AutoShrine.com Car Journals

palouseB: Carb Switch

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:10:44 -0700

I've been battling for the last 3 years a DCOE that a PO had put on the B and lately haven't been able to solve a fuel drip coming from the carb to manifold junction. Looking at the bottom of the weber there was a line of JB weld which suggests an earlier crack repair. Anyway, it was either get another weber or switch to the stock su's. Since I had a set of su's on the parts car of unknown condition I decided to at least give them a try and see what would happen... nothing to lose. A few weeks later and I've got a set up that works. The su's wouldn't tune with the crankcase breather line hooked up to the carbs so I vented it like an early B down the side of the block and out underneath. Adjusted the timing to about 20 btdc and bought some KN filters. Today I'll drive the car with the filters for the first time to see how she runs on the road.

JLouis707: MGB Restoration - Entry 10

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 17:36:00 -0700

A couple more pictures of the final body preparation before first coat of primer.

eyedoc85: Stop...dammit...stop!!! Go, Baby, Please Go

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 15:17:45 -0700

Well, that was fun (not). Went to Cocoa for an art festival, going down into town, (key word is down, as in downhill) brake pedal to the floor. Good thing the emergency brake works. Walked with honey in search of brake fluid since resevoir is empty, filled and then pumped and bled front brakes...viola! The brakes returned. got home and set about rebuilding brakes..New MC, new hoses, pads, rotors, rear cylinders, shoes, resurfaced drums...cannot "mity vac" the rear brakes at all...No fluid! Checked lines...nicely crushed from botched tow job from prev. owner. New lines done today, and ... now it won't start. No juice to starter. Just put new battery into her a couple of months ago, soooo time to check for ground problems. such is life. Later

AthlonRob: New Radiator

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 03:52:50 -0700

I was having some trouble with overheating, so after a new thermostat which didn't do any good, I replaced the radiator last night. After a 20 mile test drive the temperature was nice and stable, right in the middle. One more major part repaired/replaced!

JLouis707: MGB Restoration - Entry 9

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:51:26 -0700

All the body work has been completed and all of the original factory paint has been stripped to bare metal. The car is now prepped for primer which will be completed in the next 48 hours.

Russo: In The Beginning

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 08:47:48 -0700

Bought a friend's 1975 MGB with the intention of getting it back on the road; a small scale restoration. Subsequently, needing a parts car, I came upon the 1978 MGB at a good price, and, as it turns out, is in better shape than the 1975. So, the 1975 is now the parts car and the 1978 will be put back on the road.

jreedphx: Bleeding Brakes And Clutch

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 21:56:07 -0700

Bled out the HTOB 3 times and now able to operate clutch and move car back and forth in garage. Brake system giving me challenges. But Will re-bleed again and readjust rear brake shoes.

Logged in tonight to read the V6 forum, and search the regular MGB forum about the brakes and bleeding tips

shelly2172: Dash Removal...

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:29:38 -0700

The only way to realy clean it right....

shelly2172: Restoration Progress....sanding

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:28:33 -0700

Taking everything off...and sanding...

shelly2172: The Restoration Begins....

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 12:27:25 -0700

This is the first photo taken before the restoration began in June of 2010.

jcraven: A-Post Nightmare

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 01:16:24 -0700

Well, here is the latest. The A-Posts, both driver and passenger are in big trouble.

Fortunately, it is only the lower A-Posts that are rusted out. I believe I can cut them out with a sawzall, file the rough edges and insert the repair sections from Moss.

Oh, yea, and this time I'll remember to drill weepholes in the post floor.

smokey: Update

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:37:32 -0700

slowly moving foward colour applied to the insides and edges,have aquired a dash and rust replacement panels for front guards and working toward finishing repairs.

jcraven: Color Envy

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 15:39:02 -0700

I came to a major decision in the last week on what Molly will look like in 2013, the scheduled date for her completion.

It had been assumed that I would keep the car the Teal Blue color she came wearing from the factory, but then I thought, WHY?

Certainly, Molly, has the right to change her look and while I really like the Teal Blue color, I wanted her to be a little more flamboyant when all is said and done.

So, just for the heck of it I decided to do the engine bay in a high-gloss red. I do not think this will be the final color (in fact, I am sure of it) but I will be looking for a Candy Apple Red or a Fire Engine Red. When she finally rolls out of the garage and moves down the street I do not want a head not to turn.

I guess we will see. What do you think?

PS, Oh, yes and those are steel straps where the passenger door would be. I welded them in place this week (along with adding a wire and turnbuckle system) to hold the frame together as I cut out the A-Posts...

casinogoer: The Beginning

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 08:51:21 -0700

It sits in the garage while I gather parts for the long Maine winter. Sure hope its snowy so I can spend quality time rewiring and paint stripping. all new interior to be added due to it's former life in humid Florida. Still thinking of a name.

MDS031508: Engine Progress

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 06:57:24 -0700

Good weekend! Got the head put back together and installed on the block. Valves adjusted. Alternator cleaned up and installed. Water pump, pulley and newly painted fan also in place. Gee. . .it's starting to look like an engine! Wonder if it will ever actually start.

roland: Gidget Gets A New Coat..

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:55:46 -0700

The midget is in the shop receiving a new coat of paint. Hopefully we will be able to come close to the aztec yellow to compliment it's "good looks".

Vi-Queens: New Tie Rods

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 17:53:48 -0700

Just took off the tie rod ends. They were in terrible shape and my front tires wore so unevenly I will have to replace those as well.
Ordered new ones from Napa. I should have them by next week. Under $60 including the tie rod separator.

tangent: New Clutch

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:12:13 -0700

Our car suffered a fatal clutch implosion. The new clutch feels like i'm driving a Toyoto Tercel. Very disappointing.

oldag98: Where's My Bumper

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:32:49 -0700

Debumpered but not painted...

charlieroan80: Electrical Issue

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 15:31:50 -0700

i have recently purchased a 78' mgb. the person that i bought it from says the lights cut on by themselves while in driving. i have read alot about people and other electrical issues they have had. haven't found anything yet about it. anyone have any feedback on what the issue might be?

MDS031508: Center Console

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 06:36:06 -0700

Here's a closeup of the center console.

MGLars: 1986-2009

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 11:53:17 -0700

My dad built the engine- painted the block red -carbs not installed. The hood and fenders were sent to a "buddie's" house to get sand blasted. I don't know if they ever were but I do know that they sat behind his garage for several years and are completely rusted. Interior was recarpeted.
Dad passed away in 2005.
July 2009 finally got the MG to my garage.

MGLars: In The Beginning...

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 11:31:47 -0700

My dad bought this heap for $350 in 1986. I believe the front end was damaged in an accident. The engine and trans had been pulled. The eninge was in several boxes completely dissassembled. It appears there were two eninges in the mix. The hood and fenders were off and likely from a second Midget. The firewall back was in decent shape.

MDS031508: Dash Installed

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 14:23:34 -0700

Got the dash installed and reconnected last weekend, along with the re-covered steering wheel and carbon fiber center console.

66blacksmith: Cooler Hoses

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 08:20:10 -0700

I need to know if I can use the 26" and 45" inch hoses on my '66 oil cooler. They are both the same 39" now, but I discovered a leak in one and will want to replace both. They are the original hoses, as far as I can tell, so after forty four years they are not reliable, obviously. Using the long and short hose variation would run the oil in the opposite direction through the cooler than before; I can't see a problem with that but would appreciate any feedback. This car is becoming my daily driver so I want real reliability.

parisduet: Romeo MGC

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 06:34:07 -0700

we named our mgc "Romeo" because it's original UK registration number was RMO863F. Romeo was purchased in the uk. and brought home to Ireland. She was nut and bolt restored at great cost 10 years ago by an uk mg specialist, and travelled only 1000 miles since then, picking up 4 concours wins along the way. Romeo's owner was leaving for sunnier parts, and she was put up for sale, having been in storage since 2007.

66blacksmith: Cooler Hoses

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:02:59 -0700

OK, I won't go with the 3.07 rear axle! I have a more urgent problem. I need to know if I can use the 26" and 45" inch hoses on my '66 oil cooler. They are both the same 39" now but I discovered a leak in one and will want to replace both. They are the original hoses, as far as I can tell, so after forty four years they are not reliable, obviously. Using the long and short hose variation would run the oil in the opposite direction than before; I can't see a problem with that but would appreciate any feedback. This is car is becoming my daily driver so I want real reliability.

oldag98: Update

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 22:00:47 -0700

Bumpers removed. Beehive turn signals installed. Bodywork underway. Still has big "To Do" list, but the car looks much better.

backyardcnc: Outer Rocker Fitted!

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 21:01:02 -0700

Well I have reached a milestone in the repair of the passenger side of the car. Last night I fitted up the outer rocker and all worked out excellent. The door fit is very very good and it opens and closes as good as any B I have checked out. I still have a few minor bits of welding to do and as well as a small patch to weld in to tie the dash side panel to the inner sill at the outside of the footwell ahead of the door hinge pillar. Also have to weld in some bolts thru the floorpan to allow clamps to hold up the brake lines and wiring. Maybe a few more hours and I can say goodbye to the side and start on the other! Should be easier since my welding is getting better with practise (fewer holes to fill in I hope :-) ) and I know exactly how to procede. But then again the drivers side requires me to fabricate a section of the rear crossmember since the short repair section is a little short. Will need to fab a section about 10 inches long around the section that is indented for the exhaust pipe!

cheer...

roland: Summer Update..

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 20:36:53 -0700

We had a wonderful trip to Radium BC for an all Brits Car show. pics here..http://picasaweb.google.com/Calgary.MG.Photos/BritsBest2010# We entered both the GT and Midget. The midget came in a close third out of (3) midgets... not bad eh?

Our other adventure - we just moved into a new home that has required a lot of work. So.. we hired some amateur landscapers to do the yard. (Save a few bucks eh..) So I request a gravel drive out back so I can park the MGs from time to time. They brought in some gravel.. I parks da Midget car.. and come home later to find that my wife has buried the back end of the midget up to the chassis in a foot of gravel... OUCH!!! It escaped unscathed after some more digging and jimmying boards under the wheel to lift the car out of the cavernous hole..

Took it out for a long drive after that to make up to it .. The shock of the ev...

mrg60vw: 90corradog60

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:29:19 -0700

I've had my corrado for about 7 years. Lately there has been a problem with it. I replaced the broken supercharger, and the new one broke within a matter of days. I don't know what happened, can someone help me?

66blacksmith: Oil Cooler Problem

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 10:52:42 -0700

GA Midget: Side Shot Of 1962 Austin Healey

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:18:48 -0700

Just a simple side shot. Not completely finished...are we ever?

Notice the rounded rear wheel openings? I like it better that way. I think it looks better than the factory flat top look.

GA Midget: Wife Approved

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 19:16:46 -0700

Finally road ready. It has been a journey getting the car back on the road. I still have a few things to do...as always the honey to do list never ends.

66blacksmith: 3.07 Diff

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 10:23:43 -0700

Will the stock 1800 B engine ('66) have enough torque to run the car satisfactorily using a 3.07 C rear axle? I have access to one but am not sure if I should spend the money.

Sprite Lou: RD: - 07.10.10

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:04:32 -0700

Wow, what a day this was -- drove up to Dan Wood's place in Bend, OR.

A gorgeous 2 hr drive thru the pass - elevation 4800 feet!

Spent the entire day with Dan in his glorious shop to rebush the front end of the RD.

What a fantastic guy Dan is -- he helped thru this "first time" job for me and now the car handles beautifully!

Can't thank Dan enough for all his help, use of his shop and lift, tools and his knowledge!

Sprite Lou: GT: - 07.13.10

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 08:02:19 -0700

Well, I managed to FINALLY get a combo gauge installed late last nite. At first, things were going almost too smoothly -- hole in dash was cut, nice and round -- fits perfectly.

THEN.... whilst trying to "rebend" the oil press copper line, it cracked! Too many bends made to it over the years I suspect.

So, a mad dash to a couple of auto parts houses before they closed... no one even had so much as a cap so I could cap it off and still drive it while waiting for Moss replacement.

Then, about 10pm... after having given up in defeat, I went out to the garage to lock up for the nite and then it hit me!

A month ago, I had bought a combo gauge (turned out to be a dud) from someone here -- then I remembered, he kindly included in the box the copper line!!

I immediately grabbed it and installed -- hooked it up, no leaks, gauge is reading oil pressure!

So I finished the dash side of things -- tonite I'll try to swap out the electric temp sending unit and p...

Lavo: Radiator Fan Switch

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 07:10:40 -0700

I have today fitted a new radiator fan switch as the old one ceased working. the grommet supplied with the new switch was considerably smaller than the one fitted with less of the grommet fitting into the radiator than before. Following the instructions from a previous post I fashioned a retaining bracket from an old wire coat-hanger which fits around the switch and over the top of the radiator. This is holding the switch firmly in place and doesn't look too bad either. I have attached a photo just in case this is helpful to anyone else out there.

Hughman: Initial Tune-up

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 17:57:14 -0700

I ordered a tune-up kit from b-Hive. I will replace the plugs, wires, rotor and distributor cap. The car has electronic ignition, so no points. Oil change and new filter will round out the effort. Then, it's time to fine-tune the carb to get the emission down to legal level in NJ.

The other night I was comparing the engine in my car to the engine in the Haynes repair manual. Several parts are missing on my car. The air pump and some of the emissions parts seemed to have been removed by a previous owner. I hope that does not impact passing the emissions.

Stay tuned (no pun intended)...

GrampyWraith: The TR7

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 16:49:02 -0700

Purchased in 1984 or 1985 for $2,000. Throttle was stuck (revved at 2500 idle) but problem was easily solved with some Marvel Mystery Oil in the carbs. Headlight motors never worked. Had new top, 60 series tires and was SUPERB to drive! Sold during a fit of pique at the continuing wiring problems for $2500 in 1987/8. Miss her very much.
Added tuned exhaust and 12" steering wheel. New top cover, etc. etc. Even drove it in Maine winters for 2+ years! Only parked when snow banks were higher than antenna = = made the car quite invisible at intersections and therefore DANGEROUS.

2VT: Another Year Later

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 14:23:06 -0700

I'm impressed that these cars were assembled by the factory then shipped across the ocean and let out the driveway as it's taken some time to sort out everything. It is now very close to flawless. Soft top, top bows, tools, tonneau cover & tonneau bars have new bags made by MacGreggor (who work at Abington on Thames's trim shop). Even found a very good condition 1965 spare tyre. I also found a AM/FM radio with both positive & negative ground built in. Even though it was a good car to do a restoration on as it was not rusted or bent/crashed (in fact, had it's original paint) and have reused all of it's original parts, I gota say: You've come a long way, baby.

mikek31: Engine Bay Respray / Engine Rebuild

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:47:55 -0700

Just wanted to update with a picture of the car after a long winters project. The Engine bay was stripped to the metal. Preped and epoxy sealed then sprayed with single stage Nason. The engine was a complete overhaul with .040" bore, pistons ,new cam/cam bearings, main bearings, waterpump, new valves/valve seats, head surfaced, chain tensioner & chain, clutch kit, all new seals on the trans, and u joints. Replaced brake master cylinder, all new brake lines as well as clutch line. Manifold blasted and ceramic painted. Carbs rebuilt by J Hilton and ditributor by Advance Distributors.

Other work completed was all new front suspension bushings, entire crossmember removed and all parts sand blasted and POR 15 applied. New tie rods, new aluminum billet wheel adapters installed, wheel bearings repacked/seals replaced. Rubber steering boots replaced as well as the rack oil. Front shocks fluids checked, new brake pads and rubber brake lines

Rear axle removed, cleaned and POR15. New diff gas...

mikek31: Engine Respray / Engine Rebuild

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:31:32 -0700

Rear axle removed, cleaned and POR15. New diff gas...

JLouis707: MGB Restoration - Entry 8

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 19:26:26 -0700

Additional pictures of body deconstruction in preparation of additional bodywork and primer.

Chris Pennington: Winter Is Here

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:31:06 -0700

Well winter is finally here and the B certainly knows it ! As the cold weather is with us i've not been in the car that much over the last 2 months. It is a little unfortunate but the car doesn't have the luxurys of cars these days i.e a heater ! (that works well!)

Also its been a good time to learn more abut the vehicle, and find out why it doesn't want to start in the morning ;(

Yes I had a battery/alternator issue, both needing replacing, hopefully we won't have any more issues with the starting up anymore, but as i'm finding out older cars have issues !

A last minute desicion happened though yesterday we were all ready packed to go to the Barossa with friends and we quickly decided to change cars and go in the B ! Lets hope the weather stays fine, but so far so good, we made it to the Novotel with no issues and had a good drive around ..... a little cold though perhaps! with the roof down

Anyway ill be back with an update over the next couple of days, but its great t...

dewright23: New Tires

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 15:08:50 -0700

This is my 1977 MG Midget before I start any restoration. So far the only thing I have done is install new tires. The ones on it had dry rot.
Next step is getting it safe to drive so I can get a VIN verification done.

7d2mgbgt: Open Car Trailer Headed East.

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:41:03 -0700

I will be traveling from California (Bakersfield/SoCal) area eastward to Pennsylvania, as far east as State College, in the next few weeks. My 18 foot two axel open car hauler will be empty, and I can deliver a medium/compact car along the route. Will adjust route (ie 40, 70 or possible as far north as 80 (Sorry, no 10).

I have over thirty years 5th wheel & cargo trailer towing experience with zero mishaps. Electric brakes on all four drums, new electric harness, bearings serviced, new tires, Class three hitch. I have hauled my vintage racer for years on this trailer.

S-10 4x4 PU w/4.3 Vortex tow vehicle. Insurance covered by owners policy.

Will negotiate price according to distance. Will consider taking passenger, share fuel. I drive long distance stints with sensible rest stops and sleep if someone is interested. Towing experience a plus.

Sorry, return trip already loaded.

Stephen Jones
661-821-0414
661-342-7968

http://s462.photobucket.com/albums/qq348/MX5WTN/West%20Tennessee%20Miatas%20%20Road%20Trips%202010/?albumview=slideshow

Events:
1. http://s462.photobucket.com/albums/qq348/MX5WTN/Gwatney%20Mazda%20BBQ%202010/?albumview=slideshow
2. http://s462.photobucket.com/albums/qq348/MX5WTN/Blytheville%20Car%20Show%20Jun%205%202010/?albumview=slideshow

Hughman: First Repair - Fuel Sendeing Unit

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 19:38:30 -0700

Thanks to the many excellent and thoughtful MG members I was able to diagnose my problem as a faulty fuel sending unit. I replaced the unit "all by myself." It was very easy. It took longer to siphon the gas from the tank than to replace to nit, which the local mechanic wanted $224 to do. The fuel gauge now reads accurately and the car is running great.

Next mission - tune up, oil change and passing inspection.

jreedphx: Plumbing Completed

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 15:04:08 -0700

Brake and clutch plumbing completed. I hope to bleed out the system and test drive the car sometime this month

pmth95: Double Fuel Pump

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 13:50:07 -0700

Need to look into this

http://www.mgexperience.net/article/backup-fuel-pump.html

trymes: How To Post Images Using Picasa Web Albums (Part 1)

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:50:26 -0700

[size=medium]This is a ROUGH DRAFT!!! Bear with me as I try to make this tutorial easier to understand!

Ok, I would like to start this journal entry by saying this: The easiest way to post multiple images on the MG Experience is to become a member. Gold Members can attach up to 7 pictures per post without having to use an external site like Picasa. In addition, just think of all of the money you save because of the information you can look up and access on this site. Skye does an excellent job running this site and it is an invaluable resource, so please support the site by becoming a member.

Having said that, there are a number of reasons to use a site like Picasa Web Albums to post pictures in your posts.

You can post pictures anywhere in your post, not just at the bottom.
The pictures are stored elsewhere, so they put less of a strain on the MG Experience server.
You can post larger photos that are easier to see.

To do this, yo...

fiona: Plug Wire Drama

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 19:08:16 -0700

after driving Fiona for a week and getting to know her I new that there was a bit of a miss at higher speeds and a residual unburned gas smell from the exaust. So the only prudent thing to do is order all new plugs wires cap and rotor. right? much to my dismay this did not help my problem but actually made it worse. after playing around with the firing order by chance it started to run much better. Who would have known they were wrong from the previous owner. after googling this website I was able to confirm my suspicions the 2 and 3 plugs were indeed switched.

unfort the high speed miss still persists. any suggestions?

mgchap: Mgb Transmission I.d.

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 19:01:13 -0700

i bought a 1980 mgb and received a rebuilt overdrive transmission (still in the crate)as part of the deal. when i went to sell the transmission, i was told it is not for a 1980. can someone help me identify what i have? it fills from the top and has a dipstick. i can email more pics.

pgmidget: Another Midget

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:59:19 -0700

Not in to bad shape, I would like to get it running then do a restoration this winter.

johnymac60: New Friend

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:56:13 -0700

Well, I got a new friend for my MG. Now I have two projects! Will the fun never end!?!?

LspikerG: Progress Report

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 15:51:39 -0700

Wow today was a great day thanks to Paul giving me a hand. Not only did we get the front cross member attached properly and torqued down we also got the rear axle and rear springs attached. Thanks to Paul it was amazing how a little help helped the job to that much quicker. Just awesome thanks Paul that was huge what you helped me accomplish today..

GG1 Engine: Fixing The Rear End "clunk"

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:56:34 -0700

Today the quest continues with more great discoveries. The past few days Iâ��ve been working through replacing all the bushings and the two rear leaf springs. After a day of removing worn out bushings and busted springs, the car was lowered to the groundâ�¦only to discovered that I know have a jacked up drag racer with a 3 to 4 inch lift in the back. Bummer
So while I contemplate on how to fix the spring issueâ�¦I discovered another â��clankâ�� in the back end. This time the noise came from the Right side axel. As I crawled under the car and started shaking it from side to side, I noticed that the brake hub was popping out by at least Â¼ inch. I donâ��t think it supposed to do that.
Further inspection showed that the axel nut had a jack hammer taken to it years ago when Granddad had the wheel bearing replaced. It seems that whoever did the work didnâ��t have the right tool, so they improvisedâ�¦which also means t...

basketcase: A Year Later

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 19:07:33 -0700

well, life has its way of getting in the way of my little projects. Life has slowed down enough to turn my attention back to the little rust bucket.

The body is now in storage, as this project competes for space with a boat in my two car garage. Next step is to repair some pretty significant damage around the sill area in the frame, on both sides. After that, the rear and front suspension come off for a rebuild. I'm pretty worried about the frame though, as the box tubes are rotten for about 12 inches from the bottom up to about 2 inches from the top of the tube. Lot of new metal needed. Hope my welding skills are up to the task.

backyardcnc: Drilling, Drilling And More Drilling.

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:14:32 -0700

Well actually a lot of drilling but all the outside edges were punched with a hand punch. So that's it the floorpan is basically ready for welding in except I need some 1/4"-28 nuts to weld into place for the seat mounts before I weld it in. Hopefully I will get the nuts tomorrow and start the welding before the weekend. I decided to do all plug welding on the floorpan since my plug welds are much nicer than my seam welding. Of course all edges will be sealed with seam sealer and the complete underside of the car will be re-undercoated once all is done so will be plenty strong and watertight.

cheers
Gerald

backyardcnc: Tires Mounted Ready To Roll!

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:08:12 -0700

Well progress has been slow past week owing to household projects but I did get the tires mounted onto the freshly painted wheels. I also got another spare ROSTYLE wheel over the weekend since I didn't have a spare for the car. It will be refinished like these 4 and a new matching tire mounted.

Cheers
Gerald

crb71: My Notes So Far.....

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 13:58:43 -0700

1967 MGB Restoration Journal

June 11,2010

Purchased car from William â��Johnnyâ�� Call for $2000. He already removed the bumpers, seats, carpeting, and badges. Kid and the boys came over and helped roll it off the trailer. See page one of the photos.

June 13,2010

Went through the parts Johnny removed and inspected them; most in very good shape.

June 14,2010

Haynes MGB Restoration book came today.

June 18,2010

Kid and the boys came up and helped to push the car into the garage. Restoration begins tomorrow.

June 19,2010

I started the strip down of the car. Removed a lot of parts. Dan came by and helped get the car up on floor jacks. See page two of the photos. Ordered the ignition switch and new key cylinder.

June 20,2010

Removed all the side trim and all the door parts. See page three of the photos. Opened the gas tank to drain any fuel; nothing came out, but Iâ��ll leave the cap and plug out fo...

RHM: Day By Day

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 21:57:04 -0700

After a long weekend of cleaning and painting, Molly's front and rear inside fender wells look much better. And with the guidence of Keith Ansell, I have rebuilt and tidied up the entire front end suspension. Getting better little by little.

JLouis707: MGB Restoration - Entry 6

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 08:46:55 -0700

I added a few additional pictures of the stripped fenders and trunk lid.

GILMGA: Back On The Road

Sun, 04 Jul 2010 08:42:01 -0700

In my previous journals I was discussing the noise I had in my MKII differential, what I found and my course of action. I had never tackled this and the factory manual required a bunch of gages and measurement. First I noted where the pinion gears meshed and by feel the backlash between the two. Then I took the caps off the differential carrier bearings and marked which side eachl cap fot its original side. Since I didnt have the special tools I used my engineering training. As I took each bearing off of the differential gear cluster I carefully saved the shims. Then I measured each bearing race for thickness and recorded it. When I got the new bearings I measured the thickness of the race and recorded it. The new bearing and the old bearing races were the same as the old ones. Of course I bought the most expensive bearing that the mfg made for this application with the closest manufacturing tollerence. If they had been off by more that .001 I would have added or subtracted shims as necessary.
I th...

smxegrizzlybear: MG Midget

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 10:09:27 -0700

I bought this car in Feb. I fixed; new top, headlight switch, new turn signal switch, replaced the leaky oil pan gasket, new fuel pump, and fuel line, new tires, with the Seattle weather we been having I had to purchase new wiper arms and blades.

I drove it to Spokane, Washington and the fuel pump went out, that was an adventure.

It has been fun to drive.

PaulM: MGC GT Almost Completed

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 07:09:45 -0700

Afew photos of the C after paint (Primrose) and most trim installed

cfowler: 2010 Journal

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 06:04:25 -0700

July 3, 2010

I can't believe how long it been since I last posted a journal entry. This one is a result of recent maintenance. A couple years back I did a rebuild of my clutch master cylinder. Last year it began to leak on my shoes again. After a quick drive a couple weeks back I came home parked it in the garage removed the CMC and ordered a new one from Octagon ($149 + tax & Shipping). Part arrived yesterday and I set forth to getting my car on the road ASAP (It was a sunny day!!) This is a tight fit and it took me a while to figure out how to get things put back together. I realized that by removed the knock out in the firewall it allowed me to access the bolt in the back of the cylinder. Finally got things in place and tightened up. Bled the line (I think) with a good stream pouring through. Took the car for a run (YEAH) only to realize both my brake lights and signal lights no longer worked. Posted to the forum for some advice on the matter. Good to be back.

Hughman: The Beginning...

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 05:27:04 -0700

The test drive went great, car runs well and is tight. Not a speck of rust anywhere. I buy.

The drive home is about 100 miles. I'm not concerned about the car making it. I fill up the tank and head for home. My brother-in-law, Dave, is following behind in case of trouble.

Car running beautifully. Coming close to home down a country lane with the top down on a cool summer night is really great. I'm starting to relax now as I get closer and closer to home. I'm thinking that I am really going to enjoy this car. Then without warning the engine stops and I pull over.

Sounds like it's out of gas, but I filled the tank and only drove 79 miles. I'm stopped in front of a South Jersey farmhouse. The farmer offers to help, and brings a gas can over to add some fuel. A few minutes later I am back on the road, but very sure something is wrong. I know there is gas in the tank, I could hear it swish when pushing down on the car. Anyway, I get to a gas station and fill 'er up. It tak...

GG1 Engine: New Springs

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 05:27:01 -0700

After putting it off for so long, the day has arrived to replace the leaf springs on the olds girl. New springs came in yesterday from V.B., along with new bolts and bushings. I'm sure the hardest part is going to be getting the old ones off, but I guess I'll out soon enough.

-three hours later: Things are going fair. The driver side spring is off. All bolts and connectors cleaned. Getting ready to put things back together again. I took the rubber bump off to replace it. However, since its not bolted on, but goes over a metal knob it will be tricky getting back on.

MDS031508: Under Hood Electrical

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:50:57 -0700

Have finished most of the re-wiring of the under hood electrical. Replaced the stock fuse box with a modern box - blade fuses. Installed a power distribution junction for the power feeds to the new relays installed for headlight. Will put in another relay if I decided to put a heater in the car. . .still undecided. Took off all of the winding cover and cleaned up the old wiring. Won't put winding back on unless I find areas where chaffing might be a problem.

MDS031508: Rear Deck

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 17:46:47 -0700

Finished some of the rear deck interior work today. No rear seat: decided not to put in what will never be used. Flat rear deck in place now. The front two sections pivot for access to the battery box, and the rear deck is hinged for access to the spare. Deck is covered with black carpet. Slide rails are 1 inch strips of oak.

mgholland: OD Is In!

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 13:02:29 -0700

Finally got enough time to install my overdrive unit. First I had to adjust it a little so it would work correctly with my speedo. I had three options:
1. recalibrate the speedo: a quite expensive operation over here, about $250;
2. buy a new/used one: I searched the internet for a fitting model, but there is not that much offered in the style my speedo looks like. Plus there always is a risk that the thing doesn't work and you have to take option 1 as well;
3: change the speedo gear and pinion on the overdrive unit.

Option 1 and 2 weren't that attractive to me, but option 3 scared the hell out of me. Remember, I'm no mechanic... Luckily there's a guy in our neighborhood who seems to have rebuilt numerous overdrives and gearboxes in the past. I visited him and he took the thing apart. Lucky me, because the annulus seemed to have massive wear on the outer edge. Luckily he had some broken OD units from which we could take a fine looking annulus.

Back in my friends workshop w...

twhiteca: MG2010

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:37:17 -0700

Well the first trip to the field for "Abeja" and with the rain coming down and beating an early retreat to head for home, I was very pleased to hear later that the car was voted 3rd in Class "E".

When I think back to the bare tub that I had in October '08 to how she looks today, I am proud that the work done stands her in respectable stead with her peers.

Now if I can just get the Missus to go along with a few more bucks to get a new steering wheel and some of the fuel hosing tarted up .......

phatkaw: Return To MG Motoring

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:48:18 -0700

After being away from MG's since 1985, I recently (5/10) received (via trade for motorcycle)a 1976 B. Previously, I owned 1967, 1978 and 1979-1/2 MGB's. My wife is as thrilled (almost) as I to be back in an MG and I look forward to many more years of ownership.

palouseB: Rollbar Install

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 11:04:33 -0700

The rollbar is kind of a pain when it comes to folding or raising the top but since we live in a rural area it was reinstalled. With the curvey, narrow, 2 lane roads here, accidents overwhelming involve cars leaving the road and in which case typically results in a roll over.

gleders1: Engine Back In

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 05:37:00 -0700

Took the plunge and started cleaning the engine etc. Not a full rebuild by any means but its suprising how a little bit of cleaning and renewing basics, can make things look better. Obviously new gaskets but also repainting , and just cleaning works wonders. Slightly worried abount the replacement head I purchased ages ago.Quite a lot was skimmed off the head and I am running with dommed top pistons, therefore the compression may be too high. We shall see! Spare parts are not particularly expensive but judging by my Bank balance recently, they soon add up.

JLouis707: MGB Restoration - Entry 5

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 14:18:25 -0700

My MG restoration continues with removal of the interior and body panels. The front fenders, hood and trunk lid have been completely chemically stripped and sanded. All of the major panel repairs have been completed. The only major repair was the front left fender where the previous owner hit and dented the fender.

Skeezix: Getting Back To It.

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 10:50:00 -0700

Hi all,
I am new here but not new to the MG world. I have had this car since about 1994, through three moves and still have all the parts. Now that I have some free time, I am finally getting back to the project. In my profile there is before and current shots. Another is here

backyardcnc: Painted Ladies............

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 21:50:14 -0700

Well a bit of sandblasting and a few spray bombs and "voila" the rusty Rostyles look great again. Not perfect mind you, me and spray paint never work together that well but certainly they easily pass the 5 ft test and at 100yds and 60mph they look like factory fresh. Painting outdoors is always fraught with airborne dust and stuff that always seems to settle where you don't want it. But hey they look good and it's just a driver fix-up not a concours restoration. Compare this attached picture with the one of the complete car in the vehicle registry and get a good before and after comparison!

Gerald

Sprite Lou: GT: - 06.24.10

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 20:57:26 -0700

Well, let's see, since last entry I've done the following:

- replaced all brake hoses
- bled brakes
- sandblasted rims (vendor)
- painted rims (myself, classic silver/black)
- new tyres for Father's Day
- registered and insured
- got drivers' door to lock with key
- installed underdash antenna
- "woke up" the stereo

Have had it safely driveable since June 25 and been driving it everyday since.

What a blast having a GT!

GILMGA: REAR END NOISE

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:47:02 -0700

I have been working on replacing bearings in my diferential after catastophic failure of one carrier bearings noted in the last journal.
I pulled bearings and cleaned out the housing of brass bearing cage pieces. I ordered new bearings but the ones I recieved for the carrier from my supplier with Moss part number came with steel ball cages. The originals had bronze cages so I found some that matched the original. I put new pinion bearings in also. I found when installing the pinion bearings I needed some shims to preload the roller bearings. I got those yesterday. I put the differentioal gears and pinion back together today. I will probably install the chunk back into the housing soon.

Bandersnatch: 6/29/2010 Update

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 15:29:58 -0700

Door sills and posts are finished but repairs to the fender doglegs have stalled out. To date, I have been able to work with a cheap Century welder, but after purchasing a brand new Miller-matic I found the problem was with my welding skills. Yesterday I towed the car to a local shop and am having them give me a quote to do the finish body work and primer it. Depending on the cost, I may also have them paint it.

I dropped the engine off at the mechanic's and with any luck I'll have the chassis ready to drop it onto when he gets done with the rebuild.

Carla: She's Here! The Journey Part I

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 11:01:34 -0700

When I had my first Midget in the mid 1970's it wasn't long before I found all about slalom racing in the Vancouver B.C. Area. For the most part, slalom races were held at Westwood racetrack and Boundary Bay Airport. It wasn't long before I was bitten by the slalom bug, and so I embarked on a epic journey of love with my midget. She was given the full spectrum treatment: new MG Pit-crew SCCA-prepped engine, race cam from Huffaker, Piston rings from Sweden, body work that included some tasteful flares, front air dam and 27 coats of hand rubbed lacquer paint in a candy maroon color with custom lettering that read BIONIC_MIDGET, and a white diamond leather interior. I did most of the work myself on the body and interior but had some help and guidance from some very talented people.

I had the car for several years. She stood by me when boyfriends wouldn't. She was stolen, but recovered. Driven into a tree and repaired. I spent every extra dime I had on her however it was an expense of love, and not don...

jcraven: In For The Long Haul

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:44:55 -0700

OK, so now after four months of listeningto advice, both pro and con, stripping the Midget, pulling the engine and transmission and apprising what the project will look like if I continue - I have decided to truly bite the bullet and go all the way.

As some have pointed out, for a 1973 MG Midget I could likely buy one that runs for the price of fixing "Molly" up. But, that would allow someone else to have all the fun and I would just have another car to drive.

So, here is what I see having to be done.
1. Rescue "Molly" from field. (done)
2. Pull the engine (done
3. Remove gas tank (done)
4. Remove exhaust system (done)
5. Remove all interior fixings:carpet, siding, etc. (done)
6. Powerwash undercarriage and everything else (done)
7. Remove all wiring. (done)
8. Remove what was left of floor. (done)

Still to do in summer 2010.
1. Stop the corrosion either by grinding it out (most of it) and then using a product...

Lucky John: My First Experience With My 1976 MG Midget

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 13:05:37 -0700

Myself and my wife head to edmonton ( 5 hours) looking for the ultimate MG. After 2 days of looking we finally purchase our new dream car, a 1976 MG midget from a nice couple in Edmonton.It would not start and when it did it leaked oil from the top pan. Off to Canadian Tire to purchase a new battery and gasket to get the car home. Leaving Edmonton at 7 p.m on a sunday night to head back to northern Alberta.Two hours into our trip the head gasket decides to start leaking oil. Found a nice mechanic in a town called Grasslands who happened to still be at his shop at 11 p.m on a sunday night ( unreal). He let me store the car inside and would look at it in the morning. O.K. so we continue on to Fort Mcmurray because the wife has to work in the morning.It was a relief knowing the car was safe. About 10km down the road i decided to pass the Tractor trailer as we were a little pushed for time. Going at a speed of about 140 kmh a Moose decides to cross the highway in front of my truck just to test my reaction skil...

MaggieB: Brakes, Brakes, And Brakes

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 06:44:10 -0700

Plus the radiator. In hindsight I should have started at the Master Cylinder and worked out. Instead, I started at the rear wheels, the cylinders looked good, no leaks. Shoes and drums look excellent, I cleaned things up and went to the front. Pads and rotors look great. Cleaned out the piston chambers. Cleaned out the MC and started bleeding the system to get the junk out. The fluid was black the finally cleared up, but every time I road tested the front calipers froze and locked the wheels. Cleaned out the pistons again and started the bleeding process again. Next thing I know I'm pressing the brake pedal and have fluid all inside the cockpit. So now I've pulled the MC and will replace it. In the meantime, I figured it made sense to clean and paint the area behind and below the where the MC sits since I can't buy parts over the weekend and it starts the restoration process. 3 coats of primer and two coats of black gloss should make the engine compartment look a bit better. Also had to replace the radiato...

DDD: Clutch Problem

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 17:29:13 -0700

Hi Everyone,

I am new member of this forum. I have a question for my not running 1979 MGB.

I just bought it last month. I found out clutch is seized. Today I jerked it, it didn't work. Before that I checked hydraulics, it is moving the clutch arm under car when I press the clutch.

I read thru comments, all topics about seized clutch related to running engine.

Mine is not running engine, is there any way to fix this problem without taking engine and transmission out?

Thank you so much for help.

Todd: Starter Relay/ Fuse Block

Sat, 26 Jun 2010 17:26:16 -0700

I spent the morning replacing the fuse block and refurbing the starter relay.

The old fuse block had become brittle and bits were breaking off when I tried to remove fuses. Replaced it with a new one from Moss. Looks almost identical. I also removed some wiring kludge the DPO had done to get a radio to work. Took some simple green to the wiring and harness in this area, looks better...

I checked the wiring from the steering column to the starter relay, all was good. The relay itself needed some work so I removed that, cleaned the exterior with the wire wheel, opened it up and found the points quite dirty. Took some fine emery paper to the points and the dremel fit with a mini wire wheel to all the contacts... Re-installed and all was good.

Another problem fixed!

mgb4gary: Interior Is Finished.

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 14:22:46 -0700

Well the interior is now blue. Had some problems with the panels on the passsenger side but new panels are on the way. For now, here are a few before and after pics.

cokerart: Camshaft Timing.

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 07:22:11 -0700

I realized that with the head still off, I have an opportunity to align the cam and crank very simply. This has been a quandary, since replacement sprockets (manufactured by County and sold everywhere.) have no timing marks.

By temporarily fitting the timing cover and sliding on the timing pulley, I can "dial in" the crankshaft to 0 degrees @ TDC, visually checking the timing mark on the pulley with the timing arrow on the cover.

Rotating the cam to between the lobes on cylinder #1 (As per the Bentley manual) puts both closed, so I then installed the head. Checking the valves with pushrods in place, I was still on the money, so I removed the cover and pulley and installed the new duplex chain.

Wilkiewheels: June 2010 - Motor Rebuild

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 21:47:46 -0700

Well I didn't expect to have to go through the complete motor but when I realized the pistons were in 180 degrees backwards I started having some concerns. I did the tear down in August 2009 and with a full time paying job i am finally almost done with the reassembly.

backyardcnc: Wheels In Primer.

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 20:17:57 -0700

Well today's project involved removing the old tires from my Rostyles and giving them- rims a complete and thorough sandblasting on both sides. Immediately as I finished a wheel I gave it a good coat of RUST CHECK primer to ensure the metal stays clean. Once this dries overnight I will lay on a good coat of hi-build primer-filler which will get rid of the rough texture left by the sandblasting and leave a nice smooth surface for several coats of silver/gray paint before the final coats of blsck are offered up to the appropriately masked off area's.................but maybe I am getting ahead of myself!
Very Very anxious to see how much better the car will look with the newly refinished wheels and 4 matched tires. Oh yes I better get some sidewall cleaner so those threads look their best on mounting up day!

cheerio
Gerald

jegliebe3: ALl Paint Finally Removed

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 08:33:50 -0700

We, my neighbor and I, have completed removing all existing external paint from the GT. It had two coats of paint. We had few surprises which include some body putty, some leaded areas, and some areas that wer brazed. In all, these previous repairs were well done and I will only replace the putty, with liquid metal (aluminum).

ejh27051946: Mid-week In Germany

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:34:07 -0700

nice roadrun to Germany in June...

backyardcnc: Blasting Ahead On The Project!

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 21:15:20 -0700

Pun intended.....today was sandblasting day or actually glass blasting day as the local supplier now sells recycled crushed glass instead of sand. Works very nicely actually and I was most pleased. Cleaned up all the edges and inside frame members on the rightside and as well as the heelboard area of the left side. In addition to that I also did a preliminary blasting of the rims on the car with the tires still on. I actually bought 4 used but basically new tires on Kijiji today and will get the old tires off tommorrow and hopefully paint the wheels by weekend. Fresh wheels and tires will really make the project look better to the wife :-)

The downside of today was after putting the car up on 4 axle stands and removing the wheels I thought I would pull the rear brake drums. Bummer that axle seasls are bad on both sides and the brake shoes likely runned from the oily mess. Oh and th ebump stop pedestals are rusted away..............typical

cheers
gerald

ourmg: Summer Driving

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 04:36:28 -0700

I've been to a car show each weekend so the summer must be here. Unfortunately the weather hasn't been cooperating for the regular cruise nights during the week. I've not yet been able to get to Fairport's cruise night, but have been to the Log cabin on Wednesdays. I went to the Bristol Fun days car show on 6/13, and the weather was iffy. I parked near a '29 Packard sports roadster that was amazing. The Jack's from the MG club were there with their TR3. On Father's day I went to the Sonnenberg Gardens Father's day car show and the weather was great and lots of cars attended. Ran into several MG club members there and as I was leaving they were selecting John Thompson's Riley as one of best of show.

backyardcnc: RH Floor Totally Removed!

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 20:00:57 -0700

Well some time in the shop today and I got the passenger side floor totally removed and did a trial fit on the new floor pan. SWEET is all I can say. Just have to trim the lips off all around on this aftermarket floorpan (Steelcraft) and it will drop right in. I got the flanges all around more or less cleaned up of the old spot welds and all that's left to do is the sandblast and priming of all the mating surfaces. The weather has been much too humid and clumping sand is a royal pain in the backside when trying to sandblast so hopefully we get a few hot and dry days so I can get it all blasted clean.

I also spend some time cleaning up the wheelarch brace section in preparation for welding in the new splash panel extension bracket. After going thru all this rust repair it would be best to try keeping the water out and to that end I got all new seals for the splash panels as well!

Cheerio