SPRITE TORQUE www.spriteclub.com JULY 2013
Images taken by new member, Bob Blayden, at Biannual get together with the Queensland Sprite club in Armidale last month
Catering for AUSTIN HEALEY SPRITE and MG MIDGET enthusiasts
MG SPARE PARTS & SERVICES PTY LTD
HERITAGE TR PARTS HERITAGE MINI PARTS 97-103 VICTORIA STREET SMITHFIELD NSW 2164 Phone 02 9609 3988 Fax 02 9609 3955 Email [email protected] www.mgspareparts.com.au EBC GD069X25 GD069X25 BRAKE UPGRADE KIT MGB + 25% DICS > STD 385.00 EA CAR BMH say MGBX25 brake upgrade kit contains bigger pads with 25% more friction surface on “custom” to suit Greenstuff pads + 25% thicker discs in the turbo Grooved” Spotted and Slotted” Design with gold zinc plate finish fits any standard 4 cyl MGB 900101Z FUEL TANK MGB FEB 1965 > SEPT 1976 220.00 EA 900303Z FUEL TANK MGB 76 ON P/U THRU TANK UNIT 231.00 EA 040042A SWITCH FLASHER PINCHGRIP 9 WIRE B + c + SPDGT 71.50 EA 040202 SWITCH FLASHER/DIP/HORN MGB USA 9/76 61.60 EA 27H4656R CALIPER ASSY RH COOPER “S” 7.5” 154.00 EA 27H4657R CALIPER ASSY LH COOPER “S” 7.5” 154.00 EA 200342X CALIPER ASSY MGC RH Sell Outright 143.00 EA 200343X CALIPER ASSY MGC LH Sell Outright 143.00 EA
010484 CLUTCH KIT MGB BORG & BECK 176.00 EA RV8 ZKC5014 FUEL TANK MG RV8 HERITAGE ORIGINAL 660.00 EA 13H7779 SWITCH FLASHER 1969 > 1978 MINI CLUBMAN 52.80 EA 21A2658Z SWITCH INDICATOR LS MINI & LATE MOKE 66.00 EA 010073 TIMING CHAIN MGA MGB MIDGET 1275 + MINI 9.35 EA 040045 SWITCH FLASHER MGB 72 > 74 + LATE MIDGET 77.00 EA 37H8285 SWITCH WASHER WIPERS LS MINI + LATE MOKE 66.00 EA 080359 HORN PUSH MGA TF OVAL TYPE 27.50 EA 080360Z SWITCH START SOLENIOD TD + F A B/EYE > SPDGT 34 34.10 EA 090614KIT3 BRAKE HOSE TD TF FRONT & REAR X 3 44.00 EA 050305 Q/WINDOW SEAL MGB TOURER RH 14.30 EA 050306 Q/WINDOW SEAL MGB TOURER LH 14.30 EA 080490 CALIPER ASSY MGA RH 154.00 EA 080491 CALIPER ASSY MGA LH 154.00 EA AEG3009OUT OUTER RING 3RD/4TH SYNCHRO HUB SPRITE MIDGET 275.00 EA 040009A SWITCH HEAD LAMP MGB 9/76 > USA 29.70 EA 040027C SWITCH HAZARD WARNING MGB 73 > 76 USA 25.30 EA 040028 SWITCH HEATER MGB 1968 > 71 USA 29.70 EA 080459Z/60Z X 4 SUITS MGA 1500 ZA/ZB SPRITE MORRIS MINOR SET OF 4 66.00 EA SERIES 2 AND 1000 TR2 TR3 WITH DRUM BRAKES (FRONT)
NO TRADE, OWNERS ONLY 1 CAR SET PER CUSTOMER PRICES INCLUDE GST. WHILE STOCKS LAST OR 30.06.2013. E & OE SPRITE TORQUE THIS MONTH
NEWS FEATURES
3 President’s message 6 May Supersprint Report
4 Members Corner 9 Early memories of SCCA
5 All British Day 10 Member’s letter to Club
5 NSW Hillclimb Calendar 11 Restoration Tip # 20
12 Social Calendar 14 June Supersprint Report
13 Competition Calendar 20 Extract from Classic Cars
16 June meeting minutes 21 National Sprite Challenge
23 Torque Trader 22 AHCC Tasmanian Tour
JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE
THE SPRITE CAR CLUB OF AUSTRALIA INC. ABN: 62879038-526
Club Patron: John Sprinzel
EDITORS NOTE
Committee Once again, we have some interesting articles in this months edition. President: Greg Holden 0418 286 831 A very interesting article from Bob Gray about early memories of the SCCA, [email protected] when he started in the Club 49 years ago., an extract from Classic Cars maga- Vice President: Warren Lawlor zine regarding brothers in law restoration of MKIII Sprites, Supersprint reports, 0421 783 985 resto tips and details regarding the 2014 National Sprite Challenge. [email protected] Treasurer: Les Payne Thanks again to all those who contributed. Keep the articles coming! 0415 826 650 [email protected] Secretary: Graham Wells Sue Cockayne. (02) 9654 1344 [email protected] Editor Membership Secretary: Avis Fowler [email protected]
Social Director: Graham McDonald Marque Mentors: 0422 972 094 Mk1 Sprite Greg Holden 0418 286 831 [email protected] Colin Dodds 0414 789 263 Magazine Editor: Sue Cockayne Mk2 Sprite Neil Scott 0409 326 021 0409 127 330 Mk3 Sprite Greg Strange 02 9909 8607 [email protected] Keven Sly 02 9604 2010 Club Captain: Mk3 Midget Eriks Skinkis 02 9644 5530 Ric Forster 0409 225 613 1500 Midget Greg Coonan 02 4257 1307 [email protected] CSCA Delegate: Paul Orton All correspondence (except magazine contributions) to: 02 9970 5697 S.C.C.A. [email protected] Registrar & Club Plates: P.O. Box 696 Colin Dodds 0414 789 263 Kingswood NSW 2747 [email protected] Magazine contributions to: [email protected] Regalia: Dianne Lawlor (Magazine contributions close 20th of each month) 02 9591 1197 [email protected] General meetings are held at: Parramatta RSL Club Web Site: Start time: 7.30pm - Lachlan Room) 2 Macquarie Street Ross Reichardt 02 9980 6843 0410 504 931 (2nd Tuesday of each month) Parramatta NSW 2150 [email protected] CAMS Delegate: SCCA Web Site: www.spriteclub.com Barry Cockayne 0427 066 878 SCCA Email list: http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/spridgets-aus/ Librarian: David Lawrence 02 9810 8982 Club Point Score: Greg Holden 0418 286 831 Sprite Torque is available in full colour to all SCCA Members. Go to the SCCA Website, General Committee: click on the Members Only link, enter your username and password. Ross Reichardt 02 9980 6843 Greg Strange 02 9909 8607 PLEASE NOTE: These are all honorary positions undertaken by private individuals in their Barry Cockayne 0427 066 878 Rod Pringle spare time. Please contact them at sensible times and accept that they may prefer to call you Annie Lawlor 0416 020 466 back at a time more convenient to themselves. The Sprite Car Club of Australia Inc. accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of articles, correspondence, opinion or advertisements contained herein.
2 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
What a month, what a year, today it is exactly 6 months till Christmas Day.
This year that means that our Granddaughter, Evie will wake up with Santa Claus climbing down the chimney. All going well grand child number 2 will be hanging around as well.
We had Kimberley and Brad move in over the long weekend and things are slowly getting sorted out. The spare room has become a bit of both a spare room and hanging space but having breakfast and dinner with your grand kids is a great bonus in your life. I have always said that Grand kids will be great, you can spoil the sh@# out of them and give them back.
Popsy’s tractor has proved to be a hit with the girl and the look of excitement on her face when she sees it outside the lounge room window is something to be seen.
On the Sprite front things have been very busy, with Graham’s trip up North to meet the Queenslander’s.
I need to thank Graham for organising a trip that he could not attend. The effort and cost that goes into organising some- thing like this can only be really appreciated by those who have done it in the past. While numbers were down from NSW, the Queenslanders rallied and all who went had a great time. The cars that are around the New England area are amazing and it just shows that the basic principal of country life was the same 100 years ago as it is today. If the cockies are doing well the businesses reap the rewards and with so many nice cars I am sure we could come up with another trip.
However should we consider another town for this type of meet, we the New South Walers have stayed away from the Pacific Highway and the coast because of the heavy and dangerous traffic conditions on the long weekend, but is there somewhere else, does anyone have any suggestions?
Now, onto the All British Day and our concourse.
By now you would have seen an email about a judging day being held at our place. At this stage we have only had three reply’s stating their attendance on the day.
If you want to be involved in the concourse part of the day, please reply to Warren’s email or let me know either by email or phone.
And that is it from me.
Greg Holden President
3 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE MEMBER’S CORNER
Welcome new members this month
Robert Blayden of New Lambton (Newcastle). Robert has a 1959 Mk 1 Sprite Eileen Graham of Balmoral, Victoria whose husband Geoff is already a member Carol Dodds, who drives a Mazda MX5 , and married to Colin.
A reminder that membership subscriptions are due as of 30th June.
New renewal forms have been posted to all members. Renewals can be paid via direct deposit and forms can be sent electronically. If paying via direct deposit please let Avis Fowler know when you fill in the form.
Sprite Car Club Events, July 2013 21st July 2013 Christmas in July and Annual Awards Luncheon. Venue the Australian Hotel and Brewery, 350 Annan- grove Road, Rouse Hill. Arrive 12:30 pm for 1:00 pm luncheon. Bookings and pre-payment will be required. Cost is $45.00 per person for a smaller menu selection this year. Cash bar will operate. Bookings and payment no later than 11 July 2013.
Payment by cheque to "SCCA", with "XIJ/2012", your name and membership number on the rear, and posted to SCCA PO Box 696, Kingswood NSW 2747; or by EFT directly to the SCCA bank account, the details are: _ BSB: 062-309; A/ C: 10004231 Ref/Description: XIJ-Familyname Initials.
It is important that you add the Reference details (XIJ and your Family name Initials), please also advise Graham McDonald [email protected] (quote XIJ nomination) or phone (02) 9533 3128 mobile 0422 972 094.
4 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE ANNUAL SCCA PICNIC, DISPLAY DAY AND CONCOURS
25th August 2013 The Kings School, North Parramatta
We are holding our picnic, display day and concours at the same time and place at the Kings School All British Display Day. There are many hundreds of cars to drool over (as well as the Sprites and Midgets of course) and thousands of visitors. What better venue could we get to display our cars?
Numbers are rolling in fast, and we now have 27 Sprites and Midgets in attendance, but we are hoping to reach a much larger target number. If you haven’t already done so and would like to attend please contact me at vicepresi- [email protected] or 0421783985 if you do not register your interest you will not be getting into the display and you will have to park in the outfield with the general public.
Please remember we don’t just want “show or concours” cars, we want as many Sprites and Midgets as we can get there. We want to impress the public with the variety of cars, so we want to see your well loved road cars, race cars and even the rusty shells, the aim is to show the public just how special these cars are and how much fun we have driv- ing them.
Not all cars will be concours judged, it takes time to judge cars fairly, and it’s unfair on the judges to be spending time assessing cars that really aren’t close to concours standard. We will be doing a prior assessment of cars that deserve to be judged. However, if you want your car judged just tell us and we will be happy to do so.
We will be judging the cars for both Condition and Cleanliness and Originality, in the areas of:
Exterior
Interior
Engine Compartment
Underside
Over the next couple of months we will elaborate on the judging, so you know exactly what we are looking for.
So remember, if you want to join in Australia’s biggest ever display of Sprites and Midgets email me vicepresi- [email protected] or phone me on 0421 783985.
Cheers,
Warren
Vice President
2013 CAMS N.S.W. Hillclimb Championship - Calendar
Host Club Date Venue
Round
7. MGNew. 4/08/13 Ringwood Park, Raymond Terrace
8. WSCC 8/09/13 Huntley, Dapto
9. MGNew. 6/10/13 King Edward Park, Newcastle
Note also: AHC Mt Cotton Qld 2nd & 3rd November 2013
For more information visit Hillclimb Web Site. www.hillclimbnsw.com
5 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE CSCA SUPERSPRINT REPORT MAY 2013
The second round of the 2013 Combined Sportscar Clubs Association Supersprint series was hosted by the Jag uar club at Sydney Motorsport Park North circuit in perfect weather on Sunday 5 May.
Maintaining the surging interest in supersprinting, SCCA had 12 entries with 11 actually making it to the event. Competing cars comprised six Sprites/Midgets, two Mini Cooper S’s, a Ford Capri, a Mazda MX5 and the Slotus Clubman.
Half Team SCCA in the car ports and other half in a double garage - Kerry Smith and John Millhouse
Being on the fast North circuit with a long and a short straight, the sessions were set at seven minutes so most of us got five laps.
Not everything went to plan though with three tow-offs for SCCA competitors. At one stage we had all three in the car- ports at the same time with repairs being effected. Andrew Herden had the misfortune of fuel pump failure in his Cooper S bringing him to a stop right on the racing line in the middle of turn 1. Wisely he stayed in the car but had to wait for the end of the timed session before he could get out and be towed off. Luckily Keith Smith had a spare fuel pump shorter than Andrew’s but the same diameter and with entry and exit connections which fitted Andrew’s set up – fixed!
Not long after Ray Fahey’s Spriota had a connecting wire to the alternator break off and short out so he needed a tow. Someone came up with some spade type connectors and after some creative fettling, Ray was off again too.
While all this was being fixed, Owen Rice came in with his Capri V6’s engine refusing to run at all. Much diagnosis fol- lowed and it was decided that no spark was the problem and with electronic ignition (in this case MSD) there is not much that can be done to fix it… unless the problem was down to a lack of energy from the coil. Again Keith had something in
6 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE CSCA SUPERSPRINT REPORT MAY 2013 cont’d his kit to help. It was a 45 or 50 year old Sprite coil which was fitted and lo and behold it got the engine running. In fact after coming back from the next session Owen reckoned his engine had never gone so well!
David Baigent and team enjoying the sun
Unfortunately while helping fix others’ cars and supplying the essential bits that kept two of them going, it seems Keith might have some fettling to do of his own. At the end of the day we noticed that Keith’s Midget seemed to be lower on one side than the other. It could be a broken leaf in a rear spring so let’s hope the fix whatever it is, is straightforward.
This round saw mostly competitors who have been participating for at least the previous 12 months or who have been less regular regulars. Missing was Les Payne with family commitments but relative newcomer David Baigent in his round wheel arch MG Midget was at his second consecutive CSCA supersprint and seems to be enjoying it! He had helpers in the form of his young son and daughter.
Visitors during the day included Warren Lawler, Neil Scott and Kerry Smith.
Many of us fitted in four sessions and as usual there was much camaraderie with advice and/or various parts and tools being shared. Coupled with good times put in by all it contributed to a very enjoyable day. Times were very close with only ‘teenths separating some and circulating together as many of us did certainly reinforced the SCCA presence.
Rob Byrnes in his Cooper S, ‘Roxy’ on turn 1. Photo courtesy Paul Cooper.
7 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE CSCA SUPERSPRINT REPORT MAY 2013 cont’d
Results were – Paul Orton, Sprite Mk2a 1:19.67; Owen Rice, Capri V6 1:19.84; John Millhouse, Bugeye 1:20.01; Rob Byrnes, Cooper S 1:20.51; Keith Smith, MG Midget 1.23:0290; Ray Fahey, Spriota 1:23.0293; Sam Rochlin, MX5, 1:25.31; John Needs, Bugeye 1:25.63; David Baigent, MG Midget 1:27.41; Andrew Herden, Cooper S 1:32.80; Andrew Woodall, Slotus Clubman 1:38.68.
Club championship placings, while early days, reveal tight competition for 3rd spot with SCCA just in front!
Next CSCA Supersprints are on 1 and 29 June.
Paul Orton
8 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE Early memories of SCCA—by Bob Gray In 1958 I rode my pushbike to the Hall Agricultural Show near Canberra. There, among all the farm machinery, was a brand new white Mark 1 Sprite on display. I was thirteen years old and I instantly knew this was the car of my dreams! All the money I earned from the paper runs and part-time work in the school holidays went straight into the Commonwealth Bank, and in 1964 I paid cash for my first car, a 3-year-old bugeye (BRG of course).
I immediately joined the SCCA. It had formed a couple of years earlier and was growing rapidly. The original meetings were held in a founding member's home, but when I came along the monthly meetings were in the showrooms at the BMC/Leyland factory at Zetland, long gone now. The auditorium was regularly filled with members, and the display of Sprites in the carpark was pretty awesome. At the meetings we used to watch those fantastic Castrol and Shell films on motor racing in Europe, and one member would show us the Super 8 films he he had taken at club events. They were pretty shaky, but back then we thought they were great!
We were all young then, full of youthful enthusiasm and excited to be part of the burgeoning sports car scene. The club was run by people like Barney Allen, a BMC salesman, Bob Owers and club captain Jim White (I still get Christmas cards from Jim). And who could forget the club photographer, the late Max Cashmere. Under their excellent guidance, the SCCA became huge.
Because we were all young, and because the Sprite was so good on the track, there was an emphasis on competition. Lap dashes at the new circuits at Oran Park, Amaroo and Catalina Park in Katoomba introduced us to the exciting world of motor racing, a number of us going on to compete in open competition later in life, using the skills we learned earlier. The dirt circuit at Amaroo was particularly helpful in learning car control at a relatively slow speed, requiring us to drive on the throttle with plenty of opposite lock to keep the car on the planet.
There were hillclimbs too, like the one at Amaroo, and gymkhanas, on dirt and bitumen. All these events made us better drivers, as well as creating a fantastic social scene. We all brought along our girlfriends and many life-long friendships were made. Great days.
In 1969, my girlfriend said goodbye, and I drifted off to Melbourne to train for a career in aviation, but I still retained my membership.
Later I returned to Sydney and continued to join the club's activities, but the initial youthful exuberance and excitement was gone.
In the eighties I raced an MG Midget under the SCCA banner and a few years ago we moved to Queensland, taking with us the Mark 3 Sprite we have owned for nearly 40 years.
Since my first car, Sprites have played a big part in my life, and I have met some very special like-minded people along the way.
I was nineteen years old when I joined SCCA and have been a member ever since. It has been an enjoyable journey, but those early days with SCCA still bring tears to my eyes... All the best to the club, Bob Gray.
Catalina Park My first car, 1964
9 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE MEMBER’S LETTER
Re: Judging Cars at All British day
Gentlemen Hello-
In regard to above subject, I have been a member of the Sprite Club for many years & whilst , what I am commenting on may well fall on "deaf ears" to the "purists" in the club (& I say this with utmost respect), I am very disappointed that , like was the case several years ago , there used to be different classes for club members Austin Healey Sprites to be judged , besides only "original -concourse" cars , such as "Road Special" etc., which in my opinion also kept the NON PURIST owners also interested & enthusiastic as well , in attending such events & showing off / displaying what they consider to be their "prides & Joys".
Unfortunately, many of us have purchased Austin Healey Sprite cars that have, over the past 50 years, been modified in some way or other, whether it be due to lack of availability of suitable / original parts at the time, or financial /cost limita- tion reasons.
It is my observation over the past few years that it appears the same "few" cars are the only ones the club seem to be interested in "judging", which often take out any concourse awards, ( & ,as far as I am aware, some cars have not al- ways ALL been stock/original concourse cars anyway ?-if the truth be known - regarding some "concourse" winning cars actually having “ jap" gearboxes , modified engine capacity etc etc??? .
This, in my opinion is very disappointing to many other worthy club members who also love their cars & even though they may be "modified" with different engines or gearboxes or wheels or body panels etc, they do not seem to be con- sidered worthy of receiving a "look-in" with many members of the judging committee, when it comes to any form of awards or judging at events such as the ALL British Day which appears to be the main?? event for any such judging of all the members cars these days.
I would appreciate the committee considering re-introducing some extra categories, such as e.g.: " road special" ( for registered -"modified cars") , as well as "race cars" & "customised cars " with different bonnets etc, etc , to endeavour to excite interest & enthusiasm for ALL members for ALL the potential categories of Austin Healey Sprite cars in the club.
I appreciate that judging takes "time" & devotion , BUT as stated above, it may well re-ignite further interest from the complete club cross section of membership, & not just be for the ( with utmost respect) - privileged "few" purists in the club who are lucky enough to own PURE original /concourse winning quality vehicles.
I look forward to due consideration in regard to this raised matter & would appreciate this email being addressed by the committee & published in the minutes & club magazine , as I would be very interested in other members attitudes & comments re this proposal .
Kind Regards
Terry N Toomey Member SCCA M:0408232372 Dated:6/6/2013
Another photo provided by Bob Gray
SCCA display, Canberra, 1968 (in support of the new branch there).
10 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE RESTORATION TIPS No.20
As a short follow-on to my last Resto tips on fuel pumps, some further running, but not necessarily restoration, details have come to my mind based on some recent experience with a racing bugeye at Winton – no names no pack drill!
This one, dear readers, resulted from the engine developing a miss on the track after coming straight off a trouble free chassis dyno session following a racing engine transplant with one that had been sitting under a bench for two years or so and upgraded with some go-faster goodies but not a total rebuild.
The first sign of the problem after coming in off the track to sort out the engine miss was the getting of electric shocks while touching the non-electrical parts of the engine while it was running in the pits but no sign then of a miss while the engine was being revved in neutral. The radiator water level was down a little and the engine did not run hot. There was no sign of water having come from the radiator over the externals of the engine other than a slight rusty scum on the plugs and one (!) drop of water on top of the generator. So that sent us away from looking for a fuel problem to check the electrics.
The first sign of a water leak on the engine being warmed up in the pits was a seepage from the spark plug side of the thermostat housing, obviously having had a new gasket fitted as part of the transplant. So we thought, good we’ve found the problem and fixed it so out for the first race on the Sunday. Poor bugeye ran one warm up lap and one lap of the race and was pulled into the pits with the dreaded engine miss back.
With the engine still hot but not overheating and being run up in the pits, we spotted a water leak from the plug side of the water pump. The fan and the air running through the radiator at speed caused the water from the side of the pump to be deposited on the spark plug and leads. This leads me to some basic repair/rebuild work in the removal of the water pump and the beaut little knock-off effects or do as I say and not as I did.
The first task is to remove the radiator. The only real issue with that is the removal of the dratted bottom radiator hose generally using screwdrivers as leverage. Here, one should always have in the tool kit a new bottom hose, in case the original one is damaged while being removed in situ.
After that, it is remove the generator, the fan and the water pump (being very careful not to damage the dreaded bypass hose from the top of the pump to the bottom of the head).
Back to the storey, the water pump gasket was ancient, thin as paper and brittle which allowed water to seep past the gasket. The moral is, replace the gasket as a matter of course if you can easily get at it! Beyond that, check the face of the water pump, being alloy it can be bowed by over-tightening or damaged by corrosion. So, have good clean and straight surfaces for the pump and the block face and fit the new gasket with gasket cement.
To reassemble the bits, bolt up but do not over-tighten the water pump and be careful in feeding on the bypass hose onto the head as you can’t properly replace this item with the pump and cylinder head in place. Don’t forget to tighten up the small jubilee clips and have them fitted so that you can get to them with a screwdriver when everything’s in place.
Bolt on the fan and the generator and adjust the fan belt before the radiator goes back on. We got that about face and bolted on the generator after we put the radiator back on; big issue that should not have been one. The problem we faced due to room limited by the radiator shroud was in starting the bolt through to the generator end plate and through one end of the slotted bracket for adjustment of the generator for fan belt tension. You can’t see it nor feel it to get the locking bolt started. If the radiator is out, you can see the world – trust us to do it the hard way and make a simple job time consuming and difficult.
As I said before, leave the radiator fitment until the end. However, the cursed bottom hose raised its head again as you have no room to force it onto the bottom radiator outlet pipe. The trick here folks is to smear the inside part of the hose and the outside part of the radiator hose with rubber grease. Thus done, it will slip on easily so tighten up the jubilee clip positioned so that it can be easily accessed with the screw driver.
Till next time, happy Spriteing! Further, enjoy the resto, as well as the safe driving.
Kerry Smith
11 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE SOCIAL EVENTS 2013
TBA: Event date and details to be advised; TBC: Event date and details “To Be Confirmed”. Please check the Events page on the Club’s website for up-to-date info and changes.
Drive to Stanwell Park then on to Mt Kembla for pub lunch. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/chat – then 26 depart at 10.00am from Ruby’s Beach Café at Bulli (go to end of Park Road Bulli and turn right) Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200.
Shannons Classic Car Display Day Eastern Creek - Meet at Prospect Pub, Great Western Highway. 18 8:15am for 8:30am departure. (We have booked a limited number of tickets & these will be given free, on a first in basis, to members who exhibit a Sprite or Midget). Contact: TBA AUG All British Day and Sprite Annual Picnic and Concours Event. It is 55 years since the Bugeye Sprite 25 hit the pavements. Have you received and replied to the advertising email yet? Didn’t receive it? Contact Warren Lawlor email [email protected] or phone 0421 783 985 Lunch at Bowral in the Scottish Arms Hotel. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/chat – depart at 10.30 Ruby’s 30 Beach Café at Bulli. Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200.
20 Drive to Nowra. Lunch at Pyree. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/chat – depart at 10.30 Ruby’s Beach Café at Bulli. Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200.
SEP Burwood Show & Shine at Burwood Park, 10am to 5 pm – Make your own way there. If you wish to display your vehicle, then please direct enquiries to: Rhonda Sclanders on 0425 206 021 or Melissa 22
Madonna, Burwood Council on 9911 9935 or write to PO Box 414, Enfield 2136, or email [email protected]
28-29 Weekend Away – National Championships for Large Scale Aircraft – Cootamundra Details to follow.
13-26 Tour of Tasmania organised by the Austin Healey club. Refer magazine for details.
OCT Shopping in Berrima. Lunch at the Old Magpie Café. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/chat – depart at 18 10.30 Ruby’s Beach Café at Bulli. Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200.
Chromefest Hot Rod Show at The Entrance Sunday 27 October. Show starts from 9:00 am so meet at 27 Berowra Toll Gates 8:00 am for an 8:15 am departure or meet at festival. We will only be viewing not dis- playing more details to follow. See http://www.chromefest.org/about.html#
Technical Day - Andrew Woodall, The Penrith Muffler Man - Meet 1pm for BBQ lunch, then demon- stration and talk at 70b Cox Avenue, Kingswood , NSW 2747 2 Bring your Sprite and a chair. RSVP to Greg Strange phone 02 9319 2299(work) 02 9591 1197(home) for catering purposes thanks. NOV Dam Run – visit Cataract and Cordeaux dams – BRING PICNIC LUNCH. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/ 15 chat – depart at 10.30 Ruby’s Beach Café at Bulli. Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200. Fort Scratchley Newcastle. Meet at Berowra truck stop 8:15 am for an 8:30 am departure. Tours start 17 from 10:30 am Kiosk only at site so lunch to be advised pending numbers (either Jonah’s Restaurant at Noah’s on the Beach or picnic in grounds of the fort).
1 AGM & Christmas BBQ - 6 Annangrove Road, Kenthurst from 12.30 p.m. Christmas Barbecue: Once DEC again the Christmas Barbecue will be held prior to the Annual General Meeting. The Club will be supply- ing food & some soft & alcoholic beverages. Bring a folding chair if possible.
13 Drive around Narellan. Lunch at Macarthur Grange Country Club. Meet at: 9.30am for Coffee/chat – depart at 10.30 Ruby’s Beach Café at Bulli. Contact Keith Smith on 4285 2056 or mobile 0404 631 200.
12 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE COMPETITION CALENDAR 2013
Date Race Meeting Location Point Score Notes
July Annual Historic Queensland Morgan Park, Warwick GSRA Cap 2 13-14 Meeting Qld www.hrcc.org.au August FoSC One Day Meeting SMSP South Ct Sat 10 www.fosc.com.au FoSC One Day Meeting SMSP South Ct Sun 11 www.fosc.com.au
VHRR Historic Festival of Speed Winton Vic - Long GSRA Gld 3 www.vhrr.com 10—11
Queensland Raceway - Drivers Queensland Raceway GSRA Cap 3 [email protected] 10-11 TBC Championship Qld CSCA-MOCA Supersprint R5 SMSP ? CSCA Sat 17
31/Sep 01 ARDC Muscle Car Masters SMSP GP GSRA TBA [email protected] September Festival of Sports & Racing Cars Lakeside Qld GSRA Cap 4 20-22 [email protected]
28-29 HSRCA – Historic Meeting Wakefield Park GSRA Cat 5 www.hsrca.org.au October Sun 27 CSCA-TSOA Supersprint R6 Wakefield Park CSCA November CSCA-SCCA Supersprint R7 SMSP South CSCA Sat 09 www.spriteclub.com Return of the Thunder Sandown Vic GSRA Gld 4 8-Oct www.vhrr.com
23-24 HSRCA – Historic Meeting SMSP GP GSRA Cat 6 www.hsrca.org.au December Sat 07 FoSC One Day Meeting SMSP South Ct www.fosc.com.au FoSC One Day Meeting SMSP South Ct Sun 08 www.fosc.com.au
BURWOOD SPRING FESTIVAL SHOW & SHINE 2013 Sunday 22 September 2013 – 10am to 5pm
PAY $10 (INCLUDES JUDGING) ON ENTRY PROCEEDS TO THE BURWOOD SES
Closing date for entries is Monday 9 September
13 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE CSCA SUPERSPRINT REPORT JUNE 2013 Barely three weeks since the previous supersprint at the same circuit, seven SCCA members fronted up for Round 3 hosted by MG Newcastle and MG Sydney Clubs at Sydney Motorsport Park North circuit on 1 June.
With a FOSC and other race meetings on the same day, SCCA numbers were down on the previous event but that just meant we could all fit into one triple garage. With six Sprites/Midgets and one Cooper S, we all seemed fit pretty well with at least a couple of us out on the circuit at any one time.
David Baigent – photo by Paul Cooper
Despite forecasts suggesting rain, the weather held out with just a few drops later in the afternoon allowing most of us to get in the desired number of runs.
John Millhouse had a problem with a sheared water pump bolt which was enough for water under pressure to mist over the engine compartment. The chosen short term solution was to apply gasket silicone around the pump in the hope that it would allow a few more runs. Unfortunately the stuff (supplied by the author) just wouldn’t go off and John was only able to get the one session in. He reckoned that if he’d taken the car home he could have had the broken bolt out of the head and fixed in time to get back for at least one more session. But it wasn’t to be…
Other than this, Rob Byrnes had starter troubles which, after pulling out the starter motor, much testing and head scratching, was solved by a dose of WD 40.
Everyone improved their times from three weeks earlier with Keith and Ray knocking off 3 and 2 seconds respectively. Rob put his starter problems behind him and took 0.2 seconds off while John and David took one and two seconds re- spectively – pleasing for all! While John only got one run in he was four seconds quicker than his first run last time.
Results were - Paul Orton, Sprite Mk2a 1:19.24; Rob Byrnes, Cooper S 1:20.31; Keith Smith, MG Midget 1.20:65; John Millhouse, Bugeye 1:21.22; Ray Fahey, Spriota 1:21.40; John Needs, Bugeye 1:24.35; David Baigent, MG Midget 1:25.76.
John Needs - photo by Paul Cooper
14 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE
CSCA SUPERSPRINT REPORT JUNE 2013 cont’d
Keith Smith – photo by Paul Cooper
Club Championship – sooner or later the numbers were going to catch up with us and they did as we had fewer com- petitors in this round and the MG clubs had dozens! Hence we dropped from 3rd to 5th in the club competition but nothing that a big turnout at our round on 9 November won’t put right. If you have a car that could reliably run at the SCCA Su- persprint start getting it ready as we need you! If you haven’t we will need you as a volunteer helper. Put aside Saturday 9 November 2013, please!
Next CSCA Supersprint is on 17 August.
Paul Orton
TECHNICAL DAY
Andrew Woodall - The Penrith Muffler Man 2 November 2013
Meet 1pm for BBQ lunch, demonstration and talk at
70b Cox Avenue, Kingswood , NSW 2747
Bring your Sprite and a chair.
RSVP to Greg Strange phone 02 9319 2299(work) 02 9591 1197(home) for catering purposes
15 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE MINUTES OF MONTHLY MEETING held at Parramatta RSL Club
on 11th June, 2013, commenced at 7.40 pm
Present: Committee members: Greg Holden, Ric Forster, Avis Fowler, Graham Wells, Rod Pringle, Warren Lawlor, Annie Lawlor, Greg Strange.
Members: Harley Pringle
Apologies: Leah Holden, Graham McDonald, Colin Dodds, Ross Reichardt, Barry Cockayne, David Lawrence, Les Payne.
Minutes of Previous Meeting:;. The minutes of the May meeting were confirmed moved Annie Lawlor, seconded Rod Pringle, carried.
Business Arising: None other than items covered later in the meeting.
Treasurer’s Report: Graham Wells reported for Les Payne.
General Account: Opening balance $919.29 Deposits $1230.01 Payments $750.08 Closing balance $1,399.22
Savings account: Opening balance $26,744.31 Interest $65.99 Closing balance $26,810.30
Business transaction account: Opening balance $1,146.67 Payments $10.00 Closing balance $1,136.67 TOTAL FUNDS $29,346.19
The report was moved accepted by Ric Forster, seconded Greg Holden, carried.
Secretary’s Report: Graham Wells reported correspondence:
Incoming:
- Email from Terry Toomey to the committee re the Concourse.
-Email from CAMS re 60 years in Motorsport.
-Email from Graham McDonald re Christmas in July.
-Brochures: Highland Travel, Burwood Show & Shine, Echo Point Motor Inn, Tulip Time.
- Magazines: Mascot, T Read, Goblins Gazette, Flat Chat, Mini Car Club, Depender.
Social Events: Graham McDonald reported by Email.
Coming events to be listed in Sprite Torque & on the website.
- Friday, June 14th Sutton Forest Pub lunch.
-Sunday, July 14th Brass Monkey Run.
-Sunday 21st July. Christmas in July
-Friday July 26th Stanwell Park then lunch at Mt. Kembla
16 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE Minutes monthly meeting cont’d
Social Events cont’d
-Sunday August 18th Shannons Day
- Sunday 25th August SCCA Display Day.
- Friday August 30th Lunch at Bowral
-Friday September 20th Nowra then lunch at Pyree.
- September 28-29th Cootamundra weekend away.
-October 13-26th Tasmania trip with AHOC
-Friday October 18th Berrima for lunch
- Sunday October 27th Chromefest Hot Rod Show run.
- Saturday 9th November SCCA Supersprint.
-Friday November 15th Cataract & Cordeau dams
- Sunday 17th November Fort Scratchly, Newcastle
- Sunday 1st December AGM & Christmas BBQ.
-Friday December 13th Narellan for lunch.
-Graham advised menu options for Christmas in July. Committee chose $32 menu with dessert platter, Tea & coffee. Graham Wells to advise Graham Mac Donald re pizza toppings. Put a few bottles of wine on the tables if we have sur- plus funds. Let Warren Lawlor know what menu is & send out a Chimp Mail.
-Avis Fowler suggested we have some short runs, such as go for a coffee on a Sunday morning, as in the past. Avis will organise the first one. Rod Pringle said he would do one also.
-Graham asked, after the poor showing for the Armidale run do we continue with the Cootamundra weekend? If it goes ahead can some-one take over organising this event? Annie Lawlor will look into what is available at Cootamundra & report back.
CAMS: Barry Cockayne reported by Email.
-CAMS awards nominations are open. Graham Wells to Email notice to committee members.
- Officials training sessions program circulated.
Sprite Torque: Email from Barry Cockayne.
-There was a delay in posting the June edition on the web but the mail went out on time.
- Need items for July.
CSCA/Competition: Ric Forster reported:
- The last round was at North SMSP and we had 6 or 7 competitors.
- FOSC was on the same day at South SMSP and we had 4 or 5 competitors.
- Damien Meyer first in Group S at Winton & broke lap record.
- HSRCA Historic meeting is on June 29-30th with 100km race for Group S. Big entry of Sprites & Midgets.
- SCCA Supersprint. All the official appointments are sorted. Ric is looking at getting it onto on-line entries via Motor Event Entry. Payment for on-line is by Pay Pal & it would be best if we can piggy-back it off another club.
17 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE Minutes monthly meeting cont’d Regalia: Greg Strange reported for Dianne Lawlor
-Still have to do the sprite Racing shirts. They must be cotton to wear under race suits. Use the Sprite Racing logo on a T shirt. Greg to present something next meeting.
Technical Meetings: Greg Strange reported.
- Possible date for next one is September 14th, if not then in November.
Web-site: We need to update the membership application & renewal forms on the web-site.
Membership: Avis Fowler reported a number of new members, Bob Bladen, Simon Meyer, Eileen Graham, Carol Dodds. All were approved.
-Avis received a letter from Bob Grey who is not renewing after 49 years membership due to now living in Queensland.
Display Day:
-Sharon Allen has given tickets to Avis Fowler & she will mail them out as the time gets closer.
-We will list who is coming on the Chimp Mail notices.
-We need the judging sheets. Ross Reichardt may have them,
- Greg Holden read out the email from Terry Toomey & it will be printed in Sprite Torque. The content was discussed at length. In the past we have had a “Road Specials” class. We have also judges on presentation alone. The main problem with Road Specials & Race Cars is defining what they are. For example: is a Sprite with a Weber carburettor & extractor exhaust a modified standard car or a Road Special?
Race Cars can be defined by having to have a log book & having been raced in the last two years. Ric Forster volun- teered to look at guidelines for these two classes & report back to the committee.
-Avis Fowler said that we had too many cars to judge at ABCC last year & as a result the volunteer judges saw nothing of the other displays all day. Having more cars & classes to judge this year will compound the problem.
- Greg Strange asked who thinks we should pull the concourse from ABCC Day. This was put to a vote & 4/8 voted yes so it failed.
-It was suggested that we have a pre-concourse judging day. Rod Pringle so moved & it was put to a vote. All agreed. July 28th was suggested. Greg Holden volunteered to have it with a BBQ at his place. Warren Lawlor will set up a notice for circulation.
Shannons Day: Graham Wells reported.
-Tony di Luca of CMC advised that we are not financial on our CMC membership. Graham Wells followed up & the prob- lem has occurred because we were not represented at the meetings. CMC do not send out renewal notices, we have to download it from their web-site. Graham has downloaded a form & paid the renewal in Les Payne’s absence.
-We missed getting into Area B as requested this year & are in Area D.
-Tickets are paid for but not yet received.
-We need to have a CMC representative to attend meetings. Graham Wells is listed as the contact for the rest of 2013.
Club Pointscore:
-Graham Wells circulated the old rules but most committee members found them rather confusing.
-We will keep this item on the agenda until after the Display Day is over then look at it.
General Business:
-Warren Lawlor has circulated the first notice for the 2014 Sprite Challenge.
-We need to support this event as much as we can.
Meeting closed at 9.23 p.m.
Next Meeting: Tuesday, July 9th, 2013; Parramatta RSL Club, cnr. O’Connell & Macquarie Sts., Parramatta at 7.30 p.m.
18 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE
Liverpool Super Swap Meet
21st July 2013
Fairfield City Showground
Smithfield Road, Prairiewood.
Gates open at 6.00am
Swap Sites approx 3m x 9m $20
Saturday night set up is available from 7.30pm for $10.00 camping fee
Admission $3.00 per adult
Catering for Veteran, Vintage, Classic and modern cars and bikes, also catering for Models and collectables, Hobbies and Crafts
For more information contact:- Colin Murphy 02 4729 0482 Rick Boyce 02 9520 5497 Joan Wasson 02 9534 2770
19 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE An extract from Classic Cars magazine regarding 2 brothers-in-law, Ric Johanson and Martin Cuthbertson, restoration of their 1965 Mk III Austin-Healey Sprites. To read the full story go to http://www.ccar.com.au/html/articles/everyday_classic/May13AustinHealey.html
Black isn’t the most common colour for British classics of this vintage, but Martin’s car looks spot on in its gleaming black duco. It wasn’t always such a looker, though. “I purchased the car in very poor condition for $3800 on eBay in June 2011 and had it shipped to NSW from Queensland,” Martin says. “The car was originally white with a black interior. I had it fully restored, sourcing both factory and customised components from all over the world.”
Richard’s red Sprite was in better condition than Martin’s when he pocketed the keys in August 2011. “ It was actually a surprise birthday present from my wife, but in the end she had to tell me in case I didn’t like it,” Richard says with a laugh. His better half didn’t have anything to worry about – he was right into it from the get go. “I was rapt because I’ve always wanted a Sprite, and when I found out that my brother-in-law was restoring one, it made it even better.” It had been fully restored and meticulously maintained – the previous owner, who purchased the car sometime around 1988, had obviously loved it. (Yep, the restoration is 25 years old.) The quality of the work is visible everywhere you look. Rich- ard’s car, like Martin’s, still runs the original 1098cc engine. Both are reliable and a cinch to drive, even by modern stan- dards.
20 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE
2014 National Sprite Challenge
“It’s gonna be just like the last one BUT even BETTER!”
The Sprite Car Club of Queensland would cordially like to invite you to the 2014 National Challenge. Yes that right, it’s on again, Queensland is going to host the National Challenge!
We are sending this, our first promo about the event because it is only 11 months away!!! And you need to start plan- ning.
Dates: Thursday 17th till Monday the 21st of April 2014 Where: Warwick, Queensland. (Approx. 160km S/E of Brisbane)
What are we going to do: Where going to hold a traditional challenge! All Sprites, Midget, Healeys’ and any other in- vited cars are welcome to participate. Thursday 17th April - Welcome evening BBQ Friday 18th April – Morgan Park Raceway Track Day including: Car Scrutineering / Track familiarisation laps / Driver training / Regularity competition Social run to Stanthorpe with navigation competition. Trackside Dinner with Slot Car competition and Tappet Cover races! Saturday 19th April – Morgan Park Raceway Track Day including: Sprint competition Social run with puzzles Dinner with photo and movie night. Sunday 20th April – Bitumen Motorkhana Picnic in the park Concourse Gala Presentation Dinner Monday 21st April – Farewell Breakfast
Price: We are still working on that but I can tell you we will have a few different pricing options: Competitor, Social or Spectator. All inclusive of Food and Accomodation.
Why should you come to the 2014 National Challenge?
For more information stay tuned, we will keep you informed, but if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to give me a call on 0431 033 878 or email on [email protected] Regards, John Robertson
Sprite Car Club of Qld inc. www.spritecarclub.com
21 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE Austin Healey Car Club
Tasmania 13 - 26 October 2013
Day 1 Sunday 13 October 2013 Melbourne to Devonport The Spirit of Tasmania departs Station Pier 7.30pm for your overnight sailing to Devonport. Upon arrival at 6:00am, disembark and proceed with you’re your.
Day 2 Monday 14 October 2013 Devonport to Launceston Stay LAUNCESTON : Country Club Villas In 14 Out 17 October Includes Full Buffet Breakfast Daily
Day 5 Thursday 17 October 2013 Launceston to St Helens Stay ST HELENS : Tidal Waters, St Helens In 17 Out 18 October Includes Continental Breakfast
Day 6 Friday 18 October 2013 St Helens to Hobart Stay HOBART : Wrest Point Hotel ( Mountainside rooms ) In 18 Out 22 October Includes Full Buffet Breakfast Daily
Day 10 Tuesday 22 October 2013 Hobart to Queenstown Stay QUEENSTOWN : Chancellor Inn In 22 Out 24 October Includes Continental Breakfast Daily
Day 12 Thursday 24 October 2013 Queenstown to Ulverstone Stay ULVERSTONE : Beachway Motel In 24 Out 26 October Includes Continental Breakfast daily
Day 14 Saturday 26 October 2013 Ulverstone to Melbourne The Spirit of Tasmania departs East Devonport terminal at 7:30pm for the overnight crossing to Melbourne.
Day 15 Sunday 27 October 2013 Arrive Melbourne The Spirit of Tasmania berths at 6:00am
Costs
Land Deluxe Porthole Inside Adult $1282.00 $754.00 $490.00 $442.00
Pensioner $1282.00 $636.00 $400.00 $352.00
The above prices are based on per person twin share, Spirit of Tasmania fares are return pp
Vehicle return under 5 metres $178.00
Expressions of interest to Terry Bancroft Austin Healey Owners Club NSW
C/- The Secretary Austin Healey Owners Club (NSW) Inc PO Box 2754 North Parramatta NSW 1750 Australia
Email to Secretary. [email protected]
Please also advise Graham McDonald Social Director Email: [email protected] Phone: (02) 9533 3128 Graham McDonald Phone (02) 9533 3128 Mobile 0422 972 094
BICHENO SWANSEA CRADLE MOUNTAIN DERWENT RIVER
22 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE TORQUE TRADER Advertising is free for private sellers and buyers, just phone, email or post the Editor of Sprite Torque, details on page 2
THIS MONTH
FOR SALE—1967 Mk III Midget (rebadged as a Sprite).
Currently owned for past 34 years by Richard and Mandy Stokes (Founders of SCSA) has been rebuilt from the con- crete up only 784 miles ago. Brilliant to drive - very quick road car. 1300cc + a bit, 45DCOE Weber, Wade 240 cam- shaft, etc. Soft top, tonneau, half tonneau, hard top (needs re-upholstering). Spares include: Electrically adjustable Armstrong rear shockers, 2 Dufor half-shafts, set of SU carbs (complete), bumper bars and sundry other bits. To get a car like this, start with an average one and spend well over $35K.
Offers around $27K and genuine enquiries to Richard: Ph. 08 85551862 or email: [email protected].
LAST MONTH
FOR SALE - Roll Cage Full width.
Taken from my 1968 MG midget. Possibly fit a Sprite. Will fit under soft top and hard top. Will not interfere with Retractable Soft Top. Comes with bolts. Not cams certified.
$100. Located in Smithfield.
Contact: Anthony 0413 316 726
23 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE
24 JULY 2013 SPRITE TORQUE Order your Regalia now Phone Dianne Lawlor 02-9319-2299 (business hours) or 02-9591 1197 (ah). or visit http://spriteclub.com/regalia.html
Caps 100% cotton $15 Available now
Coffee Mugs $15 Available now
Orders:
To order the above plus all our usual items, please contact Dianne Lawlor on 02-9319 2299 (business hours or 02 9591 1197 (ah). NO TRADE, OWNERS ONLY 1 CAR SET PER CUSTOMER PRICES INCLUDE GST.
WHILE STOCKS LAST OR 30.06.2013. E & OE HSRCA meeting Eastern Creek, November - Images by Annie Lawlor