Midget

1961-1979 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All Midget problems All workshop issues

Minor Engine -- Triumph 1500

1500 Overheating

Symptoms

Persistent overheating, particularly in traffic.

Cause

The 1500 engine runs hotter than the A-series, and the Midget's cooling system was designed for the smaller, cooler-running engine. The radiator is barely adequate.

Fix

Aluminium radiator upgrade, new thermostat, new water pump.

Consider an electric fan upgrade.

Cost: $300--600.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $300

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// More Midget problems

Other known issues

Minor Engine -- Triumph 1500

Crankshaft Failure

A sudden, catastrophic failure -- loud metallic banging followed by engine seizure. Oil on the road. The engine is destroyed.

Minor Body and Structure

Sill Corrosion

The outer sill skin softens, bubbles, and crumbles. When prodded, it offers no resistance. In severe cases, the door drops when opened because the inner sill has lost its structural integrity.

Critical Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated floors, particularly in the footwells. Wet carpets after rain. In extreme cases, visible road surface through the floor.

Minor Body and Structure

Rear Spring Hanger Deterioration

The rear leaf spring mounting points crack, distort, or tear away from the body under load.

Minor Body and Structure

Inner Wing and Suspension Turret Corrosion

The inner front wings around the front suspension top mounts corrode and thin.

Minor Engine -- A-Series (948, 1098, 1275)

Thrust Washer Wear (Crankshaft End-Float)

A metallic knocking or clunking noise from the front of the engine, particularly when the clutch is depressed or released. The clutch may feel different -- pedal travel changes, engagement point shifts.

View all 17 Midget problems