Now I really am rich!!

[charlesp]

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Seagull-Little-40 ... 414d65c6af

These are genuinely scarce in running order, and I must confess to a bit of a weakness for them. This was the first ever attempt at the complete design of a motor by Bill Pinniger, and they are impossibly cute, especially with the tiny tank.

Any eagle eyes out there spot anything not quite original?

[phil]

The logo should read 'in the world", rather than"for the world" for that time period.

[charlesp]

Well spotted, Phil.

This is an early one, and I believe the magneto cover was actually plain at the time. But you're right the one on there is later. I am led to understand that motors going back to the factory had a logo plate fitted, but that's something I'll never know for sure.

There's something else...

[Jan]

Magneto Baseplate

[charlesp]

Yes, Jan. Sharp eyes! Magnetos of that age have no flange round the baseplate that protects the flywheel from damage in a side impact.

Of course we haven't finished yet, theres more...

[Jan]

Allright,
Starting Pulley and Engine Mounting Bracket including Thrust Block.
Jan

[charlesp]

I have to confess that I don't know which starting pulley it should have had - but I agree with you a larger one would make sense. And the bracket is a larger one from an ordinary SJM/SJP etc (at least I think so) and the little 'cotton reels - as the other Charles calls them - that bear on the drive shaft tube are missing; this one has the later black plastic moulding.

I know we can't see the front of the water pump housing, it's usually the original with no clench bolt arrangement and with the round water intake holes. So we have to take that one on trust.

But there's still something else...

[outboard]

Should the block have studs rather than bolts?

[mick r]

it is in superb working order and original condition.

Original condition

Did they leave the factory with dented tanks and rusty tillers then

[charlesp]

On these the block has hollows right the way through, long studs threaded at each end pass through the waterways and secure the head/block/crankcase with nuts. So actually they're OK. The washers on the crankcase bolts are an addition.

But there's still something else...

[Jan]

The Throtlle Control Lever is repaired with Amal Clamp and some home made parts, the long lever and central screw are correct.

Charles, I agree with your weakness for this tiny outboards! The Little Forty and SD are my favorite British Seagulls and I have several on display in my living room. Yes, I'm also a sad case.

Jan

[Charles uk]

If it runs & pumps water your half way there, this appears to be a "honest" early FV, in good condition for a outboard 6o ish years old.

All of us that have owned & played with one of these, seem to have a great deal of affection for them.

A good restoration project for a experienced Seagull restorer.