> Date: Sun, 29 Mar 1992 10:31:28 -0500
> From: william sadler <wsadler@copper.ucs.indiana.edu>
> To: british-cars@hoosier.utah.edu
> Subject: advice needed on price for '53 TD
> My father has found a '53 TD in Texas. The paint is orange and needs to
> Could someone give me a general price range for this car? What big dollar
> items could there be thatyou have to look for on TDs? I am thinking
> about buying this for myself if it is worth it.
One big ticket item for TDs is a new crankshaft. I understand they cost
about $1500. TD engines are not noted for their longevity, BTW.
I dumped a TD around 1963 when I discovered that their was nothing
salvageable in the engine after I disassembled it. At that time a new
crank cost about $150 which alone made a rebuild not worth the expense.
I didn't even ask what a new block (or resleeving if that was an
option), new pistons and rods, a new head, et cetera cost. And then
there was the transmission, steering box and so forth. I was told by a
knowledgeable mechanic at the time that 20-30kmiles between rebuilds
wasn't uncommon for TD engines. In short, this could be a very
expensive car if major work is required and the result won't be a a
daily driver so make sure this is a car your dad really wants. I loved
mine but it wasn't very practical, even then.
Some additional weaknesses: non-synchro 1st gear- chipped 1st & reverse
gears pretty common; weak rear axles; cracks in front fenders; lots of
wood in body so check for dry rot; electrics are a disaster
Roland
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