H9798, so we’ll try to build a couple of these Trafalgar systems for the early 1958 cars.  One feature that I do have photos of are the single jet, rather than twin jet of Tudor system.

Best regards, Ken Grasing"

SOME INTERESTING ALEXANDER SPRITE HISTORY FROM TOM COULTHARD (for which many thanks)

"I’ve been meaning to send you the attached photos since Geoff Williamson’s son posted a while ago. They show the finish of the Coupe du Salon at Montlhéry in October 1959 and Geoff’s excellent win in the GT1.0 class. Though he has painted the registration of his own car on the bonnet, it is actually the dark green Alexander works car 777 EBH, which Geoff drove the 700 miles to and from the event on the public road. Oddly, of course, both 777 EBH and RWV 661 were ‘steel coupés’ – not ‘alloy coupés’ like the Sprinzel Sebrings – one can only surmise that they felt the body needed the extra strength. In the ‘floral presentation’ photo, the Lotus driver is probably fellow Brit Bob Hicks, who has won the GT1.3 class in his Coventry Climax-engined Eleven. I presume the flagman is a distinguished figure in French motorsport which I trust one of your readers from the Land of the Gauls will readily identify. Although the Alexander coupés were ‘professionally designed’ by Tim Fry (who was responsible for the Hillman Imp), he has been too ambitious on the tumblehome of the glasshouse: meaning the side windows are angled inwards too much. In the pic of Geoff in his own car at Prescott, he is evidently not fitting very comfortably – and though he was clearly in the ‘charmingly chunky’ category, he wasn’t particularly tall. This may be one reason why there were no more ‘Alexander coupés’ ...".

RICHARD GROVES' VIDEO CLIPS FROM THE 60's SHOWING THE EX-WORKS SPRITES AND OTHER RACE CARS HE OWNED.

Kindly supplied by Chris Moore: "There are 4 videos taken from cine film which was captured in the 1960s most likely by a Mr R Groves. They are family cine which turned up in a car boot sale and my brother-in-law bought them because he liked the box they were in. Gave them to me as he knew I was playing around with converting my own father’s family cine.   Going through these I have enjoyed reading about the world of the Sebring Sprite and the fantastic website Martin Ingall runs.  I thought it worth the effort to put them on You Tube for you fanatics to enjoy.
Sorry about the quality of film / sound as I am just an amateur – If anyone wanted the original 8mm film these came from contact me as I don’t want to keep them – if done professionally the quality would be much improved. The sound is not original - it has been added to bring back a bit of the cine film feel. The set of 4 videos which may be of interest are: 
https://youtu.be/3ksl412k2Oo 
https://youtu.be/B-IGF8ybgJ4 
https://youtu.be/tqijcTnG2A4 
https://youtu.be/gH1HZV8urLo 

my favourite is the 3rd of these, at about 4 mins 40 where the policeman is clearly not happy with the racing on open roads! ".

A LITTLE BIT OF INTERESTING CORRESPONDENCE ABOUT AMAL CARBURETTORS, BETWEEN PETER WESTCOTT IN AUSTRALIA AND SPEEDWELL GURU ALISTAIR ROSS
(Read the last letter first and work upwards)

"Hello, Martin.  Together I think Alistair and I have nutted out the specs of the Speedwell Amals:

Not a lot of people know that… Peter".

"Hello, Alistair, thanks for the reply, some interesting details. It’s interesting that they’re only 1-1/16 when there was a 1-3/16 available.  Perhaps GH was after high air speed for better torque?  The Speedwell's long manifold runners would certainly have helped in that respect.  Either way, the Amals seem tiny, despite having no throttle spindle. I think you’re right about patchy useability and the need for spot-on setup, and I suspect the extended float chambers were to try and cure fuel starvation while cornering, cars behaving very differently to bikes of course.  I have no desire to go the Amal route, a simple life is good, but it’s interesting to know what was being tried.  My Sprite preference now is for a single HS6/HIF44 SU on a Triton or Russell manifold. I’ve attached a photo of perhaps the ultimate Amal setup on a car, six of them on a ‘50s Holden motor fitted with a Waggot twin-cam head (only nine ever made), and hybridised with SU float chambers.  Impressive setup but it would be a bit ’needy’ I think?  Also a photo of another response from a 998 Sprite, triple Amals fitted to a common rail with the manifold runners looping over the engine to put the carbs on the dissy side.  It apparently worked very well in a very, very narrow rev band. Thanks again for the reply, I look forward to seeing progress on your car. Peter Westcott"

"Hi Peter, The carbs are Monobloc's (so float chamber is integral with the body) these were originally fitted to a Speedwell clubman head on a 998CC engine. The throat size is 1 1/16" (27mm) diameter. This set up was a favorite of George Hulbert, but everyone I have managed to speak with says that this set up was difficult to keep in tune, The first owner of my car could never get the car started but as he lived on a hill he could 'bump' the car to get it going (patience of an enthusiast) but car would run all day once warmed up. Possibly for the purpose of racing these would work well, but you needed to know your onions in mounting, timing the engine and tuning them. Don Moore (he had long stopped building engines but lived close to me) and I chatted about these Amal carbs and he was a fan,( I think he had mounted 4 onto a pre-war MG?) as at the time I was toying with the idea of rebuilding the 998cc Speedwell engine.(nothing was a problem to him). The carbs do have float bowl extensions and these were made by Amal, the mounting bolt centers are at 2" (50.8mm). Hope these ramblings help. ttfn....Alistair (Ross)"

I duly forwarded Peter's message to Alistair whose reply is above:

"I note from the newsletter 2020, that Alistair Ross' Speedwell GT - 5447 HX (455 EVE) - has a set of Amals with it.  I’f you could kindly pass this on I’d be interested to know if Alistair can confirm that they’re Monoblocs, what the throat size is and the spacing distance of the bolts on the mounting flange?  I note that the largest Monobloc offered by Burlen is 1-3/16”, which seems a trifle small for a highly tuned A Series engine" - Peter Westcott.

BRIAN ARCHER TROPHY

Dave Marriott was awarded the Brian Archer trophy for the current year. Having run out of space on the shield he has kindly had an inner ring of small shields fitted to it so we can accommodate more winners. The trophy is awarded (courtesy of the late Ian Ashfield) each year for the best turned-out Sebring Sprite seen at one of the major shows. Thanks Dave.

" It was a while ago now. Pre 2012 as I was accompanied, to Goodwood, by the late John Larrington. John Sprinzel had obtained my telephone number and contacted me, 'out of the blue', to ask if I was related to the Ansteads who used to race against him in the Radbourne Racing Fiats. I used to watch them at Brands Hatch: the Fiat 500 (650?) raced with the rear engine cover raised, usually against Minis. I wrote to Radbourne Racing, in period, asking if I were related but it appears not. John suggested that we meet up at Goodwood where this fading picture was taken and where he kindly autographed my copy of 'Spritely Years'. Alan (Anstead)".

And this is the first of the Aldon/Archers Fastback bodies - produced for Mervyn Wilson in Ireland. It is the first one to be taken from the mould for over 5 years.

Further information from Andrew Forster at Aldon Automotive on 01384 572553

The first of the Aldon/Archers Coupe tops has now been completed - this one for Andrew Musgrove who has already purchased a Sebring bonnet for his replica.

A FEW MORE COPIES OF JOHN SPINZEL'S LAST BOOK NOW AVAILABLE

Having contacted Tom Coulthard to obtain a single copy of "Lucky John" for a lady who wanted to give one to her hubby for a birthday gift, Tom finds he has a few more copies which I am pleased to have been asked to offer here. They are £35 including UK postage. Just go to coulthardpress@btinternet.com and pay using PayPal, provide your name and address and a copy will wing its way to you. Buy now while the limited stock lasts. Available in the UK ONLY. See "Books & Regalia" for more info.

FROM ANDREW FORSTER:

"Hi Martin, I was going through some pictures off my old works computer looking for the Sebring fitting instructions and drawings and I have came across this picture that Brian had took at Goodwood. This was when John came over as the race had so many of his cars competing he couldn’t resist it. Moss was driving PMO in the race and John was the chief mechanic. He was such a lovely man to meet and chat to and he will be missed by all. Regards Andrew"

HILL-CLIMB SPEEDWELL GT REPLICA (SEBRING FASTBACK WITH MONZA BONNET) FOR SALE

Peter Fletcher's Speedwell comes with a standard 1340 bottom end with a gas flowed head on HS4s and 3-branch manifold on stainless exhaust system. It has a straight-cut gearbox from Hardy Engineering and 4.55 diff. The suspension is standard but lowered. There are a few negotiable spares. Offers sought in region of £20,000
Contact Peter by email or on 07742 220083 or 01723 360244

JOHN SPRINZEL, 1930 to 2021

We have sadly lost the man who paved the way for the delightful Sebring Sprite Coupe, building several of the cars in his workshops, competing with them and preparing others for customers. When Brian Archer sought to replicate the Coupe 30 years later John gave him considerable support and input and we all enjoyed seeing him with Caryl at Lancaster Mews and at Goodwood on his occasional visits from his home in Hawaii. To learn more about John's long and active life why not read again the page about him on this website. Rest in peace 'Lucky John'. Our sincere condolences to Caryl, his family and friends worldwide.

JOHN SPRINZEL
" It is with huge sadness that I have to let you know that John Sprinzel passed away earlier this week after a brief illness (not Covid-related), at the age of 90. On his much-loved Pacific paradise island, with his wife Caryl by his side, John reached the conclusion of a “life well lived” very peacefully".

3482 JW

"A couple more pics of Ian Turner’s Sprite, taken at the same HSCC meeting on the 20th October 2019 at Silverstone which Mark mentions.  They might help Rod Graham to see the overall fit.  It’s a lovely car. Dennis Wharf".

A REPLY FROM MARK TURNER:
"No problem.  The rear had a tube glassed into it and the front had the "L" shaped bracket that were quite often drilled through and bolted to the windscreen pillar.  However I didn't like that and added Mk.2 Sebring tube fittings with a tube glassed into the front.  The bar is 1/4" stainless, probably from Ebay or Tracey tools with LH and RH threads so the alloy adjuster can tighten easily.
Mark Turner"

"Re: MORE ON 3482 JW FROM MARK TURNER – particularly his W&P Hardtop
I was very interested to see this article and its predecessor piece on your May news page, as it shows a Sprite MK 1 adorned with an original Williams and Pritchard Hardtop – and it is “fitted”. I also have a W&P hardtop, which came along with my Mk1 Sprite, many years ago – and had apparently never been fitted. It was in a terrible state when I got it and I have some work done on it, to carefully grind out and repair the crazing in the surface, but was never able to fit it, either. It hangs on the wall, at the back of my garage – waiting. See pic attached. I have, over the years tried to establish exactly how these were fitted to the Sprite screen top – and I guess that Mark may be able to give me some guidance and perhaps some close up pictures of the fitting, so that I can attempt to replicate them and get the top fitted. I’d be really interested in getting in touch with him. Any chance you could pass this email on to him, to see if he might be prepared to make contact with me? Rod Graham".
[I have put Rod in touch with Mark Turner - see above]

THE AMAZING SVEN ECKHARDT MAKES GREAT PROGRESS WITH THE RESTORATION OF HIS SPEEDWELL GT - 7140 RO.
SOON WE WILL HAVE 8 (or 9) SURVIVORS OF THIS VERY RARE MODEL

" Here are some more pictures. There is no identification plate attached to the chassis I have, nor is there a BAE body number though there is a Thompson body number in the 8000's which would put production of the tub into late 1958. I have been given a chassis plate by Bill McDonnough which has come from Pat Kenyan when he acquired the Speedwell panels from her. It may well have been the one for RO. I know for sure it is the chassis depicted with Brian Kenyan working on it in the 1970's. The tunnel has been rewelded which tallies with what I have been told by (former owner) Bill Graham and it appears that he has at least seen pictures of the shell and identified it as the shell of his former steed.
The rivet holes in the rain gutter for affixing the Speedwell top, line up perfectly to the top I have, so the top and chassis I have are now married up as before. I have removed and replaced the original cut-out rear section of the boot floor and reconstructed boot floor strengtheners as well as the outer inner wheel arches which had been partially removed in order to fit the fibreglass back end. There were also remnants of the original steel back on the original boot floor inner wheel arches and rear wing shut plates . These have been removed carefully. I managed to achieve a satisfactory fit of the newly made aluminium tail section and it lines up well with the original Speedwell GT top. The doors I am using to get apertures right are an original pair of Mk.I steel doors. A pair of new aluminum doors came with the chassis when acquired from Tony Shirtcliffe. I have decided to use them with our Sebring aluminium fastback which is ready for painting. The steel doors will be good to achieve a standard size door aperture. I have been promised aluminium doors by Ahead4Healeys. The steel doors will serve the purpose if things don't pan out - we shall see. The wings of the new ally back will need attention to get the gaps right at the B-post. The partially removed battery tray and front inner wheel arches will be reconstructed in aluminium. I shall keep you posted. Sven"

7627 YG ~ ANOTHER NEW ARCHER SEBRING COUPE ALMOST READY FOR THE ROAD

Andrew Quine has updated us on his progress with the Sebring Coupe he acquired, unfinished, from Barry McCann:
"Just to give you an update on the Sebring, the dashboard is now fitted and a new wiring loom is in place. I have a 1330 fast road engine built by Gordon Elwell to drop in together with a recon gearbox. The car is based on a 1962 Mk2 Sprite and the original seats are presently being recovered in black with red piping. It is now registered in my name as an Austin Healey Sprite Coupe. I am hoping to borrow a crane in the next few weeks to fit the engine and box. As the car was built over 5 years ago and as yet has never turned a wheel I can’t wait to finally turn the key. Looking forward to getting it on the road".

MORE ON 3482 JW (and all about YSV 201) FROM MARK TURNER

"Hi Martin, some more about 3482 JW: my Dad (Ian Turner) bought it in May 1968 from a lady in Shenstone Lichfield. Before her it was owned by a garage in Wolverhampton and had some kind of rally history. I now have it in my garage and that picture on the website (below) was taken a few years ago at HSCC Silverstone. It has a 1275 engine and disc brakes.

The other car, YSV 201, is my race Sprite and was built from an ex-Californanian Mk2 shell.  We saw the partially finished project for sale on ebay a few years ago and cut our holiday in the Black Forest short by a day to go and buy it from a guy in Newcastle.  As you can see it's a tribute to JAX 12 and I race it in Equipe GTS.  Fairly standard apart from stiffer springs, dampers, and a race 1293 engine with sccr gearbox.  We wanted to keep it period so it has a trimmed interior and standard Sprite dash. Hope you like, Mark".

3482 JW ~ 1961 Austin-Healey Sebring Sprite

Spotted by Mike Wood on Reddit. Is that the original Leaf Green or as Mike thinks Almond Green sometimes seen on other BMC models? Nice to see a car with both the W & P Sebring bonnet as well as the rare W & P hardtop, all beautifully executed. The car seems to be taxed and on the road. [It is in fact in standard Leaf Green]

KEN GRASING'S SPRITES

Ken has kindly sent me links to his 2 latest videos, one showing progress on all 3 cars and the second of which shows his Bonneville Sprite complete with Shorrock C75B supercharger firing up for the 1st time..

VIDEO 2

VIDEO 3

FROGEYE PROJECT FOR SALE - £7,000
[NOW SOLD 5 June 2021]

I am selling my MK1 Sprite that I have had in storage, this is a 1961 registered car that has been off the road for some time (20+ years), it is fitted with a 1275cc 11-stud engine (Currently with a 9-stud head) a 45 Weber with a racing exhaust manifold, engine turns over and has not been re-bored. The car is fitted with Lockheed disc brakes and an anti-roll bar, the rear is fitted with radius arms (with rose joints) and telescopic shock absorbers with coil springs, a Panhard rod stopping any sideways movement along with a standard 4 speed ribbed gearbox.
The car needs restoring, it could be a rolling restoration or a full-blown back to bare metal job, but either way it will need some work, there is no wiring loom to speak of and some parts will need replacing or finding such as some dash instruments. But does come with its metal bonnet as well as a GRP bonnet.
The V5C (logbook) is in my name.
I have lost the storage for the car and have too many cars to work on or restore anyway so have decided to sell this Sprite, this also helps the diplomacy at home.
As with any project like this please come and see the car if you are interested, I’m in Cambridge. I can email more photos of the car, so please ask. You can contact me (Alistair Ross)

"Just seen your post on Facebook of your Sebring. Looking great and I do love that pseudo Aston Martin green. I took mine out to Shelsley Walsh last week for the drivers school. I thought you might like this picture for the Sebring Website.
Richard Salisbury"

Photo courtesy pf:
John Hallett Photography.

 

A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY - 4 JULY 2021

On 4th July the GAYDON BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM are hosting a WARWICK HEALEY gathering to which all the various Healey-related car clubs and their members are invited. So dust off the Sprite (or other Healey) and prepare for this big event, one of the first after lockdown. On the previous day a blue plaque is to be unveiled on the site of the former Donald Healey Motor Co premises in Warwick with a get-together in the Black Pug afterwards. More info shortly.

SEBRING INLET MANIFOLD FOR SALE ON EBAY

Claimed to be "A brand-new, unused, unopened and undamaged item'
Asking price £120 SOLD for £282 !!!!! Crazeee!

I am pleased to say that the Feedback page is now functioning once again, so I look forward to hearing from anyone who would like to display Sebring material on the site. Many thanks.

1972 LENHAM LE MANS FOR SALE

Bob Cranham is offering this car which is newly built to highest standards. Photographic history available. Eligible for many historic championships. Chassis (1972 MkII MG Midget) was stripped, dipped, coated and given full respray. Engine prepared by Smirthwaite (build spec available) with zero race miles. 1293cc. New gearbox. New clutch. Suspension rebuilt. Full roll cage. Plumbed extinguisher. Foam filled racing tank. All new pipes and hoses. Fully re-wired. Lightweight race seat. Currently on Avon tyres but equally happy on Dunlops. Every part on this car is either fully refurbished or brand new. Large file of bills with the car. Too much to list. Currently on SORN but could be road registered if race series requires. (i.e. HSCC 70’s Roadsports.) This car is immaculate in every area, is “on the button”, ready to go and provides the perfect entry into the world of classic racing. Sensible offers considered. An additional new, painted but unfitted Lenham font end is available by separate negotiation.

£27,750 o.n.o
Located Capel, Surrey, UK
28 March 2021

For further information go to: Car and Classic
or contact Bob on 01737 224175

IF YOU HAVEN'T GOT ONE IT'S TIME YOU HAD!

A copy of John Sprinzel & Tom Coulthard's excellent book "Spritely Years" currently on ebay at the very modest figure of £31 with one day to go (expires 28th March)

SEBRING BONNET FOR SALE ON EBAY

Expires 26th March
Asking price £150 and said to be "in good condition comes with leather straps indicators frog eye grill and hinges" Located Helston, Cornwall, UK
Could be a bargain for somebody. Click on ebay above to view. SOLD £311

PLEASE NOTE THE FEEDBACK PAGE IS NOT CURRENTLY WORKING HAVING BEEN BLOCKED BY MY WEB HOSTING COMPANY FOLLOWING AN EXCESSIVELY HIGH AMOUNT OF SPAM COMING IN.
MODIFICATIONS ARE IN HAND

This message from Michael Hudson was first published on the Sebring Sprite Facebook page:

"I am a student who having grown up around classic cars courtesy of my dad in my formative years, has been firmly bitten by the classic car bug! I have a particular fondness for MG’s with my first love being the MGB GT then shortly thereafter the MG Midget. I share great affinity to the marque for several reasons in the upper generations of my family, my uncle having had a TC back ‘in the day’. The Sebring Sprite website is subject of great fascination for me, learning about the Spridget derivatives in period and the continuation cars of today, is absolutely enthralling. As such it is one of my favourite websites, well done Martin Ingall for running it. Of course this message has a somewhat dual-purpose, the second function is that I am on the lookout to make my first independent purchase of a MG Midget/Sprite, my only requirements are that it has to be in solid, preferably roadworthy condition, though a light recommission is something I would not shy away from. I am in the UK. If I could kindly ask for Martin to put this up on the website it would be greatly appreciated. It is my hope in the future that I might semi-convert such a car into a speedwell replica, or a hybrid of a certain kind, as with spridgets I am aware the possibilities are almost unbounded. Private Message me if you think you have or know of something suitable. Kind regards, Michael John Hudson"

GIRLING TYPE 10 CALIPER SEAL KITS

Neil Blaney responded to Ron Gordon's need for caliper seal kits with the suggestion of either Coastings or Power Track. I am not sure whether Coastings are still in operation but Power Track have come up with an offer of SP2507 seals at £23.50 per axle set, and stainless steel pistons at £23 each, if required. Here are their details:
POWER TRACK LTD
- Worldwide suppliers of obsolete AP Lockheed, Lucas Girling and Dunlop Brake & Clutch Components
- British Cars and Commercial vehicles 1927-1980.
Tel/fax:               (01344) 886522
International:   +44 1344 886522
website

PETER WESTCOTT ON TWO-SPEED WIPERS

"I don’t know how far Ken’s gone with his two-speed wiper conversion, but converting the DR3A motor is the easy part, the complexity comes with the switching and parking.  This piece gives a good summary of what’s required, but I know a couple of people who’ve let all the smoke out trying to get switching and parking to work.  There are also options involving the 14W motor and multiple relays but that’s messy and undignified.  About thirty years ago I tried a number of options and the best one, which I still have today, is to use the 12AUW, two speed motor fitted to Australian-built Minis.  All that’s required is an MGB wiper switch (Lucas 35927 57SA) and two, additional wires.  And maybe one or two, minor tweaks, but it’s been a long time.  The top leg on the motor is about 15mm ‘further north’ than the Sprite original but I made up an adaptor (suitably lightened) so it mounted using the original holes.  Misty memory is that the 12AUW comes with a 100º drive gear but I’ve super-tweaked mine with a 110º gear (I can’t remember from where!) for more sweep.  Now, instead on one speed that’s always slightly wrong, I have two speeds that are always slightly wrong! But it looks ‘right’ and it’s a far better motor.  An example is here  and a thing to remember is that the wheel boxes often fill with water and corrode the park ring so a reco item is best".

TWO-SPEED WIPERS & LUCAS HF 1748 HORNS FOR KEN GRASING'S HIS RALLY SPRITE

Ken tells me: "We’re working on the conversion of the 75213F shunt wound wiper motor to two-speed operation.  John Sprinzel discusses the two-speed wipers in Modified Motoring, and in specifications for Monte Carlo car and Liege-Rome-Liege cars. 
I now have now collected a number of the Lucas HF1748 horns for rebuild, and have located a source for this work.  You will remember the HF1748 horns are quite prominent on the Wisdom/Hay 1960 Alpine rally car 7080AC.  We now hope to commission the car in late April or early May."

PETER SEAMEN HAS A 'TALL SIDESCREEN' DHMC HARDTOP FOR SALE AT £750.00

If you are interested please contact Peter via his email.

ALLOY FRAMED SLIDING SIDESCREENS FOR SEBRING SPRITE COUPÉ & FASTBACK

Andrew Forster now has a good supply of side-screens in stock and these can be obtained from him at Aldon Automotive on 01384 572553
Price for a pair is £550 plus VAT

NEW WARWICK MARK 2 HARDTOPS AVAILABLE SHORTLY

Sven Eckhardt has now managed to borrow a suitable Warwick hardtop from which to create a mould. He will be commissioning a number of these to be produced to the same high quality as his copies of the DHMC Mark 1 hardtop. He is currently addressing the issue of how to re-create the rear quarter windows. No prices available as yet but if you want to be added to the list please let me know. Feedback

ATE CALIPERS & ADAPTOR BRACKETS

For those wishing to bring their car up to FIA spec for historic racing: Sven Eckhardt has 4 sets of ATE brake calipers, 2 with adaptor brackets for use with the original Girling hubs (or exact copies) and 2 with adaptors for BMC Spridget hubs (the latter requiring spacers which Sven can supply. They are 450 Euros a set, plus carriage. Let me know if you would like a pair and I will put you in touch. Feedback

A FILM CLIP FROM PATHE NEWS SHOWING THE SPEEDWELL RECORD SUCCESS
kindly sent in by Graham Bish

REGARDING THE SPEEDWELL RECORD BREAKER:
"Thank you Martin, I wasn't aware that it had 'lost' its original shell (which I seem to recall as being an early single gusset shell)  I hope it retained it's rare brakes etc... I have somewhere the details of the current owner, but not immediately to hand..   I've always felt privileged to have driven it (cockpit closed) in our village near York all those years ago... Catch up soon, Mark (Boldry)".

CARBURETTORS FOR SALE
Remanufactured twin H4 set-up complete for Spridget application consisting of SU carbs with 20 degree bowls, gas flowed inlet manifold, KN filters with ramstacks inside, stainless heat-shield and all linkages providing a ready to fit assembly. Also included are a pair of unopened Burlen brass topped dampers to complete the period look. The set, built by Glen Watson, has covered a handful of road miles after being dyno tuned for a 998  spec engine under supervision of Peter May (86bhp with mild camshaft).
Currently on Ebay at £849 but only  £750 OVNO here directly from me (postage/shipping at cost). NOW SOLD

RON GORDON'S PROGRESS

"Staying close to home in these difficult times has afforded the time to make progress on the Sprite.  The car is wired, rear suspension completed, dash and interior practically complete.  Engine, front suspension and fuel system are the major assemblies yet to do.  I have most of the parts to complete.  The 7080 AC rear license plate is on your side of the pond with Tippers in Cornwall for restoration.  Difficulty finding seal kits for the Girling Type 10 calipers".
If you can assist with locating these seal kits please contact me via Feedback. Thank you. See earlier stages of the car's restoration on the web page.

NEWS OF THE SPEEDWELL RECORD BREAKER:

After posting my request for information about this car it occurred to me to send an email to Hiroshi Takemori who usually knows what is going on with Sprites in Japan and back came his reply below and these great photos. I must also thank Jonas Lindquist who suggested Hiroshi might know.

A MESSAGE FROM HIROSHI TAKEMORI:
About the Speedwell streamliner; It was bought and imported in Japan. The first owner of the car in this country was Hiromu Takizawa who was one of famous motor journalists in this country. After he passed some tests for Japanese road regal, he got license plates for it. But he was involved in a serious road accident  and the chassis was heavily damaged.
He decided to restore it using the original parts as much as possible. But chassis was not usable and he used a donner car’s chassis(AN5) Unfortunately I could not contact with him after the accident because of his bad health condition. I had heard that the streamliner has been sitting in his garage since it was completed . The owner of the shop who restored it is my friend . I asked him to send me the pictures after the restoration. I am not sure I sent some of them to you or not. So I attached some  with this e-mail. I hope they will make sense to you. Hiroshi

MICHAEL LEMPERT'S FURTHER REPLY TO RON ALLAN ABOUT HIS UNUSUAL STEERING WHEEL, BELOW

"Hello Ron. The finish on the wood does appear to be original and well worn. I do not recall ever seeing the red paint around the outside edge of the metal rim.  That could be something I am just not aware of or added by someone. The rims were applied only with adhesive and without any rivets to hold them secure. That is why virtually all have separated, yours included. I thought I had seen screws added from the rear, which would have been someone’s attempt to keep the wood on.  I have an old advertisement that speaks of the method of bonding and how fool-proof it is. Perhaps you will find it as humorous as I do. No rivets were used because it had the alternating colors of wood and they did not want to spoil that with rivets. It all looks pretty much the same now but if you were to remove the rim and view the underside, you will see the two different woods. I have attached another picture showing just that. When I restore a Carlotti of this style and whether or not I replace the wood, I install dowels through the metal rim and into each side of wood to secure them beyond just the adhesive. That process can be seen here at the bottom. The wheel you have appears to be in bad shape. It is not clear whether the wood could or should be saved. I suspect a restoration by me would result in greater cost than the wheel would be worth. It might make a nice wall decoration as it is. If you decide to sell it, I may be interested. I do not have one with all three identifiers: Carlotti, Spyder, and Sprinzel. Regards, Mike Lempert"

RON ALLAN'S VERY UNUSUAL 'SPRINZEL' CARLOTTI STEERING WHEEL

Ron says: " James (Cave?) has recently sold me some bits for the rebuild I bought a couple of months ago. There are quite a few missing items but it DID come with quite an unusual steering wheel.  I am attaching are some pics and will wait for comments (!) - it's 15" diameter. James was intrigued and suggested you would perhaps be interested. Maybe you can throw some light on its "story"? Many thanks in anticipation, Ron"
I forwarded Ron's pictures to both John Sprinzel and Michael Lempert with the following reactions:

FROM JOHN SPRINZEL: "Hi Martin - we did sell steering wheels back in the day, and my name was put on them, as with many of our products.  I cannot recall who made them, but I think they were the same folk who did them for Healeys, where I obviously made a lot of commercial  contacts. Sorry to not be helpful. Cheers. J"

And from MICHAEL LEMPERT: "First, the thumb scoop at the end of the spoke(s) is a Carlotti characteristic. Carlotti was made by (I believe) Simon Green for Les Leston marketing. They had a Carlotti sticker and the Carlotti name was made-up. The Carlotti was not very well made and the sandwich style rims all fell off over the years. That would explain the screws from the rear (if sandwich style rim).  The metal was thin and a poor grade. Nevertheless, they are collectable and were original to certain cars like Sabra and Sunbeam Harrington. Different styles though. The one you have is a combination of Carlotti design and the Spyder stamping which I believe is just another 3rd party marketer. The Sprinzel sgnature makes it more interesting. The center mount is the common five-bolt. If sandwich style rim, (it is) the wood is likely a mix of mahogany and beech, although muddied by time and exposure. If ¾ wrap (wood wraps around outside edge), it is likely all beech but still discolored. I would love to restore that wheel and possibly purchase it if for sale".

MIKE WOOD ON STEERING WHEELS FROM JACOB ENGINEERING:

"I have some more info from Mark Davies of Jacob Engineering in Gloucestershire about their Austin- Healey DHMC replica steering wheels that they manufacture, see their website. They can make a boss for a Frogeye (so fits a MkII Sprite/MkI Midget too) and the steering wheels come in 15 inch diameter (not 15.5 inch of the Sprite originals). For the leather rimmed version, shown on their website, price is £295 for the steering wheel plus £95 for the steering wheel boss; £595 for the beech wood rimmed version including the boss. The standard steering wheel centre including horn push fits - they can supply one of these if required for an additional cost. I quite fancy a leather one, not quite original Sebring fit as not wood-rimmed and of slightly smaller diameter, but would be a good option for me for hillclimb/racing. Nice to have the choice of a UK-made wheel".

THE SPEEDWELL STREAMLINER

Can anyone throw any light on the current whereabouts and condition of the Speedwell Streamliner? It has disappeared from sight since being sold in Japan and possibly being damaged in an accident. Feedback please if you can help at all.

Photos courtesy of John Baggott's book "Frogeye Sprite"

photo by Nicky Jameson

Richard Salisbury is now the owner of USU 607, the Coupe which Mike Pragnell built. He plans to go hill-climbing with it and has written an article for Rev Counter magazine which is attached.

SVEN ECKHARDT THANKS MIKE WOOD:
"I would like to complement Mike Wood on a great piece of research on the nine spring clutch. Do we know if the dimensions of the first motion shaft on the Imp are the same as on the a series gearbox? I have seen the kits on offer £125 to £145 for a 3 piece kit. They are supplied with a roller thrust bearing as well - if they fit the A-series fork this could be really exciting. Sven"

MORE FROM PETER WESTCOTT (DOWN UNDER)

"Re: the below note about the “Ecosse-inspired" JWF bonnet, there’s now another wrinkle.  As the attached magazine cover image shows, the JWF bonnet in this style was actually available in 1960 (I don’t have a copy of that SCW) and could possible pre-date both the ‘Roadster’ 8426UE and Ecosse 1413WD?  Publishing practice means that the October issue is released in September and allowing a month’s lead time this bonnet could easily have been available 3Q1960.  N.B. The hardtop on the cover shot car still exists, now with quarter windows (and not on the original car), and is unusual (for our market) in that it’s aluminium rather than fibreglass.  Best Regards Peter Westcott

P.S. where I say JWF I’m relying on the description made by others."

On 21 Sep 2020, Peter Westcott wrote: "The Ecosse car appears to have inspired a similar shape Sprite front made in Sydney by JWF, who made a couple of glass-bodied cars, the Milano and the Italia.  The details are below.  It’s been incorrectly identified as a JWF front and top but, while it has a JWF front, the hard top is J&S.  I’ve emailed the website to correct it, and to see if I can be put in touch with the guy that owned it at the time.  You can find it on this web page."

MORE ON STEERING WHEELS

"Adding on to the Bluemel steering wheel posts.  Before and after pictures of the 15.5" Bleumel wheel on my Sebring/SCCA Sprite.  Credit to Mike Lempert he received the wheel from me with the wood cracked and sections missing.  The voids filled and rim coated with a fiber cloth/tar mixture". Ron Gordon  USA

SPEEDWELL GT 2824 MV

Following my publication of Richard Rooks' Speedwell GT album I have been doing a bit of checking as to the whereabouts of the known surviving examples. I contacted Emilio Cruz in Mexico who acquired MV from Jeff Brenner back in 2018 and he still has the car though he is thinking of selling it. So, if anyone is interested please let me know and I will put you in touch. Feedback

MICHAEL LEMPERT ON THE FALCON SPRITE STEERING WHEEL:
" The Falcon started with a wood rimmed wheel and quickly changed to another very similar wheel. The were made by Bluemel’s.  It was the same wheel used by Morgan and the ’62 Plus 4 TOK 258. It was around 16.5”.  The exact same wheel was later fitted to the Sprite Sebring cars but in a reduced 15.5” diameter. A version of it was also sold through the Healey Sprite tuning catalog. The wheel on the car now is a Carlotti wood rimmed wheel. It has the leather wrap because all Carlotti wheels had their rims fall off. That’s another story. I only know of one steering wheel of the larger size with mount for Sprite.  Obviously, it parted from the car at some point before or after it was abandoned in the field. I knew a fellow who said he had it (he was in the north-east) and sold it on eBay to a fellow in Japan. I stumbled across the fellow in Japan and have pictures from him of the wheel. I am as certain as anyone could be that it is the same wheel. I don’t expect the fellow to part with it."
Mike Lempert Wheels

MORE ON ATE BRAKE CALLIPERS

I received a message from John Hopwood, eligibility scrutineer today which goes as follows:
" Hi Martin, As you know the ATE calliper as fitted to various Vauxhalls & Opels has become as rare as the proverbial. The FIA  are working on a widened dispensation that includes other very similar ATE callipers from other makes and models, straight replacement for the Vauxhall calliper and no advantage or disadvantage. Will forward you the regulation when approved. Kind regards John"
I will post further information as soon as I receive it.

DIFFERENT TOP TRUNNIONS

Since first mention of these back in November 2019 Simon Hutchinson has learned more about those trunnions: Apparently they were remanufactured from an original design by Alan Woode. "I read about him setting up Woodpecker Racing Improvements. I think I have more than adequate for my future needs so would sell some pairs on if anyone is interested. Not sure how much for though. Howard said they altered the geometry, with the pivot moved a reasonable distance up away from the top of the kingpin, and for very little static negative camber it induced more as the car rolled and kept the wheel nearer the upright. My racer has about 2.5 degs which I think compromises straight line braking in the wet especially".
If you would like a pair please let me know via Feedback

MIKE WOOD HAS BEEN TRACKING DOWN A 9-SPRING CLUTCH FOR HIS 948CC ENGINE, AS WAS THE USUAL UPGRADE FROM THE STANDARD 6-SPRING ONE, BACK IN THE DAY.

Pictured right is a new old- stock Spitfire Mk1 clutch cover, Quinton Hazel Q51007/16

and here (right) is the new clutch kit for Hillman Imp MkII, Borg & Beck HK5708 (cover [HE3354], plate [HB9721] and release bearing)

and here are: Quinton Hazel new old stock, Spitfire Mk1 (left) and new Borg & Beck (right) Hillman Imp MkII

These 6¼" clutch covers are all a direct replacement for the original 6-spring cover.

HILL-CLIMB SPEEDWELL GT REPLICA (SEBRING FASTBACK WITH MONZA BONNET) FOR SALE

Peter Fletcher's Speedwell comes with a standard 1340 bottom end with a gas flowed head on HS4s and 3-branch manifold on stainless exhaust system. It has a straight-cut gearbox from Hardy Engineering and 4.55 diff. The suspension is standard but lowered. There are a few negotiable spares. Offers sought in region of £25,000
Contact Peter by email or on 07742 220083 or 01723 360244

The nose and GT Fiberglass rear section is from Archers Garage purchased in 2008 and completed by the owner in the Netherlands. Jeff took the car back to the US in early 2020 and has been bringing it up to US vintage racing specs since then. He has also made the rear window detachable for easy access to the boot area.

NEWS FROM ALEXANDER SCHMITT
IN HAMBURG, GERMANY

Hello Martin, I hope you are doing well besides the whole Covid situation. First of all, I want to thank you for all your effort on the Sebring Sprite Website. It is really nice to have such a platform for those special cars. The reason for my E-Mail is that I wanted to introduce you to the project of my Dad (Jochen Schmitt) and myself. In 2018 we acquired one of the three aluminum fastbacks (similar to the Fastback of RTL304, so a copy of the Peel Fastbacks) from Marcus Fellows which have been made by Brian Wheeler. As Sven Eckhardt is a good friend of ours, we restored with his help an old Mk1 bodyshell on his jig. Therefore, we did several trips from Hamburg to Sven's place in Rosenheim. A huge thank you to Sven again for all his help!!!! On our last trip, besides working on the car, we visited the Oldtimer Galerie Rosenau with Sven, our friend Franz Josef and three of Sven`s Cars. We had a look at WJB 707, the Speedwell GT 585MY (see photos left) and had a nice and interesting chat with the owner Günther Lainer. I want to point out that both cars are indeed very nice, and I want to thank Günther Lainer for his warm welcome and the interesting visit. On the same visit at Sven`s place we finished the work on the chassis and the fitment of the roll cage. We have got the chassis epoxy primed and sealed already. At the moment we are working on a solution to get rid of some cracks in the aluminum fastback. The next steps will be that the underneath of the chassis and the inside of the fastback will be painted and afterwards the fastback will be rivetted on to the chassis. Furthermore, we will be finalizing the fitment of the bonnet and then the outside will be painted. Our plan with the car is to build a track car with all the correct parts to gain the necessary FIA Papers to go racing in Europe. I started some days ago to fill out the application. I have already collected several questions as the application is somewhat complicated. If you have some tips regarding the application or if you know a guy who could help, I would be more than happy. I am especially interested in any advice whether to apply for Period E or F as the Peel Fastback was firstly introduced in 1962 but in period everything had to be as homologated except the bodywork. Therefore, a scan or copy of the HTP Papers/Application Form of 184FGJ would be very interesting for us or maybe some help of an FIA HTP expert. Please find attached some photos of the build process. We will inform you about the development of the Project. Greetings from Hamburg.
Alexander Schmitt

SVEN ECKHARDT MAKES PROGRESS ON TWO ALUMINIUM FASTBACK SEBRING SPRITES

"Our fastback is coming along as well as Jochen Schmitt's (see above). When we were over last August we paid Paddy Greenwood a visit. For one we checked the fit of my sidescreens to his car - it was so good he took them on the spot but I think I've told you about it already. He also expressed the need for another set of Vauxhall Carlton brakes. I did have a set of brackets suitable for Spridget hubs with me but he wanted a full set-up for Girling-hubs. When I got home to take stock l realised that my supply of bits had somewhat dwindled. I had only brackets with the offset suitable for Spridget hubs left. I had 4 machined Spitfire brake discs. I had a pair of reconditioned /new ATE calipers and a pair of second hand ones. Two sets of brake pads to complete the set-up. Getting new brackets made took until Christmas and I put the set together for Paddy which he has received today. I have been searching for Vauxhall calipers for the last fortnight and there are no new left hand units to be had and prices have climbed. I have bought a set and two second hand left hand units to refurbish. I have also bought one new right hand unit and I am going to order another one. It certainly looks like supplies may be drying up. During my search I stumbled across a remark that Mercedes W116 calipers fitted to the Opel Senator B which has the same calipers as the Carlton/Omega A. I had a look at them: 38mm pistons, same pattern pads similar casting, a bit meatier and longer from what I could make out on the pictures hole pattern and offset at least very close - with a bit of luck identical. Loads of them about and half the price of the Vauxhall units. Will they fit? Will they clear? The answer is yes and yes. I bought one. Everything fits. They clear the wheel hub and rim of both the 4 and 5 inch wire wheels. The pads are the same as the Vauxhall. Actually they look a bit more like the (Girling) Type 10 caliper.
Would the FIA accept them? I have contacted John Hopwood (Eligibility Scrutineer) and he suggested to apply via the German equivalalent to the ASN the DMSB for approval by th FIA which I have done". Sven Eckhardt.

P.S. Mercedes/Omega part numbers are 1234200583 and1234200683 for left and right respectively

ALTERNATIVE CALIPERS AS SUBSTITUTES FOR THE OBSOLETE GIRLING TYPE 10 REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH FIA REGS

Girling Type 10 castings

Mercedes caliper fits well

Mercedes/Omega caliper

ATE and Merc units

The Merc caliper compared with the ATE one

Merc/Omega caliper

More comparison shots

Comparing Merc with Girling

FEEDBACK FOR RICHARD ROOKS SPEEDWELL GT ALBUM
"Hello Richard (Rooks) Great effort and lots of info. You might be aware that I am the current keeper of 7140 RO after Brian Kenyan passed away 4 or 5 years ago. It appears that he had dismantled the car and after his death the chassis with suspension bits and pieces and a 1098 engine were sold to Tony Shirtcliffe while  the Speedwell body parts went to my good friend Bill McDonough. My involvement with the project of resurrecting 7140 RO started with me agreeing to build a new chassis for the body parts that Bill had. I had already commenced sourcing parts etc when I was asked if I was interested to take over the project which I eagerly did.The body parts were collected from the McDonough's a few days before Christmas 2019 together with a lot of information and pictures and some bits. By early February of 2020 I had put together a chassis. Parallel to this I have dug into the convoluted history of the the car and looked at the available information. Suffice to say that I have been convinced that the Shirtcliffe chassis is genuine. I therefore acquired that too and it has been moved to Germany. The plan is a sympathetic restoration over the next couple of years to the former race specs and a preservation for the future. Sven Eckhardt".

Amendments to Richard Rooks' Speedwell Album (below):

JOHN SPRINZELpoints out: "Your Speedwell story says John Venner Pack's VP7 was the first Speedwell GT. Actually my PMO200 was the first, which I sold back to them when I left the company. PMO was on display with all the other "winners" at the Racing Car show as the RAC Rally Champion's car".
AND SVEN ECKHARDT ADDS:
"Hello Richard, Great effort and lots of info. You might be aware that I am the current keeper of 7140RO Brian Kenyan passed away 4 or 5 years ago. It appears that he had dismantled the car and after his passing away the chassis with suspension bits and pieces and a 1098 engine were sold to Tony Shirtcliffe while  the body parts went to my good friend Bill McDonough. My involvement with the project of resurrecting 7140RO started with me agreeing to build a new chassis for the body parts that Bill had. I had already commenced sourcing parts etc when I was asked if I was interested to take over the project which I eagerly did.The body parts were collected from the McDonough's afew days before Christmas 2019 together with a lot of information and pictures and some bits. By early February of 2020 I had put together a chassis. Parallel to this I have dug into the convoluted history of the the car and looked at the available information. Suffice to say that I have been convinced that the Shirtcliffe chassis is genuine. It has been moved to Germany. The plan is a sympathetic restoration over the next couple of years to the former race specs and a preservation for the future".

Richard Rooks has compiled this comprehensive album of Speedwell GTs and would welcome any updates as to current ownerships and locations of these rare cars. Feedback please and enjoy.

KEN GRASING very kindly sent me a copy of the AHC of America's 2021 calendar which includes this great photo of 3 of his 4 Sprites. Neil Anderson also sent me a copy of the picture. Thanks to you both.