TR6 First-time TR6 owner, plenty of questions..

[bricktop]

Just bought a '76 TR6 with OD and a few aftermarket upgrades already completed, ie: Spax rear shock conversion, carb upgrade (I'm still not in the know enough yet to recall the carb make and model that was added!)and a roll bar. I am still in Iraq and have not even seen the car yet firsthand! I am wondering what are the most common mechanical upgrades for a late-model TR6 that will enhance reliability and drivability? I could care less about owning an "original, unmolested TR6". Mechanically....what are the TR6s achilles heels? Another member mentioned the emissions equipment as a shortfall...can that just be removed without a wholesale engine rebuild? THX!
Carter

 

[4aKen]

Well I'm not a TR6 guy...but I'm so jazzed about how well the website is running I'd thought I'd throw in my two cents.
All TRs' are reliable with maintenance. My 4a shares the independent rear end with the TR6. All the frame mountings should be checked for breaks...the TR6 improved/reinforced throughout the run, but I think all longterm irs owners deal with it at some time. As far as achilles heels...my vote goes to that wonder bolt on the clutch shaft beneath the throwout bearing inside the transmission housing.
Stay safe.

 

[tdskip]

First - thank you for your service.

Now, on to the car. I think the first thing to do is to make sure what she currently has is in good order. These are tough and durable cars if properly maintained!

My non-scientific list of upgrade ideas;

1) A spin-on oil filter adapter is a nice upgrade, and makes it much easier to change your oil. More frequent oil changes = happier car.

2) Redundant hood release mechanism

3) Electronic ignition, but this is a matter of healthy debate

I'll let others jump in...

 

[Guest]

Best upgrade I made was rebuilding the suspension with nylatron all through, adding an uprated front, and plain adding a rear swaybar.

If you mean performance, I'd say do a cam and triple carbs.

 

[kodanja]

header, upgrade anti rollbar, front and rear suspension kits...next

 

[bricktop]

Your welcome! You know, I once owned a '77 MGB and the Electronic ignition was a MUST-HAVE. The previous owner installed a Lucas ignition kit when the points, plugs and condenser were replaced. I assume this Lucas kit is NOT an electronic ignition. Any idea on cost for that? THX

 

[Guest]

A Pertronix is anything from $80 to $129 depending on where you get it. 15 mins to fit.

 

[bobh]

I bought my Pertronix here. It's around $65
https://pertronix.carshopinc.com/product_info.php/products_id/100/LU-166A

 

[Brosky]

Nice to see you smiling again, my friend........

 

[Geo Hahn]

I would suggest you drive the car a bit before deciding on the Pertronix. If the distributor is sound (no wobble) you may find that points meet your requirement of 'reliability and drivability' just fine.

Definitely add the back-up bonnet release (as suggested above) as that is a heartache waiting to happen.

I drive my TR every day, everywhere -- no reason why these car cannot be reliable.