Introduction
This manual provides detailed repair and maintenance instructions for the Sunbeam Rapier and Sunbeam Alpine vehicles. It is designed to assist owners and professional technicians in performing various tasks, from routine servicing to complex system overhauls.
The information contained herein covers the following models:
- Sunbeam Rapier: Series II, Series III, Series IIIA, Series IV, Series V
- Sunbeam Alpine: Series I, Series II, Series III, Series IV, Series V
This image displays the front cover of the 'Sunbeam Rapier / Alpine Auto Repair Manual'. The cover features a classic Sunbeam car, likely a Rapier or Alpine model, against a blue background. The title 'Auto-Reparaturanleitung' (Auto Repair Manual) is prominently displayed, along with the specific models covered: Sunbeam Rapier Series II, III, IIIA, IV, V and Alpine Series I, II, III, IV, V. The manual is identified as 'Querschnitt durch die Autotechnik' (Cross-section through Automotive Technology) No. 143.
Safety Precautions
Always prioritize safety when working on any vehicle. Failure to follow proper safety procedures can result in serious injury or damage to the vehicle. This section outlines general safety guidelines.
- Ensure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands before working underneath it. Never rely solely on a jack.
- Disconnect the battery's negative terminal before working on electrical components to prevent accidental shorts.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
- Work in a well-ventilated area, especially when dealing with fuel, exhaust fumes, or cleaning solvents.
- Allow hot engine components to cool down before handling them.
- Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible.
Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the longevity and reliable operation of your Sunbeam vehicle. This section details essential routine service tasks.
Engine Oil and Filter Change
- Warm the engine to operating temperature, then shut it off.
- Place a drain pan beneath the oil drain plug. Remove the plug and allow the oil to drain completely.
- Remove the old oil filter. Apply a thin film of new oil to the gasket of the new filter before installing.
- Reinstall the drain plug with a new washer (if specified) and tighten to the recommended torque.
- Fill the engine with the specified type and quantity of new engine oil.
- Start the engine and check for leaks. Verify the oil level after a few minutes of operation.
Fluid Level Checks
- Brake Fluid: Check level in the reservoir. Top up with DOT 3 or DOT 4 fluid as required.
- Coolant: Inspect coolant level in the expansion tank when the engine is cold.
- Power Steering Fluid: Check level on the dipstick or reservoir markings.
- Transmission Fluid: Check automatic transmission fluid with the engine warm and running, in Park or Neutral. Manual transmission fluid is checked via a fill plug.
Troubleshooting Guide
This section provides a basic guide to diagnosing common issues that may arise with your Sunbeam Rapier or Alpine. For detailed repair procedures, refer to the relevant sections of this manual.
| Symptom | Possible Cause(s) | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine cranks but won't start | No fuel, no spark, low battery, faulty ignition switch | Check fuel level, inspect spark plugs and ignition system, test battery voltage, check fuses. |
| Overheating engine | Low coolant, faulty thermostat, clogged radiator, failing water pump | Check coolant level, inspect radiator for blockages, test thermostat operation, check water pump for leaks/noise. |
| Brakes feel spongy | Air in brake lines, low brake fluid, worn brake pads/shoes | Bleed brake system, check fluid level, inspect brake components for wear. |
Technical Specifications
This section provides key technical specifications for the Sunbeam Rapier and Alpine models. Note that specifications may vary slightly between series and specific configurations.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (Approximate) | |
| Length | Varies by series (e.g., Rapier Series V: ~4300 mm) |
| Width | Varies by series (e.g., Rapier Series V: ~1540 mm) |
| Height | Varies by series (e.g., Rapier Series V: ~1390 mm) |
| Engine (Typical) | |
| Type | Inline 4-cylinder, overhead valve |
| Displacement | 1494 cc (early models) to 1725 cc (later models) |
| Fuel System | Carburetor (single or twin) |
| Capacities (Approximate) | |
| Engine Oil | ~4.0 - 4.5 liters (including filter) |
| Cooling System | ~7.0 - 8.0 liters |
| Fuel Tank | ~45 - 50 liters |
Note: Always refer to the specific section of the manual for precise specifications pertaining to your vehicle's series and year.
