Jonn replaced the rotor arm and refitted the distributor cap of our 1968 Austin Mini Cooper S. He then tightened the steering wheel and removed the floor mat from beneath the pedals. Topped up the coolant and checked the oil level, which was satisfactory. Carried out a walkaround inspection and moved the vehicle outside to check tyre pressures and begin a road test, but the engine failed to start.
He carried out diagnostics by checking for spark. With the ignition on, he removed the distributor cap and confirmed spark at the contact points. Refit the cap and used a new spark plug to check for spark at No.4 HT lead, which was present. Suspected stale fuel. Removed all spark plugs, cleaned, and regapped them. Added 10 litres of fresh petrol and attempted to start the engine. It started but initially ran poorly. Allowed the engine to warm up and carried out a road test. Engine performance improved gradually, eventually running smoothly on all four cylinders. Road test completed successfully.
The vehicle was then raised for further inspection. Greased all necessary points. Removed all wheels to check the brakes. Rotated the front wheels side to side to comply with directional rotation guidance printed on the tyre sidewalls. Adjusted rear brakes and refitted wheels, ensuring all tyres were correctly inflated.
Commenced repairs. Removed the nearside headlight in preparation for replacement. Removed and cleaned the offside carburettor float bowl. Attended to a sticking needle valve by cleaning it thoroughly to restore free movement. Reassembled and tested with no signs of fuel leakage. Repositioned the suspension pipe to clear the exhaust and tightened all exhaust clamps. Secured various bolts throughout the vehicle during inspection.
Removed front wheels and stripped both track rod ends to replace perished rubber boots. Installed new boots and secured them with lock wire. Refit track rod ends and wheels. Lowered vehicle and torqued wheel nuts. Removed steering wheel, rotated it two splines to the left to correct alignment, then refitted and secured.
