Jonn conducted an initial inspection and performed a rod test on our 1959 Austin Healey 3000 before returning the vehicle to the workshop for a full appraisal. He greased all lubrication points and drained the differential oil, which had emulsified and appeared creamy, indicating potential water contamination. He then checked and cleared the rear axle breather. After removing a rear wheel, he inspected the brakes, removed corrosion from the discs and drums, cleaned the inside of the offside rear wheel, and securely refitted the rear wheels, tightening the knock-offs properly. He adjusted the rear brakes to ensure correct operation.
The rear differential casing was cleaned using brake cleaner and refilled with fresh oil. All tyres were inflated to the correct pressures. Jonn then stripped the offside front hub, removed the brake calliper and disc, and inspected the wheel bearings. He found the bearings to be worn with noticeable play, prompting an order for replacements. The hub was cleaned thoroughly and the bearing races removed in preparation for the new bearings. All parts intended for reuse were cleaned, and the area was tidied.
Jonn proceeded to strip and remove the nearside track rod in order to replace the rubber boots. These components were cleaned in a degreasing tank before new rubbers were fitted and secured with lock wire. Both joints were greased, reassembled, and fixed in place with new split pins. Wiring near the steering box was secured and tidied using a P-clip.
To investigate a discrepancy with the fuel gauge, Jonn removed the fuel tank sender. Although the gauge indicated a full tank, he confirmed the tank was filled with old fuel. He disconnected the pipe from the pump and used a hose pump to transfer the old fuel into barrels. Upon checking the sender, he discovered the arm was too long and was contacting the bottom of the tank, resulting in inaccurate readings. Attempts to modify the arm were unsuccessful, so a new sender was ordered. Fuel lines were blown out and reconnected.
Jonn then extracted old fluid from the brake master cylinder and refilled it with fresh brake fluid. Both the brake and clutch systems were bled. He checked for leaks and ensured the reservoir was properly topped up. Finally, he removed the spark plugs in preparation for fitting new ones.
