[TR] TR250 battery tray

[Glenn A. Merrell - TSN]

Hi Folks,

It has been quite a long time since I have posted to the list.

Some of you know that I recently scored a really nice, 2nd owner 
original 80k mile, all matching numbers, rust free, running, Triumph 
Racing Green TR250.
I was privileged to purchase it from the 2nd owner who lived in 
Wyoming,  owned it and garaged it for the past 37 years.  I owned my 
first TR250 from 1972 to 1981 until getting T-boned at an intersection 
in Kingston NY.

I am wrestling with my options like most  do after buying a classic like 
this, so I have a few questions to ask you TR250 aficionados:

After going over every square inch of this prize, all the typical rust 
areas - A post, windshield, rear quarter panel seams, rockers, 
floorboards, boot floor, everywhere are simply in excellent condition.  
I found the only rust on the whole car - a 3" x 6" area under the battery.

1, What is the best repair: make a new panel hammered/rolled/bent to 
proper shape or buy one, and who has panels?

I power washed the  preserving grease off the whole undercarriage. 
Aftermath: is clean and original metal / paint on the frame, zero rust 
except minor surface rust, original factory/dealer undercoat is 
unspoiled, original sealant tarbungs in most of the right places. It 
needs paint, but no bondo anywhere and a few minor dings on the hood and 
doors,

For now, the vinyl and rubber bits are in need of replacement, and I 
have all of those bits - dash, interior, suspension bushes, including a 
new brake system that was filled with American DOT3 and destroyed the 
rubber seals.  It is one of those age old dilemmas, do a rolling 
restoration or go for a frame off restoration.

2. Or, leave it as-is and go for the highest offer? Is it possible it is 
worth more unrestored than fully restored?

If I do a restoration I will add front and rear swaybars - I had them on 
my first 250 and loved them, add the other performance mods to the 
engine and driveline.

3. Chrome Wires, Minilites or OE Rostyle caps?

All topics for discussion as I know there are many views and opinions.

-- 
Glenn Merrell a.k.a. StagByTriumph
TSN Admin
http://www.triumphstag.net
mailto:StagByTriumph at triumphstagclub.org