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Spitfire possible 76 Spitfire purchase-advice?

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fmj355

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Drove it yesterday, runs, shifts, brakes OK, electrics functional, handles fine, no obvious issues. Magnet found no bondo, only visible rust was in front of left rear wheel well, was able to get underneath, no apparent rust there, surface rust only under carpets. Needs new top, seats re-covered, exterior paint badly faded, but it appears to be original paint, engine number correct for year. Owner has had car for 15 years, says he kept it in carport mostly, little use but started fairly regularly, the general look of the car leads me to believe that.
Any specific troublespots on Spitfires that don't show up on a normal look over? I am just thinking to drive this and do the renovations while I look for a TR6. Price makes it attractive. I have adequate skills from american car renos, but am an LBC newbie. Comments? Opinions? Prejudices? Emotional outbursts? Free advice?
Don
 
1976 is the best year if the engine is correct because it has the higher compression as standard. The worst things about any Triumph is they seem to rust from the inisde out. 1500 cc Spits tend to lose their thrust washers and are hard on bearings. The differentials are a little on the weak side as I found out last weekend.
 
I had a '76 back in the UK, and I loved it! You will not find a car that is easier to do DIY maintenance and repair on. If it drives fine and has minimal rust then you're ahead of the game.
 
/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/tongue.gif I had a '76 for a few years. Used it as a commuter for about a year. First year for smog pumps in the US. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/rolleyes.gif Look for rust in the rockers and the frame behind the dif. billspit's right, they rust from the inside out, especially in the frame. Sounds like you may have found a good one.
 
"electrics functional" Buy it! Buy it Now! With all kidding aside, the 76 year model is a nice little car, pretty much all around. If its rust is minimal, and it runs, drives alright, then it is probably a good deal.
 
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