1952 Austin A40 Somerset

4 door sedan

1200 cc IL OHV 4

Manual

GS4L700314

Clear

Gasoline

I bought this A40 in 2009, the 50th anniversary of my first A40 Somerset purchase. I got it from California and it is almost rust free. The car was restored in the fashion common many years ago: new paint, vinyl upholstery, headliner, brake system, engine, etc. Post restoration, it saw little use for many years before I got it. The gas tank had rusted internally so I had a new one made. I installed an electric fuel pump but the original AC pump is still in place. I went through the brakes again, replacing the rear shoes & kits because the axle seals had leaked, and rebuilding the out-of-commission hand brake system. I pulled the engine pan and head and put in new standard connecting rod bearings [I had some on the shelf but the ones that came with the car were not too bad]. The cylinder bores were great and compression is OK. Still, the engine smokes intermittently. Valve seals may be poor but I'm not sure. Valve guides seemed tight. New water pump and U-Joints in 2009. Low mileage is not gauranteed since California did not require a mileage statement on the title but the car's condition suggests that ~25K is correct. Car runs well, Shifts as well as the column mounted shifter on these cars allows. Clutch is fine. The trans leaks some but is easy to refill. Shocks leak also but again, are easy to refill. Steering is loose. Idler arm housing and steering box would benefit from rebushing, although I've driven it many miles as is. I have all new rubber for the steering joints. Tie rod ends were replaced in 2010. Tires are old but not cracked [except for checking on the white walls]. Car has won trophies at local antique car shows and was displayed at the 2011 Virginia Olde Dominion Meet.