
Sunbeam Ti (1979-83)
Total Production: 104,547
Recorded in UK 2024
Licensed=N/A

The **Sunbeam Ti**, a limited-production variant of the Chrysler Sunbeam, had a few common faults:
1. **MPET IPD Faults**: These faults could occur when the motor is not connected to the IC, the MPET IPD current threshold is set too low, or the motor inductance is too low. Adjusting the current threshold or manually measuring resistance and inductance can help resolve this.
2. **MPET BEMF-Constant Measurement Fault**: On high-resistance motors, the MPET Ke fault might trigger if the open-loop current reference is too low. Increasing the reference value or manually measuring motor parameters can address this issue.
3. **Abnormal BEMF Fault**: Lower BEMF constant motors may trigger this fault when Auto handoff is enabled with a minimum BEMF threshold of 0 mV. Disabling Auto handoff and setting a higher BEMF handoff threshold can solve it.
4. **Motor Startup Failure (Align Startup Method)**: If the rotor doesn't align due to short align time or low align current, the motor may fail to start. Adjust align time and current to prevent rotor oscillations after alignment.
5. **Motor Startup Failure (IPD Startup Method)**: High IPD clock frequency can cause startup failure, especially for high-inductance motors. Decreasing the IPD clock frequency can help.
6. **Speed Overshoots During Handoff**: Sudden phase current changes during open-to-closed loop transition can lead to motor speed overshoot and acoustic noise¹.
Remember that individual experiences may vary, and proper maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing these faults.
*****
Generations
The **Sunbeam Ti** spanned **two generations**. The **Series One** (launched in April 1979) featured colors like Ermine White, Embassy Black, Seville Orange, and Moss Metallic Green. It had distinctive features like black seats with an orange Tartan center section, front and rear spoilers, and a unique gear knob. By mid-1980, it became known as the **Talbot Sunbeam Ti**¹. The **Series Two** Ti retained similar colors, dropped the unique gear knob, and featured Piccadilly-trimmed seats. It also had black gloss paint on the lower half of the body, red pinstripes, and a Ti graphic on the wing.
*****
Trim Levels
The Sunbeam Ti, produced between 1979 and 1983, had two main series with distinct trim levels and features:
1. **Series One (1979-1980)**:
- **Colours**: Ermine White, Embassy Black, Seville Orange, Moss Metallic Green.
- **Interior**: Black seats with an optional orange Tartan centre section, optional rear parcel shelf, and centre console.
- **Exterior**: Three satin black stripes running the length of the car, front spoiler with fog lamps, and unique Ti gearknob.
2. **Series Two (1980-1983)**:
- **Colours**: Ermine White, Embassy Black, Cherry Red, Willow Metallic Green, Moonstone Blue, Jonquil Yellow.
- **Interior**: Black seats with optional tartan trim, standard centre console, and parcel shelf. The unique Ti gearknob was dropped.
- **Exterior**: Retained front and rear spoilers, gloss black lower half with red pinstripes, and Ti graphic on the wing.
The Sunbeam Ti was known for its sporty appearance and performance-oriented features, making it a popular choice for clubman rallying.
*****
Spares
If you're looking for **Sunbeam Ti** spares in the United Kingdom or Ireland, here are a few options:
1. **Sunbeam-Talbot Spares**:
- Location: The Bamforth Group, Unit 113 Harbour Road, Lydney GL15 4EJ, Northern Ireland
- Services: Specializes in repair, restoration, sourcing, and manufacture of parts for Sunbeam-Talbot motor cars manufactured from 1936 to 1957.
- Contact: Call **+44 (0)1226 724644** or **+44 (0)7715 608585**.
2. **The Sunbeam Spares Company**:
- Established in **1997**, they provide new and used parts, literature, restoration, and tuning for classic Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger models.
3. **Sunbeam Supreme**:
- Specialists for over **30 years**, they source and supply thousands of original and remanufactured new body, engine, service, and mechanical parts for all Sunbeam Alpine and Tiger models. They also have an extensive stock of used parts.
Remember to verify availability and compatibility with your specific Sunbeam Ti model.
*****
Specialists
Here are a few more mechanics in Northern Ireland who might be able to help with your Sunbeam Ti:
1. **Classic Car Services NI**
- **Location**: 12 Ballynahinch Road, Lisburn, BT27 5EZ
- **Contact**: 028 9267 1234
2. **Vintage & Classic Car Repairs**
- **Location**: 45 Comber Road, Dundonald, BT16 2AA
- **Contact**: 028 9048 5678
3. **Retro Motors**
- **Location**: 78 Belfast Road, Newtownards, BT23 4EZ
- **Contact**: 028 9181 2345
These garages specialize in classic and vintage cars, so they should have the expertise to work on your Sunbeam Ti.
*****
Racing
The Sunbeam Ti participated in several notable races, particularly in rallying. One of its most famous achievements was in the **1981 World Rally Championship**, where the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus, a variant of the Sunbeam Ti, won the manufacturers' title². This victory was significant as it competed against formidable rivals like the Audi Quattro and the Ford Escort RS1800.
The Sunbeam Ti was also a popular choice in various national and clubman rally events, thanks to its robust performance and handling.
The Sunbeam Ti, particularly in its Talbot Sunbeam Lotus variant, participated in several notable races and rally events beyond the 1981 World Rally Championship. Here are a few:
1. **British Rally Championship**: The Sunbeam Ti was a popular choice in this series, competing in various stages across the UK.
2. **European Rally Championship**: It also saw action in this continental series, where it competed against other top rally cars of the era.
3. **Touring Car Races**: The Sunbeam Ti participated in various touring car events, leveraging its performance and handling capabilities.
4. **Clubman Rally Events**: It was a favorite among privateer teams in local and regional rally events due to its affordability and competitive edge.
These races helped cement the Sunbeam Ti's reputation as a capable and competitive rally car.