My 1970 Spitfire Journey

I decided I needed some secure storage so pulled apart the trunk handle and took it to Manawatu Locksmith’s. After some skill and locksmith wizardry they managed to unseize the pins and build a key to fit. After spending $50 and a tricky reassembly I now have a boot with a working lock. 

  After a rogue driver side-swiped my 2003 Saab 9-3 at lights she was towed away as the insurance company had deemed it was uneconomic to fix. Seems being a bargain ($3500) counts against you sometimes.  However opportunity came knocking and after a little searching to decide between an MGB or Triumph Spitfire I have ended up with a wonderful little car that just needs a little care and attention after 40+ years of the previous owners consistent repairs and maintenance. Thanks Phillipa and John for the opportunity to own this wonderful little classic.  I intend to record as many of the events and adventures this little classic affords me while in my care.  1970 Triumph Spitfire 1300cc round tail with 176,000 miles travelled. 

After a 12 day South Island family holiday the Spitfire decided to be challenging to start. 😡😡 Desperate measures were needed, new coil, new spark plugs and a new fuel pump. The thing that will make the biggest difference needs more time and tools. Electronic ignition at the top of the to do list. Probably needed to be more patient but a 55 year old pump likely needed changing. Loving Hawkeswood  Classic Car Parts in Auckland. So many parts, speedy delivery and reasonable prices. 

While the period look was retro cool, the 165 x 65 cross ply tires are better suited to a truck. These 13' JBW Minilites from Palmside in Christchurch with a 5.5' width mean the Spitfire can now run 185 x 65 radial tyres with the speedo within 2% accuracy. Looks good and feels better on the road. 

Thanks to the powerspark site for sharing instructions on how to adjust polarity from positive earth to modern negative earth. Steps followed and everything running well. Next step to add a stereo and change to electronic ignition. Can now also run led lights and modern after market accessories.

The new muffler sounds great and has fixed a pesky resonating noise that at first had me thinking the car had a wheel bearing issue. Manawatu Mufflers were great to deal with and did a super job. Now has a sporty sound to match its good looks.