This is a 1955 Austin Healey, BN1 in excellent condition. It received an older restoration and modification prior to my current ownership, and that of my predecessor. Replacement 2.8L V6 GM engine mated to a T-5 GM five speed manual transmission. No records as to where and when the modification took place. I have owned the car since December 2020. Prior to my ownership, the car was in San Antonio, TX, from 2011 through December 2020. Prior to that, the car was in Southern California. Convertible top and interior carpeting and trim appear to have been replaced around 2001. No other information to suggest when the restoration took place.
The paint and body are an excellent condition. Beautiful bright blue paint over silver coves. Very strong running engine, with a smooth shifting transmission. Has great acceleration. I have kept the car in the garage, driven only on nice days in the summer. The prior Texas owner also kept the car garaged.
Recent work and upgrades during my ownership include: New master brake cylinder, all new brake lines, new brake cylinders on all four wheels, and new brake fluid reservoir. Rebuilt master clutch cylinder. The gas tank was dropped and relined. New fuel pump external to the gas tank. New fuel filter. An additional new fuel filter was added near the carburetor. I had the carburetor rebuilt. New switch for thermostat.
The car has drum brakes on all four wheels. Chrome spoke wheels were on the car when I bought it. The original steel spoke wheels are included. The age of the tires is unknown, but they still appear to have excellent tread.
The battery is approx 3 years old. The car was previously converted to a 12-volt negative ground electrical system. Battery tender used during winter storage. Custom car cover in excellent condition . A rear tail light was added by a previous owner to the rear deck. The interior gauges are not original. I had a toggle switch inserted in the dash where the factory electric overdrive switch would have been, which allows for manually turning the fuel pump off and on to remove residual gas from the carburetor.
I replaced the gear shift knob with one that has an AH logo. I had a new front chrome grill installed, as well as new weatherstripping for the convertible top where it mounts to the windshield, and new chrome headlight trim bezel rings, which were missing when I bought the car. There is new rubber on the pedals . The windshield wiper switch, and the gas gauge worked last year, but are not currently working.
I have what appear to be original side curtains, and a tonneau cover. Neither of which I have used. They would benefit from refurbishing or replacing. I have a couple boxes of additional miscellaneous parts that are included.
This is a great looking vintage roaster that offers a driving experience from a by-gone era, with tasteful upgrades that provide enhanced reliability and easier maintenance. It gets enthusiastic compliments wherever it goes.
