Opinions

[Whitephrog]

My next project is the conversion of a 1966 Sprite into a Bugeye similar to this. www.familycar.com/Classics/AustinHealeySprite

I have a wiring harness from the '66 that appears to be complete and in good shape but will need to be re-wrapped. I thought about using a BE dash but have decided to use the 1966 dash instead. I have a set of BE gauge/switches and a set of "66 gauges/switches.

I'm going to use either an original BE bonnet or a Walker bonnet (forward tilting in either case). I'd like to have the engine compartment look as much like an original BE as practical. However, I will be using a 1275cc engine and a single HS44 carb with a LCB header.

Opinions please.

Do I use the BE gauges/switches or the gauges/switches from the "66?

How much of the engine compartment do I modify, ie relocation of the control box and fuse box?

Do I use the '66 control box and fuse box or my spares for a BE?

I have a new BE generator. Any reason I can't use that?

What other pitfalls are likely out there?

 

[drooartz]

Were it me, I'd use the '66 gauges and switches, and the '66 wire harness and assorted bits (control box, etc). Will make things easier to sort out if you're consistent with the setup. That said, the changes are not huge so the mix-n-match isn't that hard.

'66 gauges give you an electric tach, which is a nice upgrade.

I'm running all Bugeye electrics (including the generator) on my 1275.

 

[mightymidget]

Looks like enough work to buy a decent bugeye for,
You will do all this work and the return will be shot cause it isn't a real Bugeye. As in value adjusted.

But if the project is for entertainment purposes it looks like a real fun project.

I would think leaving the MG stock from the doors forward. remove front bumper, lower the rear, Then install the overlay rear Bugeye clip.

Now that would make a clean car. I have been toying with that idea on my midget

 

[Whitephrog]

This is for entertainment. It will eventually be my daily driver. Just thought it would be fun to have a BE with roll up windows and a trunk.

I have a sound '66 with new floor pans, boot pan and fuel tank. Still have a bit of stabilization body work to do on the sills. I have a BE bonnet available in good shape at a good price. I have the engine and transmission ready. I have two large containers of new or restored parts. I have the interior panels cut out (I have the padding and vinyl ready from installation on the panels.) I have seats restored with the foam installed.

That said... I have no business even thinking about another project, but...!

 

[drooartz]

That said... I have no business even thinking about another project, but...!

But that's what we do.

 

[jlaird]

Let me be one of the first to respond. One day you want no more projects. Keeping what you have up to snuff along with the garage and exterior of your home is enough.

 

[Gundy]

This is for entertainment. It will eventually be my daily driver. Just thought it would be fun to have a BE with roll up windows and a trunk.

I have a sound '66 with new floor pans, boot pan and fuel tank. Still have a bit of stabilization body work to do on the sills. I have a BE bonnet available in good shape at a good price. I have the engine and transmission ready. I have two large containers of new or restored parts. I have the interior panels cut out (I have the padding and vinyl ready from installation on the panels.) I have seats restored with the foam installed.

That said... I have no business even thinking about another project, but...!

I like this setup. Makes for a cool car.
It's a reclamation project to boot.
Good karma.
That said....I'm not man enough to tackle something like this
THESE days :wink:

 

[Whitephrog]

Failed to mention that the '66 has new rear springs and new rear shocks. A few of the parts will be from my totaled original Whitephrog AN5L34260. Sorta passing forward.

 

[mightymidget]

Plus you will have a bugeye that is somewhat waterproof

 

[Sarastro]

I think it sounds like a cool thing to do. You have Bugeye mystique, yet luxuries like roll-up windows.

The only downside I can see is resale value. It's not really a Bugeye, so it won't command Bugeye prices. Also, people often shy away from cars that have been heavily modified; they don't know if there is a problem lurking in it, no matter how good it looks. Inevitably, that affects what you can get for it. So, given that reality, it's important to make some clear decisions up front about how much you want to put into it, in terms of effort and cash.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Ray go for it, Bugsy my '68 has Roll Up Windows and a trunk and most people mistake it for a BE anyway. 95% of the public doesn't know the difference and I get just as many thumbs up from folks. And I love my forward tilting BE bonnet.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

See from this angle you can't even tell it's a square bodied Spridget.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

One more time

 

[Jim_Gruber]

I'll finally get this right

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Or Maybe a '72 with Vega Wheels

 

[smaceng]

I sort of like the later dash, and keeping the electrics with harness could lower your costs. In reality, the later 1/2 elliptic springs give a better ride, although handling may not be as good with the stock set up. I would keep the under bonnet stuff as is, easier, and you are not really fooling those who know what you have. I think it is a cool project. I tried to get to the spare tire the other night, I said tried. Next time, I'm taking the passenger seat out! See what fun you will miss!
Scott in CA