Triumph TR7 MOT Failure.

This daily driven TR7 failed it’s MOT due to corroded fuel lines. Our task was to replace the line and ensure the MOT was passed.

As many know, when you start on this type of repair you will almost always find something unexpected.

Fortunately, for this owner, we found and fixed a problem that could have been very serious.

Inspection time, fuel line.

After getting the car up onto the lift it became quite obvious why the MOT inspector had failed the car. The fuel lines were severely corroded, in the exposed areas under the car.

Leaking fuel tank.

What had not been spotted was this damp area, in the corner of the fuel tank. A quick check and it was clear there was a petrol leak from the tank.

After informing the customer, it was agreed (of course) that it will need to be changed.

Fuel line routing.

When taking things apart, taking photographs is a great was of ensuring that all goes back together as original. You think you may remember but a few days later chances are, you wont.

Also having a picture diary, for the customer, is often appreciated.

Fuel level sender.

The fuel level sender looks quite new, so we should be able to re-use this with the replacement fuel tank.

Fuel tank leak getting worse.

After disturbing the muck and rust on the surface of the tank the fuel leak became significantly worse. Fortunately it was only the last dregs of fuel, as we had already drained the tank as much as we could.

Fuel tank removed.

After a fight with some of the tank strap bolts we managed to slip the tank out from under the car. Following this we made sure the floor above the tank was okay, cleaned it and applied a good coat of body underseal. It’s likely that the tank will never be removed again.

Fuel tank hole!

After a quick wire brush this hole appeared in the bottom of the fuel tank.

If we had not spotted this, at a later date fuel would have poured out of the car and who knows what the consequence could have been.

Replacement Fuel Tank.

Customer supplied us with a good second hand tank. We spent some time cleaning and then a good coat of underseal and stone chip so it’s protected for the future.

New fuel lines.

After re-fitting the tank with new tank straps and stainless bolts it was time to crack on with the original reason the car came into the workshop.

There are kits available for this specific job. Not too expensive and have all the parts needed.

Fabricating the new fuel line.

After removing the old fuel lines we could use these at a template for the new copper lines. Making sure the bands are in the right place and to correct angles.

New fittings.

The kit contains brass fuel lines and brass fittings, using this material is more expensive than steel but will prevent corrosion, as seen on the original lines.

Job Completed.

After hooking up the new hard line to the new flexible line, in the engine bay and re-filling with fuel. The whole system was inspected to ensure it was completely leak free.

Fired up the car and allowed fuel to flow through the new lines and after another leak inspection the Truimph went for re-test and passed the MOT.

Back on the road for another year.