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About Howard M. Fitzcharles III
(Top Expert on this page)

Expertise
MG from 1956 (USA versions only) up and Engine theory.

Experience
Dealership line mechanic on MG, Triumph, Jaguar for 15 years, Instructor in commercial mechanics school 2 yr. Product information manager for piston and valve manufacture, Instructor & hotline answer man for import car parts importer 15 yrs.

Organizations
Associate member SAE EAA member

Publications
Import Car magazine

Education/Credentials
ASE Master Auto with L-1 certification up to 2000

   

You are here:  Experts > Home/Garden > Auto Repair > MG Car Repair

Questions Answered By Expert  Howard M. Fitzcharles III 
In Category  MG Car Repair

SubjectDate Asked

1977 MG MIDGET11/22/2009
  Q: I just replaced the starter and solenoid on my 1977 MG Midget and it was running fine for about a ...
  A: Did you check the connections electrically or just visually? If not put a test light on the ...
1970 Midget clutch or gear box problem11/22/2009
  Q: I have a 1970 Midget that grinds terribly when I try to put it into 1st or reverse. It will shift ...
  A: The clutch kit (3-in-1) is the clutch disk, pressure plate and release bearing so that is ok. The ...
1970 Midget clutch or gear box problem11/21/2009
  Q: I have a 1970 Midget that grinds terribly when I try to put it into 1st or reverse. It will shift ...
  A: You shouldn't replace anything until you find what is wrong. It is obvious that the first motion ...
1500 mg midget11/21/2009
  Q: my mg push rod has jumped out of tappets why
  A: A pushrod can't jump out of a tappet (lifter) but it can jump out of a rocker arm. Is that what you ...
starter/solonoid-79 midget11/19/2009
  Q: Got the power back to the ignition system. Now occationally when I turn the key, on single loud ...
  A: The "click" is most likely the click of the solenoid. But that don't mean that the electrical ...
77 midget cooling system overflow11/19/2009
  Q: I have a 77 midget that after running for 15 minutes and gets warm, the cooling/radiator fluid ...
  A: The small hole in the bottom front of the waterpump is called a "weep hole" and is designed to expel ...
Brake Bleeding11/17/2009
  Q: Howard. This is a follow up to a recent question. 1970 MG Midget. Still unable to get hard pedal. ...
  A: Andy, air can not enter the system when it is closed except in one place only and that is the master ...
MGB Starter Engagement11/16/2009
  Q: Howard Thanks for your help in the past. I thought I'd go to the well one more time. I have a 72 ...
  A: Dave, the engine stops in the SAME few places every time so it is impossible to ware out all the ...
MGB Starter Engagement11/16/2009
  Q: Howard Thanks for your help in the past. I thought I'd go to the well one more time. I have a 72 ...
  A: The engine stops in only a few places each time you shut the engine down and the teeth of the ring ...
MG 1973 Midget11/16/2009
  Q: My MG wouldn't start after I replaced a plate that was under the distributor (due to rust). I need ...
  A: The ignition timing marks are on the crankshaft front pulley (a notch in the edge of the pulley)with ...
MG 1973 Midget11/15/2009
  Q: My MG wouldn't start after I replaced a plate that was under the distributor (due to rust). I need ...
  A: First set the front pulley timing mark at TDC and with all of the plugs out put the gear lever in ...
79 Midget Zenith carb problems11/15/2009
  Q: Howard - my problem is my idle is at 2000 rpm and I cannot get it lower. I think the problem is ...
  A: First the "Choke" on a Stromberg Carburetor is not really a choke. It just adds extra fuel for cold ...
1979 MG Midget11/11/2009
  Q: I have a 79 Midget that started leaking coolant from a machined hole in the side of the fan housing ...
  A: It sounds like you have a bad waterpump. No amount of grease will correct it. You use to be able to ...
brake bleeding11/10/2009
  Q: Howard, follow up on previous question. 1970 MG Midget. I have done everything you have told me to ...
  A: Andy, If you remove the pads and step on the brakes and the pistons don't come out of there bore ...
1980 MGB11/10/2009
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB. After warming up and driving it around. The engine doesn't run smoothly.I don't ...
  A: Your welcome Debbie, Glad you found the problem. If you plan to keep cars you will get to use the ...
1977 MG MIDGET STARTER PROBLEMS11/7/2009
  Q: I have spent the last month or so attempting to bring a 1977 MG Midget back from the grave. ...
  A: The first thing to do is charge the battery and check the battery voltage when finished (12.5+ ...
valve adjustment11/7/2009
  Q: I just learned about the procedure of, subtracting the valve number that is fully depressed from ...
  A: Either system works on a 4 cylinder inline MG engine, So you can use what ever method you like of ...
Brake Bleeding11/7/2009
  Q: Recently replaced all brake components. Unable to get a pedal. Tried vacuum bleeding, pressure ...
  A: if you bled in the order I advised and were not getting any more air from the bleeders than it most ...
Brake Bleeding11/7/2009
  Q: Recently replaced all brake components. Unable to get a pedal. Tried vacuum bleeding, pressure ...
  A: On a dual circuit system I found that if you get two bleeder valves that match the line fittings in ...
retainer for fuel tamnk float device on gas tank11/6/2009
  Q: I am n the process of rebuilding my fathers 78 MGB. I have cleaned out the tank and ordered a new ...
  A: First put the thick rubber gasket into the recess and then the sending unit which is keyed so as to ...
1980 MGB11/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB. After warming up and driving it around. The engine doesn't run smoothly.I don't ...
  A: Other than a standard wrench set and a few screwdrivers the only thing else you will need is a ...
1980 MGB11/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB. After warming up and driving it around. The engine doesn't run smoothly.I don't ...
  A: Your symptoms do not pinpoint the problem so testing is required. If you have tools and have some ...
Gear Noise11/2/2009
  Q: I have a 78 MGB that at speeds above 60 kph, when I let up on the gas there is a loud rattling noise ...
  A: That free play does not seem excessive, but having it different on the right side from the left side ...
1976 mg midget ignition11/2/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 mg midget 1500 that had a 45DE4 Distributor with the Lucas/Opus electronic ignition ...
  A: The ignition system determines what coil you use. If your new Pertronix ignitor was for your car ...
Gear Noise10/29/2009
  Q: I have a 78 MGB that at speeds above 60 kph, when I let up on the gas there is a loud rattling noise ...
  A: I can tell you a few things to do to try to pinpoint the noise but not being able to hear the noise ...
Preheat connection10/29/2009
  Q: I have a simple question but can't find the simple answer on my own. Doing a engine/tranny removal ...
  A: The job for professional mechanics takes 7.1 hr at what ever their shop rates are. Many times on ...
Preheat connection10/29/2009
  Q: I have a simple question but can't find the simple answer on my own. Doing a engine/tranny removal ...
  A: The only tabs that I know of are on the preheat duct pipe which is just forward of the lower part of ...
mgb 68 rebuild10/24/2009
  Q: Howard, you gave me some advise previously to my questions on low oil pressure. I have been working ...
  A: If you have good compression you have one of the only three items necessary for an engine to run so ...
MG Midget gearbox rear oil seal replacement10/24/2009
  Q: My 1970 Midget is leaking excessive gear oil after a motor change. I must have somehow damaged the ...
  A: The seal has a metal cup around it and is a press fit on the tailshaft housing. I never tried to ...
76 MG Midget runs great then dies10/21/2009
  Q: My 76 Midget will run fine for about the first 2 miles (my commute to work) and it will suddenly die ...
  A: All Gas piston engines only require three items to run, compression, fire and fuel. (with conditions ...
MGB 72 6 volts batteries10/21/2009
  Q: my batteries do noy seem to hold power for more than a couple of days. on top when i drive the car i ...
  A: Most auto parts stores have a battery load tester to test the condition of a battery before you buy ...
electrical10/20/2009
  Q: i have a 1973 mgb gt i put the heater on and it started smoking on the fan connections under the ...
  A: A wiring diagram is what you need to trace out all that. Go to my web site and I have put two ...
66 MGB Brake Light Switch10/20/2009
  Q: Noticed my brake lights weren't working, since it was both, thought switch as first check. Located ...
  A: You can change the switch without getting air in the system if you unscrew the switch and put the ...
1979 mg midget 150010/20/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a 76 mg midget in Florida and had it shipped to my home state of Illinois. It ...
  A: You definitely need a wiring diagram to unscramble all of that. I have put a diagram up on my web ...
MGB engine missing, at speed10/19/2009
  Q: I have a 1968 MGB with the GF motor, with the HS4 carburetors, now with 3,000 miles on a rebuild. I ...
  A: Any tests must be run while a problem is present or in the failed mode. So to test a fuel pump at ...
MG Midget Front Brake10/16/2009
  Q: Where can I get a replacement bolt that bolts the brake hose onto the front brake caliper on a Mg ...
  A: That is called a "Banjo bolt" and you should call Moss Motors, Engel Imports, The Roadster Factory, ...
My 1972 Mg midget carbs10/16/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MG Midget, and I am putting the carbs back together. I was wondering if there would ...
  A: Here is a break down of the linkage from Moss Motors ...
1973 MGB Horn10/15/2009
  Q: Howard, My MGB has an aftermarket steering wheel. The previous owner purchased the wheel from ...
  A: Your car had the horn push button on the column lever not on the steering wheel so you don't have ...
76 Midget stopped running10/15/2009
  Q: The car was running great then one day it was idling a little funny spitting and sputtering then the ...
  A: All gas piston engines require only three items to run, compression, fire and fuel with conditions ...
MGB speedometer trouble10/14/2009
  Q: The speedometer on my 1979 MGB stoped working... What should I do?
  A: First step is to remove the cable from the back of the speedo and either jack up the back of the car ...
starter problem10/11/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 MGB, it has been starting fine, last time I started it ran and for some reason the ...
  A: There are several things that can cause the starter to spin without spinning the engine. A 72 MGB ...
oil pan gasket10/9/2009
  Q: As usual, thank you for the great advise on my previous question. It seems as though the oil spot ...
  A: No, nothing else needs to be removed to get the pan off of a 1275cc Midget. You should check to see ...
Re: 1979 MGB Electrical Problems Follow-Up10/4/2009
  Q: Mr. Fitzcharles, Thank you for your prompt reply. I followed your directions on the voltage drop ...
  A: Travis, think about what you are doing with the volt meter. If you have a strand of cable and ...
Re: 1979 MGB Electrical Problems Follow-Up10/4/2009
  Q: Mr. Fitzcharles, Thank you for your prompt reply. I followed your directions on the voltage drop ...
  A: Travis, you are doing something wrong on your voltage test. It is impossible to read 13v with a volt ...
Rear Brakes Won't Bleed on 1976 MG Midget10/3/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MG Midget (US). My rear brakes will not bleed. The procedure I am following as per ...
  A: First bleed at each line fitting on the master cylinder to confirm that fluid is coming out under ...
1978 MGB won't start10/3/2009
  Q: When it started it would run great for a 10 minute drive or so then loose power and literally not be ...
  A: An easy test for a stopped up exhaust is first the symptoms are that it may run at idle or low RPM ...
1979 MGB Electrical Problems9/30/2009
  Q: Mr. Fitzcharles, I need help. I recently purchased a 1979 MGB and it has suddenly developed ...
  A: Your symptoms only narrow the problem to only one thousand things. The ONLY way I was ever able to ...
1978 MGB won't start9/27/2009
  Q: When it started it would run great for a 10 minute drive or so then loose power and literally not be ...
  A: It sounds like you put the points in wrong. The points came with an insulator in two halves ...
78 MG9/24/2009
  Q: I was driving my midget on the highway and lost about 1/2 the oil. Then the oil pressure light came ...
  A: If your car was brought in to me in a dealership I would first check the oil level and then try to ...
1970 MGB Roadster Electrical Problem9/23/2009
  Q: My 1970 MGB Roadster has an electrical problem that I cannot figure out. When I use the brakes and ...
  A: The diagram is at the address shown but you have to leave a space between 70 and MGB but the address ...
MGB Starting problem9/21/2009
  Q: I have been having some recent issues starting my 72 mgb converted to one 12V. I hear the fuel pump ...
  A: When you have a charged battery and you get no "spin over" with the starter motor. You need to check ...
1970 MGB Roadster Electrical Problem9/20/2009
  Q: My 1970 MGB Roadster has an electrical problem that I cannot figure out. When I use the brakes and ...
  A: The only way to correct the problem is to get the car in it's failed mode and test with a test light ...
head rest9/20/2009
  Q: I want to recover my seat on a 75 MGB, but I can't get the head rest out.
  A: I was a line mechanic for many years but never did upholstery work, however I have seen a loose ...
Headlights9/19/2009
  Q: My head lights do not work anymore after driving through a bad rain storm 2 weeks ago. The car is a ...
  A: You need a wiring diagram of the car to trace wiring. However, it sounds like you have a bad ...
1974 1275cc Midget Clutch Hose9/19/2009
  Q: My 14 year old son is trying to help repair my MG as he hopes to get it when he starts driving. We ...
  A: The 74 Midget is a Austin engine MG as all MGs prior to 75 had. The prefix of "12V" is an ID that it ...
turn signal9/18/2009
  Q: Whenever I have my left turn signal on and i hit my brake pedal the turn signal stays solid and ...
  A: The diagram is up on my web site at http://mg-tri-jag.net/76MGB1x1.jpg for the diagram and ...
turn signal9/18/2009
  Q: Whenever I have my left turn signal on and i hit my brake pedal the turn signal stays solid and ...
  A: Since the turnsignal has nothing to do with the brake lights other than sharing a ground wire of the ...
battery group9/15/2009
  Q: what group size batteries for 74 mgb
  A: The 74 MGB had two 6v batteries connected in series. As for the group number you will have to give ...
71 MGB GT Gear Grinding?9/15/2009
  Q: Howard Thanks for the help so far. Got the jumping speedometer fixed with some white lithium ...
  A: 2nd to 3rd is normally the slowest shift time and not a normal "first to go" syncro. In the ...
'72 MGB starting problem9/14/2009
  Q: My '72 MGM (inherited from my son) has not been used for about 5 years-stored in my garage. Prior ...
  A: That should be an easy fix. First remove the cap and hold the coil wire about an eighth of an inch ...
1979 MG Midget distributor/coil9/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget and I know the engine is a 1500 because the number on the block begins with ...
  A: Paul, If you have a pointed distributor you must have a Triumph distributor not an MG Midget because ...
1979 MG Midget distributor/coil9/12/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget and I know the engine is a 1500 because the number on the block begins with ...
  A: The electronic ignition on the Midgets was so unreliable that many owners replaced the distributors ...
MG midget fuel pump tick9/9/2009
  Q: I have a 1972 Mg midget that I recently purchased. I was driving it around for the first month with ...
  A: When an SU fuel pump first clicks it is pumping fuel and when it stopped it meant that the float ...
Mg Midget Mk111 19769/8/2009
  Q: I have just bought the MG for restoration and also bought a workshop manual, but it does not cover ...
  A: I have a US and a UK wiring diagram but neither show much about which pin is which. The UK version ...
65 mgb transmission upgrade9/7/2009
  Q: I have a 1965 MGB Roadster that has the standard 4 speed transmission. I am rebuilding this car for ...
  A: I have no experience with the Ford gearbox but I know why you are wanting to upgrade the MGB ...
midget transmission9/7/2009
  Q: my midget project is comming along nicely, thanks to your many helpful tips. I an able to drive the ...
  A: If the noise is a rhythmic click it may be a chipped tooth on low gear. The only way to know for ...
MGB Speedometer9/1/2009
  Q: Howard I recently installed an overdrive transmission in my 71 MGB GT. All went well. I had done ...
  A: I found it a good policy to put a short piece of old cable into the drive and rotate the driveshaft ...
mgb 19798/30/2009
  Q: how to replace broken chrome handle on quarter light
  A: As I remember there is a roll pin in the handle itself that needs to be driven out to replace the ...
floor pan replacement 1975 mg midget8/29/2009
  Q: you have helped me many times in the past, hope you can work your magic again. I would like to know ...
  A: If you are talking about an MGB you need to either sand blast the edges of the floor pan or wire ...
1977 MGB ignition problem8/28/2009
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB that I just acquired. The previous owner just rebuilt the motor and added a ...
  A: The coil should not get so hot that you can't touch it, which is an indication either the coil is ...
flooding engine8/25/2009
  Q: we have a 1978 mg midget and we cant keep the engine running. it keeps flooding out and wont stay ...
  A: First thing to do is remove the top of the carburetor and inspect the diaphragm for any cuts. Then ...
1976 mg midget neg earth8/24/2009
  Q: i hooked up car wrong pos earth for a few sec.altenator started smoking so i changed back to neg. i ...
  A: You can't fry a fuse by connecting a battery up backwards. A fuse don't care which way current is ...
1976 mg midget neg earth8/24/2009
  Q: i hooked up car wrong pos earth for a few sec.altenator started smoking so i changed back to neg. i ...
  A: It sounds to me like you fried the alternator or at least the regulator in the alt. The "Ign" light ...
1969 MGB GT Ignitiom System8/24/2009
  Q: Just finished major overhaul on engine.Also replaced coil,condenser,points,rotor button,cap and all ...
  A: If the points are closed at the time you measured .22v then you have either a bad ground of the ...
77 mgb ignition prob?8/23/2009
  Q: I have a 77 MGB over a year now and am a first time owner and am quite a newbie. I have a dilemma ...
  A: If you have no power at the coil with the key on, that has nothing to do with the ignition system as ...
mg midget engine id.8/23/2009
  Q: I recently purchased an mg midget, manufacture date 12/1977. It has a distributor with points, but ...
  A: Many MG owners switched back to a pointed distributor because the electronic ignition had such a ...
Mg fuel8/23/2009
  Q: I have a 1970 Mk III midget which runs on after I switch off. Should I use a hugher octaine gas, ...
  A: If you have a lot of carbon build up it can be removed with water but you must be careful. Remove ...
Mg fuel8/23/2009
  Q: I have a 1970 Mk III midget which runs on after I switch off. Should I use a hugher octaine gas, ...
  A: Several things need to be looked at before you can decide what to do about it. The following are ...
77 MG Midget High oil pressure8/22/2009
  Q: Howard, Thank you for your previous help with my brake problem. Turned out the piston in the new ...
  A: First I would get a known good hydraulic oil pressure gauge, even if you had to purchase a new gauge ...
Engine Miss8/20/2009
  Q: I just read your procedure on how to diagnose a engine miss on a '66 MGB. One of the steps you ...
  A: Yes, while working in MG dealerships we noted that many times we had customer complaints of valve ...
1979 mg8/20/2009
  Q: i sir,i asked you about get fuel from the pump to the carb.im getting gas to my filter,but not ...
  A: You need to put a "T" in the fuel line close to the carburetor and attach a long hose to a fuel ...
MGA 1600 Wiring Harness8/19/2009
  Q: Mr. Howard: I have a MGA 1600 roadster that has an original wiring harness in which the wires have ...
  A: Sorry Todd, there is no way for me to even guess how long it will take you to put a wiring harness ...
Towing8/18/2009
  Q: I am hoping to tow my 1970 MG Midget from Michigan to Florida. I am hoping to tow it flat with a ...
  A: You can't tow any MG that far without removing the driveshaft because the mainshaft in the gearbox ...
1970 MGB proper cable connection to 12v battery8/14/2009
  Q: Put new battery in I believe I reversed the connection The red cable is going to the pos pole and ...
  A: Your car originally came with two 6 volt batteries connected in series as such, One battery was ...
MG8/14/2009
  Q: my mg made a bang and the oil and water indicator went to over heat, there was smoke and a grinding ...
  A: Sorry, but that sounds serious enough that you need to have a mechanic look at it as any attempt to ...
mg8/13/2009
  Q: my 1979 mg will not start.the fuel pump clicks with key on,but no gas goes to the fuel filter.with ...
  A: The method to test a fuel pump is to get fuel pressure gauge and a "T" fitting, Install the "T" in ...
Horn and head lights8/7/2009
  Q: Have a 71 mgb. Just recently the horn will only work if the headlight switch is on. I cleaned the ...
  A: You don't have to do a lot of testing for the horn circuit because it is a "Stand Alone" circuit and ...
RPM guage8/6/2009
  Q: So many questions I don't know where to start. I have a 1971 MGB. my guess is the block has wither ...
  A: The tach is powered by a green wire plugged into the back of the tach. You need to confirm that the ...
carb question8/4/2009
  Q: I am currently looking at buying a 1977 MG. I went and test drove it and noticed a couple of things. ...
  A: First you didn't tell me what kind of MG it was, but it does not matter as the cost to repair ...
non smog head8/3/2009
  Q: I had a crack head on my 79 mgb so i found a early non smog head had the valve done. The problem is ...
  A: Did the engine ever run right with the Weber on it? The fact that you used a non smog head has ...
75 MG Midget - Won't start8/2/2009
  Q: My father-in-law bought a 75 MG Midget on 7/29/2009. This car had not been registered since 2005, so ...
  A: The fact that you were able to get it to fire off with starting fluid means it is a fuel problem. It ...
58 MGA Transmission8/2/2009
  Q: I drove the car about 40 miles and parked it. I now seem to have a problem when shifting from 1st to ...
  A: When the gears clash shifting into one gear and not into others, it is an indication of a worn ...
77' Midget only revs to 2500 rpms and spits and sputters7/29/2009
  Q: Now the car will only rev up to 2500 rpms no matter how much gas I give it. The car starts fine ...
  A: The terminology may have gotten lost in the transfer from one person to another. There is a resistor ...
Timing markers 1965 MKII midget7/29/2009
  Q: I expected to see the timimg markers/pointers on the bottom of the timing cover when viewed from the ...
  A: You should look at the engine number to see if the engine has been changed. Your engine should be a ...
Car runs fine for about 10 minutes then dies7/28/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget. The car starts well, battery is fine, seems idle well. When I drive it for ...
  A: An engine only needs 3 things to run, compression, fire and fuel with conditions on each so when an ...
77' Midget only revs to 2500 rpms and spits and sputters7/27/2009
  Q: Now the car will only rev up to 2500 rpms no matter how much gas I give it. The car starts fine ...
  A: It sounds like a partial stopped up exhaust system. On some cars the exhaust is easy to undo a ...
1971 MG Midget Woes7/27/2009
  Q: My Midget is having some troubles. It starts up fine, but i can only step on the accelerator about ...
  A: my name is not Charles but I will try to answer your question. First I would check the fuel pressure ...
79 MG Midget7/26/2009
  Q: Starts by spraying with starting fluid but will not stay running. Seems to be a fuel filter problem ...
  A: I would recommend that you replace NOTHING until you test to find out what is wrong, then only ...
fire to spark plugs.7/25/2009
  Q: My 73 MG Midget, recently was rescued from a long stay in a garage, was able to be started after ...
  A: I am not familiar with the "Flame thrower" ignition. All I can tell you about is the factory system ...
elec. 1973 MG Migit7/23/2009
  Q: I am in the process of putting this car back together and have the wire harness 90% back in and ...
  A: If you have the car up to # "GHN5-138800" and a button on the solenoid to start the car with, then ...
elec. 1973 MG Migit7/23/2009
  Q: I am in the process of putting this car back together and have the wire harness 90% back in and ...
  A: First you need to check to see if you have ignition at the plug wires since you are working with the ...
cleaning fuel tank7/22/2009
  Q: i have heard that it is opssible to remove the rust in an old fuel tank using white vinegar. what ...
  A: I don't know but I doubt vinegar has any effect on rust. It may take the varnish the gas leaves. In ...
MGA computer7/22/2009
  Q: I have a new pc that my old programs loaded in a folder "archives".I can pull up photos from that ...
  A: Other readers will get the wrong idea when they read this thinking that BMC made MGA cars and ...
Carburetor7/21/2009
  Q: In order to adjust the twin carburetors on my 1970 MGB to a LEANER setting, do I turn the head of ...
  A: The adjustment is a nut not a bolt and turning it up (Clockwise as viewed from the bottom or counter ...
CHOKE? AND SWITCH?7/20/2009
  Q: YOU MENTIONED YOUR LAST ANSWER THAT THE "INERTIA SWITCH" WAS PARK OF THE HOT WIRE TO THE FUEL PUMP, ...
  A: Charles, there is a kit to replace the coolant operated choke on that B with a manual choke but if ...
fuel pump issue7/20/2009
  Q: ok, i did check the white wire and it is hot, checked the ground,it is ok, had the pump running for ...
  A: It will run with no lines attached and run fast. (If it is the SU type pump) It will also self prime ...
Clutch difficulties 74 Midget7/20/2009
  Q: I'm in the middle of a complete restoration of a 1974 Midget. I got the engine running quite ...
  A: That depends on how the clutch pedal feels. If you only have about an inch free play or less and the ...
MGB 1972 Heater7/20/2009
  Q: I am getting significant heat from the heat vents/floor area and defroster even though the temp and ...
  A: The heater control valve totally controls the amount of heat that the heater core can have but even ...
narrowing it down7/19/2009
  Q: still no gas to my 1977 mgb, when the key is in the 2nd position no noise or clicking like the fuel ...
  A: (that was quick) The fuel pump does not have a relay. The power comes directly from an inertia ...
seat wiring related to starting??7/18/2009
  Q: i just bought an mgb 1977 and took out the seats and seatbelts to give a good scrubbing. my daughter ...
  A: The seat belt switch operates a seat belt warning buzzer but not the ignition system so if it does ...
mg midget 15007/18/2009
  Q: Installed a rebuilt 1500 in my 76 midget. Oil pressure is good (40-60) but not getting any oil to ...
  A: If you have at least 25 to 35 PSI oil pressure spinning the engine with the starter with the rocker ...
TURN SIGAL POWER RELATED TO HAZARD7/17/2009
  Q: i have a 77 mgb that i just bought, i see by reading a previous questions here that, my turn signal ...
  A: Check for power into the hazard switch (green wire on pin #8) with the key on. Then check for power ...
turn signals7/14/2009
  Q: and the flashers for either side dont work .sure would like a hunt please !! thank you mike whalen ...
  A: If you replaced the ignition system, then you need to check with the manufacture or supplier of that ...
hard shifting when hot7/12/2009
  Q: my 76 mg midget seems to shift ok when every thing is cold but after driving and getting oils up to ...
  A: The clutch hydraulic system is non adjustable so if you have a lot of free play in the pedal, you ...
MG Midget brake bleeding and seizing7/12/2009
  Q: I’ve had my 77 Midget for 16 years, most of that time it was a daily driver and have done most of ...
  A: Conrad, I learned a long time ago to NOT try to figure out what all the problems could be because of ...
MG Midget brake bleeding and seizing7/11/2009
  Q: I’ve had my 77 Midget for 16 years, most of that time it was a daily driver and have done most of ...
  A: When the both front calipers were locking up, you should have done a test. All you had to do was ...
Mg Midget starter7/11/2009
  Q: ok i recently bought a 1972 mg midget, and it started and ran ok, but once i got it hone it will not ...
  A: Have someone hold the key to the "Start" position and test the white w/red tracer wire on the ...
lifters7/11/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 mgb with emissions off the problem is that one of my rocker arms cant be adjusted ...
  A: First thing to do is lay a straight edge across the top of all the valves to be sure it is not a ...
MG engines7/11/2009
  Q: Howard: Would you be so kind as to tell me if it is possible to use an alternate modern small 4 ...
  A: There are many conversions done on MGs, both MGB and Midgets. However, if you are talking about a ...
74 Mg Miget Headlights / Taillights7/11/2009
  Q: My headlights and tailights will not come on. Break lights work, They were working earlier tonight, ...
  A: Don't try to figure out by symptoms what is wrong. Take a 12v test light and ONLY ONE of the failed ...
clutch7/10/2009
  Q: i think my clutch is starting to go,only noticed it the last week or so,any idea how long it will ...
  A: There is no way anyone can tell you how long your clutch is going to last. First you need to find a ...
'68 mg midget7/10/2009
  Q: My stop lights will not work when I push on brake pedal. I checked the 2 fuses in fuse panel, they ...
  A: When you say "and checked the holders, they look ok, no corrosion" is not sufficient for a test of ...
turn signals7/9/2009
  Q: and the flashers for either side dont work .sure would like a hunt please !! thank you mike whalen ...
  A: when testing grounds with a 12v test light you put the clip on a known good power supply and use the ...
1965 sprite window7/9/2009
  Q: Drivers window is hard to roll up or down, more so up. Lubed window crank mech with no help. Problem ...
  A: The in/out of the top of the window is controlled by the "A" post of the windshield. It sounds more ...
turn signals7/9/2009
  Q: and the flashers for either side dont work .sure would like a hunt please !! thank you mike whalen ...
  A: I worked on MGs for many years in dealerships and I found it to be useless to try to figure out what ...
Alternator Connections7/8/2009
  Q: I have replaced the alternator on my 76' MG Midget but I have no clue as to which prong is which. It ...
  A: I have seen a Midget in FL with AC installed but I never looked at all the details of how he did it. ...
Reverse7/7/2009
  Q: My husband died and left me his MGA (1956 I think). It was at the repair garage and I drove it home. ...
  A: The MG gearbox has a strong detent to prevent shifting into reverse by accident. The standard method ...
timing7/6/2009
  Q: My 1954 TF 1500 continues to run for a few seconds after switch is turned off. I know this as ...
  A: The 1500 TF MG timing is set at TDC and points are .015" and rotor rotation is counter clockwise. ...
'78 MG Midget Turn Signals and Head Lamp Problem7/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget and she runs wonderfully, except when I went out tonight (the first time ...
  A: The first test is to unplug what you did and test the head lights. The headlight do not normally ...
Clunking noise when changing gear7/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1970m MG and there is a Clunking noise when changing gears coming from the rear end of the ...
  A: If it is a wire wheel car you need to first try to tighten the spinners and if that does not help ...
Gasoline dripping7/4/2009
  Q: 1968 MGB with the GF engine and HS4 SU carburetors. Today I was installing seat belts, and I ...
  A: You do have a float chamber problem, It can be as little as trash in a needle and seat or worn ...
fuel filter7/3/2009
  Q: i own a mgb gt which has been running fine until a week ago she has started chugging and is now of ...
  A: If someone has installed a fuel filter it will probably be just before the carburetors in the fuel ...
brake cylinder7/3/2009
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 midget (1275 in it). Last year I had a leaking brake cylinder so I bought a ...
  A: Castrol brake fluid is not brown and you can usually rub it between two fingers and feel the ...
66 MGB - Missing and metallic noise7/2/2009
  Q: Have a Mk1 MGB that recently started missing badly at idle. Sounds like it's running on 2 ...
  A: You may or may not have two different issues with the miss and the noise. There is a standard ...
1967 mg-b7/2/2009
  Q: i installed a weber carb. conversion kit,i cannot get the engine to idle smooth the rpm is 750 motor ...
  A: If it idled good with the SUs and don't now. you may have a vacuum leak or something is wrong with ...
brake cylinder7/1/2009
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 midget (1275 in it). Last year I had a leaking brake cylinder so I bought a ...
  A: You said brown fluid. Was it brake fluid or differential oil? The only pressure in the brake system ...
1973 MGB-GT Cylinder Head7/1/2009
  Q: I recently bought a 73 GT. The pressure test showed 130 lbs across all 4 cylinders. However, the ...
  A: 130 PSI across all cylinders is very rare. Most all engines have some variation between cylinders. ...
77 Midget 1500 Running Very Rich7/1/2009
  Q: I'll try to be as brief as possible. I've owned and maintained MGBs for for 26 years so I have a ...
  A: Dave, The choke must be positioned in the Lean position, then see where all the air is entering the ...
77 Midget 1500 Running Very Rich6/30/2009
  Q: I'll try to be as brief as possible. I've owned and maintained MGBs for for 26 years so I have a ...
  A: It sounds like you have most of the bases covered. Black smoke out the tail pipe is only one thing ...
1979 MGB6/30/2009
  Q: I have a 79 MGB which I just put on the road after being storied 17 years.I re-did the fuel tank, ...
  A: A back fire out the carb can be a lot of things but the most common is a lean condition not a rich ...
horn6/30/2009
  Q: I have a 77 Midget. The horns do not work. I read your previous posts about horns. I have power the ...
  A: Horns should be easy to make work as there are only two connections on horns. Power and ground, so ...
mgb starter motor6/28/2009
  Q: My question is related to the thread below. I have a 1967 MGB with negative earth ground and an ...
  A: Dan, your test results don't sound right. First the 67 B was a positive ground car and had two 6v ...
Rattle in Transmission6/27/2009
  Q: Howard, I recently bought a 1975 Midget that had set up for 7 years. I have gotten it running, but ...
  A: A rattle in the transmission is a symptom of only one hundred things. So you need to either let an ...
1968 MGB (GHN4) seat belts6/25/2009
  Q: you display rare patience with me... My car (as above) has a black interior with red piping. It ...
  A: All MGBs came with belts but I don't have anything in writing that tells if the 68 had just a lap ...
1959 MGA Roadster transmission problem6/24/2009
  Q: i have inherited a beautiful 1959 MGA Roadster from my uncle. he had payed for all fluids to be ...
  A: Hmmmm! that's bad news. You need to fine an experienced MG mechanic and have him check it out as the ...
1959 MGA Roadster transmission problem6/24/2009
  Q: i have inherited a beautiful 1959 MGA Roadster from my uncle. he had payed for all fluids to be ...
  A: Before we can make that determination you need to clarify that for me. Do you mean that the shift ...
Clutch and Rear brakes6/23/2009
  Q: I have a 75 midget and want to bleed and adjust the clutch please explain how. I also would like to ...
  A: There is no adjustment on the clutch. To bleed the clutch you need to pump up the pedal in slow long ...
MG Midget starting in 1st gear6/22/2009
  Q: my husband just bought me a 1968 MG Midget and I when I took it out for a test drive - I wasn't able ...
  A: You need to clarify your statement "Made a noise" do you mean it made a noise when you tried to put ...
1968 MGB speedometer6/21/2009
  Q: as a follow up: I checked the axle nuts, and they were torqued to 150 ft-lbs. I tightened the rear ...
  A: I found that some aftermarket speedometer cables were a little long and they applied pressure inward ...
Electrical - short or something6/21/2009
  Q: Left rear light, blinker, flasher and side ligth all work, right rear light, license light and ...
  A: The test you read somewhere of removing a battery cable and putting a test light between the cable ...
Electrical - short or something6/21/2009
  Q: Left rear light, blinker, flasher and side ligth all work, right rear light, license light and ...
  A: The only tools you need is a wiring diagram and a 12v test light. The diagram tells you the color ...
MG Midget stall-out6/19/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget,I have rebuilt it and added the aftermarket weber carb and intake. Recently ...
  A: That depends on if the pump pressure drops to 1 PSI then the engine stalls shortly afterward or does ...
1978 MG Midget not starting6/18/2009
  Q: My midget won't show any signs of life except the clock working. It has a fairly new battery which ...
  A: You obviously have a major disconnect somewhere in the system so you need to do a voltage drop test ...
overheating 1500 mg midget6/18/2009
  Q: Im having an overheating problem with my 77 mg midget. so far replaced bad fan clutch, thermostat, ...
  A: First step is to go to any auto parts store and get the dye that is put in the radiator to test for ...
Midget headlight/heater switches6/18/2009
  Q: Sir, I have a 73 midget which I took out of a 3 yr. storage lately. At first everything worked just ...
  A: When I worked at the dealerships I found that when I had a car with several electrical problems, I ...
Fuel pump6/16/2009
  Q: Sometimes when I turn on my ignition, fuel continues to pump into the carburetors and spills ...
  A: That means the float needle and seat are not closing off the fuel for what ever reason. Trash ...
1971 MG Midget6/16/2009
  Q: My 71 Midget will start up, run anywhere between 20 seconds to 5 minutes, then stalls out. Even when ...
  A: When an engine stops running it has lost either compression, fire or fuel so it is your job to ...
79 MG Midget won't start6/15/2009
  Q: My 1979 MG Midget had run fine until a few weeks ago when I turned it off. Now when I try and start ...
  A: If you don't hear anything when you go to the start position then the first place to check is the ...
1980 MGB Horrendous Noise Under the Hood6/15/2009
  Q: I own a 1980 MGB which has only 52,000 miles on it. I had it idling in the drive Saturday when all ...
  A: A noise can be anything, so you are going to have to raise the hood and start the engine. In this ...
MGB mystery clunk6/13/2009
  Q: welcome back from your vacation. :-) 1968 MGB, with spoke wheels. With acceleration or ...
  A: I rebuilt a lot of differentials in the dealerships I worked in and have seen worn thrust washers on ...
1978 MGB6/11/2009
  Q: My drivers side front directional doesn't work. I've switched bulbs w/the opposite side & still ...
  A: First thing you need is a 12v test light and a wiring diagram. Starting at the bulb socket, start ...
Engine 1976 Midget6/10/2009
  Q: I have 76 MG Midget. About 8 years ago I had the engine re-furbed but the engine was never started ...
  A: First remove the spark plugs and put about two teaspoons of a light oil or something like WD-40 in ...
1978 mgb idle problem6/10/2009
  Q: I own a 78 mgb, and have a problem with the idle. When the car is cold car idles good with a slight ...
  A: All those symptoms don't tell anything other than the car needs to be tested. First test the ...
'74 MGB will not turn over6/9/2009
  Q: Was out on a drive and it just stopped running. The engine cranks, is getting gas but just will not ...
  A: There is a step by step procedure to test an engine for why it will not start. If you suspect ...
1973 B6/9/2009
  Q: I saw this a few times on All Experts.Will this help me tune my B, i currently have Champion RN9YC. ...
  A: I found that you are asking for trouble when you use a resistor plug on resistor wire so I don't ...
problem following oil filter change6/8/2009
  Q: Today I was getting my '71 MGB ready for the summer. I did an oil change and filter change. Once ...
  A: You need to look carefully at the filter base to see if an old gasket has stuck to the filter ...
73 B6/7/2009
  Q: I have run through the tank of gas that i parked it with and put some super in it today, could the ...
  A: If you are talking about "Pinging" sound, that is detonation not valves and it is very destructive ...
mgb starter motor6/7/2009
  Q: My question is related to the thread below. I have a 1967 MGB with negative earth ground and an ...
  A: Dan, you will not find out what is wrong unless you do the tests I gave you. When the voltage drops ...
76 mg carb6/7/2009
  Q: I have just rebuilt my carb,starts fine at idle but will not accelerate,if i raise the piston by ...
  A: When you raise the piston you do not do anything except change the fuel mixture. If you raise the ...
mga wont start6/7/2009
  Q: husband just installed new starter and new batteries but 1961 mga is unresponsive - any tips (he has ...
  A: You will have to be more specific, What do you mean "Unresponsive"? It spins the engine but it will ...
oil pan gasket ?6/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget. The oil pan gasket was replaced by a previous owner, but still leaks. I ...
  A: You just need to clean the pan and the block and check the pan to see that someone has not over ...
zenith carb 1980 mgb6/6/2009
  Q: I purchased a rebuild kit, new needles and have rebuilt the carb, but now the car will ideal but ...
  A: First thing to look at is to see if the throttle cable is connected up and opening the throttle. ...
transmission 76 midget6/5/2009
  Q: i recently got a 76 midget i can not find the fill for the transmission. were is it located? what is ...
  A: The gearbox filler/level plug is on the side of the gearbox and the factory states to use from 75w ...
vacum line from dist. where to put it after new webber install6/4/2009
  Q: 78 mgb..trying to restore this thing.lol..anyhow i replaced carb with a webber side mount and it has ...
  A: Vacuum advance distributors connect to "Ported Vacuum" (Vacuum on a carburetor that only has vacuum ...
Engine sputturing when running6/3/2009
  Q: I'm a new owner of a 72 MGB. I did a recent tune-up and and when I take it out for a run of about 10 ...
  A: When a car came to me with that kind of problem I did a normal test sequence first. Compression test ...
Uneven brake pressure5/13/2009
  Q: Are you well? I have a 1977 MG Midget 1500 which is due for a complete service. However, in order to ...
  A: The two halves of the caliper just come apart when you remove the bolts that hold them together and ...
Uneven brake pressure5/12/2009
  Q: Are you well? I have a 1977 MG Midget 1500 which is due for a complete service. However, in order to ...
  A: When one of the two brake pads is worn out and the other is like new the piston on the new side is ...
speedo pinion on mg midget 15005/11/2009
  Q: I have just bought an mg midget 1500 the speedo was not working so replaced the cable still not ...
  A: The speedo head or the cable is in a bind and destroying pinions as you put them in. You need to ...
coil connections5/11/2009
  Q: Howard, first thanks for your patience. This is what I see. I have a Lucas 25D distributor--and a ...
  A: You say you have compression but how much compression? It needs to be from 125 to 180 PSI with ...
1976 MG Midget won't start5/11/2009
  Q: I recently took my 76 midget out for the summer and it started right up. Drove to the gas station ...
  A: Shawn, Most of the original Lucas/Opus electronic ignition systems failed under warranty and very ...
coil connections5/10/2009
  Q: Howard, first thanks for your patience. This is what I see. I have a Lucas 25D distributor--and a ...
  A: Jon, You need to confirm what each wire does since all have been put in by some previous owner. ...
Won't start again.5/10/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon here with the 76 Midget (1275 in it). I have been, for 2 weeks banging my head over a ...
  A: Jon, If you have a pointed distributor now, you should have just one wire from the dist to the ...
Mgb not starting5/8/2009
  Q: i have a 1975 Mgb, back last september, i had an issuse where there was fuel flowing out from an ...
  A: Dermot, An engine that does not start narrows the problem to only one thousand possible causes so ...
Resistor on MG Midget5/8/2009
  Q: I bought a 1975 Midget on which the ignition has been changed to electronic instead of points. Is ...
  A: Yes a blue spark is an indication of a strong spark (checked inside or in the shade) A hair thin ...
1976 mg midget electrical5/7/2009
  Q: Howard , this is a related two parter. right turn signal is on all the time. thought it was the ...
  A: If the right turn signal is on all the time even with the switch removed it is obvious that you have ...
1970 Mg B Oil Pressure5/7/2009
  Q: My father and I are in the process of restoring a 1970 Mg model B. After carburetor work we started ...
  A: You must connect a known good oil pressure gauge to the block and test oil pressure right away ...
77 Midget 1500 stumbles at higher rpm5/7/2009
  Q: I have a 77 Midget 1500 that stumbles and dies unless I let off the throttle and baby it at about ...
  A: To test if it is fuel related get a can of starting fluid and when opening the throttle and it would ...
71 MG Midget, No Spark5/6/2009
  Q: Ok, So I will try to explain this as clearly as possible. I have a 71 MG Midget with the original ...
  A: Dennis, when you see 12v on the negative side of the coil with the points closed it means the points ...
71 MG Midget, No Spark5/5/2009
  Q: Ok, So I will try to explain this as clearly as possible. I have a 71 MG Midget with the original ...
  A: Do this, turn the engine by hand until you see the points closed and turn the key on and test the ...
1965 mg midget tach5/5/2009
  Q: the tach on my 1965 midget does not work. Can i bench test it. I do not Know if it is conected ...
  A: Glen, the white wire does not make contact with the tach. It only loops around a "U" shaped clip and ...
Removing temp sending unit from head5/5/2009
  Q: 1098 engine/head. Temperature gauge (dual guage with oil pressure and temperature) suddenly stopped ...
  A: The bulb part of the temp gauge is just stuck as it is just held in by the large nut. If the gauge ...
77 Midget Clutch Problem5/5/2009
  Q: My 77 Midget shifts fine when cold but about 10-15 minutes into a run, it starts getting difficult ...
  A: You didn't say weather the pedal gets soft or feels the same after it starts to fail. That is ...
Car learches5/5/2009
  Q: I have a 78 mg midget seems to be running very nice how ever after i drive it for a little bit ie it ...
  A: Lurching at light throttle settings just tells you you need to run some tests. Compression test ...
1965 mg midget tach5/3/2009
  Q: the tach on my 1965 midget does not work. Can i bench test it. I do not Know if it is conected ...
  A: I don't know of any way to bench test an electric tach. The car is the best bench test. If the tach ...
no spark5/3/2009
  Q: I have no spark comming out of my mallory coil I have 12 volts in and out of the coil but no spark I ...
  A: Next question, what kind of ignition system do you have in the distributor? Since you already said ...
Locking brakes 79 midget5/3/2009
  Q: We have a 1979 Midget. The brake master cylinder is new, After driving the vehicle a short ...
  A: There are several reasons that brakes can lock up and you must run a couple of simple tests to ...
1972 Midget- No Clutch pedal5/1/2009
  Q: I have been amazed and used your comments to others to assist me with getting my midget on the road. ...
  A: The master cylinder is nothing more than a pump with just a piston in it. For it to pump fluid the ...
79 MGB running rough4/29/2009
  Q: I have a 79 MGB that I just replaced plugs, wires, cap and rotor on about a month ago. I drive it ...
  A: All your symptoms are useless to determine what is wrong other then to tell you something is wrong. ...
fuel pump4/29/2009
  Q: I have a 78 B that has a Carter Solenoid pump that seems to loose its prime. I can drive it 3 to 5 ...
  A: The end result of a fuel pump is to supply from 1.5 to 3 PSI fuel pressure so to test it to see if ...
Electrical Outage4/29/2009
  Q: Yesterday, while driving, I lost the Tach, Fuel, Temp, directional signals and brake lights. Where ...
  A: Robert, it is not common for the same fuse to blow unless you put in a low amp fuse and that line ...
Lost the taillights4/29/2009
  Q: 1968 MGB, GHN4 model. My taillights just quit. Brake lights work fine. I inspected both the ...
  A: I have found that many of the MGs were altered and there is no telling what changes have been made ...
Lost the taillights4/28/2009
  Q: 1968 MGB, GHN4 model. My taillights just quit. Brake lights work fine. I inspected both the ...
  A: If the front parking lights are working then the power from the light switch is good and it has to ...
Fule4/28/2009
  Q: I noticed you had said to use a mettle fuel filter not a plastic one why? Also i have a 78mg midget ...
  A: The plastic fuel filter should be self evident. How much damage or heat do you think plastic can ...
Electrical Outage4/27/2009
  Q: Yesterday, while driving, I lost the Tach, Fuel, Temp, directional signals and brake lights. Where ...
  A: Most of those items are powered off of the green wires on the #6 pin in the fuse panel so that is a ...
1977 mgb4/26/2009
  Q: My 77 b will start and run but you can not turn it off with the ig switch. ANSWER: Hi Bill, First ...
  A: The diode was something we had to do to several MGBs of that area. The diagram is on my site under ...
1979 midget stops running4/26/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 midget 1500 with the single Stromberg carb. After I have been driving for 30 minutes ...
  A: Your symptoms do not tell you what is wrong so you need to do some testing and the tests must be ...
1977 mgb4/25/2009
  Q: My 77 b will start and run but you can not turn it off with the ig switch.
  A: First does the engine run normally with the key off or does it die if you try to rev the engine or ...
Zenith Stromberg Carb4/24/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MG Midget which is running rich at idle. I can see black smoke from tail pipe, ...
  A: David, run the adjusting screw back in all the way and find a drift or punch about the size of the ...
Won't start again.4/24/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon here with the 76 Midget (1275 in it). I have been, for 2 weeks banging my head over a ...
  A: Jon, the spark must be thick and colored blue (not in bright sun light) so if you see a thread size ...
1973 Midget engine number4/24/2009
  Q: I have a 73 midget that I am rebuilding. It is supposedly a one owner, one mechanic car, being my ...
  A: I don't have the starting and ending engine numbers but the prefix of 12v indicates it is a 1275cc ...
Won't start again.4/23/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon here with the 76 Midget (1275 in it). I have been, for 2 weeks banging my head over a ...
  A: You have been testing a lot but I didn't see where you tested the end result on each. Pull #1 plug ...
1978 1500 EGR4/23/2009
  Q: Howard - I inherited my father's 1978 1500 Midget several yrs ago. Last year just before putting ...
  A: Ted, I don't have anything that tells me what thread size that is but I do think that you could ...
my 1975 MGB broke down .. help!4/23/2009
  Q: so after a few days of glorious sunshine in sausalito, tonight we had this damp fog rip through.. I ...
  A: Your symptoms narrow the problem down to only one million possibles so you need to run a few tests ...
Ignition coil overheating4/23/2009
  Q: A few weeks ago, I left the ignition key on in my '76 MGB, burning out the ignition coil, points, ...
  A: To start with the 76 "B" came with a 6 volt coil (as they called it) so if you ran the full 12v to ...
1978 MGB non-vented gas cap question4/22/2009
  Q: me again! thanks for the info on the gas tank venting pipe. i need a gas cap, called the parts ...
  A: As far as the car is concerned you can just run a hose down to vent the tank depending on your local ...
1978MGB fuel tank4/22/2009
  Q: i purchased a new gas tank. the old gas tank has a little elbow type (vent?) by the fill pipe at the ...
  A: You will need to get an older style tank filler neck to get the vented cap to fit. If it has ...
1978MGB fuel tank4/22/2009
  Q: i purchased a new gas tank. the old gas tank has a little elbow type (vent?) by the fill pipe at the ...
  A: The newer MGs had a vent pipe because they no longer had vented caps. Your car should have a vent ...
mgb no power4/21/2009
  Q: I have a 1977 mgb that i recently got from my grandfather it only has 15k original miles, it sat for ...
  A: If you checked all wiring it would work. Wiring just conducts current from the battery to the lights ...
Zenith Stromberg Carb4/20/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MG Midget which is running rich at idle. I can see black smoke from tail pipe, ...
  A: You need to remove the vent hose off of the carburetor float chamber, check the carburetor diaphragm ...
Engine start after rebuild4/19/2009
  Q: I rebuilt mgb engine 18v673z completely. The crankshaft was reground, pistons are new and liners ...
  A: All engines require the same three items to run with conditions on each. Compression, Fire and Fuel. ...
Mg Midget 1500 turn signals4/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1500 Mg Midget with a turn signal switch that doesn't lock into position. Its as if the ...
  A: The hazard switch supplies power to the flasher unit so it is possible for the hazard switch to ...
75 MG Midget shifter4/13/2009
  Q: My father was putting the car into reverse, which as you know you have to pull it up then push it up ...
  A: Remove the shift tower cover and it will be evident how it is held in. Two pegs fit into the two ...
Stripped oil sump bolt hole4/13/2009
  Q: My oil sump pan was leaking at the front edge. Removed all the bolts to put on a new gasket, but ...
  A: Since you have not told me what kind of car this is I will have to guess. Since you say the front ...
starter run-on4/12/2009
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB, and the starter motor won’t disengage in about five percent of my starts. When ...
  A: One of the most difficult problems to solve is an intermittent fault because testing must be done in ...
brake pressure switch4/11/2009
  Q: I'm losing all my brake fluid out the end of what I've determined to be the brake pressure switch. ...
  A: If the brake differential pressure switch is leaking you either need to rebuild it or purchase a new ...
gapping points4/10/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 in it). The other day, it was cold, i had my midget ...
  A: Jon, It does not matter what is wrong with your plate as there are NO replacement parts available ...
78 MGB over heating4/9/2009
  Q: I finally got the gauge to work by replacing the sensor. The fan does not come on and after a few ...
  A: You need to get the fans running first to see if that is your overheating problem, although at ...
windscreen replacement4/7/2009
  Q: i am replacing windscreen and seals in a 1973 MG Midget. can you tell me the best way to do it? ...
  A: Tim, there are no step by step instructions nor are they necessary to remove and disassemble the ...
1979 mg midget 1500 throttle linkage4/7/2009
  Q: Howard - The diagram you sent was not helpful. I have a Zenith-Stromberg 150 CD-4T carburetor. It ...
  A: OK Jeff I see your problem now and I have some 150 Stromberg carbs and a small Brit car library so I ...
fuel gauge4/6/2009
  Q: Still trying to get my fuel gauge to register correctly.Full tank it reads between half and three ...
  A: If it reads correctly with the sending unit out of the tank then it should read the same installed. ...
throttle linkages and springs4/6/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget 1500. The springs in the throttle linkages are broken. I was able to order ...
  A: Jeff, What was wrong with the picture I sent? Was it not your carb? When an engine revs to 2500 to ...
gapping points4/5/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 in it). The other day, it was cold, i had my midget ...
  A: Jon, the screw you are talking about is the hold down lock screw, it is not an adjustment screw. You ...
1965 Sprite door ploblems4/4/2009
  Q: I have three questions. How can the door lock be removed from the door? I can see the retaining lock ...
  A: As I remember there is a stop for the window at the bottom with a pad on it and you may just remove ...
throttle linkages and springs4/3/2009
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget 1500. The springs in the throttle linkages are broken. I was able to order ...
  A: The Victoria British diagram shows the sequence of parts but I agree it is not clear plus there were ...
locked up4/1/2009
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget. it turned over perfectly fine since i got it but never started.i went to ...
  A: It is very unusual for an engine to lock up just turning it over manually. Take it out of gear and ...
Hylomar HPF Gasket sealer4/1/2009
  Q: Howard, I am replacing the fuel tank and sending unit on my 72 MG Midget. Moss recommends using ...
  A: At the dealership when we changed out a sending unit or removed one for diagnosis, we did not use ...
78 MG midget hard to start cold3/29/2009
  Q: I have a 78 engine 1500 cc and about 95% restored, engine, carburator, starter, battery, etc. It is ...
  A: When it does not want to start spray starter fluid into the intake and see if it starts right up. If ...
1970 Midget gauges3/24/2009
  Q: Speedometer needle fluctuates widely back and forth at speed. Sometimes it just goes to 0 mph then ...
  A: Two possible causes for needle fluctuations. Remove the cable housing from the speedo and remove the ...
Side marker lamp circuit3/22/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I was wiring the lights, the car had just been ...
  A: If you have no power (out)on either red w/green tracer wires with the lights on and thus no side ...
Mg Midget3/22/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 Midget that is having problems starting. It fires up when starting then dies, we have ...
  A: I take it that this is not a US Midget or it has had the Stromberg carb replaced with SUs? If you ...
Side marker lamp circuit3/21/2009
  Q: Howard, Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I was wiring the lights, the car had just been ...
  A: All that is useless information. Any time you have an electrical problem you need to pick ONLY one ...
starter motor keeps going3/21/2009
  Q: I have a triumph tr3a recently the starter motor would not disengage unless I used the battery kill ...
  A: If the push button switch is ok as you say then the starter solenoid is bad or wired wrong. ...
77 Midget brake circuit failure assem. leaking3/20/2009
  Q: On my 77 Midget, brake fluid is leaking around the failure switch and draining the master cylinder. ...
  A: Sometimes when the system is opened you may need to bleed the master cylinder itself at the lines ...
1975 midget carb .strongberg'3/19/2009
  Q: when trying to start the car. the carb is geting to much gas flooding plugs ,and going every where ...
  A: If the carburetor is flooding and fuel is running out of the float vent tube you need to remove the ...
1971 MG Midget (reverse)3/19/2009
  Q: I have a 1971 MG Midget. It will not engage into reverse, all other gears work. Where do i start? ...
  A: First thing to do is with the engine not running, find neutral and move the lever over all the way ...
MGB- 683/18/2009
  Q: Have a low oil pressure problem. Purchased car recently and never ran well,with SU's set to run ...
  A: You can examine the valve for ware and it is very noticeable when it is badly worn. Also check it ...
77 Midget brake circuit failure assem. leaking3/18/2009
  Q: On my 77 Midget, brake fluid is leaking around the failure switch and draining the master cylinder. ...
  A: As I remember they are just "O" rings and they are usually available from most of the British car ...
MGB- 683/18/2009
  Q: Have a low oil pressure problem. Purchased car recently and never ran well,with SU's set to run ...
  A: No! you can not rule out head gasket with coolant in the oil. The only combustion chamber test I ...
1977 Midget3/14/2009
  Q: I am working on this car and all the wires have been taken off and the distributor has no marks on ...
  A: Remove all of the spark plugs and put the car in 4th gear with the hand brake off and role the car ...
Mg Midget gearbox problem3/11/2009
  Q: I have a 1969 MG Midget that jumps out of 2nd gear on a trailing throttle. All other ratios are good ...
  A: There are several possible causes for this. The easiest and cheapest to repair is a shift lever can ...
mgb fuel pump3/11/2009
  Q: Is there a mounting bracket for the fuel pump for a 78 MBG. I am replacing an after market with an ...
  A: The original SU pump was mounted under the car in the front of the right hand side of the trunk and ...
Alternator Connections3/10/2009
  Q: I have replaced the alternator on my 76' MG Midget but I have no clue as to which prong is which. It ...
  A: Matthew, I have no specs of the ohm readings on the pins of a Lucas nor a Bosch, the back cover is ...
engine smoke3/10/2009
  Q: I have a 1974 MG midget that smokes a puff when i start or when i start off from a light. I ...
  A: Ryan, you are not making yourself clear. You said "The dip stick is reading half way with no great ...
engine smoke3/10/2009
  Q: I have a 1974 MG midget that smokes a puff when i start or when i start off from a light. I ...
  A: Blue smoke when accelerating is a sign of a ring problem. However, other causes need to be ...
Alternator Connections3/9/2009
  Q: I have replaced the alternator on my 76' MG Midget but I have no clue as to which prong is which. It ...
  A: Sorry Matthew, I have no idea what Bosch configuration was used, as Bosch was never installed on ...
engine smoke3/8/2009
  Q: I have a 1974 MG midget that smokes a puff when i start or when i start off from a light. I ...
  A: I am guessing you mean it smokes from the tail pipe? The color of the smoke tells what it is. A ...
Alternator Connections3/8/2009
  Q: I have replaced the alternator on my 76' MG Midget but I have no clue as to which prong is which. It ...
  A: Your car should have had a single three prong plastic plug on your harness and the plastic cover on ...
midget 1500 1st gear tranny noises3/7/2009
  Q: My 76 midget makes rattling noises in 1st gear while moving with the clutch engaged or disengaged. I ...
  A: Noise in 1st gear is not going to be cured by any kind of oil. The noise (if abnormal) is either ...
1978 Midget Hard To Start3/6/2009
  Q: I have a 78 midget that is hard to start. It seems like it might loose the fuel prime. If it has ...
  A: Tim, you may run out of money replacing parts until you hit what is making it hard to start so you ...
mgb electrical ground points3/3/2009
  Q: I have a 77B which I recently installed a new clutch and other parts while I had the engine out. Now ...
  A: It does sound like a ground problem or a battery terminal problem and since you had the engine out ...
Clutch Bleed Valve3/2/2009
  Q: I have a 68 Austin Healey Sprite. I havent been able to locate it yet, but I seem to have a leak in ...
  A: The bleeder is next to where the line connects to the slave cylinder. Some people just take the two ...
Freeze plugs3/1/2009
  Q: My 1965 1098c.c. engine has some coolant seepage coming out of the three plugs on the distributor ...
  A: It has been since the mid 70s since I had an 1100 engine out so I don't remember if there is one on ...
72 MG Midget-won't start2/26/2009
  Q: Howard, This is a follow up question from last week. The fuel line going into the fuel tank has a ...
  A: Yes that is possible. I have never opened up a Midget tank but if you can only detect fuel at a ...
72 MG Midget-won't start2/26/2009
  Q: Howard, This is a follow up question from last week. The fuel line going into the fuel tank has a ...
  A: You can not assume or guess at anything when an engine will not start. Starting fluid will ignite ...
MGB hasn't been driven for 10 years2/25/2009
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB that has been idled for about ten years now. Nothing was done to prepare it for ...
  A: Any car that has been in storage for 10 years needs about the same things. Drain all of the gas ...
1974 mgbgt2/24/2009
  Q: haveing thuble car idels fine put it in first gear i give it gas i geta sound like a pinking only ...
  A: Your description narrows the problem down to only one million things. So you need to narrow it down ...
clutch master cylinder2/20/2009
  Q: I'm rebuilding the clutch slave and master cylinder on a 73 Midget. I had a slow leak at the slave ...
  A: David, what do you mean "NO LUCK"??? No fluid ran out of the bleeder??? or what? When the master ...
clutch master cylinder2/18/2009
  Q: I'm rebuilding the clutch slave and master cylinder on a 73 Midget. I had a slow leak at the slave ...
  A: Fluid does not compress so if you can push the pedal down and there is no air in the system and the ...
72' MG-Midget-engine will not start2/17/2009
  Q: Howard, First I want to thank you for answering several questions last week regarding installation ...
  A: To make a quick test as to it being a fuel problem just spray a little starter fluid into the intake ...
Oil Cap substance2/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB, engine runs smooth and steady, no visible issues. Replace SU carb with a weber. ...
  A: I have Murphy and his law following me around so I can never toss a coin and guess at what is wrong ...
Oil Cap substance2/14/2009
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB, engine runs smooth and steady, no visible issues. Replace SU carb with a weber. ...
  A: Mike, in my opinion you have a water leak into the oil. This can be tested by draining the oil (dark ...
75 MGB FUEL PUMP2/12/2009
  Q: MY 75 MGB HAS THE CLICKING NOISE OF THE FUEL PUMP WHEN STARTING AND THEN GETS UGLY, LOUD AND FAST ...
  A: No you do not have to remove the fuel tank to remove the pump. But first you must know what the fast ...
Fuel gauge2/10/2009
  Q: My fuel gauge does not register full. I replaced the push on connector at the gas tank, the sending ...
  A: When you had the sending unit out, did you connect up the wires and try to hand operate the float ...
Dashboard, 1968 MGB2/7/2009
  Q: I am contemplating pulling the dashboard off of my car, for a myriad of reasons; electrical, gauge, ...
  A: First get a wiring diagram of the car and be sure to disconnect the battery as there are some ...
75 Midget Fuel Leak at Carburator2/6/2009
  Q: I am restoring a 75 midget. Last owner added a separate electric fuel pump switch and it was ...
  A: The float needle and seat was not designed to have constant fuel pressure on it over night. You do ...
78 MG Midget2/6/2009
  Q: My son and I are rebuilding a 1978 MG Midget 1500 engine and we were told that you have to mark the ...
  A: Sorry Dewayne, I never seen a slave cylinder with any more than ONE seal on a piston. All of the ...
steering rack lubing2/6/2009
  Q: The manual states; apply the grease gun filled with oil(S.A.E 90 gear oil) to the nipple on the ...
  A: Yes, it is wrong as chassis grease is too thick, especially in cold weather. It is suppose to be 90w ...
engine2/5/2009
  Q: i have been doing work to restore my 1975 mg midget. i was confused when i was timing it nd timed it ...
  A: If it is a US version car it is suppose to be 2deg. ATDC at 800 RPM unless the sticker under the ...
clutch master cylinder2/4/2009
  Q: I'm rebuilding the clutch slave and master cylinder on a 73 Midget. I had a slow leak at the slave ...
  A: Sometimes it is difficult to get all of the air out of the clutch system. First have the master ...
fuel gauge2/2/2009
  Q: Filled up the car yesterday and fuel gauge shows the tank only half full. Is the gauge or the ...
  A: If all the other gauges operate correctly, I would either drain the tank or run the car until it is ...
78 MG Midget1/30/2009
  Q: My son and I are rebuilding a 1978 MG Midget 1500 engine and we were told that you have to mark the ...
  A: That is a good thing to do on any engine you tear down and intend to reuse the lifters and cam. Most ...
'79 MGB fuel pump/electrical problems1/30/2009
  Q: I recently purchased a new SU fuel pump to replace the original that died. After installing the ...
  A: Sometimes the SU pumps stick and you need to connect up a ground to the case and the hot wire and if ...
More ignition problems...1/29/2009
  Q: I had wrote a question a few months ago about my 1976 MG Midget having a wiring problem. I figured ...
  A: The color of the loose wires you tell me about are the normal wires for the ignition system. I ...
1971 mgb1/29/2009
  Q: so its been about two weeks since i started my mgb, and its been about 28 degrees at night but when ...
  A: Everything is against you when it is very cold. Liquid gasoline does not burn, it is the fumes that ...
'76 MGB1/27/2009
  Q: Hey Howard, First of all I would like to thank you for help in the past. Your advice has been rigth ...
  A: You need to remove the gas cap and use compressed air to blow into the line. If 125 to 150 PSI don't ...
Midget mastercylinder.1/26/2009
  Q: I'm nearing the completion of my midget restoration and have started to bleed the brakes only to ...
  A: Mark, that is why when you push down the pedal with the bleeder open, you are suppose to close the ...
Midget mastercylinder.1/26/2009
  Q: I'm nearing the completion of my midget restoration and have started to bleed the brakes only to ...
  A: I don't understand your statement, "the piston won't retract unless it's allowed to draw air or ...
Mikuni (Solex) Hard Start when hot1/25/2009
  Q: Howard, Stumbled onto this site but am glad I did. Hope you can help. My '70 B has had a Mikuni ...
  A: The Bentley manual should cover the trans rebuild. Just be careful not to unload the sliding hub ...
Mikuni (Solex) Hard Start when hot1/25/2009
  Q: Howard, Stumbled onto this site but am glad I did. Hope you can help. My '70 B has had a Mikuni ...
  A: I don't know anything about the Solex but an engine that don't start hot is either too rich or too ...
1979 MG Midget electronic ignition. No spark,1/24/2009
  Q: I have recently been asked to fix a 1979 MG Midget with approx. 60k original miles on it the car ...
  A: Your welcome Brad, the 79 Midget engine is a Triumph Spitfire engine and uses a mechanical fuel pump ...
MG Midget1/24/2009
  Q: I am replacing the head gasket on my 1972 MG Midget 1275.I have followed the instructions in the ...
  A: Yes, the head does stick to the block sometimes. Various methods are used by mechanics but don't ...
1979 MG Midget electronic ignition. No spark,1/23/2009
  Q: I have recently been asked to fix a 1979 MG Midget with approx. 60k original miles on it the car ...
  A: If you have the same voltage at the (+) and (-) side of the coil no matter where the reluctor is ...
73 MGB1/16/2009
  Q: I'm going to look at a 73 MGB Saturday that has supposedly been sitting ina shed for 25 years, "ran ...
  A: That price is about normal for a restorable MGB and the 73 is usually prized over the 75 on cars for ...
79 MGB distributer1/14/2009
  Q: First, I would like to thank you for such a helpful website! Thanks a lot! Recently bought 79 MGB ...
  A: You can't expect two different brands of distributors to be oriented the same, it just will not ...
1978 MG Midget Gearbox Overhaul1/11/2009
  Q: I have figured out most of the disassembly sequesnce for this gearbox but in order to remove the ...
  A: It is easier to first remove the clip at the center main bearing and remove the bearing spacer and ...
v8 roadster1/9/2009
  Q: was the MGB roadster ever built with a V8 from factory ?
  A: There were some MGBs produced with the 215 Rover/Buick/Olds engines. A man named Ken Costello made ...
1973 MGB purchase1/5/2009
  Q: I have the chance to purchase a 1973 MGB convertible in very good condition, asking price $4500. I ...
  A: Keep in mind that you are considering purchasing a 36 year old car in "good condition" as you call ...
wiper motor1/3/2009
  Q: I have a 1974 MG Midget. It has a 2-speed & all its functions work fine but it runs very slowly. ...
  A: If the wipers run too slow first make sure you are not operating them on a dry windshield as even ...
1977 Midget Center Console Removal1/2/2009
  Q: Happy New Year Howard. I have asked you about this before,but I don't think I phrased my question ...
  A: Wow! Bill, I'm impressed, that is show car class. They didn't look that good when they were new. I ...
carburetor1/1/2009
  Q: 1970 Midget, I took one carburetor off, turned it upside down and the needle fell out hit the floor ...
  A: You mean you dropped the piston out of the top pot and bent the needle? You can purchase needles ...
Midget 1500 rough running & starting when cold12/31/2008
  Q: Howard, I have been driving a 76 Midget 1500 with no problems. Recently she has had trouble ...
  A: Your symptoms only narrow the problem down to several hundred possible things so you must do some ...
fuel gauge12/31/2008
  Q: MGB GT 1969 new sender fitted but gauge still not reading. Seem to remember touching sender wire to ...
  A: A rough preliminary test is to remove the power wire (Green w/black stripe)off of the sending unit ...
alternator problems12/30/2008
  Q: I had requested help on my ignition light backfeeding the coil preventing the car from turning off ...
  A: 14.8 is a little high but it may be ok as long as it does not boil all the water out of the battery ...
engine not turning12/29/2008
  Q: i am restoring a 1975 mg midget. i fixed the ignition so that the engine would turn over with the ...
  A: You need to confirm that the engine is not locked up by turning it over manually. If it turns over ...
alternator problems12/27/2008
  Q: I had requested help on my ignition light backfeeding the coil preventing the car from turning off ...
  A: No, Lucas made the changes in the number of wires and they are exchangeable and work just fine. You ...
74 midget rear brakes12/24/2008
  Q: I rebuilt the rear brakes on my car but the right rear locks up violently when the hand brake is ...
  A: You must have done something different on that side so to see just take the drums off both sides and ...
MGB No Spark12/23/2008
  Q: I have a 1977MGB for my Son and I cant get any Sparks. The Coil is good, The last owner replaced the ...
  A: Marcello, Most electric ignition systems tell you to use a non metallic feeler gauge. If you have ...
Running rough & backfiring12/22/2008
  Q: Working on 1977 MGB (car A), all original I think?? Backfiring & spitting back in carb. & running ...
  A: That all sounds good except it is responding backwards. A rich conditions usually gives you a ...
Running rough & backfiring12/22/2008
  Q: Working on 1977 MGB (car A), all original I think?? Backfiring & spitting back in carb. & running ...
  A: You need to start from scratch and even though valves were set and head rebuilt you need to do the ...
My 76 Midget's Ignition problem...It's killing me!12/21/2008
  Q: There was a lot of loose wires running around under the hood of my 1976 MG Midget, so I decided to ...
  A: The "Amp plug" is most likely the "Amplifier plug" (three wire) that connected the wiring to the ...
mgb transmission12/19/2008
  Q: what changes do i have to make to install 1980 mgb trans. into 1967 mgb ANSWER: Hi Ray, I put a ...
  A: All my info shows that the early style starter and body style (floor area and tunnel) were up to and ...
IGNITION / RUNNING LIGHTS12/18/2008
  Q: I HAVE A 78-B. WHEN I TURN THE KEY THE DASH AND RUNNING LIGHTS TURN ON. WHEN I TURN THE KEY OFF, THE ...
  A: That's good as it is easier to find when the problem is consistent. Since the lights are on when ...
IGNITION / RUNNING LIGHTS12/18/2008
  Q: I HAVE A 78-B. WHEN I TURN THE KEY THE DASH AND RUNNING LIGHTS TURN ON. WHEN I TURN THE KEY OFF, THE ...
  A: Your symptoms are useless information other than you have an electrical problem so you need a few ...
MGB No Spark12/16/2008
  Q: I have a 1977MGB for my Son and I cant get any Sparks. The Coil is good, The last owner replaced the ...
  A: If the coil is powered and the electronic ignition is powered and grounded and the air gap is about ...
New engine12/16/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget. the bodys in good shape as well as the ignition and emmisions. the only ...
  A: Do you mean that the starter doesn't work or the engine is locked up? Put it in 4th gear, brake off, ...
New engine12/15/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget. the bodys in good shape as well as the ignition and emmisions. the only ...
  A: What is wrong with your engine that it can't be rebuilt? All of the parts are available and most any ...
hot coil12/14/2008
  Q: I saw your comment about a hot coil and the need for a ballast resistor. I'm trying to track down ...
  A: If you have a capacitor it was put on the car either by a previous owner or a dealer, probably as a ...
wont start12/10/2008
  Q: Have 1275 mg engine it wont start have just put in a electronic DISTRIBUTOR I lost the timming so ...
  A: The 1275 Austin engine can have either the front cylinder called #1 but I always call the front ...
Ignition12/7/2008
  Q: The engine won't turn off when the ignition key is turned off. Just replaced my alternator in my ...
  A: However, you had said that the charge rate was at 14.5 v which is correct. Something is wrong if it ...
Ignition12/6/2008
  Q: The engine won't turn off when the ignition key is turned off. Just replaced my alternator in my ...
  A: Great, you fixed it. No need to remove the bulb now, that was just a test to see if the exciter wire ...
Ignition12/5/2008
  Q: The engine won't turn off when the ignition key is turned off. Just replaced my alternator in my ...
  A: It could be that the wiring is backwards or even the problem could be in the alternator itself. I ...
MG Problem12/4/2008
  Q: I accidentally jumped my MG TD (positive ground) with the jumper cables backwards. I got the car ...
  A: That is possible or you just damaged some wiring. You can test the generator to see if it was ...
firing order12/3/2008
  Q: I have a 1977 MG Midget. Can you tell me the firing order and is there a picture that shows the ...
  A: The firing order is 1342 as it is on all inline four cylinder car engines. As far as where #1 is in ...
slave cylinder and hydraulic lines12/1/2008
  Q: I finally got the engine on my 74 Midget to run and run well. My wife admitted that she doubted ...
  A: It does sound like it is time to purchase a slave cylinder. As for the flex line stuck in the old ...
Lucas C40 generator11/28/2008
  Q: Howard, I recently removed a Lucas C40 generator from a 1961 Metropolitan. It was making a ...
  A: It would pay you to have the armature tested on a growler at a generator / alternator repair shop ...
1976 mgb speedometer cable noise11/27/2008
  Q: Is it advisable to grease the speedometer cable? It sounds like the cable is dry when I start ...
  A: Remove the thumb nut at the back of the speedometer and you can just pull the inner cable out all ...
MGB GT Power Loss & interior steam11/26/2008
  Q: I have a 1969 B and am very new to the British car world. Car ran flawlessly for 6 months then I ...
  A: The steam out of the defroster vents is coming from a leaking heater core. The heater core is in the ...
pcv system11/26/2008
  Q: I own a 79MG Midget that I have put a Webber downdraft carb on and I was wanting to put a pcv system ...
  A: I could not even guess at what PCV valve to use as that is dependent on the amount of crankcase ...
Spark plug gap theory questions11/26/2008
  Q: in a couple of MGB books I own I read conflicting values on what my spark plug gap should be. I ...
  A: Some of what you say is true. As the gap becomes wider and wider it is, it does take more voltage to ...
carbs or timing?11/25/2008
  Q: i have a problem with my mg midget 1974 1275 no emission control,the car will not tick over under ...
  A: Mike, if the jets are only two flats down I would say there is a problem either with the jets or ...
heater assembly11/25/2008
  Q: My 77 midget, the heater assembly has been taken apart. I cant figure out how it goes back together. ...
  A: I know what you are up against, however it has been 30 years since I worked on the 1500 Midget and ...
1976 mgb speedometer cable noise11/25/2008
  Q: Is it advisable to grease the speedometer cable? It sounds like the cable is dry when I start ...
  A: Yes, it is advisable to lube the inner cable. That is the most cause I seen for cable failure. The ...
78 MGB wiring for od switch11/25/2008
  Q: the switch and wiring were removed from car when purchased. Seller claims OD works. Cannot find any ...
  A: The manual on/off switch got it's power from the fuel pump circuit but you can power it from any ...
mgb dash wiring11/24/2008
  Q: I am looking to replace main harness, wondering if I suld do the dash harness at same time, do they ...
  A: If you are going as far as to replace a main harness it would pay you to put a dash harness in too ...
1971 Turn Signal - Head Light Problem11/21/2008
  Q: I replaced my broken handled turn signal switch assembly with another one. Unplugged the old one, ...
  A: John, there is a turn signal flasher and a 4 way flasher too. But not two turn signal flashers. The ...
Positive side of the coil11/20/2008
  Q: My renovation of the 74 Midget continues. First, thanks for all the help so far. You are a ...
  A: Corey, you are wasting your time trying to ID wires by their voltage. It takes only a minute to ...
Wiper motor11/20/2008
  Q: I have just completed re-wiring the wiper on my MGB. My problem now is to get the wiper arms to park ...
  A: There are 5 wires from the car to the wiper assembly so I would guess you are inside the wiper ...
1972 MG11/19/2008
  Q: We have a Mg that starts and shuts off if you move around the coil and wires it will lose spark then ...
  A: If you have the original Opus/Lucas igniter it is a wonder it still works as they were sometimes ...
MG Midget 1500 intermittent spark at low revs11/19/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MG midget 1500 which will not spark consistently at low revs. The engine has been ...
  A: I learned the hard way working in dealerships that you can not assume anything. So if your car had ...
FLASHERS, turn signals and break lights kaput11/19/2008
  Q: Please let me know where to start- at the tail lights first and follow with meter or start at the ...
  A: You can start from either end but first you need a wiring diagram. Most Lucas turn signals operate ...
1971 Turn Signal - Head Light Problem11/19/2008
  Q: I replaced my broken handled turn signal switch assembly with another one. Unplugged the old one, ...
  A: You have some major problems with you wiring and should not connect your new switch up as it is in ...
solenoid11/18/2008
  Q: my 1975 mg midget wouldnt spark so i brought out a test lamp and i found out that on the solenoid ...
  A: David, different solenoids place the spades in different locations so "Top, Bottom, Right or left" ...
1974 mg11/18/2008
  Q: how much time would it take to swap the engines from two 1974 mg midgets from one to the other? also ...
  A: That is a humorous question. I was able to put an engine and trans on the floor in 30 min in a ...
73 MGB dies at idle11/18/2008
  Q: My 73 MGB is dying at idle speed. It only stays running when choke is pulled or when accelerator is ...
  A: Each time an MG came to me in the dealership with a running problem I had to not assume anything so ...
solenoid11/17/2008
  Q: my 1975 mg midget wouldnt spark so i brought out a test lamp and i found out that on the solenoid ...
  A: There are two large threaded posts on the solenoid and two small flat spade connectors or two small ...
Master Cylindre repair11/17/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a 1979 MG Midget and I am restoring it. I purchased a Brake Master Cylinder ...
  A: If you are referring to a white plastic ring just under the retaining clip that will not come out ...
timing.11/16/2008
  Q: hey howard, i recently got my car to spark, next is timing the engine. i know NOTHING about timing ...
  A: You need either a timing light or you can set the timing static using a 12v test light. First look ...
1979 MG Midget11/16/2008
  Q: My 1979 MG Midget will not start. Car shut down while driving and would not start. Checked fuel, it ...
  A: Leo, the ign. light in the car has nothing to do with ignition, it is a charge light. The coil will ...
1979 MG Midget11/15/2008
  Q: My 1979 MG Midget will not start. Car shut down while driving and would not start. Checked fuel, it ...
  A: I take it that you have replaced the electronic ignition with a pointed ignition? since the 79 ...
Clutch11/14/2008
  Q: I had a mechanic replace my clutch with a Borg & Beck kit and also replaced the clutch cylinders ...
  A: Unlikely installed wrong as if it were installed wrong it would not have went 400 miles, but ...
brake bleeding11/13/2008
  Q: i am restoring a 75 mg midget. im almost done i am just working on the brakes. when i took the ...
  A: You don't want to buy anything until you find out what is wrong. I take it that the brake pedal goes ...
Where can I find a repair shop?11/13/2008
  Q: I don't know if this question is appropriate for this forum or not...My father just gave me his 1974 ...
  A: I don't know anyone in the CT area but you should be able to locate a shop in your area by first ...
carbs or timing?11/13/2008
  Q: i have a problem with my mg midget 1974 1275 no emission control,the car will not tick over under ...
  A: Very good Mike, you are sharp. To put a final finish on the carbs if you are sure the butterflies ...
wiring/ no spark11/11/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget. it was stored under a tarp in the woods for a while. the engine turns over, ...
  A: Not at this point as you don't have enough info to condemn the wiring yet. The minimum tools you ...
1975 Midget fuel pump11/11/2008
  Q: '75 Midget won't start. I removed fuel line from carb. and noted no fuel going to carb. Replaced ...
  A: David, think of this as you are in the Army and I am your drill instructor. When installing any cam ...
Flaky MGB ignition11/11/2008
  Q: My '76 MGB is having an ignition problem. When I start it, it runs for a few minutes and dies. ...
  A: The coil or condenser are the most suspect with your symptoms. First test the coil to see that it is ...
65 MGB Clutch11/10/2008
  Q: Howard, thanks for taking the time to answer a question. I have a 65 MGB that has sat for 20 years. ...
  A: When you say the clutch does not work, I am guessing you mean it will not release. The pedal should ...
1975 Midget fuel pump11/10/2008
  Q: '75 Midget won't start. I removed fuel line from carb. and noted no fuel going to carb. Replaced ...
  A: Two things you need to look at. One is you have to be careful when installing the pump to slide the ...
mgb transmission11/9/2008
  Q: what changes do i have to make to install 1980 mgb trans. into 1967 mgb
  A: I put a late model trans in a 66 once (same as a 67) and I would never try another as I had to cut ...
How to manually turn motor on 1976 MG Midget 1500cc11/9/2008
  Q: How do you manually turn the motor of a 1976 MG Midget 1500cc? I have read that I should use a ...
  A: Another method of turning the engine over manually is to put the car in 4th gear with the brake off ...
1973 MG Midget-127511/9/2008
  Q: We have put a lot of money into this car that we purchased 1 year ago. New clutch,head ...
  A: That puzzles me too. I have not run into that before but I can tell you how I would go about ...
MG Midget Transmission11/6/2008
  Q: I own a 1971 MG Midget, I have properly bled out the slave cylinder (which is new) the car is still ...
  A: The clutch master cylinder pumps the fluid and pressure to make the slave cylinder move the clutch ...
Co emission11/6/2008
  Q: can a bad oxygen sensor cause the engine to run to rich there fore making my car have to much Co?
  A: Yes, it is possible but there has to be an over rich mixture to start with because the 0 2 sensor is ...
carbs or timing?11/6/2008
  Q: i have a problem with my mg midget 1974 1275 no emission control,the car will not tick over under ...
  A: I found from working in MG dealerships that when you have a problem with the way an engine runs you ...
Removing Bonnet11/4/2008
  Q: I am going to remove the Bonnet on my MG Midget to install some heat material that needs to be glued ...
  A: It is best to mark around the washers with a fine point marking pen, this way you don't have so much ...
headlights 69 mgb11/3/2008
  Q: Headlight low and high beams will not turn on, Parking light do work, switch works, everything else ...
  A: Use your test light to check for output power with the lights turned on at the blue w/white and the ...
How to manually turn motor on 1976 MG Midget 1500cc11/3/2008
  Q: How do you manually turn the motor of a 1976 MG Midget 1500cc? I have read that I should use a ...
  A: With the plugs out, the crank should be easy to rotate. Just put a socket on the crankshaft bolt and ...
1972 MGB11/3/2008
  Q: Greetings, I have a 1972 MGB with an overdrive transmission. Recently the speedometer quit working. ...
  A: Check the the angle drive on the overdrive to see if it is rotating. This is a common failed item. ...
gear reduction starter11/3/2008
  Q: I have installed a new gear reduction starter in a 75 mgb. It starts and as soon as I let the key ...
  A: Your car is wired as a 76 not a 75 and the extra wire is a bypass of a resistor that powers the 6v ...
1973 MG Midget11/2/2008
  Q: I do not like the carbs on this car. I would like to use something else that would be easier to ...
  A: There are other carbs and shock systems available from some of the parts distributors like Moss ...
1974 MGB GT Fuel/AIr Mixture at Higher RPM11/1/2008
  Q: I took my 74 MGB GT out for a "longer" run today. It was rebuilt, and a pair of HS6 were installed ...
  A: If the butterflies are in sync at idle, they are in sync at all RPM. If you adjusted the jets like ...
vacum hose- power brake booster11/1/2008
  Q: I took my 1976 MGB apart about 10 years ago. I am now trying to remember how to put it back ...
  A: The one-way valve is usually screwed into the back of the booster and has about a half inch hose on ...
ever running fuel pump11/1/2008
  Q: thanx for advice on my electrics in the summer , all sorted now, major restoration of my 68 tourer ...
  A: If it were flooding it would be running very rough at low RPM and blowing a lot of black smoke out ...
ever running fuel pump10/31/2008
  Q: thanx for advice on my electrics in the summer , all sorted now, major restoration of my 68 tourer ...
  A: If it is an SU pump and it is built correctly it will click fast until the carbs are full, then it ...
1973 mg midget10/27/2008
  Q: i purchased the carb. second hand so i do not have the intstructions. here is a link to the carb. ...
  A: David, that may get the engine started but that is NOT going to solve all of the problems that will ...
1973 mg midget10/27/2008
  Q: I have all the lights working on my car except the brake lights don't work. Where do i begin? ...
  A: I always start at the load (light bulb) on a light failure, but on a brake light failure you can ...
carb10/27/2008
  Q: i would like to replace my original carb with a weber.....how do i start? 1973 mg midget what is the ...
  A: That depends on what the function of any ports on the Weber. You need to know what each port on the ...
rough running mg midget at high speeds10/23/2008
  Q: I am in the process of restoring a 1979 mg midget, Have added the following, weber carb, ...
  A: Running rough at high speeds narrows the problem down to only a thousand possible things. You will ...
the diagram you sent me10/22/2008
  Q: hey thank you, but it was REALLY blurrey i cant make it out. ANSWER: Go to my web site and copy the ...
  A: Not at all if you wire it correctly. All you need on a pointed system (Kettering System) is a power ...
Ignition10/22/2008
  Q: Mr.Fitzcharles, I am in the process of replacing ignition wires on a 77 Midget. I am replacing an ...
  A: Tom, I told you to look on the net for this aftermarket system. I looked and the first one that ...
Ignition10/22/2008
  Q: Mr.Fitzcharles, I am in the process of replacing ignition wires on a 77 Midget. I am replacing an ...
  A: I can give you the Opus/Lucas wiring but I have never seen a CEI wiring diagram.Your best bet would ...
Key will not turn engine over10/22/2008
  Q: Have purchased 1974 MGB that has been stored for 11 years. Engine will turn over by hand, but cannot ...
  A: On the starter relay is a yellow w/pink tracer wire on "W-1" pin. This is the trigger for the relay ...
1976 mgb directional10/21/2008
  Q: Good morning Howard, I bought my wife a 1976 mgb and the right directional works until you step on ...
  A: Even though they do not share anything on the power side, they do share a ground and that makes it ...
1975 mg midget10/20/2008
  Q: hey there howard, i am cureently restoring a 75 mg midget. the distributor was in bad shape so i ...
  A: If the key was on and you had no power to the coil on the (+) post, it has nothing to do with the ...
clutch10/20/2008
  Q: Howard, Thank you for your help on other issues. Sometimes I can find my answer by reading your past ...
  A: A clutch arm will not bend itself over night so I would look at the clutch hydraulic system ...
1975 mg midget10/20/2008
  Q: hey there howard, i am cureently restoring a 75 mg midget. the distributor was in bad shape so i ...
  A: It sounds like you got the wires correct but you need to do a couple of tests. First disconnect the ...
1977 midget 1500 oil Filter10/19/2008
  Q: Getting ready to do my first oil change on my 1500 1977 Midget ..quick question the oil filter by ...
  A: The filter is a spin on filter and use the recommended filter in the store's application data. But ...
MGB Engine10/17/2008
  Q: I have asked a question on here before about my MGB. I have a 1974 MGB, and when we looked up the ...
  A: Sorry, I don't know anyone in AR. Your symptoms do not in any way indicate what is wrong. There is ...
1979 mg10/16/2008
  Q: Changed plugs cap but still wont start.need help.
  A: All piston engines only require three items to run with conditions on each of the three. The three ...
coil10/16/2008
  Q: Howard, i recently got an old 1975 mg midget. i have replaced the coil, condencer, spark plugs, ...
  A: Turn the engine by hand until the points are open and check the gap. Should be .015", then turn the ...
bleeding clutch slave cylinder10/16/2008
  Q: 1971 MG midget. How is the best way to bleed the clutch slave cylinder. Difficult to get to, can't ...
  A: Place a pan under the slave cylinder and open the bleeder. You don't need a hose if it is difficult ...
MGB Patrs Availability10/15/2008
  Q: I've acquired a 1976 MGB which hasn't been run for several years that I'd like to restore. Are parts ...
  A: There are many available parts including a whole body. The ones I have dealt with and can recommend ...
coil10/15/2008
  Q: Howard, i recently got an old 1975 mg midget. i have replaced the coil, condencer, spark plugs, ...
  A: Jullion, the 75 Midget with the 1500 Spitfire engine had electronic ignition so what condenser did ...
carb10/15/2008
  Q: i would like to replace my original carb with a weber.....how do i start? 1973 mg midget what is the ...
  A: The vacuum hose should come from the base of the carburetor not the manifold. That should be ...
Evaporative Loss - Liquid Loss10/14/2008
  Q: I have a 72 MGB with the original Su Carbs still in place, recently I went to take her for a spin ...
  A: Fuel in the canister can only come from two places, the vent for the fuel tank and the vent from the ...
1979 mg midget carb problem10/14/2008
  Q: The carb was recently rebuilt , runs good down the road, but does not hold idol,, any ideas
  A: An engine that does not idle well can have hundreds of possible problems. When I get a car brought ...
MGBGT Kickdown cable replacement10/13/2008
  Q: I have a '71 MGBGT Auto (quite rare in the UK) which has a frayed kickdown cable. I have the new ...
  A: The "B" with an automatic was rare here in the US too. I worked in several MG dealerships back then ...
Steering Shaking10/13/2008
  Q: Howard, I own a 1965 MGB Roadster. I get quite a severe shaking through the steering wheel at about ...
  A: Generally, if the wheel shakes in a circle motion, it is an out of balance front wheel/s, Unless it ...
New alternator10/13/2008
  Q: I have decided that I might go for a new alternator, a very reputable parts dealer in British Parts ...
  A: The higher amp alternator will not hurt at all. Amperage is 100% dependent on load meaning that the ...
Brake lights10/12/2008
  Q: I have a 77 MGB, (just bought it). The brake lights, hazard lights, and radio have quit working. I ...
  A: It is not enough to check a fuse. You need to test the wires on each end of a fuse. The fuse with ...
carbon release baring probs10/12/2008
  Q: I recent finnished rubilding my 74 mgb, and after 1500 i still have one last problem, it has since ...
  A: I have installed so many clutch packs and carbon bearings that I have lost count when working in ...
need to know10/10/2008
  Q: I am going to look at a 1975 MG Midget, I am looking for a car thats sheep on gas and can travel up ...
  A: While a Midget is good on fuel mileage, it is not a highway cruiser meaning it would not be a car ...
72 midget negative tire camber10/10/2008
  Q: Howard, I notice my front tires are wearing on the inside of the rim. How do I change the angle of ...
  A: Did you actually measure negative camber? Or are you basing the tire ware on negative camber? There ...
Red Charge light10/9/2008
  Q: When running the Midget and driving around all is charging well until the engine warms up to normal ...
  A: When the light is on put a volt meter across the battery posts and read the voltage with the idle ...
brake pressure switch10/7/2008
  Q: I'm losing all my brake fluid out the end of what I've determined to be the brake pressure switch. ...
  A: You are probably talking about a pressure differential switch which is just a switch that tells you ...
Brake fluid.10/7/2008
  Q: howard, i have a '75 mg midget and i got it CHEAP! its not in REAL bad shape. i went to bleed the ...
  A: Instead of opening the bleeder valve at the caliper try opening the line fitting at the master ...
NO SPARK!10/7/2008
  Q: i am the one who got a 1975 mg midget for 200 dollars and i had a spitfire distributor. i fixed the ...
  A: Put the blade of the screwdriver in contact with both contacts of the points. That "shorts" out the ...
Missing timing marks10/7/2008
  Q: I am trying to set the timing on my 1975 Midget (1500) and can not locate any timing marks on the ...
  A: There is just a notch in both edges of the pulley. The timing marks are the pointers on the timing ...
NO SPARK!10/6/2008
  Q: i am the one who got a 1975 mg midget for 200 dollars and i had a spitfire distributor. i fixed the ...
  A: Wesley, guessing which part may be bad is a waste of time, you need to test to find the problem. ...
Strange clutch issue10/6/2008
  Q: I'm having a clutch problem different than any descriptions I've read, and hope you have some ideas. ...
  A: You need to look at several things. Confirm that the pedal itself is not sticking, then the master ...
1979 MGB10/5/2008
  Q: Howard-I have a 79 MGB that I am having a problem with-it has a Weber 34 DGEC carb -it starts easy ...
  A: I think you need to test exhaust back pressure. No more than 1.5 PSI is allowable. If you have a ...
78 MGB GT10/5/2008
  Q: I have 78 MGB GT, everything works, except there is drain on the battery. Ignition light goes out ...
  A: If you are getting 14.5 v at the battery at a fast idle then the charging system is working. We had ...
MG MIDGET 197310/5/2008
  Q: Can you give me any tips on the best way to fit a new quarter glass window, I'm struggling to make ...
  A: Mark, if you installed the new rubber seal in the outer frame so that it sits in place into its ...
spark10/4/2008
  Q: 79 mg midget 1500 eng i got no fire, coil is new and its a elec dist what do i need to check ...
  A: If you have some kind of aftermarket ignition system that has an external amplifier then you need to ...
1976 MGB10/4/2008
  Q: What should we use for transmission fluid in our 1976 MGB ? Please help we are lost.
  A: For a long time we used engine oil in the earlier MGBs and it worked well, When BLM took over MG ...
MGB valve spring questions10/4/2008
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB with the GF engine. The #7 valve had one broken valve cotter, one damaged valve ...
  A: To see which is wrong do this, Install the valve in the head and the two cotters in the collar on ...
spark10/4/2008
  Q: 79 mg midget 1500 eng i got no fire, coil is new and its a elec dist what do i need to check
  A: The electronic ignition either works or it doesn't. When it fails even the man who designed it can't ...
1980 mgb no turn signals or flashers10/3/2008
  Q: Fitzcharles I have a 1980 MGB, all the lights work, however neither my flashers or turn signals ...
  A: You need a wiring diagram to diagnose an electrical problem when any item does not work. With the ...
proper hookup of allison 700xr and what wires connect to which terminal on the coil10/3/2008
  Q: i was given a mg midget. it is not running, but we are getting close. the wiring is a mass of ...
  A: I can tell you about MGs but I have no experience with Allison so you would need to contact Allison ...
distributor9/30/2008
  Q: i have a 1975 mg midget. i got it for 200 dollars and it sat under a tarp for 2 years. it has a 1974 ...
  A: The 75 Midget has a Spitfire engine so yes, a Spitfire distributor should work. If you don't have ...
HIF44 SU mess9/29/2008
  Q: I'm attempting to fault find a starting issue with my 79 B and I thought I would balance and tune ...
  A: If you still have the car set up as it was originally the vacuum is not operative until the car is ...
70MBG Acceleration Issue9/29/2008
  Q: Have a serious bog down when acceleration off of idle. Original SU and Distributor. Replaced with ...
  A: Yes, 22 deg just from centrifugal at 2200 RPM. Float level should be checked and run a test of the ...
70MBG Acceleration Issue9/29/2008
  Q: Have a serious bog down when acceleration off of idle. Original SU and Distributor. Replaced with ...
  A: When I had a car that was not right no matter what the symptoms were, the first thing necessary was ...
MGB9/28/2008
  Q: Can I safely tow a 77 MGB with the 4 wheels touching the ground [from an RV} thanx
  A: If you tow any MG very far you either need to overfill the transmission with oil or remove the ...
HIF44 SU mess9/28/2008
  Q: I'm attempting to fault find a starting issue with my 79 B and I thought I would balance and tune ...
  A: Flat black soot on either the front two or rear two plugs is an indication you did not adjust that ...
HIF44 SU mess9/27/2008
  Q: I'm attempting to fault find a starting issue with my 79 B and I thought I would balance and tune ...
  A: While in MG dealerships in the 60's and 70's I found it was 100% necessary to be sure everything ...
1976 MGB Electrical9/26/2008
  Q: On my 76 MGB with the ignition on, when I pull up on the emergency brake the starter engages the ...
  A: I don't remember ever changing one of the diodes out, but looking at the diagram you should be able ...
1962 Midget Starter Problem9/25/2008
  Q: When ignition turned on and starter pulled only response is slight dimming of ignition warning light ...
  A: A dragging starter is one that draws a lot of current but just barely turns the engine. It needs a ...
1962 Midget Starter Problem9/25/2008
  Q: When ignition turned on and starter pulled only response is slight dimming of ignition warning light ...
  A: When the cables get warm, that is an indication of an excess amp draw. meaning something is using ...
fuel coming out of the char. canister9/24/2008
  Q: I have a problem that recently arose while driving my 71 mgb. I noticed the smell of gas and when I ...
  A: Yes, it is possible so you need to check fuel pressure. You should not see any over 3 PSI. I found ...
MG Midget wiring9/23/2008
  Q: Just fixed my horn, added a second one and found that the reason it was not working was a bad ...
  A: The horn circuit is a purple wire that has nothing to do with the ignition circuit unless it is ...
1975 MGB Hard Starting Problems9/23/2008
  Q: I have a 1975 MGB with SU carburetors. The car just will not start when it has been setting for a ...
  A: It depends on which SU carbs you have. If the float chamber is mounted on the side of the carbs ...
76 Midget backfire9/22/2008
  Q: I have a '76 Midget that has a backfire whenever I shift between 2nd & 3rd and 3rd & 4th. This only ...
  A: Many things can cause a backfire between shifts. First and most likely is a leak in the exhaust ...
1975 MGB Won't start9/22/2008
  Q: After charging the battery it started but with many attempts that smelt like flooding. I drove it ...
  A: When you say "it just would not turn over like fuel is not getting to where it needs to go" You will ...
1977 MGB electrical ignition problem9/22/2008
  Q: I'm having a great time with my 77 MGB that I recently purchased, however, I have an inconsistent ...
  A: You need to do some testing and it must be done in the failed mode. Take a 12v test light or volt ...
clutch pedal has no tension9/21/2008
  Q: Howard, I backed my car out yesterday and once I took it out of reverse, I couldn't get the shift ...
  A: John, when you have a clutch hydraulic problem you need to rebuild both the master cylinder and the ...
1980 mgb roadster9/21/2008
  Q: My electric fans aren't working. I have checked the fuses and they are good. How do I check to make ...
  A: Check the temp switch in the radiator for power with the key on and if you have power put a jumper ...
Car kills after first start9/20/2008
  Q: After my 1972 midget has been sitting for a few days it is hard to start and after it starts the car ...
  A: Your symptoms narrow the problem down to about a thousand things so you need to run tests to narrow ...
1975 MGB Hard Starting Problems9/20/2008
  Q: I have a 1975 MGB with SU carburetors. The car just will not start when it has been setting for a ...
  A: First is this a Euro car or a US car that has been converted back to SUs? If it runs good warm but ...
Brake Fluid9/19/2008
  Q: In several of your answers, you have been emphatic about no DOT 3 fluid, and to only use DOT 4. ...
  A: Many aftermarket shop manuals claim you can use DOT 3 but I know from experience that DOT 3 fluid ...
1979 Midget9/19/2008
  Q: I have a first gear synchronizer failure. The other gears work as they should and I want to repair ...
  A: The hub assembly is not usually damaged when a syncro goes out. The only reason a hub assembly would ...
77 mg midget9/19/2008
  Q: 77 midget will not shift into reverse. All other gears work fine. When you lift the shifter up and ...
  A: Joe, you might try removing the shift tower cover and the shift lever to see if there is a problem ...
77 mg midget9/19/2008
  Q: 77 midget will not shift into reverse. All other gears work fine. When you lift the shifter up and ...
  A: Are you lifting and then move to the right before you push forward? Move all the way to the right in ...
1970 MG Midget........Electrical9/18/2008
  Q: The running lights are not all working. The right rear does work, and the other three bulbs have ...
  A: I thought I answered this one once but maybe it didn't go through, If the rear works then the power ...
MGB 77 Dash illummination lamps are too dim9/18/2008
  Q: My dash lights are very dim even I adjust the dimmer controller to maximum. Is this normal for 1977 ...
  A: Unless the dimmer switch is bad, the only thing you can do is get higher wattage bulbs. There is no ...
stuck between gears?9/18/2008
  Q: i have a 66 midget (actually an A-H Sprite) that i think might be stuck between gears ... engine ...
  A: To test it, try to shift into gear when the engine is off. If you can, and it grinds when the engine ...
Ignition coils9/17/2008
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB with a Petronicx Ignitor electronic ignition system.I'm currently using the Lucas ...
  A: I don't know what Petronics is talking about. The car used a 1.5 ohm coil because there is a ...
1970 MG Midget........Electrical9/17/2008
  Q: The running lights are not all working. The right rear does work, and the other three bulbs have ...
  A: You need a 12v test light and a wiring diagram to test circuits. If one is on and the others have ...
MG Midget M III 1968 engine no GSE1106 120872 (AD)- what type ?9/17/2008
  Q: I’m the proud owner of an 1968 MG Midget M III - i have a challenge identifying the engine ...
  A: According to my info the 68 Midget MK III should have a "12CD" prefix on the engine number and is a ...
Do I actually own a 75 MG Midget?9/17/2008
  Q: I recently bought a Midget and the title indicates that it is a 1975, but the bumpers are chrome and ...
  A: Chassis number should tell, 72 = GAN-5-105501 to 123730 73 = GAN-5-123731 to 138800 74 = ...
MGA 1500 firing order diagram9/16/2008
  Q: I am looking for a diagram of the firing order for a MGA 1500 that i am restoring Thanks Demo ...
  A: Demo, if you mean the position in the cap, that depends on how it was set up the last time it had ...
1977 MGB Fuel Issue?9/15/2008
  Q: Just bought a 77 B that had been secured in a storage building since 1991. The usually nickel and ...
  A: You need to see which has been lost, fuel or fire at the time of failure. Compression will not come ...
Do I actually own a 75 MG Midget?9/15/2008
  Q: I recently bought a Midget and the title indicates that it is a 1975, but the bumpers are chrome and ...
  A: The 75 Midget had a 1500 Spitfire engine and the prefix of the engine number is "FP" and the prefix ...
Spark yellow9/15/2008
  Q: My 1977 MGB idle ok, rev up ok when park. But when I shift to first and second gear, it wants to ...
  A: The information is useful to readers that may experience the same problem. Even though we were able ...
new carborator9/14/2008
  Q: I have a "76 MGB that has been sitting for about 15 yrs. I have flushed the old oil out an couple ...
  A: that is often a problem when you purchase an intake from one company and an exhaust from another. ...
Dead Battery9/12/2008
  Q: How would you solve a problem with the battery (new battery) in my 1980 'B' going dead overnight?
  A: If a new battery is going dead over night you need to do a simple test. Charge the battery back up ...
78 Midget-Both Front Wheel Brakes Frozen9/12/2008
  Q: Just completed replacing the Clutch Master and Slave cylinders took the car for a ride (5 miles) and ...
  A: If you have the master cylinder off of the car and the two front wheels are still locked up you need ...
engine uprades9/12/2008
  Q: I'm looking to rebuild my 1980 B engine and was wondering what upgrades can be done to increase ...
  A: The "B" gearbox with an overdrive unit is a very good unit and as long as it is installed correctly, ...
fuel pump on 76 Midget9/12/2008
  Q: In following up to the fuel pump question and response...I was asking abut replacing the coil ...
  A: Mike, you have a misconception about a fuel pump and choke. They have nothing to do with each other. ...
Spark yellow9/12/2008
  Q: My 1977 MGB idle ok, rev up ok when park. But when I shift to first and second gear, it wants to ...
  A: Yung, if the engine revs ok and idles ok and the plugs are black, you need to address the fuel ...
fuel pump, 76 Midget9/11/2008
  Q: I was not getting any power to a new fuel pump..traced the wire to the coil where I cleaned up the ...
  A: Michael, why do you want to replace the coil when the engine dies? There are hundreds of parts that ...
No power to fuel pump9/11/2008
  Q: Ok, heres the situation. 1977 MGB, I totaled it back in 1994 and it sat in storage rusting away ...
  A: If you are not getting power to the inertia switch you just need to use a test light and trace the ...
1979 MGB, engine overheating9/11/2008
  Q: I just bought a 1979 MGB. The engine is overheating after driving 30 min in traffic. The fan works ...
  A: I thought I answered this but it must not have went through so here it is. Whenever a car came to ...
Ignition coil problem?9/11/2008
  Q: I am working on a 1977 MGB. I have had problem with the starter. Then I found I have a bad battery ...
  A: Your test of Yellow spark is an indication of a weak spark (unless it was looked at in bright ...
MGB 1979 fuel pump orientation9/10/2008
  Q: I replaced a tired fuel pump with a new SU after-market type. I have replaced the rubber feeder ...
  A: I would look at the travel of the rear end because even the lowest quality hose you could find ...
Stuck oil pump and distributor9/9/2008
  Q: I own a 1968 MGB. The engine is currently pulled, and is at the machine shop. It is an 18 GF, high ...
  A: It is not uncommon for the distributor to corrode to the sleeve it is in and for the sleeve to rust ...
MGB 1979 modification timing issues9/9/2008
  Q: I have 1979 MGB that a previous owner removed pollution controls and installed new cams, valves and ...
  A: I never seen any formula to take a cam degrees and come up with an ignition timing. I don't think ...
key stuck in the ignition9/9/2008
  Q: 77 MGB--How do I get a key stuck in the ignition out? -It won't move forward or backward and and ...
  A: You may try removing the whole unit from the steering column by using a small chisel and hammer to ...
78 MGBT: Directional Indicator Lights9/9/2008
  Q: In the last year it has developed a fault with the lighting. On main light beam (flashed or ...
  A: I tried for a long time working in shops to diagnosis by logic. As with most mechanics back then I ...
Ignition coil problem?9/9/2008
  Q: I am working on a 1977 MGB. I have had problem with the starter. Then I found I have a bad battery ...
  A: I would have to write a book on all your questions so I can only cover one at a time. First warm ...
76 MGB Seat back adjustments9/8/2008
  Q: The seatback adjustment levers on the "inboard" side of the seats do not allow the seat back to be ...
  A: This is the long flat lever? The only thing you can do is take the seat back out of the car as I ...
1976 Midget 1500 starting issues9/7/2008
  Q: I have a 76 Midget 1500 that has started and run fine for the last year. Recently it took a few ...
  A: Other than melt your wrench and make the nut ugly that you were trying to tighten, you may not have ...
L-joint for speedometer cable9/7/2008
  Q: I'm not sure what exactly to call this part, but the L-Joint for my speedometer cable that comes out ...
  A: That angle drive does not come apart for repairs and even if you got it apart no one has any parts ...
68 MGB w/ Weber9/7/2008
  Q: Howard, Bought a "B" on Ebay and lo and behold low oil pressure. Car is solid and is my 7th ...
  A: If you smelled gas in the oil and noted the oil was thin, the oil and filter change should have ...
74 mg midget brake bleeding9/6/2008
  Q: I am all but done but can not get this thing off the jacks until I get this brake issue solved. I ...
  A: When you replace everything and have a soft pedal. You need to try this, Remove the new front pads ...
engine cut out9/5/2008
  Q: Back again with another problem that just started. Reguarding my 1977 MGB Roadster. Driving down the ...
  A: The box was a plastic box about 6 in x 4 x 2 and the LEDs were 12v and I used 3 Red LEDs and 4 green ...
engine cut out9/5/2008
  Q: Back again with another problem that just started. Reguarding my 1977 MGB Roadster. Driving down the ...
  A: Even though you have checked and done several things there are a thousand possible things that can ...
1976 Midget9/4/2008
  Q: We recently purchased a 1976 Midget. We had the carb rebuilt and replaced the starter. We were ...
  A: The US version 1975 1500 ran on Regular fuel but the 1976 1500 was designed to use Premium fuel. The ...
1976 MGB dies under load9/3/2008
  Q: My 1976 MGB starts fine, idles fine, revs fine. It has progressed to the point where when I drive ...
  A: It is expensive to find a problem by replacing parts until you happened to hit what is wrong. The ...
MGB starting9/3/2008
  Q: When I did start my MGB 1980 for the last 8 years I would turn the key and there was a ticking sound ...
  A: The ticking sound was probably the fuel pump and when you don't hear it then it is not running. Do ...
Dead batteries9/2/2008
  Q: Every other year I have to replace both 6 volt batteries on my MGB. They seem to drain themselves ...
  A: If the batteries are running down you need to do two simple tests. First put a volt meter across the ...
Carb Tuning9/2/2008
  Q: It's Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I took the car on an extended trip today--about 30kms. ...
  A: What lever are you talking about pushing in? A miss fire under load narrows the problem down to a ...
battery issues9/1/2008
  Q: My 1978 MGB keeps killing batteries. I have replaced the battery three times in the past six months ...
  A: You can check the car easy enough. Just put a volt meter across the posts of the battery after it is ...
1975 Midget Ignition Switch, Starter Solenoid and Oil Pressure8/31/2008
  Q: Howard, Thank you for replying to my question 8/18/08. I have finally had a chance to try your ...
  A: Keith, 1. Yes 2. Probably means the two small wires were reversed. 3. The small harness from the ...
Fuel8/31/2008
  Q: its Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I replaced the jets--they now can be adjusted. I just ...
  A: Jon, Three flats, not three turns. six flats = one turn. Yes, if you had the carbs so far out of ...
Fuel8/31/2008
  Q: its Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I replaced the jets--they now can be adjusted. I just ...
  A: The pin is on the side of the carb and you lift the pin ALL the way up. This lifts the piston inside ...
Fuel8/31/2008
  Q: its Jon with the 1976 Midget (1275 in it). I replaced the jets--they now can be adjusted. I just ...
  A: Rich can not cause a backfire. When you say "backfire" do you mean a backfire out the exhaust or are ...
Speedometer Stopped working8/30/2008
  Q: Howard, it has been a while. This is the 1975 MGB we were working on trying to figure out why the ...
  A: The angle drive on the trans is a common failed item and just unscrew it from the trans and check to ...
MG Midget Electrical8/29/2008
  Q: My brake check light on the dash doesn't come on. Is there a quick way to test if it's the bulb? or ...
  A: Yes, take it out and test it on a battery. If the bulb is good you need to look at your wiring ...
Continuous blown fuse 1970 MGB8/27/2008
  Q: Just replaced theclutch and hydraulics im my B.Now am blowing fuse controlling directionals ,backup ...
  A: When you have several items failed and they all are powered by one fuse, you need to remove all of ...
Vacuum advance8/27/2008
  Q: Good morning, I suspect the vacuum advance is not working on a '80 MGB with a Weber conversion. The ...
  A: You need a hand operated vacuum pump called a MityVac or any vacuum pump with a gauge on it. Just ...
'76 ignition problem8/26/2008
  Q: a friend has an 76 mg u.s. version. someone installed a Mallory duel point ign. system. we are ...
  A: The US version MG with a 110 (1.8 liter) engine is the MGB. which is a four cylinder engine. As all ...
headlight8/26/2008
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB. Sitting in the car, the right low beam head light is out, but the high beam ...
  A: You need to pull the bulb out to test it or replace it. The chrome rim is snapped on at the bottom ...
MGB Fuse line8/26/2008
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB and all electrical operations serviced by the the number 5 fuse line (turn ...
  A: The power for that fuse should be from the ignition switch. (it may also have a ignition relay) ...
1977 MGB temperature gauge8/25/2008
  Q: I have a recently purchased 1977 MGB. The Temperature gauge does not work. The alternator was ...
  A: The temp gauge is powered by a voltage stabilizer to drop the 12v down to about 10v but the method ...
checking for oil pressure8/25/2008
  Q: i have a spitfire 1500 engine in a 1975 mg midget. i have had the head work done, valves and ...
  A: Jim, Even though you should loose oil pressure with the head off it should pump oil all over the ...
1974 Mg Midget8/25/2008
  Q: How to remove a camshaft locator plate on a 1974 MG Midget ANSWER: Hi Roger, You have to remove the ...
  A: Roger, The MG Midget cam does not have a spline on it. The only splined item is a small drive for ...
fuel filter8/25/2008
  Q: how do I replace the fuel filter on an 80B? Is it as simple as crimping the lines, or do I have to ...
  A: If you have a full tank of fuel you can get a flex fuel "line clamp off tool" from any tool truck, ...
MGB adjusting fuel mixture8/24/2008
  Q: my question concerns adjusting the fuel mixture on a 1968 MGB with the dual HS4 SU carburetors. In ...
  A: I know that most books tell you to adjust the carburetor that you lift the pin on. But I was taught ...
checking for oil pressure8/24/2008
  Q: i have a spitfire 1500 engine in a 1975 mg midget. i have had the head work done, valves and ...
  A: All 75 midgets had Triumph Spitfire engines in them. It is very important that you see oil pressure ...
carb8/24/2008
  Q: We bought a 77 mg midget with a 150cd carb 91 cid it sat for 10 years so we put a new float in it ...
  A: When any engine sits for 10 years you need to do several things. Change all fluids and adjust the ...
1974 Mg Midget8/24/2008
  Q: How to remove a camshaft locator plate on a 1974 MG Midget
  A: You have to remove the timing cover, both sprockets and the chain. The plate is held to the block by ...
Fuel Gauge8/23/2008
  Q: My fuel gauge has worked all along until I filled my tank up the other day. Also at the same time, ...
  A: I am guessing you have some kind of MG and of an unknown year model. When all those items go out you ...
vapor,fuel,water hoses8/22/2008
  Q: How long are unused rubber hoses are still good?
  A: If you mean new hoses that have never been on a car they can last a lot longer then the ones on a ...
Clutch Bleeding8/21/2008
  Q: Have replaced M/C, S/C and line, but cannot bleed the system on my 68 Midget (72 engine). I have ...
  A: Glad to hear you got it fixed. As for the starter, check for power on the White w/red tracer wire ...
74 MGB emission tuning8/21/2008
  Q: I’m trying to get my 74 MGB to pass Boise’s emission testing… need to be < 6% CO and < 900 PPM Hydro ...
  A: Sounds like you have a good handle on this. Sometimes there is a difference between the carbs due to ...
1976 MGB Brake Lights8/20/2008
  Q: Brake lights stopped functioning last Sat.- removed switch, cleaned thoroughly and reinstalled. ...
  A: Connect either an ohm meter or a power wire and a test light so you can see when the switch opens ...
no spark8/20/2008
  Q: was running perfectly,but had no brake lights...turned key on and found problem with brakes and ...
  A: The 74 MGB should not have a resistor so any 12v coil should work ok. There may be some 12v coils ...
74 MGB emission tuning8/20/2008
  Q: I’m trying to get my 74 MGB to pass Boise’s emission testing… need to be < 6% CO and < 900 PPM Hydro ...
  A: Jim, you are adjusting it backwards. When you lift the front carb pin, you are adjusting the rear ...
no spark8/20/2008
  Q: was running perfectly,but had no brake lights...turned key on and found problem with brakes and ...
  A: Yes, you could have damaged the coil if the points were closed when you left the key on. It would ...
turn signal problem8/19/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 MG Midget with turn signals that are slow to respond. When they do begin to blink, as ...
  A: I would first check the ground on the tail light assembly. Then if that is not the problem you need ...
1979 MGB Ignition Light8/19/2008
  Q: About a week ago after a 30 minute drive when I turned off my 1979 MGB the Ignition Light on the ...
  A: The Ign. light is not anything to do with the ignition system, it is a charge light. To test the ...
74 MGB emission tuning8/19/2008
  Q: I’m trying to get my 74 MGB to pass Boise’s emission testing… need to be < 6% CO and < 900 PPM Hydro ...
  A: Keep in mind that CO is mainly fuel mixture and HC is either mechanical or electrical but can raise ...
EGR light8/19/2008
  Q: I have a 75 Midget 1500 the EGR light came on and my rear tail and break lights are out. How do I ...
  A: The EGR light is set by a counter under the hood on the speedometer cable at every 12,500 miles and ...
Seized Engine From Sitting!! Options?8/18/2008
  Q: Howard - I have a 68 MGB that I fear has a locked up seized engine from sitting, we can't get it to ...
  A: Usually that is rust on the cylinder walls. If it is minor you may be able to just put a table spoon ...
1975 mg midget 1500 clutch8/18/2008
  Q: When we put car in gear it seems to grind. Is there an adjustment or what should I do??? Thank-you ...
  A: Yes you can bleed like a brake system. Be sure you do not have any more than about a inch free play ...
Solenoid Problem?8/18/2008
  Q: I have a 69 B that I recently did some minor surgery on. I had a meltdown on the brown wires ...
  A: A solenoid does not know if you are supplying the voltage from a jumper battery or your battery so ...
MGB carburator8/18/2008
  Q: I have had some carburator work done on my 77 mgb and it was runnning. The car had sat for several ...
  A: There is not much in a Stromberg carburetor so you can remove it and open it up. Under the top cover ...
mgb ignition coil8/17/2008
  Q: I want to change the coil in my 1976 mgb. I am a little confused by my repair manual showing that a ...
  A: All 6v coils must be used with a resistor wire (like installed on the car) or use a ballast ...
MGB carburator8/17/2008
  Q: I have had some carburator work done on my 77 mgb and it was runnning. The car had sat for several ...
  A: There is no reason to replace a carburetor unless you have hit it with a hammer. Mechanics had a ...
Starter will not turn when key is turned to on position.8/17/2008
  Q: I am just finishing up a ground up resort on a 1975 Midget. I have put power to the system and have ...
  A: The starter solenoid has two large posts and two small flat spade connectors. The two small flat ...
1975 mg midget 1500 clutch8/16/2008
  Q: When we put car in gear it seems to grind. Is there an adjustment or what should I do??? Thank-you ...
  A: First confirm that the idle is below 1000 RPM and second depress the clutch pedal all the way to the ...
battery hooked up wrong8/16/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a 1979 MG Midget. The wiring was bad (someone used household electrical cords ...
  A: There is no way I can tell you how far you can drive the car as is. I can say that a car with an ...
68 MGB Starting and Slave Cylinder Issues8/16/2008
  Q: Howard - Hello, once again! Questions below are regarding my 1968 MGB. Thanks for you answer on how ...
  A: I don't remember ever measuring the distance traveled by slave cylinder piston but I do believe it ...
MG Midget Valve adjustment8/15/2008
  Q: I´ve just adjusted the valves on my MG Midget. I used a .012 feeler gauge like described in the ...
  A: Thomas, there should be a port on the right side of the engine close to the back where they put the ...
MG Midget Valve adjustment8/14/2008
  Q: I´ve just adjusted the valves on my MG Midget. I used a .012 feeler gauge like described in the ...
  A: As I remember it was an oil differential pressure light that lit up when there was too much ...
77 Midget Steering wheel removal8/14/2008
  Q: I am trying to remove the stock wheel and hub on my 77 midget, I have the nut removed, using a 4" ...
  A: The steering wheel hub is splined with a small tapered seat at the bottom. Sometimes the spline is ...
wiring problems8/12/2008
  Q: undergoing total restoration of 1968 mgb tourer, i'm at wiring stage with new loom , i've connected ...
  A: You have all the tools (test light and wiring diagram) all you need to do is pick ONLY one of the ...
MGB Starting and restarting Battery issues8/12/2008
  Q: Please excuse if these problems are not connected -I just wanted to give you as much info as ...
  A: Lance, you will drive yourself crazy trying to track down all those issues at once and throwing ...
that new mg8/11/2008
  Q: Now I seem to have an ignition issue on my early 1978 mgb. The distributor is an electronic, ...
  A: Not much you can do with most aftermarket electric ignition systems. If you test the coil and check ...
MGB differential noise8/11/2008
  Q: I have a huming noise in the rear of my 74 MGB and I can't tell where it is coming from. I raised ...
  A: A noise from the rear end is sometimes hard to ID as the unit body construction of the MGB can ...
1975 miget8/11/2008
  Q: I have changed the coil & plug wireing and still get a wimpy red arc out of the coil wire, barely ...
  A: It is unlikely you still have the Lucas/Opus ignition system in the car as most failed while still ...
MGB Starting8/10/2008
  Q: Battery is topped off. Red idiot light "on." Ignition switch to start - no starter, loud clunk in ...
  A: Joe, yes, you need to raise the car to change the starter and to first check the cable connections ...
MGB side window8/10/2008
  Q: the left window on my 68 MGB is very difficult to raise/lower, particularly when the window is near ...
  A: You need to also lube the window channels front and back. Also if that does not correct it you will ...
75 mgb hard to start when engine hot8/10/2008
  Q: followed your suggestions and found: compression normal and uniform, fire is strong, fuel pressure ...
  A: Steve, the float chamber vent pipe is suppose to go to the charcoal canister to vent fuel vapor to ...
MGB Starting8/9/2008
  Q: Battery is topped off. Red idiot light "on." Ignition switch to start - no starter, loud clunk in ...
  A: It sounds like you have a bad cable connection either on the positive side or the ground side so ...
Rover won't start when engine is hot.8/9/2008
  Q: Howard. I'd be very grateful for some advice. Several years ago, I bought from a UK garage a Rover ...
  A: Sorry to hear you are having so much trouble finding the starting problem. I have been a mechanic ...
newly purchased MGB8/8/2008
  Q: I recently purchased my first MG. Wanted one for ever. 73 roadster. As far as I can tell everything ...
  A: As with any newly purchased car you should change all oils and fluids so you know what you have and ...
1979 mgb wiper switch assembly8/8/2008
  Q: 1979 MGB wiper switch has four contacts and an internal spring. How does the spring fit into the ...
  A: Sorry Ron, I did try to repair those switches when we were out of them but that was so many years ...
newly purchased MG8/8/2008
  Q: I recently purchased my first MG. Wanted one for ever. 73 roadster. As far as I can tell everything ...
  A: Yes, it is a very broad question. Especially when you didn't tell me if it was a "B" or a "Midget". ...
Dot 3 or Dot 48/8/2008
  Q: On a previous question you said to use only Dot 4. You helped me with my clutch problem and when I ...
  A: The DOT 3 vs DOT 4 came from when England owned 90% of the natural rubber and used natural rubber in ...
mgb oil pressure8/7/2008
  Q: just finished complete new rebuild on mgb started right up, sounded great, no oil pressure zero ...
  A: If you run an MGB for more than several seconds with no oil pressure you will destroy the mains and ...
Carb tuning8/7/2008
  Q: Howard, I am beginning to feel I know you after all these questions! Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 ...
  A: With the lever detached the jet should move up and down freely. It must move freely because the ...
Buying Midget in storage8/7/2008
  Q: We are looking at buying a 76 MG Midget that has been sitting in a garage for about four years, and ...
  A: The 76 Midget has a 1500cc Triumph spitfire engine with one Stromberg carburetor. Yes the oil in the ...
Clutch Bleeding8/6/2008
  Q: Have replaced M/C, S/C and line, but cannot bleed the system on my 68 Midget (72 engine). I have ...
  A: Try this, with the master cylinder reservoir only half full use a pry bar and pry the lever on the ...
Carb tuning8/6/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I adjusted the timing, also did a valve lash on the ...
  A: There should be a flat plate rod attached to the plastic part of the jet and it is supposed to be ...
79 MGB Stromberg carb8/6/2008
  Q: How hot should this carb be to the touch after engine warm up and 1/2 hour ride or so in 90 degree ...
  A: Mark, I've never measured the temperature of a carburetor but I would guess they get almost as hot ...
gas tank8/6/2008
  Q: i have a mg midget that's been sitting for 22 years....do i drop the gas tank and clean it out or is ...
  A: If you have rust and sediment in the tank you can try to clean it yourself or send it out to a ...
Carb tuning8/6/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I adjusted the timing, also did a valve lash on the ...
  A: Jon, The jet is the center brass tube that the needle goes into and when you adjust the 5/8" NUT on ...
79 MGB Stromberg carb8/5/2008
  Q: How hot should this carb be to the touch after engine warm up and 1/2 hour ride or so in 90 degree ...
  A: A vacuum leak makes an engine lean on mixture and a lean mixture causes an engine to over heat the ...
79 midget loses power in left turns8/5/2008
  Q: Weird things happen! When I'm under 3/8's tank of gas my engine loses power in left turns. Is this a ...
  A: You have found your problem but just need to isolate it a little closer. If I had this problem come ...
Carb tuning8/5/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I adjusted the timing, also did a valve lash on the ...
  A: The timing and the valve clearance must be set first because the adjustment of the jets is done by ...
bad fuel8/5/2008
  Q: My sister has a 1979 MGB that she has restored. She became ill and hasn't drive it at all in the ...
  A: Even though she put an additive in the gas, a year and a half is too old for gas and it should be ...
1976 MGB Timing8/5/2008
  Q: I have a 1976 MGB that seems to miss fire @ > 2500 RPM. When I bought the car, it did not have a ...
  A: Any time an engine is changed in any way the original timing advance curve is no longer correct for ...
Clutch Bleeding8/4/2008
  Q: Have replaced M/C, S/C and line, but cannot bleed the system on my 68 Midget (72 engine). I have ...
  A: If the master cylinder is not moving the slave piston, the master is not doing anything and you can ...
MG Midget Valve adjustment8/4/2008
  Q: I´ve just adjusted the valves on my MG Midget. I used a .012 feeler gauge like described in the ...
  A: That is possible but since you used the starter to rotate the engine it is a good chance you set the ...
Clutch problems8/4/2008
  Q: I have a 1974 MGB and I have replaced the clutch master and slave cylinders. I have bled the lines ...
  A: Good answer Wayne. I didn't want to say that but you can say it. The reason for the wait is that the ...
MGB Needle Guide Position8/3/2008
  Q: I have a 74 MG B and am rebuilding the carburetor (AUD 550's)... and have a couple of questions: 1 ...
  A: The needle shoulder is suppose to be flush with the bottom of what ever surface there is that the ...
1979 MGB8/3/2008
  Q: I just got my MGB back from University Motors after 3 years in storage and some new rear brakes and ...
  A: Oil pressure is the amount of pressure built up because the oil pump can't push all of the oil ...
78 MGB Electrical Problem8/3/2008
  Q: I am fixing a 78 MGB for my friend. The car starts fine and runs fine....the lights work, courtesy ...
  A: You need to trace the circuit of just one of the items that does not work. Start at the source ...
1972 MGB water pump8/3/2008
  Q: When I first started the cold car, a small amount of coolant came from around the water pump, when ...
  A: First try to snug down the Water pump bolts than take a small mirror in the morning and look closely ...
Clutch problems8/2/2008
  Q: I have a 1974 MGB and I have replaced the clutch master and slave cylinders. I have bled the lines ...
  A: If the free play is not excessive in the pedal and the pedal feels firm as soon as the free play is ...
TIming question7/30/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I have ordered a timing wheel to assist me--, to ...
  A: Jon, if you are losing coolant it could be coolant so you need to have a combustion chamber pressure ...
Problem Getting Metal Cup Out Of Slave Cylinder7/30/2008
  Q: and want to rebuild slave cylinder. The metal cup that pushes the rod on the slave cylinder is ...
  A: I have had many stuck and the best way I have found is to put a little WD-40 in the line hole and in ...
mg midget7/30/2008
  Q: But now I have an oil leak either from the plate behind the timing cover or from the oil pan.How ...
  A: The front plate on the Austin engine and the Triumph engine (both used in the Midget) use the front ...
Speedometer7/30/2008
  Q: 1973 MGB. Tachomter works fine but the speedometer needle bounces between 50 and 75 mph when I know ...
  A: No, other than in spelling, it is kind of easy. Most of the time a jumping needle is just either a ...
TIming question7/30/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I have ordered a timing wheel to assist me--, to ...
  A: Jon, I think all of the specs are quoted with vacuum disconnected. There probably is no quote with ...
1968 MGB follow up7/29/2008
  Q: to answer your questions, I used the cylinder head nut tightening sequence given in my Haynes MGB ...
  A: Dan, it sounds like you did everything correctly. No, you could not warp the head with the procedure ...
1968 MGB leaking head gasket7/29/2008
  Q: thinking I had a valve stem seal problem (light blue exhaust smoke)I pulled the head, and installed ...
  A: Good Question Dan, what did you torque the head to and what sequence did you use? Did you inspect ...
1961 mga7/29/2008
  Q: i have a 1961 mga i got about 3 weeks ago.the car has been running great except for rough idle.a few ...
  A: I have not seen the Moss rebuild book but Moss has a lot of experience and I would not be afraid to ...
Pops out of fourth gear7/28/2008
  Q: I just read a question you answered about an mg slipping out of third gear. My 1972 mg midget is ...
  A: You are putting extra ware on the shift fork. First confirm that the shift lever is not making ...
1966 Midget Fuel Pump7/28/2008
  Q: I have replaced the mechanical fuel pump on my '66 Midget with a solid state electronic fuel pump. ...
  A: You need to get a different brand pump or a better warranty. I converted hundreds of MGs to negative ...
74 MG Midget7/28/2008
  Q: I am restoring this car for my father in law it is 95% complete but I have a major issue. When the ...
  A: First you need to measure what the fuel pressure is. The float and needle can only hold back just so ...
1968 MGB leaking head gasket7/28/2008
  Q: thinking I had a valve stem seal problem (light blue exhaust smoke)I pulled the head, and installed ...
  A: Dan, in the dealerships we always considered a wet/dry compression test a good 95% accurate test of ...
1968 MGB leaking head gasket7/27/2008
  Q: thinking I had a valve stem seal problem (light blue exhaust smoke)I pulled the head, and installed ...
  A: It sounds like you used the correct procedure down the line. You said coolant leak, but didn't say ...
Courtesy light switch7/27/2008
  Q: I purchased a 72 MG Midget. The courtesy light switch on the driver side door is broken, the ...
  A: All Midgets had one wire to the switch and it was a purple w/white stripe. The switch was a ...
MGB ignition fault?7/27/2008
  Q: I have a '74 MGB GT that i haven't started for a few months so i expected to have to jump start it ...
  A: You need to test with a test light the circuits when it is in the failed mode. First try plugging ...
Help with timing.7/27/2008
  Q: Its Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). So, the degree pointers are non-existent on this ...
  A: Jon, you should set the timing statically, then the advances are not in play. If you have set marks ...
MGB solenoids7/27/2008
  Q: I have a 1967 MGB 3 synchro. It has sometime ago been converted to an Alternator. For a good time ...
  A: If you are saying that you only have 4 to 7 v on the battery cable post on the solenoid then I would ...
'75 mgb7/25/2008
  Q: car starts no prob when cold. after running till it's warmed up and turning off, very hard to start. ...
  A: Hard starting and misfires at high RPM may or may not have anything to do with each other so you ...
1961 starter7/25/2008
  Q: Starter on 1961 MGA is not working properly at all times. Need some direction/instructions for ...
  A: Tell me exactly what you mean "is not working properly at all times" It makes a noise but won't ...
white smoke7/25/2008
  Q: i am fixing up a 68 B and on occasion it will blow out fumes of white smoke when reved up...but not ...
  A: It depends on weather it is white or pail blue smoke. Blue smoke is oil burning and white smoke is ...
Battery connection '78 MGB7/25/2008
  Q: My Grandson ripped the old battery out before I had a chance to looked to see how the post line up. ...
  A: If the alternator was already fried before you replaced the battery then putting in the new battery ...
Baffled7/24/2008
  Q: you helped me a couple weeks ago with problems getting my '76 B, just stored for 10 years, through ...
  A: Installing a new CAT can not cause it to run bad. You can have a misfire on a cylinder first that ...
Battery connection '78 MGB7/24/2008
  Q: My Grandson ripped the old battery out before I had a chance to looked to see how the post line up. ...
  A: All MGs that have an alternator are negative ground. Older MGs with a DC generator can have it ...
1967 MGB GT oil cooler7/24/2008
  Q: brakes, etc.) and it is blowing some oil through the exhaust - smell of burning oil, bluish white ...
  A: Blue white smoke is oil burning. Oil pressure has nothing to do with oil burning. Oil is getting ...
1961 mga7/23/2008
  Q: i have a 1961 mga i got about 3 weeks ago.the car has been running great except for rough idle.a few ...
  A: All of your symptoms don't clearly tell what is wrong. You need to do some testing. The tach on that ...
77 mg midget alt. problem and oil pressure problem7/23/2008
  Q: I have a 1977 mg midget w/ 1500 eng. and webber carb. also, an aftermarket electronic ignition kit. ...
  A: You can check the wiring easy enough, there should be just two wires going to the alternator. A ...
fuel problem>?7/22/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). So, the car is running, however--I have a problem to ...
  A: Jon, I never seen an aftermarket crankshaft pulley. The crankshaft pulley should have a notch in the ...
fuel problem>?7/21/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). So, the car is running, however--I have a problem to ...
  A: The compression sounds good and you do need to test the pump pressure as when it is too high it over ...
1972 Midget7/21/2008
  Q: Howard, I'm doing a complete restoration on a 1972 Midget and am currently combining the best parts ...
  A: There is a special tool to reload the balls and springs but we didn't have one even at the ...
Proper vacuum hose hookup7/21/2008
  Q: Again, I have a 1978 MBG with a Stromberg 175CD Carburetor and a CEI 45DM Ignition system. When I ...
  A: It sounds like the connections are correct, but it also sounds like either the EGR or Gulp valve has ...
Proper voltage at the positive coil terminal7/21/2008
  Q: The car wouldn't start after warming up. Finally determined that the voltage at the positive coil ...
  A: Something is still wrong because the solenoid is suppose to supply full voltage in the start ...
!979 MG Midget Speedometer7/20/2008
  Q: The speedometer bounces around, not able to give an accurate reading. Will replacing the ...
  A: Only if the cable is what is at fault. A dry or kinked cable can do this but so can a bad ...
fuel problem>?7/20/2008
  Q: it's Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). So, the car is running, however--I have a problem to ...
  A: The timing marks on a 1275 are on the bottom of the timing cover only can be viewed from under the ...
Low Beams Quit Working7/19/2008
  Q: I purchased a 1972 MGB for my wife last year and have been slowly working out all of the little ...
  A: The dimmer switch needs to be tested for power to the low beams when the dimmer switch is flipped to ...
zenith stromberg 150cd manual choke7/19/2008
  Q: the the large plunger that is activated by the diaphragm in the top of the carb is stuck fast. how ...
  A: Remove the top cap and fill it with penetrating oil and let it set for a few days, then try twisting ...
1961 mga7/18/2008
  Q: hope you are fine. i have a 1961 mga 1600. should i use a lead substitute in the gas. thanks gary
  A: No, you don't need any lead substitute. Just use high test unleaded gas. Lead was put in a less than ...
74 MGB GT Clutch7/17/2008
  Q: I have a 74 BGT, and have pulled the engine, put in a complete clutch kit(Victoria British).I have ...
  A: Yes, Teflon tape may help stop your trans drain plug leak. Yes, any excess free play will lesson ...
MG Midget clutch problem7/17/2008
  Q: Howard - I've been reading your suggestions regarding bleeding a clutch but I'm just a wannabe ...
  A: It is sometimes difficult to get a clutch bled. You must have a major problem or you would not have ...
MG temp gauge7/17/2008
  Q: Howard, A friend bought a MG and asked me about the temp gauge-- it goes straight to hot when ...
  A: Yes, they share the same voltage stabilizer as a power source (about 10v). If you checked to see ...
1978 MG Midget7/16/2008
  Q: I recently bought a 1978 Midget with 64k original miles, and it drove great for awhile. Suddenly, ...
  A: You need to remove the small tower cover and look at the shift lever collar to see if the set screws ...
74 MGB GT Clutch7/16/2008
  Q: I have a 74 BGT, and have pulled the engine, put in a complete clutch kit(Victoria British).I have ...
  A: Jim, it sounds like you covered all the bases. In the dealerships I worked in we would get a ...
brake lights7/16/2008
  Q: niether the brake lights nor the revesrse lights work. All others do (tail lamps, blinkers etc.) ...
  A: Those are powered up by a green wire from the fuse box. When you check the fuses, don't just look at ...
1977 MGB will not start7/15/2008
  Q: I have 1977 MGB I bought new in 1977. It has been sitting in the garage since 1999 when it was ...
  A: Jim, disconnect the throttle linkage to see if that is holding the throttle open any. Then check to ...
74 MGB GT Clutch7/15/2008
  Q: I have a 74 BGT, and have pulled the engine, put in a complete clutch kit(Victoria British).I have ...
  A: First, how does the pedal feel. You should not have much free play, then the pedal should feel firm ...
Emissions7/15/2008
  Q: If the hose from the charcoal canister is blocked what affeect, if any, will it have on the ...
  A: If your canister still has the valve cover vent hose than it is venting the crank case and you ...
1977 MGB will not start7/14/2008
  Q: I have 1977 MGB I bought new in 1977. It has been sitting in the garage since 1999 when it was ...
  A: I found that when I had multi electrical problems like you have I had to pick one and only one ...
1972 mg midget7/14/2008
  Q: My temp&oil gauge are not working, where sould i start to fix.It has the smith gauges. Thank you ...
  A: Dewayne, I can't tell you what to buy, that is your decision. As for a sticking throttle you need ...
Emissions7/13/2008
  Q: If the hose from the charcoal canister is blocked what affeect, if any, will it have on the ...
  A: Doug, that will only have an effect if the vent pipe still runs from the carburetor float chamber ...
1977 mgb7/13/2008
  Q: my 1977 mgb after running for a short while and then shut off, sometimes will not start. it acts ...
  A: Easy one, when it is in it's failed mode just take a test light or volt meter and check for power to ...
78 MGB fuel pump7/13/2008
  Q: My 78 MGB was running fine until the other day. Now when I put the key into the on position, I can ...
  A: Larry, you need to find what is wrong before you need to do much. First confirm that you have fuel ...
77 midget electrical diagram7/13/2008
  Q: I'm in serious need of an electrical diagram for a 77 midget. If you have access to one, please ...
  A: The diagram and index is on it's way. All I can say is follow the yellow brick road (diagram) with ...
no power on acceleration7/13/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB with a weber carb and electronic distributor I have gas coming into the carb no ...
  A: That narrows the problem down to only a thousand possible things. You need to do some testing to ...
1972 mg midget7/12/2008
  Q: My temp&oil gauge are not working, where sould i start to fix.It has the smith gauges. Thank you ...
  A: The oil pressure gauge is hydraulic and a pipe goes to the engine block to monitor oil pressure. You ...
pops out of gear7/12/2008
  Q: why does my 67 midget pops out of 3rd gear under hard acceleration
  A: Popping out of gear can be caused by several things. First pull up the shift boot and put it in 3rd ...
1976 MG Midget, engine problems7/12/2008
  Q: and it seems to misfire and try to sputter out, it only does this after its been running for a few ...
  A: Jeffrey, your symptoms narrow the problem to about a thousand possible things so you need to do some ...
Carburetor7/12/2008
  Q: I have a Zenith Stromberg 150C on a 1979 MG Midget. I cannot get this car to run. I bought a carb ...
  A: When an engine will not run, one or more of the three is missing. Physics tells you that if an ...
Emissions7/11/2008
  Q: the '76 MGB I've been reviving from long storage is up and running. Thanks for your help in getting ...
  A: You have some clear facts like, flat black plugs comes ONLY from a overly rich mixture which is ...
Emissions7/10/2008
  Q: the '76 MGB I've been reviving from long storage is up and running. Thanks for your help in getting ...
  A: There were two types of auto chokes used on the Stromberg carbs. One had a wax filled bulb with a ...
Ignition Problem7/10/2008
  Q: My 1979 Midget periodically stops running. It normally happens as I am slowing down. The starter ...
  A: It is no use throwing money at the problem until you know what is wrong. All testing must be done ...
Emissions7/10/2008
  Q: the '76 MGB I've been reviving from long storage is up and running. Thanks for your help in getting ...
  A: When HC is high it is usually a mechanical and/or an electrical problem dumping raw fuel into the ...
gas leak at ELC on '73B7/10/2008
  Q: ..just read your comments on Lisa's '72 Midget leaking gas on bottom of ELC to have a stuck carb ...
  A: What is an ELC? Sorry, I have only been working on MGBs for 40 years so I don't know what an ELC is. ...
1979 MGB7/9/2008
  Q: Replaced temp sending unit in head, and now temp gauge reads hot. Put in new 165 thermostat, and ...
  A: Roger, why do you want to put in a hotter thermostat when you say it is too hot now??? You said it ...
1973 MGB-GT starter problem7/8/2008
  Q: Ignition switch will not operate starter motor. I can only get car to run by connecting a jumper ...
  A: Kevin, that is why it is important to test the circuit from the ignition switch to the relay and ...
'78 MG Midget Smoking7/8/2008
  Q: I'm back again but this time with more information on the smoke that I thought was originally ...
  A: Brandan, look at the pipe and follow it to where ever it goes and tell me where it goes to. It is ...
1979 MGB7/8/2008
  Q: Replaced temp sending unit in head, and now temp gauge reads hot. Put in new 165 thermostat, and ...
  A: The temp gauge is not powered by 12v. It is powered by a voltage stabilizer mounted on the fire wall ...
No Spark7/8/2008
  Q: I have a 67 midget that has been sitting for 12 years. After changing the coil, points (gap at ...
  A: Turn the engine over until the points are open and turn the key on and remove the coil wire from the ...
78 MGB fuel pump7/6/2008
  Q: My 78 MGB was running fine until the other day. Now when I put the key into the on position, I can ...
  A: When an electric fuel pump on an MG runs a little and then is silent except for an occasional click ...
brake lights7/6/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB. All of my lights work (Blinkers, headlights, reverse etc.) with the exception of ...
  A: Since your reverse lights work then it is not the fuse, so you need to first test for power on the ...
74 MGB Brake Master Cylinder Bebuild7/6/2008
  Q: I'm having difficulty removing the piston after the spring and C-clip are out. The only thing ...
  A: If you are talking about the white plastic ring under the washer and clip, You need to take a small ...
How do I correctly wire in a replacement solenoid?7/5/2008
  Q: I have a just installed a new solenoid for my 78 B. I have identified the correct terminals for the ...
  A: Ted, the failure switch is activated when a difference in pressure between the two sections of the ...
Iginition light staying on7/5/2008
  Q: After I start my 1972 MG midget 1275 the iginition light on dash stays on. Any idea why it doesn't ...
  A: If the generator is good and you have no charge rate, then all you can do is trace each of the other ...
Starts, but ends with smoke.7/5/2008
  Q: I just purchased an MG Midget to fix up and it does run. The issue I'm having is the compartment ...
  A: Brendan, that is the air filter and it should neither have gas in it nor smoke. Your best option is ...
stuck valves on 1500 engine in 1975 mg midget7/4/2008
  Q: i recently was given a 1975 mg midget. it has been sitting a long time, but the engine will turn ...
  A: You can remove the valve cover and rotate the engine and watch the valves of #1 and #4 cylinders to ...
Starts, but ends with smoke.7/4/2008
  Q: I just purchased an MG Midget to fix up and it does run. The issue I'm having is the compartment ...
  A: You will have to describe what you are talking about a little better, as there are no compartments ...
1975 MG Midget losing power on highway.7/3/2008
  Q: I just purchased a 1975 MG Midget with the 1500 engine that is stock besides the Holley single ...
  A: I learned working in dealerships that you should never look for what is wrong. Because that item is ...
mg midget speed vibration.7/2/2008
  Q: I own a 1979 MG Midget. My problem is when the car reaches 55-60 mph the whole car vibrates quite ...
  A: If the front end has been gone over by a mechanic then you should put the car on a lift and run it ...
anti runon valve7/2/2008
  Q: My 1976 MGB was running great yesterday but today as I tried to start it, it turns over then quickly ...
  A: When the car has trouble starting try disconnecting the aintirunon valve wires to see if it will ...
MG7/1/2008
  Q: do you have wiring diagrams for voltage regulators, and alternators for a 1971 MG???
  A: I need to know what kind of MG first and there were different alternators used on the different ...
1977 MGB Wont start after jumping battery7/1/2008
  Q: We have a 1977 MGB which needs to be jumped to start. When the key is inserted and turned we do not ...
  A: Anthony, you didn't answer my questions. Did you check all power and ground cables with a voltage ...
Weak brakes6/30/2008
  Q: Good morning Howard, a while back you gave me instructions for cleaning the rust from the brakes on ...
  A: Billy, if the hand brake does not even hold, you need to hand sand the lining and the drum to get a ...
MGB GT GEAR BOX REMOVAL6/30/2008
  Q: HI HELP I HAVE THE GAR BOX ON MY MGB GT WITH OVERDRIVE UNDUN AND READY TO REMOVE BUT NO MATER WHERE ...
  A: All MGB, GT and Midgets must have the engine removed to get the gearbox out. Even if you can take ...
Iginition light staying on6/30/2008
  Q: After I start my 1972 MG midget 1275 the iginition light on dash stays on. Any idea why it doesn't ...
  A: Padraig, When you have confirmed that you have a "No Charge" condition as the battery voltage test I ...
MGB Engine Serial Number6/30/2008
  Q: Good Evening Sir, Although the following question I have is not repair related, I though that ...
  A: The only info I have on the dates of cars to # is a Moss Motors catalog. They have a chart that says ...
MG B6/30/2008
  Q: Recently rebuilt engine on my 69 B, also new wiring loom. Car runs, but hunts a bit on idle and ...
  A: Any time I have an engine that "hunts", I try to make changes to isolate the problem into a smaller ...
69 MGB running rough6/29/2008
  Q: I had my 69 MGB tuned up, new plugs, wires, oil and filter, condenser, points, rotor and distributor ...
  A: The problem may or may not had anything to do with the previous work done but you need to start from ...
Headlight6/29/2008
  Q: How do you remove the crome headlight ring on a 1977 MGB?
  A: They just snap on and off but are hard to pry off so I usually put a piece of cardboard between the ...
75 Midget Carb connector6/27/2008
  Q: I have a 75 MG Midget that was sitting for 3 years, long story, I did all the proper prep prior to ...
  A: You need to contact the parts suppliers and ask for a catalog for your car. Most of them have good ...
Turn Signals on 1980 MGB6/27/2008
  Q: We have a 1980 MGB and all the hazard lights work but the turn (directional) lights do not work. ...
  A: You first need a wiring diagram and a test light, then check for power on the turn signal flasher ...
Midget Tach6/27/2008
  Q: I really have two questions. I'm not a gear head, but think these two things I may be able to ...
  A: Don, go to my web site and download the diagram and the index at, ...
carb tuning6/27/2008
  Q: did that compression test (150 psi across all four cylinders); fixed some vac lines and put new gas ...
  A: Jon, you don't drill it in the cover. Only in the thermostat plate. This prevents an air lock at the ...
Rubber vapor hoses in the trunk6/26/2008
  Q: I have a 1977 MGB. I noticed the other day that there were 3 pieces of rubber hose in the trunk on ...
  A: One hose comes from the top of the fuel tank which is the tank vent pipe and it goes to the round ...
Midget Tach6/26/2008
  Q: I really have two questions. I'm not a gear head, but think these two things I may be able to ...
  A: The first tool you need to do any work on the electrical system is a wiring diagram and a test ...
MGB rpm, fuel, and temp gauge6/26/2008
  Q: I'm 16 yrs. old, and my mom has recently started to let me drive her 74 1/2 MGB. I was coming home ...
  A: You need a 12v test light or a volt meter to run some tests. But first check to see if your brake ...
carb tuning6/26/2008
  Q: did that compression test (150 psi across all four cylinders); fixed some vac lines and put new gas ...
  A: Normally a cooling system that has a pressure cap with an over flow line off of it to an expansion ...
Fuel Gauge vs Sending unit6/25/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB. Today the fuel gauge stop working, all the other gauges work fine. I removed ...
  A: I the dealership we worked out a quick rough test to check the gauge system. Go to the sending unit ...
Starter Relay6/25/2008
  Q: Can you translate the numbers : 85 86 87 30/51 on the starter relay to the wiring codes from the ...
  A: Jeff, if the car starts and runs as long as you have the key in the start position, the starter ...
78 MGB Clutch6/25/2008
  Q: Your help thus far has been invaluable in the rebuild of our 78 B. Here is another problem we just ...
  A: It would be difficult to install the disk backwards as the hub would hit the flywheel and bolting it ...
Overheating6/24/2008
  Q: My temperature gauge reads very high after driving a few miles. the car runs and doesn't die out ...
  A: Yes, the first thing you should do is check the coolant to see if it is really hot. An inexpensive ...
Iginition light staying on6/24/2008
  Q: After I start my 1972 MG midget 1275 the iginition light on dash stays on. Any idea why it doesn't ...
  A: The "Ign" light is not an ignition light, it is a charge light. Put a volt meter across your battery ...
Starter Relay6/23/2008
  Q: Can you translate the numbers : 85 86 87 30/51 on the starter relay to the wiring codes from the ...
  A: Those numbers are universal on most relays today. 85 & 86 are the electromagnet wires in a relay. 87 ...
gas leaking from evap. loss canister6/23/2008
  Q: I have a 72 MG Midget. After replacing the plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap, rotor and points, ...
  A: Most likely it is the float is stuck in one or both carburetors. The vents for the carburetor float ...
MG axle and transmission problem6/23/2008
  Q: The axle on my '72 MGB has moved about an inch to the left, so that the bodywork fouls the tyre on ...
  A: Theo, air up all of the tires and measure from the floor to the edge of the arch front and back. ...
1977 MGB Wont start after jumping battery6/22/2008
  Q: We have a 1977 MGB which needs to be jumped to start. When the key is inserted and turned we do not ...
  A: First you need to have your battery load tested to see if your battery is good. Then take a volt ...
Non Starting 19766/22/2008
  Q: OK as you suggested I disconnected the white with black leads from the coil and tested voltage at ...
  A: MG never used a solid black wire to run from the coil to the points on any MG. Someone has replaced ...
No spark6/22/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MGB and when I went to start it it went but with hesitation then when I went to start ...
  A: When you test for spark you first need to test the coil by removing the coil wire from the cap and ...
1968 MGB turn signals6/22/2008
  Q: My turn signals stopped working. I have checked the fuses, inline fuse to the flasher unit, all ...
  A: Go to the flasher unit and with a test light or volt meter, test the green wire for power with the ...
MG axle and transmission problem6/21/2008
  Q: The axle on my '72 MGB has moved about an inch to the left, so that the bodywork fouls the tyre on ...
  A: On the rear axle you need to first check to see that the axle is not loose and the wheel and all ...
76 Midget starting6/21/2008
  Q: Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I replaced the needles and seats in the carb bowls, as ...
  A: Jon, if you have done all that and it does not start you need to start from scratch, Run a ...
1976 Won't turn over6/20/2008
  Q: I changed the points, rotor, condenser on my car this week. I also changed the starter solenoid ...
  A: When the points are open and the key on you should have full battery voltage on the negative post ...
1976 Won't turn over6/20/2008
  Q: I changed the points, rotor, condenser on my car this week. I also changed the starter solenoid ...
  A: Scott, you need to work on ONE item at a time and forget the others until you have the ONE fixed. ...
1976 Won't turn over6/20/2008
  Q: I changed the points, rotor, condenser on my car this week. I also changed the starter solenoid ...
  A: It sounds like you have more than one problem so you must work on one at a time to correct them. ...
76 Midget starting6/20/2008
  Q: Jon with the 76 Midget (1275 motor in it). I replaced the needles and seats in the carb bowls, as ...
  A: Jon, the cylinders are from front to rear 1234 but the firing order is 1342 on the cap. You just ...
High Idle6/19/2008
  Q: Just bought a 77 mgb, the idle seems to hold a little high when you come to a stop sign, after ...
  A: Several things can make an engine idle fast. Idle stop screw set to high, Choke fast idle set too ...
fuel and temp6/19/2008
  Q: I have a 74 MGB that seems to stall and won't start after it has been running for awhile (stop and ...
  A: Those gauges are both powered by a voltage stabilizer mounted either on the back of the speedometer ...
Wipers6/18/2008
  Q: Greetings, I recently and bought a 78 MGB in very good shape. Having not worked on cars in...years I ...
  A: Mike, just remove the cover and inside you will see a link (connecting rod) the connects the end of ...
Wipers6/17/2008
  Q: Greetings, I recently and bought a 78 MGB in very good shape. Having not worked on cars in...years I ...
  A: Yes, the first thing you need it a wiring diagram and a 12v test light to test circuits to the wiper ...
vacuum diagtam6/17/2008
  Q: Do you have a vacuum diagram for a 78 Midget 1500?
  A: Joe, I don't sell parts, just an individual. You need to look up on the net, Moss Motors, Engel ...
1979 MG Midget 1500 with Z-S Carb6/16/2008
  Q: I just bought a Midget and it ran fine while I was test driving it. One day of ownership and the ...
  A: EGR Returns some exhaust gas into the intake to dilute the mixture mainly to cut down on NOX. Due to ...
Headlight Issues6/16/2008
  Q: Greetings, I have very much appreciated many of the answers I have read here. I have had my 1979 ...
  A: Since you have lost both beams you need to take a 12v test light ground the clip and use the probe ...
1976 MGBGT Engine will not start6/16/2008
  Q: I have a problem with my MG. It worked fine for a while and then stopped. I am not getting any ...
  A: John, the power comes direct to the coil when in the "start" position and it comes by way of a ...
How do I correctly wire in a replacement solenoid?6/15/2008
  Q: I have a just installed a new solenoid for my 78 B. I have identified the correct terminals for the ...
  A: Any time you replace any part of a harness or repair wiring, you should have the battery cable ...
1976 MGBGT Engine will not start6/15/2008
  Q: I have a problem with my MG. It worked fine for a while and then stopped. I am not getting any ...
  A: If you have power at the coil with the ignition on an also when you turn the key to start, then you ...
How do I correctly wire in a replacement solenoid?6/15/2008
  Q: I have a just installed a new solenoid for my 78 B. I have identified the correct terminals for the ...
  A: There are two large threaded posts and two flat spade terminals on the solenoid. One threaded lug ...
MG midget timing marks6/14/2008
  Q: I have a 1967 mk 3 midget and wish to set timing with strobe,I can see the fixed timing marks but ...
  A: Eddie, Ignition timing should be set static. (not running) You said you found the fixed pointers on ...
MG midget timing marks6/13/2008
  Q: I have a 1967 mk 3 midget and wish to set timing with strobe,I can see the fixed timing marks but ...
  A: Yes the notch in the crank pulley is difficult to see so you need to wash the front pulley and put a ...
1976 MGB will not start6/13/2008
  Q: My MGB sat for just over a year and now I cannot get gas to the carburator. The MGB turns over. I ...
  A: If the car sat for a year you will need to drain the stale gas out of the tank, lines and carburetor ...
77 mg midget ignition woes6/11/2008
  Q: I bought a 77 midget about 6 months ago and it ran fine up until two days ago. Then it stopped. The ...
  A: All of that tells me nothing other than you need to take a wiring diagram and start testing circuits ...
77 mg midget ignition woes6/11/2008
  Q: I bought a 77 midget about 6 months ago and it ran fine up until two days ago. Then it stopped. The ...
  A: I thought I sent this to you but may not have, so here is what you need to do. You need a 12v test ...
Fuel Tank6/11/2008
  Q: I recently FILLED my 1971 MG Midget with Fuel (Right to the brim. I now seem to have a leak. At half ...
  A: You need to look at the evaporative loss system because they do run vapor lines out of the top of ...
rod & main bearings6/9/2008
  Q: lost oil pressure at normal operating speed started to hear slight knock and shut down vehicle ...
  A: That depends on the cause. If a rod bearing went out the mains would not normally be harmed. It is ...
MGB flywheel6/9/2008
  Q: I have a 67 mgb and removed the flywheel and had it resurfaced. Is there a right way to install the ...
  A: The MG flywheel does need to be installed with the mark on the outer edge of the wheel lined up with ...
1977 MGB cluch pedal problem6/9/2008
  Q: I have a 77 MGB and no clutch pedal at all. I have rebuilt the clutch master cylinder with rebuild ...
  A: It is sometimes difficult to bleed the air out of a clutch system because the line from the master ...
mgb6/8/2008
  Q: turned out the wire on the back of the alternator slipped partially out of its connection and was ...
  A: Gary, it depends if it is a wire wheel or disk wheel. It is common on wire wheel cars when the ...
1976 mgb running rough6/8/2008
  Q: I have had this car for a year. It has 61,000 original miles. Ran well initially. Problems starting ...
  A: When an engine has a problem at speed and not at low RPM, you need to look at two items. When you ...
mg midget brake master cyl.6/7/2008
  Q: Iam trying to rebuild my master cyl, on a 1972 midget 1275. I can not get the plastic bushing to ...
  A: Usually the other piston can be removed by banging the cylinder down hard on a wooden block. If that ...
mg midget brake master cyl.6/7/2008
  Q: Iam trying to rebuild my master cyl, on a 1972 midget 1275. I can not get the plastic bushing to ...
  A: If the plastic bushing you are talking about is white, then you need to take a small sharp flat ...
mgb fuse6/6/2008
  Q: i have a 1977 mgb.i have had wiring problems in the past but it has been ok lately.today i replaced ...
  A: It is not likely the large wire on the alt had anything to do with it as the large alt wire is ...
wiring diagram and fuses6/6/2008
  Q: Do you have a sorce or know where I can get information on a 1977 MGB wiring diagram and fuse box ...
  A: Go to http://mg-tri-jag.net/76MGB1x1.jpg , and /76MGB21x1.jpg and 77MGBsup1x1.jpg The diagram of ...
mgb high oil pressure6/6/2008
  Q: i wasn't sure how to link the questions, but you advised me to get the compression checked on my 75 ...
  A: When you change oil and filter it is normal for the oil pressure to be higher until the oil heats up ...
Starting6/5/2008
  Q: my '76 B that sat for 10 years is THIS close to starting. I fixed carburetor leaks and flooding, ...
  A: At the MG dealerships I worked at, we would at times receive cars that had sat for some time and to ...
1978 mgb zenith/stromberg gas mileage6/4/2008
  Q: Just getting into my first mg!!! The car was parked for 23 years but runs well (needs valve ...
  A: Dan, the easiest way to tell if it is a retard unit on the dist is to look where the vacuum port is ...
1973 mgb6/4/2008
  Q: My 73 B has a new distributor, timing seems ok, rebuilt carbs, working well enough.The car starts ...
  A: Andre, it sounds like your timing is set wrong (if you do have a vacuum retard unit on the ...
Rebuilding MGB carb6/4/2008
  Q: Now that I've narrowed the problem to the carb, how difficult is it to rebuild, costs, any special ...
  A: No special tools needed, however you should purchase a shop manual for the car so you can read up on ...
Rebuilding MGB carb6/3/2008
  Q: Now that I've narrowed the problem to the carb, how difficult is it to rebuild, costs, any special ...
  A: You didn't say what year MGB and what kind of carburetor/s it has. But that is not too important as ...
relay starter6/3/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a 1975 MG. The relay starter went up in smoke after a short drive. What would ...
  A: I have no way to tell what made your relay quit. A relay receives full battery voltage on the coil ...
MGB GT 1974 Relay fault6/2/2008
  Q: My dad's 1974 MGB GT would not start at all and he worked out it was the starting relay, when he ...
  A: You need to first remove the wires on the relay when it does it to see if the relay keeps it going. ...
speedometer6/1/2008
  Q: another problem here. i have a 75 mgb rd that needs a new speedometer and not too sure that the ...
  A: Your best chance of finding the correct speedo is to go on line and get the toll free numbers of a ...
running hot6/1/2008
  Q: i have a 75 mgb that reg on the white area of my temp gauge after running foe a short time. so far i ...
  A: You did a lot but none of what you were suppose to do when checking for over heating. This is what ...
Backfiring6/1/2008
  Q: I am a new MGB owner / backyard mechanic. My 1978 MGB backfires on the release from the throttle. ...
  A: Your compression is low, are you sure you held the throttle open when you did the test and did you ...
1978 mgb zenith/stromberg gas mileage5/31/2008
  Q: Just getting into my first mg!!! The car was parked for 23 years but runs well (needs valve ...
  A: Even though #3 is a little low on compression, the wet test does not indicate a ring problem. So #3 ...
1974 MGB5/31/2008
  Q: I recently put a new battery in my MG. The fuel pump was working prior to the battery changeout. It ...
  A: The little light is the exciter wire for the alternator and when the key is on, power is supplied to ...
1978 mgb zenith/stromberg gas mileage5/30/2008
  Q: Just getting into my first mg!!! The car was parked for 23 years but runs well (needs valve ...
  A: Something is wrong with your car if you only get 17 MPG but you can do all you want to it and never ...
1974 MGB5/30/2008
  Q: I recently put a new battery in my MG. The fuel pump was working prior to the battery changeout. It ...
  A: If you had sparks when you connected the battery, it is a sign you either had something turned on at ...
oil cooler lin remval5/30/2008
  Q: Need some advice, please. Working on an early 67 MGB and low and behold, the oil filter canister ...
  A: You are not making yourself clear. Do you mean you can't find a wrench to fit it or you can't seem ...
mgb poorly5/29/2008
  Q: well my drivers seat has punched thru the underside of the car due to rust.. which isnt good. ...
  A: The best is to cut out the old floor and replace it with one from one of the MG parts suppliers but ...
Shut off problem5/28/2008
  Q: I have a 76 midget when it warms up and you turn it off it just diesels for a long time after. What ...
  A: The 76 Midget like most of the emmission control cars has leaned out the mixture and over heated the ...
1974 MGB - clutch problem?5/26/2008
  Q: The car was driving just fine until last week. My problem developed while on a longish (100km) ...
  A: It is most likely a clutch hydraulic problem. First check the clutch fluid (DOT 4) and check the ...
transmission/clutch problem5/26/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget. It was running fine then, recently, I was able to shift up all right but ...
  A: One other problem we noted in the dealerships is that BLM told everyone to use gear oil in the trans ...
1965 MK1 MGB Roadster Indicator Switch5/26/2008
  Q: Can anybody please provide information on the following. 1. Photo of the mechanism as I believe mine ...
  A: If you are talking about the turn signal switch? As I remember, all are the same from 63 to 67 and I ...
transmission/clutch problem5/25/2008
  Q: I have a 1978 MG Midget. It was running fine then, recently, I was able to shift up all right but ...
  A: The way to tell if you have a clutch problem is to sit with the car idling and in neutral, depress ...
water pump5/25/2008
  Q: How do i remove clutch fan from water pump on a 1975 mg midget.
  A: The fan clutch is pressed on a crushable sleeve. If you don't have the special tool to remove it and ...
1976 Midget (1500)5/23/2008
  Q: I am trying to get the car running for the first time since overhaul. I can't get any spark..the ...
  A: With no spark you first need to look in the distributor to see what kind of ignition system you ...
1976 Midget (1500)5/23/2008
  Q: I am trying to get the car running for the first time since overhaul. I can't get any spark..the ...
  A: What do you mean? You said you have no spark but you want to set the timing????? You can't set ...
Fuel tank sending unit5/21/2008
  Q: I have a 69 mg and it looks like the sending unit or the fuel gauge is bad. Whe I started it the ...
  A: First take the colored wire off the sending unit and with the key on note that the needle deflects ...
Starting MGB after setting up for a while5/21/2008
  Q: I've been recently trying to get my 1980 MGB running again. It hasn't been started in about a year ...
  A: The oil in the top of the carb is a shock to stop the piston from jumping up and down at idle and to ...
78 MGB wiring harness5/19/2008
  Q: In the course of rebuilding our 78 MGB we decided to install a new main harness. All is well except ...
  A: I believe the Service Interval unit was just a warning light as I remember. As long as you don't let ...
coolant leak?5/19/2008
  Q: My wife has a 53 plate mgtf, recently had cylinder head gasket renewed, very expensive! Since that ...
  A: I can't comment on what he did or didn't do but any time I put a head gasket on any car I made it a ...
78 MGB wiring harness5/19/2008
  Q: In the course of rebuilding our 78 MGB we decided to install a new main harness. All is well except ...
  A: You need a wiring diagram to sort that out. I will try something new, go to my website and see if ...
1980 MGB Transmission Oil Leak5/18/2008
  Q: This a new question but a followup - too many followups. I put the car on jack stands, ran it and ...
  A: Unfortunately there is not much that can be done to a gearbox without removing the engine. The ...
Starting issue5/18/2008
  Q: I have a 76 Midget, It has a 1275 put into it. The car has undergone some different wiring over the ...
  A: It all boils down to the fact that if the carb is flooding, the fuel comes out the overflow. I have ...
1971 MG Miget5/18/2008
  Q: Subject:engine locked solid. We have owned this MG since 1973.It had been in storage for 10 years.I ...
  A: Yes, rust on the cylinder walls is the most likely cause. Get a can (not spray can) of something ...
Starting issue5/18/2008
  Q: I have a 76 Midget, It has a 1275 put into it. The car has undergone some different wiring over the ...
  A: When you suspect fuel flooding you need to pull a couple of spark plugs to see if it is wetting the ...
1980 MGB Transmission Oil Leak5/16/2008
  Q: This a new question but a followup - too many followups. I put the car on jack stands, ran it and ...
  A: Wayne, if you are talking about the very rear at the driveshaft coupler that is the rear seal or a ...
Car Stalls Overheating Coil5/15/2008
  Q: Howard, this is another new thread so a quick refresher: This is the 1975 MGB with the coil over ...
  A: If the coil is a 1.5 ohm, it should not be bad so you need to replace the resistor wire that powers ...
79 Midget5/15/2008
  Q: Hey! First off, thanks for answering my question. Lemme know if there is anything I can do for you. ...
  A: Run the vacuum hose out from under the hood and put it under a wiper blade so you can see it when ...
Lights make car quit running5/15/2008
  Q: I recently bought a 1979 mgb. While driving it home it quit running after I turned the headlights ...
  A: Since you don't have a history on the car you need to start from scratch. You should be able to make ...
78 MGB5/15/2008
  Q: I have a 78 MGB, That won't start.fIRST I replaced battery,now it turns over,but still won't ...
  A: All piston engines only require three things to run, Compression, Fire and Fuel. However, they have ...
1978 MGB5/15/2008
  Q: Had battery totally recharged, connected it, put key in car turns over but will not start. Like not ...
  A: Donna, the only cut off for the fuel pump is the inertia switch and it just cuts off power to the ...
79 Midget5/14/2008
  Q: Hey! First off, thanks for answering my question. Lemme know if there is anything I can do for you. ...
  A: Martin, if the car slowly loose speed and pushing down on the throttle seems to have no effect. Put ...
Fuel pump or fuel tank?5/13/2008
  Q: the fuel pump in my '76 B (with ELC) is unable to pump fuel from the tank. It can pump fluid from ...
  A: Sometimes you can use an old speedometer cable in a drill motor to clean out lines. However, there ...
1965 MGB no lights, turn signal5/13/2008
  Q: Have a couple of questions that I need some help with. The first is probably easy, I have a 1965 MGB ...
  A: I will have to write a book to cover all of your questions so we need to just cover one at a time. ...
Fuel pump or fuel tank?5/13/2008
  Q: the fuel pump in my '76 B (with ELC) is unable to pump fuel from the tank. It can pump fluid from ...
  A: They probably said that because the tank nor the vapor separator or hoses on the vapor system can ...
Fuel pump or fuel tank?5/13/2008
  Q: the fuel pump in my '76 B (with ELC) is unable to pump fuel from the tank. It can pump fluid from ...
  A: Clarify what you mean "With Difficulty" when you say you can siphon fuel from the tank. If you can ...
1978 MGB not starting5/12/2008
  Q: The car ran fine last year but when i started it this year it still ran rough so i changed plugs ...
  A: If you don't have access to a scope, the only test you can do is a rough test of connecting a plug ...
Cleaning brakes5/11/2008
  Q: The discs and drums on my 1976 MGB, which has been warehoused for 10 years, are covered with rust, ...
  A: On the disks just remove the caliper and hang it by a coat hanger or such so as not to put a strain ...
1969 MGB5/11/2008
  Q: Good morning I have recently purchased a 1969 mgb from a gentlemen who has had this car stored in ...
  A: You need a test light to follow the circuits as the horn and the brake lights have nothing to do ...
1976 MGB wiring issues5/11/2008
  Q: I am helping my buddy work on his 1976 MGB. We recently replaced the padding on the dash, and so we ...
  A: Yes Paul, I think all of that has combined to make up your electrical problems. You need a wiring ...
1976 MGB wiring issues5/11/2008
  Q: I am helping my buddy work on his 1976 MGB. We recently replaced the padding on the dash, and so we ...
  A: Down at the solenoid there are several plain brown wires. All of these PLAIN brown wires must ...
1980 MGB Transmission Oil Leak5/10/2008
  Q: I have a bit of a story to tell you, and would like your advice. In the course of having my 1980 ...
  A: If you opened the fill plug after you had the engine installed and let any excess drain, you are ok ...
Starter motor won't disengage5/9/2008
  Q: '77 MGB: My starter motor won't disengage. As soon as the key hits "run", the starter starts to ...
  A: Brad, unplug the brake pressure warning switch from the bottom of the brake master cylinder. Then ...
1980 MGB Transmission Oil Leak5/8/2008
  Q: I have a bit of a story to tell you, and would like your advice. In the course of having my 1980 ...
  A: The only way you can look for oil leaks is to wash the transmission first and put it up on a lift ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/8/2008
  Q: Howard, sorry that I am clogging up your AllExperts emails. I really am trying to understand this ...
  A: The regulator is inside the alternator and the "Full Field" is a test also to isolate a charging ...
1966 MGB GT loss of oil5/8/2008
  Q: I am new to the world of MG ownership but have just been dumped in the deep end. I have recently ...
  A: Ok Barry, let me know what you find. In the dealerships I learned to not try to guess what was wrong ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/8/2008
  Q: Howard, sorry that I am clogging up your AllExperts emails. I really am trying to understand this ...
  A: If you really have 15 volts you need to correct that right away as that is what is called a "Full ...
1966 MGB GT loss of oil5/7/2008
  Q: I am new to the world of MG ownership but have just been dumped in the deep end. I have recently ...
  A: I have been working on MGs through the complete life of the MGB and have rebuilt enough MGBs that I ...
MGB Clutch not working5/6/2008
  Q: 3 weeks ago Istartede my '65 mgb after 5 month in the garage (it's always keept in the garage ...
  A: The clutch release system has a clutch master cylinder and a slave cylinder. First check the clutch ...
alternators5/6/2008
  Q: every month or so my 1975 MGB wont start - dead battery .. so I charge it up and off I go for ...
  A: You should test the alternator before condemning it. Just first check belt tension and if that is ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/6/2008
  Q: Howard, sorry that I am clogging up your AllExperts emails. I really am trying to understand this ...
  A: As a coil is used it will warm up but should not get hot. The 8.5 volt reading indicates there is a ...
75 mgb misfiring5/5/2008
  Q: i've looked through all your answers, but haven't seen this, hope i didn't miss it. anyway, i've ...
  A: On any misfire you need to confirm that the engine is good first with a compression test. be sure ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/4/2008
  Q: Howard, correct, no power in the crank or the ignition position. I looked at the starter and in ...
  A: A coil should get warm when in use but not too hot to keep your hand on it. The starter relay only ...
69 mg midget clutch problem5/4/2008
  Q: Recently bought a 69 mg midget that had sat for 17 years. led After much work on brakes, interior ...
  A: The early Midgets & Sprites used three different release bearings depending on which transmission ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/3/2008
  Q: Howard, correct, no power in the crank or the ignition position. I looked at the starter and in ...
  A: If the solenoid works, the relay is working and is not a factor in operating the bypass wire to the ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/3/2008
  Q: Howard, correct, no power in the crank or the ignition position. I looked at the starter and in ...
  A: Yes Robert, your right and I was wrong, my white with red only goes as far as the relay and then it ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/3/2008
  Q: Howard, the problem we were working on was the 1975 MGB that would stop running after a while. I ...
  A: No power in the crank position and no power in the Ign. position either, correct? You need a wiring ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/2/2008
  Q: Howard, the problem we were working on was the 1975 MGB that would stop running after a while. I ...
  A: Yes, you can use the volt meter in place of the test light. All the tests you run must be made while ...
Coil weak spark stops running5/2/2008
  Q: Howard, I am following you on your step by step trouble shooting. Sorry for trying to jump ahead!! I ...
  A: Robert, you lost me. what was the question? If it was about the starter relay, if you have to ...
Awakening from a long sleep5/1/2008
  Q: I have just taken delivery of a 1976 MGB, which was running when it was stored 10 years ago. Can ...
  A: Generally you should do as follows if the car has been stored for 10 years. Inspect all belts and ...
1975 mgb Distributor vacum advance5/1/2008
  Q: recently put together a 1975 mgb. ended up with an extra hose. is there a vacuum hose that goes from ...
  A: According to the manual, the 75 MGB had a vacuum advance unit fitted but it was not connected. They ...
1977 MGB starting circuit trouble shooting4/30/2008
  Q: Howard, I am a brand new owner of a 1977 MGB and I did test drive it before trailering it home. ...
  A: The shorting with the screwdriver had nothing to do with your problem other than damage your ...
MGB Fuel gauge won't operate4/29/2008
  Q: I have a 69 MGB with a fuel gauge that will not move as the tank empties. When the ignition is ...
  A: If the other gauge works normal the voltage stabilizer is probably ok as you have indicated. A rough ...
MG Midget rear springs4/27/2008
  Q: I recently changed both rear springs,shackles,U-bolts etc.Now the car seems to be leaning quite a ...
  A: Yes, it could be the front springs. If you don't have available a set of race car scales to test ...
misfire and backfiring4/27/2008
  Q: My 74 midget sputters and backfires starting at 2800rpm then contiues through 3600rpm then smoothes ...
  A: You need to do a manifold vacuum test. Put a vacuum gauge on the intake and run a long hose out from ...
Coil weak spark stops running4/26/2008
  Q: Howard, I am following you on your step by step trouble shooting. Sorry for trying to jump ahead!! I ...
  A: I thought I answered this one once but it may not have went through. You can do the test on the ...
Coil weak spark stops running4/26/2008
  Q: Howard, I am following you on your step by step trouble shooting. Sorry for trying to jump ahead!! I ...
  A: OK Robert, The ohm test of the primary circuit of the coil is just to correctly ID the coil. What ...
MG bogging down at high rpms4/25/2008
  Q: I have a 67 Mg midget. It idles smoothly and revs smoothly but when I drive it around it runs fine ...
  A: The test is the only sure way to know. If you want to by pass that test you can test Ignition by ...
MG bogging down at high rpms4/25/2008
  Q: I have a 67 Mg midget. It idles smoothly and revs smoothly but when I drive it around it runs fine ...
  A: First be sure the air filters are clean, then get a manifold pressure gauge. (they are not ...
Coil weak spark stops running4/25/2008
  Q: Howard you helped me immensely before and I hope again. I have two problems. The first is big. ...
  A: Robert, you can't skip important things and think you are going to diagnosis a problem. The chances ...
Brake lights and turn signals4/24/2008
  Q: After working fine for several years, I suddenly lost my brake lights and turn signals on my '79 ...
  A: The stop lights, turn signals and other items are powered off of a fuse in the fuse panel. Use a ...
no spark4/23/2008
  Q: i have no spark to spark plugs have replaced coil but still the same.i do have 12 volts on both ...
  A: Turn the engine until the points are closed and check for voltage on both sides of the coil. At that ...
electronic distributor installation4/23/2008
  Q: I am replaceing stock distributor with one containing an electonic ignition on a 1979 mg midget. the ...
  A: I don't know anything about what ever kind of ignition system you have purchased, however, most ...
Gas milage verses damper oil weight4/23/2008
  Q: I have a '78 Midget, recently overhauled. Advertised gas mileage 40 mpg highway..actual 20 mpg @ 55 ...
  A: The damper oil weight only effects a quick throttle movement so if you are on and off the throttle a ...
71 MGB temperature sending unit4/23/2008
  Q: Please describe where to locate the temperature sending unit for a 1971 MGB. My temp gauge ...
  A: The temp sending unit is in the head at the front of the engine on the right hand side. Also be ...
Electrical4/22/2008
  Q: I'm trying to locate the gauge voltage stabilizer? I'm told it is under the dash? Can you be more ...
  A: There were a lot of different kinds and year model MGs so you will have to narrow it down a little ...
Coil weak spark stops running4/22/2008
  Q: Howard you helped me immensely before and I hope again. I have two problems. The first is big. ...
  A: You need to measure the resistance of the primary windings of the coil. (+) to (-) (wires ...
Damper oil4/20/2008
  Q: Can I use any other oil, other than Zenith Damper Oil, for my 1975 MGB Carburetor? Thanks Colin
  A: Yes, you can use engine oil, which I like to use. Some mechanics use transmission fluid. It is, as ...
electrical4/20/2008
  Q: I was cleaning wire connections and inadvertently reconnect the wires wrong. I was clean the ...
  A: You need to take a test light and start testing the green wires from the fuse box as that is the ...
1978 MGB ignition wiring4/19/2008
  Q: I recently bought a 1978 MGB GT, it broke down within two hours of collection with what appeared to ...
  A: That fuse is powered by the ignition switch relay. To confirm that is the problem, run a temporary ...
1979 MGB4/16/2008
  Q: Howard-I recently purchased a 1979 MGB which I am having some minor issues with and I hope you can ...
  A: One thing at a time as each may not be short quick fixes. Any time an MG or any car came to me with ...
turn signal and gas gauge u/s4/14/2008
  Q: I have Lucas electrical. My turn signals are not working as of today, along with indication on the ...
  A: You need to look at your wiring diagram of what ever kind of MG you have and see if both items share ...
75 mg midget wont start4/14/2008
  Q: it sounds like it wants too it is turning but wont turn over. any suggestions? ANSWER: HI Olivia, ...
  A: You can do a rough check for spark by removing a spark plug and place the plug on the wire and lay ...
75 mg midget wont start4/13/2008
  Q: it sounds like it wants too it is turning but wont turn over. any suggestions?
  A: All piston engines require only three items to run, Compression, Fire and fuel with conditions on ...
1972 MG Migit4/12/2008
  Q: What would causes drainage of the battery when the car is parked for a day or two? Is this an ...
  A: First rough test to see if something is draining battery is to remove one of the battery cables and ...
76 MG Midget no spark4/10/2008
  Q: It looks like I'm having the same problems as others who've written articles asking for help. My ...
  A: If you have a ballast resistor then you must have a coil to match and it must be wired in series ...
Replacing door seal 1969 MGB4/8/2008
  Q: I have replaced the panels and door seals, and now the doors do not close easily. It is "jamming", ...
  A: Yes, a new seal will make it harder to close the door until the seal gets compressed for a while. ...
mgb clutch4/4/2008
  Q: 1972 sat 25 yrs. installed new clutch master and new slave sine both were missing. Dot 3 used, ...
  A: Have someone pump up the clutch pedal and release it. Then feel the slave cylinder rod and the ...
1965 MGB Brakes stick4/2/2008
  Q: Howard, thank you for helping me on my other MGB problems. Did everything you said and car runs like ...
  A: Brakes can stick either by hydraulics or by mechanical faults so you need to do a simple test. Jack ...
Wonky power3/30/2008
  Q: I have a '72 MGB with a new Weber 32/36 carb. It has a "flat" spot at around 2000-2500 rpm & ...
  A: The ignition light has nothing to do with ignition, it is a charge light so you should put a volt ...
third gear noise when accelerating3/29/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 Midget with the 1500cc engine and transmission. When I shift into third gear and ...
  A: If you have oil in the box there is nothing you can do outside of the gearbox and the only way you ...
Backfire through front carb on 1965 MGB3/29/2008
  Q: I just recently bought a 1965 MGB that has sat for about 2 years. Put new gas in and changed the ...
  A: First thing to do is a compression test. Throttle wide open and at least 4 or 5 revolutions on each ...
turn signals/brake lights3/27/2008
  Q: On my 1979 MG, all the electrics seem to work with one exception. When the brakes are applied, the ...
  A: Since you are familiar with the voltage drop test you should look at the wiring diagram and see if ...
turn signals/brake lights3/27/2008
  Q: On my 1979 MG, all the electrics seem to work with one exception. When the brakes are applied, the ...
  A: I would check the grounds at the tail light assembly on both sides. If the grounds are good, look at ...
mgb3/26/2008
  Q: i wrote you earlier about my 77 mgb. wiring problems and i was going to trace the wires.i have run ...
  A: It depends on what Weber you have. Some Weber carbs had an external plug in the lower part of the ...
mgb3/25/2008
  Q: i wrote you earlier about my 77 mgb. wiring problems and i was going to trace the wires.i have run ...
  A: It depends on which distributor you have. If you have a pointed distributor it should only have one ...
1970 MGB GT Overheat.3/24/2008
  Q: My 1970 MGB GT overheats. When it starts up the oil pressure reads about 10-15 at idle, picks up a ...
  A: I thought i answered this one but it is showing up as still pending so here it is again. Low oil ...
Midget Brakes3/23/2008
  Q: Had a bit of a strange on with my midget – I was a really cold morning and I drove it to the garage, ...
  A: Address the brake light first. Turn the key on and look at the brake lights to see if they are still ...
Bugeye transmission3/21/2008
  Q: I have a smooth case transmission with a slightly balky shift. I can live with that. The big problem ...
  A: First gear didn't have a syncro in those old gearboxes but second did and if you are getting a lot ...
1966 MGB vented gas cap3/21/2008
  Q: Howard: Thanks so much for your advice. The previous owner said to use the 30 weight oil in the ...
  A: Straight 30 is ok for the gearbox and 3 in 1 in the carb pots is also ok unless you get a hesitation ...
Gas Guage Not Working3/21/2008
  Q: 1978 MG Midget. I verified the gas guage works by grounding the sensor side: moves to full. However, ...
  A: That is possible but the problem is most likely a rusted sending unit. It is a common fault on these ...
1966 MGB vented gas cap3/20/2008
  Q: A mechanic that worked on my MGB 1966 said that my gas cap was not seating properly leading to gas ...
  A: If he put on a non vented cap it can effect the way the engine runs by making it difficult for the ...
mgb3/20/2008
  Q: when my 1977 mgb is warm it runs great. if it is a little cold on the first start of the day it is ...
  A: You need a wiring diagram to trace out circuits as rewiring a whole car on this program would take a ...
starter solenoid MGB3/17/2008
  Q: I replaced the starter solenoid on my 76B. Now I cannot hook the battery up because when I do (keep ...
  A: The starter solenoid mounted on the starter where one post of the solenoid is attached to a short ...
MGB RADIATOR REPLACEMENT3/17/2008
  Q: Howard I have a 1979 MGB Roadster,(s/n GHN5UL471903 G)I have removed the radiator to have it flushed ...
  A: To fill it quicker just remove the upper hose from the head and fill it into the radiator until you ...
MGB RADIATOR REPLACEMENT3/17/2008
  Q: Howard I have a 1979 MGB Roadster,(s/n GHN5UL471903 G)I have removed the radiator to have it flushed ...
  A: Yes, I agree, BLM had their head where the sun don't shine on many things and the lack of drains on ...
mgb coil spark3/15/2008
  Q: . no spark at coil when cranked.. the coil is new,,,when ignition is on 12.4 volts @ coil ...
  A: Do you mean you have points in the distributor? If so you need to do a couple of tests. Remove the ...
MG Midget ignition timing3/14/2008
  Q: I need to change the contact points on my 1973 Midget. Is there a special spanner to get to the ...
  A: There are wrenches that fit the front bolt on the crank but while working in MG dealerships we just ...
mgb3/13/2008
  Q: when my 1977 mgb is warm it runs great. if it is a little cold on the first start of the day it is ...
  A: Gary, it can be too much choke or not enough so do this, When it does finally start as you have been ...
Non MG3/13/2008
  Q: sorry about this i can totally understand if you cannot answer this but there isn't a category for ...
  A: You can not ware oil out, all you can do is contaminate it. So if you have run through deep water or ...
mgb3/12/2008
  Q: when my 1977 mgb is warm it runs great. if it is a little cold on the first start of the day it is ...
  A: The 77 B has a single Stromberg carburetor and there are two main reasons that carb can be cold ...
SD1 gearbox3/10/2008
  Q: I'm preparing to convert my 1980 MGB using a Rover SD1 V8 & 5-speed gearbox. Roger Williams' book ...
  A: I have some experience with the Triumph TR-7 5-speed box (as I understand it is the same as the ...
74 midgit rear spring replacement3/8/2008
  Q: I am planning on replacing the rear springs on the midgit. I bought new springs and polyurethane ...
  A: They told you that because many times the "U" bolt threads are rusted and the "U" bolts have been ...
Early D overdrive wiring3/7/2008
  Q: As I understand it, the early "D" overdrive has the selector switch, 3-4 switch, and the mysterious ...
  A: I have seen many cars bypassing the vacuum switch. Also many even bypass the 3/4 trans switch. ...
1973 mg midget3/7/2008
  Q: I'm working on a 73 MG Midget that recently shattered the release bearing totally. Was able to ...
  A: Bob, if someone has been welding on the slave cylinder rod then you must find a new rod. You MUST ...
1973 mg midget3/6/2008
  Q: I'm working on a 73 MG Midget that recently shattered the release bearing totally. Was able to ...
  A: I sent one responce but it may not have went out so here it is again, I am concerned about your ...
removal of rear half axles3/5/2008
  Q: I'm helping a friend with his MG GT. He's removed the rear end to upgrade the suspension setup, ...
  A: You can remove the axle and hub out of the differential by removing the four nuts and bolts holding ...
Starter3/5/2008
  Q: I had asked you about my starter on my 77 MGB. I'm looking for the starter relay. I have three ...
  A: The starter relay should be on the right fender valance and it should have four pins labeled "C-1", ...
Hazard warning fuse3/5/2008
  Q: Greetings, I have a 1972 MGB. The hazards are not working. I found a replacement relay at local ...
  A: James, the fuse was to protect the wiring harness not the flasher so a 35 amp will work fine because ...
1976 Spitfire3/4/2008
  Q: My car has an engine code #FP71240UE I guess this is a MG engine,but what year? It has a point type ...
  A: The Spitfire never had an MG engine. (Austin engine) The MG Midget did however have the Spitfire ...
No spark3/4/2008
  Q: I am trying to get my 80 MG running after letting it sit for a couple of years. I've done all the ...
  A: Richard, the coil does not do the switching, it is just as it's name. It is a coil, actually it is ...
1976 midget3/4/2008
  Q: i have a 1976 midget that i do not want to through alot of money at my problem lies with no spark i ...
  A: Most ignition systems like that can be tested by just confirming power to the coil and confirm no ...
converting 2 mg batteries to one?3/2/2008
  Q: How much work is it to install replace the two batteries in my 69 MGB with one? Is it possible? ...
  A: Yes it is a common modification. I have seen many different versions. The easiest probably is to ...
Starter3/2/2008
  Q: Another question regarding my 77 MGB. When I start my car, ( not all the time ), sometimes I hear ...
  A: The intermittent electrical problem to any mechanic has always been a problem because you have to ...
mg midget2/28/2008
  Q: howard i have a 1500 mg midget 1980 which idles at 1500rpm if i tap the throttle it goes down to ...
  A: First disconnect the throttle cable and see if it still does it to isolate the problem between the ...
Gearbox removal2/28/2008
  Q: My 1980 MGB has a bad leak in the rear seal. Is it possible to remove and reinstall the gearbox ...
  A: I seen it tried two times in different dealerships I worked in and they did do it, but both said ...
1976 midget2/28/2008
  Q: i have a 1976 midget that i do not want to through alot of money at my problem lies with no spark i ...
  A: First since you say you only have 7v at the coil, that tells me you have an external ballast ...
Heater fan2/28/2008
  Q: I'm going through the heater fan controls in my 1980 MGB, and I'm confused by one point. The fan ...
  A: The Booster blower switch is a three position rocker switch. Up for off, center for low speed and ...
Gauge lamp rheostat2/26/2008
  Q: The gauge lamp rheostat in my 1980 MGB has frozen solid. Rather than pay $120 for an OEM ...
  A: I have several manuals on the "B" but couldn't find any quote on the resistance range. I probably ...
mg2/24/2008
  Q: a simple question i have a mgb gt 1972 do you need to fill radiator with water / water and coolant ...
  A: You should check coolant level at least once a month. Some people check their coolant level once a ...
MGB electrical (Hazard?) question2/22/2008
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB. When the key is in the running position and the car is not started, there's a ...
  A: If your car still has the original SU fuel pump it should click not buzz. Electric pumps on just ...
Clutch in Reverse (Not working)2/22/2008
  Q: My '74.0' does not want to seem to reverse. After shifting into reverse and applying the gas, the ...
  A: Yes, an overdrive that is not working correctly can cause reverse not to work. If it sticks solid in ...
Clutch in Reverse (Not working)2/22/2008
  Q: My '74.0' does not want to seem to reverse. After shifting into reverse and applying the gas, the ...
  A: You have to explain a little. The shift lever don't go into reverse? The lever seems to shift into ...
MG Midget Tacho calibration2/22/2008
  Q: The tachometer in my 69 midget is reading much higher than it should be. It seems to be about double ...
  A: Unless you have a double ignition pulse the problem has to be in the tach itself. Find a shop with a ...
speed-& odometer2/21/2008
  Q: My '78 California equiped MG Midget's speedometer is not working and the suggestion of a mechanic ...
  A: If Canada does not require the box, you should be able to install the older cable which I believe ...
Bad engine2/21/2008
  Q: I just completed compression and leakdown testing on my 1800. The results were compelling: 1: 125 ...
  A: The lower pressure readings cold are normal as the oil pressure can't seem to get through that ...
No spark2/20/2008
  Q: I am trying to get my 80 MG running after letting it sit for a couple of years. I've done all the ...
  A: Correct, You want to know if the coil is powered and you want to know if the ignitor is grounding ...
No spark2/19/2008
  Q: I am trying to get my 80 MG running after letting it sit for a couple of years. I've done all the ...
  A: It depends on what type of ignition system you have as to how to test the igniter, but it is easy to ...
79 MGB battery draw2/19/2008
  Q: Had my B running fine the other night. repaired a wire on a speaker and now the battery is almost ...
  A: You could not do anything to a speaker wire to cause all that. You first need a wiring diagram for ...
73 Midget2/18/2008
  Q: I was driving and was in first gear on compression at about 10 mph and powered around a corner and ...
  A: That is why I asked about the lever not moving or moving and not doing anything. There are three ...
MGB battery draw2/17/2008
  Q: I have a 75 MGB with a 1yr old battery. Recently it has started draining down to the point where the ...
  A: I quick and simple test to see if there is a battery drain is to just remove one of the battery ...
starter problem midget 15002/17/2008
  Q: I recently bought a midget 1500 for restauration. Bodywork is sound but I found a 88ah battery built ...
  A: Unless the compression has been jacked up extremely high the lower amp hour batteries should have ...
73 Midget2/17/2008
  Q: I was driving and was in first gear on compression at about 10 mph and powered around a corner and ...
  A: Unfortunately the small cover under the tunnel carpet is not large enough to get access to the ...
74 midgit side light removal2/17/2008
  Q: I forgot i had another question. The turn/running indicator lights on the sides of the car are not ...
  A: Ryan, the lights on the sides are not turn indicator lights, they are only side marker lights. The ...
1979 MGB - Starts with difficulty when engine is cold2/15/2008
  Q: Purchased my russet brown 1979 B last summer and have driven it nearly daily. The Zenith carburetor ...
  A: Yes, the auto choke system on the Stromberg is short lived and that is why many have put the manual ...
Bad engine2/14/2008
  Q: I just completed compression and leakdown testing on my 1800. The results were compelling: 1: 125 ...
  A: There are some other tests you can run to have a clear picture of what you need to do. First check ...
'74 MG midgit2/13/2008
  Q: I have an original AM radio and was wondering what I need to do to upgrade to a modern AM/FM radio.
  A: You don't have to do anything special. Just install it and connect it up. Only older MGs that had ...
Gauges2/12/2008
  Q: All of the gauges on my 1980 MGB are nonfunctional except the oil pressure and speedo, which are ...
  A: Pick one gauge like the fuel gauge. You need to check to see if the the gauge you are going to test ...
MGB electrical (Hazard?) question2/9/2008
  Q: I have a 1980 MGB. When the key is in the running position and the car is not started, there's a ...
  A: Fix one thing at a time and they may or may not be related. First there MUST not be any noise coming ...
HARD STARTS2/6/2008
  Q: HAVING PROBLEMS GETTING MY 1978 B TO FIRE UP. WILL CRANK JUST FINE AND HAS SPARK BUT IS YOU GIVE IT ...
  A: You have one Stromberg carburetor on this car, correct? Is the air filter in place? Your symptoms ...
MGB electrical relay2/5/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB. The ignition relay had been replaced at some time by the previous owner with a ...
  A: A flasher relay can in no way be used as an ignition relay. It would just connect and disconnect as ...
Midget RVI 1433/01 tachometer2/3/2008
  Q: I goofed. I put the battery in as a positive ground in my "69 Midget and started it. Now the tach ...
  A: Do you mean you put it in as a positive ground then changed it back to negative ground and the tach ...
follow-up2/2/2008
  Q: asked to many questions,but what about the wiring problem,any ideas would be helpful. andrew. ...
  A: Andrew, How did you determine you had a power drain? Battery cable off and a test light between ...
Fuel pressure2/2/2008
  Q: I have a 1979 MGB. The electric fuel pump has been replaced with a solid state aftermarket unit. The ...
  A: I have nothing in writing that would tell me what a downdraft Weber should use for pressure but I ...
Fuel pump2/1/2008
  Q: I'm back with more questions on my 1977 MGB Roadster. I'm replacing my fuel pump which is now a ...
  A: The SU pump has the ground spade on the body of the pump and power connection is the spade connector ...
starting problems.2/1/2008
  Q: In 2005 I restored an mg midget 1500 (w reg) for my wife, the car has since only done 1200 miles ...
  A: The starter solenoid has two functions. One is to connect the battery to the starter motor and to ...
Clutch Replacement on '74 Midget1/31/2008
  Q: I am in the midst of selling my '74 midget. It has been in storage for the past 5 months. This ...
  A: While it is true that all MG Midgets require that you remove the engine to access any part of the ...
MG Generator Test1/30/2008
  Q: I have a Lucas 22744B C40 generator that came from a 1961 MGA that has set for years. I atempted to ...
  A: I agree, it is either rebuild time or new. Before that I would take it apart and do a few things. ...
MG Generator Test1/30/2008
  Q: I have a Lucas 22744B C40 generator that came from a 1961 MGA that has set for years. I atempted to ...
  A: Yes you are doing it correctly. When you first connect it up (in the same polarity as you want it in ...
Fuel sending unit1/29/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a new fuel sending unit for a 1964 MGB. My problem is the new sending unit ...
  A: Chad, the mounting surface should be flat with threaded holes to mount the new unit. If the screw ...
starting problems.1/29/2008
  Q: In 2005 I restored an mg midget 1500 (w reg) for my wife, the car has since only done 1200 miles ...
  A: This should be a simple problem to correct. Since it starts with a jumper battery all you need to do ...
1972, 1275 midget question1/28/2008
  Q: Is there a way I can test the (apparently not-working) Tachometer now that I've taken it out of the ...
  A: The tach operates by reading a magnetic field built up each time the coil is grounded. This would be ...
Fuel sending unit1/28/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a new fuel sending unit for a 1964 MGB. My problem is the new sending unit ...
  A: What don't fit about the sending unit? Is the diameter of the steel round plate not correct? The ...
72 MGB rear end locked up1/28/2008
  Q: My 72 had sat for about a year with cooling problems, only bring rolled in and out of the garage ...
  A: It could be either the differential or the brakes so you need to jack the rear up and check. Most ...
Ignition Coil1/26/2008
  Q: You helped me a short while ago with a problem with my head lights. All is working fine now. Traced ...
  A: The coil number does not do me any good to ID the coil. However, I can tell you how to ID a Lucas ...
Clutch slipping1/20/2008
  Q: I have completed an extensive updating of my 1974 MGB Roadster. The car has 93,000 miles with ...
  A: First thing to do is purchase a compression gauge, their not expensive.(You can even find them at ...
MGB Wirering Problems1/19/2008
  Q: 1979 MGB when you turn on the light the motor will crank. This is without the ignition on.White wire ...
  A: The starter solenoid can only activate if the starter relay is triggered or current is applied to ...
74 MG Midget won't start1/16/2008
  Q: The car still won’t start. I have also been consulting with an old school mechanic that I know and ...
  A: Checking available voltage at the coil while cranking is a test to see if the load of starting is ...
crankcase pressure1/16/2008
  Q: I replace the stromburg on my 1979 Midget with a weber down draft. I now have excessive crankcase ...
  A: Either one will burn crankcase vapors, the air filter connection would be the easiest. However, ...
MGB fuel tank1/16/2008
  Q: On a 76 MGB what is the best and safest way to empty the fuel tank. I want to replace the fuel as ...
  A: The earlier "Bs" had a drain plug but I don't remember what year they stopped putting it in but I am ...
74 MG midget won't start1/15/2008
  Q: This past summer I got my 74 midget running after 22 years of storage. Within one day it went from ...
  A: Wetting the plugs is an indication there is not fire or it is weak. Dry the the plugs and spin the ...
73 MGB no key1/13/2008
  Q: I acquired a 73 MGB (long story) and had it brought to my house on a flat bed. There is no key. What ...
  A: As I remember the glove box key is not the ignition key on a 73 "B", so it will be necessary to ...
MG Midget no turn signals or hazard1/13/2008
  Q: This is my first Mg experience and I'd hate to just keep buying parts until it's fixed. I've heard ...
  A: First thing is to get a service manual with a wiring diagram in it. You are correct not to spend any ...
74 MG midget won't start1/13/2008
  Q: This past summer I got my 74 midget running after 22 years of storage. Within one day it went from ...
  A: Several seconds or at least 4 or 5 revolutions with the throttle open is the correct method as you ...
74 midget distributor1/13/2008
  Q: The housing broke on my original 74. I ordered a rebuild. I installed it and the engine would run at ...
  A: The difference in degrees of advance will make a difference in performance but not what you are ...
74 MG midget won't start1/11/2008
  Q: This past summer I got my 74 midget running after 22 years of storage. Within one day it went from ...
  A: Working on problem cars in dealerships and shops I never found it productive to target any ...
clutch hydralics1/10/2008
  Q: 1976 MG MGB REPLACED CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER,BUT CANNOT GET ANY FLUID FLOW FROM MASTER CYLINDER ...
  A: That is a clear cut one. There is a clear and open path between the slave and the reservoir when the ...
1980 MGB1/9/2008
  Q: I'm trying to restore 1980 MGB.Oh my!I need to get a new exhaust system what would you recommend.I ...
  A: I wish you well on your restoration project. I don't have any preference on exhaust systems. I do ...
64 MG midget transmission problem1/5/2008
  Q: I can't get it to shift into reverse. It works fine in the forward gears but seems to be locked out ...
  A: If that is true you have no options because there is nothing you can do outside the trans. You can ...
64 MG midget transmission problem1/4/2008
  Q: I can't get it to shift into reverse. It works fine in the forward gears but seems to be locked out ...
  A: Have you owned the car for some time or are you a new owner? The reverse detent is hard to depress ...
74 mg midget 12751/4/2008
  Q: I took transmission out, took side cover off to check gears,there fine. Put moter and transmission ...
  A: Ok John, If the shift problem only happened after you removed and replaced the shift lever then you ...
74 mg midget 12751/3/2008
  Q: I took transmission out, took side cover off to check gears,there fine. Put moter and transmission ...
  A: Why did you pull it out in the first place? Was this the problem before? I don't understand why ...
Speedometer Cable1/3/2008
  Q: I am having a lot of dificulty with my speedometer. I have replaced the cable and 90 degree gearbox. ...
  A: Yes, the knurled nut should be tight. However you should check the dept of the hole that the short ...
Clutch slipping1/3/2008
  Q: I have completed an extensive updating of my 1974 MGB Roadster. The car has 93,000 miles with ...
  A: 1.Yes, if the clutch is slipping it will continue to get worse, but there is no way I can tell you ...
Fuel Gague1/2/2008
  Q: I recently purchased a 1964 MGB that's in good shape except for some minor flaws. My question is ...
  A: The gauge sending unit is in the right side of the fuel tank and has two wires. Leave the black wire ...
1977 BGB roadster- rubber bumper12/31/2007
  Q: My headlights cut out on me the other day while driving. Checked fuses, OK. I can flash the high ...
  A: I think you are on the right track. check for power on the wires in the harness (car side) when you ...
1977 BGB roadster- rubber bumper12/30/2007
  Q: My headlights cut out on me the other day while driving. Checked fuses, OK. I can flash the high ...
  A: Current goes to the light switch by a brown wire from the fuse. To test the light switch check for ...
mgb front shockers12/24/2007
  Q: got my B on the road for the first time and found both front shockers leaking oil around shafts very ...
  A: When the seals are leaking it is a sign that the bushings are worn so most of the time you would ...
keys locked in boot12/22/2007
  Q: please , my keys are locked in the boot of my p reg mg. i only have one set can you help
  A: I never heard of a "p reg" mg. But that does not matter as all the MGs (after 1963)imported into the ...
Midget Brake Master Cylinder12/13/2007
  Q: I have a 74 Midget that sat up for a few years and what was a brand new brake master cylinder has ...
  A: Try Moss Motors, Victoria British, The Roadster Factory and Engel Imports for the reservoir. If they ...
1966 mgb won't turn over.12/11/2007
  Q: have a problem with my 1966 mgb not turning over. Started it after time in storage and it went fine. ...
  A: The 66 "B" has an external starter solenoid with a rubber button on it so you can do a simple test ...
mgb overdrive switch12/10/2007
  Q: Gday Howard this is a simple one but cant find any reference in my w/shop manuals...i want to ...
  A: On a 78, you need to remove the shift boot and center tunnel carpet to get to a removable plate ...
bleeding the clutch12/8/2007
  Q: I have a "76 MGB that has been sitting for about 15 yrs. I have flushed the old oil out an couple ...
  A: A simple test of the passage way from the reservoir to the bleeder valve is to loosen the reservoir ...
heater12/7/2007
  Q: For some reason i cant get the heat to work in my 68' mg. Any solutions would be a lot of help. ...
  A: Can't get the heat to work. Meaning you can't get the fan to run? Or you can get the fan on but it ...
engine cuts out12/1/2007
  Q: Engine cuts out on accelartion. Doesn't sputter, just drops dead. Checked fuel and distributor ...
  A: On an engine cut off, you should never look for something wrong. ALWAYS look for what is missing. An ...
mg carb11/30/2007
  Q: I`ve just bought a 1976 midgit and was wanting to know what kind and how much oil go`es in the top ...
  A: No you can't hurt the carb by turning it upside down. It only takes a couple of teaspoons of oil. ...
74 MGB wont start11/30/2007
  Q: I just tried some tests on the fuel, it pumps gas very well from the line i removed below the ...
  A: If your engine starts on starting fluid and will not keep running and the pump is clicking rapidly ...
can't get to reverse11/28/2007
  Q: I have a 1969 MGB. 59K miles. Excellent condition. I can't get into reverse. Flushed the tranny ...
  A: There is a strong detent that must be compressed to access reverse. It may be dry and need lube. It ...
79 mgb speedometer removal11/27/2007
  Q: I am trying to remove the speedometer from my '79 mgb roadster. Many people and 2 manuals have told ...
  A: ALL MG speedometers are held in by two nuts on two threaded studs attached to the speedo case. a ...
Headlights and Tail lights do not work11/27/2007
  Q: Howard, the clutch is working, the engine is running, I registered the car after 24 years of being ...
  A: The Pressure Fail Sw. is the sw. on the junction block with all of the brake lines to it. When ...
74 MGB wont start11/27/2007
  Q: When I turn the key, fuel pump doesn't ever stop the noise; but theres half a tank of gas. Car ...
  A: All piston engines only require three things to run. Compression, fire & fuel. But there are ...
MGB gear box noise11/26/2007
  Q: I have a 1966, MGB/ 4spd with overdrive, the gear box has developed a noise sounding like ...
  A: Noises in a MGB gearbox can be many things. But that does not matter because there is nothing you ...
MG slave cylinder11/25/2007
  Q: Where would I find the slave cylinder on car and how to bleed?
  A: The slave cylinder on most MGs is mounted on the bell housing close to where the engine is bolted up ...
Headlights and Tail lights do not work11/24/2007
  Q: Howard, the clutch is working, the engine is running, I registered the car after 24 years of being ...
  A: I found that service manuals are not complete, even the factory manuals so I try to hang on to every ...
Headlights and Tail lights do not work11/24/2007
  Q: Howard, the clutch is working, the engine is running, I registered the car after 24 years of being ...
  A: Robert, look at all the brown wires as they are power supplies. The head light switch powers up the ...
New Clutch Master Cylinder11/19/2007
  Q: Howard, you really seem to know how to answer questions clearly!! Hopefully this one is easy. I ...
  A: The clutch line is larger because it has to move a larger volume of fluid. Smoke after a rebuild ...
'74 midgit clutch11/19/2007
  Q: You said to refill the clutch with DOT4 brake fluid but the manual said 3. How come? ANSWER: Ryan, ...
  A: If the pedal feels firm from the top to the floor it is possible that you have a disk problem, a ...
Cross threaded spark plug11/18/2007
  Q: As my 79 midget had been stood for a year before I bought it, I decided to change the oil plugs and ...
  A: It depends on how badly the threads are damaged. Here is a trick some mechanics use. Put that piston ...
New Clutch Master Cylinder11/18/2007
  Q: Howard, you really seem to know how to answer questions clearly!! Hopefully this one is easy. I ...
  A: In a brake bleed, the lines are very thin and a bubble of air will stay where it is for the next ...
New Clutch Master Cylinder11/18/2007
  Q: Howard, you really seem to know how to answer questions clearly!! Hopefully this one is easy. I ...
  A: Robert, The answer is NO, don't you remember how to spell assume? Read my answer and do the ...
New Clutch Master Cylinder11/17/2007
  Q: Howard, you really seem to know how to answer questions clearly!! Hopefully this one is easy. I ...
  A: The slave cylinder is nothing but a cylinder with a piston and one seal, the only thing that can be ...
1968 MG11/17/2007
  Q: My dad has a 1968 MG that's been sitting for a couple of years. After cgarging the battery, I was ...
  A: Charge the battery and remove the charger and start the car on the battery. Don't condemn the ...
1968 MG11/16/2007
  Q: My dad has a 1968 MG that's been sitting for a couple of years. After cgarging the battery, I was ...
  A: It takes very little current to run the ignition system after it starts. Try spraying something like ...
Antifreeze Leakage into Engine11/11/2007
  Q: On a 1969 Engine and 1972 Body Can Antifreeze leak into the engine Through the Radiator or Oil ...
  A: MG didn't have any oil coolers in the radiator so that is out. I did once see a oil cooler mounted ...
'74 midgit clutch11/11/2007
  Q: You said to refill the clutch with DOT4 brake fluid but the manual said 3. How come? ANSWER: Ryan, ...
  A: The bottom bolt is difficult but can usually be removed with a 90 degree opened end wrench. A tool ...
79 mg midget electrics11/11/2007
  Q: I've been experiencing problems with the windscreen wipers working very slowly and indicators not ...
  A: The first thing you need is a wiring diagram of your car. I would not plug a new electrical switch ...
79 Midget Clutch11/9/2007
  Q: I've been told by former Midget owners that it is possible to replace the clutch without completely ...
  A: I have put a lot of clutches in Midgets and have tried it leaving the trans in and removing the ...
1979 MGB LIMTED11/9/2007
  Q: WAS THE CARPET BLACK IN THE FRONT & TAN IN THE BACK? THE OWNER WANTS TO PUT DUEL SU CARBS ON THIS ...
  A: I never seen an MG with two color carpets (front/back). Moss Motors is pretty much the Guru on paint ...
1967 mg b gt Special edition11/8/2007
  Q: I have recently started restoring my car, to find out the pistons are seized, I've taken the eng out ...
  A: The only thing I can tell you is to try what I said, Put the starter back on, and connect up a good ...
'74 midgit clutch11/8/2007
  Q: You said to refill the clutch with DOT4 brake fluid but the manual said 3. How come?
  A: Ryan, I don't know what manual you have, but DOT 3 brake fluid will eat natural rubber and the ...
79 MG11/8/2007
  Q: Howard, My father owns 1979's MG which has Spitfire engine. And it is a California version so that ...
  A: Yes, all MG midgets from 75 on had 1500 Spitfire engines. As for a name of a hose all you need is to ...
1967 mg b gt Special edition11/7/2007
  Q: I have recently started restoring my car, to find out the pistons are seized, I've taken the eng out ...
  A: The engine turns clockwise as you face the front of the engine. We run into this all the time and ...
1980 MGB Backfire11/5/2007
  Q: When going down a hill, with no foot on the gas pedal, if the engine is holding the car back, I hear ...
  A: The #2 & #3 are ok but there is too much difference between #1,4 and the other two. Be careful that ...
steering rack11/5/2007
  Q: the ball joints on the rack that I bought from Vit Brt is so tight tha it takes great preasure to ...
  A: If the rack is not under a warranty of any kind you can easily do the repair yourself. With the boot ...
1980 MGB Backfire11/5/2007
  Q: When going down a hill, with no foot on the gas pedal, if the engine is holding the car back, I hear ...
  A: Backfires are usually out the tail pipe on deceleration and can be caused by several things. First ...
steering rack11/5/2007
  Q: the ball joints on the rack that I bought from Vit Brt is so tight tha it takes great preasure to ...
  A: The ball joint on each end of the rack should be a little tight and I can't see how they could be so ...
'74 midgit clutch11/5/2007
  Q: I bought a midgit that had been sitting for a while I lost the clutch to where I could not shift in ...
  A: If the slave was leaking fluid you needed to either rebuild or replace it, but by adding DOT 3 fluid ...
removal of 1979 midget steeringwheel11/3/2007
  Q: my 1979 midget has a black rubberized steering wheel with no discernable way to get to the retaining ...
  A: You should have a 4 spoke steering wheel with a small plastic button in the center. You need to pry ...
mgb throttle lever 7611/1/2007
  Q: I broke the tabe off the throttle lever and need to know where I can purchase one. Thank you for ...
  A: The parts suppliers for MGB have most every part for the car but you may have to look up the ...
Unleaded gas11/1/2007
  Q: I bought a 1974 MGB new and drove it for 14 years on gas available at that time. I recently bought ...
  A: You must not be in the US as that is all you can get in the US now is unleaded. The lead in gas was ...
69 Midget11/1/2007
  Q: I recently purchased a 69 Midget and the kid I bought it from had changed the battery, distributor ...
  A: The 69 Midget was negative ground. Look at the ignition coil to see if the terminals are labeled (+) ...
DGAV Weber Heater Hose Installation10/29/2007
  Q: I have a 1975 Midget with the 1500 engine which I am in the process of putting back together after a ...
  A: To get coolant to go in and out of the coolant operated choke on the Weber DGAV carb, you will need ...
1977 MGB 4 speed - 2nd gear crunches10/24/2007
  Q: Howard I have a '77 stock MGB. 4 speed. It engages 1st,2nd, 3rd and 4th without problem going up ...
  A: In the dealership, we just drained the gear oil out and put the engine oil in but it did take a few ...
1977 MGB 4 speed - 2nd gear crunches10/23/2007
  Q: Howard I have a '77 stock MGB. 4 speed. It engages 1st,2nd, 3rd and 4th without problem going up ...
  A: Down shifting is a lost art due to the better synchronizers in newer transmissions. However, there ...
fuses10/23/2007
  Q: I noticed that on one side of my 75 Midget the back tail light was out and the other side's parking ...
  A: First you can not burn a 14 ga wire with a 35 amp fuse and if you used domestic fuses you can't ...
1977 MGB Front Brake Problem10/23/2007
  Q: My 1977 MGB roadster has a right front brake caliper that binds badly. This began when I replaced ...
  A: You need to separate weather the binding is mechanical or hydraulic. This is easy to determine. Just ...
79 Midget - Courtesy Light Door Switch10/15/2007
  Q: I bought a door switch for that turns on the courtesy light when the door opens. I went to install ...
  A: There is only one connection and one wire for the light and that is purple with a white tracer. The ...
Midget, no clutch peddle10/15/2007
  Q: I have a 1969 Midget 1275cc. It has been sitting for over a year. The engine starts fine. I bled ...
  A: Try one more type of bleed. Remove about half of the fluid in the master cylinder and Go down to the ...
72 MGB overheating and clanking10/15/2007
  Q: My son and I are working on restoring a 72 mgb. It will run smoothly and then start clanking - very ...
  A: The compression test shows ok, now look at the oil pressure hot and cold. If you show 25 to 35 PSI ...
No spark10/14/2007
  Q: I have a "76 MGB that has been sitting for about 15 yrs. I have flushed the old oil out an couple ...
  A: Always, when trying to diagnosis a running problem the sequence must be, compression test first, 150 ...
72 MGB overheating and clanking10/11/2007
  Q: My son and I are working on restoring a 72 mgb. It will run smoothly and then start clanking - very ...
  A: What you describe narrows the problem down to 1000 things so you need to do some testing. First ...
Upgraging Fuse Box - Relay - Wiring on 1980 MGB Roadster10/9/2007
  Q: Howard and all others who may help, Because the MGB fusing architecture is poor in that there are a ...
  A: Mike, if you do in fact have 16 ga. wire then what he says may be all true and I can see the need to ...
Upgraging Fuse Box - Relay - Wiring on 1980 MGB Roadster10/8/2007
  Q: Howard and all others who may help, Because the MGB fusing architecture is poor in that there are a ...
  A: Mike, if you split the load evenly, like on the two headlights you can leave the same amp fuse, as ...
Upgraging Fuse Box - Relay - Wiring on 1980 MGB Roadster10/8/2007
  Q: Howard and all others who may help, Because the MGB fusing architecture is poor in that there are a ...
  A: While it is true the MG has several components on each of very few fuses, the MG is not noted for ...
MG 1500 head10/6/2007
  Q: It won't come off.... where's the bolt I missed? I sure can't find it and that head is welded tight ...
  A: If you removed all of the head nuts including the ones under the rocker shaft and the head is stuck ...
car stalls10/6/2007
  Q: I have 74 MGB total rebuild w/ Weber carb. Drive down road a mile or two, the car stalls and quits. ...
  A: Try removing the gas cap for a test run. If that is not the problem you may need to put a test light ...
Mgb 1967 voltage regulator10/5/2007
  Q: My 1967 mgb with a generator is not charging. I cannot get the voltmeter near since it goes crazy. I ...
  A: Mike, a CHARGING generator activates and operates a regulator. THERE ARE NO TESTS YOU CAN MAKE OF A ...
No spark10/5/2007
  Q: I have a "76 MGB that has been sitting for about 15 yrs. I have flushed the old oil out an couple ...
  A: A 76 MGB didn't have points and condenser. But if your's does that makes it easy to test. Remove the ...
Car still runs slightly after ignition turned off10/4/2007
  Q: It kinda chugs for about 3-5 seconds after I've turned the ignition off. This happens everytime I've ...
  A: It depends what year MG this is. If it is an MG with a charcoal canister, it is suppose to have an ...
1980 mgb le in storage10/4/2007
  Q: I have inherited a 1980 mgb le with 142 original miles. It has been in storage for the last 20 ...
  A: you need an experienced MG mechanic, and preferably with an ASE certification. Any good mechanic ...
Mgb 1967 voltage regulator10/3/2007
  Q: My 1967 mgb with a generator is not charging. I cannot get the voltmeter near since it goes crazy. I ...
  A: Mike, I learned early working in dealerships to test everything in a system, even new parts and ...
Mgb 1967 voltage regulator10/3/2007
  Q: My 1967 mgb with a generator is not charging. I cannot get the voltmeter near since it goes crazy. I ...
  A: What you say about the wiring so far is correct, there should be a large brown wire going to the ...
Mg midget intake maniold bolts-lower10/3/2007
  Q: 1978 Mg Midget. I am removing the intake manifold,have the carb, heatshield,and heatshield bracket ...
  A: Jim, I have removed many of these manifolds from the 1500 Midgets (Spitfire engine) and even though ...
MGB Fuel sending unit and gauge10/3/2007
  Q: What is the correct wiring configuration for the sending unit of a positive ground, 1964 MGB ...
  A: The black wire must not be connected to the "Body of the vehicle" It must be connected to the "Body ...
MGB Fuel sending unit and gauge10/2/2007
  Q: What is the correct wiring configuration for the sending unit of a positive ground, 1964 MGB ...
  A: The early MGB only had two connections on the sending unit. One to an insulated spade connector ...
1970 mgb10/1/2007
  Q: I have a 1970 mgb that was running great until I tried to push the wires on the back of the tach so ...
  A: The white w/ black tracer wire does not make contact with the tach. It only makes a loop and goes on ...
need to move brake & clutch pedals further apart to provide shoe room10/1/2007
  Q: the pedals are so close together as to be unsafe . I have measured the foot well and found i can get ...
  A: I am in TN and don't know any one in CA. However, I think Moss Motors has a repair facility besides ...
mgb starter motor10/1/2007
  Q: I have a 1967 MGB which now clicks (solenoid?) when the key is turned but the starter motor does not ...
  A: Try this, as it may be a starter bendix to ring gear problem. Remove all the spark plugs and put it ...
1969 midget window mechanism9/29/2007
  Q: I hope you can help, I am trying to rebuild teh left side window raising mechanism on my Midget, I ...
  A: First confirm that the glass slides up and down easily in the channels by hand. Then when you ...
mgb electrical probs9/29/2007
  Q: I have a 1979 roadster which we have just imported in from the states to france.The shippers lost ...
  A: Not knowing what was done to damage the car, you will need to start from scratch. You need a wiring ...
72 MGB Clutch9/24/2007
  Q: About ever few months the clutch in my MGB goes totally out. I take it in to get to fixed and sure ...
  A: Jerry, "There is no pedal" means you can't DISengage the clutch correct? The clutch is engaged when ...
1973 mg midget9/23/2007
  Q: Howard I just found out that one of my carburetors does not work. It is the one on the left side if ...
  A: That is the piston and it should slide up and down. First unscrew the plastic cap in the top of the ...
mgb starter motor9/23/2007
  Q: I have a 1967 MGB which now clicks (solenoid?) when the key is turned but the starter motor does not ...
  A: You need to do voltage drop tests of the cables. If it is a clicking noise with a charged battery ...
non start no spark at plug leads9/19/2007
  Q: recently bought an mgb 1978 not run for a year ,engine cranks no spark at plug leads or points any ...
  A: Yes, point gap is important. It should be .015 in when on a high point of the cam. If still no spark ...
1979 MG Midget 15009/18/2007
  Q: I reciently purchased a '79 MG Midget 1500 with a Weber DGVA carb. I repaired a vacccum leak on the ...
  A: Some do install electric pumps in the rear near the tank. This puts a positive pressure on the fuel ...
starting problem9/17/2007
  Q: my husband changed the dizzy cap and rotor on my mgb and now the car won't start, I know the firing ...
  A: You are correct about the firing order. The placement for #1 is dependent on where it was placed ...
Gas pedal9/16/2007
  Q: My gas pedal went all the way to the floor and is very loose and will not spring back. What part do ...
  A: You need to look at the throttle linkage to see if the throttle return spring is broken or off. Then ...
1977 mgb 18009/15/2007
  Q: I have owned this car for 17 years and has been run every year since. I have always had a pop in the ...
  A: Paul, a loss of your timing light flash could mean a coil but it could also be anything in the ...
mg 1973 midget9/14/2007
  Q: I did all that you mentioned. It almost fires up. When you start it it kicks 2 times then goes out. ...
  A: #1 is the front spark plug hole and yes you have to have the clutch out and in 4th gear and brake ...
more problems!9/14/2007
  Q: and now I've just driven home, heard a clunking, temp right up, gone up the driveway and theres ...
  A: Sorry Jo, I can't see it from here, you are going to have to hold the car up closer to the PC for me ...
MGB Speedometer9/14/2007
  Q: It's me again. That temp sending to the temp gauge on the 1980 mgb fixed my cooling system. Thank ...
  A: Speedo needle jumps at low speed. This is usually a kink in the inner cable. Coolant leak, look with ...
Choke on 1979 mg midget9/12/2007
  Q: I used to be able to pull and, twist and lock till not needed- now it pulls out and won't lock at ...
  A: The lock is in the cable housing close to the dash. You may be able to make a repair depending on ...
starting problems -1977 MG Midget 15009/9/2007
  Q: I borrowed a Snap-On inline spark plug tester to test my plugs. I cranked the car over each plug in ...
  A: If you have no spark you need to check power to the coil and see if it is the appropriate coil for ...
MGB Speedometer9/8/2007
  Q: It's me again. That temp sending to the temp gauge on the 1980 mgb fixed my cooling system. Thank ...
  A: Remove the speedo cable form the speedo and watch the cable as you move the car. if the cable ...
mg 1973 midget9/8/2007
  Q: I did all that you mentioned. It almost fires up. When you start it it kicks 2 times then goes out. ...
  A: Do the set up as I listed in the previous question but this time when you roll the car forward in ...
mg 1973 midget9/8/2007
  Q: I did all that you mentioned. It almost fires up. When you start it it kicks 2 times then goes out. ...
  A: You need either a timing light or a 12v test light. Take all of the spark plugs out and put the car ...
mg 1973 midget9/7/2007
  Q: I did all that you mentioned. It almost fires up. When you start it it kicks 2 times then goes out. ...
  A: It will do me no good to look at a picture of a black and yellow wire. There are black wires used by ...
mgb clutch bleed difficulty9/5/2007
  Q: Howard, i recently acquired a 76 english B thats been idle for many years.motor ok but cant get any ...
  A: Clutch systems are difficult to bleed because you are normally trying to push air bubbles down a ...
MGB Coil and Fuse Questions9/3/2007
  Q: First I want to thank you for past answers to my questions. You have been very helpful. I finally ...
  A: Great,I am comfortable that you have no blown head gasket. I am also sure you do not have an ...
1973 mg midget9/3/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Yes, turn the shaft until a high point of the cam has the points open and set the gap at EXACTLY ...
starting problems -1977 MG Midget 15009/3/2007
  Q: I borrowed a Snap-On inline spark plug tester to test my plugs. I cranked the car over each plug in ...
  A: Look at the air gap in your distributor to see that it is correct. Most electronic ignition systems ...
MGB Coil and Fuse Questions9/2/2007
  Q: First I want to thank you for past answers to my questions. You have been very helpful. I finally ...
  A: Yes, that plug in the thermostat housing is a good place to check. But, first run the engine until ...
Starting Problems9/2/2007
  Q: Friday I noticed my car turn over very slightly slower than usual, most would have not noticed. Next ...
  A: Yes, Paul the auto industry as a whole has a problem and it is hard to fine people who know what ...
1973 mg midget9/2/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Yes, mechanics do need odd shapped fingers and starnge bent tools which does help. It will be easier ...
MGB Coil and Fuse Questions9/1/2007
  Q: First I want to thank you for past answers to my questions. You have been very helpful. I finally ...
  A: I don't have a good test for a water pump but I have seen some mechanics claim the test they use is ...
Engine cuts out after a few miles of running.8/30/2007
  Q: I purchased the 1971 MGB from an individual in Talladaga, Al. and drove approximately 280 miles back ...
  A: You need to do some tests and the tests need to be done while it is in the failed mode. All piston ...
1975 MGB Wont Start8/30/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: The "Army" green was called "Tundra", Factory code was BLVC 94, (RM# BM178) (DITZ# 44978) (DUP# ...
1975 MGB Wont Start8/30/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: For MGB not GT. Production date started 12/74, ended 8/75 The Vin # started with, GHN5/UF/368090 The ...
Starting Problems8/26/2007
  Q: Friday I noticed my car turn over very slightly slower than usual, most would have not noticed. Next ...
  A: 14v charge rate is ok if it is constant. With the radio fuse out, pull one battery cable off with ...
MGB Coil and Fuse Questions8/25/2007
  Q: First I want to thank you for past answers to my questions. You have been very helpful. I finally ...
  A: 1. A 35 amp fuse would be more appropriate. Install a 35 amp fuse and turn the ignition to "ON". ...
1973 mg midget8/24/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: To remove the dist from the engine you can remove the two 7/16 head bolts that hold the dist plate ...
1973 mg midget8/24/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: that is called the "Pig Tail" by most mechanics and it connects the coil to the points spring. That ...
1973 mg midget8/23/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: It is much easier to put the points and condenser in with the distributor out. You have to reset the ...
Midget fuel tank8/23/2007
  Q: I'm trying to replace the fuel tank on a 75 MG Midget. The original tank appears to have the ...
  A: You have to either talk to who ever sold you the tank to get you the correct tank or have a shop ...
1975 MGB Wont Start8/22/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: First put the battery on your charger on a low charge rate and leave it on for several hours. If a ...
1970 MGB8/21/2007
  Q: On occasion my 1970 MGB won't start - the battery is fine - the fuel pump is fine - it's just ...
  A: I worked for many years as a mechanic and mechanic's instructor. I never found it useful to try to ...
MG Midget 1500 engine serial numbers8/18/2007
  Q: Howard, I have a 77 Spitfire 1500 and I am getting ready to rebuild the engine. When I checked ...
  A: According to my info it is a US (not Calif.specs) MG midget 75 to 79 1500. Which is a Spitfire 1500. ...
1973 mg midget8/17/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Only talk battery post ID not wire color. (+ Post) or (- Post) To test the brown wire to see if it ...
1973 mg midget8/16/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Put a clip on one end of the 12 gauge wire and connect the other end to one side of all three items, ...
mgtf door latch fitting8/15/2007
  Q: The doors on my 55 TF do not latch except on the safety notch. I bought spacers and they don't solve ...
  A: I would not make any wood modifications to get a door to latch. Look closely at the plunger in the ...
1975 MGB Wont Start8/15/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: When you bleed at the slave, you must be sure not to bleed until the reservoir is empty. If you ...
1973 mg midget8/14/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Any 12v door buzzer from any car will do from any junk yard around. Auto parts stores may have some ...
1973 mg midget8/14/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: Yes, but at times some British car mechanics think there may be some truth to it. Most mechanics ...
1973 mg midget8/14/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: The standard method is to disconnect the battery cable and run a test lead with a in-line fuse in it ...
80 MGB Engine won't turn over8/13/2007
  Q: I have an 80 MGB that has been sitting for about 4 years, and the engine will not turn over now...We ...
  A: It is possible that you may have to tear the engine down to brake it loose. But there are a couple ...
1973 mg midget8/13/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: David, What are you calling "Location #2"? Look at the diagram I e-mailed you. Are you calling wire ...
1973 mg midget8/13/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: David, You should do ALL electrical work with the battery disconnected until finished then carefully ...
1973 mg midget8/13/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: British wires contain smoke and if you short them to the body it will let the smoke out of the ...
1973 mg midget8/12/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: There is NO combination of connections of ANY wire in the fuse box that can smoke a wire. You can ...
1977 mgb no start8/12/2007
  Q: i have a 77 mgb that won't start. it has spark, fuel, air, compression, new wires, coil, cap, points ...
  A: Physics dictate that if you have fuel, fire and compression it has to run. However, there are ...
1973 mg midget8/12/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: If you have power on the first fuse location then you must have power on the second because #1 ...
1973 mg midget8/12/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: #1 and #3 wire connection are connected together even if no fuse is installed. #1 and #2 wire ...
1973 MG Midget8/10/2007
  Q: There is a small silver cylinder under left side of dash. Do you know what it is and what color ...
  A: David, look at the end of the cylinder where the wires connect and tell me what the ID is of each ...
1973 mg midget8/10/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom. ...
  A: If you don't see any numbers cast into the plastic identifying #1 and 2 connection check to see if ...
1975 MGB Wont Start8/10/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: It sounds like the clutch is not releasing. My first question is how does the pedal feel? There ...
1973 mg midget8/10/2007
  Q: do you know how the numbers work on the fusesbox? Is number 1 fuse start at top or bottom.
  A: I don't remember the fuses (4) in the 73 Mk IV Midget being numbered. I do remember the connections ...
Mechanical Fuel Pump Installation8/9/2007
  Q: is there any trick to installing a fuel pump on a 1977 MG Midget 1500. ANSWER: Hi Martin, Yes, ...
  A: If the new pump had the same extended arm length then it is probably OK. The two holes being round ...
MGB8/9/2007
  Q: I have a 66 MGB and the tail lights and brake lights sporadically work and don't work. I've checked ...
  A: One of the hardest things to fix on any car is something that quits working at times. Other than ...
Mechanical Fuel Pump Installation8/8/2007
  Q: is there any trick to installing a fuel pump on a 1977 MG Midget 1500.
  A: Yes, there is, first you need to determine if the arm is the same length as the old one as some were ...
79 trunk lid8/6/2007
  Q: Will a 76 trunk lid fit a 79 midget, and also thanks for the wiring diagram, It was the same as the ...
  A: I agree about the diagram however, I have not seen any good ones out there. I have been in the ...
79 midget wiring diagram8/5/2007
  Q: My car is turning over but has no spark. There are about 6 wires going to the coil. and one wire is ...
  A: Matt, Unless someone has rewired the ignition for some reason like installing an aftermarket ...
77 Midget Carb problems7/31/2007
  Q: Hey Howard, My wife and I have slowly replaced part after part on our 77 Midget. Our latest problem ...
  A: The carb mixture adjustment is under the top cap down in the oil. The tool is a 3mm Allen wrench. ...
1975 MGB Wont Start7/31/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: You can put it anywhere you want as long as it firmly connects the engine/transmission unit to the ...
Midget clutch hydraulics7/30/2007
  Q: Howard- I recently rebuilt the trans in my 75 Midget 1500. Replaced the laygear, reverse idler, and ...
  A: When I have a problem like that on a car that enclose the arm and clutch rod (mostly Triumphs)I just ...
1975 MGB Wont Start7/26/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: You found your problem. When you fry a throttle cable it is a 100% sure thing that you have NO ...
1975 MGB Wont Start7/26/2007
  Q: I can not get my 75 MGB to start. I had the starter rebuit. The engine does not turn over. The only ...
  A: You can't expect a spark if you can't get the engine to turn over. You need a volt meter to test ...
MGB Engine Eatrh Strap7/25/2007
  Q: I asked the following question of another allexperts expert and got an answer, but I thought maybe ...
  A: The guy is correct, it don't matter where the ground strap is placed as long as it connects the ...
MG Midget Clutch7/24/2007
  Q: I recently replaced the clutch plate on a '77 MG Midget. It worked well for several months, then ...
  A: If you have very little free play in the pedal and the pedal feels firm as soon as you start to ...
1976 MG won't start7/23/2007
  Q: It has sat up for 2 years, but I drove it several times yesterday and went out to start it today and ...
  A: Mechanics have a saying that goes; "The easiest car in the world to fix is one that won't run and ...
spongy brakes / Engine shakes @ 50 mph7/22/2007
  Q: 2 things: I just purchased a beautiful 1975 MG Midget in hopes to turn around and sell it. (The ...
  A: #1. You have two issues on the brakes that may have two problems. soft brakes can either be air in ...
1975 mg midget eletrical problem?7/17/2007
  Q: I just purchased a 1975 midget,it runs well.I had a problem with the horn, and also the brake ...
  A: You need a wiring diagram for the car to correct all those problems but do look at the fuses first. ...
Webber carb7/17/2007
  Q: Howard, I,m changing my Stromberg for a Webber carb. They don't have the same hook-up as far as ...
  A: The large hose from the side cover (tappet cover) either needs to go to an air cleaner or if there ...
Webber carb7/15/2007
  Q: Howard, I,m changing my Stromberg for a Webber carb. They don't have the same hook-up as far as ...
  A: With the engine running check for vacuum on the two ports. If one has vacuum at idle then it will go ...
1977 MGB Repair7/12/2007
  Q: I recently moved to the Northwest suburbs of Chicago in Wood Dale, and have not found anyone in the ...
  A: I don't have any contacts in Chicago but I am sure there are many shops in the area that can work ...
Midget steering rack7/7/2007
  Q: I'm installing a used 68 Midget steering rack. The ball joints that attach the arms to the rack seem ...
  A: I have not seen any of the components of the rack listed lately but also have been able to tighten ...
Midget steering rack7/7/2007
  Q: I'm installing a used 68 Midget steering rack. The ball joints that attach the arms to the rack seem ...
  A: The tie rod should be able to be moved up/down and forward/back but have NO in/out movement meaning ...
65 MGB REAR WHEEL CYLINDER REPLACEMENT7/6/2007
  Q: ANY SPECIAL TOOL NEEDED/AVAILABLE OR JUST A THIRD HAND.HAVE ARTHRITIS IN FINGERS.
  A: Yes, if you are refering to the spring clips holding the cyclinders on to the backing plates and all ...
A series engine starting problems6/29/2007
  Q: but the same A-series engine etc as in the MG Midget. My carburettor (SU) is very worn apparently ...
  A: the choke of an SU is not a choke but it just loweres the jet in relation to the needle. It is very ...
horn switch repair6/12/2007
  Q: 78 MGB. Sometimes the horns work fine. Other times only 1 & lom note only, or no sound at all. Horns ...
  A: The horns (both) are powered by a purple wire (hot all the time) and grounded (both) by the horn ...
Retainer straps5/30/2007
  Q: I replaced my worn out retainer straps with new ones on the rear of my 74 MGB Roadster. They both ...
  A: I wouldn't drive it very much because I believe if you go over a hump in the road like a rail road ...
sittting MG5/6/2007
  Q: appreciated. I have a '73 MGB that has been sitting for about 5 years without being started (in a ...
  A: These are my recommendations, First drain all fluids including transmission and differential and ...
MGB Carbaration4/29/2007
  Q: 1980 MB B When I remove the gas cap to fill up, there is a loud "whoosh" of air. This has happend ...
  A: On the later MGBs they vented the gas tank up to and through two charcoal canisters so that fuel ...

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