AutoShrine.com Car Journals

sasracing: Need Help

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 18:11:55 -0800

i dont know what moter i have can enny one tell me how to idenitafiy it thanks

Turin2000: Back From The Shop

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:59:45 -0800

Put the poor B in the shop over 7 months ago. Just got it back yesterday! What a total jerk. I've had this poor thing all over Colo/Spgs for repair. Even took it to a restoration shop. All told me to junk it. NEVER!!! But it's back now, and its time to get to work. Now the fun begins.

01881942: Name Plate Mystery 1971 MGB Roadster "250000 MGB SPECIAL"

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 20:43:29 -0800

The above MGB has fender nameplates that say "250000 MGB SPECIAL" The serial # is 250665. Hope some one can provide information on the meaning and qty producted etc.

Gunndunn: Front Brakes Installed

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 14:00:20 -0800

There is a surprise at every turn. John Twist is right. Most MG front hubs are installed incorrectly. The right front did not even have a single spacer installed and the nut was not even finger tight. New brakes (V8 pads and new rotors) will also include new inner seals, bearing repack and proper installation and torquing of the front hub assembly.

mjamgb: Midget

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 12:55:33 -0800

Brought home a '74 Midget this last summer. Wife bought it for, like $400 or so on the understanding that I could get it running easily (cheaply) and if it was unsuitable we could "flip" it for a profit. I do not fit in this car.
After the car was in the driveway a few days the son (Bryce, 18) asked if he could drive it if he helped out... OK.
Stupid. Better half was not in on the decision and was not pleased with rash decision regarding her car.
After a bit of discusison, all was worked out IF I could get it safe to drive...
Not "make it run" but safe to drive.
So now the repair list grows from clean up carbs and tune-up to render each and every system functional!
Sigh.
Son isn't terribly mechanically inclined either and requires constant supervision or else whatever he's doing will end up, well, it's a lot easier to disassemble an alarm clock than it is to put one back together. Being a teen limits him also since he isn;t real happy being "told what to do." B...

mgbgt1970: K&N Filter Install

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:39:32 -0800

First things first. When I bought the GT there were no air filters, no housings, nada. I looked online and came across a tech article describing the installation of a pair of K&N conical air filters,utilizing (2)HS-4 alloy back plate adapters (Moss p.n.372-380). I was able to get the pair of backing plates through mgexp. member, Scott Howell, of H.P.Imports, High Point, NC. The K&N filters (p.n.RU-4410) came from Summit Racing.Installation was straight forward, the diameter of the inside of the filter fits the alloy backing plates perfectly. Filters are secured by supplied clamps. This setup is documented on a web site called, Muenchausen's Garage. Also, special thanks to Hap Waldrop at Acme Speed Shop,for taking the time to answer numerous questions from a newby MG owner.

Jdscoot: 1979 MGB

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 22:31:02 -0800

'79 MGB

adlambert2001: New Wheels

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 19:17:28 -0800

I received my new front wire wheel hubs in today, can't wait to put them on. Only $25 on eBay, I don't think the guy knew what he had. This weekend I plan on sandblasting the rims and painting them, so then I'll have the whole front end work done. All i need now is a banjo rear end for wire wheels so I can get that done too. Any one have any recommendations on changing the front hubs from bolt on the wire wheel hubs please let me know

gandharvas: Day 5: Meeting Nearby Enthusiasts

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:23:32 -0800

Nearby is a vague term. In my neck of the woods, nearby means 120 miles away. I made contact with a fellow on craigs list that had some parts for sale. I talked to him and actually found out that he has more than I had been originally looking to get for sale. So that sweetens the deal. A long day at work means no time working on the MG. :( I still have another couple of car projects to bring to a close, but I'm not working on those either.

For those that may actually read this, I'm not going to post a journal entry that says Day 6: Did nothing. On days that interesting MG things happpen, I'll post. This is also for my own record of events on the project and ownership of the car.

palouseB: Driver Side Floor Out

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 16:30:38 -0800

Haven't been making quite as quick progress as I hoped. The actual work is going fine, just other things in life to attend to. The air chisel worked well on cleaning up the metal along the sides and on the cross members. The driver's side floor did have a 6" crack in it. The toe panel also was rusted out. I've welded in a patch for the toe panel. Next will be welding in the new floor for the driver's side. Hopefully that will be done this Thursday. I'm spot welding the floor in using my friend's mig welder with the spot welding tip. We'll see how it goes.

wms1948: TIC Pays Off !

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 10:13:19 -0800

This spring I thru some money at my Midget to get it running better for the summer. New slave and master cyinder, New brake cylinder, New intake and carb, new electical. Results, more reliable, better performance, a little thurster a whole lot more fun. Perhaps the biggest advantage is now my wife will ride with me. She considered it a fire boom reeking of gasoline. Having more fun together now.

Wanna B: November 2008 Update

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 09:45:32 -0800

The GT got a good clean and wax, with a careful scrub of the underside of the fenders and the rear wheel wells, an oil change and is now ready for its long winter nap.
This month I have changed the rubber moulding on the hatch, as it was damaged and a section of it was missing. It was much more difficult to do than I thought it would be. The moulding that goes into the metal channel
took almost 2 hours to do. I also removed and relubed the throttle cable. It was not sticking, just felt a little tight. I have also replaced the heater control valve. I also bought a spare. They look like they are going to be an on going issue, so at least I will have a spare. I also replaced the rubber stops under the hood and also the rubber moulding. The hood would vibrate and make a noise at certain frequencies. I just got a new fuel tank sending unit today. The one I installed with the new tank lasted about 20 minutes. I am too embarrassed to tell you how many times I have run out of gas since then.lol I also...

mansep2: Ready For Inspection

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 19:50:01 -0800

So it is now ready for inspection and I have it booked for Friday, lets hope the snow and real cold weather holds off untill after this is done. I am keeping my fingers crossed and hope it passes without any issues.Even if it passes I can not drive it as I need to put it away for the winter, oh well at least I will be ready for spring and I will be looking forward to it.
Got my personalized plate on now and love it "CHEERIO"

cfedor: Finished First Restoration 1987

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 19:01:43 -0800

Grandpa Fedor, Dad Fedor, and myself with the freshly done 1973 MG Midget

cfedor: Home Sweet Home

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:54:05 -0800

1973 MG Midget in garage next to Papa's 1952 Ford F1(his other project truck)

cfedor: Arriving Dad's House

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:52:03 -0800

In the driveway.

cfedor: Moving Back To Dad's

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:50:34 -0800

November 15, 2008 - trailered back to Dad's house to begin extensive overhaul.

cfedor: Stripping At Home

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:46:28 -0800

When I decided to strip the car down for the second time in its existance in the Fedor family. But didn't get too far.

cfedor: The Fedor 1973 MG Midget Saga

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 18:41:27 -0800

Our 1973 MG Midget was purchased by my dad in 1980. In the fall of 1981, he decided to start the first restoration project of it. I had destroyed the transmission and replaced it in 1993 or 4. I had a minor bump accident with another MG on a rally in 1996, and in 1998, he gave it to me as a birthday present. It was in good condition and went on many rallies and shows until 2000 when the paint started cracking, chipping, the carpet kit had its abuse and it just wasn't a daily driver. Thus, began to sit around the corner of the house, then I moved into the garage to strip it down again, put it on blocks replace the rear leaf springs and there it has sat for the mean time. November 15, 2008 the car was given back to my dad and moved to his house to have more room to work on it, plus he has more time to devote to the project of this than I do with 3 little ones running around. So, that is the story in a nutshell. More postes will follow.

gandharvas: Day 4: The Inventory Continues

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 16:46:36 -0800

While I'm still unsure what the ultimate destiny of the car will be, it is a great idea to do an inventory first to see what major things need attending, like turn signals, brakes, suspension, and other safety items. It runs pretty well, but having never heard or driven another MG, I'm not sure if it is in top shape or not. Regardless, it runs, and only smokes a little.

The driver's side fender showed some cracking near the grill. This gave me pause, so I broke out the sander and took it down a layer of paint. Then another layer of paint. Then a layer of thick primer. Then to the bondo. It wasn't a terrible job that whomever did on the bondo work, as it was pretty smooth and even. However, there was a lot of it. Looks like at least one new fender is in order. I've sourced a used one for the other side that will be cheaper than any rust repair I would venture to undertake on the existing one.

Of more concern was the hole in the floor near the seat mount. Possible surr...

Whale: B Pillar Replacement

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 11:49:15 -0800

The doors on my car were screwed up due to an accident and poor repair back in '69. Whoever fixed the car hacked up the B-pillar area where the door strikers are located. Since no one sells pull-handle B-pillars my only hope is to graft in an original set.

I've added a photo to show the area that I need for replacement. I could use both sides - left and right.

Thank you !!!

Dale

shughes: CMP Track Time

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 07:54:40 -0800

First time on track with the LE...what a blast!
Images courtesy of fellow club member riding shot-gun in trailing MGB. Thanks for images to go with the memories!

blues: 1974 MGB,.,.,..

Sun, 16 Nov 2008 06:34:12 -0800

I won this car on an ebay bid,.I was looking at another car,. and did NOT expect this to happen,.
and for a period , had buyers remorse.
then when the car arrived at my house, by shipper,from san jose,calif.while unloading from this giant truck, the car went off track and damaged the drivers side door,.I almost went into shock,.
they say they will reimburse for the repairs,.maybe they will,. but,. the car is going for immediate repairs.
it is a minor 6 inch bend along the bottom of the door,. no biggiie!!!
after all this I went for a drive,. after checking fluid levels,.
I immediate fell in love with this car,.
it runs superb,.
original tool bag a tire jack,. appear unused,.
so,.,. now I have all sorts of repair type manuals on the way,. unisyn, timing light,. various filters,.
and shall learn to adjust the valves soon,.

thardst: Purchase And Tow To Shop

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 21:33:44 -0800

found this 74 MGB from a referral. Was sitting since 95. Woman brought it in for a wiring issue, then needed $$, the shop owner paid her $400, and it sat right where it was until I towed it away. Tires were gone. SInce at the shop have pulled the SU's for rebuild, ordered Sumitomo HTR 200 175 70r 14's (Tirerack.com @ $45), got it on jacks and draining fuel, brake systems, pulled the tank for cleaning. Just received new ignition stuff, inlcuding a Lucas sport coil,. cobalt wires, new Walmart group 26 battery (deal at $47), tossed the air cleaners and going with exposed filters and caps. Coming up this week - cleaning the fuel and brake lines, new fluids, replace the tank, and hopefully fire it up for the 1st time in 13 years..... interior is filthy and seats need replaced or recovered - maybe Miate seats??, dash topper, new conv top, a really good polishing, think I can repair the trunk rust, looking for a good hood and grille, by then it should be a clean enough daily driver - plan on repairing/replacing as n...

gandharvas: Day 3: Nevermind The Brakes, Go For A Spin!

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 20:58:50 -0800

It may have been ill-advised to not thoroughly go through the car for safety issues and fully document all needed repairs first. But listening to Common Sense has never been a strong point of mine. As it turns out, the car only died once at a stop light, making a few folks angry, but they will get over it.

I accomplished not one, but four missions in it today. A lady at the recycling center was so excited when I pulled up. She said, "Cool car! I have seen one of these since the 70's when my friend in college had one. We used to drive it around all the time!" British humor was lost on one poor girl when I told her my recycling was in the boot.
"Huh?"
"Sorry, it's a British car. I'm being a nerd. I'll stop."
This got a grin.

Next mission was to Harbor Freight to get some supplies for the MG. Got a few more looks in the process. It did make me realize that I've never seen one of these kind of cars before, and I bet few people outside of the 60's o...

Steve McCracken: Welding Day

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 14:46:16 -0800

Where again I ask would I be without my friends.

Forrest rearranged his day to get "Nigel" over to Randy's workshop - what a workshop, can you say, "Cigar Room". Good, knew you could.

Anyway, Randy welded to Stuart's precise expectations and I chatted with Aaron Z. and Forrest.

We were done and extremely satisfied in 40 minutes. Wow.

The next step is to finish off the body mods. for Capps is calling. They will burn off paint, gunk and ready "Nigel" for a dip in the powdercoating tank.

Do I go with Satin or Gloss. Stay tuned.

jtrammell: Purchased 1977 MGB

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 10:12:49 -0800

August 16, 2005 Purchased from Billy Pruitt, (Cedar Bluff Alabama) had 64050 miles, runs good, fresh paint, no rust, new tires and top.

gandharvas: Day 2: In Which I Discover The True Colours

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 17:17:15 -0800

Purple! My car was originally purple! I see conflicting things, though, in the Library. One site says that "Dark Tulip" was only on a 73, whereas the paint chip page states that it was available from 70-72. So it could be Aconite.

Either way, it is purple. I am not sure how I feel about this. I was sure that it was red, but purple. While it is now under my care and I can restore it how I want, a small part of me always cringes at restoring things to "un-original" condition. Granted, I have changed colors before, but I was hoping that the car was red. Red with tan leather would have been very nice, but I can purple and tan looking good too.

Either way, in order to ascertain how much rust and repair/replacement of the sheet metal is necessary, I will have to break out my trusty media blaster, get some more baking soda and see what is what.

When I'm ready for that phase. My other restoration project has taken nearly 6 years to complete and I'd like to cr...

sweep: PVC Glove Box

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 04:43:30 -0800

Remember this!
Well, I've kind-of given up on this - too much stuffing around.

There's one on Ebay from the guy? I got the fuel tank from. I think I might just go this way.

sweep: Noise From Rear End.

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 04:39:15 -0800

This is close to the text I put as a question on the forum:

I've only put less than 100 mls on the car since the rebuilt and when it came to the rear end, I pulled it down almost completely but didn't do anything to the diff. except drain the oil, pull it out and check to see all the teeth where there. New gasket, new oil and it all went back together after I'd painted it.
The bearings got the same treatment and as they seemed ok and I thought it would not be too big a deal to replace them later if I needed to, so they went back in with new seals and O ring.
Well, I getting an intermittent, 'sort of' grinding noise that is becoming more regular. It's not a 'whine' like a wheel bearing noise and it doesn't seem to make any difference if I'm accelerating, coasting or backing off.
I was able to duplicate the noise with the car on jack stands in 3rd and 4th, high risk, I know and I wasn't game to leave the drivers seat to listen exactly where it was coming from. My gut feeli...

gandharvas: Day 1: Take Posession

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 21:45:25 -0800

After desiring a Porsche 912 for a few months, I decided that I would look like an ostentacious jerk in an a Porsche (since then, I discovered the 928 is pretty slick and not too over the top). I had been eyeing the Triumph GT 6+, too. While perusing local cars of any sort, I ran across this rather sorry looking MGB GT. For some reason, I fell in love with the car. Pictures don't do it justice. It is a project car for sure. But having almost finished restoring a Mustang, I was ready for something completely different. I went and checked out this MGB, got to test it (eventually. Fuel pump died the day I got there. A bad omen?), struck a kind of deal and tried to pick it up this past Sunday. The jury-rigged fuel pump shorted against the frame. I've never seen a battery smoke like that before. Needless to say, crisis averted. Today, the gentleman I bought it from was kind enough (or wanted to get rid of it bad enough) to drive 45+ miles to drop the car off. After a quick spin tonight, one horrible ...

gfurst: 1973 MGB History-Only MGB In Korea

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 21:01:26 -0800

I purchased this car in January 1990. The car was from Texas and Oklahoma. I was able to trace ownership back to 1978 when it drove to the top of Pikes Peak with Dan Bell as the driver and owner. The car was originally Teal Blue and I have returned it to that color and restored the mechanicals. The car had no rust as it lived in the pan handle area of Texas, but plenty of red Texas dirt everywhere. The date of manufacture was 13-14 December 1972. It was dispached on 27 December to St. Louis, MO but did not sell until Oct 15, 1974, at least that is when the radio was installed for Continental Cars. The car has Ochre interior with new leather seats and a new ochre interior kit recently installed. Mileage is 52,000 original miles. The body number is MGBU 507122 with engine number 18V-672-Z-l/8609. Commission number is G23N070177. It had wire wheels and a tonneau cover as options according to the BMIHT certificate. As I said I have a histry of the car but have been unable to trace the original owners. I have talk...

mgbgt1970: 1970 MGB-GT

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 08:35:35 -0800

I shoot at a small private range in southern Delaware and take a series of backroads to reach my destination. One day, while returning from the range, I noticed an orange MGB-GT setting next to the road with a for sale sign displayed. I kept driving. My four car garage already had four cars parked inside. About once a week I would take the same route and continued to drive past the GT. After about the fifth trip, I decided to stop and look at the car, rationalizing that it would probably be a rusty piece of junk. After looking the car over, I found that the car was actually in pretty good shape. It had the overdrive unit and the car was basically complete. I copied down the contact phone number, figuring that I would learn that the GT needed serious work, motor or trans bad, etc. I met with the owner, the car started, ran, and drove okay. I had always liked the body style and the wire wheels. I figured I would offer the owner a fair price, below his asking price. He accepted the offer. Oh sh.., it looks like ...

purpleGT: November '08 Update

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 06:56:26 -0800

Ended up taking the Midget to Watkins Glen, and had a BLAST with it.
Wife and I took the 356 on a weekend trip, to the Laurel Highlands a few weeks later, with five other 356 couples and had a wonderful time.
Since then, I've had very little time to spend in the garage. However, I've been given two RB parts cars (a '77 and a '76), one of which I'm going to bring home this weekend.
As soon as I finish replacing the head gasket on my Midget, the two B restoration projects will get moved back into the heated workshop area of my garage, and my son and I will get to work on them. Yes, I'm getting VERY anxious to get at them. Problem is that I've been so busy with my "day job" that it's been very difficult to find enough time to spend in the shop.
To be brutally honest, that's also due to the fact that I'm not 30-something (or 40 or 50 something) any more and it takes me a bit longer to "re-charge my batteries" these days.
Hopefully, my next entry will come within the next fe...

roland: Argggggggggggggghh!!!!

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:30:51 -0800

Body shop over committed themselves. So... the car is back home and stillnot repaired. Arrrrrgggh!! One nice reward though, I ordered new chrome wire rims and clear lights. I installed 'em and they make the car look 100% better. Today, I'll put the new tank in as a temp. hold over until I can get the rust dealt with. later....

Selmo Saladino: Mg Jamboree 16

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 13:40:48 -0800

drove 420 miles to attend first car show. the mg made the drive just fine but had to have the driveshaft replaced. i didnt realize the reae u-joint was just about gone and the front u-joint had a c-clip missing. glenn at glenns mg repair in st. petersburg fixed the car. major kudos for him. all in all it was a wonderful and really fun time. plan to attend many more shows.

ctmullins: Front Brakes

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 05:46:03 -0800

Another fruitful weekend. This weekend's task was "rebuilding" the front brakes. I put "rebuilding" in quotes, because nothing was actually replaced. I simply removed each caliper, used compressed air to pop the pistons out (always fun!), cleaned the pistons and the cavities, checked the existing rubber seals, and reassembled them. Doesn't sound like much work, but it managed to chew up several hours.

Before the involuntary hibernation, I had installed brand new rotors and semi-metallic brake pads, and these pieces are still in fine shape - the rotors have only a light coating of surface rust - so they will be reused.

Also laid my hands on the smaller hard lines that I thought had been permanently misplaced - the two lines from the brake master cylinder to the 5-way distribution block, and the clutch hard line. Cleaned them up with steel wool, and loosely installed them.

Still can't get the goddam pin out of the brake master cylinder - the one that joins the t...

jcee: More On The Broken Radio

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 16:08:15 -0800

I have figured out a way to install the driver side wiper washer hose, sort of. If I use a 2' flexible grabber I can grab 1 end of the hose ( after I have routed the hose in the proper location) and work it on to the nozzles' nipple. Using one finger to push against the end of the grabber, I can seat the hose on to the nipple. A very painstaking task, but better than removing the dash. LOL
And have yet to install the radio. After thorough investigation I will be mounting the speakers on the b-post.
I have also found that the ends of the rear cockpit molding is not even on both sides.I may be able to remove the molding and slide it to the driver side a bit more, so the top frame sockets will mount properly and the panels will fit like they are suppose to.
I have now gotten the wiper washer working( a new pump was needed too)at least.And have done some wiring touch ups to the coil and alt. wires. During the process of installing new oil cooler hoses I damaged the oil pressure sending unit ...

Wilbur: On The Ground Again

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 15:03:56 -0800

I was curious if the mods made to the inner fenders would be too big and interfere with the front wheels, reducing the ability to turn. So I installed the wheels and set the car on the ground- first time in a long time. The front suspension can turn lock to lock without the whells makinmg contact, although it does come close. I may just trim my handywork a bit for additional clearance. The other thing I checked was doors seams. With the car resting on the suspension instead of on the stands, the gaps still look good, no visible body sag.

What I wasn't prepared for was seeing just how small and low this car is. With it up on stands you kind of forget.

patrickf: New Purchase 1973 MGB Roadster

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 20:57:14 -0800

11/08/08
Got my '73 MGB on eBay last Sunday and she is sweeet! Had a '57 MGA when I was 18 and an early B later and have missed them since. Replaced the Temp sending unit to fix the only non working guage and now run N + with clean 50/50 Coolant/water mix. Changed gunky oil and replaced standard Fram oil filter. I just had to reposition the cartridge bulb in the courtesy light to get it to work, but the lens fell apart in my hand. I will have to get another lens. Engine starts and runs great even though the choke cable is disconnected and it is cold here now.
I went to change the backup lights and found an odd sized bulb. Gasket and parts kind of crunchy so I ordered new units. (more later)

Steve McCracken: Ready For Powder Coating

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 17:05:08 -0800

Today was great. Stuart and I started at the first parade in Tulare for Veteran's Day. Stuart picked me up in his TR6 and we met several men at Target before we made our assault on Tulare. Hal Williams stood out in his Bentley Continental. A nice car indeed. Bob from Squaw Valley drove over in his TR4 and Richard T. is almost ready for his MG to be done. Wes led the way as we enjoyed the parade.

Afterward, Stuart and Aaron Z. got to work with me handing wrenches out to remove the last of the front end. The right front shock was good, alas, sadly the left was kaput. Stuart, a man among men, had a clever device to remove the springs and all was accomplished in about three hours. Good times.

Where would I be without my friends.

MGB-RaceCar: 1970 MGB Restoration

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 12:50:00 -0800

I have purchased my third MGB. It is undergoing a complete restoration. Most of the work is being accomplished by me. I have never been a paint/body man though, so I had someone strip it to bare metal, inside and out, over, under, every corner, nook, and place you can imagine. It has been painted the original Flame Red. I was happy to find a car with no rust, and has never been in an accident. I dropped the suspension and bead blasted all the parts. I installed new poly bushings, rebuilt the shocks, and installed new springs front and rear. I am now in the process of blasting all the little pieces (some not so little), and repainting them after applying a nice zinc primer.

zedvictor1: Credentials

Sat, 08 Nov 2008 11:12:34 -0800

My only credentials are that I owned a 1965 Sprite decades ago. I did drive it up and down the I-5 between Southern California and Washington a few times, and, perhaps, it didn't break down on a couple of those runs. It was always great fun belting the fuel pump with a rock to get it started again and fiddling with the wires under the dash (while driving) to restart the indicators. Then there was the time the generator seized up . . . and the time fourth gear "went home".
I was a master mechanic, obviously, and could refill the twin SU's and twiddle with adjustments to make the engine sound as if it were running better. (It was all an illusion, of course.) I even installed air horns and changed the colour of the wheels and grille . . . not to mention replacing the front brake pads without taking off the cap to the brake fluid reservoir. I wondered why the pistons were so difficult to move . . . and wonder now where the brake fluid went! I let someone else replace the cracked a-frames on the front s...

mansep2: Speedo Now Working

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 18:18:17 -0800

So I got my box of goodies from Moss the other day so I spent the day installing the 2 new sun visors, new speedo cable, new seat belts etc. I also got a replacement speedo from someone of this site and it works well, no jumping around, just need to figure out if I can cange the mileage to match my existing speedo. Also installed Limeys relay kit which is excellent.
So here I am thinking I can finally get it inspected and bingo it starts to run rough and I notice gas overflowing the needle and dumping onto the floor. I am now faced with removing the carbs yet again and checking the float, its funny it is the same rear carb that caused the same problem before I rebuilt them.
Oh well maybe it is just not meant to be that I get it inspected before the snow flies, and I will likely have to wait until spring.

1979LBC: Ignition Issues

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 06:03:34 -0800

I have been spending all summer trying to get rid of missing, backfiring et al. I have drained the tank, replaced the fuel filter replaced plugs, wires, rotor, dist cap, moved the timing from 10 to 20 , checked for timing advance. All to no avail. then wilst reading a web board in the UK, someone had the same issue. Turns out he had a bad connection in the ignition switch. He ran a wire from the battery to the coil and the miss went away. I am going to try this as soon as I can .

B.D.: For What It's Worth

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 20:04:40 -0800

I bought a '71 roadster a few months ago; it's a driver, not a showpiece, but it looked like it would be cheap fun. Early on, I tried on this website to find parts for it; the responses I got ranged from noncommittal to, well, I won't go into too much detail, pretty bad. I had a bad experience concerning buying unusable parts here (and returning them and not getting my money back); getting frustrated, not being able to get what I needed to keep the MGB safe to drive and reasonably weather-resistant, I reluctantly dropped the insurance on the car and parked it under a tree in the back yard with a cover on it.

I have been disillusioned with the whole ordeal of even owning the car, I have not even had the enthusiasm to start it in the last month or more; if I don't do it soon, it may deteriorate to the point where it won't start at all. If I can't find the parts to get it in good enough condition to sell, I might just have the junk man tow it away, though I could get well over what I paid fo...

smokey: November Update.

Tue, 04 Nov 2008 14:24:47 -0800

Into November now with most repairs to body shell almost complete should make primer soon

ctmullins: Heater & Rear Brakes

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 15:08:41 -0800

Spent all day Saturday working - I rented a slide hammer and tried pulling the rear axles - first one, then the other - but had absolutely no luck. So the differential thrust washer replacement will have to wait until the car is driveable, then I can take it to a professional!

Despite that little defeat, I was able to completely rebuild the rear brakes, as well as replace the rear axle oil seals. Almost done with the rear end - should get my rebuilt fuel pump in a couple of weeks, then I can concentrate on the front of the car.

Also was able to install the heater in the engine bay. I spent a good amount of time on this task last weekend, with no results. The problem is the large rubber gasket at the bottom of the unit. Mine was missing all the years that I drove the car, but when I saw it in the exploded drawing on the website, I thought that I should purchase one and install it. Easier said than done, but some research here on the MGE gave me two tips - first, trim it down...

lawnvett: Oct . 25 2008 Blue Ridge Pkwy Tour

Mon, 03 Nov 2008 13:22:50 -0800

Started with a hearty Waffle House breakfast that servrd as the meeting place for 11 lbcs to head west from Winston-Salem on 421 to Wilkesboro. The fall foliage was near peak and the skys were very clear from rain the previous day. The twisty segment began on Hgwy 16 north to Glendale Springs, NC. The merry group took a necessary stop at the gift shop near the famous Chaple with the frescoes. Next we motored to Jefferson, NC and climbed to the top of Mt. Jefferson State Park for a picnic at 3000+ or - altitude. The Mountian is named for our second President's father who did survey work in the area nearly 300 years ago. After plenty of food was consumed and everyone was chilled by the wind we climbed down into our warm English sports cars for more back road fun on the way to the Parkway. The views were as good as I've seen and I say that with 40 years of expierence enjoying the lofty sites. We did another 75 miles along this beautiful road crossing into Virginia and stopping for fuel and another neces...

twigworker: Q

Sun, 02 Nov 2008 16:38:33 -0800

David Abbott: I Will Never Buy Another MG

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 17:54:13 -0700

"I will never buy another MG", at least that's what I told myself 27 years ago right after I blew the engine on my first MGB while driving to work one morning.
She was a 1965 "B" roadster. I used to pass her on my way to work and back. She was sitting all alone in an empty field on La Tuna cyn road. She was powder blue, she had Fred Flintstone floorboards, her wiring harness was burnt from front to back, she had an aluminum "C" hood (bonnet)at the time, I didn't know there was a difference. she had been sitting there for years.
One day I pulled over and walked over to check her out. As soon as I walked up her owner showed up from out of nowhere and $300.00 later I was towing her home on a tow rope (it was still legal then).
I had experience refurbishing VW bugs and knew electrical, but this car was foreign to me. There wasn't any internet, so I had no support or anyone local who knew squat about MG's. So, I was winging it. That first day I got her home I got her started, at...

Steve McCracken: Failure To Launch

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 16:54:39 -0700

This fine Saturday morning was to be the "sandblast to Hell Day", and unfortunately Rande Payne, and Aaron Zimmerman and I could just kick ourselves. The weather was cool and it looked like rain; consequently, the sand after aluminum oxide was not working too well.

The boys went to BS and E to see the rental yard's sandblasting equipment. Do you know the sound Tim Allen makes around tools? That is the precise sound out of my mouth looking at a monster sandblaster. $200.00 dollars later we have put down our names for the 24 hour rental of hoses, bucket - and I mean bucket and compressor for next weekend.

Looking back it was a great weekend though. It started with Forrest Brown and I driving all over Visalia to pressure wash "Nigel" before the big day on Saturday. There is more pressure on Barack in a den of college professors than the pressure that came out of the washers. My merry band of men now includes Joe Ackerman, a kind gentlemen with gobs of experience in cars, he loaned ...

l812345: Engine Rebuild 2008

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:53:34 -0700

Had been using the car as a daily driver since picking it up in August2007; it had been running well but I started to notice an increase in oil consumption accompanied by a sooty exhaust. By December the oil consumption was noticeably worse and on the last day of work, just before the Christmas holidays, the car lost power on the way home. A compression and leak down test confirmed in my mind that the piston rings were goosed. Pulling the engine confirmed my fear and worse - each piston showed clear signs of blow-by but piston 2 in particular had suffered significant damage to the crown and skirt – friction doing its work!

chambers60: Thanks

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 08:21:19 -0700

thanks for the heads up about drakes, good that it comes with recommendations, Mitch you have alight blue mg? I remember seeing one at a car show in brentwood school.
bob

wmarti01: Present Status

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:40:12 -0700

In the drive way; it'll start with a jumper cable, but soon as I remove it, it dies. I just got it out of the garage where I had a new ignition system put in - problem came up when I was going to fix my lights; a couple weren't working. When I got them working, it wouldn't start. I turned the lights on once while troubleshooting it and it tried to start the car. Last time I tried to drive it, just prior to it dying when I take the jumpers off, I turned on the wipers and it killed everything. Is there a place that shows EACH system - lights; ignition; wipers...etc...separate so I can try to troubleshoot the problem that way? I think the problem now resides beneath the dash where they all plug together - think I heard an arc when I moved them yesterday. My plan is to remove the dash; unwrap the wires and trace each one individually to wherever they come from/go to. Anything I can do to make this easier? I have schematics, books and everything a normal person would need, but this ain't a normal car. The...

jjh1118: Another Seson Closes

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:17:21 -0700

I cannot believe that my third season as an MG owner is coming to a close. It was a great year. No major issues (very few minor ones). As a season finale I took a ride on a recent Sunday. I headed North from Bergen County on Route 17.After crossing into New York I followed Route 32 towards the Catskill Mountains. It was a beautiful day and before I knew it I was in Kingston . Great ride. I don't really put the car to sleep for the winter. I start it regularly and if we get a good day, I take out for a spin.The only drawback this year is that I'm just about at the mileage limit for insurance and registration purposes.I don't have any major DIY projects planned this Winter although I may put a molded carpet kit in the trunk.I'm already looking forward to Spring '09.

Gunndunn: Rear Brakes Installed

Thu, 30 Oct 2008 14:10:13 -0700

Well, the typical problems were encountered with the DPO brake installation. Shoes were incorrectly installed. The right rear had a slight hydraulic leak. The drums were turned to clean up and true up the surfaces.
Now I've got to get to the fronts......

roland: Missing "B"

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 19:55:37 -0700

It's only been a week and the GT is at the shop waiting in line to have framework done. O MG, I miss "B"

bpmichaud: Rotissorie

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:03:22 -0700

Rotissorie done now back to work!

datawranger65: I've Got All The Time In The World

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 06:12:39 -0700

Well, I continue to plug away at it little by little. After all, how do you eat an elephant?

The interior is just about all removed. I'm letting my boys do the bulk of that job. I'm leaning toward getting all new interior. However, these seats are in really good shape. I cant believe how much good seats are worth on the internet.

The front of the car is up on jack stands and I'm beginning to strip down the engine compartment and get ready to pull the engine and transmisstion. I found an actual rat's nest inside the aft air filter and carb.

zedvictor1: Flight Of Fancy

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 19:46:40 -0700

I'll just have to wait until I'm in the right place at the right time. But does that ever happen? It's rather discouraging to see distant cars sell before I can get to them.
Still, it was fun while it lasted!

mansep2: Inspection Delayed

Sun, 26 Oct 2008 17:45:10 -0700

Well could not get the speedo working right so I will have to delay the inspection, oh well. I decided that as I had to wait I would order some additional parts any way. So I have a new speedo cable coming, new seatbelts, sun visors and assoerted other goodies.
Looked through the forum and found info on how to fix speedos as it seems you can not get new ones. If that does not work then I guess I will have to find a shop that can repair it.

Ah maybe I will get it on the road in the spring??

moa: Digging In

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 22:39:36 -0700

Overview of my cylinder

jackolantern: Summer 2008

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 21:38:20 -0700

I wasn' sure me and the little car would see much activity this apst summer but we did. We joined a vintage car club and took an award at a car show and went on many outings. I plan to organize a rally for next spring. I've no experience in that area so if anyone can help me out it would be appreciated

sweep: Finally Got Rego!

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 21:24:09 -0700

After a dismal Wednesday postponement because of the weather, yesterday morning I was successful in getting the MGB registered for road use.

David and I took off at about 10 am for the drive into Erina, (about 5kms)

I was apprehensive about it but with mobile phones in our pocket we arrived without incident and the fellow did the inspection.

All of my fears about things maybe not working were unfounded as he was really only interested in the body and engine numbers and that the brakes were working. He asked me if I wanted him to check out the front end and I said, yes please. He only jacked it up and wiggled the front wheels. No problem he said and we filled out the paper work.

Sold me a green slip and off to the RTA. There the guy took a bit of interest in the car as he had had a Midget in his youth - he was now into motorcycles. He had a bit of trouble reconciling the numbers with the computer and had to ring the RTA help desk but eventually we cam...

Steve McCracken: Engine Removed Today

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 20:25:06 -0700

My great friend, Stuart and my neighbor Forrest went to town today. No, we didn't leave the house we worked for about 6 hours.

We removed the engine and unshackled the rear end.

It was a team effort today, ufortunately Stuart and Forrest did most of the work. I was good at cleaning out the rear of my one car garage. I suffer from garage envy...

Alas, at about 4 pm we shut down and high-fived.

It was great to roll the Hendricks Racing engineered carts with the body on one cart and the chassis resting comfortably on the other.

It is a blessing to have friends...

mansep2: First Drive

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 17:47:01 -0700

Well I got my Alternator problem fixed, ended up going to a machine shop and had then shave off some material to line the pulleys up.
So here I am thinking I am ready to get it inspected so I get the paper work started and set up an appointment for Wednesday only a few days away. So wheels go back on and I drop it back down on the floor off the jacks and take it for a quick spin down the back alley.
Well all is not well, my indicators packed in again and I dont know why, the hazards work though, also the speedo does not register a steady speed but bounces around all the time. I guess I have some work to do Sunday to try and get it fixed if not I will have to delay the inspection.

1320nut: Rust Repair

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 16:53:31 -0700

This is a new 1977 B perfer this one to the 1975

Wanna B: Inspected!!!!!

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:52:12 -0700

The GT passed pa state inspection on friday. The new gastank is installed and the head bolts have been retorqed. I am hoping to put some miles on the GT in the next few weeks, before the snows come and it has to be put away for the winter.

lojim: Where Everything Is Documented

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 12:30:12 -0700

I have my personal website where I am documenting the progress of this MG. My site is http://www.limitlessoffroad.com. Click on the "Toys" link in the banner and you will see the MG on that page. I am welcome to any comments and help anyone is willing to give. Thanks for reading!

Selmo Saladino: New Tan Top Installed

Sat, 25 Oct 2008 11:10:56 -0700

like the look of the tan with red than the black with red.

jclars: End Of Season Review

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 22:46:25 -0700

Got to the 1000 mile mark on my rebuild/rolling restore. Still running sweet, but about time to shut her down for the year. It has been an unbelievable adventure and thanks to this group, I accomplished a bunch since last spring.

Partial engine rebuild: rings, bearings, complete valve job w/hardened seats.
Piston replaced after valve stem broke off (not same head as above!)
Water pump, Clutch, throw out bearing
Floor pans replaced
New tires, brake hoses
New muffler and tail pipe and tip
New used seats, sound insulation - Dynamat, Rug installed, good used boot cover,
Reverse light lenses replaced with new
All interior panels replaced
Door and wing mirror glass replaced
Repaired crack of doom, both doors
Gas gauge sending unit, Driver side front shock, Top door trim pieces, door latch- all used but in good condition.

Whew! I am feeling like I know this car intimately! But still challenging enoug...

palouseB: 2008-09 Resto Work Begins

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 15:16:07 -0700

Since top down driving weather has ceased around here it was time to start in on this winter's project of dealing with the rust in the interior and repaint of exterior. Pulling the carpet out of the driver's side showed that things were much worse than thought. One seat anchor was pulled out and another loose. Pulling on the seat with one hand and running the other hand along the bottom of the floor pan, it seemed I could feel a crack in the floor maybe 4" long. Ordered new floor pans from Chris and hopefully we'll begin the installation next week. Pic is of the passenger side (the better of the two).

Wilbur: Inner Fender Mods

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 11:55:27 -0700

The left inner fender mods are completed. I welded in the curved patches that wrap around the intercooler pipe. Still needs to be ground smooth, but I need to reinstall the front suspension and check tire clearance before I finish the welds off- might need further mods.

dave5546B: The "new" Car

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 08:23:10 -0700

Here she is, unusual colour, Bedouin beige but looks pretty good and just that bit different, autumn leaf interior trim. Drives beautifully despite having only covered 697 miles from Agust 1988 upto August 2008

chrisj: 215 Buick Engine Layout

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 20:52:17 -0700

The 1962 Buick Special engine was located as low as possible by utilizing custom built motor mounts and moving them to a location further forward than most installation. I was looking for as much room as possible to allow 4 exhaust tubes to be routed along the side of the block between the frame rails on both sides.

A '64-'65 stock Mustang radiator was located in front of the stock anti-sway bar location on hammer formed mounting brackets. The stock oil cooler panel was removed and a custom fabricated pan was installed to allow air to flow to the full length of the taller Mustang radiator.

The steering rack just fits behind the harmonic balancer and the front of the oil pan. The engine actually sits down over the steering rack leaving about 1/2" clearance between the crossmember and the oil pan

GameFisher: All British Car Show

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 19:46:27 -0700

Well, Today Was A Wet One. After On & Off Showers & Several Drying Offs Of The Car, It Rained Again & Again Before Judging.... So We Gave Up The Towel & Took Second Place.

GameFisher: Hot Day @ EuroCar 2008

Wed, 22 Oct 2008 19:41:40 -0700

As Usuall We Had A Grand Time At EuroCar 2008. Even Had A Couple Of Blokes From England By Perchance Stopped In On There Way West. All In All A Very Nice Day.

lars49: Decarbonizing

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 08:39:42 -0700

I've been decarbonizing the pistons, heads, and valves. I got some nteresting stuff in from Orion Marketing called Piston Clean. It is a water based decarboninzing cleaner developed for the US military for their tracked vehicles. Just put the pistons in to soak overnight and then clean off with a nylon bristle brush the next day. Works great on taking the oil deposits on the inside of the oil pan and valve covers too.

smokey: The Begining August 2007

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 03:00:43 -0700

1978 MGB roadster start of restoration .Car is almost rust free and in impeccable condition for its age with only minor dents and 1 rust hole in the right hand front guard. floor pans cleaned up and are totally rust free thanks to its desert life.
car now stripped down and right hand drive conversion completed.Repairs almost complete ready for priming body shell.then will get on with repair of panels.

roland: Gas Tank Removed.

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 18:52:15 -0700

It's one day away and the GT is going in to have some framework done. I've done some basic work to help reduce the cost, like remove the old gas tank and interior mats, floor, rear bumper. Once the car is completed from the shop, I'll be putting in a new gas tank, new rear bumper, new wire rims(waiting in the corner of the garage.) After this step, there'll be no more pooched shackle mount!!!! Yahooo

bobbod: Block, Mounted And Painted

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 06:09:19 -0700

I finally mounted the block on the engine stand and painted it.

The G: Tidying Up The Engine Bay

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 01:44:59 -0700

Spent a bit of time this weekend making the engine bay look a bit less tired. Painted the rocker cover, air cleaners etc, I think it came up okay.

mansep2: @#$^!@ Alternator

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 19:12:36 -0700

Well the continuing saga of the alternator. I received a new alternator and transferred the old pulley to the new alternator. Everything seemed to be going just great until I got it back on to the engine, then I noticed that the pulleys did not line up and the alternator pulley was to far forward.

Well acording to what I ordered this was the correct alternator, however as I previously posted the existing alternmator was not off this engine and was obviously made to fit. So I thought lets order a new pulley and then that should work, well I finally got the pulley and guess what..... it was the same as the existing one and did not line up. So I am now left with only one option to take the existing pulley to a machine shop and have them skim some material off to make the pulley line up. AHHHHHH.

jcee: It Started With A Radio That Didn't Work.

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 17:06:28 -0700

Currently I am working on the radio console, trying to figure out where the mysterious red/white wire needs to go.
After removing the radio I found a few other items to add to the list. IE connecting the defrost hose, wiper washer lines to install, heater control cable to re-route from in front of the heater door behind the console, Choke cable to re-route also, recovering the console.
It just goes on and on.
After a closer inspection, I am contemplating a total ground up restore.

ejh27051946: New Seal, Pillar Side

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 01:00:23 -0700

Yesterday I replaced the left seal of the pillar side. Did not installed the seal retainer which has to fit into the seal.( isn't necessary )

davidb: End Of An Era I Just Sold My First Car

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 00:10:16 -0700

it is with joy and yet great sadness that i must note that i have found a buyer for my first car the 1967 mg midget. i bought this when i first started driving in 1974 so i have owned it for about 34 years. but i knew i didn't want to put in the energy it would take to replace all the panels and floors.

my father told me he hated selling his first car a 1932 chevy back in the 1940's and it bothered him as it drove down the driveway all those years ago.

the new owner of my mg is a welder by trade so he has told me he hopes to restore the car. this makes me feel a bit better. als that he had had a 72 quite awhile ago.

Wilbur: Intercooler Pipe- Left Side (aluminum)

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 20:35:38 -0700

The left side is more congested than the right side, so the inner fender needs a bit moremodification. I have the pipes fit and the fender cut, but still need to weld in most of the patch. The pipe does fit with the intake and MAF, so the rest is just cosmetic at this point. The stock radiator fits in between everything, but I need something larger- but that is another project.

ceecpa: How I Got Started

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 18:13:31 -0700

My cousin Astrid turned onto Park Avenue and I heard her coming. The machine she was driving made clacking, clinking, and roaring noises that I hadn't heard before. When she rolled to a stop where I was sitting on the curb I noticed she was in a car that looked like it had survived the 1930's. I was sitting by my mother's 1958 Chevrolet Impala convertible and the thing Astrid was in looked awful. She bade me get in and I did.

After 2 blocks in her 1952 MG-TD I knew why she had bought it. It was FUN! My mother's Impala was interesting, but Astrid's MG engaged all of my emotions.

I was pretty sure, even at that age, that British cars had something that domestic vehicles lacked. At 14 I was discouraged from considering it, but now I recall that it was PASSION!

sweep: Parking Brake And The Wrong Springs

Sat, 18 Oct 2008 16:03:21 -0700

Pulled a rear wheel to see 'what's-what' with the hand brake.
Basically I can't get enough adjustment on the hand brake lever and the lever is all the way up before it holds the car.
I was lead to believe that this is caused when the drums are machined - but I'm not so sure.
The PO dealt with the situation by removing the anti-rattle spring, allowing more movement on the adjusting nut. I replaced the spring because it should be there but I believe the cables are stretched so as an interim 'fix', I did what he did and removed the spring.

While I was at the rear brake, however, I noticed that the spring holding the hand brake levers on each wheel, were fouling the rubbers on the wheel cylinders. If left, I believe they would have worn through.
The springs were a solid coil and should have been a two coil arrangement separated by a straight section where it passes over the wheel cylinder.
After some discussion on the forum, I decided to have a go at coiling my ow...

Wanna B: October 2008 Update

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 11:56:54 -0700

Got the new windshield installed with a new rubber moulding. Had a head gasket failure shortly afterwards. The gasket had been weeping above the spark plugs since I got the car. I have replaced the gasket with a Pay den and I also installed a stud kit from TRF. I also installed a new radiator and thermostat. The old one was starting to leak at the the upper hose. Hopefully, this will help the B run a little cooler. I also changed the temp sensor. It was working fine, but I damaged it taking it out. I also replaced the exhaust manifold studs. The B also got a new set of NGK spark plugs.
I plan on changing the gas tank this weekend and going for the PA state inspection next week, after a couple of delays.
I have also started to soldier all of the crimped electrical connections for the distributor,coil, driving lights and radiator fan. They will be much more durable and will be better insulated with the shrink wrap covering them.

lawnvett: Three Peaks Tour

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 08:43:48 -0700

Eight LBCs perfect Fall day in the Piedmont of NC. Toured the area around and drove to the top of: Saurtown Mt., Hanging Rock State Park, and Pilot Mt.

sweep: Side Mirror

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 04:46:52 -0700

Few weeks ago, during the school holidays and on the way to visit the in-laws, we called in at Heritage MG and I bought a new side mirror. I intended to get the 'bullet' style but when we got there I compared it with the more traditional style and because it was lighter and had a bigger glass area, I decided to get the more expensive, rectangular shaped mirror. The part of the door where the mirror went looked a bit like 'swiss-cheese' from past efforts with mirrors and I should have sorted this out much earlier, before painting. I suppose I thought that the base of any mirror I would put there would cover up the holes. Well, they didn't.
I was able to use one hole but there were three others that had to be filled and a new one drilled.
Today I attacked this by using the 'bash and bog' method then repainted and late tonight I put the mirror on. It had a sort of rawlplug type fixing which could be done all from the outside so the door lining didn't have to come off.
I'm not totally convinc...

sawyer41: We Drove It Down The Road!!!

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 16:52:15 -0700

well we finally got to take our little car for a ride! took it about ten miles altogether went around the block.we live out in the boonies!!it ran fine as far as i know, wich ain't much but i'm learnin thanks to folks like all of you!! love the sound and the ride was much better than i expected.

bobbod: Let's Build A Spitfire

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 07:46:46 -0700

I stripped the block almost completely in preparation for painting some time ago.....

mansep2: Battery Cut Off Switch

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 14:20:46 -0700

After seeing many posts on the merits of having a cut off switch I finally decided this was a good idea and bought the necessary bits to install the switch. Not to mention I was sick of having to undo the negative battery terminal when I wanted to disconnect the power.
Install was simple and only took about 15 mins, the switch was for a racing car so it is rugged, has a metal switch lever and operates with a nice firm click. Sure is easier now to switch on and off when working on the car.
Stil waiting for my new pulley for the alternator and then maybe I can get it inspected, just one last issue is the indicators are being fussy and sometimes do not work so I will have to work on them.

scoutll: 10-12-08

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 13:08:47 -0700

Haven't really done, or had to do a lot to the car yer. I have spent the last several weeks, going over the electrical system, fixing the little "bugs" and cleaning connections. This car is amazingly clean and unmolested. Every time I get under it, or dig into things, I am amazed about how lucky I was to find such a car, and within 25 miles of my home.

Today, I decided to unhook the silly aftermarket temp gauge that the PO mounted under the dash, and hook up the original tube from the dual gauge. The tube was coiled up and flex linked to the wire harness on the fender well. Well, I dipped the sender in hot water, and the needle immediately started to climb. I hooked it up and started the car. Lo and behold, it works and seems to be pretty accurate. The car has a 180 thermostat in it, and at operating temp, the gauge reads just over 180. As did the aftermarket when it was attached. Needless to say, the aftermarket gauge came out. The dash is coming right along! Just need a few instrument b...

f4fantm2: More Love Needed!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:52:50 -0700

Another picture of the "diamond in the rough"

f4fantm2: More Love Needed!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:51:20 -0700

Another picture of the newly arrived diamond in the rough!

f4fantm2: Needin' Some Love!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 07:47:04 -0700

This is my "new" MGB just after being unloaded from the long trailer ride from New Mexico. New shop under construction, and this baby will be the first order of business once it's done!