> Hi there listers - I've been on the Spitfire list for a year and a half.
> This morning I took delivery of a 1960 TR3A. The 3 will not replace my 74
> Spit as daily driver but with time will hopefully become a
> dependable "once
> or twice a week car." She's drivable as is but will need a lot of TLC to
> bring her up to snuff.
Welcome to the club, Ken !
> To that end - what are the best books/shop manuals to get hold of? I've
> like Haynes. Is this available, or what do listers recommend.
The TR2-4A Haynes has been out of print for many years. There was talk of a
new printing of them, but AFAIK it's still just talk. However, they show up
fairly often on eBay. A usable example can be had for $15-25; although they
do sometimes go for silly money. Watch out for people selling photocopies,
the pictures in the original do not copy well.
There is a Bentley reprint of the original workshop manual (and an early
driver's manual) that is still available new, P/N 502602 $59.95 at TRF. And
originals are frequently on eBay, also $15-25 in usable condition.
(By 'usable condition', I mean the binding is falling apart, the pages have
greasy fingerprints and water stains, but all the important information is
present and legible.)
Both of these manuals are worth owning IMO, but neither will be entirely
accurate for your car. The factory manual predates things like split
steering columns and twin brake lights, while the Haynes has some misprints
in it and glosses over some TR3A-specific info. By comparing the two and
your car, you can usually come up with the right info.
The other thing that is helpful is a wiring diagram that matches your car,
as you'll find most of them don't match very well. I understand Dan Masters
will be moving ahead with his TR2-4 electrical book in the coming months, I
would definitely recommend one of these when they are available. Until
then, try to find a driver's manual (Practical Hints for the Maintenance of
the Triumph TR3) that matches your car. If your car is post-60K, I think
the 5th edition is the one you want. Not certain about that, tho, so check
before laying out any money. Be warned, I'm looking for a 5th ed too, and
I'm a vicious eBay bidder <g>
Randall
59 TR3A daily driver TS39781LO (sidelined for OD gearbox install)
63 Sports 6 rustoration project HB7826LCV
71 Stag daily driver Real Soon Now LE1473L
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