Segment:
Classic British Motorcycle (500cc Single Cylinder)
Competitors:
BSA, Norton, Ariel (similar displacement single-cylinder models of the era)
Vehicle Type:
Standard Motorcycle, likely military surplus variant (TRW designation)
Era Relevance:
Post-war British motorcycle manufacturing pinnacle
Engine:
Complete overhaul, tuning, carburetion, ignition, lubrication
Transmission:
Gearbox disassembly, assembly, maintenance, lubrication
Clutch:
Operation, adjustment, replacement
Frame And Suspension:
Front fork, rear suspension, steering head, frame inspection
Brakes:
Drum brake overhaul, adjustment, lining replacement
Electrical System:
Lighting, ignition coil, dynamo, wiring diagrams, battery maintenance
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, petcock, fuel lines, Amal carburetor service
Wheel And Tyres:
Spoke tensioning, tire replacement, wheel bearing maintenance
Maintenance:
Regular servicing, lubrication points, valve clearance adjustment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common fault finding, solutions
Repair:
Component disassembly, cleaning, inspection, reassembly, adjustments
Tune Up:
Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, spark plug gap settings
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild procedures, gearbox overhauls
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to full engine/transmission rebuilds
Detail Level:
Detailed exploded diagrams, torque specifications, clearances
Type:
OHV (Overhead Valve) Parallel-Twin
Bore X Stroke:
63 mm x 80 mm (approximate, subject to specific variant)
Compression Ratio:
6.5:1 to 7.0:1 (typical for the era, manual will specify)
Valve Clearance Intake:
0.004 inches (0.10 mm) (cold, typical)
Valve Clearance Exhaust:
0.004 inches (0.10 mm) (cold, typical)
Horsepower:
Approx. 24-26 bhp at 5,500 rpm (typical)
Torque:
Not typically advertised in bhp, but significant low-end grunt expected
Carburetor:
Amal Monobloc (e.g., 376/326 or similar size)
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline (suitable for period engines)
Type:
Magneto ignition (Lucas or similar)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3-4 pints (manual will confirm exact)
Recommended Oil:
SAE 50 or SAE 20W-50 (depending on climate, manual confirmation required)
Oil Change:
Every 2,000-3,000 miles (or annually)
Valve Adjustment:
Every 4,000-6,000 miles (or annually)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Chain Lubrication:
Every 500 miles or after washing/rain
Engine Oil:
SAE 50 or 20W-50 motorcycle oil (as per manual)
Gearbox Oil:
SAE 90 Gear Oil (as per manual)
Common Wear Items:
Camshaft lobes, tappets, primary chain, clutch plates, valve guides, ignition points
Carburetor Idiosyncrasies:
Amal Monobloc can be sensitive to adjustment, potential fuel leaks if not properly maintained
Electrical Reliability:
Lucas electrical components, while iconic, can be prone to aging and require careful maintenance
Oil Leaks:
Common across many British motorcycles of this era due to gasket and seal materials.
Spark Plug Example:
Champion L7S or equivalent (manual will confirm exact thread and heat range)
Oil Filter Equivalent:
No inline oil filter; relies on sump screen. (Manual will detail sump screen cleaning)
Heritage:
Triumph Motorcycles is a historic British motorcycle manufacturer, renowned for its parallel-twin engines and sporting success.
Lineage:
The TRW designation likely refers to models produced for military contracts, often robust and reliable variations of civilian models. The 500cc parallel twin was a staple of Triumph's range.
Manufacturing Era:
Mid-1950s
Manufacturing Location:
Meriden Works, Coventry, England
Historical Reputation:
Triumph parallel twins are celebrated for their character, sound, and robust build, contributing to a strong enthusiast following.
Performance Perception:
Good low-to-mid range torque, suitable for general riding and touring.
