Ariel Owners Motorcycle Club

I've got the VB camshaft in mine - it's definitely more sprightly.

Ummmm - but which VB camshaft??!
I think I'm right in saying the later VB camshaft is the earlier OHV camshaft, but the earlier VB camshaft... !!

SG

This one! The A6/664 camshaft. You can see the extended duration over the standard F cam from the W/NG.

I fitted one of the twin lobe cams in my 46 WNG and it made a surprising difference I never run
it fast 50 mph ish but the acceleration is much better.

So I'm preparing the lady for Normandy next week. The weather forecast was very good, but now it looks like it's going to rain some. Last year the Ariel got wet on our way home. After that there was rust everywhere.

Do you have any tips what to use on all the unpainted parts to make it somewhat waterproof?

Some folk might recommend something like ACF 50, but surely the most authentic (and pretty effective) would be a good wipe over with a (properly) oily rag!

SG

YourivdA wrote: Wed May 28, 2025 5:57 am Do you have any tips what to use on all the unpainted parts to make it somewhat waterproof?

I've been painting black oxide parts with boiled linseed oil and it lasts years of occasional soakings. Scary thing is that apparently linseed oil soaked rags spontaneously combust!

Thanks! That's a good idea.

So it's been 2 weeks since our Normandy trip. Time to update this thread with some pictures.

I drove her around St-Mere-Eglise and did a total of 120km. Without any problems . The last day the engine started to hick up every now and then. I experienced the same at home, after I did quite some miles. After that I set the contact points to the right distance and the problem was gone. I noticed the contact point, which is screwed into the contactbreaker is bent. Hence why the contact itself is worn uneven. I think that's the reason it starts running worse so quickly. I'll put in a new set of contact points to fix this.

I had a blast driving without problems. Really fun times. Since we spend most our time at the American sectors she drew a lot of attention. Haven't seen a single other Ariel there.

Now the dream has always been to own a Wilys/GPW jeep. Due to some unforseen circumstances that dream might come true this year. So I might actually sell the Ariel this year or next year. Sadly I can't have both. Untill then I'll keep making fun rides and keep her in good shape.

Youri - surely you'll have much more fun with a W/NG than a Willys jeep??!!

Thanks for the pics and the story.

SG