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[Robert Black]

My '76 TR6 still has it's original canister oil filter. I've been reading that it may be best to change over to a spin-on type, but I'm reluctant to do so since my car is 100% original except for the new carpet kit just installed. Do most of you guys with original cars keep the OEM oil filter, or is it really that much better to go with the adapter kit & spin-on filter from The Roadster factory? I just got this car in May and while the oil appears to be clean, I thought I'd go ahead and change to my favorite brand (Castrol GTX 20W-50). Thanks!

Robert Black

[none]

In the Spring of '65 when I got my first Triumph, a '64 TR4, I soon realized that I absolutely hated changing the oil filter. The '67 GT6 I bought in early '68 was a little better but I still did not like changing the filter. Over the years I have wondered if because the filters were a pain to change that they may have not been changed as often as they should have and may have led to many premature engine failures.

Even though the spin on filter adapter is not original it does not alter the car in any way and makes the filter very easy to change. I love it and would not go back. But that is only my opinion.

[Bob Muzio]

It depends what you want out of the car. I drive my TR4 and want to simplify the maintenance. The spin on is the way to go for that reason. The canister is a bit of a bother and the oil and filter can be changed without lifting the car with a spin on and a oil release valve rather than a drain plug. You can keep a somewhat stock look by painting the spin on filter the same color as the canister prior to installation rather than leaving it the sometimes garish color (Fram, comes to mind) of the filter manufacturer.
Bob Muzio

[Steve1970]

Robert,  if you have been able to change the filter element and get that cannister back on without much fuss and without leaking then you are luckier than most.  The main fastening bolt can be a bit of a challenge (but do-able).  Also, I think that over the years most cannisters get bent out of shape and never fit snugly again against the o-ring.

If you've never changed out the filter before and wish to preserve the originality of the car, then definitely give it a shot.

[oertwig]

Yes, the cannister filters are a pain, and you can't run down to the corner auto store to get the element,  but I have had great luck with them over the years.  The last time I had an accident was with a TR-3 in 1977.  If the rubber seal is not set right, it makes a big puddle when the engine is started.  Since then I have changed the cannisters on a TR-7, Sports 6, 2000 and GT6, but have been careful to make sure the rubber o-ring is seated properly. 

The PO of the Sports 6 even cut a door flap in the engine shroud to get to the filter.  When you are working on Herald-based cars, all maintenance is easy. 
Steve O

[Steve1970]

"The PO of the Sports 6 even cut a door flap in the engine shroud to get to the filter."

...and if i'm not mistaken the 75-76 tr6 has a similar access hole designed into the wheel well.  been tempted one or twice to design my own for my 74