I was working in the parts counter at Mumfords when the 2000's Sprints and SD1's were new, seem to remember a few with overheating probs with some of the Triumph range. Happy days though, wondering when Red Robbo would pull the factories on strike, thereby delaying parts and new vehical delivery. Having a laugh when the "new" cars were bought in from the compound and having to drain a gallon or two of water from the inside
, paint finishes blooming, quality control was not on the top of the list for BL back then. Having said that I still get misty eyed when I see an SD1 or any other BL offering from that era.
Meanwhile heres a handy list when looking to buy a Classic
The Buying and Selling of a Classic Car
Terminology
If the ad claims... it really means...
________________________________________
"Rough condition" too bad to lie about
"Parts car" beyond repair
"Immaculate" recently washed
"concours quality" recently waxed
"engine quiet" won't start
"needs minor overhaul" needs engine
"needs major overhaul" unrecognizable as a car
"burns no oil" it all leaks out
"rebuilt engine" cleaned the spark plugs.
"completely gone over" cleaned the spark plugs.
"Drive it away" parked on a hill.
"Drive it anywhere" within 10 miles
"desirable classic" no one wants it.
"rare classic" no one wanted it when it was new.
"stored 20 years" in a farmer's field
"extensive re-chroming" front bumper buffed
"a real show-stopper" won't start and blocks traffic
"ran when stored" won't start now
"never apart" bolts too rounded to loosen.
"solid as a rock" rusted solid
"restored, with 0 miles" won't start.
"restored, with 2 miles" starts but stalls
"older restoration" first owner washed it.
"good investment" impossible to depreciate further
"no time to restore it" can't obtain parts.
"95% complete" other 5% doesn't exist.
"rich history" many repair bills
"other interests conflict" divorce pending
"many extra parts" left over after I put it back together again