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

Number 453 March 2020 March 453 Number

March 2020 Tappet Chatter Canberra Club JournalCar of the MG of Tappet Chatter Tappet

0413 646 321

2 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Tappet Chatter Number 452 February 2020

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

Torque 8 Correspondence to: Update on Autumn Weekend Away 11 Post Office Box 4141 Workshop Day 13 Weston Creek ACT 2611

Ladies Autumn Run 14 Monthly Meetings are held Shannons Wheels 15 on the second Thursday of Some Say... 21 each month, (except January), at St Peter's Bundanoon Is Brigadoon 23 Anglican Church Hall, cnr of Club Calendar 25 Parkinson St & Watling Pl, Weston at 7:45pm. Sporting Report 31

MG Launches HS SUV 37 A ‘Lunchtime Natter’ is held at Services Directory 43 Help Line 47 Banking Details Marquet 48 BSB: 633-000 Account: 144920741 Account Name: MG Car Club Canberra Inc Acknowledgments – the editorial team thanks all who contributed articles and photographs for this Weston Park, Yarralumla month’s magazine. (second picnic spot on the right) each Tuesday from 12.30pm. Photo Glenn Lyons 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

An impressionistic take called ‘The face of MG’ capturing the progressive evolution from the TD through the TF to the MGA. March 2020 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

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

Secretary Treasurer Bryan Tuckey Brian Calder 0484 636 355 0434 307 742 [email protected] [email protected]

Committee Member Committee Member Mike Lawless Trevor Clement 0412 093 151 0411 102 759 (Social) (Membership) [email protected] [email protected]

Committee Member Public Officer Mark Horsfield Bryan Tuckey 0415 400 044 484 636 355 (Editor) [email protected] [email protected]

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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 Coord : Mick O’Brien [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] March 2020 Tappet Chatter 5

Editorial

s our esteemed President, Peter, is away sailing in a small fiberglass boat somewhere off A the Victorian Coast, (Nothing under 5,000 tons and 2 inches of steel for me) and the deadline for this month is somewhat short because Nome and I are heading off on A frican holiday , oops that should be ‘on an African Holiday’ I thought I would provide the lead-in for this months magazine.

I will join everyone in sending our best wishes to Hella and for a speedy recovery and we can be rest assured Peter, in his indomitable style, is pandering to her every need. I suspect it is going well as she has already made the decision to get in a car with Peter and drive to Victo- ria.

Well... what a wonderful start to the 2020 club year. We are just entering the 3rd month and already there has been 8 Breakfasts at Poppies, 9 Coffee mornings at the Arboretum, 2 runs, a mid-week meander and a magnificent MG Display at Shannons Wheels 2020. I strongly believe that all who attended Shannons Wheels 2020 would agree that the MG component of the event was amazing. Laurie Gardiner’s hard work and long effort produced, in my opinion, the best MG display our region has seen since I joined the club 10 years ago. It is a demonstrable injustice that the club did not win “best display” on the day. A sentiment echoed by other clubs and the public. In Naval parlance, “Bravo Zulu” (click here for meaning) Laurie, although officially deserved recognition was not forthcoming, privately in our club, other clubs and the public your efforts were overwhelmingly recognized and very much appreciated. Thank you. To the winners of the ‘Concourse’ event and ‘Pride of Ownership’ event go our congratulations, and again ‘Bravo Zulu’. To those who could not get their boots open or tailgates up, our com- miseration's, better luck next time.

Fast approaching, at Easter, is the 2020 National Meeting in Albury. If you have never been to one, this is probably the best opportunity to experience it being just a hop, skip and a jump away. All the information is available on the NATMEET website or contact Mick O’brien who can help you get sorted to participate.

March will see the continuation of breakfast, coffee morning and lunchtime natter at Western Park, the mid-week meander and monthly run as well as the workshop on the 14th, and lets not forget the Ladies Run either, I look forward to being regaled on the exploits of our lady owners in next months issue.

Idea’s for activities are welcomed and encouraged by the social team and your support with your club is of paramount importance, so get out there in your little British oil can and enjoy the upcoming weather with enthusiasm and gusto, Keep enjoying Motoring at it’s Grandest Mark 6 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

March 2020 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 March 2020 issue of Tappet Chatter to the Editor by Friday 28 February 2020 at: [email protected]

Club Trailer Bookings Tuesday Morning Tea he procedure and protocol for The established Tuesday Morning Tea T booking the MG Car Club car at the Arboretum is developing quite trailer is: well. 1. Bookings for the trailer must be Every Tuesday morning at 10am made during business hours; members can simply turn up to enjoy a bevvy, a cake if desired and pleas- 2. Bookings must be made at least 48 ant conversation while casting your hours in advance; eyes over the magnificent vista the 3. The trailer must be picked up from location provides. the storage facility during business Bring you CRS registered vehicle or hours; arrive in your daily driver, it doesn’t 4. Only genuine emergencies will be matter how you get there. considered outside these timeframes. Following the morning tea, continue A plea from the Treasurer on to the lunchtime natter at Weston ...to ensure that you include your Park, if you wish. The lunchtime nat- name and the purpose when you do ter is for any classic car owner and the an electronic transfer to the Club’s variety of vehicles that attend can be bank account. In the last month two quite auspicious. members have made EFT deposits Come & enjoy some great company. with no name or purpose. 8 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

The Inventors of Automobile A/C They haggled back and forth for about two hours and finally agreed on $4 The four Goldberg brothers, million and that just their first names Lowell, Norman, Hiram, and Max, would be shown. invented and developed the first automobile air-conditioner. On July And so to this day, all Ford air 17, 1946, the temperature in Detroit conditioners show was 97 degrees. Lo, Norm, Hi, and Max -- on the The four brothers walked into old controls. man Henry Ford's office and sweet- talked his secretary into telling him that four gentlemen were there with Of interest from Geoff P the most exciting innovation in the Brake Bleeding auto industry since the electric starter. Brake bleeding is something which Henry was curious and invited them often comes with many tales of frus- into his office. tration. While doing some research They refused and instead asked that specific to the pre 62 MG all drum he come out to the parking lot to their brake systems, I came across a Girl- car. They persuaded him to get into ing Brake Service Bulletin (# 688 T the car, which was about 130 123) dated Oct 1963 which may be of degrees, interest. turned on the air conditioner, and When bleeding drum brakes, it is com- cooled the car off immediately. mon practice to start with the longest brake line and work back, and many The old man got very excited and advocate that for brake bleeding, all invited them back to the office, where the brake adjusters be adjusted tight he offered them $3 million for the (wheel locked). The rational behind patent. these theories, claim that removing air The brothers refused, saying they bubbles from the system starting with would settle for $2 million, but they the longest to the shortest brake line, wanted the recognition by having a will remove the air bubbles from the label, 'The Goldberg Air-Conditioner,’ brake line that has the furthest travel on the dashboard of each car in which and carries the most air. Adjusting it wasinstalled. the brakes 'tight' (wheel locked) seems common sense, as it removes Now old man Ford was more than just wheel cylinder piston movement and alittle anti-Jewish, and there was no the possibility of a false feel at the way he was going to put the brake pedal. Girling thinks otherwise. Goldberg's name on two million Fords. March 2020 Tappet Chatter 9

For all- drum systems, the Girling Ser- spillage problems) and fit Speedy vice Bulletin requires the front wheel Bleed brake bleeding nipples. drum brakes adjustment to be fully For those interested, the Girling Ser- retarded (slackened off) and the rear vice Bulletin can be found at: brake adjusters adjusted tight (wheel locked hard), before brake bleed- www.mgaguru.com/mgtech/care/csm/ ing. Disc/drum combinations are also girling_688.gif required to adjust the rear drum brakes 'tight'. All- disc systems with self adjusting properties are not included (but may benefit from hand- brake application). The Girling 'order' of bleeding also varies from the longest brake line first theory and starts with the rear LH wheel for vehicles with drums all round, working back from the longest brake line to the shortest. Combina- tion disc /drum bleeding start from the front LH wheel, working back from the longest brake line to the shortest. All- disk brake bleeding starts from the rear LH wheel, then proceed from the longest brake line to the shortest. Continue until the presence of air bubbles cannot be seen. After bleeding, adjust the brakes and check pedal movement, if still spongy, repeat the bleeding exercise. In common with most manufacturers, beyond fitting a hose to the bleeder nipple and basic brake bleeding advice, MG workshop manuals give little space to brake bleeding and the diffi- culties that can be encountered. My personal advice, is to obtain a suitable pressure or vacuum brake bleeder (vacuum brake bleeders have less

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March 2020 Tappet Chatter 11

An update on our Autumn Week- end Away 8, 9, 10 May 2020 by Brian Calder

ur Autumn Weekend Away O is our premier social and touring event. This year we are going to ‘Amazing Forbes’ with a particular secondary aim of supporting the Forbes community. We have had a sign-on sheet at our last two Club meetings and others have contacted the organisers, any last-minute updates Christine and Brian Calder directly • You will be home by 4.30pm to have their names added to the Sunday 10 May list. For your forward planning • Our tour will only be on here is what you need to know as sealed roads, so there is no an update: need to worry about bringing your MG. Expect a round • We will depart the Dinosaur trip of less than 600km over Museum car park at Gold the weekend Creek at 10.00am Friday 8 • Our accommodation is at the May. Please plan to be there Plainsman Motel in Forbes. by 9.45am to ensure that you A group booking has been receive your ‘run pack’ and made – please do not contact

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the motel directly. Your – even if it is just a bottle of motel tariff includes a fine regional plonk from the continental buffet breakfast Forbes IGA. • Your Touring fee will be The ‘list’ will close on Friday 16 $125pp which includes 2 x April, so if you haven’t got your lunch, 2 x dinner, 1 x name down yet, or wish to confirm afternoon tea & 3 x tour/ that you have previously entrances. Great value! registered, please contact Christine • We will be supporting the or Brian on 0434 307742 or Forbes and Grenfell [email protected] communities by engaging with their Lions/Rotary If you have your name on the list Clubs, and in particular you will receive an email supporting the Forbes confirming all details at least one CanAssist charity. To assist week prior to departure. The email with this, you will be asked will include details of how to pay to donate an item to our Sat- the touring fee. urday night raffle by purchasing the item in Forbes

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 13

Workshop Day Saturday 29 June Want to service your MG? Got a rattle that is hard to find?

Then come along to the workshop day on Saturday 14th of March 2020

The topic for the day is ‘A’ frame, / Kingpin / Hub. There will be folks on hand who can answer most, if not all your ques- tions on those pesky little problems you might be having with your MG

Running from 10am till 2pm morning tea and lunch will be provided and Tanya will have the coffee shop open for us to savour some of the finest coffee in the region.

There is also the swap meet that happens at the workshop days so if there is something you don’t need anymore or you want to make some space in your shed bring some stuff along.

Simply contact Club member Laurie Gardiner 62934191 or 0418488931 or put your name down on the sign on sheet at the club meeting.

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

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The Ladies Run in March

t's just around the corner! Yes, the We are aiming to be chowing down at I autumn ladies lunch at the Wood- midday and they are happy with split works cafe, Bungendore via the Wam- bills. boin scenic route - Saturday 07 The meeting place is at Scrivener Mar 20. There will be 'special' Club Dam car park at 1050 am. parking, behind the Carrington, right across the road. If you haven’t already, give Joanne a whisper and let her know you wish to attend y [email protected].

OTHER ITEMS Regalia Club Coffee Mugs (Bendigo Pottery) $12.00 CLUB CLOTHING Club Grille Badges $22.00

Shirts - Cotton Long Sleeve $32.00 Club Lapel Badges $ 6.00 Shirts-Cotton Short Sleeve $30.00 Car Lapel Badges $10.00 Polo Shirts - Men's & Ladies $25.00 Club Windscreen Stickers $ 2.00 Polo Fleece full zip Jacket - Men's $35.00 MG Octagon Car Lapel Badges $10.00 Micro Fleece full zip Jacket- Ladies $35.00 MG Key Rings $ 7.00 Nylon full zip Spray Jackets-Unlined $30.00 Sew-on Embroidered MG Logo in cloth

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 15

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Shannons Wheels 2020

Wheels 2020 will be remembered for various marques and clubs. For oth- a number of different things. ers it was a hectic and frantic day. None more so than our display guru, Firstly, it was the year the MG Club, Laurie Gardiner. by all accounts should have won the “best club display’ award, but for some Laurie’s ‘floor plan’ for the display, reason that honour was given to a although it underwent many ‘on-the- lesser display. fly’ amendments due to acreage changes and the number of cars, was Secondly, it was the year that we were condensed yet practical. Where the cramped into a small space when arrangement allowed the public to flow there was a small continent of vacant through the club display in a logical field less than 5 meters away. and uncluttered manner. Thirdly it was the year were many It was also the day of the Club Con- folks attended with injury, and I shall cours’ de Elegance and Pride of Own- say no more on that in fear of starting ership competition. Another reason rumours or legal actions ;-} Laurie rarely got the chance to sit Fourthly, it was the year that a use for down. all those ‘MG Flags’ was found, well It was obvious that all owners had done Brian for ordering them., and spent many hours of toil to present well done Laurie for your ingenuity. their cars in the best possible way. From an MG perspective, in my opin- Shiny paint, glistening rims and man- ion, it was the best display we have bling everywhere, although a particu- had in a long long time. The variety of lar red MGTF 1500 with chrome wires MG’s, the volume of cars, totalling 35, had cornered the market on MG badg- and the assistance to our display by es and Chrome. McGrath MG for showing off the newly Judges had a difficult time in both released MG HS. areas as some categories were very It was a warm but very pleasant day tight and others were open and shut! If and many spent time socialising under you catch my drift. our marquee's sipping tea and sam- Fortunately the wind was tempered pling picklets with homemade jams with kept the dust down and most of courtesy of Sandra T. us went home without having to wash For some it was a leisurely day, casu- and clean when we got home. ally strolling around the displays of the

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 17

The results for the day are as follows Pride of Ownership Category A (pre 56)

st Concourse and Pride of Ownership 1 Place – Laurie Gardiner MG TF 1500 Awards Roadster

Originality & Presentation Category 1st Place – Kent Brown MG TC Roadster

2nd Place – Bob Beer – MG TC Roadster

2nd Place – Greg Whitfield MG TF160 Spark

3rd Place – Naomi Horsfield – MG TF Roadster

3rd Place – Brian Calder MG TF120 Coupe

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Pride of Ownership Category B (MGA, Pride of Ownership Category C (Moderns) MGB, MGC) 1st Place – Joe Kuffner MG RV8 1st Place – Kent Brown MGB GTV8

2nd Place – Not awarded 3rd Place – Not awarded

2nd Place – John Cooper – MGB Overall Winner of Pride of Ownership

Laurie Gardiner – Mg TF 1500 Roadster

Peoples Choice Award

75 entries were received from members and the public,

3rd Place – Terry Griffiths – MGB GT Main Voting Results Kent Brown’s MG TC Roadster Laurie Gardiner’s MG TF 1500 Roadster Terry Griffiths MGBGT Winner – Laurie Gardiner’s MG TF 1500 Roadster

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 19

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March 2020 Tappet Chatter 21

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Some Say - He is a Gentleman by….I can’t say because she will hurt me!

He chose a slightly secluded spot for a rendezvous on that Sunday afternoon for a leisurely coddiwomple. Noticing her sweet model included his initials; he then had her in his sights. Trying to coerce her away with his smooth words and enchanting accent. Were all his malevolent machinations to steal the sweet Juliet. If so then his plan was in motion. cooling his tools of trade in a rather The group was small, it may be harder large rain puddle. He casually talked to extract her without engendering his about placing his piston in Juliet later egregious efforts, but he would try his in the afternoon with a nonchalance darndest. He made his move slowly, that would beguile an unwary soul. carefully, he didn’t want to scare her His piston, however, was for another off. Blandishments were sprinkled in man he explained. Not just any man conversation,” nice to see you”, though but the man who had previous- “Juliet, looking good”, he was suave ly repaired Juliet’s broken heart. So and debonair. The mood was relaxed where is this leading you ask…we and casual on the overcast afternoon must wait to find out. and conversations were effortless. Meanwhile his canine Casanova was Juliet was a willing participant and hopeful another encounter with her judicious mending friend would ensue. He took off, so Juliet followed him, on an anfractuous drive up hill and down dale, past the bovine resting in the fields all the time watching Juliet in his rear vision mirror to see how she handled all that came her way. She pen- dulated and swayed her curves

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 23

drenching her extremities through to her inner regions. Juliet eventually made it to the safety of her boudoir where she was tenderly caressed with gentle stokes, and completely dried inside and out. What could have been a life changing event for Juliet was not so, as the gentleman’s pistons were still encapsulated in protective coverings and remained dry and free of moisture. The gentleman’s pistons were given to another man, who handled them with due care and caution for soon they would be inserted into his first love on wheels. around the contours of the back roads never losing sight of their cavalier Most names have been withheld to pro- leader. They arrived at their destina- tect those involved from any undue jiggery pockery from other members. tion, a beautiful grassed area by the waterside with ample shade trees for all. Oodles of piquant delights; cakes, cookies and prawns were shared amongst the cohort of alfresco diners. When he realise he would not be able to rapine Juliet, he decided to leave not one but four pistons in her cockpit in the hope that his first love would soon be soniferous. He then accumu- lated his accoutrements and appurte- nances to peregrinate homeward, bid- ding farewell to all. Those whom followed his paradigm in a timely manner The editor has been assured that all evaded the soon to come precipitous hands remained on the steering wheel droplets. Not timely enough was Juli- at all times, promoting safe driving, and et for she was caught in the deluge as no animals were harmed in the taking the skies opened for a brief moment, of this picture!

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Bundanoon is Brigadoon

he stalwarts of your Social Com- the (UGH) highway at Marulan, be- T mittee, ever on the look-out for fore (YAY) getting off the highway a great things to do, are eyeing off Bun- few K's later and heading to Bun- danoon, and their wonderful Scottish danoon. Delicate discussions (at the Festival, as one of those special most senior level) are underway, at- things. tempting to arrange dedicated parking space for Club member's vehi- Now, for all those hankering for a cles. John has been asked to provide, plate full of Haggis or itching to chuck where possible, an indicator of vehicle a caber, John and Margaret Cooper numbers, so this can go to their or- would like an idea of how many Club- ganising committee on 06 Feb 20. bers would be looking at popping down, so they can undertake some SO!, knowing the eagerness of Club- delicate negotiating for some Club bers for these events, it would be fan- preferential treatment. To this end, tastic if you could let John or Marga- John has given me the following ret know by 05 Jan 20, LATEST, so words: they can pass that info as a 'best guess'. A day trip has been scheduled for 04 Apr 20 to Bundanoon for Briga- Contact: P 62888093, doon. This will be the Club's April M 0428 150 652, or, [email protected]. monthly run. It would depart Bungen- dore, take the scenic route through Tarago and Bungonia, entering Man Skirts are optional

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 25

FOR ALL YOUR MG NEEDS No matter what type of MG you have, we can help to make

your motoring hassle free.

26 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Club Calendar 2019

Sunday’s Breakfast @ Poppies Cafe at the Australian War Memorial. Simply turn up for 830am in your MG. Underground parking!!

Tuesday’s A morning tea at the National Arboretum, 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

March Thursday 5 MWM - Loaded Dog Hotel Tarago Saturday 7 Ladies run Saturday 14 Club workshop at Fyshwick Sunday 15 Monthly run—HIMALAYAN CEDARS lookout, at the Arboretum Thursday 26 Annual Midweek Meander with the Triumph Club

April Saturday 4 monthly run - Bundanoon is Brigadoon Thursday 10 - 13 Natmeet

See calendar for detail.” (Click here)

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, Tappet 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.

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 27

FORECAST 2020 This list is advisory and by no means exhaustive. It is also subject to change. Details are available in the Club Calendar. Click here

March September Sunday 1 Wheels & Club Concours/ Thursday 3 MWM Pride of Ownership Display Saturday 5 ladies run Thursday 5 MWM Sunday 6 motorkhana Saturday 7 ladies run Friday 11 to Sunday 13 Wagga Saturday 14 workshop Gathering of the Faithful Sunday 15 monthly run Sunday 20 monthly run

April October Thursday 2 MWM Thursday 1 MWM Saturday 4 monthly run Sunday 18 monthly run Thursday 10 - 13 Natmeet Last week Spring extended weekend away (dates TBA) May Thursday 7 MWM November Friday 8 to Sunday 10 Autumn week- Thursday 5 MWM end away Sunday 15 motorkhana Sunday 17 monthly run Sunday 29 monthly run Sunday 31 motorkhana Garage run(TBA)

June December Thursday 4 MWM Thursday 3 club Christmas function Saturday 6 ladies run (TBA) Sunday 21 monthly run Saturday 5 ladies run Battle of Waterloo (TBA) Sunday 6 Terribly British Day display

July Thursday 2 MWM Sunday 19 monthly run Saturday 25 Presentation Dinner

August Thursday 6 MWM Sunday 16 monthly run Sunday 30 Wakefield Park run

See calendar for detail.” (Click here)

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March 2020 Tappet Chatter 29

Kent’s 100th

SPORTING REPORT March 2020 by Kent Brown

milestone of sorts has been cut-off date for manufacture has now A reached as this is my 100th been extended by the committee so Sporting Report for Tappet Chatter. A models like the MGB, Midgets and centenary edition indeed. Wow, Sprites for example are now wel- where has all that time gone? At an comed. average of around 1600 words per Recently there was a well-attended report that would indeed make a hefty meeting held at Wakefield Park. In- tome if they were all consolidated. But deed we had 3 club members partici- then again who would really want to pating – John Harriott (John’s son do that! Matthew was having a drive), Ian Reid and Malcolm Robertson.

Anyway, let’s get on with the March 2020 edition and update you all on the happenings at the Golden Era of Auto Racing Club or GEAR. GEAR cele- brates an era of amateur Australian motor sport that many of us remember I am sure but which ended in the early 1960s. This period was noted for its wide variety of cars, ranging from famous imported makes, locally made specials, particularly MGs, and modi- fied production cars all of which were raced and prepared in the golden era John Harriott by famous or colourful characters. Due to somewhat dwindling numbers the

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But back to the 1968 Autodelta GTA 1300 Junior Corsa for a moment. Yes, I know it is not an MG but don’t we all have an interest in other great cars? AR775511 was built in 1968 and prepared by Autodelta to “Corsa” race spec (Autodelta was the Alfa Romeo factory builder of racing cars) and it is Matthew Harriott one of only five shipped directly to Alfa Romeo US. The car has its original I went up to Wakefield Park to initially SCCA logbooks which recorded that it support a very good racing friend of was raced at over 50 SCCA meetings mine, Colin Wilson-Brown (we did the between 1969 and 1980 at tracks like 1979 Repco Reliability Retrial together Road America, Road Atlanta, Daytona around Australia in August last year and Indianapolis. The car competed and shared a room for 28 days!) who three times at the SCCA National “Run was bringing his newly restored Alfa Offs” – the American Road Race of GTA for a test day. But I did know Champions. After a final outing in Malcolm was also running in his 1980 the racing career was over and wonderful MG TB “Blue Streak” the car lay gathering dust until 2014 powered Special and if he needed when Colin found the car on eBay in assistance I was there to help. And New York (“what you see is what you then I saw John and Ian plus a whole get”) and shipped it to Sydney for a host of other guys and one lady, Lisa “nut and bolt” restoration. The 4½ Tobin-Smith, GEAR chief organiser, year restoration was completed in No- who I have competed with/against vember 2019 and the car is virtually as over the years. it left the Autodelta factory and pre- sented as it raced at Daytona 50 years ago. Fabulous stuff indeed.

Just about ready to head out, Colin Wilson-Brown’s 1968 Autodelta smile in face! GTA 1300 Junior Corsa (it was raced in period as #48)

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 31

However at GEAR there were a few GEAR organisers group cars roughly teething troubles with the GTA. It was according to performance but also difficult to start and keep running but a take into account the age and type of new set of eight (two plugs per cylin- car e.g. open/closed. These groups der) NGK BRP8ES platinum plugs did are all given names like “Amaroo”. help. It would rev easily to 9,000rpm and beyond but below about five thou- sand there was nothing much on tap which made driving the car a challenge. Still some work to be done on the tuning side of things but what a car to have back on the track.

A wave goodbye on the “Dummy Grid” Malcolm with his own pit crew member Each session is somewhere around 5 laps but depends upon track conditions and whether someone or other has broken down causing a red flag cessation while the culprit is recov- ered. For practice all cars go out line Immaculate engine bay astern but for the events competitors line up two by two on the grid stretch- ing back from the Staters Box and are flagged off two at a time with just a few seconds between pairs.

Left hand drive takes some learning Ian Reid at speed

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The Wakefield Park canteen in open for refreshments and food sales and there is plenty of friendly chat and assistance provided if need to get a car back onto the circuit. All in all a great atmosphere. And don’t you worry – it is not just “Sunday” drive around the track, an element (or more!) of competition definitely sneaks in. But there are some “rules”, or perhaps expecta- tions. For example, pass another car Matthew Harriott, Ian Reid and John on the straight if you can is expected Harriott – a very happy bunch! but to “dive” under a fellow competitor in a corner is definitely not on. Every- body is learning, testing and trying to do better than previously.

Now to the MGCCC multiclub motorkhana. And driving to learn it really was with a total of 6 juniors competing with their family and friends providing At the tight turn 7 colloquially known advice and support. As many of you the “Fish Hook” or “Gurgler” will know we had to take the rare step of postponing the motorkhana from 9 th Did Malcolm just pass Matthew or is February to the 16 one week later. Matthew about to sneak under The reason? It was the weekend of Malcolm? I will let you be the judge! the storms in Canberra with plenty of heavy rain and a strong wind. Alt-

hough competitors in closed cars Talking to John, Ian and Malcolm I would have been quite comfortable couldn’t miss the smiles on their faces those in open cars would not have and although I had to leave the circuit fared so well. But the main reason for just after lunch I understand all went calling it off on the day, despite having well for both the driver’s and their cars. set up the course of Saturday after- All have embellished stories to tell. noon, was not wanting to put the Timer’s and Recorder’s is situation March 2020 Tappet Chatter 33

that may not have been safe and they would have been drenched early in the piece. Standing on the tarmac for 4 plus hours is not easy at the best of times and in addition we could not have kept the recording sheets dry. The wind was also so strong we could erect the shelters; no pegs on the bitu- men your Honour. Shades of the snow we had a couple of years ago!

Motorsport Australia (formerly CAMS) came to the party and re-issued our permit at no additional cost and TISC, The Ngunnawal Girl Guides - who manage the facility at Sutton and what can we serve you? Road, were also very generous in just We had a good turnout of 31 competi- moving the day as well. No charge. tors which meant all costs were cov- Luckily nobody had booked the Vehi- ered, albeit there were quite a number cle Manoeuvring Area (VMA), however of flag sticks broken on the day so the track was in use with a cycling club quite a bit of wood dowelling will need competition event. They had their to be purchased in order to rehabilitate share of trouble when a cyclist in the our markers. front part of the peloton came down for some reason or another. The man behind hit the crashed $10,000 bike, broke it in two, and then summersault- ed high over the handlebars as Virgin- ia’s Girl Guides looked on. His helmet was absolutely smashed and the poor fellow has a badly broken collar bone. Virginia volunteered first aid however the cyclist club’s own FA volunteer managed the accident victims but the Girl Guides did supply water and ice. An ambulance attended. And the Girl The flag’s over there and I’m over here! Guides continued with their impecca- I’ll just crank on a bit more lock… ble service!

34 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

And there was an eclectic selection of BMW M2 Comp cars being driven including the first HSV Clubsport time we have seen a fiat X1/9. It is a pity the Lada Niva that was entered Mazda 323 BG Series 2 never made it. Perhaps at our next Toyota MR2 event on 31 May. FSM Niki Nissan S13 Fiat X1/9 Honda Integra Lexus S200

Fiat X1/9 and a Polish FSM Nikki but powered by a 2-litre Alfa Romeo engine! How was that squeezed in?

Cars competing on the day included:

MG TB Special MGB Roadster V8 MGB GT V8 Renault Clio HSV Maloo Mazda MX-5 Mitsubishi Lancer BMW 318TI Subaru Imprezza A couple of MGB V8’s Mitsubishi Lancer

Toyota Corolla

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 35

Our two newly minted officials, Trevor A number of competitors, indeed most, Clement and Terry Griffiths, practiced on leaving the venue said to me their scrutineering skills, gave the offi- “thanks for a great event”. And all cial’s and driver’s briefings and took waved cheerily on departure. turns acting as Clerk of Course. Well done Trevor and Terry. Without volunteer helpers we could not run the event which would be great disap- pointment to many, particularly juniors, and it was great to have six of them competing, so thank you all for gener- ously giving up your precious time to assist.

Top: Hmmm, what’s this?

Officials taking a well-earned lunch Left: Enjoy- break ing a cuppa

36 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

The results for our own MGCCC club Then, on March 21/22 we are back to members, including Associate mem- our “home” track at Wakefield Park bers will be somewhere close by be- with the HSRCA Autum Festival. cause I have faith in editor Horsfield.

See you at the next motorkhana scheduled for Sunday, 31 May 2020.

Historic Motor Racing

By the time you read this the annual Phillip Island Classic will have been conducted and a report on that event will be included in the April 2020 Tap- HSRCA Autumn Festival 2020 poster pet Chatter Sporting Report. John and

Margaret Cooper are taking their camper trailer to PI even thought the An interesting innovation at HSRCA weather forecast is currently indicating meeting nowadays is the BMC A- a high liklihood of substantial rain. Not Series Challenge which will be great to unusual I must say. There is a camp- watch. The idea is that all A-Series ing ground adjacent to the track but engined cars, ergo Midget, Sprite, Mini sheltered from the sea. John I am etc. have a race all on their own. Most sure will take copious photos and has will be 1275cc engined cars but the kindly agreed to give a presentation on sports cars and sedans have quite the Classic to members at the May differnenrt handling characteristics. monthly club meeting. Not one to Sould be quite entertaining and excit- miss! ing to watch.

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 37

38 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 39

Other Club & Online Magazines

40 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Informative Video’s

Click image to open video

MG TC/TD/TF - Shannons Club TV - Episode 145 The latest episode is here and Mark Oastler and John Wright take a look back on what is still widely regarded as the quintessential British sports car - The MG T Series Midget.

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 41

Informative Video’s

Click image to open video

MG TD Review This bloke builds and reviews Porche’s for a living. While on holidays, he decided to do a review on his Dad’s MGTD in Adelaide. Lets see what he thinks!

C & D Types - Two MG models developed from the M Type - The C-type "Montlhery Midget" was a race car while the D-type was a 4-seater touring car, either open or "salonette" body.

42 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Funnies Click image to begin video

With the Corona Virus taking up most of the news space these days, and the global lack of adequate face masks, here is an inventive alternative.

So where would we be if this had have happened in the garden of Eden?

Noting the demographic of our club, beware if you go to Quebec in Canada, because strange things happen to the elderly there!

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 43

Fuels for Classic Cars by Dave Burns

This is a re-run of an article by Club change because different components member Dave Burns on classic car evaporate at different rates. fuels, as I think it is time we were reminded of some of the issues fuel can cause. This article is also relevant to our lawn mowers especially during winter when stabilisation is necessary to preserve modern fuels. -Ed-

xperiencing running problems E with your classic car? Perhaps the fuel you use and the way you use it may be part of the problem. Modern motor fuels are manufactured for modern cars that are used almost The fuel in your car’s tank is in contact daily. Classic cars, such as our be- with the air in the tank. With tempera- loved MGs that are used primarily as ture changes, the air in the tank ex- hobby cars, are not the ideal users. pands and contracts, sometime vent- However, knowing a little bit about ing air and sometimes sucking more fuels and a few precautions will avoid air into the tank. The venting releases stale fuel problems in our Abingdon some of the fuel vapours to the atmos- Wonders. phere while the incoming air can be the source of considerable amounts of Petrol is a mixture of many compo- moisture coming into contact with the nents each with its own properties that fuel. This occurs over a period of time contribute to the overall performance whether the vehicle is used or not. of the fuel. Some of these components have higher volatility which means Generally, petrol in your car’s fuel tank they turn to vapour more easily. When suffers the adverse effects of evapora- petrol is exposed to the air it will, in tion over a relatively short period. Fuel time, completely evaporate. As it in a car at a temperature of around 20 evaporates the composition and prop- deg C will last for about 3 weeks with- erties of the remaining petrol will out causing any adverse effects on the engine or fuel system. Beyond this 44 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

time, the fuel will experience loss of can cause of problems such as rough volatility which can cause starting or uneven running. problems and may form gums which Effect on Octane Rating can gradually block fuel system components If the lighter components of the petrol have been lost, the remaining compo- Petrol stored in sealed containers, on nents are higher in octane rating than the other hand, ages through oxidation the original fuel. In this way, octane rather than through evaporation. Fuel rating can actually increase with time. stored at 20 deg C will last for up to a This is unlikely to cause problems with year, and although some volatility will classic car engines. be lost, this will not be enough to sig- nificantly affect product quality. A jerry- Peroxide formation can with a tight fitting lid is a suitable With long storage periods, especially petrol storage container. at higher temperatures, the petrol can These are some of the effects of stale oxidize to form peroxides. These com- fuel. pounds can attack rubber and metal, stripping away the liner on fuel lines or Effect on Starting copper from fuel pumps and attacking The lighter components in petrol are rubber hoses. At 20 deg C, these com- lost first whenever petrol is exposed to pounds normally take a year or more air. Because they vaporise more easi- to form in sufficient quantity to cause a ly, the lighter components form most problem. of the air-fuel mixture during a cold start; if they are absent then the start mixture becomes lean resulting in diffi- culty in starting. Effect on Mixture After the lighter components have evaporated, the petrol remaining in the tank has a higher density. Because the fuel carburettors and injectors op- erate on a volume metering system, the higher density means that a great- er mass of fuel is introduced for a giv- Seasonal Variations in Petrol en volume of air and so the air-fuel Current legislation requires that the mixture is rich. This can lead to carbon volatility of petrol sold in summer deposits forming on the inside of the (November to March) is some 30% cylinder and the spark plugs, which March 2020 Tappet Chatter 45

lower than the fuel sold in winter. The lower volatility does not cause problems under the warm conditions of summer, but when the weather turns cold, the lower volatility fuel can be slow to vaporise, causing problems when starting a cold engine. To avoid this, fresh fuel should be added to the Examples of phase separation in etha- tank in the April–May period. If storing nol blended fuels fuel for a period of months, try to buy the fuel in winter rather than summer.

Ethanol blended fuels have a usable life of 90-100 days after the ethanol Ethanol Blended Fuels was added to the petrol. As the etha- Ethanol blended fuels (in Australia nol blended fuel may have been sitting sold as E10 fuels) are a blend of 90% in half-full service station tanks where petrol and 10% ethanol which is a type it is exposed to air for several weeks of alcohol. All alcohols have a natural before you fill up your tank, this type of affinity with water and will absorb fuel should be used within 2 to 3 moisture from the air. weeks of purchase. In general, ethanol When excess water is absorbed by the blended fuels are not suitable for cars ethanol in the fuel, phase separation that are not in almost daily use. Be- occurs. This is when the petrol and the cause of their short usable life, ethanol ethanol/water mix separate into two blended fuels should not be stored. layers, with the petrol layer over the top of the ethanol/water. Phase sepa- Fuel Stabilisers ration causes the following problems: A fuel stabiliser is a mix of hydrocar- the petrol layer has a lower octane bon products that are designed to slow rating than that of the petrol/ethanol the degradation and oxidation pro- blend, cesses, extending the life of the fuel. the petrol layer is less volatile which Most stabiliser manufacturers state can cause problems with cold start- that the Stabilisation Effective Life of ing, and their product is about 1 year, although the phase separation may create other some claim up to 2 years. petroleum products, such as gums, These products are most effective in that can clog fuel system compo- slowing the aging of petrol stored in nents and adversely affect the en- airtight containers, but they have no gine. effect on the rate of evaporation of fuel 46 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

in the fuel system of a car. Avoid using ethanol blended fuels in cars that are not used daily. Before buying a stabiliser, check the Don’t store ethanol blended product is recommended for the type fuels. of fuel used by your car—some stabilisers are made for marine use, some Buy your fuel from a retailer with a for motorcycles and some for diesel high turnover to ensure the fuels. fuel is as fresh as possible. Store fuel in an airtight container that has as little airspace Long Term Car Storage above the fuel as possible. If a car is not going to be used for 5 Store it under cool conditions. weeks or longer, the recommended Consider using a fuel stabiliser to solution is to drain the fuel system slow the aging of fuel that will completely—this includes fuel lines, be stored for longer than a filters, pumps and carburettors/ couple of months. injectors, as well as the fuel tank. Fuel left in components such as carburet- With a few precautions, stale fuel tors will evaporate over time, leaving should not dampen the joy of MG mo- gum deposits that can block valves toring. and jets. BP Australia are thanked for their assistance with information for this article. How to Avoid Problems with Stale Fuel It is not possible to provide a compre- hensive strategy for cars that are used only intermittently, however the following principles will help. Use the car and top up the fuel tank with fresh fuel regularly— at least every 3 weeks. Keep your car fuel tank as full as possible to reduce the amount of air in contact with the fuel. If the car is not going to be used for more than about 5 weeks, drain the fuel system.

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 47

MG launches value- packed HS SUV by Callum Hunter

MOTOR has officially chief executive Peter Ciao told GoAu- MG launched what it describes to at the HS national media launch in as Australia’s best-value mid-sized Victoria this week. SUV and the model that will lead the “We want to challenge everyone and charge for the Chinese brand’s ongo- we can’t say we are number one, (but) ing meteoric sales growth in this coun- our priority is to be number one … try – the all-new HS. (and) in many points we are number A replacement for the previous GS one.” model line, the HS is billed as an all- Priced from $29,990 plus on-road new vehicle and shares none of its costs, the two-pronged HS range panels with its predecessor, being kicks off with the Vibe which is both longer (at 4574mm) and wider (at stacked full with standard driver-assist 1876mm) though not quite as tall safety equipment including adaptive (1664mm) cruise control, forward collision warn- “This is the biggest segment in Aus- ing, autonomous emergency braking, tralia, so we want to join this segment, lane assist, traffic-jam assist, intelli- be competitive and give customers gent cruise assist, blind-spot monitor- more choice,” MG Motor Australia ing, rear cross-traffic alert, intelligent

48 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

headlight control and a speed assis- tive yaw control, electronic brake- tant system including speed-sign force distribution, hydraulic brake recognition. booster, brake disc wiping, hill-hold control, automatic headlights and a All of these features can be tailored to reversing camera. suit the driver’s preferences with various levels of sensitivity and combine All of this safety tech combined with to fall under the umbrella of what the six airbags as standard helped the HS car-maker has dubbed MG Pilot, a achieve a maximum five-star Australa- safety suite that MG Motor Australia sian New Car Assessment Program brand marketing and product director (ANCAP) safety rating late last year. Danny Lenartic described as Inside the cabin, occupants are pro- “revolutionary” for a base-spec vehi- vided with a competitive level of con- cle. venience features and technology, On top of MG Pilot, other standard arguably headlined by the inclusion of safety gear includes electronic traction leatherette (vinyl) upholstery as well and stability control, ABS brakes, ac- as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 49

smartphone mirroring as standard. console storage compartment. The driver is also met by a flat- “It’s the little ‘one-per-cent-ers’ bottomed, multifunction leather steer- throughout the cabin making not only ing wheel and ‘partially virtual’ instru- the pilot comfortable, but also the pas- ment panel displaying speed, speed sengers as well,” Mr Lenartic said. zone reminder, outside temperature, Stepping up to the top-spec Excite fuel level, engine temperature, trip model – priced at $32,990 plus on- computer details and MG Pilot func- roads – adds 18-inch alloy wheels (up tion status. from 17s), electronic tailgate, Super The virtual display is then flanked by Sport drive mode (activated via a but- two analogue dials – speedometer on ton on the steering wheel), paddle the left and tachometer on the right. gear shifters, satellite navigation, dual -zone climate control, rain-sensing In the back, there is 463 litres of cargo wipers, LED head- and tail-lights as space with the 60/40 split-folding rear well as LED ambient lighting. seats in place which expands to 1287 litres when folded flat. Both variants rely on a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine Other standard features on the Vibe (carried over from the GS) which pro- include Bluetooth audio, 10.1-inch duces 124kW of power (up 5kW) and infotainment screen, keyless entry 250Nm of torque (unchanged) and and push-button start, four USB ports sends drive to the front wheels via a (two front, two rear), auto-dimming seven-speed dual-clutch automatic rearview mirror and a cooled centre

50 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

transmission. 2.0-litre model and revealed an all- electric version was also in the works. Fuel economy measurements show a combined-cycle result of 7.2 litres per “For the customers there will be a 100km for both variants, and CO2 great choice,” he said. emissions of 170 grams per kilometre, “If you want to have the feeling of a while MG claims the HS – which tips pure-electric vehicle when driving, the scales at 1520kg – will accelerate we’re a good choice, but if you worry from 0-100km/h in 9.9 seconds and with a pure-electric vehicle about run on to a top speed of 190km/h. charging it up, we’ll still give you a As GoAuto reported last November, traditional power choice.” an even higher-spec version of the HS Once all of the upcoming variants is in the pipeline for Australia, with Mr have been launched and the HS Ciao this week confirming the flagship range is at its peak, MG expects the variant is due to arrive in April boast- mid-size SUV to be its most popular ing sports seats and a 360-degree model, but said it still expects a rea- camera. sonably even split between the rest of In overseas markets, the top-end its model range, which includes the model also comes equipped with a smaller ZS SUV and the MG3 light panoramic sunroof, electric seat ad- hatch. justment as well as heating function Despite the HS’s marketing not get- and leather upholstery. ting into full swing until last week, MG Following the arrival of the ‘Tier 3’ recorded 131 sales last month and variant will be the fourth-quarter intro- 109 in December. duction of a 2.0-litre turbocharged Last month’s sales figure alone was engine which will punch out a decent equivalent to 36 per cent of the GS’s 170kW and 370Nm, driving all four total sales in 2019. wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic. MG recorded 8326 sales in Australia last year, a rise of 177 per cent com- MG claims the bigger engine will slash pared the 2018, when it shifted 3007 2.4 seconds off the HS’s 0-100km/h units. time (down to 7.5s) and return fuel economy of 8.2L/100km. Mr Ciao also confirmed exclusively to GoAuto that not one, but two plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variants – one more powerful than the other – would be launched in Australia alongside the March 2020 Tappet Chatter 51

MG developing electric wagon; production E-Motion a possibility

is the fastest-growing Chi- Based on the new HS SUV, the eHS MG nese car brand in Australia, mates a 123kW turbocharged 1.5-litre with sales up 176.9 per cent last year petrol four-cylinder engine with a largely on the back of the ZS SUV. 90kW electric motor and a 16.6kWh battery pack. A hefty 480Nm of torque The company hasn't given up on con- is also expected. ventional passenger cars, though, and it's embracing both hybrid and battery- Gregorious confirmed the HS could electric vehicles. also support a battery-electric variant like the smaller eZS (ZS EV), though Daniel Gregorious, MG Motor UK’s no decision has been made yet. head of sales and marketing, told Au- tocar the next model line from the He told Autocar that, should the eHS brand will be a small wagon that’ll be and electric wagon prove commercial- available only with a battery-electric ly successful, MG’s next move will be powertrain. It’ll be around the same to bring the E-Motion sports car con- size as a Ford Focus wagon. cept (below) to production. In addition to the as-yet unnamed wagon, MG will soon export its eHS plug-in hybrid electric vehicle – although not to Australia, where it will rely on the ZS EV (due to land in the second half of 2020) to push its green credentials.

The slinky, electric grand tourer con- cept used a battery-electric powertrain, said to achieve an electric driving range of 500km and a 0-100km/h time of under 4 seconds. MG officials have said development of the E-Motion is ongoing but no production date has been indicated.

52 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Gregorious said, "The car is still in our able in China, there are no such mod- plans and it will make a great halo els available in the UK or Australia. flagship car."

"We're only planning one model like it The bulk of MG's models are SUVs, at present. But if we can do well with including some models not sold here. mainstream models, there could be plenty of opportunity for more sporty These include the Indian-market Hec- models in the future." tor, a rebadged Baojun 530 from GM. MG also sells the RX5 and RX8 (above) – rebadged models from sis- ter brand Roewe – in markets like the Philippines. On MG's positioning, Gregorious said, "We don't want to be the cheapest... We want to offer value for money, but also offer an aspirational product we can legitimately sell on its quality. We Though MG SUV sales have been see people moving happily out of growing, the brand’s passenger car Fords and Nissans into MGs." record under SAIC Motor ownership The company maintains an engineer- has been mixed. ing presence in the UK, if not a manu- Last year, the MG 3 was only the facturing one. eighth-best selling car in its class, There, sales have trebled over the though it’s continuing to improving. past three years. MG also exports The defunct MG 6, however, was a cars to markets as far afield as South flop here and in markets like the UK. America and the Middle East. A redesigned, second-generation model was introduced in China in 2017, but it wasn't exported here or to the UK. A battery-electric wagon will be a first for the MG brand and a unique product. While small electric wagons like the Buick Velite 6 are avail-

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 53

Melba Motors More than 40 years experience

12 Purdue Street Belconnen

Melba Motors is a car repair and maintenance business with a special 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/

54 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

Services Directory

Mechanical Battery World - Phillip Mark: 6282 9884 Melba Motors - Belconnen https://www.batteryworld.com.au/ Mick: 6253 1523 Website Steering & Suspension Fyshwick Head Services - Fyshwick Warren: 6280 0480 Capitol Steering - Fyshwick Website 6280 5243 Website Phillip Head Services - Phillip 6282 5555 Website Interstate Transport

Phillip Radiator Services (NATRAD) - Web Tow Phillip Matthew: 0425 588 852 Toby: 6281 2850 Website Website

Parts Carburettors Sportsparts - Sydney Canberra Carburettors - Murrum- Bruce: 029875 1144 bateman Website David: 6227 0702 Website Upholstery and Trim

Dyno Tune - Mitchell Trim by Shaun = Mitchell Grant: 6241 6109 Shaun: 6255 5225 website Website

Electrical

Lee & Thomas Auto Electrical - Phillip Greg:6281 1455 https://www.leethomas.com.au/ March 2020 Tappet Chatter 55

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.

56 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

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: Our Club MG Z Magnette has a well equipped under-cover service centre at Budget Storage,

25 Yallourn St Fyshwick. It has all Midget/Sprite the basic big-tools to enable you to John Harriott (02) 6292 8420 do repairs, service and/or clean Ian Reid (02) 6231 8959 your car in a secure area, 24/7. Modern MGs Simply contact Laurie Gardiner on Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343 (02) 6293 4191 to arrange a time to Greg Whitfield 0498 107 658 do the work or just to have a look. The Service Centre, and use of club tools, is free to Club Members. Restoration Brian Oxley (02) 6281 2351 Mike Stearn (02) 6231 1716 Malcolm Robertson (02) 6288 9343

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 57

Marquet

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

For Sale A complete MGTC timber kit in quality seasoned Australian coachwood (including most of the original timber) A set of sheet metal patterns for re-skinning the body tub and doors (less the firewall) A complete but very rusty 1500 MGA that needs a total ground-up restoration. The body is in two halves with some work started and some extra panels. I have the complete original motor plus a 1622 and a number of complete Austin 1800 heads. I am open to (sensible) offers for these items and if there is genuine interest will send photographs on request. Contact: Tony Bayliss. 0417 062 352 [email protected]

58 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

MGZT 190 Plus

Those who know the MGZT, will be aware of its excellent road handling performance and comfort level, both of which compare to the top levels in the class. I have owned this vehicle for 7 Years having purchased it in December 2012 from a Melbourne dealer. During that time it has been fastidiously maintained and comes with full records (recent minor service being oil & filter change in Sep 19). The most recent major service was carried out in July 2019 at 73,723Ks and included timing belts (3), idler pulleys and ad- juster, cam seals, water pump, spark plugs, coolant and throttle body clean. New Falken FK510 225/45R18 95Y tyres were fitted in July 2019. Additionally, many design faults/flaws have been rectified including: 1. Orange clip on fuel pump; 2. Installation of “spyhole” on passenger side of scuttle to allow easy check/prevention of CPU flooding; 3. Bonnet cables reconfigured to prevent ‘locked bonnet’; 4. Metal (Kaiser) thermostat; 5. Revotec 2-speed cooling fan. Most interested parties ask “why are you selling”? As age increases, certain aspects of driving become more difficult, as such I wish to migrate to an MGZT 180 (automatic) model to make city driving a more relaxed and easier experience. Among the last of the MG models made by British manufacturers, this car represents a magnificent example of a modern classic. For a vehicle of this age it is in outstanding mechanical and physical condition. For more detail follow the link below. https://www.bccbss.com.au/mg/for-sale/cars/zt/2003-mg-zt-3360/

Price $9,500

Contact: Paul 02 6134 6386 [email protected]

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 59

CLASSIC MG BOOKS A must for any MG enthusiast, a set of four books by the legendary writer Barre Lyndon describing the motor sport and record-breaking exploits by the MG Car Company during the 1930s. The books are authoritative, fascinating and exciting. Titles are: Combat (1933); Circuit Dust (1934); Grand Prix (1935); and Motor Racing and Record Breaking (1935) co-authored with G E T Eyston. All are first editions. $95 each or $350 the set. Contact: Malcolm 0408 627 685

FREE FREE FREE Malcolm wishes to pass his full collection of MG Enthusi- ast (1983 – present) and MG World (1997 – 2003) magazines to a good home. No cost involved, but you will have to come and pick them up yourself, or ring Malcolm to dis- cuss delivery options (0408 627 685). Lots of great photos and months of bedtime reading for the true MG enthusiast, male or female.”

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 , P/# M 0436769497. H 02 62994920

60 MG Car Club Canberra March 2020

1971 MGBGT

Here we have a meticulously cared for club car which is now offered for sale. The reason for sale is age...not of the car but of the owner! It is Manual with overdrive. Asking Price $17900 Contact: Geoff – 0433791323 Email: [email protected] The car is currently on club plates which would need to be surrendered once the sale has taken place.

To view an information sheet click here

March 2020 Tappet Chatter 61