Austin Healey Sprite II – 991GOO – bought by the author in 1975 for the princely sum of £35. Non runner, previous owner said the clutch had failed. After getting the engine going, and going through the gears it was noticed the speedo was showing 50mph! Quick look underneath and the prop was spinning – so the reason it wasn’t moving was broken half shaft! Visit to the scrap yard and replacement bought for 50p. Half day cleaning diff, removing broken shaft and hey presto car works.
991GOO back in 1975 – on the road after several years.
Moving – 1986
991GOO – looking worse for wear after being laid up for 45 years.
Bodyshell really bad; wasn’t good back in 1975 either. Only way forward replacement shell from California.
New shell although much less rotten still had some problem areas. Both bottom hinges were corroded and had some repair work done previously. The battery shelf had rotted away and had a sheet of metal placed over it. Photos show what was underneath.
Paint stripped using polypropolene disc on angle grinder – takes panels back to bare metal without damaging the metal.
Paint stripping boot lid showing how clean the panels are – the metal has to be etch primed straight away to prevent rusting. Clean with tack rag first.
Main area to repair was the floor – over the years the carpet has held water against it which accelerated the rot. Both sides replaced with new.
Bodyshell after painting with high build primer – ready for flattening with 320 grade then 800 grade.
Bodyshell and panels after painting.
