[Triumphs] Line on a TR3

[Creig Houghtaling]

Michael,

I don't know very much about TR3s so take my opinion that follows with that
in mind.

The first part of your question asked about spending 5 grand for a
restoration project.  Joe Mann had a restoration project TR3 that he sold
about a year ago.  From what you describe, I would guess that his might have
been a little more of a project.  And he claims to have gotten in that range
for it.  The bottom line is, do you see anything better for less money?  You
have to remember Murphy's laws will apply.  The deal you pass up, in
retrospect will be the good deal.  After you buy something, you will almost
immediately find something better.

Now, the second part of your question asked about what to look out for.
I'll let Dave Massey, Arlie King, and Chris Kresser address that
specifically.  I will speak in general terms from my experience with my TR6,
Spitfire, and TR8.  Every car I have bought has been a project.  That is
where I get my entertainment.  I am able to spend the time and money that I
have available.  When I decide I don't want to spend any time or money then
it doesn't cost me anything.  When I decide to invest some time & money,
then I get the satisfaction of fixing whatever it is I am working on.  There
are only 2 ways I will ever "finish" any of these projects.  1) I sell them.
2) I die.

But if you are a person who's satisfaction comes from driving and enjoying a
completed project, then you will be money ahead to buy the car that you can
find that is closest to what you want.  As a general rule, everything on a
Triumph will demand attention sooner or later.  Whatever has not been worked
on will need to be fixed one day.  (If you keep your car for many years like
most of us.)  So just from a time and money standpoint, buy a car that has
already been gone through completely.

The bottom line is, you will have to decide what path will provide you with
the most enjoyment.  Be resigned to the fact that it is all a waste of
money.  These cars are a hobby.  They are entertainment.  If you don't have
disposable money to spend on entertainment, then don't buy a old classic
car.

You are on the right track to minimize the money that is wasted.  The more
information that you have, the more likely you are to get a better deal.
This mailing list is one place for information.  There is a national mailing
list that I can put you in touch with if you are not already familiar with
it.  Attend club events and talk to people.  If you want, I'll give you some
numbers of some people to call and talk to on the phone.

Enjoy the challenge,
Creig Houghtaling
636-678-2181

-----Original Message-----
From: triumphs-bounces at sltoa.org [mailto:triumphs-bounces at sltoa.org]On
Behalf Of Michael Thomas
Sent: Sunday, December 03, 2006 9:01 AM
To: triumphs at sltoa.org
Subject: [Triumphs] Line on a TR3




I have a line on a TR3 that I am interested in purchasing. Not sure of the
year but am told it runs as the owner starts it about once a month and it
has 67,000 original miles. Body is solid aside from the rocker on the
passenger side but looks to be very straight and has been stored under cover
it has a good top but the windows are aged. I was unable to check the
underbody but the owner tells me the floors are solid. He is the second
owner of the vehicle which used to be a daily driver.

It is owned by a friend of My Brother in laws and he is looking to get
around 5 grand for it.

Do you know what type of price I should be looking to pay for an item like
this? Is there anything I should be looking for as far as surprises that
will cost me loads later?


Michael Thomas


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