The Sprite Forum

Hi

I have a 1963 austin healey sprite. which is probably beyond economic repair as regards the rolling chassis.

can I restore the above using a 1969 rolling chassis bearing in mind that the 1969 spec states that the body is slightly longer and wider. also the 1963 model had no door handles on the outside.

as this is our first project in our retirement any help would be appreciated

All the mechanical will bolt on, but the only body panels that are interchangeable are the bonnet, boot lid, and front fenders. There are some differences in those panels by the late 60's, such as you might find differences in prop locations, and some trim, but fasteners should be in the same locations.

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Gerard

http://gerardsgarage.com/

Hi Stephen,

I recently did a Frogeye rebuild using a Mk2 ('63) as the donor. I found an ex race car Frogeye shell, replaced the floors and then transplanted everything straight over, including the 1/4 elliptic rear suspension. The only difference was in the wiring harness, with the ignition switch, light switches and the location of the Voltage Regulator on the fire wall, with the fuse box under it on the fascia panel. The Bugeye has these located on the front right guard.

If you wanted to use a Mk2 dash in a Bugeye, you could easily do that as well. The Mk2 gas tank also has the flexible neck, but that will also work on a Bugeye without issue..

If you transplant to a later model body - Mk3 or 4 Sprite/Midget, make sure the rear suspension and axle setup are present on the donor body.

There was a bugeye shell on UK eBay last week, but I believe it sold..... can't see it now.

Here are a few pics of the finished car, now for sale in Australia.

Cheers
Lew