03 Jul Spanner Works: 1926 Talbot 14/45

A regular feature by senior workshop technician JP du Plessis outlining the activities of FMM’s workshop personnel who are responsible for repairing, renovating, refurbishing and restoring the museum’s large and varied collection of vehicles. This month, JP’s describes Donny Tarentaal carrying out a drain and fill job on a 97-year-old Talbot…

The museum’s cars typically don’t accumulate much mileage in a year, but having last been serviced before the 2015 Oily Rag Run, the next service was way overdue for FMM’s mostly untouched and original 1926 Talbot 14/45. Oil deteriorates even if it is not used frequently, because when the car is driven, the lubricants go through heat cycles and oxidation occurs, which contaminates the oil, additives break down and so on and so forth…

So, Donnie Tarentaal was given the task of giving the Talbot a full inspection and replacement of the lubricants. After a quick warm-up drive, the Talbot was pulled onto the lift and the sump plugs were removed to drain all the oils while warm, so it would flow out easily. While draining, the Auto Vac fuel supply system was checked for any leaks and was cleaned thoroughly. The brakes were also checked for correct adjustment and the ignition system was checked for any excessive wear and then cleaned internally. Once the sumps were empty, the plugs were refitted with fresh compression washers and the engine, gear and differential oils were replaced.

On some cars gear train, especially those with few or no synchronisers, we prefer using 460-grade oil to make sure that wear is minimal on original equipment from +-100 years ago. It contains additives based on sulphur and phosphorus compounds that significantly reduce friction and prevent wear. It is recommended for applications that may be subject to micro-pitting (rust, heat cycles, etc.).

Enough about oil types and back to the Talbot! Once all the lubricants were replaced, the car was started and checked for carburettor and ignition adjustment. Donnie then took the Talbot for a leisurely cruise on the estate and came back satisfied with a job well done.

Other stories about the Talbot 14/45 can be found at:

https://www.fmm.co.za/deons-oily-rag/

https://www.fmm.co.za/collection-in-action-talbot/