
Triumph 2500PI Mark 2 (1969-77)

COMMON FAULTS
Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel.
The Triumph 2500 PI Mark 2 had a few common issues:
1. Fuel Injection System Quirks: The 2.5 PI engine was noisy when pressed, and the injection system had some unhappy quirks. These included the constant drone of the fuel pump and a tendency to stall in turns if the fuel level fell too low. Regular fuel filter changes were necessary for good health.
2. Overheating: Look out for overheating due to a silted-up radiator. Ensuring proper cooling system maintenance is crucial.
3. Worn Crankshaft Thrust Washers: The engines are prone to worn crankshaft thrust washers, which can damage the crank/block.
4. Misfires from Burnt Exhaust Valves: The valve seats can erode due to modern unleaded fuels, leading to misfires caused by burnt exhaust valves.
5. Half Shaft Universals and Front Diff Seal: All half shaft universals may need replacing, and the front differential seal could develop leaks.
Generations/Trim Levels
Please Note: Generations and Trim Levels Across Countries
Generations and trim levels of vehicles often vary between countries as manufacturers tailor models to meet the preferences and requirements of specific markets. For example, a trim level designated as “GL” in the UK might be labelled as “XS” in another country. Due to these regional differences, the information provided on this site pertains exclusively to UK-specific products.
The Triumph 2000/2500 series had two main generations:
1. Mk1 (1963-1969): Introduced in 1963, the Triumph 2000 featured a 2.0-liter straight-six engine. It was later upgraded to the 2.5-liter engine in the 2500 model.
2. Mk2 (1969-1974): The Mk2 models, launched in 1969, included both the Triumph 2000 and the 2500. These cars received styling updates and improvements.
Additionally, during the final years (1974-1977), Triumph offered the 2500 TC and 2500 S models as part of the range. The 2500 TC provided more torque and longer gearing, making it advantageous for motorway speeds.
Body Styles
The Triumph 2000/2500 series was offered in several body styles:
1. Saloon: The standard two-door model.
2. Estate: Hand built by Car bodies in Coventry, the estate model provided an edge over its rival Rover, as the Rover P6 was never offered as a factory-produced estate.
3. 2500S Estate: Introduced later, this estate variant featured additional instrumentation and tinted glass.
These body styles catered to different preferences and needs, making the Triumph 2000/2500 a stylish and versatile choice.
Versions
The Triumph 2000/2500 series had several versions:
1. **2000 Models**: These were the entry-level variants and were the most plentiful.
2. **2500**: The standard 2500 model.
3. **2500 TC**: A twin-carburettor configuration for added performance.
4. **2500 PI**: The petrol injection model, which was eventually replaced by the 2500 TC.
5. **2500S**: The range-topping specification with additional features like alloy wheels and tinted glass.
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Engines
The 1969 Triumph 2500PI was equipped with a 2.5-liter inline-six engine. This engine produced 132 horsepower (99 kW) at 5,450 rpm and 198 Nm (146 lb-ft) of torque.
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Performance
The 1969 Triumph 2500PI had impressive performance for its time. It could reach a top speed of around 110 mph (177 km/h) and had a 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration time of approximately 10 seconds.
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Designer/Dimensions
The Triumph 2500PI Mark 2 was designed by Giovanni Michelotti. Here are its dimensions:
- **Length**: 4,631 mm (182.3 in)
- **Width**: 1,651 mm (65 in)
- **Height**: 1,422 mm (56 in)
- **Wheelbase**: 2,692 mm (106 in)
- **Kerb Weight**: 1,220 kg (2,690 lb).
Michelotti's design gave the Triumph 2500PI Mark 2 a distinctive and elegant look, which contributed to its popularity.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Triumph 2000/2500** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **T.D. Fitchett Limited**:
- They are your first choice for hard-to-find Triumph parts and spares.
- Tony Fitchett, the founder, has been in the business since the early Sixties.
- They produce gearboxes, overdrives, final drives, and small panels.
- Larger panels are manufactured off-site using original Triumph tooling.
- Many parts are hand-built by Tony to ensure high build quality.
- They stock parts for various Triumph models, including Herald, Vitesse, GT6, Spitfire, Dolomite, TR6, TR7, TR8, Stag, 2000, 2500, and 2.5PI.
2. **EU-SPARES**:
- They offer a top selection of car parts specifically for the **Triumph 2000 Mk2**.
3. **Autodoc**:
- In their catalogue of spare parts for Triumph, you'll find a great assortment of first-class and inexpensive parts for the **Triumph 2500**.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND TRIUMPH SPECIALISTS**
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. **McMillan Specialist Cars**: Located in Antrim, they offer a range of services including repairs, servicing, and parts for various car brands, including Triumph.
- **Address**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Phone**: 028 9335 4911
2. **Phillip McCallen Motorcycles**: Based in Lisburn, they provide servicing, repairs, and parts for Triumph motorcycles.
- **Address**: 7 Altona Road, Lisburn, BT27 5QB
- **Phone**: 028 9262 2886
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. **Phillip McCallen Motorcycles**: Originally started in Lurgan, County Armagh, they now have a modern showroom and workshop in Lisburn, County Antrim. They offer servicing, repairs, and parts for Triumph motorcycles.
- **Address**: Unit 10/11 Portman Business Park, Lissue Industrial Estate, Moira Road, Lisburn, BT28 2RF
- **Phone**: 0330 311 7155
2. **McMullan Auto Services**: While not exclusively Triumph, they offer comprehensive car servicing and maintenance in Armagh.
- **Address**: 1 Moy Road, Armagh, BT61 8DL
- **Phone**: 028 3753 1766
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. **Ards Brake & Clutch Service Centre**: Located in Newtownards, they offer a range of repair services and have a good reputation for quality work.
- **Address**: Unit 4 Lansdowne Road, Newtownards, BT23 4NT
- **Phone**: 028 9181 2222
- **Website**: [ardsbrakeandclutch.co.uk](https://ardsbrakeandclutch.co.uk/)
2. **Patterson Auto Electrics**: Based in Crossgar, they specialize in car electrics but also offer various other garage services.
- **Address**: 1 Downpatrick Road, Crossgar, BT30 9EQ
- **Phone**: 028 4483 1234
- **Website**: [wilfiepatterson.co.uk](https://www.wilfiepatterson.co.uk/)
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. **M & S Fastfit**: Located in Enniskillen, they offer a range of auto repair services and have experience with classic cars.
- **Address**: Kilmacormick Road, Enniskillen, BT74 6HZ
- **Phone**: 028 6632 5555
2. **Cranston Van & Motorhome Centre**: While they primarily focus on motorhomes, they also provide servicing and repairs for various vehicles, including classic cars.
- **Address**: 9 Riverside Park, Ballinamallard, Enniskillen, BT94 2AB
- **Phone**: 028 6638 8700
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
1. **Lloyd Cooke Motors Ltd**: They offer expert vehicle maintenance and car bodywork repairs.
- **Address**: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry, BT47 3LZ
- **Phone**: 028 7130 2100
- **Website**: [lloydcookemotors.com](https://www.lloydcookemotors.com/)
2. **T & D Heaney Motor Co**: Located in Maghera, they specialize in classic car restoration, including Triumphs.
- **Address**: 20 Main Street, Swatragh, Maghera, BT46 5QB
- **Phone**: 028 7940 1660
- **Website**: [mercedesrestoration.co](https://www.mercedesrestoration.co/)
Specialist Triumph mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. **Tyrone Diesel Systems**: Located in Omagh, they specialize in diesel systems but also offer a range of vehicle repair services.
- **Address**: 1 Gortrush Industrial Estate, Omagh, BT78 5EJ
- **Phone**: 028 8224 2222
- **Website**: [tyronedieselsystems.com](https://www.tyronedieselsystems.com/)
2. **Hydraulic Pumps NI**: Based in Dungannon, they specialize in hydraulic systems but also provide general vehicle maintenance and repairs.
- **Address**: 12 Ballygawley Road, Dungannon, BT70 1EL
- **Phone**: 028 8772 2222
- **Website**: [hydraulicpumpsni.com](https://www.hydraulicpumpsni.com/)
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Racing
The Triumph 2000 and 2500 had some notable successes in motorsport:
1. **Rallying**: The Triumph 2000 was used in various rally events from 1964 to 1976. It achieved class wins in events like the **Circuit of Ireland**, **Tulip Rally**, and **RAC Rally**¹. The 2.5 PI model also performed well in the 1970 **London-Mexico World Cup Rally**.
2. **Endurance Racing**: The Triumph 2000 competed in the **Bathurst 500** (later known as the Bathurst 1000) in Australia. Although it didn't win overall, it had respectable finishes in its class.
The Triumph 2000 had a notable presence in rallying from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s. Here are some highlights of its performance in specific rallies:
1. **1964 RAC Rally**: The Triumph 2000 made its debut in this event. Although it faced tough competition, it managed to secure a class win.
2. **1965 Tulip Rally**: Jean-Jacques Thuner and Roy Fidler drove the Triumph 2000 to a class victory. This rally was part of the European Rally Championship, making it a significant achievement.
3. **1965 Circuit of Ireland**: The Triumph 2000 performed well, securing a class win¹. This event was known for its challenging tarmac stages.
4. **1970 London to Mexico World Cup Rally**: The Triumph 2.5 PI, a variant of the 2000, achieved an impressive 2nd place overall and 4th place in this grueling endurance rally²³. This rally covered over 16,000 miles, testing the durability and performance of the cars.
These successes helped establish the Triumph 2000 as a capable and competitive rally car.