TR2/3/3A TR3B or TR2?

[Andrew Mace]

I must disagree with your "disc brakes would be hard to pass". I drive my drum brake equipped TR2LD about 4,000 miles per season and as long as you keep the front drums adjusted, they are quite adequate. Still you must remember that even an 80,000# 18 wheeler can stop faster than you. It begs the question "Why buy a TR2 to turn it into a 3A"?

I have to agree with you, Lou. I readily concede that brake fade on mountain roads is more likely with front drums; otherwise, I don't know that they're "night and day" different. I've spent an awful lot of time behind the wheel of Heralds and even Mayflowers with all-drum braking systems and have never felt unsafe. In fact, I've had to make one or two serious panic stops and had no problems doing so. Quality parts and regular (as needed) adjustments and maintenance are what you need. Heck, two years ago, a friend of mine wanted me to check out the brakes on his MGA 1500 (Lockheed system, all drums very similar to the TR2). Car stopped, sort of, mostly one front wheel. Three of the four front wheel cylinders were nonfunctional, and the rear cylinders weren't much better. New linings, and new wheel cylinders all around (and a couple new pipes just to be safe), and that car stopped beautifully.

Are discs an improvement? Sure. And vinyl-clad, triple-pane windows might insulate Mount Vernon or Monticello better than the originals, but I personally don't see that as justification for their use on historic properties. But that's me.

In all honesty, I think even us "more seasoned" drivers tend to get used to our modern rides with better brake engineering, arguably better and more durable materials, and all the power assists and warning systems...and then can be surprised when we discover that a bit of real leg muscle is required!

I resent the term "Senior Member".

I dunno, Lou, I'm getting to the point where I'm beginning to resemble that remark! :laugh:

 

[Tinkerman]

Hey Banjo, I just sent you a PM.

Tinkerman

 

[Banjo]

Hey Banjo, I just sent you a PM.

Tinkerman

you sure? I don't see it in my inbox.
I've been out a day or so. Lots going on this week with little time for catching up here.
Glad to hear that TR2 is getting a good home. situation different, I woulda had that gem. Watkins is probably a tad out of the way for you, so if that dosen't fit, but you still want to meet up, I'll work with ya.
Try the PM again. Mebbe it'll work this time.

 

[BOXoROCKS]

...my vote goes for the last of the TR3's, most of the mechanical upgrades of the A ,but with the best looking barchetta body...

 

[erstearns]

Watkins is probably a tad out of the way for you, so if that dosen't fit, but you still want to meet up, I'll work with ya.

Was planning on making my way south through the lake area, stopping in at Bully Hill etc. Watkins Glen not out of the way at all. Part of the adventure. Will catch up when pick-up planned. Waiting on the proverbial.......engine will be done in 3 weeks!

Eric

 

[Silverghost]

Therapy?? From the sounds of it - 3 project cars - you have several years of therapy sitting in your garage!

What better therapy could there be than laying on your back under the chassis of one of those cars? The therapists couch might be more comfortable but at the end you'll have three cars to drive.

Of course the angst of choosing which one to drive itself may send you to the therapist!! LOL

And instead of writing the therapist a check for $125/hour(?), write YOURSELF that check for each hour you spend working on the cars. Then show your wife how much money you "saved" and take her on a wonderful vacation!! :laugh:

 

[Banjo]

that's kinda how Tinster did it. But his wife just took the vacation money job upon herself. hehehehehehe