Date: Sun, 1 Nov 1998 18:47:02 -0600 From: "Ben Millard" <bmillardnopsamraccess.com> Subject: Re: Thinking about buying a '73 Sonnet III
G.Velema wrote in message <36325664.3E38nopsamr.nl.net>... >> the only weak link in the >> engine's ancillaries is the water pump. I recommend examining the >> electrically powered external water pumps used for racing. > >I never had any problem with this (not in 330000 km) The 96 had much better engine-bay cooling than the Sonnets. The water-pump problems (I'm told) stem from the mere fact that the unit apparently cooks, or "works harder." >> They actually had a free-wheel system ... >I use it all the time, no problems. If the freewheel is engaged the 'six >teeth T' part does nothing. Torque is then transfered by spring loaded >rollers that lock inside a cylinder. Yes, but.... The freewheel (operating) poses many of its won hazards: The parts are nearly unatainable now. (If blessed with another Sonnet, I'd be making friends with a machinist on this subject) The freewheel can be "overrun" by the engine, by flooring it, and I gather that wears it VERY badly. (I was told to regard it like engine-overheating: it can, and does happen, but you've got to be very wary of the long-term damage) >> The structure is just the usual: a rusted floorpan is, of course... > >Under the battery in the back (boot). EXCELLANT POINT! Wow, sorry I forgot, and credit to you for pointing this obviousness out.