🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Triumph

Model:

Herald

Model Variant 1:

Herald 1200

Model Variant 2:

Herald 12/50

Model Variant 3:

Vitesse

Model Variant 4:

Spitfire

Common Production Codes:

GT6, GT6+, Vitesse 6, Herald Estate, Herald Convertible

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact sports car and small family car segment of the 1960s and early 1970s.

Key Competitors:

MG Midget, Austin-Healey Sprite, Ford Anglia, Ford Cortina, Vauxhall Viva, Hillman Imp.

Vehicle Strengths:

Unique 'round MGB' styling (Spitfire), excellent handling, convertible options, robust engineering (for its era), accessible performance, and lower price point compared to some rivals.

Manual Benefit:

Essential resource for owners and mechanics seeking to maintain, repair, or restore these classic British sports cars and sedans. Covers multiple related models, offering broad utility.

Rarity Statement:

Considered 'RARE' due to the age of the vehicles and the specific combination of models covered in a single manual, indicating a factory or specialized compilation.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Clutch, Gearbox (Manual and Automatic), Overdrive (Laycock de Normanville), Driveshafts, Differential, Rear Axle, Front Suspension (Independent Trailing Link), Rear Suspension (Live Axle, Leaf Springs), Steering System, Braking System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Electrical System (12V), Bodywork, Chassis, Trim, Heating, Windscreen Wipers, Instrumentation, Lubrication Schedule, Troubleshooting, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagrams, Tune-up Procedures

Page Count:

Extensive (likely 300+ pages for comprehensive coverage)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (Original or High-Quality Reproduction)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Full disassembly, assembly, overhaul, tuning, and troubleshooting for all engine variants (e.g., 1200cc OHV, 1600cc OHV, 2.0L OHV)

Drivetrain Systems:

Detailed procedures for gearbox, clutch, overdrive, driveshafts, differential, and rear axle maintenance and repair.

Suspension Steering Brakes:

In-depth coverage of front and rear suspension components, steering rack, kingpins, wheel bearings, brake system overhaul (including hydraulics), and adjustments.

Electrical Systems:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component testing, troubleshooting for lighting, ignition, charging, and accessories.

Body Chassis:

Information on body panel removal, repair, door mechanisms, window operation, and chassis inspection.

Maintenance Procedures:

Regular servicing, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, brake adjustments, valve clearance adjustments, lubrication points.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilds, gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, brake caliper/cylinder overhaul, suspension component replacement, electrical component repairs.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic guides for common faults and issues across all major vehicle systems.

Technical Specifications:

Detailed torque values, engine clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and dimensional data.

Depth Of Information:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers from routine maintenance to complete engine and gearbox rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF for digital reproductions, Original Print for physical copies

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans or original printing, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Original: Stapled or Perfect Bound. Reproduction: Spiral-bound or Perfect Bound for durability.

Paper Type:

Original: Standard newsprint or thicker paper. Reproduction: Durable, high-quality paper suitable for workshop use.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Herald 1200 Engine:

1147cc OHV Inline-4

Herald 1200 Horsepower:

Approx. 39 bhp (net)

Herald 1200 Torque:

Approx. 52 lb-ft (net)

Herald 1250 Engine:

1147cc OHV Inline-4 (tuned for 12/50 variant)

Herald 1250 Horsepower:

Approx. 48 bhp (net)

Vitesse Engine:

1596cc OHV Inline-4 (later 1998cc OHV Inline-6 for Vitesse 6)

Spitfire Engine:

1147cc OHV Inline-4 (later 1296cc, 1493cc)

Spitfire Mk1 Hp:

Approx. 63 bhp (gross)

Herald 1200 Fuel System:

Single SU Carburetor (HS2 or H2)

Herald 1250 Fuel System:

Twin SU Carburetors (HS2 or H2)

Spitfire Fuel System:

Single SU Carburetor (HS2)

Vitesse Fuel System:

Twin Stromberg Carburetors (CD150 or CD175) or Twin SU Carburetors (HS2)

Engine Type:

OHV (Overhead Valve)

Cylinder Block Material:

Cast Iron

Cylinder Head Material:

Cast Iron

🔧 Transmission

Herald Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual

Spitfire Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual

Vitesse Standard Transmission:

4-speed Manual

Herald Optional Transmission:

Laycock de Normanville Overdrive (often available on top gear, affecting 3rd and 4th)

Spitfire Optional Transmission:

Laycock de Normanville Overdrive (optional on later models)

Vitesse Optional Transmission:

Laycock de Normanville Overdrive (often standard on Vitesse 6)

Gearbox Synchromesh:

Synchromesh on 2nd, 3rd, and 4th gears.

📐 Dimensions

Herald Wheelbase:

Approx. 82 inches (2083 mm)

Spitfire Wheelbase:

Approx. 73 inches (1854 mm)

Herald Length:

Approx. 153 inches (3886 mm)

Spitfire Length:

Approx. 150 inches (3810 mm)

Herald Weight:

Approx. 1700-1900 lbs (770-860 kg) depending on body style and equipment.

Spitfire Weight:

Approx. 1550-1650 lbs (700-750 kg)

Vitesse Weight:

Approx. 2000-2150 lbs (900-975 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Designed in an era prior to modern stringent crash testing and safety regulations. Limited structural safety features by today's standards.

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard across most variants). Dual circuit hydraulic system.

Suspension Handling:

Independent front suspension and well-balanced chassis contribute to predictable handling characteristics.

Seatbelts:

Typically lap belts fitted as standard; shoulder belts may have been optional or retrofitted.

Body Construction:

Body-on-frame construction (Herald) or monocoque with separate chassis outriggers (Spitfire, Vitesse), offering some crumple zones but limited compared to modern vehicles.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM radio (optional) or no radio fitted as standard. Cassette or FM radio conversions common in modern use.

Braking Assistance:

No ABS or power assisted braking typically fitted. Drum brakes at rear require careful modulation.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB). Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, depending on engine and oil specification.

Grease Points Lubrication:

Regular chassis lubrication required at steering joints, suspension pivots, and driveshaft U-joints (if applicable) every 1,000-3,000 miles.

Tune Up Schedule:

Spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, and carburetor synchronization recommended annually or every 6,000-10,000 miles.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SE/SF, SAE 20W/50 or 10W/40 (depending on climate and engine condition). Non-detergent oil may be recommended for older engines.

Gearbox Oil Specification:

EP90 Hypoid gear oil (or similar GL-4 specification).

Overdrive Fluid Specification:

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) - DEXRON II or equivalent for Laycock de Normanville units.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.

Chassis Corrosion:

Rust and corrosion are prevalent, particularly in sills, wheel arches, floor pans, and chassis members due to age and design.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Common leaks from crankshaft seals, rocker cover gaskets, and sump gaskets due to aged seals and gaskets.

Gearbox Synchro Wear:

Wear in synchromesh rings can lead to difficulty engaging gears, particularly 2nd and 3rd.

Suspension Wear:

Worn kingpins, ball joints, and suspension bushings can cause poor handling and knocking noises.

Electrical Gremlins:

Degradation of wiring insulation, corroded connectors, and faulty switches can lead to intermittent electrical faults.

📚 Vehicle History

Triumph Legacy:

A historic British marque known for producing sporty and stylish cars from the early 20th century through the 1970s, associated with the Standard-Triumph company.

Herald Lineage:

Launched in 1959, designed by Giovanni Michelotti, it featured a unique chassis with a box-section backbone and independent suspension for all wheels. Evolved through 948cc, 1200cc, and the more powerful 12/50 twin-carburetor model.

Spitfire Lineage:

Introduced in 1962 as a small, affordable convertible sports car. Known for its distinctive sculpted body, independent suspension, and progressively larger engines (1147cc, 1296cc, 1493cc) and performance upgrades through multiple Mk generations (Mk I to Mk IV/1500).

Vitesse Lineage:

Launched in 1962 as a sportier derivative of the Herald saloon, featuring the more powerful 1.6-litre (later 2.0-litre inline-six for Vitesse 6) engine from the Triumph 2000. Offered in saloon and convertible body styles.

Production Period:

Herald: 1959-1971. Spitfire: 1962-1980. Vitesse: 1962-1971.

Manufacturing Sites:

Primarily Coventry, England (Canley plant) and Liverpool, England (Speke plant).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

These models were generally well-received by the motoring press of their time for their affordable performance and handling, particularly the Spitfire as a fun, accessible sports car.

Classic Car Status:

All models are now considered 'classic cars' and are popular among enthusiasts for restoration projects and vintage motoring events.

Historical Significance:

Represent a significant period in British automotive manufacturing and the development of affordable sports cars.