The Spanner Fall 2009 - Boot'n Bonnet

28
Celebrating 20 Years Summer 2010 T T h h e e S S p p a a n n n n e e r r

Transcript of The Spanner Fall 2009 - Boot'n Bonnet

Celebrating 20 Years

Summer 2010

TThhee SSppaannnneerr

3

Boot’n Bonnet Executive

President David Stock 613-476-9604 [email protected]

Vice President Jamie Berry 613-968-6990 [email protected] Treasurer Linda Thomas 613-385-1947 [email protected] Membership Brian and Linda Thomas Holliday Point RR 1 Wolfe Island, Ontario. K0H 2Y0 613-385-1947 [email protected] [email protected] Newsletter Ken Law 613-498-1046 [email protected] Proof reader Barbara Law Website Ron Wanless 613-359-1013 [email protected] Archives Ila Lawton 613-353-6111 [email protected] Autojumble Lois Logan 613-545-1952 [email protected] British Car Day Linda Thomas 613-385-1947 Referral Service Andy Taylor 613-968-5138 [email protected] Peter Young 623-548-3993 [email protected] Regalia Convenor Vacant Events Coordinator Vacant Past President Wes Meyer 613-547-2872 or

[email protected]

MMeeeettiinnggss The membership of the Boot’n Bonnet Car Club spans a large geographic area. Hence, two meetings are held each month for the convenience of members and visitors: one in the Kingston area and one in the Quinte area. Kingston meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Note: the location for the fall meetings has not been determined at the time of printing. Quinte meetings are held on the last Wednesday of each month at The Winchester Arms located on Highway 2, east of Highway 62 near Belleville. Guests are always welcome at our meetings. We generally gather around 6:00 PM for dinner with the meeting starting at 7:30 PM. Please call David Stock at 613-476-9604 for more information. See When and Where and the Red Book for specific dates and locations.

MMeemmbbeerrsshhiipp Boot’n Bonnet Car Club membership dues are $30.00 per year. A subscription to The Spanner is included in the annual dues.

TThhee SSppaannnneerr The Spanner, published four times a year, is the official newsletter of the Boot’n Bonnet Car Club. Members are encouraged to contribute material for publication. Submissions may be made to [email protected] in MSWord XP (2002 or earlier) format. Photos should be in JPEG format. Submission deadlines are:

Spring edition 31 March, Summer edition 30 June Fall edition 30 September, and Winter edition 31 December

CCllaassssiiffiieeddss Members may place “For Sale” or “Wanted” ads in the Classifieds section at no charge (text only). Classified ads will be removed automatically after a run of three consecutive issues, unless the editor is otherwise notified to delete or extend the item(s). Ads should be e-mailed to [email protected]. The Boot ’n Bonnet Car Club has no opinion on the products or services offered.

OOnn tthhee CCoovveerr The Club members and guests that braved the weather for our tour of Singer Castle on Dark Island in the 1000 Islands of the St. Lawrence River.

““TThhee AAllll BBrriittiisshh CCaarr CClluubb””

Visit us on the Internet at: www.bootnbonnet.org

4

CCoonntteennttss

CClluubb NNeewwss…………..55

LLeetttteerrss ttoo tthhee EEddiittoorr……..66 NNeeww MMeemmbbeerrss………………....66

EEvveennttss…………………………......77 Autojumble Spring "castle tour" Odessa June BBQs

AArrttiicclleess……………………....……1177 Maximum Mini Book review Refurbishing the TR3A The Saga of Jamie's Jaguar Checking Clearances

RRaacciinngg……………………..……....2200 MMeemmbbeerr NNeewwss………………......2211 WWhheerree aanndd WWhheenn………………2233 CCllaassssiiffiieeddss……………………....2244 RReeggaalliiaa…………………………....2266

PPrreessiiddeenntt''ss

CCoonnttrriibbuuttoorrss ttoo tthhiiss iissssuuee:: David Stock Jamie Berry Ken Law Brian Thomas Ila Lawton Stuart Beatty Paul Albanese Kelly Stock Norm Mort (Courtesy of Old Autos) Les Bennett Keith Foley Working on your car Why do you own a particular car Attended a LBC or Club event Taking a long trip in your LBC Technical knowledge others could use Have some thoughts to improve the Club, etc. Write an article and submit it to the editor at [email protected] for publication in the Spanner.

Well it’s hard to believe we have only just hit the half way mark of the year, a mild winter and a not too bad a spring means the driving season has already been going on for a while. Although I have not been at many club events with my cars, I have been using them locally. The GT6 has a small oil leak. No! it never leaked before !! It is after all nearly 17 years since I built this car and a lot of mileage, that’s not too bad. The newer larger wheels and a solid mounted rack meant a pounding on the old trunnion’s, so a new set awaits fitting. Arh! the Jag. The Jag, is just the Jag ! Don’t forget Jaguar is this year’s mark at British Car Day, so I will be trying my best to get it there. Lots of Jags in the club its time to get them all out. Fresh from the MGB BBQ which went down very well, I was disappointed to see so few B’nB Members taking advantage of this event on our doorstep. There is after all a large MGB membership and the ability to look at the best part of 250 cars should not have been missed, as well as some great people. Once again I handed out a few membership forms for local people who did not know the B’nB club existed. We all have to do a little more self promotion. Mind you they wouldn’t let me take my Range Rover onto the ground so I could set the banner up and promote the club. Oh well. With the first couple of BBQs under our belt I am looking forward to the 2011 season so if you wish to host one of these outstanding events please contact me. All dates are still at the moment open. As you will probably read else where in this issue I am standing down as President in the spring 2011. There is only really one reason. I am finding I don’t have the time to put my weight behind it. I really wish I did. Most of you will know, a couple of small jobs and my own little business, all of which are necessary to keep the wolf from the door, interfere with the car stuff. Then there is the project!!! It will be 3 terms, so not too bad, but I strongly recommend that one of you out there steps up to the plate and take this role on. It is a great club with some great members and it is worth working with to keep the idea going and strong. As a last note, Thank-you every one who sponsored Kelly and Ion the “Relay For Life” As well as raising some money we had a great night. Shinny side UP David.

MMeessssaaggee

5

Well, summer started dry, but things changed. We are having good old English wet weather. But you have to feel sorry for all those MG 2010 attendees in Belleville at the Ramada. They narrowly escaped rain at the Boot'n Bonnet BBQ on Wednesday June 23rd their opening day. The next morning, it rained... but cleared luckily. Friday, was good

but Saturday...not too good at all. Let's hope they had a good time despite the rain. The Boot'n Bonnet volunteers who put on the BBQ on Wednesday did a grand job. They did our club proud! Particular thanks to Stuart Beatty, Gail Buckley, Paul and Sherry Lyn Albanese and their children for a fabulous job organizing and running an excellent BBQ.

I assume everyone is ready for summer and all systems are go! I am, not so lucky. I was hoping this would be the year to have everything ready. Yeah, well. The boat will get launched eventually. At least the Jag is operational. You have to be patient with these things! Look forward to seeing you all at the many summer events! Jamie

__________________________________________________________________

er got out with a minimum of reading the articles submitted

and were motivated to get your British ng.

tice that I have been successful in selling elp defray the publishing cost of

the Spanne at the ads will cover about 25% of the annual cost of printing ncourage you to mention the advertisement e of the companies that advertise in the Spanner and support you

As part of our monthly trip to Brampton, we took the opportunity to attend the Ancaster flea market. It had been about 18 years since we had been to the Ancaster flea market and we were amazed at how it has grown and the new venue. They had about 200 British cars in attendance and I would estimate another 700 + non LBCs, one of which was our Volvo. The main sales and display area was inside a large exhibition hall which was full to the brim. Just outside the hall the British cars were parked with about 40 cars offered for sale and behind that a number of vendors who displayed their offerings outside. It was great chance to meet some old friends and look for that elusive part which unfortunately I did not find. Our British cars continue to keep me busy as I worked on refreshing the TR3. I don’t know if the Healey was feeling ignored, but during our drive to the Club’s autojumble it started acting up by stalling a couple of times along the way. Fortunately it would restart after a couple of seconds so we were able to get to Portsmouth and back home without calling CAA. It turned out to be lack of fuel due to low voltage at the fuel pump. It appears that Lucas, the “Prince of Darkness” struck again, oh well that’s all part of the joys and challenges of owning and driving British cars. Thank you to Ila Lawton and Stuart Beatty for writing their informative and entertaining reports on Club events as well as to those other Club members that submitted articles and ideas for this quarter’s issue of the Spanner. Happy and safe motoring, Ken

________________________________________________________________________

CClluubb NNeewwss The Club’s Annual General Meeting was held as part of the May 12th dinner meeting in Kingston. The meeting was very informal with David Stock raising the issue that the Club still needs an Event Coordinator and a Regalia Coordinator. David also indicated that he and Jamie Berry feel that the Club would be better served with a Vice President from the Kingston area and Jamie has indicated that he would step down if someone from the Kingston area is willing to assume the VP position. David reported that Lois Logan has agreed to take on the responsibility as Autojumble Coordinator. Thanks to Lois for volunteering to assume this role and thanks to Richard Woodley for serving in this capacity for 10 year’s.

Well, my first issue of the Spannproblems. Hopefully you enjoyed by your fellow members cars out to enjoy our early spri In this issue you will nosome additional advertising to h

r. My target is to sell advertising, such th and mailing the Spanner. I e

in the Spanner when dealing with onr Club.

EEddiittoorr’’ss MMeessssaaggee

VVPP’’ss MMeessssaaggee

David indicated that his plan is to step down as President as of next year’s AGM (May 2011). The issue of members not stepping forward to volunteer for executive positions within the Club was raised by Ken Law and the suggestion was made that a nomination committee be established to approach people and help encourage them to assume leadership positions within the Club. There was no discussion on the subject and no action was taken. The proposal of acquiring a Club trailer to store Club supplies and assets was raised by David, however a motion was not raised from the floor and there was no discussion on the subject. There were no other items raised from the floor and David closed the meeting with two of the prerequisite jokes. Editor

________________________________________________________________________

LLeetttteerrss ttoo tthhee EEddiittoorr David and I would like to thank everyone who bought cookies, luminary candles or sponsored us. You all are greatly appreciated. For those of who don't know what I'm talking about, David and I participated in our local " Relay For Life " on June 11 and 12th. It is an 12 hour walk for cancer. We had a team of 11( including our 4 year old niece Gabby), and together we raised over $2700.00. We had a survivor on our team. His name is Brad who is 29 (Yellow shirt in the middle) who has been in remission for 2 years. So our team walked, played games, danced, and remembered. So again, we would like to say a great big THANK YOU EVERYONE! Oh yes, our little town of Picton, of 4000 people raised over $166,000 Kelly Stock & "The Mopar Guys"

WWeellccoommee ttoo NNeeww MMeemmbbeerrss by Brian Thomas

Errol and Pat Jesse 97 Binnacle View Drive Home (613) 382 -3762 2001 Jaguar XK8 Conv Gananoque, Ontario K7G 2V5

[email protected]

Roger and Leah Johnson 274 Haig Road Home (613) 968 -9479 1976 MGB

7

Perry Mattes R R 1 Home (613) 349 -1138 1972 MGB Elgin, Ontario K0G 1E0 [email protected] Alvin Wood 5339 Battersea Road Home (613) 353 -2889 1977 MGB Box 38 Battersea, Ontario K0H 1H0 [email protected]

HHooww ggoooodd iiss yyoouurr BBrriittiisshh CCaarr kknnoowwlleeddggee?? Les Bennett sends the members this challenge.

History (from The ______ Owners Club of Australia Inc.) After WWII, the ______ Aeroplane Company which built the Blenheim, Beaufort and Beaufighter aircraft had unused factory space and a skilled but idle workforce. As war reparation, it received the rights to the pre-war BMW car designs including the BMW 326,327 and 328. These were developed, improved and re-engineered to become the first _______ car, the 400. The 2 litre _______ engine was used to power many other makes to sporting success including

Six cylinder _______ engines continued until 1961 when Chrysler continues in the UK with exclusive, expensive and luxurious four seat two_______ Fighter, a 300 km/h GT supercar.

See page 24 for the name

EEvveennttss

Boot’n Bonnet Autojumble The Club held its 10th annual Autojumble thanks to the efforts of Richard Woodley and all those who assisted him and supported the event. Despite a cool start to the morning the weather was favourable and many people took the opportunity to drive their British cars to the event and were rewarded with a bright sunny day and a chance to meet and talk with fellow motoring enthusiasts. Diane Shillington and Lois Logan welcomed people as they came to find that critical part and have a great day celebrating their passion for British cars.

Fraser Nash, AC, Cooper, Lotus,Lister and others.

V8’s were introduced on all models. Today, production-door saloons and recently with the 8 litre V10

of this car.

by Ken Law, photos by Jamie Berry

8

Once again Anita Krebs, Ila Lawton and Marion Westenberg hosted the Boot’n Bonnet Café offering an excellent selection of treats and chilli thanks to various members of the club and enjoyed by many of those in attendance. A number of individuals brought their collection of LBC parts in an effort to reduce their inventory and possibly make room for that next project. Fred McEachern of British Auto Sport and Ian Young of Young Imports traveled down to Kingston, with a selection of parts to help us service our cars and keep them looking good. Thanks to both of these individuals for supporting the autojumble as well as advertising in the Spanner. The Toronto MG Club had a display promorganisation and the North American MGB RegiMG2010 gathering that was held in Belleville, June 2 Thanks to all of those that contributed to the plannioperation of the 10th Boot’n Bonnet Autojumble, it wagreat success. Spring Tour to Singer Castle As the saying goes, “every man's home is his cagood idea for the Boot'n Bonnet Club to take the amembers agreed with them and joined in the tour of Singer River. Starting out Sunday morning we were greeted with English style weather, cool and very rainy. Despite the lousy weather many members drove their (some, no doubt leaking) British cars from various meeting spots in Ontario to Alexandria Bay NY. The little Belleville entourage timed themselves to merge with the Kingston group as we were all hitting the Thousand Island Parkway. Border crossing time was initially a concern but proved to be of little consequence in our overall driving time. I believe everyone made it across the border safely, we did not hear of any body cavity searches.

oting their ster’s,

3-27.

ng and s a

by Stuart Beatty

stle” or something like this. Jamie & Shelia Berry decided it might be a nnual Garage Tour one step further and check out a real castle. Sixty plus

Castle on Dark Island in the 1000 islands of the St Lawrence

9

The group arrived en masse at Uncle Sam Tours in Alexandria Bay shortly after 10:00 am. This gave everyone plenty of time to tour the shops of “downtown” A Bay for a couple of hours before lunch. The nasty weather had the effect of keeping the tourists away, so the shopkeepers wanting to make a sale or two had impromptu 20% off sales on many items including clothing and shoes. Many of the B&B tour, including ourselves bought a few things to bring home with us. There are a lot of interesting shops and novelty stores including one selling just hot sauces, BBQ sauces, marinades, coffees, teas and various

other toppings. As expected many of the items for sale in the shops have nautical themes. This is of great interest to those of us with boats or amphicars. Lunch was at noon at Riley's which is just steps away from the tour boat docks and just across the harbour from another well known castle, Boldt Castle. Boldt Castle was not part of our tour plans today, but is part of the package offered by Uncle Sam Tours. We boarded the douand damp massedamp. The and in relaon our hour ride toalong the wa

After arriving at the Castle we were dismaller groups to facilitate the tour guides. The Castle itself is a beautiful structure buBourne Family n the early 1900's and desigafter Woodstock Castle in Scotland fromScott's novel of the same name. Originally called“The Towers”, the Castle name was changed whcurrent ownership opened it to the public just a few years ago. The Castle was built by the foDirector and President of the Singer SewiMachine Company. Boldt Castle and Singer were built during the same time period, buBoldt Castle was stopped and the building allowed to fall into disrepair over the years. The Towers on the other hand was fully completed and in use by the original owners up to the early 1960's.

Our tour guide pointed out a small island just a short distance from Dark Island, also owned by the Bourne family is in Canadian waters. This island was used to grow fresh vegetables for the family and also housed a very large wine cellar. This came in handy during prohibition as alcohol sales was not legal in the United States, however it was easily brought to the smaller island from Canada and stored in the wine cellar.

A short trip by boat over the international boundary was all it took to keep the inhabitants of Singer Castle happy and full of good “spirits”.

ble decker tour boat just before two, huddled like the cold s of days long ago, well not quite, but we were cold and

weather kept us all inside in the lower level, close to the snack bar tive warmth. The First Mate provided us with a running commentary

the Castle, pointing out various homes on the islands y and other landmarks and points of interest.

vided into

ilt by the ned

Sir Walter

en

rmer ng

Castle t work on

Jamie, thanks for organizing a great tour, if only you could influence the

weather!

10

There are a lot of interesting and fascinating facts and stories about the Castle. I encourage you to visit www.singercastle.com to learn about the Castle and see more pictures. Our tour was drawing to a close, but before boarding the boat for our return trip, we gathered together as many B'n B members as we could find (some were still scattered about the island) to get a group shot at the front entrance to the Castle for our cover shot. On the way back to A Bay the boat made a short stop at Boldt Castle for any one wishing to disembark and to pick up new passengers for the short trip to the docks. Jamie's concern about a long wait time at the border came true coming north. Wait time to get to the Canadian Customs booth was up to 45 minutes. A well organized and executed tour by Jamie & Shelia Berry. Our thanks to them for coming up with a departure from our usual tours. It was enjoyed by all.

B’n B Gathering at Odessa Car Show by Ila lawton A day initially cloudy turned to gorgeous sunshine for the 2010 Odessa Antique and Classic Car Show, Flea Market, and Craft Sale on Sunday, June 13th. Wes Meyer, Eddy De Wagner, Ila Lawton, and Gerry Wilkins, with Bob Lawton supervising, got the tent set up and the club banner hung. Wes’ next priority was a stop at the baked goods table to purchase goodies to keep us all going for the duration. We had eighteen cars in the show. There were actually 3 or 4 more members’ cars driven to the show but they (the cars, not the members...) were not old enough (pre-1995) to be allowed onto the site.

day in the canteen, helping to prepare and serve first breakfast and then hot dogs, garlic p

After the award was presented, President David Stock and Past President Wes Meyer announced that after this year, Boot ‘n Bonnet would sponsor the award (maybe the Boot ‘n Bonnet Club Participation Award?) and, therefore, not be eligible to win it, in order to allow other clubs to have a chance at winning.

As usual, Glenda Meyer was busy all hamburgers, chicken, and those yummy

otatoes.

Judging took place around noon and the prizes were awarded later in the afternoon. The British Car class was lucky Class 13. Jim Vanalstyne took 2nd place in the class with his 1963 E-type Jaguar. Taking 1st place in the class was Frank Harnden with his 1974 MGA. As the Studebaker Club seemed to have a lot of cars in the show, we had assumed that we would not betaking the Club Participation Award this time around. Apparently, though, none of us can count because we did win after all.

Frank Harnden gets first Jim Vanalstyne takes Second place in the British Class place in the British Class

11

June Barbeque at Kenn & Tessa’s home by Ila lawton

Our barbeque season got off to a soggy start this year. The drizzle didn’t discourage 40 or so of our members from turning up at Tessa Clarke and Kenn Feigelman’s home near Kingston Mills, although the lawn by their lower deck may never recover. There were even a number of chickens and a few roosters in attendance, seemingly unperturbed by what “Chef Eddie” was cooking up on the grill nearby (chicken.....). In addition to the chicken, we enjoyed a variety of salads and desserts contributed by members of the club. For the first time (that we can remember), the barbeque featured a little postprandial entertainment! Jim Vanalstyne, accompanying himself on guitar, sang his original composition, Brit Car Blues, to an appreciative, if damp, audience. President Dave mentioned that Mary and Ray Bolich probably would not be able to come North this summer. We all send good

Many thanks to Tessa and Kenn for a pleasant evening and a lovely meal.

B’n B Hosts MG 2010 at Belleville BBQ By Paul Albanese /Stuart Beatty, Photos by Ila Lawton The first Quinte BBQ of 2010 was moved ahead by one week to coincide with the arrival of MG enthusiasts from all over North America for MG 2010 in Belleville. Typical numbers for our BBQs have been from 60 to 90 people. After the MG organizers told us that they have upwards of 300 registrants, we were hoping to get close to 200 people for our BBQ. We greatly appreciated the calls and emails from our members to advise they were coming and that some were bringing food. The MG organizers could not tell us exactly how many of their registrants may attend. Paul Albanese and Stuart Beatty planned for approximately 200 people. We did not want to run out of food, nor did we want to bring great quantities of food home with us. We decided to go back to basics and offer a simple menu of hamburgers, hot dogs, some different salads and simple desserts. The BBQ was held in Victoria Park on the Belleville waterfront on June 23rd. Many people came early to help us set up and we sat there waiting. By 5:00 pm there were some 20 people in attendance. We were starting to wonder, then about 5:15 the MG's started to arrive and they did not stop.

Dessert always makes us happy....

wishes to both – we miss you!

Tessa, “Chef Eddie”, Kenn, and David

12

By 6:30 we had in excess of 200 people in the park and most haeveryone had lots to eat. Many of the MG registrants told us this looked to bedelighted to pay $7.50 for an all you can eat BBQ. Other BBQs during thei

talked with pand many of were quite amazeBoot'n Bonnet Clubon a Wednesacross the country in up events of MG 201hope this wa

bymble, ru

k our Not to be left out

and her ot

more than covered our expenses and decided to donate $5charitable cause in the local community on behalf of the Boot'n Bonnet CaClub.

d been fed by that time. The lineup moved very quickly and the best deal of their weekend. They were quite

r event were upwards of $25.00 per person. We eople from Texas, Colorado, Michigan, Ohio, Florida the eastern seaboard states. Many of these people

d and quite impressed that members of the host BBQs at their home for 75 to 100 people

day night. I am sure our club will be talkecoming weeks. During the

0, I heard this same sentiment repeated s a great introduction welcome to our area.

d about rest of the

often. I

David Stock's closing joke may have been his best yet! The crowd went wild. It threatened to rain, but it held off until long after the BBQ was over and everyone had departed. Paul and Stuart want to thank all the members who contributed salads and desserts and those who pitched in to help, asseBBQ and cleanup afterwards. We would especially like to thanSherry Lyn and Gail for their extensive contribution.Paul and Sherry Lyn's two children Anthony and Kayla, Marie who also helped a great deal during the BBQ. We could nthis BBQ on with out your assistance. Due to the generosity of the MG 2010 attendees and B&B members, we

Glenda Meyer and Gail Buckley prepare for the crowd with a smile

“Grill Sergeant”Paul Albanese

bringing n the

wives, are

friend have put

00 to a r

Peter Mittler thanks David and the B’nB Club for an excellent BBQ and their support of MG2010

Lee Downhill.

613-398-1144

[email protected]

www.lubedealer.com/leessynthetics

carReduce your operating costs and make

your car last longer with AMSOIL

Put your Business advert in

the Spanner

14

Access 200 members with 500 British cars

Full page $100/year (4 issues) ½ page $60/year ¼ page $40/year

Business card size $25/year

Contact Ken Law at [email protected]

15

16

17

AArrttiicclleess Book Review of “Maximum Mini” By Norm Mort Book written by Joreon Booij , Publisher Veloce Publishing If you are not a fan of the original Austin Seven and Morris Mini Minor -better known as the “Mini;” then read no further. Then again, how many old car enthusiasts in Canada have not in some way have had a drive, owned or been involved in some manner with this diminutive British car. This handsome volume focuses solely on the cars derived from the classic Mini and been re-bodied in fibreglass, steel, aluminium and had numerous mechanical changes of some kind. It includes everything from small GTs, sports cars, roadsters, dune buggies and fun cars built from kits, or delivered as a turn-key car. Moreso in Britain, the Mini derivatives changed the specialist motoring market completely in the early sixties and fresh new designs kept it busy for nearly four decades. (In North America the same phenomenon favoured variants based on the Volkswagen Beetle.) Inside these pages you’ll find everything from the well known Mini Marcos and Unipower GT that raced at Le Mans, to the very obscure but equally exciting Coldwell GT or Sarcon Scarab. Mini enthusiast and author Jeroen Booij from Amsterdam has thoroughly researched, described and photographed almost sixty cars in his book. Other models profiled include such obscure Mini-based variants as the Biota Mk1, Biota Mk2 and GT, the Butterfield Musketeer GT and Camber GT, the Domino Pimlico, the Midas Bronze, the Nimrod, the Zagato Mini Gatto and dozens more. This is the first book dedicated to the cars derived from the classic Mini that made the specialist motoring market in Britain and Europe roar in the sixties, but as Booij points out this fascination didn’t fade away in the decades that followed. The seventies, eighties, and nineties saw new variants on the Mini that simply wouldn’t die. Some of these designs were wonderfully creative, some very competent and sporting and others that fall under the category of bizarre. British car enthusiasts will be familiar with many of the racing and sporting nameplates.

As well, many of the people who were originally involved with designing and building these derivatives were interviewed, which brings great insight into the whys and therefore of these creations. During the researching of this book, Booij discovered some cars that were thought to be long gone. Of the over 500 pictures in this edition, most have never been seen in print before. Just like the enthusiasm needed to build the cars described, this book has been written with great fervour. From a Canadian perspective these is the Mini variant from Reptune that was marketed by Dennis Profit in Toronto in the 1960s. I featured these cars in a column last year. Booij says “…none of the supposed four cars built were in

drivable condition.” That certainly wasn’t my understanding, but the author can’t be faulted too much on this one. Certainly, overall this is a terrific book that I am glad to have on my shelf. Yes, for the Mini fans in the Club, DRS Motors Inc carries this book. See their ad on page 14 - Ed.

The Mini Marcos, a popular variant based on Mini components

18

Refreshing the TR3A , and fitting a Toyota 5 speed transmission By Ken Law The Triumph TR3A was starting to get a little tired, the back of the car was sagging severely (and not just due to the weight of the driver) It was evident that the rear springs needed replacing after our 2 trips to the east coast. The engine was running rough with low compression. It was time for some serious work on the Triumph! The shop manual indicated it was a relatively easy job to replace the rear springs so I figured I would start there before tackling the more major tasks. Of course nothing is easy on a 48 year old car, the front of the spring is mounted via a long bolt that passes through a tube in the box frame and then into the spring eye. The manual says simply “remove the nut and then lever the bolt out through the frame freeing up the front of the spring”. Of course after 40+ years of corrosion this is not so easy and I actually had to lift the body four inches off of the frame to remove the springs, but eventually the springs were replaced and the car once again sat proudly at a more respectable ride height. So much for the easy job! It was now time to remove the engine and get it over to Hewitt Marine and Automotive Machine for rebuilding. For those that have owned or worked on a TR2 or 3 you know that to remove the engine it is not a straight forward task, since just to remove the radiator the front apron etc. must be removed. This led me to think, well why not do some work on the panel fit and follow it up with a new paint job since I was this far into it. A new transmission also looked appealing since I already had the engine out. It is evident that this engine rebuild was quickly becoming a complete refresh of the car some what like that pocket door between the kitchen and the laundry room (see the editor’s comments in the last issue of the Spanner). On our two trips down east and our longer drives around the region, I often wished we had a fully synchronized, overdrive transmission, but over the years I had been unsuccessful in sourcing one. I started looking at fitting a non Triumph transmission to give me a fully synchronized 5 speed gearbox with an overdrive 5th gear. A little research on the web indicated that the Toyota W58 gearbox out of an 80’s Supra, Celicas or a 1990’s Toyota pickup’s seemed to be the conversion of choice. The Supra/Celica gear box provides a .78 ratio for overdrive and should make the longer drives much more pleasant. One of the issues with the Triumph transmission is the integrated bell housing, this means a lot of cutting and welding of aluminium and the associated risks with alignment to fit a non stock transmission. The other alternative is purchasing one of the two conversion kits available in North America. I decided to go with the newly developed kit by Bill Close of (Eaglecart LLC), Mesa, Arizona. With the bell housing provided, the Toyota gearbox easily mated to the rebuilt engine. The quality of the bell housing is excellent. However, I did find it necessary to modify the pilot bearing provided to improve the engagement surface area of the pilot bearing and the transmission input shaft. In addition I made a new rear transmission mount to maintain the drive shaft angle since the rear mount provided with the kit raised the output shaft of the transmission about one inch higher than the stock output shaft position. By reversing the orientation of the Toyota shift lever and adjusting the angle of the lever with a little cutting and welding I was able to get the shift lever in the correct position with only a minor modification to the transmission cover to clear the Toyota shift lever mount. With the engine and transmission in the car it was time to start on the body fit and prep the panels for painting. Fortunately

the panels were in good shape since I had them chemically stripped when I first got the car as a pile of parts about 18 years ago. The door fit had always bothered me so I tried a number of ways to improve the surface alignment between the doors and the front fenders. My ultimate solution was to modify the length of the door hinge arms by cutting and welding them. The fit is not perfect but a lot better than what I started with. Once the panels were smoothed and prepped I painted the inside of the door jabs etc., and the assembled car was off to the local shop that painted my Jaguar 2 years ago. When I got the car home from paint it was time to carefully remove the body panels again and fit the stainless steel beading

between the tub, the front apron and the fenders readying the car for final assembly. The interior was in reasonable condition so the only change was making a new set of carpets and the car was back on the road.

19

The Jaguar XJS transmission conversion -part 3. by Jamie Berry Many of you will probably remember the project to change our Jaguar XJS from an automatic transmission to a 5 speed manual. Will this saga ever end? A guy can only whine so much! Well, the winter project was to take the transmission out and to lubricate the splines of the input shaft of the transmission as the clutch plate seemed to be hanging up on the fly wheel. Anyway, the clutch was not releasing properly. Bravely I started over again, all the stuff in the way was removed and finally the transmission lay in heaps on the garage floor. Surprise surprise, the problem was not as expected. In fact, the blame was not with me. The pilot bearing was dimensionally too long and pushed against the shoulder of the input shaft. This caused the input shaft to spin even when the clutch plate was released. I phoned the business where the transmission kit was purchased and he said yes, he had heard of this problem and commiserated with me. He also asked how many shims I had installed behind the clutch hydraulic central release ram. I said four shims. He then suggested I reduce the 4 shims to three. He had never heard on anyone using four shims. Always three! He wished me good luck! The offending pilot bearing came out reluctantly and a new proper fitting one installed. The transmission was installed. Then all the stuff cluttering the garage floor was installed. Finally the test drive! It worked! Yeah, but not so well. The clutch was dragging and gear changes were very difficult. Getting into reverse was a grind. Can you believe it? Three shims were not enough. I needed four shims. GAZOOKS! Changing to four shims from three sounds easy enough, but you're wrong. These shims are rings that slip onto the input shaft of the transmission behind the hydraulic release ram. Yes, the transmission had to come out again. Sheila, my wife, felt sorry for me and suggested I put wing nuts on everything to simply disassembly and assembly. Funny comment but not well received! Soooo, onward we went and the task was all re done..... Finally, the car was back on the ground and the test drive repeated. It worked fine!!! This was one long project and, hopefully, ends any more Spanner submissions on this subject.

Checking Pilot Bearing/Transmission Input Shaft Clearance By Ken Law

It’s too late to help Jamie, but here is how I measured the gap between the pilot bearing and the transmission input shaft shoulder when fitting the 5 speed to my TR3. Take a short piece of 1/16 diameter solder and form it into a ring that fits over the bearing surface of the transmission input shaft. Bolt the transmission to the engine. You do not need the pressure plate assembly or clutch disc in place for this since you will have to remove transmission again. Remove the transmission and measure the thickness of the solder ring, if it is below .020” thick I would adjust something to allow for thermal expansion etc. If the solder has not been crushed at all, repeat the operation using some putty such that you know what the gap is and can ensure you have enough engagement with the pilot bearing to give a good bearing surface. As both Jamie and I have seen you cannot always rely on the design of the kits you buy.

The rebuilt engine runs well and pulls hard when asked to,thanks to Paul Hewitt’s excellent machining and assemblywork. The Toyota transmission provides a smooth shiftinggearbox with a 22% reduction in engine revs at highwayspeeds and the combination cruises comfortably on the 401keeping up with traffic at 2,500 RPM. The speedometer gear ratio of the W58 transmission causes the stock TR3speedometer to read approximately 15% on the low side (i.e. when speedo reads 50 MPH, the car is actually doing57MPH). I may look at building a ratio adapter to fit on theback of the speedometer over the winter, but for now I willrely on my memory and hope that the OPP really do have a“15% rule”. ________________________________________________________________________

20

Staying cool in a Jaguar. By Jamie Berry

The other day, I had my 87 Jaguar XJS in the garage to fix the A/C. He found the leak, replaced the "o"rings at the back of the compressor and recharged the system. Once the compressor was reassembled it would not operate, but if the compressor was hot wired, it did operate. He concluded there was a fuse or wire problem with the car somewhere. He offered to try and fix the problem. As he was not a Jag fellow and did not have any wiring diagrams, I declined, paid him and left. Later, back at the ranch, with a little homework, I found that 12v + was reaching the compressor. There are wires running around the compressor and there had to be a problem with them. I tried and tried all the local experts and they were no help. Finally, phoned Coventry West and spoke with a Dick Maury. He said I needed a new fuse on the side of the compressor... called a thermal limiter fuse. Wow, thanks Dick! Then the fun began. Around here, no one knew what I was talking about. Finally, a fellow knew and suggested a possible source for the thermal limiter fuse for the A6 compressor. To cut the story short, the $5.60 part solved the problem. The local guy who was familiar with this part was called because he had been in the A/C trade for decades. Hats off to the old guys! Staying cool,

VViinnttaaggee RRaacciinngg BByy KKeenn LLaaww

We decided that a trip to Mosport for the VARAC races would be a good test run for the TR with its rebuilt engine and the 5 speed transmission. VARAC hosted their 31st Vintage Racing Festival at Mosport, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The weather participated and provided those in attendance with a bright sunny weekend other than a heavy thunderstorm on Saturday evening. The Sunday schedule permitted two races in each group. Two of our “racier” cub members performed well in their respective events. Despite a clutch problem that developed in the second lap of the MG feature race Joe Lightfoot in his MGB was able to finish third overall. The all MG race field consisted of approximately 50 cars ranging from MG TCs up to an MG GT V8.

Joe Lightfoot and Cheryl Barr, were all smiles with

Joe’s excellent performance.

Ted and Mary Humphries made up the other B’n B racing team, with their Daimler SP250.

Ted finished first in class and well up in the field of “big bore” cars. Ted was racing against Ford Mustangs, Kikis a 1961 Chaparral as well as a collection of MGs and Triumphs etc.

21

MMeemmbbeerr NNeewwss Susan and Curtis Armstrong attended the Hudson Quebec British Car Show on the last weekend of May. They stayed at the Auberge Willow Inn on Lake of Two Mountains with friends from the Victoria British Car Club. Coincidentally, Peter Young and Beate Scheffler with their MGB also stayed at the Willow, as they attended the show. The Boot’n Bonnet Club was well represented at the Hudson Car show with Dave and Michelle Pfaff also taking their TR3, and Barb and Ken Law with their Jaguar Mark II in attendance. Sorry if I omitted any other Clu

Everyone was treated to a sunny day and a great show with approximately 200 cars on the field and lots of vendors. As always it is well worth the trip on the quiet secondary roads of eastern Ontario and western Quebec! __________________________________________________________________

B’nB members Barbara and Gary Bowman of Henderson Harbour NY hosted the Toronto Triumph Club’s “Around the Lake Tour” of 30 Triumphs at their Aspinwall Motel. Tour participants were joined by some members of the B’nB Club and British car enthusiasts from the area to enjoy an excellent BBQ and discuss the challenges and joys of driving LBCs. The tour was heading off to the Finger Lakes district of New York on Saturday returning to the Toronto area on Sunday to complete their 3 day trip around Lake Ontario. Gary showed off his Triumph Spitfire which he uses regularly and his 1953 MG TD which patiently waits in the garage for more restoration time.

The Little Britain Motor Company sponsored a “Field of Dreams” car show at the infield by corner 8 for those that wanted to show their cars. During the lunch break show participants were given the opportunity to drive their cars in a couple of parade laps of the 2.3 mile race track. It was a good weekend for racers, their crews and spectators with an opportunity to see the various vintage race cars in the pits and on the track.

Ted pushes the SP250 hard through turn 3 in the feature race

b members and their cars.

22

__________________________________________________________________

Barbara and Ken Law took their 62 Jaguar Mark II up to the Ottawa Jaguar Club’s Concours d’ Elegance, a.k.a. a car show for those that want their car seriously judged by experts. The event also had a non judged class for “enthusiasts” like most of us. The concours took place on the Vintage Wings complex at the Gatineau Airport and participants were able to tour Michael Potter’s collection of vintage aircraft while there. Unfortunately, the day started out with some showers so attendance was only about 50 Jaguars. Those, who did attend were greeted with a sunny afternoon.

Barb and Ken’s Mark II received the People’s Choice Award, which was open to all cars in the show. Ken used the presentation of the award as an opportunity to promote the August 15, B’nB Car Show and pointed out that Jaguar was the featured marque this year. Rick Walker the producer of the TV show Old Autos Television filmed a segment on Ken’s Mark II so hopefully, we will see it on the Street, Speed Television show next fall (the re-titled name for the show). They also filmed segments on a Jaguar XK150 FHC and Jaguar XJSC with a targa top.

On the lighter side You know you have owned a British car too long when the guy at the parts store gets a cheesy grin when you walk in; is listed as a dependent on your tax return; sends you a get well card when you haven’t been in the store for two weeks; recognizes your voice on the phone.

The Toronto Triumph Club enjoyed a great evening thanks to Barbara and Gary and their family/friends in the kitchen

23

Get your cars shined up and come out to the Boot’n Bonnet Car Show

Good food and good fellowship

Kingston City Park, August 15th

See you there

WhheerreeW aanndd WhheennW

As dates and times are subject to change, a last minute check with the appropriate organization is advisable. If you notice any errors or omissions, please pass the correct information along to the editor for future editions. Ref to Red Book and Boot ‘n Bonnet web site (events) for more detailed listings and directions as well as other automotive event listings and contact information.

July

July 11 - Boot ‘n Bonnet Fun Car Rally July 14 - BBQ East - Robert and Glenda Olivier Redbook has map and directions July 17 - All British Car Day, Britannia Beach, Ottawa, Ont. July 18 - Brits in the Park, Lindsay, Ont. July 18 - Lansdowne Fair Car Show July 23-25, - British Motoring Festival in Windsor, Nova Scotia. July 28 -BBQ West - Paul and Sherry Lyn Albanese - Redbook has map and directions

September

Sept 8 – Kingston Monthly Meeting, Note- location to be confirmed Sept 10-12 – US Vintage Grand Prix, Watkins Glen, New York Sept 17-19 - The British Invasion of Stowe Sept 19 –the 27Th Annual British Car Day at Bronte Creek Sept 29 – Belleville Monthly Meeting, Winchester Arms, Hwy 62 near Belleville

August

October Aug 6-8 - British Car Event Rexton Village, New Brunswick Aug 8 - Brits on the Lake, Port Perry On. Aug 11- Kingston BBQ, Steve Hayes and Nicole Lessiter- Red Book has map and directions Aug 15- Boot ‘n Bonnet 22nd Annual British Car Day Aug 25- Quite BBQ, Lynda & Andy Sutherland - Red Book has map and directions

Oct 3 – Fall Tour – Look for more data to follow Oct 13 – Kingston Monthly Meeting, Note- Location to be confirmed Oct 27 – Belleville Monthly Meeting, Winchester Arms, Hwy 62 near Belleville

Boot’n Bonnet Fun Rally- July 11

24

CCllaassssiiffiieeddss

HHooww ggoooodd wwaass yyoouurr BBrriittiisshh CCaarr kknnoowwlleeddggee?? The answer to Les’s challenge is: the 1953 Bristol 403 Razorback

Ads will appear for three consecutive issues only and will then be automatically removed by the Editor. If you wish your ads to appear longer, please contact the Editor to advise him of your wish to keep the ad in The Spanner. Thanks Ed. Cars for Sale

1929 Austin 7 for sale $6,000. Engine and all metal work original with special body added to replace rotten one! Everything works. Car is at Brighton. Ont. Contact John at [email protected]

1995 Mini Cooper Grand Prix Unique opportunity to own the only classic Mini Cooper Grand Prix in North America # 2 of 35, (# 1 was prototype with only 33 have been actually built). Extensive full body restoration by UK specialist in Q3/09 (all rusted panels replaced plus full re-spray and undercoating) Driven almost 800 miles while on vacation in UK. Passed strict UK MOT inspection in Q3/09 New brakes, alternator, suspension, front tires. Engine, transmission, clutch, brakes, exhaust in excellent condition. LHD conversion available at additional cost (would recommend leaving as RHD to retain uniqueness of vehicle) Cost includes all shipping and import costs to Montreal. $28,500 CAD ono See the following links for specifications and history of the Mini Cooper Grand Prix: http://home.12move.nl/coopergrandprix/cooper_gp_intr

or (613)475-3828 (Winter 09/10) 1963 Sunbeam Harrington LeMans coupe, original condition, 1 of just 250 built, complete, needs basic bodywork & chrome, interior good, rebuilt engine & overdrive trans., 3 carb set-ups, extra overdrive units, engines, truckload of new & used parts. [email protected] $9,000 OBO. Trades considered 613-399-3608 (Winter 09/10) 1967 Reliant Regal 3-wheeler sedan needs fibreglass body refinishing, minor rot in one frame rail bottom, 600cc, 4-cyl. engine runs well, interior very good, extra set of wheels with 4 new Dunlop tires -as seen in Mr. Bean, but sedan rather than van. $3500 firm [email protected] 613-399-3608 (Winter 09/10) 1963 Austin Healey 3000 for sale Fully restored. California car with 4800 miles since restoration. Many upgrades. Fully documented with manuals and all receipts. Renfrew, ON. Call Roy 613-432-0690 or e/m: [email protected]

o.htm Bob: (613) 382-7541 [email protected] (Spring 10) 1967 Austin Cooper S, Vintage Racer Car #109, Recent Restoration, 1293cc, close ratio Jack Knight dog box, Salisbury limited slip, aluminium flywheel, Momo seat, fire system, 2 sets of wheels. Fast, reliable, VARAC legal, ready to race. Health forces sale, $15,300 Cdn. Frank Harnden 613-771-1508 (Spring 10) 1969 Lotus Elan Seeking offers on a 1969 Elan SE/S4 convertible. Owned and dry stored since 1986. Not driven. Very original and unmolested but not the correct engine. It has a 1750 cc Cortina GT 711M which was in the car when we bought it. Runs and has brakes. I am not in a position to restore the car so have decided it would be better off in the hands of a Lotus enthusiast. Offers invited in the $9,000 range. Photos by 'e' mail available [email protected]

(Winter 09/10) 1965 BJ8 3000, MK III, Phase 2. Mint condition and ready to drive away. Old English White, black interior with burled wood dash, wire wheels and spare tire. 30,000 miles since professional ground-up restoration in 1994 (Bronze medal winner for authenticity). Improvements since then include a rebuilt transmission, new first gear, electric overdrive solenoid, generator, ignition system, electronic fuel pump (original Lucas parts retained). Battery and two new Michelin radial tires, along with a Healey luggage rack and large waterproof suitcase for those dream vacations. Fabric top, tonneau cover and hood cover in excellent condition. British Heritage Certificate and full photo/ invoice file. PRICE - $48,000 Cdn. Contact Neil at 613-225-6362 or e-mail [email protected].

(Summer 10) (Summer 10)

25

What a Restoration!! I wonder what the paint job cost? Those of you that were on the Spring 2008 Club tour up to Micheal Potter’s Vintage Wingmay remember seeing his Sabre jet all in pieces in the hanger. Well the restoration markings used by the famed “Golden Hawks”

The Canadair F86 Sabres used on the Golden Hawks aerobatic team belonged to the Sabre Transition Unit (later 1 (Fighter) Operational Training Unit) of CFB Chatham, New Brunswick. Among other aerial maneuvers performed by the Golden Hawks, the pilots would sometimes fly staggered past the crowds at low altitude with their canopies open waving at the spectators.

Cars Wanted Have a 1969 Jaguar Mk11,want a 1950" kit car XK 120 Contact Wayne Hill 705-687-3571 or email; [email protected]

s collection at Gatineau Airport

is complete and it is painted with the

Parts for Sale (cont’d) Fuel Cell, New still in box. ALT SP 108, 8 US Gal. cell Paid over $600.00 selling for $500.00 Frank Harnden, 613 771 1508 (Spring 10) Wire wheels and 1999 Miata for sale Five 60 spoke (painted) wire wheels originally fitted to 1968 Morgan 4/4, but will fit Healeys and some other makes for sale – asking $250. Call Bob English at 613-962-8595. A friend has a 1999 Mazda Miata Anniversary Edition, BRG with beige leather interior, 77,000km, roll bar for sale priced at $9,100. Telephone Doug Mepham at 613-966-4969 (Belleville). (Spring 10)

Parts Wanted TR4 grille, tonneau cover and boot sides [email protected]

(Winter 09/10)

Parts for Sale Austin Healey Wire Wheels for sale 72 spoke very good restored condition, set of (4) for $700 60 spoke good condition, not refinished, set of (4) for $350 Both sets are in solid condition.(compare at $1100 new!) Call Roy at 613 623-0690 email: [email protected] (Winter 09/10) American Racing Wheels 13" x 7" Triumph / Lotus Description - 13" x 7" (6 1/4'inside bead) in Triumph / Lotus 3 3/4" (95.5MM) bolt pattern . 3 3/4" backspace . "turbine style" - e-mail for photos or see in the Lotus Europa registry http://lotus-europa2.com/picview.asp?page=0884rhttp://lotus-europa2.com/picview.asp?page=0884r very good condition . $450 for set of 4 Email=ce888ncf.ca (Spring 10)

. Please call 613-399-3608. (Winter 09/10)

Need at least two - Email=ce888@nc

205 60 13 Yokohama A001R tires

f.ca (Spring 10)

Accelerator cable 1980 MGB rt # 428511 cogeco.ca

Description Panuestro_casa@ (Summer 10)

26

BnB Barbeque Recipes Peggy Hutchison asked for the recipe of the broccoli salad that my wife Barbara took to the June BBQ and suggested that I possibly include some recipes from our BBQ’s in the Spanner. So here it is and I now need another recipe for the next issue, please submit your recipe to [email protected]. First in first served or is that published?

e serving bowl mix broccoli, onion, sunflower seeds, raisins In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise,

nd sugar.

r before serving salad, mix dressing with the salad s and place in fridge until ready to serve.

In a largand bacon. vinegar a One houingredient

BROCCOLI SALAD 3 bunches broccoli (flower part only) 1 small onion chopped 1 cup sunflower seeds ¾ cup raisins 8 slices cooked bacon chopped 1 cup mayonnaise 1 Tbsp. vinegar 2 Tbsp. sugar

The Boot’n Bonnet Club sells a line of clothing emblazoned with the club logo

Hooded Sweatshirts (Hoodies) with hand warmer pockets Adult $35.00 Various colours, sizes in S, M, L & XL Child $20.00 Polar Fleece Vests, zipper front. Various colours S, M, L & XL $45.00 Windbreakers, zipper front, inside pocket. Various colours With black trim. Sizes in S, M, L & XL $50.00 Sweat Shirts $25.00 Golf Shirts $20.00 T Shirts $15.00

Clocks, double decker bus, Mini, Morgan, Union Jack $18.00 - $25.0

Some of the MGB’s from MG2010 Photos by Keith Foley

We are your local source for quality parts and only stock the best. When you consider the benefits of friendly local service, no quibble exchanges, next day delivery or same day pick-up, plus great advice and customer service, British Auto Sport is hard to beat.

Try us for your next project!

1565 Hwy 5 West, RR#1Troy, Ontario, L0R 2B0

Toll Free 1-888-485-2277Local: 905-627-999524hr Fax: 416-410-6479E-mail: [email protected]

Pssst! Want Some Great Advice?

You could search big catalogues for the best priceYou could buy parts from various suppliers You could pay huge shipping and crazy broker feesYou could be returning the partsYou could......but why would you?

British Auto sportToll Free 1-888-485-2277

BAS AD.indd 1 5/24/10 1:02:24 PM

28

We are C.A.R (Classic Automotive Repair) and our top priority is to look after your most prized Classic Car, we pride ourselves on the fact we treat your pride and joy as if it was our own. Classic Automotive Repair was established in April 2009 by Steve Hayes who emigrated from the UK in 2008 bringing with him a wealth of information on many makes of cars from Britain and Europe. His experience started in 1989 when he became an apprentice working right up to Service Manager where he then decided it was a more hands on role that kept his love of cars engaged.

Some of the services we offer:-

Steve and one of his pride and joys – 2001 Land Rover Discovery

Full and Part Servicing Diagnostics and Fault finding Full to Part Restoration Parts Finder Service Welding and Fabrication Detailing and Clean-up Winterization and De-Winterization Please feel free to contact me if you have a question or need to know more information about the services we offer:

[email protected] 613 583 4311 Cell

613 372 5337 Home