AboutJo Jesty Expertise Most detailed about Austin Healeys but also MGs (A,B,C), old Minis, old Volvos: they share SU carbs, Lucas (Prince of Darkness!) ignition, Girling brakes & shocks. Some things shared with TRs too, but I don't know so much about them. Can advise the semi-neophyte on the basics of keeping things running, especially tuning ignition and carbs: but no rebuilding engines or transmissions; no frame or bodywork.
Experience Middling: I am not an auto mechanic. (Should we stop right here?)
Grew up In England and a workshop. I have had a 3-carb 60/61 Healey for ca. 8 years, largely looked after myself. New fuel system and carbs and resuscitated ignition recently. Brakes always fine. Great driver's car. Major jobs done by others: king pins, front frame cancer excision; caliper rebuild; etc. Organizations.: Austin Healey Sports & Touring Car Club (PA)
Publications: irrelevant
Education/CredentialsPhD: irrelevant to this
Awards and Honors: irrelevant
Languages: I could try French...
Question could u tell me was there ever a mini with the engine in the rear.
Answer No, never. Issigonis designed the transverse front-engined layout, with transmission in one piece with the engine, and the Mini is it. At that time it was the fastest cube between two points. Of course now 9 out of 10 cars have this layout. JJ
Followup: the Imp, early 60s, was indeed rear-engined, but not transverse. Same size as the Mini--850 cc or so. I drove one myself for 2-3 years, but the cooling arrangement was very poor (radiator beside the engine in the rear, with not enough airflow), leading to overheating and head gasket problems. JJ
