What's New on
The Pages of 'Bee' and 'Vee'

April 2024

• More on speedo repair - an easy way to remove the pointer which on CB cars has to be done before you can remove the works from the case.
• More on the relative performance of electronic ignition systems vs points
• More on Hardi fuel pump orientation
• Dimmable LED instrument bulbs ... should you feel so inclined

March 2024

• Installing brake and clutch master cylinders
• Early and late dipstick tubes - the long and the short of it
• Oil pump gaskets - and what happens if you use the wrong one.
• Use of hazard warning lights - clear as mud?
• Accessing the 4-synch gearbox overdrive switch through the tunnel wall
• 18GB and 18V cooling capacity
• More on GT headlining and cant rail covers
• Axle level/drain plug protrusion

February 2024

• Fancy a Weber? Think again ...
• Vented oil filler cap or not?
• The effect of a variable dwell ignition system on a dwell meter
• Inverted oil filter removal
• Replacement heat control cable on a 78 gives full travel of the valve!
• Poorly fitting 77 and later replacement gear knob cap
• More on checking instrument voltage stabiliser output
• More on wiring - harness or loom? (Harness of course ...)
• More on LED headlights - complete headlamp units
• Observations on aftermarket exhaust systems
• Marina engines in MGBs
• Rubber bumper skin strip/refit

January 2024

• 'Cranks but won't start' section expanded to include information on diagnosing electronic ignition as well as points, and by using a dwell meter as well as a voltmeter.
• Seat-belt mounting bolts and other hardware
• Valve clearances - 15 thou or 13 thou?
• Carpet info expanded to include kits
• More on 'DBL' engine numbers
• PDFs updated

December 2023

• Side-entry push-fit 45D4 distributor caps for RHD
• Removing an inertia starter motor
• Later MGB fuel gauge system in an MGA?
• Oil gauge pipe P-clip behind the dash

November 2023

• More info on the OD manual switch in the 77 and later gear lever knob
• Seat covers and 'hog rings'
• Bee's 2nd replacement rack has the same problem as the first ...
• Update on intermediate steering column lower bush MPB1002
• EU conformity decals
• Steering column universal joint types updated
• Clutch slave push-rod length - a source of misunderstanding

October 2023

• Bee's 2nd replacement rack fitted
• Info on brake servos updated
• Throttle pedal back-stop adjustment
• Heater controls and their range of movement

September 2023

• Another rack for Bee?
• A warning on fuel hose specification, that from some sources may not be adequate
• Rewritten - the confusing subject of brake and clutch master cylinder repair kits
• 'Universal' steering rack gaiters
• Wiper arm fitting
• A possible solution for doors hard to close after fitting replacement seals
• The end of an era - after 30 years and 97 organised runs we decide to 'retire'
• More information on North American fuel shut-off devices

August 2023

• An after-market 'classic' steering wheel for 1977 and later
• More info on 1977 and later brake balance failure switch
• More info on indicator cancelling on the 1977 and later
• More info on door locks
• More info on 1977 and later illuminated dash switches
• Rebuilding a remote brake servo

July 2023

• Dashboard mounting correcting misinformation from various sources
• Grease nipple threads
• MGB USB
• Vee's cooling fan fuse melts again, which leads to an investigation of in-line fuse holders and fuses

June 2023

• Another unexpected benefit of running Vee on high octane
• More on replacing headlamp units
• Should I drain the oil cooler at each oil change?
• Factory speakers
• Cold-air flap stuck open?
• Valve-stem oil seals - fact and fiction?
• Supplementary hazard warning light

May 2023

• Oil cooler - bypass or not, that is the question
• Note that some MGB paint colour names were reused for the MGF/TF but the shades can be very different
• Oil leak from rear hub nut?
• Spade connector sizes
• Fanbelt - toothed or plain?
• app for the A-Class

April 2023

• More on the axle pinion collapsible spacer
• Buyer beware - check the numbers!
• At last, correct springs from BMH and GB springs
• More on voltmeters
• More on wire-wheel inset including measurement
• Tyre wear and replacement

March 2023

• A-Class charging issues

February 2023

• Something to watch out for with replacement carb float valves
• Headlamp trim-ring clip replacement
• 'Milky' headlights

January 2023

• Remanufactured screwed fuel tank sender for the Smiths fuel gauge which was used from October 64 to March 65.
• Difficulties jacking the A-Class
• Another V8 slipped liner
• Using SU carb lifting pins
• Bee's steering rack change
• Headlamps and pilot lights
• SU carb date info

December 2022

• More info on the V8 cooling system and heater circuit
• Something else to watch out for when buying buying rear chrome bumpers for a 1974 model
• Door cards and door pulls

November 2022

• SU carb flange gaskets updated
• Centre-lock wheel spinners and nuts
• More info on the handbrake compensator and omissions and errors in the various information sources
• More odd engine numbers
• Clarification of ignition coil connections
• Wiper wheelboxes
• Something to watch out for when buying chrome bumper over-riders
• Is this a ballast resistor?
• More confusion with ballasted ignition
• Carb/distributor vacuum connections

October 2022

• Another cause of drop-glass stiffness
• Added schematics for retro-fitting hazard flashers
• Mk1 window winder handles
• Electric cooling fan blade orientation

September 2022

• MGB 60th anniversary, and Bee's 50th birthday
• Vulcan fast taxy goes awry
• Topping-up hydraulic dampers
• Battery voltage
• Bits and pieces for wing fitting
• Steering rack wear

August 2022

• New alternator doesn't work? Try this
• The Golf is replaced by an A-Class
• More on grille/wing alignment
• Checking coolant level including info on the V8 and 77 and later 4-cylinder filler plugs.
• More on Fuel filler caps.
• Alternative air filters.
• More on 'funny' engine numbers.

July 2022

• More on the original mono speaker installation, and installing a stereo speaker in the original centre console speaker housing.
• After 32 years of living with a missing centre console circular blank I discover a suitable replacement
• Considerations when installing tube-axle wire wheel hubs
• More options for timing chain tensioners
• An alternative U-channel glazing seal for 1/4-light vent glass
• When does your steering lock?

June 2022

• Running out of adjustment on the rockers?
• Clutch/Gearbox pilot bushes - which one?
• Plastic 7-blade cooling fan from Moss.

May 2022

• Auto gearbox kick-down cable and dipstick.
• More on swivel-axle lubrication.
• Gaps between doors and seals.
• Stub-axle split-pin holes - one or two?
• Clutch master and slave push-rod travel
• More on centre arm-rest lid peg breakages and alternatives
• Steering column UJ rubbing on HT leads
• 6v battery link cable shorting out on prop-shaft
• Undersized fuel pump banjos resulting in leaks

April 2022

• Jumping out of gear - relieving the pressure of the rubber gaiter on the gear lever
• A warning on plastic-bodied master cylinders
• Bell-housing bolts
• Fuel pump banjo union orientation and sealing
• Gauging wear in the graphite clutch release bearing
• Clutch release arm pivot bolt orientation
• The 'Events' page returns.

March 2022

• V8 carb throttle and choke return springs.
• The adjustable damper valves on Vee are declared a success!
• The three different types of drop-glass regulators used in the MGB.

February 2022

• After pondering a long time I finally get around to fitting adjustable damper valves to the rear lever-arm dampers of the V8 to see if I can soften the effect of the plethora of traffic calming measures that surround us.
• The curious case of the fuel pump that didn't click when turning on the ignition
• More info on heater motor polarity and fan direction
• Stripped heater valve threads in the head

January 2022

• Solving two problems when using drive-on wheel ramps
• Oil cooler ducting
• V8 brake pads with 4-cylinder calipers and discs - some drawbacks

December 2021

• Bonnet release, and emergency access in the event of cable breakage
• A way of adjusting valves four at a time and with only one full turn of the engine
• After 17+ years a new battery for Vee
• Another option for improving instrument lighting
• V8 brake pads in 4-cylinder calipers
• Salisbury/tube axle hub bearings, caps and spacers

November 2021

• Completion of converting manual screen washer to electric
• Mystery holes/notches in rear brake back-plates
• Intermittent misfire with aftermarket electronic ignition
• Wipers suddenly start parking on the other side
• SU carb needles and jets
• More on V8 engine hot tapping and slipping liners
• What makes the clutch self-adjusting?

October 2021

• A warning on new fuel pumps from SU Burlen and excess pressure flooding carbs.
• Mk2 door latch breakage.
• Main beam/flasher problem with headlamp relays.
• Headlamp rings and clearance to wings.

September 2021

• Is your RB steering rack tilted on the crossmember?
• Braided fuel hose, and what can be going on under the braiding.
• From 27th September 2021 the rules concerning country identifiers have changed. From that date you must display a 'UK' identifier, and 'GB' identifiers must be covered up.
• Propshaft UJ failure.
• Some confusion with two different types of crank pulley bolt lock tab.

August 2021

• Intermittent wiper systems.
• An 'easier to bleed' Girling brake master cylinder to go with the Girling clutch master?

July 2021

• Fixed cross-member and jacking points

June 2021

• Supplementary brake lights
• HID headlamp conversion
• Electronic ignition and positive earth cars

May 2021

• Hardi fuel pumps - do they click more frequently than SU? Fail if they are not used for a while?
• Converting a manual screen wash pump to electric by Dave Birkby
• Following a plea for help from a reader I have expanded the section on replacing the wiring harness
• Diagnosing ignition problems with a voltmeter
• Door mirror positioning
• Faulty horn slip-rings from multiple sources
• Speedo cable attachment to the speedo, and potential problems
• Why do coolant pumps have weep holes? Are they unhappy?

April 2021

• Converting alternators from 'right-hand' to 'left-hand'.
• 'Universal' 16/17/18ACR 55amp alternators from many vendors and problems fitting fan belts
• Seat bases - webbing or diaphragm?
• Warning! Ethanol concentration will be doubling during summer 2021
• Tony Davison's broken rear spring change and dimensions of old and new

March 2021

• The combined starter inhibitor and reversing light switch on the automatic gearbox
• More info on dual brake master pipe connections
• More on GT screen fitting
• Golf VII seat positioning
• Techniques for dealing with persistently spongy brakes
• Golf VII condensation, door trim and speakers
• Handbrake cabin levers

February 2021

• Distributor drive gear positioning
• Fuel tank fixings
• LED headlamp conversions and the MOT from 1st January 2021
• Forthcoming changes to number-plates
• A cautionary tale if replacing locks keeping the old switch, or vice-versa

January 2021

• Historical MGB price information
• Do new GT front screens need to be 'adjusted' to fit the body?
• Steering wheel covers
• Some detail on how the drop-glass regulator and the glass connect together
• Lockdown 3 and the MOT
• Some more info on the heater valve, cable and clamp

December 2020

• Wired earths, and the components that share them
• Boot/trunk earthing points
• Fuel tank sender wiring
• Engine oil pipes and adapters
• Engine oil pipes and adapters
• Brake pipe heat shield
• Headlamp trim-ring removal made easy, with a combined remover tool and beer-bottle opener

November 2020

• The Clive Wheatley V8 engine steady
• Remote brake servo mounting
• Dealing with the speedo cable pinion oil leak, and what a pain in the backside refitting it turned out to be!
• Roadster hood/top straps

October 2020

• Got an 18V 408 engine number?
• Quarter-light pivots, distance tubes and springs
• Early padded-dash indicator/turn signal tell-tales
• The electric oil gauge transmitter
• V8 carb vent/overflow
• More on wheel cylinder e-clip fitting and orientation
• Updated legal info on external LED lighting

September 2020

• Updated info on LED stop/tail lights
• Testing HT
• 'Golf 7 Bits' added
• More info on the 'mechanics' of the current plastic fuel tank senders
• A better Quarter-light vent glazing seal?
• Loss of headlamp flasher with LED headlights

August 2020

• Drop-glass door seals
• Changing the speedo odometer reading
• Bonnet alignment to radiator grille
• Ignition switch removal
• The Covid 19 automatic MOT six-month extension expired on 31st July

July 2020

• The rubber mat over the starter motor bulge in the right-hand footwell
• More on V8 front covers and oil pump
• Gearbox speedo cable pinion housing
• Checking dwell using voltage or current
• The ZS 180 has a new home
• On a long trip to the Lake District and back Vee's speedo starts flicking, then jumping up higher and higher, until eventually any time we were moving it went right round to the back of the needle stop
• Main, rear and gearbox harness interconnections
• 1977 model-year on have the speedo and tach with a 'bayonet' type installation arrangement, unfortunately LHD only.
• Gear-lever removal

June 2020

• Another servo problem
• Putting a 4-synch gearbox in a Mk1 shell
• Carpets, and the differences between Mk1 and Mk2 tunnels
• Jump-start battery post in the engine compartment
• The later workshop manuals covering the dual circuit braking system with integral servo have conflicting information showing how the brake pipes connect to the master cylinder that could result in dangerously unbalanced braking.
• MOTs, Covid 19 and the six-month extension
• Routing of the tank to pump pipes
• Differences between Mk1 and Mk2 front indicator/parking light units

May 2020

• More on the getting the Roadster hood to fold down low enough to get the tonneau or hood cover fastened.
• More on the HIF enrichment/cold start valve

April 2020

• An alternative clutch master cylinder?
• Following a question on the MGOC forum - how to identify which distributor you have
• The Joy of ... Speedo cable replacement

March 2020

• Adjusting valves - Rule of Nine vs 'Rocking'
• Headlamp adjustment without removal of the trim-ring
• Radiator cores
• Low-flying wiper arms and blades ...
• The effect of fitting wire-wheels hubs to stud wheel axles

February 2020

• Steering rack damper and tie-rod adjustment, and incorrect assembly of a damper where the adjustment is by a screw in the cover instead of shims.
• Front and rear track variations
• More on Renold timing chain tensioners vs Rolon
• GT rear-window repair
• V8 and pre-77 RB indicator cancelling cams
• More graphite release bearing failures
• Tank fillers
• Gearbox (and everything else ...) reinstallation

January 2020

• Engine/gearbox earth straps
• Just how much difference does orientation of the original instrument voltage stabiliser make to the gauge readings?
• Joining (and adding) wires
• ZS180 brake dust shields
• Diff 'clonk'
• Factory speaker mounting with radio in centre console
• ZS 180 ABS and speedo problem
• Spare wheel clamps

December 2019

• What can I use as a spare wheel?
• More on 4X4 MGBs
• More on Crossmember component orientation
• Wire size and current-carrying capacity
• More on dealing with the dreaded heater rubber block.
• Did LHD cars ever have the remote servo? And if someone really wanted one how would you install it?
• Gearbox removal

November 2019

• Accessing the rheostat
• Glovebox fittings
• Multi-way connectors - testing, dismantling and generally messing about with.
• More on OD labels.
• Replacing the ZS coolant reservoir.
• Mk1 and Mk2 pedal boxes (frames).

October 2019

• Intermediate steering column bush replacement and shear pin repair, information pulled together from several MGOC forum threads.
• More info on OD switch actuation
• HIF choke linkage
• Drop-glass channel brackets
• Dash indicator tell-tales
• More on cable and pipe clips
• One or two split-pin holes in stub axles?
• Four-cylinder timing covers and pulleys.
• Water pumps - seating the seal before filling with coolant.
• Lighting circuits and fuses.
• Tilt and Remove sunroof seal.
• 4X4 MGB, anyone?

September 2019

• More on lashing eyes.
• GT front screens: Clear? Heated? Tinted? Heated tinted? Tinted with shade band? ... The mind boggles.
• Oil gauge flutter.
• Wheel weights catching on handbrake lever/cable.
• Differences in the GT rear windows between chrome and stainless.
• Myths and Legends concerning testing of cars exempt from the MOT.
• V8 choke control.
• HS carb fuel hose supports.
• Replacing number plates? Something to bear in mind.
• Jacking the body, and some important safety aspects.
• Rear light clusters and bad earths.

August 2019

• Wiper blade problems.
• Sun visor fittings.
• A snippet on Stromberg carbs as fitted to a TR4.
• Steering column cowl removal.
• The latest situation regarding ethanol - pump labelling only at this time.
• Dynamo and alternator pulleys.
• HS choke mechanism.
• Temperature gauge sender removal and installation.
• Battery clamping arrangements.

July 2019

• A possible explanation of why 'early' and 'late' roadster front screen glass varies, and why if you have the later frame (which could be on an earlier car) you must get the correct glass.
• Door sill tread plates.
• Cable and pipe routing under the floor.
• Replacement quarter-light seals.
• Cylinder block holed to water jacket.
• Yet more batteries for Bee ...
• ... and I replace my prehistoric jump-leads with a lithium jump-pack.
• Front brake hose length.
• CB racks vs RB racks.

June 2019

• Nylon door pull nuts.
• V8 exhaust manifold gaskets - a better option?
• Handbrake cable adjustment and replacement.
• Lost the glovebox key?
• Handbrake cable compensator.
• Repairing a tailgate strut.
• Two important things to note regarding V8 oil pump pressure relief valves and oil pump gaskets.
• Window winder handle breakage.
• Replacing the clutch flex hose.
• Additional information on sumps and gaskets.

May 2019

• Rear brake hose union, and an important difference between pre-77 and 77 and later cars.
• Decals, primarily for RHD cars.
• Which way round does the clutch friction plate go?
• A really good way of checking whether the LH OD pump is operating or not from Nathan Peach.
• Gearbox breathers.
• Rear brake shoe springs - an easier way?
• Heater coolant valve - getting a socket on the head bolts.

April 2019

• Testing an ignition condenser with an ohmmeter.
• Rear brakes - leading or trailing shoes?
• Vaporisation! And other myths and legends ...
• Horn-push repair.
• Gear lever and retaining plate for 1977 and later cars with the OD manual switch in the knob.
• GT rear side window removal.
• Bonnet/hood fitting.
• Bee's handbrake lever boots again, although they lasted six years and 10k, Vee's after three years still looking good.
• Track-rod end dust covers.
• SU carb drop-test.
• Door mirror repair.
• Diagnosing weak spark.

March 2019

• An update on front wheel bearing replacement and the importance of getting the outer races fully seated.
• Oil filter heads, and anti-drainback valves.
• Bayonet bulb holders.
• Showing heater intake grille curvature is significantly less on current-stock grilles than originally, and they fit the panels poorly.
• More information on brake and clutch pedal pivots and the correct spacers and bushes to get free movement with minimum slop or wobble.
• Steering column bushes.
• Accessing the nuts securing the tonneau and hood cover pegs.

February 2019

• Oil pressure warning light adapters.
• The centre exhaust mount.
• Branching connectors for connecting several additional components to the same source i.e. 12v.
• Some observations on GT door seals.
• More info on fuel tank sender replacement, and compatibility between senders and gauges.

January 2019

• Rear brake hoses, and the differences in installation between pre-77 and 77-on.
• Considerations when replacing seat belts, and what lies inside the inertia mechanisms.

December 2018

• Roadster vs GT doors.
• Headlamp connections.
• Cylinder head and gaskets.
• Window-winder handles and screws.
• Replacement process for brake and clutch master cylinders.

November 2018

• Lighter socket.
• Steering locks - what lies inside.
• Front crossmember and mounting pads.
• Why propshaft yoke alignment is so important.
• Are thermostats fail-safe? What is a 'latch-open' stat?
• The Alternator - How it Works.

October 2018

• Fuses - where, when, suppliers descriptions and markings, and the potential (ho ho) for confusion.
• Parking light fusing on 1968 and 69 cars.
• A pedal-operated brake-light switch for chrome bumper cars.
• Replacing screen to quarter-light seals.
• Grommets for the engine compartment and elsewhere.
• Lashing eyes.
• Another two sources for what may be a better quality timing chain tensioner.

September 2018

The ultimate experience - I fly a Spitfire.

• Coolant filler plugs.
• Choke knobs over the years.
• HT leads.
• LEDs for interior lights.
• The GT load-space light.
• The servoed dual brake master cylinder.

August 2018

• Clonk from front suspension when braking.
• The current situation on ethanol in UK petrol. Basically all petrol in the UK may contain up to 5% ethanol (E5), both 95 octane and the higher octanes, and none contains more than that i.e. E10.
• Battery supply regulations have changed.
• The template for fitting a Ron Hopkinson rear anti-roll bar.
• Replacing the V8 oil gauge hoses, and fitting a low pressure warning light.
• Roadster Cockpit Rail.

July 2018

• If you need convincing how important it is to listen to your car, with all your senses, then this may convince you.
• Webbing-style axle rebound straps currently available from Moss Europe, much cheaper than having them shipped from America. Current MGOC rubber straps split the first time they were asked to take the weight of the axle, despite signs of reinforcing.
• Gear lever gaiter issues, and Vee dropping out of overdrive on the overrun.

June 2018

• Caliper piston cut-outs, where and more importantly why?
• A warning about current supply Lucas SFB115 indicator flashers, which are actually hazard flashers, and have significant safety implications.
• Advance Autowire diagrams now available on a model by model basis. Click your model for a full screen view, then left-click to zoom in.
• 4-cylinder prop-shafts and UJ grease nipples.

May 2018

• Steering locks and ignition switches, alternatives to the originals, and what to watch out for.
• ZS rear caliper and disc replacement, and what lies inside.

April 2018

• Herb Adler adds cruise control to the Wolseley.
• Compression pressures, and how variable they can be in practice.
• Water pumps, and critical differences in mounting bolts.
• Repositioning and re-routing console-mounted heater controls and cables for smoother operation.

March 2018

• Changing the V8 overdrive gearbox switch and discovering adjustment using shims is pretty critical compared to the reverse light switch and 4-cylinder OD switch.
• An investigation into hot running in an MGC engine and several factors that were causing it.
• The Autowire drawings can make reading the circuit diagrams easier, but they can also be confusing as most of them don't state which market they are for. This table does just that.
• More information on electric temperature gauge senders and their effect on readings.
• A very useful block diagram of the MGB electrical system, from an original posted by Graham Moore on the MGOC MGB forum.
• More info on replicating the coil boost function on rubber bumper cars with a hi-torque or geared starter.
• Replacement carb heat shield.
• Enhanced torque figure chart with KgM and NM values, and a printer-friendly version.

February 2018

• More on C-post trim fitting.
• Compatibility of the various hood frames, tops and header rails and repairing the hood frame to body mounting points.
• Summary of cooling system operation and problems.
• Operation and replacement of the timing chain tensioner.

January 2018

• Dynamo and Alternator mounting and adjusting.
• More exhaust valve problems, and removing recalcitrant head studs.
• Diagnosing misfiring and cutting-out while under way.
• Another update on VHIs and MOT exemption. This indicates the 8 point rule is being dropped, and VHIs that have been substantially modified only need an MOT, and that only while the modifications themselves are less than 30 years old. Also following consultation the first MOT test is to remain at three years, and not be delayed to four as had been proposed.

December 2017

• Misalignment of rockers and valve stems.
• MOT exemption: The document on Vehicles of Historical Interest (VHI): Substantial Change Guidance has been updated. It looks like substantial suspension and axle changes, V8 conversions and even 4-cylinder over-bores will not be exempt from MOT testing, may be subject to a registration change, maybe even a Q-plate.
• Plumbing of the early dual-circuit brake system has been added to that of the later system.
• How do calipers release the pressure of the pads on the disc?
• To perhaps make it easier to find something, topics have been indexed alphabetically.
• Radiator and block drain taps and plugs.
• LED headlights? Or not?
• More on repairing late steering columns.

November 2017

• Following repeated front ARB drop-link breakages, I replace Vee's uprated front anti-roll bar with an original.
• Last piece of Vee's restoration - recovering the seats ... which necessitated making another pair of seat-belt guides.
• Suspension breakages, and traffic calming measures.

October 2017

• MOT exemption to be extended to 40 years.
• Door switches and courtesy light not going off.
• Electric fan fusing.
• V8 bonnets, and insulation.
• More on drop-glass and regulator removal and refitting, a greatly simplified process which means removal and refitting can be done in about 15 minutes each.
• The improved V8 axle and gearbox breather that was subsequently fitted to all cars.

September 2017

• This month's progress with Vee - last bits done, running-in complete
• Mud-flaps, and a warning on current stock from the usual suspects.
• MOT reminder or a £1000 fine? Again, you decide.
• A source of better brake light switches? You decide.
• V8 wheels - refurb, restore or replace?
• Yet another puncture in the ZS, beat this for the offending item!

August 2017

• This month's progress with Vee - she comes home! And back on the road!!
• DIY installation of front and rear GT screens
• Checking timing marks using a depth-gauge
• Drop-glass and regulator removal and installation
• Replacing the ZS key fob case

July 2017

• This month's progress with Vee - engine start and final paint
• Internals of the RVC tachometer
• Puncture repair in a can - a warning

June 2017

• This month's progress with Vee - engine delivered and installed
• V8 gearbox crossmember
• V8 replacement water pumps
• V8 replacement front covers
• V8 inlet manifold gaskets
• Vacuum sources for vacuum advance

May 2017

• This month's progress with Vee
• OD (and reverse light) switch spacers.
• HIF carb damper retaining clips.
• Gear-lever anti-rattle bushes, and installation to gearbox.
• After probably 20 years of the V8 tapping when hot, and many attempts to cure it, could we at last be on the verge of curing it?

April 2017

• This month's progress with Vee
• Heater reinstallation.
• More information on heater matrix seals.
• ZS 180 wheel nuts.
• LH overdrive solenoid O-rings, and other component parts.
• More info on whether speedo cable right-angle drives are needed at the gearbox or not.
• Timing marks.

March 2017

• This month's progress with Vee
• Gearbox drive flanges, and prop-shaft bolt removal.
• Checking valve clearances using a dial-gauge.
• LH solenoid cover gasket replacement.
• Yet another seal for the heater, this time on the matrix ports.
• Another option for steering wheel removal where swapping like for like.
• SU carb air-filter flange gaskets.
• Timing marks.

February 2017

• More information on the heater matrix, and the occasionally mentioned mod to the heater cover to allow it to be removed with the heater in-situ.
• Vee's restoration gets underway again, after a four month hiatus
• V8 starter wiring and heat-shield

January 2017

• Measuring valve timing
• Steering wheel alignment
• Did the MGB ever have air-bags?
• Headlamp mounting.
• Tyres, rolling radius/circumference, and measured circumference vs distance travelled for one revolution.

December 2016

• How the cylinder head heater outlet changed for the 1972 model-year.
• Cylinder head casting numbers and date codes.
• Cylinder head combustion chamber shapes and rocker pedestal oil-feed holes.
• Info on differences between 4-cylinder and V8 overdrive units, and the effect on speedo readings.

November 2016

• The differential - why it's needed and how it works.
• 1977 and later, and an often missing support for the handbrake cable from a diff cover bolt.
• A warning! Never mix modern OAT and traditional glycol-based anti-freeze.
• Door drain holes.
• 1977 and later, and an often missing support for the handbrake cable from a diff cover bolt.
• Dash fresh-air vents working loose or rattling.

October 2016

• Vee's engine and body progress.
• Bonnet and boot struts, including a , longer aftermarket strut to raise the bonnet higher.
• Stud replacement on a rubber bumper number plate light unit.
• Rear axle bump rubber pedestals.
• Undoing and tightening the oil cooler hose fittings - without damage!
• Rubber bumpers and cooling issues.
• Rubber bumper mountings.
• Information on Pedal boxes.
• It is no longer possible to have V8 wheels refurbished/restored to original spec, leaving a choice between Powder-coated rims or 15" all-alloy.

September 2016

• Vee goes for a major engine rebuild and body work.
• Seat runners, spacers and slats, coping with different thicknesses of each.
• An explanation of why early RB handbrake cables are significantly shorter than late CB cables.
• Detail on how a pair of Rostyle wheel nuts can be used to correctly position V8 wheels on their studs.

August 2016

• Modifying a radiator cap to monitor the cooling system pressure.
• Comments on dealing with oil leaks from the rear axle bearing cap to casing flange, and replacing the pinion oil seal.
• The perils of taking a short-cut with roadster screen glass replacement by buying a second-hand frame complete with glass.
• Replacement GT HRWs, and their different electrical connections.
• Some new detail on SU fuel pump diaphragm spacing.
• Clutch release arm gaiters, and the possibility of observing the release bearing.
• Testing the heated rear window.
• Where is my instrument voltage stabiliser?
• American anti-overflow fuel tanks.
• Adjustable and 'StayUp' carb floats.

July 2016

• Replacing the clutch in Bee, and the perils of roller bearing release bearings.
• In the current heat-wave I did some more engine compartment and coil temperature tests.
• Replacing handbrake lever boots.

June 2016

• Sticking front caliper on the ZS.
• Information on Distributor types and connections, including after-market as well as factory systems.
• Rear spring mounting differences between CB, RB and V8.
• Fusebox mounting arrangements.

May 2016

• Problems with replacement indicator flashers.
• More on Clutch release bearings.
• Alternative alternators, including higher output types.
• Modifying V8 cooling fans to cut out during cranking.
• Rear axle hex-socketed/Allen key drain and level plugs.
• Anti-roll bars - what factory bars were fitted when, and repair of a front drop link.

April 2016

• Additional information on fusebox connections.
• Vee goes Tax Free.
• V8 brake disc change - same problems as before but worse!

March 2016

• Things to watch out for when using an EeziBleed.
• Vehicle Tax exemption for 'Historic' vehicles has been made both automatic and rolling, from 1st April 2017 for vehicles manufactured before 1st January 1977.
• ZS 180 dipstick tube leak.
• ZS 180 engine oil level.

February 2016

• Clocks, factory and after-market.
• Alternator internals from an electrical point of view.

January 2016

• What should I set my timing to?
• Another fine DVLA mess - where the new road tax on a car you have just bought can be cancelled.
• More changes when changing the Taxation class to Historic.

December 2015

• Screen vents, and how they connect to the heater.
• Factory rear fog lights on 1980 models.
• Fuel gauge senders: One version was used for just a few months from October 64 to March 65 and is either unobtainable or costs £180 for a Jaguar version. The earlier Jaeger sender screw-attached sender fits the tank but reverses the operation of the gauge, but that can be corrected by the use of a commercially available electronic module, details here.

November 2015

• An update to changing the Taxation class to Historic (for free road tax) and the use of 'black and white' number plates. However there is conflicting information from the DVLA on whether all applications have to be done via Swansea, or only those where the first registration date is not in the same year as the date of manufacture, and whether insurance and MOT documents have to be sent or not.
• Detail on how the dashboard heat controls differ between chrome bumper and rubber bumper.

October 2015

• Detail on column-mounted wiper switches, and a warning on incorrect replacements for 1977 and later models.
• V8 fuel filter and mounting clip.
• More on LED stop/tail lights.
• Ignition system fault diagnosis.

September 2015

• More on why the front hood bow fouls the body when folding down.
• Fuel pump hose replacement.
• A brake fluid level monitor.

August 2015

• A radically improved boot light.
• Confusion piles on top of confusion with clutch master repair kits ...
• ... and the nightmare of changing it.
• Three different sizes of bolt around the timing cover - this is where they go.
• More roadster boot latch info.
• Indicator/turn switch and cancelling striker positioning.

July 2015

• Daddy or chips? Or when putting a car back on the road do you take it off SORN and then get an MOT? Or get an MOT and then take it off SORN? The question relates to getting picked up by Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) equipment.
• Fuel hose - what grade to fit?
• Engine side-cover gaskets and seals, and replacing them.
• Bosch cube-type plug-in relays: Be aware that there are two different terminal layouts, so if yours plug into sockets and you have need to replace them compare the old and new carefully. If you fit the wiring connectors directly onto the relay spades individually then you still need to check the terminal numbers, don't just swap them wire for wire.
• A bolt-on emergency boot lid release
• Do my wires have tubes?
• Roadster boot lid not releasing updated.
• Differences between the early (1962-64) and late (65-on) fuel gauge systems.

June 2015

• Diagnosing non-working hazard flashers.

May 2015

• How to tell if your instrument voltage stabiliser is working or not.
• Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).
• Another sneaky way the DVLA can make more money out of you when selling a car.
• If ever you need to scrap a car there a number of pitfalls unless you follow the right procedure.
• Brake system 'residual pressure' or 'non-return' valves - true or false?

April 2015

• Positioning the front bow on the Michelotti hood frame so that it doesn't foul the body when folding the hood.
• An improved method of fitting rear cylinder E-clips using circlip pliers.
• An update on engine oils and ZDDP.

March 2015

• Problems with retro-fitted LED stop and tail light units.
• Information on carb floats and valves.
• A drawing showing the relative positions of Salisbury and Banjo axle, and 3-synch and 4-synch gearbox flanges, and how that determines the relative lengths of the various prop-shafts.
• Another explanation, this time how a short-circuit diode as used in the brake-test circuits of 77 and later MGBs causes continual cranking.
• An explanation of the differences between V8 gearbox oil, and rear axle oil for 4-cylinder and V8 MGBs.

February 2015

• A 'low oil pressure' warning light.
• Part 2 of Automotive Electrics Basics including typical faults, symptoms, and diagnostic techniques.
• Problems with a fuel pump refurb, with new-stock spare parts not fitting old bodies very well.
• Now that tax discs no longer need to be displayed, how about displaying your car's first tax disc instead?
• More nonsense about ethanol - water absorption, phase separation, and brimming tanks over winter, and more confusion regarding fuel hoses.

January 2015

• By popular request - Automotive Electrics Basics.
• The gearbox - what lies inside.
• Some information on lever-arm damper valving.
• Current-stock fuel tank senders with the plastic construction and an additional terminal.
• All PDFs updated.

December 2014

• Seat recovering.
• Speedo repair.
• Heated Rear Window repair.
• Steering Lock replacement.
• Instrument Voltage Stabiliser types.
• Wiper parking systems.

November 2014

• GT C-post Liner Replacement.
• Rear hubs, bearings and oil seals cross-sectional sketches added.
• Two boot/hatch striker problems: a deformed striker that the latch would not engage with and modifying the striker to cope with the currently available seals.
• The number of different ways to reassemble the gearbox crossmember has just doubled to 32, as the rubber mounts are now 'handed'.
• Twin-carb air cleaners.

October 2014

• Have you got an alternator plug clip? My three didn't have, and neither did the original alts of three pals, but I have located some.
• Converting between 4-wire, 3-wire and 2-wire alternators.
• Correct installation of handbrake levers (the ones inside the brake drums). Note the Workshop Manual, Parts Catalogue, and various supplier web site drawings are incorrect for the banjo axle.
• Twin 6v battery replacement on Bee.

September 2014

• Now available to purchase - brake light relay to prevent frequent failure of replacement brake light switches.
• Investigation of rear axle alignment in the rear arches.
• MGB block and head casting numbers.
• Info on the two types of load-space cover board in GTs.

August 2014

• More info on selling and more importantly buying a used car from 1st October, when paper tax discs cease and cannot be transferred from seller to purchaser.
• Brake light switch mounting positions.
• A survey of American MGB owners asking for their experiences of E10 ethanol.
• A non-functioning coil-boost contact on the V8 starter is investigated and fixed.

July 2014

• It's possible that Mk1 cars have different radiator caps to Mk2 and later cars, in the distance between the upper and lower seals, and not just the pressure. Also my new radiator cap is proving extremely stiff to turn, and has an extra sealing ring in the upper part.
• A box-spanner for SU HS carb jet nuts, making adjustment with the air filters in place easy.
• Yet another bottom hose failure on Vee.
• Determining the correct battery polarity for a Mk1 car that comes to you as a non-runner.
• Bee's head gasket is changed.

June 2014

• Refurbishing an SU fuel pump.
• Another update on ethanol in UK fuel.
• Bee's thermostat replacement proved not to solve the problem of wild temperature gauge oscillation and coolant loss just as the thermostat opens, and neither did a water pump change. A combustion leak check shows CO in the radiator, and a compression check shows 3 is low, so it's time for 'off with its head'.
• Adjusting the SU pump diaphragm and points - clarifying confusing information in the Workshop Manual and an error in Haynes.

May 2014

• After replacing Bee's thermostat some observations on hose orientation and refilling with coolant.
• ZS key fob battery change.
• Thermostat replacement.

April 2014

• A semi-opaque coating on the headlights of the ZS is getting worse.
• Information on the banjo hub nut and the special spanner/socket required to remove and refit it.

March 2014

• What an enlightened Chancellor, rolling tax exemption reinstated at 40 years!.
• A long-standing and growing problem with getting new oil filters to seal on Bee is resolved.
• More than you ever wanted to know about tonneau covers.
• Some comments on roadster screen assemblies.
• Information on an overdrive problem not mentioned in the manuals - overdrive pulsing when disengaged.

February 2014

• Detail of the relationship between roadster screen body and foot seals.
• Roadster and GT boot and hatch seals.
• Updated the section on jump-starting by adding a section on a small, easily portable, but high capacity jump pack from British Motor Heritage.

January 2014

• A possible protection against your battery cable shorting to the body and destroying the car, by fitting a fused battery connector.
• Information on bad electrical connections has been expanded, and diagnosing them and the use of multi-meters and test-lamps has been added to the Electrical section at Fault Diagnosis.
• An explanation of inrush currents, and how they damage switches - particularly modern brake-light switches, and also cause the visibly longer illumination time of incandescent lights compared to LED lights.
• All PDFs updated.
• A history lesson on the whys and wherefores of positive and negative earth systems in cars.
• Check your nuts! A warning for those contemplating or having recently bought stainless wheel nuts.

December 2013

• Two relatively new programmable ignition modules.
• Another update on ethanol in UK fuel. 95 octane can change to E10 without the pump being labelled from the end of this year. There is a government proposal repeat proposal, to make it a legal requirement for Super Unleaded to be restricted to E5 until the end of 2016.

November 2013

• Won't switch off!!
• SU carb damper cap breather holes.

October 2013

• Testing a tachometer.
• Replacement batteries updated.
• Replacement body and engine identification plates.
• Detailed fault diagnosis of slow or non-flashing indicators due to bad connections.

September 2013

• Even more brakes, this time Vee's rear cylinders.
• Yet more brakes, this time replacement of the rear discs and pads on the ZS.
• Considerations when mounting horns.
• A suggestion of what columns and wheels were provided when.

August 2013

• An explanation of the two-stage pre-engaged starter solenoid system.
• Fitting GT rear seat-belts.
• Turning Vee's pistons round the right way.
• Adding hazard flashers updated.
• Changing the gearbox rear seal.

July 2013

• Pressure-testing the radiator cap.
• Some observations on seat removal.
• Yet another brake light switch change on Bee.
• To go with the current warm weather, some observations on coolant and engine compartment temperatures, and coil temperatures.
• Replacement of discs and pads on the ZS.
• As an extension to uprating the instrument lights, lighting the dashboard on pre-77 cars.
• Mods to Wooly.

June 2013

• Completion of the Quarter-light repair and restoration.
• Overdrive replacement.
• Ever wondered how the clutch works? Have a look here.

May 2013

• After tinkering off and on over several years I have finally managed to get improved instrument lights.

April 2013

• How it works: The dynamo control-box.
• What AP Lockheed thinks of silicone-based brake fluids.
• The Transmission Controlled Spark Advance (TCSA) solenoid.
• The EGR valve service indicator.

March 2013

• Quarter-light repair and restoration.
• Fuseboxes updated.
• Sourcing the alternator mounting bracket for a dynamo to alternator conversion.
• Free Road tax advanced by a year!
• SU carb piston balls, damper retaining clips, and additional info on carb damper oil level.
• Alternator brush replacement.
• Some 25D4 (and all 45D4) distributors had a O-ring, other 25D4s didn't.
• A warning on red distributor rotors from some sources.
• A giant leap forwards in improving instrument illumination.

February 2013

• Dating the block from its casting code.
• The rear axle breather.
• There are vanes on the back of the heater cold-air flap, to direct air-flow into the footwells.
• A note on the mechanical oil gauge, and what lies inside a typical mechanical oil/temperature/vacuum gauge.
• Installation and use of a vacuum gauge.

January 2013

• Added a link to Marc Feig's early MGB site.
• Some notes on whether the ignition warning light has a resistor in parallel or not, as shown in some schematics in the Workshop Manual.
• The 'submissive monkey' stance of Mark Bates car with new springs is due at least in part to the springs being way too arched.
• Some causes of hot coils, and how to detect them.

November 2012

• Replacing the badly faded bonnet badge on the ZS.
• After making some changes for Chris Mottram I've rewritten my dynamo to alternator conversion notes.
• For a long time I've wondered whether it would be possible to build a test rig for the thermal instrument voltage stabiliser, to measure it's actual average voltage output. Then someone said his gauges were reading low, and the same with a replacement stabiliser, and wondered what he could do about it. Which prodded me into producing this.
• Another little job, replacing the ratty tailgate prop covers on Vee.
• Vee's clutch slave is weeping, so time for another replacement.
• Fed up with (not of!) being unable to easily find the emissions limits on the MOT web sites, I added them to mine.

October 2012

• Herb Adler and an alternative heater tap.
• An update and a reminder of a likely increase in ethanol in UK fuels next year.
• Some additional info on speedo cable routing.

September 2012

• And hot on its heels another Herb saga - a fuel pump union leak.
• Bee and Vee go up in the world.
• Another episode from Herb Adler, this time - making the lights on the Wolseley more visible.

August 2012

Crikey, doesn't time fly!

• Two more episodes from Herb Adler - problems with the Wolseley heater fan, and a broken rear spring on the B.

May 2012

• A warning on different Rostyle wheel offsets, which can affect tyre to rear arch clearance..
• A progress report from Mike Grundy on the rear axle rebound strap situation.
• A warning on current-stock roadster screen frame packing pieces and shims, and installation requirements.
• A couple of pictures from Dave O'Neil showing the attachment of "Tom's Knob", and the air direction cable going into the heater unit, on early cars.
• UK MOT emissions limits.

April 2012

• The circuit and description of the RVI tach from Herb Adler.
• More sagas from Herb Adler.
• The rear exhaust mount.
• Electronic ignition and tach problems.
• A simple way of connecting a pre-engaged starter to a car that originally had an inertia starter.

March 2012

• Additional MOT tests have been advisory from 1st Jan 2012, but will be failures from 1st April. Not all the new ones are applicable to classic MGs.

February 2012

• Mid-Feb moved house - less bedrooms, more garaging (room for both MGBs, work bench and work space plus loads of racking), plus an octagonal paved area in the back garden and the second part of the Postcode contains my initials :o)
• Updated information about wiper motor speeds, parking and switches.

January 2012

• Bayford still seem to be supplying 4-star leaded, but to a very much reduced number of locations.
• Book and Gift Shops updated for MG, Bugatti, Formula One and Dunkirk.
• Info on an oil with double the levels of ZDDP of most others, and two ZDDP additives available in the UK, in Engine Oils and ZDDP (scroll down to the January 2012 marker).
• PDFs updated.
• More info on currently-available clutch master types, particularly the V8 item.

December 2011

• SU carb damper oil-level.
• Jump starting updated, and a piece of advice very definitely to be avoided.
• The sectioned MGB at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon.
• Steve Leech's experience of not being able to open the boot lid, and how he resolved it.

November 2011

• Replicating the 'coil-boost' function when replacing rubber bumper (and all V8) starter motors with aftermarket units that don't have the coil-boost contact on the solenoid.
• A brief note on Commission Numbers.
• After converting his chrome-bumper car from twin 6v batteries to a single 12v Peter Mayo decided to move the fuel pump to a more convenient location.

October 2011

• More info on stud-mount and centre-lock axle lengths.
• Spark plug wires info.
• A range of general Spark plug info added.
• Spark plug thread repair in the V8.
• Courtesy light switches, problems, fixes, and prevention of problems.

September 2011

• Important information on a Government proposal to increase ethanol in fuel to 10% (from 5% for petrol) before labelling is required, E5 (which probably most of us are using) then being harder to find.
• Yet another cautionary tale, this time regarding how dual hydraulic pipes are connected to the master and incorrect information on some web sites.
• Yet another option for LED instrument bulbs.
• And another cautionary tale concerning spark plugs in V8 (aluminium) heads.
• A cautionary tale concerning the use of API SL oils especially in newly rebuilt engines.

August 2011

• A couple of images from the Gaydon 'divorce' MGB of the gearbox and rear axle.
• Another update from Herb Adler particularly interesting may be the LED instrument lighting.
• Refurbing the correct steering wheel for Vee, to replace the PO-fitted Moto-Lita.
• An explanation as to why front wheel bearing end-float is necessary.

July 2011

• More trials and tribulations in getting the correct size tyres for Bee.
• Some info on prop-shaft UJ angles.
• An update from Herb Adler on installing front wheel-arch liners.
• An update on ethanol fuels and an additive that may protect against its effects.
• Headlamp aim/adjustment, including the dreaded trim-ring removal.
• A couple of tips from Herb Adler on solving tach problems when using electronic ignition with the earlier RVI current-pulse triggered tachs, and modifying RVI tachs for 6-cylinder engines.

June 2011

• ... and take the opportunity to have a look at what's inside the old switch.
• ... but I have to replace the switch anyway just a couple of days later...
• Bee's brake light switch goes high-resistance and won't light the lamps just before a run, so I fit a relay...
• Testing condensers.
• Fusebox problems.
• Problems removing the rear axle level plug, and various alternatives.

May 2011

• Door pulls - a more comfortable option?
• Passenger foot brace.
• More investigations into the heater valve, as Bee blows another.

(Late) April 2011

   Where have I been? Helping daughter and son-in-law with a major refurb on a house.

• Another episode from Herb Adler - installing rear bump-stops.

February 2011

• A number of updates to engine oil filters.
• Adjusting dwell on the bench, for example after fitting new points.
• An update to LED gauge illumination.

January 2011

• A warning about the heater air-box drain tube.
• Are tyre valves the cause of the gradual pressure loss I have always had with tubes in wire wheels?
• Superb tip for fitting rear bump rubbers.
• How do you like your eggs I mean coil, up or down?
• Removal, repair, and refitting of the later steering column.
• Updated and amended engine mounts including retrofitting the restraint bracket.
• A detailed account of replacing the gearbox mounts by Michael Beswick.
• Some snippets on ZS180 wheels and tyres.
• Three more episodes from Herb Adler - curing running-on, fitting an arm-rest/cubby, and using a Colortune.
• Additional info on heater fan motors.
• The puzzling subject of valve timing.

December 2010

• All PDFs updated, plus one on buying and others experiences of restoration and running added.

November 2010

• Some info on harness routing behind the dash.
• A little information on replacement keys.
• A couple of additional options on adding an anti-runon valve using a cheap OE valve from a scrapyard (any model, not just MGB).
• Five more episodes in the experiences of Herb Adler - replacement instrument voltage stabiliser, stiff door latches, electric door lock actuation, and alternative gearbox and seats.

October 2010

• Bonnet seals and buffers.
• A tip on roadster screen removal if any of the bolts are seized or sheared.
• I couldn't publish the accounts below without also having one of the amazing story of Terry and his rebuild, I've been nagging him to write one, unsuccessfully, so write one myself (which does have Terry's approval).
• Tempted to buy an MGB? Have a look at some of the trials and tribulations of MG ownership as experienced by Herb Adler, David Bolton and Michael Beswick.
• Adding hazard flashers to early cars.
• Information on incorrect exploded diagrams from various sources of electric cooling fans and front suspension upper trunnions.
• Had to change Vee's track-rod ends as well, which needed a bit more aggressive treatment with an angle grinder to get one of the old ones off.

September 2010

• A crankcase breather oil catch tank.
• Front Bump/rebound Rubbers.
• Some information on different dipsticks, tubes and sumps used over the years and their effect on oil capacity.
• Checking and adjusting king-pin end-float.
• Comparative temperatures at various points in the cooling system.
• British Standard wiring colours - BS-AU7.
• Preparing for the UK MOT.
• More detailed information on diagnosing overdrive problems.
• Fan belt sizes.
• Finding the gearbox dipstick.

August 2010

• Track-rod ends and tracking adjustment.
• Changing the steering column universal joint, and its under-sized grease nipple.
• Fuel Pump Schematics.
• Information on equivalents to the Unipart GFE121 and GFE422 oil filters.
• Stiff door latches.
• Removing the emissions plumbing.
• Possibly an easier solution to running-on than my original.
• Notes on incorrect fuel tank filler tubes significantly reducing capacity and sealing tanks.

July 2010

• Added a note on compression testing.
• Yet another rear spring change, this time on a pal's RB GT, and unlike on either of my cars the front eye bolts were seized in the spacer tubes and had to be cut out.

June 2010

• Changed the site structure to remove frames, which seem to have gone out of favour, having noticed that Chrome (for example) handles them in a completely different way to IE8. This should enable users to save individual pages to Favourites as well as me being able to publish links direct to chapters here and elsewhere. I've also added floating navigation buttons to the main section pages.

May 2010

• Coil polarity and how to determine it, of particular interest when converting a car from positive earth to negative earth, see Ignition.
• Information on chassis number plates, see Body.
• Clutch pedal return spring breakage, see Clutch.

April 2010

• Fed up with (not 'of') grovelling behind the seat to find the belt? See Body.
• More dodgy rotors, and now failure of a new cap from loss of its carbon contact.
• Downloadable PDFs of these technical pages.
• Using the North American seat-belt and 'key in' warning buzzer as a 'lights-on' warning, see Lighting.

March 2010

• Decoding tyre-wall information, see Wheels and Tyres.
• Tonneau cover heelboard stud positioning, see Body.
• Late model door-mounted speaker cable routing, see Body.
• How corroded alternator bolts caused low voltage, see Electrics.
• Speedo cables and right-angle drives, see Miscellaneous.
• The Mk2 windstop makes an appearance.
• Another caliper and disc change (this time for a pal) and a couple of new tips, see Brakes.

February 2010

"Wot, no updates?"

Too busy touring Australia :o)

January 2010

• Wheel Specifications at Wheels and Tyres.
• A number of options for mounting centre-lock wheels correctly on computer balancing machines, see Wheels and Tyres.
• A tool for removing centre-lock grease caps in front hubs, see Steering and Suspension.
• A note on one-wire alternators, see Electrics.
• Information on clutch master types, and a warning on one of them, see Clutch.
• 7-blade plastic fan orientation, see Cooling.
• Details of how hardtops attach - Body.
• Current SU Burlen fuel pumps seem to be dual polarity despite the 'AZX' part numbers, see Fuel.
• Dunlop or Dayton wire wheels? See Wheels and Tyres.
• Oil throwers face different ways on different engines, see Engine.

December 2009

• Adjusting the fan belt at Cooling.
• Info on SU fuel pump venting at Fuel.
• Some thoughts on coil polarity at Ignition.
• Information on curing excessive oil consumption through the breather using a different type of front tappet chest cover at Engine.
• Information on testing and diagnosis of fuel pump problems at Fuel.
• A dissertation on body numbers at Body.
• More information on aligning prop-shaft components at Propshaft.

November 2009

• Some information on handbrake cable lengths at Brakes.
• Lubricating door locks.
• Removal of and problems with wind-down windows.
• Emergency boot lid release.
• Sealed wiring junctions in harnesses.
• Hydraulic damper fluid and levels.
• With E5, E10 and E85 ethanol fuels becoming more widely available some comments on compatibility and problems at Fuel.
• Setting mechanical brake light switches, and just how little tolerance exists.
• Description and diagnosis of Brakes and Clutch master cylinders.

October 2009

• Connection of the HRW wiring to the hatch and the glass.
• Oil filter styles over the years, anti drain-back issues, and the perils of using particularly low-profile cartridges.
• The perils of silicone fluid in brake systems.
• Details of what water pumps and mechanical cooling fans were fitted when, and the various incompatibilities.
• Axle rebound straps.
• Replacement of rear dampers.
• Identifying condenser failure.
• Minor updates and corrections to information about horn pushes.
• GT headlining.
• A way of tweaking the hinges to get some of the door adjustments correct.

September 2009

• How bleeding the clutch 'cured' what looked like a release bearing problem.
• Mounted a drinks bottle holder for the Navigator.
• Cambelt change on the ZS.

August 2009

• Information on fuel tanks.
• Having a radio and keeping it, or how to conceal the fact one is installed.
• Added ZDDP info for Halfords oils.
• Information on rear dampers used over the years and their Armstrong part numbers along with putting together the right combination of drop-links, rebound straps and bump-rubber pedestals.

July 2009

• Information on what bulbs were used where.
• Just what is that kink in the heater coolant return pipe for?.
• Protect your arm-rest cubby lid latch from breaking.
• Fitted a push-off spring to the heater water tap to stop it jamming closed when it had been turned fully off.
• More information added on conditioning chargers which can be left connected for extended periods of time.
• I need a battery cut-off system for the ZS as the alarm is putting a constant drain on the battery and shortening its life, just like the V8 was when that stopped being used every day.
• Highly recommended after-market fitting kit for door key locks.
• Finally managed to resolve a long-standing wheel wobble problem on Vee.

June 2009

• More information found and added on zinc and phosphorus (ZDDP) levels in engine oils.
• Information added on fuel pump types, i.e. points with capacitor and diode protection, and electronic pumps.
• Information on switches and repeater lamps for the heated rear window.

May 2009

• Replacing calipers and discs.
• Updated information on alternator terminal arrangements.

April 2009

• Replaced the link cable with the correct armoured type, see Electrics.
• How to get UK MOT status and history of a vehicle you are considering purchasing, see Registrations.
• Following a question on a mailing list about the correct orientation of the yokes on the prop-shaft (Haynes has two drawings showing them in different alignments but only one is correct) I decided to repeat the information shown in the factory workshop manual, which is much clearer, see Propshaft. However while doing so I realised that while both sources emphasise the prop-shaft must be refitted to the gearbox and axle flanges as before which is good practice but not really necessary if the prop-shaft is correctly balanced, neither states the importance of keeping all four yokes in correct alignment, which will affect balance. This is also covered.
• Information on earthing of chrome bumper number plate lights has been added, see Electrics.
• Seat belt information updated, see Body.
• Added some information on hoses, see Cooling.

March 2009

• After wondering what condition Vee's bearings and crank are like after about 80k in my ownership and 200k overall I finally gear myself up to investigate them, see Engine.
• The section on relays has been expanded, more info on original rectangular and cylindrical types as well as after-market types, see Electrics.
• Coming up to Spring service time, and having read so much confusing information on engine oils and ZDDP, I decide to investigate.

February 2009

• The trials and tribulations of the ZS Variable Intake System. Oil from the crankcase breather can get into the unit, cause the butterflies to jam, which breaks the linkages and burns out the motors. Although my VIS system appears to be working I do have some oil in the throttle body, so first step is to fit an oil trap/filter to prevent that, see ZS Bits.
• Added information on the various water pump types over the years, see Cooling.

January 2009

• I've added some photos and further description about the heater unit and its controls, see Heater.
• Another 'ins and outs' funnily enough, this time the direction of oil flow through the V8 oil pump, see Engine.
• The 'ins and outs' of the clutch slave cylinder, see Clutch.
• Added some information on relative capacities of 6v and 12v batteries, and 12v batteries for use in a 6v space. See Electrics and 'Batteries and Charging' and scroll down to the update.

December 2008

• Found a photo in Clausager that clearly shows the heater 'cold air flap' having three open positions as both mine do, and not just two as everyone else seems to claim - Heater.
• I've created a list of translations of many BL fastener parts from part numbers to description at Translate Fastener Part Numbers.
• Fuel gauge and sender types over the years and markets has been added to Fuel Gauges.
• A description of battery types - lead-acid, calcium, gel and advanced glass mat - and some of the benefits and pitfalls of each has been added to Electrics.
• Slow cranking? Diagnose a bad engine earth strap from the drivers seat - see Electrics.
• Information on replacing the automatic gearbox kickdown cable at Gearbox.

November 2008

• Information on the electric temperature and oil pressure gauges at Electrics.
• Some advice on where to install an aerial in the front wing at Body.

October 2008

• An examination of wiper system part number changes and which side parking took place at Electrics.
• Further information on spring rates and deflections has been added to Suspension.
• An update on the arrangements for connecting the centre horn-push of 1970 and earlier cars has been added to Electrics.
• Information has come to light regarding a change in date coding of Triplex glass in January 1969, see Miscellaneous.
• Information on fuel pump fittings and mounting arrangements for both chrome and rubber bumper cars has been added to Fuel.
• Information on electric cooling fan orientation and direction of rotation has been added to Cooling.

September 2008

• Some thoughts on pinking and the possible differences between high compression on its audibility and damaging effects has been added to Ignition.
• Information on the V8 distributor has been added to Ignition.
• Information on radiator caps, and a lost-coolant recovery system has been added to Cooling.
• More information on the correct orientation of the handbrake levers inside the drums has been added to Brakes. In brief, it looks like those on banjo axles are the other way round/up to those on Salisbury/tube axles, but the manuals and some web sites only show the banjo orientation. If Salisbury/tube axle levers are orientated as per the banjo levers it causes problems with handbrake operation.
• Replacement of the wiper motor brushes, and a consequential problem. See Electrics.

August 2008

• A description of the physical operation of the indicator/turn switch has been added to Electrics.
• A comparison of distributor rotors, and an explanation of why some currently available items have a short life and how to spot and hence avoid them. See Ignition.

July 2008

• Is your folded hood/top too high to get the tonneau sticks and/or tonneau/hood cover fastened? If so have a look at Body.
• I've added some information on steering column and rack alignment to Steering & Suspension.
• Information on orientation of the handbrake levers inside the rear drums and potential problems with replacement levers has been added to Brakes.
• Pictures of the effect of a later roadster screen glass in an earlier have been added to Body and Fittings.

June 2008

• The perils of getting air filter gaskets and/or filter bases upside down, Fuel.
• How cleaning up caliper pistons changed strongly pulling to one side under only normal braking and an MOT failure, to only very slightly pulling under heavy braking and an MOT pass with the expenditure of only a couple of hours effort, Brakes.
• Added description and pictures of UK 78 (HIF) carb return springs to Fuel.
• Changed the clutch on a friends 78, read the full gory story in Clutch and 'Clutch Change'.
• Following a question on just how the curious 4-cylinder chrome bumper choke works (it has a fixed inner and a moving outer), I've added a section to Fuel and 'Choke Control' on the carb end of this type.
• Information on SU carb ports added following someone's problems of overflow and the possibility it was reverse connection of fuel supply and vent ports, easily confused on HIF types, see Fuel.

May 2008

• Information on relay types used in the MGB over the years, and replacing them with modern items, see Electrics.
• Replacing broken wire-wheel spokes, see Wheels.
• Information on replacing an original inertia starter on Mk1 positive earth/ground cars with a modern geared or hi-torque unit has been added, see Electrics.
• Information on the internals of the wheel-centre horn push added, see Electrics.

April 2008

• Information on the various crankcase ventilation systems has been added to Engines
• An observation on tyre pressures has been added to Wheels and Tyres.
• Hard on the heels of reports on the BBS of problems with clutch release bearings a fellow owner had one fail. The problem bearings seem to have the carbon ring pinned into the casting, instead of being bonded as previously. More information at Clutch.
• More information on throttle cable fitting and pedal travel setting has been added to Fuel.
• Information on changing the oils in the rear axle and gearbox/overdrive, see Rear Axle or Gearbox.

March 2008

• Fitting a battery cut-off switch, see Electrics.
• A greatly expanded Events section now containing over 1200 MG and other classic events world-wide.
• More information on speedo drive gear ratios added to Miscellaneous.

February 2008

• Location of gearbox overdrive and reverse light switches, see Gearbox and Overdrive, or Reversing Lights.

• Vacuum advance module internals, see Ignition.
• Thermostats and coolant temperature - see Cooling.
• Some comments on lowering rubber bumper cars added to Steering and Suspension.
• Opinion has it that originally overdrive wasn't a very popular option on MGBs in North America. To see just how big the difference was between North America and the rest of the world see Gearbox.
• Following a discussion with another owner on rust protection and drainage, I have added a section on the sills, see Body.
• Added a section on distributor internals, see Ignition.

November 2007

• More information on the boot/hatch lock and getting in when it fails or you lose the key.

October 2007

• Converting 16AC Alternator with Separate Regulator to Later Alternator with Integral Regulator. See Electrics.
• A physical diagram of the D-type relay and vacuum switch interconnections to the remainder of the circuit has been added to the page with the schematic, see here.
• Details on correct orientation of the 4-fuse fusebox, see 'Electrics'.
• The fitting of a 6-blade metal fan to a UK 72 car, in preference to an additional electric fan, for continental touring. See Cooling.

September 2007

• Information about prop-shaft dimensions added. See Propshaft.
• Steering wheels, cancelling the indicators/turn signals, and what to do with after-market wheels on 77model year and later cars. See Steering and Suspension.
• Updated the section on replacing front springs. See Steering and Suspension.
• Temperature gauges - how the earlier numerically calibrated compare with the later 'C-N-H' type, and how the senders for the electrical types vary resistance with temperature. See Cooling.
• Rocker covers, and oil leaks from them.
• Fuel filters: Should they be full of fuel? See Fuel.
• Schematic and amended description for converting from Dynamo to Alternator, see Electrics.

August 2007

• Fitted a cut-down mud-flap to each front wheel arch to prevent stoned being flicked up and chipping the edges of the body kit. See ZS Bits.
• Some ponderings on mechanical cooling fans their closeness (or otherwise) to the engine and radiator. Mine seems the wrong way round but the correct way round would be likely to hit engine parts and be a long way from the radiator. See Cooling. Also sealing round the radiator with the rubber and foam seals.
• Changed the V8 rear springs following the breakage on the Snowdon Run. Half-expected to get the same problems that so many others seem to report with new springs being too arched/hard, but no. See Steering and Suspension.
• Pictures and description added for the later two-speed wiper motor connector block and park switch. See Electrics.

4th July 2007

• After lusting after a ZS 180 since their launch in 2001, a late 2004 face-lift 4-door in blue comes to the attention of a relative in the trade and becomes mine today. This one really does have my name on it, the three last letters of the registration are my initials - albeit in reverse order.

July 2007

• Head gasket replacement on a Midget 1500, see Midget Bits

June 2007

• My Supercar driving experience in a Lamborghini Gallardo, Jaguar XK 4.2, Aston Martin DB9, Porsche 997 Carrera, and Ferrari 550 Maranello!

May 2007

• After 17 years with Bee and 14 of Vee having no problem removing the rear axle level plugs, this year I could not remove Vee's, so made an adapter for my socket set. See 'Rear Axle'.
• "How the heck do I get to that aerial mounted in the front wing?", see 'Body'.
• The trials and tribulation of the V8 tubular manifolds and gaskets, see 'Engine'.

April 2007

• Description and schematics of the four types of seat-belt warning systems at 'Electrics'.
• Description and schematics of the four types of brake balance and handbrake warning circuits at 'Brakes'.

January 2007

• A list of tach reference numbers by year, chassis number and market at 'Electrics'.
• Greatly expanded and updated listing of Amazon products. Includes new pages for T-series and earlier, Magnettes, Metro, Maestro, and Montego, ZR, ZS, and ZT, general MG items, and new sections for audio/visual, toys and miscellaneous items including parts. See 'Bookcase'.
• Ditto for Bugatti and F1 and Le Mans.
• Puzzled by terminal numbering on modern relays, flasher units etc? See 'Electrics'.

December 2006

• Updated the section on SU carb linkages to include information on return springs. See 'Fuel'.
• A description and images of the manual choke control and 'failure to lock' problems. See 'Fuel'.
• Scans of original paint charts.
• For a description and images of the back of the two different types of current-operated tachometers see 'Electrics'.
• A brief explanation of octane ratings and how they differ from country to country has been added to 'Fuel'.
• An explanation of a typical column mounted dip-switch has been added to 'Electrics'.
• A description of the different distributor drive gears on the V8, and driving the oil pump from a drill to build up oil pressure after engine work. See 'Ignition'.

November 2006

• Pictures and an expanded description of the fuel gauge tank sender added to 'Fuel'.
• Photos of the internals of a fuel gauge showing how the calibration adjustments affect the pointer added to 'Electrics'.
• Comparison of LED and incandescent instrument lighting added to 'Electrics'.
• Description and images of the panel light rheostat added to 'Electrics'.
• Torque values for the factory V8 and other Rover v8 engines added to 'Miscellaneous'.

October 2006

• More information on OD and TCSA wiring and the mysterious TCSA micro-switch. See 'Overdrive Electrics'.

September 2006

• A comparison on carb and manifold vacuum sources, showing that any distributor can be used with either. See 'Ignition'.

May 2006

• Created a section on the starter motor including narrative on model variations, mechanical problems, modern geared starters, and including the previously published schematics and narrative on jump-starting.

April 2006

• A very simple way of supporting the GT spare wheel cover while getting tools and stuff in and out of the storage spaces underneath. See Body.
• Going back from telescopic Spax to lever-arms. See Steering & Suspension.

March 2006

• Anyone tried Tesco 99 octane with 5% Bio Ethanol yet? See Fuel.
• Schematics for single- and dual-speed heater fans added at 'Electrics' under 'Schematics' and 'Heater Fan'.

February 2006

• Make your own rear brake cylinder E-clip fitting tool, see 'Brakes'.

January 2006

• Having responded to a question on a bulletin board and a personal email about lubrication of leaf springs I've added a section to 'Steering and Suspension'.
• Ditto on adjusting wing and door mirrors, see 'Body'.

December 2005

• Having responded to a question on the mailing list about how the SU carb works I've added a description and some simplified diagrams to the section on setting them up. See 'Fuel'.

November 2005

• Now it's winter and I have time to do one of those 'when I can get a round tuit' jobs I have changed the distributor curve graphs so that those for the 4-cylinder engine are now all to the same horizontal and vertical scales, and the thumbnails on the main page are miniatures of the main graph. This allows you to see at a glance from the main page how two curves compare. See 'Ignition'.

September 2005

• Looks like there may be fourth variation of wiper motor and electrics on early GTs, info added to 'Electrics'.

July 2005

• Added some pictures to the section of folding the roadster hood/top at 'Body'.

June 2005

• Replacing accelerator cable, pedal box seals in 'Fuel System'.

May 2005

• Replacing seat webbing, see 'Body'.

April 2005

• Added a section on converting from dynamo to alternator in 'Electrics'.

December 2004

• There have occasionally been questions about how ignition switches are wired, especially when changing them and the original connections have been lost, so I have created a set of these at 'Electrics'.
• I have also shown how to add a brake light switch relay as there seem to be a lot of examples of premature failure of replacement switches. See 'Brakes'.

October 2004

• Following recent additional information on the wiring of electric cooling fans for both 4-cylinder cars and V8s I have updated the schematics and notes in 'Electrics' under 'Schematics' and 'Electric Cooling Fans'.
• Also added information on how to add a relay to the 4-cylinder circuit in 'Electrics' under 'Schematics' and 'Electric Cooling Fans'.

September 2004

• Had the roadster screen crack on the Lincolnshire Lanes run last month, and the fun of getting it replaced can be seen on the 'Body' page under 'Roadster Screen'.
• As the problem of water getting into the cabin from a blocked air intake drain crops up quite frequently, and we are approaching autumn, I've added some images of how to locate and clear the drain on the 'Heater' page under 'Air Box'.

12th August 2004

• Not spent much time here lately, just bits and pieces, but I have added more classic car hire sites and a new section for children's pedal and electric cars on the 'MG Links' page, near the bottom.

19th March 2004

• A comment on whether to use resistor-type spark plugs or not has been added to the 'Ignition System'.

23rd February 2004

• Speedo serial numbers and applications on the now show TPMs as supplied by a company specialising in the restoration of original instruments and the production of bespoke instruments.

11th February 2004

• Removing tree-sap from paintwork and cleaning rubber bumpers on the 'Body' page.
• Replacing a front damper in 'Steering and Suspension'.

7th January 2004

• Speedo serial numbers and applications on the gauges page.
• The new UK Car Tax and SORN (Statuary Off-Road Notice) rules on the Registrations page.

15th December 2003

• The good news and bad news of my experiences with the Ron Hopkinson front and rear anti-roll bars at Steering and Suspension.

• Faulting the electronic tachometer at Electrics.

1st December 2003

• A major new section on the heater and its foibles at Heater.
• Tightening and slackening exhaust clamps can be a bit of a chore having to get two spanners in there, one to undo the nut and the other to hold the bolt still. The special bolts described in Engine allow one-handed tightening.

21st November 2003

• Handbrake cables stretch over time and this is compensated for by the adjuster nut where the cable joins the handbrake lever. But eventually you can run out of adjustment and it is a pity to scrap the cable if it is otherwise sound. A shortener is described in Brakes.

6th November 2003

• After having two V8 vacuum capsules fail because of petrol contamination, and replacing them at great expense, I fabricated a separation chamber in an attempt to stop fuel running down the pipe from the carb. See 'V8 Vacuum Capsule' in Ignition.

17th October 2003

• "So you think you want a V8?" has been added to Buying an MGB.
• Washing and polishing tips have been added to Body and Fittings.

29th September 2003

• Replacing front and rear wing quarter-panels aka sill cover panels in Body and Fittings.
• Refurbishing V8 alloy wheels in Wheels.

26th August 2003

• The placement and securing of two curious bits of carpet for the boot/hatch area has been added to the Body and Fittings page.

4th August 2003

• A Forthcoming Events page has been added to the main menu.

30th July 2003

• Fabricating and fitting longer shackles for the rear springs, and more information on correct (and incorrect) ride height, has been added to the 'Steering and Suspension' page under 'Ride Height'.

1st July 2003

• Differences between D and LH overdrives including a schematic and description of the D-type vacuum switch and relay have been added to the 'Gearbox' page, and schematics of all types have been added to the 'Electrics' page under 'Schematics'.

27th June 2003

• Differences between early and later fuel gauges have been added to the 'Electrics' page under 'Gauges'.
• A description of the brake test diode and the problems it causes has been added to the 'Electrics' page under 'Wont Start'.
• Electrical diagnosis of the overdrive has been added to the 'Gearbox' page.
• Some additions to the torque values on the 'Miscellaneous' page.

21st May 2003

• A description and link to a schematic of the electric screen washer on the 'Electrics' page.

18th May 2003

• The Mark II version of the overdrive sequencer on the 'Gearbox' page.
• Relays and fuses for uprated headlamps under 'Lighting' on the 'Electrics' page.
• Torque values on the 'Miscellaneous' page.

9th May 2003

• Gold Seal engine equivalents added to the 'Engine' page.

7th May 2003

• Following an email from someone considering purchasing an MGB and asking my advice I have put their questions and my responses here.

28th April 2003

• The V8 gets a top-end rebuild, see the 'Engine' page.
• Year and model information added to the Paint Colours section on the 'Body' page.

14th February 2003

• An opinion on whether to stick with twin-6v batteries in your chrome bumper or change to a single 12v and the use of plastic battery boxes, and how to connect a battery charger.
• Advice on jump-starting.
• A louder audible warning for the indicators.

17th January 2003

• Added detailed tables of wiring changes over the years. See 'Wiring Colours and Fuses' on the 'Electrics' page.

4th January 2003

• Adding a relay to the Heated Rear window, which simultaneously improves its performance as well as stopping it from making the indicators flash slower. See 'Heated Rear Window' on the 'Electrics' page.
• More links added to the Miscellaneous page on: the UK MOT; servo overhaul; tach repair and upgrade; distributor reference and tuning, look for the flash.

1st January 2003

• As a result of a faulty distributor cap on the V8 I got some unusual indications on a timing light, see 'Timing Lights' on Ignition.

31st December 2002

• Three upcoming changes to obtaining replacement number plates and Tax Discs on the Registrations page.

13th December 2002

• Considerable detail on the emissions plumbing around the charcoal canister and anti-runon valve of both SU and Zenith equipped North American cars.
• Changing steering rack gaiters.

14th November 2002

• As the Spanners section has been completely restructured all the old links below have been changed to take you to the top of the relevant section rather than to the item itself. A link to the item should appear in the list at the top of the section.

22nd October 2002

• The MG XPower SV is announced at the Birmingham Motor Show.

29th August 2002

• What may just be the final solution to my Dieseling problems.

19th February 2002

• Some information on ignition coils and electronic ignition.

23rd December 2001

• Merry Christmas!
• Distributor phasing - the relationship between cap, rotor and trigger.
• Dealing with a broken or seized bonnet/hood release.

12th November 2001

• More information on running-on including a description and schematic of the North American system.

2nd July 2001

• Running-on - its causes and prevention.

5th April 2001

• Testing spark plug wires.

24th March 2001

• Overcoming the effects of clutch clevis pin wear.

23rd March 2001

• Paint chips - see the original BMC/BL colours and compare them.
• The Christening of our first grandchild, Jessica Megan, at the Church her Mum was Christened at 25 years ago and in the same gown as the previous four generations, now 115 years old.

10th March 2001

• Hot off the press, the MG Rover brochure for the Z-series.

1st March 2001

• Link to the Official MG Rover site on the new Z-series MG Saloons on the MG Links page.

28th February 2001

• The naming of the new MG saloons, and announcing the MG Sports Estate, on 'Whither MG' (deleted).

12th February 2001

• Added front and rear spring specifications, height and weight info to the 'Ride Height' page.

1st February 2001

• Lots of info about new models from MG Rover in 'Whither MG?' (deleted).

28th January 2001

• Jessica's first ride in an MG.

7th January 2001

• Added Mike Jones' 64 Roadster to the 'Ride Height' page, making 24 cars in all from 1963 to 1979.
• More pictures of Stalag 383 from Ian Martin.

23rd November 2000

• Announcement of the MG X10 from MG Rover (subsequently part of the Z-series).

8th November 2000

• V8 Dizzie Curve.
• A neat bit of morphing from the BBC's 'The Car's The Star' featuring the MGB.

22nd October 2000

• Unashamedly non-LBC, the birth of our first grandchild, Jessica Megan.

9th October 2000

• Posted some Power, Torque and Fuel Consumption Curve info.

28th September 2000

• Added links to two 'Build your own body rotator' sites.

29th August 2000

• Added Site Statistics for these pages.
• How to get your Doors hanging level.

28th August 2000

• Added MGB coolant and anti-freeze info from Bob Muenchausen.
• Added Paul Tegler's 73 GT and updated Ken Earnhardt's 73 Roadster figures now his new parts have settled, see Ride Height.

11th August 2000

• Added Lars-Erik Kallstrom's 79 Roadster to the ride height page.

8th August 2000

• Two more articles by Les Bengtson - MGB Bolt Sizes and Zenith Auto Choke Removal - Making a Blanking Plate for MGB Rubber Bumper Cylinder Heads.
• Added Miguel Clemente's 69 Roadster to the ride height page.

31st May 2000

• A link to British Motor Heritage approval of Superblend Zero Lead 2000 has been added to the Unleaded page.
• Links to V8 conversion, Bosch alternator conversion, RB to CB conversion, parts sources and repair manuals added.
• A link to Part III of "The Lead-Free Petrol Question from The M.G. Car Club has been added to the Unleaded page.

16th May 2000

• Added a 67 GT to the ride height page.

17th March 2000

• Following the news that BMW has dumped Rover and MG I have added a page of links to news items covering particularly MG (deleted).

8th March 2000

• Still more information on Unleaded.
• Links to other sites with technical information added to each section.

21st February 2000

• Yet another update to the Unleaded information covering changes in the formulation of Super Unleaded and LRP.
• How to remove your steering wheel.
• How to check for bad connections in the starter circuit which can cause slow cranking and difficult starting.

27th January 2000

• Another update to the Unleaded information, including two new additives, advice from the Automobile Association and the locations of UK filling stations selling 4-star leaded - yes, the good old stuff.
• Schematics for electric cooling fans.

22nd January 2000

• An expanded description of ignition theory, with more information on the purpose and effects of the distributor capacitor or condenser, including graphs of LT and HT voltage waveforms showing the effects of the capacitor.

14th January 2000

• A description of how to modify your wipers for flick and intermittent wipe, including Smartscreen.

12th January 2000

• A comparison of British and American terminology.
• An excellent site-search facility hosted by FreeFind (no connection blah blah financial or otherwise blah blah I just like it). You could have the same search facility on your own site in just a few minutes.

4th January 2000

• Schematics for Lighting circuits.

11th December 1999

• Schematics for Dynamos and Alternators.

8th December 1999

• Description, faulting and schematics for windscreen wipers.

6th December 1999

• Schematics for circuits in the 'Electrics' section including ignition, starting, gauges, indicators and hazard warning signals, others will be added in the future. The availability of a schematic is indicated by this graphic: .

22nd November 1999

• The theory and practice of the Ignition Warning Light, including general charging issues, and the special conditions that apply to late cars equipped with the ignition relay.

29th October 1999

• Updated information and a warning on unleaded information now that 4-star leaded has started to disappear from forecourts.
• Lots of history for 'Bee' and 'Vee' added.

3rd October 1999

• Advance curve information for the 40943 Special Tuning distributor from John in Australia.

9th September 1999

• Clutch bleeding the easy way - do it in just five minutes.

16th August 1999

• Seeing through the glass - or decoding TRIPLEX date codes on windows in 'What Year?'.

13th August 1999

• Use the Site Map option on the main side-bar to help you see what is where.

6th August 1999

• Get an EMail notification of when this page changes, i.e. when some new feature has been added or an existing one changed. Enter your EMail above and click the 'Mind-it' button.

21st July 1999

• A link to "Cars And Stuff", a superb site packed with factual information on speed cameras (or not), engine oils, snakeoils etc. plus humour - "motorway mayhem", daft place names, car modifications we could do without.
• Following a question on the MG BBS, what will hopefully become a growing resource on Ride Height.
• Revamped book sections for MG, Bugatti, Formula 1 and Dunkirk

28th June 1999

• On my Registrations page, UK-style plates for North American cars.
• An Index facility to help you find that techy bit that you are sure you have read but just can't find. Update - now deleted, use the Search option instead.

17th June 1999

• Engine mounts. A particular issue concerning V8s - it is possible to position the mounts incorrectly which alters the location of the engine and causes problems with the crankshaft pulley rubbing on the anti-roll bar, the sump resting on the front crossmember and wearing through, and also re-fitting the gearbox crossmember. Also contains advice on replacing the rubber mounts used in V8s and the later four-cylinder cars.

14th June 1999

• Octagonal Origami, or the art of MGB hood folding

8th June 1999

• Replacing seat rails by Les Bengtson
• Loads more posters and prints from allwall.com

3rd June 1999

• Replacing GT Screens.

27th April 1999

• Run out of MG stuff to buy your SO? Well at least wrap that nice pair of socks in some MG wrapping paper from Morris Manor Collectibles. Also greetings cards, models, art representing many classic British "Trains, Planes and Automobiles".

26th April 1999

• Information on the first four petrol Lead Replacement products to be given a degree of approval by FBHVC/MIRA in the UK.
• Fixing electric gauges.
• A link to the K&N Filters UK site, which unlike the USA site contains details of suppliers worldwide.
• A link to the Autodata Publications site who sell a booklet that claims to have information on what modifications each type of engine requires to run on unleaded - Unleaded Petrol Information Manual, Ref. 89-1630, at UKP7.50.

1st April 1999

• Links to Frost Auto Restoration Techniques, SU Midel and Burlen fuel systems, Neil Cairns' Parts Suppliers and the Classic Car Directory on the MG Links page.
• Distributor advance curves and Indicator diagnosis on "Hammer and Spanner"

16th March 1999

• Links to K&N and a universal currency converter on the MG Links page.
• An explanation of ignition theory has been added to Setting up Distributors.
• The first part of Electrics has been added and contains pieces on "Bad Connections" and "My car won't start".

13th March 1999

It seems that Explorer can cope with back and fore slashes in URLs but Netscape can't. Hopefully all images should be viewable on Netscape now.

10th March 1999

Well, this page is, for a start.
The following "Hammer and Spanner" sections have had detail added:

• SU Needle selection
• Setting up SUs
• Setting up Distributors
• Setting up Front Hubs
• Clutch Release Bearings
• Unleaded Petrol