Quick recap The meeting began with technical troubleshooting and casual conversation before introducing the Plains Technical Zoom call initiative by the Austin Healey Club of America, which aims to provide technical support and foster community through monthly regional events. The session featured an expert panel discussing various technical aspects of British car maintenance, including brake fluid types, door handle repairs, and transmission fluid choices. The group concluded with discussions about engine oil maintenance, winter car storage procedures, and handling issues with a 1959 Bugeye Sprite, while emphasizing the importance of regular driving and maintenance for classic cars. Next steps •Pete: Post this meeting's video and audio recording on the website under Plains section within the next day or two •Pete: Update the YouTube channel for Plains tech sessions with this meeting content •Matt: Check Tom's car alignment in Sugar Grove if Tom makes the trip •Tom: Check tire pressure and lower from 28 PSI to around 18-20 PSI on front and back •Tom: Jack up car and check for loose suspension components by shaking wheels top to bottom and side to side •Tom: Check if shock absorbers are functioning properly •Tom: Get car aligned, especially checking toe-in settings for radial tires •Tom: Consider checking tire balance and inspect for water inside tires •Tom Hartman: Try using Milwaukee Sawzall with short blade to remove seized lower wishbone arm bushings •Tom Hartman: Report back on progress with wishbone bushing removal •Ian: Check out AHCA membership using promotional code 1961 for $10 membership •Matt and team: Schedule next Plains tech session for January 13th •Matt: Post links to future tech sessions on AHCA Facebook group for broader reach Summary Technical Troubleshooting and Casual Chats The meeting began with technical troubleshooting and participants engaged in casual conversation about model car collections. Steve Myers was praised for his initiative in sharing meeting information on Facebook. Pete Sturtevant demonstrated the ability to share documents or files during the meeting using the Zoom share feature. Plains Technical Zoom Call Initiative The meeting introduced the Plains Technical Zoom call, an initiative by the Austin Healy Club of America to provide technical support and foster community among members. Pete explained the purpose of these monthly calls, which are modeled after successful sessions in the Northeast and Mid-America regions, and outlined plans to expand to the West and South, aiming for five regional events by 2026. Participants discussed the benefits of these calls, including attracting younger enthusiasts and providing support for new car owners. The meeting also covered technical details about various cars and restoration projects, and attendees were reminded about the recording and posting of the session on the club's website. Plains States Tech Session Overview The Plains states tech session, organized by the Austin Healey Club of America, welcomed 25-26 participants to address technical concerns and questions. The session featured an expert panel including Matt Krajniak, Steve Rixen, and Steve Myers, each with extensive experience in British car maintenance. The group discussed technical issues, including replacing a BJ8 windshield, with Steve Rixen providing guidance on the challenges of removing rusted fasteners and corner brackets. The session aimed to provide a value-added resource for members, with an open forum for questions and an upcoming conclave planned for 2026 in Galena, Illinois. Silicone Brake Fluid Conversion Risks Jim sought advice on converting his classic car's brake fluid to silicone, aiming to avoid paint damage. Steve and Matt advised against the conversion unless paint protection was the primary concern, citing downsides like incompatibility with other fluids, compressibility, and the need for a full overhaul. They emphasized the importance of proper flushing and bleeding, regardless of fluid type, and recommended using DOT3 or DOT4 for better performance and compatibility. Jim acknowledged the extensive work required for a full conversion and considered the long-term maintenance implications. Brake Fluid Compatibility Discussion The group discussed brake fluid types, with Steven explaining that while DOT3 and DOT4 are compatible for modern components, DOT5 (silicone) is not compatible with other fluids. Steven recommended using either DOT3 or DOT4 for street cars, noting that DOT4 has a higher boiling point but absorbs moisture faster. He provided a Moss part number (582-505) for a new master cylinder gasket and advised Jim to be careful when cleaning brake fluid spills, suggesting using rubbing alcohol followed by water for painted surfaces. Matt added that for street cars, DOT3 is sufficient as long as it's flushed every few years, and Steven emphasized the importance of regular driving and maintenance to extend the life of the car. Car Maintenance and Transmission Fluid The group discussed two main topics: a door handle repair for Bernie's car and transmission fluid choices for Austin Healey vehicles. For Bernie's door handle issue, Steve suggested using a 5/16th roll pin as a replacement, while for transmission fluid, Matt recommended using Redline MT90 or MT80-5, though others including Steve and Brad shared their experiences with different oils including VR1 and Penn Grade Oil. The discussion concluded that modern oils no longer need to worry about ZDDP content, as other additives were the main cause of wear problems in vintage cars. Classic Car Engine Oil Maintenance The group discussed engine oil maintenance for classic cars, with Dempsey recommending Valvoline VR1 based on his experience working for the company and its racing involvement. Matt advised against oil additives, citing potential risks, and suggested using VR1, which can be purchased in bulk for a discounted price of about $5.50 per quart. The group agreed on the importance of regular oil changes, particularly in the fall to prevent water and carbon buildup over winter, and Steven recommended using a good Wix spin-on oil filter when not pursuing concours-level originality. Classic Car Winter Storage Tips The group discussed winter car storage and starting procedures for classic cars. Matt advised letting the fuel pressure pump up before attempting to start a Healey, checking the ignition system and battery, and using fuel stabilizers like "Stable" for long-term storage. They also discussed tire inflation for winter storage, with Steven and Steve recommending over-inflating radial tires by 4-5 psi for cold weather and using tire savers to prevent flat spotting. Brad Swiggart noted that while concours judging for the Healey Club ignores tire type, other car clubs like AACA still deduct points for radial tires. Bugeye Sprite Suspension Troubleshooting The group discussed spin-on adapters, with Matt recommending Moss adapters and Steve warning about potential leaks and proper installation orientation. Tom raised concerns about his 1959 Bugeye Sprite experiencing twitchy steering and losing track at high speeds, despite new shocks from Peter Caldwell. The group suggested checking alignment, tire balance, and suspension components, with Matt emphasizing the importance of proper installation and inspection of new components. Tom's Sprite Handling Issues The group discussed Tom's handling issues with his Sprite, focusing on potential causes including suspension bushings, tire pressure, and alignment. They agreed that while polyurethane bushings are not inherently problematic, they can amplify road feedback, and suggested checking for loose components and inspecting the shock absorbers, which Steve revealed had no damping. Ian recommended lowering the tire pressure from 28 to 18-20 psi, while Matt offered to perform an alignment check at his facility in Sugar Grove. Despite the car feeling tight and responsive, Tom expressed concern about its unpredictable behavior over bumps, particularly given its recent restoration, and planned to address these issues in spring. Austin Healey Technical Restoration Discussion The meeting focused on technical discussions about Austin Healey car maintenance, with particular emphasis on shock absorber rebuilding and restoration resources. Pete announced that the meeting would be recorded and posted on the AHCA website, with both video and audio available to members. The group discussed various restoration shops in Wisconsin, including Worldwide Auto Parts in Madison where Peter Caldwell performs shock reconstructions. Matt emphasized the importance of frequent driving for maintaining classic cars, while Ian, who is on the board of the Vintage Sports Car Club of Calgary, expressed interest in joining the AHCA. The group also discussed upcoming tech sessions at the Conclave event in Galena, which will include sessions on Sprites and possibly a panel discussion about the future of Healey cars.
Quick recap The meeting focused on technical discussions and troubleshooting for Austin Healey vehicles, with particular emphasis on transmission fluids, overdrive systems, and electrical upgrades. The group discussed transmission fluid types and maintenance intervals, with consensus that Redline MT90 or engine oil are suitable choices, though proper drainage of both transmission and overdrive units is crucial. The conversation then shifted to electrical upgrades, including the installation of XS Ultracapacitors as an alternative to traditional batteries, with Steve Myers sharing his experience using these units in multiple classic cars. The conversation ended with detailed troubleshooting of a member's fuel and tachometer gauge issues, with Matt offering to bring a spare tachometer gauge to the next meeting to help diagnose the problem. Next steps •Matt: Bring a Triumph Spitfire tachometer to the next meeting to help Yevhen test if his BJ8 tachometer gauge or wiring is at fault •Matt: Look at wiring diagrams for BJ8 and Triumph Spitfire to compare tachometer/gauge wiring before next meeting •Matt: Talk to John at Thursday's meeting about Yevhen's tachometer and fuel gauge issues to see if they can determine the cause •Steve (Myers): Follow up with Matt about creating a list of educational demonstration topics for future tech sessions •Yevhen: Take good pictures of tachometer connections and distributor connections (showing wire colors) to help diagnose tachometer issue •Yevhen: Attend Thursday's meeting to discuss tachometer and fuel gauge issues in person •Matt: Add Sirab's in-person tech sessions to the Midwest Healy Club calendar Summary 1.Austin Healey Transmission Maintenance Issues The group discussed transmission and overdrive problems in Austin Healey cars, focusing on fluid selection and maintenance. Matt explained that while Redline MT90 was used, the car's transmission capacity is 7.5 pints, and proper fluid levels should be checked after driving. The discussion covered various oil types, with Matt recommending Redline MT85 or MT90 gear oil, and Steve noting that transmission fluid should be changed every 2-3 years regardless of driving conditions. The main issue with the overdrive not working was determined to likely be an electrical problem, with common solutions including checking the solenoid, switch, and interrupter switch, as well as ensuring proper buffer function. 2.Austin Healey Overdrive Transmission Discussion The group discussed the overdrive transmissions in Austin Healey cars, with Steven Rixen explaining their unique electrical relay system that engages overdrive above half-throttle. Matt shared his preference for overdrive units over 5-speed transmissions, while Dan suggested that transmission issues might be due to oil contamination from not properly draining the overdrive unit. The conversation concluded with a discussion about Toyota 5-speed transmissions as alternatives, with Gary Wetzel noting that Toyota transmissions were more expensive now, around $1,200-1,500, compared to the $4,500-5,000 Tremec option. 3.Healey Performance Enhancement Modifications The group discussed modifications to improve the reliability of Healey cars, focusing on hidden modifications that can enhance performance without being easily visible. Matt suggested replacing points with an electronic ignition to reduce maintenance needs, while Dan recommended using a Facet fuel pump for its reliability. Steve shared his experience with Holley fuel pumps and pressure regulators, emphasizing their compatibility with SU carburetors and their ability to prevent vapor lock. The discussion also touched on the use of MSD electronic distributors and the potential issues with Pertronix distributors, with Greg sharing a personal experience of a failed Pertronix distributor. 4.Electronic Distributor Discussion and Options The group discussed electronic distributors, with Steve recommending 123 Ignition distributors from the Netherlands, which offer Bluetooth connectivity and digital control through a phone app. Matt noted that while electronic distributors have advantages like precise timing control, they can completely fail if the electronic component malfunctions, unlike mechanical distributors which might still allow driving despite issues. Gary shared his positive experience with the 123 Ignition distributor in his BT7, though he mentioned some fit issues with the distributor cap. The conversation concluded with Gary discussing his switch to dual fuel pumps mounted on the passenger side, which he had recently modified with Tom Hartman using aluminum and steel brackets. 5.Fuel Pump and Distributor Discussion The group discussed fuel pumps, with Gary Springer explaining his decision to use a cylindrical pump as the primary and a cube pump as backup, based on Pegasus' recommendation. Steve provided guidance on 123 distributors, noting that programmable versions require self-programming and cannot be shipped with pre-installed maps, while dip-switch versions offer 12 pre-set maps. The discussion concluded with Tom sharing his experience with a programmable CSI distributor that offers both manual settings and programmable options, and Matt emphasizing the importance of vacuum advance for performance. 6.Classic Car Electrical Upgrade Discussion The group discussed various upgrades for classic cars, focusing on electrical and mechanical improvements. Steve highlighted three essential upgrades: electronic ignition, ultracapacitors for improved electrical stability, and replacing generators with alternators. Matt suggested high-torque starters as a valuable upgrade for easier cranking, particularly with ultracapacitors. The discussion also covered LED lighting upgrades, with Steve emphasizing the safety benefits of LED tail lights. No major issues were reported with the alternator generators, and the group agreed on the benefits of these upgrades for maintaining and enhancing classic car performance. 7.Ultracapacitors for Vehicle Applications Steve discussed the benefits of using Ultracapacitors in vehicles, explaining that they maintain a consistent voltage during cranking and are not affected by temperature, making them ideal for cold weather starting. He warned about proper installation of high-torque starters and the dangers of using incorrect fuses, particularly when replacing Lucas fuses with blade-style fuses, as this can lead to wiring damage. Steve also addressed questions about the durability and charging of ultracapacitors, noting that they are more expensive than lead-acid batteries but offer long-lasting performance and quick charging capabilities. 8.Ultracapacitors for Classic Car Upgrades The group discussed Ultracapacitors for Austin Healey cars, with Steve explaining their benefits and installation. He noted that Ultracapacitors provide more cranking voltage and longer lifespan than traditional batteries, lasting 20-30 years. Matt suggested upgrading to an Ultracapacitor instead of an AGM battery for cost-effectiveness. The group also touched on fuel quality issues affecting older cars, particularly with modern fuels causing problems like run-on and vapor lock. 9.Tri-carb Engine Troubleshooting Discussion The group discussed issues with tri-carb engines, where Dan shared a trick from Tom Kovacs about using a fuel pump switch to prevent flooding. They also explored the challenges of electronic ignitions, with Steven Rixen noting they can be problematic with weak batteries or connectivity issues, while points ignitions were preferred for their reliability. The conversation concluded with Yevhen seeking advice about fixing a fuel gauge and tachometer, which led to a brief discussion about gauge calibration and repair options. 10.Austin Healey Gauge Troubleshooting The group discussed two issues with Yevhen's Austin Healey BJ8: a non-functional tachometer and a fuel gauge that only shows half full instead of going to full. Matt suggested checking the fuel sending unit as the likely cause for the fuel gauge problem, while Steve recommended using a decade box for testing. For the tachometer issue, Matt offered to bring a spare Triumph Spitfire tachometer to the next meeting to help diagnose whether the problem is with the gauge or wiring. The discussion concluded with Steve noting that the BJ8's tachometer is sensitive to electronic ignition systems and may not work properly after converting to negative ground. 11.Car Tachometer Troubleshooting Discussion The meeting focused on troubleshooting a tachometer issue for Yevhen's car, with Matt, Steve, and others providing guidance. They discussed the complexity of the car's wiring and suggested taking pictures of the connections to diagnose the problem. Steve recommended converting the RVI tachometer to a standard signal type. The group also addressed fuel tank capacity questions, clarifying that while the original specification was 16 gallons, it's challenging to achieve this due to air traps and potential fuel spillage. Matt encouraged club members to attend local tech sessions and join the AHCA for more support and education.
The Midwest Austin-Healey technical Zoom session brought together club members for an open discussion covering maintenance, safety upgrades, troubleshooting, and upcoming events in the Austin-Healey community. Matt Krajniak and Steve Meyers led the session, answering questions submitted ahead of time as well as live questions from participants. The format remained informal, with the goal of sharing practical experience and helping members keep their cars reliable and on the road. 1.Brake Booster Rebuild and Installation The session began with a question about rebuilding a brake booster using a Moss Motors rebuild kit. The specific concern involved a stiff vacuum chamber seal and whether it should be soaked in brake fluid prior to installation. The consensus was that brake fluid can be used to soften the seal slightly before installation, but only parts designed to contact brake fluid should be lubricated with it. Grease or oil should not be used on vacuum components or leather seals inside the booster. Later in the meeting, another member discussed installing an aftermarket remote brake booster. Questions were raised about the correct mounting angle and orientation of the unit. The recommendation was to follow the manufacturer’s guidance as closely as possible, but it was noted that the system likely tolerates some variation because vehicles encounter slopes and banking during normal driving. In one member’s experience troubleshooting a new booster, the unit itself turned out to be defective, illustrating that new components are not always immune from faults. 2.Brake Light Visibility and Safety Upgrades A significant portion of the discussion focused on improving brake light visibility in modern traffic. Several members have installed flashing brake light modules that briefly pulse the lights when the brake pedal is first applied before switching to steady illumination. These devices, commonly used on motorcycles, help draw attention to the vehicle—an important consideration given the small size of classic cars like the Austin-Healey. LED brake lights were strongly recommended as one of the simplest and most effective safety upgrades. Compared to incandescent bulbs, LEDs illuminate more quickly and reach full brightness faster, providing drivers behind additional reaction time. Some members also discussed installing a third brake light, which can be mounted using Healey-specific brackets and further increases visibility. Because many Healeys were originally positive-ground electrical systems, the conversation included a discussion of converting cars to negative ground in order to accommodate modern electronics and LED lighting. For cars still using points ignition and generators, the conversion is typically straightforward and may only require reversing battery polarity and repolarizing the generator. Accessories such as radios, electronic ignition systems, or polarity-sensitive LED bulbs may require additional changes. 3.LED Lighting Upgrades Beyond brake lights, members discussed LED headlight conversions. Participants recommended products that retain a period-correct appearance rather than modern-looking headlight assemblies. Several members reported excellent results using LED headlights that mimic the original sealed-beam appearance while dramatically improving nighttime visibility. The group emphasized that lighting upgrades should be considered a priority safety improvement, especially for members who drive their Healeys at night. Turn signal LEDs were also discussed, though in some cases resistors or electronic flashers may be required to ensure proper operation. 4.Roadside Safety Equipment A member asked about recommended equipment to carry in case of a roadside breakdown. Suggestions included LED emergency triangles or magnetic warning lights that can be placed behind the vehicle to alert other drivers. Some club members have obtained inexpensive LED warning triangles online and carry them in their cars. Another practical recommendation was to carry a small auxiliary fuel container. One member demonstrated a compact fuel can designed to store about 1.75 gallons of fuel, which includes a built-in spout and avoids modern safety nozzles that are often difficult to use. 5.Transmission Fluid Recommendations The topic of transmission fluid generated an extensive discussion. The Austin-Healey factory manual specifies engine oil for the gearbox, typically the same oil used in the engine such as 20W-50. Some owners also use straight 30-weight oil. Several members prefer modern synthetic manual transmission fluids such as Red Line MT-85 or MT-90. These fluids offer strong anti-foaming and anti-wear additives and perform well in gearboxes with overdrive units. The group strongly cautioned against using GL5 gear oil in Healey transmissions. GL5 oils contain additives designed for hypoid gears that can damage the brass synchronizers used in these gearboxes. GL4 gear oil is safer if gear oil is used, but many participants continue to favor engine oil or modern manual transmission fluids. Transmission oil change intervals were also discussed. For cars driven regularly, changing gearbox oil every couple of years—or annually if using engine oil—was considered good practice. 6.Fluid Maintenance Members discussed the broader importance of routine fluid changes throughout the car. Engine oil, gearbox oil, brake fluid, and coolant should all be replaced periodically to reduce corrosion and internal wear. One recommendation was to change fluids in the fall before winter storage, so the vehicle sits with clean fluids rather than contaminants. Battery maintenance was also mentioned, particularly checking electrolyte levels in traditional lead-acid batteries. 7.Trafficator and Steering Column Issues One member asked about a problem in which the trafficator (the steering-wheel-mounted turn signal control used in some Healeys) rotated when the steering wheel was turned. Participants suggested that the issue could be related to the steering column tube not being properly clamped near the steering box or a worn olive fitting at the column exit point. Owners with adjustable steering columns noted that misalignment of the internal slot and detent mechanism could also cause the assembly to rotate. Grub screws and other column hardware should also be checked for proper tightening. The conversation expanded into a related issue involving steering wheel alignment after a front-end alignment. In some cases, correcting steering wheel position may require removing the steering wheel from the splines, which can be complicated because the trafficator wiring runs through the column. 8.Fuel Quality and Ethanol A question was raised about whether “Top Tier” gasoline provides benefits for classic cars. While higher-detergent fuels can be beneficial for modern direct-injection engines, the consensus was that the benefits are less significant for carbureted engines like those in Austin-Healeys. More important considerations include using the correct octane fuel and avoiding ethanol where possible. Ethanol can absorb moisture, separate from the fuel during storage, and cause corrosion in fuel systems and carburetors. However, if the car is driven regularly and fuel is not allowed to sit for long periods, ethanol-related issues are less severe. If a car sits unused, members recommended adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent fuel degradation. 9.Fuel Pump Noise A member reported excessive noise from a newly installed aftermarket electric fuel pump. The group suggested that the noise was likely being amplified through the vehicle body because the pump was mounted directly to metal. Installing rubber isolation mounts between the pump and the chassis can significantly reduce vibration and noise. Pump location was also discussed, as some Healeys mount the pump above the exhaust pipe where heat can contribute to fuel system issues. 10.Originality and Preservation A discussion emerged around preserving originality in classic Healeys, particularly when dealing with highly original cars. One example involved a low-mileage Healey with many original components, including tires from the period. Members debated whether repairs should prioritize preserving originality or maintaining the car’s condition. One common approach is to maintain original parts for concours display while using modern replacements for driving. This allows owners to preserve historical authenticity while still enjoying their cars on the road. 11.Conclave 50 Update The meeting concluded with an update on the upcoming Austin-Healey Club of America Conclave, which will be held in Galena, Illinois. This year’s event marks the 50th anniversary of Conclave, and organizers are planning a special program to celebrate the milestone. Galena was highlighted as an excellent location due to its scenic roads and historic character. Event activities will include driving events, gymkhana competitions, and other traditional Conclave activities. Members were encouraged to register early and participate in what promises to be a memorable event for the Healey community. 12.Road America Vintage Racing Event Participants also discussed an opportunity to extend the Conclave experience by attending a vintage racing event at Road America the weekend following Conclave. The event includes vintage racing, concours displays, and a reenactment drive recreating the historic road course through the town of Elkhart Lake. This provides a unique opportunity for Healey enthusiasts to combine Conclave with one of the premier vintage racing events in the region.