Revive Your Austin Healey: 5 Essential Post-Winter Maintenance Tasks

While under the bonnet, check the fan belt (drive belt) that runs the water pump (and generator/alternator). Press the belt midway between pulleys – it should deflect about 1/2 inch (12 mm) under firm finger pressure. If it’s very loose, you’ll need to adjust the tension (typically by moving the generator/alternator on its bracket slightly). Also inspect the belt for fraying or cracks on the inner side. A worn or cracked fan belt is a classic “perishable” part to fail after storage. If in doubt, fit a new one (Austin Healey fan belts are inexpensive – part of that “cheap insurance” to keep your engine cool). A new belt will ensure your water pump and charging system run smoothly.

Now, test the brake pedal gently. Before driving off, pump the pedal a few times; it should feel firm, not spongy, and certainly not sink to the floor. If it feels soft or the travel is excessive, there may be air in the lines or other issues – don’t drive the car until that’s resolved.

Take a peek at your brake pads or shoes: if you have wire wheels or alloys with gaps, you might see the disc brake pads – ensure there’s plenty of material left (at least a few millimetres). If your Healey has drum brakes, it’s harder to inspect without removing the drums, but as long as the pedal is solid and the car brakes straight, they are likely fine for now. Also crawl under and glance at the brake hoses (flexible rubber hoses at each wheel). Feel them for cracks or dryness. These hoses can degrade and are classic “perishable” items – if in doubt, replace them with new ones (standard replacement front brake hoses for your model, or even upgraded braided stainless hoses, are available).

Lastly, on your first drive, do a slow speed brake test in a quiet area to be sure everything is working properly. It’s not a bad idea to disengage and re-engage the handbrake a few times too, just to ensure it hasn’t seized over winter.

When starting the car for the first time post-storage, do it in a well-ventilated area. Turn the key to let the fuel pump tick away and prime the carburettors (on SU carb models you’ll hear the pump clicking until the float bowls fill). Pull the choke out and turn the engine over. It might take a few turns to get fuel through. Don’t crank continuously for more than 10 seconds at a time – give the starter a rest to avoid overheating it. Once it fires, keep an eye (and nose) out for any leaks – fuel, coolant, or oil. Let the engine warm up a bit and settle to a smooth idle. Listen for any unusual sounds. A little valvetrain ticking might be normal until oil circulates fully, but loud knocks or squeals are not! If something sounds off, shut it down and investigate or seek expert help.

Finally, as the Healey warms, check that the gauges are behaving: oil pressure should rise to a healthy level (50+ psi when revved, perhaps 20-30 psi at warm idle, depending on model), and the temperature gauge should climb steadily and then stabilise (usually 70-90°C range). Once everything looks good, take it for a gentle spin around the block. Test the brakes again on the move, listen for any rattles, and gradually build your confidence (and the car’s).

Congratulations – you’ve successfully woken your sleeping beauty! Now it’s time to enjoy the open roads with the wind in your hair.