Historical Context:
The Triumph TR4 was a key model in the popular 'Triumph Roadster' (TR) series, bridging the gap between the earlier TR3A and the later, more modern TR5/TR6.
Key Competitors:
MG MGB, Austin-Healey Sprite/Midget, Sunbeam Alpine
Design Influence:
Styled by Giovanni Michelotti, offering a more modern and European aesthetic compared to its predecessors.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a classic British sports car with good performance and distinctive styling.
Restoration Support:
Essential for restorers and owners undertaking any work requiring part identification and replacement.
Part Sourcing Efficiency:
Enables efficient and accurate sourcing of correct parts, minimizing errors and delays.
Primary Coverage:
All factory-specified parts for Triumph TR4
Major Assemblies Covered:
Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Body Panels, Interior Trim, Chassis
Chassis Codes Covered:
CT1/1L to CT53918L (TR4); CT53919L onwards (TR4A)
Estimated Page Count:
200+
Manual Type:
Parts Catalog / Parts Manual
Purpose:
Identification and ordering of genuine and replacement parts
Digital Availability:
Likely available in PDF format through specialist suppliers
Engine Parts:
Detailed illustrations and part numbers for engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, timing gear, oil pump, manifolds, etc.
Transmission Drivetrain Parts:
Components for the gearbox (e.g., TR4 Four-Speed with Laycock Overdrive), clutch assembly, propshaft, differential, rear axle, hub bearings
Suspension Steering Parts:
Independent front suspension components (wishbones, kingpins, trunnions, coil springs, dampers), rear axle, trailing arms, leaf springs (TR4), half-shafts, steering rack, track rods, steering column
Brake Parts:
Front disc brake components (Girling or Lockheed), rear drum brake parts, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, brake pads/shoes
Electrical System Parts:
Dynamo/alternator, starter motor, ignition system components (distributor, coil, spark plugs), wiring harnesses, lighting (headlights, taillights), dashboard instruments, switches, fuse box
Fuel Cooling Exhaust Parts:
Carburetor (Zenith Stromberg or SU), fuel pump, fuel lines, radiator, water pump, thermostat, exhaust manifold, pipes, silencer
Bodywork Chassis Parts:
Chassis frame, body panels (fenders, doors, bonnet, boot lid), bumpers, grille, windscreen, convertible top frame, interior trim panels, seats, dashboard fascia
Part Identification:
Visual identification through exploded diagrams and part number cross-referencing
Assembly Disassembly Reference:
Implicit guidance for reassembly by showing how parts fit together
Depth:
Detailed part number identification and illustration; not a repair manual, but essential for sourcing correct components.
Crash Testing Era:
Pre-modern crash safety standards; minimal structural safety features by today's standards.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes (Girling 9-inch or Lockheed 10.5-inch), Rear drum brakes
Steering System:
Rack and pinion steering
Seatbelts:
Lap belts often fitted as standard, shoulder belts may be optional or retrofitted.
Body Construction:
Body-on-frame construction with separate chassis
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically every 3,000 miles (or 5,000 km), or annually
Grease Points:
Regular greasing of kingpins, UJs, and other suspension/steering points is crucial (often weekly or bi-weekly for active use).
Valve Adjustment:
Recommended at 6,000-mile intervals
Engine Oil:
SAE 20W-50 (mineral oil recommended for classic engines). API SF or SG rated
Gearbox Oil:
EP 90 (API GL-4 recommended for older gearboxes to protect yellow metals)
Differential Oil:
EP 90 (API GL-5 for limited-slip diffs if applicable, GL-4 for standard)
Coolant:
50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation, but DOT 3 is common)
Chassis Corrosion:
Rust is a common issue, particularly in sills, wheel arches, and outriggers due to age and design.
Engine Oil Leaks:
Leaking rocker cover gaskets, oil seals, and sump gaskets are common.
Suspension Wear:
Wear in kingpins, trunnions, and bushes can lead to steering looseness and handling issues.
Overdrive Reliability:
The J-Type overdrive can be sensitive to low oil levels and requires proper servicing.
Example Part Number Format:
Likely uses a numerical system, e.g., AUCxxxx, SPxxxx. Specific examples require manual lookup.
Triumph Legacy:
Part of the Standard-Triumph Motor Company's celebrated line of sporting roadsters known for their robust engineering and driving pleasure.
Tr4 Introduction:
Introduced in 1961 as a successor to the TR3A, it featured a more modern body and improved comfort.
Tr4A Introduction:
The TR4A, introduced in 1965, featured independent rear suspension (IRS) for improved ride and handling, a significant change from the TR4's live rear axle.
Production Period:
TR4: 1961-1965 (approx. 40,000 units), TR4A: 1965-1967 (approx. 10,000 units)
Manufacturing Location:
Coventry, England