 |
| Salvation for the anemic TR7. A
John’s Cars conversion will provide you with the oomph you deserve
(more than a "TR8") and saves your Triumph from being on the way to the lonely
boneyard. Don’t feel as if British Leyland built the only four-cylinder
Titanic, GM had the Vega. Unfortunately your V6 TR7 will be shunned by its leaky,
overheating ex-stablemates and you’ll lose favor with "friends" who will
always be wanting to try out your toy. The V6 TR7 defines performance,
especially when you match up with a TR8 – just don’t take all his money –
but dependability is what this swap is really all about, performance is a side effect! This
conversion kit uses the rear-wheel drive 90? Buick V6 (sizes 199-231-252) with a Buick/GM
4 or 5-speed manual transmission, Turbo Hydra-matic 350 automatic or the 200-4R or 700R4
overdrive. A converted TR7 is approximately 85 pounds heavier, so I supply a set of
specially wound front springs. The center of gravity moves slightly rearward so handling
is actually improved.
| SUGGESTED BUY |
| If you want to know more about my conversion kit and
the Buick V6, I offer a package to introduce both to you: a non-illustrated version of the
conversion instruction manual (with inventory list) and V6 Performance,
125 pages of facts, figures, parts and more – both for $40.00. When you buy
your kit after reviewing this package, I’ll credit the $40.00 toward your kit
purchase PLUS you’ll get the set of 6 Polyurethane Front Sway Bar bushings for FREE.
|
Kits include just about everything you’ll need to make it confidently prowl
the streets:
- engine mounting brackets and rubber isolators
- trans mount and crossmember
- 100% "plug-in" engine wiring harness (color coded to your TR7)
- custom-made V6 front springs (pair)
- radiator & heater hoses,filler neck and/or cap
- throttle linkage
- oil and water transmitter hookups
- speedometer cable and calibration
- tachometer calibration (send it to me)
- comprehensive illustrated instructions
- all the hardware to complete the transition
Kit options include:
- A/C hoses – custom made and ready to install
- tubing exhaust header set (non SMOG)
- T700 adaptor plate
The conversion is 100% bolt-in, no welding or drilling required. The TR7 left
engine mount (on the crossmember) must be trimmed off for oil pan clearance. Triumph
engineers were looking ahead when they laid out the large engine bay that provides plenty
of room – so V6 tune-up, service, etc. is super easy. The TR7 radiator in good
condition is adequate. Start to finish (exclusive of detailing, like painting the
engine compartment) is 24-36 hours.
I do not offer, nor recommend (and I did research them when I was developing my TR7
conversion) other V6 or V8 engines for the TR7. Take a look at a TR8 for an idea of
"fun" maintenance. The TR8 motor is 215 cubic inches versus the 231 or 252
CID V6. The aluminum block/head 215 was made in the U.S.A. in the early 60s and
parts for them are as scarce as TR7 parts. British-Leyland bought it from Buick and
used it in the TR8. If you find the parts the same day you need them, what will they
cost? Most other V8s are cast iron and will make your front bumper a plow. The
Chevy V6 with a rear distributor interferes with the hood latch mechanism.
Availability of engines (and service parts) plus the large variety of performance parts
makes the 90? Buick V6 the only logical choice.
Retaining TR7 underhood equipment will haunt you – you won’t find a TR7
alternator this Tuesday morning (or next) in Rising Star. Use standard Buick
brackets, it is the only way to fly. If you think you want to keep the original
transmission, price a used one to find out what it will cost when it goes sour.
Stock TR7 transmissions are very marginal and will not sustain a V6’s torque.
They are good salvage material so you can sell it to recover a portion of your
conversion investment. The brakes and rear axle are adequate for standard everyday
use.
Read our Customer Testimonials to
hear what our customers think about us and our products. |
Buick V6 Driveline Checklist |
Below is a checklist for the motor, transmission and
accessories you will need. Before we proceed, I have one recommendation to make:
 |
I recommend buying a COMPLETE "pull-out" driveline (with
flywheel) and all the brackets, etc. intact from a rear wheel drive car. Consider
buying a complete 75-80 Monza, Skyhawk, Starfire, Sunbird, etc. for your powerplant and
taking it all at once. I do not stock new or used Buick parts. |
|
Buick V6
Motor: |
The rear-wheel drive Buick V6 has been available since 1964 in several
body styles and displacements. It is a 90? V6 with distributor at the front of the
motor and came in both the ODD-FIRE and EVEN-FIRE variety. Be sure you get the
correct flywheel with your motor or you may have severe balance problems and beware
– many parts will not interchange between the two. More info in V6
Performance! Late model V6 motors are fine if you have all the computer
hookups or switch to earlier distributor and carburetor – add $100 to your V6 kit if
installing a fuel injection V6. The 3.0 V6 (front wheel drive) is not suitable. TURBO,
TURBO, TURBO, the hottest five letter word around. The Buick factory 231-4V Turbo
motor (rear drive cars) fits under the hood (including smog) so you can be really
sneaky. I do not suggest the turbo as truthfully, it creates more go than most of us
require but it will fit if you insist. You will have to modify the TR7 fresh air
intake plenum, relocate the V6 wastegate diaphragm and custom make an air filter
assembly. I cannot supply technical assistance for Turbo or computer set-ups due to
the many variations offered. Sorry! |
| Transmission: |
I recommend an automatic for all V6 conversions, preferably the T700
overdrive. Converting a manual shift TR7 to automatic trans is very easy with a GM
shifter and console (application, part numbers and linkage supplied with the kit). I
strongly suggest you spend the extra bucks for an "overdrive" due
to the low gearing and short tires of the TR7. Although the T700R4 is a Chevrolet
unit, it can be installed in your TR7 with the Buick V6 using my adaptor. T700
Notes: All T700's have torque-convertor lockup and
it must be hooked up to prevent damage to the transmission. John's
Cars offers ELECTROLOCK™, the simple set-up to lock-up a T700 torque convertor
for maximum fuel economy. Very easy to install – no drilling, tapping or machining
required. For T700 trans 1982 to 1992 (not 4L60E). The kit can be installed
with the trans in the car. The higher stall speed torque converter like the Trans-Am
or Z28/IROC are preferred and suggested.
The T-5 or T-50 are 5-speed overdrive manual trans. If you plan to use a manual
transmission, please be sure to properly ID it as a T5 or T50 etc. or you may not get what
you need the first time! A sketch with the overall length is a good idea too.
Please call for more T5 quirks – remember I strongly suggest you
spend the extra bucks for an "overdrive" trans due to the low gearing and short
tires of the TR7. Be sure your V6 flywheel correctly matches your V6
motor. You will need a bellhousing from a 75 to 80 V6
Monza/Skyhawk/Starfire/Sunbird. It is cable actuated. The 4-speed and 5-speed
bellhousings will interchange. A T5 (5 speed) transmission will bolt to this
bellhousing. I do not have any bellhousings. GM #1378868, Hollander
#682. S10 truck shifters will not work in a TR7.
The GM T200-4R overdrive is another option (the T200 3-speed is not an option).
Originally installed in V8 Monte Carlos and behind many Buick powered models
including the potent GN-X. Most cases have dual bolt patterns. It is a very
cost effective alternative to the pricey T700R4. ELECTROLOCK™
works for the T200-4R. Visit your transmission rebuilder first. |
| Accessories: |
The stock GM alternator, A/C compressor (the short R4 will fit, the long
A6 has not been verified) and fan clutch are retained. Customized air cleaner or a
Turbo Regal remote filter is required. You need the right-hand exhaust manifold off
a 80-81 Toronado/Rivera/Eldorado V6 (#25505920 or #1012R). These are no longer
available from GM. You can use our kit header (not in California) or a Turbo Regal
RH manifold (Hollanders #1061R) – simply cap off the extra outlet. I do not
have these parts, search your local yards. |
| Note: |
If it is time for new shocks, I suggest installing them when you change
springs to avoid duplicating labor. |
| Costs: |
Estimated
Costs of Local Components |
| Engine, transmission and accessories |
$300.00 -1000.00 |
| Miscellaneous, lube, etc. |
20.00 - 30.00 |
| Radiator modification |
30.00 - 50.00 |
| Driveshaft assembly |
15.00 - 100.00 |
| Exhaust system hookup |
40.00 - 100.00 |
|
|
| You may purchase via PayPal. But you will get better
customer service and sometimes lower prices by ordering via telephone
at (214)426-4100. |
TR7 Conversion Kit Pricing |
| V6
TR7 Conversion Kit |
Price |
|
Freight |
| V6 TR7 Kit for... |
|
|
|
| T350 or 4SP trans (no
A/C hoses) |
$795.00 |
|
$25.00 |
| T5 or T50 trans (no A/C
hoses)1 |
$795.00 |
|
$25.00 |
| T200-4R or
T700 trans (no A/C hoses) |
$795.00 |
|
$25.00 |
| Kit Options... |
|
|
|
| A/C hoses ready to install
5 |
$45.00 |
|
$5.00 |
| V6 TR7 header set 2 |
$225.00 |
|
$15.00 |
| Tach Calibration (send complete dash module) 3 |
$70.00 |
|
$6.00 |
| TR7 4-Speed Driveshaft Adaptor 4,
5 |
$75.00 |
|
$5.00 |
| V6 TR7 Spring Set for non-JCI V6 (non-returnable) |
$200.00 |
|
$8.00 |
| Electrolock™ Torque Converter Lock-up Kit 5 |
$95.00 |
|
$5.00 |
| V6 Performance (125 pages) |
$17.95 |
|
paid |
| See more TR7 goodies for your TR7 below. |
|
|
| 1 |
For manual transmission
orders please be sure to properly ID it as a T5 or T50
etc. or you may not get what you need the first time!
The S10 truck 5 speed shifter will not work. |
| 2 |
My headers are
custom made for the V6 TR7. Other V6 headers
– Weiand (Smokey), Cyclone, Hooker, etc. will not
fit. Add $50.00 if your V6 is not a JCI kit.
I cannot guarantee fit on non-JCI conversions.
Headers are not California SMOG approved and therefore
are NOT available for sale or shipment to California.
|
| 3 |
Tachometer Calibration
is included with the kit - if you are not using a JCI
kit, I can calibrate yours for $70.00. |
| 4 |
The Driveshaft
Adapter is $100.00 if you are not using a JCI Kit.
The 4-speed and automatic TR7s have the small third
member style rear axle. The driveshaft adaptor
is highly recommended because it allows use of a GM
driveshaft with full size U-Joints. Shortening
a GM driveshaft costs $15-$30. A mismatched combo
of GM-TR7 driveshaft ($75-$150) keeps the puny TR7 U-joint
which is the weak link. Driveshaft hookup for
large rear axle (5-speed cars) is included with the
kit. |
| 5 |
Freight paid
with kit order. |
|
|
How To Order |
| CALIFORNIA: |
| The headers for this conversion were not
CARB approved. However, in January 1998 sanity prevailed
and the emission laws changed, and now imply that all
cars 25 or more years old are exempt from emissions standards.
This means early TR7's would be eligible to use our headers
- please check with your local authorities! |
|
Complete the information on the V6 TR7 Conversion Kit Order Sheet and send it in
with certified funds or money order. No COD's, no credit cards, no
personal or company checks will be accepted on kit orders. No exceptions!
The V6 TR7 Conversion Kit Order Sheet
is a JPEG image (about 185K) so it will take a minute or so to load. Print it out
from a Laser, LED or ink-jet printer only – dot matrix printer will be useless.
Make sure your print margins are set to .50 inches or it may not fit on a page.
Please complete as much information as possible on the order sheet. Especially
important are the year, model, and vehicle ID number of your car, GM engine size,
carburetion, transmission, if air-conditioned, tire size, and the rear axle ratio.
Please call if you have questions, blanks will delay your order. KITS in STOCK
and shipped upon receipt of funds. Kit weighs approximately 53 pounds. Kit
components are not sold separately or in stages – only as a complete package.
Replacement parts are available of course, but only to verified kit customers. Kits
are not returnable.
Please call for blue label (second day UPS service) or red label (next day UPS) and for
freight charges outside Continental U.S.A. Prices subject to change without notice.
All freight overages are credited to your account. If you have any questions,
please email them to tr7@johnscars.com. |
TR7 Customer Testimonials |
| Engine and trans are now in car and I am hooking stuff up.
Everything fits!!! I'm very pleased with kit. Thanks (TR7)..... Dave Burton, Charlotte,
NC. Enclosed are photos of our TR7 with the Buick 231 everything is complete and runs
very well. The swap was rather easy and all parts we needed were in the kit. The power is
unreal compared to the original engine. Feel free to give my name to any people that ask
about your kit; I am very satisfied with it..... Larry Mizelle, Temperance, MI.
I agree with you. Price is secondary if you can get quality, service and knowledge!!!
(TR7 & XJ6)..... Mike Bancerowski, Fayetteville, AR.
You saved my TR7. I take off my hat to you..... Gary Raynes, Suffield, CT.
I'd just like to compliment you on an excellent kit; we had no problems. (TR7).....
Mike Duffel, Willingboro, NJ.
I have been impressed with the completeness of the kit. As I told you, I tend to spend
quite a bit of armchair time planning before I turn a wrench. (TR7)..... Lonny Wall,
Edmond, OK.
Still have doubts? Read more Customer
Testimonials about John's Cars. |
TR7 Parts |
| We carry a small selection of TR7
suspension, electrical and brake parts... Here are a few. |
| |
| TR7
Parts |
Price |
|
Freight |
| PERF10 6, 7 |
Polyurethane – the trick
setup for TR7 cars in the suspension department.
This 10 bushing set services front control arms and all
four rear axle locating links. Stops rear axle steer. |
|
115.00 |
|
5.00 |
| PERF6 6, 7 |
Polyurethane – the trick
setup for TR7 cars in the suspension department.
This 6 bushing set services the front sway bar. |
|
45.00 |
|
5.00 |
| ANTIDIVE 7 |
Antidive kit for the TR7.
This 20 minute bolt-in works for all TR7 and TR8 cars
to reduce the nose down attitude under hard deceleration.
|
|
30.00 |
|
5.00 |
| QSJ718 |
Lower Ball Joint (two required). |
|
19.00 |
|
5.00 |
| QR1556 |
Tie Rod End (each - two required). |
|
15.00 |
|
5.00 |
| CRC307 |
Lower Front A-Arm bushing (need
two per car) – stock TR7 (not polyurethane). |
|
17.93 |
|
5.00 |
| TR7FRONT 7 |
Front KYB Shocks (pair). |
|
105.00 |
|
9.00 |
| UKC4981 |
Shock Boot - you can't do it
later (each). |
|
32.22 |
|
5.00 |
| TR7REAR 7 |
Rear KYB Shocks (pair). |
|
95.00 |
|
9.00 |
| TKC3300 |
TR7, TR8 all years new rear SPRINGS
(pair). |
|
90.00 |
|
10.00 |
|
|
| 6 |
I strongly suggest
the polyurethane suspension bushing set. Designed for
rally cars, they absolutely stop rear axle steer and don’t
ruin the ride! Two front and eight rear bushings are supplied.
A must for TR8s too. Put the front bushings in before
installing the V6 as you’ll have the bolts out for
the mounts. Rear bushings can be done anytime. |
| 7 |
JR's DEAL!
I'll pay the freight on these items if you order them
WITH your kit. If you order them
later, no deal. |
|
|
|
