AboutJim Expertise My area of specialty is the Triumph Spitfire 1500 (1973-1980) although I have some technical experience with the GT6 and TR6 models also.
I can cover questions on all areas of the Spitfire, from basic mechanical questions to where to find original style seat covers and soft tops.
I am not an expert on the TR2/3/4 models. If you need specific detailed help with these models I first recommend obtaining a good repair manual such as the Robert Bentley manual for your particular model.
Experience I have been a Spitfire owner for 20 years and have done all my own repair work. On the Spitfire I've done just about everything except mount and balance tires.
In addition to street use I have been autocrossing a Spitfire with the SCCA (Sports Car Club of America) in Modified class since 1997.
Organizations Red River Triumph Club
SCCA (Sports Car Club of America)
NASS (North American Spitfire Squadron)
FOT (Friends of Triumph)
Question I want to start a rebuil motor but how to prime the oil pump?
Answer Cesarin,
3 ways that I know of:
1) Fill the oil pump with petroleum jelly (aka Vaseline) before putting the pump in place. That will help build vacuum to pull oil into the pump when you first start the car.
2) Pull the spark plugs. Squirt some oil into the cylinders. Disconnect the power lead on the coil, and ideally pull the fuel line from the carb and cap it (or disconnect the feed into the fuel pump). Make sure the battery is fully charged. Crank the engine until it builds oil pressure. Then reconnect the coil and fuel line.
3) One of the parts vendors used to offer a pre-oil kit. It was oil in a can under pressure with a fitting to go into the oil pressure sender hole in the block. Essentially you back fill the pump from above. It's possible to do the same thing with something like one of the grease guns that can accept liquid oil and some adapter fittings.
