Triumph Herald (1959-1971)
The **Triumph Herald** had a few common issues:
1. **Chassis Rust**: While scruffy cars might not be pleasing to look at, the bodywork doesn't provide any strength. So, as long as the chassis is strong and rust-free, you're in good shape.
2. **Mechanical Wear**: Tired engines, worn driveshafts, and rusty arches were common. However, decent cars will likely have been restored by now.
3. **Convertible Doors**: On convertibles, the doors can fly open during corners if the catches are worn out.
Remember to inspect the chassis and mechanical components carefully when considering a Triumph Herald.
Generations
The Triumph Herald had two main generations:
1. Herald & Herald S (948 cc): Introduced in 1959, this initial generation included the 948cc saloon, coupé, and convertible variants.
2. Herald 1200: In 1961, the Herald 1200 replaced the 948 edition, featuring a 1147cc engine.
Versions
The Triumph Herald had several versions, including:
1. Herald: The initial 948cc saloon and coupé model.
2. Herald 12/50: A variant with a larger engine (1147cc).
3. Herald 1200: Replaced the 948 edition, featuring a 1147cc engine.
4. Herald 13/60: Equipped with a 1296cc engine.
5. Herald Coupe: A two-door coupé version.
6. Vitesse: A six-cylinder model based on modified Herald chassis and running gear.
These diverse versions catered to different preferences and needs.
Body Styles
The Triumph Herald was offered in several body styles, including:
1. Saloon: The standard two-door model.
2. Convertible: A soft-top version for open-air driving.
3. Coupé: A sportier, fixed-roof variant.
4. Van: A practical commercial version.
5. Estate: Also known as a station wagon, offering more cargo space.
Additionally, there was a rare panel wagon called the Courier.
Spares
If you're looking for **Triumph Herald** spares in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:
1. **T.D. Fitchett Limited**:
- Your first choice for hard-to-find Triumph parts and spares.
- They produce gearboxes, overdrives, final drives, and many small panels.
- Larger panels are manufactured using original Triumph tooling, improved for a better-than-new fit.
- Stock available for Herald, Vitesse, GT6, Spitfire, Dolomite, TR6, TR7, TR8, Stag, 2000, 2500, and 2.5PI.
2. **AutopartsPro**:
- Offers new Herald parts online with fast and free shipping.
3. **MicksGarage**:
- Provides a selection of Triumph Herald parts.
4. **AutoVillage**:
- Find refurbished and used Triumph Herald parts here.
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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 Herald, produced from 1959 to 1971, did participate in various motorsport events, though it wasn't as successful or famous as some of its Triumph siblings like the Spitfire or TR7. Here are a few notable mentions:
1. **Rallying**: The Herald competed in several rallies, including the **1959 Alpine Rally**, where it achieved a respectable 9th overall and 3rd in class³.
2. **Club Racing**: The Herald was popular in club racing events, particularly in the UK, where enthusiasts often modified them for better performance².
While the Herald wasn't a dominant force in racing, it did have its moments and remains a beloved classic among enthusiasts. The Triumph Herald had some notable successes, particularly in rallying:
1. **1959 Alpine Rally**: The Herald achieved a commendable 9th overall and 3rd in class.
2. **1959 Scottish Rally**: The Herald won this event, showcasing its capabilities in rallying.
While the Herald wasn't a dominant force in motorsport, these achievements highlight its potential and versatility.