> 2. I've got Joe's square drain plug tool, but was wondering if there
> is a socket available for these square plugs. I was taught to use a
> torque wrench on drain plugs, so a socket to fit would be nice.
Yes, "8 point" sockets are designed specifically for square nuts/plugs and
should be available at any decent tool vendor. As an alternative, you can buy
plugs that have hex socket heads, which I like much better in some locations.
> 3. I need some sort of oil pump/filler for transmission and rear end.
> Any recommendations?
I use a pump sold at Pep Boys et al, sold under the "Sta-Lube" brand name. It's
only plastic so probably won't last forever, but mine has lasted many years now
(except for replacing the tubing several times).
> 4. Any other special/maintenance tools nice? I've seen SU carb tool
> kits--are these worthwhile?
IMO, yes. They are cheap and rugged. Properly used, will do a better job of
synchronizing than any other product on the market, including ones costing many
times more (IMO).
> 1. Engine? The shop manual lists all sorts of options.
I live in a warm climate ... use only Valvoline full synthetic 20W50 in all my
Triumphs.
> 2. Gearbox (OD) -- Done some reading here, and 30wt non-detergent
> seems to be a decent choice here.
IMO, Valvoline 20W50 Racing (motor) oil is a better choice. It's low detergent,
and has a high level of zinc anti-wear/extreme pressure additive. Also
recommended by British Frame and Engine; and Herman van den Akker (our west
coast TRansmission guru).
> Rear end fluid?
I use Valvoline full synthetic gear oil (which ISTR is 75W85 but I could be
mistaken).
> 3. SU dashpots -- engine oil? Motorcycle fork oil? I've seen thoughts
> on both.
The viscosity is what's important, as it will have an effect on how the engine
runs. Almost anything will provide adequate lubrication. IMO the optimum
viscosity will depend on several factors including how worn the dampers are and
which model of carb you have. I'm currently running 20 weight motor oil in my
H6 SUs, and ATF in my ZS carbs.
> 4. Once I get a grease gun, I need grease. Types?
IMO any modern grease will be so much better than what these cars were designed
for that it doesn't make much difference. However, it's still important (again
IMO) to follow the factory recommended service intervals, since adding/changing
grease also carries away contaminants.
> Is there a good site that already lists all of this?
Almost all of this is opinion, and opinions vary greatly. (They also resemble a
certain portion of anatomy, but I won't go there <G>)
> Thanks in advance for the help. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed with
> this project, so have decided to start with basics of oil/fluid
> changes, greasing, and such.
No worries, Drew. Many of us learned the hard way, without this wonderful list
for a guide. Ask away, and don't worry too much. These really are amazingly
rugged little cars, and very forgiving of mistakes.
However, I would suggest that you buy an owner's manual for your car. It has
lots of periodic service information that is harder to find (or even missing)
from the shop manuals (especially the Haynes, which has several omissions and
mistakes). Originals are occasionally listed on eBay for not too much money (I
paid $10 for mine), or I believe there is a copy in the front of the Bentley
reprint of the factory workshop manual (another good thing to have, although not
as easy to read as the original).
Randall
|