THE NORTH AMERICAN MGB REGISTER The MGB D~'besris the official publication of the North American MGB Register, a non-profit The Edlt~rkView organization dedicated to maintaining and expanding interest in Britain's most popular sports car-the MGB. reetings! I hope you are all ready continue to The opinions expressed within are those of the individual authors and readers are wamed that they attempt any mechanical or other modifications described herein, entirely at their own risk. Gfor what promises to be a great "B" the Membership in the North American MGB Register is open to all. with no restrictions. MG season ahead. We are less than fastest grow- wnership of an MG is not a condition of membership. NAMGBR Regional Chapters will be two months away from what 1 honest- ing MG orga- eased to welcome you to their events. Membership dues are $25.00 per year. lv believe will be the "Mother of All nization in For membership details or further information write to: MG Meetinas"-"MG '96" at Indy- N o r t h /.3iJ I[ NORTH AMERICAN MGB REGISTEF and there are many other events America. We P.O. Box MGB scheduled throughout the year for can only do Akin. IL 62805 , you to enjoy. So get out there and so much with Or call the toll-free hotline: 800-NAMGBR- 1 enjoy them! the resources Did you notice that with your last we have FFICERS N,4MG El R available at present. Your Executive PUBLICITY Richard Liddick issue of the Driuer there was another -1AIRMAN: Rick lngram COORDINATOR: 7200 Park Drive piece of paper in the envelope? Half of Committee do a great job, but we do P.O. Box 588 Baltimore. MD 21234 this was an invitation to join the North need your support in encouraging St. Joseph. IL 61 873 (4 10) 882-6896 American MGB Register, the other half other MGB and Midget owners and dri- (217) 469-2007 TECHNICAL Bob Mason a regalia order form. Question, what vers to join our ranks. Of course there FOUNDING John H. Twist ADVISORS: 5 Leslie Court did you do with your piece of paper? will always be those who will settle for CHAIRMAN: 6490 E. Fulton Street Fairhope. AL 36532 Did it finish up in the trash? Or the less and join other organizations, but Ada, MI 4930 1 (Wllor ~uriling (334) 928-5366 bathroom? Or did you use it as in terms of value for money, the 10 d leCtllliC31 (6 16) 682-0800 adorsor. plmse Bob Daniels (engines, etc.) intended, to get a new member for NAMGBR is the best around. So be certair; lo (518) 372-4566 the Register? That was the purpose of please think about it and get that VICE-CHAIRMAN: Richard Miller include 2 putting it in with your favorite MGB fr~end,neighbor, club mate or the guy 18 George's Place smmpw. w!F Glen Towery adrlrezd magazine! at the office who owns one of our cars Clinton. NJ 08809 (302) 734- 1243 (908) 735-5417 envelope lor If only half of you recruited just to join us! We'll all feel the benefit! &/leirreply.) Norman Nock one new member (using the piece of Fasten those belts! 'B C'ing you AT SECRETARY: Jai Deagan (209) 948-1030 paper or not!) then think what we Indy! 1 1825 Colilrnbia Way Eaton Rapids, MI 48827 SERVICE Steve Brown could do with a 50% growth in mem- (800) NAMGBR- 1 RECOMMENDATION 225 Stanford Avenue bership! Want to see color in the COORDINATOR: Schenectady, NY 12304 MGB Driuer? Want to see even more TREASURER: Robin Weatherall (518) 370-2164 benefits than offered at present? (P.S. By the way, following the 1326 Waldron Avenue Fax: (518) 370-40 12 Want to see the Driuer published departure of my '79 MGB, I bought St. Louis, MO 63 130 (3 14) 725-2892 MEMBERSHIP Robin Weatherall more than six times a year? Then go another one-Tartan Red, 1964, disc COORDINATOR: 1326 Waldron Avenue get a new member! wheels, immaculate! Of course it's COORDINATORS OF THE REGISTER St. Louis. MO 63130 This year, more than ever, we made by Corgi and sits nicely in my (314) 725-2892 need to increase the membership and model MG cabinet!) EDITOR Marcham Rhoade REGALIA Peter Cosmides MGB Driver: P.O. Box 2645 COORDINATOR: 21 9 Pleasant Valley Road Goleta, CA 931 17 Moorestown. NJ 08057 (609)778-3695 ADVERTISING: Ian Pender 177 Paxson Avenue ELECTRONIC Tom Biehl Hamilton Square, NJ 08690 BILLBOARD: P.O. Box 68 1 (609) 890-2959 Blue Bell. PA 19322 NAMGBR BBCCaol.corn THE REGISTRARS OF NAMGBR MGBs: Orin B. Harding. 703 Pleasant Drive, Greensboro. NC 274 10. (9 10) 299-4819 Midgets: Bruce Wyckoff. 3 130 Marcia Lane. Hamilton. MI 494 19. (6 16) 75 1-7200 1967 MGB GT Specials: Gregg Purvis, 315 Lafayette, Grand Haven. Mf 494 17. (6 16) 842-21 12 c Ton Dran, fioroughbrrd &.~lassicCars 1974/MCBs: Steve Harding. 1913-D Darby Road. Havertown. PA 19083. (610) 446-2073 MGB V8s: Kurt Schley, 1855 Northview Road. Rocky River, OH 441 16. (216) 331 -4205 Page 29 ere ere Are They Now! MGB LEs: Ron Tugwell. 3 Dearnarl Road. P.O. 80%2406. Carrnel VaIley. CA 93924. (408) 659-2449 Marcham Rhoade MG1 100:1300s: Thomas K. Gaylord. 3180 Verdtm Drive. N.W., Atlanta. GA 30305. (404) 261-5083 Pull Handle MGBs: Will Zehring, 1713 Hollywood Avenue. Grosse Pointe Woods. MI 48236. (313) @5-4180 100.000 .Yile Club: Philip Morgan. P.O. Box 374, 705 6th Street, Howe. IN 46746 The North American MGB Register is affiliated to the MG Car Club of England. The MG Car Club was founded in 1930 and is the original, factory supported. and approved organization for all MGs. with Ihe Club Headquarters situated in Abingdon-on-Tharnes close by the birthplace of all MGs. 1 and rn GB DRIVE inter has again descended upon May/June W us. We were fortunate enough to issue. have good traveling weather to attend Remember to the University Motors' Birthday Party. check the North American MC ister Sue and I, along with others from the addresses local club, got to walk and talk MG for and responsi- -,LEASED TO ANNOUNCE THE a delightful afternoon thanks to John bilities of the Twist, Caroline Robinson and able officers and staff. Rick took my picture and if it others in the NATIONAL CONCOURS AND came out, it may be looking at you front of the from above this article. Driver, this Interest in "MG '96" at lndy is a lit- will help reduce any delay caused by POPULAR VOTE CAR SHOW tle overwhelming. By the time you having to have mail forwarded. read this there will more than likely be The Register continues to grow. less than 100 slots left of the 1000 We are still getting new members who will be allowed to drive on the every month and again have had to track. Many other activities are increase the number of Drivers prinf- planned so even if you are not one of ed. For the last two issues, new mem- the lucky 1000, register and attend. bers cleaned out all of the extra issues Work is progressing on all of the set aside for new members. Some cars I have registered for "MG '96". A issues are out of print and others are little work here, even less work there close to being all gone. If you don't and 1 hope to have at least one car have a particular issue, some are still done in time. The Lansing Club, like available through Regalia Sales. Write many others, is fortunate in that many to Peter Cosmides with your requests. of the members are more than willing Peter also has new register logo lapel to lend a hand in helping a member pins and the Driver storage binders are work on their car. We have had sever- back in stock again. al tech sessions where four or five That's enough for this issue. members gather on Saturday to help Should I work on that sticky garage someone out. This is one of the thjngs door or play the Inside the Octagon I enjoy the most about our hobby. video again? I think it's too cold to Seeing the look or smile on someone's work on that door and it is hard to FOR MGB, MIDGET, face when they do something they work in the dark. Now where is that have never done before is quite satis- remote control? AND MG 1100/1300 fying. It is also a cheap way to learn Remember-if you drive it, you'll more about things that might go have fun! fi TO BE HELD DURING "MG '96" AT wrong with your own vehicle. THE ROPKE MILITARY MUSEUM IN Now miclht be a clood time to v review some-of the information from NORTHWEST INDIANAPOLIS previous articles in the Driver. ,s Several members have called + $10.00 ENTRY FEE (for Concours Only) + about the Register's insur- ance plan for chapters. There was quite a lot of FRIDAY JUNE 28,1996 information printed about this I topic in my column in the I + CLASSES FOR ALL MODELS! + BEAUTIFUL PRIZE TROPHIES! + EVERY ENTRANT RECEIVES A UNIQUE DASH )n f SF Two 19 Our ?ant Cooer- PLAQUE AND CERTIFICATE RECOGNIZING THIS ?ady for summer. NATIONAL EVENT! 4 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRfVER-Mar/Apr '96 5 World's Leading Supplier adies and Gentlemen-SPRING! It at the track on Parts! Lhas finally arrived! This is a very Saturday. Of British Car important event for we enthusiasts not Several guests fortunate enough to live in a region from England where we can truly enjoy our cars year have made round! Yes, the smell of Castrol burn- arrangements ing off the side of the engine block, to attend this those little puffs of smoke being emit- 'once in a life- ted from electrical connections under time' event, the dash and the small puddles of oil and on this appearing at parking spots throughout note, if any of town (lay people often assume the our you have a "spare" MG that you would cars leak oil, but we all know that it's be willing to loan to our visitors for use just our vehicles "marking their territo- during "MG '96", please contact us! We ry". don't we?) These are all signs that may have a surprise or two ready for our cars are back on the road-just those of you attending the motor sport like the return of the swallows to capital of the world! If you are only Capistrano... we're back! going to attend one MG event this year, You will notice that we have start- make it "MG '96", you will not be dis- ed to insert a combination rnernber- appointed! ship and regalia order form in the MGB Some Register members have Driver. We hope we can encourage expressed surprise upon learning that you to hand this form to an enthusiast the Executive Officers of NAMGBR, who has not yet joined the MGB unlike other organizations, "pay their MGA + MGB + MGC + Midget Register-show him or her your copy own way" to the Annual Convention, of the Driver. [ have a feeling that they the Annual General Meeting and other We take the guesswork out of product availability and cost. will join, if YOU make an effort to Register related meetings. This was Our low selling price is on the same page as the part you need. recruit them. one of the founding principles at the "MG International-Indy '96" is formation of the Register in 1990, and We also stock a wide variety of OEM and reproduction parts only a few weeks away. As I write this while we are reimbursed for related plus accessories to help "Keep'em On The Road.", column, over 800 MG owners have routine "business" expenses such as registered for this grand event. While postage and phone calls, our travel, the Holiday Inn and the Fairfield Inn lodging. meals and registration fees Call For Your Free Catalog Today ! are filled to capacity, all other hotels in come out of our own pocket! This the area have rooms available at the leaves dollars in the Register accounts Order 9 to 5 contracted rates. It's time for those of to make our conventions and publica- you who are procrastinators to fill out tions better than the "other guys", We 7 Days A Week your registration form and mail it in do this out of our love and enthusiasm before June Ist! Remember, only the for the MG marque. It takes the hard Toll Free - All USA & Canada first 1000 MGs registered will be work and dedication of many volun- allowed parade laps on the teers to make the North American Indianapolis Motor Speedway! Many MGB Register the great club it is driving events, including rallies and today, with so many new members Worldwide Orders 91 3-599-3299 funkhanas have been planned for the joining daily we haven't the space to Worldwide Fax 91 3-541-8500 week plus numerous tech list them all! sessions/talks are scheduled. As announced in the last issue of Your MGB Register will hold both a the MGB Driver, the NAMGBR has British Motor Heritage Approved Distributor POPULAR VOTE CAR SHOW and a instituted a "100.000 Mile Register". CONCOURS CAR SHOW at the Ropke With the invaluable assistance of Philip Military Museum on Friday (due to pop- Morgan, we hope to maintain a record VICTORIA BRITISH LTD. ular demand). Valve cover racing, P.O. Box 14991 Lenexa, Kansas 66285-4991 photo and model contests will be held (please turn to page 39) MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 and other little jobs! (or how I spent block boring and crank grinding. my Christmas vacation!) This meant new pistons, rings, valves, guides. springs, seats (hard- Jim Christian ened to run unleaded), main and cam bearings, etc.-time to use the charge late Autumn drive ...then a nasty cards! Might as well also finish the job A clutch shudder! A couple of shifts right, so replace the timing chain and later, with a sudden clunk, the collar sprocket gear. oil and water pumps, ring on the pressure plate (what the mounts, tappets, rocker shaft and mill throw-out bearing pushes) just broke the head too! Oh. and let's reposition off! I was always lazy-now I'm shift- the gas pedal forward since I'm a bit less too! Facing many hours labor to long-legged for the car1 replace the $100 clutch set posed a While the block and head were Tom Biehl, Another place you may wish to check dreadful pre-Christmas dilemma ... to being machined. I cleaned parts in a solvent tank for days, then got to play Electronic Bulletin Board out is the Victoria MG Club's home fix the clutch and be done with it, or to page at: spend much more now (but less in the with a bead-blaster. Cool! After I start- Coordinator http://www.lslandNet.com:80/-baker/ long run) to go through the MGB's dri- ed painting bits and parts a rambow of Jack always has some interesting vetrain "while I was at it"! mostly correct colors, looking at the reetings once again from snow- engine bay, imagining the beautiful I info posted. That's it for now and I'll The drivetrain was tired but the Gbound Pennsylvania! hope you new engine in there, 1 decided to paint are all looking forward to the summer see you on the boards! car's cosmetics were nice and fresh as much as I am. (Torn can be reached at and the conversion to a late transmis- the bay, too! After removing wiring, Well, the long promised MGB IYAMGBR [email protected] or sion was worth considering. My fellow bits and plenty of gunk, masking and Register Members Electronic Phone NKMT52AOprodigy.com. Our thanks MG club folks said a rebuild and a new priming was easy. (Tip: Mask brake Book (e-mail address list) is finally to Jack Baker. and Mike Plunzstead for trans were worth doing now, and I had lines and wires with aluminum foil.) A out. If you drop me an e-mail I'll get permission to show you their- web vacation time to take by the year end, friend with a compressor applied the new-age catalyzed paint. one to you via file transfer. paw.-Ed.)- 4 a bit of cash, room on the Visa, and no If you haven't downloaded the precise plans. So. I decided to spend Being caught by my wife late on America OnLine 2.5 software (2.6 for ,I-..,,,. .. In 1a1 nrrw 6. .e.nanr .,,,,.,,,,,,,,.,,~?wno.. ~~mvocyUII~O~~W money on parts (including a rebuilt Christmas Eve night, eagerly buffing , , 3- 61- L. ~-;,-21 rn late "LH" overdrive transmission) and brake lines so they'd look great Macintosh) or the latest Prodigy ver- -.------against the new paint I realized I had ~ionfor Windows, do so as soon as ;:-. ,, ,. r,,,,,-- ,.,. , do plenty of labor myself. My wife sup- you can. The download time will be -=~--.--~v---=--.s-m - -z-- --p%+m~~ . ported this plan as long as we recov- become possessed by this project! well spen.t as the newest version of ered the couch first ...she's no dummy! Other fathers of young kids were these services allow you access to the 1 started with great enthusiasm assembling bikes and stuff-Get a Internet, and some great bulletin convinced that the task could be done grip! But, yes, we're having fun now! boards. I haven't found them all yet, reasonably on time and within budget. When the new trans arrived my list but the best so far is based out of But let me first share the process and of "used parts" needed for the conver- Enaland and it even has a topic on the requirements. With a Haynes manual, sion grew from backplate, starter, O/D MG?! The address is: basic tools and a borrowed cherry switch and flywheel, to also include a http://www.mgcars.org.uk/ picker and floor jack, the engine and later clutch fork (%" longer) and Later trans were out of the car as a unit in no trans stabilizer. These were bought time. A friend Dodge Reidy of Reidy "pre-owned" together with an old alu- Racing Engines gave me guidance and minum valve cover to polish up, too! shop space, charging me sparingly for Better get a new, longer speedo cable, his time. I was to do all but the most also. 1 figured out how to wire the over- skilled work. Disassembly was easy. drive and installed a fog light for use as with many drawings and labeled bags a backup light. Then I tapped out the and boxes full of grouped parts! The late shift lever to accept my "correct" trans was ordered from British Parts '66 shift knob! Direct together with a clutch set and W~thparts delivery delays (UPS is modified camshaft. At tear-down we busy at Christmas!), completion of the determined that this was indeed a tired engine occurred on the last day of engine, needing serious head work. (please turn to page 10) S MGB DRIVER-Mat./Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 Amateur Survives Rebuild - Conlinued born Page Q vacation. The later starter required Surprise ...surprise ...it started right that I convert to an inverted oil filter up, ran fine and no leaks or extra parts urt Schley It is not too late to start a conversion and bracket which was an unexpected left over! This whole job was a sizable now and have it ready for August's late parts order. The transmission was undertaking because of all my "while uch is going on both with my own Summer Party! "test-fitted" by itself and a knock-off I'm at it" items and the engine work. MMGB V8 and in the MG V8 world There are quite a few of us who hammer was employed to make room The merits of the trans conversion are in general. The most significant glob- would cheerfully remove and trade a at the tunnel face for the starter motor for each "early" MGB owner to decide: al item is the release of a new and body part or two for a factory MGB GT position on the larger flywheel and there was a real premium over simply very complete guide to V8 conver- V8 but are stymied by both the trans housing, while a "Sawzall" using an early overdrive. Had I calcu- sions. Titled How to Give Your- MGB extreme scarcity of the model in the lengthened the tunnel opening a bit to lated the premium in complexity and V8 Power by Roger Williams, the US (about a dozen) and the king's accommodate the shifter. time, 1 might have stayed with the book's 128 pages and 200 photos and ransom they command on the few Installation went well. The stock early version. But I finished what I drawings furnish the most detailed occasions one becomes available. 30" driveshaft had about H" of free started, learned a lot, and enjoy the and comprehensive V8 conversion There is a light at the end of the tun- play left in the yoke during axle travel competed car very much. I would manual currently available. Over the nel! EPA regulations do not apply to (banjo axle), and so was just fine. A probably do it again! years I have spoken to quite a few MG an aulo model more than 21, years sheetmetal shop lengthened the tunnel I'm deeply indebted for great owners who long to convert their cars old. The onerous and restrictive DOT cap piece and re-centered the shifter advice from all sorts of terrific MG but have not proceeded because of requirements, which are the main opening back some 2\% inches. 1 hid folks. The MGB is far more powerful the lack of a comprehensive guide. restrictions to a V8 import, cease to the carpet patch by locating the ash- and the overdrive is wonderful! At Now it's here, no more excuses! The apply after a model is 25 years old. tray ahead of the shifter! future meetings, mine will be the "8 book is available from several of our The 1973 MGB GT V8 is already out A nifty challenge was a special parked with the bonnet up! valued advertisers, motorsports book from under the EPA umbrella and in spigot or pilot bushing to mate the late (Dodge at Reidy Racing Engines dealers, the MG V8 Newsletter, and 1998 will emerge from under DOT trans input shaft to the early crank- is on (707)996-7044 and Bob at British MG V8 specialists. restrict~ons.By 2001. any factory V8 shaft, and a clever series of modifica- Parts Direct is on (503)895-2288.) fi More good news for V8 enthusi- can be imported fairly easily. (It will asts is the increased attention being be interesting to see if the prices in the tions to the plastic clutch alignment UK tool to suit. afforded the eight cylinder MGs. As rise.) I have placed a huge glass the number of V8s rapidly increases. jug in my bedroom. Every night 1 more meets and shows will be inclined empty my pockets of change and to add a V8 class. The 1995 'MG On drop it into the jug. By 1998... The Rocks', one of the east coast's My own 1973 V8 conversion has largest events. was attended by eight been on the road for seven months V8 powered 'Bs. Although there was and has performed almost flawlessly. not a specific V8 class this year, show She only stranded me once, through organizers left open the option of one no fault of her own. 1 knew I was a in '96 if enough eights pre-register. quart low on oil but intending to "MG '96" in Indianapolis will have a change the oil in a couple of days, I significant V8 presence and tentative did not top it up. At 5:00 a.m. I was on plans call for a V8 display and a tech- my way to work and came up on my nical session or two. The best news of favorite section of the completely all, and a MUST ATTEND event for deserted highway. It 1s a very long the V8 fraternity, is the 1996 descending radius turn and the pave- University Motors Summer Party. MG ment is new and smooth. I decided to head guru and show sponsor, John push the limit a little and took the turn Twist. has most generously designat- very hard, leaning heavily against the ed the MG V8 as the Party's featured door despite the four-point safety har- iarque. There will be two V8 classes. ness. The car handled perfectly, cling- Ine for the rare and highly prized fac- ing to the asphalt like glue and feeling )ry MGB GT V8s and another for V8 very controlled, nowhere near its limit. ~nversions.Tentative plans call for a About a hundred yards after the v8 display and a few technical semi- curve, I hear lifters rapping. A quick nars. I have personally talked to over glance at the oil pressure gauge 20 V8 owners who intend to be there (please turn to page 12) Not long now-'5 'Cing you 'A'TIndy! and am sure there will be many more. 10 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 From the V8 Registrar - Continued from Page 7 I showed a pointer resting on the zero quivered. 1 buttoned everything up and peg! A desperate twist of the ignition tentatively fired up the engine. The key and the engine fell silent. As luck gauge pointer immediately rose to it's would have it, I was able to coast into normal position and the lifters' clatter the parking lot at work. faded away. I thought that either my home- It appears that when 1 took the built oil pump had failed, the pump hard turn, all the oil in the pan sloshed drive gear on the distributor shaft had to one side. This in turn allowed the oil sheared, or the pick-up tube had fallen pump to suck air and lose its prime. into the pan. After I trailered the car This probably would not have hap- home, I checked the distributor gear, it pened if the oil levels had been at its At Heads of America our main focus is to provide MGB owners with the increased was fine. I then removed a line from proper five quart level. In a subsequent performance they want with reliability built in. All our engines, heads, rocker assem- the remote oil filter and attached the conversation with Robin Weatherall, I blies, supercharger kits and big block conversions are designed with this in mind. line to a suction gun. Using the gun, 1 was told that MG V8 originator Ken We only use top quality American-made parts. You can install our kits yourself, or blew air back through the oil pump Costello had warned Robin that the we can do the work for you through our association with British Motor Classics in and pick-up. Distinct bubbling sounds 215/3.5 V8 is prone to oil starvation in Phoenix. With our state-of-the-art machine shop and experience with British cars, from the oil pan proved the pick-up instances of very high cornering we can do just about any kind of work you might need on your MGB or any other was intact. Just for the heck of it, I forces. 1 will probably baffle the oil pan British car. Give us a call! used the suction gun to pull oil out of this winter and also keep a very close the pan and through the pump. eye on the oil level. I suppose that Products Now Available: Reattaching the oil line, I spun the oil even if the highway is deserted and the pump shaft with a drill. Lo and behold! pavement dry, I could take that turn a High-Ratio Rocker Arm Assembly The needle on the oil pressure gauge little slower. Nyah ... fi (1.5:1 and 1.6:1 ratios) from $3 75 Performance cylinder Heads (includes hardened seats and guides) from $495 Supercharger Kits from $1,985

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- 4 . aLn+L~ (602)256-0211 2233 North 23rd Drive Bill Eberhardt and his very successful 1968 MGB vintage racer: Phoenix, Arizona 85009 Fax (602)256-0281 12 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 13 1 We Know MGBs Inside & Out 1 ... WHAT "HOME IN INDIANA" just driving to town today! Hey, check MEANS! the tires before we go! I love these Michelins. Also, put the tonneau cover on, it keeps the interior clean. (1 have to remind him of everything! He thinks ell, here I am again. Sitting in the that he's the boss just because he W garage with this tight fitting cover owns the keys!) on. The person who owns my keys He's starting my engines little washed and waxed me last weekend. more choke, please. Hand brake off cleaned my interior, filled my tank, and here we go. See you later Midget! changed the oil and lubed everything. South on 1-275? That's strange we He's been driving the '71 Midget, that usually go north but southbound is not he also owns the keys for, to work all too bad. Once we get south of MI4 week. This can only mean that he's he'll kick the speed up a bit-l like to going to take me on a road trip, go to get into overdrive and cruise the a car show, or put me away for the Interstate at around 80. winter! 1 hope it's a road trip-it's only What's he doing now? We've September. Too early for a 1980 pulled into a Pilot gas station, why did Limited Edition MGB Roadster to go he stop? Oh, now I get it, we're waiting into winter storage, even in Michigan. for someone but, oh man! What's that Here he comes now. YES, he IS spraying all over my distributor and taking my cover off-watch that paint! running down my oil pan? Now my He has something in his hands, I hope heater control valve has sprung a leak, World's Largest, Free Iltustrated Catalogs! it's a suitcase. No, just trash. and now looks [ike we'll be heading back home. Most Extensive Inventory Our famous, comprehensive catalogs help you he's gone back into the house. ALL But what's he doing now? YES! He's We stock obscure as well as common items. find parts quickly and easily. Just specify the Our commitment to re-tooling obsolete spares edition you need: Austin-Healey 100-4. 100-6, RIGHT! He's back with a duffel bag, putting on his coveralls and he has a insures the complete and correct restoration 3000, Sprite/Midget, MGTC-TD-TF.MGA. MGB maps, and a small cooler. We are not (please turn to page 16) of your classic British sports car. Triumph TR2-3-4, TR250-6,TR7, Spitfire MklV- 1500, or Jaguar XK120-140-150. No Risk Shopping! We want you to be happy with yourpurchases. Free Quarterly Newspaper! We have the best returns policy in the busi- Each issue of Moss Motoring is filled with ness, and always go the extra mile to keep you hundreds of specially priced sale ilerns, new satisfied. product releases, tech tips, feature articles, British car news and events. Open 7 Days A Week! Phone us Monday through Friday from6amlo Free British Sports Car 7 pm Pacific Time and 7 am lo 4 pm Saturday and Sunday. your car and on-the-go Fastest Service! style. We have warehouses in California and New Jersey, and ship over 90% of our orders the same day. Order by 2 pm, your local time. for same dav shiopina. / ),y%,?g /

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GVVDJ2AG509868 struts its stuff at ir~dianapolis! 14 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 15 NOWI Know. .. - Continued from Page 14 spare heater valve in the boot. He's keys and drink some complimentary going to try and change my valve beer. These people from lndiana before the others show up. Too late, should know better than to offer here they come! Three MGs with Canadians free beer! Soon it's 1;00 Ontario plates, and hey, I've seen a.m. and the parking lot is quiet, these cars before, they were all in everyone is settled in for the night but Grand Rapids. A 1970 BRG MGB-GT, what's this? Great! A heavy frost just a '67 BRG Gf and a '73 Red MGB, all came in and covered me in ice crys- members of the Windsor-Detroit MG tals. Where's my warm garage when I Club. The new heater valve is installed need it? and we are soon back on the It's morning and the sun is finally Interstate. I heard them say we're melting the frost off my paint. This is going to a car show and rally spon- Rally Day and nearly 60 British cars sored by some nice people in the are entered in the 90 plus mile event. lndiana British Car Union down in This is my kind of day, sunny and cool Indianapolis. Man, that's great, this will and I run great on days like this. With be an 800 mile round trip. the top down and navigator on board, We are getting off 1-75 in Ohio we are heading north out of lndy on and driving down a great, made for the rally route. Great scenery, beauti- MGs road along the Wabash River. ful countryside, farm land, and miles Around the curves and up and down of waterfront alongside three reser- the hills we 40 and the best part is that voirs that supply water to the city. we have thi road to ourselves. NO Some of the be& MG roads I've ever Neverthelt3>, I these auto- other traffic as we continue west and been driven on. Both our teams won Tom Gaylord, mobiles the Vanden Plas Princess south through acres and acres of corn awards and then it was back to the MG 1 100/1300 Registrar 1 I00 is clearly an up-scale version of and wheat fields. hotel for more talk and tales. the car. Its features include burl walnut Oh Man! The 1970 GT just hit a Sunday morning and more frost. THE CONCEPT dash and door cappings in addition to, low-flying pheasant and we're stop- Wow! The drivers are up early today. ~nt-wheel drive, Iiydrolastic rear seat fold-out picnic tables, ping to check out the damage. The big Another car wash, top down and we're nded Pf IG 11043 saloon padded arm rests, clock and Connolly bird just hit between the bumper and off to the show by 8:00 a.m. On the Tk; (sedan) was intrc,duced i~7 October leather seats. It is in essence, a limou- the turn signal lamp--no damage. Interstate we are really moving and ... 1962. The car was marketed in the sine version of the 1 I00 sedan. Wow! Look at that! A custom '49 Hey! We just passed by some Jaguars. United States as the MG Sports Sedan. In an attempt to improve their Mercury, a '57 Chevy, a '34 Ford, cus- I don't think they like to be passed by A transversely mounted engine drove overseas sales, BMC made plans in tom cars and hot rods everywhere! MGs! We are almost to our exit and the car through the front wheels. The 1963 to introduce the luxury Vanden We've just pulled into Fairmont, here comes one of those Jags. We are chief designer of the car was Plas Princess 1100 to the United Indiana, during the James Dean running at 75, so he must be going Alexander Issigonis. The body of the States market. However, since the Festival. The entire town is one big over ninety. I think his wife is yelling at car hailed from Italian maestro, Vanden Plas name was largely carnjval, the fairgrounds are loaded him to slow down! For the car show we Pininfarina, and the comfortable-sized unknown in America, it was decided to with old cars. What a great time, we are pulling into the Ropke Military sedan had excellent road handling and introduce the car as the "MG Princess could stay here all weekend! Museum, a privately owned museum. I is said by many to have started the 1100". A prototype car (commission # More country driving and it looks can see tanks, military trucks, Jeeps, revolution towards the front-wheel VG16S/00010) was prepared and sent like we're coming into lndy. Stop at APCs, helicopters, planes-even a drive cars that are so popular today. to the New York Motors Show in American Imports and meet the NASA space capsule on the lake! Mr. In addition to the MG 1 100, there February 1964. owner, Jay. Look at this used car lot! Ropke even has his own air strip and were five other vailants of this car pro- In May 1964 a brochure (BMC MGs. Triumphs, Healeys, this is British half mile banked dirt track. He also duced by British Motor Corporation publication # A/E 6434) was printed car buyer's heaven. Oh no, look at owns about half a dozen classic MGs! (BMC). These were Austin, Morris, proclaiming, "Today's Smart Car is those poor MGB GTs at the back of the The '74 Roadster and I both Riley, Vanden Plas and Wolseley. The the MG Princess 1100." This 12-page lot. My worst nightmare is becoming a received awards at the show and we cars were very similar to each other sales brochure includes the drawing of "parts car"! Back on the road and on were then invited to the home of four except for the front-end design and the the car seen above. Even though the to the Fairfield Inn. a nice parking lot, TR3s. I have to say, the out-of-town dri- interior trim. Hence, "badge engineer- drawing clearly shows a grille center clean with shade trees and wide park- vers were treated as though they were ing" has been widely used to describe bar and an MG badge, the car was pro- ing spots for my siblings and myself. this series of British cars. Our drivers go inside to get their room (please turn to page 50) (please turn to page 18)

16 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 17 The MG Princess 1100 ... - Continued from Page 77 In fact, the BMC line drawings A701 5E (with sunroof) and A7015F (without sunroof) show the "MG Princess Saloon" with the center bar "THE SOURCE" and the MG badge. Later BMC line drawings A701 5G (without sunroof) For All Your MG Needs and A7015H (with sunroof) show the M & G VINTAGE AUTO MG Princess without the center bar 265 ROUTE 17 and badge. In addition, sales literature printed in the United States during P.O. BOX 226 March 1964 (publication # BMC 3/64 TUXEDO PARK, NY 10987 US 25M) shows the car without the Toll Prec 800-631 .- center bar and badge. In N.Y. 91.1-753- Thus it is apparent that the 153 FAX 914-753-5 duced 7uith the conventicma1 Vancjen MG Princess 1 100 cars that were built .. .. Plas grille with no center bar and no at Longbridge and exported to the Catalogs available upo~llcqrtcst. MG badge. United States did not actually bear MGT - MGA - MGB The photo above (taken from the MG badae! The hub caps and rear We run a body shop, do component page eight of the samk brochure) rebuilding and res~oration.and have shows what appears to be a photo- a Showroom of Vintage cars. graph of the MG Princess 1100. The INVESTMENT IN A LEGEND center bar and MG badge are again visible. However, those familiar with the sales literature of the BMC 1100 Aulho~~/~-d.\lu\, Dl\mbulor cars will recognize that this is the sarne FAST. FRIENDLY SERVICE picture as used in the Vanden Plas Princess 1 100 brochures such as the sales brochure of April 1964 (BMC #2232) with the exception that thkre is no center bar or badge! This picture is shown at the right. The clever artists treatment likewise were Vanden Plas working at BMC doctored an earlier and not MG. The cars did, however. picture to fit their need! Other exam- have an MG chassis plate as well as a ples of artistic modiFication of a picture Vanden Plas plate under the bonnet. to represent another car often occur In every other way. however, these within the BMC sales literature. It is cars are Vanden Plas Princess 1100s. perhaps easier to change an existing They were merely named MG picture than it is to generate a new pic- Prtncess 1 100s. ture! The MG Princess 1100 cars that were sold in the United States and some of those that remain today will be described in a future article. (Torn is the 1100/7300 Registrar of the NAMGBR and if you have one of Lhese unique vehicles fhen please contact hint through Lhe address inside the front couer of the Driver.-Ed.)

18 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '95 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apx '96 19 More News From the More than Fifty Affiliated Chapters e recently received our first copy We were also delighted to receive Wof British Iron . the new newslet- T-Talk the magazine of the Delaware ter of the Southern Illinois British Valley Classic MGs who are one of our Motorcar Club, formerly SIMGO, with latest affiliates. Founded as an MGT its bright color cover. Bill and Sheryl Club they have always been enthusi- Hinchcliffe together with former astic with a huge program of activities, NAMGBR Secretary Jerome and we know their enthusiasm extends to the more modern MGs. Welcome Rosenberger, have reorganized the SU/STROMBERG Anothm club to include all British cars. Best of aboard gang! UML luck people! Finally our friends at the Emerald Other reports from chapters Necklace MG Register mailed us their CARBURETTER Bench include those from the British magazine. Chatter, highlighting the Motoring Club-New Orleans whose fact that they are entering their six- RESTORATION seroi~e calendar last year included no less teenth year of existence and outlining than 20 events for their members to another attractive program of member enjoy including cruisin' to local eater- events for 1996 under the title of TC-TbMGA (H4) $350/~ ies on several occasions! The high- "Another great year with nothing to ...... light of the 101 Lakes British Motor do!". Vice-President. Tony Burgess MGB - MIDGET (HS) ...... $325/ Club in Indiana, during 7995, was a also asks what will happen to all our MGB (HIF) ...... usor visit to the Auburn/Cord/Duesenberg computers in the year 2000. Will they REBUSH ONLY.. 75r Museum where they discovered that all go berserk and read "OOOO"? ...... s Abingdon and Auburn had a lot in Thanks again for all the newslet- AUTOMATIC STROMBERGS ...... $*SOL common! They have a full program ters you send us, we welcome each arranged for 1996 to interest their and every one! @ RESTORATION INCLUDES: Aluminium parts glass bwded, thremfs chased, moting nearly 50 members. flanges surfaced, bodies rebushed, sudion chambers highly polished, air pistons mulched, brass linkages buffed, deel parts replated. New: Shafts / Jets / Needles / Grose Jet / Gaskets. SHIPPING INSTRUCTIONS: Drain gasoline, wrap, pack securely ond double box. lndude letter with name, address, shipping address, home phone, work phone, speciol imtruaiom or requirements ond MorterCordfiISA number. Call, write, fax or Emoil for further info on all our services. OTHER BENCH SERVICES: Engines / Shorl Blodts / Hwds / Carburetters / Diiibutm / Gearboxes / Overdrives / Driverhafts/ Differentid Gear Conversions / Brake Cylinders and Culiprs / Rack & Rniom / Kingpins / Shh/ Em'mion Controls / Air Pumps /Starters / Dynamos / Alternators / Control Boxes

o@ng exceptional sportscar sm*ce since 1975 LINE - BENCH - RESTORATION SERVICES UNIVERSITY MOTORS LTD 6490 East Fulton Street Ada, Michigan 49301 -9006

Patrick Bailey oflancaster, California and his 1979 MGB. 20 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER--Mar/Apr '96 21 The 'F? Quite a large cockpit with I was comfortable seating, small wheel with working on a Letters to the Register power steering and ABS. Superb road panel in the manners, it looks for adverse camber "Tiny Drifters" MGs WANTED-LOAN A 'B? the engine # is 18GKRWEH24603 on corners or tight traffic circles in (read that as I will be visiting "MG '96" in which I have never seen in any of the which it can show off! plankton) Indianapolis as one of a small party books I have. The Commission # is I was not too sure about the gear- area. This par- from the MGB Register of the MG Car G23N03778Z. 1 enclose a photo of my box ratios, it might have been me. but ticular panel is Club, Abingdon, England. I am a car and a tracing of the 250,000th I thought fifth was a little long over the largest member of the North American MGB plate. Can members shed any light on fourth. The K-series engine is fine and (46"x54") of Register and it would be excellent to this please? revs very freely, though I did think it many panels drive to lndy in an MG-any offers? -Ed Glinski, Vero Beach, FL was a bit slow to 'die' on up changes. throughout- Many thanks. Maybe I needed two hours, not one, to that section of the exhibits. -John Watson (I wrote to Ed and inlormed him sort out the drill. The top stowed while When I turned the panel on there 26 Lucca Drive, Abingdon on that the actual 250.000th MGB was a sitting in the car in about ten seconds were no graphics (words or pictures) Thames, Oxon OX1 4 5QN Blaze MGB GT built on May 27, 1971. with no pinched fingers! Not a car to so I decided to see how it would look Tel/Fax 01 1-44-1235-522122 Originally scheduled to have car fiddle with, no wrenches needed, a car with the MG logo. I laid it out with 2" #252280 it was instead given the spe- to drive! wide masking tape and while it was (John is the Registrar of the "Pull cial number G-HD5-UB250000-G (in For myself and the lady of the not the best piece of artwork ever Handle" early MGBs in the UK and I the middle of a batch of roadsters!). house its major failing would be undertaken, everyone knew who had hope some of you might be able to The car was awarded by British minuscule luggage space. Not a car to done it! help.-Ed.) Leyland in a su~eepslakescompetition go touring in but really a true fun By the way, we are now up to won by a chap called Bill Newton out machine. Perhaps number three in the over 100 "LE members in my mem- of Alabama. garage behind Saab 900s Aero. MGB ber listing! Ed's MGB engine number break- Roadster and MGF? -Ron Tugtuell down is as follows: 18GK=1800cc On the other side of the coin my Limited Edition Coordinator engine MG. R=Laycock ouerdriue. major concern is to recruit more mem- WE=Manual gearbox, center change, bers to the MGB Register than we lose, I am a fairly new member of the synchro on first. H=High Compression, which has not been the case recently. NAMGBR. I first learned about the 8.8: 1. People look at me a little strange when Register when I attended the Roadster However, two questions rem ain. I say, "Recruit and Retain"! Factory Summer Party and joined What is the sianificance of the ~latn on That's it, best wishes to all North shortly thereafter. Ed's car? A& 'where is thi ac tual American MGB Register members and I am the original owner of a beau- 250,000th MGB today?-Ed.) keep the wheels rolling! tiful 1973 Harvest Gold MGB Roadster 250,000TH MCB QUEST -Bill Herring and I wish I was holding up over the 1 am the second owner of a Teal ANOTHER MGF TALE Chai~,man,MGB Register. years half as well as that car! My wife Blue 1971 MGB with overdrive which I I keep looking at the last issue of MG Car- Club England and I have two small children which have owned since 1979. About three the Driuer and thinking how rude I was has limited our ability to attend British months ago I came across a plastic not to put pen to paper and write to (Thanks Bill, we too are anxious car events with the frequency which bag inside a bag of parts which came you. I then comforted myself by say- lo retain and increase our own we would prefer. However, our expec- with the car. Inside the bag I discov- ing, "Well, I'm waiting for the chance Register mcmbei-sh ip-may be we tation for the future is that we will be ered the "Passport to Service" to test drive the MGF". should swap ideas?-Ed.) able to attend more meetings. Guarantee Booklet and also a plaque Today was THE day! I was hand- I have very much enjoyed the saying "250,000th MGB Special" ed the keys to a splendid red standard LIMITED EDITION ARTWORK! issues of the Driver which I have which was to be affixed under the 1800i and told to bring it back in one Hope everyone had a pleasant received to date and which [ have read British Leyland badge on the fender. piece within the hour. It would be holiday season and is looking for- cover-to-cover. I very much look for- The booklet also had all the receipts unfair to compare it with "Lego" (Bills' ward to the exciting new MG events ward to future issues and future including the 1000 mile services and MGB!-Ed.) it's like chalk and cheese! ahead. 1 thought I'd send you an involvement with the North American the metal impression plate with the God bless my old MGB, it has real amusing MG anecdote. MGB Register. name and address of the first owner for character-rough and tough, crash- As many members may know, I -Jeff Robert Beam. Zanesoille, OH any warranty work required. bang over the potholes, slide the work at the Monterey Bay Aquarium I thought members of the MGB back, make it break away 'round cor- where the new wing is scheduled to WE STAND CORRECTED! Register might be interested in this ners with an exhaust beat which is open to the general public in early Tsk! Tsk! The article on the AGM information but I have a question. Is divine music. Rains in all across the March. in the January/February issue of the this the 250.000th MGB,and if so, why scuttle in thunderstorms-what IT- lore is the car #GHN5UB254527G? Also, need I say? (please turn to page 50) MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DFWER-Mar/Apr .96 porary therapeutic treatment there's awareness that the car was both an nothing better. instrument of fulfillment and an icon of So that's my first five, somewhat recklessness. It was a time when we Philip Morgan made necessary by the invention reflective and low-key, the first act that realized that we were cutting down of the automobile. serves to introduce you to the hard, trees and putting up parking lots and The sun streaming Oh, the songs? Well, here gritty voice of Bruce Springsteen. watched as Jonj Mitchell drove by in through the gap in the goes! My top-twenty songs for There's an abundance of road songs her Big Yellow Taxi. Five years later bedroom curtain awakened top down motoring would on record by the minstrel from New we joined C.W. McCall and became me. It looked like it was begin with Baby, You Can Jersey, but of all of them Born to Run part of his Convoy across the USA. going to be a good day! A day Driue My Car by the is perhaps the best. Better make sure Others took us with them as they jour- for top down motoring! perhaps Beatles. As important as a there's plenty of highway around when neyed this land; perhaps we went to for the last time before the crisp car is in our lives, we need this one plays! Of the twenty songs Lodi with Creedence Clearwater sunny days of fall gave way to to be able to be free from its listed here, the frenzy of Born to Run Revival or nodded agreement as Iris those cold, miserable, damp days grip. It's hard for me to let seems perfect for an afternoon of fun Dement lamented the death of Our of a Northern Indiana winter. As 1 someone else drive my and adventure in the MG, I'm sure Town as it was bypassed by the age of moved to rise out of bed, the MGB, but when it boils Kimber would have felt the same. the car. alarm sounded-and I woke up! down to it, it really is After that we'd better slow down a lit- For my final five, Willie Nelson Another enjoyable dream something transitory, tle, Simon and Garfunkel would seem leads off with On the Road Again while appropriate as they go off to look for the excitement of the drive and the destroyed bv the realitv. , of-- the sittra- something unimportant-at least I try to convince myself of America. When I lived back in Wales, sadness of departure are captured per- tion, fir I cohd hear the raih poundina . . on the bedroom roof, and I knew the that! this song pictured a different world. an fectly by Garth Brooks who finds him- open road and the open top were sev- Open top motoring really is a joy exotic world of towns across this great self repeatedly Calling Baton Rouge. eral months away. My MGB would when compared to R. Dean Taylor country that become destinations of Together Forever by Lindisfarne, remain secure in the garage! who was driving through the pouring our journey, but not the reason for seems to echo the sentiments of many For me when I'm driving, I'm con- rain back in 1968, as he told the world, journeying, for journeying is reason of us and typifies our dedication to the stantly listening to the radio. Oh! I 1 Gotla See Jane, Taylor's drive seems enough. As Simon and Garfunkel MG marque. Furthermore the singer know some of you wax eloquently like a nightmare starkly contrasted to criss-crossed the country. the Eagles reflects our very philosophy and devo- about the sound of the tires on the the picture perfect painting delivered reminded us to Take it Easy. With a tion to the British sports car as he road or the sweet melodies emitted to us by John Denver. His song, Take 'win some-lose some' attitude it's a remarks, "We've got no money but from the exhaust. but not rnc?. Give me Me Home Country Roads, brings to light-hearted, feel-good song that lifts what do we care", after all we've got mind the gently rolling hills surround- the spirit. With that in mind, I guess the the car, right? I couldn't end my list the top down and ca top son~g, and I'll drive to ... wherever. ing my former home in southwest next song sums up what I'm trying to without returning to The Beatles! One So that morning aner oeing disap- Wales, with its narrow twisting roads say about the connection between the of their last songs together The Long pointed by the actuality of the moment that take one nowhere and every- open road and music. Listen to the a~dWinding Road takes all of us on a (i.e. rain), 1 lay back letting the juke- where. Back then Denver's song was Radio by Nanci Griffiths has been cov- magic mystery tour as Woody Guthrie box of my mind make its selections. If as close to country as I would have ered by dozens of performers but none proclaims to all who journey This Land it had been a nice. sunny, top down come, but now I find myself listening as enthusiastically as the writer her- is your Land. Indeed it is! And what day, what songs would I have listened more and more to country artists who self. Closing out the first ten songs, better way to enjoy its scenery than to as I drove the rural back roads that have essentially become popular another country star Suzy Bogguss from the driver's seat of an MG! connect the seemingly endless num- entertainers. Talented musicians, they invites us all to Drive South. (Nice listing Phiiip. what do other ber of lakes in this quiet northeast sec- have moved the once sidelined coun- Mention fun in the sun music and Register members think? When asked, tion of the Hoosier state? As I pon- try music to mainstream respectabili- those of us around in the sixties and Jill lold me her favorite is 1 Was Made dered a variety of criteria-and dis- ty. With that in mind, Kathy Mattea's seventies automatically think of the in England by Elton John! While we're carded most-l soon realized that sev- Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses Beach Boys. There was just something at it, what about specific MG songs? eral of the songs contemplated the would be on my list. There's a sad about their music that captured the How about My MGB GT by Richard "open road" and our gateway to that inevitability in the song that speaks to freedom of the age, in a Thompson or MGB GT freedom-the internal combustion all of us, yet it's delivered in a format time of youth, a time by the Mmkees? And engine. Before rising that morning. I'd that both romanticizes and bemoans for driving that Little what Bobby Bloom driven the MG in spirit. if not in truth, our relationship with motorized trans- Deuce Coupe. You opus begins with and I'd enjoyed the musical offerings port. That same love/hate relationship know what I mean? "Vernon will meet me from others who have been lured by is implicit in Carefree Highway by And yet out of that when the Boeing lands, the freedom available to all of us who Gordon Lightfoot. Sometimes the call time came a con- The keys to the MG will have been lucky enough to drive the of the open road can become stronger sciousness that we be in his hands"? network of highways and byways than our responsibilities to those were responsible for immortalized in music, the around us, as in this song, but as tem- our environment, an ubiquitous, beautiful MG!-Ed.) fl 24 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 Lloyd Faust Both cars had had the door mir- Tony Dron MGB. In our first event, the car had just rors replaced. One car had mirrors been built and there was no time for When restoring a car, one of the purchased from the dealer in the early OWNINGAND RESTORINGAN MGB testing-it was heavy to drive, it fjrst considerations should be how far bearing the original part understeered and we wore out the tires bers. The other car also had mirrors to g-~hat be replaced, f all the classic cars you in one rally, the Marathon, in which we should be rebuilt, what be purchased from the dealer bearing the origi- Same part numbers- These 0might own, the MGB is bought new. If your objective is renowned as one of were purchased in the late eighties. nality, you will need to consider the easiest. Once One Set was as original1and One set whether an available replacement part you have got IS an accurate substitute for the orlgi- "Ot- It seems that some time dur- ing the eighties the factor~-su~~lled one right, it's na] part. New old stock 1s the idea], but as easy to run often imposslbie to find. One then part had changed. Although inter- changeable, the were as a brand- resorts to the next best thing ..either a new car and if current issue factory part, or a repro- Originality is best you have gone duction part. Neither of these may be about it proper- accurate ~n terms of originality. ~t '"'"g the way the car rolled off production [Ine. Examining conten ly, probably times, refurbishment of the cheaper. You &n part is the best choice. A walk around '"'Y factory photographsp finished a disappointing fourth overall. brochuresp even drawings from the get all the parts you need by phone the show field at a concours will often from literally hundreds of sources Back at the garage we soon got pa^' book is the most accurate way to present good examples of each of worldwide. Heritage-approved parts the car sorted out so it was abIe to these choices. determine that original specification. score a couple of outright wins on tar- Since all late model MGBs came from are made to the same standard and in A couple of years ago I was hen- the same way as the original ones: mac special stage events-this was the with a ored to be asked to judge the MGB few exceptional items, such as the despite regulations which prohibited class at the car show portion ofthe MG rOrS' brochure Or photo- deviations from the standard specifica- the year in question replacement bodyshells, are in fact Car Club national event in England. graph better than the originals, thanks to tion apart from uprated dampers and reveal the correct type. Hundreds of MGs come out for this modern anti-corrosion protection. believe it or not, uprated lever-arm weekend at Silverstone Race Course. The following photograph best dampers work very well! illustrates the differences in the mir- Prices may have gone up since T~~ judges were a list of gener- 1962 but in real terms these parts are The secret was, partly, to get the areas such as interior, engine corn- '0's in question. Although both th rear ride height exactly right but even and the very good value. If you doubt it. just partment, body work, etc. Point values check out a few items, such as say, a more important was to build the front appear s'ml'ar* the interchange- were assigned to aspects of each area new front wing, a set of headlights and suspension with extreme care. The able paFts are the glass and the such as paint finish, color correctness, a clutch, for both an MGB and a mod- cheat, which we did not use (you can The stem is noticeably different in the cleanliness, and originality. ern sports car from another maker. spot it a mile off!) but could be good photograph. The Inoral of this tale As all cars were painted, had You may b e surpris(ed at wh at good "I I El -ad1"' car, is to fit a cheap modifi- Just I engines. and were very clean, the decid- value 'B bit:j are. An]{way, there is not cation that gives a touch of negative ing factor was originality, Some cars because an item has the co~~ectPa'' camber at the front-but don't buy doesn't guarantee the part is a problem hlere. were eliminated by non-standard interim My own experience suggests that anythin g that goes too far in this direc- Originalm ors, and others fell from contention due it's worth spending a bit of time getting tion. Suffice it to say that the MGB rally to non-standard engine fit- the handling right. MGBs vary greatly car was almost totally standard yet it tings. In the end, two late and many have been modified. First, pointed into corners superbly, the model rubber bumper MGB check that everything is in good con- steering was not too heavy and the roadsters were vying for dition. It will never handle properly if handling was brilliantly neutral. best in class. They both had the bushes are worn, the springs are Another thing-watch out for non- the appearance of a car tired and the dampers have had it! standard wheels. There are some pret- cocooned since new. and 'I Next. you don't have to spend a for- ty alloy wheels available that change yet both had thousands of tune. It may be that all the above items offset and diameter to make your MGB miles on the odometer. are in good order but your car feels look fantastic, but handle like a lead Differences were slight as heavy in steering and tends to under- brick! If your local tire fitters can't bal- any parts replaced were steer too much. I used to think, well, ance your wire wheels don't be conned obviousiv new old stock. that's what MGBs are like. but then I into thinking the wheels are no good. The decibing factor became began to compete in a Historic Rally the door mirrors. Left-Replacement mirror, Right--Original mirrc (please turn to page 28) 26 MGB DRWER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 The Great MCB, Part IV - Continued from Page27 where .Are 'tliey ~PWG Find someone who can balance cen- bumper spec. That's fine if the shell is v w terlock wheels properly. Plenty of clas- rotten and has to be replaced but it Marcham Rholade to deal in American antique and clas- sic sixties tunjng goodies can be found may not be so clever if the shell is to sic cars. They had sold some Rovers to improve performance but make be salvaged. Changing the suspension before in 1966 obtained from the sure you know what's going to happen pick-up points and the other work ecently through the courtesy of Dr. Carl Meyer of Slingerlands, New Rover Motors Company on Lexington to the fuel consumption before you involved will add enormously to the R Avenue in New York, mainly Rover bolt that fancy carburetor on fancy bill and will almost certainly be a York we were able to examine some of ... the records of a British Leyland dealer Saloons of the four door variety. 15 MPG? waste of money. If you have a decent of 30 years ago and found the infor- However, it was the records of the The superb availability of parts rubber-bumper car, it's better to keep mation contained therein fascinating! sales of MGs that interested this writer makes restoration relatively easy but it original. Morris Garages of Maryland New and we were able to peruse the total before you take that path a little If you are restoring a 'B around a York were a long established company records of the franchise during the thought is needed. Is it worth saving new bodyshell, make sure the shell is on Rural Route 1 with a Franchise to early, golden years of the MGB. the old bodyshell or would it be cheap- ready for painting before that job is sell British cars, especially those of the The MGB sales really took off in er to discard it in favor of a brand-new, done. Finally, don't buy bits one by 1963 with a total of 63 new 'Bs being one either, get organized, as I suspect BMC/BL group. Their main distributor authentic Heritage shell? If you can't was H.S. Inskip in New York. Their sold. only four Midgets during this year you will get a much better deal if y'OU assess this for yourself, get some unbi- name came from the owner Gordy but 55 MG 1 1 OOs! 8 1 new cars were buy nearly all the parts in one p ur- ased professional advice from a Morris and whichever way you look at sold in 1964 and again the 1100s with chase on one of the rebuild scherrles source you can respect. If you are his name, he was born to sell MGs! 41 sold accounted for 50% of the lucky enough to find a very early car now available from specialists. MGBs and Midgets, plus many MG sales. 29 MGBs were moved and you might want to preserve the old (Tony is the Consultant Editor of 1100s, were the mainstay of their Midgets were up to eleven. 1965 saw shell, but remember, this luxury might Classic Cars magazine emanating business in the sixties. By the seven- 16 MGBs being sold and 19 Midgets, double the cost if a lot of work is need- from the UK and mailable through ties they had become main Land with again, the 1100s outselling every- I ed. Suppose you have a rubber- Eric Waiter Associates in the USA. Call Rover distributors and also had begun bumper car, you plan to restore it and (679)74 7-8327.-Ed.) 4 n lo page 32) I you decide to convert it to chrome

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n**-rl-af-TwoYVVl I.2 timeless classice7, thoLa LV c'~~~~~r's''.A car, the unique! MGB G 1 of "Mr. MG",thr ? late Joi Thorn h2y. (Phoi n Bishop )) The Editorial 19W MGB on the road (at last)! 28 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 29 1 DRWER-Mar/Apr '96 31 30 MGB DFWER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB Where Are They NOw ? - Continued from Page 29 thing with 40 units. 1966 saw the MGB units. Over a four year period, 1963- good for the MGB, but there was MGBs as top seller for the Morris Garage with 1966, Morris sold over I00 new MGBs always the odd one or two sold in GI-IN3L-59363, 62394. 62491, 23 cars, closely followed by the 1100s and fifty Midgets. December, sometimes as a Christmas 67 172, White; 67275, Green; 68705, with 18, and the Midget third with 9 June and July sales were always present for some lucky owner! Blue; 69863, Green; 75613, White; Of course some of the 'Bs sold 71618, Red; 75719, 76979, 76948, MOTOR VEHICLE RECUKU OW, .---- ..-. came back in as either trade-ins PURCHASES SALES Blue; 76922, Blue; 76947, Blue; "0. ID".. .-r" ."=...'o .*a. against a newer model or against 77022, 76952, Blue; 71618, Red; 4c .TI...k.$bJ.a,U.. - some other car that Morris had on the 9 1847, Black. J. b. l:*si:l]> -1. n, 100.... 3"* :'c,q, L lot. Regular customers' names appear L tat :2/ New Midgets 51. 0.7. .*Lo 0" Em NEWYar!t C!ty d. .c< in the records as some changed their GAN3L-37939, 34989, 33942, C.III.IC... *L) FI*" xr.rn1 7"- , corm 1 -L . < ,;,. ,,. 'Bs every couple of years or so. But 35003,39310,4051 6,40320,4 1663, one thing remained constant, even 38378,43069,43105,43297,45097, second hand, the 'Bs didn't stay for 45059. sale very long and were quickly sold to Used MGB Sales eager buyers. GHN3L-28 198, Blue; 29588, Black; I am now abut to give you some MLDID 48083, Red; 9090, Blue (early one '7 \ irl 6~D - numbers, and members in the that!); 48091, Gray; 51355, Red; .-I. ^eOU" Eastern part of the US might like to 6br.r LLYOC u 10165, Green; 11671, White; 11521, c.7. I)*,= -LO check and see whether any of these Red; 71618, Red. hJ .Y. 17.rr.o; match your car. Also our MGB Dan 0. ,*lr. -,,,c... -0. And a couple of MGB GTs .....*,. .(I kn. bu- L~Z. Registrar, Orin Harding could per- GHD3L-73244, Beige; 9345 1, -L. .I.. I. L ..... -1. ..*I...... *. I".SIP. f """- haps see if there are any matches on Green. . ?d~c/;? 2, F~LsJL.~., [nf,44 . man r. I "L.. o* a*.. co his database of Register cars. These So a little slice of MG dealer histo- pP 7- are actual numbers from the Morris ry and the odd thing is that Gordy Garages sales records. Morris never bought or sold an auto- All new MGBs from lnskip and matic MGB! Maybe those people in mainly 1965 G 1966 model year cars. upstate New York knew something! 4 All GHN3L prefix. Color, where record- ed, shown after chassis #:

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The superb 1966 roadster of British MGB Register Chairman, Bill Heruing. 32 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRNER-Mar/Apr '96 33 front. Your front end "clunk" is most Correct me if I'm wrong but I've ljkely coming from the lower control looked up all the wiring diagrams and arm thrust washers (Moss #324-510) it seems that on the Type LH over- drive, up to around 1977, the power Bob Mason, whenever I reverse. However, 1 think being heavily scored because of long this is due to worn splines on the hubs use or limited grease. This allows the came from the ignition switch to the Technical Coordinator or wheels-is this possible? I also have lower king pin area to move between manual overdrive control switch, to a "clunk" on the front end. I've the outer ends of the lower control the overdrive gear switch, then to the arms. This can be verified by heavily nce again thank you for all your replaced shocks, rebushed the wish- overdrive solenoid. But around 1977, 0letters and calls, and if you don't bone arms and checked the bolts on greasing the lower king pin area and it seems to have changed. Power receive a reply straightway don't the wishbone pivot. Maybe it's worn road testing to see if the "clunk" dis- seems to come from the ignition worry-some weeks I get swamped! splines on hubs and wheels there too? appears during the first few braking switch, to the overdrive gear switch. and acceleration operations. If there then to the manual control switch then First a letter from an old friend: -Paul Linney, Bellingham, WA is no noise at first, and the noise then to the overdrive sotenoid. Was this due to the addition of the TCSA system? Dear Bob, Dear Paul, slowly appears, you will know the problem lies with the thrust washers. My basic question electrically, Yes, we are back in the USA after Happy ta hear you're back in the is, would all the Type LH overdrives oper- a two year stay in Canada and we are USA and thanks for the stamped These are (relatively) easy to very happy to "B" back! I now need to envelope. First of all, if you are using replace, at which time you would also ate the same and be wired the same if want to replace the dust seals on the TCSA micro-switches were elirni- pick your brain once again. the 1970 model speedometer with I bought a 1970 (build date the 1976 overdrive transmission, either side (#280-580) and possibly nated? I am planning on installing an the distance tube (#264-070) if heav- overdrive from a 1978 MGB in the '74 12/69) MGB GT while 1 was up in your speedometer needle will be Canada and I'm afraid it appears to reading lower than it should but this ily scored or worn. GT I'm restoring and there are wires in the overdrive that I'm sure are not have been messed around a bit! It has can easily be rectified by replacing Bob needed, so I would like to rewire the a 1976 engine (18V801AE1404) and your 1280 speedometer with the overdrive trans. My current concern is 1973-'76 1000 speedo. Dear Bob, overdrive correctly before installation. Thanks once again for all your the exhaust system which is typical The easiest exhaust system to fit Let me first take the chance to Midas-jn other words, welded from to your car is the 3-piece unit as fitted thank you for the information you help and any assistance you can give one end to the other and mounted on to the 1968-'74 model MGB. While I have given me in the past. When a would be appreciated. -Doniuan Earhart, Clarkes~lilfe.TIY an assortment of rigid hangers that haven't measured the dimensions of new Driver arrives your column is the first read and I wish you had twice transmit a good deal of vibration to the the two types of mufflers, I would I Dear Donivan, underfloor and body of the GT! imagine that both of them are fairly the number of pages to fill! Long live So let's look in the Moss catalog close to the same design and dimen- the NAMGBR! Many thanks for your comments The first area 1 wish to touch on is and the S.A.S.E. 4.2, page 33, and I have the muffler #4 sions, so if everything is lined up and 1963-'67 (oval shape) and the pipe is going to be an option. Do you think I personally doubt there will ever you are using the correct factory-type be a shortage of 1800cc engine almost touching the gearbox rear SUP- hangers and clamps and are still that MGB engine blocks will ever be so scarce as to be in high demand. I blocks. Unless one throws a rod port member. Yet even so, the muffier scraping on the driveway, you will just have several blocks and would hate to through the side or it has a crack from hits the road when I enter or exit from have to figure out a better way to enter the driveway. Looking at the illustra- discard them however, on the other freezing water the blocks can be the driveway! rebored or even sleeved back to stan- tion for the 1968-'74 system, the muf- Worn wire wheels and hub sphnes hand they take up space. What do you think? dard size. fler appears to be flatter and should will definitely give you "clunk" when a The switch that controls the give more road clearance. Have I got you reverse (or the first time you stop Now a few questions about the overdrive actuating solenoid has that right3 going forward) and no matter how overdrive. 1 assume that the switch been called by many names, but At present I do not have the tight you hammer the knock-ons the John Twist calls the "3-4 lockout Doug Jackson bracket (#444-040) on the gearbox ever increasing clearances between switch", Norman Nock calls the is the closest of those you mention. The factory parts book but found one in my "goody box" so I the hub splines and wheel will contin- "overdrive inhibitor switch", and Doug Jackson calls the "overdrjve gear calls it by the name of "Switch- can make up the strap and clamp so ue to give you that "clunk" at the rear. switch" is the switch located on the Overdrive Isolation" which is actuat- that the new system is supported and This is all assuming that since you ed by the transmission 'internals' not just hanging on the manifold. I have replaced the differential thrust left hand side of the gearbox that have looked at stamless steel systems washers, the rotational movement of allows the overdrive to operate in 3rd when you shift into 4th (also 3rd on or 4th gear only. The different names but at my age I no longer buy long the pinion shaft is now between M" to some transmissions) gear, and can be confusing. adjustment of the switch is made by playing records or green tomatoes so %" or thereabouts. According to Doug Jackson, in the life expectancy of the muffler does Front wheel and hub splines do one or more fibre washers. 1977 a micro-switch was added to is not matter! not wear nearly as fast as do the rear. As installed at the factory it allow the overdrive to operate on 4th almost impossible to reach this switch On another matter, while I was The heaviest wear is usually at the gear only. away I replaced the thrust washers in right rear foliowed by the left front, Is this switch and the TCSA (please Li11-17 to page 36) the rear end but still have a "clunk" then the left rear followed by the right micro-switch one and the same? MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 Technical Talk - Continued from page 35 "B' DIFFERENT IN '96 Fellow. wmvcrters it has came to my attention that our beloved V8 conversions have beem dubbed "SPbWOL'S" to hold these to the cover plate while (look it up) by dnoriginality freaks. Due to that offensive rcn~ark,I oommissioned a limited edition (only you replace it. 500.000) T-shirts to prove that our cars are PROUD to be SPURIOUS. Wear these T-shirts with pride at your next car \ c~at.~c~l*rrmc show and upset wen mom people. TO UCXM swircw This is also a good time to check The T-shirts are madc in the USA produced in the USA and masimninded by a demcnted Scotsman. They conx in the engine's rear main seal for leak- one background color which 1s light gey. with evefiing elsc in black ~tbthe exccptit,n of the "original" car ukich ing and to check the throwout bear- is BRG (black romping gracn). Every T-shin mmcs wlth a explanation of the equation on the back and s no money ing bushing and pivot bolt for any back R=rranty. All prods fmm the sale ofthc above mentioned T-shirts will be donated to the EIGHTUF' chassis appreciable side to side movement of mtoration fund, as it developed a kink in the chassis posing for the anis. Available in sizes M,L,XL & XXI. (tent sizes on quest) $15.00 ea. 9- 54.00 S&H (XXI. $1.00 add'l) Checks or money orders only. Up to 4 wks for delivery. T the fork itself. If you replace the ORDER PENDER 177 PAXSON AVE, HAMILTON NJ 08690 FROM: IAN SQUARE, 5" bushing, soak it in oil for 24 hours before you install it as this will be its only (ever!) lubrication! i hope this helps-if not don't hes- SPURIO~~ itate to drop me another line or call. Bob 3s~G aar LCVLU Af~w~lue / R~WGB-Ts BRAKE PIPE FllYlNGS - Every once in a while we will be - -- '"0faced with the fact that the flexible " a- MGB +'V8 unless the transmission is lowered brake hoses will have to be replaced -A -CC (difficult even then), but I've made a and this is usually a straightfonvard procedure that is completed within a FRONT = MGRfF diagram in which you will see that by -- cutting a small hole in the tunnel top, reasonable amount of time, always fol- (easily recovered) you can have ready lowed by the sometimes exasperating and easy access to this switch should task of bleeding the hydraulic system. During the process of replacing New MG Parts a Used YO Parts Rebuilt MG Parts NOS MG Parts you ever have a problem with it. - To make things simple, forget the flexible hoses, we will have to 00 Kevlar Brake Pads or Shoes - $45/set 'LI insert and tighten the male threaded -L !? about all those fancy circuits on the Steel Bralded Brake Hoses $68.50 Wpc set MGBIMidget d fitting on the end of the 'hard' brake P - later cars and wire things from the fuse Wlndow Cranks (-71 09) - $2.75 ea. or 2i$5.00 box, through the gear lever switch line into the flexible hose and this is where we sometimes run into a prob- I MGB Pedal Pads - $2.00 ea. m5 direct to the solenoid. I would also rec- 3 lem or three! First, always get the E MGB V8 Suspenslon Bushings - $tW4 pc set ommend that you install a 20 amp in- 0 D threaded portion started by about half MGB Crankshaft Kit - $225 (crank has been magnafluxed, checked LD line fuse somewhere in this "hot" cir- = L cuit. In your 1974 MGB the yellow wire the length of the fitting before you f for straightness, ground and comes wlrod and main bearings) tighten the large locking nut (which 2 Street Performance Camshaft - MG~orMit-$1001ea. D from the switch (wiper/washer) comes 00 w out at the "bundle" of wire connectors secures the flexible hose to the attach- MGB Rebuilt Cylinder Head - $325 m at the upper right rear of the engine ment bracket). Only then do you fur- MGB Urethane Tie Rod End Boots - Replace that tom rubber boot and stop 5 compartment, and from that connec- ther tighten the male threaded hard deterloration from oil, grease and road film - $5.Wpalr pipe end fitting into the flexible hose, cR tion you would run your Yellow/Red X "Fuzzy" Weatherstrlp (goes around door opening - $3.25/ft. (black only) z and even then, tighten this fitting only 6 CD "tracer" (or whatever) direct to the n Battery 'Master KI1Iu Switch wlremovable key - A Gmt fheA PO overdrive isolation switch and from to about 8-10 foot pounds of tightness. rC All too often we have a tendency u Dererrsnt- $1 4.95 there to the solenoid. z +++++++ z During installation you will not to think that "if a little is good-more z is better", but this is not the case with For Uu VERY BEST and MOST UNIQUE MG regalla request have to worry about any speedometer : ; variation, as both the '74 and '78 MGB this fitting. If you tighten the fitting too eE OW M~tohgXtrPSabkog. S~c;Lters,stoesrts, gLrrssw=q = speedos are driven at 1000 revolutions much. the beveled end of the male fit- Jackets, pins, patches, our FAMWS Flt Anvwhen. Carry D ting will have a tendency to "flare out" (of the speedo cable) per mile but 2 Anvwheq made in America folding chairs and much. much (widen) over the flared end of the hard L 9 before you install the transmission, more are waiting for you! 2 take a good look at the front seal, and pipe, expanding then wjthin the con- m fines of the flexible hose. When it later if leaking, install a new seal and paper New MG Parts Used MG Parts Rebuilt MG Parts NOS MG Parts becomes time to again attempt to gasket. There are usually two large 800-543-6648 (orders only) shims right behind the front cover remove this threaded male portion, TS Imported Automotive 41 9-384-3022 (techlgen. info) 404 Basinger Road plate and you can use a bit of grease (please lo page 38) turn 419-384-3272 (24 hour FAX) Pandora, OH 45877 36 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DWVER-Mar/Apr '96 37 Technical Talk - Continued fiorn I The Chairman's Chat - Continued porn Page 6 you will find that while the male fitting if you have the correct amount of will still turn, you will 'bodge' (English pushrod travel-what then? of MGs which have been driven past color schemes. Detail and workman- term!) the inner threads of the female Sometimes this problem is caused by this milestone. NAMGBR members ship are good, the price is reasonable, portion of the flexible hose and it will a broken return spring within the mas- submitting their cars for consideration, and several of our advertisers have the be almost impossible to then further ter cylinder, but if so, you would have will receive a commemorative dash cars in stock. Contact them if you are remove the male threaded portion found that problem when inspecting plaque and a super parchment certifi- "in the market" for a new car! without significant and major damage the cylinder prior to rebuild. cate recording the feat. It is of interest Have a GREAT driving season! to the male portion of the hard pipe. If you have satisfied yourself that that your Chairman, your Vice- Fast Forward! You are then faced with replacing the the hydraulics are alright and you have Chairman, your Treasurer and Editor whole of that particular pipe! the correct amount of pushrod travel all own MGBs which meet this criteria! So don't be too heavy-handed yet you are still having difficulty in (Your Secretary owns enough MGs to when tightening these metal fittings- engaging gears without those noisy obtain this status through collective THE POLL POSITION just tighten gently, and if you later see transmission rumbles, the only solu- data!). If you own an MG which has a bit of seepage, just tighten it a bit tion is to remove the engine! This is Would you be interested in a recorded 100,000 miles or more, NAMGBR tour to Abingdon/London, more, for in this case, too much can where you may find the throwout bear- please contact Philip! really be too much! ing has been worn away to almost England? If so, how long a tour would Stop Press ...Brand new MGs for you prefer and what price range? nothing, or more likely, the diaphragm sale in the US? Yes, it's true, you can CLUTCH DISENGAGEMENT fingers of the pressure plate have col- What time of year? What type of now legally buy a new MGB or MGFon accommodations would you prefer? Most of us know that when the lapsed (fatigue) to the point where the this side of the pond! Corgi have clutch finally engages when the pedal throwout bearing (or what might be Please fax your answers to Register recently introduced 1 : 18 scale models Headquarters prior to April 1 st. is almost at the end of its travel that it left of it) has nothing to push against of both the 'B and the 'F in several is (past) time to replace the clutch to disengage the pressure plate from cover, disc and throwout bearing. But the clutch disc. Also, sometimes the what is happening when the clutch thrust pad affixed to the center of the starts to engage almost as soon as the diaphragm fingers will have fallen out pedal starts to move away from the of position. Any one, or a combination floor? Or you find it difficult to get the of the aforementioned failures will Former Glory Rebuild and gear lever into first or reverse without almost certainly be the cause of diffi- a loud and unpleasant grinding noise cult disengagement or engagement corning from the transmission? What and the only remedy is the total Restored Re~air is (not) happening? replacement of the clutch assembly. Repair and Complete ~eticulo;.Servicing This could be caused by some- There are various makes of Renovation of thing as simple as a leak in the clutches available at varying prices and Careful hydraulic system, in which case you but remember-you get what you pay Automotive Coach Work Attention to Detail would first verify that you have the for! Borg G Beck clutch assemblies correct %" to 1" of slave cylinder were fitted as original equipment at the pushrod travel, and if not, you would MG Factory and they are still perhaps then rebuild or replace the slave cylin- the best buy today. In any case always sPOm CAR der, master cylinder or both. But what replace with a new unit, NOT a rebuilt SPOKE CAR unit from vour friendly local auto parts store at ;price that'; too good io be SERVICES true! Also, take note of what Doug 32 North Street Jackson told you in the November/December Wlnchendm, MA 1995 issue of the 802-2387 -4540 MGB Driver. 4 508-297-3 1 05 AU aspects of servicing Specialist Panel Beater including complete driveline Certified Dupont Rehisher and chassis repair. CAROLINER Collision Comprehensive maintenance Repair System and tuning. VIDEOS AND BOOKS Richard Monk. As Assistant Secretary Authorized Moss Motors Distributor How many of you have seen Inside the of the giant MG Owners' Club in Specializing in MG and Austin Healey Octagon a video filmed and produced England, Monk is in the unique posi- Trade prices for fie private Enthusiast by NAMGBR member, Gary Watson? tion of having had placed at his dis- The video tells the story of the MG Car posal some of the finest post-war cars Company from 1921 to 1945 and if to photograph for the Club maga- you are a student of Abingdon zine-a task he has undertaken for the Octagonal History this should be by past 12 years. Modern color pho- your VCR! We were therefore delighted tographs, many in close detail, with each car featured in a large two-page to learn that the film was selected as a A complete line Gold Award Winner at the Charleston, color spread, provide a detailed picto- South Carolina International Film rial study for enthusiasts. All the stan- of authentic sports Festival. We extend our hearty con- dard and special models are covered. car components at gratulations to all the production team! This is a worthwhile addition to your substantial discounts. Well done! The video is available for MG library. purchase from quite a few sources. (We now await to review, with Our inventory includes rare hard to find items, Support Gary-He's done a great job! baited breath, the new book MGB Rear vintage period accessories and many obsolete used We recently received from Axles I Have Known by lvor Collett. spares. In addition, a complete bench service is England a unique little book entitled 478 pages, hard bound with over two available for cylinder heads, complete engines, Smith's Behind the Octagon, written by Brian hundred thousand color photographs instruments and carburetors. We specialize in gearbox J. Moylan who worked at the 'Gee' for and retailing for only $2.95. Should and overdrive rebuilding. 29 years. We found it a fascinating seil a million! Especially in Iraq!--Ed.) work written through the eyes of one 45 Davids Hill Road. Woodbury, C'T O( 163-2460 Fax: (203) 263-0704 who saw it all at the time. From the WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 22,1995 Competitions Department, where Does the date have a familiar Brian spent a lot of time, to the Works ring? (Like Wednesday, October 22, Fire Brigade, this chronicle talks of 1980?) Well it should, as the final MG earlier times than our Aspects of RV8 rolled off the Cowley production Abingdon series but does concentrate line late that afternoon. Finished in on the men of Abingdon-the "MG Woodcote Green and carrying VIN# Family"-and why they were so spe- 002223 the car was given a tradition- Repairs & Restorations of Classic MG's from 1945 cial. tots of amateur black and white al MG "send offw as the model New & Used Parts Available photographs complement Brian's 'dif- reached the end of its strictly limited Specializing in I" types Lhru '6's. I was one of the firs1 to advance cam timlng & lower the ferent' story and this slim volume is run of 2,000 vehicles. This car is des- rear gear ratio to make a driveable Tat a cruising speed of 70 mph plus comfortably. recommended for your bookshelf if tined for Japan which was also the We don't just fix them, we make &ern better tbm they were new and at ~nabie~ces. you can find it in the US. destination of the last bulk shipment I wish we could say the same for of 64 RV8s which left British shores MG-A Pictorial History, written by on October 26th. John Tipler. This (to me) expensive Launched in 1992, the RV8 chrome work (grllle shell np.lr) volume features file photographs from attracted a mass of publicity and was ladingl tnnanirslon repair (trouble Bootin the National Motor Museum in taken to heart by the Japanese enthu- Ing (with rpeclal cam, headwork 8 balandng) England. Over 200 shots take you siasts who now have some 250 MGFs We make them run 40 years ahead of their time. from 'Old Number One' through to the heading to them on the same boat as I MGF in its 128 pages. However, the RV8s! Read this and weep Are you or your mechanic that good you can recognize defected parts new or used? there's little new here for the MGB or American MG people! Have you had parts rebuilt to be disappointed in their performance? Midget owner, the whole scene from The annual production of the MGF Most cases we can do it the correct way the first time - cheaper. 1961 to 1980 taking just three pages. is expected to total some 5,000 'per Pick up the phone & call us, it may save you a lot & keep you a happy motorist. For the seriously afflicted only! year and the Japanese are said to MGTs - 20 1-728-3096 have ordered one thousand MGFs at 201-728-787 1 FAX # However, on a more positive ASK ROB note, we welcome the latest MG the Tokyo Motor Show last October! FOR Coliection-The Post War Models by

MGB DRNER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 41. Tom Higgins suspension. The front double A-arms and rear leaf spring solid axle basical- ON THE MGB ly will respond to whatever they are told! The rack and pinion steering is AND MGB GT auick and direct and the s~rinarates are relatively stiff. When the'se iEgredi- . this really simple operation ents are combined with a near mid- Ypwon't cost you a penny and maybe engine design (the 'B engine sits well it's a little too basic for all you high- back in the unitary chassis) to achieve tech guys out there? Perhaps, but as a nearly perfect 50/50 front to rear friend from Scottsboro. Alabama weight distribution, the result is a very says, it's usually the simple little well balanced and almost totally pre- things that are most often overlooked, dictable handling machine. The 'B also and in the end, do unnecessary harm has a chassis which responds readily and cause missed opportunities. and predictably to simple chassis tun- Therefore, they are worthy of some ing, and modifications to achieve vari- extra attention from time to time. As ous ride and handling characteristics. he says "It's a lot easier to spot and You can do a great deal towards deal with the etephants-it's the mos- finding the right amount of understeer quitoes that can get you!" So, shall we or oversteer to suit your personal dri- talk mosquito control? ving preferences in your 'B by merely Check your tire pressures often varying the tire pressures front to rear. with an accurate tire gauge. Many of Favor the rear with greater pressure us have cars that we don't drive every- than in front and you reduce oversteer day, which usually also means the or increase understeer. Favor the front **35,000 Part Nun DOT dates on the tires expired light with relatively greater pressure than in **2-Day Ground Shipping years ago, even if the tread still looks the rear and the opposite begins to OK. Most such tires have punctures or happen. Remember the VW Beetle's **5% Off Our Already Low Prices For NE tomers. slow leaks waiting to happen and in recommended tire inflation? The any case, just a normal change in out- Beetle needed incredibly high rear Free Cata/o,us... side temperature makes for a signifi- pressure combined with very low front - - cant corresponding change in tire pressure to counteract its inherent ten- pressure. Don't overlook the spare in dency to oversteer due to the engine the trunk. Basic tire maintenance is being behind the rear wheels and its necessary not only for safety, good swing axle rear suspension. And it still fuel mileage and tire life, but particu- oversteered most of the time! larly with British sports cars to get the MGBs and MGB GTs {which are most enjoyment out of driving. slightly more tail heavy than the Why? Well, to begin with the MGB tourers) can be set to understeer, design utilizes a simple and effective oversteer, or be close to neutral and if this is important to you, then don't underestimate the effect of some experimenting with tire pres- sures-within reasonable limits of course. Toll Free Hopefully by main- taining the right combi- nation for you and your car you can have great handling and still enjoy a ride more comfortable than a Mazda Miata's! a

42 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 Tiger. Then we come to the Big straight, but the nimbleness of the MG Boys ...an AC Aceca, a race-prepped allowed me to stay right on him (and Mercedes 190SL, TWO 300SL "gull- even pass him once) in the tight twisty wings", TWO Ferrari 250 GT SWB bits. (I later asked the driver how hard California Spyders, two 330 GTCs, a he was pushing that Ferrari during our Maserati one-off Frua-bodied coupe, duel ..."Oh, about 811 0s" ...made me and a Maserati Ghibli. Had enough? feel pretty good!) We "zeroed" all but How about an Alfa Romeo 8C 2300, a one checkpoint, and on that one took Bugatti Type 356 and finally a Bugatti a score of one. Type 57 Atalante Coupe? Except for The hillclimbs numbered three, the two California Spyders, one of the each two to three miles long-up a Healeys, and the race-Corvette, most portion of Mt. Washington's Autoroad, all the other cars were vigorously cam- up Mt. Ascutney, and an autocross- paigned, including the pre-war cars. So type drive up and down a hilly road at you see, we were running with some a private club near North Conway, pretty heavy-duty competition. New Hampshire. The first four places Phil and Dallas smith rebuild. We began worK in remuary, But we came equipped with three were consistent in all three events. The all preparations were made and the advantages. First, we were among the race-Mustang clearly marched away A THIRTY YEAR OLD CAR BEATS various niggling bugs worked out with few competitors that maintain. repair, from everybody. The Tiger ran a close about a week to spare! and restore our own cars. So I proba- second, with the Europa not too far y wife Dallas and I were fortunate Our preparations paid off, as the bly had a better idea about my car's behind. We were next, lagging the MenoughODDS! to drive our 1966 MGB GT GT covered 3300 miles over nine days strengths and weaknesses than those Europa by an average of 1 I seconds, as competitors in the 1995 New England with a loose dashpot damper as the who pay others for the privilege of tin- although on the autocross-type event, Tour 1000 in late May. The Tour is a four only problem. This includes 1 I47 kering with their machines. Next, I've we came within four seconds of his day rally and tour through Vermont. New miles of vigorous driving during the had a lot of seat time in the GT; most time. Considering the competition, I Hampshire, and Maine, and is one of actual Tour, inclusive of three hillclimb of the other competitors did not have was quite pleased with these results. several similar events held annually in events. The new engine and LSD rear that kind of experience with their own Regarding the competition results, the United States. These brisk competi- axle performed as desired. Several cars. When driving competitively. I we were pleased to score Best Rally, tive tours/rallies of generally about one period suspension mods proved their found knowing what to expect from Best in Class and Best Overall! We thousand miles are open to vintage and mettle as well, confirming in my own the car and where its limits are, to be a didn't place in the hillclimb awards, historic automobiles. The Colorado mind that all the stuff about replacing real advantage that made up for defi- but only because the awards went as Grand is perhaps the best known of lever-arms with coil-overs, etc, in ciencies of horsepower and design far as third place. Out of a field of 34 these events. This was the third running MGBs is probably over-rated. There prowess. Finally, we were driving an cars, we had the fourth best cumula- of the New England Tour 1000. are basic limitations to a cart-sprung Abingdon product, one of Octagonal tive time on the hillclimbs. I have owned the GT since 1988, car that no amount of superficial re- Heritage. The spirits of Kimber, The Tour was a lot of fun, although and it served as daily transport for sev- engineering can overcome, so one Thornley, Gardner, Eyston, Cousins, we aren't used to being around people eral years until its second restoration might as well work with the same tools Jackson, and Enever (and others, I'm with mitlion-dollar play toys. The GT in 1993. It has seen about 15.000 Abingdon did for Sebring, Monte sure) watched benevolently over us. performed well, and was a real plea- miles of touring and rally duty since Carlo, LeMans, etc. The GT has had The rally portion consisted of one sure to drive over this distance, both in that time. Since being accepted to this nothing done to it that couldn't have to four legs of timed driving each day, touring and in competing. I'm glad we year's Tour 1000, an intensive effort been done in 1966. each leg being 50 to 90 miles long, went, especially since we were able to was made to prepare the car. A limil- Regarding our competitors, to say with specified average speeds of 42 to proudly carry the sign of the Octagon, ed slip unit was installed in the rear we were the poor 'Country Cousins' 48 mph. We were given a check-out and carry it to a victory! Q axle, the gearbox rebuilt, and the brak- would be an understatement. Besides time, and had to arrive at the check ing system renewed (again!). Upon our entry, the more 'mundane' cars point at the correct check-in time, to pulling the sump to inspect the bear- participating included two Porsche the nearest second. Since New ings and oil pump. I found the 356s, an Austin-Healey 1 OOM and England is chock full of small towns camshaft was badly scuffed. Several 3000 Mk[[[, two MGAs (a Mkll and with speed limits of 25 and 30 mph, local machinists have inspected it and 1600). a Morgan 414, a Lotus Europa this meant that open road driving was feel the reground cam installed at the S1, a TR250, a TR3, and a '67 Alfa brisk, to say the least. Several good last rebuild had not been properly Romeo. Then there was the Shelby games of "tag" were played along hardened. Because of the prospect of GT350, a race-prepped Mustang and a these stretches. I had one particurar bits of former camshaft being imbed- race-prepped 'Vette, a '63 split-window good game of chase with one of the ded in the bearings, the engine under- Coupe (two plastic pachyderms), an 330 GTCs over Evan's Notch. He'd went yet another strip-down and Alfa Giulietta Speziale, and a Sunbeam walk away from me on any kind of a MGB DRIVER-Mar/Agr '96 - It5 Triple C for all the best in MG Regalia. \ If yo u're not: already on our FREE mailing list, let us know1 We'll add your name w RIPLE tho5 e rcctlvqng our regular fl~era.They're bturrlmed full of clothing, models, pins and accer~sor~e~jfor the MC owner. - Corgi MGB's and MCF's in 1/18th scale (9") The wai.t is over! We've received oiJr first shipment of these great looking and long awaited models from Corgi. The rdetail 15 alI there, from correct cotouring on the MGF's seats to twin 5U.5 on the "0". Both rnodels hav.e fully working steering, opening doors and boots, correct badges and authentic looking tyres. COR 95106 Limited Edition 1963 MGB in British racing green on wooden base. COR 95103 Tartan Ked 1963 MGR. COR 95104 Old English White MG9. COR 95105 Limiwd Edition '$35 MGF in Metallic Charcoal on wooden base. COR 95101 1995 MGF Hard Top in Red. Ed and Linda Gaubert, and 1 was immediately impressed. The Harvest Gold MGB GT was per- Cherry Hill, New Jersey fect in my eyes! It was too good to be simply termed a driver, but not good 'm certain that at one time or anoth- enough to be termed a show car. In I er you have read about a person who short, a car to be used and to be harbors hundreds of stray dogs or cats proud of. It had wire wheels, new tires, because he or she cannot stand to see a new Navy Blue interior, everything a homeless one. Well. I guess you worked and the smog system was could accuse me of being that way intact. Most interesting of all. the car about MGs! had dealer-installed air conditioning, Until about a year ago, I was fully and it worked! satisfied with my 1970 British Racing He showed me a stack of receipts Green MGB Roadster. [ had completed for mechanical repairs and improve- a rolling renovation on the car, and ments to justify his asking price, which now spent more time driving and was about double what I thought the enjoying it than working on it, which GT would realistically sell for. had been my goal. Yet, there was still However, [ agreed to place an advert enough maintenance and tinkering left in our club newsletter for "best offer Japanese attention to detail makes thie model .to keep me happy. I had begun over" a figure midway between his a delight to build. From photo- etched badges searching for an MGA project car to original price and what I thought he 50 the high quality transfers these are superb occupy me for the coming years. Then would get. Race and R2liy kits will make standard it happened .... Three months later, my wife Linda models. One evening I received a call mentioned that a local Nissan dealer chrome bumper MGB as race and rally pay>5 are from a fellow member of our local had an MG on his lot and one day I In addition to standard kit. Register Chapter, (the British Motor drove out to look at it-just for curios- Race MGB 0 ...... $37.00 Club of Southern New Jersey) whom I ity's sake you understand! Lo and Rally MGB 0 ...... 37.00 had never met. He explained that he behold, it was the same car! The win- Rubber BumpY, ,..vw ,11398 ...... 35.00 had not attended any events, and was dow sticker carried a price which was trying to sell his MGB to raise a down approximately what [ had originally Please note %ha%t;hipping at cost; will be added to all payment on a new family car. He estimated it might sell for. In large orders. We normally ship by UPS Ground. but; I or 2 day asked if I would look at the car and black lette~sit also stated-"AS IS, NO Service is availabre. We gladly accep-t; Vies. Mas-t;ercat-d, give him some idea of the value. I WARRANTY, NO STATE INSPEC- American Express and Persona[ Chequ - agreed, and in less than an hour he TION GUARANTEE". I'm not a very 1900 Orange Street York 4 17404 pulled into my driveway with the car (plmse turn to page 48) Telephone (717) 854 4001 Fax 054 6706 46 MGR DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 47 Saving a Stray MG - Continued horn Page 46 sentimental guy, but 1 must admit I got er (my friend's customer for those of the same feeling that I get whenever I you who have lost track!) took the car go near the Animal Welfare shelter to back and returned the kid's money. He make a donation. I wanted to sit down was now trying to sell it (again1, -..-and and negotiate a deal to release this car his asking price was down to ,about from the back of the used car lot! But what I had planned to offer the (iealer my common sense got the better of way back when. me. You see, I had located my MGA Now the last couple of times LLI lua project car and had towed it home two and I had been out in our MGB weeks ago. Notwithstanding the fact Roadster, she had made passing corn- that I could not financially afford to ments about getting her own s;ports pull this deal off, I doubted that my car after I had finished the MGA.. my.. marriage would survive back-to-back responses ranged from, "the last thing MG purchases! 1 need is another MG to work on" to

A couple of weeks later. I received "by the time the MGA is finished we- a call from my friend Ted, who knew will both be so old that we will be ! unfit the whole story about the MGB. One of to drive!" These conversations kept his customers told him about his coming back to me at the same, time daughter's girlfriend who bought the as I was asking why this MGB GT ' kept car (for about what 1 would have flirting with me. offered the dealer!) because she Then it struck me-the perfelct car thought it was "cute". This man was so for my wife! I posed the idea to he!r, got impressed with the car, that he made a a lukewarm reception, but drove out standing offer to purchase the car from with her one Sunday afternoon tc) look this girl if she ever decided to sell it. at the car. I could tell by the look in her Something told me that there was a eye that she liked it. Nobody was reason that news of this car's fate kept home, so a test drive would ha.VP - tn.- following me. wait. Yet all evening her comments Well, a few months passed, and were "if I get this car...". my friend called again. His customer We justified the expense by con- had purchased the car from the girl (it vincing ourselves that a dri~--~'-cawlc was too noisy for her!) and was trying MGB would delay the need to re place to resell it to make a few bucks. His my business car, as I could use h~er car asking price was the same as the deal- when she was using the MG. Th e fol- er's starting price. Again, my heart lowing Friday, I made an appointment ached for this poor MGB which to drive the car and bought it. 1 sur- appeared to keep looking for a good prised Linda at work when I brought agjD home. Again, my senses prevailed as I the car to get her signature on the had just removed the body from my state forms to title it in her name. She I inip;~cl.Fits :I MGA project, and purchased another loves the MG, drives it regularly, and Dunlup+ ric pump. lnsl, frame. I was no longer afraid of divorce we are enjoying making the few detail (you have to see the MGA to under- improvements the car needs. SMITHS Inrln~mrnrs stand my newfound appreciation for Thus, another MG "orphan" has my wife's tolerance level!), but that found a loving home. We made more particular time of the year is the worst room in the garage (another whole from a cash flow viewpoint in my busi- story!) and we both feel that this MGB * ness. Yet something still nagged at GT is a "keeper". By the way, the final 3 me--why does this car and myself purchase price was approximately one mm keep crossing paths? third of what the first owner had invest- The car was next sold to a young ed in it and was asking for. But my man who after he'd bought it realized wife has told me in no uncertain terms he really wanted a Mustang! Because that we have now reached the upper of a close family relationship, the sell- (please turn to page 50) MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 NOWI Know.. . - Continued from Page 16 members of the local Hoosier MG Club. everyone know that all of the good MG What a great town Indianapolis is! events are not a few miles from your Now it's Monday morning, cloudy, garage. Out of town and out of state but warm and we are back on the road trip events are great and the people heading for home. Another great top you meet make the trip well worth the down drive through lndiana and Ohio. effort. The third message I have is Hit the brakes! There's a horse and TAKE YOUR MG OUT OF STORAGE buggy in the middle of the road! Mom, AND DRIVE IT! Drive it to work, drive Dad and all the kids are dressed in it to the store, drive it when you go out black. This must be Amish country. to dinner and drive it just to drive it! My driver and 1 split from the oth- Your MG will like it. and so will you. ers at US23, we went north while they Set a goal at the start of each season. took 1-75 to the bridge at Windsor. But If you don't put at least 2000, 1000, or all four MGs plan to return to lndy for 500 miles a year on your car-sell it or "MG '96" in June! give it away! I have three reasons for inspiring "Safety Fast!" my driver to write this article for me. (The driver of GWDJ2AG509868, First, to thank the members of the Otto Pope, accepts no responsibility for lndiana British Car Union for the great the opinions expressed in this fea- -- time we MGs had at Indy-I think the ture-he's just the driuer!-Ed.) 4 DISPLAY YOUR PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP drivers liked it too! Second, to let WITH A HAND MADE WELCOME SIGN FOR YOUR HOME!

Letters to the Register - Continued from Page 23 Driver was very interesting, but 1 Orleans, one of the two original trolley would have thought that those inter- lines in that city. The other original line !@ ested in classic automobiles would be was the Desire Street Line which gave able to identify other classic trans- its name to the book and stage play, A SIGNS MEASURE 32 X 10 INCHES WITH CREAM 1000 AND LETTERS portation properly! Str-eetcar Named Desire. FINISHED IN BLUE/GREEN/RED OR BROWN. OTHER COLORS AVAILABLE. The photo on page nine is not a -Kenneth K. Humpheys. Granite $28.50 INCL P & P TO PHlllP HO "cable car". Those operate only in San Falls, NC P.O.BOX374, HOWE, IN. 46746. TEL. 2 03 Francisco as far as I am aware and have no motors. Rather they are pulled (We should perhaps mention that along the tracks by underground retired engineer Kenneth was a former cables. The vehicle pictured is a trolley motorman at the Arden Trolley car or streetcar powered by DC elec- Museum in Washington .PA. However: BRmSH PARTS DIRECT has formed VINTAGE MG RACING SERVICES to tric motors through contact with over- where I was born the!^ used to call the satisfy the increasing needs of the MG Vintage enthusiast. We have successfully head wires. veh ides in question "Trams".-Ed.) 4 sourced from all corners of the U.K. an exclusive range of parts to helpwith race The actual car in the photo is from preparation and maintenance of MGA's, MGB's and Midgets loo! the St. Charles Trolley Line in New Hems ranging from full motors in various states of tune, to the leather bonnett hold down straps. In stock at all times are pistons, cams, carbs, headers, C/R - SIC gear sets. LSD units, minilite wheels, 610 a KIO, race lyres, suspension parts. uprated shocks. springs, brake pacIs, elc. Plea.secall with your requirements and we'll ofter our own racing experierIce 8 knowl edge. Saving f M G - Continued from Page 48 cuLmFEEwIa€PWFmmNcE?'Am9 CATUOG limit of our eccentricity-in other MG publication in my eyes. Especially words-I must sell my Roadster if I interesting was the Aspects of want another toy. I guess I'll just have Abirtgdon series. I look forward to a to get her to understand the value of snowy evening this winter when I can parts cars! pill1 out my back issues and re- CRESWELL, OR 97426 (P.S. Keep up the good work with the articles again, cover to covc the MGB Driuer. yours is the premier one sitting!) a [Iloflointmenl Only)

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Tee h Talk MGA 81 MGB PRODUCTS by honnan Nock I hazte been wn'tmg technical articles for ~ritishcar clubs for Modifications & over 15 years, and after numerous requests I have Recommendations for: .- ENGINES BRAKES SUSPENSIONS them sptrnl bound in book fonn BRITISH Send S29.M) plus 54.00 Shipping IU 5. Funds) AUTOMOTIVE PHONE & FAX: Authorized Moss Distributor Internet: http~/wwu.autolink.mm/britauld [(415) 883-7200] 1 s €%la% 1357 n Way. Dept. 1MGB, Stockrun, CA 95205 209 1 948-8767 21 Pamaron Way Unit I Novato California 94949 - . 52 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRMR-Mar/Apr '96 53 Qur Vdlued upp~~ters 1 Qctr Valued wpp~rte~~

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56 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96 The Marketplace of the North ~mericanMGB Register Forthcoming Events of Interest to MGB Drivers Ads in this section are FREE to individual MGB Register members in good Please check for up to date information before departing to the meet. The standing-please no business or commercial ads. Send ad copy with name, Register encourages local groups and clubs to submit their MG events to MGB address, phone number and membership number to P.O. Box 2645, Goleta, CA Driuer. Information must include, date, localion, and contact phone number. 931 17. Ads only accepted in writing. Business or other ads by arrangement with Please submit events at least two months in advance to the Editor, P.O. Box Ian Pender, Advertising Coordinator (see inside front cover). All ads must be 2645, Goleta, CA 931 17. received by the 1st of the month prior to publication for inclusion. (i.e. MaylJune issue deadline is April 1st.) Ads will be run for two (2) issues, space MAJORMG EVENTS FOR 1996 allowing. The Register retains the right to refuse any ad it deems unacceptable. March 23. IYew Orleans British Car Day New Orleans LA, (504)443-5056 The originating state is shown at the end of each ad. March 23-24, Missouri Endurance Rally, St. Louis, MO, (314)725-2892 MGs FOR SALE April 13-16, Classic Car Rally, Carmel, CA, (408)624-1581, Ext. 127 1978 MGB Roadster-33K miles, wire wheels, Ansa exhaust, Alpine stereo, April 19-20, GOF South, Crystal River, FL, (813)367-2929 many extras. Almost original mint condition. April 21, British Sportscar Show & Swap Meet, Ancaster, Canada, (905)957-2429 $7,500. (517)894-0415, MI April 26-28, NAMGBR NORTH/SOUTH Regional Convention, 1979 Limited Edition-(Canadian), black w/biscuit interior, overdrive, factory Santa Maria, CA, (805)736-6362 hardtop and two soft tops. Good overall condition. $7,000 (Canadian). April 27, Britfest All British Show, Moss Motors, Dover, NJ, (201 )36 1-9358 (519)524-1794, Ontario May 4, British Car Gathering, Townsend. TN. (423)984-8711 1980 MGB Limited Edition-24K miles, beautiful condition, always garaged. May 4, 3rd Annual Mayfest, St. Louis, (314)776-5802 Tonneau, and all covers, new Dunlap spare w/new wheel, extra tires and May 19, All British Show and Swap, Dixon, CA, (916)783-7375 wheels. $8,500 firm. (360)665-4145, WA May 19, All British Meet. Richmond, VA, (804)758-2753 1953 MG TD-Gray w/red interior. Car #24959. Same owner last 34 years. May 24-26, Champagne British Car Festival, Champaign, 11, (217)469-2007 Needs nothing-purchase includes accessories, tools spares, and lots more! A May 24-26, Pre-'69 Classic Rally, Bellevue. WA. (206)644-7874 great driver-Buy a hobby! $17,750 takes all. (408)425-0961, CA June 2, Red Mill British Car Day, Clinton, NJ, (908)735-5417 Two 1963 MGB Roadsters-One rolling bodyshe[l rust free, second car rusty June 7-9, MG Heartland Regional, Independence, MO, (816)356-6053 but complete, together will make one perfect restoration. $2,000. (914)226- June 27-30, "MG '96" All MG Meet, Indianapolis, IN, (800)626-4271 4875, NY July 13, Washington All British Meet, Bellevue, WA, (206)644-7874 1966 MGB Roadster-Tartan Red, wires, new chrome grille and bumpers. LH July 18-20,Moss Motors British Car Festival, Buellton, CA? (800)235-6953 overdrive, Sony rjcass, new Michelins, speedo reads 56K. Restored, beautiful July 21, Tea at the Vicarage, Howe, IN, (219)562-2703 and dependable. $10,500, (508)526-761 1. MA July 26-28, Rally in the Valley, Vernon, BC, (604)545-0419 1969 MGC Roadster-Complete, but apart. Body has good floors, but needs Aug 16-18, University Motors Summer Party, Grand Rapids, MI, (616) 682-0800 the 'usual'. $2,000 firm or exchange for pre-69 Triumph twin, plus or minus Aug 25, A Taste of Britain, Rothsville, PA, (7 17)548-3478 dollars? (518)370-2164, JW Sept 14-15, Colorado Conclave, Arvarda, CO, (303)755-1399 1977 MGB V8-3.5 Rover, Holley, SD-I gearbox. Minj-lites, tan [eather interi- Sept 21, All British Day, Green Country, OK, (918)455-8993 or, chrome bumpers, factory hardtop. Tahiti Blue, excellent condition. 49,500 Sept 21, All British Car Day, St. Louis, MO, (314)939-9338 miles. $1 2,500. (517)486-2268, MI Sept 21-22, All British Car Day, Fairhope, AL, (334)928-5366 Oct 6, San Diego British Car Day, Del Mar, CA: (619)422-2794 PARTS FOR SALE Oct 18-20, British Car Gathering, Charlotte, NC, (910)996-3825 Parting out 1958 MG ZB saloon. Many good body parts, trim, instruments and Oct 19. Fallfest All British Show, Moss Motors, Dover, NJ, (513)599-3628 assorted mechanicals. (334)928-5366, A1 MG ORGANIZATIONS FOR OTHER MODELS OR TYPES 1958 MGA 1500cc engine. Low miles, excellent condition. (334)928-5366,AL Got an MG other than a 'B,Midget, or MG 1100/1300? In the spirit of octago- MGB trans4 speed with synchro and overdrive. $450. (508)526-7611,MA nal cooperation between North American Clubs we list below some other clubs Sidedraft Weber Kit for MGB-$250 plus postage; Pull-handle type doors for You might wish to write to. early MG&$50 each plus shipping; Top frame, stows in trunk for early For T-Series MGs: New England MGT Register, Drawer 220, Oneonta, NY 13820 MGB-$50 plus shipping; Numerous other parts available, call for information. For MGAs: North American MGA Register, 13420 Summit Hills Road, (615)648- 1489, TN Albuquerque, NM 871 12 For MGCs: North American MGC Register, 34 Park Avenue. Asheville, NC, 28803-2056 58 MGB DRIVER-Mar/Apr '96