Triumph TR7 (1974-81)
The Triumph TR7, while a classic, is known for several common faults:
1. **Rust**: This is a major issue, especially in the nose panel, bonnets, and MacPherson strut turrets.
2. **Engine Problems**: Warped cylinder heads due to differential expansion between the iron block and alloy head are common². This can be exacerbated by neglecting anti-freeze maintenance.
3. **Electrical Issues**: The TR7 is notorious for electrical quirks, including poor fit and finish, and loose parts.
4. **Head Gasket Failures**: These can lead to engine overheating and, in severe cases, require engine replacement.
Despite these issues, many enthusiasts find the TR7 to be a rewarding project car with good parts availability and support from clubs and specialists.
*****
Generations
The Triumph TR7 was produced in a single generation from 1974 to 1981. However, there were notable updates and variations during its production run, including the introduction of a convertible model in 1979.
*****
Body Styles
The Triumph TR7 had two main body styles:
1. **Coupé (Hardtop)**: This was the original body style introduced in 1974.
2. **Convertible (Roadster)**: Introduced in 1979, this version featured a drop-top design.
Both styles retained the distinctive wedge shape that the TR7 is known for.
*****
Trim Levels
The Triumph TR7 was offered in several trim levels throughout its production run. Here are some of the notable ones:
1. **Base Model**: The standard trim with basic features.
2. **TR7 S**: A sportier version with additional features and styling elements.
3. **TR7 SE**: Special Edition models that often included unique paint and interior options.
4. **TR7 Sprint**: A performance-oriented version with a more powerful engine, though it was produced in limited numbers.
These trims varied in terms of interior finishes, exterior colors, and additional features.
*****
Engines
The Triumph TR7 was primarily fitted with a **2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine**¹². This engine, derived from the Triumph Dolomite, produced around **105 bhp** and was equipped with twin SU carburettors.
Additionally, some TR7 models were later fitted with the **3.5-litre Rover V8 engine**, particularly in the TR8 variant. This V8 engine significantly boosted performance and is a popular choice for engine swaps among enthusiasts.
*****
Spares
You have several options for sourcing Triumph TR7 spares in the UK and Ireland:
1. **SC Parts Group Ltd**: They offer a wide range of TR7 and TR8 spare parts, including engine components, body panels, and interior trim¹.
2. **Rimmer Bros**: Known for their extensive inventory of Triumph parts, they provide everything from engine components to electrical parts and accessories².
3. **CarSite.co.uk**: This site connects you with a network of over 250 breakers across the UK, helping you find used TR7 parts at competitive prices³.
4. **Abingdon MG Parts**: They specialize in parts for classic British cars, including the Triumph TR7⁴.
These suppliers should have what you need to keep your TR7 running smoothly.
*****
Specialsts
**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/)
*****
Racing
The Triumph TR7 did race! It had a notable presence in both rallying and sports car racing:
1. **Rallying**: British Leyland ran a team of TR7s in rally competitions from 1976 to 1980. These cars were equipped with either the 16-valve Dolomite Sprint engine or the Rover V8 engine⁴. They achieved reasonable success in tarmac events but struggled in off-road sections.
2. **Sports Car Racing**: The TR7 also competed in sports car racing, particularly in the United States. Bob Tullius and his Group 44 team raced the TR7 successfully in US sports car events³. Additionally, the TR7 was raced in the Australian Sports Car Championship in 1978.
These racing efforts helped to enhance the TR7's performance credentials despite its reputation for reliability issues.
The TR7 participated in several notable races:
1. **Rallying**: The TR7 was active in rally competitions from 1976 to 1980. It competed in events like the **RAC Rally** and the **Monte Carlo Rally**, achieving reasonable success in tarmac events.
2. **Australian Sports Car Championship**: The TR7, driven by Bob Tullius and his Group 44 team, competed in the 1978 Australian Sports Car Championship¹. This was part of Leyland Australia's efforts to boost the car's appeal.
3. **Barclays TR7 Pro-Am Series**: In the early 1980s, Leyland Australia organized this one-make series to promote the TR7. It featured top drivers like Jim Richards and Colin Bond.
These races helped to enhance the TR7's reputation despite its initial struggles.