Hi,
There were some "issues" with the Stag engine when it was first offered, but there are now some pretty well proven solutions.
You probably got a clue from the previous posts, as to the main problems. One is rapid cam chain wear, the other is overheating. AFAIK, there is not a real solution for the chain issue, just good maintenance will help avoid problems. The chains need to be changed every 30,000 miles or so, I think. There are several possible solutions for the overheating issue, as previously mentioned.
Looking back now, we can see teething pains with many Triumph engines, not just the Stag's V8. The inline 2500cc 6 cyl. has it's own set of issues. The 4 cyl. TRactor motor is pretty sturdy, but has its quirks, too.
This sort of thing is not at all uncommon. For some reason, Land Rover put stainless steel face caps on the rockers in the 4.0 L for a couple years... which have caused no end of problems for owners (maybe the 4.6 too). The engine is a serious gas hog, too.
A friend's Pontiac 4 cyl. has well documented overheating problems, a constant maintenance issue that can get very expensive if not watched.
I had a Fiat at one point and got to know a couple of mechanics at the local dealership. They used to take bets on crankshaft breakage in 124s. Usually right at 85,000 miles, like clockwork. And a friend's sedan, a 131 or something like that, averaged 2 or 3 mufflers a year... they just rotted away.
The list goes on and on!
Personally, I think the Stag's "problems" got blown out of proportion. In fairness, its engine is a pretty good one and I'd certainly consider swapping one into a smaller TR for fun. Wish I knew what was happening to those engines that were being pulled out of Stags!
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