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Triumph World
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The Latest News From the World of Triumph Motoring
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BRAKES, AXLES AND MOREMoss Europe tell us about a number of goodies you'll no doubt be interested in and first up are remanufactured Spitfire brake calipers. The firm have re-tooled to produce them and they are supplied complete with pistons and seals and are ready to fit. As these calipers are sold outright, there is no need to return
old units and no surcharge. The part number is 159130 (right hand, 1967 on) and the price £69.95 each (inc VAT). The part number for the left hand, 1967 on is 159131 and the price is within a few pence of the other side.
There is a limited-slip differential available for the TR3-4 and that's a great aid to grip on poor surfaces. This LSD suits live axle cars only. The part number is TT2121 and the price £655.95 (inc VAT.
For TR2-6 owners, Moss offer adjustable front upper fulcrums. This kit allows easy adjustment to the camber angle of the front suspension. It's designed primarily for competition use to give maximum control of camber so the suspension geometry can be altered to suit each circuit. Part number 200659X, price £99.95 (inc VAT).
Moss carry a massive range of parts and upgrades for Triumphs and also kit that is dead handy for all classics and they've also mentioned a couple of other interesting lines. One is a magnetic camber gauge, which allows you to check your car's camber (£39.95), and metal plating kits, which let you achieve nickel, zinc or a chrome-like finish. Prices start at just under £50.
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| TENSION BUILDS UPReckon you could rebuild a Spitfire in 48 hours? You don't, eh? Well, it's achievable and the point will be proved at the 2008 North American Triumph Challenge (formerly the Vintage Triumph Register National Convention). All clubs are invited to Ypsilanti, Michigan, which will be invaded with Triumphs from 5 to 8 August. The fun will get started on the Tuesday night with a performance by the Illinois Sports Owners Association's (ISOA's) own Spinal Tappets. The featured models will be the TR250 and the 2000 Roadster. Noted automotive author B S Levy will give the keynote speech at the awards banquet. And, in what may end up being referred to as 'The Ultimate Tech Session', there will be that 48-hour rebuild of a Triumph Spitfire. Incidentally, the Spinal Tappets are pretty dashed good - I've got their CD. |
| IT'S A BLASTSAND-BLASTING components saves an awful lot of hard work if you're into a restoration job. So you've got a choice - either take your bits to a professional or fork out for a blasting cabinet. If you're thinking about buying your own kit then the Stanblast Cabinet, from Nidus Products, is worth considering. A big plus point is that it folds flat when not in use so it's easy to store. It comes complete with gun and spare parts and you just connect an air line and blast components ready for refinishing. The unit provides good access to the cabinet as the whole front comes off for larger items to be blasted. It also has a large viewing window and clear panel on the top to allow you to take advantage of exterior light. Two loops are provided inside the cabinet if you want to hang an inspection lamp in there for extra lighting. We've referred to sand-blasting, but the cabinet can be used with all common blast media such as aluminum oxide, glass bead, crushed glass and cast iron. At just under £300, it isn't cheap, but if you're into restoration in a big way then it definitely makes sense. For further information visit www.stanblast.co.uk or call Nidus Products on 07982 466829 or 01933 626241. |
| CHANCE TO TRY HISTORIC RALLYINGCHECK out this GT6 in action. Jasper Bacon and Diane Pringle are pictured having fun in their Mk1 and at the same time, learning the basics of historic rallying. They were taking part in a non-competitive course run on public roads. The Triumph was among a group of cars that gathered at the Heritage Motor Centre, in Warwickshire, where they were greeted by Jonathan Bowles, founder of Continental Car Tours (CCT).
To emphasise the point that there was to be no racing and no overtaking, drivers were told that their average speed was not to exceed 30mph. Each car set off at one-minute intervals - as on a real rally - and for the first stage, they followed a road book, complete with distances, turns and information. They had to spot code boards on their travels to prove that they had followed the route.
On their return, they took part in an auto test and, yes, this was a chance for people to go a bit crazy and give their cars a good thrashing. The next section was a Jogularity Under and Over. This involved following written one-line instructions and noting what they had passed under or over when prompted by the notes. So, they had to check the mileage when 'over' appeared in the notes and write down 'river' or 'railway'.
The final session was a marked map route. In this, they had to follow a route marked on a map while noting the mileage when they passed items photographed on the front page. These were in sequence so it was a case of the navigator keeping an eye out for them. If you'd like to learn about historic rallying, Jonathan offers this introductory course at £89 which makes it an excellent and affordable way to find out whether the sport is for you. CCT offers rallies across Europe on the same basis and, of course, if you really discover a love for the sport, you can progress to full blown historic rallying on private tracks - but that's a whole different (and much more expensive) ball game. Contact Continental Car Tours on 01304 380244 or visit www.continentalcartours.co.uk |
| IT'S TOUGH
UP NORTHPLENTY of us have fancied driving in the legendary Monte Carlo Rally, but you need the money, suitable car and extreme talent. However, all is not lost, as they say, because Scotland now offers its own version of this classic event. The Great North Winter Challenge 'concentration run' starts on the evening of Friday, 1 February in the so-called granite city of Aberdeen and then makes its way north over some famous mountain passes. Crews should be prepared for Scottish winter weather including snow on the high roads.
Like the traditional Monte, some passage controls will be in hotels and pubs along the way. The Friday night halt will be in the Inverness area. The re-start on Saturday will see crews negotiate even more demanding roads and passes including Scotland's own Turini, the pass of the cattle, near Applecross. The rally then returns to the Inverness area for the mountain circuit - a 50-mile night navigational rally, which promises to be a real challenge.
Sunday brings the final run into the winter resort of Aviemore for traditional Monte Carlo-style special tests followed by a meal and prizegiving. Final costs have yet to be determined, but the organisers hope it will be less than £200 per crew of two, which will include accommodation, a meal and the prizegiving.
The event is being organised by the Caledonian Classic and Historic Motor Sport Club in collaboration with the Highland Car Club. For more details, contact Douglas Anderson on 01382 731755 or check out www.caledonianmsc.com |
| OUT AND ABOUTIT'S getting on for show season, although the weather might not exactly tell you that, so here's a few dates for your diary.
Seaforde Working Vintage Club is holding its annual autojumble on Saturday, 16 February in the James McCammon Memorial Hall, Seaforde, Co Down, from 10am to 5pm. Contact David on 078 0198 0324, Hugh on 028 4481 1289 or William on 028 4481 1604.
Moving on a bit and the East Coast Pirates and East Coast Harley Club tell us that they are holding a Mega Wheels Weekend from Saturday, 3 May to Monday, 5 May at Seething Airfield, between Norwich and Bungay, off the B1332. If you're not a pirate and don?t ride a Harley, do not be put off by the name of the clubs because the event is open to all classic vehicles, including Triumphs, of course. Attractions include an autojumble, live music and a beer tent. For more info, contact Yorkie on 07920 297496 or Steve on 01493 440539. The Basingstoke Festival of Transport is being held at the War Memorial Park, Basingstoke, Hants, on Sunday, 11 May,and about 800 vehicles are expected to put in an appearance. There's also an autojumble. Contact George Johns on 01256 466144.
On Sunday, 3 August, Trimpley Steam and Vintage rally is being held at Bite Farm, Trimpley, Bewdley, Worcestershire.
And then on Monday, 25 August, Arley Vintage Rally is being held at Arley, near Bewdley, Worcestershire. For details of either event, contact David Spruce on 07986 170715.
And finally, the South Midlands Monthly Classic Transport Meet takes place during the second week of every month at Resolution/Britannic Assurance plc, Wythall Green Way, off Middle Lane, Wythall, Birmingham B47 6WG. It's open to all classic vehicles and runs from 11am to 3pm on 13 January, 10 February, 9 March and 13 April. Call Andrew Lyndon on 01564 822800 for details. |
| PIRATES' GATHERINGTHE East Coast Pirates, that is, who remind us that they meet at the 1950s-themed diner on Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, seafront on the first Sunday of every month from 1.30pm. It's a good spot in its own right - Golden Mile, funfair, pier and what have you - so add classics and it becomes just about perfect. Forget the name because this crowd don't run around with eye-patches and skull-and-crossbone shirts. They're just into classic vehicles, regardless of make. Call Steve on 01493 440539 or check out www.eastcoastpirates.co.uk |
| DRIVE IT TO DISNEYA NEW family event has been announced for next June involving classic cars and a trip down to the fun-packed Disneyland Paris resort. The Classic Car Rally and Show has been organised by South Quay Travel and Leisure in association with our sister publication, Classic Car Weekly.
Taking place from Thursday, 5 June to Sunday, 8 June inclusive, the tour comprises ferry crossings from Dover to Calais and then a choice of routes down to Disneyland Paris, to the east of the French capital. Secure parking has been arranged for the tour in the show area, close to the theme park and right by the Disney village.
Day two will effectively be the car show element for you to proudly display your classic to the visiting masses, but you'll also have the full day at your leisure with entrance to the Disney Parks and Walt Disney Studios Park. Even more special, selected vehicles on the tour will form part of an exclusive parade through Disney Village.
Day three follows a similar pattern, but it will be wrapped up by a rather special Gala Dinner and Awards Presentation in the evening at the Buffalo Bill?s Wild West Dinner Show.
The final day, participants will head off from Disneyland Paris, but with an optional excursion arranged to the Chauteau de Compiegne and the National Motor Museum, where there will be special parking and complimentary entrance.
Rates start at a competitive £299 for adults, £199 for 12- to 17-year-olds and just £99 for under-12s, which includes ferry crossings, hotel, park entry tickets and special parking. For details, call South Quay Travel on 020 7510 2929 or e-mail rally@southquaytravel.com |
| ON YOUR MARQUESTHE Standard Triumph Marque Day is one of the big events on the calendar and the 2008 gathering is being staged at Prescott Hill Climb, Gotherington, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, on 18 May. It is being organised under the auspices of the Triumph Forum and the responsibility is being shared jointly by the Stag Owners' Club, the TR Register and the Triumph Sports Six Club.
The forum is the umbrella organisation of some 20 clubs, catering for all Triumphs and Standards and their derivatives. Although the Marque Day is scheduled for 18 May, there will be plenty going on the day before. Over the two days, activities will include the chance to drive up the famous hill climb - the scene of many hair-raising escapades - but it won't be a competitive event. All runs will be untimed and you can take them at your leisure. Having said that, if you fancy a more spirited approach, well, have fun. There will also be a cavalcade on the hill climb for those who would prefer to take part en masse rather than individually.
The TR Register is dealing with all inquiries. Write to
STMD 2008,
c/o The TR Register,
1B Hawksworth,
Southmead Industrial Park,
Didcot,
Oxon OX11 7HR.
Alternatively, you can phone on 01235 818867 or e-mail office@tr-register.co.uk This event really is worth supporting whether your own a Triumph or just like them. |
| DATES WITH
HAYNESTHE chances are that you've heard of Haynes workshop manuals. If not, you are either one of those clever types who stubbornly refuses to read instructions or a brilliant mechanic with vast knowledge. Either way, the company has now produced another literary offering - a diary.
The format is similar to last year's version and it shares many of the attributes of Haynes manuals. There are 12 classic cutaway drawings taken from various manuals. The selection includes timeless gems such as the Triumph Stag. Each drawing is finely detailed and complemented by a brief history of the model.
Each double page offers a week-to-week view with the month, dates and days identified clearly. Edge-of-page markers aid quick reference to particular months and there's a ribbon pagemarker. Also included are year planners for 2008 and 2009, together with alphabetically-labelled pages for inserting contact details. A page of conversion factors (Imperial to metric units and US volumes) precedes a table of UK mainland registration letters. It is available from many car accessory retailers and bookshops including Halfords, Motor World and WH Smith. A comprehensive stockist locator can be found at www.haynes.co.uk |
| LOOKING BACKYOU'RE obviously into motoring nostalgia - otherwise, you wouldn't buy this magazine - so a service offered by a company called Auto-history.tv will probably be of interest. It can provide bespoke DVDs of motoring archive films.
Basically, you can choose from a selection of nearly 550 films that have been accumulated over many years by sister company Universal Motoring History. Most of the films are between two and 10 minutes long and feature a range of stories from the 1890s onwards. They include the start of mass production, world land speed record runs, car commercials, motor shows, new car launches and experimental vehicles. There is also an extensive selection of racing films to pick from.
Each film will cost a mere 99p, however, you must make a minimum order of £20. The service is available from the company's website, www.auto-history.tv. There is also a selection of historical motoring DVDs on the associated website www.carfilms.co.uk, which features more than 100 titles. |
| OUT ON SHOWYOU don't normally associate this magazine with commercials and that, in itself, is one very good reason to feature this Standard 10 pickup. Nothing like bucking the trend now and again. Fact is that the factory didn't make too much in the way of LCVs, but what it did is quite endearing.
This pick-up took part in the Bournemouth to Bath Commercial Run and enthusiast Stuart Macdonald, of Bishop Auckland, was on hand to capture it on camera in a moment of rest. Thanks for that, Stuart. |
| GETTING THE HUMPEAST Yorkshire MP Greg Knight, chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Historic Vehicles Group, has strongly criticised the growing number of 'anti-car local authorities' and has said that councils should abandon their 'speed-hump mentality'.
He said: "Speed humps are now widely discredited. They damage vehicle suspension systems and they add to pollution, both in terms of noise and airborne particulates, as motorists brake to negotiate the humps and then accelerate away."
It was 'misguided logic' having speed humps that could only be negotiated at 15mph on stretches of road where the official speed limit was 30mph.
He added: "Electronic flashing signs are far more effective and user-friendly and they should be the preferred option in every case."
The MP is a valuable ally to the classic movement because he not only speaks out loudly on its behalf, but is also a keen owner, running a Jensen CV8. And you've got to be dedicated to keep one of those thirsty beasts on the road. Those Yank motors sure do drink a lot. |
| TECHNOLOGY MOVES ONPATTERN parts are a fact of life
if you run a classic. Some are
good, some are bad and some
are indifferent. You've just got to accept that. Well, maybe you haven't, as proved by enthusiast Colin McAndry. He owns a 1972 TVR M-series, which has its running gear loosely based on the TR6. Front uprights, front and rear hubs and brakes are all straight from the TR and for the past couple of years, he's been re-engineering the car to make it better able to cope with modern roads and traffic conditions.
He said: "My philosophy has, where possible, been to keep the car as original as possible, but also be prepared to remanufacture something that's weak using modern detail and materials rather than replace with a different design. The exception was the engine and transmission where modern designs are so far advanced that on efficiency and power grounds, a change was made."
This led me to require much stronger rear hubs, but ones that could still fit within the remainder of the car. In effect, I wanted a modern rear hub that was dimensionally a straight swap with the Triumph original. By chance, I called Quaife to inquire how realistic it would be for me to commission a batch of hubs of their design that would fit a TVR M series and/or a TR5/6.
To my astonishment, I was told that they already made such a hub for a Dennis Vessey and that they had been available for years. I contacted Dennis, went over to see him and bought two pairs. As I further reviewed the car, I found I wanted something better for the front hubs as well and this brings us up to date. After a few discussions with Dennis, it was agreed to contact Quaife to redesign the TR's front hub, but to be a direct replacement part. As with the rear, it was to be to motorsport standards of design and material quality, but at all costs, must require no modifications to the car. A sample pair of the new front design has been made and is currently being tested on a race TR4, which is maintained by Dennis for a customer.
Well, Colin has put a considerable amount of effort into his project and he's asked for support. So here it is. We won't comment on the quality or otherwise of the products simply because we haven?'t tried them. But the mere fact that Quaife are involved tells you something - they are one of the most respected names in the specialist automotive industry (if you haven't heard of their gearboxes then, well). And tests so far have proved exceptionally favourable.
If you want more details then contact Dennis Vessey on 01652 688904 or Colin McAndry on 01617 483208. Just remember, no venture ever gets off the ground without help and, for example, these products would be significantly cheaper if manufactured in batches. That, of course, depends on demand. |
| PERFECT-LEE DONEREADER Lee Flintoft spotted the Woodvale Rally mentioned in our diary dates section and decided to pop along after a gap of some years. He also took a whole bunch of enthusiasm and his camera. We're sure glad he did. Lee writes: "I attended with ORG 27R, my Dolomite Sprint in pimento red, which I've owned since 1991, but have just completed restoring. I managed to collect third against some stiff opposition from a Mark 2 Escort, which had only done 11,000 miles, and an MG V8 in my class of manufactured from 1975-1978".
"My brother, Dean, took Albert the Brooklands green 1500HL and he managed to get second in his class, '1978-1981', being beaten by an RS2000 Mark 2. Dean has only owned the car for about six months. The previous owner, Albert, died and his daughter advertised the car through the club, wanting the car to go to a good home. Dean has given Albert some TLC to get it into this condition. The previous owner's daughter turned up just as the rosette was being placed on the windscreen."
Mighty grateful, Lee. And how dare a mere upstart RS2000 Escort beat a 1500HL - Is there no taste left in the world? |
| PRIDE OF PASADENAFEAST your eyes upon this little
beauty. It is a 1959 Italia 2000 Coupe, built on a Triumph TR3A chassis, and it was on display at the Pasadena Heritage Celebration on the Colorado Street Bridge. We are told it was parked near the entrance next to a stunning 1960 Corvette owned by resident Brad Balmont. Well, OK, all very nice, but we don't want those common or garden Corvette devices to appear in the same photograph as such an ultra-rare Triumph, now do we?
The Italia belongs to Lisa Cole, from Sierra Madre, California, and it has been in her family since 1973. Lisa learned to drive using the car when she got her licence as a teenager. The Triumph has recently had restoration work carried out, including a beautiful respray in the original silver.
Like we said, it is a real rarity and still has its dealer licence plate frame from San Luis Obispo British Sports Cars. And as for that guy in the striped T-shirt, keep your fingers off the bonnet, buddy. Youdon't know what you're dealing with. |
| ALLOY, IS ANYBODY THERE?WHEELS are like shoes - stay with us, that's not as daft as it sounds. Just imagine putting on a new suit, fancy shirt and tasty tie and then finishing off by wearing a ropey pair of shoes. The whole effect has been ruined. Now transfer that to your Triumph - everything's immaculate, and then your eyes descend on scruffy wheels. You've got the idea, now. There are quite a few alloy wheel cleaning products on the market and the latest one we've heard about is Rimol, available from Normfest. The aluminium wheel rim cleaner comes in a very stylish 500ml plastic spray container and is said to tackle heavy soiling from brake dust, road dirt, surface rust and hardened oil deposits.
For more information, call Normfest on 0845 850 7137 or check out www.normfest.co.uk |
| 'ELLO, 'ELLO, 'ELLOMAKE a vehicle, give it a few years and then we'll guarantee that it will attract a loyal band of enthusiasts. That's why there are avid fans of lorries, buses, trains, vans and just about everything else. So, it's no surprise that police cars have a big following (which, we suppose, is infinitely better than having a big following of police cars).
Police Car UK had a big presence at the Hampshire Constabulary open day with no fewer than 36 classic police cars and 24 motorcycles on display. The cars included a Metropolitan Police Daimler SP250 Dart (which won car of the day) and a very rare MK2 Triumph GT6, which was once used by Dorset Police.
Other classics included two Rover P6s and two SD1s, a Volvo Amazon estate and a 240, MK3 Ford Zephyr 6, Jaguar 340 and Series 3 XJ6. Oh, and there were also Triumph Herald panda cars on show. May the force be with you.
And while you are waiting for that to happen, you might like to check out www.policecaruk.com |
| A MOST SAD FAREWELLROBIN Penrice has passed away. He was one of the most - if not, the most - popular columnists in Triumph World and also a hugely influential force in Triumph circles.
Robin was noted not only for his sharp, infectious and impish wit, but his detailed knowledge of the marque. Our sincere condolences go to his family and a full tribute will be published next month. |
| MAKE A NOTEJUST a line or two to let you know that the Club Triumph Meet is on the first Tuesday of the month at the Tollemache Arms, Harrington.
Contact Charlie Mallock on 07736 318725 for details.
And while on the subject of events, the Rally Show is being staged at Chatsworth on 29 and 30 September. The inaugural event is open to historic, post-historic and classic rally cars, cars complying with MSA Vehicle Regulations and those with current FIA homologation. Entries close on Friday, 17 August. The entry fee is £100 plus VAT per car, with £50 returned on starting the event. Regulations and entry forms are available on www.therallyshow.org or by contacting The Rally Show Ltd PO ox 6168, Reading, RG19 9DS, telephone 01189 710424 or e-mail office@therallyshow.org |
| SPOT THE TRIUMPHRECOGNISE this? Of course you don't, unless you are an expert on old machinery. Mrs M Rumens, of Thatcham, Berkshire spotted the Triumph legend on a machine in the Bygones Museum, at Holkham Hall, in Norfolk. It's a chiselling machine and the chisel is held in place by a clamp and the lever arm at the top is pulled down for the blade to cut the wood.
She says: "This was supposed to make the chiselling more accurate, as pieces of wood could be lined up in the correct place on the bench below. It puts a whole new meaning to angle-grinding."
For your trouble, Mrs Rumens, you win the amazingly attractive prize of a motoring book. We've many more Spot the Triumphs in the bag, so watch out for them. |
| BITE THE BULLETHISTORY can be a pretty boring subject, but it starts to get a whole sight more interesting when you're looking at the history of Triumphs. Therefore, the CODE
NAME: BULLET will doubtless grab your attention. It tells the story of the Triumph TR7 and TR8. The film starts with a brief history of Triumph, from the very origins up to the TR6 and the Bullet project. BMIHT have supplied many images to help illustrate TR7 development and Harris Mann (TR7 stylist) offers is insights into the designing of the car.
The advertising campaign is covered as well as the Abingdon Works rally programme, which includes never before seen footage supplied by Bill Price, the ex-competitions manager of BL Motorsport. Also included is a look at the cars and clubs today. Extra features are the full interview with Harris Mann and a close-up look at the 'X' cars (Lynx and Broadside), housed at the Heritage Motor Museum, Gaydon.
The DVDs are available from www.triumphtr7.com, The TR Drivers Club, Robsport International (01763 262263), S&S Preparations (01706 874874), The Heritage Motor Museum and other Triumph dealers. |
| THE TRAVELS OF TS2THE TR Register's group-to-group relay is now well under way. TS2, the first right-hand drive TR built, is being passed as a 'baton' in a relay run (not a race) taking in all 50 of the TR Register's UK mainland groups and it will travel approximately 2,500 miles and call at Land's End and John O'Groats.
The run is primarily to mark the end of Ian Evans's 17 years as chairman of
the register and also to help promote the club. On a more low-key note, and in conjunction with the National Forest, the event will make classic car owners aware of their environmental responsibilities. With that in mind, the TR register has planted 50 trees, one for each group, in the National Forest at Ibstock. The National Forest has marked this occasion on its website.
The cars set off on 22 April - National Drive it Day - from Brooklands and will
complete the relay on 21 July at the TR Register's International meeting at Malvern Three Counties Showground. A journal is being kept of the relay, which will be on display at Malvern together with all the photos and press coverage. |
| GOOD ALL-ROUND FIGURECLUB Triumph's Round Britain Reliability Run is a jolly good wheeze. And it's also of great benefit to the premature baby charity BLISS. It's just been evealed that last year's run raised a most commendable £50,600 for the charity, thanks to sponsorship and gifts. A club spokesman said: "This is rather
more than the club expected to be able to raise and, therefore, particular thanks must go to all participants and their sponsors and to club members and
others who contributed."
A total of 94 Triumphs took part and 88 finisher's awards were given. So that's not a bad result, you'll agree. A cheque for £50,000 has already been handed to the charity's chief executive and the balance will be presented shortly. In fact, it will probably have reached the charity by the time you read this. The next RBRR will take place in 2008. We'll keep you informed. |
| IT'S SHOWTIMEFAVERSHAM is a quaint (in parts) town buried in Kent with stacks of history and (once again, in parts) plenty of character. That character gets stronger on occasions, and one is for the annual Classic Car and Bike Show. The centre is more or less sealed off to modern rubbish and only classics are allowed in, for the perusal and delectation of lucky visitors.
It will come as no surprise that Triumphs were well represented - aren't they always - and we have captured a few in paintings of light for your interest. If your pride and joy is here and you would like to see it featured in greater etail then what are you waiting for?
We are only a letter, phone call or e-mail away. If your pride and joy is featured here and you would not like to see it featured in greater detail then don't be a meanie and think again - you're denying the rest of us the pleasure. Meanwhile, see what brought Faversham alive. |
| PART OF THE UNIONREMEMBER the Norwich Union RAC Classic? It peaked in 1996 with more than 1,600 entries. And now, after a 10-year gap, International Motor Sports (IMS) - the commercial arm of the Motor Sports Association (MSA) - has announced that it is to reinstate the event in partnership with Norwich Union.
The Norwich Union MSA Classic 2007 will take place on Sunday, 14 October from start locations across the country, with cars finishing at Silverstone, after driving parade laps of the legendary grand prix circuit. The entry cost is £100, which includes the opportunity for drivers to parade their automotive pride and joys on Silverstone's full grand prix circuit. The only criteria is that all cars entered are at least 20 years old. More information about the 2007 Norwich Union MSA Classic and its history can be found at www.msaclassic.co.uk |
| SPOT THE TRIUMPHSO, the Acclaim is not a real Triumph eh? The Standard Vanguard ought to take second place to the two-seaters, yes? Well, those arguments are blown straight out of the window, thanks to Ray Brown. He's got together three rather appropriate cigarette packets and they kind of tell their own story.
Ray, from Brockworth, Glos, is a longstanding Standard Triumph enthusiast and
bought his 1933 Standard Little Nine in 1962. He's still got it, too. He says he's only just started buying Triumph World. Good enough. Keep on buying it, Ray. And if you need a little persuasion, your Spot the Triumph entry wins you a motoring book worth £15.
Meantime, keep those entries coming. Anything that illustrates the use of a Standard or Triumph-related word will be most gladly received. |
| MONOCHROME RULES, OK?THAT new-fangled colour business is all right, we suppose, and it helps the yuppie magazines flog a few issues. But when it comes to nostalgia, there is just no substitute for black and white. Nothing, but nothing, tells it like it really was except monochrome. Just sample this wonderful photo from Peter White, of Devon. It was taken in - well, have a guess. The car's a Roadster and the snap is a family one. Peter sent us a selection and we'll be using them in due
course. Very shortly, in fact.
Meanwhile, we invite you to savour the atmosphere of yesteryear and then, maybe, rummage through your treasures and send us your black-and-white photos. As far as we're concerned, they are an absolutely priceless link with the past. We also realise that they may well be priceless to you for sentimental reasons and, thus, we will guard them with our very mortal being. It really doesn-t matter how tatty, out-of-focus or dog-eared they are. In fact, they're often all the better for a bit of maturing. Post them or e-mail them - it doesn't matter, just get them to us. And to Peter, thanks for your offerings, more will be used soon. |
| ALLY PALLYThe show was held in three halls at Alexandra Palace. The main Hall had all the various car clubs. There were plenty of Triumphs on show, with the TSSC, Club Triumph, TR Register and Stag Owners all having stands. I was lucky enough to have my car on the Triumph World - Classic Car Weekly stand.
It was very interesting to see the show being built up, as normally you only get to see it once it's open to the public. The car had to be up there on the Friday afternoon. On arrival it had to be checked by the fire services to make sure there was only about a gallon of fuel in the tank. Once OK, I was allowed into the display hall. It was a scene of frenzied activity with stands being built and people frantically polishing their cars. On our stand there were six cars: an E-Type, Ferrari, XK120, BMW, Austin Champ and my Herald. A lot of interest was shown in the Herald over both days - I think people can relate to our cars more than the exotic machinery, probably because they or someone they knew used to own one. |
| VANGUARD'S 60th ANNIVERSARYIt is sixty years since the Standard Vanguard was launched in 1947, and the
members of the Standard Motor Club are making their annual International
Rally the focal point for the celebrations. The event takes place at Denny
Abbey and Farmland Museum, Waterbeach, Cambridge, over the weekend of
June 29/30 and July 1st.
All Triumph owners are welcome and, as SMC Chairman Peter Lockley,
pointed out: "They should remember that, if it hadn't been for the Vanguard
four-cylinder engine, there would have been no TR sports cars. Also the
Triumph six-cylinder engine used in the 2000/2.5 saloons, Vitesse, GT6 and
TR5/6 started life in the Vanguard 6."
For further information, visit the club's website at www.standardmotorclub.org |
| UPRATING TR7/8The latest (and possibly the last?) in a long line of titles written by Roger
Williams covering the restoration and upgrading of Triumph sports cars,
'How to improve Triumph TR7, TR7-V8 & TR8' (Veloce Publishing, softbound, £29.99) follows a similar pattern to the preceding volumes. Where this book differs is in its size - at 208 pages, it is considerably bigger that the earlier ones and contains over 500 illustrations.
Drawing on his own personal experience and using the input from specialists on both sides of the Atlantic, Roger explains in great detail how to increase the performance of the wedge-shaped Triumph. Four-cylinder and V8 engine types are comprehensively covered, with advice on what jobs can be done by a competent DIYer and those that are best left to an expert.
The modifications discussed are divided into three basic categories - fast road,
ultra-fast road, and competition - with the middle designation intended to meet the needs of those interested in track days or club racing. Every aspect of car preparation is looked at and there's even a chapter on electronic fuel injection and engine management systems.
Whether it's information on making a TR7/8 go faster, stop quicker or corner better, this book should contain everything you need to do the job properly and effectively. 'How to improve Triumph TR7, TR7-V8 & TR8' is obtainable from most good bookshops and specialist mail order companies but, in case of difficulty, contact Veloce Publishing Ltd, 33 Trinity Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1TT. Tel: 01305 260068. |
| REPELLINGWe know plenty of Triumph owners who use Rain-X to ensure clear visibility
through the windscreen in adverse weather conditions, and now there's an
improved formulation on the market. Basically a hydrophobic (low surface
energy) coating that makes rain, sleet and snow bead up on contact with the
glass and get dispersed by the airflow, Rain-X also makes it easier to remove
winter ice and summer insects from the windscreen.
There's a whole range of Rain-X products, from glass wipes to washer additive fluid, and they are available from all good motor accessory retailers and Shell garage forecourts. Website: www.rainx.com |
| TR6 WHEELARCHESBritish Motor Heritage has just announced the re-introduction of Wheelarch Closing Assembly panels for TR6 front wings. Part Numbers are BMH7003 (left-hand) and BMH7004 (right-hand) and the panels are produced off newly-developed, low-volume tooling and come complete with the correct reinforcements and brackets as fitted to the original parts. Each component is hand-finished to ensure the quality. Ideal for restoration or repair work, stocks of these panels are available now with a suggested retail price of £155 each, including VAT. For details of your nearest approved specialist, visit www.bmh-ltd.com or contact British Motor Heritage Ltd, Range Road, Cotswold Business Park, Witney, Oxon X29 0YB. Tel: 01993 707200. |
| TR BITZ GAINS
HERITAGE APPROVALOwned by partners John Sykes and Mark Crook, TR Bitz has been trading for over thirty years, specialising in high-quality restoration work on TR2 to TR6 models. Before it could become part of the Association of Heritage Approved Specialists, the company had to undergo rigorous checks to confirm that it met the required standards for customer service, technical expertise and financial soundness. Having successfully completed the vetting process, TR Bitz was appointed as a Heritage Approved Specialist for the retailing of Heritage Original Equipment parts in November 2006. To find out the full range of parts and services available from TR Bitz, go to www.trbitz.com or visit the workshops at Lyncastle Way, Barley Castle Trading Estate, Appleton Thorn, Warrington, Cheshire WA4 4ST.Tel: 01925 861861. |
| NORTH YORKS WEEKENDThis year sees the 22nd Annual North Yorkshire Triumph Weekend taking place on 18-20th May. Based at the Runswick Bay Caravan and Camping Park on a beautiful part of the coastline, the event is open to all Triumph owners - and there is ample accommodation available in the area for those who prefer to have a proper roof over their heads. The site is open from Friday lunchtime, with entertainment, beverages and food on offer in the marquee. Following registration on Saturday morning, there is a convoy run across the spectacular North Yorkshire Moors, with lunch at The Lion in Blakey Ridge - a legendary local hostelry which has become the unofficial home of NYTW. The afternoon is free for participants to explore the moors, with the 'Heartbeat' village of Aidensfield (Goathland),steam train rides to Pickering and the famous port of Whitby just a few of the attractions. Evening entertainment includes a kids' disco, barbecue and live band. Sunday is the informal concours on the main field, and the event culminates in the presentation of award and prizes. If you would like to find out more about the North Yorkshire Triumph Weekend,visit the website at www.nytw.org.uk or contact Graeme Cook on 01642 559236 (before 9.00pm). |
| SAVE THAT TYREQuite a number of classic cars are only driven during the summer months, meaning they are stored away for the rest of the time. Any lengthy period of inactivity, especially when the vehicle remains completely stationary for the duration, can lead to flat spots developing on the tyres. In extreme cases this can permanently damage the tyres, making them useless. Originally sold to caravan owners for winter storage purposes, Tyre Savers are now being offered to historic vehicle enthusiasts. Suitable for preventing flat spots occurring on all popular tyre sizes, Tyre Savers are priced at £9.99 per pair (postage extra). To get the full story and ordering details go to the website at www.hobbyhorsecamping.co.uk |
| TRAMWAY TRIUMPHSFancy driving your car along a traditional cobbled street? Or maybe you would prefer to ride down it on a vintage tram? If you visit the Crich Tramway Village, near Matlock, in Derbyshire, on Saturday 12th May, you’ll be able to do both - and there are plenty of other on-site attractions to keep the whole family entertained for hours on end. All Triumphs are welcome, and drivers get free entry into the home of the National Tramway Museum (passengers pay normal admission charges). To see the full list of facilities on offer at Crich, on to www.tramway.co.uk. For more information about what’s happening during the Triumph Day at Crich Tramway Village, contact Frank at 01773 785715 or Lee on 079561 126865. |
| GET ON THE MOVEDon’t forget, Sunday April 22nd is the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Club’s annual Drive It Day. In the South East of England, it is expected that many Triumph and Standard owners will be heading for the pioneering motor racing and aviation venue of Brooklnds, near Weybridge in Surrey, to take part in the second Standard Triumph at Brooklands (STAB) event. However, plenty of other things are going on elsewhere in the country for owners to get involved with. For instance, the Norwich Classic Vehicle Club is holdinga St George’s Day Drive along a circular route around the perimeter of Norfolk. Anyone can join in, jump in and out as you wish. Wherever you live, the important thing is to get your historic vehicle out on the road, where it can be seen. For more details of what’s hapening on Drive It Day, visit the Federation website at www.fbhvc.co.uk. |
| NEW GT6 CARPETSLike the rest of their Triumph range, Newton Commercial’s carpet sets for the GT6 are the best quality and look superb once fitted. Available in Black, Blue, Green, Grey, Red and Biscuit colours, the 12-piece moulded carpet set replicates the original carpet that was in the car when it first rolled off the production line. The main carpet kit comes complete with fixings and studs, plus comprehensive installation instructions. Also available is a Rear Load Area carpet in three designs. For more information contact your local Triumph stockist or Newton Commercial, Eastland Industrial Estate, Leiston, Suffolk IP16 4LL. Tel: 01728 8325880. Website: www.newtoncomm.co.uk. |
| MEGUIAR'S SOLUTIONSThe latest Brilliant Solutions catalogue, a 32-page, full-colour publication from Meguiar's, contains a range of quality car care products - many of which are new to UK for 2007. Whether it's about washing, polishing or protecting (both inside and out), Meguiar's has the answer - and it is no surprise that their products are used by concours winners in so many countries. Copies of the catalogue (which includes a full list of stockists) are obtainable by calling the company’s Customer Care Team on 0870 241 6696 or you can find out more online at www.meguiars.co.uk. |
| MONARCH FOR SALEAfter spending fifteen years building up a well-respected business that supplies all manner of special parts for Stags, Jonathan Finnis is putting Monarch up for sale. "My wife and I are moving to the south-west of England and, as a result, I am looking for a Stag enthusiast to take over the company," he explained. "It will probably suit somebody who loves spending time with Stags, who fully understands the cars and is interested in their performance." As well as the ’Monarch’ name, the purchaser will also get a ready-made operation with customer lists, stock in hand, engineering drawings, equipment, etc. Jonathan has been running Monarch in his spare time and says there are good prospects to expand the business for someone keen to devote more hours to it. If you are interested and would like more information, please ring Jonathan on 01483 894473 or e-mail jonathanfinnis@hotmail.com |
| CENTRE CAP BADGESMinilite replica wheels have become a popular fitment on many Triumphs these days, but the plastic centre caps provided do look plain and unexciting. Well, now East Anglia-based marque specialists TRGB Ltd have come up with an answer – two badge designs that will enhance any vehicle using Minilite–style rims. Self-adhesive, with the design etched into polished stainless steel, the badges come with either the traditional ’Globe’ or the later ’Laurel Wreath’ logo. A set of four centre cap badges is priced at £9.95 plus VAT. For more information see the TRGB Ltd website at www.trgb.co.uk or call 01487 842168. |
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