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another 1500 engine question

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jim79

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Well, I thought Id have mine running this weekend and machine shop suprise:head cracked in 2 places(#2 + #3 cylinders)= total loss /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/pukeface.gif. Anybody know 100% for sure if a triumph spitfire(1980)1500 cylinder head will be interchangeable with midget(1979)1500 cylinder head? Located one rebuilt but hate to find a difference while trying to bolt it up? I hope this thing is worth the trouble when I'm done.
thanks, james
 
I can't give you absolutes, but they are the same drivetrain, even with the '76 variation, which occurs in both cars during the 1976 model year (9:1 CR instead of 7.5:1 in all other years). Therefore, I'd buy it if I were you, as I've purchased engine parts for spitfires and have never had any trouble at all (Cam, valves, etc). I'll give you a 99% shot, and even if it doesn't work out, you can always re-sell it! (I might even be interested ... /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wink.gif )
 
Yes, it'll fit.
If you look at the Moss Motors catalog (online) you'll see that the head gasket for both those cars is the same....a good indication that they'll interchange.
 
thanks for the info.if he has it im gonna buy it and give it a try. one last question: is it a common problem hsving cylinder head cracks on the 1500 and other than watching the temp, can anything else be done?
 
You could take the cracked head with you when you go to look at the item you want to buy, and compare.
I think cracking in Triumph cylinder heads is more common on the TR6, and usually across the "bridge" between inlet and exhaust valves. Logic would lead me to suppose the number 6 cylinder, furthest from the radiator, would run hottest and be most likely to have problems but this is just a guess.
Simon.
 
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