Triumphrat

TampaTriumph · 03-07-2010, 02:29 PM

My first Triumph and first project bike just arrived and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed at the scope of the project. Bike has not run for 25 years and was converted to a chopper in the '70s.

Wish me luck!!

Jeff

shrugger · 03-07-2010, 03:16 PM

ugh! sorry to see it didn't survive the 70's unscathed.

Not to worry though, you've come to the right place. It looks like
all, or at least most of the proper parts are still there.
You'd be amazed how putting the correct fork tubes on will completely
transform it. Do you want to completely restore it or just get it
running again?

I've found that concentrating on only one bit at a time makes
the task a great deal less "Daunting". It's a complex machine over all,
however it's sub assemblies are relatively simple.

TampaTriumph · 03-07-2010, 03:57 PM

My aim is to it pretty close to original as I can, (possible exceptions may be not going with the high pipes and tank color).

I bought the correct fork tubes, handlebars and headlight; can't wait to see it looks like after that!

How hard would you rate the fork tube swap??

Thanks!

shrugger · 03-07-2010, 04:27 PM

Not attempting to save the old tubes. I'd give a difficulty of 3/10

saving the tubes would bring it up to about 5/10.
On closer examination, looks like you might have forks from a 70's bike.

You may need to replace the lower tubes as well. Need some close ups.

GrandPaulZ · 03-07-2010, 05:52 PM

I don't see anything seriously wrong with that bike. the frame isn't actually chopped, and I don't see anything welded on,two MAJOR things that can typically be counted on to slow down a restoration/refurb.

Seat, lights, pipes, handlebars and fork tubes. Not more than $750 at full retail for decent parts.

TampaTriumph · 03-07-2010, 07:33 PM

Thanks guys.

Attached are pictures of the lower legs, triple tree and bike at this moment.

The lower triple tree has been chromed and will need to be striped and powder coated black, correct?

Do you believe the lower legs are correct to the bike? They too have been chromed and will need to be corrected, I assume.

Handle bars have been swapped out, tank badges have been added, headlights have been removed as well as the aftermarket tail light and mangled rear fender.

Keep the suggestions, comments coming; I need it!!

shrugger · 03-07-2010, 08:05 PM

Black would be correct. The chrome and cup seal threw me off.
I'm not sure that the 8" brake hub is correct for that year. But I'd
stay with it. A lot of people upgraded when it was produced. It's
probly Triumphs best one.
The forks on there are internal spring. I believe you should have
external springs.

TampaTriumph · 03-07-2010, 08:18 PM

I ordered, what I assume are, the correct external springs, rubber gaiters, tubes etc.

I did question the brake hub as the images I've seen show the smaller ones; I'll take your advice on keeping what I have.

Not sure the impact of not having the bike absolutely correct??

Does the lower triple tree look correct but for the chrome?

shrugger · 03-07-2010, 08:42 PM

Couldn't find the 68 so Here's the 67 book. Minor changes here and there.
If you don't have the books yet, make sure to get them soon.
Nothing says the correct part like the correct part number.

http://www.classicbike.biz/Triumph/P...artsManual.pdf

The tree looks ok to me.
Personally, I'd take stopping over correct any day. I've seen this
brake on quite a few of the 68's. It's possible that the dealers
put them on in 69 in order to move thier stock.

TampaTriumph · 03-07-2010, 11:24 PM

Thanks Shrugger