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MG Car Repair/Questions Answered by Expert Barrie Jones

SubjectDate Asked
vacuum/emission connections1/25/2012
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget, 1500 with a Zenith Stromberg 1504T and I am asking where may I find a ...
  A: Does this help? http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=29286 Also, ...
mgb short1/23/2012
  Q: Barrie, thank you for answering my question so fast. I forgot to mention that the interior, ...
  A: Yes. All the items you listed are powered off the bottom fuse. Obviously, you should first check ...
Wiring Short in MGB loom1/23/2012
  Q: I have a 1978 mgb. I was installing a new alternator and forgot to unhook the battery. There was a ...
  A: I would start by unplugging the alternator. If that stops the battery from draining overnight then ...
mgb 1980 uk1/11/2012
  Q: i have a mgb 1980 which hasnt been used in 5 years,been up on axel stands for this time,decided to ...
  A: That all sounds good, Martin. If you remove the plugs from the engine for half an hour, that will ...
mgb 1980 uk1/7/2012
  Q: i have a mgb 1980 which hasnt been used in 5 years,been up on axel stands for this time,decided to ...
  A: Before you do anything else, you must confirm that you are getting a spark at the spark plugs. If ...
MGB Fasteners1/5/2012
  Q: Is there any detailed information about fasteners, where used and / or descriptions such that I can ...
  A: Just about every nut, bolt and washer that you are likely to need is listed on page 125 of the ...
MG TF 2002 rear brake components12/30/2011
  Q: I am having loads of problems with the rear brakes sticking and for ever taking them off to clean ...
  A: So long as you know the MG/Rover part number there should be no problem getting these parts. A ...
MINI Classic transmission gearbox12/30/2011
  Q: I hope you will not mind me posting a problem on my Classic MINI (1985). I cannot engage the reverse ...
  A: I do not claim to be an expert on the classic Mini. Reverse gear lockout is for remote type ...
MG TD TF Gearbox jumps out of gear12/27/2011
  Q: My MGTD jumps out of 2nd gear under acceleration. What could the reason be and what is the fix? ...
  A: There are several reasons why this can happen. Before you start stripping the gearbox, do a few ...
MGB Fasteners 9/26/2011
  Q: Is there any detailed information about fasteners, where used and / or descriptions such that I can ...
  A: This is an incredibly complicated subject. I have a factory parts manual for the MGB, but it does ...
1976 MGB emissions9/26/2011
  Q: MGB----2 door convertible------1.8l OHV 8v------Sept 1976 The SU fuel pump has been replaced with a ...
  A: To be honest, it would be much better to remove everything and fit twin SU carbs instead. This ...
1976 MGB9/26/2011
  Q: MGB----2 door convertible------1.8l OHV 8v------Sept 1976 The SU fuel pump has been replaced with a ...
  A: I do have a few ideas: 1) Sounds like fuel starvation to me. Next time the engine dies, go to the ...
MGB core plug size9/23/2011
  Q: On my 1980 MGB how many core plugs (known here as frost plugs) are there and what size are they? I ...
  A: There are 4 core plugs on the 18V engine block. They are all Imperial size, 1 5/8 inches. There is ...
Sprite / Midget master cylinder adjustment9/19/2011
  Q: I have a 1965 Sprite with disk brakes in the front, drum in the back. I installed a new master ...
  A: Both of the adjuster rods should be adjusted so that there is a little bit of movement before they ...
65 mgb9/8/2011
  Q: battery box behind seat is one side open or does it have a bolt in panel?
  A: The 65 MGB has two 6-volt batteries. Basically these batteries sit in open cradles on either side ...
SU vs Zenith carburetor8/31/2011
  Q: Having owned several Volvo"s circa 1960,I have come to like the dual SU carbs.Ive read that the ...
  A: I agree with you. In standard tune, an 1800cc MGB engine with twin SU carbs produces about 100 bhp ...
steering lock assembly - 1977 MGB8/30/2011
  Q: In reading through some prior q & a's - I read this "Changing the ignition lock is a problem, ...
  A: These locks do wear out and they do tend to stick instead of returning cleanly. You may get away ...
steering lock assembly - 1977 MGB8/30/2011
  Q: In reading through some prior q & a's - I read this "Changing the ignition lock is a problem, ...
  A: The steering column lock is held in place with two shear bolts. You must drill straight through the ...
Misfire After changing head gasket8/20/2011
  Q: I have just changed head gasket on my 1975 1500 midget (twin carb, UK spec) but on starting car ...
  A: If the gasket was leaking then usually that means the head is slightly warped and it needs skimming. ...
Misfire After changing head gasket8/20/2011
  Q: I have just changed head gasket on my 1975 1500 midget (twin carb, UK spec) but on starting car ...
  A: I guess I should have asked why you changed the head gasket in the first place. I need to know ...
Rocker Shims8/19/2011
  Q: I am in the process of removing the cylinder head of my USA 1980 MGB LE. When removing the rocker ...
  A: The rocker shaft is clamped into the 4 rocker pillars and must not rotate. These shims introduce a ...
Cooper 'S' distributor8/18/2011
  Q: The Cooper 'S' distributor has been regarded as the ultimate of distributors for tuning Mini's and ...
  A: The Cooper S distributor has a very good advance curve for the A series engine. The engine will ...
Instrument failure8/16/2011
  Q: Barrie, My 1980 MGB had an intermittant failure which has now become permanent. I have lost: tach, ...
  A: Unfortunately they used the same colour for these two Brown/White wires. One of them is very short ...
Instrument failure8/14/2011
  Q: Barrie, My 1980 MGB had an intermittant failure which has now become permanent. I have lost: tach, ...
  A: The top 2 fuses are for the sidelights. They will not be powered unless you turn the sidelights on ...
turn signals don't flash8/9/2011
  Q: I replaced the flasher but still have the same results. My car is a 1976 MG Midget ANSWER: Hi Jim. ...
  A: The fact that the hazard unit is capable of flashing all 6 bulbs (including the 2 on the dash) tells ...
turn signals don't flash8/6/2011
  Q: I replaced the flasher but still have the same results. My car is a 1976 MG Midget
  A: There are two separate flasher units on a 76 Midget. A 48 Watt unit is used for the two turn ...
noise never heard before8/1/2011
  Q: never heard this noise before, sounds like a wheel bearing but isn't and it's not gearbox (had ...
  A: I need more information. What car are you driving? How loud is the noise? How do you know it ...
Front brake cylinders 1955 MG TF7/26/2011
  Q: Friend recently purchased a 1955 MG TF in a completely dismantled condition and has proceeded to ...
  A: Either the kingpin assemblies have been put on upside down, or the brake backplates have been fitted ...
bringing out of storage7/23/2011
  Q: I have a 1975 MGB tourer/roadster(USA model, single Zenith carb,1800)and am attempting to get it ...
  A: From what you have told me it sounds like the fuel (petrol, gasoline) has gone stale after sitting ...
headlight & Ignition switch7/22/2011
  Q: Is there a video or pictures available on how to replace the ignition and/or headlight switch on a ...
  A: I am not aware of any video or pictures. Changing the headlight switch is straightforward, but ...
clutch master cylinder7/21/2011
  Q: I have 79 mgb and I replaced the clutch master cylinder with a used one. The cylinder pumps fine ...
  A: This is a common problem. I find it best to remove the slave cylinder from the bellhousing, pull ...
Leaning to the right MGB7/18/2011
  Q: sorry to be a nuisance but I have another long term mystery you may be able to resolve. My 65 B ...
  A: I like the bag of cement idea. I have used paving slabs in the past. After 3 months it is worth ...
Hand brake adjusment 1965 MGB7/18/2011
  Q: have owned my 1965 MGB roadster (steel wheels, 3 syncro, 5 main bearing imported from UK) for past ...
  A: Sorry, Charles, but your question is not easy to answer. They made 4 different cables. Depends ...
Hand brake adjusment 1965 MGB7/17/2011
  Q: have owned my 1965 MGB roadster (steel wheels, 3 syncro, 5 main bearing imported from UK) for past ...
  A: This has happened to me as well. I first noticed it after I replaced the rear wheel cylinders. ...
Engine ID, ID plate has been removed7/14/2011
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB, USA model. The previous owner took a rolling chassis and installed an engine he ...
  A: Join the two together with an oil-tolerant rubber hose, but cut the hose in two and join the halves ...
Engine ID, ID plate has been removed7/14/2011
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB, USA model. The previous owner took a rolling chassis and installed an engine he ...
  A: All 1800 blocks are interchangeable, so stripping it down will not tell you much. The ...
mgb tachometer fault7/5/2011
  Q: i have a 1973 mgb, the tachometer has never worked since i bought the car last year. If i turn on ...
  A: The wiring to a 73 rev counter is very simple, and all the wires have different terminal types so ...
short in brake lights7/3/2011
  Q: 79 Midget, tail light work, flashers work but no brake lights. Wires at the brake light switch get ...
  A: I do not think you have a short in the brake light circuit, otherwise it would just blow fuse #3. ...
1973 standard MGB starting6/27/2011
  Q: The car stopped after running low on fuel about 10 months ago. I fitted a fuel filter, checked the ...
  A: I very much doubt that you need a new tank. You just have a partial blockage somewhere. Before you ...
Dialling in a camshaft6/27/2011
  Q: (My brother wrote to you yesterday regarding crankshaft bearings and we are really impressed with ...
  A: My reply is based on my knowledge of the MG Midget, which has a conventional front cover. The Mini ...
Dialling in a camshaft6/26/2011
  Q: (My brother wrote to you yesterday regarding crankshaft bearings and we are really impressed with ...
  A: Dialling in a camshaft To do the job properly you need a dial gauge and an engine protractor. With ...
A series crankshaft bearing sizes6/26/2011
  Q: I am very new to automotive repairs and hope you can enlighten me with some information. The first ...
  A: The clearances are machined into the bearing shells when they are manufactured. Standard main ...
Crankshaft bearing sizes6/25/2011
  Q: I am very new to automotive repairs and hope you can enlighten me with some information. The first ...
  A: Depending on the amount of wear and damage, the machine operator will take off material from a ...
engine will not stay running6/23/2011
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB that turns over, starts, but will not stay running. Any suggestion(s) or tips ...
  A: It could be a worn out ignition switch. They can fail after nearly 40 years of usage. There are 4 ...
MG B Anti-run-on Leaking Gas6/21/2011
  Q: Suddenly, as I was about to drive to the country in the evening air, it didn't want to. I found a ...
  A: The anti run-on valve is attached to the inlet manifold. When the engine is switched off the valve ...
Fuel Gauge6/16/2011
  Q: The fuel (petrol) gauge on my 1980 MGB failed yesterday. I had the contacts for the fuel tank ...
  A: I cannot remember ever having a bad fuel gauge. They are virtually bullet-proof. Normally, a ...
1974 MGB turn signals6/13/2011
  Q: I have a 1974 (chrome bumper Cdn version), bought new, that I have been storing and working on for ...
  A: You are correct. The power to the heater blower switch is Green/Pink. Use a Scotchlock connector ...
door switch6/12/2011
  Q: I have a 1980 mgb that the door switches were removed when the car was painted by last owner I ...
  A: The light works when you switch it on manually, so there is power to it. The switches operate on ...
1976 mgb zenith stromberg 175cd carb6/10/2011
  Q: i would like to replace the jet, how do i get out? thank you ralph ANSWER: Hi Ralph. This is not a ...
  A: Order the jet from Moss Motors, and when it arrives have a look at it. From memory, I think it is a ...
Steering rack assembly6/10/2011
  Q: I got a new felt washer for the steering rack pinion shaft on my '54 MG TF from Moss. The washer is ...
  A: Soak the felt in EP90 gear oil, then place between two small planks of wood and squash it in a vice. ...
pushrod coming off rocker arm6/10/2011
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget 1500 that has been rebuilt aproximately 25,000 miles ago. The car has been ...
  A: I think the combination of hot weather, slow traffic and low oil level has caused you car to ...
1974 MGB turn signals6/8/2011
  Q: I have a 1974 (chrome bumper Cdn version), bought new, that I have been storing and working on for ...
  A: Yes, the hazard flasher unit is located behind the centre console. If this has been disconnected by ...
SU Fuel Pump6/7/2011
  Q: Is there a fix(new gasget?)or should i be looking for a new one Thank you for your time!
  A: It really depends where it is leaking from. Modern fuel contains Ethanol, and older rubber hoses ...
hydraulic clutch6/7/2011
  Q: i have slowly lost travel distance in clutch pedal. does not go far enough to go into gear. i ...
  A: I regret that the answer is probably no, once the clutch loses all free play and starts to slip you ...
Rear axle leak6/6/2011
  Q: While trying to removed the rear brake guts, I removed the screw for the centre axle hub. When I ...
  A: Yes, the driveshaft just pulls straight out (and all the oil runs out). Remember to keep that side ...
mgb batteries6/5/2011
  Q: sir, i have just (or so i thought),changed my 2 6 volt batteries for 1 12 volt battery ,but to my ...
  A: It depends where the cutout switch was wired. For now, I would wire the car without a cutout. My ...
Rear axle leak6/2/2011
  Q: While trying to removed the rear brake guts, I removed the screw for the centre axle hub. When I ...
  A: There are 3 things that might be causing your problem. See this diagram on the Moss website: ...
MG Battery Replacement5/10/2011
  Q: The walls of the battery well in my MG have bowed inward making it impossible to put in the ...
  A: I have never heard of this before. Why did the walls bow inward? It sounds to me as though the ...
red light on dash board wont go out5/2/2011
  Q: I have a 1976 mgb roadster the light on the dashboard wont go out it is draining the battery also ...
  A: I presume the red light on the dashboard is the ignition warning light. Normally this indicates ...
mg td, back axel ratios5/1/2011
  Q: In the process of restoring a 1951 mgtd, wish to alter the diff ratio, have obtained a diff from a ...
  A: To be honest, a 1250cc TD would have great difficulty pulling an MGB rear axle - 3.9 is a bit too ...
MG Midget Gearbox issues4/27/2011
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget and I'm having issues with the gear box. It will slip into gear easily if ...
  A: That confirms my suspicions. Your clutch is not operating. I would start by checking the fluid ...
MGB Rev Counter4/26/2011
  Q: 1970 MGB GT. When engine not running but with the ignition on switch overdrive on, side lamps on or ...
  A: Strange electrical faults such as this are usually due to a bad earth. Turn the sidelights on and ...
MG Midget Gearbox issues4/24/2011
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget and I'm having issues with the gear box. It will slip into gear easily if ...
  A: This sounds to me as though the clutch is not fully releasing. You say the clutch is fine - how are ...
MGB Exhaust smoke.4/20/2011
  Q: I have a 1973 MGB roadster. I have just fitted a new unleaded head, including all gaskets. Since i ...
  A: The short answer to your question is yes. A rich engine will smoke, usually blue smoke rather than ...
1973 mg mgb4/19/2011
  Q: where is engine block drain plug or tap located.
  A: It is just above the distributor, slightly to the left. Early cars had a tap, later cars like yours ...
removing oil /temp gauge from 72 Midget4/14/2011
  Q: any suggestions on removing gauge? what type of bracket is on back? I have a replacement Smith s to ...
  A: Here is a photograph showing the back of a dual gauge. It is called a dual gauge because it is ...
1973 MGBGT USA cutting out4/4/2011
  Q: I have been having trouble with my 1973 MGB GT. It runs fine at start up and under a load until it ...
  A: OK Adam. Sounds like carb icing to me. This has been happening more and more in recent months. ...
1973 MGBGT USA cutting out4/4/2011
  Q: I have been having trouble with my 1973 MGB GT. It runs fine at start up and under a load until it ...
  A: This is a tricky one. I really need to know which part of the USA you live in, and also what fuel ...
fuel pump leak 75 mgb3/26/2011
  Q: i've got a 1975 mgb, just went to start it this morning but if failed to start. didn't even fire. ...
  A: The overflowing carb means that the needle valves should be replaced, otherwise this will keep ...
MG Midget, Suspension, wiper fluid and reverse lights.3/23/2011
  Q: I'm new to vintage cars, have just picked up a 1977 MG Midget (from England at some stage). The ...
  A: If the front end bounces, then probably the front shock absorbers are not working. They should be ...
Brakes don't work on 1975 MGB3/20/2011
  Q: The brakes on my 1975 MGB do not work. The fluid level was almost empty. I cleaned the reservoir and ...
  A: If you have lost a lot of brake fluid, then either it is leaking or it is being consumed by the ...
signal lights just stopped working3/18/2011
  Q: I have changed out my signal switch already. ( I don't think it was very good cause it was slow) My ...
  A: The speed of the turn indicators is governed by the two-wire relay unit clipped to the bulkhead. ...
signal lights just stopped working3/17/2011
  Q: I have changed out my signal switch already. ( I don't think it was very good cause it was slow) My ...
  A: If the turn indicators have suddenly stopped working on both sides of the car, then I would guess ...
MG MIDGET 1500 1979 UK RESTORATION3/12/2011
  Q: Having stripped the engine down on a workmate bench I am now endeavouring to remove the camshaft ...
  A: The engine in a 1500 Midget is basically a Triumph Spitfire unit. The relevant part of the workshop ...
1974 MGB (USA)3/8/2011
  Q: i RECENTLY PURCHASED THIS 1974 MGB AND THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD NOT COME ON. TRACED IT TO A BAD LUG ON ...
  A: Either the power to the tachometer is faulty or it has a bad earth. The earth to the tach is via a ...
1974 MGB speedo and screenwash3/3/2011
  Q: Actually two questions:1. speedometer stopped working;found 2 cables under the dash; both appear ...
  A: I hope you have small nimble fingers. These jobs are best done lying on your back with your feet in ...
1978/79 MGB emission control 2/23/2011
  Q: where can i get a good diagram of the engine and engine compartment on a 1979 mgb ANSWER: Hi Doug ...
  A: Depending on your chassis number, one of these links might help: MGB USA Emission Controls 75 to 78 ...
wiring 1972 MG Midget2/23/2011
  Q: 1972 MG Midget 1250 cc looking for a wiring diagram...the major things are hook up and ...
  A: No, it is not exactly the same, but it is sufficiently similar that you can use it with confidence. ...
Rear springs MG TF 1954, US converted to RHD2/22/2011
  Q: I've stripped the rear springs down, cleaned them up with a wire brush on a drill and they're still ...
  A: The rear bushes are removable rubber items. They should come out without any problems. The front ...
vin no and chassie number2/21/2011
  Q: i have a 1968 mg midget. vin4u00265zp chassie gan4u64500g How can i find ...
  A: From the chassis number GAN4-U-64500G I can tell you that this is an MG Midget made in 1967-68 for ...
Electronic Ignition2/19/2011
  Q: As a (very) novice MGB GT (1969) owner I'm having the car bodywork restored professionally later ...
  A: I fitted an Accuspark kit to a V8 two weeks ago, and I was very impressed with it. These units ...
1974 MG Midget Gauge Wiring2/15/2011
  Q: I am trying to put in aftermarket gauges into a MG dash. Somebody had already taken it apart, and ...
  A: Every gauge has illumination (Red with a stripe, either white or green) Every gauge needs an earth ...
1977 mg midget vibration2/14/2011
  Q: my 77 mg midget 1500 has a bad vibration on acceleration and deceleration at about 60 mph.it was bad ...
  A: Since the whole car shakes, then probably one or more of the engine mountings has failed, but I am ...
1977 mg midget vibration2/14/2011
  Q: my 77 mg midget 1500 has a bad vibration on acceleration and deceleration at about 60 mph.it was bad ...
  A: I presume you can feel the vibration through the steering wheel? Wheel wobble at about 60mph is the ...
MG TD Gear Box - excess float on 1st gear2/13/2011
  Q: I have measured the end float of the sliding hub to be a total of 48 thou and made a washer as per ...
  A: You seem to have painted yourself into a corner. You need a good strong first gear. I like the ...
MG TD Gear Box - excess float on 1st gear2/13/2011
  Q: I have measured the end float of the sliding hub to be a total of 48 thou and made a washer as per ...
  A: So long as the new cam is not to half race spec with no low down torque, you will rarely need to use ...
MG TD Gear Box - excess float on 1st gear2/12/2011
  Q: I have measured the end float of the sliding hub to be a total of 48 thou and made a washer as per ...
  A: I can see from the photo that the gear is badly worn. You really should replace it. The problem ...
gas gauge2/11/2011
  Q: Barrie, My gas gauge doesn't work or is incorrect most of the time! Could this be caused by a ...
  A: If the gas gauge does not read at all, then you probably have a minor wiring fault. If the gauge ...
MG TF Spark and E102/11/2011
  Q: I own an MG TF Spark ('06) and would like to know whether the motor can cope with the new ...
  A: There should be no problem using a modern MG TF with E10, but you will experience an increase in ...
1978 MGB Electrial2/3/2011
  Q: Engine starts and runs. Cannot turn off. Disconnect all wires from ignition switch,ignition switch ...
  A: What a wierd problem. I presume you have a 1978 MGB made to USA specification. This has all sorts ...
overheating rad1/30/2011
  Q: i have a 1978 mgb gt, with a fairly new rad. On a recent outting, the car over heated, this caused ...
  A: Whilst all your suggestions are possible causes, it could be something much simpler. When you ...
1976 MG Midget1/26/2011
  Q: Barry, I have been restoring a 1976 MG Midget. I purchased a freshly rebuilt 1500 motor. I have ...
  A: When you operate the starter with the plugs in, the engine puts a much greater load on the starter ...
1976 MG Midget1/25/2011
  Q: Barry, I have been restoring a 1976 MG Midget. I purchased a freshly rebuilt 1500 motor. I have ...
  A: I don't claim to be an expert on the 1500 engine fitted to the later Midgets, but my advice is: So ...
1976 carb.1/19/2011
  Q: I have a 1976 MG midget that you have helped me with before , but now it seems I am having a problem ...
  A: In the USA the 1976 Midget had a single Zenith Stromberg carb. I think your problem is a sticking ...
inner tie-dods1/19/2011
  Q: Ok, this is the deal: I need to change both inner tie-rods due to lot of play of ball-socket (I ...
  A: You will probably only need to adjust the inner tierod ball joints, not replace them. There is a ...
1979 MGB1/4/2011
  Q: The car had been storage over 15 years. I had drained the gas, put in new gas, changed the fuel ...
  A: I am having difficulty picturing this. A photograph would be very helpful. Some of these cars ...
68 mg midget cooling system fault1/2/2011
  Q: I have an issue with coolant passing through the overflow from overheating.Recently replaced water ...
  A: This is a common problem with the MG Midget. I have three suggestions: 1) When you drained the ...
MG TD Transmission Re-Build12/30/2010
  Q: My son and I are attempting a rebuild of a 51 TD transmission. The peg bolts holding the shifting ...
  A: Be careful. Every nut, bolt and stud on your TD gearbox has a metric thread. I think the peg bolts ...
Best Gasoline for 1979 MGB - Part II12/30/2010
  Q: Barrie, thanks for your very prompt and thorough response to my initial question. You said that you ...
  A: Yes, the numbers look right for a USA specification engine made in 1978 for an MGB with overdrive ...
Best Gasoline for 1979 MGB12/25/2010
  Q: I've searched all over and haven't found an answer, much to my surprise. I have a 1979 MGB, US ...
  A: The short answer is - use the higher octane. The MGB engine was designed to use leaded 97-octane ...
hs4 carb rebuild12/22/2010
  Q: I am in process of totally rebuilding a pair of hs4 AUD326 carbs to replace my Webber 32\36 carb on ...
  A: You have asked a question that needs a big reply. I have written a book on the MGB (Barrie's Notes) ...
mg td third gear jump12/20/2010
  Q: I have recommended to consult from the bbs forum and thank you for your attention. I have an MG TD, ...
  A: This is a common problem with the TD/TF gearbox. Unfortunately, there could be many reasons why the ...
Rear springs12/18/2010
  Q: Barrie, I'm restoring a '54 TF. Refurbish the rear springs or buy new ones? Would you recommend new ...
  A: The steel in your old springs will be of far higher quality than any modern replacement. In the UK ...
Car number for 70 Midget12/14/2010
  Q: I have just bought a 70 mg midget I don't know much about the midgets I have a car number ...
  A: I would get your car recorded on the Midget Register and ask if they have any history on it. Go ...
Car number for 70 Midget12/14/2010
  Q: I have just bought a 70 mg midget I don't know much about the midgets I have a car number ...
  A: You say you have a car number GAN5AU/883348 and engine number 12CD DA-H 17145. GAN5 is the prefix ...
fuel&brake lines12/13/2010
  Q: is there a bending diagram for replacing the fuel and brake lines on a 1975 mgb. thanks very much ...
  A: No, the factory did not produce any bending diagrams. There is a helpful set of schematic ...
stay rod and clips mount pic for 69 mg hood11/27/2010
  Q: I am lookinjg for the stay rod mount and clip mount location on the bonnet(hood) for a 69 mg ...
  A: I have found a diagram of an early Midget bonnet stay. Please send me another question so that I ...
Valve engine run on11/25/2010
  Q: I have a 1976 MG midget. And have pretty well rewired the whole car except the engine run on valve. ...
  A: The cut-off valve is just a spring-loaded air valve which is held when the ignition is switched on. ...
Valves Sticking11/24/2010
  Q: I've been making some nice progres on bringing my 1979 mgb back to life after years in the garage. ...
  A: It was a mistake to run the car with old oil. After 15 years the oil will have oxidised and coated ...
MGB's engine stops running11/23/2010
  Q: I'm living in Belgium and actually restoring a MGB GT 1971. The car is almost ready and I am ...
  A: I have been asked about this problem a few times recently. I guess you are using E10 fuel, which is ...
Early MGB starter with separate solenoid11/22/2010
  Q: i have recently purchased a 1967 mgb gt which was a project car, i have now come to fit the main ...
  A: You have the earlier Bendix type starter motor as opposed to the later pre-engaged starter. You ...
mg midget 197211/21/2010
  Q: it keeps burning out the starter have had it replaced 3 x what do i need to do here????????????????
  A: If the starter has burnt out 3 times, the problem lies elsewhere. My guess is the engine is ...
Valves Sticking11/19/2010
  Q: I've been making some nice progres on bringing my 1979 mgb back to life after years in the garage. ...
  A: If all 4 inlet valves are sticking, then either the guides are too tight, or they are gummed up. ...
1952 TD generator, won't11/15/2010
  Q: With engine running, the ammeter shows a "pulsating" discharge. just twitches to discharge at idle, ...
  A: Disconnect both wires from the dynamo. Connect the two dynamo terminals together. Run the engine ...
MG TD gear box - excess float on 1st gear11/10/2010
  Q: I rebuilt my gear box 6000 miles ago ( 4yrs) with your wonderful video but was unable to find a new ...
  A: Slight wear in a 60 year old part? I would just live with it. I did hear that new hubs are no ...
MG TD gear box - excess float on 1st gear11/10/2010
  Q: I rebuilt my gear box 6000 miles ago ( 4yrs) with your wonderful video but was unable to find a new ...
  A: At the rear of the 1st/2nd sliding hub you will observe a big gap due to wear. Test this with ...
1972 mgb gearbox dipstick location11/9/2010
  Q: I have a 72 MGB, want to drain and re-fill gearbox. Under car I see dipstick and rubber grommet. but ...
  A: Look behind the centre console. It will be on the right hand side. You will find a big rubber bung ...
Starter Wires11/9/2010
  Q: I have been making some real progress bringing my 79 MGB back to life after sitting for many years, ...
  A: The White/Green wire is the bypass for the ballast resistor. Perhaps a mechanic replaced the ...
MG Midget soft top11/8/2010
  Q: I purchased a 76 MG midget a couple of months ago. When I received it the top was down and has been ...
  A: If the hood was originally fitted on a warm summer's day and it has been left down until the winter, ...
carb10/31/2010
  Q: You ask if it was a downdraft and it is. I took it off and found 38dgev on the baseplate. This carb ...
  A: You need everything. I would buy a new pair of carbs from Burlen Fuel Systems of Salisbury, UK. ...
Primeing the Carb10/30/2010
  Q: I have a 76 MG midget and had to rewire it and all seems well. I have a good spark at the plug but ...
  A: There is no easy way to prime the carburetter float chamber on a 76 Midget. In the old days, ...
carb and ignition10/30/2010
  Q: I have a 69mgb don't know if its uk or us but could you recommend what weber carb and fuel pump ...
  A: Both sidedraught 40DCOE and downdraught 28/36 DCD Weber carbs were available for the MGB. If you ...
Bump Stops on 1973 MGB10/28/2010
  Q: Any suggestions and/or tips on the easiest way to replace rear bump stops and bushings on 1973 ...
  A: The rear bump stops just pull off. To fit new ones, lubricate the hole with silicone grease and ...
Side Lights 197010/28/2010
  Q: I have been restoring my car for the past couple years and do not recall if the side lights only ...
  A: The lighting switch has 3 positions, 1=off, 2=sidelights & 3=headlights. In position 3 all the ...
drivers door coutesy light switch 1974 MGB chrome bumper10/21/2010
  Q: I wanted to replace the original broken door operated courtesy light switch, the original had to ...
  A: Glad to help. I suggest that you trace the other wire from the passenger side. Look for a purple ...
mg tf (rear passenger brake rubbing)10/20/2010
  Q: My (02) tf 135 sometimes feels as if it's "tracking" (gently trying to steer itself) to the left and ...
  A: I am not an expert on the modern MGF/TF series, but I might be able to help you. If a rear disk is ...
points10/19/2010
  Q: I no longer have the mechanical fuel pump mounted on the side of engine, I put an electric one on ...
  A: I think you have stage 1 of the complex problem with modern fuel. (I thought you had stage 2). ...
points10/18/2010
  Q: This is a follow up too my question last week,, I did get my points set at .015 as you said and put ...
  A: This sounds like a vapour lock. I hear of this quite often, especially since they started adding ...
points10/14/2010
  Q: have gotten help from you in the past and wanted to thank you for that. I have a 1976 mg midget, ...
  A: The engine in your 1500cc Midget is basically a Triumph Spitfire engine, not the traditional `A' ...
1968 mgb tach10/14/2010
  Q: My 1968 mgb tach seems to work just fine except when the engine is reved up slightly the tach reads ...
  A: The 68 MGB had a strange electronic tacho with a loop of wire going through a horseshoe on its way ...
Wiring ign/starter switch midget 78 AND master clutch cyl.10/12/2010
  Q: Barrie, I lost my drawing I made before disconnection the five wires from the ign switch on my ...
  A: /===================================================/ Did you mean the ignition RELAY as opposed to ...
drivers door coutesy light switch 1974 MGB chrome bumper10/11/2010
  Q: I wanted to replace the original broken door operated courtesy light switch, the original had to ...
  A: The MGB courtesy light switch should have only one wire going to it. That wire is Purple with a ...
1500 series engine block10/9/2010
  Q: I am a owner of a 1960 Nash Metropolitan that was fully restored about 15 years ago. Well I just ...
  A: This is a bit outside my area of expertise, but I seem to remember the Metropolitan had basically ...
Thermostat/ Water Pump10/6/2010
  Q: Hey there, I'm new to the MGB world or rather my father is. I'm working on his 1980 rubber bumper ...
  A: welcome to the world of classic MGs. The water pump is on the front of the engine, close to the ...
1979 mgb lacks power10/5/2010
  Q: My 1979 mgb appears to lack pick-up or power. Brought it out of 15 years of storage. Replaced ...
  A: I guessed it would probably be a sticking piston. No, carbs do not usually gum up like this when a ...
Alternator works on bench, not in MG10/5/2010
  Q: The battery in my 1980 MGB (US market) has a sufficient charge, and my Lucas alternator has recently ...
  A: Alternators do not require any exciting. The Brown/Yellow wire is an output from the alternator, ...
Transmission Fluid 1975 MG midget?10/4/2010
  Q: You helped me back in April. I have a new issue. The car was driving GREAT and suddenly today there ...
  A: It depends which Midget you have. They changed the design in the fall of 1974, so a 1975 USA-spec ...
1979 mgb lacks power10/4/2010
  Q: My 1979 mgb appears to lack pick-up or power. Brought it out of 15 years of storage. Replaced ...
  A: I doubt that the O-ring is causing all this trouble, but it is worth changing it. Dashpot oil and a ...
Transmission Fluid 1975 MG midget?10/3/2010
  Q: You helped me back in April. I have a new issue. The car was driving GREAT and suddenly today there ...
  A: The fact that the noise is there until you select neutral or put your foot on the clutch indicates a ...
1979 mgb lacks power10/3/2010
  Q: My 1979 mgb appears to lack pick-up or power. Brought it out of 15 years of storage. Replaced ...
  A: I was pleased to note that you have replaced the brakes and the clutch slave. After 15 years, just ...
Fuel Pump9/27/2010
  Q: After carefully reading your inputs, I suspect I have a 1976 engine and possibly an earlier car - ...
  A: If the pump is partially in the boot, then the car is a 75 or later. If the pump is entirely ...
Alternator9/27/2010
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB I ordered the wrong Alternator thinking my mgb was a 1979. Before I realized the ...
  A: You have bought the wrong alternator for your car. The simplest thing to do is to return it in ...
MG B Fuel Pump9/26/2010
  Q: 1976 mgb fuel pump has a small plastic pipe coming from it - gas is leaking from it when the car is ...
  A: On some pumps there are two vents, one in the cap and another on the body. They should both vent ...
MG B Fuel Pump9/25/2010
  Q: 1976 mgb fuel pump has a small plastic pipe coming from it - gas is leaking from it when the car is ...
  A: With a 76 B the plastic head of the pump should be in the boot. From your photo I see that yours is ...
MG B Fuel Pump9/25/2010
  Q: 1976 mgb fuel pump has a small plastic pipe coming from it - gas is leaking from it when the car is ...
  A: The small plastic pipe from the lid of the pump is just a breather pipe. It should go up inside the ...
Electrical problem9/23/2010
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB that I am having a problem with the radio. If I turn the ignition to the "on" ...
  A: The radio is wired from the accessory connection on the starter/ignition switch. It should cut out ...
1979 mgb brass emblem on air filter?9/21/2010
  Q: I purchased a 1979 mgb on the way home I lost the brass mg emblem on the chrome carb filer housing. ...
  A: The MGB was never fitted with any brass MG emblems on the carbs or the air filters. This sounds ...
Smoke from Valve Cover9/21/2010
  Q: I just got my 1977 MGB out of storage (4 years). Started right-up. After 5 minutes, I shut down to ...
  A: First a question - did you check the water level in the radiator? It could be nothing more than an ...
1976 MGB No Reverse9/19/2010
  Q: 1976 MGB VIN GH5NUG3975099 Canada I've been working on this MGB for the last week. It's been ...
  A: I do not think it is an internal gearbox fault. I think the problem is inside the remote control ...
1976 MGB No Reverse9/19/2010
  Q: 1976 MGB VIN GH5NUG3975099 Canada I've been working on this MGB for the last week. It's been ...
  A: You are correct - reverse is left and back. If it won't go to the left, then possibly the detent ...
'71 Midget electrical problem9/17/2010
  Q: I was troubleshooting an electrical problem on my '71 Midget, and I've caused more problems than I ...
  A: This is a classic electrical problem. Either you have a bad earth (ground) circuit, or you have a ...
History MGB 1974 Auto box9/17/2010
  Q: Barrie, recently puchased 74 MGB former US export model. History says MG stopped installing Borg 35 ...
  A: The automatic MGB was manufactured from 1968-73, mainly for the USA market. By 1973 USA dealers ...
Wiring loom - harness9/15/2010
  Q: I have inherited a 1977 MGB for which most of the electrical wiring under the hood is a complete ...
  A: When the wiring is bad, it is dangerous because it could cause an electrical fire. You must replace ...
MGB 77 headlamp switch9/14/2010
  Q: The headlights and taillights stopped working on my 77 MGB- the brake lights and turn signals work ...
  A: If your car sits for long periods, items such as brake pistons can sieze. This would explain why ...
MGB 77 headlamp switch9/14/2010
  Q: The headlights and taillights stopped working on my 77 MGB- the brake lights and turn signals work ...
  A: The main lighting switch on the 77-80 MGB was always a weak point. Internally it is identical to ...
1972 mg midget9/9/2010
  Q: I was attempting to clean up the wiring harness in my mg when I accidently pulled a wire connection ...
  A: The Purple wire with a white stripe goes from the courtesy lamp to the two door switches. There is ...
Removing radiator from 1955 MG TF9/4/2010
  Q: Barrie, I inherited a 1955 MG TF 1500 from my uncle. I know that it needs the timing chain gear ...
  A: The radiator, complete with shell, is a complete unit that should come out fairly easily. The ...
Cleaning SU fuel pump points9/3/2010
  Q: Do I need to remove the fuel pump form the car to access the points and clean them?
  A: On a 1975 or later MGB the fuel pump points are accessible via the boot (trunk). Remove the spare ...
1972 mgb9/2/2010
  Q: sputtering/stumbling under acceleration below 2500 rpm and backfiring on over-run. starts ...
  A: Sounds like an air leak which is messing up the slow running. I would be suspicious of the air gulp ...
73 MGB won't turn over9/1/2010
  Q: Recently I ran my battery down trying to start it. Using jumper cables and another car, I hooked ...
  A: There are several things that could have gone wrong. For example: The batteries would not like ...
Fuel Pump8/31/2010
  Q: Clicking noise. No fuel getting through. Tank half full. left idle for 3 weeks. How do I get air ...
  A: I don't think you have air in the system. If the pump keeps ticking but no fuel gets through, then ...
Electrical problems with an MGB8/29/2010
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB and lately my battery has been going dead for no apparent reason. It takes a ...
  A: You have an electrical drain from somewhere, so you must find it. The headlight switch is ...
Brake and signal lights 1974 MGB USA8/29/2010
  Q: Regular lights front and back work! Left and right rear signals and brake lights do not work! Hazard ...
  A: My factory workshop manual for the MGB only covers cars made up to 1975, but it has 18 different ...
Electrics - No life at all from MGB8/28/2010
  Q: I have a barn find MGBGT 1970. It's been standing since around 1985, but is actually in pretty good ...
  A: Fuse number 4 is not very important. It only powers the horns and the interior light. The two ...
Electrics - No life at all from MGB8/28/2010
  Q: I have a barn find MGBGT 1970. It's been standing since around 1985, but is actually in pretty good ...
  A: You have got the right idea. I regularly convert MGBs from twin 6-volt batteries to a single ...
Ignition light flicker8/28/2010
  Q: After coming to a stop in my 73B the ignition light started to flicker, Reving the engine had no ...
  A: Sounds like a faulty alternator to me. Take your car to any good auto shop and get them to do a few ...
79 MG Midget8/27/2010
  Q: Driving home from work, the turn signals/tach/wipers/temp. and fuel gauges stopped working. My ...
  A: From your description it seems that you have a problem with fuse number 3. The engine did not stop, ...
Unsuccessful HIF Carb REpair8/27/2010
  Q: Gents: On a 1973 USA MGB with HIF Carbs, the float on the front carb had filled with gas & was ...
  A: I think you have rebuilt the carbs incorrectly, so you will have to take them apart again. It is ...
Unsuccessful HIF Carb REpair8/26/2010
  Q: Gents: On a 1973 USA MGB with HIF Carbs, the float on the front carb had filled with gas & was ...
  A: The fact that the pump fills the float chamber and then stops proves to me that you have correctly ...
Topping up shock absorbers and carburetters8/24/2010
  Q: Barrie, 1)You have been batting 100...thanks again! What is the procedure for changing out the oil ...
  A: I am not sure why you want to change the oil in the shox. They sometimes need topping up, but I ...
starting trouble and brakes8/23/2010
  Q: I've been working on getting my mgb going again after many years stored in a garage, and your help ...
  A: Yes, it is probably that relay. Any auto store should have them in stock for a few dollars. As ...
MG TD won't start.8/23/2010
  Q: I inherited my dad's 1950 MG TD. The car has not run for over four years. When I tried to start it ...
  A: It sounds like stale fuel to me. All you need is air, a spark, and petrol (gasolene). There is a ...
starting trouble8/23/2010
  Q: I've been working on getting my mgb going again after many years stored in a garage, and your help ...
  A: I need to know the year of your car to answer this question. The later MGBs were fitted with a ...
High torque Starter motor for MGB8/19/2010
  Q: TQ sir for the answer. I couldn't get back to you via 'follow-up question'. Anyway, any idea what ...
  A: To find a high torque starter motor for the MGB, follow this link: ...
Starter motor8/19/2010
  Q: My competition MGB requires a very high 18 degree BTDC as it has a highly modified cylinder head ...
  A: For starting, you have two options. Either you fit a bigger more powerful battery, or you fit a ...
Ignition timing8/19/2010
  Q: I am very new to motor repairs and modifications and thus seek your advice. I have just bought a set ...
  A: I assume that you have an MGB? You say that your car has been modified (raised compression, ...
MG dies when braking8/19/2010
  Q: I have recently acquired a 79 midget and when I'm driving the car whenever I apply the brakes the ...
  A: This is a strange fault. It sounds electrical to me, rather than fuel related. Somehow, your ...
1965 jag mk ii coil heating up after 20 mins8/17/2010
  Q: jag mounted the coil just in front of rocker cover which i thought was wrong because when i put my ...
  A: Wiring the correct coil the wrong way round usually allows a car to start and tick over ok, but it ...
convertible top8/17/2010
  Q: Is there any special way to remove the convertible top on a 1979 MGB?
  A: I presume you are trying to remove the flexible cover from the frame in order to fit a new cover? ...
Starting & noise when turning off engine8/15/2010
  Q: 1) Random start up problem..needed a jump! Lights worked, battery connections clean & tight; starter ...
  A: The 77 B has a relay that operates the solenoid on the starter, and it does tend to fail with the ...
1954 MGTF wheel arch8/15/2010
  Q: I am attempting to remove the driver side rear quarter panel in order to fix a dent. It looks to me ...
  A: I wish you luck. I have tried a few times to remove a rear quarter panel intact. I have never ...
Ignition timing and CO setting for MGB with Stromberg8/11/2010
  Q: We have a 1976 MGB with rough idle static timing is 10 but after you start it it goes beyond the ...
  A: You have given me Lucas part number 43DE4. That is all I need to know. These are known as Lucas ...
Ignition timing and CO setting for MGB with Stromberg8/11/2010
  Q: We have a 1976 MGB with rough idle static timing is 10 but after you start it it goes beyond the ...
  A: You should have a Lucas 45DE4 distributor. It has a circular vacuum module that appears to be ...
Ignition timing and CO setting for MGB with Stromberg8/11/2010
  Q: We have a 1976 MGB with rough idle static timing is 10 but after you start it it goes beyond the ...
  A: I presume you are using a stroboscope. In order to check timing with the engine running, you must ...
Removing the MGB master cylinders8/11/2010
  Q: My master cylinder went on my 1974 mgb. In order to remove it I had to drop the brake and clutch ...
  A: It sounds hydraulic. On a LHD car the metal pipe from the slave cylinder to the master cylinder ...
Removing the MGB master cylinders8/6/2010
  Q: My master cylinder went on my 1974 mgb. In order to remove it I had to drop the brake and clutch ...
  A: Removing a master cylinder can be a pain. In particular, if you have a USA specification car, then ...
clutch slave cylinder8/5/2010
  Q: . the 1973 midget is my brothers car and I am helping him on it,,, we did get the new slave on and I ...
  A: Either you still have a bubble of air in the system, or the carbon thrust bearing is badly worn or ...
fan clutch8/3/2010
  Q: We need to replace the fan clutch on our 76 mg midget(usa), is this something that should be done in ...
  A: From memory, you need a special spanner (wrench). It is very thin and I think it is about 32mm in ...
slave cylinder8/3/2010
  Q: Have a 1973 midget, getting ready to put new slave cylinder in ,,,, wanting any advise or trick of ...
  A: I think I answered this this question on 10th June...I have a 1973 midget, getting ready to replace ...
MG Midget wiring8/2/2010
  Q: I have a large current leakage (approx 80 amps) to earth from Number 3 fuse on my 1972 MG Midget, ...
  A: I very much doubt that the voltage stabilizer is causing this problem. It is far more likely that ...
MG Midget wiring8/2/2010
  Q: I have a large current leakage (approx 80 amps) to earth from Number 3 fuse on my 1972 MG Midget, ...
  A: This is a serious problem. Something is earthing, and a current of 80 Amps is enough to burn out a ...
Carburator & clutch7/30/2010
  Q: Barrie, Its a 1977 MGB (single carb)number #175-cd-2 (the zenith carb co.) the vacuum port you ...
  A: All MGBs made after 1976 have an overdrive as standard. What gearknob do you have? There should be ...
MGB 77 just flatens out????7/29/2010
  Q: I am driving along a flat road in 3rd gear and it just flattens out on power, I put the gas down, no ...
  A: You have described the classic symptoms of an electric fuel pump that is getting tired. It has ...
1979 MGB Clutch7/28/2010
  Q: My 79MGB has been sitting for over 10 years. I decided to attempt to start it up. After replacing a ...
  A: I must start by giving you a safety warning. After sitting for 10 years, your car is probably not ...
1977 mgb7/28/2010
  Q: I have recently purchased a 1977 MGB. While driving engine stops running. The fuel guage goes to ...
  A: The fact that the fuel gauge reads emptty leads me to suspect the ignition relay. It is a small ...
(2) revitalizing the charcoal filter, vacuum advance7/26/2010
  Q: Barrie, I just got my computer back! The other problems have been solved. Would like more info ...
  A: Three questions require three answers: 1) Most MGs have the vacuum take-off from one of the ...
missing after rest7/26/2010
  Q: I recently left my 1972 mgb (UK)at my caravan for few weeks. as a precaution i took off the spark ...
  A: The engine has 4 cylinders that fire in sequence. Starting at the front of the car, the sequence is ...
SMOKING REPLACEMENT EXHAUST MANIFOLD7/25/2010
  Q: I have a 1981 MGB GT (UK) with standard 1800cc engine. I recently replaced the exhaust manifold with ...
  A: It is normal for some smoke to burn off the first time you start an engine after fitting new parts ...
1979 MGB Roadster7/25/2010
  Q: Son was driving his roadster,which had been running great.It just cut out and Pressure and fuel ...
  A: A 79 B has an Ignition relay that is powered from the Brown side of the bottom fuse. My guess is ...
1978 MGB Ignition light7/25/2010
  Q: When I turn on the ignition to the 'on' position #without starting the car# and then back to the ...
  A: I didn't know that you had a master battery switch. I think your isolator switch has caused all ...
clutch master cylinder7/24/2010
  Q: when repairing the clutch cylinder, should both rubber cups be facing the same direction inside the ...
  A: Yes, for both early and late design of clutch master cylinder, both cups face the same way. It is ...
MGB or Midget Heater control valve7/20/2010
  Q: Barrie, Again thanks for your sharing of knowledge! Nest problem...the heater control knob on the ...
  A: (1) Often the heater control valve on the engine gets stiff, in which case you need to either free ...
(2) revitalizing the charcoal filter, vacuum advance7/20/2010
  Q: Barrie, I just got my computer back! The other problems have been solved. Would like more info ...
  A: The charcoal filter was only fitted to export cars. I believe it is a sealed unit, so if you need ...
MG MIDGET7/19/2010
  Q: Steps to pull out transmission
  A: The Midget workshop manual devotes half a page to this. Basically, you have to remove the ...
Convertible top diagnosis7/18/2010
  Q: 1968 MGB roadster, GHN4. I am a newbie to convertible tops, and I have a question or two about ...
  A: At the rear of the hood there are two large chrome hooks that must be located before the header rail ...
MGB speedometer7/16/2010
  Q: I have recently bought a 1968 MGB roadster. It was fitted with O/D from new. The speedometer reads ...
  A: The answer to both your questions is `YES'. If the speedo has a number other than 1280 then it will ...
MGB speedometer7/15/2010
  Q: I have recently bought a 1968 MGB roadster. It was fitted with O/D from new. The speedometer reads ...
  A: The MGB up to 1974 had a speedometer calibrated at 1280 turns per mile. If you look at the face of ...
1971 mgb roadster7/13/2010
  Q: copper wire broke of temp sender so i drilled the sender and stuck copper wire back in but temp ...
  A: I presume you have a UK car with a mechanical `dual gauge'. The entire system was filled with ...
mg engine in a spitfire7/6/2010
  Q: what i got is im trying to swap an mg midget engine into my spitfire. the only issue is where the ...
  A: I have given this some more thought. The Moss Motors website contains many exploded diagrams of ...
MGB stiff 4th gear when hot7/4/2010
  Q: I have a 1966 mgb which does not do many miles in actual fact it comes out of the garage on the ...
  A: Are you sure that there is enough oil in the gearbox? Check the little dipstick hidden beneath an ...
cooling fan problem7/4/2010
  Q: Barrie, Again I'm at a dead end! I checked all the black lines had already cheked the connectors ...
  A: It could be the fuse. The small tubular item with Green wire plus Brown wire is an inline fuse ...
cooling fans still inoperative7/3/2010
  Q: Barrie, Thanks so much for your much needed guidance. You corrected the tach and dash/marker ...
  A: The wire that you describe as green and black is actually black with a green stripe. It goes from ...
1976 MGB stopped running while driving7/3/2010
  Q: Our 1976 MGB was running great, then we just lost power while driving. The car will not start now. ...
  A: Can you hear the pump ticking when you first turn the ignition on, before you hit the starter? If ...
1977 MG Midget7/2/2010
  Q: My brother bought a 77 MG Midget about two years ago. He passed away suddenly a few months ago. I ...
  A: Low oil pressure when hot is usually an indication of a worn engine. However, the correct oil is ...
wire spokes7/1/2010
  Q: I just bought a 1975 mg midget and it has wire spoke wheel on it all pics of a 75 does not have wire ...
  A: Yes, wire wheels were an option on the MG Midget throughout its production life. Some people ...
cooling fans & dash lights6/29/2010
  Q: My cooling fans have stopped along with my dash & running lights, is this a easy fix or a major ...
  A: There are 2 separate problems here. Unfortunately, they are not so simple. The running lights are ...
petrol6/27/2010
  Q: i`ve just recently bought a 1975 mgb gt 1.8. How do i know if the car needs additive, as i don`t ...
  A: I presume you want to know if your car will tolerate unleaded fuel. Without removing the cylinder ...
oil change6/22/2010
  Q: I have a 1976 mg midget, getting ready to chnage the oil, last time I went by what to book said and ...
  A: because: 1) You will have problems with low oil pressure. 2) Modern oils contain high levels of ...
Misfiring, Loss of power6/20/2010
  Q: 1972 MGB, SU carbs, std ignition. Was running ok until this spring. I replaced the starter and ...
  A: The voltage stabilizer is only there to provide a reliable 10 volts to the fuel gauge (and ...
1978 MGB Brake light6/19/2010
  Q: When I turn on the ignition to the 'on' position #without starting the car# and then back to the ...
  A: These symptoms point to a faulty diode in the wiring loom. There may be one or possibly two diodes ...
Choke cable connection to dual SU HS4 carbs6/18/2010
  Q: http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?lateIndexID=28987 Above is a link to the diagram ...
  A: I assume you are using Windows. Click on the following link to bring up Dan's photograph in a new ...
Misfiring, Loss of power6/18/2010
  Q: 1972 MGB, SU carbs, std ignition. Was running ok until this spring. I replaced the starter and ...
  A: You are correct, the condenser should protect the points from burning. You will see a small spark ...
Misfiring, Loss of power6/17/2010
  Q: 1972 MGB, SU carbs, std ignition. Was running ok until this spring. I replaced the starter and ...
  A: What a tale of woe. You have already tried just about everything that I can think of. I do have ...
Choke cable connection to dual SU HS4 carbs6/15/2010
  Q: http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?lateIndexID=28987 Above is a link to the diagram ...
  A: Your photo explains everything. You have the correct bracket, and you have the correct cable. ...
79 MGB Clutch Master Cylinder Removal6/15/2010
  Q: I recent purchased a 79 MGB. The previous owner said it needed a new clutch slave cylinder. The car ...
  A: Access to the bottom bolt is difficult. You may need a helper. I quote some paragraphs from my ...
Choke cable connection to dual SU HS4 carbs6/15/2010
  Q: http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?lateIndexID=28987 Above is a link to the diagram ...
  A: My reply to Dan's follow-up question was: I think you are missing a bracket, part #40 in the ...
master clutch cyldiner6/13/2010
  Q: Follow up Question I have the 1973 midget I wrote you about have a hard time getting it into first ...
  A: If you are only having this problem when selecting first gear, then there is nothing wrong with the ...
Bleeding a Midget clutch master cylinder6/10/2010
  Q: Sorry Barrie but I probably wasn't clear on my first question ,,,, I am not replacing my slave ...
  A: If you are only changing the clutch master cylinder, you should not need to bleed anything. The ...
Bleeding MGB Clutch Line6/10/2010
  Q: I have an '80 MGB made for the USA. It was time to bleed my hydraulic lines so I invested in a ...
  A: I just gave Steve some advice about bleeding his MG Midget clutch. The same advice applies to your ...
clutch master6/10/2010
  Q: I have a 1973 midget, getting ready to replace the clutch master and I have heard and read how hard ...
  A: Yes, there is a trick to this. Before you bolt the slave cylinder to the transmission, just let it ...
Bleeding Clutch Line6/8/2010
  Q: I have an '80 MGB made for the USA. It was time to bleed my hydraulic lines so I invested in a ...
  A: A good question. Did you clear out all the old fluid first? Did you re-fill from a new, sealed ...
MGB Idle Screw6/8/2010
  Q: I have a fairly simple question. I have a 1978 Mgb which I replaced the engine about 10 years ago to ...
  A: On the earlier twin carburetters the mixture adjuster is a large nut underneath the body of each ...
79 MGB will not start6/3/2010
  Q: All 4 cylinders have compression 130-135psi. I have spark confirmed by timing gun and external view ...
  A: I was suggesting that you check the timing by attaching the timing gun to cylinder #1, and then do ...
1954 MG TF Brake Mastercylinde Removal.6/3/2010
  Q: Barry. Can the master cylinder be removed from the underside (with or without modification). With ...
  A: The short answer is yes. No modifications required. 1) Put a tray underneath to catch the ...
79 MGB will not start6/3/2010
  Q: All 4 cylinders have compression 130-135psi. I have spark confirmed by timing gun and external view ...
  A: If you have fuel in the carbs, and a spark, and air from the filters, then it should fire and run. ...
steering lock on a 1774 mg midget6/1/2010
  Q: Do you have to pull the steering wheel to replace starter switch or the steering lock assembly? ...
  A: No, you do not need to remove the steering wheel to remove the steering lock assembly. However, the ...
clutch6/1/2010
  Q: the other day I was driving my 1973 mgb and the clutch was operating great. then, after about 30 ...
  A: This sounds like a hydraulic failure. The fact that you are not losing any fluid points to a ...
Jacking and axle stands at front of Midget5/28/2010
  Q: Barrie, where is the best place to position, firstly the trolley jack and secondly the axle stands ...
  A: The pad of your axle jack should be wide enough to cup the bottom of the telescopic damper that you ...
Electrickery5/28/2010
  Q: I'm having some serious electrical mayhem in my 73 Midget (US, I think). When my headlights work, ...
  A: This is a really tricky problem. It seems that there is a limit to the amount of current the system ...
Jacking and axle stands at front of Midget5/27/2010
  Q: Barrie, where is the best place to position, firstly the trolley jack and secondly the axle stands ...
  A: I assume you intend to raise the front of the car with a trolley jack. I would position it ...
Electrical problem5/26/2010
  Q: Got in my 52MGTD and drove 2 blocks and the car just quit. All electrical seems to be working. ...
  A: If I understand you correctly, there is no 12 volt reading at the side contact of the distributor ...
Electrical problem5/26/2010
  Q: Got in my 52MGTD and drove 2 blocks and the car just quit. All electrical seems to be working. ...
  A: A sudden engine failure is usually electrical, and your lack of spark confirms this. With the ...
78 B - Idle fluctuates5/23/2010
  Q: I have an all original (minus the catalytic converter) 1978 American MGB that hasn't run in almost 2 ...
  A: This is not easy to answer. As a novice, you really need a friend who is knowledgeable about older ...
1st gear5/22/2010
  Q: Fallow up on my question,,, thanks for your help so far, I have the 73 mg midget, I did check the ...
  A: Half a quart is significant. Check under the car to see if it is leaking. You may need a new ...
1st gear5/20/2010
  Q: I have a 1973 mg midget ,had a new clutch and slave cylinder put in a little over a year ago,,the ...
  A: I can think of two possible problems. 1) You have had clutch problems, and you are not losing any ...
1955 mg tf seats5/16/2010
  Q: I own a 1955 mg tf --all original ---no modifications.I have read that the seats are supposed to ...
  A: The seats should tip, so I don't like the idea of stopping them with wood screws. It can be useful ...
1963 mgb wont stay running5/16/2010
  Q: the car will start and idle but when i take it down the road it bogs down and stalls. I am thinking ...
  A: I could do with a little background information. If the car was working OK and this happened ...
1955 mg tf seats5/15/2010
  Q: I own a 1955 mg tf --all original ---no modifications.I have read that the seats are supposed to ...
  A: Yes, the seats on a TF tilt forward, and no, there is no locking mechanism. Are you trying to tip ...
MGB speedo gears5/12/2010
  Q: I have a 1968 MGB roadster with overdrive. The speedo fluctuates a lot but it is not the cable or ...
  A: The speedo drive gear and driven gear are both nylon. The teeth do tend to strip. These gears are ...
Fuel Pump5/11/2010
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB that gets stored every winter. While trying to start it this year, no fuel was ...
  A: I agree with you - this is a fuel pump problem. When you turn the ignition on, you should be able ...
1952 MGTD5/9/2010
  Q: My car is running on two cylinders--3rd & 4th cylinders are not getting any fuel to the spark plug. ...
  A: Good Morning, Danny. If your TD has fuel in both float chambers, but cylinders 3 & 4 are not ...
73 Midget Brake lights5/8/2010
  Q: Jones: Hello. I've two perhaps related questions. First, my brake lights don't work. All my ...
  A: Please note the warning that I have added at the end. So long as you have installed regular Halogen ...
73 Midget Brake lights5/8/2010
  Q: Jones: Hello. I've two perhaps related questions. First, my brake lights don't work. All my ...
  A: The fact that both the brake lights are failing, and that other circuits are still working (eg the ...
Proper choke cable orientation5/6/2010
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB with the HS4 carburetors, and I am confused as to how the choke cable should be ...
  A: I think you are missing a bracket, part #40 in the diagram 28987 that you referenced in your ...
Proper choke cable orientation5/5/2010
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB with the HS4 carburetors, and I am confused as to how the choke cable should be ...
  A: My answer depends on which mechanism you have on your carburetters. The design changed around ...
Changing front and rear suspension5/5/2010
  Q: Now that you have helped us get the 1966 MGB started, and is is running very well, thank you. We ...
  A: The MGB should not bounce around. Test each corner of the car by pressing sharply downwards on the ...
MGB won't start5/4/2010
  Q: Please, I am trying to get my wife's 1966 mgb going after sitting idle for three years. I have ...
  A: You have now got the wires fitted into the distributor in the correct sequence, but they may not ...
distributer cap5/3/2010
  Q: Please, I am trying to get my wife's 1966 mgb going after sitting idle for three years. I have ...
  A: Imagine that the distributor cap is a clock. Looking from above the engine, the wire to #1 plug is ...
1970 MGB Rough Idle5/3/2010
  Q: Engine serviced with new everything incl leads, points, condenser etc, timing set correctly. SUs ...
  A: You cannot tune the carbs with the pipes disconnected. If you leave the pipes off, excess air will ...
1970 MGB Rough Idle5/2/2010
  Q: Engine serviced with new everything incl leads, points, condenser etc, timing set correctly. SUs ...
  A: Are you sure you have connected everything correctly? The breather pipes should go from the ...
MGB doesn't fire4/27/2010
  Q: I have a '71 MGB that Iam restoring. Have rebuilt engine. Had heads reworked. Rebult carbs & ...
  A: It is possible that the distributor drive gear has been inserted wrongly, so when the coil fires, ...
1965 MGB4/26/2010
  Q: I have a 1965 MGB roadster. The car sat for 8 months while I was restoring the underside of the ...
  A: Stale fuel turns to varnish, so everything starts to gum up. Also, SU electric pumps do not like ...
1965 MGB4/26/2010
  Q: I have a 1965 MGB roadster. The car sat for 8 months while I was restoring the underside of the ...
  A: This sounds like a tricky one. My first reaction is that the car has sat for 8 months, so it could ...
MG Midget Clutch/transmission question4/23/2010
  Q: Well, you helped me with a silly turn signal issue, now I have something more troubling. When taking ...
  A: There should not be vibration when you drive the car. Something is out of balance. I am ...
MGB 19754/21/2010
  Q: You asked if I have a USA car with all the American emission control equipment and a single ...
  A: From the photo I can see that you have the USA single Stromberg carb with all the emission control ...
Fuel pump on MGB4/21/2010
  Q: Please could you confirm what type of fuel pump would be on my 1978 MGB. I have replaced the ...
  A: Your MGB should have a rear-mounted SU electric fuel pump, with the lid accessible behind a black ...
MGB 19754/19/2010
  Q: My MGB 1975 (left hand drive American Model) does not drive smoothly in 3rd and 4h gear independant ...
  A: Surges of power are usually a symptom of a weak mixture, 1)It could be that the carburetter jet ...
MG Midget Clutch/transmission question4/17/2010
  Q: Well, you helped me with a silly turn signal issue, now I have something more troubling. When taking ...
  A: If you have lost clutch fluid, then you must trace the leak. Usually, either the slave cylinder ...
MGB Speedo not working4/16/2010
  Q: The speedo on my 69 MGB GT is not working and hasn't been since I bought it a couple of months ago ...
  A: It is often the inner cable. They either come out at one end, or the squared end gets rounded, or ...
turn signals fail when brakes applied4/15/2010
  Q: I have had my MG midget for over a year now and really having some fun with it, always seem to be ...
  A: I think the problem is a bad earth (ground) at the rear of the car. Check that both the rear lamp ...
erratic running4/12/2010
  Q: i own a 1971 USA model MGB, fitted with a 123 electronic ignition system and a peter burgess fast ...
  A: It could be that one of the carbs has a worn float chamber needle valve. At slow speeds, it could ...
erratic running4/12/2010
  Q: i own a 1971 USA model MGB, fitted with a 123 electronic ignition system and a peter burgess fast ...
  A: This is an interesting problem. My immediate reaction is that the carburetter dashpots are empty ...
Turn Signals4/10/2010
  Q: I just bought a 1975 midget as my first 'project car' and for the LIFE of me, I can't figure out why ...
  A: You just gave me the information I needed. The turn indicators will not work because the hazard ...
MGB runs eratic4/10/2010
  Q: I recently overhauled my MGB. I have the valves set by the book, timing, and points are correct but ...
  A: You should be able to get a test rod between the upturned float and the lid. A drill will do ...
MGB runs eratic4/9/2010
  Q: I recently overhauled my MGB. I have the valves set by the book, timing, and points are correct but ...
  A: First off, check the wires to the coil. The plain white wire must go to the + terminal, and the ...
Turn Signals4/7/2010
  Q: I just bought a 1975 midget as my first 'project car' and for the LIFE of me, I can't figure out why ...
  A: Nine times out of ten, if the flashers don't work but everything else is ok, then the problem lies ...
1970 MG Midget4/5/2010
  Q: I just bought a 1970 Mg Midget and I'm restoring it. I'm missing the tachometer and the switch ...
  A: The missing switch is for the heater blower. Since the car is USA specification, I suggest that you ...
66 MGB overdirve switches4/4/2010
  Q: Looking from above the gearbox towards the front of the car I see 2 switches. Which one is the ...
  A: According to my factory parts manual, every early MGB with overdrive had reversing lights. The ...
66 MGB overdirve switches4/4/2010
  Q: Looking from above the gearbox towards the front of the car I see 2 switches. Which one is the ...
  A: When you select reverse gear you move the gear lever to the left and back. The bottom of the lever ...
fuel pump, folllow up3/29/2010
  Q: I did install an electric fuel pump and it seems to have solved the problem, I have driven it a lot ...
  A: I am pleased that my previous suggestions have worked. Wiring should be as simple as possible. No ...
Starter motor engaged while driving3/25/2010
  Q: I have a 72BGT. When driving her yesterday I heard a loud high pitched squealling scraping noise and ...
  A: You are not the first person to experience this problem. Your 72 BGT has a later type starter which ...
follow up on fuel pump question3/23/2010
  Q: Follow up on fuel pump.. I have decided to put an electric fuel pump mounted in the rear next to ...
  A: Your carburetters require a pressure of 3.0 psi minimum to 4.5 psi maximum. If your pump can exceed ...
fuel pump3/18/2010
  Q: I did reroute my gas lines on Wed, going to try it out today,, both lines, the one from the gas tank ...
  A: Sounds as though you are doing all the right things. I don't know where you would get a heat shield ...
revisiting Sept. 093/18/2010
  Q: Barrie. Back in September we had several conversations regarding the clutch of my '67 MGB. After ...
  A: Always glad to help. This new problem sounds like the timing is way out, possibly the two rear ...
SU carburetor primer?3/17/2010
  Q: I have a 1968 MGB with the GF engine and twin 1 1/2" SU carburetors. When filling the dashpots with ...
  A: The MGB uses the same oil in the engine, gearbox, and carburetter dampers. If you live in a hot ...
fuel pump3/17/2010
  Q: Fellow up on my fuel pump question. I did get the new pump on this past weekend, took it out for a ...
  A: This is the worst kind of problem. It destroys your confidence in the car. I cannot be certain, ...
Lucas RB3403/17/2010
  Q: Adjusting the adjusters needs a special tool. Do you know where I can get one?
  A: I know the tool you are referring to. It is like a screwdriver, but there is a gear wheel on the ...
1977 mg miget3/16/2010
  Q: I belive my brake system tubing is plumbed wrong. Do you have a diagram you could send me? The front ...
  A: Your plumbing sounds correct to me. The front port should go to the left-hand front brake. The ...
TACH ELECTRONIC RVI2401/OOB3/15/2010
  Q: I DO NOT HAVE THE REV COUNTER WIRE CONNECTOR ON BACK. CAN I GET ONE SOMEWHERE OR CAN I MAKE ONE TO ...
  A: It shouldn't be difficult to make one yourself. The diagram (above) should give you the right idea. ...
TACH ELECTRONIC RVI2401/OOB3/15/2010
  Q: I DO NOT HAVE THE REV COUNTER WIRE CONNECTOR ON BACK. CAN I GET ONE SOMEWHERE OR CAN I MAKE ONE TO ...
  A: I assume you have the early type of rev counter with a metal clip on the back that takes a loop of ...
follow up on fuel pump question3/12/2010
  Q: I did order a new pump and received it today,,, when I ordered they said the old streight arm was no ...
  A: If the new pump requires a spacer, then it also needs an extra gasket (one each side of the spacer) ...
Best way to use a trolley jack / stands3/11/2010
  Q: Barrie, Before I start jacking up my MGB GT what's the best place to position a trolley jack & axle ...
  A: Please be very careful. I never use the original jacking points, they are prone to corrosion and I ...
Dual Mater Cylinder MG Midget MK II3/11/2010
  Q: I have just stripped down the Dual Master Cylinder on my Midget. Although I was being cautious ...
  A: Your photo shows the spring retainer. You should have two of these. There should be one for each ...
Starter motor3/10/2010
  Q: i need to know how the starter motor is connected on my 1980 MGB (US) if there are pictures i would ...
  A: The wiring on a 1979-80 USA spec. MGB is a little confusing, because one of the brown wires is ...
fuel pump3/9/2010
  Q: It does seem to only quit when the motor is totally warmed up,when engine is cold it works great, ...
  A: Sounds as though your mechanical pump is starting to wear out. Just undo the two bolts that hold it ...
MG Midget Tie Rod3/9/2010
  Q: I have replaced both out Tie Rods, It appears that the previous Tie Rod where not aligned correctly ...
  A: You cannot assume that the track rods are identical. One may have more thread on it compared with ...
MG Midget Tie Rod3/9/2010
  Q: I have replaced both out Tie Rods, It appears that the previous Tie Rod where not aligned correctly ...
  A: Before you do anything else, make sure that you can remove the steering wheel. If you adjust the ...
handbrake3/6/2010
  Q: The handbrake on my 1978 MGB is stcuk and I cannot release it. What can I do?
  A: Either you have pulled it on so tight that you cannot release it, or else the cable has rusted ...
Clutch judder3/6/2010
  Q: I'm new to the MG world and have just bought a 69 GT which I've had checked by a local restorer who ...
  A: Yes, this could be oil on the clutch plate, but before taking the engine out, have a look at all the ...
fuel pump3/4/2010
  Q: Have a 1976, MG midget, 1500, it runs great but I noticed this summer a few time after driving in ...
  A: You are not the first person to contact me with these symptoms. I have a theory that the problem ...
Missing parts of my midget3/3/2010
  Q: I recently purchased a Miget after looking at the engine I noticed that the air filter was missing, ...
  A: From the photo I can see that you have a single Stromberg carburetter attached to a 1500 Midget ...
MGB won't start3/1/2010
  Q: I have a 1971 MGB. After I acquired the car I installed a new battery. It has a 12V negative ...
  A: Your MGB originally had two 6-volt batteries, so I presume you have had it converted to a single ...
No Oil Presure2/26/2010
  Q: I have no oil pressure. Motor has just been rebuilt, valve spring is good, Tried to prime by ...
  A: If you have a dry oil pump and an empty filter it could take ages before you get any oil pressure. ...
1972 Mg midget2/14/2010
  Q: I own a 1972 Mg Midget, and am currently rebuilding (putting back together) the old girl. I was ...
  A: Have a look at the Moss Motors website. They have a section on fuel systems and another section on ...
problem in 3rd gear2/14/2010
  Q: my nissan sentra 98 ex saloon ( MT ) has a problem accelerating in 3rd gear. No problem in 1st and ...
  A: I do not know anything about the Nissan Sentra. However, from my knowledge of cars in general, I ...
MG midget 19722/12/2010
  Q: Great advice as always. I usually skim through your responses and learn new things about midgets ...
  A: Sorry, but I cannot recommend what you are trying to do. The Midget took 145/80 x 13 tyres as ...
mgb sputters2/12/2010
  Q: hey Barrie, I have a 1973 mgb 1.8 and when I start the car with choke fully out it doesnt seem to ...
  A: Ii sounds like your car is not getting enough fuel. First, I would check that the dampers (on top ...
seat rails in floor pans2/10/2010
  Q: i have a 1975 mgb and i nead to know the measurement for location of nuts that secure the seat ...
  A: The front captive nuts are exactly in the middle of the front chassis cross-member, so they must be ...
MGB GT 19732/8/2010
  Q: I am looking for a wiring harness diagram on the MGB GT 1973 Model
  A: Wiring diagrams are included in the MGB owner's handbook, the MGB workshop manual, and the Haynes ...
MG B 1965 Roadster Just Died, but now ALIVE2/8/2010
  Q: Hey Barrie. thankyou very much for sll the questions you answered and the knowledge you imparted on ...
  A: I recommend the Pertronix Ignitor system. It is completely contained within the distributor, ...
MG B 1965 Roadster Just Died2/6/2010
  Q: I was driving it the other day. It has been driven3 times in the last year, but i gave it a good run ...
  A: You could test the resistance across the two small terminals of the coil. On a 65 B it should be ...
MG B 1965 Roadster Just Died2/5/2010
  Q: I was driving it the other day. It has been driven3 times in the last year, but i gave it a good run ...
  A: It could be so many things. The misfire and the sudden loss of everything leads me to think ...
MG B 1965 Roadster Just Died2/3/2010
  Q: I was driving it the other day. It has been driven3 times in the last year, but i gave it a good run ...
  A: I had this happen to me once. Check the inlet manifold carefully. At each end, there should be a ...
mg tf analogue clock2/3/2010
  Q: i have a 52 plate mg tf and the analogue clock and backlight does not work. i have checked the ...
  A: I do not claim to be an expert on the modern MGF/TF cars. However, I do know auto electrics. If ...
Oil leak 1979 MGB USA1/30/2010
  Q: ..not sure if is the valve cover or the head gasket I would like to clean the engine first but not ...
  A: I would take the rocker cover off and inspect the cork gasket, and the two rubber seals where the ...
1967MGB ROADSTER 18001/30/2010
  Q: bought an mgb non runner that was sitting since 84, lots of things hve been changed and is in very ...
  A: I suggest that you get a copy of the Moss Motors MGB catalogue. Inside, you will find everything ...
1976 mg midget misfire no power1/29/2010
  Q: I have a 1976 1500 mg midget. I bought it as seen got fifty miles dowwn the road and it started to ...
  A: Before you do anything else, get the compressions checked. So long as they are all over 120 psi, ...
Faulty Reversing (Back up) lights1/28/2010
  Q: You were so helpful with my relay issue I wanted to asked another question. I don't have backup ...
  A: Yes, there is a switch on the right hand (USA = passenger) side of the gearbox, high up and ...
Voltage stabilizer?1/28/2010
  Q: I with all good indications and stopped for fuel today, stopped the engine, shut the door, pumped ...
  A: All the functions that you have mentioned share fuse #3. However, that fuse is supplied via a ...
MGTD Brakes1/23/2010
  Q: I would like to put MGB disc brakes on my TD. I know it has been done, but would like some info on ...
  A: Sorry for the delay, my computer had a major failure which took 10 days to fix. Yes, I have seen ...
1979 MGB1/23/2010
  Q: My turn signals and hazard lights have stopped working, all gauges and other lights and horn are ...
  A: Sorry for the delay, Jeff. My computer had a major failure - took 10 days to fix it. The MGB ...
1976 mgb roadster voltage stabiliser1/20/2010
  Q: Where is the stabiliser located? How big of a job is it to change it? Any special tools needed? ...
  A: Sorry for the delay - I had a major computer failure for 10 days. The voltage stabiliser on an MGB ...
clutch1/20/2010
  Q: i have a 79 mg midget. runs great.... the other day when i was cruising the clutch pedal just went ...
  A: Sorry for the delay, Dave. My computer had a major failure - took 10 days to fix it. Sounds to ...
1977 M G Roadster1/18/2010
  Q: On The back of the ignition, Which is located in the middle of the console, on my 1977 M G Roadster ...
  A: Sorry for the delay, Charles. My computer had a major failure - took 10 days to fix it. Be ...
1971 MGB1/17/2010
  Q: I just bought a 1971 mgb that had been sitting in a garage for some time. It starts but only for ...
  A: Bill. Sorry for the delay. My computer had a fault that took 10 days to fix. Your distributor ...
1954 MGTF distributor1/15/2010
  Q: Mr. Jones I took the condenser out of the distributor and now I don't know the correct procedure ...
  A: Lynden. Sorry for the delay. My computer had a fault that took 10 days to fix. You should have a ...
ignition lock1/14/2010
  Q: the ignition lock has jammed on my 1978 mg midget 1500.the wires are easily accessable and i am ...
  A: Tony. Sorry for the delay. My computer had a fault that took 10 days to fix. This is a very ...
Bought mg from jeff1/14/2010
  Q: I bought the 1973 mgb from Jeff having problems finding this car vin number and don't know alot ...
  A: Sorry for the delay - I had a BIG computer failure. Took 2 weeks to fix. The MGB has no more ...
72 MG Midget rebuilt engine has low oil presure when warmed up1/12/2010
  Q: My dad and i recently rebuilt my 1275 engine. everything new. head, pistons, rings, oil pump... ...
  A: I get the impression that your engine has been rebuilt carefully, using all the right components. ...
1977 MGB Tachometer1/4/2010
  Q: i just bought a 1977 MGB and the tachometer isn't working. Can you give me any info on what the ...
  A: Please check with Moss. Will their kit fit a LHD car? Is the standard AUF300 pump adequate for ...
steering removal12/30/2009
  Q: pleas could you tell me the best way to remove the steering wheel on a 1978 mg roadster many thanks
  A: It is strange to receive the same question twice in two weeks. Here is the reply that I gave to ...
wiring schemitic12/21/2009
  Q: I am looking for a ignition wiring schametic for my 1975 midget.this is a u.k. car. i am confused ...
  A: Glad to help. #4 is the starter solenoid, #19 is the fusebox and #39 is the coil. One White/green ...
Wiring Harness12/21/2009
  Q: I have a 1973 USA MGB. My winter project is to replace the wiring harness as the current one has ...
  A: I would keep it standard. There should be two captive nuts on the right side of the engine ...
Cooling fan modification12/21/2009
  Q: I have a '76 B in Denver, and the cooling system keeps up quite adequately in the summer here. In ...
  A: From 77 the B had an electric fan as standard - you just missed out. Yes, install an aftermarket ...
Condenser12/20/2009
  Q: We are having an issue getting our 1954 MG TF to start. It has been about 13 years since it has ...
  A: You have done all the right things. You could do a compression test to check if there is anything ...
wiring schemitic12/20/2009
  Q: I am looking for a ignition wiring schametic for my 1975 midget.this is a u.k. car. i am confused ...
  A: It is not normal for the ballast resistor to blow. It is a resistive wire inside the wiring loom. ...
Removing the steering wheel - 78 MGB12/17/2009
  Q: I've got another simple question regarding my '78B that I'm hoping you can help me out with...I ...
  A: Be very careful, Quint. The steering column is collapsible. If you hit it with a hammer you can ...
76 midget with wheels that won't spin12/17/2009
  Q: We have a 76 Mg Midget set up on jacks that we just got to start. Now one of our problems is the ...
  A: This is most strange. Normally, the clutch plate sticks to the flywheel and you cannot stop the ...
Wheel alignment MG Midget12/16/2009
  Q: We are rebuilding a 72 Midget, and would like to know the correct alignment of the front and rear ...
  A: The Midget has a solid rear axle, so there is no adjustment possible to the rear wheels. At the ...
rev counter fault on 1955 TF150012/16/2009
  Q: hi just had rebuild but rev counter keeps flicking had new coil and electronic ingnition the car is ...
  A: The 1955 TF1500 has a mechanical rev counter. It is driven off the back of the dynamo, via a ...
'73 Midget Transmission Noise12/16/2009
  Q: I have a 1973 MG Midget. I recently noticed a noise that appears to be coming from the ...
  A: This could be many things. It is good that you can tune in to such sounds. My immediate reaction ...
1954 MG TF master brake cylinder12/14/2009
  Q: Mr. Jones, I need instructions on removing the master brake cylinder on my 1954 MG TF. I purchased ...
  A: The TF master cylinder is held to the chassis by two large bolts. Before you remove them, first ...
1979 Mgb12/9/2009
  Q: The last question I asked was about using dot 3 versus Dot 4. Thank you very much for clearing that ...
  A: Sounds like you still have some air in the clutch hydraulic system. The design of the system is not ...
1979 MG Midget (USA) ignition coil leaking12/6/2009
  Q: Greetings, Mr. Jones. I've read several of your thorough, well-worded replies on AllExperts, and it ...
  A: I am concerned about the sizzling noise that you heard. Is it possible that your battery (either ...
Safe jacking rear of midget12/5/2009
  Q: I am about to remove the gearbox from mkii midget. I need to get the rear onto axle stands so that ...
  A: This is a safety-critical question, so please be careful and never get under the car without it ...
mgb Engine12/5/2009
  Q: When first stated Engine takes approximately 30 seconds to register Oil Pressure.. Once it does it ...
  A: I assume that you have a throw-away spin-on oil filter. Some filters on the market do not have a ...
79 MGB12/3/2009
  Q: First of all I would like to thank you for all of you post. I fixed my turnsignals by changing both ...
  A: I am happy to help you. The California specification was the worst MGB they ever made. ...
bolt pattern 72 mg midget12/3/2009
  Q: Once again, thank you for all the assistance and knowledge you provide. I have 72 mg midget and have ...
  A: I assume that you have the standard steel wheels on your 72 Midget. They are 4.5J SL x 13. (In the ...
1979 MGB12/1/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB and the turn signals don't work. I was wondering if the turn signals were in line ...
  A: Yes, the hazard switch is wired into the turn signals, so if you remove the hazard switch the turn ...
1979 MGB Roadster11/30/2009
  Q: I drove the car this morning and within 5 minutes the temperature gauge 'red lined'. How can I test ...
  A: That really is quick. I very much doubt that it is the water pump. Failed pumps do not cause a ...
MGTF11/16/2009
  Q: My girlfriend has an 03 MGTF. The windows have stopped working before and now have stopped working ...
  A: I do not claim to be an expert on the modern MGTF. My knowledge relates to the classic MG TF made ...
clutch on 1974 MGB11/15/2009
  Q: All of a sudden, like the next day, my clutch pedal goes easily to the floor without engaging the ...
  A: If your master cylinder is empty, but there is no puddle, then you have a slow leak. If you fill ...
clutch on 1974 MGB11/14/2009
  Q: All of a sudden, like the next day, my clutch pedal goes easily to the floor without engaging the ...
  A: Sounds like you have had a hydraulic clutch failure. Check these in sequence: 1) If the clutch ...
MGB wiring11/13/2009
  Q: We have a 79 MGB that the engine died and we put in a '67 MGB engine in it. The 79 is neg. ground ...
  A: Yes, you can do this. A 67 engine will fit a 79 vehicle, and you can use the 67 starter motor. The ...
Barrie's Notes11/12/2009
  Q: I know this is not a car repair question, but my husband wants your book so I am trying to get it ...
  A: I have written two books with the title Barrie's Notes'. It depends whether your husband owns an ...
Ignition switch11/11/2009
  Q: Barry, I have a 1973 USA MGB. I have a problem with the ignition switch. Car cranks when ...
  A: The start position of the switch has failed so you need a new switch. I am pretty sure the return ...
BALLAST WIRE11/10/2009
  Q: I want to fit electronic ignition to my 1975 mgb. how do i bypass the ballast wire? is there any ...
  A: There are two power wires attached to the + terminal of the coil. They are coloured white with a ...
Clutch pedal with overcentre spring11/10/2009
  Q: When does a clutch pedal with overcentre spring(For semi-hyd system)does not retract back completely ...
  A: I presume you are asking about an MGB? The clutch pedal and the brake pedal pivot about one long ...
74 MG BGT11/4/2009
  Q: The brake lights don't work...but the tail lights do. I checked all the fuses and the bulbs and am ...
  A: The brake lights share the same fuse as the wiper motor and the heater motor. If these are both ...
mg midget misfire/popping sound10/29/2009
  Q: I've got a 1972 mg midget. Up until a month ago, it ran like a dream. However, since then there ...
  A: If you have done ANYTHING to the engine recently, no matter how trivial, please tell me because it ...
mg midget misfire/popping sound10/28/2009
  Q: I've got a 1972 mg midget. Up until a month ago, it ran like a dream. However, since then there ...
  A: Sounds like a leak in the exhaust to me. It could be that when you grounded the exhaust it broke ...
emergency brake adjustment10/10/2009
  Q: I have a '77 MG Midget and trying to adjust emergency brake. Manuel show adjustment at rear wheels, ...
  A: There was a change of design at (approximately) chassis number 182000. After that, the adjuster was ...
MGB GT Brake Lights10/6/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a 1974 MGB GT in good condition. Everything works except my brake lights ...
  A: The brake lights are wired from fuse #3 (green wires one side, white the other side). This fuse ...
Follow up on MGB stops when hot10/4/2009
  Q: some additional feedback. I reinspected my fuel pump diagram, turns out the only element with a tear ...
  A: You're Welcome, Peter. In the mid 1970s the SU pump gained a plastic membrane to protect the ...
Electrical10/1/2009
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget that is having some typical Lucas electrical problems. When I got the car ...
  A: I think you have more than one problem here. 1) There are two Red/Green wires coming from the ...
Burning coils10/1/2009
  Q: when I got my '76 MGB about a year ago, it had a 45D4 with points. After replacing the points a ...
  A: The voltages that you have given me look fine. Did you wire EVERYTHING through the relay? With ...
MGB Electronic Tachometer9/30/2009
  Q: I've a '60 MGA that has an early B 1800 engine with electronic tach which ceased functioning. I'd ...
  A: The MGA was originally wired for positive earth. I assume that the tachometer has the words ...
Burning coils9/29/2009
  Q: when I got my '76 MGB about a year ago, it had a 45D4 with points. After replacing the points a ...
  A: If you have any doubts about your ignition switch, then use it to power a relay with the power feed ...
Burning coils9/29/2009
  Q: when I got my '76 MGB about a year ago, it had a 45D4 with points. After replacing the points a ...
  A: The points system does deteriorate over time, but a properly set-up system works just fine. If you ...
B stops running when warm9/28/2009
  Q: My 74 B starts fine, I wait till it's warmed to about midpoint on temp gage to move, after about 5 ...
  A: I think you are getting there. A partially split diaphragm would be enough to give the symptoms you ...
MGB idle speed9/27/2009
  Q: I'm curently working on a 1965 MGB roadster and I would likt to understand why the the front jet and ...
  A: The two jets should be mirror images of each other. In particular, the brass jets should be ...
transmission identification9/26/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB that I am trying to sell and I keep getting asked if it has an overdrive ...
  A: Yes, you could look underneath the car. Behind the engine and the gearbox you will see a third ...
B stops running when warm9/25/2009
  Q: My 74 B starts fine, I wait till it's warmed to about midpoint on temp gage to move, after about 5 ...
  A: Peter. You seem to be doing all the right things. When you removed the emissions equipment, did ...
MG Midget UK version Rocker breather/vacum9/25/2009
  Q: i am in the UK, i have a 1962 midget 1098cc with twin SU's. i want to fit an alloy rocker cover to ...
  A: The breather pipe removes gases from the crankcase allowing them to be sucked into the carbs and ...
Original SU Carbs for MG TF 15009/25/2009
  Q: I am looking at a set of Su Carbs on Ebay. They are H4 type(1.5")AUC6020's. Front is #6030 & Rear is ...
  A: I found the TF carbs on Ebay Motors. They look correct to me: Float chambers are large diameter, ...
B stops running when warm9/24/2009
  Q: My 74 B starts fine, I wait till it's warmed to about midpoint on temp gage to move, after about 5 ...
  A: That eliminates the fuel delivery side. Yours is not the first MG that I have heard about with ...
Midget Body Restoration (Spit Roast)9/23/2009
  Q: I bought a 1966 MkII Midget earlier this year and I am enjoying it, taking me back to my teens when ...
  A: I like the look of the `spit roast' and think it would work well with a Midget. However, there is ...
B stops running when warm9/22/2009
  Q: My 74 B starts fine, I wait till it's warmed to about midpoint on temp gage to move, after about 5 ...
  A: The fact that you splutter to a stop leads me to think fuel starvation. The pump is delivering ...
Zeneth Carb9/21/2009
  Q: We own two MGB's '79, '80. My son has the '79 he can drive it a couple of miles and if he kills it ...
  A: I think the oil in the dashpot is too thick. Can you remove the damper, clean all the old oil out ...
MGB burning oil9/19/2009
  Q: The car is a 73 MGB USA model that is sending quite a bit of bluish smoke into the cockpit through ...
  A: I think you have a worn engine. The compressions should all be the same, within 10 psi. Also, ...
Clutch and Transmission9/19/2009
  Q: The system requires a new thread.. however back to the saga: Last we spoke the engine will need to ...
  A: While the engine is out, check for any signs of oil running down behind the flywheel. It is quite ...
Cold starts9/18/2009
  Q: I have a '76 B that I recently reactivated after 10 years of outside storage. I did a whole bunch ...
  A: Sounds like the automatic choke is not working. This quite a complex unit, and checking it is not ...
converting 6 volt batteries to a 12 volt9/18/2009
  Q: I read the answer regarding switching to a 12 volt but how do I determine if I have a negative ...
  A: Your question is very sensible. I use the largest, most powerful 12 volt battery that I can get ...
converting 6 volt batteries to a 12 volt9/17/2009
  Q: I read the answer regarding switching to a 12 volt but how do I determine if I have a negative ...
  A: Assuming that your car works OK at present with two 6 volt batteries, and that the radio works, just ...
ignition fault9/17/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MGB GT i cannot get a spark from the coil. I have replaced the coil, condenser, and ...
  A: You have the wires to the coil the wrong way round. The 1972 MGB is wired for negative earth, so ...
79 MGB w/dual SU's dies at high speeds9/16/2009
  Q: My 1979 MGB w/dual SU HS4's dies at high speeds...but let me back up and tell a little about what my ...
  A: Wow, you have had a lot of trouble. For your information, there were two slightly different ...
1980 MGB (USA)9/15/2009
  Q: Will it hurt to run without a thermostat in a warm weather state like Florida? If so, what temp ...
  A: If you run without a thermostat, then you should fit a blanking sleeve in its place. If you just ...
67 MGB Clutch9/14/2009
  Q: Barrie: I have had my MGB about a year. Prior to my ownership , work was done to the car to make it ...
  A: I am afraid you are right. Out she comes. My guess is that the carbon thrust bearing has worn out, ...
ignition fault9/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MGB GT i cannot get a spark from the coil. I have replaced the coil, condenser, and ...
  A: The small cylindrical component attached to the coil + terminal is a radio suppressor. You can ...
67 MGB Clutch9/14/2009
  Q: Barrie: I have had my MGB about a year. Prior to my ownership , work was done to the car to make it ...
  A: Sounds ominous. Have you inspected the clevis pin that attaches to the clutch actuating lever? ...
1973 mgb v8 bleeding brakes with servo9/13/2009
  Q: I have recently been restoring my v8 replacing brake pipes mastercylinder seals, servo seals and am ...
  A: You could try disconnecting the exit pipe from the master cylinder and blanking it off with a 3/8 ...
1968 MGB Slave Cylinder9/11/2009
  Q: I have a 1968 MGB. As I came to a stop sign I attempted to put the car back in gear and couldn't do ...
  A: In your photo, the bleed nipple is in the wrong hole. That is where the hose should go. You must ...
mgb convertable top9/10/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 mgb. Idont know how to put the convertable top down.Please help me
  A: Do not fold the hood until it is dry, and Make sure the rear window is zipped into place before you ...
67 MGB Clutch9/7/2009
  Q: Barrie: I have had my MGB about a year. Prior to my ownership , work was done to the car to make it ...
  A: The fact that you are losing fluid tells me that either the master or the slave cylinder is weeping, ...
1972 MG Midget (USA) ignition troubles9/7/2009
  Q: I recently replaced the starter solenoid among some other work and hoped to drive my car on a ...
  A: Sounds like fuel starvation to me. The fuel pump could be lazy. It fills the float chambers, you ...
Speedometer Part Numbers9/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1975 Midget VIN #GAN6UF154353. The speedometer works but the odomoter doesn't. I am not ...
  A: All GAN6 midgets had the same speedo from September 74 through to November 77. Be careful, some ...
Engine Serial Number9/6/2009
  Q: I am trying to identify the engine in my newly acquired 1975 Midget. I find 2 numbers, one stamped ...
  A: The other number you gave me is a part number. I checked, and it is the correct head for a 1500 ...
Seized Rear Brakes9/5/2009
  Q: I own a 1977 MGB which has been standing for 3 years unused. The rear brakes have seized onto the ...
  A: This really is a tricky question. If you have left the handbrake on and the brake shoes have rusted ...
1979 MG Midget ignition fault9/4/2009
  Q: Not getting any spark from ignition coil. Have replaced the points, condenser, rotor arm, ...
  A: The 1500 Midget has a mechanical fuel pump which is operated by the engine. To test it, I would ...
Ignition problems9/2/2009
  Q: My car is a 1971 MG Midget 1275 registered in England although now residing in Southern Ireland.I ...
  A: Mendit. The ignition light is typical of a sticking cut-out inside the voltage regulator box, but I ...
1979 mgb9/1/2009
  Q: I just purchased a 1979 mgb I know nothing about this engine. The question I have is where is the ...
  A: The lever protruding behing the console operates a fresh air flap. Pull it towards you to open the ...
1979 mgb9/1/2009
  Q: I just purchased a 1979 mgb I know nothing about this engine. The question I have is where is the ...
  A: Here is a blown-up diagram of the air filter system on am MGB. Copy this to your browser: ...
Oil Filter on 54 TF8/31/2009
  Q: Mr. Jones, I am doing a restoration on a 1954 MG TF. My problem for today is the oil filter ...
  A: Depends on the make of the oil filter assembly. MG used more than one make (Purolator, Tecalemit ...
MGA Compression test8/31/2009
  Q: I recently bought a 1961 MGA and last night I did a compression test. The car has been sitting for ...
  A: Your approach is sound, but before you strip anything, I would run the engine for a while and re-do ...
Oil Filter on 54 TF8/30/2009
  Q: Mr. Jones, I am doing a restoration on a 1954 MG TF. My problem for today is the oil filter ...
  A: Assembly of the TF oil filter is as follows: 1) Mount the through-bolt vertically in a vice. ...
61 mg midget8/28/2009
  Q: i have a 1961 MG MIDGET i just rebuilt the engine and got a new wire harness. what is the volts at ...
  A: You are not changing anything. Your car was originally built with positive earth. (This can be a ...
61 mg midget8/28/2009
  Q: i have a 1961 MG MIDGET i just rebuilt the engine and got a new wire harness. what is the volts at ...
  A: All Midgets up to 1967 are wired for positive earth, so you must connect the battery + terminal to ...
alternator???????8/28/2009
  Q: I have a 79 Midget. When I drive the car at night I get a faint glow from the alternator light when ...
  A: By 1979 the MG factory were adding all sorts of stuff to the wiring that could cause problems, such ...
Midget 1500 windshield8/27/2009
  Q: Barrie, I'm replacing the glass in my '76 midget 1500, do I have to "glue" the rubber seals that fit ...
  A: You should not need any glue. The top and bottom seals clip into recesses in the frame. You can ...
Midget 1500 windshield8/26/2009
  Q: Barrie, I'm replacing the glass in my '76 midget 1500, do I have to "glue" the rubber seals that fit ...
  A: Replacing the windscreen glass on a Midget is not an easy task, and your question is certainly not ...
Proper coil voltage8/26/2009
  Q: I've got a USA model 1978 MGB. I just finished up doing some electrical troubleshooting (the ...
  A: The ballasted wire is hidden inside the loom. It seems to be a single strand of stiff grey wire ...
MGA Compression test8/25/2009
  Q: I recently bought a 1961 MGA and last night I did a compression test. The car has been sitting for ...
  A: Remove #2 spark plug and pour 2 teaspoons of thin oil into the hole. Do the compression test again ...
Proper coil voltage8/24/2009
  Q: I've got a USA model 1978 MGB. I just finished up doing some electrical troubleshooting (the ...
  A: This really depends what make of electronic ignition is fitted to your car. The 78 B had a ...
Midget 1500 Shift Lever pops out - Reverse Only8/22/2009
  Q: Trying to figure out how to fix this....When I pull up to move into reverse, very often the entire ...
  A: Sounds like a worn bush at the base of the gear lever. Copy this link into your browser, and ...
Power for modern reciever deck in a 74MGB8/20/2009
  Q: I have a 74 MGB that I installed a current JVC receiver in last year. It worked fine until two weeks ...
  A: Sounds like a loose wire to me. I suggest you pull the radio and replace it with your analogue ...
Loss in oil pressure, 77 MGB8/17/2009
  Q: The day i got my 77 mgb out of the shop for some brake work, water pump replacement, and service I ...
  A: Ray, this is potentially very serious. A 1977 MGB to USA spec has a mechanical oil pressure gauge, ...
acceleration problem in 3rd gear8/14/2009
  Q: My 1972 MGB (US) has a problem accelerating in 3rd gear. No problem in 1st and 2nd, lots of power. ...
  A: This sounds like fuel starvation to me. The reason you get it in 3rd gear is because (a) you don't ...
suspension conversion8/12/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB and would like to redo the suspension, both front and back. I understand that ...
  A: The most cost-effective improvement is to convert the rear to telescopics such as Koni, fit a 3/4 ...
mgb wiring8/12/2009
  Q: i have 2 all brown wires near the alternater joint of the loom, only long enough to reach the fuse ...
  A: All brown wires should be permanently live. If they are not, you have a wiring problem. The best ...
Soleniod8/11/2009
  Q: I have a 76 midget 1500. I ordered a lucas solenoid to replace my ill one. I have double checked ...
  A: Your solenoid should have two thick connectors and a thin one. The thick connectors are usually ...
oil cap8/11/2009
  Q: white smoke comming out of the oil cap it run grat what is it ?
  A: White smoke coming from the oil cap is water vapour. This can happen when a car is used for short ...
Brake bleeding8/10/2009
  Q: per an earlier discussion, I just replaced the calipers on my '80 B. I'm having a problem bleeding ...
  A: If the switch has been removed and the hole plugged, that should work. I assume the front brakes ...
1974 MGB runs rough unless full manual choke8/10/2009
  Q: first a disclaimer: I'm not a car guy, but I'm trying to learn! I just bought a 1974 (built in ...
  A: We all had to start learning at some time. Welcome. Yes, twin carbs with a choke is original. ...
Brake bleeding8/10/2009
  Q: per an earlier discussion, I just replaced the calipers on my '80 B. I'm having a problem bleeding ...
  A: Did you undo the pressure differential switch 3.5 turns before trying to bleed the brakes? This is ...
MGB GT Battery Location8/10/2009
  Q: I have recently bought a MGB GT Plastic Bumper and need to charge the Battery can you tell me where ...
  A: Underneath the tiny rear seat you will find a black access plate with Dzus fasteners. If you undo ...
Trouble starting8/10/2009
  Q: My 1977 MG Midget does not always start and when it does during 40 kilometer per hr + it (bucks) ...
  A: Like I said, there are many possibilities. After 15 years, carburetters, fuel lines and the fuel ...
Borg warner allison8/9/2009
  Q: am English living in France I purchased a 1969 MGB from Miami and the ignition was changed to ...
  A: I think the problem that you have is due to the aftermarket electronic ignition system that has been ...
fuel filter8/9/2009
  Q: i have a 1979 mg.it does not start.i have tested the flow of gas in my fuel pump and both sides of ...
  A: I assume that your fuel pump ticks when you turn the key. If not, you have a faulty pump. If the ...
Borg warner allison8/9/2009
  Q: am English living in France I purchased a 1969 MGB from Miami and the ignition was changed to ...
  A: You should not use a ballast resistor coil on a 1969 MGB. I checked the MGB Hive catalogue, and ...
Borg warner allison8/9/2009
  Q: am English living in France I purchased a 1969 MGB from Miami and the ignition was changed to ...
  A: If you have an aftermarket electronic ignition and a 12 volt coil, and they are both working, then I ...
Right rear Tail light8/9/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB Roadster the tail light does not work on the right side. Signal works fine. The ...
  A: Please check that the right front sidelight works, and that the right rear brake light works. If ...
Trouble starting8/8/2009
  Q: My 1977 MG Midget does not always start and when it does during 40 kilometer per hr + it (bucks) ...
  A: This is a tricky one, because there are several possibilities. I am concerned that #1 cylinder is ...
1973 MG MIdget8/8/2009
  Q: I have a problem with my alternator. Had it rebuilt by a well known shop twice. Im still having ...
  A: I recommend that you get an auto electrician to check out the electrics first. You may have a ...
idling8/7/2009
  Q: I have an 1976 MGB. The car runs well after it is warm, however it will not idle until it is warm. ...
  A: Sounds like a carburation problem. When you pull the choke out partially, does this speed the ...
Update re: Urgent >re: ques.-6/15/2009; starting probs.8/5/2009
  Q: Though the '70 MG_B I'm dealing with has kind of the reverse prob.; diesels when turned off, cold. ...
  A: You will be above the carb, looking down. Turn the nut anti-clockwise (lefty lefty) to weaken the ...
location of 1979 mgb fuse box8/4/2009
  Q: went to sleep last night...all lights working...got up this morning...now no lights working. ...
  A: I assume that you have checked and only the lights are not working. I would start the car and check ...
Urgent >re: ques.-6/15/2009; starting probs.8/3/2009
  Q: Though the '70 MG_B I'm dealing with has kind of the reverse prob.; diesels when turned off, cold. ...
  A: It is 7:30 am and I have just seen your question. To see your emission control equipment, paste ...
Sticky brakes7/28/2009
  Q: I recently wrote in with a brake problem which you correctly identified as a leaky master cylinder. ...
  A: The pistons inside the calipers are made of steel (which can rust) covered with a thick, hard layer ...
78 Midget won't start7/27/2009
  Q: My midget was running like butter until New England rain had me park it for a few weeks. Now it ...
  A: I listened to the video clip. Sounds like the engine fires OK, but as soon as you release the ...
My 1972 MG midget7/27/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 mg midget, and the only things wrong with it, or that the guy before me pulled out the ...
  A: Yes. Moss (USA) has a good website. For cooling systems, copy and paste this link: ...
re: ques.-6/15/2009; starting probs.7/23/2009
  Q: Though the '70 MG_B I'm dealing with has kind of the reverse prob.; diesels when turned off, ...
  A: I have just published a book on maintaining MGBs in the 21st Century. It is available through the ...
Passenger side front disk brake rotor removal7/22/2009
  Q: I have a 1966 MGB with a bad brake disk and I am having difficulity pulling the disk off. I've ...
  A: The disk sits on the inside of the hub. It does not come off over the grease cap. You say that ...
Changing Water Pump 1954 MGTF7/21/2009
  Q: Barrie I need to change out the water pump on my 1954 MGTF. What is the best way to get at the ...
  A: Yes, Bob, the safest way is to remove the radiator. It sits on two studs with nuts underneath. ...
78 Midget won't start7/21/2009
  Q: My midget was running like butter until New England rain had me park it for a few weeks. Now it ...
  A: I have two suggestions. 1) Water in the distributor. Unclip the cap and look inside the lid. If ...
weber down drafter run-on7/21/2009
  Q: To whom it may concern: I have a 1980 MGB with a weber down draft carburetor...it has bad run-on. I ...
  A: The anti run-on valve on a Zenith carb cuts the fuel after the float chamber but before the jet, so ...
gas tank7/19/2009
  Q: i removed the gas tank on my 1975 mg midget, to have it cleaned. i'afraid that i have ruined the ...
  A: On top of the tank is a sender unit. The later MGB has a similar unit, except it has a fuel line ...
MGB White Smoke7/18/2009
  Q: My 1979 MBG put out white smoke (when I could get it started). It now is in 10 year of storage. It ...
  A: White smoke is steam, which usually means the head gasket has failed. However, after standing for ...
1975 mg midget turn signals7/17/2009
  Q: I own a 1975 midget (USA). I currently have a turn indicator problem. When the turn indicator switch ...
  A: When switched ON, the hazard switch isolates the turn indicator relay so that it cannot interfere ...
MG Midget - cutting out, no restart7/16/2009
  Q: My 1975 Gan-6 Midget has been off the road for 12 years. My friends recently worked on it and ...
  A: Sounds like fuel starvation due to a faulty fuel pump. They do play up if they are left for 12 ...
mgb roadster7/16/2009
  Q: i have a 73 mgb roadster and it starts fine,but when i drive it and it gets hot,it wont start again ...
  A: This is a carburetter problem. Sounds like either heat soak or fuel level, or both. Is the heat ...
1974 mgb turn signals7/14/2009
  Q: I asked before where the turn signal flasher is located and you replied that it is a rectangular ...
  A: Sounds to me like the hazard flasher switch is corroded internally. This is a common problem. The ...
MGB voltage to coil?7/8/2009
  Q: working on a 73 MGBGT which had been stored for 8 years! New coil provided a spark and a quick clean ...
  A: Between the ignition switch and the coil, the wire goes via two bullet connector blocks. These ...
Temperature reading7/7/2009
  Q: My '76 MGB was keeping cool, with the needle never quite reaching the 'N' in the middle of the ...
  A: Just checked my build records. You are correct. The 1800 MGB did not get a separate header tank ...
Temperature reading7/7/2009
  Q: My '76 MGB was keeping cool, with the needle never quite reaching the 'N' in the middle of the ...
  A: The 76 B has a remote header tank, and it is important that it is kept half full, and no more. ...
cylinder compression7/7/2009
  Q: USA 73 MGB Roadster: While driving recently I got a backfire of the engine and the car began to ...
  A: A broken ring would give low compression. A blown head gasket ditto. The only thing that gives ...
carburretor7/6/2009
  Q: Only 1 nut is visible holding the carburretor to the manifold. Are there any more that aren't ...
  A: You have not given me the make, model and year of your car. If it is an MG, then it will have two ...
1978 MGB brakes7/6/2009
  Q: I cannot get the brake fluid back to my bleeder screws. I have changed my master cylinder thinking ...
  A: Your 1978 MGB should have a master cylinder with 3 pipes coming out of it. The two in the middle ...
MGB stops running like it is out of gas7/6/2009
  Q: I have a '75 MG that I have a love hate relationship with. I have had it since I was 16 years old, ...
  A: I presume you have a 75 MGB to USA specification. The electrical gremlins in the fuel gauge and ...
1965 MGB 4 Speed7/3/2009
  Q: found transmission drain plug, where is the fill/level plug
  A: The early MGB had a combined dipstick and filler hole on top of the gearbox. It is accessible just ...
Starting problem7/2/2009
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB. This all started when I was trying to trace down my fuel gauge and temp gauge ...
  A: I have had two more like you in the past month. Near the fuse box you will find a relay with 4 ...
1975 midget lights7/1/2009
  Q: I too have a non california, left side steering wheel '75 midget with an electrical ...
  A: I think you will find that you have an earthing fault at the rear of the car. Check out the black ...
Ignition Switch7/1/2009
  Q: MG 1979 Mark 4 1500 - my ignition switch came apart and is in pieces. Can I merely replace the ...
  A: The ignition switch is a small round unit that fits into the back of the steering column lock. It ...
MG midget7/1/2009
  Q: I have a 1978 Mg midget and i noticed a discoloration in the paint and when i was inspecting i fount ...
  A: This was a USA-only marketing campaign which began in 1976. A copy of the original advertisement is ...
MG Midget radiator expansion fill-tank6/30/2009
  Q: I don't think my Midget expansion tank is working. The car water system is OK. I've cleaned out a ...
  A: Your expansion tank has 2 pipes, one at the top and another at the bottom. The top pipe is the air ...
electrical trouble6/30/2009
  Q: long story here but first thank you for all the help you have given!! got my 1977 mgb out this ...
  A: Relay wiring is: Black to 85. White to 86. Brown to 87. White with brown stripe to 30. If the ...
66 MGBGT ignition6/30/2009
  Q: just began mechanical restoration on a car that has not been on the road (or started) for almost 20 ...
  A: The GT was not made until the end of 1965, so a 1966 is a very early one. It would be nice to keep ...
electrical trouble6/29/2009
  Q: long story here but first thank you for all the help you have given!! got my 1977 mgb out this ...
  A: That last bit of information is vital. It tells me that the ignition switch is not functioning ...
electrical trouble6/29/2009
  Q: long story here but first thank you for all the help you have given!! got my 1977 mgb out this ...
  A: What a sorry tale. Don't worry about the small blue plastic lump attached to the + terminal of the ...
1975 mg midget horn problem6/28/2009
  Q: I have a 1975 non california midget w/ a 1498 cc motor. My problem is that only one (the higher ...
  A: The problem is not at the switch, it is at the horns. They are wired in parallel, so if one works ...
Trouble (with carb?) in starting 78 MGB6/27/2009
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB made for the USA. If I just try to start the car, it tries to start, but does ...
  A: Well done. You have eliminated the fuel pump. Still sounds like a fuel supply problem to me. Is ...
'77 mgb electrical6/26/2009
  Q: Greetings from Maine, Barry. Hope you can help. My '77 B will start fine, but as soo as the key is ...
  A: I think your problem is a faulty ignition relay. Near the fuse box you will see some electrical ...
MGB Electrical failure6/26/2009
  Q: I have a 1970 MGB (USA built) however I'm in Australia. While driving all electric power will quit, ...
  A: The fact that the alternator light is always on usually means that the alternator is faulty. It ...
Brakes6/25/2009
  Q: I have a MGB made in Dec. 1977 shipped to the U.S.A. in 1978. I changed my front brake pads and all ...
  A: I need more information. 1) Does the brake warning light come on? 2) Do any of your brakes work or ...
Brake problem6/23/2009
  Q: The brakes on my '80 B were half shot. I replaced the rear cylinders, one of the pipes, and the ...
  A: Sounds like the master cylinder main cup is worn or partially collapsed, allowing fluid to leak past ...
cluch6/23/2009
  Q: I,ve replace the master and slave cylinders, it still want to pull off in first gear gears are ...
  A: I presume you have an MGB or Midget with hydraulic clutch release mechanism. I would guess there is ...
1977 MGB WILL NOT START AFTER RUNNING6/22/2009
  Q: I have a 77 MGB that after I take a ride in it and turn it off and wait about 10 mins. it will not ...
  A: Basically, you have got to cool things down under the bonnet. If your carburetters do not have a ...
1977 MGB WILL NOT START AFTER RUNNING6/22/2009
  Q: I have a 77 MGB that after I take a ride in it and turn it off and wait about 10 mins. it will not ...
  A: I need a bit more information. Does the car turn over but refuse to fire, does it turn over and ...
Trouble (with carb?) in starting 78 MGB6/19/2009
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB made for the USA. If I just try to start the car, it tries to start, but does ...
  A: Sounds like the fuel is having difficulty getting through. Perhaps a blocked fuel filter or a lazy ...
Fuel problem - Overflow Tube6/16/2009
  Q: I have an Mg Midget 1978 and today I realized that some petrol was coming out from both of the ...
  A: This is a common problem, and it is good that you noticed it. Each float chamber has a float inside ...
Car won't start after being used.6/15/2009
  Q: I recently bought a 1970 MG-B - my first MG. It has dual carburetors ("British Leyland - a Coopers ...
  A: Sounds like the carbs are set much too rich. (The following was edited to remove jargon)... Does ...
mg midget 1500 su carbs6/15/2009
  Q: I'm trying to identify the location of the idle screws on my (HS4?) twin carburetor, UK midget ...
  A: My book shows the same as yours. Your UK car should have twin HS4 carbs, either AUD328 or FZX1122 ...
1974 MG Midget6/15/2009
  Q: My MG won't start. I can get it to crank and even fire up if I shoot starting fluid into the ...
  A: I agree with you, Bill, it sounds like a fuel problem. Can you hear the pump ticking when you ...
45 DCOE carb linkage6/14/2009
  Q: I have a 45DCOE Weber carb on my 1978 MGB.Whenever I push down on the accelerator pedal it "binds" ...
  A: Sounds like a sticky throttle cable to me. Is this a new installation, or is it well-used? These ...
mgb suspension knock6/13/2009
  Q: when i brake hard front dips i get a knock on front left can you help thank you.
  A: You probably have some wear in the nearside front suspension. There are several possibilities, ...
no spark on #1 and #2 cylinders6/12/2009
  Q: Kind Sir, I have a 79 mgb. recient purchase. Was running rough when I bought it. Did a full tune up, ...
  A: Would you mind telling me exactly how you are testing the wires for fire? It doesn't make sense. I ...
no spark on #1 and #2 cylinders6/11/2009
  Q: Kind Sir, I have a 79 mgb. recient purchase. Was running rough when I bought it. Did a full tune up, ...
  A: My immediate reaction is a faulty distributor cap. Also the plug leads (wires) often give problems, ...
no spark on #1 and #2 cylinders6/11/2009
  Q: Kind Sir, I have a 79 mgb. recient purchase. Was running rough when I bought it. Did a full tune up, ...
  A: When you say there is no fire on #1 and #2, how did you test this? With heavily insulated pliers, ...
MGB71 Fuel pump6/10/2009
  Q: My MGB from 1971 needs a new fuel pump. I have looked for a spare part but there are several ...
  A: The MGB went from positive earth to negative earth around 1965. Your car is a 71, so it is negative ...
dieseling after ignition turned off6/10/2009
  Q: Good day Barrie, I am just finishing the semi-restoration of a 1975 MGB. I am experiencing some ...
  A: Certainly, an exhaust manifold leak will affect the mixture and could be a contributory factor, but ...
brakes6/10/2009
  Q: I have been recommended to use white lithium grease but was wondering if copper would do the same ...
  A: CV grease tends to be lithium based, but with a molybdenum disulphide additive. Check the colour, ...
brakes6/10/2009
  Q: I have been recommended to use white lithium grease but was wondering if copper would do the same ...
  A: Depends what are you lubricating. (make and model of car would help). The bearings inside the ...
dieseling after ignition turned off6/9/2009
  Q: Good day Barrie, I am just finishing the semi-restoration of a 1975 MGB. I am experiencing some ...
  A: Good Evening, Chet It could well be the plugs, but check the butterflies first. Then try some ...
restoration6/9/2009
  Q: I am considering the purchase of a 1955 MGTF which has been fire damaged in the driver & passenger ...
  A: The mechanical components should be OK. The body will be badly affected, because it consists of ...
76 MG Positive Earthed6/8/2009
  Q: I have a 76 MG Midget that was a barn find and the vehicle was hooked up as Positive earthed. After ...
  A: Yes, a 76 Midget should definitely be wired for negative earth. There could be damage to the ...
dieseling after ignition turned off6/8/2009
  Q: Good day Barrie, I am just finishing the semi-restoration of a 1975 MGB. I am experiencing some ...
  A: Plugs for a 75 MGB? I recommend Bosch W6DP or NGK BP6ES. Champion numbers have changed since 1975, ...
wiring6/7/2009
  Q: I can get my lights and markers to work the starter turns the engine over and I have spark. But ...
  A: You have a wiring fault. The first thing I would check is the grounding wire for the engine. ...
mgb clicking sound????6/6/2009
  Q: thanks charlie
  A: Basically, you have a flat battery. Depending on the year, it could be a single 12 volt battery ...
MGB engine struggle after switch off the ignition6/4/2009
  Q: Finally I have finished my engine which works nice with good compression (180 PSI) on each cylinder. ...
  A: BPR5ES plugs will be worse than BPR6ES. I usually recommend Bosch W6DP but you can use NGK BP7EVX. ...
MGB suddenly runs on 2 cylinders6/2/2009
  Q: My 1977 MGB roadster has an intermittent problem - always the worst kind - It will run fine for a ...
  A: Not an easy one, Jeff. You have already done many of the things I would have suggested. Seems to ...
1977 mgb usa model imported to canada5/31/2009
  Q: my 77 mgb starts up really nice and runs fine until it warms up and she starts to miss and at a stop ...
  A: My first reaction is that you have fitted the wrong coil. My wiring diagram for a USA spec 78 MGB ...
Carburetor.5/26/2009
  Q: 1979 MG midget:Original carburetor on 1500 engine.Single SU. Want to replace with either a pair of ...
  A: The single SU was only available in America, presumably this included Canada. Along with all the ...
Wiring5/26/2009
  Q: I recently bought a 1969 MGB GT, and I noticed afterwards that the headlights do not come on but all ...
  A: The two problems are not related. You are just unlucky. I think you will find the headlamp problem ...
77 MGB Midget idle set at 3500 RPM5/24/2009
  Q: I recently bought this B and it has an after market Weber Side Carb.#45DCOE152. The motor starts ...
  A: The MG Factory never built MGBs with this carburetter, although it was a popular modification. ...
Killing while driving5/21/2009
  Q: I recently reactivated a '76 MGB (US) that was stored for 10 years. Did a whole mess of work, got ...
  A: No problem with the pump, but it is mounted in the wrong place. Basically, these pumps are good at ...
Killing while driving5/21/2009
  Q: I recently reactivated a '76 MGB (US) that was stored for 10 years. Did a whole mess of work, got ...
  A: I think you will find that the fuel pump is starting to fail. Under load, it cannot deliver enough ...
Locking brakes 79 midget5/20/2009
  Q: I asked a question on brakes that lock up on a 70 Midget. Howard gave some suggestions which we have ...
  A: The 79 midget had a different master cylinder, with separate pipes for the front and rear brakes. ...
1979 MGB died - won't start5/20/2009
  Q: My 1979 MGB has been running fine, up til yesterday. I was driving down the highway and it started ...
  A: I think you have found the problem. Your battery should show 13.5 volts. Beware that the ...
1979 MGB died - won't start5/19/2009
  Q: My 1979 MGB has been running fine, up til yesterday. I was driving down the highway and it started ...
  A: Sounds like a faulty ignition switch to me. Switch the ignition on. Do you have a heater fan? Do ...
engine valves5/19/2009
  Q: How can I tell if I have a bad valve on a 1978 MGB4
  A: The best way to check for a faulty valve is to do a compression check. You will need a special ...
1979 MGB died - won't start5/19/2009
  Q: My 1979 MGB has been running fine, up til yesterday. I was driving down the highway and it started ...
  A: The fact that the engine died while running rules out the starter motor. My immediate reaction is ...
Locking brakes 79 midget5/19/2009
  Q: I asked a question on brakes that lock up on a 70 Midget. Howard gave some suggestions which we have ...
  A: If the pressure is building up but not releasing, then this is usually a collapsed flexible brake ...
CEI Distributor Vacum Unit4/20/2009
  Q: Do you know where can I get a CEI Distributor Vacuum Unit in the US without buying the entire ...
  A: this is a tricky one. I live in the UK so I am not that familiar with USA parts availability. I ...
1975 MGB Problem4/20/2009
  Q: I am having an intermittent power problem with my MGB. We live a the bottom of a mountain and ...
  A: I think you have the right idea, but you are looking in the wrong place. The handbrake operates on ...
Starting an MGB engine after a rebuild4/20/2009
  Q: I rebuilt mgb engine 18v673z completely. The crankshaft was reground, pistons are new and liners ...
  A: Mariusz. That sounds like a very nice engine you have built. If everything is set up correctly, ...
MGB Cold Start Problem4/19/2009
  Q: Howdy. I have a 1975 MGB with dual SU carbs and electronic ignition. I am not a mechanic. If the ...
  A: The symptoms that you describe are typical of an engine with fouled-up spark plugs. I normally ...
British Motor Corporation radio4/19/2009
  Q: I recently found an old BMC 12 volt negative ground AM radio. Presuming I can get it to work, I ...
  A: Does your car have the early centre console without an arm rest? If so, your car was intended to ...
MGB Cold Start Problem4/19/2009
  Q: Howdy. I have a 1975 MGB with dual SU carbs and electronic ignition. I am not a mechanic. If the ...
  A: I think you are right. When starting from cold, the engine is not firing on all 4 cylinders, but ...
1974 1/2 mgb4/18/2009
  Q: I have owned this b from new. It has 89,000 miles on it, and i recently moved from the north, to ...
  A: This is a tricky one because there are lots of possibilities. You have done everything right. I do ...
78 mgb-su fuel pump connections4/17/2009
  Q: i was looking at some answers from howard. saw a question from "bob"-2-1-08 about fuel pump. my new ...
  A: Yes, the plastic elbow on the lid of the pump is a breather. This type of pump is correct for your ...
Spark at contact breaker4/17/2009
  Q: The other day my 1968 MGB MkII ran perfectly when I drove it out of its garage. When I started it ...
  A: Depends how the condenser fails. If it fails short circuit then the engine will not run at all. If ...
Spark at contact breaker4/17/2009
  Q: The other day my 1968 MGB MkII ran perfectly when I drove it out of its garage. When I started it ...
  A: 1) The capacitor in the distributor does more than protect the points, it stores energy between ...
1978 mgb wiring harness connections to the fuel pump4/17/2009
  Q: i have a 1978 mgb. just got new fuel pump but the connection for the power is gone from the wiring ...
  A: The black wire is indeed an earth (ground), and the white wire is the power supply. If the wire has ...
MG TF wiring diagram4/16/2009
  Q: I have an MG TF 1500, a 1950's model here in Kenya that i am restoring. I am looking for a complete ...
  A: If you can wait a couple of weeks, I have recently produced a table listing every wire in the TF and ...
1980 MGB engine4/14/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a MGB with 63000 mile that was parked in storage for 6-7 years. After driving ...
  A: Because both cylinders 1 and 2 are affected, I wonder if it is the rings. If you have a UK spec ...
mgbgt starting problem4/11/2009
  Q: i just bought a 77gt with no mot, and it started up today after some fuel and a charge of the ...
  A: By 1977 the MGB had a cold start coil fitted, with a ballast resistor wire inside the loom. It is ...
Overdrive not working4/11/2009
  Q: I have started driving my 1978 MGBGT after 2 years in the garage. It runs fine but the overdrive ...
  A: Next question. Does the starter motor work, but the engine won't fire, or does the starter motor do ...
Overdrive not working4/10/2009
  Q: I have started driving my 1978 MGBGT after 2 years in the garage. It runs fine but the overdrive ...
  A: The overdrive has two problem areas. It could be either. 1) The switch on the gearknob is small ...
Install of fan clutch 1500 series engine4/10/2009
  Q: I had to replace the fan clutch. I have the sleeve that fits over the pump shaft but the fit is ...
  A: No, Mike, it is not a press fit, but you do need a locking ring (part # UKC 759)to hold it in place. ...
MG TD4/8/2009
  Q: I have recently imported an MG TD from the US and am trying to convert the steering to right hand ...
  A: The Y-type rack is identical, except the length of a Y-type pinion shaft is about 10 inches, whereas ...
MGB suspension4/5/2009
  Q: I have a 1974 MGB GT which was produced for USA and have a problem with tyre rub on the body, ...
  A: This is a classic problem on the MGB. The rear axle was manufactured with the mountings offset by ...
Evaporation3/30/2009
  Q: While under my '80 MGB yesterday, the first hot day of the season, I noticed a nasty fuel leak at ...
  A: I have attached a diagram that might help you to understand the emissions control system of a ...
6 volt battery to a 12 volt3/29/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MGB. I constantly have to buy new batteries approx every 2 to 3 years because the ...
  A: The middle cable goes through a hole each side of the propshaft tunnel. It runs inside some ...
6 volt battery to a 12 volt3/29/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MGB. I constantly have to buy new batteries approx every 2 to 3 years because the ...
  A: The easiest way is to fit one 12 volt battery in the right hand bin, but you do need a fairly large ...
Lower control arms3/26/2009
  Q: My '76 B needs new lower control arms. I noticed VB sells a negative camber set that they say ...
  A: Negative camber front arms will make the front end grip better, but you will tend to lose the rear ...
Piper 285 Camshaft timing3/26/2009
  Q: I would like to thank you for your answers concern engine compression problems. The answers was very ...
  A: To do the job properly you need to beg, borrow or buy a dial gauge and an engine protractor. With ...
1980 MG Midget twin carbs3/21/2009
  Q: I am trying to start my MG after the winter. I usually prime the carbs a few time to get gas flow ...
  A: I am not really familiar with the last Midget with the Triumph engine, especially the export ...
MGTF Alternator3/19/2009
  Q: mgtf 2002 . fitted new battery yet after driving half mile battery light flickers on and off. ...
  A: Because of the design of the system, a faulty battery can damage a good alternator, so it could ...
77 MGB3/17/2009
  Q: my 77 MGB is now difficult to shift into 3rd and 4th gears while up-shifting. I replaced my clutch ...
  A: Are you sure that this is only a problem in 3rd and 4th? If it was something to do with the ...
MGB 1974 Roadster USA3/13/2009
  Q: I am restoring a mg with 2(6 volt)batteries and for the second time a battery has exploded. Car was ...
  A: Leaving your batteries all winter to go flat is the worst thing that you can do to them. Brand new ...
Bleeding the oil pressure guage3/9/2009
  Q: I bought a new flexible pipe to fit to the block going to the oil pressure guage on my 66 MGB GT. ...
  A: I assume that you are not fitting a new metal pipe, just the flexible hose. The copper pipe to the ...
2000 Dodge Neon3/9/2009
  Q: When I turn my head lights on low beam and try to hit the brights the right head light goes out. ...
  A: I am not an expert on the Dodge Neon, so please do not rate me on this answer. Most modern cars ...
MG Midget starter switch wiring3/4/2009
  Q: Barrie, My son owns a 1974 MG. the key switch in the column was bad, so the previous owner cut the ...
  A: If you look carefully at the back of the ignition switch, you will see that the terminals are ...
Installation of New Windshield Rubber3/2/2009
  Q: How do I get the windshield to fit closer to the body so I can fasten the center post on the ...
  A: I presume that you have removed the glass and replaced the rubber seal around the glass, not the ...
1954 MG TF Engine + Gearbox removal2/24/2009
  Q: Hey there. Busy trying to restore a 1954 TF1500 here in Kenya. Currently stripping the car before ...
  A: It is not advisable to remove the gear lever in situ. Underneath there is a remote lever with an ...
gearbox change2/24/2009
  Q: recently my gearbox broke so i brought it to a mechanic with a second hand gearbox and a new clutch. ...
  A: Like I said before, if he did the work at his premises, then he should have filled the gearbox with ...
gearbox change2/24/2009
  Q: recently my gearbox broke so i brought it to a mechanic with a second hand gearbox and a new clutch. ...
  A: Unfortunately, this is a legal question rather than a technical one, and I do not claim to be a ...
1968 (actually 67) MGB2/16/2009
  Q: Recently Purchased car with history of sitting for a year then being tuned up by unknown but foreign ...
  A: Now we are getting somewhere. The starter is throwing out but not returning. When you drive the ...
1968 (actually 67) MGB2/15/2009
  Q: Recently Purchased car with history of sitting for a year then being tuned up by unknown but foreign ...
  A: You have got to find out what is seizing and fix it. When you try to turn the crank, can you detect ...
1976 Ford F-150 dies out2/13/2009
  Q: 1976 Ford F-150. 360. Motorcraft 2 barrel carb. New coil and plug wires. Great spark. Starts and ...
  A: If it is any help to you, it sounds to me that you have a working carburetter and a good fuel ...
77 MGB2/11/2009
  Q: Still wont start on its own. I jump it drive for an hour turn it off and its dead again. Sometimes ...
  A: This may need a few attempts to fix. You might be better off paying an auto electrician to trace ...
Cylinder head gasket fitting 1977 MGB2/10/2009
  Q: could you answer a simple question please? I'm changing the cylinder head gasket on my 1977 MGB and ...
  A: When you switch the engine off, do not undo all the nuts and loosen the head gasket. Just slacken ...
MGB engine compression problems2/9/2009
  Q: I have MGB with the engine 18V 673Z which was renovated last year. I had a lot of problems concern ...
  A: Like I said before, the actual compression figures do not matter. What matters is that they are all ...
78 mgb carb change2/9/2009
  Q: B. i want to put hif su's on it. i have an intake, exhaust manifold for older B's also complete ...
  A: The breather on the side of the engine should be a metal pipe about 12mm diameter. On each HIF4 ...
1968 (actually 67) MGB2/8/2009
  Q: Recently Purchased car with history of sitting for a year then being tuned up by unknown but foreign ...
  A: Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but it sounds to me like a nasty problem, and to fix it the ...
rear brake squeaking2/6/2009
  Q: my rear pasenger brake is squeaking when i brake and the pad is really worn down but i only put a ...
  A: A slight squeak when gently pressing is not uncommon and very difficult to fix. They could try ...
rear brake squeaking2/6/2009
  Q: my rear pasenger brake is squeaking when i brake and the pad is really worn down but i only put a ...
  A: If you had this done a week ago, took it back, and it still squeals, you really should take it back ...
rear brake squeaking2/6/2009
  Q: my rear pasenger brake is squeaking when i brake and the pad is really worn down but i only put a ...
  A: Without knowing the make and model of your car, I cannot give you specific advice about your ...
rear brake sticking - 2005 MGTF2/5/2009
  Q: got a 2005 mg tf.one of my shims broke off the bottom of my rear caliper,tried everywhere to get a ...
  A: See previous answer. I note that your car is a 2005 MG TF. The rear brakes regularly give trouble. ...
engine missing & backfiring after getting warm2/2/2009
  Q: 1978 m g b roadster car runs fine for 30 mins then starts to miss and sometimes back fires if left ...
  A: Not an easy one to trace. I have a few suggestions: 1) Is the coil getting very hot? I notice ...
Sticking gears.66 roadster, 3 syncro gearbox2/1/2009
  Q: was wondering if you could help me please, ok,,i have a 1966 mgb roadster that ive had for 5 years, ...
  A: If it came on suddenly after the car was laid up for a while, then I would suspect that the clutch ...
1968 mgb2/1/2009
  Q: I have a 68 mgb with a 77 engine. If I replace the temp sending unit for which year should I get? ...
  A: I assume that you are in the USA? The sender units on a 68 UK car are mechanical devices, whereas ...
Sticking gears.66 roadster, 3 syncro gearbox2/1/2009
  Q: was wondering if you could help me please, ok,,i have a 1966 mgb roadster that ive had for 5 years, ...
  A: Has this come on suddenly, or have you had this problem ever since you fitted the new clutch plate? ...
1979 MGB LE2/1/2009
  Q: The turn signals do not work but the hazard switch does. The wipers were working now they wont. The ...
  A: It is possible that just checking a dodgy fuse can cause it to start working again. I would remove ...
Alternator confusion1/31/2009
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB. Fresh motor, fresh battery. The other day I tried to start the car, and found to ...
  A: The memory on a modern radio takes micro-amps (1/1,000,000). However, I just remembered that you ...
Alternator confusion1/31/2009
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB. Fresh motor, fresh battery. The other day I tried to start the car, and found to ...
  A: You have the first MGB fitted with an alternator. Earlier cars had a dynamo controlled by a ...
1979 MGB LE1/31/2009
  Q: The turn signals do not work but the hazard switch does. The wipers were working now they wont. The ...
  A: If it was only the turn indicators that stopped working, I would have suspected the hazard flasher ...
Belt tension1/27/2009
  Q: I have an MGBGT which has been modified by fitment of a supercharger and the drive for the water ...
  A: This is a question about a non-standard fitment - a supercharger. I have only ever fitted one, so I ...
MGB engine compression problems1/26/2009
  Q: I have MGB with the engine 18V 673Z which was renovated last year. I had a lot of problems concern ...
  A: The actual pressures do not matter so much as the variance between them. A figure of 170 could only ...
68 b temp gauge1/23/2009
  Q: the temp gauge will peg to hot almost immediately after starting the engine. water ...
  A: I assume that you have a USA spec. MGB What does the gauge read when the engine is cold, before ...
MG Midget1/19/2009
  Q: My 1972 MG Midget has started smoking badly from the exhaust, the smoke is a grey / white colour. I ...
  A: Oh dear. You have all the classic symptoms of head gasket failure. Water is getting from the ...
steering column on MG Midget mk 1111/17/2009
  Q: ??? I am close to buying a '73 MGB in the US. The steering column is shifted to the left at an angle ...
  A: Greg. I am not familiar with the LHD Midget, but I have looked at my Midget Workshop Manual, and ...
steering column on MG Midget mk 1111/17/2009
  Q: ??? I am close to buying a '73 MGB in the US. The steering column is shifted to the left at an angle ...
  A: Your subject is Midget mk III but your question says 73 MGB. No, the LHD MGB was not made with an ...
anti squeak shims1/16/2009
  Q: got a 2005 mg tf.one of my shims broke off the bottom of my rear caliper,tried everywhere to get a ...
  A: I presume you are in the UK? Here are a few suggestions: 1) There are specialist breakers such ...
movement in midget kingpin1/13/2009
  Q: My mechanic has said there is play in the wheel bearings but upon pulling the wheel off I have ...
  A: Yes, you do have a problem, probably a badly worn kingpin. This is very common on Midgets. ...
water1/9/2009
  Q: hi I'm rebuilding a 1975 1500 mg midget for my wife and am now ready to re fill the water system can ...
  A: The previous model had a BMC engine of 1275cc. It took 6 UK pints including the heater. I am not ...
Follow up -midget carb1/6/2009
  Q: how do I clear the stale fuel from the carburetter float chambers? ANSWER: I assume that you have a ...
  A: Sorry, but I am not familiar with the USA version that has a single carb. I don't even know what ...
Follow up -midget carb1/6/2009
  Q: how do I clear the stale fuel from the carburetter float chambers?
  A: I assume that you have a 1500 Midget with twin SU carbs type HS. Each carb has a float chamber at ...
Coil testing/FOLLOW UP/STILL WON'T START1/6/2009
  Q: I'm not getting a spark on any of my plugs on a 1979 MG Midget 1500. How do I test the coil? ...
  A: I guessed right. You have 7 gallons of bad fuel mixed with 3 gallons of new. Unfortunately, the ...
Coil testing/FOLLOW UP/STILL WON'T START1/6/2009
  Q: I'm not getting a spark on any of my plugs on a 1979 MG Midget 1500. How do I test the coil? ...
  A: If your Midget has been sitting for some years then the first thing I would do is drain the fuel ...
1980 mgb1/3/2009
  Q: i have a 1980 mgb with electronic ignition, i have no spark, it has a new coil it has power there. i ...
  A: The Lucas electronic distributor was never fitted to UK cars, so I have only limited knowledge of ...
Electrical, for a 1968 MGB roadster1/1/2009
  Q: I own the above car. Before, you advised me on alternator/starting issues for me; in the interim I ...
  A: 1) Faulty connections can often be fixed by cleaning the corroded terminals. If it is a bullet ...
motor noises12/30/2008
  Q: My question refers to the following required technical advise: Our MGB motor (USA MGBLE 03-1979) ...
  A: I can see from the video that you have removed the fanbelt, so the alternator and water pump are not ...
MGB temp gauge malfunction12/24/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB. The temperature gauge quit working a while back. I bought another and installed ...
  A: You have two separate problems here. Let's look at the gauge first. Get a helper to turn the ...
Dead battery/alternator12/24/2008
  Q: I have a couple sets of questions, which may be related... First, I own a 1968 MGB with a fresh ...
  A: You say your car is a 68 and has an alternator. That helps. Up to 67 they had a dynamo. As a ...
74 MG midgit 4 speed12/22/2008
  Q: Howdy, slave clutch problem. in stop and go the other day, as i took off finally. herd a noise like ...
  A: Before you start removing anything, can you get underneath and have a look at the slave cylinder? ...
74 MG midgit 4 speed12/22/2008
  Q: Howdy, slave clutch problem. in stop and go the other day, as i took off finally. herd a noise like ...
  A: I cannot be absolutely sure what has broken, but the fact that you drove home tells me that the ...
flashers12/20/2008
  Q: what is the amp rating of a car flasher
  A: The flasher unit on an MGB is rated in Watts. It operates 2 x 21 Watt bulbs, plus a 3 Watt ...
gear stick in the way12/19/2008
  Q: I am trying to lift out the gear box and engine and the gear stick appears to be in the way. Can I ...
  A: Yes, you must remove the gear lever before you can extract the engine & gearbox & overdrive from the ...
timing12/17/2008
  Q: Do you know what degrees I should set the 1800cc engine at for a 74 MGB with twin SU's? the car ...
  A: You have an MGB made in Abingdon, England sometime between September 1973 and August 1974. It was ...
Coil testing12/16/2008
  Q: I'm not getting a spark on any of my plugs on a 1979 MG Midget 1500. How do I test the coil? ...
  A: Since you have a timing light, connect it up to cylinder #1 and see if it flashes when you turn the ...
Coil testing12/15/2008
  Q: I'm not getting a spark on any of my plugs on a 1979 MG Midget 1500. How do I test the coil? ...
  A: I presume this Midget has a regular distributor with points, and you have not modified it by fitting ...
clutch bleeding12/13/2008
  Q: I have a 1965 Austin Healy Sprite that has an inoperative clutch. The clutch pedal when pushed the ...
  A: Given that extra information, either the problem lies within the master cylinder, or the metal pipe ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing12/11/2008
  Q: First let me answer the questions: (1) Yes the vacuum is taken from the Weber carburetter. (2) The ...
  A: Bob I guess we pretty much got to the bottom of it. Sounds like you have a nice engine, with a ...
clutch bleeding12/10/2008
  Q: I have a 1965 Austin Healy Sprite that has an inoperative clutch. The clutch pedal when pushed the ...
  A: It seems to me that your clutch mechanism may be a bit stiff. Possibly some corrosion in the bushes ...
clutch bleeding12/10/2008
  Q: I have a 1965 Austin Healy Sprite that has an inoperative clutch. The clutch pedal when pushed the ...
  A: You have replaced the master cylinder. If my memory serves me correctly, the 1965 Sprite has a dual ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing12/8/2008
  Q: First let me answer the questions: (1) Yes the vacuum is taken from the Weber carburetter. (2) The ...
  A: We now know that you have a high compression engine and a distributor designed for Californian ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing12/7/2008
  Q: First let me answer the questions: (1) Yes the vacuum is taken from the Weber carburetter. (2) The ...
  A: You gave me the chassis number. From that I know you have a USA LHD sports car made during the 1980 ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing?12/5/2008
  Q: Here is a question I have not found any answer too. It would be great if you recognize something ...
  A: The UK distributor for a 1979 car with 2 SUs and no catalyst was set at 10 degrees at 1,000 rpm ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing?12/5/2008
  Q: Here is a question I have not found any answer too. It would be great if you recognize something ...
  A: Your investigations make good sense. They do indeed confirm that you have the earlier cover and the ...
Strange MGB Ignition Timing?12/4/2008
  Q: Here is a question I have not found any answer too. It would be great if you recognize something ...
  A: I don't think the engine timing is wrong, just the timing marks. The 1800cc engine fitted to the ...
2005- mg tf12/2/2008
  Q: there is a grinding noise coming from my gear box wen the gear box is slowing down, what can i do to ...
  A: The gearbox should not make a grinding noise under deceleration. These gearboxes are extremely ...
2005- mg tf12/2/2008
  Q: there is a grinding noise coming from my gear box wen the gear box is slowing down, what can i do to ...
  A: This sounds serious. Be prepared for a big bill. I doubt that anything can be done without ...
SU HIF 4 carburettor11/29/2008
  Q: I am currently re-building a pair of SU's for an MGB. ON reinstalling the cold start spindle and ...
  A: Looking at the side of the carb, the cutout in the flange of the outer part goes at about 11 ...
SU HIF 4 carburettor11/29/2008
  Q: I am currently re-building a pair of SU's for an MGB. ON reinstalling the cold start spindle and ...
  A: I assume that you have a UK specification car with twin HIF4s and no special auto-enrichment device? ...
mg no spark11/25/2008
  Q: my mg has been sitting for 8 months. it ran when parked. I am getting gas but no spark. I bought ...
  A: I need more information. Please tell me the exact year and model of MG, and if possible the chassis ...
1977 MG Midget10/30/2008
  Q: Ok, first things first, we are not fix it people. We are very, elementary soooo, we started our ...
  A: Nice to see an owner take an interest in their car. When you say the brakes don't work, do you mean ...
1976 mg midget that won't start10/28/2008
  Q: My 1976 mg midget was running well till coolant leak soaked the engine compartment...fixed the leak ...
  A: The coolant may have gone everywhere, but one thing is for sure, it will not have damaged the coil. ...
1973MGB10/25/2008
  Q: I have just purchased a73B Haven't seen or driven yet but in a week I will drive it home 1200 miles ...
  A: Not sure if you are a fool or an adventure seeker, but by the time you get her home you should be ...
1967 MGB - ticking sound from back of car10/21/2008
  Q: I have recently purchased a beautiful jet red 1967 MGB roadster. When I drove it 2 days ago, I ...
  A: This is one of the traditional features of an old MG. You are starting to `tune in' to the sounds ...
battery10/20/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget that i got for 200 dollars that sat under a tarp for 2 years. i replaced the ...
  A: That sounds very dangerous. Please don't spray gas around when you are using jump leads. One spark ...
battery10/19/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget that i got for 200 dollars that sat under a tarp for 2 years. i replaced the ...
  A: Firstly, I must confess that I am not familiar with the USA specification 1500 Midget. I have to ...
jump start10/19/2008
  Q: how do i jump start a 1967 mg roadster when the battery is dead?
  A: 1967 was a changeover year. Cars built up to GHN3 138800 were positive earth. Cars from GHN4 ...
battery10/19/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget that i got for 200 dollars that sat under a tarp for 2 years. i replaced the ...
  A: You say the car won’t spark. Does it turn over? I really need more information. I assume that you ...
Oil pressure relief valve10/15/2008
  Q: Barrie,I recently had my 1976 MGB engine rebuilt. The mechanic put in a new oil pump but the oil ...
  A: The oil pressure relief valve on an MGB is designed to operate at 40psi. The gauge is calibrated to ...

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Barrie Jones

Top Expert on this page

Expertise

MG Cars from 1949 to 1980 - Including MGB, MGBGT V8, TF1500, TF, TD and modern Midgets. I also specialise in SU carburettors, Lucas wiring, suspension, steering & brakes.

Experience

I have owned my 1955 TF1500 since 1966. Technical specialist for the TD and TF with the MG Car Club T Register. Also owned 20 MGBs and currently own an MGBGT V8. Written books on MGs and produced a DVD on how to strip and rebuild the TD/TF gearbox.

Organizations
MG Car Club.

Education/Credentials
M Phil, C Eng, BSc (Eng).

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