On 4 Mar 1996, Keith Bennett wrote:
> Hi Phil,
> I've got such a set up on my Herald 1200. The factory kit is
> essentially a Spitfire mk1 set up, with 2 HS2s, an inlet manifold with a
> bolt on balance tube and a cast iron exhaust manifold.
> The Spitfire mk1 camshaft is also part of the upgrade, for cars that
> don't already have it. Origonally only 12/50s, and export 1200s had it,
> but after a certain date it was fitted to all 1200 engines
Basically true, except that we "colonists" also got a lot of the Heralds
with the "GA" prefix engines, lacking the Spit cam. For these engines, I
recall that the conversion also involved new rod and/or main bearings.
> I've got the full details of the factory option in the parts catalogue at
> home which I could photocopy, or maybe even scan if you need it...
>
> It may be possible to convert a
> 12/50 manifold to do the job, in theory. The home market standard 1200
> manifold is different though, being shorter with a small bore outlet.
> Most export 1200s had the 12/50 type setup though, I believe.
I think in practice converting a Herald manifold would be tricky, what
with intake and exhaust being all one big casting?
If your friend (or anyone else is interested), I can photocopy pages
from a factory Herald handbook I have. This book details the kit and the
procedure for installation. BTW, some sources state that this conversion
was never actually offered, even though it was cataloged. Too bad, really.
Also, once this is fitted (or once an 1147 Spit engine complete is
dropped in -- probably almost as easy to do), I'd definitely recommend
upgrading to front disk brakes if the car doesn't already have them
(again, many earlier Herald 1200s in the states did not).
Andrew Mace
10/Herald/Vitesse (Sports 6) Consultant
Vintage Triumph Register
amace@unix2.nysed.gov
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