austinbantamclub

Question: Where can I talk to other members and ask about the Austin and Bantam cars?
Answer: The national meet of the American Austin Bantam Club. You will see some of the finest restorations, have an opportunity to take photos, kick some tires and just hang out with like-minded people. The club regularly holds a technical seminar where members share restoration tips. One of the best seminars was held at the 2009 Batavia, New York meet. No less than five members gave demonstrations. Attendees learned tips on door alignments, Austin transmission troubleshooting, installing floor plans and making new hardware look period-correct. Even if you're not in the middle of a restoration, the meet is a good opportunity to network with other members.

Question: I'm interested in buying an American Austin or Bantam roadster. How do I find one?
Answer: To begin your search, consider placing a "Wanted" ad in the classified section of the American Austin Bantam Club News. Classifieds, 40 words or less, are free to American Austin Bantam Club members.

Question: Where can I buy the Authenticity Manual for the American Austin and Bantam cars? The American Austin Bantam Club Authenticity Manual is available exclusively through the club to members only. Much of the information contained in this book was verified through factory literature, sales and service letters.

Question: I'm not a member of the club and I have a Bantam pickup for sale. Are you interested?
Answer: Yes, our club members are always looking for leads on new vehicles. Please send an eMail to orphanbabycars@yahoo.com with your contact information (name, location, and phone number), a description of what you have and an asking price. As a courtesy to our members, we will list your "non-member" classified (cars & parts for sale only) one time in our newsletter. Classifieds must be related to the American Austin, Austin Seven or Bantam car, 40 words or less, no photos. Otherwise, non-members must pay $6.00 in advance for each 40-word classified per issue. All ads are subject to review and editing by the editors.

Question: How many American Bantam vehicles exist today?
Answer: At least 5% of the vehicles that were manufactured are currently registered with Austin and Bantam enthusiasts. Officially, the Bantam Production book recorded 6,513 Bantam vehicles of various body styles. However, due to the petite size of the American Austin and Bantam car, one could guess that another 300 cars may exist outside the club. Members are still finding cars that have been hidden away in barns and garages for years.

Question: I just purchased a Bantam trailer. Are there any good restoration resources available?
Answer: During and after World War II, the American Bantam Company built far more utility trailers than all the American Austin and Bantam cars and trucks combined. The BT3 military trailers are highly sought after by military vehicle enthusiasts. It's easy to discern between the original Bantam BT3 military utility trailer and the later BT3-C civilian trailer. The military trailer did not have a drop-down tailgate so that the cargo box was waterproof and could float. The BT3 also carried a pintle-style hitch, whereas the BT3-C trailer carried a standard ball hitch. You might try the Internet for restoration resources. We found detailed photos of a Bantam trailer under restoration at: http://mightymo.org/bantam.html.

Question: Can a diesel engine fit in an American Austin or Bantam?
Answer: American Austin and Bantam vehicles are poor candidates for modern modifications. To retain the stock appearance, all components under the hood must fit within the confines of a space 16 inches wide, 18 inches long and 20 inches high. Remember, the frame and suspension were designed to carry a 13-horsepower Austin engine or a 20-22 horsepower Bantam engine that weigh less than 150 pounds fully equipped. Fortunately, Austin roadster and coupe bodies were manufactured in fiberglass by several firms to meet the needs of those looking for a daily driver.