Number 398 June 2015 June 398 Number
Number 398 June 2015 June 398 Number
June 2015 Tappet Chatter
Journal of the MG Car Club of Canberra of Club Car MG the Journal of
Journal of the MG Car Club of Canberra of Club Car MG the Journal of
Tappet Chatter Tappet Tappet Chatter Tappet
0413 646 321
2 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Tappet Chatter Number 398 June 2015
Contents: Official Journal of the MG Car Club Canberra Inc Office Bearers 4 ABN: 49 156 199 381 President's Piece 5
Editors Message 7 Correspondence to: Torque 8 Post Office Box 4141 Geelong Revival 13 Weston Creek ACT 2611
Autumn Weekend Away A Newbies Thoughts 15 Truing Wire Wheels part 2 19 Monthly Meetings are held Vintage Tyres return to Australia 25 on the second Thursday of each month, (except Sporting Report 26 January), at St Peter's Club Calendar 28 Anglican Church Hall, cnr of Midweek Meanders 29 Parkinson St & Watling Pl, Cars of the Tour of Africaans 33 Weston at 7:45pm. The Key to Modern Motoring MGZT 34 May Club Run—Roses Café 42 Banking Details MG6 versus Skoda Octavia 44 BSB: 633-000 Help Line 43 Account: 144920741 Marquet 44 Account Name: MG Car Club Canberra Inc Cover photograph
A ‘Lunchtime Natter’ is held at Weston Park, Yarralumla (first picnic spot on the right) each Tuesday from 12.30pm.
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 President Greg, going so fast in his BL Midget that his publication by Car Clubs, but solid graphite tungsten composite aerial is bending with an acknowledgement and the force! due accreditation is expected.
Acknowledgments – the editorial team says thank Printed Post Approved you to all who contributed articles and photographs for 100003009 the magazine.
Please send contributions for the July 2015 magazine to the Editor by Friday 26 June 2015 at: [email protected]
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 3
MG CAR CLUB CANBERRA INC.
LIFE MEMBERS: Margaret Brown OAM, Peter Daley, Malcolm Robertson, Ian Holden, Brian Oxley and Kent Brown.
COMMITTEE 2014 - 2015
President: Greg Whitfield 0498 107 658 [email protected]
Treasurer: Laurie Gardiner 6293 4191 (h) 0418 488 931
Secretary: Trevor Clement 6231 3353(h) 0411 102 759 [email protected]
Committee Member: Graeme Rossiter (02) 6288 2477 (h) 0431 930 710 (Display Events) [email protected]
Public Officer: Trevor Clement See above
Committee Member: Kent Brown 6255 4943 or 0412 558 029 (Sporting & Vice President) [email protected]
Committee Member: Mark Horsfield 0415 400 044 (Editor) [email protected]
Committee Member: Trevor Finklaire 0408 612 336 (Social) [email protected]
NON COMMITTEE 2013 - 2014
CACTMC Delegates: Graeme Rossiter see above Laurie Gardiner see above
Social Program Coordinators: Trevor Finklaire 0408 612 336 [email protected] Graeme Corbett 6299 4920, 0437 679 497 [email protected]
Registrar CRS Historic Plates: Greg Whitfield see above (Northside) Robert Chilman 0412 024 228 (Southside) [email protected]
Regalia: Peter & Val Long 6227 0643 [email protected]
Club Library: John Cooper 6288 8093 [email protected]
CAMS Delegate: Kent Brown see above
Natmeet Coordinator (2015) Graeme Rossiter see above
Club Car Trailer: Contact: Laurie Gardiner see above
Tappet Chatter Distribution: Trevor Finklaire see above
Club Workshop & E quipment Laurie Gardiner (02) 6293 4191
Webmaster: Mark Horsfield see abpve
4 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
President’s Piece
hilst many might seek to hibernate or head to more W northern climes with the arrival of winter, we are nevertheless spoilt for choice for club activities this month with a range to satisfy whatever tickles your fancy. We have the second motorkhana for the year on 21st June at the Sutton Rd, Transport Industries Skills Centre near Quean- beyan. If you haven’t been to one of these before I would thoroughly recommend it as a day out. In addition to MGs you will see a range of other vehicles of all ages competing as well as some spectacular driving. You will be well catered for with a sausage sizzle by the Girl Guides and a nice relaxing day. Or you can help with the running of the event; volunteers are always wanted for the range of jobs neces- sary. We also have a chance to battle with the Frogs at the annual Battle of Waterloo display. More details are in Tappet Chatter. Then we have the monthly club run, midweek meander and generally a night or two in the month where a bunch of northsiders and southsiders get together in respective local cafes or restaurants for a meal. You will be aware that a sub-committee has been looking at the issue of Tappet Chatter and how we will manage the magazine into the future. The final report has now been submitted to the Committee. Members had earlier been informed of the review at a meeting and in Tappet Chatter. The Committee will now review the final report and decide on a way ahead. Membership prices have risen for the first time in over a decade so please ensure the correct amount is paid, particularly when making electronic payments. For those with Concessionally Registered Vehicles remember that a condition of this registration is that you are a financial member of the club. To that end you should renew your membership by 01 July to protect this concession. Many will have seen in various MG forums that we are celebrating the 60th anni- versary of the introduction of the MGA this year. We are also commiserating the 10th anniversary of the end of MG as we knew the original company. Indeed it was in June 2005 that the “fire sale” of new stock was auctioned off in Australia follow- ing the collapse of MG. How the wheel turns. On that point, just because it is a tad cooler now, keep those MG wheels turning. We all know how stiff and sore our joints become if we don’t remain mobile. Your classic marque will thank you by raising the level of your happy hormones and keeping you healthy and warm!! Cheerio for now, but meantime, In your Marques...get set...Go
Greg Whitfield
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 5
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Editors Message
Battle of Waterloo Sunday June 21 Rond Terrace
he annual Battle of Waterloo, will be held on Sunday 21 June 2015 at T Rond Terrace, located at the bottom end of Anzac Parade. Unfortu- nately this date clashes with our Club Motorkhana at the TISC on Sutton Road. This year the event will be to commemorate the 200th anniversary of this famous Battle in 1815. Entry to and egress from the event will be via Constitution Avenue, then to Wendouree Drive next to the ASIO building. The entry/exit is opposite Blun- dells Cottage and will be signposted. The sign at the entrance will designate an advisory speed limit of 5kph, and an official in a fluoro vest will guide cars to their respective locations.
All cars will be parked on red granite area next to the lake. Drip trays are required. Coffee, tea, drink and food will be available on site, and ablutions facilities are located adjacent in Commonwealth Park. Door prizes comprising bottles of “The Arrogant Frog” (donated by Shannons) will be door prizes to be drawn towards the end of the event. So stick around in case you are a winner. Otherwise the event is to be glass free. The event will be cancelled if there are forecast high or gusty winds or if there is rain. Advice as to any cancellation will be posted the day before on the ACT Council of Motor Clubs website and via email to participating clubs.
Event Schedule Set up at 9am; Event 10am to 3pm; Take down and clean up from 3pm.
Mark Horsfield
June 2015 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.
MG tools going up for grabs. The committee agreed that this was an opportunity that should not be missed, so our trusty money monger, Laurie Gardiner, was despatched to the garage sale with chequebook in hand. Laurie arrived early, and so did a member for the Mini Car Club
Win a trip on the 2015 Goodwood Revival Tour
Click here for details or go to http:// shannonsinsurance.cmail2.com/t/y-l- iuhljyt-jiulukirui-iu/
New Tools for the Workshop A valve refacer and associated
ome of you may know that Bill S Wood, owner of Morwood Mo- tors—the old MG dealer, had a ga- rage sale the other weekend. Club member Peter Dalton, a long time friend of Bill, informed the committee that Bill was having this garage sale and that there would be specialist A hub puller
8 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
of Canberra. As they both had been advised by Bill (through second hand sources) they decided that they would rummage together through Bill’s bits and found a treasure trove of goodies. The Mini club absconded with specialist mini tools, and Laurie came away with some great bargains Valve refacer associated components in the MG tool department. and grinding stones And all for the princely sum of $210.00. A worthwhile investment for club members for many years to come.
These tools are available for use by club members at the Club workshop facility at 25 Yallourn Street Fyshwick. More valve refacer components a pneumatic grease gun and battery Inner Wheel Rim Maintenance
(submitted by Geoff P)
eading that excellent article on R wire wheel maintenance (May TC) brought back the memory of a practice employed by the military to preserve the inner part of a wheel rim which most members rarely see.
A few of the readers who have had Pneumatic grease gun and grease the dubious pleasure of repairing a and a Parts Washer (off to the left) tyre puncture, may remember that 'real' wheels especially those at- tached to serious military vehicles were/are of a steel split rim design (the rim is either bolted together or has a spring steel locating ring).
This design ensured that even a Na- tional Service person could dismantle Battery charger and repair a punctured tyre in the
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 9
field - or that was the theory. Unfor- bead yet ensures that the tyre can tunately, the split rim has a long be removed from the rim with appro- term failing in that if left undisturbed priate effort. Removal, if desired, is for long periods, it will rust to the through the application of mentho- point that the tyre will bond to the lated spirits. rim, which, without power assistance Ingredient Supply: Shellac flakes are will resist all efforts to remove it. available through most hardware The remedy is to remove the tyre/ stores or from furniture restoration tube, remove any rust from the inner outlets (its used in French polishing). rim and apply a coating of a protec- Powdered graphite is generally only available through retail stores in small dispenser sized packaging but can be found in any small foundry (they use it in casting moulds) who will supply the relatively small amounts that you require at give away prices (I obtained 1kg for the price of a conversation). Mentholated spirits is readily available, the amount required will vary according to the viscosity of the 'brew' - to much will result in a thin outcome (leave it and it will evaporate to a thicker consistency), insufficient will result in something resembling trea- cle! the ideal result to aim for is the viscosity of out door paint.
May Guest Speaker tive metal sealant to the inner rim. Developed during WW11, the sealant of this time was a formula based r Toby Doble of Natrad upon (by measure) 4 parts shellac M Radiators & Auto Air, Phil- flakes, 3 parts powdered graphite lip, gave a very interesting presenta- mixed with methylated spirit. The tion on the manufacture of radiator resulting 'brew' dries very quickly with a hard yet flexible semi gloss dark grey finish that is long lasting, impervious to moisture, will not ad- here to rubber but grips the tyre
10 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
cores and care & maintenance of ra- Also of signifi- diators and automotive cooling sys- cance to classic tems. car owners and restorers, was the fact that modern His presentation included four short manufacturing techniques and mate- videos showing the different manu- rials can be used to fabricate radiator facture techniques for aluminium and cores for older cars. The new radia- copper/brass. tor cores can then be enclosed in the original casing, providing an original look and feel to the engine bay, with (usually) better performance.
Of particular interest were his com- ments regarding the use of anti- freeze and anti-rust additives to cool- ants. The important message for members was to remember to com- pletely drain your system and re- place the coolant when recom- mended on the bottle (if not before). President Greg and Toby the radiator man
Regalia Specials
50% off the entire MG Car Club Canberra clothing line at the monthly club meetings. So come along and snap up a bar- gan. Get in quick while stocks last. If this is neglected the remaining coolant can contaminate the new coolant resulting in a very corrosive solution that will damage the inside of your radiator and engine.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 11
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, 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 members Nigel French on 0413 646321, or Laurie Gardiner (Club equipment custodian) 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.
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with the festival featuring live music, trade expo area, delicious food and entertainment. The Vintage Caravans will be back along with the Vintage he Geelong Revival Motoring Fashion Awards, so get creative and T Festival will be back in 2015 start planning your outfit today! bigger and better than ever. Held on The 2015 Geelong Revival Motoring Geelong’s picturesque waterfront Festival is definitely going to be a precinct on Friday 27th, Saturday memorable one and we can’t wait to 28th and Sunday 29th of November, see you all there for some good, old- this action packed motoring festival fashioned fun! is an event not to be missed! Those old enough will remember The event stands for all things vin- when this event was called the Gee- tage, from the largest companies, long Sprints because its backbone is down to the backyard builders. Take the standing 1/4 mile sprint. The pole position for the historical quar- Geelong Revival is believed to be the ter-mile sprints, as over 400 classic nearest Australian event to the UK and exotic cars and motorcycles Goodwood Festival of Speed. Spec- sprint down Ritchie Boulevard at full tator viewing that overlooks the Gee- throttle. This year we present Twice long waterfront on which the sprint is the Action, with the second track staged is free and a must for those opening in Eastern Park. The Geelong who prefer to see, in action, historic Waterfront will be covered with over vehicles that are better known as 600 quirky, valuable and fascinating conversation pieces. vehicles, and is guaranteed to please anyone with an appreciation for www.geelongrevival.com.au unique vehicles.
Over 600 vehicles will join the Friday Night Cruise as we kick off celebrations for a huge weekend of mo- tor sport! The Geelong Revival Motoring Fes- tival is the ideal way to spend a day out with the whole family,
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 13
The Battle of Waterloo 200th Anniversary Spectacular
Sunday 21 June 2015 at Rond Terrace Help us defeat the French again and bring your MG along Tea, Coffee, Food and Drinks will be available
Arrive between 8:30—9:30 am A great display area where you can get great photo;’s of your pride & Joy
14 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Autumn Weekend Away A New Members’ Thoughts by Kerry Atkins
and we like to spend time together.
aving recently become a The most satisfying experiences for H member of the club, re- me were how warmly we were wel- tired, living in Canowindra NSW and comed into the group of 22 and how therefore not being able to attend much fun we had with them. I have monthly meetings regularly, it is not belonged to a number of car clubs easy to get to know people, UNLESS I over the years, some very welcom- go on the club runs and especially ing to new members as this club the longer ones. So the Snowy run obviously is and some a bit cliquey. was a great opportunity to experi- ence the club and some of its mem- Like club tours the world over we bers. drove and ate our way around, in this case, the mountains. Food was in My 17 year old grandson Tim (nearly abundance and very good quality at the end of his L's) was keen to wherever we stopped and stayed ,as come because I (his Poppa) encour- was the conversation and banter. age him to drive my 1975 MGB GT For MG driving, the roads and road surfaces were superb. Someone had a great time taking a dry run over the route. Tim wishes it had been him.
Tim came from Wollongong to stay with me for Easter on my solid promise to the parents that I make sure that he did all his prescribed HSC work before we left for the tour. We drove to and stayed in Michelago on the Thursday night, which put us right where we needed Mark, Naomi, Tim and Kerry enjoying to be for the start on Friday morn- pre dinner drinks on the shores of ing. Eleven cars, 9 MG's, an Austin lake Jindabyne. Well not Tim (being Healey 6 and a modern. young has it’s drawbacks)
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 15
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Rydges gave us a three storey huge 2 bedroom apartment with stun- ning views over the lake and sur- rounding area. As did all of us once we set the resort straight (but mine and Tim;’s was soooo much better). An excellent Italian dinner at "Baccus" over the road following pre-dinner drinks and nib- Crystal clear skies, an MGBGT and bles in Room 306 (wearing of silly curvy bendy bits in the road. You beanies encouraged). can’t ask for more than that.
First up was a pleasant run to Saturday started with a hearty resort Cooma. I had forgotten what a pic- breakfast and a run to Crackenback turesque drive it was and it ended at Resort for morning tea and a wan- a guided tour of Cooma Gaol and der around pristine and crystal lead by an inmate of some years clear grounds. Tim was suffi- standing who not only thoroughly ciently impressed to consider knew his subject but entertained us bringing friends here for schoolies with a dry sense of humour. Fortu- week at the end of the year, but I nately, the guard who was with him digress. Then off to Thredbo for a did not seem to mind the ribbing he free afternoon. Mountain bike cham- got. pionships were on, Tim knew a cou- ple of competitors from his school, so Morning tea at "The Lot" in Cooma, we watched for a while, had 2 rides then a brilliant MG drive to the on the bobsled course (I was soundly "Taste of Tuscany" for lunch in Dal- beaten by Tim) and took the chairlift gety. Another brilliant drive to to the top for a late lunch. The ride Rydges Resort on the shores of down was great because the bike Lake Jindabyne where we were to The worlds biggest Pixie and the stay for 2 nights. When I say worlds tallest Elf "brilliant drives" I mean brilliant drives for Tim. Poppa was not en- couraged to take the wheel. I was, however, allowed to drive the more straight forward bits.
Unfortunately (well as it turned out, fortunately for Tim and I) something happened to our booking (it got lost in the ether) and in compensation
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 17
runs Criss-cross under the chairlift all Then back along the road toward the way down. Thredbo, to the Brumby Schnapps Distillery for a yummy late morn- Dinner was at the resort and what a ing tea and tasting of various fruit dinner it was. The dress theme was based schnappss. I didn't buy "Pixies, Sprites and Trolls of the any because quite frankly I would Mountain Kingdom" and the various probably drink it like soft drink and interpretations were hillarious. I we all know where that would lead. went as the world's biggest pixie and Tim drove back to the Cooma RSL Tim as an elf. The food was very for the biggest lunch I have ever good, but I think no-one really no- faced, I could manage only half the ticed with the banter, competitions main course. Since I had to return and raffle going on. After all that, Tim to Wollongong, Tim drove us most retired to Room 306 to con- down Brown Mountain, we stayed tinue the fun with after dinner drinks. in Bega Sunday night and we After another hearty breakfast at the drove up the coast on Monday, a resort Sunday morning came the run pretty good end to a great long to the Department of the streams, weekend away with, I have to say rivers and dams in the region all Kerry’s MGBGT set amongst a stunning land- scape. The guided tour was most informative and was well worth the visit. Kerry and Tim drawing the winners of the Charity Raffle.
a,
(Continued on page 19)
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delightful bunch of people. The club is indeed fortunate and I'm really glad to be part of it. I'm told that this tour is typical and with a bit of luck I'm a starter for them all. If you are even vaguely thinking of joining a day run or longer tour for the first time be assured you will enjoy it, and you will be warmly welcomed, so join us. Tailpiece. Tim passed his P's driv- ing test first try 100%, due to his experience driving the MG of course!
I doubt you could find a more normal bunch of friendly up- standing citizens.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 19
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Truing Wire Wheels—Part 2 by Rod Schweiger
condition. They come in several sizes of diameter, width, and varying numbers of spokes. For each wheel his month we'll take a look at there is a nut or nipple, and each the Rudge-Whitworth system T wheel has a hub and a rim. So, you of wire wheels. This design was in- can see that a 48 spoke wheel 96 vented over 50 years ago and the car separate pieces to maintain. Add to makers in Great Britain used this these the splined hub and outer rim, same principle until 1978; With this plus the driving hub or hub extension seemingly simple design, cars around and the wheel nut or knock-off, and the world have travelled countless you have an even 100 pieces at each miles in sporting fashion. With the corner of your car to look after. And finishing of manufacture by Dunlop of don't forget the spare. this type of wheel, preservation is When buying a car with wire wheels, Rudge-Whitworth type Wire Wheel it will behove you to inspect the wheels for deficiencies, and when considering converting a disc wheeled TD or TF to wires, first pon- der the cost of acquisition and/or re- pairs. It will be necessary to cough up upwards of $1700 for painted and $2100 for chromed kits (new). If you are able to obtain used parts for the conversion the cost will decline considerably. Or will it? Read on.....
Let's talk about maintenance. Once each year, for a car that is driven regularly (more often if the weather is wet or very dusty), the wheels now left to classic and antique car must be removed, clean and grease enthusiasts. applied to the splines of both wheel In order that wire wheels can con- and hub. Use a grease that has a tinue to be used they must be main- high silicon content or a marine wa- tained, repaired and kept in running terproof type to prevent entry of wa-
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 21
ter and other foreign elements. Figure 2 While performing this ritual of up- keep, each spoke should be in- spected for looseness or over tight- ening. A simple way is to run a screwdriver or other metallic object around the wheel, touching each spoke in turn. An incorrectly tight- ened spoke can be detected by lis- tening for any change in the ring rims. If any one of the spokes or produced by the contact of the tool nipples is pulled through, I'd recom- on the spokes. A dull thud indicates mend replacement of the defective looseness and a twangy sound, hub or rim. There are other things to higher pitched than the others, de- look for too. notes an overtightened one. Any If there is evidence of rust at the defect in the spokes must be reme- juncture of the nipple and spoke died before further use, lest deterio- (figure 1), the culprits will have to be ration of the wheel results. replaced. If the splines on either the At this time you should further in- wheel (figure 2)or driving hubs spect the wheels to detect any that (figure 3)are not sharply pointed or are bent, wobbly cracked, out of are badly pitted due to corrosion or round, or damaged in the splined wear due to looseness of the knock- area. Also look for cracks or distor- off then replacement of these com- tion where the spokes or nipples ponents is in order. Driving hubs come through the hubs or center may be repaired by a competent ma- chine shop, but be prepared for a sizable bill. Most wheelwrights have replacement hubs for 48 and 60 spokers, and outer rims for 13", 14" and 15" wheels, and spokes of most any length. For the owners of those
Figure 3
Figure 1
22 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
wheels which have been damaged, outer taper which can be necked and for which there are no spare down too. Any combination of these parts, expensive repair jobs are all two defects can result in the same that you can look forward to. condition. Its usually easy to find a bad outer taper. Just note the gap Looking now at the first figure on between the knock off and the page 12, you can see the compo- spokes. There should be a gap of nents and principle of the system. about 3/32". If there is 1/16" or less, You will note that there are two and the wheel is still loose, abso- points of contact that hold the wheel lutely no further tightening should be in a manner that will allow it to run attempted. This can only result in true and without wobble. The inside further deterioration of the condition. (or back) taper contacts the inner To determine which component is part of the wheel hub, and the hub bad, you must first have a wheel, nut contacts the outside taper of the knock-off and driving hub known to wheel. If any part of these two junc- be in good condition. Using the fol- tures is distorted, damaged or even lowing methods you may determine dirty, the wheel cannot run true. any taper problems. Each surface should be cleaned thor- oughly, filed or sanded if necessary, Remove the wheels and lay a suspect to remove all rough spots, and knock-off on the good wheel. Com- greased before installation. If this pare the distance between the good procedure is followed, and the wheel, and suspect knock-off in relation to after tightening, still seems to be The spokes. A bad knockoff will have loose you must first check that the less clearance and may even touch original nuts and/or washers that the spokes of the wheel. Comparing hold on the brake drums are used. If a good knock-off to a suspect and ordinary nuts and/or washers are the good wheel will determine used, they may move out to where whether or not the outer taper of the they interfere with the inner face of wheel is good. If these tests prove the wheel hub. Now, if the wheel is that the knock-off and outer taper still loose or wobbles or rotates when are in good shape, mount the wheel you grab and apply force to it in the to a known good hub and check for various directions, the improper seat- contact of the inner surface of the ing of the tapers is to be checked wheel hub and the brake drum or next. drum studs and/or nuts. Any contact at this point will condemn the wheel The outer taper is the culprit most of hub. Conversely, a suspect driving the time. As a result of over tighten- hub may be tested in this same man- ing, the knock-off can be bellied out ner, using a good wheel. to the point that it bottoms on the
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 23
A bent wheel is usually easily de- sure to use only new spokes and tected by visual inspection, as is one nipples. Don't take a chance on old with excessive eccentricity. By or rusted ones as the super fine mounting a wheel to a rear hub and threads can pull right off on tight- rotating it with a stationary object as ening the nipples. a reference point, either of these If you are leaning toward chroming, conditions can be readily detected. even of new spokes, forget it'. A clunk may sometimes be heard Unless your spokes are specially when changing directions as the car stove-chromed there will be a resi- is moved, or when starting out. As- due of moisture that can lead to suming the wheels and hubs are in early spoke failure trapped under otherwise good condition, one must the chrome shell. Besides this, now suspect the driving splines are the spokes can lose up to half their not up to snuff. Splines of both strength if improperly done. Buy wheel and driving hub may be bad. only commercially produced Or the knock-offs may simply be not chrome spokes. Note too that tight enough. Always tighten the stainless steel spokes have re- knock-offs with the wheel off the cently come on the market. ground. Sufficient force can be ap- Before dismantling a wheel, make plied, and do not give them an extra sure you know how it's supposed whack with the car on the ground. to go back together. Save one You know what the looseness could wheel for a pattern or take a pic- be now, don't you? ture or make a drawing to ensure Having removed the wheels, inspect proper assembly. the splines of both wheel and driving Cut with a pair of diagonals all hub. If they are badly pitted or spokes and remove the pieces rounded off in more than a couple of easily. well-spaced areas, you know what to do. And, if you insist on repairing or Wire brush both rim and wheel hub respoking your own wheels and on and inspect for cracks at the spoke your own, here are a few pointers: or nipple holes. Sometimes minor damage can be welded. Generally Do not attempt to straighten a bent cracks only. rim by yourself. Find a good wheelwright who offers straighten- Insert all spokes and nipples loosely ing service. and inspect the assembly for cor- rect location of all spokes. Since a wire wheel is a precision ob- ject and is strung with equal and Make a tool from a 1/4" or 3/8" taut settings, in respoking one, be socket screwdriver bit. (A) Make
24 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
sure the blade is of the proper runouts can be monitored during thickness to fit the slot in the nip- the tightening process. Acceptable ple and wide enough so a notch lateral runout is only 0.025" and (B) can be cut out of the center to radial runout 0.050". Adhering to allow the spoke to enter the notch these standards will ensure that as the nipple is tightened. you will not encounter difficulties when the wheels are put into ser- Now, screw down the nipples only vice. just snug until about the same amount of spoke shows in each Proceed now to the final tightening. nipple. Use the valve stem hole as Begin as before with the first pair a starting point and snug up the of inner and outer spokes and con- first set of inner and outer spokes. tinue around until all are tight and Use an alternating and opposing the runouts are within tolerances. pattern of tightening. Next do the Recheck your work by tapping pair exactly opposite the first. each spoke while listening for simi- Then, it's back and forth to a pair larity of ring, correcting all defi- next to the first, and so on, rotat- ciencies. Do not over tighten. ing the wheel always in the same Proper torque is about 30 to 40 direction while tightening. inch pounds, or 3 to 4 foot pounds. In most cases a snug twist with The wheel must now be set up in a palm-grip type driver will be tight jig on the bench. A jig can consist enough. If you wish to use an anti- of a hub rotating on a spindle. A seize compound, such as Lock-tite, much easier way is to mount the you must consider that the torque wheel to the rear hub of a car. specs will change to some degree, Make sure the axle and hub are so a combination of 'feel' and the not bent, of course. If a front hub right sound of each spoke will be were to be used, there might be the factors in obtaining the proper too much play in the bearings to adjustment. Remember, do not allow proper truing. over tighten' Some indicators must now be set up You must now remove by filing or to check the radial (up and down grinding the ends of any spoke motion) and lateral (wobble) standing proud of any nipple, and runouts. Place solid objects above replace the rubber strip over the the rim's inner and outer edges nipples. Lacking the strip, you may and some just to the side of each. use a few layers of plastic tape to Secure some bars, screwdrivers, protect the inner tubes from punc- or the like to the car frame, jack ture. stands or other support so the
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 25
Clean the inside of the wheel hub that all components, wheel, hub and cover each spoke end with and knock-off are in proper equi- silicone gasket sealer, such as librium. All tires must be hand R.T.V., to prevent grease on the mounted or dismounted on all wire splines from traveling up the wheels. spokes. Do not get any sealer on Once properly done, by you or a pro- the splines. fessional, your wheels will carry your Paint the wheel, now, using a spray MG down the road, tracking as can of aluminum enamel, followed though it had been seeking, and fi- in about fifteen to twenty minutes nally found it. with a coat of Krylon or other clear Many thanks to David Evans, from spray. This will give the wheel that whose recent articles in Import Car, brushed" look. Any runs of the much of the material in this column clear coating can be immediately was obtained. touched up by re spraying the area with aluminum and following later with more clear.
Finally, once your wheels are in per- fect order they should be bal- anced. I recommend they be spin -done on the car. This ensures
26 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
MGCC Canberra Presentation Dinner
Saturday 25 July 2015
This years Presentation Dinner will once again be held in the historic dinning rooms of the Brassy Hotel. Filled with elegance and character it is the perfect venue for our premier event of the year.
Come along and enjoy an outstanding example of some of Canberra's finest cuisine in an atmosphere of fun, frivolity, merriment and mirth. Cost: $60.00 per head Arrive 6:30 pm for 7:00pm
Inclusions: Dinner, two bottles of wine per table, party favours for the ladies; laughter, good company and great memories. Contact: Gail Argyle [email protected]
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 27
The Michelin Vintage Tyre Range Returns to Australia
From May, the highly popular Mich- these tyres benefit from the progress elin Vintage car tyre range will be made in performance. However, the available in Australia. visual characteristics of these tyres remain consistent with those of the Featuring the Michelin Classic and vehicles of time.” Historic Competition tyre ranges, the new arrangement will give vintage Michelin Vintage offers a range of car owners easier access to approxi- tyres for classic cars which will fit a mately 90 products. The first dealer number of vehicles made between to receive the tyres will be Stuckey the 30s and the end of the 70s. Tyre Service. Made in small production runs, often Michelin Australia Managing Director, by hand, these tyres call on the tech- Cedric Binoit said the move was nical skills and the know-how of the prompted by increasing demand for finest craftsmen. the product in Australia. The technological excellence of this “Michelin is pleased to be able to of- range goes hand in hand with the fer this highly popular range again to historical authenticity of the vehicles. our Australian customers,” said Mr These tyres reproduce the exact con- Binoit. figuration of the model of the time in terms of size, tread pattern and as- “Through Stuckey Tyre Service we pect ratio thereby ensuring the vehi- are providing easier access and im- cle remains entirely in keeping with proved service to vintage car owners the period. looking to fit Michelin tyres to their prized vehicles. Not only will they be able to keep the original look and feel of their vehicle, they will also benefit from improved safety and performance
“Tyre safety and performance have come a long way since these cars were first manufactured, but thanks to continuous innovation and techno- logical leadership from Michelin,
28 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Sporting Report
June 2015 by Kent Brown
Motorkhana And if you assist on the day the 2nd Ngunnawal Girl Guides will again pro- vide you with gratis bacon sand- he next MGCCC Multi-club wiches, a sausage sizzle, tea, coffee motorkhana is scheduled for T and cool drinks. What more could Sunday, 21 June 2015. you ask for? All the necessary documentation has CAMS Training been submitted and approved by Courses CAMS. An email inviting potential competitors to submit and entry form CAMS NSW is planning to hold two was sent out to 196 individuals and training courses in Canberra over the even though there is still nearly 3 weekend 29/30 August at a venue weeks before the event as I write TBA. One is for Club Chief (on the this report the grid is well sub- Saturday) and the other a Scrutineer scribed. I will always keep space for course (on the Sunday). our own club members and don’t for- Simply put, a Club Chief qualification get that if it is your first time, and is for someone with motor sport offi- you drive and MG, there is no entry ciating experience working without fee. supervision and capable of perform- Again my plea – any help on the day ing the role of Clerk of the Course/ would be greatly appreciated. Please Event Director or a Chief Steward do not be shy in putting your hand role at Club/Multi-Club events. up to assist. If you really do not A Scrutineer can legally inspect vehi- want to we can always use your help cles at an event for safety. to assist with timing, documentation, set-up, refurbishing the facility or There is no charge for the courses so whatever. Please let either Chris you only have to give up one (or Hillman or I know if you can make it. two) days. We are always looking for volunteers We desperately need more qualified and would really appreciate your help CAMS officials in the ACT and in par- and support of MGCCC events. ticular Scrutineers for the motorkha-
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 29
nas we conduct so please give this mainly to the winter weather. How- opportunity some serious considera- ever in August on the weekend of the tion. If you do want to attend or 8/9th is an event well worth consid- have any questions in relation to the ering attending at Winton, near activity please contact me for assis- Benalla in Victoria. It is the Victorian tance and/or to nominate which I am Historic Racing Register’s annual Winton Festival of Speed on the long Historic Motor track – the one used recently by the Racing V8 Supercars. Both Brian Weston and I have put our entries in for the coordinating on be- event. half of the MGCCC.
Unfortunately the Top Gear event which was scheduled in April at Sydney Motorsport Park was cancelled as a direct result of Jeremy Clarkson and the BBC sever- ing their relationship.
There is a quiet time mid-year in the historic motor sport calendar due Frank Matich – Champion 1972
Vale – Frank Matich (25 February 1935 – 11 May 2015)
The HSRCA advised recently that sadly we must say farewell to an- other legendary friend in our motor racing world. Max Stahl’s words be- low, along with the attached pictures supplied by Brian Caldersmith will undoubtedly bring back memories for many of you.
"Hailed by many as Australia’s finest all-round race driver, with engineer- ing and driving skills to rival the late great Sir Jack Brabham, Frank Matich has died in Sydney after a long and
30 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Club Calendar
CLUB EVENTS for 2015
June
Thu 4 Midweek Meander,
Sun 28 Run to Kaffeine Cafe in Yass. Meet at the Dinosaur Museum at 11.00am for an 11.30am departure. A room has been put aside for us (They don’t want us to infect the locals). Run Sheet will be at the June Monthly Meeting or Contact Trevor Finklaire.
July
Thu 14 Midweek Meander,
Sun 19 It is hoped to have a joint event with the Jaguar Club. Details have yet to be finalised.
Note: Mid Week Meanders will commence again in March and be held on the 2nd Thu of the month, meeting at a pre-arranged location at 11.00am for 11.30am departure OTHER EVENTS
Remember : Our traditional ‘Lunchtime Natters’ are held at Weston Park, Yarralumla (first picnic spot on the right) each Tuesday from 12.30pm.
NB: “CLUB EVENT” signifies that an MG club representative will be in atten- dance, regardless of who is organizing. Such events meet the requirements for concessional registration.
Events listed in “OTHER EVENTS” or in the Sporting Report also meet the requirements for CRS participation although a formal MG club representa- tive may not be attending.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 31
MID-WEEK MEANDERS
July Thurs 2nd Lanyon Homestead. Meet at 2pm Crn Lanyon Drive & Johnson & Tharwa Drive Roundabout. More details Page 31
August Thurs 6th Collector. Meet 11 am at Watson Service Station More Details July Tappet Chatter
Sept Tibbinbilla Tracking Station. Thurs 3rd Meet 11am at Scrivener Dam Car park eastern side
Snapshot
Been There Bungendore Woodwork Café Had Lunch there, a bit chilly, but that did not deter folks from com ing out. Report and comments in the next Tappet Chatter
Going Here Thurs 6th August Meet 11 am at Watson Service Station More Details July Tappet Chatter
List for names & numbers at the May meeting, or phone 62994920 or email [email protected]
32 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
MID-WEEK MEANDERS
BEEN THERE :-
ur May gathering was blessed with glorious autumn weather of clear O sunny blue skies, a gentle breeze and birdsong. A near record 26 members drove, walked and hobbled and limped, to gather for a wonderful run on a beautiful day to the Telegraph Hotel in Gunning. The running sheet of cars encompassed a variety of classic motoring history, in- cluding; 3 MGB’s, MGTF, 3 MGZT’s, 3 Austin Healey’s, MG Midget a Triumph TR3, an E Type Jaguar plus 2 town cars.
The drive was a pleasant undulating and curvaceous meander along the back- roads to Gunning through the villages of Sutton and Gundaroo, all the while
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 33
we were encapsulated in Autumn greens, reds and yellows through the pictur- esque landscape that could almost make you forget about the chill in the air.
We were also lucky enough to welcomed new comers Paul & Jacki Covington in their MGB. We hope they enjoyed the experience and we look forward to seeing them again on the next run.
The Telegraph Hotel catered very well with good and quick service, large
meals and a pleasant setting, and highly recommend for the future
GOING HERE :- . Thursday 2nd July 2015
Lanyon Homestead – Afternoon Coffee
Please Note
“ I’ve altered the schedule “ It is now an Afternoon Coffee Run
Meet at the roundabout Johnson & Thawra Drive at 2.PM
Afternoon Coffee is a change to our normal arrangements – Change is good
Lanyon Homestead café has a warm fire and an ideal venue for the cold win- ter days. The menu is extensive at very reasonable prices
There is a distance of approx. 1 km very solid gravel road
List for names at the June meeting or phone
Graeme or Jo H 62994920 M 0437679497
Email [email protected]
34 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 35
debilitating illness. He was 80 years ciation (SDMA) are holding their next of age. event at the Sutton Road venue, the Leon Nolan Memorial Hillclimb - 2 "In a racing career spanning two Lap Event, on Sunday, 16 May 2015. decades from the mid-fifties, Matich There should be some great cars to captured several Australian Sports watch. And it doesn’t clash with our Car, GT and Gold Star titles, two multi-club motorkhana!
Matich SR3 drawn by Brian Cal-
Australian Grands Prix and the 1970 NZ GP. Two of the Sports Car titles fell to him in his own cars, the SR3 and SR4, while in 1971 he drove his self-designed F5000 car, the Matich A50, to victory in the AGP, then in 1972 took the Gold Star Champion- ship in his A51 and A52.
"Though Matich consistently held his The CMHAC will conduct the Mt Glad- own against the best Internationals - stone Hillclimb at Mt. Gladstone Rd in Clark, Hill, McLaren and Brabham - Cooma, which is off the Snowy the coveted Tasman Cup always Mountains Highway about 1km south eluded him and despite constant of Cooma and leads to the Mt Glad- pressure he resisted chasing the stone Lookout and Miss Heidi’s Tea- challenge overseas in favour of stay- house, on Sunday, 25 October 2015. ing at home with his family." The Hillclimb section is approximately 1km in length. Competitors will need
Hillclimb
If you are interested in having a go at a hill- climb, or just watching how it’s done, the Southern Districts Motorsport Asso-
36 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
to financial members of CMHAC or days are noted for their variety of other invited clubs affiliated with cars ranging from locally made spe- CAMS, such as our own club, and cials, famous imported makes and must hold a CAMS Level 2 Speed modified production cars and colour- Event Licence. A link to all the infor- ful characters. Drivers evoke a by- mation needed about the event can gone era with surprising speed, skill be found at http:// and respect for others. Well worth a www.coomacarclub.com.au/mt - visit at Wakefield Park, a relatively gladstone-hillclimb short drive away. Entry for specta- tors is FREE.
Second GEAR, for less old racing cars Golden Era of Auto (post 1964), has a meeting sched- Racing (GEAR) uled at Wakefield Park on Tuesday,
16 June 2015. It is also FREE entry GEAR celebrates an era of amateur to view. motor sport that ended in the 1960s. Their next event is to be held on Wednesday, 12 August 2015. GEAR
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 37
MG’s hopes to mark 100th race with a win
racing series, the Dunlop MSA British ith a racing history going Touring Car Championship. back as far as the 1930s, W The MG6s were taken under the wing MG has enjoyed a rich motorsport of Triple Eight Race Engineering, the heritage. In 2012, MG joined the most successful team within BTCC, to British Touring Car Championship be built and race prepared. The first and this weekend the team will cele- driver to join the MG Triple Eight brate its 100th race. Racing team was the most successful The race will take place on Sunday 7 driver in the history of the series; June at Oulton Park, Cheshire. With Jason Plato. He, along with team the track offering kindness to the mate Andy Neate, ensured the first team in the past, MG Triple Eight season went with a bang by securing Racing is hoping to celebrate this a number of wins and a fifth place milestone with one of the team’s finish in the team standings. drivers on the top step. In 2013, rookie Sam Tordoff replaced Three years ago, MG took the oppor- Andy Neate and immediately showed tunity to promote its new MG6 by his potential with a podium finish in launching it into the UK’s premier the first weekend of the season. The
38 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
team boosted themselves to a sec- Regalia Specials ond place finish at the end of the 50% off the entire MG Car Club season. Canberra clothing line at the monthly Whilst the 2014 season didn’t see a club meetings. top spot for either drivers in the Get in quick driver standings, the overall consis- while stocks last. tency of Plato and Tordoff was re- warded when MG Triple Eight Racing were named the champions in the Manufacturer/Constructor Champion- ship; ending the reign of the Honda Regalia
Yuasa team. CLUB CLOTHING In 2015 it was decided that, in a bid Shirts - Cotton Long Sleeve $32.00 to bring new energy and momentum Shirts-Cotton Short Sleeve $30.00 to the next season, a fresh line up Polo Shirts - Men's & Ladies $25.00 would give the team what it needed. Polo Fleece full zip Jacket - Men's $35.00 Team Principal and Triple Eight Man- Micro Fleece full zip Jacket- Ladies $35.00 aging Director, Ian Harrison, worked Nylon full zip Spray Jackets-Unlined $30.00 hard to get 2013 BTCC champion Andrew Jordan on board. The deter- OTHER ITEMS mination to get this experienced Club Coffee Mugs (Bendigo Pottery) $12.00 driver paid off and, as expected, An- Club Grille Badges $22.00 drew has been a great addition to Club Lapel Badges $ 6.00 the team. Car Lapel Badges $10.00 MG Triple Eight Racing wanted an- Club Windscreen Stickers $ 2.00 other young driver to join the revised MG Octagon Car Lapel Badges $10.00 2015 team so they could grow with MG Key Rings $ 7.00 the brand and retain the 2014 title. Sew-on Embroidered MG Logo in cloth With a background in the MG Car $ 8.00 Club’s MG Trophy racing series, Jack Goff has already earned his place within BTCC by sitting 7th in the overall standings.
We’re keeping our fingers crossed that the team will not only get to celebrate its first podium finish of the season, but this potential win will coincide with the 100th race.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 39
Cars et de Tour du Africaans
wagon is just fine. Perhaps it is the henever Virginia and I gold that doesn’t quite match! head off on holidays we W Virginia and I generally travel around always keep an eagle eye out for by public transport when overseas MGs. And so it was when we re- but we made a slight change to this cently had our sojourn to Arica and arrangement in the ile de Maurice environs. But unfortunately, al- (Mauritius); we hired a car for ease though perhaps understandably con- of getting around under our own sidering the more out-of-the-way steam. And “steam” is nearly an countries we visited, not one MG was appropriate word as the car we were spotted in our whole time away even provided with at the Sir Seewoosagur though the MG movement seems to Ramgoolam International Airport on be quite strong in South Africa. arrival – it was dark, Mauritius does Never mind. not have street lighting, their sign- However parked right outside the posting is, let’s be generous, mini- hotel in Abu Dhabi was a new tow mal, but as a saving grace they do car for my car trailer. And the colour drive on the same side of the road as almost matches the venerable MGB in Australia. The car was a Perodua #51 which is currently sitting on the Viva Elite from the Perusahaan Oto- hoist in the shed waiting for the en- mobil Kedua Sendirian Berhad Com- gine and gearbox to be removed in pany. A Perodua you say? Manufac- order for new synchro cones/rings to tured, perhaps roughly assembled be installed. Alas there was no room would be a better descriptor, in Ma- in the suitcase for the new tow car laysia it is copy of a Daihatsu Mia someone had kindly left although, to powered by a wheezy 3-cylinder 1 be fair, I think the current Sport- litre engine and delivering its
40 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
“power” through an automatic gear- box which always tried to find the highest ratio. While Mauritius is only a small island, say a 50km diameter circle, we did manage to rack up well over 350km. And it must be said without any mechanical maladies and while returning under 7lt/100km. The only minor issue was when I tried to pull the plastic front skirt off the car when negotiating a large lump of concrete and a deep hole in front of the Flic en Flac Post Office. Flic en Flac is a small but rather nice town on the west coast of Mauritius. A couple of judicious well placed kicks soon had the bumper reac- quainted with the car again.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 41
The Key to Modern MG Motoring MG ZT
quirement to replace either the but- y editorial in the May edi- tons, the fob or the whole key and M tion of Tappet Chatter on thus generating more income for MG fob repair resulted in a lot of ques- Rover. A sound plan if only they had tions and requests for advice coming stayed around. my way. This fob (fig 1 & 2) is off my ZT So much in fact that I thought I 220S, and you can see that the lock would do a couple of articles on the button is completely gone and the repair or replacement of fob’s and unlock button is almost gone. Notice remotes beginning with the MG ZT. on the unlock button (the squarish one) in fig 2, that in the middle is a Aside from losing a key (which can round extension. This extension cause no end of heartache and a big piece is what physically pushes the bill), or dropping it in water, the big- actuator button inside the fob. “So gest issue with the MG ZT key is per- why is that important” you ask. ishability of the buttons on the fob. Well, unless you have really skinny Worst of all, the buttons themselves fingers, or you carry around some- are not replaceable, you have to re- thing slim all the time, you may find place the whole fob it seems.
Unlike a lot of automotive key re- motes which have hard plastic but- tons for durability, it seems that MG Fig 3 Rover decided to go with materiel obsolescence. Whereby the rubber used in the buttons degrades and perishes creating an aftermarket re-
Fig 1 Fig 2
it difficult to push the buttons if the rubber is missing. That is because they are far enough inside that you 42 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
just can’ quite reach them with your The MG ZT key and remote fob are a finger. unit (fig 3) which comprise the front and rear of the fob case (fig’s 1 & 2), I was content to continue using the the key blade (fig 4), the immobiliser key while everything worked ok, but chip and the remote electronics (fig when the last of the rubber disap- 5). peared from the lock button, (and I had to try to squeeze my finger in This particular key type is used on through the hole) I noticed my frus- Land Rover’s, Mini’s, Rover 75’s and MG ZT’s. The blade type can also be found on some Volvo’s. That said, it Fig 4 is extremely difficult to get the fob or the blade in Australia from your nor- mal array of locksmiths, or key cut- ters. I tried independent key cutters, locksmiths and franchise key cutters, however none of them had, nor could get, either the fob or blade. Note the collar on the blade. Having had the experience of acquir- This is what allows it to clip in ing a new key for my ZT 260 SE, I and out of the fob. knew I could find keys and fobs online. I thought I could get them Fig 5 from either the UK or Germany, as MG Rover was British and the ZT / Rover 75 was based on a BMW 5 se- ries (and the full keys when ordered come in BMW wrapping. I thought they would be the only two places that would have them.
A generic google search with “MG ZT Key Fob” listed Youtube video’s on how to change the battery and the like, links to forums talking about these keys AND…
tration levels elevating on a daily basis. Hence my initial research into replacing / repairing them.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 43
44 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Ebay & Amazon listings from a raft of myself thinking that I had just places; for complete repair kits, bought the bargain of the century, fob’s, fob & blade, and battery and knowing that the new key (complete) the electro-mechanical buttons. I bought for my ZT 260 SE was They’re available from the UK, China, nearly $500.00. Hong Kong and even the Philippines. A couple of weeks passed by before I scrolled through each listing evalu- the fobs arrived. Well with free post- ating whether or not I could notice age you didn’t expect it would be any visible differences between the courier delivered...did you! keys I had and what I could see on I felt a wave of endorphins surge the net. On my 32 inch LED monitor through my body, so I knew it was Old Blades time to put this baby to bed. Or was it!
I had not pulled my key apart before and so I reverted to my new best friend, Mr Google. I found some pic- tures on the 75 & ZT forum of a bloke who showed how to take them apart. ‘Simple’, I said, wiggle the blade with a pair of pliers and it should come out. At first I used a modicum of brute force and slowly increased until the blade came away from the fob. ‘Tight fit’ I thought, and picked up the new fob to insert the blade. Something wasn’t quite New Blade (notice the black collar at right, the blade did not fit… what the hell was going on. I looked at both with expanded views of some of the fobs’ and quickly figured out what keys and fobs, I could not see any- had happened. (see old blades) thing that might hint at reduced The blades on my ZT200S keys had quality or differences in manufactur- been glued into fob and I had pulled ing processes. Bearing in mind, I the blade right out of the collar. have an untrained eye. Damn, now I was down to one key In a burst of enthusiasm I ordered for the 220S, the same situation I two new fobs off the internet for the was in with the 260. sum total of $6.00 including postage. Ok, I thought. I might be able to cut I then sat back quite pleased with
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 45
the fob away from the collar and probably your best bet”. then refit it to the blade. No so. I Cool, a direction to go in. So I went would have more chance of import- to the nearest Locksmith (who was ing an MG SVR into Australia than 20 minutes away). I asked them if separae the collar from the fob. they could cut this type of key, and Needless to say it didn’t work. they said yes, but we are busy right I now had two options, buy another now, you can either leave them with complete key at $500.00, or buy a us or come back after lunch. fob with a blank blade and get it cut. ‘Outstanding’ finally making some An easy choice, so I thought. I went headway. I chose to leave the keys back to the internet and found a with them. company that would ship fobs with An hour or so later I received a blank blades, two units per sale. I phone call, “what sort of car is it off, thought, two keys will cover me but we need to put a code into the ma- for the princely sum of $16.00 I can chine”. So I gave them what they get 4, just in case something goes needed (which was simply MG ZT), wrong with the cutting. A small price and hung up. Roughly an hour after to pay. A couple of clicks later and a that I received another phone call, confirmation email arrives. “Thank “the boss says we can’t cut this key, you for your order of 8 units”...wtf! it’s not from a reputable manufac- In my zest to order, I had made a turer, and not only that, we don’t cut couple of clicks too many, and now anything we don’t supply”. déjà vu. my $16.00 purchase had doubled. Not to worry, in the scheme of things So I went back to pick up my keys that is a minor concern. and the two blanks and was begin- ning to consider that maybe every- Again, a couple of weeks later and one only cut their own. my package arrived. I raced in and picked up my remaining key and Now I was wondering what I was went straight to the nearest key cut- going to do next. ter. The next “Sorry Mate” he says “I don’t cut day I was anything I don’t supply”. That’s fine, having cof- I can cope with that. I ask “can you fee with a get these blades”. “Nuh” he says, couple of “and besides that, I can’t cut those mates and keys, I don’t have the equipment”. regailing “Do you know who can cut these them with keys then”. “Try a locksmith, that’s my di-
46 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
lemma. One of the guys said that old one was fine and didn’t need re- the Mister Minit at Tuggeranong Hy- placing. perdome can cut them. So with a Having two complete keys, I little bit of trepidation, I went down went into the garage and and saw him. 1 tried them both in the igni- “No problem mate, give me half an tion. Hearing the spin of a hour and $40.00 a piece”.
Well, that was a load off my mind, and my wallet. After waiting half an hour, I forked over $80.00, got my newly cut keys and went straight out to the 220S in the carpark.
I checked both keys in the boot, and the drivers door and everything worked as it should. I got in the car and gently put one of the newly cut keys in the ignition, and turned it to the accessory position. I see lights. I turned the key to the start position, supercharged engine was music to and I heard “click”, ok, I changed my ears. back to the original key and drove Now that I have travelled that bumpy home.
Once at home I changed over the electronics board to the new fob and attached the old back piece. I used the old back piece because the im- mobiliser chip is nestled in the back of the case (see below) and I didn’t want to risk damaging it simply to
but fruitful road, I can tell you that if you have an MG ZT and your buttons are perished, there is light at the end of the tunnel. put it in a new case. The back of the
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 47
If your blade is removable from the blade in. fob, all you need to do is get a new If your blade is glued in to the fob,
get a fob and blade of eBay, and when it arrives, take it to Mister Minit, give him $40.00 to cut your key. Then take it home and change the board and backing piece and you
fob off eBay for less than $5.00. When it arrives, change the elec- tronic board over, put your original back piece on the fob and clip your
are home and hosed and ready for
the road once more.
48 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
The following is a step by step to dis- drop out into your hand. If it doesn’t mantling your keys. give a couple of gentle taps on the case to help it on it’s way. If it still The first order of business is to put does not come out, use a jewellers on a pair of rubber gloves. This pre- screwdriver to gently pry it out. vents static discharge from your fin- gers while handling the key and cir- Place the board in the new fob case cuit board. A static discharge can with the battery up. Get the fob seriously damage the circuit board. back that has the immobiliser chip in it, clip it into the blade end of the fob Next, with the buttons facing down, and push shut. Ensure the fob is insert a smallish screwdriver into the closed properly as this provides a notch at the top of the fob. Push little bit of water resistance. downward using the plastic bridge (1)of the key for leverage and gently To change your blade, hold the fob pop the back (Hold in both hands, for and blade in opposite hands, gently the purposes of taking a picture I wiggle the blade from side to side only had one hand free). and pull out. If your fingers slip, use a pair of pliers to apply a bit more Then insert the screwdriver between purchase on the blade. To refit the the back and front of the case toward blade simply push it in until you hear the key blade and twist one way or or feel a click. the other. This will pop the back completely off.
After this is done simply turn the fob upside down and the board should
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 49
Melba Motors More than 40 years experience
12 Purdue Street Belconnen
Melba Motors is a car repair and maintenance business with a spe- cial interest in British vehicles. Proprietor Mick Wilson is a UK Ley- land workshop trained mechanic experienced in all aspects of MGs and other British cars and can get your vehicles into tip-top shape.
Mick and the staff carry out general repairs, engine rebuilds and fix carburettors. Melba Motors diagnose and fix suspension problems and specialise in small welding and rust repairs.
Transport can be arranged for cars that won’t go. There is a 24 Hour emergency response – get you started or tow your car to safety.
Call Mick on 02 6253 1523
http://melbamotors.com/
50 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
May Club Run The Roses Café, Goulburn
Very Rosie décor! festive crowd of 38 people gathered in the carpark at the A th Mint on 17 May for our monthly club run to The Roses Café in Goulburn.
Mind you it was quite a chilly day for autumn so all manner of warm clothing was seen; caps and hats, gloves, scarves, puffy parkas and so on. A few onto Goulburn via Tarago and Lake items were noticed that may be consid- Bathurst. ered by some to be politically incorrect in that the luscious fur had an animal It was a perfect blue sky, sunny day for origin; but I’m assuming the said fur top-down driving nevertheless one had was from an approved animal salon to be rugged up to keep the chill at following an annual shearing…..well bay. The changing colours of autumn they do shear beavers don’t they? were still evident along the way through the scenic countryside. Upon receiving our route orders, a pa- rade of vehicles that included single or Goulburn was abuzz with activity for a multiples of the MGB, Midget, TD, MGA, Sunday and our destination café was BGT, modern F and TF and an Austin obviously popular with locals and visi- Healey wended its way through Can- tors alike. The offerings were sumptu- berra, Queanbeyan, Bungendore and ous. Homemade gourmet pies of every variety, pasta dishes, salads, soups, It’s not in a “NO PARKING” spot. cakes and sandwiches filled large dis- The front end is just in the 2 hour play cases making it a mouth-watering parking zone, so I’m good for 2 dilemma as to choice. Most took a lei- surely lunch and followed up with a cuppa or a coffee before heading back to Canberra. I doubt too many would have wanted a Sunday roast for Din- ner!
Our thanks to Trevor Finklaire and the Social Team for wonderful outing.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 51
MG GS and IGS Intelligent-driving Car Debut on the Same Stage: MG Family Performing “MY Glamour”
talized the precipitation and made n April 20, both of the new MG become one of the legendary O and old models of MG, a automobile brands of greatest vital- brand with a history of 90 years, ity. On April 11, MG released its new were gathered at the MG booth in brand positioning of “MY GLAMOUR”: the 16th Shanghai International in the face of the escalating con- Automobile Industry Exhibition: the sumption demand, while integrating value of this British legendary brand the British genes, MG Brand had also created unique personality and style adapting to the era; at the mean- time, by virtue of sharp business sense and rigorous judgment, it had excavated the crossover demand of automobile industry in a timely man- ner to forge pure pleasure for each generation of young consumers and to show unique personality & glam- our! IGS Intelligent-driving Car: “Fully-automated”, New Experi- ence of Unity of Driver and Car was once again upgraded in an all- around way due to the scientific and Due to the accelerating development technical innovation; in addition to of intelligent-driving technology, the MG GS featured by “high perform- instrumentality of automobile can be ance, high appearance value and high value” and MG3 of 2015 model year, a “British-style Boutique Mini Car” with the European synchronized quality, SAIC Motor, synchronizing the global cutting-edge technology of intelligent driving, also took the lead in launching the first intelligent- driving car IGS, which illustrates the intelligent car research direction of SAIC Motor and its phased techno- logical achievements. At the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show, The constant exploration and innova- SAIC launched the intelligent vehicle tion have refreshed the classic, revi- IGS.
52 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
extended constantly, bringing about endless possibilities to the intelligent- driving life in the future, when auto- mobile might set free the eyes, limbs and even brain of the driver. Having transformed the imagination into re- ality, the “intelligent car” takes ad- vantage of advanced sensor, control- ler, actuator and other devices to realize the intelligent information exchange among driver, car, road, etc through onboard sensing system Benedict Cumberbatch, the leading and information terminal to endow actor of British television series Sher- the car with the intelligent environ- lock, and other stars appeared on the ment sensing capability and to finally track to experience the speed racing realize the unity of driver and car. pleasure brought about by MG GS, whose amazing performances con- MG GS: “High Performance”, stantly refreshed the record to jointly Bringing Forth the Glamour of show the racing glamour. Speed The absolute focus of the star chal- Challenging speed, extremity and all lenge game, that is, MG GS featured impossible dreams, by virtue of its by “high performance, high appear- unique brand glamour, MG has at- ance value and high value”, also de- tracted and inspired generations of buted at the MG booth to share the young people to pursue their own speed honor with all SUV consumers. style and rise to the challenge Equipped with the new generation of through to the end. In the star chal- highly efficient powertrain of SAIC lenge game of “MG GS breaking Motor, by virtue of the golden combi- through 100 km/h in 8 seconds”, in- nation of MGE 2.0TGI engine and ternational super star “Curly Fu” TST 6-speed oil cooling dual-clutch transmission, as well as the maxi- mum power of 220 horsepower, maximum torque of 360 Nm and high-speed gear shifting less than 0.2 seconds, the “high-performance compact SUV” MG GS has achieved the “magical car data” of completing acceleration from zero to one hun- dred kilometers per hour only in 8
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 53
seconds. In addition to the high per- Boutique Mini Car” MG3 also sin- formance, the driving experience of cerely presented its 2015 special edi- the “high value”, including high ap- tion for Shanghai Auto Show. pearance value and rich technical Adhering to the cutting-edge British configuration, has also fully embod- design style and superior reliable ied the glamour of MG GS and made quality, MG3 of 2015 model year has its popularity soar: actually, having upgraded its individualized appear- launched to the market for only 1 ance and comfortable interior once month, it has obtained an order again, launching the 16-inch double- quantity of 7,000. In particular, what color aluminum wheel hub, XROSS is worth mentioning is that MG GS exterior suite, houndstooth seat fab- has also become the only officially ric, 8-inch screen for rear passengers designated car for “2015 Sino-British and other configurations, it has fully Cultural Exchange Year”, it will fully embodied the British fashion by vir- display the British-style glamour, tue of the new multi-thematic combi- show its high performance and effi- nation of interiors and exteriors to ciently serve a series of Sino-British satisfy the urban young consumers’ cultural creative activities. automobile demand of “play beauty” MG3 of 2015 model year: “Play in an all-round way so that they can Beauty”, the British-style Fashion feel the youth vigor & pure fun, cre- Upgraded Once Again ate their own exclusive space, stimu- late their inner passion & confidence As a benchmarking product of MG and show their own unique glamour. brand subordinate to SAIC Motor in A0 car market, the “British-style
54 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
MGCCC – TASMANIA TOUR 2016
n conjunction with the Austin and stay over motels to/from Mel- I Healey Club of NSW we have ar- bourne if any. ranged a tour of Tasmania in Febru- ary 2016, which has been pro- grammed by “Groups Tasmania”.
For planning purposes we are calling for expressions of interest. Please let our organizers Warren & Judie Devine know of your interest (or for more info) at The tour departs Melbourne’s Station [email protected] or Pier for Devonport at 7.30pm on ph6254 7948. A sign on sheet will Sunday 7th February 2016 returning also be available at club monthly to Melbourne on Sunday meetings. 21st February 2016 at 6.00am. Briefly, the itinerary comprises 3 nights Launceston, 1 night Scaman- der, 4 nights Hobart, 2 nights Queenstown, 2 nights Ulverstone ie
While Tasmania’s roads are excellent for MG driving, if you prefer to take a modern that is okay.
13 days on land. Indicative price is about $4000 per couple including return cabin accom- modation, 1 car aboard ferry, all mo- tels and all breakfasts. Additional costs would include meals (other than breakfast), petrol, sightseeing,
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 55
MG 6 versus Skoda Octavia - Comparison by Matt Saunders
Car makers are seldom so matter of fact either good enough nor cheap about their products, but such frankness N enough – not by a long chalk. always speaks volumes. That’s an accurate summary of the outgo- So now that Longbridge has had its ing MG 6 – MG Motor’s re-engineered UK- chance to revisit the car and make more of market version of China’s Roewe 550 – the improvements that it evidently recog- and a direct one when you consider that, nised the need for several years ago, has for the past few years, it has been MG’s Britain got its first really competitive Chi- own unofficial party line. nese family car? Although the 6 was launched in 2011, MG Has the full potential for value of some- insiders admitted, when pressed, that its thing built in Shanghai but bought in Selly mid-sized hatchback wouldn’t really be fit Oak been belatedly delivered? And does to challenge Europe’s budget hatchbacks the 6 now have what it takes to tempt you until after its first mid-life facelift. out of a European-built five-door as practi- Slow sales until now have been thusly cal, comfortable and carefully executed as explained, accepted and even excused. the Skoda Octavia?
56 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
It certainly seems to have the price for it. opposition to match the MG’s kit level; an This is a 4.6-metre-long, 148bhp turbod- SE Business with a couple of options will iesel five-door – itself a good 10% bigger do. But even the lesser version of the and more spacious than your average Skoda will set you back just over Ford Focus combatant – but it’s yours for $41,140.68. little more than an entry-level diesel Ford So with a 25% price advantage, the 6 Fiesta. starts this comparison with a healthy head Mindful of the need to reposition this car as start. It has refreshed front and rear-end a true value champion, MG has improved styling – nothing too bold or shiny, just a the 6’s value by up to $5,877.24 when welcome dose of added smartness sensi- corrected for a standard equipment list that tively applied. And the car’s position has includes heated seats and LED running been further rationalised by changes made lights on entry-level S versions. You get under the bonnet, under all four corners of plenty for your money, then. Spend the body and inside the cabin. $31,727.30 on a mid-spec TS car such as MG has discarded the turbocharged 1.8- the one you’re looking at on these pages litre petrol engine with which the 6 made and you’ll get part-leather seats, rear park- its UK debut and now offers only the UK- ing sensors, automatic headlights and wip- developed 1.8-litre DTI-Tech turbo diesel ers, cruise control and a 7.0in touchscreen introduced in 2013, albeit in updated form. multimedia system with sat-nav. Although it makes the same 148bhp and You don’t quite need to go to the Elegance 258lb ft as before, that engine contributes trim level of the Octavia we lined up in
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 57 MG CENTRE OF SYDNEY
Service Tuning Clutch Suspension Cooling Engine &Gearbox
Parts Interior Body Mechanical Accessories Anything MG
ALL YOUR MG PARTS & SERVICE NEEDS IN ONE EASY TO FIND LOCATION
Ring Stuart or Sally Ratcliff MG Car Club Life Member
26 COWPER ST GRANVILLE PH (02) 9682 6655 FAX (02) 9637 0199
RV8 CARS AUSTRALIA P\L
58 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015 HOME OF THE ADDER NEWSLETTER
to modest improvements on claimed fuel yourself into the driver’s seat and thunk economy, CO2 emissions and 0-62mph the door closed behind you. Comfy seat, acceleration. well-located controls, decent visibility, lots of space: check, check, check and check On all three fronts, it’s helped by a 75kg again. overall weight saving, old model to new, and by the decision to offer only 16in alloy Where the facelifted car improves on the wheels even on full-house TL models. The original is with greater attention to material outgoing version ran with broader-profile and ergonomic detail. Firstly, the ugly me- rims up to 18in in diameter. chanical handbrake has been replaced by a much neater electronic one. You needn’t All of which allows the 6 to brush aside the reach over to the far side of the transmis- first challenge that every budget car is set sion tunnel to operate it, and it’ll never trap in 2015: thou shalt not compromise. The your thumb. Hurrah. MG is within a couple of tenths of the Skoda on the 0-62mph sprint and competi- That, in turn, has made space for some of tive on claimed efficiency. On paper, it’s a the switchgear formerly located on the contender. And it’s cheap – at face value, MG’s crowded centre stack to migrate to a at least. Half the battle? Perhaps not, but much clearer-looking console just aft of it’s enough to tempt plenty into a show- the redesigned gearlever. The difference room, or even a test drive. made to your overall impression of the car’s centre console is marked. So it’s with a certain cautious optimism that you swing the MG’s door open, lever But it’s not just that the cabin layout has
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 59
cheap plastic starter key is still very much like something you’d give to that curious toddler to keep him from breaking your steering wheel. These, however, are minor irritants among a dwindling number. And only in compari- son with the unerring consistency, dutiful care and brilliantly simple usability of a improved. It’s as if 50% more money has cabin such as the Octavia’s do they seem been spent on most of the buttons, dials genuinely unpalatable. and knobs you frequently use. There’s To the eye and the touch, the Skoda’s much more sophisticated and effective use material highlights are no ritzier than the of chrome, too, and less shiny, bin bag- MG’s, but it just doesn’t have the low black plastic. And higher on the points that cause those odd few involun- dashboard, the darker grey trim around the tary winces. The Octavia’s glovebox and air vents, the new multimedia set-up and door bins are lined. Its plastics are smooth, the clearer, classier-looking instruments solid and perfectly matched absolutely look far better than what went before. everywhere. Upshot: the MG’s cabin now seems en- The Skoda’s multimedia system is so eas- tirely acceptable for a budget option. It still ily navigated that you could master it from isn’t perfect, but it’s good enough to earn your forgiveness. The digital water tempera- ture and fuel gauges are a bit crude and dated, and the scroll wheels mounted on the steering wheel look and feel like they’d last about five minutes at the hands of a curious toddler.
Meanwhile, the 6’s
60 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
saic and straight-laced at times. It’s capa- ble but ultimately unwilling to indulge you in a momentary bit of country-road fun.
On the basis of MG’s previous 6 and the current 3, you’d imagine the new 6 might better serve more sporting tastes. But it seems that, perhaps by switching to those 16in wheels, Longbridge has eroded the car’s one outstanding selling point. the back seat using only your grand- The 6 remains a much more game- mother’s walking stick. The MG’s, by con- handling prospect than the Octavia, with trast, won’t let you connect your smart- firmer springs, stouter damping and stiffer phone via Mirrorlink and Bluetooth at the roll control, but it lacks the mechanical same time, so you can watch a video on grip, incisive front end and steering feed- the 7.0in colour screen but not hear the back of its forebear. Some deterioration in audio. handling agility is an unavoidable conse- quence of the decision to cut emissions by The Octavia is also the more practical car reducing wheel and tyre size. of the two, with more leg room in both rows and a considerably larger boot. Offer- ing greater usability than the average fam- ily five-door, the MG gets close to the Skoda’s standard here for the money, just as it did on cabin appointment. But it is not quite close enough to recommend without caveat, which goes to show how much budget-brand manufacturers have to do to win mainstream approval in 2015.
The chink of light presented to the MG is But to this tester, it feels as if the suspen- on driving dynamics, though, because as sion and power steering haven’t been thor- competent, quiet, comfy and long-legged oughly retuned to compensate for the re- as the Octavia is, there’s little that’s fla- duced cornering forces. So the ride is voursome or engaging about it. slightly over-damped over a bad surface. With its loping ride, large steering wheel During hard cornering, the suspension and stability-biased handling, the Skoda is feels a bit unyielding, overworking its out- a pragmatist right down to its contact side front tyre and nudging into understeer patches. It’s entirely undemanding to drive, quite early on. And the steering is erratic mechanically refined and reassuringly en- and over-assisted, with weight disappear- veloping. But it’s so dedicated to comfort ing as you add lock and allowing a certain and ease of use that it seems a touch pro- pendulousness to corrupt your directional
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 61
precision. month. On the 6, they may be cheaper, but probably not by much. This is not the only area where MG Motor’s UK development engineers still have work The verdict to do to bring this car up to standard, ei- The truth is that depreciation will hold this ther. On engine refinement, the 6’s diesel revised MG back more than any functional misses the mark by some margin. It or material shortcoming, because most sounds clattery and harsh on start-up and private car buyers take finance these days, under load. Despite developing more and the ones who don’t tend to recognise torque than the Skoda in outright terms, it’s a financial time bomb when they see one. also less responsive to the accelerator It’s the problem that MG Motor UK has the pedal than most modern diesels, with a bit least control over and the main reason why of turbo lag at times. a 6 probably won’t be a recommendable As needless as it seems to spell it out, the new car for at least another model genera- Skoda is the better car here – and by a big tion yet. enough margin that its higher price will be At least it’s safe to assume that, by the worth paying for most of those who can time this MG becomes a safe place to put afford it. your money, it’ll probably also have be- MG deserves credit for getting closer to come more of a match for the likes of the the prevailing European standard on cabin Octavia in other ways. But it isn’t there yet quality and making the 6 competitive – not by a long chalk. enough on performance, economy and emissions. More effort and finesse are MG Motor MG 6 DTI-Tech TS required on refinement and handling, al- 0-62mph 8.6 seconds; Top speed 120mph; though if you’re paying cash and you don’t Economy 61.4mpg; CO2 emissions 119g/ have high expectations, you may not find km; Kerb weight 1530kg; Engine 4 cyls in the 6 particularly disappointing on either line, 1894cc, turbodiesel; Power 148bhp at front. 4000rpm; Torque 258lb ft at 1800rpm; Disappointment may be more likely to Gearbox 6-spd manual stem from what customers are asked to Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI Elegance pay for a finance deal. MG Motor’s own finance deals have yet to be announced 0-62mph 8.5 seconds; Top speed 135mph; but, because of savage depreciation, those Economy 68.9mpg; CO2 emissions 106g/ deals won’t show the same 25% value km; Kerb weight 1330kg; Engine 4 cyls in advantage over other like-for-like line, 1968cc, turbodiesel; Power 148bhp at hatchbacks that the list price suggests. 3500rpm; Torque Typical personal contract purchase deals 236lb ft at on the Octavia, running over three years 1740rpm; and 36,000 miles and starting with a three- Gearbox 6- month deposit, start at about £260 a spd manual
62 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
Help Line
Pre-war Restoration Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343 Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Mike Stearn (02) 6231 1716 Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343
T Series Club Trailer Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Laurie Gardiner (02) 6293 4191 Peter Dechaineux (02) 6281 5917 Peter Daley (02) 6291 0612 Club Servicing Facility & Tools 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 (Northside) MGB Rob Chilman 0412 024 228 Kevin Kirk (02) 6231 4617 (Southside) Kent Brown (02) 6255 4943
MGC Roadster and GT Club Service Centre: Our Club Position Vacant has a well equipped under-cover service centre at Budget Storage, MG RV8 25 Yallourn St Fyshwick. It has all Graeme Rossiter (02) 6288 2477 the basic big-tools to enable you to do repairs, service and/or clean MG Z Magnette your car in a secure area, 24/7. Peter Daley (02) 6291 0612 Simply contact Nigel French (who owns Budget Storage) on the num- Midget/Sprite ber above or 0413 646 321 to ar- John Harriott (02) 6292 8420 range a time to do the work or just Ian Reid (02) 6231 8959 to have a look. The Service Centre, Modern MGs and use of club tools, is free to Club Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343 Members.
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 63
Marquet
1966 MG 1100 sedan (April 15) 2 tone paint green and cream and Green leather interior. The car is in very good condition and is a multiple Concourse Placer. Some spare parts & Original delivery papers and manual 12/5/14 rego on club plates not transferable $4500 ono Contact: Dale Powell, MG Car Club Newcastle
1975 MGB GT June 15 A well looked after vehicle with Moon-roof—not that common, new mags & tyres, new Suspension, en- gine recond (1800 motor ), new up- holstery, new exhaust and April 2016 rego in NSW. It is a tight car to drive, no rattles. The car is lo- cated in Berrima, NSW. $14,000 Contact: Ian 0416 144 212, or [email protected]
MG C Roadster 1968 (April 15)
Family car imported from the UK 3 years ago.
British Racing Green and in excellent condition.
32,587 miles on the clock and on club plates
$35,000
Contact: Maria or Sarah (Melbourne, VIC) on
64 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015
1963 MGB Roadster (June 15)
Built 30 – 31 July 1963. This car is one of the last MGBs to be exported to Australia. It comes with a British Heritage Certificate showing engine, gearbox and diff numbers that match the car.
Totally dismantled; many photos of rebuild and re- ceipts totalling close to $9000 for new parts (available upon request). Non-overdrive gearbox professionally rebuilt. Three bearing engine; good oil pressure and compression, professionally tuned. Aluminium bonnet, leather seats with new interior, tyres and clutch.
ACT Historic registration since December 2010 but plates are not trans- ferrable. Has only trav- elled 180 miles since rebuild finished.
Wanted (May 15)
One chrome wire wheel to suit MGB mk 1. 14 inch with 60 spokes.
Contact: Ray Dawson on 0402558381 or email [email protected]
MG Midget or Sprite steering wheel (May 15)
Brand new, Ordered from Moss motors but was wrong size. This is to fit 600 mm spline.
$150.00 ono Contact: Yvonne on 0407484592
June 2015 Tappet Chatter 65
2004 MGTF 135 (June 2015)
Silver with new hood imported from the UK with a glass rear window making it simple to put hood down.
All head servicing etc recently completed. Top of the range JVC radio with reversing camera and fit- ted for hands free phone. In excellent condition at 83,000 kms.
$15,000 ONO.
Contact: Norman (02) 6288 2285
Free to a good Home (June 15)
My printer has karked it and I have 10 cartridges for Epsom types R270. R290. R390. RX590. RX610. and RX690 printers now surplus to my needs. They are sealed and cost about $250, If they are of use to any member please ring Tony Argyle on 62862282 and they can be yours fort a bopttle or two of a nice white winme.
MG Owner's Club fleece jacket (June 15)
Excellent condition. Gifted from the UK but too big for me.
Burgundy/Heather varsity jacket with contrast sleeves, knitted collar, cuffs and waistband. Side pockets. Size M 40" $30
Free to a good Home (as well) (April 15)
I have 23 cartons of motoring magazines commencing from 1953. They are not catalogued but are in good condition. They will need to be picked up with something suitable for transport.
Peter Daley – 02 6291 0612
FOR SALE for T Type Roadster (April 15)
One pair of green plexiglass sun visors for MG T-type roadster. Purchased from Moss Europe Ltd in 2103 but still in their boxes. $95 the pair.
Call Barry on 0417 506 780.
66 MG Car Club Canberra June 2015