Target Audience:
Professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts undertaking repair, maintenance, rebuild, refurbishment, or restoration of a 1962 Triumph Spitfire.
Manual Attributes:
Detailed sub-steps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, detailed illustrations/drawings/photos, enlarged insets, numbered table of contents, combined troubleshooting and electrical diagrams.
Benefits:
Provides comprehensive, professional-level information without the cost of physical shipping or waiting for delivery. Enables complete self-sufficiency in vehicle maintenance and repair.
Systems Covered:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, exhaust system, clutch, gearbox, propeller shaft, rear axle, suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes, electrical system, body and chassis, trim and accessories.
Estimated Page Count:
Estimated to be comprehensive, likely exceeding 400 pages given the depth of coverage described.
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, overhaul, and reassembly, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, connecting rods, pistons, camshaft, timing gears, and oil pump.
Fuel System:
Covers carburetor (likely SU or Zenith Stromberg for the era) maintenance, adjustment, rebuilding, fuel pump, fuel lines, and tank.
Ignition System:
Details on distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustment, and troubleshooting.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, and fan maintenance and repair.
Clutch And Transmission:
Comprehensive coverage of clutch operation, adjustment, replacement, gearbox disassembly, assembly, and troubleshooting.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension component overhaul (wishbones, kingpins, springs, shock absorbers), steering box, linkages, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Disc brake front and drum brake rear systems, including master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, pads/shoes, and bleeding procedures.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing (starter, dynamo/alternator, regulator, lights, instruments), troubleshooting electrical faults.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, repair, door mechanisms, convertible top, trim, and chassis structural integrity.
Maintenance Schedules:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, lubrication points, fluid changes, and inspections at specified intervals.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for common problems, fault finding techniques, and diagnostic steps.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for virtually all mechanical, electrical, and body repairs.
Rebuilding And Refurbishment:
Detailed guidance for complete engine, gearbox, differential, and component rebuilds.
Depth:
High. Designed for professional technicians, providing in-depth diagnostic, repair, and overhaul information suitable for complete restorations.
Engine Type:
Inline-4 Cylinder, Overhead Valve (OHV)
Engine Code:
Likely FC series for the early Spitfire, potentially 1147cc.
Displacement:
1147 cc (69.9 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
Approx. 73.7 mm x 66.0 mm (2.90 in x 2.60 in)
Horsepower:
Approximately 63 bhp @ 5750 rpm (for the 1147cc engine)
Torque:
Approximately 63 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (for the 1147cc engine)
Carburetor:
Typically a single SU H2 or Zenith Stromberg CD carburetor. The manual will detail its specific type and setup.
Fuel Type:
Leaded gasoline (historical context). The manual may suggest suitable modern alternatives or additives if unleaded is used.
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 Imperial quarts (3.6 Liters), including filter. Specifics in manual.
Coolant Type:
Water and antifreeze mixture. Manual will specify ratio and type.
Wheelbase:
Approx. 82 inches (2083 mm)
Length:
Approx. 146 inches (3708 mm)
Width:
Approx. 58 inches (1473 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49 inches (1245 mm) (top up)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1540 lbs (699 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not typically specified for such lightweight sports cars, but manual may have chassis load limits.
Wheel Size:
Typically 13-inch wheels
Tire Size:
Commonly 5.60-13 or 5.90-13. Manual will specify exact sizes and pressures.
Bolt Pattern:
4 x 3.75 inches (4 x 95.25 mm)
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Manual will provide precise intervals.
Grease Points:
Regular lubrication of suspension, steering, and driveshaft U-joints is crucial. Manual will specify frequency and lubricant.
Engine Oil:
Likely a straight-weight oil like SAE 20W-50 or SAE 30 for this era. Manual will confirm exact viscosity and API service classification suitable for the engine's design.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid. Manual will specify and recommend bleeding procedures.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially in sills, wheel arches, and floor pans), worn suspension bushings, oil leaks, carburetor tuning issues, electrical system (especially wiring harness degradation).
Preventative Maintenance:
Regular checks for rust, diligent lubrication, and meticulous attention to tuning are key to maintaining a Spitfire.
Manufacturer:
Triumph Motor Company, a historic British manufacturer known for sports cars.
Introduction:
The Triumph Spitfire was first introduced in 1962, designed by Giovanni Michelotti and built by Standard-Triumph. It was intended as a more affordable alternative to the Austin-Healey Sprite and MG Midget.
Production Period:
1962-1980. The 1962 model is the original Mk I.
Market Impact:
The Spitfire established Triumph as a producer of agile, lightweight sports cars and enjoyed considerable success in various markets.