🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Triumph

Model:

TR2, TR3, TR3A

Product Name:

TRIUMPH TR2 TR3 TR3A Service Repair Manual

Product Description:

TRIUMPH TR2 TR3 TR3A SERVICE WORKSHOP REPAIR SHOP MANUAL

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners, mechanics, and restoration specialists working on Triumph TR2, TR3, and TR3A sports cars.

Value Proposition:

Essential resource for maintaining, repairing, and restoring these iconic British sports cars, providing vital technical information often unavailable elsewhere.

Essential Data:

Contains critical specifications, diagnostic procedures, and assembly details necessary for accurate work.

Original Documentation:

Typically reproduces factory-issued service manuals, ensuring authenticity and accuracy of information.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Models:

Triumph TR2, Triumph TR3, Triumph TR3A

Covered Production Years:

Triumph TR2 (1953-1955), Triumph TR3 (1955-1957), Triumph TR3A (1957-1962)

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 300-400 pages (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era, specific manual may vary)

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Likely Print or Digital (PDF). If digital, expect searchable text and high-resolution images.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Overhaul, tuning, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (carburettors), ignition system, exhaust system

Transmission:

Manual gearbox (Laycock de Normanville overdrive on some models), clutch, drive shafts, differential

Brakes:

Hydraulic drum and disc brakes (front discs introduced on TR3), master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (A-arms, coil springs), rear live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, shock absorbers

Steering:

Steering rack and pinion (later models), steering box (early models), steering column, linkages

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, generator/alternator, starter motor, lighting system, ignition coil, distributor, instrumentation, horn

Bodywork:

Chassis lubrication, body panel adjustments, doors, hood/bonnet, convertible top, seats, trim

Maintenance:

Regular servicing, lubrication schedule, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-up procedures

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts for common problems, fault finding for engine, electrical, and mechanical systems

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major components and systems

Overhaul:

Detailed procedures for engine rebuilds, gearbox overhauls, and other major component restorations

Specifications:

Torque values, clearances, timings, fluid capacities, and other critical data for adjustments and repairs

Depth:

Comprehensive. Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

PDF (if digital), with bookmarking and searchability typically expected for modern reproductions.

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams. Bound for durability if printed.

Binding:

Likely perfect bound or spiral bound for printed versions, allowing it to lay flat during use.

Paper Quality:

Durable paper stock, often matte finish to reduce glare in workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, OHV (Overhead Valve)

Displacement Tr2:

1991 cc (121.5 cu in)

Displacement Tr3 Tr3A:

1991 cc (121.5 cu in) initially, later increased to 2138 cc (130.4 cu in) for some TR3A variants (often referred to as 'TS' models).

Horsepower Tr2 Tr3:

Approx. 90 bhp @ 4500 rpm

Horsepower Tr3A 2138Cc:

Approx. 100 bhp @ 4750 rpm (with dual SU carburetors)

Torque Tr3A 2138Cc:

Approx. 125 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Carburetion:

Typically twin Stromberg or SU carburetors (e.g., Stromberg CD175 or SU H4).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (though originally designed for leaded fuel, modern unleaded with appropriate octane is used). Check manual for specific octane recommendations.

🔧 Transmission

Gearbox:

4-speed manual synchromesh gearbox.

Overdrive:

Optional Laycock de Normanville 'J-Type' overdrive available on 3rd and 4th gears for TR3 and TR3A models, providing an extra cruising gear.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically actuated.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approx. 83 inches (2108 mm)

Length:

Approx. 147 inches (3734 mm)

Width:

Approx. 58 inches (1473 mm)

Height:

Approx. 48 inches (1219 mm) to top of windscreen

Kerb Weight:

Approx. 2000-2150 lbs (907-975 kg), varying by model and equipment.

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Not typically specified in the same way as modern vehicles, but total load capacity is limited.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Era:

Designed to 1950s-early 1960s safety standards. Lacks modern safety features like airbags, ABS, crumple zones.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes on TR3/TR3A (a significant upgrade), rear drum brakes. Manual brake adjustment and inspection are critical.

Seatbelts:

Not standard on early TR2/TR3; often added as an aftermarket upgrade or required for TR3A depending on market.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column not a feature; potential hazard in frontal impacts.

💡 Technology Features

Features:

Basic instrumentation including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure gauge, water temperature gauge, and ammeter. Radio and heater were often optional extras.

Features:

None. These vehicles predate modern driver assistance systems.

Features:

No connectivity features. Communication with the vehicle is purely mechanical and electrical.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Check manual for specific recommendations and oil type.

Grease Points:

Regular lubrication of chassis grease points (kingpins, steering joints, prop shaft UJs) is essential, usually at 1,000-2,000 mile intervals.

Engine Oil:

Initially 20W-50 or similar viscosity oil. For classic engines, consider oils with higher ZDDP content for flat tappet camshaft protection. Consult manual for exact grade and capacity (approx. 9-10 pints).

Gearbox Oil:

GL-4 rated gear oil, typically SAE 90. Overdrive units may require specific gearbox oil (e.g., ATF for some Laycock units - verify in manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for exact specification). Glycol-based fluid. Must be replaced periodically due to moisture absorption.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water. Consult manual for correct ratio and type.

Engine Wear:

Common wear issues include oil leaks from rocker cover and crankshaft seals, worn camshaft lobes, and valve guide wear.

Gearbox Synchromesh:

Synchromesh rings can wear, leading to difficult gear changes, especially on older units.

Chassis Corrosion:

Body-on-frame construction makes chassis integrity paramount. Rust is a common issue, particularly in outriggers, sills, and floor pans. Regular inspection and rust prevention are vital.

Electrical Gremlins:

Original wiring looms can degrade over time, leading to intermittent electrical faults. Proper diagnosis and potential loom replacement are common tasks.

Carburettor Tuning:

Maintaining correct synchronization and jetting for the twin SU or Stromberg carburetors is critical for performance and drivability.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Standard-Triumph Motor Company, a British manufacturer known for affordable, sporting roadsters.

Tr2 Introduction:

Launched in 1953 as a successor to the Triumph Roadster. Featured a rugged chassis and a powerful 2-litre engine, establishing the TR lineage.

Tr3 Introduction:

Introduced in 1955, featuring significant upgrades including front disc brakes, a more powerful engine tune, and improved interior comfort.

Tr3A Introduction:

A facelifted version of the TR3 launched in 1957 (hence 'A'). Notable for wider grille opening, 'TR3A' badging, and updated features. Also saw the introduction of the larger 2.2-litre engine.

Production Period:

TR2: 1953-1955, TR3: 1955-1957, TR3A: 1957-1962

Production Locations:

Coventry, England.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Classic Car Status:

Highly regarded as classic sports cars and desirable for historic racing and concours events.

Market Perception:

Valued for their raw driving experience, classic styling, and relative affordability compared to some contemporaries.