Jonn carried out work on our 1959 Austin Healey 3000, beginning with the installation of a new offside front wheel bearing. He fully greased and adjusted the bearing, then refitted the wheel and conducted an initial test. After removing the wheel to readjust the bearing, he refitted and tested it again, confirming it was operating correctly. He then removed the wheel once more to fit the split pin and dust cap, before finally refitting the wheel and securing it tightly. The kingpin and trunnion were greased, and a check for play showed no issues.
A new fuel tank sender was fitted and tested, but the float was initially contacting the bottom of the tank. Jonn bent the float arm to ensure it read empty properly, then confirmed correct operation and secured the sender in place. He refitted the boot carpet and associated trim. A new washer pump was installed, with the pipes connected and tested successfully. Jonn adjusted the jets and rechecked the system, confirming it was functioning correctly.
He removed the old choke cable and fitted a new one, cutting it to the correct length before securing it. The choke was tested for full engagement and release, which proved satisfactory. Pedal rubbers were glued in place. Attempts were made to adjust the throttle linkages, but Jonn encountered persistent issues: he could either achieve a closed throttle with only partial travel at full depression, or full throttle without the system returning to a closed position. Upon consulting reference material, he determined the problem was due to excessive play in the linkages, caused by worn shaft bushes. The shaft was stripped and removed, revealing bent mounting brackets and badly worn bushes. New mounts and bushes were ordered.
Jonn then removed ducting from the offside inner wing to access and adjust the steering box free play. After locking it up and testing, the result was satisfactory. A tracking check was performed due to the nearside wheel appearing to be out when the offside was aligned straight. Measurement confirmed a two-degree toe-out. The nearside ball joint was removed and adjusted inward. The nearside lock nut was undone and the centre track rod adjusted to draw both wheels in. After refitting the ball joint, the tracking was checked and fine-tuned to achieve a slight toe-in. The ball joint was secured with a split pin, and the track rod lock nuts were tightened to complete the adjustment.
