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« on: April 17, 2015, 07:30:12 »
Hello Glenn
I'm afraid I'm not a regular reader of the Forum, hence the tardy reply. Some years ago I fitted 185x16 Kleber tyres to my Ace having seen another Ace racing on them. Mine rubbed the wheel arches. When Michelin started to produce 5.50x16 X's again I bought a set from Longstone Tyres. I seem to recall they told me that they had a slightly larger profile than the originals being the nearest metric equivalent to the originals. These still just touched the wheel arches. My solution was to replace the two longest leaves of the rear spring with slightly shorter ones - obtained from David Sanderson. This alters the camber enough to clear the wheel arches and, I'm advised, has the benefit of improving handling. I'm not a racer so I can't really comment on this. The appearance is fine. I don't think an Ace looks right with an Aceca rear spring.
I have removed my Aceca-Bristol's box without removing the engine, by following the instructions on page 32 of the "General Instructions" manual. I have neither a hoist nor a pit. It wasn't a fun job, but it's probably rather easier with an Ace since you don't have the constraint of the roof. My wife supported the gearbox from above while I worked underneath to slide out the box and rotate and lift it. I made a rope sling and provided padding for her to kneel on. I do spoil her! If you would like any more information about this job, please let me know.
Regards
Phil