1962 Triumph Other

Roadster Convertible

2138 cc

4 Speed

Clear

Gasoline

1962 Triumph TR4 Beautiful Unmodified Early California TR4 Significant Restoration Work within the Previous 4~ Years Finished in Old English White with Period Style UK "Minator" Wheels ____________________________________________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you'd prefer, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly discuss any questions that you have regarding the TR4, the asking price, shipping, etc. The car is available for purchase prior to the end of the eBay auction. Prospective buyers should be aware that a very large percentage of our cars do sell prior to the end of the auction listing and waiting until late in the sale can result in the car being sold to another buyer. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON eBay WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE A LARGE NUMBER OF PHOTOS, BUT WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOGRAPHS, PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF eBay POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE eBay LISTING). All of our photos are taken in natural light and we do not "Photo-Shop" or touch-up the photos in any way. The photos accurately reflect the condition of this original, well maintained early TR4 that was delivered new in Northern California and has remained in the area ever since. The "madness" is underway in the various auction venues around the country. We often times see a wide range of collectible cars / special interest cars sell for inflated amounts in the "heat of the moment." This car is offered at a very realistic price taking into account current market "realities." Perhaps most important, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information & history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for over 21 years and is proud of our positive worldwide reputation for accurate, complete vehicle descriptions. Our 800~ positive eBay feedback items over the course of 14~ years is a reflection of our commitment to accurate and complete vehicle descriptions. We can provide references in addition to those left by customers at Yahoo Reviews, Classic Cars Ltd. Pleasanton, CA. (Please enter this information in Google to read our reviews) THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 _________________________________________________ THIS PARTICULAR 1962 TRIUMPH TR4 - Original California "Black Plate" Car (both front & rear) - Registered (for California buyers) until July, 2015 - Owned by the previous owner, an elderly aircraft pilot who owned the car for 20+ years (Believed to be a 3 owner car) - Current mileage showing 55,345 (may change slightly as the vehicle sees occasional use during the beautiful California summer months) - Extensive documented maintenance (in elderly owner's hand written notebook - (more on this later in the write-up) THE "NUMBERS" The Commission Number (VIN number) on the Triumph (located on the plate on the left side bulk head) is CT 5301 L decoding as follows: -CT = TR 4 -5301 = Production sequence Note: Production began in 1962 with #CT1 making the 5,301th car produced of 40,304 TR4's -L = Left Hand Drive Car (USA car) -The body number of this particular car is found on the right engine bay bulk head and reads: 4382 CT The engine number is located behind the coil on the driver's side of the car and, as a result of the location is difficult to read but is believed to be: OT5411E. We were told that the car has the original (although completely rebuilt) engine. The California title documents the car as a 1962 originally issued with license plate number HQW531 (that remain on the car today) with he correct VIN # of CT5301L. Additionally, the title reflects a "Year First Sold" of 1962 supporting that the car was originally sold in the state of California. 1962 TRIUMPH TR4 Classic Cars Ltd. is celebrating our 21th anniversary this year and is proud to be the oldest indoor showroom under continuous ownership in California's Tri-Valley wine region. Our business model has remained unchanged with a passion and focus on sports, high performance and unique vehicles of all types. We live in a wonderful part of California and, frankly we are still amazed at the quality of the cars that are "born & raised" in our area. However, while, more British sports cars were sold to California buyers in the 1950's / 1960's, it is becoming increasingly difficult to locate nice original examples. Certainly, one reason for the limited supply of vehicles has to do with the fact that the cars are now 50-60 years old. Additionally, many cars were lost to racing, others rusted badly (especially in "rust zones" around the USA and overseas) and did not survive. This TR4 is exactly the type of vehicle that we are proud to represent and it meets all of our criteria, including: documented California lineage, maintenance and service history and limited ownership by mature sports car enthusiasts. This Triumph TR4 was owned by the recent owner for just over a year and was purchased from a gentleman in his 80's that had the car for many years. As an antique airplane pilot, he kept meticulous records including documenting the TR4's repairs in a notebook. The notebook makes fascinating reading and provides insight into the mind of someone who pays incredible attention to detail to ensure that his collectible car is maintained in the best possible condition at all times. In addition to the "typical" entries for frequent ongoing maintenance (oil service, lubrication, tune-ups, etc.) the entries include periodic compression checks (every 3-6 months!), valve clearance adjustments, steering rack boots, carburetion rebuilds and too many other ongoing repairs to outline in detail (refer to the photo of the "repair book" and summary listed later in this write-up). Note: the regular compression checks showed slowly declining compression readings in cylinders #3 & #4 resulting to the eventual complete engine overhaul in July, 2010 at 45,575 miles (10,000~ miles ago). The engine is properly broken in and runs/ drives very well with excellent oil pressure. It is important to note that the sale of the Triumph comes only as a result of the owner's involvement in another major project and the need to generate income for his new "toy." CONDITION SUMMARY This TR4 represents a totally unmodified example that received considerable cosmetic and mechanical attention within the previous 5-10,000 miles. The improvements (detailed later in this description) were extensive and included a complete repaint, replacement interior panels, rebuilt engine and related components and a host of other repairs / maintenance performed on a regular basis over the span of 50+ years. Since the restoration, the Triumph has held up very well in large part due to its very limited use as a strictly weekend / fair weather car. The body of the TR4 is very straight and, as the photos of the exterior and underside show, lacking the rust that exists on so many "Rust Zone" cars in the Midwest, East coast and other regions around the globe. The doors and trunk fit well as do the doors which close solidly and have good gaps. The front hood (bonnet) also fits well taking into account that the build quality in the 1960's certainly did not compare to that of today's computer built vehicles. However, the hood closes tightly and releases freely with a pull of the inside hood handle. Overall, the panel fitment on the TR4 is quite good and most observers will appreciate the quality of the car only identifying any imperfections after a close, critical inspection. Since the entire car received a "complete" re-paint it does not appear as if any partial painting has been done. The paint does show minor flaws consistent with use but, as the photos show, TR4 presents very well. While not a show car, the Triumph would be well received at any local car gathering, "Show & Shine" or other British car event. At the time for the re-paint, much of the chrome and trim was either replated or replaced and it remains in excellent condition. The lenses and other exterior trim look great and add a classic 60's flair to this classic British sports car. Simply stated, the interior is in excellent original / condition having received improvements and cosmetic attention as needed. The seats are free from rips, tears or signs of damage and remain firm and solidly fastened. The dash is also in lovely condition with clear and fully functional gauges that all display readings well within (or exceeding) manufacturer's specifications. As an example, oil pressure when warm reads 55+ lbs., the charging system is fully functional and the car runs cool (due to an optional added electric fan) despite our warm 100 degree+ days. The dash is equally good and shows no wear, knobs and switches still retain their original markings. The door panels are excellent. The glove box wood is excellent and the glove box locks securely. The trunk and door locks are also functional. The trim around the top of the doors is very good and does not show wear and tear (cracks) like we see on so many sports cars of this vintage. Exterior side view mirrors are period bullet style mirrors fitted on both doors. The front windshield is free from damage, rock chips and cracks. COSMETIC Complete re-paint and cosmetic restoration in late 2010 including: -New seats, upholstery, side door panels (rear upholstery, tonneau and top appear to be original and in excellent condition) -Trim removed re-spray with new door felt, rubber, weather-stripping (doors and trunk) -Carpet replaced -Excellent exterior trim (some replaced, some factory original) -Very nice top with clear rear window -Original solid steering wheel / functional horn button -Like new windshield (new in July 2009) and side glass with easily rolled up windows MECHANICAL Engine rebuilt by local British Motor Sports 7/17/2010 @ 45,575 miles (10,000 miles ago) plus: -New clutch & related components (10k miles ago) -New front brake lines -New brakes -Emergency brake repaired and adjusted (works on steep grade) -New clutch & related components (10K miles ago) -New clutch master cylinder -Front suspension rebuild including: - New polyurethane bushings - New ball joints - New steering rack boots & lubrication -Both carburetors totally re-built - Converted to spin on oil filter -Electric fan with interior switch added -Radiator serviced / re-cored -Speedometer rebuilt in 2004 MISCELLANEOUS -All gauges functional -Heater, windshield wipers work -Horn works - Original Owner's Manual -Repair & service manuals included -Documented notebook of detailed repairs / restoration -Original jack - Original jack handle and "crank" start rod -JVC Cassette The TR4 runs and drives extremely well with all gauges displaying excellent readings. Oil pressure is excellent as a result of the recently rebuilt 4 cylinder engine. The temperature readings are well within normal limits (running a temperature reading of 160 degrees even in warm 100 degree California days). OUR RECENT TRAVELS IN THE TR4 / MECHANICAL CONDITION Each year we are fortunate to have a number of cars to choose for use prior to their sale. We are passionate about British cars and enjoy spending time in most of our cars before we list them for sale. We drive our cars to confirm their overall quality and drivability and in the hope of eliminating any surprises when the cars are received by our long distance customers. Our 100% feedback suggests that using and "sorting" our vehicles prior to their sale has helped us achieve our goal of satisfied customers. In addition to having absolutely classic British styling, the TR4 is just simply a fun car to drive. By the late 1950's European sports cars were offering increased horsepower, better brakes and improved handling. The TR4 was ahead of many British cars in this respect and offers very good drivability around town and on the highway. Unlike the cars of previous decades, they offer additional comfort and reliability. It also doesn't take long to realize that a drive in the Triumph requires more time than you expect. The car draws considerable attention from those of us that qualify as the "older generation" who stopped us to share their stories about having had a TR4 in high school or college and explain that "I wish I would have kept that one"! Other younger admirers were intrigued by the car's unique styling having never seen a Triumph of this era. To say the car attracted attention would be an understatement. Having accumulated a few hundred miles on the car, it continues to run flawlessly. Despite days of 100+ degrees, the Triumph runs cool as a result of the thermostatically controlled electric fan. The TR4 starts immediately when cold or warm with a simple pull of the choke and turn of the key. The car warms up quickly and does not hesitate, stumble and has excellent power. The car shifts well up through the gears and the synchromesh gears are good both for up-shifts and down shifting. The car has unusually good brakes as a result of the front disc brakes and the light weight for the car. The emergency brake is functional. The front end has been rebuilt and the car tracks straight and has tight steering. We ask that you look closely at the underside photos of the car to see how very straight and rust free this Triumph truly is. The photos of the undercarriage show it is "As-Is" condition and not cleaned up or prepared for sale (as is the case with many dealer listed vehicles). We believe in showing the cars in original condition recognizing that this Triumph has had a certain amount of what is referred to by British sports car enthusiasts as "British Rust Proofing" (a certain amount of oil "seepage."). Finally, the car did experience some fairly major oil leakage as a result of an oil filter problem that has since been repaired. It is important to note that the frame and underside of the Triumph, while not perfectly clean, do not reflect replacement or signs of rust / damage. The close-up photos of the floor pans, frame, suspension and other underside components will provide the reader with an idea of the solidity of this particular car. HISTORY OF THE TRIUMPH TR4 The success of the TR2 and TR3 models in the mid and late 1950′s made the Triumph Roadsters (TR) a viable product on the world's stage. By the end of the 1950′s the Standard Triumph Motor Company was looking to the future with confidence in themselves and in the sports car market. It was at this point that they began to modernize and upgrade to their idea of what the future market would desire. During the 1950′s The Standard Triumph Company became a definite winner in the Sports Car market. By 1960, over 65,000 TR2/3′s had been sold. But changing tastes and a desire to upgrade their product led to a management decision to go for a new design. The Standard Triumph Company's intent was to upgrade their Triumph Roadster (TR) sports car so as to boost sales in what they saw as an increasingly competitive marketplace. To do this economically they would keep as much of the proven good features of the TR3 as possible and design a new, modern-looking body. The Italian auto designer Michelotti was approached for the project and agreed to take it on. Michelotti's task was to design a more modern sports car body which would fit the chassis and mechanical components of the TR3. The result was the TR4, which first rolled out of the Cranwell works at Coventry on July 18, 1961. Let us look first at the TR4′s body, which is the characteristic which most distinguishes it from the earlier TR's. Then we'll look at the chassis and mechanical components and their similarities and differences from the earlier TR's. The body is what first distinguishes the TR4 from the earlier Triumph models (later TR bodies, through the TR6 , would continue to contain many aspects of Michelotti's TR4 design). By the late '50′s the idea of an open cockpit, low door, side curtained roadster was seen as outdated. Entry into the European Common Market and changing tastes in the U.S. convinced the Triumph management to move to an open cockpit sports car with roll-up windows. Roll-up windows were not the only features which were considered desirable. The ventilation and heater system also needed to be addressed and the cockpit interior and luggage space enhanced. With these basic parameters in mind the Italian designer Michelotti came up with a wider, lower and more finely finished body than previous Triumph Roadster (TR) models. Bumper over-riders were kept on the front bumper, but the headlights, parking lights and turn signals were all mounted in the grill. This opened the engine compartment by reducing the size of the front valence found on earlier TR's. The hood (bonnet) was flattened out and hinged at the front. Since the body was now lower to the ground a hood bump was added to allow for carburetor clearance. The fenders (wings) were flared out at the wheel wells to account for the new body's wider track and the door handles were changed to a one-piece design with the lock built into the handle. Due to the fact that the doors contained roll-up windows the body line now continued parallel to the ground from the windscreen to the rear of the car. This allowed more space for luggage and spare tire stowage. The body exterior was uncluttered except for a TR4 badge on the hood, narrow stainless steel strips along the top (from the front of the hood to the windshield and then continuing from behind the cockpit to below the tail lights) and TR4 on the trunk lid. The letters TRIUMPH were also placed on the front of the hood and on the trunk lid. TR4 cars were offered in shades of White, Black, Blue, Green and Red. The body actually came in two versions although the company never capitalized on the fact that they were, in reality, offering a coupe (actually a Surrey style top), as well as the roadster version. The first, and by far most popular version, was of course, the convertible (still called a roadster, although technically a roadster cannot have roll-up windows). The Roadster version had a removable vinyl soft top with three plexi-glass windows. The top was completely removed from the car and stored in the trunk when not in use. It was mounted on "hood sticks" which folded down into the rear of the cockpit and were then covered by a panel behind the seats. The convertible top was designed to be watertight by eliminating the front snaps which had held earlier TR model tops in place. The TR4 top had a metal strip inside the front edge. This strip was hooked into the top front of the windshield surround. When the top was installed and the roll-up windows were raised the design was effectively watertight (much more so than the earlier "side-curtains"). MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION We have a number of additional, detailed photographs but are not allowed to show the URL on eBay. Please contact us and we'll gladly direct you to the site. We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed or open shipping at very attractive rates. As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet. In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, and other imperfections that exist on virtually every used car. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's previous owner or other sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data contained in this listing prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. We also encourage inspections prior to the end of the auction. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: -How long have they been in business? -How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have they completed (positive eBay feedback)? -How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? -Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? -Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? -What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? -Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? -Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? -Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. - Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for over 20+ years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. -The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. -Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing close to 800 positive transactions to buyers/sellers all over the United States / World. -We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. -Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions -We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experienced with moving high quality, collectible cars. -We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 Specifications: Body Type / Style:Convertible Exterior Color:White Interior Color:Black Engine:4 Cylinder Transmission:   4 Speed Manual Mileage:55345 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Equipment: "Black Plate" California Car California Car! Convertible Boot Cover Convertible Top Dual Side Mirrors Electric Cooling Fan Exempt From Smog in California Factory 4-Speed Factory 4-Speed Factory Air Conditioning Factory Gauges   Factory Gauges Front Rubber Mats Full Instrumentation Functional Horn Heater / Defroster No Rust CA. Body Owners Manual Rebuilt Engine Repair History Repair Receipts SEE DESCRIPTION..... Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. To avoid shipping the title with the car to our out of state buyers, we mail the title via Priority Mail. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.