Triumph Repair: 1980 triumph spitfire, rust repair, dog legs

Question
Hello, and thank you for taking my question:  I am a former owner of a '68 GT6(purchased 1971)and now am about to buy a 1980 Spit.  It's been quite some time between Triumphs.  The car I am considering 'appears, runs, sounds fine' but I'm wondering if there are particular areas I should pay closer attention to before I sign the check.  I am from Gloucester, Ma and would appreciate any advice you may offer.

Thanks,
Mike

Answer
Mike,

The most common problem with English cars of the era is rust.  Especially as you're in an area where salt on the road is common in the winter time, and you get plenty of rainfall the rest of the year.

Places to look for rust.  Floor pan (not bad to repair, look for bodged old repair), battery box (not bad to repair), frame near the rear axle (more serious), trunk floor (not bad to repair but can be difficult), rocker panels, dog legs, front valence, door bottoms.   On the plus side most of the sheetmetal repair pieces are still available from the Spitfire specialists, but rust repair can involve large $$$ if you have to pay a professional to do the work.

The engines are fairly stout but the differential rarely got the care and upkeep it needs... listen for a whine when driving or a clunck when starting out.

Aside from that, look closely at the paint job for signs of damage/repair.  It's common to see a dent in the nose of the bonnet (hood).  

Keep in mind that driving a Spitfire is a job.... there will be lots of little hiccups but when it all works right it's a real blast.


Cheers,

Jim