TR6 Just starting out…

[Marmoset54]

Hey fellas,

Wanted to say hello!

Recently came into possession of a 1972 TR6. Appears to be in great driver shape. No real history behind it (bought off my stepfather who bought it on an impulse buy…go figure).


Apart from having a specialized mechanic look it over, anything I should be preparing for?

Off the bat, I’d like to redo the wiring, update the suspension, and dive into this engine.

Already sent off for the key numbers as I need to get some made.

This will be second vintage car (first one was a 1985 K5 Chevy Blazer…miss her).

This will be great in South Florida. Only have a dog to worry about so I have some time.

 

[Popeye]

Congrats!

Brakes are most important, followed by steering. Make sure the rubber bits are not 50 years old. The Roadster Factory (my favorite), Moss, Victoria British can get you parts, as a few suppliers in the UK (e.g. Rimmers) with more selection but higher shipping costs.

 

[charlie74]

Once you’ve ensured it’s safe to drive (see above), the crank end float (0.004-0.008” IIRC) should be checked. If out of spec new alloy thrust washers can be obtained to custom sizes (customthrustwashers.com). They can be replaced with the engine in the car. The hub mounting studs on the rear trailing arms should be inspected and replaced if necessary. An experienced Triumph mechanic should be able to do this without undue trouble…but most of it you can do yourself if you have the desire, time, space, and tools.

And post some pics!

 

[charleyf]

Though there are a lot of jokes about the wiring of these British cars, the wiring is not bad. In my opinion changing the wiring harness is a very major project.
If your desire is to keep it as a daily driver just make sure everything works and repair what does not.
Charley

 

[Marmoset54]

Though there are a lot of jokes about the wiring of these British cars, the wiring is not bad. In my opinion changing the wiring harness is a very major project.
If your desire is to keep it as a daily driver just make sure everything works and repair what does not.
Charley

I absolutely HATE rewiring…

 

[Gliderman8]

I absolutely HATE rewiring…

Why do you want to rewire the car? Is there a problem?

 

[Marmoset54]

Why do you want to rewire the car? Is there a problem?

Dunno. Just thought with 50 year old wiring it might be time.

 

[charleyf]

Dunno. Just thought with 50 year old wiring it might be time.

If it isn't broke don't fix it. That works for British cars too.
Charley

 

[Marmoset54]

If it isn't broke don't fix it. That works for British cars too.
Charley

Yeah. Lemme tell you about my K5…

 

[charleyf]

Yeah. Lemme tell you about my K5…

This really comes down to what YOU want this car to be for you.
For me I have now restored 4+ Triumphs. In three of those cases I replaced the main wiring harness. In the 4th case, a 1962 TR4 I only did some minor wiring repairs. That wiring harness is as good as the replacements I used in the other cars. I restored the rest of that TR4 to new condition.
Charley

 

[poolboy]

If you run into electrical problems, you'll either be really glad you have this or wish you did.

MG, Triumph, Austin Healey, Jaguar Parts & Accessories | Moss Motors

Find all your British car restoration parts at Moss Motors. We offer parts for MG, Triumph, Austin Healey and Jaguar with fair prices and a large inventory. Two shipping warehouses for fast delivery.

mossmotors.com

 

[Marmoset54]

This really comes down to what YOU want this car to be for you.
For me I have now restored 4+ Triumphs. In three of those cases I replaced the main wiring harness. In the 4th case, a 1962 TR4 I only did some minor wiring repairs. That wiring harness is as good as the replacements I used in the other cars. I restored the rest of that TR4 to new condition.
Charley

If you run into electrical problems, you'll either be really glad you have this or wish you did.

MG, Triumph, Austin Healey, Jaguar Parts & Accessories | Moss Motors

Find all your British car restoration parts at Moss Motors. We offer parts for MG, Triumph, Austin Healey and Jaguar with fair prices and a large inventory. Two shipping warehouses for fast delivery.

mossmotors.com

New addition to the library! Thanks!

 

[Gliderman8]

Dunno. Just thought with 50 year old wiring it might be time.

I would address any electrical problems if they show up but not rewire it (my opinion).
Get the Dan Masters book as poolboy suggests and be ready if you need it.

 

[Sarastro]

In my opinion, a lot of perfectly good wiring harnesses are replaced every year just because they are a little faded or dirty or the copper conductors are tarnished. Wiring doesn't need to be replaced unless the insulation has hardened and is crumbling or cracking, or there are burned areas. Even then, it's often enough just to replace the bad parts. The copper can be brightened by dipping it in a mild acid. I use very dilute hydrochloric, but probably even lemon juice would work. Then dip it into an alkali bath to neutralize any remaining acid. I use Arm & Hammer washing soda in water. Be sure you dip it far enough, as acid may wick up under the insulation.

You can get all kinds of good automotive electrical connectors these days, so there is no need to put up with those awful bullet connectors used by the factory. If you want to upgrade the wiring, this is where to devote your energy.

 

[DrEntropy]

Congrats on the acquisition. Wiring should be a "least concern" unless there's really evident damage. The mechanical bits are the priority, IMHO.

Once you’ve ensured it’s safe to drive (see above), the crank end float (0.004-0.008” IIRC) should be checked. If out of spec new alloy thrust washers can be obtained to custom sizes (customthrustwashers.com). They can be replaced with the engine in the car. The hub mounting studs on the rear trailing arms should be inspected and replaced if necessary. An experienced Triumph mechanic should be able to do this without undue trouble…but most of it you can do yourself if you have the desire, time, space, and tools.

And post some pics!

As charley74 says, crank end-float in those engines is important. Had some so worn that the clutch would barely disengage! And do check the rear hubs' studs as well, along with their bearings. The bearings require press work if they're worn, though. That's a job not easily done, we've encountered some really stubborn ones.
Post some photos? And if you run down the left side of Florida on your trip, wave as ya go thru Tampa...

 

[RGK]

Yeah. Lemme tell you about my K5…

Get Master's yellow book on wiring and the work shop manual. Do a thorough look see for any 'enhancements' the PO may have done. If it is running well, drive it for a while and make a 'to do' list of things that don't seem right. Enjoy it and yep, don't tip over that first domino.

 

[Marmoset54]