[SOC] British terminology

[Kevin Rock]

While working on my BSA (Birmingham Small Arms not Boy Scouts of America) 
Goldstar in the late 60s I had to deal with British words for the parts.  
I also had to use Witworth wrenches to take things apart.  Journals?  
Gudgeon pins?  Spanners?  It all became clear once I looked at the 
drawings.  But lighting by Lucas was the most interesting part of the 
whole affair.  Or the engine, transmission, and ignition system all in 
separate pieces held together by obscure fasteners.  Made riding the bike 
a pleasure.  But a 500cc singly cylinder motorcycle with spark advance 
(retard), a compression release, and a rider who weighed 120 pounds 
soaking wet was the most interesting part.  My father got his jollies by 
watching me try to start the beast.  Open the compression release, kick 
the engine around until just before top dead center, tickle the Amal carb 
until just the proper amount of gasoline dribbles out, and then kick for 
all you were worth.  If the stars were just right it started.  The fun 
part (for my dad that is) was when it kicked back and I was raised into 
the air.  Repeat the entire procedure until either it starts or the rider 
becomes weary enough to start polishing the cases again.  The ignition 
system would also make the TV and every radio within a few miles have some 
very interesting crackling sounds.  But then the sound of a single 
cylinder 500cc motorcycle is unique.  After riding for 30 minutes or so 
you would get off and try to see straight.  Multiple images of everything 
filled your eyes.  Then wheel the bike into the garage.  Place the newest 
piece of cardboard under the bike to catch the inevitable drips from the 
various leaking areas.

Nothing like a British bike from the 50s or 60s!  I loved that beast and 
its quirks.
    73,
        Kevin.


-- 
No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG Anti-Virus.
Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 265.6.12 - Release Date: 1/14/2005