1st '7' test drive

[crankedup]

A very nice looking two seat tourer that is for sale at a 'commision dealers'. The engine has been rebuilt by Tim Myall apparently and a close ratio box is fitted. Car bowled along nicely and the box was great to use with excellent road manners. A few things turned me away tho, I found that I had to crane my neck over the windscreen head rail or dip under it. The windscreen would not close completely owing to it being snagged onto the top of the bulkhead cowl, very odd. No side screens, all fixable I suppose but the big worry for me was a deep seated vibration thru the engine at most speeds. I could find a sweet spot to avoid this but did'nt expect it on a rebuilt engine. Possibly crankshaft needs working to provide better balance? Do'nt expect silky smooth of course but somehow expected a little better than apparent. No buff book and no proper history, not even for the engine/box work was enougth to let me walk away. But I am sure somebody less fussy perhaps will enjoy the little beast. In the end I thought for top money IMHO I can do better.

[arh]

early engines were mounted solidly to the chassis, this may have been the reaaon. the engines do feel a bit rough at high revs anyhow.

better luck next time

[crankedup]

Problem was that this little fireball was a bit vibey throughout its rev range, altho I did manage to find a sweet spot. Still hey ho.

Tried another 7 today, but did'nt get to drive it cos I did'nt really fit into it to well

So tomorrow I'm off to have a look at something a bit larger in the form of a Bayliss-Thomas 11hp four seat open tourer . It sounds promising so I am keeping my fingers crossed. I so miss not having an vintage in my garage, what with Mr Crusty in the car hospital having his insides twiddelled with.