Triumph Repair: 1975 Spitfire, british sports car, car repair shops

Question
My 75 Spitfire is burning oil, blue smoke intermitantly when I take off. Engine has probably 100k on it. Should I buy a rebuilt from England for about $500.00 plus shipping or can a Canadian Engine Rebuilder do the same job. The British sports car repair shops here want $3000.00 to rebuild one? Or do I just need a valve job. I don't know much about engines, so I'm at the mercy of the market place. Thanks Richard.

Answer
Hi Richard,
I can't comment on any rebuilder that I don't know. I don't understand how anyone can sell you a rebuilt engine for $500. You best get something in writing saying what a "rebuild" is to them and try to find out what the laws are about purchasing something from that company. I can tell you that here in the US you can't even buy the parts to rebuild a Spitfire for $500.
To arm yourself with a little in sight as to what is involved in rebuilding an engine read this tech section on my web site.
http://mg-tri-jag.net/Preamble.htm
Read every page and you should have some background to talk to any rebuilder.
The only companies I have had any experience with were in the US and those were, Moss Motors and The Raodster Factory. I know both know what they are doing but you need to contact them to see if they have Spitfire engines in stock or will rebuild yours. I don't know if the Roadster Factory does that but you can ask.
These will give you two more options anyway.
Howard