Barrie: You have to be one or the other (original or modified and
improved)? I disagree. I consider myself to be both.
After purchasing my car while stationed in England with the USAF, I
considered the possibility of an engine swap in the future when the original
engine needed rebuilding or replacing. At the time, I had an F85 Oldsmobile
with a V6 engine. I did all the measurements and determined that a swap was
feasible. However, when I returned to the States, I joined Pacific Center
(now Austin Healey Club USA) and Austin Healey Club of America. I
discovered that the value of the car was in originality. I scrapped the
engine swap idea.
In the 41 years that I have owned and driven this car, I have added many of
the things that Donald would have added if he were still around and building
Healeys today. These include electronic ignition, additional gauges,
"idiot" lights above the dash gauges, cruise control, C.B. radio, high beam
flasher, four-way emergency lights, coolant overflow tank, and intermittent
wiper control. I have also added items that Donald may not have - John
Alley Racing rollover bar, Smiths oil level indicator, driving computer, and
electric supplemental radiator fan.
I have not lost my concern for originality. Should I or a future purchaser
desire a more original car, every item listed above is hung on existing
screws or in original holes. All could be removed without any evidence
these things were installed on the car. I want to maintain the possibility
of having an original Healey while temporarily adding those items that
provide an improved driving experience for me. Only 13,000 miles to go
before the odo rolls over to 200,000 miles.
(The Other) Len
Vacaville, CA, USA
1967 AH 3000 MkIII, HBJ8L39031
----- Original Message -----
From: "Barrie Robinson" <barrie at look.ca>
To: "David Nock" <healeydoc at sbcglobal.net>; "Rich Chrysler"
<richchrysler at quickclic.net>
Cc: <healeys at autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, June 17, 2011 8:15 AM
Subject: Re: [Healeys] FW: Original 750 Mile BN2
> David,
>
>
> There are several different types of "enthusiasts". One of which is
> those who want to preserve the history and thus dote on originality.
> Another type is the one who modify their car and boots it round the
> countryside. The former cherishes cars in original condition, the
> latter realising that originality has gone, modifies and improves. But
> you have to be one or the other !!!
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