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From the Past
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in the UK from 1903
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Austin Big Seven
Sixlite & Forlite
Magazine Articles
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for the most popular "Sevens"
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sources of spares etc
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a few handy ideas
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some of the books available
A7CA and FBHVC
CA7C is an active supporter
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Seven Sites
Website Policy
on advertisements and links
This section contains technical articles specific to the Austin Seven, extracted from our monthly 'Seven Focus' magazine, which are based on the experiences of our members who found the 'problem' before you! Unfortunately photos in the earliest articles are b/w, but the information is still there!
Some of the articles may be enhanced by using the cross-reference(s) to more information in Magazine Articles found in the motoring magazines of the pre- and post-war years.
Copyright
The person named and Cornwall Austin Seven Club have the right to be
identified as the author and publisher within the meaning of the
Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 which
is the current UK copyright law.
Reproduction of Articles.
Anyone wishing to reproduce an article in an Austin Seven Club
magazine may do so provided that the usual acknowledgement of the source
of the article, being Cornwall Austin Seven Club website, and the named
author are cited. If you do so please let us know so that we know
who has shown interest. Reproduction for commercial purposes,
digital storage and publication in any other format or website
is strictly forbidden.
Product endorsement.
The mention of a product, or service,
in any article published on this website is for the benefit of factual
correctness; and does not imply any endorsement nor indicate that that product
is the only one available, or that the company that supplied it is the only one
able to do so. It should be accepted that it was the choice made by the
author of the article at the time the work was undertaken.
Your Technical Questions.
Many of the 'problems' experienced by Austin Seven owners
throughout the world, whilst maintaining and repairing their Sevens, are
covered in the articles written by our
members in this section; also in general articles from past magazines, which are relevant to Austin Sevens, can be found in
Austin Seven Journal and
Magazine Articles. Also see Quick Tips and
our
Guide to Parts and
Services which will help you to source parts and services available in, or
from, the UK.
Feel free to contact us, via Doug Castle, the website editor, with any questions arising from these articles or your work on your Austin Seven. Our members are only able to answer questions relating to the Austin Seven (1922-1939) and may not be able to answer any questions arising from some articles from past magazines as they may have developed their own method of undertaking the work. Also many topics have been discussed on the forum Austin Seven Friends
If you are invited to telephone our member that is because he feels that it would be better to discuss your problem, and perhaps refer to other issues which you have possibly overlooked, rather than answer by e-mail. It is your responsibility to make the call as our members do not wish to spend time 'chasing' you and leaving messages on answerphones only for there to be no reply. They do not wish to call mobile phone numbers due to the higher cost of calls.
Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the technical advice, and information, it is given in good faith and the Club, its officers and the author(s) accept no liability for loss, damage or injury from persons acting upon the advice given in this publication and from any subsequent answers to questions asked of our members. Anyone following the advice given by this publication, or answers subsequently provided, shall be deemed to have accepted this statement.
Please note:
Whilst we are pleased to give our time to
answer questions, it sometimes involves a lot of effort to prepare the
information specific to your request.
The person
responding to your question would be pleased to receive your
acknowledgment for the reply and feedback as to whether the advice
offered to you did meet your needs, or any further questions that might
subsequently arise. Whatever - a 'thank you' would be very
appreciated.
Articles specific to the Austin Seven are in Austin Seven Handbooks; also sections of The Austin Service Journal produced by The Austin Motor Company Ltd. and issued to their Agents & Service Depots. A number of general articles, most of which are not specifically 'Austin Seven', which apply to many pre-war, and early post-war, cars where the advice offered is as relevant now to owners of Austin Sevens as it was when the article was first published, are in Magazine Articles.
You may wish to
refer to The Austin Seven Manual.
Fully recommended for the d-i-y enthusiast.
This is an all embracing workshop manual covering 'Seven' models from 1925 to
1939, but does not adequately cover the 'Big Seven'. The sections deal with the
Engine; Fuel System; Gearbox; Prop Shaft; Rear Axle; Front Suspension; Steering;
Hubs & Brakes; Road Springs; Chassis; Electrical, and Accessories. Each section
is divided into periods ie 1923-28, 1928-1932, 1932-35, although not always
these years. Within each section are subsections on Dismantling and Assembly.
Diagrams support the step by step easy to follow text, but the only problem is
that the text does not cite the letter identifying the part in the diagram, so
there is a need to have a reasonable technical knowledge in order to use it,
by the late Doug Woodrow, published by, and available from, Mercury Vintage Services,
Rosedale, Station Road, Emneth, Norfolk PE14 8DL.
. . . and The Austin Seven
Companion
Another highly recommended book. This is considered to be the book for technical
information on the restoration and maintenance of the Austin Seven comprising
articles based on many peoples experiences; covering all models to the Ruby.
Like all books it has a few faults but it is a very useful source of information
for the d-i-y enthusiast, published by The 750 Motor Club.
Most Austin Seven Clubs include Technical Articles on their website, so if you are unable to find what you are looking for in this section have a look at other Club's websites.
Brake
Lever Fouled
by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in December 2015 p15.
Brake shoe problems by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus, March 2013 p25.
Breakdown Spares and Tools by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in Mar 2004 pp8-9 and April 2004 p8.
Roadside Electrical Breakdown by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in Jun 2006 pp16-18
Fuel starvation - Cause of Breakdown
see also Breakdown in Europe - what happened next by Geoff Hardman,Seven Focus in Oct 2009 pp13-15.
Bending Ash Frames by Steve Martin, Seven Focus in Feb 2008 pp 16-18.
Crackle Finish Paint (Dashboard) by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Feb 2004 pp8-9.
Forming a Sheet Metal Flange by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Aug 2002 pp 22-23.
Nifty Luggage Rack by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Feb 2007 pp24-25.
Clutch Pedal Adjustment by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus, May 2012 pp24-26.
Clutch Pedal Adjustment - a modification by Bob Kneale and appeared in Seven Focus, December 2021 pp9-11
Clutch Overhaul by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Dec 2004 pp6-10.
Jamming Clutch by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in June 2010 pp18-19.
Side, or top, water manifold modification by Bob Kneale, Seven Focus in February 2023 pp13-15.
Radiator Repair by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Jun 2006 pp6-7.
Lucas 'Magmo' speedometer overhaul by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Feb 2009 pp 16-19.
Restoration of the Lucas SM5 Switchboard by Peter Kemp, Seven Focus in May 2002 pp 10-13.
The Austin Seven Charge Circuit by Ian Leaver, Seven Focus in Dec 2009, pp 23-25.
Failing battery - what's going on? by Geoff Hardman, appeared in Seven Focus, May 2022 pp 6-9
Electrical System Explained prepared by Andrew Jarmin as the subject of a Teach-In.
The Lead Acid Battery by Ian Leaver, Seven Focus in February 2011pp18-21.
A Charging Refresher by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Oct 2007 pp 17-22.
Armoured Wiring - unexpected hazards by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Nov 2006 pp14-15.
Bosch Distributor Conversion by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Sept 2004 pp8-9.
Charging Fault Finding by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in May 2006 pp13-15.
Conversion to 12v by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Mar 2001 pp20-24.Early 12v Conversions by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Feb 2007 p16.
12v Conversion - another way by Steve Martin, Seven Focus in Mar 2007 p16-17.
Converting 6v Cut-out to 12v by Lee Webster, Seven Focus in Mar 2007 pp24-25.
Cut-out Repair and Re-winding by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Jan 2007 pp18-20.
Distributor Set Up by Geoff Hardman and Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in July 2009 pp22-24, and Aug 2009 pp23-26.
Distributor Maintenance by Anon, Seven Focus Mar 2002, pp21-23.
Dynamo - How it Works, Servicing and Repairs by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Nov 2000 pp12-17.
Fitting new wiring loom to Austin Sevens Notes from a few of our members, edited by Doug Castle, October 2020
How it Works - Ignition Coil by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Apr 2007 pp24-25.
How it Works - the Cut-out by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Nov 2006 pp6-8.
Ignition Timing Marks by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus in Oct 2004 pp24-25.
No Charge - Batteries by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Aug 2005 pp20-21.
No Charge - Dynamo Testing by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Sep 2005 pp20-22.
No Charge - the Cut-out by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Oct 2005 pp16-18.
Removing horn & indicator switch by Andrew Jarmin & Doug Castle
Repairing and Servicing a Rist Horn by Steve Baldwin, Seven Focus in Dec 2002 pp 16-18.
Repairing a PLC Switch from the wartime issue of "Automobile Electricity" 1940.
Retuning the horn button by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in May 2017 pp 20-22.
Sparking Plugs by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Dec 2008 pp22-25.
Sparking Plugs - curing heat range problems by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus, April 2015 pp16-18.
Starter Motors by Anon, Seven Focus December 2000,p14.
Testing Electrics on an Historic Car by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus, August 2015 pp25-27.
Wiper Motor Adjustment by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in May 2001 pp 10-11.
Wiper Motor Restoration by Lee Webster, Seven Focus in Apr 2007 p20.
DW3 Wiper Motor Improvements by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus in Mar 2006 pp 13-15.
Wiring, Thick and Thin by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus, March 2012 pp28-29
Austin Seven Engine Stand by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus March 2013 pp22-23.
Box Saloon Fan Pulley and Belt Tension by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus April 2010 p21 and August 2010 pp 24-25.Box Saloon Nose Cones by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus April 2004 pp 6-7.
Camshaft Bearings - Ruby 3-bearing engine by Bob Kneale, Seven Focus April 2016, pp24-25
Camshaft Bush Modification by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Mar 2006 pp16-17.Crankshaft Conversion 1½" (pressurised) by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Mar 2006 pp16-17.
Crankcase Front Bearing Housing Repair by Malcom Watts, appeared in Seven Focus in Feb 2014 pp16-17.
. . . . and Front Main Bearing Retaining Lip by Malcolm Watts, originally appeared in Seven Focus.
Do Not Use Silicone Sealer - a warning by 'Techno', Seven Focus in Nov 2006 pp22-23.
Every Piston Tells a Story by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Jan 2006 pp16-18.
Fitting Block to Crankcase by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in Dec 2018 pp18-21.
Good Sump Joints by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Feb 2007 p23.
How to Replace Core Plugs by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in Feb 2001 pp 20-23.
Leaky Camshaft Bolt by Steve Baldwin, Seven Focus in Dec 2003 pp16-17.
Leaks - dealing with different problems by Vince Leek, Seven Focus Jan 2003 p18; Feb 2003 p25; Mar 2003 p25; Apr 2003 p25; May 2003 p24 and Jun 2003 p24.
Little End Bolt Failure by Mike Davies, Seven Focus Nov 2002 pp21-22.
Little End Bolt Failure (Second Thoughts) by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Nov 2002 pp22-24.
Locating the Starting Handle by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus in Mar 2005 pp20-21.
Oil Feed Pipe - Ruby MK2 three-bearing engine by Mike Davies, Seven Focus Dec 2012 p22; Ian Leaver, Seven Focus Jan 2013 pp 14-16. and Ron Hayhurst, Seven Focus March 2013 pp18-19.
Pressure Feed Nose Cone Modification by Mike Davies, Seven Focus in Apr 2008 p25.
Repairing a Cracked Head by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Jan 2004 pp16-20.
Repairing Stripped Threads with Thread Inserts by Anon, Seven Focus in Oct 2002 pp16-17.
Repairs to the Front Main Bearing Housing by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus.
Sealing a Valve Chest Cover by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus, June 2012 p18.
Tapping a Hole by Malcolm Watts,Seven Focus Mar 2002 pp24-25.
Transmission Noise by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Aug 2004 pp26-29.
AC Mechanical Petrol Pump by Anon, Seven Focus Sept 2007 pp19-20
Carburettor compensation by Paul Newman, Seven Focus in March 2011, pp28-29.
Carburettor Jet Author unknown, but a member of CA7C.
Carburettor Throttle Spindles (Zenith 26VA) by Steve Martin, Seven Focus in Jun 2005 pp21-22.
Electric Fuel Pump by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus in March 2010 pp 19 - 21.
Fuel Additives by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus, July 2007 pp13-14.
Fuel Gauge working or not? by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Sept 2001 pp20-23.
Fuel Pump Notes by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus June 2009 p19.Fuel System Explained by Andrew Jarmin, as the subject of a Teach-In.
How it Works - carburettors (part 1) by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Dec 2006 pp16-18.
How it Works - carburettors (part 2) by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Jan 2007 pp13-15.
Oil from the Fuel Pump by Malcolm Watts Seven Focus May 2014 pp20-21.
Replacing Petrol Pump Diaphragm by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus Jan 2001 pp21-26.
Sealing a Fuel Tank by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Apr 2002 pp7-10.
Stale Fuel by Doug Castle, Seven Focus in Oct 2008 pp24-25, Apr 2009 pp18-19 and Dec 2009 p22.
Austin Seven Rear Axle - Light or Heavy? by Doug Castle and Andrew Jarmin, October 2016
1st Gear Jumps Out by Doug Castle and Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus Oct 2009 pp21-23.
Does your Austin jump out of gear? by Chris Gill, Seven Focus May 2013 pp26-28.
Flywheel Oil Seal Improvement by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Apr 2007 pp18-19.
Flywheel Oil seals by Steve Martin, Seven Focus Nov 2010 pp16-19.Gearbox Oil Seals by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Apr 2007 pp16-17.
Gearbox Overhaul by Dai Barnes, Seven Focus in Feb 2016 pp12-18.
Hardy Spicer Propshaft Overhaul by Mike Davies, Seven Focus May 2007 pp22-24.
Identifying Austin Seven Gearboxes - SYN, 2SYN or 3SYN?
Mechanical Failures (Half Shafts) by Anon, Seven Focus.
Propshaft Howl - cause and cure by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus Sept 2008 pp 22-24.
Propshaft Judder - when moving forward or reversing by Viv Gale, Seven Focus in March 2022 pp 8-9
Removing the Differential Bearings by Bob Kneale, Seven Focus in Oct 2015 pp 22-24.
Replacing a 3-speed Gearbox with a 4-speed by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Oct 2002 pp14-17.
Synchromesh Set-up by Geoff Hardman & Mike Davies, Seven Focus Feb 2008 pp12-15.
Torque Tube Pinion Removal by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Mar 2007 pp20-21.
6 Volt Semaphores by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Feb 2006 pp17-19.
Fitting Flashers - but keeping the semaphore signals by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Apr 2005 pp13-15.
LED Lights for Trafficators by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Jan 2007 pp16-17.
Lucas TCS34 Self-cancelling Indicator Assembly Repair by Mike Davies, originally appeared in Seven Focus, August 2016 pp16-23
Optional Flashing Indicators - Legal Requirements (UK) by Doug Castle, Seven Focus in Mar 2004 pp21-23.
(Flashing indicators; Rear retro-reflectors and Rear fog lamp)Removing horn & indicator switch by Andrew Jarmin & Doug Castle
Dipping Solenoids by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in July 2010 pp15-17.
Improving the Quality of Austin Seven Headlights by Anon, Seven Focus in Jan 2001 pp18-20.
LED 6v Sidelights and Headlights by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus in Dec 2013 pp24-25.
Stop/Tail Lights by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus Mar 2005 pp16-19.
Austin Seven Tool Kits by Doug Castle for the CA7C website, August 2015.
Austin Seven Tool Roll
aka Tool Wrap by Doug
& Janet Castle for the CA7C website, August 2015.
Crackle Finish Paint by Malcolm Watts, originally appeared in Seven Focus Feb 2004 pp8-9.
Glovebox Liner for ARQ Ruby Saloon. This article was prepared in July 2001 by Malcolm Watts
Old Style Number Plates by Anon, Seven Focus Jan 2001 pp16-17.
Paint Your Plates by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus May 2006 pp22-23.
Paint Your Own Number Plates by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus Aug 2006 pp24-25.
Temporary High Reflective number plates for 'Sevens' Original author of this idea unknown.
Rust removal by electrolysis by Roger jelbert, appeared in Seven Focus June 2016 pp 26-28
SatNav as a Speedometer by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus May 2008 p26.
What? a Sat Nav in your Austin Seven !!??!!! by Eddie Angell, Seven Focus April 2009 pp20-21.
Tool Box Covers by Sandy Croall, Seven Focus.
Wood Grain Effect by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus.
Austin Seven Check-up (DIY MoT) by Geoff Hardman and Mike Davies, Seven Focus in April 2015 p11-16.
Adjusting the play in the Steering Drag Link by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Sept 2000 pp12-13.
Renewing the front spring shackles by Andrew Jarmin, Seven Focus Sept 2000 pp5-6.
Removing Steering wheel, and/or horn & indicator switch by Andrew Jarmin & Doug Castle
Steering Arm Joint by Bob Kneale, Seven Focus April 2016, pp26-27.
Steering Box Overhaul by Malcolm Watts,Seven Focus Apr 2008 pp22-24.
Steering Box and Track Rod by Alan Moore, Seven Focus February 2009 pp13-15.
Austin Seven Rear Blind by Doug Castle, August 2015.
Care for Your Leather Upholstery by Regi Jarmin, Seven Focus Feb 2007 pp24-25.
New Spokes in a 19" Wheel by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Jan 2003 pp23-25.
Wheels a follow up by Malcolm Watts, Seven Focus Mar 2003 pp14-16.
Salvaging Wheel Centres by Geoff Hardman, Seven Focus March 2010 pp22 - 23.
Fitting an Inner Tube by Andrew Jarmin, appeared in Seven Focus in Nov 2015 pp10-14
Tyre Ageing and the DOT Code by Doug Castle, Seven Focus Feb 2007 pp18-19 and January 2010 pp 20-22.
Tyre Sizes by Mike Easton, Seven Focus Mar 2004 p9.