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The Mark3 Spitfire was built in 1968, 1969 and 1970. The 1970 version had many unique features as aspects of the new Mark IV were introduced along the way. Another unique feature, for the North American market only, was the bonnet badge. While the Spitfire 4 and Spitfire Mark2 models used the TRIUMPH letters and the Triumph open-book emblem; in 1970, and only in North America, the bonnet badge consisted of an attractive bullseye badge with SPITFIRE through the centre.

While badges on the TR2/3/4/5/6 range were beautiful cloisonné badges, this 1970 Spitfire badge consisted of vinyl red/white and blue concentric circles that soon faded to an almost-all white colour. Periodically, over the past several years, The Roadster Factory has had this badge reproduced at a cost in the neighbourhood of $200 (US). However, there is a less expensive route ($20) that will yield an equally impressive, fully restored badge.

Joe Curry, (http://www.spitlist.info/centercaps.html) has put together a three-piece decal kit that will replace the faded components of this badge (see Photo 1).

When removing the old vinyl material, be careful not to scratch the surface of the badge. I found that X-Acto makes a neat blade that is like a small, very sharp chisel (see Photo 2). When used like a chisel to scrape along the surface, you can avoid gouging the badge surface and have an original badge like that shown in Photo 2. Remove all traces of adhesive with a clean cloth and lacquer thinner (or similar). Joe suggests mixing a spray bottle solution of two parts water and one part window cleaner without ammonia (or a mixture of one quart water with 4 drops of dishwashing liquid) to spray the sticky side of the vinyl and the metal surface where the decal is to be applied. After removing the outer protecting cover of the decal and the clear undercoating, the adhesive will be exposed. Gently lower the decal onto the metal surface. Starting at the centre of the image, work the air bubbles out toward the loose edges using your fingers or a small plastic squeegee. I found that a credit card works well as a squeegee for this purpose. Continue to check that the decal is centred as you squeeze out the wetting solution. Once the decal is in the correct position and the wetting solution and air bubbles are removed, allow the decal to dry at least five minutes so that it will adhere.

The end result is an original looking badge. The finished badge (Photo 3) is now ready to re-install on your car.