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Re: New to list, Just bought a 1969 MkIII (New owner Questions)

To: <AndrewCConti@aol.com>, <spitfires@autox.team.net>
Subject: Re: New to list, Just bought a 1969 MkIII (New owner Questions)
From: "Jeff McNeal" <jmcneal@ohms.com>
Date: Fri, 11 May 2001 09:10:36 -0700
Andrew,

Congratulations and welcome to the fray -er fraternity!  A terrific
performance guide can be found here:

http://www.ohms.com/spitfire/engine_building.shtml

Now, to answer your questions specifically:

> - Best carb set up?  Webers? Which one?

You mentioned reliability as being important along with performance.  If
you're wanting to go the Weber route, the two barrel progressive DGV
downdraft is probably the ticket.  Go with a Pierce manifold to avoid bonnet
clearance problems.

> - Electronic ignition?

Absolutely recommended.  There are several types available, but I preferred
the Pertronix, which fits neatly inside the distributor cap and requires no
additional boxes.  I noticed a significant difference in performance and
smoothness throughout the entire RPM range over properly gapped points.

> - Elec fuel pump?

Not necessary, but if you choose to get one, you can install it before your
mechanical fuel pump to retain the stock appearance if you wish.  Just make
sure it's capable of pushing 2.5 lbs

> - K&N filters?

A good idea if you're retaining your SU's, but if you're going with a Weber
downdraft then other good options are available. I'm using a Longflow with a
washable foam rubber element under a chrome mesh.  No complaints.

> - I want to install headers and a dual exhaust. Does anyone make a SS dual
exhaust with just 2 pipes out the back? for the MkIII?  (not crazy about the
look of the Monza)

Can't answer this one.  4:1 headers will provide the best wide open throttle
top end performance, but 4:2:1 headers are generally preferred as they
provide a better performance ratio through the entire RPM range, which is
where most street spits do their driving.

> - ANY TIPS/TRICKS would be welcome!

See http://www.ohms.com/spitfire/projects.shtml and
http://www.ohms.com/spitfire/Mk3_tips.shtml

> - I have never owned a car with a manual choke?  How does it work and when
do i use it?

You use your manual choke to start the car when the engine is cold.  It rich
ens the fuel/air ratio while engaged.  You will probably not be able to
start the engine when it's cold without using the choke.  If you can, then
your mixture is probably running too rich to begin with.

For live, one on one tech support with yours truly (a Mk3 zealot), visit the
Totally Triumph Garage (link below).
>
Best wishes,

Jeff in San Diego

'67 RHD Spitfire Mk3 aka "Mrs. Jones"
'68 LHD Spitfire Mk3 frame-off resto project
Jeff's Classic '67 Spitfire Mk3 site & Vintage Spitfire Webring
http://www.ohms.com/spitfire/spitfire.shtml
home of the NEW Totally Triumph Auction
"By Triumph enthusiasts, for Triumph enthusiasts"
http://www.ohms.com/cgi-bin/TRauction.cgi
and..The Totally Triumph Garage forums  -- moderated, focused, friendly!
http://www.ohms.com/cgi-bin/dcforum/dcboard.cgi
...plus a few other surprises!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

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