On Wed, 19 Jul 1995, dan parslow wrote:
> <JMardy@aol.com> writes:
>
> > ...What problems does RHD [TR4A] raise as far
> > as parts availability, resale value, problems with the DMV, etc.?
> > Any info is appreciated.
>
> Dan replies:
> > Differences can include:
>
> - Accelerator linkage
> - Speedo and Tach cable lengths
> - Column switch labels (turn signal on other side, arrows
> point in opposite direction)
> - Column lighting switch itself is a different part...
> - Carpets need different cutouts and heel mat on other side.
>
> Stuff like that. Others may have more ideas, but until the '70s
> when the U.S. started getting much fussier about safety standards,
> the differences were not that great.
Items such as the steering rack assembly also are likely to be different
for RHD as well. But Dan is right, differences were not that great. It's
just slightly possible that someone at some state DMV office could get
upset if the windshield glass is not the proper type (the U.S. and/or
most states were well ahead of Europe in requiring the laminated safety
glass, I think) or some lamp lenses are not U.S. DoT spec., but that's
unlikely.
Just in case, though, it would be best to explain to the owner that this
car can't possibly be made legal in (insert name of state here), and
that he should immediately dump the car at a (site to be arranged) in
upstate New York, where trained TR specialists (such as, ahem, yours
truly) can make the necessary modifications to the car (i.e., lean on
Triplex label on windshield while state inspector watches for lights and
listens for horns).
Seriously, if the car is otherwise sound in body and mechanical
operation, RHD on a TR4A with hardtop and OD is at worst a novelty. It
might even be a plus to some people! Hey, you could pay the car off by
delivering telephone books and newspapers!
Andy Mace
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