Triumph Repair: Engine Swap, spitfire plan, gt6 mkiii

Question
I have an oportunity to pick up a Triumph 2.5 TC manual with overdrive.   Apart from minor parts, is there any experience with transplanting this engine into my MkIV Spitfire?

Answer
Russ,

I haven't seen the swap done with a Spitfire but I have seen it done with a GT6 MkI.  As you know, the GT6 is based off of essentially the same frame as the Spitfire with some minor changes and the bonnet has the "power bulge" which give a bit more clearance.

From the GT6 I saw one problem with the 2.5L will be that the oil pan will not clear the frame cross member.  A GT6 (2.0L)  oil pan "tweaked" to clear the crank throws is one solution.

Also, on the GT6 the radiator is moved forward to allow space for the longer 6 cylinder, so on the Spitfire plan on moving the mounts farther forward.  

One difference between the GT6 and the TR6 is that the intake manifold on the GT6 lowers the carbs, otherwise there is will be clearance issues.  You may also need to find a GT6 MkIII bonnet, again for clearance issues.

If the car is going to be driven agressively you'll want to arrange for an alternate differential/axle arrangement.  



Cheers,

Jim