Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Riley Blue]

Air conditioning please.
_________________
David

1963 Riley 1.5
1965 Riley 1.5

[Ray White]

I have always thought that vacuum windscreen wipers were a poor substitute for electric ones and it is an area of originality that challenges my quest to keep everything original relating to my Austin Swallow. If it was not for the fact that I tend to avoid taking the car out in wet weather I am sure I would have converted to electric. After years of frustration with old and restored units, I found a n.o.s. vacuum wiper motor that actually works!

Incidentally, there are several reasons for me not wishing to drive the Swallow in rain. Austin Seven 3.5 " cross ply tyres (actually 3.25 on mine at the front) are reasonable enough in the dry but feel less sure footed in the wet and braking distances are even worse than normal ! Another reason is that water seems to find it's way in past the fabric roof panel and will stain the roof lining no matter what I do. Rain also manages to get forced past the opening windscreen seal and drip onto my legs. Another reason is that there is no rubber seal around the doors; it relies in fabric piping which although is an effective draught excluder, when soaked, goes mouldy if left.

One thing leads to another. By the time I have up rated the tyres and brakes, added rubber seals to the doors and permanently sealed up the windscreen and roof, the car's originality has been lost and with it all the appeal to me.