Tappet Chatter Canberra Club Journalcar of the MG of Tappet Chatter Tappet

Number 465 April 2021 April 465 Number

April 2021 Tappet Chatter Canberra Club JournalCar of the MG of Tappet Chatter Tappet

2 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Tappet Chatter Number 465 April 2021

Contents: Official Journal of the MG Car Club Canberra Inc Presidents Torque 6 ABN: 49 156 199 381

Editorial 7 Correspondence to: Torque 9 Post Office Box 4141 Ladies Corner 11 Weston Creek ACT 2611

The new MG Sports Car 13 Monthly Meetings are held GOF 2021 16 on the second Thursday of MGB Brake Light Switch 17 each month, (except January), at St Peter's Brake Bleeding 19 Anglican Church Hall, cnr of Final update Autumn Weekend Away 22 Parkinson St & Watling Pl, Weston at 7:45pm. OAM For Coralie Amos 23 Club Calendar 25 Banking Details Sporting Report 28 BSB: 633-000 MG HS Plug-in Hybrid 36 Account: 144920741 Services Directory 42 Account Name: MG Car Club Help Line 44 Canberra Inc Marquet 45

Acknowledgments – the editorial team thanks all A ‘Lunchtime Natter’ is held at Weston Park, Yarralumla who contributed articles and photographs for this (second picnic spot on the month’s magazine. right) each Tuesday from 12.30pm. Photo Malcolm Robertson The MG Car Club Canberra Inc. accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or reliability of articles, correspondence, opinions and advertisements contained herein.

Articles may be copied for publication by Car Clubs, but an acknowledgement and due accreditation is expected.

Printed Post Approved 100003009

Club member Rob McIver navigating the flags April 2021 Tappet Chatter 3

MG CAR CLUB CANBERRA INC.

LIFE MEMBERS: Margaret Brown OAM, Malcolm Robertson, Ian Holden, Brian Oxley, Kent Brown & Brian Calder.

COMMITTEE 2020 / 2021

President: Vice President Peter Dalton Kent Brown 0412 788 217 0412 558 029 [email protected] [email protected]

Secretary Treasurer Trevor Finklaire Brian Calder 0408 612 336 0434 307 742

[email protected] [email protected]

Committee Member Committee Member Trevor Clement Laurie Gardiner 0411 102 759 0412 093 151 (Membership) (Displays) [email protected] [email protected]

Public Officer Committee Member Trevor Finklaire Mark Horsfield 0408 612 336 0415 400 044 (Editor) [email protected] [email protected]

4 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

MG CAR CLUB CANBERRA INC.

NON COMMITTEE 2020

CACTMC Delegates: Brian Calder 0434 307 742 [email protected]

Social Coordinator: Vacant [email protected]

Asst Social Coord: Graeme Corbett 0437 679 497 [email protected]

Motor Sport Coordinator: Kent Brown 0412 558 029 [email protected]

Club CRS Registrar:(Historic Plates:)

(Northside) Greg Whitfield 0498 107 658 [email protected]

(Southside) Robert Chilman 0412 024 228 [email protected]

Manager of Club Regalia: Bob Tazzyman 0418 410 482 [email protected]

Manager of Club Library: Ewan Ward 4911 112 291 [email protected]

CAMS Delegate: Kent Brown 0412 558 029 [email protected]

Natmeet Coordinator : Vacant [email protected]

Environmental Coordinator: Malcolm Robertson 0408 627 685 [email protected]

Club Car Trailer: Laurie Gardiner 0418 488 931 [email protected]

Tappet Chatter Distribution: Laurie Gardiner 0418 488 931

Club Workshop & Equipment: Laurie Gardiner 0418 488 931 [email protected]

Webmaster: Mark Horsfield 0415 400 044 [email protected]

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 5

President’s Torque

G owners in our region join our club for many reasons. Historic vehicle M registration, motor sport, mechanical advice or engaging with like minded MG friends are just some. When you read our club magazine to enjoy the articles and or access the magazines of other clubs internationally please be aware this is a quite unique communication for your enjoyment at a very modest cost. Given the constraints of international travel or even interstate holidays, if you are one of our members near and far that haven’t come to a club meeting or partici- pated in club runs, workshop days or any of our touring activities you are miss- ing out on so much MG motoring enjoyment. We are not merely a blokes motor club but are an inclusive organisation that provides enjoyment for ladies also, be it social or mechanical. An instance of this inclusivity is the popularity of the coming run next month to Forbes. Most of the 25 MGs participating so far in the two night trip away will be couples where there is much enjoyable friendly banter and sharing of their sto- ries about their travels and travails for not only the pilot but also from the view of the navigesseur. o folks come and participate in some of our many club activities and enable our club to put a Spring into your Autumn months.

Check out the Club Calendar and join in.

President Pete

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Editorial

Many MG clubs around the country have been publishing their magazines electronically for some time now, especially the smaller clubs like ours. We first trialed an electronic version in July 2012, which was received with mixed emotions. A lot of members still liked the tactile experience of licking their fingers and turning the professionally printed page. So we continued to print hardcopy magazines Over a period I tried to do different things with the electronic version such as including MG inspired musical tracks, MG related video’s and embedded links to off-site information. Some methods worked, some did not. That said, our magazine still has a good mix of video, music and active links to keep most enter- tained. As time progressed more and more members began to become accustomed to the electronic version and no longer wanted or ‘needed’ the hardcopy magazine to get their monthly fill of MG information. We are at the point in time now where we produce around 10 hardcopies per month for the members who either don’t have a computer or cannot operate a computer. It appears that the larger clubs are seeing the logistical and fiscal benefits of electronic magazines, as the Sydney club has just announced they are migrating to an electronic version, and the courtesy copy our club gets will hence forth be digital. It is great to see the larger clubs accepting this medium, and hopefully it will drive electronic competitiveness and all our magazines will evolve and develop in a way that benefits MG Club members Australia wide, if not globally. Lets hope their magazine does not get ignored at judging time, like ours has for the past number of years because it was electronic and not hard copy.

Mark

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 7

Torque

MG Car Club Canberra on the Web

Website: (http://mgcccanberra.org.au)

View our website for information on upcoming events, past events and Gallery's

Facebook Social Page: (https://www.facebook.com/groups/MGCCCSocial) See what other club members are doing, interesting articles from around the web, or, just catching up or chatting.

Please send contributions for the May 2021 issue of Tappet Chatter to the Editor by Friday 30 April 2021 at: [email protected]

Club Trailer Bookings February Meeting Guest Speaker he procedure and protocol for The guest speaker at the February T booking the MG Car Club car meeting was John McGrath Auto trailer is: Group sales Consultant Aiden Craig who brought along the newly release 1. Bookings for the trailer must be MG ZS EV. The EV is a hybrid petrol/ made during business hours; electric vehicle for the Australian mar- 2. Bookings must be made at least 48 ket which was released in late Janu- hours in advance; ary. 3. The trailer must be picked up from the storage facility during business hours; 4. Only genuine emergencies will be considered outside these timeframes. Meeting Minutes Members are reminded that copies of meeting minutes can be requested from the Club Secretary at email Members showed a lot of interest in [email protected] the hybrid and a lot of questions were

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fired at Aiden. I think he went away a li9ttle shell shocked. There have been a number of articles in Tappet Chatter over recent months about this vehicle so I won’t bore you with the details. It is good to see the Local Dealership engaging with the club.

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 9

OIL RECYCLING We accept used engine oil in sealed containers (No bigger than 10L) at Oil Recycling is now available at se- selected sites and will be collected for lected Supercheap Auto Stores. recycling. RECYCLING IN 3 EASY STEPS 1. Seal old engine oil, making sure the cap is on tightly. 2. Locate your nearest store below and put it in the big yellow bin. 3. Replace your old oil.

There are now 142 Supercheap Auto stores Australia wide that offer oil re- Automotive Hacks cycling to encourage our customer to # 1 When your windscreen wipers dispose of an oil in a safe and envi- don’t work. ronmentally responsible manner. We call this “the Bob initiative”.

10 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Ladies Corner

Or Ladies in MG’s by Deb Bailey

Hello to all hope everyone has had a RULES FOR GROWING OLD lovely Easter, what lovely weather that 1. No sound is to be made when is helping us to transition through to standing up from a seated posi- Winter. tion – and no hanging on to the Please remember the run on the 18th chair, door or table either! Get April to Heavy Horse Heaven the those thigh muscles working. more the merrier. 2. Never say “When I was your age” – that time is long past and will not come again. 3. Keep your mouth shut when walking or sitting. Your mouth should be open only to talk, (quietly!) or to eat or drink. 4. You will stay abreast of the technology. I will never hear you say “Oh I can’t deal with these newfangled things!”. 5. I do not want to hear the details of your procedures. The only correct answer to the question, Just for a bit of fun Jo Blackburn has “How are you?” is “Never bet- shared with us ter!”

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 11

Lionel Shriver on growing old – from “The motion of the body through space”: “She advanced toward apathy with open arms. She wasn’t about to ad- vertise the fact – the argument wasn’t worth having – but she was not obliged to give a flying fig about cli- Regalia mate change, species extinction, or nuclear proliferation….The very best CLUB CLOTHING thing about getting old was basking in Shirts - Cotton Long Sleeve $32.00 this great big not-giving-a- Shirts-Cotton Short Sleeve $30.00 shit….Marvelously, nothing she did Polo Shirts - Men's & Ladies $25.00 exerted any appreciable influence on Polo Fleece full zip Jacket - Men's $35.00 the rest of the world…Her inconse- quence made the planet safer for eve- Micro Fleece full zip Jacket- Ladies $35.00 ryone ….Aging was proving one long Nylon full zip Spray Jackets-Unlined $30.00 holiday. She was harmless – alt- OTHER ITEMS hough she’d be the first to agree that she and her heedless ilk should prob- Club Coffee Mugs (Bendigo Pottery) $12.00 ably be denied the vote. The future Club Grille Badges $22.00 didn’t need her, and she didn’t need Club Lapel Badges $ 6.00 it. Others behind her would discover it Car Lapel Badges $10.00 soon enough: the bliss of sublime in- Club Windscreen Stickers $ 2.00 difference”. MG Octagon Car Lapel Badges $10.00 Thanks for sharing Jo MG Key Rings $ 7.00 So until next month stay safe Sew-on Embroidered MG Logo in cloth $ 8.00

12 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

THE MG CYBERSTER – CONCEPT TO DEBUT AT SHANGHAI SHOW

hese are the first images of MG’s Other striking details of the MG T vision of the future – Cyberster are the 'laser belt' LED strip the Cyberster concept car. down the side of the car and the outline of the door, which follows the Set to debut at the 2021 Shanghai direction of the LED strip. Auto Show later this month, the Cyberster - developed by the team at Its powerful sports car profile has a the MG Advanced Design Centre in distinct two-stage shoulder line, with a London – is a two-door, two-seater flattened ‘kamm tail’ rear. The tail sports car recalling the brand’s lamps are of LED construction and are tradition, drawing a number of styling integrated flat into the rear of the car, cues from the classic MGB Roadster. projecting a digital image that echoes MG’s British heritage. It features classic round MG headlights, coupled with a slim grille Carl Gotham, Director of SAIC Design design, along with interactive ‘Magic Advanced London, said: “The Eye’ headlights that open when Cyberster is a bold statement that switched on. looks strongly into MG’s future, April 2021 Tappet Chatter 13

at the Shanghai Motor Show (April 21- 28, 2021). MG currently offers three plug-in models in the UK – the established MG ZS EV, the game-changing All New MG5 EV and MG HS Plug-in, all backed up by MG’s incredible 7 year warranty and fast-developing dealer touching on our heritage but more network. Its UK Advanced Design HQ importantly building on our cutting employs over 40 designers. edge technology and advanced design. “Sports cars are the lifeblood of the MG DNA and Cyberster is a hugely exciting concept for us.” The Cyberster’s intelligent all-electric architecture will enable an EV range of 800km (500 miles) and deliver a 0-100km/h time (0-62mph) of less than three seconds. It will also feature 5G interconnectivity. More information on the Cyberster will be revealed when the model is shown

14 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 15

GOF is a GO for 2021

e have received Saturday will be at the W advice from the pleasure of the Wagga Wagga MG Club Club for morning registra- that GOF is on in 2021. tions a regional motor fun followed by afternoon tea, As always being held on probably at the Church the second weekend in near the Charles Sturt. September, this years The evening will be capped dates are Friday 10- off by the event dinner at the Mercure Sunday 12. Motel. Limited accommodation has been The Sunday morning breakfast can be reserved at the Charles Sturt Motel on had at the display venue prior to the Tarcutta Street, which has been our distribution of trophies. staple abode for many years. Once trophies are presented the If more people wish to attend than return journey to Canberra can begin. there are rooms at the Charles Sturt, Although there will be no set route to we will find other group lodging for take, many often choose to drive to- those participants. gether to a lunch destination after Friday will find us having a mid which the tendency is to then just morning departure from a point yet to motor on home. be determined, and follow another Registration forms will be available on interesting route created by Nome to a the Wagga Club site shortly, which lunch destination. participants need to fill in and return to Following lunch we can amble on to the Wagga Club, with payment. Wagga, where if the previous couple Those wishing to attend should lodge of GOF’s are an indication, the Wagga their interest with Mark & Naomi Club will have an afternoon tea on Horsfield at offer for those wishing to attend. [email protected] Friday evening, following

’Sundowners’ we will once again garner sustenance at the Union Club Hotel which is a short(ish) walk from the Charles Sturt.

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MGB Mk II Brake Light Switch

By John Dowden

hile stopped at some traffic electrical plug which screws into the W lights in Fyshwick, a friendly junction of several brake lines. fellow came up to the car to tell me An easy way to check if the switch is the brake lights were not working. I the problem is to bypass it. I took off got home without being stopped by the two spade connectors then joined the Police and proceeded to investi- them together with a short piece of gate. When checking your brake electrical wire. Turning the ignition on lights it’s really useful to have some- and pressing the brake pedal saw the one to tell you whether they light up or lights working once more. not! I ordered a replacement switch which It would be unusual for both bulbs to arrived a few days later. The postage blow at once. All the other lights were from Sydney was almost as much as working, so it had to be a problem in the part. the brake light circuit. The prime suspect was a fault in the brake light The old switch would require removal switch. This problem does not seem with a 1 inch socket, however I did not to be discussed in the Haynes manu- have one deep enough to fit over the al, perhaps because it is easy to fix. protruding prongs (see photo). The only socket I had that size was for a ¾ On the early MGBs with single circuit inch ratchet. When I put that on I brakes, the switch is in the engine bay quickly realised that one turn would on the driver’s side wheel arch. (See probably rip the brake lines apart. The photo below). It looks like a two-pin solution was to use a 1 inch ring spanner on the switch.

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 17

I didn’t know how much brake fluid might leak out when the switch was unscrewed. Some rags wrapped around the area to absorb any spills seemed like a good idea. I had the new switch ready to screw in as soon as the old one came out. This quick change resulted in no loss of brake fluid. If it did leak, the brakes would probably need bleeding. The new switch was slightly smaller I found that the old switch would not than the old one. It needed a 7/8th budge. As more torque was needed I spanner to tighten it up. After that it held the body of the junction of the was just a case of reconnecting the brake lines with a pair of vice-grip spade terminals. It doesn’t matter pliers, so that it would not rotate when which way round they go. Once again I applied force to the switch. A lot of an assistant was needed to check the WD40 was required before the switch brake lights were working again when turned. the pedal was pushed. Job done.

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Brake Bleeding By Geoff Piddington

rake bleeding can be fraught with prepared to replace the offending B obstacles. The following may be brake bleeding nipple or union. Note, of assistance: I have yet to find a good quality open brake union wrench under $50 - so The first obstacle will be slackening off these I avoid. the brake bleeder nipple. The brake bleeding operation is (if you Subject to access, if past ownership believe the manual) simplicity itself. has been kind and has not tightened the brake bleeder nipple excessively, The basic method utilises two persons the brake bleeding nipple will accept and need not be detailed here. the standard ring spanner, a multi Should this basic exercise not work, point crowfoot or L Type open ended you will be drawn to alternative bleed- ring wrench (if access is difficult, the ing methods - usually involving two latter wrenches can remove most pressure or vacuum based devices, brake bleeding nipples and unions these can be found with operating without issues). techniques via the internet and YouTube.

If the brake bleeding nipple (or union) A common difficulty encountered with is corroded or has been abused and pressure and vacuum assisted brake rounded, you will have to resort to the bleeding, is air or fluid leakage past Irving 4LW Vise Grip, an essential tool the thread of the brake bleeding nipple for the removal of damaged brake after it has been opened with the bleeding nipples and unions that has thread under pressure or vacuum. saved many marriages, but be This leakage can give false readings

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 19

(note, the thread does not seal the As a brake bleeding nipple or union bleed bleeding nipple, it enables thread sealant, rubber or silicone pressure to be placed on the seating grease may, depending upon the between the brake bleeder nipple and thread condition offer an alternative to the brake caliper/cylinder, sealing the a non hardening thread sealant. system at this point). It should also be Permatex #56521 a non hardening noted, that with the exception of DOT thread sealant is a close relative to the 5, brake fluid will absorb water. It thread sealant applied to Speed follows, that brake fluid on a brake Bleeder brake nipples and is frequent- bleeding nipple (or union) thread if left ly utilised. Note, sealing the brake to its own undisturbed devices, will bleeder nipple/union thread will pre- absorb moisture and develop serve the thread from future corro- corrosion at a future date returning sion, it will not stop leaks that origi- you to para one, unless treated with a nate from a damaged brake bleeder thread sealant or a rubber/silicone nipple or union seat. grease prior to assembly. Brake bleeding nipple/union thread sealant.

Applying a sealant to a brake bleeding nipple or union thread will seal the thread from moisture and deter future corrosion. It will also stop the leakage of air or brake fluid past the thread of the open brake bleeding nipple while bleeding. Note, when applying thread sealant, allow the first two threads above the bleed bleeding nipple 'point' to be sealant free and do not over tighten. 20 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 21

Workshop Day

Saturday 13 March

ur first workshop O for some time was conducted on Saturday 13 March at our workshop facility in Fyshwick. The theme for the day was “front end suspension’. “But for what model” you may very well ask… Pretty much any model from the YA to the Mk IV MGB.

That’s right. The main configuration We were also taken through how to did not change for that entire time, upscale the front suspension from the which one should take away that the use of needle bearings in the King Pin setup was ahead of it’s time. to changing the camber angle with Kent took us through how the various offset bushes. bits attach together, what order to re- Unfortunately due to COVID we could assemble them and how each part not whip up the traditional sausage acts / reacts with the next. sizzle for lunch.

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own tea and coffee. Which by no means is a substitute for Tanya’s coffee There were 16 souls how braved the great outdoors, including a new member who has just purchased a Rubber- nose MGBGT. Some cars went up on the ramp and other various problems and issues were solved through various group discussions.

Another unfortunate circumstance was that Tanya’s coffee shop has closed which meant we had to fend for our- selves, GASP! This necessitated us having to fumble around and set up the club urn, so we could make our

Mark under ‘Romeo’ re-annealing the copper washer at the junction of the clutch slave cylinder. Doing this fixed the leak under pressure of the clutch system. At the end of the day all cars went home much better than they arrived. Oh! I forgot about Mick. Mick Gentleman went to start his MGA and was confronted with a horrible noise from under the bonnet. Closer inspection revealed that the pinion spring on his starter motor had failed and the pinion was not disengaging from the flywheel. The result was that Mick’s ‘A’ had to have a sleepover on the hoist until the repairs could be effected. I am happy to say that a replacement starter motor was acquired, repairs completed and the A is back on the road.

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 23

24 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

A final update on our Autumn Weekend Away 14, 15, 16 May 2021

By Christine & Brian Calder

egistrations are now closed for motel directly. Your motel tariff R our Weekend Away to Forbes on will include a continental buffet Friday 14 May, Saturday 15 May and breakfast. Sunday 16 May 2021. If you have • Your Touring Fee will be registered and you have any $110pp which you can pay to questions about the event, please the Club Treasurer anytime contact the event organisers Brian & from now until departure day. Christine Calder direct at: EFT or direct deposit is the [email protected] or preferred method: BSB 633- 0434 307742. 000; Account 144920741; MG For your forward planning here is what Car Club Canberra Inc. Please you need to know: use your Surname and WEA as the identifier. • We will depart the Dinosaur Museum car park at Gold Creek • Whatever the NSW or local at 10.00am on Friday 14 May. rules are for Covid; we will Please plan to be there by no comply. later than 9.45am to ensure that Finally, if you have your you receive your ‘run pack’ and name on the list you will any last-minute updates. receive an email • You will be home by 4.30pm on confirming all details at Sunday 16 May. least three weeks prior to departure. • Our tour will only be on sealed roads, so there is no need to worry about bringing your MG. Expect a round trip of less than 600km over the weekend.

• Our accommodation is at the Plainsman Motel in Forbes. A group booking has been made – please do not contact the April 2021 Tappet Chatter 25

26 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 27

OAM Awarded to Club Member Coralie Amos

ne of our Club members was • Manager, Silver O awarded an OAM on Australia Threads Seniors Day. Tap ensemble • Member, Canberra Antique and Coralie Amos, from Scullin was Classic Motor Club awarded the OAM ‘For service to the • Member, MG Car Club Canber- community through a range of roles’. ra • Member, Canberra Callig- Australian National Museum of raphy Society Education • Administrator and Volunteer, • Honorary Collections Manager, Boomerangs Softball Club current • Course Rater, Women’s Golf • Member, Board of New South Wales Management, current • Rules, Yowani Country Club • Awards and Recognition Include: Australian Red Cross • Voluntary Service Award, • Volunteer, Hospital Visits Calvary Health Care, 2016 Scheme, Calvary Private • Life Member, Central Southern Hospital 2001-2010 Golf Association, 2012 • Volunteer, Meals on Wheels • Life Member, Boomerang 1983-2011. Softball Club

Central Southern Golf Association The Club Committee and members congratulate Coralie on this significant • President, 2008, 1996-1999. achievement. • Vice President, 2006-2007. • Handicap Manager, 2005,1990

Community

• Former President, Secretary and Treasurer, Magpies Belconnen Golf Club • Volunteer, Calvary Care Mental Health Unit, 10 Years

28 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

FOR ALL YOUR MG NEEDS No matter what type of MG you have, we can help to make your motoring hassle free.

From simple tune-ups on the classics to changing the timing belts or pumping up your hydroelastic suspension on the moderns Come and see us

Nylon full zip Spray Jackets-Unlined $30.00

Regalia

CLUB CLOTHING OTHER ITEMS Shirts - Cotton Long Sleeve $32.00 Club Coffee Mugs (Bendigo Pottery) Shirts-Cotton Short Sleeve $30.00 $12.00 Polo Shirts - Men's & Ladies $25.00 Club Grille Badges $22.00 Polo Fleece full zip Jacket - Men's $35.00 Club Lapel Badges $ 6.00 Micro Fleece full zip Jacket- Ladies $35.00

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 29

Other Club & Online Magazines

30 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Club Calendar 2020

Sunday’s Breakfast @ Café 34, Queanbeyan. Simply turn up from 830am in your MG.

Tuesday’s A morning tea at the Weston Park Train Station, simply turn up at 10:00am in your MG. Followed by a Lunchtime Natter at Weston Park (2nd right turn), simply turn up for 12:00 pm in your MG

Upcoming Events (For more detail click here for the club calendar)

April Wed 7th Mid Week Meander - Four Winds Winer Thu 8th Club Monthly Meeting Sat 17th Wheels of Wamboin Sun 18th Run to Heavy Horses Rescue Farm

May Wed 05th Midweek Meander. Combined MG/Triumph Clubs run - TBA. Thu 13th Club monthly meeting Fri 14th Weekend Away to Forbes 14 to 16 May. Sun 23rd Club Monthly Run - Details TBA

Notes: Club Events Organised: An event that is organised by the club and consequently having a “club organiser, meeting points, schedule of events” Approved: An event listed in the calendar or Tappet Chatter for the purpose of allowing members to use their concessionally registered vehicle where there is no club organiser . Tappet Chatter: There may also be events not listed on calendar but appear in the club magazine, Tap- pet Chatter. These events may be identified in an article, such as the Sporting Report or upcoming event related article, or by way of an advertisement or flyer printed on a page. These events, if not listed in the calendar, are to be taken as Approved events. If however a member wishes to take on organisation of an approved event, they should contact the Social Team to begin the process.

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FORECAST 2021 This list is advisory and by no means exhaustive. It is also subject to change. Details are available in the Club Calendar. Click here Whats Happening October Fri 01st MG Pre-War & TYme Event. 01 June - 04 Oct Wed 02nd Midweek Meander - TBA Wed 06th Midweek Meander - TBA Sat 05th Ladies Lunch—TBA Thu 14th Club monthly meeting Sun 06th Motorkhana Sun 17th Social Run - TBA Thu 10th Club monthly meeting November Sun 20th Social Run - TBA Wed 03rd Midweek Meander - TBA July Thu 11th Club monthly meeting Wed 07th Midweek Meander - TBA Sun 14th Motorkhana Thu 08th Club monthly meeting Sun 21st Run - TBA Sun18th Social Run - TBA December Sat 24th Club Presentation Night Wed 01st Midweek Meander - TBA August Sat 4th Ladies Run—TBA Wed 04th Midweek Meander - TBA Sun 05th Terribly British Day - TBA Thu 12th Club monthly meeting Thu 09th Club monthly meeting & Christmas party - TBA Sun 22nd Social Run - TBA Sun 29th HSRCA Wakefield Park Social Lap September Wed 01st Midweek Meander - TBA Sat 04th Ladies Run—TBA Sun 05th Motorkhana Thu 09th Club monthly meeting followed by AGM Fri 10th Gathering of the Faithful 10-12 Sep - TBA Sun19th Social Run - TBA

See calendar for additional details.” (Click here)

32 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Video’s Click image to watch video

The Greatest Test Driver of All Time: Dorman Dewis

MG ZS Electric Vehicle - Australian Review

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 33

Video’s Click image to watch video

MG Overdrive Circuits

How to Build an MG TD (in 3 minutes)

34 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

MG ZT – The Time Is Now

ating a line of sporting ‘Z’ cars based on the existing Rover catalogue. Ulti- mately, however, it turned out to be one of their better decisions.

MG are renowned for building endur- ingly popular, nippy little sports cars. Rover on the other hand have always had somewhat of a geriatric reputation Reminiscent of the Montego turbo in in terms of the vehicles they produce the 80s, MG Rover took the standard and it’s fair to say that the word 75 and free from BMW’s previous or- ‘sporting’ doesn’t immediately spring ders not to make sporting saloons, to mind when discussing the marque. reworked the car, albeit with a limited So, when it was announced in 2000 budget and timeframe. The design that a performance-oriented version of remained ostensibly the same with Rover’s refined but rather flaccid 75 only the addition of a new bumper and saloon would be produced by the grill, trim pieces, boot spoiler and newly formed MG Rover company beefier wheels and low-profile tyres to (along with similar versions for all cars differentiate it from its donor, whilst in the range) scepticism ran rife. the interior was updated with new MG Rover was created in May of that leather and alcantara seats, dash and year following the famous £10 buyout gauges. The bulk of the improvements of what was essentially the remnants were saved for the mechanicals with of the original Rover Group by those the suspension and brakes receiving Phoenix Consortium lot. BMW mean- an overhaul and a choice of engines while had promptly made like Elvis ranging from the standard Rover 75 and left the building after selling eve- lumps through to the tuned 190 V6, rything that wasn’t nailed down and so peaking with a quite frankly ludicrous the top brass at MG Rover, in what V8 offered in the ZT 260. So how did it many saw as a last hoorah for the all go down? British company, had the idea of cre-

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AN INTRODUCTION TO THE MG ZT what they had to work with. Repurpos- ing the 75 into a performance machine British automotive design legend Pe- must have been akin to ice skating ter Stevens was handed the crayons uphill but the results speak for them- and appointed design director at MG selves and the project was a success, Rover, becoming responsible for cre- especially in the handling department ating this new performance range of – the ZT is responsive and stable cars. Stevens certainly knew his on- when cornering and possesses oodles ions when it came to car design, fa- of grip. Other engine options were mously penning the lines of the introduced over the car’s lifespan in- McLaren F1 and so with not enough cluding a 1.8-litre petrol (in both natu- money and a deadline of yesterday he rally aspirated and turbo form) and a set to work alongside product devel- 2.0-litre diesel but save for the later, opment director Rob Oldaker and a aforementioned 260bhp V8 available dedicated team in what was basically in the 2003 rear-wheel-drive ZT260 an exercise in survival for the compa- none of the engines are particularly ny, hoping to entice investors to open pant-wetting in the grand scheme with their wallets. the ZT190 dispatching 60mph from standstill in 7.8 seconds. They are, however, refined, smooth and lively enough and have a broad appeal with a choice of manual or automatic trans- missions. The final amendments came in 2004 in the form of a facelift that nobody really cared about which, for all intents and purposes, merely changed the appearance of the front end. The ZT and ZT-T estate were Overall, it’s a good car. Great in fact. launched simultaneously in 2001 with Humble pie was dished up in spades the same 2.5-litre, KV6 engine found and the ZT was well-received by the in the 75 in either detuned 160bhp public and motoring press alike. Sad- form or juiced-up 190bhp flavour ly, it was too little, too late for MG which benefited from tweaked cam- Rover and by 2005, with no hope of shafts as well as intake and throttle foreign investment, the party was well improvements. The car looked the and truly over for both the ZT and the part too, eschewing the understated company that created it. lines of the 75 for a more aggressive look – not an easy task considering

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WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR? litre engines have a measly coolant capacity so even the smallest of leaks The bodywork holds up pretty well but can lead to overheating and head gas- that’s not to say these cars are imper- ket issues so conduct the usual vious to rust as they’re getting a little checks; mayonnaise in the oil filler long in the tooth now. Areas to scruti- cap, smoky exhaust etc. nise include the sills and inside the wheel arches where crud can get Suspension problems can be an issue stuck and fester. Earlier cars tend to as the rear trailing arms tend to rot so be better built as post-2003 ZTs fell get underneath the car for a proper afoul of MG Rover’s ‘Project Drive’ inspection. Also check the front coil cost-cutting exercise and as such springs as these have been known to were impacted negatively. Water can rust through and snap. also get into the cabin due to the three Interiors generally wear well and build plenum drain holes becoming blocked quality is decent but electrical grem- which will result in a rather soggy lins can rear their head so check eve- ECU, which is bad. Obviously. rything works as it should. There are V6 engines are robust but drive belt plenty of rough, neglected examples replacement is a giant pain so make out there which will be obvious when sure there is evidence of renewal if looking at things like interior condition, applicable (documented as every tyre wear patterns and service history. 90,000 miles or six years). The 1.8-

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WHAT ARE PRICES LIKE? WHY SHOULD I BUY ONE? Prices went through the floor after the Because it’s a bit of a performance demise of MG Rover and many were steal, provided it has the right engine used as daily bangers, but they are of course. More than just a 75 in Nike now on the up and even though you trainers and a fresh haircut the ZT is can still pick up a dog for less than a cheap, practical, reliable and looks grand, good examples can be found good to boot with a choice of engines, for around £2000. For a ZT in top con- gearboxes and trim levels to suit eve- dition aim to budget £3-5K. ryone’s driving style and budget. There is also great support as ever Expect to pay more for the silky from The MG Owners’ Club. It might smooth, V6-engined cars but the 1.8 not be the fastest saloon car in the turbo is only slightly slower than the world but it’s a rewarding drive thanks 190 whilst returning better fuel econo- to its impressive chassis and handling my. Fancy flip paint and the higher ‘+’ characteristics. Besides, if you want and ‘SE’ trim levels that included cli- true excitement then there’s always mate control and electric rear windows the 260 in all its mad, V8, sideways will also jack the price up so bear that glory. in mind. The 260 V8 is a different ket- tle of fish entirely and is still top of the Not only has the MG ZT already ce- pile with prices dipping into five fig- mented its status as a future classic in ures. Justified? We think so. It’s a our eyes, it’s also part of domestic beast. motoring history, a swan song, the last vestiges of a truly British institution. Servicing and running costs remain low but as mentioned earlier, a labour- Credit: Car & Classic Magazine intensive drive belt replacement can really bump up the cost of a garage The rarest of them all visit. On the whole, prices will contin- Left a ZT 220S Supercharged V6 ue to rise so bag a bargain now while you can. Right a ZT 260SE

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SPORTING REPORT April 2021 by Kent Brown

hen the photo below was pub- between, involves a lot of travel, time, W lished in my last Sporting Re- effort and cost. The majority of GSRA port (Tappet Chatter, March 2021) a members average 2-3 meetings a few members asked me about the cir- years while those who really are keen cular badges attached to the race suits top out at about 9 meetings. Competi- Brian Weston and I were wearing. A tors like Brian and myself average couple of years ago the Group S Rac- around six, save for 2020, the corona- ing Association (GSRA) decided to virus year, but even then we both recognise those that had supported managed to compete at 3 historic race the category over a long period of meetings. time.

But back to the badges. There are 4, as on Brian’s race suit, and they repre- sent a “GRSA Driver Milestone” partic- If a competitor attended every pro- ipating in 30, 50, 70 and 100 “Classic grammed race meeting where there Sports Cars Racing Rounds”. Now was a Group S field then one could given that there is an average of 3 attend around 12 race meetings a races at each meeting, but not count- year. Now we are all amateurs who ing practice or qualifying session, that pay our own way so travelling from means for 100 rounds a driver would Queensland (Morgan Park, Lakeside) have started in circa 300 races. I south to Tasmania (Baskerville) and know Brian is close to the 150 meet- then across to South Australia (Tailem ings mark and I am not far behind so Bend, Mallala) and many places in we are probably getting close to 450

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Production Sports Cars race starts. And of cousre particiapation in GEAR events, other club supersprints, hill- climbs etc. do not count towards the badge. And so to some other motorsport and history……… Back in October 2020 I wrote about the MGBs which were scheduled for The Qvale MGBs delivery to Kjell Qvale (pronounced To add to the story here is a little more "Shell Kervahley") in the USA. A short information about the man himself, recap of the race car story - apparently Kjell Qvale. all the MGBs despatched from Abing- don and destined for Northern Califor- Kjell Qvale was born in Norway and he nia markets came through Qvale’s arrived in America at the age of ten. San Francisco operation. In the first "The only words I knew were 'yes,' 'no' delivery in 1962 it appears that several and 'stick ’em up.'" His family settled in of the cars had sustained saltwater Oregon and in the depths of the De- damage in shipping, so they were set pression. Kjell delivered the Portland aside and not sold. These were the Oregon Journal and sold vegetable Iris Blue, Tartan Red and Old English graters and phonograph needles door White cars, I suspect GH3L 112 (Iris to door, making enough to buy himself Blue), 113 (white) and 114 (red). MG a bicycle. As an athletic blond with hoped that Qvale and his team could piercing, steel-blue eyes, he became a bring the success they were looking track and ski star at school and won a for in 1964 and instructed Qvale to sports scholarship to the University of modify a trio of stock MGBs with up- Washington, but when the Second graded components that had been World War intervened, Qvale enlisted sent over from the U.K. and to build in the U.S. Navy, trained as a pilot and the cars to competition specifications. flew every kind of machine going. But it was cars that became his real passion. Back in civilian life, he needed to make some money. With the $8,000 he had managed to save plus some help from a friend’s father, he leased premises in Alameda, California, and opened a Willys Jeep dealership. But he soon decided he needed a sideline. One of his mechanics had heard of a 48 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

foreign motorcycle that was going cheap. So Qvale bought a ticket on the Sunset Limited train from San Francisco to Louisiana, with the inten- tion of tracking down the agent. "All of The next a sudden, this cute little car pulled up. GEAR meeting I had never seen anything like it. The is on Wednesday, 14 April 2021 at driver got out and I asked him what it Wakefield Park. Malcolm Robertson was. He said it was an MG sports car. will have his recently fettled (new pis- I asked him where it was from. 'Made tons, rings, bearings, valves etc.) MG in England,' came the reply." TB Bluestreak Special ready to go PB Qvale had never heard of MG. The (personal best) hunting with Peter only foreign marques he knew of were Gentry in his MGB and perhaps John Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Benz. In Harriott and Ian Reid Midget/Sprite fact, even the term "sports car" was mounted also likely contenders for alien to him. Qvale asked if he could some competition laps. Why not pop take a ride. It was only a ten-minute in? spin, but it was enough; he was hooked. But what Qvale saw in it was a more sociable version of the motorcycle: "It had no bumpers, no roof, its steering wheel was on the right, but it gave me the biggest thrill of my life." Its vintage-style 19-inch wire wheels, cutaway doors and open top offered a Our first motorkhana for 2021 was a bracing, wind-in-the-hair ride. He was resounding success with 33 competi- immediately besotted. tors registered (and paid!) including Kjell Qvale with his MG TC eight (8), yes eight juniors; 3 girls and 5 boys with a number having their first motorsport outing. And all drove particularly well. There were no issues during the day and the Transport In- dustries Skill Centre (TISC) and the EPA have not been in contact. Always a good sign!

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ously giving up your precious time to assist. A number of competitors, in- deed most, on leaving the venue said to me “thanks for a great event”. And all waved cheerily on departure.

Andrew Hutt – MGB V8

Just one of our terrific team of volunteers Not only did we have plenty of volunteers on hand but a number of other Kent Brown in “Delilah” Club members and Trevor & Pauline Finklaire’s Winston (guard dog ex- traordinaire) also called in to say hello and watch the competition. What great camaraderie.

Rob McIver - MG TF (modern)

Our club provided 15 volunteers to assist in the running of the event which was fantastic. Without volunteer helpers we could not run the event which would be great disap- pointment to many, particularly juniors. Committee members on watch So thank you volunteers all, for gener-

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participants and their respect for the officials as well. The participants and their friends, family and spectators were really well behaved. No grog or wheelies in the car park - apart from those expected by the participants during their timed events! No doubt this all goes down to the tradition that you and Chris and the Can- berra MG car club has established over many years. Overall, it really was a great day - plenty of apprecia- tion all round.” What super feedback.

The two Clerks of Course Club member Kerry McDonald was one of our volunteers. It was his first time “officiating” at a motorkhana. On the Monday after the event Kerry very kindly wrote to me saying: “It certainly was a great day. It was great to see the waves and farewells as the participants left. What stood out to me as a ‘newby’ is the polite- ness of all of the participants. Notice- able were lots of smiles and friendly banter between the participants and officials as each car pulled up for their times. Happy faces What also stood out is that here is a all round group of predominantly 65 yo average age officials who are helping two levels of younger generations. It was great to see the enjoyment of all of the

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And a special thanks to Mark and Mal- colm for taking great photos some of which are shared here but you can find them all on the MGCCCanberra Social Page on Facebook or at https://photos.app.goo.gl/3FEk7HCUpLgtdxL39 Not too far away Editor Mark will have inserted the spreadsheet showing the results of MGCCC competitors. “Water, water every where” is a line from Samual Taylor Coleridge’s Rime The Girl Guides kept volunteers and of an Ancient Mariner. It was just as competitors fed and watered of true on 20/21 March at the HSRCA’s course. Autumn Festival historic race meeting at Wakefield Park as it was in 1798 when the poem was first published. Albeit Colridge was referring to the sea as the next line is “nor any drop to drink”; there was plenty to drink in Goulburn though!

The start of Group S, race 1, on Cooks on the day! Saturday afternoon Historic Racing

And then a turn 2 just after the start in the photo above Group S cars in the garage prior to the rain

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It has been a long time since we have outright. Our positions in class were raced in such testing conditions but even better with Brian having three 1st thankfully everyone was circumspect places and I had one 3rd and two 2nd in their approach, particularly at the places. start of a race, and I am not aware of any car-to-car incidents in our Group S races. Certainly there were a number of off-track gardening or grass-cutting excursions, yours truly included in Race 2 on Sunday morning. Mine was at the “fish hook” or turn 8 when I was catching the car in front and in my ex- uberance I applied to much “welly” or right boot on the exit and in a flash the car was sideways with full oppostie The view of the front-runners lock. My speed actuallyincreased from behind! when I hit the grass but luckily there was stil enough grip to get back onto Overall though we thoroughly enjoyed the circuit after I finally came to a halt the meeting and cars and drivers ar- and selected 1st gear. rived home safely.

Geoff Byrne (TR6) going in the correct direction, Daniel Pauperis (Porsche Richard Caller comfortable in his MGB 924) getting a good view of the oncom- followed by Andrew Gibson in his TR3 ing field! The Historic Sports and Racing Car Brian Weston and I both finished with Association of NSW (HSRCA) cele- some good results both being inside brates its 40th anniversary this year. the top ten outright in all races. My Congratulations! As a tribute, the As- best effort was a 6th place and Brian in sociation has created a 1981-2021 Race 3 on Sunday afternoon was 5th poster featuring a montage of pictures

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drawn by Brian Caldersmith of the well John Young is our guest speaker at known cars that have taken part in the the MG Pre-War and TYme Event din- events organised and conducted by ner at the Vikings Club, Tuggeranong, the HSRCA. Another poster to be on Sunday, 3 October 2021. laminated and pinned to the wall (or Coming up are a couple of historic ceiling!) in my garage. racing events coming up worthy of support:

• Historic Winton - Like all other event organisers in Australia, the Austin 7 Club is staying up to date with restrictions throughout the Coronavirus pandemic. They opti- mistically hope that they will be able to run a COVID-friendly version of Historic Winton on 22 and 23 May 2021.

• Autumn Historic Warwick (Queensland) at Morgan Park Raceway 8/9 May

• 2021 HSRCA Sydney Classic at Sydney Motor sport Park – 12/13 June In the top left hand corner is Dick everitts Iris blue MGA which was sub- sequebtl purchased by Jon Young around 2002. John retaind his racing number of “53” and used the car regu- larly in HSRCA and other events until he sold the “A” in about 2014. His favoutie meeting in the car was a Fes- tival of Sporting Cars (FoSC) at Bath- Some Interesting MG Motor Racing urst in 2008. At that meeting the car Now this is MG racing. But no open decided 72 spokes in a wire wheel cars which is quite the opposite to how were too many and so, on cornering, we race here in Australia. And most of decided to halve the number! our MGB racers are roadsters with only a very limited number of GTs.

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Peter Browning BMC / British Leyland Competitions Manager Passes

Peter Browning passed away last Sunday 14 March. He was 84 years of age and had been ill for some time. Renowned for his organisation skills in motor sport Peter was competitions manager of BMC/British Leyland and subsequently executive director of the British Racing & Sports Car Club Peter’s life-long interest in motor sport was instilled by his father Bill, who raced MGs and Amilcars at Brook- lands between the two World Wars, was a founder member and vice- president of the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain, and the BRDC’s senior scrutineer. He became an Associate (General) Member of the Club in timekeeper which led to invitations 1954. Browning Senior’s work includ- from a number of British Formula 1 ed restoring church organs and the teams to provide timekeeping services young Peter became an accomplished in the days when everything was done organist and tuner. by stopwatch and paper lap charts. He In 1955 Peter joined the Harrow Car was invited by Stuart Turner and Club, where he met many of the rac- Geoff Healey to work with the MG and ing and rallying personalities who be- Healey teams at a number of long dis- came friends and with whom he would tance races including the Le Mans 24 deal throughout his career. He be- Hours, Sebring 12 Hours and the Tar- came the Club’s Competitions Secre- ga Florio. tary, serving on the race organising In 1961 Peter was asked by John committee for the annual Eight Clubs Thornley, the General Manager of race meeting at Silverstone. In 1956 MG, to set up the Austin-Healey Club he became the youngest person to alongside the MG Car Club which had qualify as a Grade 1 international been established at the MG factory in

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Abingdon. He was soon co-opted to cated service arrangements and tyre become deputy editor of BMC’s sports developments, the team’s Mini- car magazine Safety Fast. The BMC Cooper S won the Monte for the third works team was on the same site and time. he began his association with them Peter purchased one of the Austin- attending rallies as Competitions Healey 3000 rally cars, and re- Press Officer. registered it with his personal registra- By 1966 Peter had a wider influence tion number PWB 57. In 1967 with the in the team and was instrumental in opportunity to enter a prototype in the the excellent result obtained by an RAC Rally, the car was re-purchased MGB driven by Andrew Hedges and by the works and prepared as an entry Julien Vernaeve in winning the 84 in that event. Sadly, the Rally was Hours Marathon de la Route at the cancelled because of an outbreak of Nürburgring. At the end of that year foot and mouth disease. Many rally John Thornley told Peter that Stuart people consider the specification of Turner was leaving and that he want- this car as the best Healey 3000 ever ed him to take over as BMC Competi- prepared at Abingdon. tions Manager. He accompanied Stu- In 1968 Peter was invited to become art on the 1967 Monte Carlo Rally to an Associate Member of the BRDC. gain first-hand knowledge of the com- plexities of this event. Despite compli-

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Leyland took over BMC in 1968 and stages - to the UK and in 1973 the the Competitions Department came BRSCC organised the first Tour of under stricter financial control being Britain. A year earlier Peter played a forced to reduce its programme of major role in establishing the Formula events. Nevertheless, Peter obtained Ford Festival initially at Snetterton agreement from the BL Competitions before its transfer to Brands Hatch in Committee to enter both the 1968 1976. London to Sydney Marathon and the Through the 1980s Peter was involved 1970 London to Mexico World Cup in sports promotions with a number of Rally. Second places were obtained in organisations and in 1998, both events – with an Austin 1800 Mk Sportscene, the business he ran with 2 driven by Paddy Hopkirk, Alec Poole his wife Sharon, organised a classic and Tony Nash in the former and with car rally with a route that included a Triumph 2.5 PI Mk 2 driven by Brian many of roads used in the Coupe des Culcheth and Johnstone Syer in the Alpes, one of the toughest events of latter. But it was not enough to im- the 1950s and 1960s. He brought in a press Lord Stokes, managing director number of ex-BMC team drivers and of British Leyland, who had little if any co-drivers as an on-event marshals’ interest in motor sport and who closed team. A light-hearted event, not seri- the British Leyland Competitions De- ously competitive, the Prix des Alpes partment at the end of 1970. continued successfully for 10 years. Peter was not idle for long. He worked Peter’s 1973 marriage to Liz ended in behind the scenes on a number of divorce and his second wife Sharon rally projects and wrote a regular col- died after a long illness last year. He umn for the sports pages of Auto- is survived by Nichola and Oliver, the car. He also completed the first of a children of his first marriage to whom series of well-regarded books: the BRDC offers its deepest condo- Healeys & Austin Healeys. That was lences. to be followed by The Works Minis in 1971, Works Big Healeys in 1995 and Works MGs in 2000. Rallying was put aside when, at the end of 1971, he was appointed Execu- tive Director of the British Racing & Sports Car Club but it was not forgot- ten. Peter had an ambition to bring the idea of the Tour de France Automobile – an event combining races and rally

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NEW MG MARVEL R ELECTRIC SUV

MG has revealed its new Marvel R 2,800mm wheelbase is also a full electric SUV, which has rivals such as 200mm longer than that of the Kona, the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia e- so passenger space should be signifi- Niro squarely in its sights. It’s due on cantly better. sale in the EU within a few months, The boot will offer 357 litres of space, but there are currently no plans to sell which is nothing special, and 1,396 it in the UK. litres with the rear seats folded down. The brand claims the Marvel R has a There will be two versions of the Mar- WLTP electric range of 250 miles vel R; one will have two electric mo- (400km), which is competitive, if not tors on the rear axle, and the other will earth-shattering. have a third electric motor on the front Best electric cars axle, making it four-wheel drive. Best electric cars to buy 2021 The four-wheel-drive model’s three However, at 4,674mm long, 1,919mm motors generate 288hp and 665Nm of wide and 1,618mm tall, the Marvel R torque, and can accelerate the Marvel is considerably bigger than the Kona, R from 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds. so should offer good practicality. The Top speed is limited to 125mph.

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If you use a fast charger, the Marvel R The MG Marvel R is scheduled to go batteries can be topped up from emp- on sale in May in the EU with prices ty to 80 per cent in just 30 minutes. It set to be announced nearer the time. also features a V2L (vehicle-to-load) system, which allows the car’s batteries to power an external device, such Credit to Auto Expres as an air pump, or even to charge another electric vehicle.

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New MG HS Plug-In Hybrid arrives in Australia

• MG Motor’s first Plug-In Hybrid technology with low-emission practi- delivers customers the best of both cality. worlds, combining high performance The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid arrives with lower emissions with driveaway pricing of $46,990 and • With access to electric energy, but is backed with an 8-year, 160,000- with the reassurance of a traditional kilometre battery warranty and a 5- engine, the new HS comes complete year unlimited kilometre vehicle war- with a range of innovative features ranty, providing peace of mind to cus- including the marque’s Driver Safety tomers. Technology System, MG Pilot A low-emission vehicle with a striking • Stylish, sporty and spacious, the design, the new MG HS Plug-In Hy- premium new SUV arrives nationally brid balances refined features and in March and is available from elegant design with practicality and $46,990 driveaway, backed with an 8- innovative technology. Features in- year, 160,000-kilometre battery war- clude a panoramic Stargazer sunroof, ranty 360-degree camera, a 12.3” virtual instrument cluster, 10.1” colour MG Motor Australia today launches its touchscreen, and heated and electri- first Plug-In Hybrid. Combining the cally adjustable leather sports seats best of both worlds, the new model with Alcantara trim. Included as stand- unites remarkable performance and ard is the MG Pilot Driver Safety Technology system, a comprehensive suite of active and passive driver assistance technologies. The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid’s new technology combines performance and technology with low-emission practicality. Equipped with 52km1 of electric range – perfect for the day-today commute – the plug-in hybrid can reduce emissions by up to 50-70 per cent.

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Speaking at the launch, Peter Ciao, CEO, MG Motor Australia and New Zealand, said: “The new MG HS Plug- In Hybrid brilliantly showcases the intelligence and innovation we have available within our brand. It offers our customers the opportunity to experience new energy innovation, while remaining in the comfort of a true SUV that is equal parts stylish, sporty and spacious. “The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid is our first plug-in hybrid, our second new energy vehicle, and one that we’re delighted to bring to our Australian customers whilst actively learning the operators as part of our commitment to making individual driving style to adjust power new energy vehicles mainstream in and rationalise the battery ratio ac- Australia.” cordingly. The best of both worlds The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid’s total out- The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid unites im- put of 480N.m (209Kw) totals both the pressive performance and technology output from the electric motor with the with low-emission practicality. New 1.5L turbo combustion engine. This hybrid technology provides access to total output combined provides an im- electric energy, but with the reassur- pressive 1.7L/100km combined cycle ance of a traditional engine to offer fuel consumption and 39g/km CO2 MG customers more choice in their emissions3. day-to-day drive. As a plug-in hybrid, the model comes The MG HS Plug-in Hybrid has a top equipped with a standard 3 Pin Home speed of 190km/h and dynamic accel- Charger, to be plugged in next to the eration, which achieves 0-100km in petrol intake, providing convenient 6.9 seconds. Powered by a liquid- home charging options to customers. cooled lithium-ion battery, the stylish, MG Motor is leading the charge in premium SUV has a pure electric driv- new energy vehicles, with a goal to ing range of 52km from a single make them mainstream and accessi- charge1. Using Intelligent Hybrid Ener- ble for all. This aim is shared by par- gy Management, the vehicle intuitively ent company, SAIC Motor, who in identifies and adapts power output 2020 saw new energy vehicles sales depending on the road conditions, 66 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

total 320,000 globally, a year-on-year sunroof transforms the cabin into a increase of 73.4 per cent2. For new spacious, light and enjoyable environ- energy vehicles – that’s the second ment. fastest growth rate in the world. Exclusively available in top-of-the- SAIC has invested heavily in electric range Essence specification, the mod- as well as other new energy vehicle el also boasts sporty metal trim ped- technologies, processes and battery als, one of the largest panoramic sun- production, making it one of only a roofs in the SUV segment, and heated handful of automotive manufacturers and electrically adjustable leather to own its EV supply chain. sports seats with Alcantara trim. Premium design Top of mind safety The low-emission MG HS Plug-In Hy- Continually committed to the highest brid reflects the sporty-flair that is fa- standard of occupant safety, the new miliar to the wider MG HS range. Fea- plug-in hybrid also comes with the turing a striking design with sleek brand’s Driver Safety Technology sys- lines, abstract 18-inch diamond cut tem, MG Pilot, which includes driver alloy wheels and LED ‘London Eye’ aids such as adaptive cruise control daytime running headlights, the model with traffic jam assist, forward collision carries both a stylish and premium warning, rear cross traffic alert and look on both its interior and exterior. blind spot detection, providing robust Elsewhere, the panoramic Stargazer protection to keep the driver focused on the road ahead. Following on from the MG ZS EV’s focus on battery safety and availability, the 16.6- kilowatt battery within the MG HS Plug-In Hybrid has also been developed to the highest quality and safety standards, in MG Motor’s own battery production facility. Interior and technology Entering the cabin via the MG HS Plug-In Hybrid’s handy keyless entry system, the model includes as standard a 10.1” multi-function colour April 2021 Tappet Chatter 67

Built for every day, the MG HS Plug-In Hybrid offers the practicality of a medium SUV with ample interior head- room for all occupants, plenty of interior space, and 60/40 split-folding rear seats allowing for a maximum boot space of 1,275 litres. The MG HS Plug-In Hybrid arrives in Australia in March 2021, with test drives available now at every authorised MG dealer. For more information on the MG HS Plug-In Hybrid, please visit: https:// touch screen with 1280p HD resolu- mgmotor.com.au/models/mg-hsphev/ tion, as well as built-in satellite navigation and integrated Apple CarPlay and 1: From a single charge on the WLTP Android Auto. While the interior six- combined cycle: Provisional data at speaker 3D surround sound audio time of going to print. system allows for an immersive drive experience. 2: https://www.saicmotor.com/english/ latest_news/saic_motor/54757.shtml A premium 12.3" Virtual Instrument Cluster dominates the interior, offering 3: Figures according to ADR 81/02 a comprehensive display of the vehi- derived from laboratory testing. Fac- cle's performance and allowing the tors including but not limited to driving driver to control and monitor their style, road and traffic conditions, envi- drive with ease. Further, the vehicle ronmental influences, vehicle condi- has a 360° Surround View Camera, tion and accessories fitted, will in ensuring full visibility and control when practice in the real-world lead to fig- navigating tight parking spaces or ures which generally differ from those tricky manoeuvres. Offering a sporty advertised. Advertised figures are yet luxurious finish, the MG HS Plug- meant for comparison amongst vehi- In Hybrid also includes customisable cles only ambient lighting for a truly bespoke experience.

68 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

MG HS Plug-In Hybrid specifica- • Soft-touch two-tone front leather tions: Sports Seats with seat heating (driver Pricing and passenger)

• Australia: • Passenger's leatherette, 4-way $ 45,990 + ORC (MSRP) Electrically Adjustable Seats

• $ 46,990 (Driveaway) • Dual-zone climate control • Rain sensor wiper with timed Standard features include: heating

• One variant/Trim level • Electric door mirrors with heating

• Abstract 18-inch, diamond cut • Full LED headlights with automat- alloy wheels ic illumination

• Front seat heating • Front and rear reading lights

• Panoramic sunroof • LED taillights with sequential illumination • Sporty metal trim pedals • Front foglamps and ‘Follow me • LED ambient lighting home’ delayed headlight illumination

• LED ‘London Eye’ daytime run- • Repair Kit ning headlights • MG Pilot – Driver Safety Technol- • Welcome lights ogy:

• Electric tailgate • Adaptive Cruise Control

• Smart keyless entry • Forward Collision Warning

• 360° Surround View Camera • Automatic Emergency Braking

• 12.3" fully digital instrument clus- • Lane Assist System ter with built-in satellite navigation • Traffic Jam Assist • 10.1” multi-function colour touch screen with 1280p HD resolution • Blind Spot Detection

• Interior six-speaker 3D surround • Rear Cross Traffic Alert sound audio system • Intelligent Headlamp Control

• Driver's 6-way Electrically Adjusta- • Intelligent Speed Assistance Sys- ble tem April 2021 Tappet Chatter 69

Exterior Colours Plug-In Hybrid sees an 8-year, 160,000-kilometre battery warranty • Phantom Red, metallic paint and a 5-year unlimited kilometre vehi- • Clipper Blue, metallic paint cle warranty, to provide owners with significant peace of mind. • New Pearl White, metallic paint In New Zealand, the MG3 Auto, MG • Sterling Silver, metallic paint ZS, MG ZST, MG HS and MG HS Dimensions of the MG HS Plug-In AWD are accompanied by a 5-year Hybrid unlimited kilometre warranty, while the MG ZS EV and MG HS Plug-In Hybrid Length 4,574mm sees an 8-year,160,000-kilometre bat- Width 1,876mm tery warranty and a 5-year unlimited Height 1,685mm kilometre vehicle warranty, to provide owners with significant peace of mind. Wheelbase 2,720mm About MG Motor Kerb weight 1,775kg MG Motor has established itself as a Maximum trunk 1,275L space global brand representing great value, impressive design, high-quality manu- facture and packed with innovative MG HS Range Pricing safety and driver technology. The MG3 Auto, MG ZS, MG ZST, MG HS and MG HS AWD are accompanied by MG Motor Australia’s compel- ling 7-year unlimited kilometre warranty, while the MG ZS EV and MG HS

MODEL PRICING

MG HS Core $29,990 driveaway

MG HS Vibe $31,990 driveaway

MG HS Excite $34,990 driveaway

MG HS Essence $38,990 driveaway MG HS Essence $40,690 driveaway Anfield MG HS AWD Excite $37,990 driveaway X MG HS AWD Es- $42,990 driveaway sence X MG HS Plug-In $46,990 driveaway Hybrid 70 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

The work of the Artisans Inside track: We talk with the engineers behind the Bentley Blower Continuation Series

It’s been two years since Bentley an- inspired this ambitious “Continuation nounced it would build 12 exacting Series” project and had built what it replicas of UU 5872, the famously su- calls “Car Zero.” It was the proof-of- percharged 1929 4 1/2-Litre “Team concept prototype that established the Car No. 2” developed and cam- material quality of componentry, how paigned in period by Bentley Boy Sir the customer cars would be assem- Henry “Tim” Birkin. This project may bled, and how those 12 Continuation have followed a path blazed by Jaguar Blowers would perform, their reliabil- and Aston Martin, but it’s even more ity, and the like. ambitious, representing the first prewar car to enjoy such a rebirth. Team Car No. 2 was digitally scanned The British automaker revealed, at the as it was being disassembled for re- end of 2020, that its Mulliner bespoke furbishment. division had completed the sympathet- ic restoration of Team Car No. 2 that This prototype example of the Blower

Images courtesy of Bentley Media

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 71

Continuation Series was not the first to the 12 customer examples now in prewar Bentley automobile that Mulli- production. We couldn’t resist asking ner Classic created from scratch, and what, if given free access to Bentley’s lessons learned in recreating the origi- back catalog, these gentlemen would nal 1939 Corniche--that radical personally like to see brought back to streamlined one-off luxury sedan so life. far ahead of its time, sadly lost at the Paul has an engineering background, start of World War II--from scratch and having led Bentley’s Powertrain Engi- designing the new Mulliner Coachbuilt neering department as well as its Mo- Bacalar--an open, two-seat, ultra- torsport branch. And prior to joining luxury barchetta--have shown the ca- Bentley, Tim was the director of Jagu- pabilities of the automaker’s custom ar Land Rover Classic, in charge of its coachbuilding and restoration depart- "Reborn" in-house restoration pro- ment. gram. Both men radiate passion for, We enjoyed the recent opportunity to and pride in, this project. speak with the director of Mulliner and “This started because we own Team its head of business, Paul Williams Blower No. 2, which was the car that, and Tim Hannig, about the start of the in 1930, actually raced at Le Mans Blower Continuation Series, and what and broke lots of records, but didn’t Bentley has learned in the creation of finish because it did not… how shall Car Zero that the company will apply we say… ‘have enough longevity’ to

Click the image below to watch the video ‘The Bentley Blower, Car Zero’

72 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

ultimately lead to victory,” Paul says temptation to say, well, this is slightly with a laugh. “More than 90 years on, better, we could use it… There are it’s still used quite heavily. It had a few some cases where you cannot get the childhood issues that had to be re- exact same material as was used solved, and since then, it’s been pretty back then, but we’re trying to get as reliable! close as we can. We’ve steered away from trying to redesign, recreate, or “This whole project began around the reinvent what’s there.” idea of giving it an overhaul, which it absolutely needed,” he continues. Tim: “We use original techniques to “Then the thought was, if it will contin- create every component that goes ue to work that hard on events, maybe onto the vehicle, but we did use mod- it’s worthwhile to create something ern techniques on our way to get widely known as a ‘tool-room copy:’ there. An example is the tool used to it’s not the real one, but another one make the chassis rail, which is a long that effectively looks exactly the same. piece of steel that was locally heated We started talking [about this] to a and hit with a hammer, around a form. number of people, including enthusi- We used the same process, but this asts, and there was an enormous lev- form was actually made with a 3D el of interest. So we came up with the scan. The form provides a high level idea of creating a really, really small of accuracy so we get a good result run, because what you need to do to out of that process. Don’t mention this build one car, is almost the same as in to our health and safety department, order to create 12 cars… so we decid- but it’s still guys working with ham- ed to do 12, one for every race the mers and fire!” original Blowers contested.” Hemmings: Do you have a time “So we’d have debates, if we tweak frame for delivering the 12 customer this or not. The guiding principle was cars? that we don’t change it, unless we see something that’s really safety critical. Then we’d do something that remains To continue reading this true to the original, but makes the car article click here safer for the drivers. An example Tim and I discussed earlier, was a small vent on the fuel tank. It’s nothing you can see from the outside, but a part of the original design. “The temptation to use modern materi- als is always there. There’s always the

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 73

Services Directory

Mechanical Electrical

Melba Motors - Belconnen Mick: 6253 1523 Batteries Website Battery World - Phillip

Mark: 6282 9884 Head Services https://www.batteryworld.com.au/ Warren: TBA

Phillip Head Services - Phillip Steering & Suspension 6282 5555

Website Capitol Steering - Fyshwick

Andrew” 6280 5243 Phillip Radiator Services (NATRAD) - Phillip Website Toby: 6281 2850 Website Interstate Transport

Carburettors Web Tow Matthew: 0425 588 852 Canberra Carburettors - Murrum- Website bateman David: 6227 0702 Website Parts

Dyno Tune - Mitchell Sportsparts - Sydney Andrew: 6241 6109 Bruce: 029875 1144 website Website

Upholstery and Trim

Trim by Shaun = Mitchell Shaun: 6255 5225 Website

74 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Want to service your MG? Got a rattle that is hard to find?

ur Club has a well-equipped under-cover service centre with four O post hoist, Electronic Wheel Balancer capable of balancing wire wheels, engine hoist and all the basic big-tools to enable you to do repairs, service and/or clean your car in a secure area, 24/7.

Simply contact Club member Laurie Gardiner (Club equipment custo- dian) on 62934191 or 0418488931 to arrange a time to do the work or just to have a look.

The workshop is located at: Budget Storage, 25 Yallourn St Fyshwick.

Map

The Service Centre and use of Club tools is free to Club members or visiting members from other clubs.

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 75

Help Line

Pre-war Club Trailer Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343

Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Laurie Gardiner (02) 6293 4191 T Series Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Club Servicing Facility & Tools Peter Dechaineux (02) 6281 5917 Kent Brown (02) 6255 4943 Laurie Gardiner (02) 6293 4191

Y Series and MGA Concessional Registration Mike Stearn (02) 6231 1716 Greg Whitfield 0498 107 658 MGB (Northside) Kent Brown (02) 6255 4943 Rob Chilman 0412 024 228 MGC (Southside) Mick O’Brien 0422 536 953

MG RV8 John Woods 0417 392 947 Club Service Centre MG Z Magnette Our Club has a well equipped under-cover service centre at Midget/Sprite Budget Storage, 25 Yallourn St John Harriott (02) 6292 8420 Ian Reid (02) 6231 8959 Fyshwick. It has all the basic big-tools to enable you to do re- Modern MGs pairs, service and/or clean your Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343 car in a secure area, 24/7. Greg Whitfield 0498 107 658 Simply contact Laurie Gardiner

on (02) 6293 4191 to arrange a Restoration time to do the work or just to Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 have a look. The Service Cen- Mike Stearn (02) 6231 1716 tre, and use of club tools, is free Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343 to Club Members.

76 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

Marquet

Australia's only dedicated MG and British Classic Car classifieds web site. Developed by an MG enthusiast for all MG and British Classic Car enthusiasts & owners. https://bccbss.com.au/

For Sale Mobility Scooter – As New (or an elder persons new MG) Merits Fende S946. Purchased in May 2018 for over $4000, and only travelled four (4) km. Comes with large rear carry bag and vinyl poncho. Free delivery to Canberra region. $2,200 ONO Contact Ewan on 0491 112 291

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 77

Parts for Sale

1. 10 48 spoke wire wheels, most serviced by the Wheel Factory, Queanbey- an, $60 each

2. 1 new 48 spoke centre hub, $20

4. 1 white B hardtop with green tinted windows, $1,300

5. 1 Austin 1800 short motor, $60

6. 4 Magnette road wheels and hubcaps, free

7. Base straps for the B seats $20

8. Left-hand front mudguard from a 1975 rubber bumper MG B GT, reasonable condition, with one small rust hole at the bottom, free

9. A banjo axel, free

Miscellaneous parts, free

Contact Ron Phone 0410 907 490

Finding it hard to get in and out of your MG Try this on for size. Almost new, low KM’s and in concourse condition. Smooth auto and acceleration, and power to burn. Heaps of boot space for those weekends away and modern bucket seat with arm rests. Contact: Dave Ph: 0418 487 122 $2,500.00 ono (cheaper than an MG)

Parts All in working order, available as individual items Prefer to go for intended use , Not for storage , they are off my Big Black A. Contact :- Graeme , M 0436769497. H 02 62994920

78 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021

TF 120 - 2002 We’ve decided to reluctantly sell our concourse MG TF auto due to an inability to maintain such a nice car. It is a 2002 MG TF 120 in beautiful condition and has won several concourse awards, it is now fitted with new correct size tyres (changed due to age not wear) and has only travelled some 26k, has 10 months rego and was only driven on sealed dry roads. The car is worthy of an inspection to any interested person. This vehicle is fitted with a/c which needs to be gassed up, we have not done this as we do not need a/c in Tenterfield. The asking price is $16,500 (neg) We paid a lot more and have owned it for about 4 years.

Contact: Lou Hietbrink. 0456740929

2003 MGTf 135 In excellent condition. Full history, genuine 70,000 klms, 11 months rego, and is now little used. Have documented head gas- ket modifications, cooling system and rear suspension upgrade, bluetooth radio, alarm and mobiliser. Asking $12,950 ONO. Car is in the New England Re- gion, but can deliver any- where in NSW. Maurie Prior 0438668162

April 2021 Tappet Chatter 79

USED - GOOD CONDITION MIRRORS

I have 2 TEX chrome mirrors for sale which have been given to me to sell on behalf by a deceased MG fan. They are slightly damaged, but the scratches should buff out. See photos. I don’t have the mounting kit. These are not new, but in reasonably good condition.

Make me an offer - 0439 607 856. Simon

1966 MGB ‘Seeking a new guardian, 1966 MGB,red with black trim. New 15 inch chrome wire wheels and tyres, Fitted with MX5 five speed gearbox,Front and rear suspension overhauled, $3000 spent re- furbishing the seats, Strong pulling motor, electronic ignition, Paint and chrome excellent, Driving lights, Luggage rack, GPS and GPS speedo. $27,000 ono. Norman Lee, [email protected], 0418686099.

80 MG Car Club Canberra April 2021