1974 Triumph Bonneville T140v with 4 speed tranny?

[Simoncat]

I'm having a 1974 T140V Bonneville completely restored by a very reputable mechanic. Upon disassembly of the engine, he found the transmission was a 4 speed, not the 5 speed as expected.

It doesn't appear to have been a replacement due to damage or some other issue. All the components are in excellent condition and no signs of internal case damage.

I know very few 1974 Bonneville's made it into the USA during those years because of the strike.

Is it possible the factory assembled it with a 4 speed due to lack of components at the time?

Any comments or knowledge of this situation would be greatly appreciated.

Regards,
Scott

[mini-me]

Are you in the USA?

funny because I once replaced a 5 speed box here in UK with a four-speed one.
about 1978/9 that would be.
I can't remember exactly why, guy was planning a european trip, and there was something wrong with the 5 speed, or he didn't like it, so I simply fitted  as et of 4 speed internals.

Maybe  a past owner of yours simply preffered 4 speeds? Instead of looking for deep meaningful reasons?

Anything out of Meridan in those days will be full of surprises, and for no real reason. They were in self inflicted chaos.

[Simoncat]

Thanks mini-me!

Yes, I'm in the USA, northern Indiana to be exact.

Unfortunately I don't know the history of my 1974 Bonneville or what the previous owner may have done to it.

It is in rather stock condition, with the exception of different mufflers and a non-original paint scheme.

It will be interesting to hear from other enthusiasts if they've heard of a 4 speed being substituted for a 5 speed from the factory.

Regards,
Scott

[mini-me]

Scott, I replied to your PM, but got back some anti spam stuff needing a link?

[Simoncat]

Sorry about that mini-me. These e:mail programs are rather "sensitive" these days. I just changed the setting and your mail will come through now.

[L.A.B.]

It is in rather stock condition, with the exception of different mufflers and a non-original paint scheme.

The seat isn't original either, and some parts have been chromed.

It will be interesting to hear from other enthusiasts if they've heard of a 4 speed being substituted for a 5 speed from the factory.

If it is a pre-sit-in model, then it's rather doubtful it would have left Meriden with a 4-speed box unless it was built to special order and even that seems unlikely.   

[Simoncat]

Thanks L.A.B.

Your correct, the seat was apparently an after market item. I'm having an original put on.

The fenders are chrome. However, everything I've read indicates this is how they were delivered in 1974 to the US.

Scott

[L.A.B.]

The fenders are chrome. However, everything I've read indicates this is how they were delivered in 1974 to the US.

Yes, what I meant was the rear engine plate, brake pedal and footrest, as those items would normally be black.

[Simoncat]

Good eyes L.A.B.!

Thanks for the input.

Looks like you have a 1975 T160?

I also have one in my garage, waiting to be restored, depending on my wallet, of course.

Scott

[L.A.B.]

Looks like you have a 1975 T160?

Yes.

 

I also have one in my garage, waiting to be restored, depending on my wallet, of course.

Best start saving then, although it depends on what needs doing, they can be expensive to restore.