Web Forum for Singer Cars

Did you send your engine to John Gibson, or are you buying a whole new engine?

I've sent it to Mr Gibson. The turn around time is ... quite long.

Salut François,

Writing to learn how long John has had your engine?

I know there's a lot that needs to be done to make the engines reliable; they are the weak point of the Singer in many ways. Even though the design is a good one, the metallurgical knowledge in England was the weak link. You probably know the story that the blocks were cast and then put outdoors for 6 months to 'cure'.

There are some problems with that approach, but the fundamental shortcoming goes back to the crucible in which the iron was smelted. The ingredients were not well suited to the needs of an engine block. Although an engine block is hard, it wants Not to be brittle: its application requires a certain flexibility, due to the endless number of heat cycles to which an engine is subjected. Along with heat cycles come temperature extremes in climate.

At the affect of all these factors, Singer's poor metallurgy didn't hold up well, as evidenced by the very limited number of cars from this era that retain their original power train.

As far as we all know, John's work on our engines is the best available. It's probably worth the wait. Reports I've heard about the 'spirit' he's able to instill in his rebuilds will be rewarding. Please let us know! I'm most curious, as I may have to have this done to my engine.

Best of luck,

David

At least things are moving forward, confinement gives me some time to work on the car with the help of my friend Eric. He is more a citroen specialist but he adapts quickly and the new wiring loom is now almost connected.

Salut, Froux,

Sad that you, too, are confined but happy to see that your handsome Nine continues to progress. What has happened since you last posted?

What have you learned that we could benefit from?

Warm Wishes for staying safe, and coming closer to having your Singer on the road!

David

Well, apart the steering rod concern, the 2 current issues are an interference between the alternator i bought to replace the dynamo and the steering box.

The alternator is a bit longer , i had to decrease the angle of the steering column to make it fit. Will i be able to sit in my car ? To be confirmed later.
The other issue is the radiator to water pump connection , Mr Gibson installed a water pump on the engine (any feedback on this from other members ?) but it doesn't come in front of the radiator lower water entry. I think i'll have to move this entry further left...

First miles after a 7 year long restoration with ups and downs ! Thank you confinement and thank you Eric for your knowledge and help.
We had some trouble lately with the solex FAI30 carbs that were fitted with unappropriate stacks and jets. Maybe they came from another make of car, now she revs much better.





Bonnet central hinge is too short , it might be a good idea to replace it and avoid bad surprises when driving at speed .

Carpeting and saddlery in progress :

Looks GREAT

My car passed its "contrôle technique" (french MOT) today , perfect occasion for a nice "art déco" style picture in front of the local beach entrance :

Congratulations!
And what a lovely photo!
Enjoy the Singer...

Job well done. Enjoy.

Looks great! what a fantastic ride to the beach.

It looks lovely. Any more photos?

Hello again, François,

Congratulations! I've been waiting to see your final choices and the car looks fantastique!

When may we see more photos. This one is a gem, but sort of a tease at the same time.

More, please!

Very Best and Well Done,

David