Safety Fast! June 2020

£3.95 THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

VO LU M E 6 4 N U M B E R 6 J U N E 2020

The MG Rover Story Part I, All Pumped Up Record-Breaking In Dessau, Germany Rustproofing An MGB

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

ISSUE 26

ISSUE 25

MGA

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MG T-TYPE Restore Maintain Modify

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MGB including technical advice and detailed schematics

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including technical advice and detailed schematics

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BRAKE COMPONENTS | CLUTCH & GEARBOX | COOLING & FUELLING | ELECTRICAL | ENGINE & MECHANICAL | STEERING & SUSPENSION

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Restore Maintain Modify

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including technical advice and detailed schematics

SPITFIRE

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ISSUE 11

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E-TYPE including technical advice and detailed schematics

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ISSUE 3

ISSUE 17

TR2-4A

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

ISSUE 1

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PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

MX-5

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WELCOME

WIN A DIAMONDBRITE CAR CARE PACK

I

n these strange times I’m so thankful we live in the age we do, with the ability to communicate with family and friends via the various internet-based video call facilities.

A lot of the Centres and Registers have also been able to conduct committee meetings using this method, and planning is well underway for future meet-ups and events when we can all get out and all enjoy MG Motoring again. In this month’s magazine we’ve got a few tech-tips, a-step by-step guide to Waxoyling an MGB or MGB GT, as well as a few articles on what members have been getting up to whilst the majority of us are confined to our homes. I took the plunge and decided to recondition a set of alloy wheels which had been intimate with a kerb or pot hole on numerous occasions. After a bit of trial and error I’m happy with the results, and will tackle my MGF alloys next. I’ll make sure I document how I do those, and publish the article for those who then want to have ago themselves.

Mentioning fettling an MGF, in this issue Colin Grant takes a look the MGF suspension, and gives the low-down on how to pump-up your ‘F’ by using a proper Hydrogas pump.

Elsewhere in this issue, as a follow-up to the tribute to Sir Stirling Moss published in last month’s issue, we’ve reprinted an article written by Stirling in 1990, entitled My Fastest MG Drive – can you guess which car that was?

It was great to see so many photos submitted for ‘Drive it Day’ at the back end of April. Due to the government rules at the time of allowing only essential journeys in the car, this year’s ‘Drive it Day’ was a stay at home day, with people submitting photos of their classics on the driveway, often picnicking and enjoying a tipple of something by it.

We’ve got a selection of these photos, that were sent through to the Abingdon Works Centre, published on page 74-75. Some are even displaying stay at home rally plates, with all the profits from these being donated to the NHS. Congratulations to companies like Dragonfly, who supply a lot of MGCC rally plates, and who at the time of writing had raised over £12,500 for the NHS by selling their rally plaques.

Until next month, stay safe.

Andy Knott Membership Type

Direct Debit Rate

Standard Rate Online

Standard Rate Post

Single

£50

£55

£55

Joint

£54

£59

£59

Young Members 16-20

£15

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Young Members 21-24

£30

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Diamondbrite, manufacturer of award-winning cleaning products for automotive, motorcycle, leisure, and marine applications, have kindly donated one of their Car Care Starter Packs for one of you to win. This pack is ideal for those looking to get a vehicle shining to a thoroughly professional standard – all from the comfort of home.

The pack contains: Max Foam Shampoo, Ruby Red Alloy Wheel Cleaner, Ceramic Glaze, Rinse and Shine, Interior Cleaner and a Microfibre Cloth – all packaged in a Premium SoftShell Bag. To be in with a chance of winning this brilliant prize all we ask is that you email us with your MG ‘Top Tech Tip’ that we can share with other members on our tech tips page within Safety Fast! There are some examples of tech tips in this issue on page 62-63. Email your MG ‘Top Tech Tip’ through to colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Colin will then pick his top tip and the winner will be notified by email by July 1. Good luck, and thank you for sharing your MG ‘Top Tech Tips’ so other members can benefit.

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 3

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www.mgcc.co.uk 4 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

JULY 2016 SAFETY FAST! 3 www.mgcc.co.uk

INSIDE REGULARS 7 Club Matters and Kimber House News 8 News 10 Products 12 Postbag 14 Young Members Branch 70 Race Torque 72 MGs on Track 73 MGCC Speed Championship 74 Out and About 76 Overseas Review 78 Centre Updates 86 Register Updates 94 Classifieds 98 Looking Back

NEWSLETTERS A pair of classic MGs parked on the driveway, during the ‘Drive it day’ substitution event this year, Classics on the Drive. Photo: Sian Lewis

37

41 Triple M Newsletter 48 Y Type Newsletter 53 ZR/ZS/ZT Newsletter

FEATURES

16 KEEPING YOU ENTERTAINED Ways to stay in touch with the MG Car Club

18 THE MG ROVER STORY PART I Adam Sloman reflects on MG Rover’s highs and lows in its brief lifetime

18 To celebrate 90 years of the MG Car Club, we’re tracing our roots right back to the early 1930s and taking a look at the various publications the MGCC have used to communicate with their members. The front cover of this issue is based on the mid 1980s, early 1990s issues of Safety Fast!

On December 1 1984 Boston was vacated and the Club’s goods and chattels made their way by van to Studley Castle under the direction of the ever-active Bill Wallis. Safety Fast! was under the watchful eye of Lincolnshire stalwarts Peter and Jean Ellis during 1982 -1985. The Studley temporary Portakabins were to be our home for another four years before the next move, again temporary, which was at least in the right direction, to Radley, some three miles away from the Abingdon factory site. By this time the wonderful Paddy Willmer had taken the Safety Fast! reins, and was going to carry on editing the magazine for a number of years. By mid-1987 paid home membership was in excess of 7,800. Workload pressure was increasing for the three staff and the need to determine a longterm home for the Club was clearly becoming more pressing. In August 1987 Peter Best started scribbling down the first plans on how the Club might raise £100,000 for an office somewhere, whether that be Abingdon or elsewhere. Safety Fast! was to play a major role in raising awareness and funds…

www.mgcc.co.uk

26 ALL PUMPED UP Colin Grant takes an in-depth look at pumping up the MGF suspension

32 MY FASTEST MG DRIVE Stirling Moss recalls his fastest MG drive, reprinted from the March 1990 Safety Fast!

37 RECORD BREAKING IN GERMANY The 1939 story of Goldie Gardner and MG EX135

46 PETER GREEN – A TRIBUTE A tribute to the much-missed Triple M expert, Peter Green

61 RUSTPROOFING AN MGB/GT There’s never been a better time to think about Waxoyling your car

66 A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING William Stock turns his hand to autotesting

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 5

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CHAIRMANS NEWS

I am writing this on May 16, so in these strange times it will be an historical document by the time you are reading it. As you can imagine, it makes communicating via Safety Fast! a nightmare.

May I start by hoping that you are all safe and well. If any of you or your friends and families have been touched by the

Coronavirus pandemic, I can only offer you my heartfelt good wishes.

We are still uncertain about our Clubwide activities, and we continuously plan and review as circumstances change at Club and Centre, Register and Branch level, so please try to look at the Club’s various websites for announcements. As you can appreciate, at the overall Club level we may need to share information with you on a timelier basis than we can through the pages of Safety Fast!

Last month I introduced you to the Club’s podcasts. These are just one click away from the home page of the website now, and by the time you read this we should be up to episode seven, or more if the post is slow with your magazine!

These are designed to provide you with interesting content relating to the MG world, more than information about what we are doing in the short term.

Now is perhaps a good time to check the details that we hold for you on the Club’s database as these often get forgotten when people’s profiles change.

While you are on the website why not sign up for the Club’s newsletter? These are being provided on a regular basis, and the sign-on is easily accessed from a button on the home page.

STOP PRESS I have just received an email from the organisers of this year’s European Event of the Year in Würzburg telling me that it has been postponed until August 4-8 2021. This must be a huge blow for the MGCC Deutschland, and I thank their team for all the work they have put in so far and am glad that they have been able to move the event, which must have been a huge effort. I would also wish to thank Vivian and the European team for managing the knock-on effects involving the Club’s planning future European Events, as I know they take years and years to plan.

One of my winter pleasures is planning our trips to Europe; this year we were going to be touring to the event in Würzburg through the Belgian Ardennes, Luxembourg, the Mosel and Rhine valleys, and Heidelberg.

After the event we would have returned by a different route, heading for the Black Forest, Alsace and the Vosges Mountains, taking in the fabulous Route de Crêtes, then north through Champagne and home again.

This is now a dream to look forward to in the TD in 2021.

Hey ho, we can but dream on.

Please keep safe, and I hope we can all start meeting up with our MG friends soon.

Bill Silcock

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS Welcome Gemma The MG Car Club is pleased to welcome Gemma Bray to the Kimber House team as Communications Administrator.

Gemma joins the MGCC after three years working at a creative marketing agency, supporting some big names in the automotive and manufacturing industry. Away from her work, Gemma has spent five years working as a volunteer racemaker at Silverstone and is an active member of the MG Car Club and the Young Members Branch.

Her MG journey began with a 2003 ZR, which she replaced in 2019 with a brand new MG3. She credits her dad with giving her the MG bug. If she’s not cleaning her 3, you’ll find Gemma either at a race meeting or car show.

One of Gemma’s key roles will be to support members, from CRBs to committees to individual queries. She will be based at Kimber House, but initially, as with most of the staff, she will be working from home. You can contact Gemma via email on gemma@mgcc.co.uk

www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 7

NEWS BRITISH MOTOR MUSEUM APPOINTS NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR

MGLIVE! UPDATE

The British Motor Museum is delighted to announce that Jeff Coope has been appointed Managing Director following the retirement of Julie Tew. Julie took planned retirement in April 2020 after 19 years of dedicated and successful service.

Jeff Coope was previously Director of Operations at the British Motor Museum where he has worked since 2002. Jeff has been part of the senior management team responsible for building a stable financial platform. He has recently negotiated a long lease on the venue which has provided the opportunity to build a hotel on-site and a second Museum Collections building. He also led the venue’s recent conference refurbishment and building of the Museum’s original Collection Centre that opened in 2016.

Jeff started his career as an engineering apprentice and has previously worked for Lockheed, British Aerospace, Honda, BMW and Ford. In 1997 he moved from product development to estate management, managing Jaguar Land Rover’s 900 acre Gaydon research and development site for five years, before joining the British Motor Museum in 2002. Outside of work, Jeff has a passion for engineering. He owns an MG TF LE500 and two motorcycles – a Triumph Café Racer and a Triumph Scrambler which he has ridden across Europe. He is also a qualified Yacht Master.

Sadly, as a result of COVID-19, social distancing restrictions and Motorsport UK withdrawing all permits for events until the beginning of July, we have been forced to postpone MGLive! for 2020. At the time of going to print, the organising team at Kimber House are still in negotiations with our venues and partners for alternative dates and will update members and attendees as soon as possible. If the MG Car Club can run an event for its members whilst ensuring the safety of our attendees, we will make every effort to do so.

In the meantime, all pre-booked tickets will be held over and will be valid for new event dates when announced. Please keep in touch via our e-Newsletter and the MG Car Club website: www.mgcc.co.uk for the very latest news and announcements.

THE MGB YOU MAY NOT HAVE HEARD OF?

NEW MG SPORTSCAR CONCEPT UNVEILED

A unique MGB is to be offered for auction this month. At the behest of the MGOC, a group of intrepid engineers set to work in 1981 under the guise of Abingdon Classic Cars. They wanted to prove there was life in the old ‘B yet by taking some of the last production cars and upgrading them. A few had turbocharged B-series engines, and a couple had Rover SD1 V8 engines combined with the latter’s uprated 5-speed gearbox. All had leather and walnut interiors and other upgrades along with a price over twice that of a standard, end-of-line car. Only five new cars are thought to have been completed, and this one is believed the only V8 GT left. Thankfully it has led a charmed life with careful owners and remains in excellent and original condition.

Please see more at online auctioneer themarket.co.uk, the sale ends on May 28 with an estimate of £28 – 40,000.

The first images of the next concept MG sportscar have been revealed in China.

Dubbed the “Cyberster Concept” the new car is markedly different from the MG E-Motion unveiled back in 2017.

While the E-Motion followed more of a grand tourer, 2+2 aesthetic, the Cyberster seems to follow more closely to traditional MG sportscars, with its pure two-seater layout.

The front end of the car features a prominent illuminated ‘MG’ logo and oval headlamps, split by a daytime running light, that hints back to both the last-generation MG TF, and also the E-Motion concept.

These images, provided by MG, hide much of the detail, but the car is expected to be a pure electric vehicle, most likely employing some of the technology MG has developed for use in its other EVs. We’ll keep you updated on developments on the Cyberster, both online, in Safety Fast! and on the MG Car Club podcast.

8 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

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PRODUCTS

This page is a free service so if you have a product that would be of interest to our members contact Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

2019 TRIPLE M YEARBOOK

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RUBY RED WHEEL CLEANER - Ruby red Steel & Alloy Wheel Cleaner attacks hard-to-remove contaminants, whilst foaming red to leave a great finish. Simply spray on, leave and wash-off neutral pH and user-friendly formulation.

MAX FOAM SHAMPOO – Their most Advanced Shine Protection High foaming shampoo that adds a protective film as it cleans.

RINSE & SHINE - Specially formulated to produce a streak-free finish when drying your vehicle. Just spray on after washing as chamois dry.

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Reviewed by Peter Neal Undeterred by the topsy-turvy world we are presently experiencing, the triple-M Register have published their latest Yearbook.

Intended to coincide with MGLive! this is the second year in succession that things haven’t worked out in their favour. Maybe next year will be third time lucky!

Starting out as a review of the Register’s previous year’s activities, it has over time expanded to include a number of Triple M-related articles intended to widen the readership. This tried and tested format has once again been retained by Editor Simon Johnston to hopefully include something for everyone.

From Triple M legend Mike Allison’s treatise on lady drivers from the 1930s and their MGs, to a fascinating journey undertaken by Tim Luffington and Clare Belsten through the western Balkans last year in an MGPA, passing through eight countries in ten days!

This is compared with a contemporary report, reprinted from the March 1935 edition of The MG Magazine, of a similar journey through Eastern Europe in an MG. For those wishing to extract extra performance from their MG, Barry Foster treats the reader to a clear and extremely well illustrated description of the Volumex Supercharger. This was originally manufactured by Abarth for fitting to FIAT models but which can also be fitted to a Triple M car without too much difficulty.

There is also an international flavour to the Yearbook with two interesting articles from Australia, the first of which concerns flying ace, Squadron Leader John Summers, who did much to foster motor racing in the antipodes with his L type Magna; whilst the other attempts to detail the history of a number of N types that found their way ‘down under’. As if all this wasn’t enough, Mike Dalby has penned a history of the MG M type, reminding us that this was the car that inspired a small group of enthusiasts to lay down the foundations for the MG Car Club way back in 1930.

The rest of the book is given over to Mike Linward’s Competition Report which for the first time includes, in the photo captions, the chassis numbers of almost one hundred cars featured.

The Triple M Yearbook is priced at £12.00, plus postage.

To order please visit the Club shop at www.shop.mgcc.co.uk email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or phone Ineke on 01235 849737.

MG ZS BONNET GAS STRUTS LIFTER KIT This is a bolt-on bonnet gas strut kit for the MG Rover 400, 45, ZS cars – no drilling or welding required. Made by the reputable aftermarket specialist Dark Ice Design, and available from your one-stop MG Rover shop, Discount MG Rover Spares, for £44.99 plus p&p. To order or for more details visit www.dmgrs. co.uk phone 02380 001133 or email sales@dmgrs.co.uk

10 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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BROWN & GAMMONS FIRST FOR EVERYTHING MG! MGF/TF

Horn mount brackets, St/Steel YEB100800SS £7.15 Horn mount brackets, St/Steel, Black YEB100800SSB £7.80 Radiator Top Mount, St/ Steel ABU460310SS £8.35 Radiator Top Mount, St/ Steel, Black ABU460310SSB £9.55 Subframe Mounts, Solid Type. 2 bolt KGE000110 £23.95 ABS mount Bracket, St/ Steel SRU102100SS £40.75 ABS mount Bracket, St/Steel, Black SRU102100SSB £47.95 Clutch Alignment Tool BGF205 £16.75 Water Low Level Sensor Kit BGF1111 £167.95 Hood Modification Straps, pair DJE000010Z £25.98 Alloy Heater Knobs, set of 3, polished or Satin, For MGF or Late MGF (2000 on) and TF. Please state which you require.

BGF9021-24 £36.50

MG TA, TB, TC

Dynamo Adjuster Link Box Spanner, 6 sided rear hub Spring Starter Motor Bracket Fuel Gauge Fixing Strap Front Oil Thrower Heatshield, MG TC Hub Tool, 8 sided nut Rear axle Large Brass Core Plug

AAA5831 £23.95 GAC1052 £39.55 53683 £14.95 AJH5185 £9.55 AAA5278 £6.60 GAC1036 £47.95 GAC1502BG £59.95 AAA5561BRASS £3.00 Camshaft, XPAG/XPEG, Lock Tab AAA5593 £5.65 Electronic Distributor, neg earth, without gear 27H5183CSINE £330.00 Electronic Distributor, positive earth 27H5138CSIPE £330.00 Oil Filter Conversion-Spin on GAC8001 £142.26 Small Brass Core Plug CA1056BRASS £2.34 High Quality Oil Pressure Pipe AAA627HQ £17.95 Oil/Water Gauge Strap AJH5186 £9.55

MG TD AND TF

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Alloy Radiator ARH120ALY £249.95 RH Horn Bracket AAA2088 £20.38 Heel Mat, Carpet CRM2001X £10.20 Oil Pressure Pipe, high quality AAA627HQ £17.95 Rear Axle Hub Tool GAC1500BG £59.95 Oil/Water Gauge Strap AJH5186 £9.55 Front Valance Stainless Steel Screw Kit MGA9022SS £10.75 Front Wing Stainless Steel Kit MGA9090SS £23.70 Floorboard Screw and washer set, st/steel MGA9103SS £59.95 Toyo 165/80 R15 87T TL330 Tyre T1R8000 £71.99

Exhaust to Gearbox Bracket 128742 £23.64 Dynamo Adjuster Link AAA5831 £23.95 Spring Starter Motor Bracket 53683 £14.95 Clutch Return Spring to Sump Bracket AAA5800 £10.20 Uprated Gear Lever Spring 11G3144 £12.90 Rear Spring Shackle Plate AAA854 £13.19 £91.20 Steering Wheel Boss MLB8BG Electronic Distributor, neg earth, without gear 27H5183CSINE £330.00 27H5138CSIPE £330.00 Electronic Distributor, positive earth £47.95 Heatshield GAC1036

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MG3 Mark One Interior Styling Kits - Consist of Dashboard Mats, Tambour Bin Surround, Side vents and radio surround Piano Black and Red BG3500 £59.95 Metallic Grey and Red BG3502 £54.95 Piano Black and Metallic Grey (no side vents BG3501 £49.95 Carousel 16inch Alloy wheel and Tyre MG3 Fabric Mats, set of four MG3 Spare Wheel and Tool kit MG ZS Spare Wheel and Tool Kit MG GS Fabric Mats, set of four MG ZS Manual Fabric Mats, set of 4 MG ZS Auto Fabric Mats, set of four MG3 Front Brake Pads, non OE MG6 Petrol Front Brake Pads, non OE

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GENERAL ACCESSORIES

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MGB

Alloy radiator, 1976-80 (r/bumper) NRP115ALY £249.95 Alloy Radiator, Rear fill ARH260ALY £249.95 Alloy Radiator, MGB Centre Fill,68-76 NRP1142ALY £249.95 Fuel Gauge Fixing Strap AJH5185 £9.55 Steel Billet Crankshaft 8G2750STEEL£2,034.00 Rear Axle Hub Tool GAC1500BG £59.95 Oil/Water Gauge Strap AJH5186 £9.55 Toyo 165/80 R14T TL330 Tyre T1R2050 £71.95

All service packs consist of Genuine MG parts - Oil Filter and sump washer, Fuel Filter, Pollen filter and Air Filter MG3 MG3SERVICEK £63.25 MG6 Diesel MG6SERVICEDK £125.00 MG6 Petrol MG6SERVICEPK £58.74 MG GS GSSERVICEK £93.50 MG ZS Manual 2017 onwards ZSSERVICEK £79.80 MG ZS Auto 2017 onwards ZSAUTOSERVICEKIT £83.99

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All prices are correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. PLEASE MENTION THIS ADVERT WHEN PLACING YOUR ORDER TO OBTAIN THESE PRICES. All orders subject to availability. All prices include VAT @20%. CARRIAGE EXTRA

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POSTBAG THE NUFFIELD CUP

I was looking through the April issue of Safety Fast! and “Looking Back” the bottom photo caught my eye.

MG Canada 1992 When the MG Car Club of Toronto was awarded the Nuffield cup.

Standing in the photo is me, Johan Petersen, President of the Club, holding the cup. Beside me with the red and white top is Jon Rosenthall who sadly passed away last year.

On the right, in a blue top, is one of our members whose name I cannot remember, but sadly he passed away about 10 years ago.

So, there you have the correct information. Far away from your guess that we may be from South Africa.

Johan Petersen Vice President MG Car Club of Toronto

TWIN CAM IN LOOKING BACK In the April 2020 issue of the Safety Fast! magazine the Looking Back page has a picture of the Twin Cam which shows my wife Patty and me with the car. I bought the Twin Cam new in August 1959, which was supplied through T. Shipside Ltd, Nottingham. We kept this excellent car until 1965 when Richard came along. We needed to be able to put a carrycot behind the seats as this was our everyday car, and what a brilliant piece of kit this was. Now owned for over 30 years by Nick Cox, one-time Co-ordinator of the Twin Cam Group. 44 FTO was used for Club Racing, Road Rallies, Sprints and Driving Tests as well as normal public road driving, always driven hard, which is what they were made for, and never gave me any unexpected trouble in 50,000 miles. I raced it at MG Silverstone, took part in the California Cup driving tests, the Welsh Rally and Sprints at Mallory Park, Church Lawford, Stapleford, etc. I think that its reliability was probably down to taking it to the factory service department under Mr Richardson for regular servicing, re-tuning or any other running matters. They would often say: “Oh, by the way we’ve fitted… (various parts would have been fitted).

See how you find them and give us a ring with any comments.” Reluctantly, I sold it to Bill Nicholson in exchange for an old English white MGB, which he modified to stage six. But that’s another story. Under Nick’s generosity, both Richard and I have driven it since and are amazed how well it drives and handles and how modern it feels for a car that’s over 60 years old.

Apparently, when Nick bought it, various parts were stored in three different locations. Considering this, hasn’t he made a superb job of restoration, which also involved Peter Woods on the engine. I have not seen this photograph before and I hope this is of some interest to you.

Mike Froggatt

MEMOIRS… In 1968 I was nattering to Frank Gardner over dinner when we were both doing a European Touring Car Championship race in Budapest. I recall asking him what was the biggest accident he had ever had. He said without a doubt after Ken Miles had been killed in a seven-litre Ford in the US in ’66, they didn’t know what had happened because it was so extensively damaged. They suspected something had broken. Adding their brief to me some time later at Watkins Glen was: “We want to simulate a 12-hr race and your brief is to keep going until something breaks” …

After about three hours, when he was flat out in top gear throbbing down the back straight, Frank added “you know the one with the long right-hander at the end”. He said suddenly there was a monstrous lock up at the back. Immediately the rear tyres had flat spotted, burst and ripped off the rear bodywork as they departed. The car sat down on its bare wheel rims and magnesium gearbox which instantly caught fire, so in the matter of a fraction of a second, I was sitting in the front half of a blazing inferno careering along at an enormous speed.

Frank said: “I couldn’t stop it. On top of that, the end of the straight was approaching fast. I had to get out and quick.

Fortunately, it slewed onto the grass so when it slowed a little, I

12 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

decided I had no choice but to bail out, which I did. I slid along the grass for an age like a bike racer, luckily without breaking anything. I was so sore and bruised I didn’t sleep for two nights – not from the pain but the vision of the driverless seven-litre GT careering on, hitting the bank and exploding.”

I said: “Hang on mate, those GT40-based race cars had doors which curved right over the drivers head. How on earth could you open it sufficiently with the wind resistance to jump?”

He said, in that typical laconic way of his: “Desperate people do desperate things.”

“I quickly slipped my safety belt buckle, drew my feet back to the seat, straightened my legs with my helmet and shoulder against the door and forced my way out.”

When Ford investigated the cause of the lock-up, they found a simple error in the gear selection interlocking design. It was possible, when in top gear, for another gear to engage at the same time, aided by the vibration.

What a terrible, terrible scenario all for the sake of a small bullet-shaped part being introduced which would have cost five dollars at the most.

Alec Poole

www.mgcc.co.uk

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YOUNG MEMBERS

Shaun Nelson shaunnelly@hotmail.com

THE YMB GUIDE TO CAR DIY

W

orking on your own car can be scary; it’s an intimidating hobby to start out with, but also an extremely satisfying and rewarding one. Here’s a few things that I’ve learnt along the way: • Knowledge is power. I find the best way to approach a job and avoid any nasty surprises is to arm yourself with a proper original dealership workshop manual (£35) and use it in conjunction with something more reader friendly, like a Haynes or Autodata manual (£15). When something needs clarifying in excruciating detail, nothing can substitute for the proper stuff; however, a third-party manual is often full of helpful tips and tricks, like avoiding the need for specialist tools and simplifying some jobs.

• Torque about it. One of the biggest fears to overcome, I feel, is ‘did I do that tight enough?’ You’re bound to snap a few bolts in your time, so just try to be mindful of what material you’re dealing with and how big your bolt is. If in doubt, get to grips with a torque wrench and have a feel for the values given in the workshop manual or various specs available online. You’ll soon get the idea – it probably doesn’t need to be done up that tightly.

14 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

• Confidence is key. As with anything, you can be over confident and you can lack confidence. Don’t be intimidated.

Work patiently, methodically, and be willing to learn. Accept that mistakes will be made, but the experience always makes it worthwhile.

• Where to start. An engine requires fuel and ignition (subject to a bit of compression). Remove your coil to distributor HT lead (king lead) and turn the engine over to see if you get a spark when brought close to an earth, like against the engine block. Spray a little starting fluid in the intake or bottle feed your carburettor to see if it’s a fuelling issue. Even if your problem is far more technical, these are great ways of narrowing down your search.

• Electrical gremlins. A lot of people shy away from electrics, but there are only two problems you can have; too high a resistance, or too low a resistance. Get a wiring diagram and follow your wires; it’s more than likely just a poor connection caused by corrosion. The classic brass bullet-type connectors, earth terminals, and dodgy ammeters are all common offenders.

• Rebuild over renew. Unfortunately, reproduction parts are often of inferior quality compared to the original stuff, especially for classics. This may seem

counterintuitive, given the modern advances in materials and quality control, but the demand just isn’t the same as it once was and these components are now made to a strict price.

• Safety first. Always use axle stands, and always chock wheels, even if it’s just a very quick job or a peek underneath.

This cannot be stressed enough.

Unfortunately, you’ll struggle to find anyone in the industry that doesn’t know someone who’s suffered a totally avoidable accident because they didn’t. Stay safe, and enjoy yourself!

www.mgcc.co.uk

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90TH ANNIVERSARY MERCHANDISE MGCC 90th Anniversary pillow/blanket £22.50 MGCC 90th Anniversary box £25.00

MGCC 90th Anniversary Large Car Badge £40.00

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MGCC 90th Anniversary Tie £17.50

MGCC 90th Anniversary Note Book £9.50

MG Car Club small 90th Anniversary - Grille Badge £22.50

To order please visit shop.mgcc.co.uk email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or Phone 01235 849737 FREE

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 15

UPDATES

KEEPING YOU ENTERTAINED DURING THIS TIME As a Club we are adapting to the restrictions in place and finding new ways to deliver content to you in as many ways as possible.

Let us know your email address!

To help us keep you updated with all the latest Club information and news, please let us know your email address. We can then add you to our regular e-newsletter mailing list. You will also need to have an up-to-date email address on your membership file to enable you to log in to the new Members Area. If you believe your email address is incorrect or if you haven’t told us about your email address, please email our membership secretary, Liz Allsworth, at liz@mgcc.co.uk with your name and membership number and we can add your email address. To log in to the Members Area, please visit https://www.mgcc.co.uk/members/login/ There is also a detailed user guide to help you log in if you need it.

Here are just some of the ways you can keep in touch with Club goings-on: Safety Fast!

Safety Fast! continues to be produced and delivered during this time; however we have been made aware of some postal issues that are affecting some of our overseas members.

Don’t forget, all members can also read Safety Fast! online in the Members Area.

Membership Our membership secretary, Liz Allsworth, is keeping up to date with all our new members and renewals. If you need to renew your membership during this period, you can do so online via our shop – https://shop.mgcc.co.uk/ For any membership queries during this time, please contact Liz by email on liz@mgcc.co.uk Merchandise Our online shop is still open during this period for all of your MG needs.

We have lots of new items in stock celebrating our 90th Anniversary, so be sure to check them out – https://shop.mgcc.co.uk/ Online We are frequently updating our website with news, features and content to keep you entertained. Visit www.mgcc.co.uk/articles/ to read previous Safety Fast! articles and features or visit www. mgcc.co.uk/news-events/ for the latest news.

16 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

Social Media Now is a great time to connect with the Club through Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@mgcarclub) or join in the conversations taking place on our Centre, Register and Branch websites and social media. The contact hub for these can be found here – www.mgcc.co.uk/contact-hub/ Podcasts The exciting new podcast from the MG Car Club has arrived! Wherever you might be and whatever MG you might own, we are hoping that our new podcast will both entertain and inform whilst keeping MG fans in touch around the world. Visit www.mgpodcast.uk/ to listen to all the episodes so far. The weekly podcast has so far covered everything from why Cecil Kimber left MG, Sir Stirling Moss and his contribution to MG’s record breaking and the history of the MG Metro 6R4, to interviews with Daniel Gregorious from MG Motor UK, our Young Members Branch and MG Car Club President John Day! With even more exiting news, features and interviews lined up, make sure you subscribe now! Also, do you have a message for the MG Car Club Podcast?

Perhaps you have a story you’d like to share? We’d love to hear it!

Head to www.mgpodcast.uk/contact and let us know!

E-Newsletters We’ve been sending out regular updates to our members via our e-newsletters. If you’d like to receive it, please email Liz Allsworth on liz@mgcc.co.uk with your full name and membership number so we can add your email address onto our system. You can also sign up to the newsletter by visiting www.mgcc.co.uk/contacthub/#StayConnected Photo competition We are having an amazing response to the MGCC photo contest, so much so that we have been able to turn your entries into a virtual car show, viewable at https://photos.mgcarclub.co.uk/ 2020 marks the 90th anniversary of the MG Car Club. As part of our celebrations, we would like to create a gallery of photographs, submitted by you the members, that truly captures our passion for MGs and the best elements of Club life. So, enter yours now! You can see those that have already entered here, make sure you add yours. Fill out the form at: https://photos.mgcarclub.co.uk/ MG Car Club Coronavirus updates Keep up to date with all the announcements via our page updated daily which gives you the latest advice, news and also postponement dates for affected events, as well as the links to the latest UK Government advice. Stay safe, stay at home! Visit www. mgcc.co.uk/mg-car-club-corona-virus-guidance/

www.mgcc.co.uk

MERCHANDISE

KIMBER STORES Wooden Box £20.00 each

MGCC Embroidered Badge £3.75

MG Clocks £34.00

Travel Wallet £16.50

Mugs £9.00

MGCC lapel pin £4.50

MG Books for more details go to shop.mgcc.co.uk

Ladies linen caps £13.50

MG Cape £17.00

All prices exclude P&P

To order please visit shop.mgcc.co.uk email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or Phone 01235 849737 www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 17

YOUNG MEMBERS

THE MG ROVER STORY PART I

MG fans were optimistic when BMW sold off Rover Group in 2000, but after five short years MG Rover had reached the end of its journey. 15 years on, Adam Sloman reflects on MG Rovers highs and lows in its brief lifetime.

I

t’s probably fair to say that the union of Rover and BMW was never a happy one. In the run-up to its German marriage, Rover had arguably turned a corner and was producing a range of good quality, desirable cars – the Rover 200 and 400 range had launched in 1989 to both critical and sales acclaim, thanks to a close collaboration with Honda, while MG had been brought back to the fore with the ultra-desirable RV8, while the development of the MGF would give the world a desirable, affordable MG sportscar once again.

Honda had proven a reliable and successful collaborator for Rover Group – from the Acclaim through to the 200, 400,600 and 800 series, the teams at Longbridge, Canley and Cowley had learned a lot from their Japanese colleagues.

All that would change in 1994, however, when Rover Group’s parent, British Aerospace, sold 80% of the company to BMW. Honda, who owned 20% of Rover Group, were incensed, and a month after BMW’s purchase, sold their 20% to the German company.

Honda would continue to benefit for years to come, however, since many of the components used in Rover Group’s products were supplied by Honda.

The MGF would launch in March 1995, to critical acclaim, and very quickly Rover Group had a car that was a global seller on its hands. As with the Mini and RV8, Japan proved a key export market for the

18 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

car. Autocar called the MGF “the world’s most complete and affordable sportscar.

It is a British car of which we can be unusually proud.” High praise from the media who had no issue in pointing out the problems associated with Rover Group and its cars.

The launch of the F, and its success both with hardcore MG fans and the general motoring public, would be a rare high point of BMW’s time with Rover – a

plaster trying to heal a gaping wound.

BMW’s next product launch would not enjoy the same kind of reception.

Trouble brewing BMW were keen to excise as many Honda components as possible – in particular the Rover 600 and 800, both of which leaned heavily on Honda. Their resolution to this problem would ultimately lead to BMW losing patience with Rover.

www.mgcc.co.uk

1984 Rover 213

1993 Rover 216

When the 75 launched at the 1998 British Motor Show, its arrival was overshadowed by an announcement from then-BMW boss, Bernd Pischetsreider, that there was work needed to “protect the long-term future” of

www.mgcc.co.uk

Rover Group – chiefly a grant from the UK government to support redevelopment of Longbridge.

The press reaction was mixed, and the car did not sell in the numbers BMW hoped. The facelift of the 200 and 400 series into the 25 and 45 did little to help; confidence in Rover products continued to fall and in 1999 BMW called time on their relationship with Rover.

The break-up of Rover Group would be swift.

BMW would retain the Mini brand, in

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 19

Car Company product had been built, the deal was effectively dead, leaving only one viable alternative on the table.

Rise of the Phoenix

Rover 425 V6 Limited Edition

which it had invested heavily, bringing the small car upmarket (and pricing it accordingly) ahead of the launch of its own MINI in 2001. Land Rover would be sold to Ford’s Premier Automotive Group, reuniting it with Jaguar. The German firm would retain Cowley, Longbridge was up for grabs, whilst Canley had been closed in 1990, and the site demolished in 1996.

The other asset, Pressed Steel in Swindon, would be retained by BMW. 9,000 people were employed at Longbridge at the time of BMW’s announcement across a huge site – a site that had been home to production of motorcars all the way back to the 1906.

BMW’s decision made national and international news – the question was, what next for Rover and MG? Ultimately it came down to two rival bidders – the Alchemy Group, and the Phoenix Consortium.

Both had very different plans for the future of Longbridge and the marques associated with it. Alchemy’s plan was simple – refocus the company on pure sportscar production and massively slim down those 9,000 workers to a much smaller group of around 1,500. The new company would take on the historic mantle of ‘The MG Car Company’.

Initially, negotiations with BMW were successful, and it seemed a deal would be agreed. The German firm had allowed up to £2bn to rid itself of Rover Group, and Alchemy’s offer of £50m for the firm seemed acceptable to both parties.

That was until BMW became insistent that Alchemy take on responsibility for Rover Group’s pension fund and a huge compensation package for suppliers, contractors and the group’s franchised dealers. Facing anything up to £600m worth of debt before the first new MG

With the Alchemy deal dead, that left the way clear for the Phoenix Consortium, led by former Rover executive John Towers.

Together with Peter Beale, John Edwards and Nick Stephenson, they formed Phoenix Venture Holdings (PVH) and in April 2000, purchased Rover, MG and the Longbridge plant from BMW for a nominal £10. Pressed Steel, now renamed BMW Pressings Swindon, would continue to provide the new group with panels for 25, 45 and 75.

After much discussion, debate and dealing, MG Rover (MGR) was born.

The initial deal was followed up with an agreement to purchase Midland Powertrain, home of Rover Group’s engine production and Rover Group’s car finance arm.

Initially, MG Rover would produce the original Mini for BMW, under licence, while the production facilities for the Rover 75 were moved from Cowley, to Longbridge.

The new company urgently needed to broaden its product range beyond the Rover trio of 25, 45 and 75, and MGF and the MG marque proved to be the perfect outlet.

MG ZTs and TFs on the Longbridge Assembly line 20 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

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The unveiling of the WSR MG ZS Touring Car

Management at Rover had been keen to embrace the sports saloon market, unveiling concept cars such as the Rover 75 Sport and the Rover 425. The Rover 200 BRM and 25 GTi had shown the hot hatch potential of the smallest Rover, and while MGR might not have been the richest company on the balance sheet, they had a wealth of talented engineers at their disposal – engineers with a deeprooted passion for the company.

In November 2000, MGR announced that three new MG models would launch, all based upon their Rover counterparts.

In late January 2001, the cars, under the codenames X10 (75) X20 (45) and X30 (25) were first shown to the public. Styled by Peter Stevens (the man behind the McLaren F1) the trio were joined by a new version of the MGF, the F Trophy, boasting 160bhp and a wealth of other improvements.

A strong start The announcement of the new cars was followed in April by the launch of X Power

22 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

Sport and Racing, a new sub-brand for the company. X Power’s arrival was supported

by MG’s announcement to return partner with Lola for a return to the Le Mans 24 Hours, to enter the British Touring Car Championship and compete once again in rallying.

By May of 2001 the ‘X’ cars had become ‘Z’ cars as the ZR, ZS and ZT were all launched. Once again the cars were met with praise from the press – the ZR quickly became one of Britain’s best-selling hot hatches, while the ZS developed a reputation as a true driver’s car, especially in its 2.5 V6 180bhp form.

MG DNA was baked deep into the Zed series – just as Kimber had done back in the 1920s, MG Rover’s engineers took the everyday range of Rover cars and created something truly engaging and enjoyable.

Where the Rover cars had been focussed heavily on comfort, the MGs were quick and confident. The wood and beige leather made way for carbon fibre and bucket seats.

The MG Lola pits at Le Mans

www.mgcc.co.uk

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 23

MG Rover group cars on display in motorway services

MG Rover followed the launch of the Zeds with a heavy revision of the MGF, with the new MG TF arriving in early 2002. Taking its name from the classic T Type of the 1950s, the new TF revised the F’s look, with a new front and rear, new side scoops, boot lid and multiple other, smaller changes. The biggest change was the switch from Hydragas to more conventional springs and dampers.

Just like the F, the TF was again met with praise from the motoring press and the car sold well. Away from showrooms, the ZS was enjoying a strong showing under the care of West Surrey Racing in the British Touring Car Championship, whilst Gwyndaf Evans and Tony Jardine were enjoying decent results in the ZR on the rally stage, while at Le Mans, the MG Lola would start from an impressive 6th on

The ZR became a popular car of choice for Rally Drivers

grid. While they failed to finish the race, they had brought MG back to one of the biggest motorsport events in the world.

At the end of 2002 MG Rover would unveil perhaps their craziest project yet – the MG XPower SV. To be continued...

MG Rover Direct, a selection of used cars that were available directly from Longbridge

24 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Other Tubular long branch large bore exhaust Oselli cast rocker cover £185 Weber carb kit £799 Performance distributor £265 Head and engines supplied on an exchange basis Prices subject to VAT

www.mgcc.co.uk

ALL OUR ENGINES ARE NOW INCLUSIVE OF WATER PUMP & FULLY TESTED BEFORE DISPATCH

www.oselli.com

Other Tubular long branch exhaust Oselli cast rocker cover £185 Weber carb kit £795 Performance distributer £265.00 Head and engines supplied on an exchange basis Prices subject to VAT

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 25

Before with low ride height

ALL PUMPED UP D

o you own an MGF and if so have you ever considered how your suspension works and what maintenance is involved? Do you know that periodically you need to have the suspension pumped up to the correct ride height and if neglected what the consequences are? If you answer I don’t know to the above questions then please read on.

Words and Photos by Colin Grant

separated from the fluid by a membrane or diaphragm. The fluid is interconnected between the Hydrogas displacers with hydraulic pipes running from front to

rear, which like the Hydrolastic system operates when a wheel hits a bump and the suspension compresses, pushing fluid down the interconnecting pipes to the

History The MGF uses the Hydrogas suspension system, being a development of the earlier Hydrolastic system, which was an invention by Dr Alexander Moulton and was used on the Mini and 1100 range of cars. The hydrolastic system relied on displacer units containing a rubber spring, with damping being achieved by the displaced fluid passing through rubber valves and running along hydraulic pipes being linked front and rear.

The Hydrogas system by comparison has a hydraulic fluid chamber which has a cylindrical or spherical chamber filled with nitrogen gas under pressure, Check ride height against factory spec, this car is sitting too low 26 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

Black cover needs to be removed

rear unit, so when the front wheel goes up the rear wheel goes down and the car remains level.

The Hydrogas suspension system fitted to the MGF has its origins with the Austin Allegro, which on early Allegros wasn’t too successful with its underdamping and choppy ride issues. This was later improved but the damage had been done to the car’s reputation. The system was again improved when it was fitted to the Maxi and Princess range of cars.

Undo two 10mm plastic nuts www.mgcc.co.uk

This system was also fitted to the Metro with one misgiving: the system wasn’t interconnected with hydraulic pipes due to cost-cutting, which caused it to pitch and bounce on uneven road surfaces.

This was corrected with the launch of the Rover Mk3 Metro with the K Series engine, which had interconnected pipes fitted and became a very popular car. The system on the Metro was literally taken, and then developed, for the MGF with great success as the F is known for its excellent ride

and handling capabilities. The MGF does use shock absorbers and they were fitted purely to assist with suspension rebound.

Issues So what can go wrong? Very little really, as the suspension was originally intended for the life of the car and had on average a working life of around 15years, but over time there will be a diffusion of nitrogen gas and the system will need pumping up. Once the ride height drops it can affect the car’s

Unscrew plastic locating clip and remove cover JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 27

Fluid and pump at the ready

Top up pump resorvoir to specified amount

With cover removed undo Schrader valve cap

Connect the union to the schrader valve and tighten with a spanner

Switching the pump valve

Operating the pump

handling characteristics and put the car’s tracking out, causing premature wear to the tyres. The system can also lose fluid and when this happens it’s not unusual to see an MGF listing to one side because the units are interconnected from front to rear. When this happens you either have to have the unit repaired or replaced. New replacement units are all but non-existent now and

28 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

good second hand units are in short supply, but there are upgrade and repair options available. Mike Satur, for instance, has created a replacement kit to convert your Hydrogas system to a conventional spring over damper system, and Hydrogas and Hydrolastic Service Ltd offer a repair service.

These days, with even the youngest MGF being over 18 years old, your car will

need pumping up every couple of years or so, but eventually you will have replaced the lost nitrogen with fluid and the suspension will become very harsh and replacement measures will have to be taken.

Things to Consider First check that your car needs pumping up by checking the ride height. This is

www.mgcc.co.uk

MERCHANDISE

KIMBER STORES Clotted Cream Shortbread £4.75 a tin

Key Fob £5.00

Baby vest £13.50

MG Lapel Pin £4.50

MG Rucksack £25.00

Fridge magnets £5.00 each

Check Caps £13.50 each

Small MGCC Car Badge £19.50

Car covers from £103.00

All prices exclude P&P

To order please visit shop.mgcc.co.uk email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or Phone 01235 849737 www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 29

Re Check ride height

done by measuring the height between the centre of the wheel to just under the wheel arch on the front wheels. You are looking for a measurement of 368mm +/- 10mm or 348mm +/- 10mm for the Trophy. If the reading is lower, then the car will need pumping up to the correct level.

Pumps are available on Gumtree and eBay, where I have seen them priced from £70 to £250. New prices direct from suppliers can be around £400 to £700.

Once you have your pump you will need fluid to go with it. This can be obtained from MG Specialists such as Moss. I phoned Moss London and they had it in stock at £31.00 for 5ltr plus p&p, and they pointed out that Hydrolastic and Hydrogas fluid is the same. You can also

try your local car parts factor such as Euro Car Parts or eBay where I obtained mine.

I have not seen it for sale at Halfords or my local car accessory shop, although they may be able to order some in for you. Once you have the pump and fluid you are ready to start. First make sure the car is on level ground and allow time for the suspension to settle. Take into consideration that outside temperature plays a part, and it is recommended that you carry out this work at around 17°C/62°F which is ideal.

Procedure for Pumping up Suspension Following the picture sequence, release the bonnet and take off the black cover.

This is held in place by two plastic 10mm

nuts and one plastic clip which you undo with a Phillips screwdriver. Take out the tool kit to give you access to the lower part of the panel and pull it away from its two locating points, then lift away and put in a safe place.

Depending on the type of pump you are using top up the pump reservoir to the specified amount. I filled mine with around 2.5ltrs of fluid. Make sure you follow the instructions that came with your pump as to its operational procedure.

As you look under the bonnet with the cover removed you will see two pipes with Schrader valves attached. Unscrew the plastic caps on the Schrader valves.

Make sure the T bar on the pump union is wound right out; turn in an anti-clockwise direction. Make sure the lever on the pump is set to pressure. Then screw up and tighten the pump union using an 11/16” spanner onto the left hand side Schrader valve. This valve allows replenishment to the offside front and rear units.

Turn the T bar on the union in a clockwise direction to release the Schrader valve, and follow instructions that came with your pump to bleed the pipe between the car and the pump. The car will drop slightly as the fluid moves down the pipe towards the pump. Again following the instructions switch the lever on the pump to allow you to pump up the suspension. Do this by pumping in slow movements with the operating handle until approximately 400psi is indicated on the pumps pressure gauge. Check the

Carry out procedure to near side 30 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

height of the car with a tape measure against the specified settings above. Add height by pumping in more fluid or to lower the height turn the lever on the pump momentarily to allow fluid back into the reservoir. With this achieved undo the tap on the union, turn the lever on the pump to relieve the pressure in the pipe, undo the union from the Schrader valve and carry out the same procedure for the nearside of the car using the other Schrader valve. Once completed remember to replace the Schrader valve caps and refit the black cover.

Conclusion Once finished leave the car to settle and recheck the ride height to that specified and revisit the procedure if necessary. Go for a test drive and notice the improvement in handling and ride.

I would suggest getting your tracking checked to be sure this is in alignment.

The cost of this at my local garage for a four wheel laser alignment is around ÂŁ50.

Money well spent when you consider the premature wear of your tyres and the cost of replacement.

Health and Safety Please do not undertake this work if you don’t have the necessary knowledge, mechanical skills, a suitable working area, the necessary tools or personal protective equipment. Instead enlist the services of an MG Specialist to carry this work out for you, such as MJS Auto and Marine who operate a mobile service.

And Finally The MGF was the last car to be fitted with Hydrogas suspension and due to increased costs of the system, it was replaced with conventional suspension on the MGTF which was launched is 2002. When the last MGF came off the production line it was thought to be the 12 millionth car to have the Moulton-designed suspension fitted, 43 years after the Mini was launched. Quite an achievement.

Useful Contacts.

Re-Gassing Service.

Hydragas and Hydrolastic Service Ltd. Tel:- Mobile: 07506 563081 Landline: 01952 613184 Email: enquiries@hahsltd.co.uk Web: https://hydragasandhydrolastic service.com/ MGF Coil over Shock Conversion kit.

Mike Satur Tel: 01782 373547 Mobile: 07971 778295 Web: www.mikesatur.com Email: sales@mikesatur.com Hydrogas Suspension Fluid Moss London Tel: 020 8867 2020 Web: https://www.moss-europe.co.uk/ Mobile Service MJS Auto and Marine Contact: Mike Stafford Tel: 07956 575220 Web: www.mjsautoandmarine.co.uk Email: repairs@mjsautoandmarine.co.uk

After with the car sitting at the correct ride height www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 31

Following on from our tribute to Sir Stirling Moss in the April issue of Safety Fast!, here is an article written by Stirling Moss, first published in the March 1990 issue of Safety Fast!

P

eople often say that speed is what matters in racing. But it isn’t really true. Racing involves braking, accelerating and cornering, and doing all these things faster and more efficiently than the opposition – but on many circuits the opportunities for flatout speed are virtually non-existent. Yet

absolute speed in a straight line has a fascination of its own, and a long line of exotic record breakers has been built over the years to put higher and higher figures into the history books. And, although I drove in virtually every kind of competitive event during my racing career, there was only one occasion when I became involved

with this single-minded pursuit of speed for its own sake. And very frightening it was, too.

It started with a very special MG indeed. Identified as EX181, it was based very loosely on the production MGA twoseater of the time. But the twin overhead camshaft 1498cc engine of the production car was supercharged and souped out of all recognition to turn out a staggering 290 brake horse power.

MY FASTEST MG DRIVE

by Stirling Moss

Stirling Moss with EX181 32 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

EX181 at Speed

The engine was fitted at the back of a new tubular space frame with modified MGA front suspension and de Dion rear

Moss in Utah on the Bonneville Salt Flats

www.mgcc.co.uk

end, and the whole thing was clothed with a body shaped like a flattened teardrop with faired-in wheels and a smooth,

swept-back tail. In fact, just about the only problem with the design seemed to be finding room for the driver.

The driving position must have been one of the most uncomfortable I’ve come across in any kind of car. You have to lie flat, with very restricted visibility inside a kind of streamlined canopy fairing rather like the hood of a fighter plane, but you had far less idea of what was going on outside. The only thing to be said for it was that you shouldn’t need to avoid obstacles – this was strictly a straighton, foot hard down piece of driving.

The intention was to go for the Class F International Record, and break four miles a minute – which was a fair task for a 1.5 litre car.

Unfortunately, there aren’t many places in the world you can find enough space to build up to that kind of speed, to keep it up for a mile or more, and then slow down and stop again afterwards. In the old days they had used banked race tracks but for us there was only one place where it might be possible – an amazing place near Salt Lake City in Utah, called Bonneville Salt Flats, which could have been designed for speed records as the salt is hard, flat, and covers a vast expanse of shimmering white, stretching almost to the horizon.

In more recent years, people like Art Arfons and Gary Gabelich have taken jet- powered cars to speeds of more than 500, and even 600 mph here, but in 1957 when I had my appointment with EX 181,

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 33

240mph seemed quite ambitious enough.

The session didn’t start all that well. I had an awful flight to Salt Lake City and next morning we found the salt surface was too wet to risk a high-speed run. We spent the whole day waiting for it to dry out, trying to pass the time until conditions improved. On the following day the salt was still too wet, and there was nothing to do but go into town sightseeing.

Next day, Friday August 23, it was still too damp at five in the morning, so we waited to see if the day’s heat would dry off sufficiently. We came back at four in the afternoon, and it was still damp, but good enough for us to have a go at last.

So, there I was, shoehorned into a car that I seemed to have very little control over. I felt I could hardly see where I was going, and trying to steer the car seemed as difficult as trying to steer a rocket or an artillery shell.

I kept watching the big rev-counter dial on the panel in front of me as the speed built up. It felt all right, though far more frightening than any racing car because you felt it would go exactly where it wanted to, regardless of what you did – but the needle on the dial climbed to 6900rpm, and the car felt stable enough apart from a rather odd feeling as if the wheels were caught in tramlines, perhaps because of the ripples in the salt.

We turned the car and I started on the second run. This time all was going well, when I suddenly discovered I had no third gear. The only alternative was to go as high as I dared in second and then change into fourth, which was going to take much

longer, but hopefully wouldn’t cost too much speed.

We had just enough time for a third, and last, run and the rev counter climbed back to 6500 at the start of the measured mile and reached 7000rpm as l passed the five-kilometre post. Then it was time to start unwinding the speed, and another

Cockpit of EX181

John Thornley and Syd Enever discuss EX181 driving position with Stirling Moss

34 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

unpleasant surprise was just how long it took to bring the car to a stop again.

My first speed record attempt was over, but when the figures were worked out we found we‘d done it with a small but worthwhile margin, with an average of 245.64 mph. And with just a few moments to spare, at the end of the last day…

www.mgcc.co.uk

36 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

FEATURE

Goldie Gardner with MG EX135

RECORD-BREAKING IN DESSAU, GERMANY

by Günter Graskamp, President MGCC Deutschland

In 1939, Major Alfred Thomas “Goldie” Gardner set several new speed records with a streamlined MG EX135 on the German Autobahn near Dessau. Here is a review of those events based mainly on Gardner’s book “Magic M.P.H”.

I

n 1937 and 1938 several speed records were set on the new Autobahn at Frankfurt – Darmstadt. The autobahn was used because many wanted to use Germany’s best public roads for speed

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records rather than American salt lakes.

In context, there was an expectation that the well-financed auto racing stables of Mercedes-Benz and Auto Union would triumph. Background: Bernd Rosmeyer of

Auto Union, portrayed by the regime as a national hero, had broken the 400 km/h mark for the first time in 1937. MercedesBenz were at the time unable to challenge this, but they set a date for in-house trials which may also have set world records. At this attempt on the morning of January 28 1938, which took place at the same location, Rudolf Caracciola in his new Mercedes reached the fastest speed on a public road to date. He achieved 432.7 km/h over the flying start kilometre; he

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 37

EX135 at Dessau Autobahn, Germany in May 1939

Goldie Gardner readies himself for a record breaking attempt

also broke the record for the mile with a flying start at 432.4 km/h. Rosmeyer of Auto Union rose to the challenge, but was caught by a gust of wind late in the morning and came off the road at over 400 km/h and died immediately.

The roadway, which was only 7.5 metres wide, was considered no longer sufficient for these speeds, so the Minister responsible for roads, Dr. Fritz Todt, announced that there would be a new record-breaking course along the new Halle/Leipzig - Berlin route. It had no overpasses with central spigots and had a 10 km straight. The track was also 25 metres wide with no central grass strip.

In January 1939 the section between AS Bitterfeld and Dessau - Sud was officially opened for speed record attempts.

Carraciola was again to set new records in his Mercedes W154.The first international record week took place in May 1939, and MG participated with EX135. Gardner was to set new records in class G (750-1100cc) on a road ideal for flat-out speed testing.

In the early hours of May 31 – Gardner‘s birthday – the usual warmup operations began. This consisted of running up EX135 at up to 4,000 rpm towards the turning point some 12 km away. On arrival new wheels and special spark plugs were fitted. The record runs are “entirely uneventful”. With the rev counter showing7300rpm Gardner reaches the magic 200mph. With new records for the flying kilometre (327.57 km/h), the flying mile (326.95 km/h) and the flying five kilometre (317.91 km/h), the first stage of the planned record programme was achieved.

The aim was to attack the records in the next higher class of up to 1500cc. For this, the MG team had brought a honing machine with them. This enabled them to take just 2.5mm out of each of the six bores

EX135 at Abingdon with Gardner and Kimber

EX135 with the body off

38 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

with the engine in situ. The engine capacity increased from 1,087cc to 1,105.5cc, making the car eligible to compete in class F. This work was carried out in the barracks of the local motorised police. However, during re-assembly, a crack was found in a camshaft bearing housing across a stud hole. As there was no spare, the MG mechanics went to the Junkers aircraft factory nearby. The British team had already received a phone message stating that if help were needed Junkers engineers were at their disposal, even though Junkers were busy preparing for the next war! Two hours later the repair was completed to perfection.

On Friday June 2 at 6.00am the MG was ready to race on the Autobahn again. With the engine re-bored but not run-in, Gardner attempted new records. After his first run, however, he underestimates the speed of

www.mgcc.co.uk

EX135 at speed in Germany

his car and only brings it to a standstill with full braking. This results in a worn nearside brake which is removed, meaning without front brakes there was now only one braked wheel. Nevertheless, Gardner set new class records: the Flying Kilometre at 204.3 mph (328.77 kmh), Flying Mile 203.9 mph (328.07 kmh), and for the Flying 5 Kilometres 200.6 mph (322,869 kmh).

As soon as the record-breaking was finished two trucks appeared from one

Kimber and Gardner discuss their plans

The German highway of the official parking spaces, both fully loaded up to the roof. As soon as they were in position, they were unloaded by half a dozen Germans and in no time there were two long tables on the autobahn with goodies to eat and drink.

The mayor of Dessau and other officials then appeared and within a short time everyone was enjoying a magnificent lunch This was followed by short speeches of congratulations and good wishes.

Some of the MG team then drove to Berlin, guided by Bobby Kohlrausch‘s mechanic and found out that “Berlin was not that bad”.

As a thank you for the hospitality and assistance, MG advertising boss George Tuck invited German motor racing officials (ONS), the police and Junkers in the name of the Nuffield Group to lunch at a lakeshore hotel at Würlitz. The party continued on boats on the lake until late in the night. Only a few weeks later WWII began. Even so, Gardner states in his book: “Not only were the Germans exceedingly friendly to us at all times, but that

The automobile and test track (AVUS) in Berlin started in 1921 purely as an autostrasse, which, however, was not open to the public. Piero Puricelli then built the autostrada dei Laghi in Italy, which was accessible to all from 1924. This autostrasse had a lane for each direction of travel and already had special entrances and exits for public (but subject to a fee) access. Robert Otzen invented the term “Autobahn”. In 1929 he proposed to use “Autobahn” for car traffic in analogy to the “railroad”.

The first public “autobahn” in Germany is the A555 between Cologne and Bonn. It was opened on August 6 1932 by the then-mayor of Cologne, Konrad Adenauer. After three years of construction, an “intersection-free motor road” was established and already had essential features of today‘s motorway: high-altitude and two-lane for each direction of travel. However, the lanes were separated – another important feature of the motorway – only after expansion in 1958, which means that the A555 also received the official status of a motorway.

The first section of the A3 (KolnDusseldorf) was laid down in 1929 by the Provincial Association of the Prussian Rhine Rhine Province. Work started at Opladen in 1931 and in 1933 this first part of today‘s A3 was completed.

they went out of their way to make our visits pleasant, and nothing was too much trouble for them.”

Goldie Gardner’s visit to Germany and his records are now 81 years ago, but the German hospitality is still the same!

EX135 and Gardener on the Dessau Autobahn, Germany during May 1939 www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 39

Cathelijne Spoelstra +31 (0)6 41216600 cathelijnespoelstra@outlook.com www.triple-mregister.org

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME TO THE

TRIPLE M NEWSLETTER With these monthly Register pages consisting of mainly historical stuff (at least since I took up the reins anyway) with only the occasional event report or update included, I have again not found any difficulty in filling them, even in these strange times

of lockdown and social distancing when you might think there’s nothing to report. In any case, I hope what I’ve cobbled together is of interest!

PETER GREEN

Those who knew him and all who held him dear will have heard by now of the passing of Peter Green, that most kind and gentle soul who freely helped so many set up their engines correctly, supercharge their cars, reinvigorate almost abandoned projects, start racing, source cars and what not.

Following on from this newsletter you’ll find a fitting tribute to this very special human being. Suffice to say here, he will be sorely missed by the worldwide Triple-M community and personally, I offer my most heartfelt condolences to his family and would like to let them know that the passing of their dear Dad and Grandad has moved me deeply. RIP, Peter, and Safety Fast!

The late Peter Green piloting Alan Jones in the 1980 Grand Prix Parade at Brands Hatch in his faithful K3011. Australian Jones went on to win both the race and the overall drivers’ championship later that same year. Smiles all around. Photo: ©Autosport

CAR OF THE MONTH A J for June this time. I’ve just picked one at random from the inexhaustible Register Archive and found this interesting snippet penned by Colin Butchers:

J2878, Car of the Month. Photo: ©LAT www.mgcc.co.uk

“Early in 1934 A.G. Sanderson newly bought J2878 from the Central Motoring Institute and entered it in the MCC Land’s End Trial in April 1934 gaining a

bronze award. He then entered the MCC Edinburgh Trial in May 1934 gaining a premier award, followed by the MCC Land’s End again in April 1935 from which he retired. From then on, he concentrated on local speed events at Dancer’s End (a few miles south of Tring), Beechwood Park (at Markyate, near Luton) and the last appearance we have been able to trace was at the HBMC West Court Speed Trials at Finchampstead, near Reading, in 1946. His efforts at Dancer’s End were particularly successful, as during 1935,’36 and ’37 he bagged a number of class wins in both the 850cc and 1100cc classes.

In June 1938 he bought a C-type (C0265) and continued his speed event successes. Meanwhile he kept the J2 which he still owned in 1946. The C-type was sold to another enthusiast in 1942, but we do not know what happened to AMC 12.”

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 41

NEWSLETTER I seemed to remember the photograph from somewhere and some more digging brought up a thread on our Forum dating back to 2015, when Sam Christie posted the pic which had come to light through Chris Lambert’s (of Pre War Minor

Network fame, worth a browse on www. prewarminor.com!) efforts in digitising old glass plates at LAT, that well-known motoring photographic agency. From that very clear scan, the car appeared to have a name: ‘Otazades’. Chunked up in pieces

– ‘Ot az ades’ – a joint effort between forumists suggested this to mean ‘hot as hell (Hades)’. Rather clever, if you ask me!

Do take a minute to have a proper look at the picture to enable yourself to feel the atmosphere; wonderfully evocative, isn’t it?

LEST WE FORGET II AND QUARTERLY QUIZ IN ONE

Ankie and Jan Moll posing next to their PB.

I may have been somewhat misleading you all in last month’s notes, saying the identity of Andrée Wiltens’ car wasn’t known, when we do in fact have a likely candidate; just the one F2 was imported to Holland and so it is highly probable that it’s F1458.

It was of course Ian Ross of F Magna Registry fame who brought this particular number to my attention. Serves me right for not checking with him before going ‘live’!

Next up is last February’s answer to the Quarterly Quiz: J.J. Moll’s PB Midget. All six of you who gave it a try were indeed correct. Added extras were that a J2 hood had been (ill-) fitted to the car (trust Simon Johnston to come up with this little snippet of information; see the 2013 Yearbook). The pic was taken in Czechoslovakia and the lady supposedly listened to the name of Luna van den Berg. The first one may be true, the second and third statements were in fact not, with the pic having been taken in pre-war Holland and the woman being Jan Moll’s wife, Ankie.

Extra points for coming up with a thoroughly Dutch name though, Michael Boulton! So, into the hat they all went and out came 42 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

Robert Baurdoux, one of this feature’s loyalists, always promptly getting his submissions in. Prize on its way, Robert!

Unfortunately, very little is known about the PB. Not even its chassis number. Jan Johannes Moll first bought himself a brand new J2 (J3411) through Dutch importer J.J. Molenaar, but then, shortly before the outbreak of war, he switched to a second-hand red PB of which there are no records of it having been imported through the usual way, and so it is believed Moll sourced and, possibly, imported it privately from the UK. On Jan Moll himself there’s a lot more to tell. Born in 1900 in Surabaya in the Dutch East Indies, he initially trained as a radio operator after his return to the Netherlands, but, after a few years at sea, he turned to aviation and became a pilot. One of his more famous feats was crewing the Royal Dutch Airlines’ (KLM) Douglas DC-2 Uiver in an air race from London to Melbourne in October 1934. They came home first on handicap and second overall.

Once, upon return at Schiphol after another long flight, Jan couldn’t get his PB to run because the battery had died. Having had www.mgcc.co.uk

NEWSLETTER help reinvigorate the badly bruised and battered KLM, Jan figured it’d be nice to return home and accepted the job.

After all, he hadn’t seen his Ankie since June 1940!

During his prolonged stay in England, Jan had collected so much stuff he wanted to take back with him, he decided he needed to get Ankie seemed rather happier washing the car as she did in the February picture than to be idle. himself another a few post-job drinks, his colleagues were rather amused to see him motor car. At a London car dealer, he found a very distinguished try the starting handle in the exhaust. After a few futile swings, Jan’s and shiny black VA saloon. Although slightly above budget, it merry band of helpers decided to give him a push. Missing a bend in suited his purposes and so a deal was struck. Incidentally, when the road while rolling, the PB ended up with its front wheels dangling he eventually sold this car in about 1950, it was to someone who above the Haarlem canal. It was then his mates suggested it would had spent the war years in hiding on the same farm as where be wiser for Jan to get a taxi home and leave his Midget at Schiphol Jan’s PB had been stored away to avoid confiscation by the after which they duly pushed it back to safety!

German oppressor! Unfortunately, nothing has ever been heard During the early days of the war, Jan fought on the banks of of the poor PB or whatever happened to it after its owner, who the river Meuse, but when his country capitulated, he thought was fondly remembered by his fellows as ‘the Brit’, returned. Is better than to spend the duration of the war as a prisoner and fled it perhaps still lurking somewhere in the Netherlands? Or has it to England, arriving during the height of Operation Dynamo, the gone elsewhere? Jan himself passed away peacefully in 1988 Dunkerque evacuation. Once there, he messaged his wife that he’d having been appointed ‘Commodore’ by the KLM, a title reserved try to get back in four or five days’ time. It would be five and a for those of outstanding flying merits. half years.

Your new assignment, ladies and gentlemen, is to name the Having reported to the Dutch government in exile in London, model of this lovely saloon plodding up a trials hill. Bonus points, Jan was appointed flying instructor with the RAF at Silloth, as ever, for naming the event or the location, even.

Cumbria. After only a brief stay there, he was transferred to Leuchars, up in Fife in Scotland, to act as chief instructor of the newly formed 320 Dutch Squadron, a coastal defence unit which was to become part of Bomber Command half way through 1943. He was to take General Alexander to the African Front in a Liberator 920, collect SKF bearings from Sweden, transport new Mitchells from America to England, carry diplomats to Moscow and back, pilot military staff to Cairo and Gibraltar, and finally serve as Captain for the British Overseas Airways Corporation (BOAC) line flying an AVRO York. When, in June 1945, he was approached by Mr Plesman, the company’s President, to New assignment: Name that model! Photo: ©LAT www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 43

NEWSLETTER SOME FINAL SNIPPETS Now for a car that has indeed survived! After having rebuilt a TD, ever-enthusiastic Wim van Santen was infected with the Triple-M virus (rather a good one, as viruses go) and managed to obtain a fabulous ‘barn find’ in 2014. The NA four-seater, NA0462, had been stabled in Andrew Houghton’s private museum in deepest Wales since about 1966 and thus acquired its ‘patina’. During the past few years, Wim set to rebuilding the car as a proper fourseater and tried his best to salvage as much of the woodwork and metal panelling and other original bits as he could. Along the way he acquired a few more four-seater bodies discarded by others who chopped up their cars to become K3 lookalikes and what not. A pity that, but each to their own and all that. Anyway, Wim’s car was rebuilt with a Continental tour in mind in honour of a united Europe (…). With the car finished, it would have been about now that he would have set off on a three-month trip, but with the current lockdown in place, this is of course not to be!

And a good thing, too, for a few minor hiccups have surfaced that need sorting still, so now he can take his time to turn his ‘grande dame’ named Margareth, into a reliable hack. In any case, I feel Wim is to be congratulated on his splendid job and for sticking with the four-seater look. Just thought I’d share!

Another one that has survived is J4238. And yes, this one resides in the Netherlands as well, just like Wim’s NA, apologies for being so monotonous in my choices ... J4238 has been in Henri de Jong’s custody since February 2003 when the late Mike Hawke informed me of the car’s Brooklands history, however minor: its first owner, N.A. Pineger, used the car for competition at the famous Weybridge track twice: once, in February 1934, for a JCC Brooklands Rally and then again for the BARC Whit-Monday meeting in that same year, during which event he “caused a burst of laughter when his white MG Midget developed a terrific wheel judder at quite a low speed, causing him almost to come to a standstill” (Motorsport, June 1934). After thoroughly researching the J2’s history some 15 years ago, all we ever found was a period pic of what possibly showed a tiny bit of one of the car’s rear wings at the JCC meeting back in the day. That is, until now, because when I was going through the aforementioned LAT files on

NA0462 as found in Wales in 2014

NA0462 in its current state after some much-needed tlc

www.motorsportimages.com and I had been going through some 948 photographs already, searching on ‘1934’ though not looking for anything particular. It was getting really late and my eyes were starting to droop, and all of a sudden there it was, right there, on the Test Hill! In full view! Funny how an 86-year-old piccie can make one feel so excited! Another snippet I just thought I’d share!

In closing, if you want to read more on Triple-Ms with a more UK-based history, do bring your stories to my attention and I’m sure I can find a better balance next time.

For now, stay safe everyone, stay home, be good, and hopefully we’ll be able to catch up in person later in the year. Or as Colin Murrell put it the other day: Safety First now, Safety Fast later!

P.S. I am indebted to the late Bas de Voogd for having researched Jan Moll and his cars while the VA was in his ownership.

Henri de Jong’s J4238 on the Test Hill during the February 1934 JCC Brooklands Rally. Photo: ©LAT

44 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 45

OBITUARY

L

ife is a continuum and so too is the MG story. When future researchers chart the history and the evolution of MG they will rightly focus on the individuals who influenced the evolution of the marque and contributed to its success. They will also give recognition to those who continued to “maintain the breed” long after the cessation of production.

The Triple-M world is mourning the demise of one such person: Peter Green departed this life on April 20 2020 following a period of illness. He was 81 and had been associated with Triple-M MGs for more than three quarters of his life.

In this he was influenced and encouraged by his uncle, Pat Green, a noted racer of pre-war cars, including MGs. Thus Peter became a second generation MG-owning family member when his parents presented him with a four-seater NB Magnette as an 18th birthday present. The make of car was pure chance – it could have been almost anything – but the connection

with MGs and Peter’s future direction was now firmly established. In later years he recalled that the car’s brakes were woefully inadequate, something reaffirmed when he was able to drive the rather more effective NE Magnette of uncle Pat Green.

Peter had studied at agricultural college and in due course started up a nursery business at his home, appropriately named ‘Greenacres’, in Farnham Royal, Buckinghamshire. The NB was sold at that stage to finance a van for the business. Peter and Thelma married in 1964 and shortly afterwards he bought a very scruffy nonrunning ND which had a Morris engine and gearbox. Although Thelma had regarded this acquisition as “a pile of junk”, when the restoration was finished some four years later she conceded that it had not been such a bad purchase after all! The ND made an epic trip to Hausach in Bavaria in 1979 where it was hailed as overall winner of the event, beating over 200 other MGs. That tour saw the start of many firm

PETER GREEN – A TRIBUTE

46 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

Monaco 1997

and enduring friendships with German enthusiasts. After completing the MGCC tour of Britain in 1980 the car was sold, the proceeds going towards the purchase of the ex-Whitney Straight K3, K3011, which had not been seen outside the USA since 1936. He and a friend were able to buy it and a few years later sole ownership passed to Peter.

Peter had many occasions to recall the numerous exploits which he and Thelma undertook in K3011. In April 1983 with the help of Gerhard Maier, Gunther Stamm and others a team of cars was put together to do a re-run of the 1933 Mille Miglia in which the team of MGs had achieved spectacular success. Meticulous planning ensured that the cars started at exactly the same time, from precisely the same place as the MG team had done in 1933 and they followed the identical course over which the 1933 event had been run. Highlights of the event were meetings with Count ‘Johnny’ Lurani, one of the 1933 MG team drivers, at his Peter and K3011 at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2008.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Peter receiving The Marque of Friendship Award from Ian Quarrington in 2017

home and Enzo Ferrari at the Ferrari factory.

Peter subsequently owned and restored Count Lurani’s 1933 Mille Miglia K3, as well as owning K3016, one of the other team cars, and for a time (together with Gunther Stamm’s K3017), all three original 1933 team cars were housed in Peter’s workshop.

Peter was very much an innovator but always mindful of the need to adhere to tradition and correctness, and he applied this principle to the cars he owned. He was meticulous in the restoration of any car he was involved with; his cars were never ‘over-prepared’, rather they resembled what would have come out of the factory ‘in the day’. He insisted on many detailed touches to remain faithful to the original. One small example: bolt heads were machined to remove modern-day markings, leaving them plain just as they would have been when the car was first made.

This attention to detail was evident and proved itself through reliability on countless occasions in racing and other competitive events. One landmark example was the 1986 Triple-M Register record attempt at MIRA. Peter drove K3011 there, circulated with others around the track for 24 hours, set five British national speed records and then drove the car home afterwards. K3011 also competed in the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique race meeting in 1997, as well as 20 years of successful and enjoyable visits to the Oldtimer Grand Prix at the Nurburgring.

K3011 continues to be campaigned at MGCC and other Club racing events, with so-in-law Andrew Taylor at the wheel in recent years. It has also been in demand to race and display at Goodwood motoring events.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Peter would always support and encourage anyone who wished to get their car back on the road, be that a bit of fettling or a full restoration. For him, the important thing was that the car was being used.

Peter was fortunate to have a large area of land for his nursery business.

Post-retirement, the land was cleared of glasshouses, which opened things up, enabling the Green family to host a Summer Gathering and associated gymkhana and driving tests. An annual fixture since 2005, the gathering is attended by hundreds of guests and almost as many cars.

If Peter was a second-generation MG driver, one of his daughters, Elizabeth Taylor, followed in her father’s tracks, racing and sprinting at numerous events. Elizabeth and Andrew’s daughter Katherine, a fourth generation now aged 12, has piloted the family PB Cream Cracker at Greenacres and an Austin J40 at Goodwood several times.

Peter was a committed MGCC member.

He was a Register committee member for 35 years until his death and Chairman for 12 of those years. He was a constant source of new ideas, including the early adoption of a Register website and many other resources through which owners receive support. 40th

and 50th Register anniversaries provided an outlet for his skills in organisation – combining novelty with careful planning.

For all this and more he received the Club’s Marque of Friendship award in 2017.

This tribute to Peter naturally focuses on his cars, but what of the man himself? His is a story of unfailing kindness and generosity to all.

Heart-warming tributes include: Hugely generous with his time and advice, supporting me through several projects that I would never have taken on without knowing he was there to call upon.

My questions to him were those of a novice learning the MMM craft, but he answered them patiently and without judgement, the mark of a gentleman and true enthusiast.

If ever I had any mechanical issues at a race meeting, Peter would usually be the first one to come over to offer help and solutions. It was a bit like having a second dad.

I doubt there would be any [Australian] Triple-M owners who would have not been assisted by Peter at some stage. “A really top bloke.”

Had the privilege to meet Peter in the early seventies… without him, I never would have had a chance to dive in the wonderful scenery on MMM secrets… that familiar friendship went on for 50 years!

So supportive with everything we have done with Triple-M Racing and so much more.

The loss of a true gentleman, my ‘mentor’ in MMM racing – even lending me a Musketeer for a French event.

Irreplaceable.

A true friend, mentor and trusted confidant whose generosity of spirit and kindness helped me and countless others... we must keep his memory bright.

If there was one person who embodied the slogan ‘Marque of Friendship’ it was Peter.

One of the nicest people you could wish to meet and such a fountain of knowledge of all things associated with our cars. He really was “Mr Triple-M.” At this very sad time our thoughts and sympathies go to Peter’s daughters Elizabeth and Diane and their families.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 47

NEWSLETTER

Jerry Birkbeck 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 birkbeckjerry@gmail.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE

Y TYPE NEWSLETTER Welcome to our Summer Newsletter. Normally I would be waxing lyrical about what Y owners are doing, events they have attended and what they are looking forward to in 2020. That, of course, is not the case as we are in unprecedented and deeply worrying times. Whatever the ‘new normal’ will be is anyone’s guess. Certainly it will not be as it was in the immediate past.

I have taken this opportunity to reflect on a few past events and also touch on what some of our Y owners are doing.

Perhaps the most obvious is that most of us have spent time servicing and repairing the classics we own.

Just after ‘lockdown’ began I floated a few thoughts on

Facebook as to what folk were doing and what interests they had beyond their MGs. I’ll focus on a few well-known Y owners and provide you with a little flavour with a few brief tales about them and which I thought may be of interest to you all.

Neil Cairns, our Technical Guru, has provided thoughts on Y panel fitting.

Peter Vielvoye provides a useful guide for those who dislike social media on how they can easily access our Facebook page.

Hopefully, the rest includes a few more photos of past events and recent Y Type owners’ new toys and what they are hoping to do with them!

WHAT HAVE YOU BEING DOING IN LOCKDOWN? I posed the question on FB and had several interesting responses. A brief review noted that many MG owners do have a range of other interests which they are pursuing both before and during the lockdown, including the following: Playing musical instruments, restoring furniture, building model railways, sailing, editing club magazines, reading, art and painting, besides all the tedious DIY stuff,

building sheds and gardening, to name but a few! I guess that also included what folk were doing in their garage! Here, though, are a couple that took my attention.

BRIAN MELLEM’S GARAGE Brian’s garage is a real treasure trove. It includes a plethora of his interests from over the last few years – all of which he

has built or restored. Moreover, all of them are in working condition. These include his YA (in which he and Gill have travelled over 500,000 miles), a 16’ plywood sloop built 60 years ago and still seaworthy, 110ft of 3.5 gauge track and a Rob Roy steam locomotive, a 105e Anglia, a Scott Motorbike and Brian’s lathe!

PETER VIELVOYE’S GARAGE Peter’s garage is the model of order and tidiness. This includes an extended tool board and a mounted set of each spanner and then colour code them. AF yellow and Whitworth red. Mind you, as Alan Chick commented: “It looks very good, Peter, but those shelves of cans all different sizes… surely they could be arranged high

48 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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NEWSLETTER to low?” He did then go on to suggest: “When you’re done you should have a go at mine!”

WHAT ELSE HAVE FOLK DONE? Alan Chick has been very busy. Not only has he been on a number of virtual runs in his YB, managing to travel all of 10 metres (reverse and forward) along his drive, where his MGB GT is parked. Great work on the Rally Boards, Alan!

He has also used the Jackall Transfers that we provide to smarten up his engine bay, along with fitting a lovely pair of chrome horns.

DRIVE IT DAY 2020 AND COPING WITH THE LOCKDOWN IN STYLE, Y NOT! An especially frustrating aspect of the Lockdown has been the remarkable wonderfully sunny weather during mid-April.

Of course, Drive it Day which was on Sunday April 26 was a glorious day. Here is how Dave Jones and Alan Chick ‘celebrated’ it!

In spite of the lockdown one or two of our members have been suitably savvy to arrange a trip to the supermarket in their favourite steeds, Gary Brown in his YT named Limoncello; together with Alan Rothwell in his Y. The car is excellent and fitted with an MGB engine and gearbox, fitted when Alan bought the car seven years ago.

Gary Brown’s YT, affectionately known as Limoncello

Alan Chick’s Drive it Day Rally Board on his Y on the drive www.mgcc.co.uk

Dave Jones celebrates Drive it Day JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 49

NEWSLETTER Y PANEL FITTING

Panel shut lines are important, they can cause wind noise and water leaks if incorrect. The boot and spare wheel panels usually fit properly.

I have just finished reading a book on Jaguars. The author boasts of the accurate, close panel fits on these cars. Today, with computer-controlled design and machining, car bodies can be made very accurate and their panels made to fit almost perfectly.

This is certainly not true of pre-1970s cars. I had a Farina MG Magnette where no matter how much one fiddled; the little raised section at the nose of the bonnet could not be made to align with the MG badge on the radiator grille. It was 1/4” out.

I soon found that every Farina Magnette I saw had the same fault. Cars with separate bodies mounted upon chassis have the additional problem of alignments, a tiny bit out when being mounted and things can look bleak. So with all the mounting bolts a bit loose the body can be ‘tweaked’ a bit to line up.

One day many, many years ago when I was at a big car show, I was asked to assist in judging. I eventually sorted out three that looked good. I chose a really nice sports car and began my close-inspection. It was not long before I noted something was wrong, even though the car was immaculate and had had a total restoration. Its owner was nearby and watching me with interest. The driver’s side door was a good inch shorter than the passenger side and it was the trim panel inside that brought my attention to it. The owner came over grinning. It seems he had rebuilt the car by going round it and had failed to use the driver’s door before welding it all up, as a door-gap gauge. Too late, he found out and as it was a monocoque not easily fixed.

So he carefully ‘shortened’ the door by cutting and shutting it as he had had to re-skin it anyway. It had been well done and virtually unnoticeable, except by some rivet-counter like me. He had even shortened the removable plastic side panel.

50 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

On the Y Type the body is firmly bolted to its chassis mountings aft of the engine firewall.

It has two buttresslike mounts from the firewall running down each side of the engine to the chassis. This is a pretty firm mounting with little leeway. The radiator mounts on two studs onto a cross-member On my YB the nearside bonnet hinge rubs the body underneath it on just about the swage line. It always has! I discovered rubber washers. The it way back in 1995 when it began to squeak gull-wing bonnet then sits between the firewall and the radiator and luckily MG provided two adjustable bracing rods. At their body-end there is a turn-buckle and this enables the radiator to be adjusted for fore and aft movement, rocking on those rubber mounts, so the bonnet can be made to fit.

Once you have the bonnet sitting nicely between the radiator and firewall, you might find the bonnet locks do not fit and are difficult to lock. The chances are the last person who fitted the locking plate did not know they are all handed, stamped LHR,

Bumper gaps to wings are educating. Adjustable by adding or removing washers on the body mounting iron

Bonnet to radiator adjustment is by using the bracing rods under the bonnet.

www.mgcc.co.uk

NEWSLETTER

Door hinges are adjustable when doors drop. The brass ball inside is the secret.

The turn-buckle adjuster is the other end

LHF, RHR, RHF, (left-hand rear, etc). If fitted wrongly it makes shutting the bonnet very difficult, if not impossible.

Doors drop with age, especially the driver’s door. The bottom edge of the door will rub on the lower top edge of the aperture. The door hinges on the ‘B’ post are adjustable a bit, but if the brass ball between the two halves of the hinge is worn, a new one may be needed. But if the hinge itself is worn the ball can carefully be hacksawn in half and a brass washer of the same diameter fitted to ‘lift’ the door a little. If you have a lathe you could turn up elongated balls to compensate for the wear.

The bonnet locking plates are all handed. Are yours in the correct place?

Y bumpers can easily be adjusted to give equal gaps between them and the wing corners by fitting washers behind the body bumper mounting irons.

If your car’s wheel arches sit at different heights above the wheels, especially the front, is one of your springs broken?

The opening windscreen is also adjustable on its hinges. The bolt hole is a slot so it can be moved in or out to sit firmly on the seal. Even so, many still leak in heavy rain.

Next time you are amongst lots of Ys, have a look at the panel fits, especially the bonnet gaps.

Neil Cairns

HOW TO ACCESS AND USE OUR FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

One of the few plusses for the classic car world during this Coronavirus lockdown has been the ability to access social media. The MGCC Y Register Facebook Group has experienced a boom in its membership and activity has been frantic. Earlier in the year, membership grew slowly to reach the celebrated 100th member. However, we are receiving new applications every day. Facebook posts have come thick and fast, with a plethora of enlightening and amusing comments from members all over the world.

With their cars off the road and more time on their hands, Y owners have been looking for ways to continue indulging in their hobby. We have seen technical questions answered, many nostalgic looks back to happier days, ideas for improvements that probably would never have been thought of and even a commentary on a driveway rally. Every day we have been able to log on and enjoy our hobby. “I don’t do Facebook,” I hear you say. Well, for you and any Y owners who may wish to venture into this area, I hope I can tempt you to join us.

First of all, we are a Private Group. This means that only Facebook members who have applied to join the Group and been accepted by one of the Administrators of the Group can view the contents, post and make comments. So you can’t even view the discussion page unless you are a member. To apply to join our group you must first have a Facebook account.

If you are concerned about privacy, the only information you need to give when applying is your name, email address, date of birth and gender. If you Google “How to join Facebook” you will find all the information you need to dispel any concerns you may have. Then to join, go to www.facebook.com and it is then a matter of following the instructions. Once you have your own Facebook account and your page up on screen, type in “Y Type Register MG Car Club” in place of your name at the top and it will take you to our Group, where you can click “Join”.

I look forward to welcoming another boom in membership when this issue goes out in June.

Peter Vielvoye

PAST EVENTS AND NEW TOYS

Our good friend Victor Rodrigues sent me this photo taken with a RHD/MG YT at British Wheels on the Green meeting 2018 organised by the Arizona MG Club /Scottsdale USA. No more details, unfortunately. White walled tyres are very much an American trait.

Indeed, when I bought my YT 11 years ago from the US, it too was fitted with the same bling! I sold the tyres and bought a new set of conventional cross plies.

The RHD YT spotted at British Wheels on the Green www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 51

John Thompson Tel: 01702 298866 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME TO THE

ZRZSZT NEWSLETTER Welcome to our first newsletter of 2020. I hope you and your families continue to be safe and well. In these unusual circumstances we haven’t had the events we would usually attend to review in this newsletter. However, not to be disheartened, at the time of writing MG Saloon Day 2020 and the MGF Register’s MGF 25 celebrations are going ahead at the BMM Gaydon on Saturday 25 and Sunday July 26. We realise the COVID-19 situation continues to change regularly and we will continue to be guided by the Club and event venues. We will keep you updated with information as soon as we learn of it.

Last month we announced the revised dates for the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show at the NEC over the weekend of Friday 7-Sunday August 9. Following a committee discussion and the continuing COVID-19 situation and the social

distancing measures which have been put in place, we have decided NOT to attend the show this year.

Please continue to share your MG projects with other members on our Facebook group and your Zed pictures.

Last years Register stand at the PC Restoration show, proudly showing the Save our Zeds campaign car off. The Zed Register look forward to heading back to the NEC in 2021

Zeds at the British Motor Museum for Zed15.

Hopefully we’ll be back for Saloon Day soon.

www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 53

NEWSLETTER FROM HUMBLE BEGINNING… PART II It’s been fifteen years since the last of the Zeds and their Rover cousins were driven off the production line at the former MG Rover plant at Longbridge. In the second of a series we look back at the introduction and development of the MG ZS. When the Phoenix bid for Rover was accepted by BMW in 2000, John Towers had a saving grace in MG and soon the company was renamed as MG Rover.

Unfortunately, the image of the then three Rovers, the 25, 45 and 75, had been so tarnished by the whole BMW escapade that something needed to be done. MG Rover knew that just to rebadge the current cars would have been commercial suicide so employed the expertise of designer Peter Stevens to breathe life in to the cars. It was up to Rob Oldaker to take them and work on the chassis engineering. The appealing ‘bubble’ shape of the Rover 25 made the MG transformation easy, with a more aggressive stance due to the lower ride height, bigger alloy wheels and the chrome front mesh grille which really gave this little MG, codenamed the X30, road presence.

The Honda-based Rover 45 was more of a challenge for both Peter Stevens and Rob Oldaker with its rather dull ascetic appearance and the mediocre chassis.

Sceptics were worried that the car wouldn’t be a true driver’s car in the style that the founder of MG, Cecil Kimber, had intended.

These sceptics were to be proved wrong, as Rob and his team did an excellent job and the car emerged with remarkably capable chassis, 17-inch alloy wheels, uprated suspension, brakes and steering to totally transform the driving feel. Wind-tunnel work on the car’s aerodynamics resulted in a package of front and rear spoilers, plus

54 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

side skirts to minimise aero drag and lift.

The rear spoiler for the saloon version is reminiscent of the Mitsubishi Evo or Subaru Impreza giving the MG, codenamed the X20, real character.

The Press launch of these cars was held in Cardiff in 2001 just after they were given their proper names. The new cars were called ZR (X30), ZS (X20), evoking memories of the 1950s Z Magnette saloons.

Both the ZR and ZS were launched in a choice of six colours ranging from the suitable classic contemporary Le Mans Green, Anthracite and Platinum Silver to the brighter shades, if you really wanted to make your MG stand out from the crowd, including Solar Red, Trophy Yellow, and Trophy Blue. Instead of following suit with most manufactures and naming their models L, GL, CD, etc, MG decided to name their Z range of cars on the amount of horsepower the engine produced.

When the ZS was launched, MG publicised the 4-door saloon more than the 5-door hatchback. The reason behind this maybe was that a 4-door saloon in a bright colour like Trophy Blue with the 17” alloy wheels and big Evo-style spoiler was so far removed from the stuffy image that the Rover 45 portrayed that it made the press stop and take notice of it – especially the range-topping 180 model with its 2.5-Litre 24-valve V6 engine shoehorned under the bonnet. Rob Oldaker had also done an excellent job on

the chassis. When the 180 was reviewed

by Tiff Needell on Top Gear in 2001 he said: “This is one of the best front-wheel drive cars I have ever driven.” When the ZS was initially released there was a choice of two engines, the 1.8 litre K-Series 120, available as a manual or stepspeed, and the 2.5 litre KV6 180. As with the ZR, on the 120 there was a choice of a base model or a ‘+’ model, the main difference being CFC-free air-conditioning fitted as standard on the ‘+’ model. Both of them came with ABS, 16” Hairpin alloy wheels and the distinctive mesh grille with body-coloured surround as standard. The 180 model had 17” Straight alloy wheels that covered the larger front and rear disc brakes, front fog lights, flared body-coloured sill mouldings and the extreme spoiler as standard. The larger alloy wheels, body-kit and spoiler were available as an optional extra on the 120 model. The interior of the 180 was a bit more luxurious than the 120, with the Monaco style seats and leather gear gator and steering wheel. By 2005 the ZS had a range of different engines to suit everybody’s taste. A strict budget needn’t have prohibited you from a little fun owning a ZS. The base model 1.6k series 16-valve engine named the ZS 110 with just 108bhp might not seem particularly powerful. But as a typical K-series engined car, when you first turn the key and blip the throttle the needle zips up and down the tachometer. Straight away you realise this is a car that is going to be very light on its feet and the performance data is quite surprising. The ZS110 will sprint to 60mph in 9.8 seconds and hit a top speed of 119mph. The L-Series Turbo diesel engine was introduced to the ZS in August 2002 in

www.mgcc.co.uk

NEWSLETTER

the underpowered 101PS guise. This was later superseded by the 115PS version in January 2003.

In 2004 Peter Stevens was charged with facelifting the MG Rover range. The ZS facelift was probably the most radical, at least on the range-topping 180, and for the first time the Rover 45 and MG ZS became noticeably different-looking cars, with the 180 having wheel arch extensions, side vents in the wings 17” x 7.5” 11-spoke alloy wheels and the front end body styling heavily resembling the MG flagship SV. Other subtle alterations included the rear number plate being relocated from the boot lid to the bumper and the MG boot badge being replaced

www.mgcc.co.uk

by a larger 9cm version located in the centre of the panel. All this delivered a very distinctive look for the new ZS. The facelifted model also received a revised interior, with the ZS+ models having a part-leather grey Axis interior and the ZS 180 having gunsmoke Alcantara with black leather side bolster as standard.

A new ‘technical grey’ dash layout was also incorporated, which included four satin chrome rotary air-vents as well as automatic temperature control air conditioning which was available as standard on the 180, but as an extra on the ‘+’ models. The security was increased and both the ZR and ZS came with drive-away locking that locks the doors

automatically as soon as vehicle speed exceeds 3 mph. The doors remain locked when the car is stationary but can be unlocked by turning off the engine or by the master central locking button situated conveniently on the new centre console.

The ZR also had Peter Stevens’ magic touch and although not as radical as the ZS the facelifted ZR exudes even more attitude, with the rear number plate being relocated from the boot lid to the bumper and the front end having the now-distinctive slatted colour-coded grille which resembled the SV. The interior also received attention, with the seating and dash finish very similar to that of the revised ZS interior. Air conditioning was now fitted as standard to the ‘+’ models of the range.

The only colour which stayed available throughout the whole of the ZR/ZS production was Trophy Yellow. The other standard colours available during the last year of production were X Power Grey (Metallic), Ignition Blue (Pearlescent), Rio Red, Firefrost (Pearlescent), Royal Blue (Pearlescent), Goodwood Green (Pearlescent), Starlight Silver (Metallic) and Black Pearl (Pearlescent). As well as the standard colours there was also MG Rover’s Monogram programme which allowed you to create a truly individual ZR or ZS by specifying a non-standard exterior colour, customised interior and state-ofthe-art entertainment system.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 55

NEWSLETTER

As with many production cars, over the years both the ZR and ZS had a few ‘Special Editions’ launched. In recognition of their racing association, in 2002 MG

56 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

and Team Atomic Kitten endorsed their partnership with the introduction of the Atomix SE derived from the popular MG ZR 105+ and MG ZS 120+ models, with additional features over the standard ‘+’ models such as Monaco seats and electric sunroof. The car was available in Le Mans Green, Solar Red and the then-

new X Power Grey which at the time was used on the MG Rally and Touring race cars.

The next part of this series will appear in our next newsletter, and will look at the introduction and development of the MG ZT and the MG ZT 260.

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High Torque Starter Motor.

British made £252

New Replacement MG RV8 Heatshield Fits above catalysts on the underside of the car.

Stops heat ingress and paint burning on underside of car £119.50 All Alloy 15 inch Replacement Wheels for the GTV8 With a highly polished alloy rim.

Weighs approx 2kg lighter.

No further rusting. £430.80

RV8 MG Rocker Covers £267 pair

genuine & conversion parts

RV8 Expansion tank £79.95

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RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers

Adjustable on car through 28 different stages £271.00 (front) £301.30 (rear) full set £552 - save £20.30

RV8 Headlight Cowl in composite £114 each

• RV8 wood refurbishment Catering for all MGB, V8, V8 conversions & RV8 vehicles.

RV8 cars available for sale - please call

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RV8 Boot Stays. £30.20 each

New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats.

Original patterns, colour & embroidered with MG logo. Pair RV8 mats £99.50

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RV8 Front Radiator Cover Black £209.50 Part Carbon Fibre £239.80

ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT

British Made

BOXER ROLL HOOPS

Transform your MGF or TF with a Boxer Roll Hoop & Windbreak – the original and best!

Fits all models: 1995 – 2010+ Choice of styles and finishes inc. black, silver and polished chrome See website for full range

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V8 Engine Steady Bar This is the best you can buy for the money! £59.60 RV8 BumpStops in poly. Fit and forget £55.20 pair

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With over 200 kits now sold and 100% positive feedback the FCCKit has been a great success From QUAD, ROUND eliminating the hydragas issues. For 2019 the MK4 £65 or OVAL tail pipes version incorporates improvements to make fitting easier, additional height and camber adjustment and self lubricating sintered bearings which eliminates the S L I C K S H I F T I V -2 2-1 1 M ANIFO L D Please check this 4proof for errors in style, content and 4layout. familiar top arm knock/play. 4 shocks and springs, 4 top arms, turrets,carefully ABS brackets STAINLESS STEEL Only we cannot and all fittings required standard tools are all thatevery is required Although care is exercised in preparing your advert, hold £185 for a DIY fit. ’The ride you set is the ride you get’ ourselves responsible£for any +VAT inaccuracies you may overlook.

Only

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URGENT PROOF 949

SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NOR.A_D_IA_T_O_R B L E ED S C R EW ALI HEATER KNOBS SUNMATE

TF SUSPENSION K T

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K N U C K LE J O IN T - N E W MIKE SATUR DESIGN

£46 The Mike Satur TransFormer Coilover Kit STANDARD Only features a CNC machined aluminium top mount OR LOWERED £ 30 with rubber isolating pads which mount directly C L U TC H L EV ER into the subframe without any drilling. The 50mm large capacity GAZ shocks AIR SEATBELT ACCESSORIES Only are a MS design with a 14mm rod that is far stiffer than anything else on the DUCT Only market and directly transmits the loads into the rod without any reduction in £35 From K I T £ 20 the right to charge for any alteration diameter or strength. The stock/aftermarket ones We are reserve machined down to £21 to this proof which 10mm my 14mm design increases the strength without the risk of snapping.

HYDRAGAS NIPPLES NIPPLES - SET HYDRAGAS S ET 4 is a departure from the original copy HUB ADAPTERS WIPER LINKAGE Only Height and damper adjustment is easily done and the new design CNC WELD IN SCREW IN Only £36.75 Only Only machined lower bolts 15mm dia front and 17mm dia rear prevent the risk of £115 snapping compared to the stock 12mm ones. The kit comes ready to fit without £70 £50 the use of old parts only the lower arms have to be machined from 12mm to 14mm for the lower bolt. The springs can easily be replaced without All products designed by Mike Satur the need for compressors. The kit comprises of 4 spring and shock All prices exclude VAT unless stated assemblies and 4 lower bolts.

Telephone 01206

£950 +VAT

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Fax 01206 500180

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 57

TECH TORQUE

TECH TIPS

We are frequently asked technical questions covering all varieties of MG. With the help of our Registers here is a selection of the more commonly asked questions and solutions from past and present

Query: Midget Speedo issues.

My speedometer and odometer just stopped working on my 1976 MG Midget.

Solution:As both instruments have stopped working the problem is likely to be in the cable or the gearbox drive. First check the cable by undoing from the back of the speedo then try to rotate the inner cable with your fingers. If it is held firm by the drive gear in the gearbox then there is probable damage to a ratchet or pawl inside the speedo casing.

If the cable rotates it is either broken or there is damage in the gearbox drive end. If this is the case, disconnect from the gearbox end and you will easily see if the cable is broken. If inner cable is OK, remove the speedo drive pinion from the gear and check for damage.

Query: What way do you suggest for bleeding my brakes?

I know many MG enthusiasts have sought help from their wife or partner to pump the brake pedal whilst they have been bleeding their brakes. Is there a kit I could use?

Solution: Yes, with an Eezibleed Brake Bleeder Kit it’s a simple and effective way to carry out a one-man brake bleeding procedure.

The kit uses a pneumatic system and the air pressure is supplied by air from a spare tyre. Once you have set the kit up, pour 250ml of DOT4 brake fluid into the Eezibleed bottle and connect the other tube to the valve on your spare wheel.

This will pressurise the system. Make sure the bottle can stand upright and is secure so it cannot fall over. In older cars like the MGB the master cylinder feeds all four wheels in a single circuit system. The first wheel to be bled will be the wheel furthest from the master cylinder – for the MGB that’s the left rear wheel. Attach a section of plastic drain tube to the brake nipple and then pressurise the system.

Check for leaks and then you are ready to bleed the system. Open the bleed nipple by about a quarter of a turn with a ring spanner. This releases the brake fluid into the plastic container. Watch the container throughout the bleed operation – do not let the fluid level fall below the minimum mark on the on the Eezibleed bottle. The master cylinder is automatically topped up by the Eezibleed kit. Continue bleeding until the fluid emerging runs clear and free of air bubbles. Then close off the nipple, taking care not to overtighten the nipple. Repeat on all the other brake nipples to complete the operation. See an illustrated article at: www.buyinganmg. com/more.htm

Query: MGB in the dark I have an MGB that was laid up for many years and when I recently put it back on the road I had to drive back from a friend’s house in the dark and found that none of the instruments lights worked. I have checked the fuses and they are fine and everything else on the dashboard works. I tried to turn a very stiff dimmer switch but it made no difference.

Solution:It sounds like the dimmer switch is the problem as they can corrode if the car is laid up in a damp environment. The control knob may work free again but the issue is at the rear of the unit, as the knob revolves a disc and a series of spring contacts work between the disc and a printed circuit.

It’s not really repairable and the only solution is to replace it.

58 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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TECH TORQUE Query: MGF Flickering Speedo I’ve just bought an MGF and the speedo reading was fluctuating, so I changed all three cables, but the problem still persists.

Solution:This could have been the way the cables were previously routed and if the new ones were fitted the same way is why the problem persists. Check the routing of the cables for tight bends or kinks, or even loose sections of cables that move around which could produce flutter. Check the cables and straighten any tight bends, ensuring smooth curves. Use cable ties to retain the cables in position, but make sure the cables are not tightly clamped or can swing free.

Query: Maestro Starting Problems I own a 2Litre MG Maestro and have been experiencing starting issues. A friend suggested replacing the ECU. I purchased a second-hand ECU and fitted it to the car.

Everything was fine for a few weeks but now it won’t start at all.

Solution:Have you tried disconnecting the ECU multi-plug and cleaning all the contacts as it’s unusual for two ECUs to give a similar problem. If the contacts are badly corroded the ECU will appear dead. So clean up the contacts and apply some WD40 which may be the answer. Also check other connectors around the ECU that you may have disturbed by accident. If this doesn’t work then the car needs to be hooked up to an electronic diagnostics system to check out all associated circuits.

Query: Magnette brake pipes I have a 1958 Magnette that requires new brake pipes because of failing the MOT due to them rusting badly. I therefore plan to renew all the pipes and have bought a standard kit from a specialist. They have arrived with the pipes in a curled state. My

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concern is how I bend them to fit round the various corners of the underbody without causing kinks. Shall I paint the pipes with Hammerite paint when completed for added protection?

Solution:The way I do it is to form the pipe with your hands around a solid former of the approximate diameter to suit the required curves. By doing this it eliminates the possibility of kinking. You won’t crack the pipe unless you constantly try to bend and then straighten it. Don’t paint the pipes as it could cause another MOT failure; just add a smear of grease around the connectors to stop them rusting up.

Query: MGB Oil Consumption I own a 1971 MGBGT which suffered from poor oil consumption, which was around 200 miles per pint. I took the plunge and had the engine rebored and rebuilt with new bearings six months ago. The consumption now is around 480 miles, which is not as good as I had hoped for. The cylinder head had new valves but retained the original valve guides as they were deemed OK. The car runs well and there is no excess smoke, either at start up or when accelerating as there was previously.

Solution:I am assuming you have not covered many miles since the re-bore, as it will take a few hundred miles to fully bed the piston rings to the cylinder bores which will improve the seal and reduce the amount of oil getting through to the combustion chamber.

As no blue smoke is noticeable under load, there is unlikely to be a cylinder bore problem but you could get the engine compression tested to put your mind at ease. Also check for oil leaks and wait and see if it improves after 1,000 miles.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 59

Building engines and supplying cylinder heads for the Midget and MGB for over 30 years.

All engines are built in our own workshop and come complete with flywheel, clutch, water pump and front pulley and are ready to ‘drop in’.

We can also rebuild your existing engine.

We supply standard unleaded cylinder heads as well as our renowned Stage 2 fast road heads.

Please check website for full cylinder head specs.

Price Guides MIDGET 1275 Std Unleaded Engine £2345 1275 Balanced Engine £2545 1275 Balanced Engine With Cam £2800 1275 Stage 2 Engine £3300 1380cc Stage 2 £3550

MGB Std Unleaded Engine £2345 Balanced Engine £2545 Balanced Engine with Cam £2800 1860cc Stage 2 Engine at £3300

Please check website for full engine specs.

All the above prices include VAT

Engines and Cylinder heads are sold on an exchange basis. If no exchange unit is available please add £550 to the price of a Midget engine £250 MGB. If you are looking to rebuild your own engine we also stock the full range of parts you will require from pistons to bearing, reconditioned rocker assemblies to genuine Payen Gasket Sets.

We now stock a wide range of road, performance and competition spares PLEASE VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE

www.skiptune.com Email: info@skiptune.com

01276 479647/ 07810 482200 Bagshot, Surrey

60 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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RUSTPROOFING AN MGB/GT

By Roger Cooper

There’s never been a better time to think about Waxoyling your car. The added protection it offers your car to keep the ravages of rust at bay is well worth the time and effort.

Before You Start The success or failure of this operation depends on three things: • Condition of the car before you start.

The makers of Waxoyl claim that it kills rust but it cannot of course strengthen areas weakened by very heavy corrosion any more than it can restore metal which has already completely disintegrated.

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• The thoroughness with which you carry out the job of treating your MG. • Waxoyling should only be done after all welding and painting is complete.

Preparations You will need at least five litres of Waxoyl to carry out a full proofing job. You might even think it advisable to buy a larger quantity and have some left over

for restoration in case of small accidents.

Before embarking on the task, I looked at various sprayers in DIY and garden shops but eventually settled for Waxoyl’s own unit which is really tailor-made for the purpose and is very easy to use. It is a good idea to make sure you have a couple of litres of white spirit or turps

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 61

substitute handy in case you need to thin the Waxoyl down a little and to clean the equipment when you have finished.

As an alternative to thinning Waxoyl you can do the job on a hot day or if you carry out the job on a cooler day, you can put the can of Waxoyl in a bucket of very hot water to warm it up. You will also need a small paintbrush and an old clean jam jar, some rag, a couple of large plastic bin liners to cover the brake discs to keep the Waxoyl off them, and some rubber blanking plugs to put in some of the holes you will have to drill for access to various box sections. Make sure your plugs and your drills are compatible.

Particular areas to check Although Waxoyl can be applied over a thin layer of road dirt I recommend that you clean the car down thoroughly underneath first, carefully poking all the muck out of all the nooks and crannies with a screwdriver.

Particular areas to watch are: • Behind the headlights.

• On top of the ledge towards the rear of the inner wing.

• Where the rear end of the sill blends into the rear wheel arch. There is a particularly nasty pocket there almost an inch deep with an open end pointing down and back at 45 degrees.

A stiff scrubbing brush helps remove mud from the wider expanses under the wings. Scrape off any flaking or damaged underseal, paint and loose rust to expose the metal. Sound underseal and paint can be left intact.

Like any other car, the MGB has its weak spots. You may be familiar with them from long association. If you are new to the model then take a look at the older ones you see running around to get an idea of the problem areas. The main ones are around the headlights (as mentioned above), the back and top of the front wings (that dogleg seam in front of the windscreen), the ledge on the inner wing (mentioned above), and at sill level the area between the rear edge of the door opening to the front edge of the rear wheel arch.

The top of the petrol tank also collects water and mud, and rusts through. You may

62 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

be too late here but if your tank has not gone too far, you might consider removing the tank, Waxoyling it all over and the areas surrounding it, and the supporting straps, and putting it back again.

If you intend being generous with your application of Waxoyl, as I did, then I suggest you remove some of the interior trim – door panels, carpets and other parts. It says on the can that Waxoyl does no harm to “soft furnishings” and I did not remove a door panel and have found that panel has gone limp and flabby inside – so be warned! In any case, removal of the panels gives much better access for spraying.

Some drilling will be necessary To be sure of full access to some of the box sections, a certain amount of drilling is required around the door areas. My MGB had been professionally treated when new in 1974 and already has plugs in the holes drilled in the outer sill at the rear end of the aluminium tread plate, just below the striker plate on the door pillar, and on the door itself at the rear edge at the point where the vertical face curves away to the joint on the bottom edge. You will need to carry out the first two drillings, but if you remove the door panels as suggested, you need not do the third drilling. You will need

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blanking plugs for these holes because they are exposed to view. There is also a hole at the front of the top of the outer sill close to the door seal. It is a very useful access to the front end of the outer sill.

The holes you need to drill are: • Remove the shaped aluminium strip which secures the edge of the rubber carpet and the draught excluder to the projecting vertical seam between the two sills. Drill three 5/16 inch diameter holes through the rubber carpet and the inner sill (one in the middle and one at each end) in such a way that the aluminium strip will completely cover them when you replace it. I was interested to see this section had been overlooked when the car was professionally treated – fortunately it is still in good condition.

• Behind the seats the inner sill widens out to link up with the vertical panel across the front of the battery compartment. Carefully lift and turn back the rubber carpet to expose this area and now there is a double row of spot weld marks visible, you will need to drill one hole on each side of these welds because there appears to be a vertical web dividing the box section into two parts.

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Injection and spraying Now having done the preparation, let us get on with the messy bit – but really it is not that bad! Waxoyl is relatively clean, harmless stuff to use and if you are reasonably careful, you should not put it anywhere except where you want it. There are two basic operations – injection and spraying. I did the injection first.

Injection Fit the long plastic tube with the “nail” in the end to the Waxoyl gun. The “nail” is a diffuser or spreader and should not be adjusted for best effect before starting.

This is the one time when you are likely to get in a mess! At the front of the car, there are two main box section chassis members supporting the engine and gearbox unit.

You should find two small plastic plugs or rubber bungs, one at each side of the base of the radiator, giving access to these box sections. Extract these bungs and put them in a safe place for refitting later. With the Waxoyl gun set up for injection, carefully push the long plastic tube through one of the holes in the direction of the rear of the car, working it back as far as it will go – almost its full length.

With the suction pipe well immersed in the Waxoyl can and gun and delivery

pipe fully primed, give the trigger a fast powerful squeeze about once every second (giving it time to suck up another full charge from the can) and withdraw the probe about ½ inch after each squeeze of the trigger until the end of the tube appears at the hole again. But be warned: the probe can get stuck! You will need to be patient as you may have to feed the tube back in again a little and apply a twisting action until you can free it. Do not be tempted to pull hard on the tube or you will probably rip the “nail” out of the end of the tubing and that will be the end of your nice spray pattern inside the section intended to coat all the internal surfaces. Having successfully done the rear part of the front chassis, turn the probe around and feed it forwards as far as the bumper, repeating the injection sequence as before. When complete, do the other side in the same way and then replace the bungs.

Moving back to the drillings around the door, insert the probe into each of the holes in turn and push it in every possible direction. It is worth mentioning here that during this stage of the work my trigger finger seized solid and had to be prized off the gun before it could be revived!

I should have had a glass of Heineken

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 63

handy to revive the parts that… As you are working on this stage of the work, try and visualise the internal structure of the bodywork and aim to coat every inner surface of the bodywork with Waxoyl.

Some Waxoyl will inevitably run out of the drain holes under the sills, so make sure they are clear first. You may feel it is worthwhile to use the drain holes as additional access points for the probe and another jet of Waxoyl. It is particularly important to ensure that all the seams between the various sheets of metal and panels are well dosed with Waxoyl as they are a favourite moisture trap.

Turning now to the forward door pillar, you will see a cavity ahead of the hinges at the top and a small gap between the pillar and the wing at the bottom. The cavity is easily dealt with – just push the probe in as far as it will go in every direction and squirt another blast of Waxoyl. Pay particular attention to that dogleg seam in that area just ahead of the windscreen on the top of the wing.

64 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

At the bottom of the door pillar you should have just enough room to poke the probe through the gap between the pillar and the wing. Push it forward as far as it will go until it comes up to the back of the splashguard behind the front road wheel.

You can then either go berserk with Waxoyl injection from this position, turning and moving the probe around to cover every possible corner or, if you prefer, you can be more technical by removing the splashguard altogether and then blasting the Waxoyl in from the wheel arch. It is important to realise that water can get into that void past the splashguard and when it does it runs into the sills and out of the drain holes – provided they are clear! If you do not believe me, try it with a hosepipe.

Next the doors The doors are next on the list for treatment. If you have removed the trims then you can use the spray nozzle. If not, then you will still need the probe to

inject through the drilling in the rear face.

Concentrate on the seams and the top edge of the outer skin. Remove the two plastic bungs on the top face of the door just above the hinges. A judicious squirt of Waxoyl through their two holes will help preserve the bolt heads and other bits and pieces visible inside. Replace the bungs.

If you are satisfied that you have done the best job ever on the injection, put all the bungs back in their respective holes and replace the rubber carpet behind the seats and refit the aluminium door sill cappings.

Wash the gun through with white spirit to clean the plastic probe tube, remove it and fit the short spray nozzle.

Spraying Jack the car up enough to give you room to work underneath and chock it and insert axle stands for safety. No point being crushed underneath a beautifully Waxoyled MG that fell off its jack – you will not enjoy driving it then! Again, start from the front with the wheels removed

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and the brake discs well protected by bin liners, and spray all over the inside of the wheel arch, paying particular attention to the rear of the headlights – flood the stuff in there. Get it into the ledge on the inner wings, the seam along behind the chrome trim along the side of the car (another narrow ledge), round the edges (or lip) of the wheel arch and particularly around the splashguard by the door pillar. Continue spraying down onto the sill underneath and into every crevice right through to the back of the car. Pay particular attention to the extreme bottom edge of the sill. Treat the rear wheel arch and the areas in front of that odd little recess at the back of the sill – and behind it as well!

At the front again, there is a shallow box section cross member just below the radiator in which there are three large holes in the bottom surface.

Give this box a good dose inside and out, and while you are down there get as much Waxoyl into the main front suspension cross member as you can by spraying from all possible angles into the visible openings. Spray the outside of the box sections which support the engine and check to see that the injection job you did earlier was good enough and that some Waxoyl has found its way through the drain holes and seams. Working backwards again, give the whole of the rest of the underside of the car, especially the outriggers and floor pans, a good soaking. You can vary the density of the spray by the proximity of the gun to the work, or by using a heavy-duty nozzle.

You might find it helpful to use two hands in order to keep the gun steady and at an even distance from the work.

In this underbody area you will find a number of lap jointed seams in all sorts of vulnerable places – around the inside of the rear wheel arch for example, right where the tyre throws up all the road water and muck. Make sure that these areas are very well soaked in Waxoyl and if necessary, give them a couple of coats just to be sure. Use the brush and some Waxoyl in a jam jar to paint the suspension linkages and brake pipes and all the little odd bits and

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pieces you might have missed with the spray nozzle.

Remove the batteries and spray all around the battery boxes, inside and out, to guard against corrosion but take care to keep the tops of the shock absorbers free of Waxoyl to avoid possible contamination when topping up at some future date.

Inside the boot area, remove all trim, carpets, spare wheel cover, spare wheel, tools and other kit. Also if you feel up into the void by the roof pillars at each side of the rear hatch, you will find a large foam block stuffed in there for sound deadening purposes. Remove this too. Now give a light spray inside that void, particularly upwards to get at the back of the top seam on the rear wing. The meeting point of that top seam with the rear of the side window is a rust spot and source of water leakage. This treatment is to guard against the effects of condensation, but you may find in wet weather that water drips off the tailgate and into the car when the tailgate is open.

On our MGB 1800 the water gets into the window rubber from the outside and percolates through inside and runs out by the heated rear window connections when you lift the tailgate. The tailgate itself will benefit from a quick spray around the inside through openings already available.

Two more areas to treat Finally there are two small areas you might want to consider treating – inside the bumper and overriders and the studs at the back of the chrome trim down each side of the car. You may need to do some dismantling – certainly you would have to remove the chrome trims by prising them off carefully with a screwdriver – if you want to go that far! Well, if you are now completely satisfied that you have done a thorough job, put it all back together again, vacuum out the swarf from the drillings, clean your kit down, stow it away for next the time, and take a hot bath.

When you are dressed and reflecting on your good work with a glass of Speckled Hen and admiring your MG, you might feel it would never win a concours event – who wants to polish under the floor pans in any case – but at least you will feel that your car will be around for as long, maybe even longer, than there are spares available!

Where can I get Waxoyl?

Suppliers include Halfords, Moss and most high street car accessory shops.

Wax Treatment High Pressure Sprayer/Applicator This spray pump is for easy application and comes with 2.5 litres can of Waxoyl

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 65

A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING…

By William Stock Photos by Ray McGough

66 SAFETY FAST! XXXX JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

A

lthough I have been surrounded by, and involved with, MGs all my life and encouraged to use them (my late father rebuilt his TC during the 1980s and ran it as an everyday car until shortly before his death in 2014) I had never competed in any form of motorsport. That was until MGLive! in 2018 when my son spotted that entry for the California Cup Autotest was free, and as he wanted to try camping we would not be rushing to get to Silverstone for the 9.00am start. The entry form was

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completed. I was nervous but felt I could give it a go – we were just driving around cones with no other cars around at minimal risk, but if I wasn’t enjoying the experience I could retire without losing any money.

So much for that plan!

I arrived at the California Cup scrutineering bay with my TF still sporting the boot rack I had used to carry our camping equipment, only to find fellow Lincolnshire Centre member David Stonehouse removing everything possible from his car and even disabling his ABS. Then David dropped

the bombshell that, having found out I had entered, he had co-opted me into a team of Lincolnshire Centre TFs along with Robert Taylor. No backing out now and plenty of pressure to do well alongside regular competitors.

Having marshalled previously, I had watched drivers walking the course and wondered why some of them walked backwards for part of the course. Now all became clear. The diagrams gave some idea of the tests, but the actual walkthrough made them easier to understand.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 67

Start time came around and I nervously joined the queue for my first test. Two tests ran side by side so there was always something for the spectators to see. The Midgets were, as ever, entertaining, but I was following an entrant from the Ulster Centre who clearly knew what they were doing. So as I sat on the start line I felt those viewing would see the sublime turn to the ridiculous once I set off.

Nerves were rising as I inched to the start line and then off! I had decided discretion was my best course and that it would be best for the team if I got a clear round and didn’t worry too much about the time. Off the line and the first set of cones were there in no time, lots of twists, turns and quick sprints and all too soon the finish line was there. Test one clear; a good result.

Each test was run twice and I managed to improve my time when repeating a test, so I felt I was progressing and not letting the team down. I was enjoying myself and finding the limits of my car in a safe environment.

After a break the two test areas were combined into one larger area with a more complicated test. Here I gained an unintentional bonus when a photographer tripped the timing beam corrupting my time, and thus I had a free second go and ended up less than half a second slower than David’s time.

The event ran smoothly and my strategy of concentrating on going clear rather than worrying about time was working, as

68 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

William and David receiving the Longbridge Trophy from Adam Sloman at MGLive!

experienced drivers were slipping up and their penalties meant our clear rounds put us in with a chance of a team award.

Following a spell watching some of the racing, the results were ready.

As the results were being read, I was surprised to hear that our team had won

the Longbridge Trophy, awarded to the fastest team of Fs and TFs, a great result for a first attempt, and more importantly I had enjoyed myself and not let David or Robert down.

If I can do it, then so can you. Give it a go – it’s Safety (Not Quite So) Fast!

www.mgcc.co.uk

Brookland aeroscreens – curved or square top glass

Brooklands ‘Bluemels’ steering wheels in cream or black.

Sizes – 14 / 15.5 and 17 inch Brooklands Aeroscreen with scuttle plinth for pre war MG’s, in stock

Boss kits available for MMM cars, TC, TD, TF and MGA Wind wing deflector kits also supplied Contact: Kimble-Rutter, Melvyn Rutter Ltd, The Morgan Garage, Little Hallingbury, Bishops Stortford. Herts. CM22 7RA England Tel: 01279 725725 Email: mr@melvyn-rutter.net

www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 69

RACE TORQUE

RACE TORQUE

by Mark Baulch Photos Dickon Siddall

I

hope that all MG Car Club Members and the motorsport ‘family’ are keeping safe and well.

It has been a very strange year for many of us. For me, personally, it has been the longest period that I have spent away from any form of motorsport during my lifetime. I am sure that this will be true for many others and I know that many of you have coped with this by taking part in computer-based quizzes and virtual racing, among other things. I was delighted to be able to join one of these quizzes, although my score is not to be recorded here!

70 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

At the time of writing, we are working on the details from Motorsport UK on how we may be able to run our Donington Park meeting on July 11 -12. With news on track testing and other closed events returning starting to appear, this looks positive and so we have been making plans for race timings and have now received some guidelines on the way in which to run race meetings with social distancing, so work has begun on implementing these.

Some aspects of our weekends are likely to have to change for the foreseeable

future and once we understand how, many of you will be hearing from us about this.

Of course, any opportunity to finalise a 2020 programme is reliant on both the UK Government and Motorsport UK and we will then have to wait until the Formula One and British Touring Car Championship calendars are confirmed, among others. In the meantime, planning has continued, so keep an eye on the website for up-to-date details as we know more.

The race meeting is now just under eight weeks away. The permit has been applied for and granted and we plan to release entry forms on June 1. In which case, when you read this, they will already be on the website.

Once again, I would also like to reassure all Members that 2021 is on our minds and being discussed and that as soon as we have this season started, our thoughts will turn to finalising the next one.

We look forward to seeing all of you at a circuit soon. For some of you, the wait may be a little longer as we will probably start racing ‘behind closed doors’, but I am sure that we will see you once it is deemed safe to do so. The history of MG racing is very long and has been through some difficult periods before, so I have no doubt that we will bounce back from this particular break, potentially even stronger than before.

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 71

MGs ON TRACK

A

few days ago, during my “Boris hour of pleasure” when I’m allowed to undertake some form of physical exercise, I ended up coming off my bike. This resulted in a serious case of gravel rash to various parts of my body and a fractured right ankle, so now I am really bored. After reading Safety Fast! from cover to cover I decided to help Duncan out, as he must be having quite a problem trying to write something about nothing with no track days taking place, so I thought that I would write about my 15 years of “track day-ing” with MGs on Track. MGoT formed in 2002, becoming part of the MGCC in 2003, and my first track day was at Donington on October 7 2004, making me an early member.

Despite having competed in numerous sprints in the late 70s and 80s, I can still remember how nervous I was before my first session at Donington. However, once back in the pits I couldn’t wait to get back out again and the fire for track days had

MG on track

Duncan Wood duncanw@mgs-on-track.com

been ignited. Talking of fire reminds me of an incident early on when an MGF caught fire whilst on track. The organisers then “red flagged” the session, which resulted in not only the car on fire, but all the other cars coming into the pits. Quite alarming for the following cars, and I think the procedure has now been changed!

Dick Owens in his red “K” series Midget with its white hard top was always very quick, and we met regularly at Donington. On one occasion his distinctive car loomed large in my rear-view mirror, and with him having 50+ bhp more than me, I thought to myself: “Sod it, why bother trying to out-drag him”, so promptly indicated right, moved over, and waved him past. Later, in the pits, Dick introduced me to his young driver who if I recall worked for Frontline; this was his first track day and Dick wanted him to follow me around the circuit so he could get to know the lines through the corners … impatient youth!

REMINISCING

On another occasion at Donington I met Stuart and his daughter Vicki. Stuart was the owner of an immaculate B and was interested in experiencing track days and asked if they could be passengers in my 1293cc Midget. They must have enjoyed it, as the next time we met was at Silverstone on a cold but dry March day when both had entered as drivers.

Between sessions and while passing their parked B with the hood down, I could see Vicki wrapped up in the passenger seat reading a book and trying to keep warm.

I offered her the keys to my tow car and asked if she would like to read her book in a warmer environment, which she did.

As the steering wheel was in the way on the driver’s side and I had some Midget clutch parts for sale on the passenger’s seat, Vicki sat on the back seat to read.

Later I decided to keep warm and sat in the driver’s seat. After a while there was an announcement for drivers of the red session to get ready as we would be on track in five minutes. On our way back to the garages we met her father who enquired: “And where have you two been?” To which Vicki replied, quite innocently, “Keeping warm on the back seat of John’s car.” Well, I couldn’t believe her reply and my jaw dropped wide open.

Looking at Stuart I thought I was about to

by John Lister

72 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

MGS ON TRACK – 2020 CALENDAR Writing this report in early May, it is impossible to predict when we might be able to safely resume our events, and in this we will be guided by advice from the UK Government, the MGCC, and the circuit operators. The remainder of this year’s Calendar included track days to be held at Castle Combe, Croft, Blyton Park, Anglesey, Donington, Goodwood and Brands Hatch, plus our North Weald Experience Day. For the current situation please visit www.mgs-on-track.com , where you can also register, check availability, or book a track day. Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates.

be “decked” with a good right-hander, so very quickly stated “And I was sitting on the front seat … honest!”

Rain was forecast for the afternoon, and this duly arrived in torrents during my session on track. While exiting Beckets corner I lost the back end, with it sliding to the right. I did correct the slide but overdid it, which resulted in the back end quickly swinging to the left. Again, another attempt to correct the skid did the trick; Vicki was my passenger at the time and exclaimed “Wow, a 360° spin!” By this time I was driving flat out down Hanger Straight, not realising I had performed such a feat, but I suppose it is like an ice skater or ballet dancer performing a pirouette and their head quickly spins round to face the front to maintain a reference point. In my case this at least ensured that I continued the correct way around this wide, and in places featureless, circuit.

To be continued....

Very many thanks to John for his recollections which will be concluded next month, and which have filled what may have been something of a void otherwise! Reading his words reminds me that track days are so much more than driving ‘fast in circles’, and that I miss the social aspects of meeting with friends both old and new just as much.

Until we can meet again, Stay Safe. www.mgcc.co.uk

MGCC MGCCSPEED SPEEDCHAMPIONSHIPS CHAMPIONSHIP John Wilman, Beechfield, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak. SK23 0JJ Tel: 07778 165186 www.mgspeed.net During this strange time there seem to be two types of reaction to the enforced non-working environment. The first is manifested by the people who seize on the spare time by lurching into a hive of activity with frenetic gardening, DIY and extreme fitness regimes. Let’s face it, with this hiatus we should be out there in the garage fettling and tweaking like never before, and next year we should be seeing almost concours condition motors lining up on the starting pads.

Secondly, there are the indolent amongst us who will turn on the telly and reach for a bottle of something nice which will help dull the mind-numbing boredom.

These are, of course, generalisations of the most obvious kind and most of us fall somewhere between the two.

It all depends on circumstances pertaining to your particular lockdown situation. During the first two weeks I became like the mythical whirling dervish, catching up with long-neglected household tasks and paperwork, etc. The last few weeks, however, I have started to run out of steam and those remaining small tasks are beginning to look boring and not very urgent. It is also very easy to apply a liberal portion of Dr. Bells falling-down lotion at

8.00pm-ish to make the TV on offer seem a little less moronic. The dog, however, thinks all his birthdays have come at once with constant companionship and walkies like never before.

In answer to an appeal for news of the troops, I had a long email from Mike Ashcroft of the Aintree circuit club. Mike is a regular competitor at our Anglesey sprints in his ZR 190 and a competitor in the Cockshoot cup racing series. Mike tells me that he is close to completing a new ZR race car with a 2000cc Judd engine and the specification is breathtaking and too lengthy to repeat. Suffice it to say that it should be a real brute with a list of mods that leave nothing to the imagination. I look forward to seeing it perform and with Mike’s experience behind it should be PD quick.

A recent competitor in the championship, Peter Mutch, has let me know that after tentatively sticking his toe in the water in 2019 he is now completely hooked. So much so that he has converted his ‘B’ to group two specification and intends to do a full season when possible.

This is an underused class and provides exciting performance for a lot less money than group three.

Stay well out there.

Competitors line up ready for a run at Silverstone. Photo taken 10 years ago this month.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 73

OUT&ABOUT

74 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

OUT&ABOUT

MGs ON THE DRIVE With the cancellation of this year’s Drive it Day, the Abingdon Works Centre invited their membership to join their substitute event Classics on the Drive.

With over 100 entrants it proved a most successful event! Here’s a selection with more on their website www. mgabingdon.org.uk/galleries/2020events/classics-on-the-drive-2020/

www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 75

OVERSEAS REVIEW

P

utting together the Overseas Review usually involves sitting at a table surrounded by MG magazines from around the world, but, as we all know, these are not normal times.

With Kimber House closed and people’s movement limited to ‘essential travel’ – popping into the office to pick some up is not one of the categories listed – I have no magazines to leaf through. Instead, I have a computer screen with links to various online club magazines displayed, so my usual approach to the task will need to be a little different. However, it will give me the opportunity to travel, albeit in a virtual state!

There is a common theme in the majority of the magazines: cancelled or postponed events. Another common thread is the request for articles or stories – your favourite tool is a suggestion in one – since there are few events to report upon or promote. The Octagon from the Northern California Centre suspects that currently there are many sufferers of “MG Enthusiasts Disease” which is highly infectious to all ages, listing symptoms such as “becoming confused and bewildered when not driving an MG” or “being observed wandering around with a blank expression” and “constantly polishing their MG.” Reassuringly, this is not fatal.

Sweden’s Bulletinen celebrates the 75th birthday of the TC with a detailed

A look through a few of the overseas magazines we receive at Kimber House reviewed by Richard Martin

multi-page spread including copies of brochures, adverts, technical drawings and a photo of an owner who’s had his for 65 years. The magazine also has an article about the Mk3 Magnette, claiming that there are “probably only two rolling in the country.”

The Danish Centre’s magazine carries an exhaustive explanation of a car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using the code on an MGF to explain the meaning of each character.

The spring edition of MMMagazine from North America’s MMM Register carries the first of three parts covering the restoration by two brothers, Mike and Doug Jansen, of M-Type 3415 which began life in Abingdon on April 11 1932.

of Bs and an F. The Time Machine from Australia’s Gold Coast was able to report on a few runs, usually involving food: “Lamingtons, pikelets with jam, lemon squares, chocolate cake, yum!” and also an “Australia Day Wine Weekend”! The runs mention areas affected by drought and also those damaged by the awful bush fires, with encouraging signs that the areas so devastated are beginning to regenerate again. For those tempted by an MG Tour in Europe, once travel is resumed, there’s a useful practical guide by two members who’ve done it and are passing on their tips.

Preparing....

Jack Kahler’s grandson winning a trophy at his first racing event

From the Southern hemisphere, Maintaining the Breed from South Africa’s Kwazulu-Natal managed some events to report upon and most appeared to involve eating and/or drinking with Breakfast meets and a “Build a Burger noggin.” Western Australia’s Octagon reports on the Midvale Autokhana where nine of the 25 entrants were club members, with accompanying action shots

...laying out...

... and enjoying an MG picnic, SA style Gingerbread Swedish style

A good time in WA

65 years together 76 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

A rare car in Sweden

Car shows will be back! www.mgcc.co.uk

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JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 77

CENTRES ABINGDON WORKS Gill Martin sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk Last month’s poetic notes seemed to go down well and even prompted a poetic response which is, I think, worthy of a wider audience. Many thanks Alan.

The photos show Tony and Lin Cotter’s ZT on their drive advocating the current “stay safe”

ANGLIA Rob Muir 01206 862619 scribe@mgccanglia.com www.mgccanglia.com Looking Forward Although as mentioned last month, many of the events have had to be postponed, measures are well in hand for new dates. Roger Latham is arranging details of the 2021 Anglia Centre Picnic and although events co-ordinator Tony Batson has had to cancel the Queen Vic Classic and Sportscar Show for this year, he has actually managed to organise and confirm a date for 2021 which is Sunday July 4 2021. Fantastic, well done Tony.

Rest assured all of us behind the scenes are working hard to get events organised for as soon as restrictions are lifted.

guidance, whilst Paul Scott’s B shows us what we have to look forward to once the restrictions are lifted.

I’ve just received my Safety Fast!

Something good to read at last.

Then I saw your little verse Sorry my attempt is worse.

Our MGs are standing still No open road, no driving thrill.

We hope for better days again A natter or the Speckled Hen.

Looking Back Back in the March issue of SF!, I said in 1977 I bought an MGB Roadster for £172. I came across a photo taken at the time, even black and white, I feel old!

During the last few weeks at home, I have tidied the garage and started re-commissioning my old race MGB. I must admit that it looks more like a barn find at the moment. It is amazing how quickly they deteriorate just sitting in the garage. I include a photo of it at a gloriously sunny 2007 Brighton Speed Trials.

Happy, sunny days will return.

Some enthusiasts will fidget To take to byways in their Midget, B’s again with soft tops stowed Heading for the open road, Enjoying the wind in your hair, In my GT I’ll join you there.

Till that day we must sit tight Waiting till the time is right.

So here’s to future days of fun And going out on a club run.

Alan Keane

Photographic Competition Don’t forget the Anglia Centre photographic competition and some photos for our website.

Send your photos to our webmaster Kelvin at webmaster@mgccanglia.com

Podcast Many will already have seen the podcast on the Main Club’s website, but for those who have not, it is very interesting. Presented by Adam Sloman, he interviews an NHS volunteer worker who is using her MGA to deliver prescriptions and medicines in her area.

78 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

CENTRES CALEDONIAN Bob MacGillivray 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com With everything that has been going on in the world, MG motor cars and MG Car Club events pale into insignificance, but nevertheless we do miss them!

At this point I cannot say to you when normal service within the Caledonian Centre will be resumed, and even when they are, in what form.

As soon as the situation is clearer, I will email members (do I have your email address?) and post on our Facebook page.

I said last month that the Glamis show was still on, but it is now definitely off, so no shows

DEVON & CORNWALL Young Janner II bobslatter@hotmail.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre As I write this we are still in lockdown. These notes should have contained a report on the Spring Break which was planned to be held in South Wales.

As it is, I would like to recall the origins of this break which followed many years of successful International Weekends and Weeks supported by

www.mgcc.co.uk

this year, I am afraid. Should of course mean that with all the spare time we have, our cars should be even better presented next year!

When we all have extra spare time it is easy to reflect on previous events. I set up an old pc which contains pics going back to over 12 years ago and came across some DVDs from old events.

The greatest difference in our runs, apart from the age of regular entrants, is that T types and earlier were regular entrants even on our longer events. Now, perhaps largely because of the age of the owners, they mostly venture out only on

shorter runs. That is a pity as these types of MG are much admired by the general public.

The Centre has put much effort into shows – remember the all-MGB stand at Bo’ness, or the 1966 Morrison’s showroom also at Bo’ness? Or at Glamis, the Le Mans pit area with genuine works competition cars and replica transporter? Or at Silverstone and elsewhere the Monte Carlo MGB, or even the ‘baby’ MG in the incubator!

So to remind you, here a few pics from these years. Hopefully, we can look forward to something similar in the future. Take care!

members of the MGCC from far and wide. It was decided to start these breaks as we had made so many long-lasting friends who had supported us over the years, and still wanted to meet up on an annual basis.

The attached pictures show some of the awards that were presented at the International Weeks from 1974 until the finale in 2016. All the awards were made locally and differed every year. If any member would like to know the full history of the International Weekends, etc, I have a copy.

The tankard and ashtray were made in Chudleigh for the 1974 and 1975 International Weekends. This was to celebrate 50 years of MG production. The coffee mugs

were from one of the first International Weeks and made in Calstock. The copper plaque showing Old Number One and a Cornish Pump House was from 1981.

The 1998 items of the Sword in the Stone were made from Cornish tin rescued from a sunken ship, embedded in a piece of Cornish granite. I have the certificate to prove its authenticity. The T-shirt was very kindly designed by Tim Brown to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of these fully International events.

The final picture shows the goblets and platters produced for 1980 and the 50th Anniversary of the MG Car Club. Let’s just hope we can celebrate the 90th in true fashion later this year.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 79

CENTRES LINCOLNSHIRE Ian Mackenzie 01529 497849 MaccaV8@aol.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk Well, we’ve tried the East Asian Tizer, and it did leave Susie and I “crook” (for all you Antipodean fans unable to visit for the foreseeable) for several weeks, but we’re much better now.

As for un-lockdown, the coming weekend (May 10) should give us all a better idea of what our near future will look like. Hopefully, by August,

Mark Bellamy in his pomp at Silverstone

we may be able to hold a “Masked Concours” event, saving the planned anniversary event to 40+C (2021).

For up-to-date news, please log on to the Centre’s website and also, if possible, help Webmaster Bob by sending him ideas, photos, articles, etc, as requested in his “Lockdown News” on the front page of the site.

So, pictures of what you could be enjoying in June...

Everyone, please stay safe.

MG Live! Silverstone Concours

Run and gathering at Gainsborough Old Hall

MIDLANDS Bob Blackstock blackstocks2000@aol.com Having only recently joined the Midland Centre Committee following a move to Worcestershire from Dorset, perhaps I should introduce myself. My background is rallying, having spent over 40 years competing and organising rallies at all levels.

As a competitor in Historic Road Rallies during the nineties, I modified a ’67 Austin A40 so that it was, in effect, an MG Midget saloon with disc brakes, twin carbs and Cooper S ignition and exhaust. My current rally car is an MGB GT which has done a Monte Carlo Rallye Historique.

I have organised rallies at all levels from local motor club navigation rallies, historic regularity road rallies to the Qatar International Rally. More recently, the MG Car Club Friendship Rally Touring Run from Abingdon to MGLive! in 2012 and 2013.

Many of you will be familiar with Tulip Roadbooks. At each significant junction, the tulip diagram tells you “approach from the ball (at the base of the diagram) and depart along the arrow”.

80 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

My MGB Rally Car on the way to a Class win on 2009 Ross Traders Historic Rally.

You are usually given quite accurate distances from one tulip junction to the next, so unless you have a fancy tripmeter installed, the driver must keep an eye on the speedo milometer readings, whilst the navigator ticks off the junction as it is passed, in order not to lose his place.

When organising these routes, I try to insert a point to re-zero the tripmeter at 25 mile intervals because every car will have a slightly different reading.

I should have been reporting the results of my Cotswold Navigational Scatter but like the rest of our motorsport the event had to be cancelled. However, to keep us all busy in lockdown I converted it into a real-time virtual event on the internet through my local Cheltenham Motor Club.

On Sunday May 3, 50 entrants (mostly from pre-

war vintage car registers) received their Routecard by internet from 10.00am and had two hours to plot the clue-points on the map and search out the answers on Google Earth Street View. The event was well received by many frustrated vintage car owners and will be used in the Inter Register Club championship.

Best MGCC entrants were Mike and Liz Dixon, finishing fifth overall.

Looking ahead optimistically, we are hoping the Curborough Sprint will be able to run on August 2. There will no doubt be a rush for last-minute entries and we shall need plenty of marshals, who may well be required to maintain social distancing, but I am sure that we will be able to comply with any such restrictions.

Perhaps a more secure date will be our Trial scheduled for September 27, but as yet we cannot confirm the venue as landowner negotiations clearly await the end of the nationwide lockdown.

October has the prospect of a national gathering of MGs to celebrate the 90 Years since the Club was formed. The Midland Centre will endeavour to participate and organise a touring run to the chosen venue and perhaps organise a little competitive fun as we did back in 1995.

www.mgcc.co.uk

CENTRES NORTH WEST Paul Goodman 01625 876300 As strange times continue, many MG friendships have been kept alive using different types of social media. This has been no substitute for the faceto-face contact that we are used to at our regular meetings. The long periods of fine weather would have been great for MG driving, although I am sure that a lot of us have found that our cars are perfectly suited to buying trips for essential supplies. We may, or may not, be able to hold meetings this month, but if we can they will be as follows. The Cheshire County Sports Club gathering will be on Tuesday June 9 followed by the Plough and Flail on Tuesday June 16.

The decision has been taken that this will not be the annual concours meeting which we now hope might be held in July. Finally, the lunchtime pub meeting is scheduled for Wednesday June 24. The Centre website will be kept up to date on which meetings are happening and their location.

The Centre was contacted recently about a forthcoming TV programme. Salvage Hunters Classic Cars is a programme where Drew Pritchard buys, “improves” and then sells cars. There is going to

SOUTH EAST Ray Ruffels and William Opie raywillmg@gmail.com www.mgccse.co.uk By the time you read this, let’s hope there has been an easing in the lockdown and the SouthEast Committee (SE) has been able to resume some of our 2020 calendar events, so please keep up-to-date with your local branch leader or visit the SE website for the latest news at:www.mgccse.co.uk

Ray and Jo Ruffels picnic in their garden www.mgcc.co.uk

is not encumbered by islands or kerbs. Car parks associated with older commercial premises which have not been landscaped and are not used at the weekend are ideal. If any of you know of such a location, then please let us know.

As far as racing and speed events are concerned, then at the time of writing it was still “wait and see”. If we are unable to complete sufficient events to complete the Cockshoot Cup and the Speed Championship then we will offer competitors the choice of a refund or roll forward to 2021 of their registration fees.

be an edition featuring a blue MGA. The completed car was on view at “Race Retro” in February at which filming took place. Permission was sought to use some of the Jack Twyford 1960 Le Mans MGA film in the programme. These programmes are repeatedly frequently so you should be able to catch up with it.

The Centre would like to diversify in 2021 by running some “autosolo” events. These are forward gear only driving tests open to any member in any car. The stumbling block now is finding suitable venues. A sealed tarmac surface is needed which

Oulton Park Concours in the 1980s. Photo: Paul Goodman

Please be assured that your Committee is watching the situation unfold and that as soon it is safe we will start to resume and rearrange events again, even if this means that the special social distancing rules have to be respected.

On the bright side, an increasing number of MGCCSE Natters and Wanderers are now using Internet software, eg Zoom, to enable their meetings to continue by multiple-member video link. Some of our leaders have been very creative with Virtual talks, Virtual Navigations

and Quizzes, so contact yours for the latest developments.

For example, Fairmile Natter held their first online meeting on April 16 and North Downs on April 23. Canterbury group have started a new newsletter and the East Kent Wanderers have been running monthly “remote rallies” online in April and May. Lockdown may be preventing us from using our MGs but the Club is alive and well!

Meanwhile, here are a couple of images of activities during the restrictions.

The East Kent Wanders virtual rally winners Richard and Sheila Hamlyn beavering away on the TF bonnet as a table top at home JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 81

CENTRES SOUTH WEST Andrew Owst 01761 221893 andrewowst@hotmail.com www.mgccsw.com/ www.facebook.com/MGCCSW I am writing these notes in the afternoon of Saturday May 2, having spent most of the day carrying out external painting on the house taking advantage of the beautiful weather. If times had been normal, my wife Sue and myself would have been up at the crack of dawn, organising signing on at the Lanes Hotel, near Yeovil, for the Kimber Classic Trial. This year was also due to be the last time the Centre would run this trial and we were on course to go out on a high with a large entry which would have included our stalwarts from Holland. The excellent weather would have been an added bonus, because over the years we have had our fair share of damp days for this event.

As we are still in the middle of lockdown at the time of writing I can only recommend members keep checking the website to see what is happening. There has been one virtual Nav. Scat based on an event which was due to be held on May 3, and there is a virtual lunchtime natter kindly

TYNE-TEES Tony Wood anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk Cometh the hour cometh the membership!

Heartfelt thanks to all who have risen to the challenge of keeping things ticking over. Last month I asked for your memories, photos and the like and in they came. Special thanks to Richard Verrill who produced photos from events in 1976, a selection of which we have reproduced in Tyne Tees Tidings, our electronic newsletter. This month’s edition reached a staggering 13 pages, with contributions from Barrie Hope trying to recreate a photo from 55 years ago with his ZB Magnette, but sadly lacking the mountains of the Lake District in the background, Lincolnshire being somewhat challenged in the hill department. Steve Lidgate’s article on his TC rebuild, now completed and literally all dressed up with nowhere to go, Stewart Howson’s reminiscences of European tours to Historic racing events (and the mishaps encountered) and Ian Graham’s seven day TC build (spoiler alert: it’s a kit). We had a fun and readable edition.

82 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

organised by John Bird to coincide with the dates of the Iron Acton and Wookey natters. All details are on the Centre website, www.mgccsw.com One very popular event which finished ten years ago this month was the Colerne Sprint which took place at Colerne Airfield, between Bath and Chippenham. This sprint was first run by the MGCC in 1983 and was held continuously for 27 years. Dick Craddy was Secretary of the Meeting and Bruce and Carole Morgan were entries Secretaries for each event. The event was always oversubscribed but sadly in the end the Military decreed the venue would no longer be available. There were three different courses over that time to suit the changing needs of the

Military. The Bristol Two Club Sprint predated the Wessex and whilst the MGCC had no involvement in the organisation of that event, we were always invited and in 1981 my wife Sue and myself entered in the red 1961 Midget which I raced and sprinted at that time.

Otherwise during these challenging times, my small woodworking workshop has never been so tidy and organised and I am going through the garage having a cull of spare parts that have been on the shelf for years and are surplus to requirements.

The photo is of cars at the start of last year’s Kimber Classic Trial, at the Lanes Hotel. The blue MG J2 belongs to Albert Koolma from The Netherlands.

Best wishes and keep safe.

Thanks to David Alexander we are running our Pride of Ownership completion in virtual form.

Take a photo of your car at home and forward to David. Last month we had a healthy competition with over 20 entries which resulted in class wins for Ian Graham (TC), David Alexander (MGB) and Noel Lindford (TF). Photos are a bit like wet weather, a great leveller, so get them submitted and join the throng.

David has also been puzzling us with his virtual 100-mile rally, released in five stages, causing furrowed brows and mild confusion across

the region, but fortunately not the dreaded mal de navigator which the real thing used to inflict on many of us – not a happy memory!

With all this time on our hands a lot of you have been in the garage and for those involved in rebuilds this has been a golden opportunity.

One member, who shall remain nameless, when commenting on his long-term TC rebuild stated he’d got more done in the last four weeks than in the previous four years. He followed it up with a video of the first firing of the engine in 20 years, so it’s not all bad news; indeed talking to a friend still in the classic spares business, he has had a spike in demand, so new cars and crews may be in the offing when events return.

Ian and Justine Graham in their ex-Paddy Willmer TC ‘Jessica’

David Alexander’s MGB GT www.mgcc.co.uk

CENTRES YORKSHIRE Ken Cothliff kencothliff@hotmail.co.uk, mgccyorkshire.co.uk Inevitably not a lot to say this month. By the time this is read we should have had both the Daffodil and Wolds Way Runs. The next Centre run would be the Heartbeat Run over the North Yorkshire Moors on July 12, which at this time is still planned.

The Centre is awaiting advice from the MSA, and MGCC, as to whether we can go ahead. It is going to be a last-minute decision, I think. As I write this

at the beginning of May all I can say is keep an eye on the MGCC Yorkshire Centre website.

In the meantime, enjoy the extra time you have to do all those jobs you’ve been promising yourself.

Stay safe, and we hope to see many of you under Yorkshire skies before too long.

Yorkshire President, Alan Dakeyne inspects Miles Gemini aircraft at Real Aeroplane Co. Museum at Breighton during area meet at Breighton in 2019

Yorkshire MGCC Members at Sidings Restaurant York after Daffodil Run 2013

The Centre’s oldest active member, Geoffrey Wilson, celebrates his 90th birthday at the West Natter

ULSTER

Incredible selection of different marques of MGs at the Vale of York “Pride of Ownership Day” in 2017 – out of all 19 cars only one type was repeated. Too many to get in one photo!

At time of writing who knows what we will be doing throughout the rest of the year. I know we won’t be doing “The Night Trial” (Noel’s event) or any PCTs as social distancing is more or less impossible in trying to liaise with land owners to ask for sites.

So then what have you been up to, I’m still waiting to hear! I have heard from Gordon Buckley who is finishing off building his 1958 Frogeye and I must say the photos of “Mr Frog” are looking rather good.

One of our younger members, Vanessa Eakin, has been taking some spectacular photographs during her lockdown; if you do Facebook you should have a look at some of her stuff, well worthwhile. She has been very generous taking photos of the Derek Walker at the start of the year for us and some were shown on our website.

My wee Bridget has been in lockdown for over a year as I haven’t been able to get in or out of her for some time, so I’ve decided to have a wee bit of maintenance done during this quiet time and while my knee repairs.

So, lockdown occupation doesn’t have to be car or even MG-orientated; you can even let your fingers do the walking and call up pals you haven’t spoken to for quite some time. It could make their day!

What are they?

And what is this?

Carol Willis 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk

www.mgcc.co.uk

Now – who on earth could this be? Has he been banished to sleep in the garage?

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 83

REGISTERS VINTAGE Rob Constant rob@littleabingdon.co.uk Welcome again to the Vintage notes as we hit the mid-point of the year. Quite a different year to the one we all expected, but adapt we must and look forward!

The Register is proud to be the earliest of the ‘modern’ Register formats, formed in 1960 – which means that this year is the Vintage Register’s 60th anniversary! We are, as many will know, the smallest Register of the Car Club, catering for an audience of owners of but 103 surviving cars. However, we have a great heart and occupy a unique place in the MG world, for which we feel privileged.

Formed on June 10 1960 at The West Meon Hut, near Petersfield in Hampshire, eleven cars attended and ranged from Lytton Jarman’s Bullnose 14/28 MG to Chris Barker’s 18/100 Tigress. Debbie our Bulletin Editor, is, as I write this, as busy as ever bringing together a special anniversary edition of the Vintage Register Bulletin, as we look back across the last 60 years and celebrate some of the cars and people who have been a part of its story. And it is of course one

SVW Paul Campbell svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk I’m writing this from my enforced isolation in Sussex, looking forward to when we can venture out again other than for the weekly grocery shopping. The weather for the last month has been superb with barely a sound of traffic or aircraft, the garden is blooming and the air is fresh. However, I still get to take in the old car smells in the garage, a mixture of oil, petrol, old leather and, dare I say, two-stroke from my other machinery.

People are getting on with their restorations and fettling and even writing to me with some interesting snippets. This means that the September four-page spread in Safety Fast! should be jam-packed (although always room for more!).

Jim Andrews, our Chairman, sent me one of his photos taken at the Normandy event in 2013 (happy days!) showing a good line-up of VAs parked in a layby during one of the runs. Speaking of SVW events, it’s looking very likely now that

84 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

we continue to write, as we look forward eagerly to better days…

In the meantime, a regular source of entertainment for those with a liking for the Vintage cars is the Vintage Register Facebook Group which, if you are a follower of these notes, dear reader, you are most welcome to join! Simply search on Facebook for ‘Vintage Register of the MG Car Club’ – request to join, complete the simple questions, and, lo and behold, welcome aboard!

There are regular posts, sometimes sharing fascinating period photos, anecdotes and more recent photos and commentary about the surviving cars. Most of all, however, the Group allows likeminded folk with an appreciation of the earliest MGs to stay in regular touch with one another. Particular thanks to Colin Murrell, Cathelijne Spoelstra and John Cooper for their support in helping to establish what is now a thriving little online group.

Similarly, we also offer a ‘Friends of the

Register’ arrangement whereby those not yet owners of a Vintage MG may subscribe to the excellent bimonthly Bulletin. This is packed with news, historical information, technical tips and a host of other items of interest to either the owner or would-be owner of a Vintage MG. Whether currently owning or simply admiring, we all share in the appreciation of these glorious Vintage cars. #themarqueoffriendship This month’s photo comes from the 2019 ‘MG Era Day’ at Brooklands where we see Jerry Salaman’s delightful 18/80 Mk II Tourer alongside an equally so 12/12 M type. (And, unless I am quite mistaken, this is also another example of Colin Murrell’s fine photographic skills.)

this year’s event based at Battle will be postponed until next year. Any bookings and deposits will be carried over until next year as John and Gary have already secured similar dates at the hotel.

This would mean that Lincolnshire will be held in 2022 instead and 2023 will be in Europe. We will post updates on the Facebook group and website immediately we have them and the July edition of Safety Fast! will have definite news.

Next month I’ll report on the work I’m doing to sort out my fuel sender. The biggest job was to get the boot floorboards out. They were never

secured during my long-term ownership until my VA went to SVW at Hull in 2010, their interlocking nature and weight being sufficient (plus the weight of everything I carry in the boot). It came back with lots of securing bolts with inaccessible nuts underneath, plus a rather neat angled bracket to join the two boards together, all of which are probably as it left the factory.

So, until next month, stay safe at home and look forward to the gradual opening up of the lockdown, which I think will have started by the time you read this.

www.mgcc.co.uk

REGISTERS T TYPE PAUL PLUMMER 01926 854574 scribe@tregister.org By the time you read this article in June, who knows how life may have changed and how long it will take to get back to normal, whatever that may be?

However, as I write this in May we are still in lockdown which gives us plenty of time to do all those fettling jobs on our T types. I decided to rebuild the brakes on my TF, firstly having the master cylinder professionally sleeved and re-

MAGNETTE Stephen Tickell 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org As you may already have heard, the Harrogate MG Show (and Magnettes & Steam on the same August weekend) have been cancelled. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens with Magnette Day in Salzburg, Kop Hill Climb and the Norwich weekend. On a more positive note, Magnette spares supremo Peter Martin reports that, far from furloughing himself, he’s actually much busier than normal despatching orders, so it seems that many owners are taking the opportunity of enforced time at home to get on with their restorations. I look forward to seeing the results, and also perhaps an increased attendance when we’re eventually able to resume events.

Thanks to an invitation from organiser Brian McCullough, several of us joined in the Zoom conference on May 2 with the Z Magnette Group of North America (ZMGNA). There were more than 30 enthusiasts on the call, and along with some new faces it was great to see familiar ones

bored. I then stripped, cleaned, polished, and fitted new seals to the wheel cylinders.

The linings were not badly worn so I decided not to change them. Everything was reassembled and the system bled, and I can now stop on a sixpence!

Events.

Our programme of events has been decimated, with the latest casualty being the Ardennes trip. Luckily, the hotel was very understanding, and we were able to get our deposits refunded. Maybe next year, who knows?

As I write two events are still scheduled to go ahead.

The T Register Autumn tour, September 1114. This is currently proceeding, with all routes now planned with the help of Google maps. The situation will be reviewed in June and a decision taken to comply with the hotel’s cancellation policy.

The EEOY in Wurzburg in Germany, August 5-9. The German club advises that they are still planning to go ahead; however the Government have banned all ‘major’ gatherings until the end of August, but they do not define what constitutes a ‘major’ gathering.

With both these events we will have to wait and see how things develop.

Finally, a colourful picture of T Types to remind us of happier times.

such as Allen Bachelder, Steve Kirby and Steve Hanegan who I last met at Magnette60. To add to the interest, Steve H and a few others were zoom-ing from their garages – although from a UK perspective we might describe a 40 x 25foot space as a hangar rather than a garage! To be fair, Steve gave us a look at the dashboards he’s currently renovating, and explained that he needed the vast space for laying out all the wooden parts being varnished.

The conversation was notably wide-ranging, including original toolkits, choice of tyres, disc brakes and of course reproduction door seals – I think these are nearly always discussed and compared when Magnette owners gather.

Altogether a pleasant way to pass an hour or two, which seems likely to become a regular fixture, especially as it enables enthusiasts from different countries to see more of each other than they would in the normal course of events.

ZMGNA Zoom conference www.mgcc.co.uk

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 85

REGISTERS MGA Edward Vandyk 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk

Drive It Day 2020 – On The Drive!

The bi-monthly MGA Register eNewsletter now has over 960 subscribers, helping to keep owners up to date with Register events and covering other interesting topics. If you would like to

receive regular editions just email mgcarclubmganewsletter@outlook.com with Please Subscribe in the subject line. If you are receiving the eNewsletter but no longer wish to continue please let us know at the same address.

MGA Register Committee members, Jill and Graham Eke, enjoying the 2020 Drive It Day in lockdown on their drive

MGB David Broadhurst 01209 614704 newsletter-editor@mgb-register.org www.mgb-register.org We actually managed to have Register committee meeting on May 2. Zoom is a wonderful thing and is making this lockdown a lot more bearable than it would otherwise be.

My B is sitting in the garage hooked up to the smart charger and going nowhere. We are getting out, however. Dogs need walking as well as extensive ball games in the yard and we do use the MG ZS, 1,200 miles since it was purchased at the end of January, using the old yardstick – is your journey really necessary? My MOT tester/ service engineer rang me yesterday to assure me that he was still there, in spirit at least. We can delay the “voluntary” MOT this year and I have the bits for an oil change for the engine, gearbox and axle this time and (tying into Graham Dix’s thoughts and comments) a new K&N Oil filter which is double the size of the normal one. Moss part 235-830. Like Graham, I have changed the old Tecalmit oil filter system for a spin off cartridge

86 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

type and this type hanging down still fits nicely in place.

I got the following from Tony Taylor as a follow-up to Graham’s article and thought it made sense to share it with you all.

Like Graham, I note a similar delay on start-up, but it takes around four to five days of nonrunning before it builds up to be significant. (Around 3-5 seconds.)

My engine, a standard 18GG, has the inverted oil filter, currently a GFE121. As pressures (and temperatures) are all as the book tells me are correct once the initial build-up has taken place, the thought is that the filter does allow leak-down over time.

My “solution” is that if the engine has not been run for a week or more, remove the spark plugs, disconnect the ignition LT lead and spin the engine on the starter, just until the pressure gauge “registers” a few PSI. Then, by replacing LT lead and plugs, I find that on start-up, the pressure gauge moves to around 6570 PSI instantly – the colder it is, the higher the initial pressure. This way, I am reasonably sure that oil is

getting to all of the important bits. So far, so good.

If anyone knows of an equivalent filter to the GFE121 that does not leak back, please let me know.

Follow up thought:When I was still working, we had this “drain-back” snag on several aircraft which were often not flown for a week or more, so we rigged up an oiling system that could be coupled into the oil delivery pipe – which meant cowls off so took a bit of time – then we pressure fed the oil into the “plumbing”, pulling the engine through as we did (Make Sure The Magnetos Are OFF!!). It was most noticeable on engines with a gear type oil pump and relatively high hours running time, an overhaul (expensive!) always cured it.

Does this indicate that my MG engine may be due for overhaul or replacement? – I had better start saving!

Keep safe and I’ll send some more technical thoughts in July.

www.mgcc.co.uk

REGISTERS MIDGET Chris Hale c.hale1962@btinternet.com www.midgetregister.com I hope that you are all well and have been able to keep safe and find things to do during these testing times. I know that a number of you have been kept busy on Midget-related works including some of the Register Committee; however, the consensus amongst us is that our gardens have never looked so good!

If you think that six weeks in lockdown is a long time, think of Dave Storer’s poor old Midget.

It has been in lockdown since 1983. But now it has finally been released. Dave takes up the story so far.

MGC Mike Haughton mgc_mike@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/mgc-register/ As the CV crisis continues, we are still not in any position to announce details of events later this year but please visit the Register web page and Facebook to keep yourself updated with developments.

Long-time MGC owner and restorer John Denton, who regular readers may recall, discovered and bought the C GT that his father had owned new in 1968 to pair up with the University Motors C GT that John has owned since 1972. Recently found, bought and pulled out of long-term storage the 11th production CGT, the 9th UK market registered car chassis number GCD1 649G, the first being GCD1 638G. Build commenced December 27 1967, despatched to A. Smart (Newcastle) and registered RBB 167 on March 11 1968.

The ever-helpful ‘C’ registrars, Barrie and Ginny Cartmell, revealed that the car first became known to the Club in 1985 when it was

www.mgcc.co.uk

I dragged the Midget out of its resting place just before our lockdown and brought it home.

My intention was to commence its restoration.

So far, I have started to strip it down to a bare shell, but the garage space is rapidly filling up as I am unable to send off the respective parts to the specialists for restoration.

This Midget is a 1965 Mark II which was my everyday car until my first company car arrived. I travelled far and wide in the UK with the Midget doing at least 12,000 miles each year. I bought

the car in 1977 from my brother for £200. The car was not in the best of conditions when I bought it, but I was a desperate student who needed some transport. The car had previously been damaged at the front and a plastic one-piece front was replacing the original wings and front panel. When I bought the car my idea was that it would be a rolling restoration. I did the rolling but not the restoration.

A little reminder of better times to come. Ken Brown has posted the 2019 Monte Carlo historic rally trip on YouTube. Search for MG Midget Monte Carlo. Please let me know if you would be interested in being involved in future events and I’ll forward your details on to Ken. I always look forward to receiving news of Members’ adventures, and trials and tribulations with their Midgets, so please keep sending them in and I will try to include them in these notes or feature them on the website.

extensively restored. The colour changed from mineral blue to tartan red and again in 1996 prior to purchase by its former keeper who ran it for a short time before placing into storage. Mileage in 1985 was 76,000 and now shows 90,500.

As John got the car home in the week prior to the national lockdown, it presented a heaven-sent opportunity to carry out a major refreshment of this very early car, possibly the earliest production C GT that still exists.

John is now carrying out body repairs prior to refinishing and intends to overhaul engine, gearbox, brakes and suspension, prior to running

the car back in after its “long sleep” before offering this rather special car for sale to a new owner to enjoy the qualities for which Cs are now increasingly respected: relaxed, true grand touring motoring.

In John’s view, which he concedes may be slightly biased but still based on his ownership of his other three Cs and also a very well-restored Healey 100, the C represents infinitely better value and driving pleasure than any of the Austin Healey derivatives.

Watch this space for further development of the car undergoing restoration.

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 87

REGISTERS

Refurbishing the ash tray Peter Spurrs has a useful tip following his refurbishment of the ash tray in his 1973 MGB GT V8. He says: “The last owner had spread pebble dash on it with a whitewash brush. For the last few years I have put up with a moulded plastic tray, but decided that it didn’t really fill the bill.

When I got back down to the metal, it was all quite pitted and needed to be painted. That job

duly done, I needed to find some springs for under the lid.

“I found Springs And Things at https:// springsandthings.me.uk/ from an internet search. They have lots of compression and tension springs which they will make to any length. I ordered two 9mm tension springs which arrived the next morning and were a perfect fit. I have no link with the company, just a satisfied customer. They do old Meccano parts, too.

“On examination of my order I found the spring length was 9mm. The spring specification is: 3.18mm OD Tension Springs 0.36mm Stainless steel R0.22.

Paint “The high build primer tends to smooth out the pits in the metal, but not entirely. Satin Black gives a less glossy finish to the lid, which I quite like. I don’t know what the original was but Aluminium Coat gives a reasonable-looking aluminium-type finish to the tray itself. I use a Can Gun 1 which makes the spraying job so much easier. It fits on top of the aerosol can and your hand is at a more natural angle and the pressure on the spray nozzle is even and perpendicular. They are £6 from Halfords.”

Footnote: the ash tray is an ideal place to store a few compressible copper washers (6K431) for the sump drain plug so there is always one handy when changing the engine oil.

Finished ash tray and lid.

replacement spring.

A Can Gun 1.

V8 Victor Smith 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net

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REGISTERS FWD Ben Hatton ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/ My Metros The front calipers on my silver 1982 MG Metro, which I have owned for almost 20 years, were also starting to seize and talking to fellow MGCC member David Collins, who has a targa red 1988 mk2 MG Metro 1300, he recommended that I have mine professionally refurbished! After seeing David’s ‘Better than new’ calipers in person, which are fitted with stainless pistons, new seals and the caliper body finished in bright gold zinc coating, I was seriously impressed and decided my calipers needed the same treatment. I soon removed my calipers, purchased eight stainless Metro pistons from a classic online mini shop and posted them off to be refurbished. A few days later I received a phone call from the parts refurbishment company to inform me my parcel had arrived with my pistons but my calipers had not! I sent them with a leading courier service and packaged them clearly labelled, so this was very unexpected and equally frustrating.

I found another pair of used Metro calipers online and luckily received compensation for the purchase price of my replacements from the courier. A few weeks later the now freshly refurbished, bright gold calipers have arrived, although I now find myself like everyone else in lockdown due to the Coronavirus! Due to the lockdown, my silver MG Metro is not accessible as it is stored in a garage at my elderly relative’s house, so at the moment I am unable to fit the parts. This arrangement was due to lack of car storage when I lived with my parents

www.mgcc.co.uk

and even after moving out I continued to store it there, which I have been lucky enough to do for over ten years.

My feature was going to be about fitting my shiny new calipers to my silver MG Metro.

However, now restricted at home, I thought I had better start a task I had previously put off! Back in the autumn of 2016, I purchased a cinnabar red 1983 Mk1 MG Metro 1300 as a project and which was last on the road in 1995. It was an unexpected purchase as I was contacted by the vendor who knew I had a keen interest in these cars. Initially I wasn’t, as my silver MG Metro was enough for me, so I turned down the offer. However, after a month I was contacted again and as I had grown up with a Metro identical in every way, driven by mother for the first 15 years of my life, I let my heart rule my head and a deal was struck! Once the red Metro was home, after a couple of weeks tinkering and a full service, to my delight it started! I soon attended to the seized brakes and clutch and it was now driveable! Although while conducting this work I noticed the underneath of the car was rustier than expected, even to a seasoned Metro owner!

For now, it was too much work, and with my

wedding day in the not too distant future I could not justify the extra expense for the repairs, so the Metro went back into the garage where it has stayed ever since. Due to the lockdown restrictions I decided to bite the bullet and investigate the rust issues. Having borrowed a good battery, the Metro started, allowing me to drive it out of the garage onto the driveway where I stripped out its seats, carpets, seat belts and trimmings. Luckily, none of the bolts were seized and the boot floors looked solid, which was a relief, although the nowexposed cabin floor did show that all four jacking points were heavily corroded and the driver’s sill needed some holes patched as well. It could have been much worse, but equally it could have been a lot better! The front and rear valances also have a few holes and also need replacing. I am now considering my options, to either take a welding course at my local college to do the welding myself, while also getting some quotes from a professional welder for the repairs.

This feature is dedicated to my elderly relative, Valencia Middleton, who was like a grandmother to me. She understood how much my silver Metro meant to me and housed it safely for me for over ten years. She passed away unexpectedly at a grand age of 94 on March 5 2020.

Martin McFeely

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 89

REGISTERS MGF Tim Morris 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org The MGF Register has adjusted itself in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with many other organisations and individuals. We have to find ways of keeping the Membership engaged whilst keeping an eye on the future and the day we can get back out again and enjoy our cars. I know many people who hadn’t got their cars out of hibernation and many more that have SORNed them again for an indefinite period. When the coronavirus first took hold we saw some members still clinging on to driving out and enjoying their MGFs in isolation but that soon stopped once the seriousness of the situation became clearer.

Now it looks as if there may be some light ahead and we can drive “somewhere” in our cars but probably shouldn’t.

So how do we continue with the MGF Register in the time of COVID? The answer has come in the form of the internet. A few years ago, before the advent of social media and easy communication, we would not have been able

MG6.3.5 Sean Round sean@seanround.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register twitter.com/635register I’m apologising again for the lack of a four-page spread, and our absence from last month’s Safety Fast! The current situation has provided additional pressures that have meant we are behind and is something I’m truly sorry for! As before, if anyone has any interesting contributions that they wish to make to this article then please contact me on sean@seanround. co.uk and we’d be more than happy to include this in our submission.

It has been great to see that even though COVID-19 restrictions are affecting us all, a number of you have still been able to pick up your new cars. A massive shoutout to all of MG Motor’s dealers who have still been able to hand over vehicles whilst observing the guidelines – kudos to you for your efforts!

to keep in touch. Now we have Zoom, Skype, Messenger, Whats App or any other medium of choice. Most of our regions have embraced this video conferencing and chat technology wholeheartedly and there have been regular virtual “pub meets”, miniature virtual car shows, quizzes and more within the groups. Check out their Facebook pages for when the next one is in your area. They do work really well, and it is a great way for the regions to meet up and keep in contact with each other to indulge in the kind of banter normally found down at a real pub meet.

We are still celebrating 25 years of the MGF, of course, but only managed one event, Stoneleigh, where we kicked the anniversary year off. The next main anniversary event was to be at Brooklands where we should have been guests

of honour around the giant MG in the Paddock.

That didn’t happen but the local South East Group did have an actual car show that day… on their driveways via Zoom! It also got s thinking about how long we have supported Brooklands Museum, and searching back in the archives I found a possible answer in a photo from 1997 with a row of MGFs on the Members Banking.

It’s certainly a long time and we have been there every year definitely for the last 17 years and 2020 looks like being the only one where we didn’t make MG Day – thanks to COVID! MGF25 is naturally on every MGF enthusiast’s mind and with its date of July 25 it is still somewhat of a grey area. The British Motor Museum has cancelled or postponed events up to mid-June at the time of writing, but that is clearly under review. Please keep an eye on our website and social media for the latest updates. If you haven’t yet joined the MGF25 Facebook group then please do so, we would love to see you there.

Meanwhile, we can just hope that you all stay safe, stay home and we look forward to seeing you all once we can get out and about again.

Zooming for Brooklands MG Day 2020

Usually at this time, we’d be ramping up our preparations for MGLive!, and it’s sad that we aren’t in a position to do this this year, but I’m sure that as and when the opportunity presents itself again, we will make sure it’s extra special and an event to remember!

We are still working hard on the Vehicle Register, as we would like to continue the increase in the numbers on our Vehicle Register, particularly given the 20 plate release in March. We have an online-based system into which you can enter the details of your car and help us to build up a history of the MG6, 3 and 5 cars on the road. Your data is held securely and will only be used for the purposes mentioned. Should you have any queries regarding the Register then please feel free to contact our Registrar, Richard Bibby-Brooke.

In the meantime, should any of you require any support with your cars, or have any questions of the committee, then please do feel free to get in touch with any of us and we’ll be pleased to assist.

I do hope that all of our members are safe and well, and the same applies to your friends, family and loved ones. As the weather improves, can we please ask that you ensure to follow all appropriate guidance, whilst enjoying your MGs in this great weather to come! Stay safe, Stay well, Go 3njoy!

My MG3 on display at MGLive! 2016 90 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Classic & modern MG Spares available in store & online via our website & ebay, plus; * Car Sales * Inspections & Reports * T4 Diagnostics * * Servicing * MOT *

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Unit 3 Park Venture Centre, Park Street, Bridgtown, Staffordshire, WS11 0BT www.pauldeppermgs.com | 01543 570251 | info@pauldeppermgs.com

EST’D

1989 MG GEARBOX AXLE DIFFERENTIAL OVERDRIVE SPECIALISTS OVERHAUL – REPAIR – EXCHANGE UNITS

FULL WORKSHOP FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE

All work carried out by time-served

BMC/BL engineers MG16 - BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS_BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS 26/09/2012 14:24 Page 1 Worldwide Mail Order Service Visit our ebay shop and website for products and details Unit 9, Shopwhyke Industrial Centre T 01243 782671 Shopwhyke Road, Chichester E heathrowtransmissions@gmail.com West Sussex PO20 2GD w heathrowtransmissions.co.uk

Bucks Sports & Classic Car Centre

For friendly advice contact Pete Giles on Tel: 01296 433550 or Mob: 07831 404968 www.mgsonthenet.co.uk www.mgsonthenet.co.uk email: peter.giles@mgsonthenet.co.uk 10STREET Rabans Aylesbury.

HP19 BUCKS 8RS HP20 1EB UNIT 18, PARK IND Close, ESTATE, OSIER WAY, AYLESBURY,

CC10.12/MG16/p

Specialist in MGA, B, C, V8, RV8, Midgets, and MGF. Also specialists in early Minis

• MGB restored was chosen

by Oxford Automobile Model • MGBwe we restored was chosen

by Oxford Automobile Model Company Company Failing Failing 6v batteries?

6v batteries?

• Servicing and Work • Servicing andMOT MOT Work Fit Manor Garages Fit Manor Garages • Sill Replacement Restoration • Sill Replacement Restoration twin 12v conversion.

• Professionally Spot Welded twin 12v the conversion.

Still 12v but with double • Professionally Welded capacity. FitsStill existing boxes,double the • Gearbox rebuildsSpot we have a 12vbattery but with minimal extra Fits wiring.

Reliable battery boxes, stock of 4rebuilds synchro reverse capacity. existing • Gearbox we have awith starting power after your MG has gears that are currently not with up. minimal extra stock of 4 synchro reverse been parked KIT £195 + vat.wiring. Reliable available starting power after your MG has gears that are currently not • Engine rebuilds been parked up. KIT £195 + vat. available • Wiring looms fitted • Very large stock of new parts • Engine rebuilds • 27 Years in Business • Wiring looms fitted CLASSIC • Very large stock of newCAR parts KEYS CUT • 27 Years in Business WHILE YOU WAIT

e Type t i s web nd Td e cat MG a m i m d De r the .co mg.co g o ly f .xpagm xpag l a i @ c w spe ww ingdon b il: a a Em

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED THIS ARTWORK IS THE PROPERTY OF CLASSIC CARS FOR SALE MAGAZINE. Fixed price servicing

NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE All restoration work USED BY ANY OTHER PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION IS GIVEN BY undertaken THE PUBLISHERS - © MS Publications (2001) Ltd. Engine refurbishment including lead-free conversions

URGENT PROOF

Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout.

Classic car sales including Classic Car Specialists focusing

Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold

commission salesourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook.

on Servicing, Sales, Restoration, SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE Insurance repair work Modifi cation and bespoke approved TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ refinishing work to a wide range of UK & Europe collection classic MG’s and delivery service

Telephone 01206

Fax 01206 500180

Unit 9, Broadfields Farm, Dunmow Road, Rayne, Braintree, Essex. CM77 6SA We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which a departure from the original| copy 01376 569355 is | abingdon@xpagmg.com www.xpagmg.com

F C AN OLL REE D EC DE TI LIV ON ER Y

Classic & Sports Cars Essex – open for business I would like to send well wishes to my loyal customers, I hope you are healthy and getting through this difďŹ cult time.

Whilst I can, I am remaining open with only immediate family working alongside me in the workshop.

I am offering a free collection and delivery service for anyone who would like long or short-time works carried out this summer.

Without the worry of timing for car shows and trips away, we have a strange opportunity to have those works completed that you may have been putting off.

If you would like to reserve a space for big or small jobs, I will be very happy to hear from you.

This year we are celebrating our 10th Anniversary and I am proud of how far we have come. With your continued support I hope to pull through this and continue happy motoring for many years to come.

Kindest and warmest regards

Jason

View all our work at www.xpagmg.com

CLASSIFIEDS CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

enquiries@mgsforsale.com

www.mgsforsale.com

01707 876089

07831 556666

MG CGT 1968 AUTOMATIC Older Nut & Bolt Restored (RWD628G) MG CGT 1968, automatic, excellent Mineral Blue coachwork with nicely mellowed original Black el leather interior trim, original genuine leather bound MGC ge TL enquiries@mgsforsale.com steering wheel, nicely detailed engine compartment 0 miles housing the smooth 3.0 litre engine ideal with the Borg crease) 18” Warner automatic gearbox making this particularly rare oT’d until model an ideal classic today, this vehicle apparently formed part of a collection of a deceased ads as well estate, on inspection one can see the of theAUTOMATIC rebuild fromOlder a number yearsRestored ago and rior, satMGquality CGT 1968 Nut &ofBolt PA automatic, Midget 1934 Two Seater with likely little miles since is still very fresh in appearance, just arrived £24,950.00 ull service (RWD628G) MG CGTMG 1968, excellent Mineral (NG7281) MG PA Midget tor 2016 UK Tech-MG6 GT diesel Blue coachwork with nicely mellowed original 1934, Black a delightful pre-war in MG BGT 1972 (LLF951K) n. Spacious, leather interior MG trim,BGT, original genuine leather example bound MGC Facelift model. Top-of-the rangeLast TL Owner 37 Years Cream coachwork withyears, Blackchrome leather interiorwheel, trim, anicely known detailed example engine that hascompartment appeared in owner 37 bumpers, overdrive, MG. £6500 steering model.

1.9 turbo1972, diesel.last 48,000 miles chrome Rostyle wheels, Aqua coachwork nowsmooth requiring 044(daily driver so mileage Mike Allison’s book “The of housing the Marque”, although concours show the 3.0not litrea engine ideal withcartheit does Borg will increase) 18”Magic some improvement but a very vehicle Warner making this particularly rare alloys, red bumper inserts. until emanate anMoT’d original ‘time warp’solid feel and isautomatic aindeed credit with togearbox itsaformer custodians for its upkeep nice original feel and appearance, navy June 2020. Recent discs and pads as and maintenance, thewell car also hasoriginal had thestyle benefi t of cloth an overhauled engine with little miles gold seal tted mid and drives as new tyres. Fullinterior leather interior, since, a trim, history filesathas engine invoicesfiboth past 80’s & present accompanied by copy documentation nav, Bluetooth connectivity.

Full delightfully, goodservice history file with original from when supplied

by Turnhill North & Co.documentation new in 1934. The weather equipment of black history – servicedback

by SAIC Tech-tonneau toside theMotor 80’s, aUK plethora of invoices renowned specialists Brian Brown Classics &B hood, screens and are from in good serviceable condition, the leather interior nical Centre. In good condition.

Spacious, Hive, original Unipart Gold mot’sdeluxe etc. etc. just arrived £5,950.00 provides a nice patina andSeal alsopapers, benefiold ts from instrumentation, this is a matching economical engaging modern MG. £6500 numbers car and whilst maintaining so many original features does also have indicators ono. Call Adam on 07530734044

01707 876089

Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast! The cost for non members is £20. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course.

To place an advert in Safety Fast! please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with an attached photo of your car, details of your car, your contact details, price of your car, area where you live and membership number. Please keep your advert to 70 www.mgsforsale.com words, the editor reserves the right to edit longer adverts. This is for one insertion only, for additional insertions please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

07831 556666

fitted which can be reversed of course if desired, arrived, £39,950.00 URGENTL Y just WANTED

ANY ANY MG MG

URGENTLY WANTED

ANY ANY YEAR YEAR ANY CONDITION

On the ANY CONDITION EU approvpproved SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK he motor o lead th a beige Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange n. MG A 1600 any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only f the please (available evenings & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an In car. good condition, built 1961.

On the MOT and are areItfully fully serviced prior to to collection/delivery. collection/delivery.

GBP. Theare 58’000 MOT and prior tacho miles. hasserviced EU approvnce.alPhone papers (before this it was approved in Switzerland) The power of the motor is 79 PS and had be changed to lead free petrol. The car is black with a beige Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850 interor. It’s in a good condition.

The wheel is on the left side of the car.

Price 38’000 Euro or £34’200 GBP. The car has to be picked from France. Phone 0033 389 89 40 56 or Email: ODELS! francoise@bignens.org

www.mgsforsale.com

1996 MGRV8

Beautiful Woodcote Green example with Stone leather interior. Former Japanese car with aircon but modified to allow passenger legroom. Excellent leather, woodwork, wind deflector and new floor mats. Mechanically perfect with EZ power steering, Clive Wheatley quad pipe exhaust and matching valance. Recent service by MG specialist and new catalysts fitted. MGR registration number and Heritage certificate. Condition reflects a total mileage of 43,000 miles. £20,995.

Tel: 07703766727.

www.mgmecca.co.uk

ED

rn finds to purchased. sured. act me if 1972 MGB Roadster, Old English White, red trim.

1975 restored MGB ROADSTER Blaze, black is leather ur MG and Totally on dry state shell, everything new/ trim. O/drive, mohair Sports hood. Full rebuild recon.

2L fast servo, road engine. leather seats.a e-free cash few years ago with full pictorial history.

Moto-Lita WANTED ALL MG MODELS! Everflex red hood. W/Wheels. Drives like a new car, steering wheel.

Super condition and ready for ct meAll forconditions a superb, from S/S boot rack, sports wanted, barn fiRoadster nds to wheel, painted dash. summer. 1975 MGB Hydraulic bonnet struts, K&N fi£6,495.00 lters. Would cost in hat. concours. Complete collections purchased.

WANTED

excess of £35k to build. £27,995.00

Cash buyer. Discretion assured. e following Please do not hesitate to contact me if MGC, MGB get. you are interested in selling your MG and are looking for a prompt hassle-free cash ON: buyer! Please feel free to contact me for a no obligation friendly chat.

1

I am especially interested in the following models: MG TC, MGA, MGB, MGC, MGB V8, Magnette and Midget.

1937 MGTA

Very good condition. Chassis number www.mgmecca.co.uk

Everflex red hood. W/Wheels. Drives like a new car, superb, S/S boot rack, sports wheel, painted dash.

Hydraulic bonnet struts, K&N filters. Would cost in excess of £35k to build. £27,995.00

1964 MGB ROADSTER Pull door handle car, Iris blue, blackMK1 /whiteAlmond trim. Excellent carGreen done intrim. the MIDGET Green,restored Shadow 90s but immaculate. still excellent an early restored Californiancar, imports when Totally Totally probably they best were really O/drive,Restored interior really goodand as the MK1 good. available! in as 1992 new, lovley bay,just superb shell done. and superbly original, still looks engine like it’s been Immaculate UKunderside, Based underside, Buyer painted alloy interior bonnet,trim w/wheels, steering engine bay, etc. Drives like wheel.Unique Fitted with better 5 brg£18,995 engine, original new. opportunity. (wouldbanjo cost axle. well A superb oldertorestoration and ready to enjoy with no over £40-50k restore now!) £18,995 work required, fantastic value £15,995.00

veneered dash console and door caps. 48,500 mls.

Screen frame (refurbed). Power steering, upgraded to Clive Wheatley Spax shocks. Suspension poly bushed. New clutch and slave cylinder, new boot stayst. £22,995

1962 MIDGET MK1 Almond Green, Shadow Green trim, grey Totally immaculate. restored 1972 MGBroof.

Flame Red, Tan leatherTotally trim. Full bare car, probably the best MK1 Restored by shell rebuild with history andavailable! photographic record. ourselvesLovely in 1992 and still it’s just Some been Minilites. engine bay.looks Driveslike superbly. done.

Immaculate underside, detailed engine bay, marks in paint. Superb summer fun and great interior trim etc.

Original spec, down to original wheels. £11,995.00 investment.

Period steering wheel. Drives like new. Unique opportunity to aquire a very rare car. £18,995.00 (would cost well over £40-50k to restore now!).

1937 MGTA ecialist MIDGET MK1 Almond Green, Shadow Green trim. 1972 MGB Flame Ex Red, Tan leather Police trim. Fullcar, barerebuilt in 2015 Lancashire bingdon Totally immaculate. Totally restored car, probably shell rebuild with history and photographic record. including newsuperbly. tub, hood, the best MK1 available! Restored in 1992 and Minilites. Lovely engine bay. Drives Some tonneau, ROME still looks like it’s just been done. Immaculate marks in paint. Superb fun and great seats,summer dash. Black with blue seats as underside, engine bay, interior trim etc. Drives like investment. £11,995.00 ETS in new. Unique opportunity. £18,995 (would cost well original spec. XPAG engine and five over £40-50k to restore now!) £18,995 ght up to speed gearbox. VW steering converContact the Midget Specialist stock at sion, many spares including original MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon steering box. The car has won a few s.com 07703 465 224 CHROME awards and was featured in a magazine BUMPERED MIDGETS in MGC Mineral Blue,FROGEYE grey leatherSPRITE. trim. Chrome 1976 MG MIDGET 1500 British Racing Green, 1969 article. Early Police documents in1959 AUSTIN HEALEY Leaf 1954 MGLeaf TF, Red, tan trim. Chrome wires.

5 speed wires.

Overdrive.

Totally restored by ourselves 10 Autumn trim.

Everything on this car has excellent condition bought up to cover. Large Green, green trim. Totally restored car. California dry state gearboxrenewed conversion.

Alloy rocker historytrim. file. years cluding pictures of it in service. 23,000 ago.

Superb car inrespray. superbRebuilt condition.

Lovely been or refurbished.

All new car, now R/H/D. Bare metal mechanicals.

Excellent condition.

Last owner many years.

Very well Over current £12,000 stock spent at on parts alone, plus engine bay. Unleaded rebuilt engine. Bespoke grey miles.Email: chris.d15@btinternet.com £8,000. View cared for and sorted car, drives superbly and used for All new trim etc. Great value and impossible to restore at 1000’s of hours. Immaculate inside and out and

continental touring.

Chromevalue boot £12,995.00 rack. Original steering www.mgmidgets.com underneath!

Fantastic wheel. Lovely useable period motoring. £27,995.00

94 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

The car is in excellent condition having been cared for by myself and other owners over the years. British Racing Green with black leather interior. She has green piping on the seats which are in superb condition as is the whole interior. The walnut dashboard lifts the whole cabin.

Body and paintwork are very strong with no rust and the underneath is sound.

Engine bay immaculate. She was restored in the late 1990s. The car has electronic ignition and a Kenlow fan fitted other than that all original. A truly stunning example of 1960 s British engineering. £10995.00. Call 07930491027 or 01732 887265 email: walkermr20@gmail.com (Sevenoaks. Kent)

trim, leather seats. fine restored and very well looked anything close to thisAprice. £22,950.00 after car £27,995.00

for more information and photos.

(N. Yorkshire)

1976 MG MIDGET 1500 British Racing Green, 1969 MGC Mineral Blue, grey leather trim. Chrome Autumn Leaf trim. Everything on this car has wires. Overdrive. Totally restored by ourselves 10 been renewed or refurbished. All new trim. years ago. Superb car in superb condition. Lovely Over £12,000 spent on parts alone, plus engine bay. Unleaded rebuilt engine. Bespoke grey 1000’s of hours. Immaculate inside and out and trim, leather seats. A fine restored and very well looked AUGUST 2019 SAFETY FAST! 95 after car £27,995.00 underneath! Fantastic value £12,995.00

Factory prod Glacier White gine rebuild i suspension. G owner 9 year condition. £2 Dick on 0778 rgtysoe@hot

Superch

Rare superch lots of option cruise contro Sprintex supe feed, ITG ind SPAX suspen and manifold more, runnin very rare for 07971 43839

2005 MG TF Spark LE 135

Firefrost Red 89K. MOT till 22/1/21 no advisories and maintained by MG specialist.

FSH. 3 owners, 7 years by myself. Used daily for work and pleasure. SS coolant pipes and subframe mounts. HG, belts water pump and alternator replaced June 2018. Recent full service. 4x Toyo tyres.

An honest club member car. £2000. Matt 07905291718 (Abingdon)

2003 MG

British Racing Green. Green Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 TA1734.

Fax: (0) 1953 717850

leather upholstery. Restored in 1989 by previous owner. Mileage since restoration 5012. Seller owned since 2006 and 1969 MGC Mineral Blue, grey leather Chrome 1995 MGRV8, Woodcote Green, stonetrim. beige trim. serviced annually by Classic Car Specialwires.beige Overdrive. by ourselves 10 New mohairTotally hood,restored new (original) tonneau, ist. Black Tonneau cover and two other years ago.

Superb car in superb Lovely interior in excellent condition, newcondition. door cards.

Re engine bay.

Unleaded rebuilt engine.

Bespoke grey veneered dash console and door caps. 48,500 mls. covers. MOT’d annually in July despite trim, leather A fine restored and upgraded very well Screen frame seats. (refurbed).

Power steering, exemption. Extra photos are available looked car £27,995.00 to Cliveafter Wheatley Spax shocks. Suspension poly bushed. New clutch and slave cylinder, new boot on request by email. Large history file stayst. £22,995 dating back to 1988, including restoration 1972 MGB Roadster, Old English White, red trim. photos. £35,000 ono. trim.

Tel: 07763459185.

Green, stone beige Totally restored on dry state shell, everything is new/ 1995 MGRV8, Woodcote New beige mohair hood, new (original) tonneau, recon. 2L fast road engine. Sports leather seats.

Email: mike_simmonds@btinteret.com interior in excellent condition, new door cards. Re

DIRECT ON: TS! CALL 07787 528131 ED MIDGETS! WANTED

MGB GT

1967 Mk1 MGB

2001 (51) MGF 1.8I

96,000 miles, MOT 20/3/21, present owner 8 years.

Very good condition including its wheels and hood, always garaged. Big history file includes receipts for stainless underfloor pipes, head gasket replacement, brakes and suspension bushes. Matching Toyo tyres. Has proved to be a reliable, economical and smooth running MG for touring holidays. £850 Tel: 07979042496 (South Hampshire)

Please note that the Advertising deadline is June 10th for the July issue of Safety Fast!

www.mgcc.co.uk

Purchased in of using it for sums spent o including fitti Kit, new exha ware, uprate and fitting br more. This w and the vehic 88,000 miles. is MOT’d till J recently repla cambelt and Some bodyw sills and box car, but has n the purpose i £2750.00. Co

BARRY WALKER

Estd.1968

.....for the very best in vintage MGs.....

B32 - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1

British Motor Heritage approved

CORONAVIRUS – COVID 19 – PLEASE SEE OUR WEBSITE

OUR CAR SALES: OUR CURRENT STOCK REMAINS FOR VIEWING ON OUR WEBSITE AND MAGAZINES – AND NOW VIEWING IN PERSON BY APPOINTMENT

1935 MGPB 2-SEAT SPORTS

Totally original PBs with all matching numbers, are rare to the market today. This stunning example has been totally rebuilt to the highest standard.

One of the few MGs eligiable for the Mille Miglia… £48,500

1934 MG PA SPORTS This has to be in the top 3 ‘P types I’ve ever sold. build and performance. better road going P type £46,500 1934 MG K3 SPECIAL Built to K3 design on original N chassis it has a stunning specification, performance & historical interest...bargain........................£139,500

1934 MG ‘N’ COMPLETE ROLLING CHASSIS, EVERYTHING EXCEPT BODYWORK AND DASH. PERFECT FOR BUILDING K3 REP. / NE / M USKETEER OR OTHER S PECIAL… £28,500 LATEST SPARES FOR PRE-WAR MGs

NEW PARTS

* Battery cradles * Long battery fixing kits * 2-seater hood frames * Radiator tie - red ends * Bonnet stop domes * P/N & L/K water pumps * Instrument cluster panels * Instrument rhombic panels * 4 cyl. spare plug holders * F2/J2 front wing stays & fittings * Mushroom wing bolts * 3 part/double buckle bonnet straps * ‘DOG BONE’ petrol caps * MG CAR Co. sill plates * MG crested grab handles * Plinth mounted aero screens * New pattern headlamp s/guards

* Early D/F/J door locks/strikers * K3 quick release filler caps * Lucas type ‘160’ rear view mirrors RH/LH

* J/F crank handles * P/N/TA/B/C bonnet catches * All models – bonnet & door handles, locks & strikers

* Fully rebuilt MMM & T type dynamos

& starter motors * Bonora style filler caps * A new range of chassis parts * A full range of all ohc engine parts * Friction s/absorbers & all parts * Best quality, best selection of all pre-war/early post war MG instruments * 14/25 Br. Jaeger s/charger gauges

* TA/TB/TC fully rebuilt differential (8:39) * Fully restored differentials (many ratios) for all MM & T type * ‘Divers helmet’ dashlamps (all types) * J2 aerofoil wing stays (upper & lower) * Pr. F/J/P 1” OM series carbs TA/B/C Br. Jaegar water temp. gauges * Bronze clutch bearing carriers This is only a fraction of what we now * Almost every type of steering wheel. carry – please ask – we may well have it.

SECONDHAND PARTS

* Pr. 1 /8” L/K/N orig SU carbs * TA Rev counter with clock (restored) * D/F/J/L/P friction shock absorbers * J2 exhaust manifold * J/P/L/N engine/radiator mountings * Pr. excellent ‘N’ exhaust manifolds * Complete P/N instrument cluster panel * P/L/K/N con-rods * D/F/J radiator * TA/B/C steering columns. V. good 1

2016

* Exhaust manifolds (all models) * J/D/F front engine housings * P/N front engine housings * Numerous windscreen supports * D/F/J/L/P handbrake c/shafts * D/F/J/L cutout/fuse boxes (Lucas CFJ2) * K/P/N cutout/fuse boxes (Lucas CJR2 & 3) * Complete J2/F2 clutch assembly.

MIKE ROLLS

Many cord strung

* ORIG. factory PAYEN gasket sets * Hubs &half shafts (together)

* MG P/N rear flywheel housing.................................................£485 New £350 Used * J2 rocker box cover. Perfect with brass data plate............................................£325 * J2 cyl. head complete with all cam stands & rocker gear..................................£2250 * L/K double plate clutch.....................................................................................£3 5 0 * N cylinder block (repaired)................................................................................£3 7 5 * L/K cylinder head rocker box.............................................................................£3 8 5 * J2 sump excellent condition................................................................................£2 9 5 * J2 steering box complete with d/arm..................................................................£695

SERVICES FOR MGs Specialising in all MG’s

H U G E P R I C E R E D U C T I O N S – Q U O TAT I O N S B Y R E T U R N B32 - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1

Phone with VISA or MASTERCARD for immediate despatch we can process these payments in house.

TRADE as MEMBER B32longer - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1 Bank transfers also acceptable but can take toROLLS obtain SERVICES_MIKE co

Tel: 01789 400181

Mob: 07836 244103

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

Email: barry@barrywalker.com

Web: www.barrywalker.com

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm 2016 2016

TRADE MEMBER

MIKE ROLLS SERVICESROLLS FOR MGs MIKE Specialising in all MG’s SERVICES FOR MGs

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337 Specialising in all MG’s Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

TRADE MEMBER

MG TD - 1953 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm MG TD 1953, Finished in British Racing Green with green interior and Tan weather gear. This MG TD had a light restoration in 2009/10 and it is a beautiful car. It has a good history with the original buff log book and drives extremely well. £26,995

MGC ROADSTER - 1969

MGC Roadster, 1969 in Old English White. This car comes with overdrive, painted wire wheels, black sports reclining seats with white piping, uprated engine with gas flowed head, Maniflow exhaust system, Motolita wood rim steering wheel, new hood and good service history. The car has recently been re-commissioned and serviced by us and is in good condition. £22,995

MGB ROADSTER - 1972

Just re-sprayed in Dark racing green, Overdrive, Chrome wire wheels, Avon tyres, Biscuit leather interior, Walnut dash, detailed engine bay, new single Mohair hood, Tax and MOT exempt but has a new mot. Stunning rust free vehicle, some history. £17,995

Late 2006 model finished in silver with matching hardtop. 1 previous owner, 47,000mls, it comes with a good hood with glass rear window, half leather seats. 7 stamps in the service book and has just had a full service with new headgasket and cambelt fitted. There are one or two age related marks but still looks very nice and drives very well, the car will come will come with a new MOT upon purchase.£2,995

Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR

E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk

Barry Walker June 20.indd 1

www.mgcc.co.uk

CM02.13/B32/d CM02.13/B32/d

MG TF 135 - 2006

Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service” 18/05/2020 10:31

E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service”

JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 95

Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern

•

DERBYSHIRE

Specialists in the repair and restoration of MG cars

1967 Mk1 MGB of condition parts for TheSuppliers car is in excellent having been cared for by myself and other own•ersMGA • MGB • MGC • Midget over the years. British Racing Green • Tleather Type interior.

• MGF/TF with black She has green piping on the seats which are in superb

condition as is the whole interior. The www.stevemckiesportscars.co.uk walnut dashboard lifts the whole cabin.

Body and paintwork are very strong with Tel 01246 454527 • Fax 01246 453681 no rust and the underneath is sound.

Albert Street North, Chesterfield, 8NP She was restored Engine S41 bay immaculate.

ED NT A W MG 1996 MGRV8 R U Beautiful Green example with OWoodcote Yleather Stone interior. Former Japanese

Steve McKie Sports Cars Hi-Res.indd 1

r e m

MGB GT V8 1973

Factory produced. Chrome bumpers.

Glacier White. Bare metal respray and engine rebuild in 1997.S/S exhaust. Uprated suspension. Garaged. Full history. Current owner 9 years. Milleage 72200. Excellent condition. £21000. For full details contact Dick on 07785734310 or email: rgtysoe@hotmail.co.uk (Oxon).

y r o Gl BY

01844 281700

nigelguild@hotmail.com

MGOC Recommended Dealer 40 MGs in Stock advice. Est 1986

Supercharged MG ZS

Rare supercharged MG ZS MK2 for sale, lots of optional extras such as sunroof, cruise control, full leather interior, Sprintex supercharger with upgraded oil feed, ITG induction, uprated gearbox, SPAX suspension, full stainless exhaust and manifold, 330mm brakes and a lot more, running around 280bhp. £9,900ono very rare for one to come up for sale. Tel 07971 438395 (Dudley)

Fast payment and collection 2005 MG TF Spark LE 135

WANTED WANTED ALL MG MODELS! All conditions wanted, from barn finds to

1937 MGTA concours.

Complete collections purchased.

Very good Chassis number Cashcondition. buyer. Discretion assured.

TA1734.

Green PleaseBritish do notRacing hesitateGreen. to contact me if leather upholstery. in 1989 by you are interested inRestored selling your MG and previous owner.

Mileagehassle-free since restoraare looking for a prompt cash tion 5012.

Seller since 2006 and buyer!

Please feelowned free to contact me for a serviced no annually

by Classic obligation friendlyCar chat.Specialist. Black Tonneau cover and two other I am especially interestedininJuly the despite following covers.

MOT’d annually models: MGExtra TC, MGA, MGB, MGB exemption. photos are MGC, available V8, by Magnette and Midget. on request email. Large history file dating back to 1988, including restoration CALL DIRECT ON: photos. £35,000 ono. Tel: 07763459185.

07787 528131 Email: mike_simmonds@btinteret.com

Firefrost Red 89K. MOT till 22/1/21 no advisories and maintained by MG specialist.

FSH. 3 owners, 7 years by myself. Used daily for work and pleasure. SS coolant pipes and subframe mounts. HG, belts water pump and alternator replaced June 2018. Recent full service. 4x Toyo tyres.

An honest club member car. £2000. Matt 07905291718 (Abingdon) Contact the Midget Specialist

MIDGETS! WANTED

MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent condition bought up to £8,000. View current stock at

www.mgmidgets.com

2001 (51) MGF 1.8I

96,000 miles, MOT 20/3/21, present owner 8 years.

Very good condition including its wheels and hood, always garaged. Big history file includes receipts for stainless underfloor pipes, head gasket replacement, brakes and suspension bushes. Matching Toyo tyres. Has proved to be a reliable, economical and smooth running MG for touring holidays. £850 Tel: 07979042496 (South Hampshire)

URGENTLY WANTED

MGA/MGB/MGC/V8/ 1937 MGTAMIDGET/SPRITE ETC Ex Lancashire Police car, rebuilt in 2015 including new tub, hood, tonneau, seats, dash. Black with blue seats as original spec. XPAG engine and five speed gearbox. VW steering conversion, many spares including original steering box. The car has won a fewor any time on awards and was featured in a magazine article. Early Police documents inEmail: cluding pictures of it in service. 23,000 miles.Email: chris.d15@btinternet.com Website: for more information and photos.

(Northwood, Middlesex) (N. Yorkshire)

Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars

Please note that the

Please call Advertising Edward deadline is 01923 840236 07774 June 10th484497 for the July issue of ejwclassiccars@btinternet.com Safety Fast! www.mgandporsche.com

Members can advertise their spares for sale/wanted free of charge for items up to £250. Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of £20. To submit your advertisemet please email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all correspondence. The editor reserves the right to edit longer adverts.

This is for one insertion only, for additional insertions please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

MGA 1600 Service

Parts List (Third Edition) AKD1215.

Would benefit from having an AKD1579. £5 plus postage or you collect from Lindfield. Michael on 01444 457681.

MGB/C/V8 Parts

in the late 1990s. The car has electronic ignition and a Kenlow fan fitted other than that all original. A truly stunning example of 1960 s British engineering.

23/06/2010 13:46 £10995.00. Call 07930491027 or 01732 887265 email: walkermr20@gmail.com (Sevenoaks. Kent)

car with aircon but modified to allow passenger legroom. Excellent leather, woodwork, wind deflector and new floor mats. Mechanically perfect with EZ power steering, Clive Wheatley quad pipe exhaust and matching valance. Recent service by MG specialist and new catalysts fitted. MGR registration number and Heritage certificate. Condition reflects a BestofPrices paid with friendly total mileage 43,000 miles. £20,995.

Tel: 07703766727.

96 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk How to Advertise

STEVE McKIE SPORTSCARS

Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast! The cost for non CHESTERFIELD members is £20. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course.

To place an advert in Safety Fast! please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with an attached photo of your car, details of your car, your contact details, price of your car, area where you live and membership number. Please keep your advert to 70 words, the editor reserves the right to edit longer adverts. This is for one insertion only, for additional insertions please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

UK Based Buyer

01376 574000 SPARES FOR SALE

CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

For

Call for a quote today

2003 MGZR 160

Purchased in May 2015 with the intention of using it for track days. Considerable sums spent on improving the car for this, including fitting Piper Cam, VVC Deletion Kit, new exhaust, installing emerald software, uprated oil rail, replacing calipers and fitting braided brake hoses and much more. This work was done in March 2016 and the vehicle has still only covered 88,000 miles. The car is road legal and is MOT’d till June 2020. Mike Stafford recently replaced the head gasket, cambelt and tensioners and water pump.

Some bodywork repairs carried out plus sills and box sections wax injected. Lovely car, but has never been properly used for the purpose intended. Offers around £2750.00. Contact Paul on 07794 919337.

CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast! The cost for non members is £20. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course.

To place an advert in Safety Fast! please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with an attached photo of your car, details of your car, your contact details, price of your car, area where you live and membership number. Please keep your advert to 70 words, the editor reserves the right to edit longer adverts. This is for one insertion only, for additional insertions please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

20 sets gears for MGB/C/V8 gearboxes and manual shafts V8 gearbox casings with lay gear and first motion shaft.

10 plus original synchros with bulk rings 1-2 / 3-4 20 plus bulk rings 20 sets axle planets Every diff for MGB/C/V8 Both diff carriers’ types One o/d less solenoid assembly 10 sets MGC carbs.

Over-drive adapter housings 6 MGC/Austin 3lt oil pumps STD anti roll bars MGC Lever arm rear shocks for MGC all with correct valves, some adjustable links.

Rack and pinions with housing bushes, left from high ratio conversions.

Lots of original MGC tacos all o/h Electronics from tacos, work in any RVI Smiths unit.

New Koni rear shocks.

Three sets HS8 carbs.

Set of new MGC cam followers lightened and oil way cut.

As-new original MGC kingpins.

For more details contact Vic Young at vjyoung@btconnect.com

Registration Number J2 MMM

Available if price can be agreed. Contact John on 07856768215. Please note correct phone number this time. (UK)

MGV8 Cylinder Heads

Pair, in good condition. £90 plus shipping. Contact Peter Cook on 01566 775991

Registration number MG03BOB

On retention, £575 ono , for more information call Bob on 07870 407111 or email: mgcarsscotland@gmail.com

MGB 2 x HIF4 SU Carbs

Completely refurbished. C/W manifold, pancake air filters and heat shield. £295.

Tube type axle, (splined hub type) good condition, C/W rebuilt brakes £295.

Splined front hubs C/W new bearings £75. Tel: 01205 460048 (Lincs)

SPARES WANTED Wanted

X Power exhaust back box to suit a 190 ZTT and also an X Power rally seat.

Please contact Bob on 07870 407111 or email: mgcarsscotland@gmail.com Please note that the

1967 Mk1 MGB

Advertising is having The car is in excellentdeadline condition been cared for byformyself other June 10th the Julyand issue of owners over the years. British Racing Green Safety Fast! She has green with black leather interior. piping on the seats which are in superb condition as is the whole interior. The walnut dashboard lifts the whole cabin.

Body and paintwork are very strong with www.mgcc.co.uk no rust and the underneath is sound.

Engine bay immaculate. She was restored in the late 1990s. The car has electronic ignition and a Kenlow fan fitted other

MGB G

Factory pro Glacier Wh gine rebuil suspension owner 9 ye condition.

Dick on 07 rgtysoe@h

01308 868884

ie Carter r r Insurance for all MG’s a B and Alan Bartlett email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk classic and modern

07885Call for a quote today 01376 574000 768830 www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’

We restore and refresh both T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and sell T-types and other classics. Running out of T’s for sale but we have some interesting objects to occupy

C C C a a a e e e i i i r r rte07885 r r r t t 07885 308 01308 r r r e C a C e a a a a r r r e i r i and Alan Bartlett and Alan Bartlett and Alan Bartlett r r t 07885 8 r t 0 01308 r e r e Cemail B B arrbarriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk a iea r r t 07885 01308 B email r e barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk emaila barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk B r B B -‘T-type’ 8884 868884 868884 768830 ‘T-type’‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’ - ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’ - ‘X-pag’ --‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’-‘X-pag’ ‘X-pag’- ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’76883 84 768830 76 868884 768830 ‘X-pag’ --‘X-pag’ --‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’--‘T-type’ ‘T-type’--‘T-type’ ‘T-type’ ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ yourself after retirement and banishment to the garage

and andAlan AlanBartlett Bartlett and Alan Bartlett and Alan Bartlett email emailbarriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk MGC Roadster 1968, In Mineral Blue ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ manual and Overdrive. One attentative - ‘X-pag’

owner for 17 years.

It doors, has a coming historic ve decided to create I’vespace decided for to the create work space that’s I’ve decided coming for the work through to create that’s our space coming doors, for through the MG’s, work Race our that’s cars, Classics MG’s, through Race of allcars, our types. doors, Classics MG’s, of all Race types. cars, Classics of all types I’ve decided to allegedly create space for the work that’s coming our doors, MG’s, cars, Classics of all types.

TC Race/fast roadwork car, twice championship winner, andthrough very nice restoration thatcars, inccured I’ve for the that’s coming through our doors, MG’s, Race Classics of types.

Subaru Justy, forgotten these I’vedecided decidedto tocreate createspace space for I’ve the decided work that’s to create coming space through forfullythe our work doors, that’s MG’s, coming Race through cars,Race Classics our doors, ofall allYou’ve MG’s, types.

Race cars, Classics of all types.

ND NOW WEISARE THE OPEN TIME AND HAVENOW ALL IS YOUR THE WE WORK ARE TIME OPEN HAVE CARRIED AND ALL NOW YOUR OUT, SO IS WORK THE THESE TIME CARRIED SALE CARS OUT, ARE YOUR THESE AT WORK ORpanels, SALE WELL CARRIED CARS BELOW ARE OUT, THEIR AT SO ORCOST THESE WELL TOSALE BELOW ME. CARS I’m THEIR ARE AT dealable!

OR TO WELL ME. BELOW I’m very THEIR dealable!

COST TO ME. I’m v modified toNOW T reg. specs.

Rolling chassis orHAVE with fullALL raceSO new carpets, hood, wire wheels, 1200 cc FWD! Switchable!

34K Ivery love WE ARE OPEN AND IS THE TIME HAVE ALL £13,950.

YOUR WORK CARRIED OUT, SO THESE SALE CARS ARE AT OR WELL BELOW THEIR COST TOvery ME.COST I’m dealable!

ARE HAVE ALL YOUR WORK OUT, ARE AT OR WELL THEIR I’m very dealable!

1350 engine!

“1¾ SU’s CARRIED Derrington nowTHESE removed and CARS AREOPEN OPENAND ANDNOW NOWISISTHE THETIME TIMEWE HAVE ARE ALL OPEN YOUR AND WORK NOW CARRIED IS THEmanifold, TIME OUT,SO HAVE SO THESE ALL SALE YOUR SALE WORK CARSmodified ARE CARRIED AT ORand OUT, WELL SOBELOW BELOW THESE SALE THEIRCOST CARS COSTaTO ARE TO ME. AT OR I’m WELL very BELOW dealable!

THEIR COST TO ME. I’m very dealab head engine rebuilt to fast these, lowME. mileage lovely example.

8 84

arrie Carter

available separately. Car has plumbed in ext. comp clutch, alloy body panels, 15” wheels, tramp bars modified brakes, teles, cage, race seat, and more. It’s as scruffy as raced and very quick. Ideal circuit, race or hillclimb. £18,500

B

road specification. This “C” is in very lovely instantly useable condition. These cars are romping away in valve so next year you can make a profit! £21,000

and Alan Bartlett This lovely Citroen 2cv Dolly has email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk

07885 768830

They have MX5 Performance. Cheeky, quick and great off roaders. Beautiful inside and out. It rubbishes 205s and rare. £3,250

MGC GT 1968 Beautifully undergone a very nice restoration at restored to endurance and 1935 Y Type for special fitted with MG period P or J Body. for hillperformance climb sprints in the 50s/60s some point.

It hasBuilt more historic rally specification.This 2cv White With nice interior owned and restored by Citroen 2cv 6 Red & Cream with galvanised a family owned. Running driving great vintage know why,worth but more its than the is probably “C”Galvanised I have chassis and Mot’d, 2cvthe club best secretary. chassis. Very nice newly upholstered, Mot’d. than most, fun. Don’t The Body is probably my daily user. Nice but not mint. £4,995 Enormous fun £6,250 car. £6,550 quicker than some others!!

It has owned and I’m very tempted to WD switchable 1990 Subaru 1935 Y Type for special fitted with 1935 MG period Y Type P for special period 1935 P Y Type forwith special fitted P with MG period P 1935 e1990 1990Subaru Subaru Extremely rare 4WD switchable 1990 Subaru 1935YYType Typefor forspecial specialfitted fittedwith withMG MGperiod periodPP fitted with 1935 MG Y Type for special fitted MG period scondition and in lovely inside Justy, 34000 miles and in lovely condition inside asprints lovely boby ,Race interior, galvanised keep it. Itfor has the been fully restored or J Body. or Built fordoors, hillBuilt climb or inJ the Body.

50s/60s for hill climb sprints in theof 50s/60s orall J Body.

Built for hill climb sprints in the 50s/60s inside J JBody. for hill climb sprints ininBuilt the 50s/60s I’ve decided to create space work that’s coming through our MG’s, cars, Classics types. ycondition insidecondition Justy, 34000 miles and in lovely condition inside or Body.

Built for hill climb sprints the 50s/60s or J Body.

Built for hill climb sprints in the 50s/60s 2cv White With nice interior owned 2cv and restored White With by nice interior owned and restored 2cv by White With nice interior owned and restored by White With nice interior owned and restored byeven 2cv White With nice interior owned and restored by 2cv White nice interior owned and restored bywith Citroen 2cv 6With Red &galvanised with galvanised Citroen 2cv 6 Red & Cream Citroen 2cv 6 Red & Cream galvanised Citroen 2cv 6 Red &great Cream with galvanised as, 205s, t perform pandas, 205s,2cv even and out.

These perform pandas, 205s, a afamily owned.

Running driving great vintage a family owned.

Running great adriving family vintage owned.

Running drivinga great vintage a family owned.

Running driving great vintage Citroen 2cvbut 6with Red &Cream Cream with galvanised Citroen 2cv 6driving Red & Cream with galvanised das, 205s,even even and out.

These out out perform pandas, 205s, evenpictorial chassis, boot rack and a large history and has evidence family owned.

Running vintage family owned.

Running driving great vintage DURING THE ENFORCED Extremely rare, club Galvanised chassis and Mot’d, 2cvsuperior, club secretary. 2cv Galvanised chassis 2cv and club Mot’d, secretary.

Galvanised chassis and Mot’d, 2cv club secretary.

Galvanised chassis and 2cv clubsecretary. secretary.

Galvanised chassis and Mot’d, 2cv club secretary.

Galvanised chassis and Mot’d, chassis.

Very nice newly upholstered, Mot’d. chassis.

Very newly upholstered, chassis.

Mot’d.

Very nice newly Mot’d. chassis.

Very nice newly upholstered, Mot’d. r,or,Cheap Tax and fun.

Body isis probably more than chassis.

Very nice newly upholstered, Mot’d. chassis.

Very nice upholstered, Mot’d. and and MX5s.

Quick, Quirky superior, Cheap Tax and nice fun.upholstered, TheMot’d, Body isThe probably worth more fun. than The the Body isthe probably worthfun. more than thefun.

The I’m Body is probably worth Cheap Tax and Cheap MX5s.

Quick, Quirky andand superior, Cheap Tax and fun.

The Body probably worth more than the The Body isME. probably worth more than the more than the Erky ARE OPEN ANDTax NOW IS THE TIME HAVE ALL YOUR WORK CARRIED OUT, SO THESE SALE CARS ARE ATnewly ORworth WELL BELOW THEIR COST TO very dealable! file.

These cars are rising in value has had sensible upgrades, gas user. but not my daily user. Nice my but not £4,995 my daily user.

Nice but not mint. £4,995 my daily user.

Nice but not mint. £4,995 mydaily dailymint. user.Nice Nice but notmint. mint.£4,995 £4,995 my daily user.

Nice but not mint. £4,995 GARDENING HOLIDAY, WE Enormous fun £6,250 only one other we are Enormous fun £6,250 Enormous fun £6,250 £6,250 £6,550 Enormous fun £6,250 Enormous fun £6,250 funcar. car. £6,550car. car. £6,550 Enormous car. £6,550 car. £6,550 insurance. . £2,250 Mot’d. £2,250 insurance.

Mot’d. £2,250 very quickly£6,550 and I love em! £6,995 shocks all round,told, Anti Roll bar, Van ARE STILL ABLE TO DELIVER Justy Minilite reps with rally tyres.

Sebring and front youvalance. trust us on our TC Race Car, Ally Panels, LSD, All correct suspension Lovely 4 or 2wd headlight coversshould Competitionasquick on all gearsfun, 10 gears!!descriptions Stage 2 headaswith mostDURING people do, THE ENFORCED new Overdrive inside, Mot’d, great DURING THE ENFORCED mods, a very well known race car Derrington manifold rare, DURING THE ENFORCED Extremely rare, Extremely rare, DURING THE ENFORCED DURING THE ENFORCED DURING THE ENFORCED ExtremelyExtremely rare, Extremely rare, Extremely rare, mild cam, six branch exhaust andSame special system.

Inside the car has rally Gordon England Cup Model Austin 7 1926 we can still deliver in the UK and great performance. as 1 3/4 S U’s, Special brakes, very quick engine is fully GARDENING HOLIDAY, WE only we are GARDENING HOLIDAY, WE GARDENING HOLIDAY, WE & in lovely onlyone one other wecobra are only one other we are seats, saloon belts and correct rally navigation aids.

Halda, stopwatch GARDENING HOLIDAY, GARDENING WE HOLIDAY, GARDENING WE only one other weother only are one other we are only one other we are One owner for overHOLIDAY, 50 years Europe.

We have plenty WE of work, butthe without the back modified 1350 or a less modified unit can be supplied.

Low cost Lotus 7 lookalike kit car, complete and Brantz clocks for endurance events.

ItTO isTO allVan topped off with a Britax ARE STILL ABLE DELIVER told, Justy Van ARE STILL ABLE DELIVER ARE STILL ABLE TO DELIVER told, Van told, Justy butABLE can always cope with more. condition.

This well Gordon England windows.

Rover Metro 1.1 1990Justy only 2 owners 1 Lady, Justy 1 ARE STILL ABLE TO ARE DELIVER STILL TO DELIVER ARE STILL ABLE TO DELIVER rolling chassis withknown body panels, etc., 1 engine, 2 told, Justy Van told, Van told, Justy Van I paid £20k for it, make a silly, not too silly offer. matching sunroof.

The car is an absolute delight to drive with oodles of Doctor and 21000 miles, full history and as new gearboxes, all ready for completion. £2,200 should you trust us on our TC Race Car, LSD, suspension Lovely 44oror2wd MGs and all classics. should you trust us on our should you trust us on our TC Race Car, AllyPanels, Panels, LSD, Allcorrect correct TC suspension RaceLSD, Car,All Allycorrect Panels, LSD, c £2,250 Lovely 2wd Lovely 4 or 2wd Austin is fitted with the rare LAP. OHV conver fabulous starter car. £2,500 should usbest on our should trust us on our should you trust us on TCour Race Car, Ally Ally Panels, TC LSD, Race All All Car, correct Allysuspension Panels, TC Race Car, suspension AllyAllPan Lovely 4 or 2wd Lovely 4 or 2wd Lovely 4 no oryou 2wd torque and power.you If youtrust want the “C” look further £21,995 descriptions as do, as sion as andmost has performed many descriptions asmost mostpeople people do, descriptions peoplewith do,this formods, a very well race car manifold asnew newinside, inside,Mot’d, Mot’d,great greatfun, fun, as new inside, Mot’d, great fun, mods, a very wellknown known race carDerrington Derrington mods, manifold a verycarwell known race carkno D descriptions asas most people descriptions do, as most people do, descriptions as most people do, as new inside,great Mot’d, great as new fun,inside, Mot’d, great fun, new inside, Mot’d, great fun, mods, a very well known mods, race car a very Derrington well known manifold race mods, Derrington a very manifold well years.

It has the spare engine and box with it we can still deliver in the UK and performance.

Same as wegreat can still deliver in the UK as and we can still deliver in the UK and great performance. Same as performance.

Same quick 13/4 3/4SSU’s, U’s, Special Specialbrakes, brakes,very quickengine engine 1 3/4isisSfully fully U’s, Special brakes, very qu werare can still deliver inhave the weUK can and still deliver UK and we&can still deliver in the UK 1and great performance.

Same great as performance.

Same as performance.

Same in asthe ishave a fine Austin is acceptable Aback very 1929 BMW Austingreat 7We Smany U’s, Special 1 3/4 verySvery U’s, quick Special engine brakes, is fully very1quick 3/4 Sengine U’s, Special is fully ble 1990 Subaru Europe.

We plenty ofofwork, 1935 Y Type for special fitted withthat MG P 1 3/4for saloon Europe. have plenty work, Europe.

We plenty of period work, saloonbut butwithout withoutthe theback saloon but without the back modified ororbrakes, aa£29,950 less modified modified 1350 less modified modified 1350 or a less modified uni unitcan canbebesupplied. supplied.

Low cost Lotus 7 7Vintage lookalike kit car, ly condition inside Low Lotus lookalike kitsprints car,complete complete Low cost Lotus 7family. lookalike kit car, complete unit orof Jcost Body.

Built for hill climb inevents. the 50s/60s and Austin Forof salework, on behalf of1350 the Badge, radiator emblem and surround Europe.

We have plenty Europe. of work, Wemore. have plenty work, Europe.

We have plenty saloon but without the back saloon but without the back saloon but without the back but can always cope with 2cv White With nice interior owned and restored by windows. ners 1 Lady, 1 but can always cope with more. but can always cope with more. modified 1350 or a less modified modified 1350 or a less modified modified 1350 orsilly a leo unit can be supplied. unit can be supplied. rolling chassis with body panels, etc., 1 engine, 2 Citroen 2cv 6 Redwindows. & Cream with galvanisedLow cost Lotus wners 1 Lady, 1 Rover Metro 1.1 windows.

1990 only 2 owners 1 Lady, 1 ndas, 205s, even 7 chassis lookalike car,panels, Low complete cost Lotus 7 lookalike kitIrolling car, complete Low cost Lotus 7etc., lookalike kit car, complete rolling withkit body etc., 1 engine, 2 chassis with body panels, 1 too engine, 2 offer. a family owned.

Running driving great vintage paid £20k for it, make a silly, not silly I paid £20k for it, make a silly, not too silly offer.

I paid £20k for it, make a silly, not too are pure BMW, as are the wheel hubs.

2cv club secretary.

Galvanised chassis and Mot’d, ory asasnew but can cope with but more. can always cope with more. but can always with more. gearboxes, all for completion. £2,200 chassis.MGs Very nice newly Mot’d.rolling windows. windows. windows. story and new Doctor 21000 miles, history and as rior,and Cheap Tax and 1 Lady, 1990 only 2 owners Rover 1 and Metro 1.1 1990full only 2 owners 1new Lady, 1 always gearboxes, allready ready for completion. £2,200 gearboxes, all ready completion. £2,200 fun.

Body is probably more than chassis withThe body panels, etc., rolling 1worth engine, chassis 2cope withthe body etc., 1for engine, rolling 2 for with body panels, etc., 1 engine, 2 not too silly and all classics. £2,250 MGs and allupholstered, classics.

MGs and all classics. £2,250 £2,250 Ipanels, paid £20k it, make achassis silly, not I paid too £20k silly for offer. it, make a silly, I paid offer. £20k for it, make a my daily starter user.

Nice not mint.

Thisand car as must rank inEnormous the forefront fun £6,250 car.but £2,500 car. £6,550 miles, full history and as fabulous new Doctor and 21000 miles, full£4,995 history new gearboxes, all ready for completion. gearboxes, £2,200 all ready for completion. £2,200 gearboxes, all ready for completion. £2,200 MGs and all classics. £2,250 MGs and all classics.

MGs and all classics. £2,250 £2,250 Panhard Dyna X 1947 RHD ar. £2,500 fabulous starter car. £2,500 Austin 7 and BMW desirability. Built Allegedly 1 owner & specially built as RHD for

by BMW in 1929 with its mirror image a disabled customer. Resting undisturbed in a Extremely rare, & engine adapted for LHDDURING and then THE ENFORCED French barnHOLIDAY, for over 20 years, now STILL been Extremely rare, only one other we are told, Justy Van DURING THE ENFORCED GARDENING WEit has ARE ABLE TO DELIVER fitted with JHLE sports 600 body and GARDENING HOLIDAY, WE only one other we are recommissioned and is a lovely Oily Rag car that is suspension modifications.

Has fun, ARE STILL ABLE TO DELIVER told,4Justy Lovely or 2wdVan asUlster new inside, Mot’d, great great should you trust us on our descriptions as most people do, we can still deliver in the UK now running and braking, with everything working. a fully documented and fascinating history, all documented.

It has been in the same car hasTC been researched by a Panhard historian shouldback you trust us on our Race Car, Ally Panels, LSD,more.

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Same asownership saloon50but without andto Europe.

We have plenty ofThe work, but can always copefrom with MGssuspension and years or more, the being in manywindows.

Austin events, before being loaned a who has unearthed its fascinating history the descriptions as most people do, as new inside, Mot’d, great fun, mods, aatvery well known race car Derrington manifold museum.

Now, on the demise of the owner, the car is being recommissioned in our factory records.

It is present being registered in £2,250 all classics. we can still deliver in the UK and great performance. Same as workshops, please enquire for further details. £31,000 1 3/4 Club.

S U’s, Special the UK with full authorisation from the Panhard Offered £6,995brakes, very quick engine is fully

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01255 432693, 07714 675319 JUNE 2020 SAFETY FAST! 97

LOOKING BACK The official publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast!

Copyright MG Car Club 2020 2019

Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 andyknott@mgcc.co.uk Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Editorial Committee: Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman PR and Communications: Advertising: Hine MarketingJade 01452 Beckett 730770 01233 849731 Published by:Hine Advertising: HineMarketing Marketing, 01452 Hill Farm 730770 Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770 Published by:Norton Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes

F

or this month’s offering we’ve three photos all taken at the September 1966 Oulton Park Race Meeting organised by the MG Car Club’s North-Western Centre.

Above see the famous MGA SRX210 running number 21 being piloted by Ted Lund, fending off a couple of Lotus 7s.

Ted also raced this car at Le Mans three years in a row, winning its class in 1961.

Another sporty-looking MGA appears in the second photo, although I’m not

Distributed Lane, Bishopsby: Norton Air Business.

Glos, GL2 Merlin 9LN. Centre, Tel: 01452 4 The, 730770 Acrewood Way, St Albans Tel: 01727 890600 Distributed by:AL4 Air0JY Business.

Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood

sure the large aerial helps with the aerodynamic shape. Mr Andreason is at the wheel of this British Racing Green 1498cc MGA. The final photo is a more relaxed affair, with the number 140 T Type at rest parked in good company with other MGs. We’re not sure who this one belonged to, although the chap picnicking behind it seems to be keeping a close eye on it.

Way, St Albans President: John AL4 Day 0JY Tel: 01727 890600 Vice Presidents: President: John Day Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Ian ViceQuarrington Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Bill Chairman: Bill Silcock.

Silcock.

Vice Chairman: Keith Williams Chairman: Dave Tynan Treasurer: Richard Colston Vice Chairman: George Wilder Directors: Saunders, Treasurer: Dave Richard ColstonPeter Cook, Adele Rand, Lorraine Noble Thompson, George Wilder Directors: Dave Saunders,Colin PeterWithers, Opie and Peter Cook and Dave Tynan Company Secretary: Colin Grant Company Secretary: Colin Grant Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), Staff Members:(Competitions Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Andy Knott Knott (01235 (01235 849730), 849730), Lauran Lauran Gallacher Gallacher (Assistant (Assistant General General Manager Manager 01235 01235 849735), 849735), Liz Liz Allsworth Allsworth (Membership (Membership Secretary Secretary 01235 Mark Baulch 07554 160840), 01235 849734), 849734), Colin Grant (Motorsport (01235 849733), Jade Beckett Colin Grant (01235 849733), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer (01233 849731), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849737) 849737) Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Honorary Michael Allison, RonPaddy Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter,Members: John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Hopkirk, Don Hayter, JohnPiers Quenby, PaddyRob Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Norman Ewing, Hubbard, Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Rob Oldaker, SteveJune Hanegan, GerryHawke, McGovern, Hawke, Gerry McGovern, Wallis, Ann JohnAnn Dutton, John Day, John JohnSilcock.

Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock.

JulianDutton, White, Bill Company Company limited limited by by guarantee guarantee The The Club, Club, as as aa corporate corporate body body established established as as the the MG MG Car Car Club Club Limited, is a company limited Limited, is a company limited by by guarantee. guarantee. Every Every member member of of the the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year year after after he he ceases ceases to to be be aa member, member, for for payment payment of of the the debts debts and and liabilities liabilities of of the the Club Club contracted contracted before before he he ceases ceases to to be be aa member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, up, and and for for the the adjustment adjustment of of the the rights rights of of the the contributors contributors among among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one one pound. pound.

Whilst Whilst every every effort effort has has been been made made to to ensure ensure the the accuracy accuracy of of information at information at the the time time of of going going to to press, press, neither neither The The Publisher Publisher (herein referred referred to to as as Hine Hine Marketing), Marketing), the the Editor, Editor, nor nor the the MG MG (herein Car Club Club can can accept accept any any responsibility responsibility or or loss loss occasioned occasioned to to any any Car person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication.

The opinions of authors are their own and in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Hine Marketing, Marketing, the the Editor Editor and and the the MG MG Car Car Club Club are are not not bound bound to to agree agree with opinions expressed herein.

Reproduction in whole or in part with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Safety Fast! and The MG without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Car Club Club badge badge are are protected protected through through trademark trademark registration registration in in the the UK UK and and in in the the foreign foreign countries countries where where Safety Safety Fast!

Fast! circulates. circulates.

Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications modifications or or methods methods referred referred to to herein, herein, they they do do so so at at their their own own risk risk and and no no liability liability will will attach attach to to the the MG MG Car Car Club, Club, the the Editor Editor nor nor Hine Marketing.

Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing Marketing have have any any responsibility responsibility for for the the accuracy accuracy of of the the content content of of the the editorial, editorial, neither neither the the content content of of any any advertisement advertisement published published in in Safety Fast!

Safety Fast!

ItIt should should be be noted noted that that neither neither Hine Hine Marketing, Marketing, the the Editor, Editor, nor nor the the MG MG Car Club Car Club make make any any recommendation recommendation in in respect respect of of any any goods goods and/ and/ or services advertised or featured in this issue.

It is the responsibility or services advertised or featured in this issue. It is the responsibility of of readers readers to to satisfy satisfy themselves themselves that that the the goods goods or or services services offered offered or or referred referred to to are are bona bona fide fide and and in in no no instance instance shall shall Hine Hine Marketing, Marketing, the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or suitability suitability of of any any such such items. items.

98 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2020

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