http://www.autoshrine.com/ en Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:27:06 -0700 15 2856 http://www./journal//2856 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 13:38:32 -0700 Plenty of that Carolina blue sky for all three days. The six car caravan was fun and added security. That location on the Cape Fear river with the battleship on one side add the old downtown Wilmington on the other is a very pretty spot for a car show.<br /> 2855 http://www./journal//2855 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 06:13:21 -0700 Almost a year since we got started and several thousand dollars later, I am beginning to see progress. The shell is back and in good form, with work beginning on the re-population of the shell with all the pieces that make her a car worth driving. In addition to the body work and new paint, I've added new gaskets and seals all around (MacGregor Car Parts specialty), new seat vinyls and door panels, new carpet, and a new dash. I am still waiting on the new hood insulation, but the work progresses.<br /> 2854 http://www./journal//2854 Fri, 10 Oct 2008 06:12:59 -0700 The engine is in good shape - rebuilt in Ohio by a man who used to race MG Midgets, it has a 3/4 race cam and high compression cylinders, racing plugs and other goodies too numnerous to mention. Let's say that I used to run this lovely beast from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Ithaca, New York in under 7 hours, without the benefit of overdrive - and enjoyed every minute of the drive. <br /> <br /> We will be adding a new oil pump, paint, and a good cleaning of all the parts. The steering rack and rear axel (steel wheels) will come out and the wire wheel set of axels installed. I'll be putting mirrors on the fenders and eagerly look forward to driving her again. <br /> <br /> It's now time to start considering making a home for her in the garage where my boys will have difficulty scratching the paint and dinging the doors.<br /> 2853 http://www./journal//2853 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 16:22:58 -0700 Hey all<br /> here is a pic of the 68 MGB i picked up in June<br /> It was in a garage for close to 20 years the PO took good care to prep the motor for the long storage (Id say he put alota motor oil down the cylinders, as the rings were not stuck)<br /> <br /> When i had some time I drained the fuel tank, bleed the lines, cleaned out the carb bowls and lubed up the cylinders with marvels mystery oil let it set for a few days and the son of a gun started right up!!!<br /> <br /> I hope to pick up a used interior shortly and do some body work and front end bushings this winter, and hope to be driving it in the spring..<br /> <br /> I'll be posting pics as the progress rolls forward.<br /> <br /> Scott<br /> 2852 http://www./journal//2852 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 06:59:59 -0700 Just thought I'd post these pics of the first annual Mckenzie Town, Calgary,Ab car show. The Calgary MG club had a good showing of cars.<br /> 2851 http://www./journal//2851 Thu, 09 Oct 2008 06:56:21 -0700 Just received the trunk floor panel yesterday, along with 4 new wire rims. Yahoo!! Now to get the frame issue finally resolved.<br /> 2850 http://www./journal//2850 Wed, 08 Oct 2008 06:03:10 -0700 Well quite a lot has happened since my last journal.<br /> <br /> Some time ago I replaced the front wiring loom, no real issues, just some very tender finger tips! At the same time I fitted a smart screen intermittent wiper system. God it's good! One click or wiper switch, pause up to 2 mins, another click and it carries on wiping at that interval - just right for drizzle!<br /> <br /> I thought I'd upgrade the suspension, after lots of umming and ahhing I decided to go for gas shocks all round. The rear were gas shocks but non-adjustable and the brackets were homemade and a bit of bodge. I now have adjustable front and rear. I may try firming them up a bit, shortly.<br /> <br /> It had been using alot of oil. I know it was burning it but a lot was disappearing. Whilst replacing the head gasket (oil in the rad) my friend spotted oil dripping out from a split in the underside of one oil cooler pipes, I have now replaced them with braided ones. These look mighty fine!<br /> <br /> There's been quite a ...<br /> 2849 http://www./journal//2849 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 18:06:03 -0700 With the right side done- I need to focus on the left side. This will be a bit more complicated, since the MAF and turbo intake pipe are in this area as well. I will first build an ABS mockup, so I can figure how much to dish the fender. Here are some pictures of a couple views of the area I have to work with.<br /> 2848 http://www./journal//2848 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:58:34 -0700 After measuring the ABS mockup- I ordered a polished aluminum pipe 45 deg bend and cut the legs to size. Fits pretty nice with the silcone connectors I picked up as well.<br /> 2847 http://www./journal//2847 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:48:23 -0700 It's now 2 weeks since I bought my '69 MGB. In that time I have concentrated on making the car 1)Safe and 2)Legal after the previous owner's many years of neglect. Firstly I worked on the lights only a few were working, some needed globes others needed attention to the wiring and some just needed fiddling. I have replaced the cracked windscreen (after having taken the advice from this website), fitted new window winders and a door handle, given it a major service and paid much attention to the worst of the bodywork dilemas. However the most serious work has been in the front suspension. I found amongst the paperwork a reciept for a service dated more than 4 years ago with a list of faults that neede attention. At the top of the list was the fact that the Front LH shocker was only being held on by two bolts. Upon my inspection I discovered this was still the case!!!!. I have now renewed the oil in the shockers and fitted two new bolts, needless to say the handling has been transformed. Most of the work needed ...<br /> 2846 http://www./journal//2846 Tue, 07 Oct 2008 02:30:16 -0700 I decided to replace the carpet with a roll I bought from Wal-Mart. Obviously the first step is removing the seats, old carpet and cleaning everything up. I wish I'd been lazier. I found my floorpans are a little bit more rusted than I originally thought. There's a few small cracks and 2 large-ish hole in the driver's side. One near the accelerator (where all the water pours in from the vent) and another where the front left seat bolt used to be. Now I need to decide if I want to learn to weld now or in 5-10 years.<br /> 2845 http://www./journal//2845 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:09:28 -0700 Well, I think the car is teasing me. I got it going the other night. But, now it won't start. I think the starter motor is jammed. Gonna have to take it apart I'm afraid. Good news is that for some odd reason, I'm kind of looking forward to the challenge. The best part about all this is calling up the old man to get advice to try and solve this one.<br /> 2844 http://www./journal//2844 Mon, 06 Oct 2008 10:25:52 -0700 Decided to restore original wheels - one with a ding, had buddy remove the tires, and plan to sand blast and powder coat them - then use paint masks and make em like new. Tires went in the week of October 1, 2008.<br /> 2843 http://www./journal//2843 Sun, 05 Oct 2008 14:26:41 -0700 After over ten years without an MG I have finally got myself a 64 B roadster.<br /> 2842 http://www./journal//2842 Sat, 04 Oct 2008 20:23:54 -0700 Today I joined this website because I have decided to sell this automobile. I have enjoyed it for 20 years and kept it in good repair. I find that now I no longer drive the car as I used to, I have been retired 15 years, and so I hope to sell it to someone who will enjoy it as much as I have and give it alittle more activity.<br /> Bill Eich<br /> 2841 http://www./journal//2841 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:20:02 -0700 I spent the whole summer earning extra cash and after spotting a midget for sale on craigslist I had to check it out. Once I saw it I knew I had to have it and two days later I showed up with the cash. Now its a 1979 Midget, the miles im not sure about because all the gauges are disconnected. The title say 58k and thats what the gauge reads. I paid 1250... <br /> This is a big project for me. As i took the rear wheels off I noticed some oil and later with a friend discovered that rear bearings were redone but whom ever did it did not put the oil seals in...<br /> Next i discovered the car dies after a bit, and there is just way too much gas in the carburetor. I'll have to figure out a way to adjust that...<br /> I have a shop manual but it has not helped much especialy with the steering wheel. I am replacing the turn signal unit and have to take the steering wheel off, but can not figure out for the life of me how to do it. The manual describes some type of a hidden screw on some models, but I can not fin...<br /> 2840 http://www./journal//2840 Fri, 03 Oct 2008 01:37:34 -0700 My selfmade wind-deflector for cold weather. Used a wall-ancor, pelxiglass and vinyl. Later I painted the metal-parts black (not on picture).<br /> 2839 http://www./journal//2839 Thu, 02 Oct 2008 05:56:30 -0700 It's worth it - from scratch.<br /> Cost's just as much as a completed loom. Now I've leart and practiced the principals.<br /> Midget Mk III, UK 1500 onwards to end of production, USA GAN5105+.<br /> It's all laid out ready for testing.<br /> In places I've used thicker gauges than necessary for reliability. That and because I couldn't find the correct ones.<br /> Hazzards &amp; turn signals with one flasher relay. The most interesting section. Then horn. Then Wipers.<br /> I added more relays &amp; parkers.<br /> Months of theory into practice. Alterering fron plans,<br /> 2838 http://www./journal//2838 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:49:04 -0700 This is a list issues I want to fix or change with Serendipity:<br /> <br /> 1. The "shaved" cylinder head gives me the following compression readings: 1)130 2)140 3)165 4)160. The head was barely touched during the budget engine rebuild, and I've played with valve adjustments to no effect. I intend to simply have the head professionally tended to. It appears as though only the back end was shaved...<br /> 2. I need to install and tune the HIFs.<br /> 3. Need to address oil leaks. I know the cause of at least one leak.<br /> 4. The biscuit interior has simply got to go. I liked the idea at the time, but have since seen pictures of a damask red B with black interior on this board that I simply covet. Rather than steal the poor guy's car, I'm going to redo my interior.<br /> 5. Must finish reinstalling the vapor recovery system including the anti-runon valve, and rebuild the carbon canister.<br /> 6. I have many new parts for a rear end restore that I never did the first time around. The springs ...<br /> 2837 http://www./journal//2837 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:36:34 -0700 Since moving to Tennessee, I have seen exactly 2 MGBs. Both are in the back yard of a fellow down the road from me, and both are about ready to collapse in a heap of orange dust. This is not surprising. I live in a rural area, and MGBs have become relatively rare. <br /> I found a better job, my current job, last year, right about the time I installed the 5-speed. This job has me driving around a bit, though not constantly. In February of 2008, I was on the road for my job, and was looking for a shortcut back to the office, when I recognized the name of a road that I knew would take me very close. I had never had a reason to go down this road before, and in the mood for some new scenery, I took it. There was a sign that announced a salvage yard up ahead, and when I passed it, I caught a glimpse of something deep within that looked like it might be an MG. I couldn't tell from the fleeting glimpse I got, but made a note to come back by as soon as I could arrange it and take a better look.<br /> It to...<br /> 2836 http://www./journal//2836 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:56:39 -0700 I decided that the quick and dirty restore I did in 2003 really wasn't doing the car justice. I had done nothing to the body, and had had the engine rebuilt by someone that wasn't really knowledgeable about MGBs. The car ran ok, but that Weber was a pain in the nether region to say the least. On top of that, the "new" master cylinder was leaking down my pedal everytime I hit the brakes. The engine could not breathe properly, and was spitting oil out of every possible joint. I had a Toyota Celica that was my daily driver, and was used to 5th gear, and 4th gear was about to shatter my teeth. <br /> The problem had been getting set up in the new household, and adjusting to a much smaller paycheck. I took shortcuts that I was now regretting.<br /> I started wanting to trade out the transmission for one of the 5-speed kits available. Around Christmas 2006, there appeared in the parking lot of a gas station on my way to work, a 1983 280zx for sale for $800. I jotted down the number and called the guy and...<br /> 2835 http://www./journal//2835 Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:22:01 -0700 ... I was in high-school. One of my best friends, to whom I haven't spoken in over 20 years, owned a flame red MGB that we spent all our time in autoshop messing with. The paint had faded to a dull orange, it never had a first gear, and the starter was cranky enough that we had to push start it about 50% of the time. But I loved that car. My parents would not let me have one, because they thought it was too small to be safe. But I swore I'd have one when I moved out.<br /> That was 1987. In 88 I graduated and soon moved out and went to college. It took ten years to finally buy my first house with a garage, and the search was on. In 1999 I bought my first MG. It was a green 1976 dog that I hauled home for $900. It never ran, and after buying several thousand dollars worth of parts, I found that the frame was crooked, and the rust more extensive than I thought. I abandoned it in a friend's field. Literally.<br /> I thought about the mess I'd made, and had already joined this forum, and was falling...<br /> 2834 http://www./journal//2834 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 23:28:47 -0700 My little MGB sat in storage for over 10 years. So, now it's being driven again and all the little gremlins of neglect are popping up. <br /> <br /> So, for starters, I'm doing all the obvious things.. putting proper oil in the engine and transmission, replacing all the filters and gaskets that I can get to without doing major surgery, bleeding the brakes, new plugs and wires, fussing over the body and carpets and floor pans and other details because I want this car to come alive again! <br /> <br /> Tomorrow, a new exhaust system (from the factory) is replacing the Speedy Muffler kluge that came with the car, new springs are on the way, new radio goes in tomorrow, too! I want this car to be hot...<br /> <br /> Is there a welfare program for MGB lovers?<br /> 2833 http://www./journal//2833 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 19:02:06 -0700 Our run this month was to Castle Air Force base. It was about a 3 hr run one way for me. we meet up with 16 other cars in Fresno and headed north. Back roads there. Spent about 2hrs there then headed back on the freeway, cut about 30 min. off the time. next month is club car show. Check us out at valleybritish.org<br /> 2832 http://www./journal//2832 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:11:55 -0700 So, it's decided. I am going to rebuild this car. I dont care how much time it takes or how much it costs.<br /> <br /> The disassembly begins. I'm starting under the hood. As soon as my boys come over for a vist, we'll tackle the interior.<br /> 2831 http://www./journal//2831 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 14:21:10 -0700 edit<br /> 2830 http://www./journal//2830 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 10:13:55 -0700 A very good friend of mine has now got the "BUG" He has just got a very nice roadster, he picked it up on Saturday and by Sunday we were off on a run.<br /> The plan was to take some photos of the two cars, but this was hard as there was a lot of people about. And so we ended up on a private road in Surrey, and the best photo has had just a bit of playing with in Photo shop. You didnt think he would let his wife drive it at that speed did you?<br /> 2829 http://www./journal//2829 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:42:18 -0700 HI,This has been my first year with "WOB" my MGBGT. So far we have done the local Club run's and even driven up "TEST HILL" at BROOKLANDS, so far so good. I am looking forward to next year and hope to do a lot more.<br /> 2828 http://www./journal//2828 Mon, 29 Sep 2008 06:09:33 -0700 The B was not running right. It would die just a few seconds after starting. Rebuilt the carb, tried to time it but it would not stay running long enough. I swapped out the distributor, coil and all ignition with the parts car. The car started right up. Runs and drives. I think it floods out while idling though and will need some kind of attention there.<br /> 2827 http://www./journal//2827 Sun, 28 Sep 2008 08:48:25 -0700 Picture Bronte British Car Day<br /> 2826 http://www./journal//2826 Sat, 27 Sep 2008 20:10:56 -0700 Just picked up my new set of wheels. What a cool ride. I think I'll really like the heated seat this winter. Haven't figured out how to turn it off yet.<br /> <br /> Anyone else have that issue. I guess I should check the forum for info. <br /> <br /> What a fine, fun little car.<br /> 2825 http://www./journal//2825 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:36:22 -0700 Light on the dash would not go out even with the key out so took a look at the alternator and realized it was shot, also realized that this alternator was not the original and was just made to fit. Fnallly got a nice Bosch replacement and started to fit it, then found that the pulley did not line up, probably because the pulley was from the wrong alternator before, so now I am waiting again to order a replacement pulley. Ah the joys of owning an MGB.<br /> 2824 http://www./journal//2824 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 16:54:14 -0700 Now that I can go faster, I need to ensure that MAC will stop faster with the greatest reliability. My desire to maintain stock appearance has led me to a "big brake kit" developed by Brit-Tech Ltd. The kit is complete and I can install the larger V8 pads for increased stopping power. In addition to this kit, plans include replacing the hand brake boots and levers. This will completely replace all wear and rubber parts for the front and rear wheels.<br /> More later.<br /> 2823 http://www./journal//2823 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:38:54 -0700 Today I finished assembling part of the fuel system in the MGB. I replaced all the fuel lines, clamps, the float needle in the rear carb float bowl, the jet feed line in the rear carb and the gaskets for the carb to engine assembly. After I got it all together, turned the key and guess what...no more leaks. However, the fuel pump continues to run, and run loudly. Probably need to replace it. Next up...check on the cellanoid in the starter.<br /> 2822 http://www./journal//2822 Fri, 26 Sep 2008 10:20:11 -0700 Much to my annoyance, poor old Pumpkin (my B) hasn't been running very well for a few months. All indications are that there is a problem with the Zenith carb, or maybe something with the automatic choke. So, what do I do?<br /> <br /> ...I decide to pull it all out and replace it with SUs!<br /> <br /> This is clearly not a job for someone like me who can't even use a spanner. I'll probably rope my father into helping, but still - it's not going to be pretty.<br /> 2821 http://www./journal//2821 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 19:27:42 -0700 With the help of a friend who knows cars, I did my first tune up. replaced the plugs, gapped them to .035, replaced the rotor arm, the distributor cap, all the wires and the coil cable. It was easier than I thought! This weekend, I'm going to try replacing my heater valve. If I can only find the instructions in Bentley's.....<br /> 2820 http://www./journal//2820 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 13:11:10 -0700 Starting the swap of the original 4sp trans to a 5sp acquired from a 1982 Nissan 280zx. I'm going to try and document the process with pictures and journal entries as I go. As of now (9.24.08) I have the trans, the adapter plate, driveshaft and flywheel ring gear. As soon as I get the other needed parts, it's coming apart and the fun begins! While I've got the engine/trans out for the swap, I plan on cleaning up the engine and engine compartment and painting said items. (something I wish I had done when I painted the car, but never got around to.) I will also keep a record of how much it costs, I'm fairly sure it can be done substantially cheaper than the kits available out there. I don't have anything against the kits, just a shortage of MG funding... more later<br /> 2819 http://www./journal//2819 Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:48:39 -0700 Just got the B back from Ryan Automotive. They aligned the front end today and the car feels great. It tracks perfect and feels nice and tight with the new rack, tie rod ends and wheel bearings.<br /> 2818 http://www./journal//2818 Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:00:15 -0700 When I picked the car up at the shippers in Pittsburgh, I was very excited about the condition of my new MGBGT. The body was as the PO, had described, no rust. Life is good! The drive home was full of excitement. The throttle stuck in rush hour traffic and the brakes went out. It also took me 10 minutes to get the hood open. This was all just little stuff and life is still good.<br /> The next few days with the car reveal that there were a series of small problems that need to be dealt with. First, are the brakes. I replaced the master cylinder. Replaced the exhaust with a Peco system with header pipe. I also installed a Weber "Outlaw" carb and manifold. At present I am still tuning the new carb, but it still works much better than the DGV it came with. The wiper motor was also replaced along with new wiper arms and blades. I also replaced the squirter and fixed the heater ductwork while I was under the dash. The wiper motor did not have enough power to work on a dry windshield. I also replaced the hood re...<br /> 2817 http://www./journal//2817 Mon, 22 Sep 2008 17:36:49 -0700 Along about mid-August, I approached a nearby neighbor about the possibility of using her extra garage to store one of my vehicles. She was very agreeable to the idea, so the following week Nigel, our '59 Jaguar, made its way to its new home down the street.<br /> <br /> Nigel's transfer created an empty space in our own garage. Of course nature abhors a vacuum, so I dutifully set about arranging for a new occupant for that beckoning space! Many years ago, I had owned an old MG TD roadster and had found those old British cars held some allure for me. I'm not sure whether it is the smell of rotting leather, deteriorating horsehair, burning oil, or melting insulation that draws me to these anachronisms, like a moth to the flame, but after a good bit of reflection, it occurred to me that an MGA roadster might be the perfect addition to the collection. I contacted the local MG club, and was put in touch with Eric Schenk, a UT professor and owner of a well-seasoned MGA, who was kind enough to offer to let me ...<br /> 2816 http://www./journal//2816 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 19:29:14 -0700 Pulled the engine and gearbox today.<br /> 2815 http://www./journal//2815 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 17:38:38 -0700 It was a great trip. I drove 350 miles to get her and got back home at 9PM.<br /> <br /> It just happened to be a weekend where most of My family was at My house for the weekend. We got her into the garage and... now what?<br /> <br /> I decided on a preliminary inspection:<br /> Electrical doesn't look too bad.<br /> Tires and wheels in pretty good shape.<br /> Engine oil brand new.<br /> Engine looks sound.<br /> Lower aft right fender severe rust.<br /> Both fire walls severe rust.<br /> Left door frame extremely severe rust.<br /> Floor panels rebuilt with fiberglass from some PO.<br /> Both doors have 2 inch crack of doom.<br /> <br /> OMG what have I gotten Myself into. That door frame concerns Me the most. Is this just a parts car? or can it really be restored? I'm going to ask the forums.<br /> 2814 http://www./journal//2814 Sun, 21 Sep 2008 09:33:40 -0700 Just finished a 800 miles week-tour to the Belgian Ardennes. The car runs perfect and started even on a frosty morning directly ( thanks to the new startermotor and new ignition coil- flame thrower, ignition lead, spark plugs, contactpoints etc.)<br /> I enjoyed the windy roads on the hills with less trafic, which 's awful in the Netherlands.<br /> 2810 http://www./journal//2810 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 18:17:23 -0700 At this point in time I would just like to get started with my journal. I am going to make this brief and in the future I am sure I will have much to add.<br /> <br /> When I was a kid my father got me interested in cars in general. He loved sports cars (which he nicknamed "shorts") although he never owned one.<br /> <br /> In 1969, I'll never forget the day he went with me to buy my first car which was a 1962 Sunbeam Alpine. I bought the Alpine for $350.00. The Alpine was black with a red interior, wire wheels with knock-offs and new white wall tires. It ran like a top. After having had the Alpine which is long gone now (at least to me) I was bitten by the LBC bug.<br /> <br /> I have many more stories to tell that span the years between that day in 1969 and now but I'll continue with those at another time. <br /> <br /> I just want to get one photo of my 1974 B posted today and I'll be happy.<br /> 2809 http://www./journal//2809 Sat, 20 Sep 2008 08:56:47 -0700 Overhauled! Not sure how long it took all up. Worked 14 hours today &amp; forgot to check any seats. No worries - she fouled at the master cylinder pipe connections. Could be worse. Still requires anti rattle shims &amp; more bleading. wont flash rust as much now.<br /> Takin it easy.<br /> 2808 http://www./journal//2808 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 20:52:53 -0700 we got our first MG from my girlfriends dad i am a honda tech but i love to wrench on anything that has threaded fasteners. ireally look forward to fixing up this old car. i want to be on the road tomarrow.<br /> 2807 http://www./journal//2807 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 19:22:24 -0700 My C is for sale. It won't come cheap and I don't want to hear from scammers or tire kickers. <br /> It will cost the buyer $9,000.00 and I will not budge from that. This is an all or nothing sale. It includes a large list of parts if sold seperately could pay for a lot of stuff but would be good to hang on to in order to finish it as a show car or just a driver. <br /> It has 42,655 original miles, I bought it with 29,500. Some of the spares are: an engine, transmission, bonnet in primer, new back bumper, new zip out rear window top still in the box, 123 ignition, new front grill, and Heritage certificate etc. <br /> On the car as new or rebuilt since 2004 are interior seats, carpet, tires, Mini lites, 7/8 front sway bar and 3/4 rear sway bar, GT springs with poly bushes, rebuilt rear shocks, new front shocks with blue poly bushes, rebuilt brake boosters, rebuilt bmc, rebuilt cmc, rebuilt cms, Head is set for no lead, cylinders 2,3,4,5 were honed and new rings put in. Water cavity from water pump to drive...<br /> 2806 http://www./journal//2806 Thu, 18 Sep 2008 17:55:51 -0700 Got the flywheel, clutch, pressure plate and HTOB in from BMC. Everything fits up OK with the exception of the HTOB. Looks like I am going to need a new front bearing retainer or mill the old one to have a stable base for the HTOB.<br /> <br /> Contacted Southwest Gear. After I send a few photos and measurements to them, they will recommend a retainer from the -- I believe he said 43 -- types he stocks.<br /> 2805 http://www./journal//2805 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 20:06:26 -0700 With the help and references of members of this forum I found a great Brit shop to help me with my B. That is where she is now, getting a new Weber carb, and associated manifold, exhaust, etc. We confirmed my rust issue so I'll be working to stop the rusting first with One Step as soon as possible. I can do a lot of this work myself, but I know when to hire a professional. I suspect there are new rockers, and even castle frame supports in her future. All the other mechanicals seem to be pretty good. PO had put new radiator, fuel tank, and misc parts. She does need a new rear transmission seal. Don't like that leak in my garage. Hoping to have her back on the road in a couple of weeks. I want to enjoy driving up in the NC and VA mountains in October and November.<br /> 2804 http://www./journal//2804 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 19:24:00 -0700 The intercooler was build and fitted last year, with the intent I would work out the pipe routing "later". I guess it's now later. I am starting with the "cold pipe", the intercooler to throttle body. In order to limit the pipe bends, I needed to dish out the inner fender. That new plasma cutter sure comes in handy! I am modeling the pipes with ABS first, then I'll bend and weld the aluminum pipes. This side will be 2.50 diameter, with a single 45 deg bend in the middle, a 45 deg coupler at the intercooler, and a straight coupler at the throttle body.<br /> 2803 http://www./journal//2803 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 06:51:19 -0700 1979 MGB - 17,800 actual miles. I am the 3rd owner. All original, pristine condition – body, engine, transmission (overdrive), paint (Reddish/orange), wire wheels, top, tourneau cover, boot cover, maintained by MG mechanics.<br /> Asking $9,500. Contact: (336) 945-0800 or stan.mandel@mba.wfu.edu<br /> 2802 http://www./journal//2802 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:32:26 -0700 Well, I finally have time to start this journal. I purchased my 77 MGB in May 08 for $900.00. I took a gamble because it wasn't running, but it has the OD and was in pretty good overall shape, so I dove in. The owner had bought it not having a lick of mechanical ability/knowledge. He was driving it on the Interstae when it broe down on him.<br /> <br /> So, I got it home and started by pulling the engine out. When it was out, the first thing I did was drop the oil pan to look for any serious internal damage signs (metal pieces, etc). Well, I found several peices of bearing. I proceeded to tear the rest of the engine apart, inspected the mains, rods and block...no major damage! I forgot to mention that the oil looked like it hadn't been changed for 30 years. When I got to the water pump, the impeller was almost entirely gone, so I assume that the the pump failed on the highway and overheated the car, thus causing the spinning of the bearings. <br /> <br /> So, here is what I did with the engine:<br /> Blo...<br /> 2801 http://www./journal//2801 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 18:08:28 -0700 Well despite some controversy I've found the the bell housing from a 200 Camaro 90 degree V6 fit perfectly to the 3.4L 60 degree V6. It also has the starter pocket on the drivers side.<br /> <br /> Looking at the wiring harness to see what I can pull out and what must be left in.<br /> 2800 http://www./journal//2800 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 17:59:03 -0700 So I continue to work on the car to get it to the point that I can have an out of province inspection completed and finally get to drive it, then maybe I can think about cleaning the engine compartment up. The car did not run smoothly so I removed the carbs and rebuilt them, got them back on last weekend and yes it runs alot more smoothly. just needs to have the timing and carbs fine tuned. Found out today that in order to pass the inspection everything must work, so here I go again and I am startng to trace some of the wiring problems such as the heater fan does not work, the red warning light on the dash stays on permantly, the indicators work some of the times etc etc. Ah the good old Lucas electrics maybe I will get it all done before the snow flies here.<br /> 2799 http://www./journal//2799 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 12:45:57 -0700 In between other obligations, I found time to disassemble and re-lube one of the wiper assemblies I have on hand. Really wanted to test it, but I couldn't get any action out of it just by attaching a couple of test leads to 12V. Will have to wait until I have the wiring sorted out on the car.<br /> <br /> Also jacked the front up and re-lubed the steering rack, fitting new gaiters. I think, however, that I'm going to have to rebuild the spare rack in the shed, because the one on the car seems to have an awful lot of play on the driver's side of the rack - almost as if the bushing on that side had disintegrated...<br /> 2798 http://www./journal//2798 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 09:30:57 -0700 Purchased from second owner who had the car 'restored'. The interior was redone with new carpets, all panels, and new leather seat covers. The car had a brand new top. Unfortunately the sills were pretty heavily puttied over and the car was repainted, however, the floors and inner sill panels were rust free.<br /> <br /> I drove the car in that condition until 1999. I then took it off the road to replace the rusty sills and lower front fenders. The welding was completed over the winter of 1999-2000.<br /> 2797 http://www./journal//2797 Mon, 15 Sep 2008 05:48:41 -0700 So far it seems that the reason the air cleaner cannister will not fit is because the motor mounts have given way to the weight of the engine over the years and need to be replaced.<br /> 2796 http://www./journal//2796 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 17:17:47 -0700 I cannot get the air filter into correct position. The previous owner made a modification to the can of the assembly because he had the same problem. His answer was to cut the can off from the part that attaches to the carb. Then he welded a piece of square tubing between them which put the can out in front of the carb. <br /> I am in the process of installing a new assembly which is stock, and in doing so I am researching why the carburetor is too low and not giving enough room for the cannister. (see pics)<br /> 2795 http://www./journal//2795 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:55:14 -0700 Green from the starter is powered up. Red is hot to the box, but I cannot get any readings from the box. Of course, I don't know what to look for either. I did, however, check for any voltage in and out of the black, white and gray going to the optical sensor and got nothing. Good news is the coil is flasing on the output while cranking, but nothing going to dizzy.<br /> 2794 http://www./journal//2794 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:50:48 -0700 We got no spark to the plugs. Jeff and Michelle have tried to help out, but still nothing as of yet.<br /> 2793 http://www./journal//2793 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 07:28:52 -0700 Even after planning for months it's takin much longer than i expected to bowl over.<br /> A few set backs; inner fulcrum pins two weeks. PCV adapter a month. $2 circlip 1 week.<br /> With the money i've just thrown down the drain on these rip offs, i could had gone to school and made it all myself.<br /> 2792 http://www./journal//2792 Sun, 14 Sep 2008 00:07:49 -0700 yea i got to drive the 1969 midget to britfest held in hillsboro at duke island park<br /> ironicly i ended up parking next to the identical 1969 red mg midget with lugagage rack and although he owned it for over 30 years it was a national hershey AACA first place winner.<br /> <br /> a car restored from an original car. really neat car to learn from.<br /> <br /> interestingly enough he had the croam wire wheels i have thought about using but thought they might be a bit to showey for such a small car well i must say they look good but i am stil not sold enough to have to change my tires over.<br /> anyway the car ran well the 20 miles each way to and from the event . of course i took local roads and not the highway since i am still learning about this car.<br /> so far i have put about 180 miles on since i got the car just attending local events<br /> 2791 http://www./journal//2791 Sat, 13 Sep 2008 18:21:42 -0700 I have had this car for several years now sitting up on jack stands<br /> I recently have been trying to get it running again, but I am having problems with the clutch pedal.<br /> it is spungy, and will not pump up.<br /> I did try to bleed it several times from the slave cylinder, but after several bleedings I couldn't get any more fluid to come out of it.<br /> yes the master cylinder does have fluid in it.<br /> does any one know if the line from the master cylinder to the slave cylinder could somehow get cloged ?<br /> because there is no fluid comming out of the line that goes into the slave cylinder, but I can pump the master cylinder manualy, and fluid does come out of it.<br /> 2790 http://www./journal//2790 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 21:18:52 -0700 I just picked this car up on September 8, 2008. Paid $800 and the car runs but is not ready to be licensed yet. I need to install the smog pump and gear and tune the carburetor. I also need to look into the brakes as you need to pump them a couple of times to get them working properly.<br /> 2789 http://www./journal//2789 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:56:29 -0700 I have had a complete interior kit sitting in my garage for over a year. My excuses for not installing it were: 1. If the weather is nice I want to <br /> drive the car 2. The garage is too cold to work in in the winter. Well, the truth is I was afraid to tackle it, for fear that I couldn't handle it. After all the procrastination ,I finally decide enough is enough and schedule a week's vacation so I can do the deed. That was back in early May and I have spent the Summer admiring my handiwork. It came out great! I took my time, carefully reading the instructions and then re-reading them before each step. The project took the entire week but The car looks terrific and I cannot believe the difference in the comfort of the seats.I am really happy that I did it myself and very proud of how well it turned out. Thenext major project though, is one I'm afriad I'll have to leave to the proffessionals... Suspension work.<br /> 2788 http://www./journal//2788 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:45:12 -0700 Wow! It's mid-september already. Had a great spring/summer. Had a scare at Hellertown which turned out to be nothing but me being dumb again. Got up early and headed out route 80 for the show. Weather was great so I took my time and enjoyed the ride. Got to Hellertown with no incidents. I was very happy because this was the longest trek yet. After being directed to the show field,I parked the car and decided to clean the windscreen. I got the Windex from the boot and walked to the front of the car. Uh-oh... there on the driver's side fender I see oil. It appears to have come from under the hood and run up the fender towards the windscreen. I am panicked! After raising the hood and not finding anything amiss I decide that I may as well enjoy the show and worry about the leak later. I must admit that I couldn't stop thinking about that oil all day. When the show wrapped up, I headed back to the car thinking that I would probably be riding home in a flatbed from AAA. It hit me all of a sudden! what a dope! There...<br /> 2787 http://www./journal//2787 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:37:11 -0700 So, there I was, just minding my own business in ebay. Why did I feel the need to bid? Five minutes left! OK, this isn't funny. C***B(34) needs to outbid me!<br /> <br /> I am now the proud owner of a 1965 MGB, red with black interior, engine turns over but "I'm not sure if it runs", floor panels are shot.<br /> <br /> I paid $911 and I'm going to pick it up next Friday Sept 19 2008.<br /> <br /> Actually I'm kind of excited. My wife, not so much LOL.<br /> 2786 http://www./journal//2786 Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:17:11 -0700 The bodywork was in good condition , no major rust. Decided to have it painted professionaly and to its origianl colour as near as possible. A few holes in the wings where a mirror had been fitted and the usual splitting for the seat anchorage points needed welding. completly stripped the shell and remounted on the powder coated chassis. A guy called Bernie Hoare did the honours and I am very pleased with the result. He took the body off the chassis again and the costs were very reasonable. The attached picture shows it back in my garage and I mounted the wheels just temporarily.<br /> 2785 http://www./journal//2785 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 22:23:10 -0700 I decided on a log type manifold- not fancy, and not really meant for high HP numbers at high rpms, but definitely OK for what I am doing. If this becomes an issue later, I can have a tuned, equal length manifold built; but that will run close to $1k. I purchased this on line and it was all welded up except for the turbo flange. I needed to position the turbo, cut the hole and weld the flange on. It's tacked together at this point, until I make sure all the parts around the turbo have clearance. I already cut the firewall for the downpipe, and may have to bump the inner fender a bit more. And of course the steering linkage is still a question (for another day).<br /> 2784 http://www./journal//2784 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:35:43 -0700 The speedo was pretty much the last important thing to sort out and I ended up pulling it and disassembling it. Was all gunked up with hardened grease.<br /> While it was out I thought it would be an opportune time to deal with some of the dash lights - especially the indicator arrows.<br /> The new wiring harness has the sockets on them but they are worse than useless. The globes won't stay in them and they are a general PITA.<br /> Some discussion on the forum re: the use of LEDs got me thinking that I could do better with something like that. I went searching on Ebay and came across these:<br /> <img src="http://i9.ebayimg.com/06/i/000/ca/91/3df8_1_sbl.JPG"><br /> Bought them and with some hot melt glue, shrink tube and an old socket made these:<br /> <img src="http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n255/sweep_2006/Floors%20and%20Interior/PICT2767.jpg"><br /> Very bright and fit in well.<br /> I've still got 20 left so I'm thinking of doing some other lights.<br /> 2783 http://www./journal//2783 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:32:43 -0700 Peter died early last week and I'm struggling coming to terms with it. A few days ago I wouldn't have been able to write this but I'm getting a little better.<br /> The funeral was yesterday and while it was a celebration of Peter's life it was very disturbing for me. The strange thing is that I've been taken aback by my depth of emotion and how much it has effected me. I had not realized how much Peter had meant to me. I had not seen much of him in recent months as he had completely absorbed himself into his flying.<br /> However, as difficult as it was, the funeral and the gathering after has been very therapeutic for me. <br /> Good bye, Peter.<br /> 2782 http://www./journal//2782 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:27:42 -0700 Mentioned before about a new glove box out of PVC sheet.<br /> I thought that I may have been able to make the box a little bigger to make use of some of the space behind the dash, however, the reality is that no matter how big it is the size is determined by it ability to be actually wiggled into place and I found that I can't make it any larger because I can't get it in there.<br /> So a tray with sides is about all you can get.<br /> <br /> I'll post some pictures when I've finished it and it's in.<br /> <br /> I used the innards of two cheap clearance lights to make new front parkers which use the small torpedo shaped globes and they seem to be working ok. The front left parking light is still causing some issues but I think I may have solved it with some careful bending of the globe contacts. <br /> <br /> Ended up buying 2 horns from REPCO, a high and a low tone and I'm really pleased with the sound and the volume. No relays, but they work really well.<br /> Some issue with the fuel gauge. It m...<br /> 2781 http://www./journal//2781 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 05:18:48 -0700 In 2003 i thought that my first head gasket was blown while cruising down the coast. I have since found out the points were loose when I over rev'd it in a downshift making the timing fly out the window.<br /> I was clueless &amp; began pulling off the head by undoing the bolts in the wrong order &amp; stripping the last bolt. I had to move house &amp; couldn't afford to fixed her so she was towed away. LA Lancer.<br /> <br /> I hate tow trucks.<br /> <br /> I bought a 79 323 that had been left sitting for a while. Drove her down the coast on new years &amp; over rev'd again. Then overheated. I had three days off from my new job luckily &amp; fixed it.<br /> <br /> a year later. over rev'd again. examined head gasket. fine. points. needed cleaning &amp; gapping.<br /> <br /> different car. commodore 3.8 v6. broke a heater connection. cooked the intake manifold &amp; blew a hole in the radiator. took me two weeks to fix inc gbox. Then drove 2,300km in 3 days.<br /> <br /> Patina, my midget has been...<br /> 2780 http://www./journal//2780 Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:47:22 -0700 I'll never forget the first time i laid eyes on her; adelaide hills, a corregated driveway leading to an old shed. "over there" i'm puzzled and look over the fence to the neighbours yard where she rest. Tartan red, wires, soft top, sprite grill. SOLD<br /> 2779 http://www./journal//2779 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 18:03:07 -0700 I entered OURMG in the Sage Rutty show September 7. the day started out clear and bright. They had a nice collection of cars in attendance and I found the show to be very well run and pleasant. I parked next to fellow forum member Julian, his daughter who brought his MGB from Buffalo. They had a pancake breakfast which I partook of and other than spilling syrup all over my legs from the wimpy paper plates it was a really nice time. I met several car show friends and we had a nice time talking and looking over the cars.<br /> 2778 http://www./journal//2778 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 15:59:55 -0700 Well I am learning the joys of undoing 25+ year old bolts and screws. WD40 has become my new best friend. I am in the process of removing all the crome and windows for body work (small areas of rust repair) and a new paint job. I am amazed at how difficult it is to find a reasonable body shop to do the work. I need to get this done before installing the new interior kit I got from Vic Brit.<br /> 2777 http://www./journal//2777 Tue, 09 Sep 2008 15:09:53 -0700 well we've been busy ,put new exaust and valve cover gaskets on,had custom exaust system installed,got all the lights going except turn signals.think i'm close on them.firing order was wrong,runs much better now!finally received seat rails,just ordered door seals,got new trunk seal and i think that's the most of it for now.<br /> 2776 http://www./journal//2776 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:06:00 -0700 The e-code head lights are the European headlight standard vs. in the US we have DOT (department of transportation). The e-code headlights has a sharp cut off and puts more light on the road and less in the trees, road signs and other drivers eye. If you have driven a newer production car the headlight pattern is similar to e-code. Not sure when they made the switch in the US. The cool thing about the high performance DOT and e-code headlights is the ability to install high performance H4 bulbs. Standard H4 bulb wattages are available at any automotive parts store. I would strongly recommend upgrading your headlight harness and add headlight relays to avoid overheating your wiring and switches. The stock MG wiring to the headlights is very thin. <br /> <br /> I am running the Autopal H6024 headlights with white 100/55W bulbs, which made nice improvement. Hella and Cibie are other popular high performance brands. <br /> <br /> Here are some usefull links <br /> http://stores.ebay.com/Autopal-Lights <br />...<br /> 2775 http://www./journal//2775 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:11:57 -0700 Dragged the GT parts car home with he help of a friend. It's a sad looking specimen, a poor fishmouth ('71? '72?). It has the regular stule hubs and axle I'm after, and some later seats, but there isn't much else worth saving. I Guess I got it just in time! When I was returning a loaner truck to the other friends who let me have the parts car, cars were being stacked like cordwood into big trailers, slung around by a big blue New Holland tractor with a mean looking fork in place of the front-end loader. They were being dumped in sideways, on-end, shoved against each other to maximize room. Midgets, Bs, BMW 2002s, a Spitfire, landing with a crunch and the sound of breaking glass.<br /> 2774 http://www./journal//2774 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 16:09:02 -0700 I finally got pissed off enough removing the carbs for the 5th time to get rid of the old bonnet latch. I installed these sweet pneumatic struts I got from the The'B'Hive. They're closer to me than Pieces of Eight and I'm impatient.<br /> 2773 http://www./journal//2773 Mon, 08 Sep 2008 09:10:28 -0700 On Saturday, September 6, 2008 my 1972 mg midget, MK 4 finally arrived after a long delay by the auto transport company.<br /> <br /> She is everything that was described in the EBay listing.<br /> <br /> I've already completed inventory with the parts that came with her. <br /> <br /> Next is to start restoration!<br /> 2772 http://www./journal//2772 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:59:42 -0700 The motor mounts were purchased from Michael Spreadbury, who installs SR20 motors in Datsun Roadsters. He has some very impressive installations, and fabricates and sells some of the custom parts necessary for the installation. I needed to make some modifications to use his motor mounts, but they are beautiful parts.<br /> 2771 http://www./journal//2771 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 20:49:42 -0700 I measured the position and angle of the engine. and found that it was offset by about 1/2" and the angle was incorrect (should be 5 degrees toward the left side). I was also concerned about the engine mounts I had installed- the frame side was welded directly to the unibody, which is only 20-22 gage. I came across a set of mounts to install an SR20DET in a Datsun 1600 Roadster (online), and I figured I could modify them to fit, so I bought a set. The right side was a drop in, the left side needed to be modified- I combined the stock mount with the new mount. I also figured a saddle mount on the frame would better distibute the engine load, so I made the frame mounts from 2" angle with welded plate and gussets to mount the mount to. These were then welded to the unibody frame; When the mounts compressed the engine is now in the correct location, with about 1/2" between the cam cover and the hood.<br /> 2770 http://www./journal//2770 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 13:22:28 -0700 I went to the Watkins Glen Grand Prix festival vintage weekend September 5 and had a blast. The whole town is rocking with race cars, sports cars and car folks and everyone is driving their cars and having a great time. We were in the Glenkhana and had a lot of fun, although we didn't win, we did have one of the better times- in the top five as far as I know. The two laps of the old road course were fun and my brother in law Dan was my navigator and with a big grin told me in the middle of our first lap "It doesn't get any better than this." and indeed it does not. I will try to post some video I took later. The whole town is closed off and the streets are full of classic cars, race cars and people. If you haven't been there - I suggest you go its worth it!<br /> 2769 http://www./journal//2769 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 09:40:29 -0700 After a year of work on the 1959 MGA that I purchased in Missouri, I am just about ready to show it off. I do have a list of "winter projects" to do after the snow falls in Minnesota but I'll keep them a secret for now.<br /> <br /> The body is a 1959 1600 but the engine came from my first restoration project, a 1622 that I pretty completely rebuilt in 1975 and has only been driven about 11K miles since. The oil pressure is great and the leaks are tolerable. I have spent way too much money on the car but then look at the fun I've had.<br /> <br /> I took the pictures in my driveway this morning so I guess I can call this the "Unveiling of the Missouri Mule"<br /> <br /> Don Sundell<br /> 2768 http://www./journal//2768 Sun, 07 Sep 2008 02:28:22 -0700 One thing that I always seem to have a problem with when I have these cars or the Spitfire , is the bad connection for the light bulbs. No matter how meticuously I cleaned the lamp holders , there was always a bad connection and failure of the lights to work consistently. It took me a while to find an alternative. I was looking for a sealed unit that included fog and reversing lamps. I also wanted something that echoed the curves of the body and not square or completley circular. I found at last a DAF Truck combination lamp. Involved a bit of cutting to the rear bodywork but nothing too drastic if I ever want to reinstate the original units. The attached photo shows them on the car before the re spray. I think I got the balance right.<br /> 2767 http://www./journal//2767 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 10:08:32 -0700 Background:<br /> Purchased 1979, Pageant Blue, MG MGB in mid-August after about a month of research. Utilized the MG Experience Website extensively to familiarize myself with the trips and traps of buying a B - the Website was invaluable, and helped me perform a very thorough pre-purchase inspection. With less than a month of ownership under my belt, I have plunged into electrical difficulties as of yesterday (I came into this with my eyes open about Lucas systems, so no surprises there). I spent several hours in the Forum archives last night, and yet again the site has been invaluable.<br /> <br /> Car Status at Purchase:<br /> The PO had invested substantially in the car:<br /> - Repainted with original Pageant Blue paint (a decent, but not "show car" job);<br /> - New carpet set matching original;<br /> - New soft top;<br /> - New tires;<br /> - New rubber bumpers (all of these, mostly aesthetic, upgrades make the car a "20-foot" looker);<br /> - New alternator;<br /> - All new hoses;<br /> ...<br /> 2766 http://www./journal//2766 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:43:57 -0700 Fist of all remove the body from the chassis. No rust or twisting damage and then arranged sandblasting and powdercoat the chassis. Stuck with black, this seemed to be the original colour.<br /> 2765 http://www./journal//2765 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 03:49:11 -0700 http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2973575<br /> 2764 http://www./journal//2764 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 19:15:44 -0700 hello to everyone out there,this site is GREAT! already have useful info and just found it today! we have just purchased our mg and are working to put it on the road.<br /> 2763 http://www./journal//2763 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:59:52 -0700 As indicated I want to restore the GT6 but improve on those things that always annoyed me when I had the Spitfire. The inspiration starting this project was my finding the Prirace site and in particular a picture of a Spitfire running 205/40 x 16" tyres and alloy wheels. This of course is obtained by fitting the new hubs. This led to the purchasing of 16" wheels, although they currently run 195/45 x 16" tyres. I was thinking of fitting MGTF alloy wheels and even purchased a set off e bay, only to find that the offset was completely wrong. Offset needed is 40-43mm and even though I tried to check the specification of the wheels on an MG Club Web site first, but even they quoted the wrong dimensions. Luckily I sold the wheels on e bay and even made a small profit. However I have found a picture on the web recently of a Spitfire Six running the MG wheels? Not sure how they got around the problem.<br /> 2762 http://www./journal//2762 Fri, 05 Sep 2008 05:25:59 -0700 ...there was hope. Not much else, other than a bad paint job, worn-out engine, rotting interior and surprisingly little rust. The frame was straight, too, so I bought it for $1,800 USD. The cost to move the car from Clear Lake, CA to Sacramento was $600. In for a penny, in for a pound...I suppose.<br /> 2761 http://www./journal//2761 Thu, 04 Sep 2008 06:21:56 -0700 I purchased this MGB in May of 2008 from a nice guy in West Virginia. My dad had one when I was younger and I just loved it. I knew that one day I would have one. This 'B' is the same year and color as the one my dad purchased in 1976. The only thing missing is the MGB stripe on the bottom of the car. I lost my dad to colon cancer in May of 2006 and when I drive this car it feels like there is a little part of dad with me. In the pictures of the front of the vehicle you can see the Michigan plate 'D Bear', that is the same plate that was on dad's when he had it.<br /> 2760 http://www./journal//2760 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:44:45 -0700 .<br /> 2759 http://www./journal//2759 Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:01:08 -0700 After owning my B for about 3 months, I realized I had the wrong speedometer in the dash as it was indicating more miles than I was actually driving. Turns out there was a 1,000 TPM speedo in the dash instead of the correct 1,280 TPM speedo. Luckily, I had bought a 1,280 speedo from a forum member several months back when I was planning on buying a different car that needed one.<br /> <br /> Pulling the speedo was not too bad after I learned you should remove the defroster control first. I put the correct one in and buttoned everything up. When I drov ethe car, I was delighted to see the correct mileage AND a steadier speedomter needle. The needle on the speedo I pulled tended to bounce around, while the new one is rock steady.<br /> 2758 http://www./journal//2758 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 18:35:58 -0700 Well, I met my goal and had my baby on the road by Labor Day weekend. Finished her up (so to speak) on Friday 8/29/08. My daughter gave me a ride down to my shop on Saturday morning and I drove her home. Went for a cruise around Corona on Saturday and Sunday. I haven't driven her much since I bought her last November so I wanted to stay close to home for a while. Didn't have any problems with her at all. Even with the temps reaching the mid 90s, she stayed nice and cool with the gauge reading right between c and h.<br /> 2757 http://www./journal//2757 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:56:34 -0700 I added a conduit to the front wheel well on both sides to run the wiring as well as the hood latch release through. This should keep the engine compartment free of extraneous wiring.<br /> 2756 http://www./journal//2756 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:53:12 -0700 After trying to figure out how to make some of the firewall cuts I need to make, I decided to buy a plasma cutter. Just a cheap one (yeah Harbor Freight), but this really makes cutting stuff up easy!<br /> 2755 http://www./journal//2755 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 14:50:16 -0700 The last piece of sheetmetal to be worked on is the hood. There were two punched in areas close to the bulkhead end, and the front lip was also damaged. The hood is now repaired, and ready for some build primer and blocking. I should have taken a picture before I started, but looks like I forgot.<br /> 2754 http://www./journal//2754 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 05:51:18 -0700 I thought it was about time to record the history, progress and the numerous hours spent in the garage! I have taken various photographs throughout but I have not really placed them in any order yet. I hope to record the full schedule of works for future reference should I ever be daft enough to to this again! But hopefully if may be of interest to other enthusiasts if they are inclined to read my ramblings.<br /> <br /> I have been the owner of a Vitesse 1600cc, a Spitfire MKIV a GT6 MKIII basket case and now the GT6 MKIII referred to above. By chance I saw the PRI web site and saw that they had fitted 205 rubber and modern 16" wheels and this sparked my interest to buy another Gt6. At the same time I noticed the currect GT6 in ebay. It had been stored in a barn approx 20 years ago. It still had the original cardboard radiator cowlings. The sills and body were fairly good and the decision was made. The first set of pictures show the car when I first got it home. I propose to enter more entries shortly, up ...<br />