Triumph Repair: No Juice, triumph spitfire, auto parts store

Question
Hi Howard,

I have a 1971 Triumph Spitfire with a 1971 GT6 engine in it. My problem is when I try to start the car every day, the battery is dead. Once I jump it, the car runs fine all day with no trouble starting. I started having trouble once winter came and it became colder outside. I know TR are notorious for needing optimal conditions to fire up, but I haven't had any problems like this until this year. Do you think I need a new battery, a new alternator, or is there a ground issue somewhere? Or all three?

Thanks, Nate

Answer
Hi Nathan,

It is no use guessing at what it may be. You need to start testing. Tools needed are a 12v test light and a volt meter. Both are very inexpensive.

First thing to do is when you shut it down in the evening, be sure everything is turned off and remove either battery cable and put a test light between the cable and the battery post. If the test lights up you have a draw that is running the battery down over night. If that is the case let me know because there is a test sequence to go through for that.

If the light doesn't light up then connect the battery back up and use a volt meter to measure battery voltage. (12.5v+) With the volt meter still connected start the engine and set the idle at a fast idle (about 1500 RPM) and read the voltage. (13.8v to 14.5v) If the charge rate is not in that range fix the charging system.

If it is at that rate and the test light test was good you need to have the battery "Load Tested" If you don't have a load tester, most any auto parts store has one and will load test the battery for free. If the battery has filler plugs check the water level, a low level will do what you have.

Howard