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Re: Overdrive story

To: "Dean Dashwood" <DDashwood@softwright.co.uk>,
Subject: Re: Overdrive story
From: "James Carpenter" <jc_carpenter@softhome.net>
Date: Mon, 1 Mar 1999 23:18:45 -0000
Here is why the totally crap and dismal Haynes manual I have went straight
out the window.  I got the official BL Triumph Spitfire 1500 Repair and
Operation Manual.  Published by BL Cars Ltd, part no AKM4329.  It gives you
almost everything (apart from the panelling layout) you would need to know
about the car.  And almost all the Usual Suspects can supply you with it.  I
never use a Haynes any more. I don't suffer from any overdrive problems, it
never give me any problems on the road, because it's in bit's 60 miles away
in my Parents garage in Oxfordshire.   Of course that's only my personal
view of Haynes I would urge you not to belive me.

Workshop Give reason for failure

Insufficient Oil - Top up
Solenoid not energising - Check electric's
Solenoid energising but not operating - remove and check operation of valve

Insufficient pressure - no a DIY thing
Pump Damaged - Remove check - Major operation
Internal Damage - Major operation

Solenoid - Test
1. Connect the solenoid in series with a 12-volt battery and ammeter/
2. The solenoid should draw @2 amps.
3. Check that the plunger in the valve moves forward when the solenoid is
energised.
4. Check that the plunger in the valve returns to it's direct drive position
by spring pressure when the solenoid is de-energised.
NOTE: The solenoid does not operate with a loud click as the other types of
overdrive.
5. If the still faulty the complete unit must be renewed.

Solenoid removal, you need a thin 1' spanner, on the hexagonal nut.

Solenoid Operating Valve Overhaul

1. Remove the solenoid and operating valve
2. Should it be necessary to clean the operating valve, immerse this part of
the solenoid valve in paraffin (kerosene?) until the valve is clean.
3. Examine the 'O' rings on the solenoid valve for damage, and renew
together with a sealing washer if necessary.
4. Fit the solenoid and operating valve.

The workshop manual is really well illustrated, and I would urge all of you
who haven't got it to buy it immediately, it's probably the best £12 I have
spent.



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