SUNBEAM & TALBOT CAR CLUB
OF VICTORIA INC.
Technical Tips
IMPORTANT INFORMATION RE 1725cc OIL DIPSTICK by Terry Sully
Many owners of Alpines and Series Rapiers have changed their original 1600cc engine and replaced it with one often sourced from a Hillman Hunter (1725cc). The Hunter engine was originally fitted at a 10 degree angle, leaning to the left hand side of vehicle and when fitted to an Alpine/Rapier it now sits vertical. The dipstick from the Hunter now indicates the incorrect oil level in the engine, which will now require new level marks. If you follow the diagram, it is quite a simple matter to check your dipstick.
N.B. No check is required for Sunbeam Rapier Fastback.
BLEEDING THE CLUTCH SYSTEM HYDRAULICS by Terry Sully
If you have replaced either master/slave cylinder or changed the fluid, difficulty in bleeding the system often follows.
The solution is simple. You don't clear the air, with the cause usually being the run of the pipe, which rises above the master cylinder before descending to the slave. This causes an air pocket at the top which doesn't get pushed down and out of the system as there isn't enough capacity in the master cylinder to do it in one application.
SOLUTIONS ARE:
1. Rerun (temporarily) the pipe to only go down to the slave cylinder (if possible)
2. Use one of the pressure bleeding devices which forces fluid through the system.
* Bleed nipple on slave cylinder is fitted above fluid pipe.
Click on Image
FAULTY OVERDRIVE (LATCHING) RELAY by Terry Sully
Alpine Series III - IV - V
Rapier Series
As our Rootes Group vehicles are now reaching 50 years old gremlins
in electrical systems are now more common with one in particular being the overdrive system.
The problem we are dealing with now is the overdrive relay,
which is activated by the O.D switch on the steering column.
The relay is located under the bonnet fixed to the firewall above the steering column.
These relays are very rare to purchase but often can be
serviced (internal points require cleaning), which requires the relay to be removed
from vehicle and unsoldering the earth connection at the end of the
casing and remove the internals.
Carefully clean contact points and then reassemble and refit.
If the relay is still faulty, you can purchase a 2 pole 12 volt relay
and 10 ohm 3 watt resistor from Jaycar Electronic Stores (less than $20)
and connect as per diagram. A headlight relay is also very suitable from
any Rootes Group vehicle.If you require any assistance, ring Terry on. 0418995372.
I have carried out this repair to Alpines with no problems arising.
Terry Sully
ALPINE SUBSTITUTION PARTS GUIDE by Matt Hourigan
Ever wondered if a mechanical part, for example a gearbox or engine from a Hillman or a Humber might be a suitable substitute for a hard to get Alpine part? Here is a comprehensive substitution parts guide you may find useful. Click here to see the document