Triumph Repair: 1978 Spitfire Rattling etc., needle nose pliers, spitfire 1500

Question
Hello...I have a couple questions...

Question #1:
I know this is probably a broad question, but I was hoping for some thoughts.  My 1978 Spitfire 1500 is rattling a lot no matter what speed I am going.  I have changed out the sparkplugs, changed the oil, changed the airfilter, and adjusted the valve timing.  As I am driving the steering wheel will shake pretty heavily especially if I let go for a second.  Any thoughts on what that may be or what I can check or am I better off taking it somewhere?

Question #2:
Is there an easy way to put on the window winder handles?  I am having a hard time getting the pin in while pushing in the door panel.

Question #3:
As I am driving I sometime hear a clicking sound coming behind me.  It has something to do with the fuel tank, but I wasn't sure if it was normal or if there is a fix for it.

Thanks for all your help!

Answer
Ethan,

Let me see if I can cover all of this.  And if there's anything you feel uncomfortable working on then take it to a professional by all means.

#1.  Rattling/shake.   Possible causes?  Loose/bent wheels, worn suspension bushings, loose bolts in the suspension, loose bearings, worn trunnion/ball joints, steering rack bushings, tie rods.  Quite a list... and it's a good idea to make sure all the above are in good shape before heading out onto the road.

#2.  I usually prop the plastic piece away from the winder handle with a couple of screwdrivers and use a set of needle nose pliers and a pin punch or drift to PUSH the pin into place.

#3  Clicking sound from the rear of a Spitfire is normally u-joints.  If you think it's fuel related it could be someone put an aftermarket fuel pump in the trunk.


Cheers,

Jim