Maintenance Guide: Austin 7

From Classic Car Life

Maintenance Guide: Austin 7

The Austin 7 is an old car produced between 1922 and 1939. These classic cars were created to suit the growing market for family vehicles that were affordable. During its time, the Austin 7 was made into several different versions including a saloon, a 2-seater sports car and a light van. Spare parts for this old car are cheap to buy and readily available. This guide details information about classic car parts for the Seven as well as some background to its components to assist with maintenance.

Engine

The Austin 7 was made with a few different engine types over the years. This old car began with a 696cc in 1922 until the following year when it was upgraded to a 747cc engine which stayed until 1937. The crankshaft was updated a few times with the three-bearing one incorporated in 1936. However, these have been known to break easily, so many prefer the two-bearing crankshaft classic car parts. If your Austin 7 dates after 1932, all the engines are interchangeable.

Brakes

Models made pre-1930 used the handbrake for the front and the footbrake for the rear. After this year though, the brakes were connected so that the footbrake and handbrake controlled both the rear and front brakes.

Leather Upholstery

If you are lucky enough to still have the original leather in your Austin 7, it is vital that you maintain it so that it does not deteriorate. Hide Food should be used on it every 6 months. This product will leave the leather strong and supple. Colour renovation kits can be used to treat faded leather in your old car.

General Maintenance

Classic cars like this usually come with a detailed and simple manual which should provide you with the necessary information to keep caring for the vehicle. Diagrams of electrics can go a long way in checking that the wiring of your old car is in good order.