Sounds like you've definitely been around the block with TR's.. I've only owned the two - the '76 TR7 coupe and now the '80 TR7 Spider..
The '76 coupe was possessed.. It needed an exorcist.. it had so many things go wrong with it.. over-heated and warped the head, radiator fan flew off and embedded itself in the radiator, tons of electrical problems, spark plug holes had to have helicoils, etc.. I used to say that car had more tow miles on it than driven miles.. This car was made in Speke, England AFTER it was announced the plant was moving, so quality was poor on the 76's..
The '80 Spider has been much more reliable, although I've replaced a ton of parts on it.. It was made in Solihull, which supposedly manufactured the best, most high quality run of TR7's and 8's.. I drove it around this morning with the AC shut off and she FLEW on the highway.. That's one car where shutting off the AC makes a huge difference..
Friendship is like peeing your pants.. Everybody can see it, but only you can feel the warmth..