Perhaps worth mentioning that the pin needs to be made from a high quality steel such as a high tensile steel bolt. A big end bolt is just about long enough if you turn off the head. File a small groove in the centre of the pin, fit with Loktite stud lock and thump the end of the shaft into the groove as previously described.
Ron

Location: Thornbury S Glos

With regards to oil leaking from the starting handle and leaving oil marks on the number plate etc. I was told some years ago by an experienced austin 7 owner and mechanic. That the starting handle when not in use should be kept in a position at 3/4 past TDC or in other words where 9 would be on a clock face. For some reason that I am not sure of this prevents the oil from leaking from the front of the nose cone.

Yours John Mason
Robin Hood Country

Location: Nottinghamshire

The handbooks that I have seen state that the starting handle should be parked at 9 o'clock when not being used and an illustration shows a leather washer that seals the gap when in that position. Many copies of handbooks can be viewed on the Austin Seven Clubs Association website:
http://www.a7ca.org/

Location: Near M1 Jtn 28

And always park the car facing uphill...

You can buy a "dink" from B & Q. They're on the shelf next to the round tooits and the glass hammers.

Location: Soaking wet but mild southern France

I like to have a packet of benzene rings in the car just in case of a shortage of fuel on a trip - so much easier than a 1 gallon can.