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Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Ian.

Ive grown up with Austin 7's, steam engines, and father used to deal in autojumble. We have had 1920's lorries, all sorts of pre was cars but 7's and steam engines have remained constant. Im still in my 30's (just).

Im not currently a member of any Austin clubs, and a member of a society that is about the history of traction engines etc.

My hobby is really steam. I have two engines, one up and running that I show regularly and one along term restoration project. The 'national' club over the last 20 years has been blighted by a tendency to believe it has the 'right' to impose rules and regulations on members and non members alike, particularly where organised events concerned. The club being able to authorise events under the off road event regs. 5 years or so ago this caused a bit of a **** storm and it lost most of its members. Its turned a bit of a corner with newer younger members at the top, but it still doesnt appeal one bit. Even with my brother in law as chairman. Local clubs that organise annual events are much more laid back and I have been a member in the past. Presently ecomomics have dictated that I have rationalised my memberships.

I have in the past been a member of the PWA7 club and the Midlands club. Frankly I just like messing with the 4 Austins here. We go for picniks. I use one or the other for work now and again and use them a lot for the school run. I very rarely formally show any of them. Perhaps twice a year. Though I often have one at a steam rally as my transport for the weekend.

What I liked about the clubs were the organised one day runs. The longer tours didnt really suit as I am often out with the steamer. At a steam event the engine needs constant vigilance so I get bored by static car rallys.

Sadly the pace of modern life means that the old fashioned club is dieing. The same is happening with steam clubs and all sorts of other clubs over the country. What does seem to be more popular are evening meets often at a pub or villiage halls. You pop over when suits you after work, have a pint and a burger, chat with like minded people for a couple of hours then go home when suits you. Though I have to say Iv'e been to the VSCC version of this and felt totally unwelcome. Seemingly you need to have a pretend something or other sporty to be part of the in crowd.

The answer isnt easy, clubs are dieing with the baby boomers.

Location: not north wales any more

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Like JonE, I too am in my forties, although only just...

I have been involved with Austin Sevens since before I was born as Mum's driver just before I was born was a '30 2 seater special. I learned to drive in this same special at the tender age of 9.

I have been extremely fortunate in having a father who always encouraged my brother & I to share in his hobby & we both leaned to drive crash boxes very early on.

Fast forward 47 years and we're still playing with Austin 7's as well as a variety of other classic & vintage stuff. I have even managed to get my wife involved when she drove our '30 single seater special, (built circa '49) at the Simola Hillclimb in May this year and came 4th in the Pre-War Historics. (she comes up at 108 here --> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pwfGSGwdOE). We've enjoyed these hill climbs so much that we've built another single seater special entirely from Dad's 50+ year stash of 7 spares, (no Ruby's were harmed during the process. It'll be ready for Simola 2018. Beloved has already put her order in for a faster car for 2018...

I enjoy runs and tours, but not sealed odometer rallies & the best thing about Austin 7's is how completely useable they are. I really enjoy just using our cars, we show our cars during the local vintage car club's events as there are is no A7 club where we live, being only seven Austin 7's in town and we have 5 of them.


Cheers
Greig

Location: Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I am not currently a member of any car clubs, and at 64 I am hardly young, I do however remember being young sometime in the past,So to answer you questions.

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

My Dad had a Austin Opal guess who took the handbrake of on a hill,my first solo drive, he sold it to my uncle who built a Hamblin Cadet mk1 out of it in around 1957 as a 4 or 5 year old it was a real treat going for a ride in it. A while later I was lent a copy of Building and racing my 750, and was hooked, but after a long stint of playing with 50s,60s,70s cars and some banger and off road racing, I managed to make the break and get into A7s after a nearly 60 year wait.

What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

I joined the Austin 10 owners club for the tech info and spares side of things and a local historic car club to meet like minded people.

What puts you off the same?

Or local club was a 90 mile round trip, so we car shared most months, but when there people tend to stay in their own little groups most of the time. Club shows are usually the same cars you see every month and the club runs whilst enjoyable are only what you can do any day of the week without the extra cost.


What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

If we had a A7 club in Pembrokeshire, I would like to see, Lectures on maintenance,the Austin Company, famous cars or some sort of simple car park driving tests in fact anything but just sitting in a pub.

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

Easy to maintain and all the mechanical parts can be lifted by one person, plenty of spares available,fun to drive the list is endless.

Location: Pembrokeshire

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

The current question relates in the main to A7 clubs. Whilst I guess we all agree continued interest in Sevens is to be encouraged, this is not totally Seven club related. With other old car clubs available, and esp if the website info could be preserved, the Seven Clubs may not the prime key to continued interest.

This topic was given an airing under “Average Age of an A7 Owner” and also “Newblood; Continuing A7s...”’.

The motoring and economic scene has changed so immensely in the last 50 years that anecdotes from those drawn in at the time, whilst interesting, are now largely not relevant.

In a non Austin car club I belong to any new member not retired is regarded as young. They are the exception.

A common criticism of clubs is a sense of being unwelcome if car not to “money no object” or otherwise perfect standard. Interest and attitude develops; persons may begin with a scruffy special and develop an interest in accurate vintage restoration.

It may be useful to chase up some of the clearly younger and new blood contributors who faded from the Forum and see if still interested in Sevens, and if not why not, and any Club influence

Location: Auckland, NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I reckon it is worth pausing for a second and applauding the community that this forum has created. I don't know who started it or when but it is exceptional in the way that it covers so many topics related to A7s. It is inclusive even when a little bad tempered.

Quite how one could transfer this spirit to a 'physical' club is another matter.

I have learnt from experience that clubs seem to exist because of a few dedicated people, forever at odds with another group whose idea of fun is a 'Forward Strategy Planning Meeting'. Unfortunately the dedicated mob tend to be aged and pass away never to be replaced...the planners younger, well at least for now.

Money, or the lack of it, doesn't really matter, only the people matter.

The UK has always had a rather a negative attitude towards so called 'hobbies'. We may need to look further afield.

Quite why I have an A7, I don't know, I was looking for a Trojan.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I think Michael is on to something. I'm not a natural club joiner/player but the forum inclusiveness is easy to access and gain information, support and help if required. On the whole its friendly and welcoming without cliques that can naturally form in groups meeting regularly. Importantly, too, it is great that many cherished suppliers regularly comment and assist, not from a commercial direction but because they are interested in promoting the brand.

With much improved communication systems available to all there is less need for tight knit little groups and I suspect this is why specific local groups can struggle.

My view may change when my 65 is finally on the road, but probably I'll want to drive it locally to events, take trips go new areas, but do I want to go to club meetings unless there is some sort of event, training or working party on I'm less sure.

Somehow we need to harness forum positivism and possibly move towards virtual clubs where local ones are less effective? My thoughts alone, feel free to challenge!

Nick

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

To answer the questions posed by Ian Williams, here is my halfpennorth;

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

Back in the 60's they were easily available, cheap and easy to maintain 'though I still couldn't afford to keep one on apprentices wages but unlike another contributor, I found the local VSCC members very supportive.
The first A7 was an RM in 2002 following discussions with John Barlow. I had wanted to build a special as this seemed the cheapest way in but John asked the very pertinant question " what if you take a couple of years to build a special and then find that you don't like A7s?" He advised me to get a 'runner' and keep it for a couple of years. The RM came from Nigel Snow who was very helpful.

What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

I always (usually) attend the PWA7C Wollaton rally to support the club and occasionally take part in road runs.
I have also done 'The Windmill Run' to Holland 3 times with the 750 Club although not a member.


What puts you off the same?

I prefer to be able to be able to come and go as I please. Road runs can be a problem because I normally have a 20 mile journey just to get to the start point, followed by a 30 to 40 mile run followed getting home again.

What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

Not sure.

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

Cheapness of spares and insurance. The fact that these little cars always generate a feeling of wellbeing and always lead to conversations with people who owned one or whose parents owned one.

Brian

Location: Near M1 Jtn 28

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Thank you to those who have responded already, some interesting and thought provoking points have been raised so far. It is only by communication that we can make improvements, if intact we need to, so please keep the comments coming, positive, negative, controversial or not. I would also like to hear from some of the quiet masses out there as well as the regular posters, I hope we as a whole can learn something constructive from this discussion.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

I am 44 and Austin Sevens were my parents only form of transport until 1986 when my mother bought a 2CV. We travelled all over Europe in them with groups of friends, I cannot imagine my life without them.


What encourages you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

Inclusive social aspect, where all ages and genders are welcomed as individuals or families.


What puts you off the same?

Real reasons I have relinquished membership of other Clubs.

- Reliance on quizzes/competitions.

- Concentration on overly technical/formal presentations.

- Abundance of blazers/ties.

- A lot of standing around pointing out what is wrong with other peoples' cars.

- A group made up of largely older males who actively discourage women and children to attend.


What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

I love the A7 Club I belong to it is the antithesis of the above, great atmosphere where all nice people are welcome.


What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

The people you meet.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi everybody, I’m Tom and I’m an Austinolic.

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

There are a number of reasons I got into sevens. Firstly my other car being really old and the last survivor of the marque, parts availability was top of the list when I started looking for a new project (late 20’s now 34). Sevens have always impressed me because they are small, go well, especially when breathed upon and at the time I was looking a very affordable way to get into practical vintage motoring. I’m now addicted to the little blighters, love everything about them and sometimes struggle to stay on track at work because what I really want to be doing is working on the seven. A friend of mine who has been helping with the main bearing mods (who had always hated 7s) has now asked me to find him a rolling chassis because I’ve infected him with the bug.

What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

Love events, any reason to drive and talk about cars, the other half hates car banter and I can watch the blinds go down as she enters a catatonic state whenever trigger words are mentioned, conrod, cams, pistons etc. However she loves the driving aspect and I’m very fortunate to have an excellent navigator/tulip decipherer. I’ve been a member of the NA7C for quite some time but haven’t made a single meeting yet, something either comes up or I forget, Tuesday evenings are a bit awkward. I also feel a little uneasy about turning up in a modern.

What puts you off the same?

Can’t say anything negative about my local club for aforementioned reason however regarding other marque clubs I completely agree with Ruairidh, sometimes the levels of pomposity makes my face slapping synapse twitchy. However I have found the Austin fraternity very accepting and incredibly helpful (especially this forum), realising and revelling that it is such a broad church, because its format is so adaptable and was treated as such by so many coach builders and special builders.

What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

I’d like to see something like what in the blacksmithing world we call a forge in. Blacksmiths descend on a forge to help out on a job or community project that needs many hands, invariably tents and beer are involved. It would be great if you could go to your club and say “I need a hand with X, any chance we could get some bods round mine to help?” No doubt there would be someone turn up who has a natty way of tackling X that others hadn’t thought of or common knowledge to most but not all, could be a great communal gathering that gets things done, and beer to boot!


Ruairidh Dunford

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?


The people you meet.



I'll second that!

Location: Eye on the Norfolk / Suffolk border

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I'm not younger generation. First A7 was back in 1968.

In response to the subject I do have an opinion. There are a number of overlapping clubs. Where I live (Upton upon Severn) I know Seven owners who are members of various clubs - HA7C, BA7C, PWA7C, OA7C, VSCC, 750MC. There is little or no communication of events between these clubs and members. E.g. Recently CA7C were touring in Herefordshire, if we at HA7C had known they were coming, for sure we would have come along to Ledbury to meet them.

From Upton it's at least 20 miles to the nearest meet of any club, which is no longer a comfortable journey at night in modern traffic conditions. but there must be more than enough Seven owners from different clubs who would get together if they knew of each other.

It remains a mystery to me as to why there is so much divide and conquer instead of open unity in our associated club world.

Roly

Location: Upton upon Severn

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

As an old newby to Austin 7's I thought I would add my six pennyworth to this thread. After arriving in France from South Africa in 2010 and then selling the Alfa Romeo GT Junior that I had restored in South Africa, I needed a new project. Talking to my local supplier of English sausages he informed me that he had two Austin 7 specials in his barn that were in bits but were for sale. At the time I was 68 and this was to be my first foray into Austin 7's having always been a Morris 8 (wash your mouth out with soap) man in my youth. Easy,I thought, Austin 7's must be easy as they are so simple. 6 years later having built up a Gordon England Cup "lookalike" from the pile of bits that I had purchased I am much wiser, Austin 7's are not easy!!!!

I joined the PWA7 Club in 2011 in order to make the necessary contacts for the supply of spares that I needed and also to keep up with the A7 scene in the UK. I also discovered this forum which is a "must read" every day. I also managed to contact many of the Cherished Suppliers who have all been extremely helpful with advice and the provision of the correct parts. My contact with club members has been a bit limited, one visit to Beaulieu in 2014, the Classic Car Show at the NEC the same year, a visit to the Lincs group meet in September last year and Autokarna this year. I have so far found everybody very friendly and helpful. We will be relocating to Grantham at the end of this month and I hope to become involved with the activities of the Lincs group and to finish off the GE Cup once the new garage is complete.

I have yet to drive an Austin 7 in anger as it has proved impossible to register my car in France as I have no paperwork for the car. This means that I have to join battle with the DVLA hopefully with the help of Peter Rowlands. I will keep you all posted.

Sorry that I can't answer all your questions Ian, but as you can see I have very limited experience of UK car clubs. I was a longtime member of the VCC in Durban South Africa but that is another story for another time.

Location: Currently SW France but Grantham from end June

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hello Ian,

To start I am 27 and got into classic cars which lead to austin 7's without there having been any in the family previously (at least not since the cars were contemporary) and without a really strong reason why. I guess we are a fairly engineering based family and I just enjoyed seeing old cars, then learning all about them, then driving them and working on them etc. I even managed to get my dad into Sevens a few years ago and he is thoroughly enjoying his as well.

As far as I can tell there are two ways of running a club, the first seems to be the way most car clubs I have come across run. They run with a large emphasis on the social aspect, and are a group of close friends who also share a common interest. These clubs are very inclusive allowing the enthusiasts family to join in without having to hear about cars all of the time. When these clubs meet there doesn't need to be any specific car related activity or talk, a catch up with good friends over a drink or a meal provides all the entertainment required. These clubs generally have a good calendar of runs and seven talks as well, but always with time for socialising including visiting non oily places which can be enjoyed by partners and family as well as the enthusiast.

The other way is a club where the meetings are a place for members to actively pursue their hobby with other enthusiasts. Meetings always being focused on the hobby itself, all bringing their cars, chatting about anything they've been doing on their cars, anything car related they've seen lately, any events they plan on going to or have been to, anything they need a hand with or advice etc and then go for a little run before heading home. Or it could be a more structured meeting with a talk or discussion on an aspect of the hobby or even a practical demonstration.

For the enthusiast that is less socially motivated the first groups meetings may seem too far from their interests. And for the person who enjoys socialising, bringing their family and having a good natter and a drink the second group may seem dull. It all depends on what excites the individual and how they like to spend their time. I don't think there is a way that a club can cater for both types of people all of the time, and I think most do a good job of providing elements that both can enjoy.

Personally I enjoy driving my car, working on my car, seeing other peoples cars, talking about cars, learning about cars and their histories, hearing peoples stories about cars etc. The idea of turning up to a pub where most everyone has arrived in modern cars, to sit down for a drink and a natter about life doesn't really excite me. Equally a run to visit non oily attractions isn't really my cup of tea, however I can join in the run parts. The second type of club would be something where I would be interested in joining in more. That said I will continue to enjoy the hobby just fine without it, and pick and chose the parts of the first type of clubs available which I enjoy doing.

The question being is there anything wrong with this state of affairs? I'm not sure there is. If the question is a small group of people wanting to have one type of meeting, then how many are really needed to make this worthwhile? If 2 people turn up each month and enjoy what they do then should they be doing something they might enjoy less just to get more people to come along? I'm not so sure.

I think the important thing is that people are enjoying the hobby, not so much the way in which they like to do so.

If I was trying to come up with things I'd enjoy more of (I am by no means suggesting these things aren't happening already)...

More relaxed road runs.
Where there are route instructions and you go around at your own pace meeting at start and finish for a chat on how it went and to look at the cars. I understand it's nice to have sevens front and behind but I am not a fan of driving in convoy, keeping up with the person in front and constantly checking that you haven't lost the person behind can be rather stressful.

Scatter Rallies/Treasure hunts
These are a good bit of fun and a can be enjoyed whether you intend on being competitive or not. Also a good talking point when meeting.

Practical demonstrations
This would be nice, for example if someone needs help with a job, and someone is willing to guide them through it, this could be shared with all members as a teach in as it were. I noted in previous threads that this is something you have done Ian with body construction, which I think is great.

Austin 7 focused talks
I have enjoyed talks in the past of journeys people have done, restorations, or works cars and their histories, and discussion on failures or mechanical maladies people have had and how to avoid or repair them.

These suggestions do take an amount of organising so would rely on people stepping up to make it happen.

All the best, and happy fettling ,

Tim

Location: New Forest

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

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Exactly. I've been an active member of a large A7 club for 40 years or more. Give or take it's the same people organising events now as then. It's no good listing the things you would like from a club. What we should all be listing is things we could do to help. Then we might just find things are a lot more dynamic and interesting.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

As a young at heart 'elderly' newbie to Austin Sevens, this is my first attempt to write to Austin Seven Friends. I congratulate Ian Williams on his thread, "Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs" as he, many other threads following his, raise very valid points!

Ian says he would be keen to hear from the younger generation that frequent this site, and from those who have been involved since they were young. Umm! Wonder where I fit in as I had my first Ruby Mk1 back in the early 60's when I could have been classified as one of the "younger generation" then but in those days I never heard of any Austin 7 Clubs, probably because social media wasn't what it is nowadays! After a few years my dear Ruby had to go and now over 50 years later as a part of my 'bucket list' I have my second Ruby, a Mk2, so I probably don't fit into Ian's category of "those who have been involved since they were young" as from the time my first Ruby went to the time I got my second Ruby my personal life had been devoted to assisting and helping others in form of several different areas of voluntary work for the 50+ years of absence!

I think I'm now well into anything "Austin Seven" but Ian's excellent start of this thread should, at least I hope, encourage people to sit up and think. Other people have helpfully touched on various points and Ian did say he is interested in hearing from anyone new to our world, irrespective of age, and asks us questions, What attracted you to A7's in the first place? What encourages you to attend meetings, events, and such like? What puts you off the same? What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general? What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

With a lifetime of experience having been involved with various 'non-motoring' charities, organisations, associations, clubs, call them what you wish as it doesn't matter because the desired outcome is basically the same but one must remember everyone's 'desired outcome' is likely to be different! Several people have given very valid answers to Ian's questions. It's easy to comment on some comments in this thread in a negative way but it's more important to try to take on board everyone's comments and try to turn them into positives!

There is one particular point I'd personally like to ask is, "How does a profoundly Deaf newbie break into the Austin Seven fraternity and/or A7OC Centre setup?". I am not talking about being hard of hearing but being profoundly Deaf which is a different ball game all together!

I attended the Bewl Water Rally a few days ago and was lucky as I managed to talk with a very few other A7 owners but sadly there were many others who showed an interest in my Ruby and once I said I was Deaf and lip-read the conversation ceased and they strolled away! Having had a lifetime of this sort of reaction, sadly when we're living in 2017 when there's so much talk about inclusion, diversity, equality and disability, yet we still face such situations as I did!!

I am sure there are members out there who are able to talk to Deaf people in an appropriate way but my fundamental question is, "Are there actually any profoundly Deaf A7 owners around?". I'd love to know as it would be great if we could establish lines of communication and perhaps even meet up at some stage.

I'm not sure if a large A7OC Centre meetings/gatherings are the easiest way forward for me but I'm game for anything and I'd love to meet up with other A7 owners of any age who might willing to get together for coffee so if you live in Sussex or nearby, do get in touch with me by email!

Location: Sunny Brighton in Sussex UK

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I should add, I don't really see that it is fair to join an established club and try to change the way they do things from the inside. They are obviously enjoying the way they do things, so why should anyone expect them to change and bend to their will? If a club is actively seeking people to join and organise a different kind of activity or meeting then that is obviously a different kettle of fish, but there needs to be some way of making this obvious to anyone who might be interested.

Location: New Forest

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I really enjoy going to the County of Salop steam engine society club evenings. Usually some sort of picture/slide show centred on steam in a pub just outside shrewsbury. Trouble is its on a Friday, i have a daughter to fetch from school 25mile away and rarely get to go. Despite it ticking all the boxes.

With that in mind, theres no point in any club trying to attract me, because I am very unlikely to get involved

Location: not north wales any more

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Timothy Payne
I should add, I don't really see that it is fair to join an established club and try to change the way they do things from the inside. They are obviously enjoying the way they do things, so why should anyone expect them to change and bend to their will? If a club is actively seeking people to join and organise a different kind of activity or meeting then that is obviously a different kettle of fish, but there needs to be some way of making this obvious to anyone who might be interested.


thought id see how this one pans out before i add to it.

but timothy, without knowing it. answeres for me many problems with clubs.

the members were young when they joined and liked it that way. so nothing changes.

and why should it for them. they are now old, and still enjoy the club the way it was.

problem of this is alot of whats happening, as they die off. the club dies with it.

sorry but this is whats happened with midshires, as each member dies the club gets smaller by one.

rather than changeing things and upsetting the old members.

the answer could be to start NEW clubs, for more up to date members.

rather than trying to change those who enjoy clubs the way they were.

i like Rs suggestion of listing a day out and letting people decide if they want to join in. the best way new members can make friends without being annoyed by that click thing.

and thank you to david for suggesting the small village fair. thats genious. sadly i can attend. but will be interested in future small gatherings.

tony

Location: huncote on the pig

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Ian, I don't think I count as young any more (I'm the same age as Old Ruairidh :) ) but here are my answers.

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

After restoring my MGB I wanted to do something older, more vintage. I hate modern cars! I think I am unusual as I got into cars totally on my own, no prior family involvement or history of it.

What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

I was never good at going to actual meetings, mainly since they were too far away for me. But I did specifically join that club because their other activities were more the things I like. So things like the Roycroft, Chelsea, R'oil can and so on. If I were up there still I would definitely be coming to Joss' 'old men bashing metal' classes of course. And also go to any of the interesting garage raids/interesting workshops/collection visits and things you guys have. Anything related to special building.

What puts you off the same?

Was distance mainly.

What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

I found the club was great at putting me in touch with people like yourself and Joss and others when I was a total newbie to A7s. I think that sort of thing should be encouraged.

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

They are cheap(ish)! And there are tons of parts and information available as well as fairly easily accessible knowledgeable people to talk to.

Just a few other comments that might help. I was only able to get into old cars because I had an income to support it. Even with relatively cheap Austin 7s. I have really struggled to do any car stuff since I have been at Weta since they pay is just rubbish. I am actually finishing up here and going back to I.T. just because I can't afford to work here, let alone play with cars. Not everyone is lucky enough to work in a high paying profession though.

For actual young people these days the situation is even worse, especially in NZ. People are struggling just to afford housing and so on. Less and less people have spare money to spend on cars and the cars are getting more and more expensive.

I think that is one place clubs can really help with spares and so on. One of my main reasons for joining the clubs is for access to new and used spares. I think the clubs do a great job with the used spares in particular. It's great that we can buy new spares but for us in NZ sometimes the cost with the shipping and tax can be quite a lot. Being able to go somewhere and look though a pile of parts to find something (with someone there to advise if a part will work) that can get you going for cheap is great.

I think another thing the clubs can do is actually just be out and about in their cars. Even my MGB gets looks and comments down here in Wellington. It seems old cars just aren't seen that often. Kids love them though!

Simon

Location: Wellington

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Simon Jansen
I don't think I count as young any more (I'm the same age as Old Ruairidh :) )


I resemble that comment!!!

 photo ian lookalike_zpsizsnxv76.jpg

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

wow.

is that junior or senior

Location: huncote on the pig

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Excellent, some great stuff coming out, well mostly I am very sorry to hear of your experiences Derek all I can say is you would be most welcome within my circles of Austin friends!

One thing that seems to be coming through strongly is that some owners have very different requirements to others, therefor any club which has a strong focus on one aspect only will not appeal to all. That in its self is an issue not easy to overcome "being all things to all men, or women" however lets try to be positive, by becoming aware we can at least attempt to meet a greater number of needs.
I am very aware that the average age of club members is increasing, with few younger members joining the inevitable decline happens when members die. This was not always the case, and what I am interested in is how we attract new members, how do we revitalise the existing clubs and still cater for the current members.

Personally when I started as a 19 year old I had little interest in the sedate road convoys, I did not enjoy sitting around with groups of old men complaining about modern life, (very stereo typing there and somewhat unfair but I am trying to illustrate how it appeared to a 19 year old me!) now I am just an old man complaining about.....well you get the picture!
No I was excited by special building, racing, trailing, fast longer distance runs etc, as I have aged these interests have remained but I have gained a greater and greater appreciation and understanding of the social side and of the standard seven and originality, so much so that I am now the one most local members call upon when the need help or advice. We need younger members those under 50, ideally we also need to attract current teens and 20 somethings year olds, they are out there. One young guy Atho, who I know reads this forum, is a shining example of just the sort we need here, he is currently scratch building an Ulster rep, including the bodywork, he has no prior experience and is doing a superb and highly accurate job. Come on Atho lets hear from you.

What we need to know is how we appeal to new members whilst still catering for our current members needs, so come on guys keep the comments coming they are all welcome and all tell us something.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

I can recall back in the Seventies when I was pres. of our Austin Seven Club we were concerned about the future because of lack of young members. This did not apply only to our club but to all car clubs. If you went to any meeting all you saw was white hair or balding - and that was only the women! Seriously, though the problem hasn't changed and there's no easy means of improving it. Cheers, Bill

Location: Euroa, Australia

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Rather a long ramble here.
Good heavens, having been introduced to this forum to look at this thread, I find there's so much to comment on I may expire before I get it all said.

So. I will assume from Ian's 'younger generation' that at its broadest, we mean anyone not retired, and not about to retire. Ideally 20s and 30s for longevity, but anything 50-ish and younger is an improvement (and those folk often have kids, who may get hooked in...)

So. I'm a new member, and new owner. I bought my first A7 in April 2016 as a runner that had lots of engine receipts, and within three days discovered the work had been done by someone who knew a lot less than they thought. The car was off the road until November 2016.

What attracted me to A7s is that my aunt had one in the UK as her daily driver in the 1970s, and I have happy memories spent in it and around it.
What encourages me to attend meetings and runs - learning more about my car and similar cars, meeting more knowledgeable folk and perhaps learning something, or at least learning who to ask if I need advice, knowing that if something goes wrong on my car during the drive and I can't fix it, someone else may be able to and I'll learn what to do next time.
What puts me off same - the number of folk who assume I'm there with someone else; the assumption that I'm not interested in learning anything hands on; the assumption that if I don't know much I'm not worth talking too; oo much sitting around eating and not enough driving
What I'd like to see? More assistance for newbies to learn more about their cars; lessons/workshops from those who know what they are doing to teach those who don't; efforts to take clubs out to the wider public, especially when we're talking older cars and marques no longer on sale, as we can't assume youngsters will get infected when they learn to drive in our brand; current members making fewer assumptions about the folk who ask questions, so interested parties aren't put off right at the start; clubs who are open to inviting outsiders along to an event or two before they join; and and and
best thing about owning an Austin 7? Several. Mostly friendly folk, many of them quirky and characterful. Parts and spares relatively affordable. I'm enjoying what my aunt enjoyed. I'm learning how simple these cars are to keep going, and how easy it is for even an ignoramus to conduct effective ongoing maintenance. The relationship you have with your car - driving fast involves complete involvement with your machine, so does driving a car like an Austin 7, only without the risk of losing your licence. YOu could argue that as the road becomes ever more regulated and limited, classic cars will offer a certain freedom - speed limits are less of an issue for starters!

I think that if vintage car clubs could get across how simple many of these machines are - an A7 is really just a glorified 3D puzzle - more folk would be interested. I had always assumed that because I'm not a mechanic, I couldn't own and run one. Fortunately enough members of the NZ Vintage Austin Register were keen to help me discover that's not the case.

I'm not into pub gatherings, and any evening get together is problematic as I'm pretty rural.

I like organised runs, as long as the organiser makes it clear what is involved. I don't want to drive into town for a run that takes ten minutes and focusses around a three-hour lunch. However a run on a tricky or remote bit of road or a little-known route I might not be game to risk on my own? Game on!

I like the suggestion of buddying/car guardian. And what about those with A7 libraries making sure to leave them to the club when they pass on/donating them? THey're then available for future generations.

It's possible the pace of life now will make club events less popular. On the other hand modern tech - forums, websites, social media - can link enthusiasts across distances far more effectively than anything available before, so clubs still have plenty of life left if they are prepared to be flexible in how they communicate.

agree that trials and racing are a good fit for youngsters. Austin Specials seem tailor-made to attract young petrolheads - you can race on a relative budget, and drive a relatively quick bullet with dangerous-looking pipes and the mimimum of granny safety aids. What's not to like for any yoof?

I disagree with the suggestion that one shouldn't try to change an established club - things change. If a club is run how one small group like it at one point in time, it will die when they do. Yes, you could always form a new club, but how many will there be - one for every year on earth/star sign/ whatever???

Best stop now before any reader dies of old age or boredome

Location: New Zealand

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Individual questions will return individual answers, collectively they will always seem to paint a similar (varied) picture.

A good club will have a variety of events, which will generally appeal to most, pleasing everyone all of the time is rare success or signs that everyone else has left!

A rule I was introduced to many years ago is to only organise something that you enjoy. That way if nobody else turns up you will have had a good time, you are interested so more likely to do a better job, your enthusiasm will carry on to others thereby encouraging them to join in.

When members see the successes of events they are more likely to be encouraged (by you) to organise something of their own and this, in turn, will generate something quite unique and hugely appealing – in my experience.

A good example (for which I make no apology in reposting) of combining a road run, camping/B&B, families, socialising, younger members, teaching, mechanical workshop, welcoming new members and multitude of other wonderful things can be seen here, with a link to how another young(ish) newbie was welcomed into the fold within it:

http://pub25.bravenet.com/forum/static/show.php?usernum=2099944454&frmid=5&msgid=994673&cmd=show

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?

Sorry Ian, I have indeed been laying very low.
(I should note that I am mainly looking at this from the point of view of someone who is building a car).
Probably like a lot of people here, I have held a strong interest with vintage machinery and kinetic objects since a young age. This coupled with a long standing interest in New Zealand railway history and steam led me into the world of vintage machinery. The alluring desire to own and build my own piece of machinery and urge to learn uncommon skills, led me to look into cars. I guess I wanted something that would teach me a lot of skills and be interesting to own. For a 20 year old an Austin seven is as good as you can get.


What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?

Meeting like-minded people who are creative, innovative and willing to share knowledge. Being able to see all types of cars and seeing them run/put through their paces.(for me that's very important! I like to see cars of all makes out and about not hidden in a garage). Events like the Roycroft trophy are always good. We probably need more like that. Or events that are more accessible for the general public… beach racing?? There’s got to be a place for that in NZ.


What puts you off the same?

To be honest not a lot has put me off so far. Finding information can be a real battle, but I have been in other vintage facets and know you just have to be patient and determined. To be honest doing the research is half the fun and half the challenge. However people can react to things differently and thus Ian, I have been careful where I step, so to speak.


What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?

Being new to all of this I probably can’t say too much. However from my point of view it seems hard to find like minded people who are building specials or cars swayed to racing/trialing. Like You Ian, I am interested in driving, building, racing and general action. That's probably why I decided to build a Ulster rep. As a young guy I have a lot of respect for older generations and their knowledge but I don't want to always sit and talk. I want to get on and build cars, race, have fun, learn and pass on knowledge just like older generations did. That aspect seems to be waning and with no younger generation to take that on, there lies a problem.

In New Zealand more exposure of vintage cars is needed to attract more young people! I think I can safely say that at 23 I am an oddity of my generation. I know no one here in NZ that is of my immediate age and shares this interest. But as Simon Jansen mentioned earlier, Its bloody hard for a young person to get into this sort of stuff when you are floundering around trying to get a job, paying rent or saving for a house. Let’s be honest, building or owning a vintage car regardless of size or pedigree, isn’t particularly cheap. And In all honesty if there are not many young people in a club/hobby it's going to be harder to attract more young people...

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?

For someone young like me, it’s the size and ease with which I can work on it, being able to meet fantastic people with good old fashioned values and sharing enthusiasm. But really, it’s the opportunity to hone my practical skills and own/create a wonderful piece of machinery from the past. A time machine of sorts… I haven't even touched on driving. That's in the future. P.s I will put up a post about my Ulster rep soon. I promise.
Cheers Athow.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

One question that arises from those posed by Ian is "What is stopping you, who may already belong to a club, from helping to run the club, including becoming a committee member?" There seems to be an expectation that the "old guard" will keep the show on the road regardless. My club is not alone in pleading for vacancies on the committee to be filled, but finding it falls on deaf ears.
There remains plenty of enthusiasm so long as somebody else makes it happen.
In terms of attitude, this is what has changed most in my many years with an A7

Ron Hayhurst

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Derek, I'm the guy at Bewl with the black Ruby parked next-but-one to you and we chatted; thank goodness we managed to communicate, my wife says I don't chat except to fellow car enthusiasts! I do hope that I didn't offend you, but I have to remember to face you for your lip-reading and it was something I'm not used to. Hopefully, we'll met again at another show. We've had our Ruby for 12 years and belong to Senlac Centre A7OC (London). We attend monthly meetings in the evenings where we sometimes have speakers, both transport related and others (for the ladies present) and monthly lunch get-togethers and various local shows and rallies. We are finding that as members get older they are reluctant to make the trips out in the evenings, especially during the winter months, and pre-war Austins are definitely not winter-driving-friendly on unlit country roads! We are concerned that there are only a dozen or so 'regulars' that attend faithfully, even in modern cars we are pleased to see them.
Perhaps the younger generation are interested in the cars that their fathers and grandfathers owned, hence the popularity of 60s and 70s vehicles at shows. Also, Austins are hard to drive and for the generation that grew up with power steering, maybe their arm muscles are not as well developed as their text-thumbs!

Derrick

Location: Hastings where the battle wasn't!

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Derek, shame you don't live here... have a couple of profoundly deaf friends and am used to lip reading. Learned the sign alphabet to help fill in where lip-reading was falling short.
And Ron, I think one problem folk have with volunteering ideas is they automatically get co-opted, so don't put their thoughts forward. But of course suggestions without time don't help either, I know.
In one year I ended up on two committees because I forwarded suggestions, so I have seen both sides. I guess it is part of the 'problem' that the older guard are likely to have the time, and the younger ones, the ideas/energy...
To his credit, Ian has put a lot of time into the club, running workshops and pushing for ideas to get the club out infront of a wider range of people.
As a result one branch here in NZ, on the periphery of our biggest city, now aims to have vintage Austins in general, and Nippys and Specials in particular, attend a monthly 'caffeine and classics' park-up, which attracts a huge range of participants.
Right. Back to work!

Location: New Zealand

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Apologies if I missed it among the lengthiest letters I recall on this site - but, if not said before, in truth I feel we are self-destructing. We greedily keep hiking up the prices of Sevens to the point where no matter how much we enthuse young members to be involved, they simply can't afford to own a Seven. Our Club has mainly prospered because many retirees or package-holders who've previously owned a Seven, or always wanted one, can now afford to get back into, or into, the game. They generally are quite happy to pay the current prices for brand-new reproduction parts(no criticism there), but most much more than the $40 I paid for my first Chummy. And what do most want to do when the time comes to sell? - try to recoup the FULL amount & more they've spent on getting the car all together. It just doesn't work. Cheers, Bill

Location: Euroa, Australia

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Bill, I usually have the greatest of respect for what you say but on this occasion I don't entirely agree. Certainly greed is destructive to any organisation, but it seems to the nature of society that there will always be someone looking to exploit any opportunity to make money, whether is it the rank and file club members or the dealers and entrepreneurs there is little we can do to stem the tide. However I don't know that cost alone will put off younger people, have you looked at how much money is spent on Drift cars, Hotrods, and 70's saloons by guys in their 20's and 30's, in some cases more than all my sevens put together ( I have several!).
No I think the issue is appeal more than cost, this is where I wonder if we can improve things, if something appeals enough to a person then they make the sacrifices needed to be involved, what I am trying to establish is how can we improve the appeal and profile of our hobby. Some will say that if we are successful that will drive prices even higher so will not have a bar of it, jealously protecting their little patch against all new comers and change.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Isn't the Elaphant in the room: How many young people will want to drive a 100 year old car on modern roads?
I can see the future being the Ulster type specials and hill climb standard cars that are gaining in popularity with the younger members. These may be the main focus of the movement and used in VSCC type off road speed/hill climb events. They do look a lot of fun, so I can see the appeal. IanM

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

What attracted you to A7's in the first place?
It was a natural progression.
The first car in the family was an A30, aged 8 I was grinding in the valves and learnt to drive it on a private airfield. Age 14 I was stripping the engine on the family A40 Farina. Age 16 I was driving a side-valve reliant 3 wheeler with engine based on the seven. Read 'The Austin Seven' by Wyatt from local library, ended up buying the same book years later at a library sale. Bought my Ruby to restore thirty years ago. Still working on it.


What encourage's you to attend meetings, events, and such like?
Don't go to meetings, go to various local events to display my other Austin (Ruby still not on the road).

What puts you off the same?
Went to meetings etc years ago but people weren't friendly.

What would you like to see that is currently not happening within the clubs in general?
would like more Austins and more sevens to attend local rallies, shows, events. Many events are being taken over by seventies and eighties cars, and later.

What is the best thing about owning an Austin 7?
Always something to do, something to read about, chat about.

I don't really want a club or meetings. This forum is great, with good discussions and information. But even on here there seems to be a bit of a clique. I've asked a few questions over the years and got very few answers. Surely someone knows what to soak my old carburetors in to make them look like new.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Ian, I agree you are quite probably correct. I can say that special building is how got involved, however these days although still a special builder I am also extremely keen on originality, to the extent that you could possibly accuse me of rivet counting! But also why would younger people not want to drive a 100 year old car, they are fun and I think actually quite liberating, almost without exception those I have let drive my own cars have had a great time. Provided the cars are well maintained they drive and stop perfectly well on modern roads. If the path into our world revolves around specials then perhaps we should actively promote and support events that cater for them.

I have views and ideas based on my own experiences, but this may be part of the problem, we can as we age become blinkered by our own perspectives. I asked for others views particularly from those younger than me, and those new to sevens in order to get a better more balanced picture. We certainly are getting a good response, please keep your comments coming.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

andrew34ruby
But even on here there seems to be a bit of a clique. I've asked a few questions over the years and got very few answers. Surely someone knows what to soak my old carburetors in to make them look like new.


As one who has answered your questions Andrew I am surprised to read your comment.

I made a sensible suggestion about your carbs which you chose not to acknowledge, perhaps others have experienced the same and this has put them off continuing?

You may like to consider the following suggestions that have worked for me in the past:

- vapour/soda/media blasting.

- use a dishwasher.

- boiling water with a Daz (or similar) tablet.

- carburettor cleaner.

- use an ultrasonic cleaner.

- use Marine-Clean.

- try something yourself, see if it works and report back here.

Apologies for diverting the conversation Ian W.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

HI Ian, one issue with promoting events for specials is you will need to have two classes one under VCC rules and one under MOTORSPORT NZ rules as there is much more scope under the latter and FIA safety rules.
The younger drivers will still race Sevens but not under VCC as this will restrict the amount of Events that are available for them to compete in

Location: TINOPAI NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Ian,
I know that we have spoken earlier about this issue so you have an inkling on my views on revitalisation as you put it.
I joined the Vintage Austin Register and the vintage car club in 1972 when aged 16. I was probably unique in both the clubs due to my youth especially as I was not introduced to the club by my parents.
Forty -Four years later I am still one of the younger in both clubs, the average age being 70 plus.
I have four sons in their late twenties and early thirties. Only one is a car enthusiast and is capable of driving my 1928 car proficiently. He would I am sure like to inherit my cars eventually and he could maintain them as well. I have never actively encouraged any of my children to participate in my car interests, rather I have taught by example engineering and construction skills that will enable them to to be successful in life and work. The engineering skills have proven very useful to them in that they all have very well paid jobs in related areas and could afford a hobby like ours in future years.
This is not true of many of our youth today who are not prepared to make sacrifices to apply themselves to science and mathematics where our society is crying out for trainees. Vintage cars are also in this category as they are beyond the skills of most to restore and they have little interest in history and basic mechanics.
My job entails teaching youths and young adults workshop skills , both benchwork and machining. Every year I find the manual dexterity and motor skills of my trainees more and more lacking and that very little is done to encourage improvement of these at primary and secondary school level. There is the perception that such skills are unworthy of youth and that numerically controlled machines can do all those jobs now.
The dumbing down of manual skills in society has removed a really important creative aspect of life and has made the outlook for those who are creative and clever with their hands rather bleak - so many jobs on offer now are inconsequential and repetitive.
I am quite proactive with the use of my Austin Seven, taking it on long trips, to Displays and to work quite often.-Yes I get the OOHs and AHHs but I cannot remember a student or workmate actually asking where they could get one or if they could join a club for them in the last twenty years. I am very enthusiastic about my hobby, which ,I fear ,to most people is eccentric and not really their cup of tea.
It is interesting that the Membership of the Vintage car Club ( 8000 + ) and the Austin register (650) here are respectively growing and Stable in Numbers But the activity is dropping in inverse to the average age I fear.
I will say finally that my observation would be that the success of any club is often cyclic and very dependent on enthusiastic stewardship of the membership. Loosing Key members can have big effect.

Location: Wellington NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Another long reply, I do hope they seem constructive.

Ian and Ian,

I don't necessarily think it is always about the speed side of it for younger people. I know that attending a VSCC or Bert Hadley sprint or hillclimb will show you there are good numbers of young people getting into the hobby like this. On the other side though if you look at light car and edwardian section events, VSCC driving tests, trials or road rallies you will see plenty of young people thoroughly enjoying saloons or tourers as well.

As I said I am 27 and have a standard '28 Mulliners saloon. I mainly like to see cars whether standard, modified or specials, as they were or could have been in the inter war years. For me the history is highly important, maintaining and doing things as they were done at the time.

A point which Jacqui has raised is how different people will react to a younger person (Or to Dereks profound deafness). In general people want to be treated as equals regardless of age or anything else, and don't want to have assumptions made about them for any reason. I went to localish mini club meeting once with my 1970 mini, and there was a group of older people all sat around a table, and a group of younger people playing pool and having a laugh. I am a bit nervous around new people, so went to join the quieter older group where I could just sit down, listen and join in as a saw fit. I said hello, and was immediately asked "Don't you want to go and join in with the other youngsters". I didn't go again.

It may be done by some already, but could having a designated member (Maybe Membership Sec) who contacts new members by email or otherwise to chat about their interests and see when they might be along to a meeting help? When they show up they then have someone that they have been acquainted with who can introduce them to others that are comfortable around new people, summarising their interests so that people have an idea of what they might like to talk about.

As far as driving the cars is concerned. I have always had a relatively old car as my only mode of transport never power steered or fuel injected, almost always 60's and 70's. I enjoy driving my seven more than any car I have had previously. I don't find it any more difficult to drive, even with crash gearbox and uncoupled brakes. Though I am happy to have a seven as my only car, with modern traffic the way it is, I think the vast majority regardless of age wouldn't be. This means if a young person is to have a seven they need to be able to afford, and have space for, two cars. Most will compromise with later cars until they have the means in later life.

My understanding is that in the 60's and 70's sevens provided good, fun transport for young people on a small budget, with them falling in love with them as part of ownership. As time has moved on the era's that provided young people with cheap transport have moved with it. Now the cars affordable to young people are of the 90's and 2000's, with none of the charm that would lead them into seeking out earlier cars. So young people that get into classic cars or sevens have to fall in love with the cars enough first and then save to buy one, and as above their circumstances need to be right to make this possible.

Does it matter if the majority of people coming into the hobby are only 10, 20 or 30 years younger than those leaving, so long as overall numbers don't decline? Is there any real evidence that there is a decline in the hobby overall rather than just a decline in some clubs?

Location: New Forest

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Seven interest and Seven clubs is a chicken and egg situation. The latter will not exist without the first. And persons without cars feel a bit awkward in Clubs. Every effort should be made to foster interest in the cars. But cars need to be honestly touted. Many Seven restorers have been disappointed by the end result.

Many are not interested in Clubs for a long list of reasons; for the industrious restorer time is at a premium. From Forum posts, several able have contacted me directly. They are wary of the Forum let alone Clubs. Any hint of dismissiveness is very discouraging to most. Some that root for expanded club membership discourage as many as they attract. I am in touch with ardent restorers who belong to Clubs only for access to parts hoards.

Information and parts are the things much sought after. With Sevens is almost too much info; it takes an age to work through all the Club websites. Much is dated, repetitive and obsolete, and major errors persist. New comers are smothered, and those with the experience to sift and sort hardly need it. It would be helpful if articles could perhaps be listed in one place and allotted some sort of a grading and within categories ie Introductory, Complete, Supplementary, Dated Period, Competition Orientated , Fine Detail or somesuch.

Many now come with a woefully lacking practical background. The maintenance ritual and materials needs to be presented in the simplest form, free of discouraging mystique.

I belong to a one make Club which for the limited range of vehicles and relative rarity, is one of the most successful here. Several factors (which I can list) contribute but in the main it is the enormous industry of a few (which does not include me). Nowadays few but the elderly have the time. Younger new members are scarce. Weekends are no longer free as 40 years ago.

I think opportunity is often lost at displays and public appearances. I have yet to have anyone say “I am contemplating an old car as a hobby. What does this make offer?” Engaging with all is hard work but seeds may be sown. It is not unknown for newly retired persons to be looking for a completely new interest.
It is too easy to treat as a reunion , yarn to mates and ignore the tedious public. In just a few minutes passing through an unattended VAR site I fielded questions about numbers made, numbers here now, normal driving speed, crankhandle use etc. The experience of cranking is entirely novel. If any ever develop an interest, Sevens may spring to their mind.

Instead of long detailed technical description placards need to convey some period idea of the car in normal use in its time, and sell the hobby and the car. Here It is difficult for outsiders to appreciate how common the cars still actually are. The favourable spares situation needs to be publicised.

Location: Auckland, NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Bob my dislike of your attitude and approach on this site is no secret, and I apologise in advance to other reader's who do not like slanging matches but I can not abide hypocrites
Bob I know you are just attempting to provoke me and that you revel in such destructive practices, but why do you do this. What are you trying to achieve, " any hint dismissiveness is very discouraging" you constantly dismiss Austin sevens as nasty, badly engineered and designed cars not worthy of use on todays roads. You dismiss almost everyone as being woefully incapable of any engineering skill required to work on them, you dismiss web sites and books because they are riddled with errors. You rarely if ever tell us what you perceive those errors to be, you make sweeping dismissive statements that are often quite blatantly wrong. Yet here you are accusing others of being the reason people are discouraged, you seem to have one aim and that is to discourage and disrupt an otherwise vibrant and friendly forum.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Ruairidh Dunford
andrew34ruby
But even on here there seems to be a bit of a clique. I've asked a few questions over the years and got very few answers. Surely someone knows what to soak my old carburetors in to make them look like new.


As one who has answered your questions Andrew I am surprised to read your comment.

I made a sensible suggestion about your carbs which you chose not to acknowledge, perhaps others have experienced the same and this has put them off continuing?


Ruairidh, your general contribution is so brilliant and appreciated that I could not bring myself to negatively acknowledge you. But really you had not addressed my question. I wanted to do things myself and you suggested going to an outside expert. And responses from others were conspicuous by their absence. Are people really put off as easily as you suggest?

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Andrew!

Ruairidh Dunford


You may like to consider the following suggestions that have worked for me in the past:

- vapour/soda/media blasting.

- use a dishwasher.

- boiling water with a Daz (or similar) tablet.

- carburettor cleaner.

- use an ultrasonic cleaner.

- use Marine-Clean.

- try something yourself, see if it works and report back here.

Apologies for diverting the conversation Ian W.



Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Derrick, Thank you very much for your thread. Firstly, I'd like to thank you and the couple in the red Ruby parked between our cars at Bewl for chatting with me, especially for facing me when talking! Be reassured you definitely did not offend me in any way!! As you know I can speak quite clearly and my lip-reading skills are good so communicating with a Deaf person doesn't essentially mean one has to use sign language so I was rather bemused with those who walked away from me so suddenly! You and the other couple certainly made my day at Bewl as talking to fellow A7 owners or even people who may have an interest in our cars means a lot to me! Who knows, we might meet at another show or even a Senlac Centre meet. The Six Bells isn't that far from me! The only snag I have is that I don't go for gatherings where there are speakers as there's little point in me going if I'm not going to follow what's been said! I like the ideas of small gatherings, rallies etc where I can (hopefully) fit in and chat with others. Hence, I'll need to be selective on what I attend! In any case, I think A7OC (London) with all its Centres is great as it's an opportunity for fellow A7 owners to get together and enjoy the varied events each Centre puts on.
Despite this thread being a week old and having had excellent response to it, there's been no contact from any Deaf A7 owner as yet! It's early days but if any A7 owners know of a Deaf A7 owner, it would be much appreciated if their attention was drawn to this thread!
All the best .......... Derek

Location: Sunny Brighton in Sussex UK

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Hi Jacqui, Oh no, it's a shame YOU don't live here! I'd love to meet up for a natter! I'm afraid NZ is a bit too far for me to drive my Ruby over to see you! I'm still hoping there will be some Deaf A7 owners out there, and also lots of others like you with the essential understanding of communicating with the likes of me!! By the way, do any of your Deaf friends own A7's? I love your "attend a monthly 'caffeine and classics' park-up". It reminds me of my 60's gatherings of various friends with common interests (in my case at that time it was either motor bikes or Minis!) at what were called "transport or greasy spoon cafes". I don't know if it's a thing the A7 fraternity do in UK nowadays but there are certainly plenty of pubs and coffee places around with parking! See my thread reply to Derrick - I'm wondering if I'm the only Deaf A7 owner in UK!! All the best Derek

Location: Sunny Brighton in Sussex UK

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Goodness me Ian. Why don't you give Bob a phone call and air your differences with him direct, instead of using this excellent forum! And as for my email address, I don't wish to be the target of your vitriol, but prefer to enjoy the friendly banter that is the norm: for this forum.

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

To be clear and for the record Colin it is most certainly not Ian Williams but another Kiwi altogether who trolls and misleads and spoils this excellent forum.
The real mystery is why.
And why he persveres.

Location: Wessex

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

Colin I did try! the man just takes pleasure from winding everyone up.

Ian thank you for your support, I take it as an honour from someone who has done so much for the A7 movement as you.

I should add if Colin or anyone else wishes to call me off forum to vent their spleen I have nothing to hide, I publish who I am, my email and for good measure and here is my number 09 4421261.

Location: NZ

Re: Re-Vitalising Austin Seven Clubs

If Colin cared to scroll back a few years he would see that a certain New Zealander has been often encouraged to stop writing some of his ridiculous rantings. Sadly it hasn't worked - most now ignore and not wish to become involved, others have given up trying. The worst thing we can do is mislead newbies with wrong info and his negative comments have probably put off others from buying Sevens. Not what we need to see, although I must admit that recently some of his contributions have been helpful, even though they're usually about other makes, not Sevens - perhaps he's slowly come to his senses?. I know that Ian has contacted him direct, but obviously to no avail. And Colin, don't think this is an individual thing on Ian's part - I can show you a pile of emails directed to me complaining about our problem when I've attempted to correct blatant errors in the past. Cheers, Bill

Location: Euroa, Australia