Triumph V8

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Triumph V8
Manufacturer Triumph Motor Company
Type: 90 degree V8
Production: 1971 - 1977
Bore: 86 mm (3.386 in)
Stroke: 64.5 mm (2.539 in)
Displacement: 2997 cc
Block alloy: cast iron
Head alloy: aluminium
Valvetrain: single overhead cam
Fuel type: petrol
Cooling system: water
Power output: 145 bhp (108 kW) @5500 rpm
Torque output: 170 lb·ft (230 N·m) @3500 rpm
Compression ratio: 8.8:1

The Triumph V8 is a 3.0 litre V8 developed in house by Triumph for the Triumph Stag. This was basically two Triumph Slant-4 engines 'stuck' together. It consisted of a single overhead cam cast iron block with aluminium heads.

This engine can suffer from unreliability as a result of the following design problems:

  • Overly long single link chains with poor tensioning that only last about 25,000 miles (40,200 km). The damage is extensive if they fail;
  • Inadequately sized main bearings - these have short lives as a result;
  • The aluminium heads warp due to poor castings which restrict coolant flow, leading to overheating;
  • Water pump failures relating to the drive gear shearing.

Many modern day upgrades and sticking to the manufacturers recommended service schedules help to solve these problems. An air dam for a TR-6 helps solve a cooling problem by scooping up the air in front of the car. A 12 blade fan helps to pull more air though the radiator.

On a side note the V8 was substituted for the Triumph 6-cylinder engine unit in the Triumph Stag. The Triumph Stag was originally envisioned as having the 6-cylinder 2.5 litre PI engine as used in the Triumph TR5.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  • Observer's Book of Automobiles P. Olyslager. 1972 Frederick Warne, London. ISBN 0-7232-1508-1