Roland Gotzke's Journal

New Paint, New Trip, :)

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:10:50 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-08-24 21:10:50

Went on a trip last weekend to Missoula Mt. to join in the celebration for a couple celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. It was an enjoyable time. The trip was just as good. Gidget (our midget) drove 1370 miles in 2 days, without incident. We drove through east glacier, west glacier, Kalispell, Missoula. Lots of twisty turnies and a mountain pass. What a blast. Then home via 200 ( a long praire drive). Our new 10 wk old puppie acccompanied us and was a great travel companion. Overall it was a wonderful weekend.

on the way

Gidget Gets A New Coat..

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

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-07-23 06:55:46

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".

Summer Update..

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

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-07-15 20:36:53

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 event lead Roselle and I to go ahead and get that long awaited paint job done on the Midget... (Just in time for Roselle and Crystal to enjoy a trip together to Kelowna. All girls adventure. They are soooo excited. I hope they have a great time.

All Set For The Radium Brits Best Show.

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 21:57:45 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-06-04 21:57:45

7 sleeps to go and both cars are ready to go.. The midget just had its 500 mile break in oil change, muffler system tweeked and a strange jury rigged brace removed from the tranny that was intended to make the transmission stay stationary?? All it did was serve to create another contact point for unwanted vibrations..

The GT has a new front passenger bearing and a new stainless steel exhaust system.. Both cars are set, and after the initial house move/ renovations, I'm sure Roselle and I will be ready for a short respite in the midst of the flurry of activity.. I hope to take a bunch of pics of the trip to chronicle the adventure.. posts to follow... Yippee!!!! MG trip time at last!!!

Missing Out..

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 05:25:32 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-04-20 05:25:32

We've been so busy at work over the last couple of months, that the MGs are laying under cover asleep in the stable. Last weekend was the first car show of the season.Spring Thaw as it is called, usually brings out a large crowd to display their pride and joys. Roselle and I were busy house shopping for a new home. We just sold our current house in a record 1 week of being on the market.(record for us) We have found a cute home that is a pearl in disguise. It will need alot of work to get it back into shape. I guess that's where the years of putsing around on the MGs comes in. It will be a long summer I am afraid for the MGs... Oh well... time will avail the pleasantries as they unfold.

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Yeah!! The Horses Are Out Of The Stable!! At Last..

Sat, 06 Mar 2010 23:27:11 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-03-06 23:27:11

We had a balmy 10 C weather here today. It was warm enough and dry enough on the roads to go for a little spin. We decided to take both cars out to our grand daughter's birthday party and later, over to the opposite side of the city to watch our grandson play soccer. It was an enjoyable first outing. Many more to come...

Slushy Drive..

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 15:01:34 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-02-10 15:01:34

drove the GT yesterday to do some banking.. I didn't realize how slushy the roads were. I managed to keep the car from getting too abused by driving relatively slow to accomplish my tasks.. MAN!! I hope spring comes soon. Here, it takes sometimes until March- May before you can safely drive without salt and snow being an added hazard..

The Cars Still Sleep..

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 21:40:06 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2010-01-14 21:40:06

We've had some good weather in Calgary the last 2 weeks. It's been warm enough to melt off 1ft of snow. The pavement is reappearing after being covered with a blanket of hard packed snow. Tempting as a drive may seem, there is a lot of salt on the roads still. Oh well, spring is just a few months away...

Still My LBC Gently Sleeps..

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:07:14 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-12-21 19:07:14

It's officially winter today, in more ways than one. We have -12 C weather with fresh snowfall. The cars continue their slumber. It was 2 yrs ago, that I could take them out for spins on dry pavement Christmas day. Not this yr, snow and mucky roads prevent any adventures from happening. Maybe things will change in January.

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Fall Run

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 19:11:45 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-10-18 19:11:45

Drove the midget through the scenic 22x route to Bragg Creek. It was an enjoyable ride. "Gidget" drove like a champ. Meandered through the back roads and took in the scenery. After returning home, I took out the GT for a spin through Fish Creek park(seen a pheasant up close in the reeds),Parkland areas. Felt blissfully contented afterward, slept well as a result last night. (Forgot the camera)More adventures to come. Winter threatening, but not enough to triumph over the venturesome.

Back To Winter Driving

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 09:58:40 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-10-11 09:58:40

With the midget and GT sorted out, in time for... winter. There's only one thing left to do. Watch the weather reports, glance out my 2nd storey window in the house to see if the roads are dry and... (need I say anymore?)

midget and GT on a run from High River Show

Midget Up And Running

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 21:01:11 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-09-29 21:01:11

We had Malcolm do the rebuild on the Midget. We just got it back this last Sat, and took it for a run to the High River car show. Runs like a new car. Now that the GT has it's stable mate back, new tours are definitely in store.

DSCN3921

Calgary European Car Show 09 Pics On Flickr

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 08:04:10 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-09-07 08:04:10

I found a good set of this yrs'pics posted by Dave 7 on flickr - enjoy :) http://www.flickr.com/photos/daveseven/sets/72157621700991282/show/

our GT at the show.

GT Is Up For Sale... Can't Afforrd/store 2 Cars

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 06:53:05 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-09-02 06:53:05

Sad to say, the GT is up for sale. I'd like to keep it, but storage and overall costs of running 2 cars is too much for me. So, it may be gone soon.. (tears welling up)

94143-31126

R "Gidget" Gets A Renewed Heart..

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:49:27 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-08-17 21:49:27

Sent the midget in today to have the motor rebuilt. No time and limited space in the garage have moved me to have my mechanic friend tackle the job. So, off it went to have it's heart renewed..

clean garage

GT Appraised - Yeah!!

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 06:46:25 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-08-14 06:46:25

I just had the GT appraised Wed. night. It looks like it measures up to very good rating, and its replacement value around the $10,000.00 mark. This is great, seeing that I have about that much invested into it. Yeah!!!

IMG00056

2009 European Car Show -Calgary

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 07:32:24 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-07-19 07:32:24

Had a wonderful time yesterday at the 2009 European Car Show- Calgary. It was hosted by the Vintage Sports Car Club of Calgary and the event was held in Stanley Park on the grass. I venture that there were about 100 cars there. It was an eclectic mix of british - MGs Triumphs, Healey, Daimler, Sunbeam,TVR, Jags, Morgan, Bentleys; German - porsches, Mercedes, VW (1), Swedish -Volvo, Italian - Fiat (cute entry),Ferrari, Pinafarina,Talbot and a motorcycle display. It was truly enjoyable. The people and friends from the Calgary MG Club abounded under a canopy of cloud cover for the majority of the day that blocked out the direct sunrays. It was hot though, about 28* After the event Roselle and I went for dinner with some of the club members. Enjoyable to say the least.

2009 european car show 001

GT Clutch, Lower Bearings - Fixed.

Sun, 19 Jul 2009 07:23:54 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-07-19 07:23:54

It was a godsend that the clutch plate wore out when it did. If it hadn't been for the clutch needing repair, I would have no doubt kept running on 20lbs pressure, thinking it was a bad gauge. Needless to say, the clutch, flywheel and lower bearings are all replaced along with a new oil pump install. Car is running great. 90 lbs at cold start up and 50 lbs hot.(It has 10 40w in it right now, for the break in period)I'll be switching to 20w 50 soon.

MGB GT - Clutch Gone, Gone, Gone...

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:30:33 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-07-02 16:30:33

I noticed some grinding sounds coming from the flywheel. Since I am not adept and have no room to do the major stuff, I took it in to Malcolm Mann. Sure enough, the clutch was down to the rivets, flywheel has major wear on it. The bearings on the crank are also worn, oil pump needs to be replaced... So by next week the pros will have it up and running again. One of these days, we'll have a road trip to post about.. but until then.. one dreams.

1967 mg gt dark blue

Sounds Like The Clutch Is In Need Of Repair Now..

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 20:21:52 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-24 20:21:52

Well, the pertronix dizzy is still on the workbench, and my clutch has begun to make sounds like worn bearings. This came too early and so, I'll have to pace the expenses once again over the winter into next spring to do the repairs.(I think) We'll see..

Steps To Install A New Pertronix Distributor

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:23:40 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-16 14:23:40

1) label the wires and dizzy cap, and remove.
2) pull the plugs
3)turn the motor so the rotor points to 1 oclock (pm)
4)remove vacum hose, wires, dizzy mount bolts.
5) pull old dizzy out.
6) set new dizzy to 1 oclock
7) insert new dizzy into engine (allowing for drive to seat)
8) insert bolts and tighten,
9) regap plugs to .35
10)refit plugs, wires,vac.hose
11)turn motor over
12)reset timing if necessary
13) double check and make sure coil is a sports coil/bosch type that rates 3 OHMS. - change it if necessary.
14) go for a drive..

IMG00243

Father's Day Gift Came Early - Pertronix Dizzy

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:15:45 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-16 14:15:45

My wife asked me what I'd like for father's day. I told her not to worry, I've already ordered a new pertronix dizzy. She said,"Now I know what to get you for special days.. ("I think I've managed to train her".. now that's a switch. She's usually boasting how she has trained me)

new dizzy

Rec'd Gear Reduction Starter Today - Works Great

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 20:33:40 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-10 20:33:40

I ordered a gear reduction starter from British Starters.com I placed the order June 1st, rec'd it here in Calgary, June 10th. Awesome delivery!! I installed it, by taking advantage of the many hole arrangements in the mounting plate. Mounted the starter vertically in line with the top and bottom engine bolt holes. Oh, I had to remove the dizzy to make room for the starter to be lifted upward and out. The new starter (Yes, sounds a bit like a chevy) works great, and I think the timing is still ok. (I hope) I set the rotor on the dizzy at 1:00 and re & re'd it as is. Sounded good on start up.

2 Wks To Go... Missing All The MG Events.

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:42:26 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-05 16:42:26

I never thought this yr would shape up like this. By chance, the timing of the starter quitting and having to reorder a new one, causes me to miss all of the big MG events happening here this yr. Ouch!! It looks like these 2 cars love the stable more than the open field. It's hard to enjoy the perks of life with these lumps taking up space and down time. Oddly enough, I still love 'em. (Glad my marriage doesn't parallel these cars)

New Dizzy On Order, New Starter In Transit..

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 10:16:15 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-06-02 10:16:15

In the process of replacing my old starter, I figured; since I have to remove the dizzy to get the starter out, "Why not replace the dizzy with a new one"? So, needless to say,the GT will be getting a new gear reduction starter from British Starters.com and a new electronic starter from MOSS. Now to wait...

Starter Being Pulled Out..

Wed, 27 May 2009 06:24:17 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-27 06:24:17

I am in the process of taking the starter out and have come across a glitch. Apparently, the clutch slave is also bolted into the same area as the starter. It also needs to be removed in order to free up the starter. (Right now my garage is so plugged up I can't even move or get a jack under the GT.) It makes it difficult to find the bolts. (and to think the garage looked like this only 3 yrs ago.)

clean garage 3yrs ago

New Battery, Possibly Starter Is Gone..

Wed, 20 May 2009 21:05:11 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-20 21:05:11

new battery installed. New solonoid working fine. I tried to bypass the solonoid with a large screwdriver. Substantial spark came off the contacts on the solonoid. No life from the starter at all. I am pricing out different options to have it either rebuilt or replaced..

top view of starter

New Tires, New Wire Rims, New Frame.. Old Battery

Sat, 16 May 2009 15:04:16 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-16 15:04:16

Need I say more?? I wanted to clean up the GT and go for a spin today. Have a flat that needs repair (brand spanking new rubber and rims), frame is fixed... but now the battery is toast. It's a long weekend and I can't a battery until Tuesday. Too funny.. :)

what goes around comes around..

Trunk Floor Pic

Sun, 10 May 2009 12:04:16 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-10 12:04:16

Here's the new trunk floor.

GT new trunk installed

Drove The GT Home - 3 Hrs Of Driving

Sun, 10 May 2009 12:02:20 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-10 12:02:20

I picked up the GT from Geoff, and drove it for 6 hrs on Sat.(3 home - 3 more doing errands) Geoff welded in the new frame section and trunk floor. It drove like a charm. Thx Geoff for an awesome price and fix..

home at last

Just One More Sleep ..

Thu, 07 May 2009 07:06:05 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-07 07:06:05

One more day, and we pick up the GT. Road gear to pack - tire jack, spare tire, Uh... tag for license plate. walkie talkie.. everything else on the car is new, so it should be ok. (I'm going to be bold - it has a new fuel pump that has been working fine. So why jinx it by carrying a spare??)

Christmas In May!! - GT's Coming Home..

Tue, 05 May 2009 12:54:10 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-05 12:54:10

I haven't been this excited in a long time. Geoff cut out the pooched shackle, replaced the trunk floor and rotted frame area -for 1200.00 MAN!! ( I originally had estimates in Calgary here that were insane.. What a blessing... I'll post pics after friday...

Yipeeeeeeee

Time Is Of The Essence ...

Mon, 04 May 2009 22:03:09 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-05-04 22:03:09

Well, the GT is fixed and ready to roll... one last kink to work out. Timing.. When to meet up with Geoff to pick the car up. Looks like this Sat. is out, he has a course to attend. hopefully we can accomodate him and pick it up Friday (Happens to be my wife's birthday)

Time waits for no one...

5 More Sleeps - And GT Comes Home..

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 06:26:05 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-28 06:26:05

Just 5 more days, and the Gt will be ready to drive home. If all goes well, I'll stop by Nanton museum to take in the lancaster bomber display with the Calgary MG club.. we'll see..

patiently waiting until the GT is ready

One Last GT Pic - Trunk Floor Removed

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 07:58:40 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-19 07:58:40

Here's a pic of the GT with the trunk floor removed. Much more room to put the golf clubs in here now...

new trunk floor to go in somewhere here

Midget Awaits Engine Rebuild... And Injection Of $$

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 07:51:28 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-19 07:51:28

I'm focusing my attention on the GT right now. Getting it roadworthy once again by dealing with the rusted frame. The Midget awaits $$ before I can continue with the engine rebuild. I hope to have it done by summer - wifey says so ...(need I say anymore?)

"Fix me,PLEASE"

Second Pic Of Shackle/frame Repair

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 07:45:11 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-19 07:45:11

Here's a second pic of the repair to the frame and shackle fix.

frame section and floor plate removed.

Pooched Shackle Mount/frame Repair

Sun, 19 Apr 2009 07:42:40 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-19 07:42:40

Geoff Minors is doing a fantastic repair job to the GT. It was rusted out on the passenger side frame mount for the spring shackle. So far, he has removed the rusted areas, including the trunk floor. It's coming along great.

shackle condition before removal.

GT Is Getting Fixed..

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 16:28:14 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-04-16 16:28:14

A good friend that specializes in MG rebuilds, is doing the frame rebuild on the GT. (My conscience can rest now, knowing it will be repaired right). The midget, still quietly waits for the engine rebuild. Roselle is putting on the pressure to have it ready for summer as well. We'll see...

invisioning a road trip..

No New Progress..

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:51:47 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-03-10 14:51:47

Both cars on hold for a bit.. too many other things screaming for attention.. maybe next week??

here I sit broken hearted.. cuz my MG hasn't started

1500 ENGINE PIC

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 15:21:27 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-03-01 15:21:27

Here's the heart of the lump. Extracted from the cavernous contimplate -eous.

1500 cc open heart surgery

MGB GT

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 15:17:58 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-03-01 15:17:58

A good friend at the Calgary MG Club has spurred me on to tackle the weld for the rear shackle myself. He's replaced his floorboards etc and is confident that the shackle job shouldn't be all that complex. I'm trusting his good judgment to coach me on this. (I could use your prayers too) :)

snowed in!!!! STILL !!!!!!

Midget Motor Overhaul Finally Underway...

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 15:12:38 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-03-01 15:12:38

I finally had a bit of time this last week to look at the midget and address the bearing problem. I originally was intending to change out the lower bearings by accessing the motor from underneath. I don't have the proper clearance to do so. Plus, after the initial inspection, I found that there was considerable slack on 3 of the 4 pistons. hmmmm, Talked with a few friends and opted to pull the motor to do a more thorough investigation of the work needed. ie - "mic" the cam, replace connecting rods?? Head OK?? all that neat stuff...

IMG00435

Midget Motor Overhaul Begun

Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:54:02 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-02-07 12:54:02

I finally dug into the midget motor,yesterday and today. It's all stripped down and unbolted from the transmission. Now to rent a hoist and tear into the inside of the engine.

GT Will Hopefully Have It's Frame Fixed Soon.

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 20:03:55 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2009-02-02 20:03:55

I have found a machine shop that has quoted a reasonable price to repair the Gt. 1200- they say should do it. i like the price. They'll be by sometime mid-Feb to pick it up and repair it. (Fingers folded -praying)

Argggggggggggggghh!!!!

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

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-11-11 08:30:51

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

front wire wheel - Yum !

side view of new rims. (put on ur sunglasses!)

spiffed up the engine a bit.

Missing "B"

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

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-10-28 19:55:37

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

Gas Tank Removed.

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

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-10-20 18:52:15

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

IMG00386

IMG00387

Car Show Last Week -Mckenzie Town Calg. Ab

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 06:59:59 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-10-09 06:59:59

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.

Mckenzie towne 01	Mckenzie towne 03	Mckenzie towne 04
Mckenzie towne 05	that's our blue GT!

Pooch Update

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 06:56:21 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-10-09 06:56:21

Just received the trunk floor panel yesterday, along with 4 new wire rims. Yahoo!! Now to get the frame issue finally resolved.

Pooched Shackle - About To Be Fixed

Sun, 24 Aug 2008 15:03:34 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-08-24 15:03:34

It's been a while since I submitted an entry. I have found a willing body shop to repair the rusted suspension area, as well as paint the roof of the car, for 1400.00 For me that's a good price. Much better than the 5-7000$ quotes I was receiving last fall. There is a place and a time for all things. (Ecc 3)

pooched shackle mount.

Union Leak Fixed

Wed, 27 Feb 2008 16:30:16 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-02-27 16:30:16

Found a solution to the leaky union. I noticed that the hex nut was butting up to the union way too soon, causing the inside flange to not seat. So, I ground off about a 1/16" of an inch off of the hex nut end. Flange seated perfectly, hex nut has about 1/32 left of thread before it mates up against the union bolt. No leaks. (Also - installed new oil cooler and lines today)

Gas Line Union Leak

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 20:23:08 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-02-26 20:23:08

Replaced all the gas lines. One leak persists. It's the union between the braided hose and metal gas line. Posted a note on forum, will consider options.

union

second view

Gas Lines On, Tweeking Begins

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 21:01:00 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-02-20 21:01:00

New gas lines for the GT arrived last night. Put 'em on this evening. Also installed new hydraulic lifts for the bonnet. Much better hood clearance now. Hope to start 'er up and tweek those SU's if necessary. (New Oil cooler and new lines are next on the "to do list"

Gas Leaks

Mon, 04 Feb 2008 15:09:32 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-02-04 15:09:32

Attempted to start up the engine, strong gas smells. Inspected "T" connector -very wet. Ordered up new hoses and "T" from MOSS. Stuff on car is too old and leaky. Dangerous

New Carbs On The GT

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:06:11 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2008-01-31 16:06:11

Wow!! didn't realize how bad the old set were. Hoses were seriously eroded. It's a miracle the car ran. New set look sweeeet!!

Parts Have Arrived... Now To Rebuild.

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 21:52:02 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-12-19 21:52:02

Rear suspension parts and body pieces for pooched spring mount area have arrived. Now to rebuild.

984 item

Renewed Resolve Over The Shackle Issue

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 12:53:06 -0800

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-12-12 12:53:06

I'm waiting for parts to arrive from MOSS. It includes suspension rebuild bits and body panels for the spring mount, and a new carb set. Total cost - 982.75 :)

nudgenud

Pooched Shackle Plate Saga

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 10:31:01 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-10-26 10:31:01

Took the GT into a shop to have the rusted rear passenger shackle plate inspected. Estimated cost they gave me was $5000 - $7000 to fix it. Needless to say, the car is back home and I am looking for an alternative to doing the fix.

IMG00110.jpg

Pic Of GT In The News

Sat, 06 Oct 2007 06:07:09 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-10-06 06:07:09

Here's the article on the GT. Looks great in the paper.

gt article 001.jpg

Double Feature In The News

Sat, 06 Oct 2007 06:05:26 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-10-06 06:05:26

to much my surprise, Rob Rooney a local car enthusiast writer, featured both my MGs in the paper over the last 2 weeks. It is a first for me and is pretty exciting.

midget article 001.jpg

End Of Season Update

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 21:36:45 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2007-09-09 21:36:45

Alot has happened since the last entry. I purchased a Gt, which I have installed a complete new interior. The midget is finally getting new bearings for the crank. The local newspaper has highlighted both cars in its driving section, and I've finally gotten through my first bout of attempting to sell it all off. Everything's cool again.

MG drumheller 001.jpg

Failure To Launch :(

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 14:47:09 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-07-07 14:47:09

Back home after a one hour drive into the mountains. Tne engine developed a lower engine knock when the car was under load. Had "midge" towed back home, stored in the garage. Now to decide what to do once time permits.

"On The Road Again" ...

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 06:23:47 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-07-07 06:23:47

It's ten seconds and counting ... We are almost packed,oiled up and ready to go... Severe thunderstorms last night with hail. Weather is supposed to be "nice" throughout the northwest over the next week. Sure hope we can drive with the top down. :)

juyl.07. 008.jpg

Ready, Set, Go ...

Thu, 06 Jul 2006 10:03:06 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-07-06 10:03:06

Just got the Midget appraised yesterday and it's ready to go...Here's a few pics the appraisor took. Enjoy.

juyl.07. 012.jpg

Only 2 Sleeps To Go

Wed, 05 Jul 2006 22:40:47 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-07-05 22:40:47

Only 2 sleeps to go and we'll be off motoring through the Rockies via Banff - Kamloops - Hell's Gate - Abbotsford - Washington, Oregon Seacoast -Portland and back. (We just might pick up a companion for the Midget if all goes well.) It is a 67 GT that was advertised on the MG Trader forum here on MGB experience. Cool Eh? Anyway, It's time to bring on the next days' adventure.. must sleeeppp. Later...

Trip Prep

Fri, 30 Jun 2006 07:08:34 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-06-30 07:08:34

One week to go and the final touches are being done to the midget. I had some maintenance needs that I haven't had time to address, so I let the guys at British Auto Specialists bring things up to speed. A front seal change, brake cylinder,shocks, fuel pump seal change, exhaust welds,wiring fixes. It's all set, except for a new crack in the rad.

We are celbrating Canada day here and the shops will be closed on Monday. This gives us 4 days to solve the rad problem before we go.We're hoping to have it repaired in time for the trip next week.

Oh well, if something will go wrong... let it happen now eh?

Anniversary Round Trip

Wed, 21 Jun 2006 22:11:42 -0700

From journal Roland Gotzke's Journal by Roland Gotzke
Created on The MG Experience at 2006-06-21 22:11:42

My wife surprised me 3 yrs ago with the purchase of a 78 Midget. It happened to be our 25th wedding anniversary at the time and the car happened to be 25 yrs old. The irony.

She secretly drove the car 3/4's of the way home from Portland Ore.(where she purchased it) to Spokane Wa.
She was intending to hide it at a good friends' place until our anniversary in Jan. (I happened to be away on a trip to Illinois at the same time.)

When I returned home she was peculiarily tanned from the arms up and told me that she had a surprize for me.Within an hour of coaxing and prying, she spilled the good news. We returned to Spokane the following weekend and drove "Gidget" home. Bliss ever since.

3 yrs later, after updating the engine and a complete going over on the brakes,tires,new interior etc., we will be returning to Portland to reminisce. More posts to come ...