T-Type (TC/TD/TF)

1945-1955 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All T-Type (TC/TD/TF) problems All workshop issues

Minor Brakes

Wheel Cylinder Leaks (TD/TF)

Symptoms

Spongy brake pedal, reduced braking power, visible fluid leak at a wheel.

Cause

The hydraulic wheel cylinders' internal seals deteriorate with age. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which corrodes the cylinder bore and damages the seals. Original brass cylinders may be pitted internally.

Fix

Rebuild or replace wheel cylinders.

Stainless steel sleeved cylinders are available as an upgrade, they resist corrosion and last far longer.

Flush and replace brake fluid every two years.

Cost: $50-$100 per cylinder for rebuild kits; $100-$200 per cylinder for stainless-sleeved replacements.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $50-$100 per cylinder$100-$200 per cylinder

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Other known issues

Minor Brakes

Cable Brake Adjustment (TC)

Brakes are weak, pull to one side, or require excessive pedal effort. One wheel may lock while others barely slow.

Minor Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Oil Leaks, Everywhere

Oil weeps from every gasket surface, rocker cover, timing cover, sump, rear main seal, and anywhere two castings meet. The area beneath a parked T-Type will have oil spots. Some engines leak enough to require topping up between services.

Critical Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Low Oil Pressure (Worn Bearings)

Oil pressure drops below 40 psi at cruising speed when warm, or below 15 psi at idle. A knocking sound from the bottom end, particularly under load, confirms the diagnosis.

Common Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Dynamo (Generator) Failure

The charge warning light stays on above idle, the battery goes flat, and electrical accessories dim. In some cases, the dynamo seizes and the drive belt snaps or glazes.

Critical Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Overheating

Coolant temperature climbs above normal, particularly in slow traffic or on hot days. Steam from the overflow. In severe cases, the engine boils over.

Common Engine, XPAG/XPEG (1,250cc/1,466cc Inline-4)

Timing Chain Stretch

A rattling noise from the front of the engine, particularly on startup or at idle. The engine may feel down on power and the timing may wander.

View all 15 T-Type (TC/TD/TF) problems