SafetyFast! February 2018 by MG Car Club

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

February 2018 Volume 62 Number 02 £3.95

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ABINGDON-ON-THAMES FO U N D E D 193 0

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Inside this issue 7 8 14 64 66 67

Club Matters and Kimber House News News Products Race Torque MGs on Track MGCC Speed Championship

68 70 73 85 94 98

Out and About Overseas Review Centre Updates Register Updates Classifieds Looking Back

Features 16

MGLive! 2018 Tickets now on sale for the biggest MG event of the year

Try before you buy As part of his hunt for an MG, Jeff Ruggles tries an MG Midget

Midget Register Annual Aldon Automotive rolling road day MGs hit the rollers to discover how much power they’re producing

Repairing a Pektron SCU Colin Grant looks at the TF Security Control Unit

The Manchester XPAG Tests The Problems with Modern Fuel – Part I

Newsletters 43

Triple M Newsletter The 2017 MMM Register’s Kernow Wheals Tour

Midget Newsletter Midget Register Weekend Tour, Lost and Found and the Grand Touring Midget

MGB Newsletter Looking ahead to 2018 and “Morris” the 1978 MGB GT

FWD Newsletter A busy year ahead and a Montego Restoration

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk. If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

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Welcome

MGCC staff member Jeff Ruggles driving a 1966 MkII Midget around Oxfordshire’s leafy lanes Photo: Colin Grant

@mgcarclub

FO U N D E D 193 0

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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 2018

I hope you’ve all managed to get those allimportant motoring jobs out of the way during the winter and are raring to go as spring rapidly approaches. One the jobs that needed doing on my ZS was changing the cambelts, no easy task on a V6. The interval time between changes is six years or 90,000 miles. Mine was last changed in November 2011 but has only covered 25k miles. At the beginning of December, just before I was taking the car off the road to change them, one of the tensioners failed and the belt jumped, ouch! The ZS will be fixed, but I’ve learnt my lesson – stick rigidly to the schedules. Whilst the ZS is recuperating my 1996 MGF has been pressed into everyday service, and is performing admirably in the cold, wet British winter. We’ve also had a change of vehicle in the Knott MG fleet: my wife’s four-year-old MG3 has been swapped for a new MG ZS automatic. She was sorry to see the MG3 go as it’s been faultless in all the time we’ve owned it, but she and our two growing boys appreciate the extra space in the ZS. I’m sure I’ll bring you updates of how it fares as our main family vehicle in the future. The MG calendar is filling up quickly, and as ever there’s plenty of variety, from static shows, road runs to race meetings. A few of our Registers head to Stoneleigh on February 11 for the annual Show and Spares day, our competition department heads back to Stoneleigh later in the month for Race Retro, February 23-25. Meanwhile, the main Club gears up for the Practical Classics Restoration Show at the NEC on March 23-25. In between the events I’ve mentioned, our Centres and Registers are putting on their own events,. It’s worth checking their websites which can be reached from www.mgcc.co.uk for dates and details of the events they’re hosting. The premier MG event of the year, MGLive!, is being held on June 2-3. Look out for a booking form and lots more information in the March issue. Until next month, drive safely. Andy Knott

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CHAIRMANS NOTES BY IAN QUARRINGTON

Photo: Mike Gibbon Photographic

Motor Sport. I am not worried about repeating myself in these short notes to you and those with a long memory will know I have touched on some subjects of our Club life more than once before. However, our motor sport and specifically our racing activities are so important to the MG Car Club on so many levels that I offer no apology for being here again. Let us start with getting things put right. Last autumn at our Council meeting in Daventry there was some discussion about the reporting of our racing from a fiscal point of view. It is all too easy to forget we have had significant and continuous success in running six meetings a year over a very long time with hardly a hiccup. That is no mean achievement. Anyone in the Club would be hard pressed to find a parallel to our success in other Clubs similar to our own. Yes (and I personally subscribe to this) we can agree there are only two types of budget, “lucky and wrong”, but I wonder have many members any idea of the effort that goes in to making the numbers work, let alone organising these race meetings? So if there is an

occasion where due to a number of factors, some beyond our control, we do not hit the magic budgeted figure for the turnover suggested then let’s not hammer ourselves for that result; let’s not any one of us from any part of this great Club dwell on it but learn from our lesson and move on together. The Race Subcommittee has been working on the 2018 programme and working together with the Board and Kimber House since way in the middle of last year and it is about now where we are signing contracts. Getting this huge task organised has been likened to trying to hit a speeding bullet with another speeding bullet whilst blindfolded. In my previous notes I mentioned that MGCC racing has continued to evolve over the years, and with no new two-seater sports car coming from China just yet and with some groups of MG cars becoming so valuable that some owners are reluctant to race them, it is not always possible to fill our meetings with just cars carrying the octagonal badge. One huge exception to that rule is the Triple M racing which

is such a spectacle and all credit to Mark Dalton and the Register for its continuing revival. One conversationstopper at a race meeting is to watch these cars as they line up on the grid. It is almost as if time slows down and the atmosphere heightens as those glorious machines from our historic past line up for the start. So in cases where we can’t find the numbers, we put our Marque of Friendship into action and we invite guests from many other racing communities to join us. This year will be no exception and many of our friends from other Clubs, like Morgan for example, will be at our race meetings. Motor sport and specifically racing cannot happen without a huge band of volunteers. These include, for example, the race officials and the Championship co-ordinators and, not least of all, the race marshals. It has been said many times, no marshals, no motor racing, so I will end by saying that one of the great pleasures the Club Chairman has early in the year is to hand a cheque to the British Motorsport Marshals Club at the Autosport Show at the NEC as our thank you to them for the work they do to help keep motor sport alive and well in our Club.

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS Our thanks go to Greg Smith for the loan of an MG M Type Midget which has been on display in the John Thornley Suite at Kimber House for the last three months. The car is owned by Marguerite Morgan, from Australia, and was originally a coupe but has been rebuilt in the style of the factory racing cars of the period, which competed at the Le Mans 24-hour race

www.mgcc.co.uk

in the 1930s. The car attracted much attention from our UK and Overseas visitors to Kimber House. Donation to the BMMC After the introduction in 2015 of the MG Car Club undertaking to give £1 for every competitor signed on at our race meetings throughout the year to continue the support of the British Motorsport Marshals Club (BMMC), we are delighted to announce that for 2018 the MG Car Club has donated £1,500 to the BMMC to assist with discounting of overalls and equipment to marshals. The donation was made by Ian Quarrington, chairman of the MGCC,

to Nadine Lewis, Chairman of the BMMC, at this year’s Autosport International Show. All of the overalls provided in 2018 will be supplied with a sewn-on MGCC badge. The MGCC greatly appreciates that without the support of the marshals we would not be able to run race meetings at all, and the Club has long championed the cause for greater appreciation of the marshals’ efforts.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 7

NEWS

AMD expands BTCC programme with MG deal AmDTuning.com with Cobra Exhausts has announced plans to expand its involvement in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship for the 2018 season after agreeing a deal to run a pair of MG6 GTs. The deal to run the MGs – which have been among the most successful cars of the NGTC era – will see the team field four cars this year, with Ollie Jackson and rookie Sam Smelt already confirmed in the existing Audi S3 Saloons. Talks with potential drivers to fill the two vacant MG seats are currently ongoing, and the new livery for the AmDTuning.com MG6 GTs, plus the team’s full sponsor list, will be revealed at the annual Season Launch at Donington Park in March.

John Woods Motorcare John Woods Motorcare Ltd has worked over the past 12 months with Business Wales to assist with a move of premises from its old site in Chester to new, larger premises in Mold, North Wales. After 20 years at the Mollington site, John Woods and the team decided that they needed more space. This was due to the increased work being generated with their membership of Classic Friendly Ltd. This is a scheme fronted by Fuzz Townshend, National Geographic Channel’s Car SOS presenter. The scheme sets out to offer cherished car owners a national network of quality garage services and body shops specialising in all Classic Cars (www. classicfriendly.co.uk). John Woods Motorcare Ltd has also been awarded X-Part MG Rover Wholesale Distributor (Dealer Principal) status for Cheshire and North Wales as well as becoming an XPart approved AutoService Centre. The new address is:- John Woods Motorcare Ltd, 11 Queens Lane, Bromfield Industrial Estate, Mold, CH7 1JR. Telephone numbers have changed to:- 01352 750992 / 01352 759418. The new premises in Mold have three times the floor space when compared to the old premises. Half of the new workshop has been dedicated to the Classic Friendly side of the business and is managed by John Woods with the other half of the workshop dedicated to the day-to-day servicing, MOT remedial work and MG Rover servicing/repair managed by Adam Woods (John’s son). There is an open-door policy; new and old customers are welcome to pop by at any time to speak to staff regarding any work requirements for their vehicles, or just pop by to see the new premises and the current work being undertaken.

MG Car Club, Rocky Mountain Centre Awarded the Nuffield Challenge Trophy The MG Car Club Rocky Mountain Centre (MGCC-RMC) has been awarded the prestigious Nuffield Challenge Trophy for the United States by its parent organisation, the MG Car Club (UK) of Abingdon, England. The trophy was first awarded in 1936 to one of 12 regional Centres of the MG Car Club in England by William R. Morris, also known as Lord Nuffield. As interest in MGs grew internationally, affiliate Overseas Centres were established in various countries across the globe. While the original Nuffield Trophy was cast in gold, one of four silver travelling versions was created in 1954 for presentation to centres based in the

8 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

United States and North America. Other overseas centres receiving a trophy that year were located in Africa, Europe, and Oceania. The Nuffield Challenge Trophy is presented to the centre which has demonstrated enthusiasm, enterprise, and commitment to growing and maintaining membership. According to Lord Nuffield, the trophy “will enhance the Club’s prestige, assist its growth, and add to the enthusiasm of its members.” The MGCC-RMC has more than 200 members living in Colorado and neighbouring states. Established in 1952 by Hazel Hopkins Marble and Denis Evans, the Club is North America’s longest continuously

operating MGCC Overseas Centre, and the first single marque car club established in the State of Colorado. The Club’s signature event is the annual Rallye Glenwood Springs. The Rallye celebrates its 66th running in 2018 and is the oldest continuously run road rally in the United States. The Nuffield Challenge Trophy is accepted by officers and members of the MG Car Club, Rocky Mountain Centre (L to R): John Fraioli, Neil White, Al Wulf, Keith Kerr, Jonathan Lane, Alan Magnuson, and Rich Weiskopf

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Ken Smith It is with sadness that we have to report the passing of Ken Smith. Ken was a founding member of the North American MGB Register and served as the first Ken and Barby having a few quiet moments in the shade at the NAMGAR meeting in editor of the MGB Solvang in June 2017 Driver. He later served as the MGB Registrar and was the current MGB LE Registrar. Ken was co-editor of North American Classic MG Magazine and, born in Yorkshire, served in the RAF in his younger days. Known as Mr. MG, Ken Smith was one of the most recognised people in the LBC world. Along with his wife, Barby, Ken has shared his passion for the MG Marque throughout the world for most of his 84 years on earth. Ken worked at Moss Motors for 25 years, serving as club liaison and editor of Moss Motoring. With Barby at his side, they travelled across the country for many years, supporting British car events and representing Moss. Ken passed away peacefully and comfortably this morning, with Barby and his two sons by his side. He was an amazing MG enthusiast and will be missed by all who knew him.

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Press photo of a 14/28

The MORRIS GARAGES MARQUE of CARS (MG): CENTENARY For many years across the MG community 1924 has been taken to be the year when the first MG cars were made and sold. Some have put the case for recognition in later years – 1925/6/7 – and have given reasons for doing so. In the main, though, 1924 has been the accepted year and has been the basis of past anniversaries which have been celebrated by both MG clubs, and the various parent manufacturers of MGs. The 1924 date has been based upon the modified ‘Bullnose’ Morris Oxford cars of 1924 which have been known as the 14/28s and accepted as the first ‘MGs’. It has been known for a long time that a car prior to the 14/28 was commissioned by Cecil Kimber – founder of MG, and from early 1922 manager of the Morris Garage in Queen Street, Oxford. Kimber ordered six Morris Cowley chassis from the Morris works, had some modifications made to these chassis at the Alfred Lane workshop in Oxford, and ordered bodies from Raworth & Co., based in St. Aldates, Oxford. None of these six cars have survived, and nor – until 1998 – had details of the alterations made to these cars. The MG community tended to be divided on the Raworths, between those who felt the 14/28s and the 1924 date was the correct one, and those who believed that the Raworths should receive recognition as the first MGs – in concept, if not realisation. The 14/28 school had the advantage of surviving cars which could be compared to the standard Morris versions and the modifications identified, along with the

very different Kimber-inspired bodies. The 14/28 school were reluctant to acknowledge the significance of the Raworths because there was an absence of evidence that they were more than bespoke-bodied Morrises. The 1923 view was not helped by the fact that the Raworths were a commercial failure, unlike the 14/28s. It has become apparent that this difference over the Raworths vs. the 14/28s can now be resolved due to the considerable efforts of The Early MG Society and, in particular, researches in the Oxford County and City archives by the late Robin Barraclough and by Phil Jenkins. Of the 21 mechanical differences between the standard Morris Oxford chassis and those sold as Morris Garages Sports (14/28), there is general agreement that the significant differences were in the lowering of the rear springs and the alteration of the angle of the steering column by relocating the steering box. In themselves these alterations do not appear very significant, but crucially it meant that the chassis sat lower, and the driver sat lower and further back. This in turn enabled the bodies to be different from anything currently available in the Morris Motors catalogue. Research in the Oxford City and County archives – especially microfilm copies of newspapers and magazines – finally revealed some of the alterations which had been made to the Raworths prior to their bespoke bodies being manufactured. The crucial changes, which have allowed the 14/28s to be recognised so far as the ‘first’ MGs, were, it has been shown, made also

to the Raworths a year earlier. The documentation supporting this had lain in the archives for nearly 75 years. The Raworths were overpriced, lacked sufficient distinction, and were a commercial failure, but they were Cecil Kimber’s first attempt – along with the support of his employer, Sir William Morris – to create the first MG. The current governing Board of the MG Car Club (UK) has made a careful and thorough examination of the evidence, and arrived at the conclusion that the year 1923 can indeed be regarded and celebrated as the founding year of the MG marque. While the available evidence is not absolutely conclusive, the first Raworth MG was most likely registered on June 1 1923 with the Oxford authority as FC5581. It is also recognised, however, that 1924 was the year when the first successful MG was manufactured – the 14/28. Without the success of Cecil Kimber’s second attempt at a sports car his employer, William Morris, would not have provided the £16,000 necessary to build the first bespoke MG factory in Oxford (Edmund Road) and ensured the future of the marque. It seems entirely appropriate, therefore, that the 14/28 and 1924 should also receive celebratory recognition. With these two aims in mind it has been decided that the centenary year should start in June 2023 and last until June 2024. In this way Cecil Kimber’s vision as well as his successful realisation of the MG are both recognised. Peter Cook MG Car Club UK – Overseas Director This summary is a brief overview of a far more detailed paper. Anyone who would like to read the full paper should contact me: – petercookdr@ btinternet.com

The MG Car Club Limited (‘The Club’) Notice of Council Meeting A Council Meeting of The MG Car Club Ltd will be held at the MINI Plant, Eastern Bypass Road, Cowley, Oxford OX4 6NL, on Saturday March 17 2018, commencing at 10.30am. Motions for debate at the Council Meeting should arrive at Kimber House by February 6 2018.

10 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

We need to know if you are able to attend and who will be representing your Centre/Register/Branch. Could you please complete the slip on the form that has been emailed to all Chairmen/Secretaries of CRBs, and return not later than Tuesday February 27 2018 to Colin Grant.

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AGM NOTICES

Abingdon Works Centre AGM Date: Saturday March 10 2018 Venue: MG Car Club, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, OX14 1AS Time: 2.00pm There will be a talk by Anne Allison, Anne’s MG World, which should prove to be light-hearted, varied and informative. Timetable 2.00pm – Light Refreshments will be available 2.45pm – Talk by Anne Allison 3.15pm – Abingdon Works Centre AGM Agenda: Apologies Approval of the Minutes of the AGM March 2017 Matters Arising Chairman’s Report Secretary’s Report Treasurers Report Election of Officers Election of Committee Any Other Business Time and Date of next AGM Nominations for election to the committee and/or officers should be submitted to Secretary, Sarah Davies, 38 Swinbrook Road, Carterton, Oxfordshire, OX18 1DS. Or by email to secretary@ mgabingdon.org.uk by February 9 2018. Devon and Cornwall Centre AGM Venue: Callington Bowling Club, 38 Liskeard Road, Callington, PL17 7JE Date: Saturday March 24 2018 Time: 7.30pm for 8.00pm Agenda: 1.Apologies for Absence 2.Approval of the 2017 Minutes 3.Matters arising 4.Chairman’s Report 5.Treasurer’s Report 6.Secretary’s Report 7.Competition Secretary’s Report 8.Election of Officers and Committee 9.Points for Discussion This will be followed by a Complimentary Buffet and a Fun Quiz. Yorkshire Centre AGM Date: Tuesday March 20 2018 Venue: The Star, 223 Roberttown Lane, Roberttown, Liversedge, West Yorkshire WF15 7LQ Time: 8.00 pm Agenda: 1. Apologies for Absence 2. Minutes of Last AGM 3. Chairman’s Report 4. Treasurer’s Report 5. Secretary’s Report 6. Election of Officers 7. Election of Committee 8. Any Other Business All nominations for candidates for election to the committee and topics for AOB should be sent to: Cliff Hobbs, Cedar Croft, Wood Lane, Whitwood, Castleford WF10 5PJ by March 1 2018.

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MGA Register AGM Date: April 7 2018 Venue: The MG Car Club, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, OX14 1AS Time: 10.30am, followed immediately by a Committee Meeting Agenda: 1. Welcome and Apologies for Absence 2. Review and Approval of Minutes of 2017 AGM 3. Chairman’s Report 4. Treasurer’s Report 5. Election of Officers and Committee 6. Any Other Business All communication to Colin Manley, colinmanley99@gmail.com

MGC Register AGM Date: Saturday April 7 Venue: The Fairmile Inn, Cobham, KT11 1BW Time: 4.00pm to 6.00pm Agenda 1. Apologies for Absence 2. Approve 2017 Minutes 3. Matters arising from 2017 Minutes 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report 6. Approval of Accounts 7. Secretary’s Report 8. Election of Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Committee 9. Any Other Business Nominations for Committee and AOB items to be submitted to the Secretary before March 24 2018 to mgc_mike@ btinternet.com

MGF Register AGM Date: Saturday March 24 2018 Venue: The Crown and Thistle Hotel, 8 Bridge Street, Abingdon-on-Thames, Oxford, OX14 3HS Time: Lunch at 12.00pm followed by the AGM at 2.00pm Agenda: 1. Apologies for absence. 2. Approval of minutes of the last AGM 3. Matters arising from previous AGM minutes 4. Chairman’s report. 5. Treasurer’s report and adoption of accounts 6. Regalia 7. Membership 8. Registrar 9. Events 10. International Events 11. Archive 12. Election of Committee, Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer 13. Any other business. Nominations for election to the Committee and AOB Agenda Topics should be submitted to the Secretary by March 3 2018. All communications to Jane Parry, Secretary MGF Register Email: secretary@mgfregister.org Tel: 07841 648428

Midget Register AGM Date: Sunday March 11 2018 Venue: The MG Car Club, Kimber House, Abingdon, OX14 1AS Time: The meeting will commence at 10.30am Agenda: 1. Apologies for absence. 2. Approval of the minutes of the 2017 AGM. 3. Matters arising. 4. Chairman’s Report. 5. Secretary’s Report. 6. Treasurer’s Report and adoption of 2017 accounts. 7. Registrar’s Report. 8. Election of Officers. 9. Election of Committee. 10. Any other business. 11. Date and time of next AGM. Several Members of the existing Committee will be standing down at this meeting so we are looking to recruit some new Members to join us and help run the Midget Register. Nominations for election to the Committee and/or Officers should be submitted to the Secretary, Pete Chaundy, 156 Roman Way, Bicester, Oxon, OX26 6FL or by email to secretary@ midgetregister.com by February 16 2018. MG Car Club T Register AGM Date: British Motor Museum (formerly the Heritage Motor Museum), Banbury Road, Gaydon, CV35 0BJ Venue: April 14 2018 Time: Approx 4.00pm Agenda: Apologies for absence Minutes of last AGM Chairman’s Report Treasurer’s Report Competition Secretary’s Report Election of Officers Election of Committee members Appointment of Council representative A.O.B. Nominations (forms are available on the T Register website or from the address below) and topics for A.O.B. should be sent in writing by March 31 2018 to: The Secretary, MGCC T Register, 29 Church Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire MK45 2PL. Or by email to: treg. sec@ntlworld.com by the same date Tyne-Tees Centre AGM Date: Thursday March 1 2018 Venue: Coulby Manor, Coulby Manor Way, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, TS8 0RP Time: 8.00pm Agenda: 1. Apologies for absence 2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2017 AGM 3. Matters arising from the above 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Secretary’s Report 6. Membership Secretary’s Report 7. Treasurer’s Report and adoption of the Accounts 8. Election of Officers 9. Election of the Committee 10. Any Other Business

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As Part of the Albatross Group (established for over 30 Years), we have a wealth of experience in organising specialist touring holidays and short breaks throughout the UK, Europe and Worldwide, for both individual travellers, groups and clubs. We take great pride in putting our customers at the very heart of everything we do, providing a diverse and innovative range of tours at competitive prices, whilst offering the highest levels of service.

Our tours are designed to be as flexible as possible, so that you have the freedom to enjoy your trip to the full!

In most cases we do not escort our tours, there are 2 main reasons for this; 1. Each year we operate literally hundreds of tours, so as you can imagine, it would be impossible for us to escort this number of tours. 2. Our tour price would increase dramatically as we would have to include costs such as; accommodation, meals, fuel, road tolls etc. Instead of a Tour Escort we supply you with a detailed Roadbook featuring day by day suggested itineraries, backed up by Michelin & Tom Tom Maps with a choice of direct and scenic route options, plus points of interest. Overnight Stops - Where necessary our tour itineraries include overnight stops on route to your ‘main stay’ destination. Mileages on the transit days tend to be higher than on the touring days. Car Parking - is available at all of our hotels. In most cases parking is included, however in some cases where this is not possible, charges may be payable locally. Ferry Crossings - Most of our European Tours are based on P&O Ferries crossings from Dover to Calais, for a supplement you can change to Eurotunnel, North Sea Ferries or other routes between the UK and the continent. Our Irish Tours include crossings with Stena Line, again we can also offer other routes on request. Number of Cars - We cannot guarantee how many cars will book on our tours and sometimes the number of cars travelling may be lower than anticipated. We will make every effort to ensure each tour runs irrespective of the number of cars booked. No Surcharge Guarantee - Once you have booked a trip with us and paid your deposit, we guarantee your price will not change, irrespective of currency fluctuations or any supplier price increases imposed on us.

oin us on one of our Amazing Road Journeys in the UK, Ireland, Europe or one of many exciting destinations. Over the last few years our range of scheduled tours has grown enormously, as has the physical number of cars travelling with us. For 2018 we have introduced even more tours than ever before, and these are all featured in our new 64 page brochure. In addition to the old favourites, we have added a number of exciting destinations including the Scandinavian Baltic Capitals & St Petersburg, Sardinia and a 16 day tour to New England in the fall to mention just a few. Some of our most popular tours for next year include, Laon Historique, the biggest annual pilgrimage of classic cars across the channel, Ireland’s Causeway Coast and the Wild Atlantic Way. Looking a little further afield, the initial dates for our new Highlights of Austria & High Alpine Road tour have already

SCOTLAND’S SCENIC NORTH COAST ROUTE 500 From £759.00 Per Person

AMERICA’S MUSIC ROAD From £2495.00 Per Person

sold out, so due to popular demand we have added more dates. This amazing tour includes 9 nights hotel accommodation, buffet breakfast each morning, welcome group dinner on first overnight stop, a 3-course evening menu including set starter and dessert, 2 choices of main, tea or coffee after dinner, a welcome glass of prosecco or schnapps, an open bar from 18h30 to 20h30 including local beer, wine and soft drinks, complimentary tea/coffee and homemade cakes in the afternoon on one day, free use of the hotels leisure facilities, reserved underground car parking and admission to Hitler’s Eagles Nest in Obersalzberg. To find out more about these and our other tours, see our website www.sceniccartours.com or call us for a copy of our new 64 page brochure.

JERSEY INTERNATIONAL MOTORING FESTIVAL From £369.00 Per Person

GREAT DOLOMITE ROAD & ALPINE PASSES From £1399.00 Per Person

For more information or to book a tour  01732 879153

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Angouleme Circuit des Remparts From £559.00

NEW 2018 BROCHURE

BRITISH TOURS BRITISH TOURS BRITISH TOURS

MOTORSPORT EVENTS MOTORSPORT EVENTS MOTORSPORT EVENTS

EUROPEAN TOURS

IRISH TOURS

IRISH TOURS IRISH

TOURS

WORLDWIDE TOURS

WORLDWIDE TOURS com rtours. www.scenicca WORLDWIDE TOURS www.sceniccartours.com www.sceniccartours.c om

EUROPEAN TOURS EUROPEAN TOURS GRAND PRIX TOURS

GRAND PRIX TOURS GRAND PRIX TOURS

Spa Classic

From £249.00

Mille Miglia

From £999.00

Belgian Classic Car Festival

From £339.00

Monaco Historique Grand Prix

From £899.00

Laon Historique

From £139.00

Grand Prix de l’Arge D’or

From £699.00

Old Timers Grand Prix Nurburgring From £499.00 HONFLEUR & THE LOIRE VALLEY From £659.00 Per Person

ENCHANTING TUSCANY From £1299.00 Per Person

NORTH CYPRUS CLASSIC CAR TOUR From £899.00 Per Person

YPRES & WWI BATTLEFIELDS From £299.00 Per Person

LONDON TO GIBRALTAR From £1899.00 Per Person

NORTHERN SPAIN & THE PICOS DE EUROPA From £1499.00 Per Person

DINANT & THE BELGIAN ARDENNES From £299.00 Per Person

NORWEGIAN FJORDLANDS From £2399.00 Per Person

AUSTRIA & THE HIGH ALPINE ROAD From £999.00 Per Person

BRITISH TOURS

THE ENCHANTING BLACK FOREST From £599.00 Per Person

THE ITALIAN LAKES LAKE GARDA, LAKE COMO From £1279.00 Per Person

The Cotswolds, Cheddar & Bath

From £129.00

Lake District & Yorkshire Dales

From £499.00

New Forest & the Isle of Wight

From £689.00

Scottish Islands & Highlands

From £1699.00

The Isle of Man

From £379.00

Guernsey & Jersey

From £739.00

IRISH TOURS

GERMAN MOTORS & MUSEUMS From £679.00 Per Person

CALLING ALL REGIONAL ORGANISERS

JOIN ONE OF OUR SCHEDULED TOURS OR LET US CREATE A TAILOR MADE PACKAGE FOR YOU Packages for any size group A superb choice of hotels All your administration taken care of No financial commitment No currency surcharge guarantee Marketing support

For more information on our tour planning service call our Group Relations Manager Kieran on: 01732 879172

Join one of our scheduled tours Tailor make a group tour package Financial security for peace of mind 24 hour emergency phone line We give you time to sell your tour We’ll support you all the way

Ireland’s Causeway Coast

From £399.00

The Official Gordon Bennett Run From £499.00 Grand Ireland Tour

From £1199.00

Waterford, Killarney, Ring of Kerry From £699.00 Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way

From £829.00

WORLDWIDE TOURS

Route 66

From £2250.00

Best of The West

From £3495.00

China and the Chinese Grand Prix From £2295.00 ISLE OF MAN & CAUSEWAY COAST From £699.00 Per Person

ROME, SORRENTO & THE AMALFI COAST From £1999.00 Per Person

SOUTH OF FRANCE & MILLAU BRIDGE From £1299.00 Per Person

RHINE, ROMANTIC ROAD & THE BLACK FOREST From £989.00 Per Person

See our full range of tours: www.sceniccartours.com

Cuban Classic Car Tour

From £2899.00

Australia’s Great Ocean Road

From £2850.00

New Zealand 2 Island Tour

From £2999.00

New England in the Fall

From £2495.00

Monterey Classic & Pebble Beach From £2295.00

PRODUCTS IF YOU HAVE A NEW PRODUCT THAT WOULD BE OF INTEREST TO OUR MEMBERS, AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE IT IN SAFET Y FAST! WHY NOT CONTACT COLIN GRANT AT COLINGRANT@MGCC.CO.UK

MGCC 2018 CD CASEDESK CALENDAR NEW YEAR OFFER This 2018 Desk Calendar is exclusively designed and printed in the UK by Martha Mitchell Design for the MG Car Club. It features all MG heritage in Abingdon-on-Thames.

NEW FROM NTG MOTOR SERVICES

NTG have produced stocks of highquality, polished stainless steel badge bars for MGTD/TF and Y-Types. Without lamp brackets: £66 incl VAT. With 2 lamp brackets: £72 incl VAT. For more information telephone 01473 406031/32 or go to their website at www.mgbits.com

• Contains 12 month cards, with Week numbers • 2018 CD case desk calendar • CD case flips open to become the stand • Dimensions Closed: 14.2cm x 13cm / Dimensions Open: 13cm (height) x 13cm (width) • Another great gift for all occasions! Priced now at £7.50 plus £2.50 p&p and is available from the Club shop at https://shop.mgcc.co.uk/product/ mgcc-2018-desk-calendar/ or phone Ineke on 01235 849737

THE MG T-SERIES BY JOHN NIKAS

This is a very readable and informative book, with the author following the development of the various T-Series models, including the pre-war Midgets. The book covers the technical developments, such as the introduction of synchromesh gearing and hydraulic brakes, as well as new engines. Due to the post-war popularity of the cars in the United States after American GIs shipped examples back from Britain, modifications were made for US editions. Soon, celebrities such as Clark Gable were driving them. The author also describes the competing interests within the BMC group as other sports cars such as the Triumph TR2 and Austin Healey 100 were also developed. As this book shows, however, whatever the competition, the MG T-Series were always a class apart. Available from the Club shop at https://shop.mgcc.co.uk/product/the-mg-tseries/ priced at £14.99 plus £5.00 p&p, or phone Ineke on 01235 849737.

MG BADGED WING PROTECTORS

Protect the wings of your car whilst working in the engine area. These can be folded up and kept in the boot. Priced at £25 plus £5 p&p. Available from the Club shop at https://shop.mgcc.co.uk/product/mgwing-protector-cover/ or phone Ineke on 01235 849737

14 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

www.mgcc.co.uk

BROWN & GAMMONS FIRST FOR EVERYTHING MG! Rear Hub Axle Tool MG K Series Re-inforced Cylinder Block UK MADE

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Our new re-inforced K Series cylinder block is a must for all performance engines but is also ideal for customers wanting to build Designed and manufactured by us a reliable road engine. MGA/MGB

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MG SPARES DAY

AT STONELEIGH ON FEBRUARY 11th? Why not save your carriage costs & order your parts to be collected from our stand at the show

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MG3 or MG GS Carpet Mat Set

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£39.00 MGB Radiator, Alloy, Centre Fill

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MG3 30073783 MG GS 10394093

£48.00 £48.00

MGB Radiator, Alloy, Rear Fill

Pre-Registered bargain Ruby Red with White roof.16” Carousel alloy wheels, Cruise control, bluetooth, fabric seats, air con, stop start, DAB radio £10,495

MG ZS EXCLUSIVE AUTO

Unregistered. 6 speed autobox. Leather style interior, reverse camera, Apple CarPlay, Sat Nav, bluetooth, dab radio, Cruise control, aircon, 3 steering modes £18,190

£249.95 MGB Heater Outlet Drain Pipe

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£249.95 MGF & TF Alloy Radiator

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ARH120ALY

£249.95

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Previously Been Unavailable AHC321

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v Service & MoT v Accident repair v All warranty & insurance work v Full Diagnostic Analysis v Performance Upgrades v Accessory Fitting v Bodywork v Paintshop v 4-wheel alignment v Tyre fitting on site STOCKISTS OF:

v Wheel Balancing (inc wire wheels) v Full or Part restorations v Competition Preparation v Air conditioning recharge v In Car Entertainment v Also cater for BMW Mini & most classic cars

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Car Sales, Parts Sales, Workshop & enquiries

MG WORKSHOP AUTHORISED MOT TESTING STATIO

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21,000 miles, leather trim, colour coded hardtop, 16 inch alloy wheels, CD player, front fog lamps, History £5,995

Manufactured in alloy to OE specification

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£249.95 MGF/TF Heated Rear Window Switch

ARH260ALY

Tel:

01462 490049

Fax: 01462 896167 sales@ukmgparts.com 18 High Street, Baldock, Herts, SG7 6AS

Visitors welcome

OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri 8.15am-5.30pm Sat 9.00am - 1.00pm 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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Full search facility

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www.ukmgparts.com

MGB ROADSTER 1963

Currently being finished in our workshops. Ex-USA pull handle car, recon engine, painted wire wheels, Tartan red with black interior with £22,500 red piping.

MG TD 1952

US car, total frame off restoration 200 miles ago, engine, g/box and diff rebuilt, lovely car, stored in dry desert climate. Can convert to RHD £28,995 for extra £1000.

For up-to-date listings on our cars for sale visit www.ukmgparts.com

MGLIVE!

e’re delighted to announce that the countdown for the world’s largest MG event can now begin, with MGLive! making a confirmed return to Silverstone on June 2-3 2018. Online ticket sales for this annual spectacular are already under way, and you’ll also find a booking form enclosed within Safety Fast! from the March issue onwards. Ticket prices have once again been frozen, with MG Car Club members able to take advantage of discounted rates. Single-day entry is priced from just £18, while weekend tickets are priced from £28. Camping is also available, and to emphasise the event’s family-friendly nature, entry for under-15s is free! MGLive! is the MGCC’s flagship event, providing the complete experience for all MG enthusiasts from far and wide.

Visitors can expect a warm welcome and a fantastic atmosphere, with the opportunity to meet new people, renew old friendships and enjoy a whole host of great attractions. We’ll be sharing the finer details with you over the coming weeks and months, but you can count on plenty of family-friendly entertainment, fantastic features and a wide range of displays. Live music will be performed at the heart of the event on the bustling Village Green, where you can enjoy food, drink and festivities until late in the evening. And, of course, there are the cars. MGLive! brings together the largest gathering of MGs anywhere in the world, from the 1920s right up the very latest examples. Those arriving in an MG will have the chance to join like-minded owners in model-specific displays, creating a fantastic spectacle

MGLIVE! JUNE 2-3 2018

16 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

across the weekend. We’ll also have our Concours and Pride of Ownership, as well as a host of famous cars from MG’s illustrious past. There’s a lot more to MGLive! than static displays, though, with driving challenges to suit all levels of experience, including the Club’s premier autotest, the free-toenter California Cup. There’s a full programme of adrenaline-fuelled racing, too, taking place on the historic Grand Prix Circuit. The Club has been racing at Silverstone continuously since 1954, and MGLive! continues that great tradition with a huge range of cars doing battle. As well as being a great spectacle for enthusiasts, MGLive! is a brilliant place to buy a car, whether that be a classic or a brand-new example. Parts and regalia will also be on sale in the trade area, so there will be plenty for bargain-hunters to peruse. It’s an event not to be missed! For the latest MGLive! updates and information, visit the website at www.mglive.co.uk Buy your tickets at shop.mgcc. co.uk/product-category/mglive/ mglive-2018/ Call to book tickets on 01235 555552

www.mgcc.co.uk

THE MG CAR CLUB PRESENTS

2 - 3 JUNE 2018 sILVERsTONE CIRCUIT

SPANNING OVER 90 YEARS OF HERITAGE RIGHT UP TO THE PRESENT DAY

3000 MGs ON SHOW RACING ON THE GP CIRCUIT LIVE ACTION CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ACTIVITIVES LIVE MUSIC CARS FOR SALE SPECIALIST TRADERS PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP CAMPING AND MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED SOON!

BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW! W W W.MGLIVE.CO.UK

TRY BEFORE YOU BUY

As part of his hunt for an MG, new Kimber House staffer, Jeff Ruggles, tries a 1966 MkII Midget for size.

aving grown up surrounded by the succession of MG Maestros owned by my dad, my early Octagon experiences had a distinct 1980s flavour to them. But since those childhood days of grey velour and red piping, my tastes have broadened and, if I’m honest, gone a little off-piste. So while I’ve long held a fondness for MGs, my first car was a classic Mini and I haven’t been without one since. Usually more than one in fact, as I currently own seven of them. In my defence, my previous job role was editor of Mini Magazine, and I’ve always been one to practise what

18 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Photos by Colin Grant and Jeff Ruggles I preach. So almost three months into my role as the Club’s new Brand and Communications Executive here at Kimber House, it’s about time I went shopping for an MG of my own. Initial thoughts have revolved around an early MGF, or a very late TF – something with a sportscar feel, but decent levels of practicality and comfort for daily use. That said, I’ve got quite hankering for an Abingdon-built MG instead. And having gained an in-depth knowledge of the A-Series and early 70s BL paint shades over the years, the natural choice has to be an A-Series Midget (though a 1500 would do very nicely, too). The snag is that I’ve never been lucky enough to drive one, so when Nigel Guild at Former Glory, near Thame, offered me the chance to pilot a 1966 MkII 1098cc example, I jumped at it. While this example was a bit too nice to squeeze in under my meagre budget, it would give me a good idea of what to expect. The first thing that stood out, and stating the obvious somewhat, is just how small it was inside. I’m used to Minis, but they seem cavernous in comparison. The Midget was a nice place to be though, with the tan trim contrasting nicely with the black exterior. And besides, I’m vertically challenged enough to fit inside with ease.

Once warmed up, the A-Series settled into a familiar rhythm, though without the Mini’s signature transfer gear whine while on the move. Performance was keen enough from the 1098cc unit, and although I didn’t want to push too hard, the car felt nimble and direct. I did find the steering a little twitchy and the lack of synchromesh on first gear nearly caught me out, but I soon got used to both. The more time I spent in the car, the more I enjoyed it.

www.mgcc.co.uk

On Oxfordshire’s rural roads, the Midget was a pleasure. However, as conditions got busier, I did feel a little vulnerable. On one occasion the driver of an articulated truck was doing his best to force the Midget along on an unfamiliar road by sitting inches from the rear bumper, while the driver of a Transit van might as well have joined me in the cabin! More experienced hands may have been able to hustle the Midget along a little quicker, but I was mindful that this was not my car, and rolling an immaculate ‘60s classic into a hedge was not the best way introduce myself in MG circles.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Those concerns aside, the Midget proved to be good fun, while it certainly attracted plenty of admiring glances as I went. Was it better than my Mini? Well, it’s not a fair comparison. The Mini has 90bhp – a fair chunk more than the Midget’s 59bhp – and has been professionally set up to handle as well as possible.

With that in mind, this particular Midget would complement the Mini rather than replace it, and as a relaxed classic car for summer evenings or rural weekend drives, it would be perfect. So did it help me make a decision regarding my MG dilemma? Well, no actually. If anything I’m more confused. An F or a TF would be great, but I can’t ignore the Midget’s charm. What I really need to do is try a hotted-up 1275 version, or even a race car – all in the name of research, you understand… Former Glory 01844 281700 www.classicmg.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 19

MIDGET REGISTER ANNUAL

ALDON AUTOMOTIVE ROLLING ROAD DAY

t was 2008 when Dennis Wharf and I discussed the idea of a Midget rolling road day. All the organising was done by Dennis together with the photography, and at the time my son, John, was working at Aldon as a rolling road operative, before moving on to Prodrive not long afterwards. We had eight cars that year, including those belonging to Anthony Cutler and Tim Dalton who were back again this year, too, as they have been many times. I don’t think either Dennis or I quite knew how this experiment would go, but it seemed to be quite well received, the first and subsequent years always being fully booked, so we continued, this latest being number 10. Since 2008 therefore, we’ve had around 90 to 100 cars on the rollers. Many have been repeats after owners have carried out more work, so that makes about 65 to 70 different cars in total. These have ranged from standard 948cc, 1098cc, 1275cc and 1500cc Midgets and Sprites, up through road cars with modified A series engines, eg with MG Metro, 266, 276, and 286 cams, etc, and a few circuit race

www.mgcc.co.uk

Midgets from Gil Duffy, Mark Turner, and Richard Homer. We have also seen a variety of non-Spridgets over the years, including Porsche 911, Eldon Sports 2000 racing car, MG ZT-T 190, Triumph TR4, Morgan Plus 4, various MGBs, MG TC, TD, TF and even a Morris Minor Traveller, albeit with a nicely tuned 1275cc engine. The big growth area however has been the increasing popularity of the K series engined Midgets, and a few Zetec ones too; invariably with the owners carrying out the conversions themselves. They are a great bunch of enthusiasts/amateur engineers, who keep in close contact, some using their cars for speed and track day events, and weekends away. The annual R/R day seems to attract a small but loyal following of participants and spectators, and maybe a few regular readers in Safety Fast! too, if you haven’t turned the page or glazed over by now. We will have to see what the future brings as to whether there is a continued demand for the event and people still willing to organise it. This year I would like to say a big thank you to all those at

Aldon, Roger, Paul, Andy and Dan, (and a rarely absent Alan Goodwin), for all they did to make us welcome and provide another successful and enjoyable event. The only downside was that due to not feeling too well, Dennis was unable to be with us this year, his presence being very much missed. In the meantime, here are the numbers and words for the 11 participants who came to Aldon in lovely Indian summer weather at the end of October. James Thacker Owner: Graham Smith, a retired engineer who previously worked in HR for Caterpillar and Peugeot. Lives in Stratford-upon-Avon and has owned the TF since December 2012. Graham is involved with the MGOCC as Natter co-ordinator and news reporter. Car type/reg number: MG TF 1954, Reg YAH 22. Engine type/capacity: 1588cc engine from an MGA Twin Cam. Conversion carried out in the 1970s by Frank Glover Engineering Ltd, Wolverhampton.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 21

FEATURE

Modifications: (cam, head, carbs etc) Twin Weber 40 DCOEs, larger valves, MGA gearbox, MGB Salisbury type axle and front discs. Owner’s expected power output: Disappointed if it is not 100bhp. Car was on the rollers in 2014 when it gave 93bhp and since then I have completely rebuilt the head with new valves and guides, etc. Actual power output: 100bhp @ 5500rpm 100lb/ft torque @ 4820rpm. Owner’s comments: Very pleased. R/R operative’s comments: Changed emulsion tubes from F16 to F11. Max power the same but a bit lean mid-range. Hard to judge set up due to slight electrical misfire which was affecting the R/R software. Extremely high hydro carbon reading (3500) to be investigated. No timing marks on front of engine. Graham later wondered if his Gammatronics ignition, or something else, was causing a slight misfire on number one cylinder, upsetting the Aldon R/R software and creating a huge excess of unburnt fuel.

Owner: Anthony Cutler, an electrical engineer who has recently been elected a Fellow of his professional body, the Institute of Engineering and Technology (FIET). Anthony, who lives in Malvern, has had his car on the Aldon rollers three times, plus he always comes along to help others, being recognised as the authority on tuning and mapping K series engines for the Midget fraternity. Car type/reg number: Midget 1972, Reg BRB 183L, owned since 1977. Engine type/capacity: 1796cc K series (standard cams 252 degrees, duration)? Modifications: Emerald ECU, five-speed gearbox, Spitfire discs, MGB callipers, Peugeot rally silencer. Owner’s expected power output: 154bhp but not sure. I have filed down the spindle/throttle body since the car was last here.

22 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Graham Smith explains the Twin Cam in his MG TF

Anthony Cutler discussing torque figures with Rob Armstrong, while David Hunt finds something amusing under Antony’s bonnet

Actual power output: 136bhp @ 6015rpm and 133lbs/ft torque @ 3100rpm. Owner’s comments: On one level less power but on another, the new max figure is at 6,000rpm (previously 5,500rpm), so I know it must be making more power. Software on the rollers has been renewed since my car was last here and I believe the figures are generally lower than before.

R/R operative’s comments: Anthony tried minus two degrees advance and plus 5% fuel. All very good and nice conversion. Part throttle needs a bit more fuel. Writer’s comment: This car has a good power curve and exceptional torque curve for a petrol engine, being very impressive from about 2700 to 6000 rpm. It must be a lovely car to drive on the road with very quick pick up from low/mid revs.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Join us on a wonderful 2 Island tour to

3 NIGHTS IN GUERNSEY

AND 4 NIGHTS IN JERSEY

LOW MILEAGE DRIVES  SPECTACULAR SCENERY  GREAT BEACHES Enjoy a fabulous 8 day driving tour to the Channel Islands, where British Rediscover the pleasures of driving and French influences meet and where an unexpected mix of stunning scenery, rich heritage and varied lifestyles are waiting to be discovered. Guernsey is less commercialised than neighbouring Jersey and offers spectacular coastal scenery, crystal clear waters with white sandy beaches, a fascinating maritime and military history and a rich cultural heritage. Located on the eastern side of the Island, St Peter Port is the capital of Guernsey and a bustling harbour town that is widely considered to be the Channel Islands’ most beautiful. Guernsey and Jersey might be small Islands but combined they have a surprising Sparkling seas, golden sands, rugged cliffs, picturesque harbours and fascinating 550 miles of roads. You’ll rediscover the pleasures of driving as you explore countryside await the visitor to Jersey, a welcoming island that offers the best of the spectacular coastlines and twisting country lanes, stop at one of the secluded bays and enjoy lunch or a cream tea at one of the numerous restaurants Britain with the added zest of France. The largest and most southerly of the and cafes. The Channel Islands are just bursting with attractions to visit, especially in the summer months, there are so many choices, that you will Channel Islands but still only 45 square miles, Jersey is situated on the edge of need more than a week to visit them all. the Gulf Stream, 100 hundred miles south of England and 14 miles from France and boasts the best sunshine record in the British Isles and a climate which is Poole to Guernsey/Jersey with Condor Ferries generally more mild in all seasons than the UK.

May, June & September Departures Prices from £739.00 Per Person

Including  Return Condor Ferries Fast Crossing from Poole to Guernsey, Guernsey to Jersey & Jersey to Poole  3 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Guernsey  4 Nights Hotel Accommodation Jersey  Breakfasts & Dinners as per itinerary  Detailed Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives and Local Attractions  Commemorative Tour Rally Plate

Upgrade to our 4 Star Deluxe Package from just £310 Per Person

FOR FURTHER DETAILS OR TO BOOK YOUR PLACES  01732 879153

www.sceniccartours.com

Set sail to the Channel Islands onboard Condor Liberation and arrive in Guernsey in as little as 3 hours. Onboard you can relax in one of the spacious passenger lounges, or enjoy a breath of fresh air out on deck. If you’re feeling peckish or fancy a drink you’ll find something to satisfy you in the Island Bar, and Casquets Bistro. And make sure you visit the onboard Duty Free shop where you will find great savings on your favourite brands!

James, Danny and Roger all look a little pensive before the first run

Danny Cusworth and James discuss the 1500

Owner: Danny Cusworth, a locksmith from Wilmslow, Cheshire. He also owns a self-prepared K series Midget which he races in the MGCC Cockshoot cup events. That car has been to this event twice before. Car type/reg number: 1977 Midget, Reg RDJ 791R. Danny bought the car a couple of years ago. It had a new heritage shell and was in an unfinished non-running state. The vendors were a couple who were divorcing and apparently the husband

lost interest in the car and his wife at about the same time. Danny finished off the rebuild. Engine type/capacity: 1500cc Triumph engine. Modifications: Power spark ignition (see later). Owner’s expected power output: No idea. If standard when new was around 65, so say 60bhp? Actual power output: 68bhp @ 4940rpm and torque 81lbs/ft @ 2980rpm.

Owner’s comments: Happy, Owner: Max Authers who only running nicer now and more efficiently, passed his driving test in April and is as I do quite a high mileage between on a B Tech motorsport engineering college and home. course at Silverstone, which will lead R/R operative’s comments: Very to an apprenticeship. His father, Mike rich, discovered that stub stacks had Authers, runs a business in his name been fixed upside down restricting near Abingdon, buying and selling flow of air via the small auxiliary holes. top quality MG Midgets and A/H Still too rich, needs a needle change, Sprites. The business has expanded as he has gained a well-deserved good reputation over a number of years. Car type/reg number: 1969 Midget, Reg DTX 176J. Engine type/capacity: 1310cc engine which had been run with no oil by the previous owner, and has been rebuilt by Steve Clark from Oxford, who competes in the MGCC speed events with his Midget. Modifications: K&N filters, fivespeed gearbox, Frontline suspension kit all round. Owner’s expected power output: 68 to 70bhp? Just want it sorted out. Actual power output: 61bhp @ 5136rpm, 70lb/ft torque @ 3695rpm. A lovely Midget of which Max is rightly proud.

24 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Owner’s comments: Delighted it survived! R/R operative’s comments: Running weak everywhere, timing good. Richened up by six flats but needs a needle change. Inconsistency on runs, perhaps sticking dashpot piston? (In the car park afterwards, Danny discovered that the carb needle, (swing type), was not put in correctly. He corrected this and also bought one of the well tried and tested Aldon Ignitor electronic ignition systems to put on his car.

also no timing marks on crank pulley/ timing cover. New plugs fitted. Writer’s comments: Max is the youngest Midget owner/driver to bring a Midget on the rollers. It is very good that another younger generation is taking an interest in these cars. I hope he returns at some time in the future.

James and Max look on whilst Roger fettles the 1310 engine

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The clans gather to witness Peter’s Turbo K series engined Midget

Owner: Peter Adamson, who is a shop-fitter from Swadlincote, near Burton on Trent. Car type/reg number: 1971 Midget, Reg KMG 946K. The most modified Midget we have seen on the rollers. Built by Peter and his colleagues, and painted in a unique silk finish resembling a primer! Engine type/capacity: 1800cc K series that came straight from a scrap yard into the car, but with the addition of a GT 28/60 turbo charger. Modification: Too many to

Roger asking about the merits of the Zetec engine

Owner: David Hunt, a veterinary surgeon from Stockport, specialising in small animals. This is the third time David has brought his car onto the rollers after carrying out further modifications. Has done a few sprints in the car this year, and track days, and is now building a V8 MGB for track work. Car type/reg number: 1968

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General view of Turbo K series

mention, including semi space frame chassis, 9”/9.5” discs, Ford axle with 4.4 diff, and 3J’s LSD, JLH suspension and brakes, Tillet seat, full roll cage, etc, etc. Owner’s expected power output: It gave 242 bhp on Emerald’s rollers in Norwich. Actual power output: 208bhp @ 5610 rpm, 202 lbs/ft torque @ 5095 rpm. Owner’s comments: Enjoyable day, something is wrong, but we don’t know what. R/R operative’s comments: Very powerful, changed fuelling by

Midget, Reg WUC 249G, owned by David for 19 years; engine transplant and all modifications carried out by himself. Engine type/capacity: 1998cc Zetec Modifications: Omex ECU, Frontline suspension front and rear, Miniltes, Quaife LSD, 9”/8” discs, Peter May halfshafts; Modifications from last year: larger radiator, modified plenum chamber and throttle body, and increased rev limit. Owner’s expected power output: More than the 165bhp last time, with higher rev limiter now. Last year Andy, at Aldon, held a faulty throttle spindle in place for the power runs, and later assisted David in making a temporary repair to get him home. Actual power output: 165bhp @ 6660rpm, torque 135lb/ft @ 5540 rpm. Owner’s comments: Happy it was uneventful this year and have now fixed the problems. R/R operative’s comments: Almost there; a bit more fuel was needed at higher rpm. Writer’s comments: David, together with Neil Thomas from Tenby

Peter looks happy, or is that relief!

30%! Problem with electrics cutting out randomly. Writer’s comments: As far as I can see from my records, this car now holds the all-comers record for the most powerful Midget, and the second to break 200bhp; well done. A very impressive home developed and built car. (Jonathan Frame’s normally aspirated K series produced 201bhp@7755rpm in 2013).

Worried David Hunt!

(K series Midget) spontaneously helped me to modify my exhaust so that it passed the sound test at a speed event during the year; this was very much appreciated.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 25

An “over the moon” Stuart Lane

Owner: Stuart Lane, a retired teacher from Tredegar, Gwent. Has owned the Sprite for four years and carried out the conversion himself. The car has a Wheeler and Davis body shell. Car type/reg number: MkI Sprite, Reg 577 TPG. Engine type/capacity: 1800 K series. Modifications: 5 speed gearbox, Frontline suspension on front, rear telescopic dampers, MGF seats, 6” Minilites, Panhard rod, Emerald ECU. Owner’s expected power output: 130 bhp. Actual power output: 133bhp @ 6220rpm, torque 122 lbs/ft @ 3190rpm. Owner’s comments: Very pleased; over the moon. R/R operative’s comments: Lean mixture on cruise, everything else OK.

Owner: Rob Armstrong who is from York and is a consultant electrical engineer involved with magnetics. Has owned the car for 11 years and did the engine conversion himself. Rob takes part in speed events and track days in this car. Was here with the car three years ago. Car type/reg number: 1971 Midget, Reg LLW 850K. Engine type/capacity: 1400cc K series that came out of a Rover 214. Modifications: 5-speed gearbox, rear telescopic damper, LSD, discs all round, alloy TF manifold, enclosed air filter/cold air box, DIY 1 3/4” pipe and RC40 silencer, Metro LCB, Emerald ECU; front telescopic dampers with

26 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Owner: Steve Goodchild, lives in Reading and is involved with Telecoms. Has owned the car since May 2017. Car type/reg number: Tifosi Rana A/H Mk 1 Sprite, Reg PYG 794E. Previously owned by Kate Andrews who brought the car to this event in 2013. Engine type/capacity: 1800cc K series. Modifications: 285 cams, big valves, forged pistons, lightened flywheel, Jenvey throttle bodies, cold air intake box, Emerald ECU, 5 speed gearbox, Frontline front and rear suspension, Frontline rear traction link, anti-tramp bars, and Peter May half shafts, 5 1/2” Minilites and Yokohama 0048 tyres; huge exhaust and Cobra seats. Owner’s expected power output: The same as Kate had in 2013 – 194bhp.

Rob checks his laptop, while Anthony is following the big screen

self-designed top link, 14” Minilite wheels, Sparco Sprint seats, Owner’s expected power output: 120bhp. Actual power output: 119bhp@ 7310rpm, torque 92lb/ft @ 5595rpm. Owner’s comments: Pleased, as

Actual power output: 195bhp @ 7670rpm, torque 138lb/ft @ 6415 rpm. Owner’s comments: All right, happy with that. R/R operative’s comments: Very good engine. Writer’s comment: The allimportant torque figure is only fractionally higher than the 133lbs/ ft @ 3100rpm (under half the revs) of Anthony Cutler’s engine with standard cams in his K series. Interesting to see the Jenvey throttle bodies on this car. Richard Jenvey was a contemporary of mine, racing a Modsports Midget in the early 1970s. His car, which had a supercharged A series engine and was amazingly quick, was competitive with the Lotus Elan’s, and was featured in Cars and Car Conversions magazine.

James with pen and paper, Rob with device!

the peak figure went up by 4bhp. R/R operative’s comments: Two degrees less advance and minus 4% fuel; rich 4-5000rpm, but fuel perfect at full throttle; cruise mixture weak. Standard Rover 214 gave 105bhp so 119bhp is good.

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Tim Dalton and Anthony Cutler’s cars have been a regular sight for almost all of the entire ten years

Tim Dalton drops the Sprite onto the rollers for the sixth time

Owner: Tim Dalton, a technician working in office equipment and lives at Bewdley, Worcs. Car type/reg number: 1967 A/H Sprite, Reg RMV 44F. Engine type/capacity: 1800cc K series.

Owner: David Margaroni, a retired chemist from Shrewsbury who used to work for BP. He also owns a 1924 Bullnose Morris and at present is restoring an MG PA. Has owned the TD for seven years. Car type/reg number: 1952 MG TD, Reg NKC 378. Engine type/capacity: 1390cc XPAG, allegedly bored out and sleeved, unknown cam with 18/20 thou clearances rather than original 12 thou (ie has a wider base circle). Modifications: 5-speed gearbox and 4.55 diff, (approx. 19.2 mph per 1000 rpm). Owner’s expected power output: No idea! Actual power output: 49bhp @ 5685rpm torque 53lbs/ft @ 3710rpm. Owner’s comments: Confirmation that it was worth bringing the car. R/R operative’s comments: Side play in dizzy shaft, faulty rotor arm, (rivet type), fuelling rich throughout all the range; needs tuning once the dizzy has been rebuilt. Rev counter reading

28 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Modifications: 285 cams, 10.7 C/R Vulcan head, DTH throttle bodies, Emerald ECU, 10” Willwood discs, 14” road wheels, woodrim steering wheel. Owner’s expected power output: 180 bhp last time, I have advanced the exhaust cam timing by 4thou at TDC. Actual power output: 177bhp @ 7465rpm, torque 130lb/ft @6640rpm. Owner’s comments: B- - - - r!

Less than last time, could be because it was a warmer day… R/R operative’s comments: Lost a little from last year, but still very good. Writer’s comments: I believe this is Tim’s sixth time on the rollers since we started here in 2008. Tim has come along to spectate each year also, and only stepped in this year as there was a space available.

The two senior Midgets belonging to David Margaroni, (TD), and Graham Smith, (TF).

about 500rpm fast at 3500rpm. Writer’s comments: David and his friends arrived back just in time, having been for a pub lunch enjoying some local Bathams beer. He was pleased

to sneak in as last reserve on the day. It was good to have a female present too; David’s friend Jean, also from Shrewsbury, enthusiastically owns and drives a 1954 MG TF.

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REPAIRING A TF PEKTRON SCU

hilst manning the MG Car Club stand at the Classic Car Show last November I was approached by several members who said they were experiencing some odd faults with their TFs. One member said that his driver’s window stayed up but it wouldn’t go down, another that he had issues locking his car with the fob and a new member reported that his intermittent wipers were erratic or wouldn’t work at all. Each of these faults can, although not always, be attributed to the relays in the SCU (Security control Unit) that’s

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By Colin Grant

Disconnect the Negative battery lead FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 31

FEATURE

Undoing the side panel locating screws Lifting away the side panel

Removing the SCU locating security screw

situated behind the heater controls. But first, some background into what this is and why it’s there. The MGF and TF were equipped with a passive arming immobiliser system. The F and early TFs had the Lucas 5AS system which controlled the vehicle security and included dead locking the doors. This had gained the Security TS25 Thatcham Category spline bit

32 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Gently taking out the SCU assembly

2 certification in 1997. In 1998 it also gained passive disarming. This system continued throughout the life of MGF manufacture and continued into the production of the TF in 2002. However in 2003 the immobiliser was changed as part of a wiring system upgrade and the Pektron Security Control System (SCU) was introduced. The Pektron SCU took over the functions of the immobiliser, and the Multifunction Unit (MFU) controlling the ancillary items. This leads us onto the issues that

have arisen with the members’ TFs that I met at the NEC. I have to say that other factors may be at hand with their problems; for instance, the driver’s window that stays in the up position may also be down to the lifting motor/ mechanism, so basic checks have to be made before looking at the SCU. There are five controlling relays inside the SCU and they have the following functions:Relay One: Fog lights and horn Relay Two: Front washer pump Relay Three: Driver’s electric window

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FEATURE

Unclipping the cover

Cover removed

Lifting out the SCU circuit board

Relay Four: Intermittent wiper/ super locking Relay Five: Central locking What to do when a problem arises. Well, there are several options. You can contact a specialist who will carry out the repairs for you, details at the end of this article, but you will have to remove the unit and send it to them, remembering to include your details and the problem you are experiencing. Another option is to source a replacement, but there are issues associated with this as it contains all the programming options that were put in the car when new. Also the SCU is security coded to the key fobs, so if you buy a secondhand replacement you will need the fobs that are programmed to it. But it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t end there, as the SCU is also coded to the

34 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

SCU with the original Pektron relays

engine control unit (ECU) so you would have to buy it as a set, SCU with fobs, and ECU. These can be sourced from a specialist or of course eBay. You can obtain new fobs and have them coded to an SCU and also pair an SCU up with a non-paired ECU but you would need to go to a specialist who has equipment to do this. But there is a third option. I chose to do the repair myself as I have an electronics background. The

problem I had with my TF was that the intermittent wipe had malfunctioned and therefore one of the relays needed replacing. But as I was going to remove and strip the unit down I thought it would be good practice to replace all five. Replacement relays are available either from the specialist listed below or via eBay As mentioned, I chose to do the replacement myself and explain below how I went about this.

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De-soldering the relays

Removing relay after de-soldering

Replacement and Pektron relays displayed

First disconnect your battery, negative terminal. Then you will need to remove the cover in the passenger’s footwell and disconnect the wiring to the footwell light unit. Once removed, you can access the M5 screw that locates the SCU which is a black plastic housing with a locating bracket attached. You need a security TS25 5 spline Torx bit to remove this. These are available from Technozen or tool specialists such as Laser or eBay. Once undone, pull the SCU partially out so you can remove the connectors. Once the connectors are removed you can, with a small screwdriver, remove the outer housing. This will reveal the circuit board complete with its five relays. From the picture (included in this article) pick the relay that is controlling the problem area of your car. I was edging on the safe side and had decided to replace all five. To carry out the procedure for removing the old relays you will need a good quality soldering iron with a small tip, (gas or electric) a solder sucker/ remover, and roll of solder. These items are available from a branch of Maplin’s, RS components or Halfords. You will need a suitable area to carry out the repair. Commence with removing the old relays, see photos, placing the tip

36 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

of the soldering iron on the individual legs of the relay and at the same time using the solder sucker to remove the locating solder. Do take care not to place the tip of the soldering iron onto any of the other components as irreversible damage could occur. Gently ease the relay off the board; if there is any resistance de-solder the relay pins again to make sure all the solder is removed. Do this to each of the relays if changing all five. Once removed, place the new relay/relays in position and, with the soldering iron, solder each relay into position. When finished, check each leg visually. I use a magnifying glass Specialist Contact Technozen, Pektron SCU repair specialist, offer a range of services including SCU relay and general repairs, remote key fob programming, SCU/ECU matching and much more. They are also offering a 10% discount to MG Car Club members. For more information contact: Paul Brown, Technozen Electronics, 44 Meadowview, Brighton, East Sussex, BN2 4NF. Tel: 07527 877995 Email: paul@technozen-electronics.co.uk Web: https://www.technozen-electronics.co.uk/

Soldering in new relays

to check that each leg is fully soldered in position and that there is no solder bridging onto another component. Once you’re satisfied, reassemble and, as the Haynes manual says, replace in the reverse order. I’m pleased to say that after fitting the SCU back into my car the intermittent wipe now works perfectly. If you don’t feel confident carrying out this repair then I advise you to get a specialist to undertake this work for you. My thanks go to Paul Brown at Technozen and to my Nephew Julian Tynan for their help in creating this article.

SCU Covers being replaced

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IMGT17_13_Mike_Satur.indd 1 09/05/2017 16:43

19/01/2017 FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 37

16:27

FEATURE

MANCHESTER XPAG TESTS THE PROBLEMS WITH MODERN FUELâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;PART I By Paul Ireland

Introduction In the previous article, I described how the SU carburettor measured the volume of air flowing into the engine and mixed this with a metered volume of finely atomised petrol droplets to give a precise Air to Fuel Ratio (AFR). Investigating how modern petrol affects the operation of the SU carburettor was one of the objectives of the Manchester XPAG tests, specifically to determine the optimum needle profile to use with modern fuels. It was this data that confirmed two of the predicted problems caused by modern fuel. The first Weak Running is discussed in this article, the second, and more serious problem, Slow Combustion is discussed in the next article. Air Fuel Ratio and Lambda With non-ethanol blended petrol the theoretical Air-to-Fuel Ratio (AFR) is 14.7:1, ie at a ratio of 14.7 gm of air for every gram of petrol, all the oxygen in the air will be used by burning hydrogen atoms to produce water (H20) and by burning carbon atoms to produce carbon dioxide (CO2). This ratio is referred to as the stoichiometric

38 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

mixture. However, cars normally run with an AFR of between 12.5:1 and 13.5:1, ie with a mixture that is richer than the ideal. This is because some of the carbon burns to form carbon monoxide (CO) using only one oxygen atom rather than the two hence the need for more petrol. Normally the term LAMBDA is used rather than AFR. This is the ratio of the AFR an engine is producing divided by the theoretical ideal. Numbers less than one correspond to a rich mixture and greater than one a weak mixture. Maximum power is produced with a Lambda of 0.95 or a slightly rich mixture. Modern cars are fitted with lambda sensors, which work by measuring the levels of oxygen in the exhaust, enabling the fuel injection system to be continually adjusted as the engine is running. A similar lambda sensor was fitted to the test engine at Manchester and used to ensure the

mixture was set at a lambda of 0.95 for every test by manually tuning the carburettors. Standard needle profile The height of the suction piston in the carburettor is a direct measure of the volume of air flowing into the engine and reflects both the throttle setting and engine rpm. The annulus between the tapered needle and the jet, at that height, determines the volume of fuel leaving the jet and hence the AFR. As more air flows through the

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FEATURE

carburettor the height of the suction piston increases, pulling the tapered needle out of the jet, increasing the size of the annulus allowing more petrol to leave the jet. The profile of the tapered needle sets the AFR for the different piston heights. Simplistically, the suction piston will float at the same height when the engine is running at 4000rpm on half throttle and at 2000rpm on full throttle. In both cases the position of the needle in the jet will be the same and so the carburettor will deliver the same AFR. Needle profiles are identified by two or three letters. There is a reference booklet “SU Carburettor Needle Proﬁle Charts” available from Burlen Fuel Systems that lists all the needles and their profiles. The profile of a needle is defined by its diameter at 1/8’’ steps down from the shoulder. The standard needle for the twin 1¼’’ SU carburettors fitted to the TB, TC and TD is an ES needle and its measurements are shown in the diagram to the left. This also shows the approximate range of positions on the needle when running at quarter (Q), half (H) and full throttle (F) up to 3750rpm. It is interesting to see the maximum piston height is only around 0.6’’ at 3750rpm, full throttle and that normal road driving typically uses only the first 5 or 6 positions.

set to deliver a Lambda of 0.95 using jet adjusting nuts and the ignition timing was set to give maximum power. In other words the engine was fully retuned for every test run. An indicator and a scale were fitted to the top of the suction chamber of each carburettor and the faces of the Jet adjusting nut were engraved with one-six dots to determine how many flats it had been screwed down. The combination of these two measurements gives the position on the needle allowing the diameter of the needle necessary to deliver a lambda of 0.95 to be calculated.

Running Lambda The graph below shows an ideal plot of how Lambda would be expected to vary with carburettor piston height. Each dot represents an engine RPM/ throttle stetting that corresponds to that piston height. The white horizontal band is the ideal range for lambda. Lambda values greater than 0.98 represent a weak mixture and less than 0.83 a rich mixture. At light throttle/low revs the mixture is set rich (left hand side of the graph) to give a steady tick over and smooth slow running. It is set slightly rich at part throttle, normal running conditions, becoming richer at high revs/full throttle

Measurements at Manchester To determine the optimum needle profile a set of tests was run using different fuels, engine revs and throttle settings. For every test run, ie one fuel, one engine RPM and with one throttle setting, the carburettors were

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FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 39

FEATURE

Rear Carburettor

Front Carburettor as the unburned fuel helps protect the engine by cooling the valves. Even though Lambda was set to 0.95 for each test at Manchester, it is possible to calculate what Lambda would have been delivered if the engine had not been retuned. The graph at the bottom of the previous page shows this data with the jet adjusting nuts set at four flats down from fully closed, running with a standard ES needle and using the same brand of 95 octane petrol. The first thing to notice is this graph looks very different from the ideal above. It shows two surprising features that go a long way to explaining the problems people experience when using modern fuel, Weak Running and Slow Combustion. However, despite these anomalies, overall, the data shows that the ES profile needle is a good choice for the XPAG engine. Weak running The five points circled in red (two green, quarter throttle and three red, half throttle), correspond to the carburettors delivering an exceptionally weak mixture. Indeed, had the carburettors not been retuned, the engine would not have started. Significantly, these five tests were run after the engine had been stopped for a few minutes to make adjustments. These results clearly illustrate the FHBVCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fuel expertâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prediction that it

40 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

is possible for modern petrol to boil in the jet while the engine is running. The SU carburettor is a volumetric device, ie for a given volume of air entering the engine, it adds a fixed volume of petrol. When the petrol starts to boil, liquid and bubbles of vapour leave the jet, which are less dense than just the liquid. As a result a lower mass of petrol is delivered into the air stream resulting in a weak mixture. Weak running further increases the engineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s temperature and underbonnet temperatures, resulting in more fuel boiling, until the mixture becomes so weak the engine splutters to a stop. This scenario is typical of stop-start driving in a queue of traffic. There are two main ways the petrol in the carburettor can be heated, by radiation and convection from the hot exhaust manifold that sits just below the carburettors and by conduction through the inlet manifold from the cylinder head. To measure the temperature of the petrol in the jet, sensors were fitted in the transfer pipe between the float chamber and jet of each carburettor (shown as xfer pipe on the graphs above). Sensors were also fitted between the carburettors and inlet manifold, to measure the heat conducted from the engine, and to the inlet of each carburettor to measure the temperature of the inducted air. The histograms above show the

range of measured temperatures for all the tests. The red area corresponds to the temperature range where petrol vaporisation would potentially cause problems. While these do not reflect the temperatures that may be reached in an enclosed engine bay, they do show some interesting features. The test engine was mounted on the dynamometer with no restrictions to air flow and, other than the exhaust manifold, with no hot areas near the carburettors. Unexpectedly, the temperature of the air entering the front carburettor was noticeably lower than that entering the rear carburettor (left hand graphs). This was possibly caused by air heated by the exhaust pipe which ran underneath the rear of the engine. These lower temperatures are also reflected in the manifold/carburettor temperatures (right hand graphs), showing that when the engine is running, the temperature or the inducted air is the main factor effecting the temperature of the carburettor body rather than heat conduction through the inlet manifold. This finding suggests that, where possible, the air inlet to the carburettors should be positioned to induct as much cooler air as possible, perhaps even adding ducting to direct cold air to the carburettors.

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FEATURE

The exceptionally high front manifold reading, shown in the red circle, corresponds to the half throttle tests, mentioned above where the mixture would have been very weak. The high manifold temperature of the front carburettor was the cause of this problem. As only the front carburettor was affected and it is probable that when the engine had been stopped the inlet valve on either cylinders one or two was open. This allowed hot gases into the inlet manifold raising the temperature of the front carburettor and causing the petrol to boil. This observation is consistent with the heat soak tests, reported in an earlier article, which showed heat from the inlet manifold was the main factor in increasing the temperature of the carburettors after the engine had been stopped. When stopping a hot engine with the intention of restarting it a few minutes later (eg when filling up at a petrol station), it may be worth revving the engine and turning off the ignition while it was still revving. Keeping the throttle open as the engine runs down will allow cold air into the cylinders which may prevent this problem. What is also significant is that the transfer pipe temperatures (middle graphs) were sufficiently high in some test runs to cause issues with

vaporisation. However, other than the five weak running cases, highlighted above, weak running was not observed in any other tests. It is possible the fuel flow rate through the transfer pipe was sufficiently high that there was insufficient time for it to be heated before it reached the jet. Furthermore, the temperatures in the front carburettor transfer pipe are noticeably higher than for the rear carburettor, demonstrating that, even in still air, there are measurable differences between the way heat is transferred from the exhaust manifold to the front and rear carburettors. While the reasons for this are not clear, it offers a possible explanation as to why some cars suffer from the hot restart problem and others do not. Finally, there is an additional factor affecting this brand of 95 octane petrol, namely its volatility. Comparing the distillation curve for this fuel with that of a brand of super grade petrol shows the 95 octane petrol (blue line) is more volatile at typical under-bonnet temperatures. At the 75oC to 80oC temperatures of the front carburettor, 45% of 95 octane fuel would have vaporised compared with only 35% of the super grade fuel. This certainly would have made the weak running problem worse.

As the Manchester tests were run in March, it is possible this 95 octane petrol was “winter grade” which is why it was more volatile. Slow combustion The four points in the blue circle, on the below graph, show the carburettors delivering different lambda values for the same piston height. Simplistically, this is not possible as the volume of fuel is determined by the needle diameter at that piston height, ie same piston height, same volume of air, same volume of fuel, hence the lambda values should be the same. This shows that at full throttle, there are combustion problems with modern fuel which will be discussed in the next article. Conclusion This data from the Manchester XPAG tests clearly demonstrates two problems with modern fuel that ultimately lead to the hot restart and ‘overheating’ problems that many classic owners suffer from. The transfer pipe temperature graphs show that the petrol in the carburettor can become sufficiently hot that modern petrol, which vaporises at lower temperatures than classic petrol, is susceptible to boiling – the cause of the weak running effect. Operating “so close to the edge” means that even a small temperature increase can have a disastrous effect, for example when driving in slow-moving traffic. When an engine stops, the tests also show that hot gases leaking back into the carburettors from open inlet valves can make matters worse and are probably a significant factor that contribute to the hot restart problem. These problems are made worse by the Slow Combustion problem that increases under bonnet temperatures. This is covered in the next article. Fortunately, the tests at Manchester have suggested ways these problems can be reduced. More to come.

The MG Car Club takes no responsibility for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material or information in these articles, and the opinion of the author is his own and the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with those opinions. www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 41

COYS AUCTION

Techno Classica 24th March 2018

ENTRIES ARE INVITED OVER 200,000 VISITORS WILL MEET FOR THE 30TH TIME AT THIS WORLD TRADE FAIR IN ESSEN, GERMANY, FROM 21st TO 25th MARCH 2018. NOW RENOWNED AS THE MOST IMPORTANT EUROPEAN EVENT FOR VINTAGE AND CLASSIC COLLECTIBLE VEHICLES, COYS WILL BE HOLDING THEIR TRADITIONAL AUCTION ON MARCH 24, 2018. THESE TWO EVENTS UNDER ONE ROOF OFFER YOU THE CHANCE TO OFFER YOUR CLASSIC MOTOR VEHICLE TO AN INTERNATIONAL AUDIENCE.

ALREADY ENTERED FOR 2018:

1928 Bugatti T 44 Fiacre By Gangloff # 441141 Ex Uwe Hucke and Helmut Schellenberg

1976 Porsche 911 (Ur)-Turbo 3.0 # 9307700060 Porsche certified

1934 Alfa Romeo 6C # 700200 Ex John Lawson

1965 Ferrari 275 GTS #6817 Meticulously maintained, and offered with Ferrari Classiche and Marcel Massini report.

1975 De Tomaso Pantera GR. 5 # THPNZU 09204 Original German Registered 8000 Km - Mint

1963 Ferrari 250 GTE Series III #4611 Superb matching numbers car with much recent restoration work.

1989 Ferrari F40 # TBA Supplied In Desirable NonCatalysed, Non-Adjustable Specification. 25,000 Kilometers From New.

1936 The Brooke E.R.A with Bedford ERA Transporter # 7CHF Recently driven in the Goodwood Revival 2017 Offered at no reserve

COYS LONDON Manor Court, Lower Mortlake Road, Richmond, TW9 2LL, United Kingdom Tel. +44 (0) 208 614 7888 Fax +44 (0) 208 614 7889 auctions@coys.co.uk www.coys.co.uk

COYS EUROPE Michael Haag Elisabethstr. 4, D-68165 Mannheim, Germany Tel: +49 (0) 621 412004 Fax: +49 (0) 621 415551 coyseurope@web.de

COYS ITALIA Giuliano Fazi +39 335 148 8303 giuliano.fazi@coys.co.uk

COYS FRANCE Jacques Morabito 34, avenue des ChampsÉlysées 75008 Paris +33 (0)1 4076 5798 +33 (0)6 0203 6792 jacques.morabito@coys.co.uk

TRIPLE M NEWSLET TER Jeremy Hawke Tel: +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com • www.triple-mregister.org

WELCOME TO THE TRIPLE M NEWSLETTER Welcome to the first MMM spread of 2018. By the time you read this in early February, the annual MG/Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh (Sunday 11) is just around the corner. The Register will be having a stand as usual, as will many of our major suppliers and all are welcome to drop by for a chat. Details of the event can be found at: http:// mgandtriumphsparesday.co.uk/

February is one of the quietest months of the year in which to come up with four pages of MMM interest (rather than just my own ramblings) so I’m fortunate to have the assistance of Tim Luffingham who has provided a write-up from the very successful MMM Cornwall Tour last October, to which you just can’t do justice in a ‘standard’ month’s column.

The cars lined up outside Tregenna Castle. Photo: Tim Luffingham

THE 2017 MMM REGISTER’S KERNOW WHEALS TOUR These things don’t just happen overnight and the 2017 Tour was two years in the planning by Charlie Cartwright, a long-time native of Cornwall, and his close friend Ian Goddard. Their task was to follow the 2016 standard set by the Register’s highly acclaimed Ulster Tour, raising the bar to an altogether new level (our tours just seem to get better year upon year).

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Tregenna Castle in St Ives was chosen as our hotel and base for the event. Overlooking St Ives Bay, extensive grounds and more than enough parking for 60 MMM cars, plus another 40 cars and trailers that had transported them there. Arrival date was Tuesday October 3. Registration took place and, before dinner, a brief for both drivers and navigators, comprising entrants from

UK, Holland and Germany. Others had travelled from Australia and Canada to use cars which they based in the UK. “Watch out for the Cornish hedge,” warned Charlie. Prophetic words, as so many soft-looking hedges that line the narrow roads have a very hard dry stone wall inside.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 43

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View from the Lizard Lighthouse. Photo: Dick Morbey

Wednesday morning was bright and sunny. A relatively easy day, we thought. Just 48 miles taking in a tour of Geevor tin mine, Land’s End, and the Telegraph Museum at Porthcurno. Last car to be away by 9.30am. An excellent Tulip-style road book took us in a southerly direction along the west coast. The sun shone, roads were quiet, rolling hills, scenery spectacular with the Atlantic as a backdrop. Clare and I have owned our PA for three years and enjoyed several tours in that time, though this was our first MMM event. We have an agreement never to fall out over the navigation. Mistakes will happen – we are here to enjoy ourselves, after all. And so, it was just 15 miles into the day when I commented on the lack of MGs in sight. My navigator, convinced she was in the right place, did what we’ve all done and started to make the map fit the surroundings, all the while adamant that the others must have taken a wrong turn. I bit my lip. Next left and we found the road blocked by an enormous herd of cows – or should I say a herd of enormous cows! They weren’t moving and so with no other option we began to nudge our way through the middle, only to discover our formerly absent colleagues doing the same though in the opposite direction! With no way of turning around we had to exit the herd, do a U turn and repeat the process whilst trying to catch up with the others. Kernow is the old Cornish name

44 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Cows stop play. Photo: Dick Morbey

for Cornwall, and Wheals translates to workplace or mine. Historically, tin mining was important in the Cornish economy, becoming increasingly significant during the high Middle Ages and expanding greatly during the 19th century when rich copper mines were also in production. Geevor Tin Mine closed in 1990. It is now a museum and heritage centre, left as a living history of a working tin mine. A two-hour tour had been arranged. Our guides were former miners who had once worked at Geevor. Hard hats on, and split into smaller groups, we followed them underground. Lunch followed in the Geevor cafe – Cornish pasties the fare for the day! After lunch, a short 10-mile drive on to Land’s End. With hindsight, I can see that Ian and Charlie had been kind to us and our cars for the first half-day of the tour. We were soon to be introduced to narrow roads, steep hills, high hedges and blind bends. Challenging stuff and all the more so with a non-synchromesh gearbox. The trick, of course, being to keep the revs high when going up the hills, though difficult when you need to slow down for a hairpin bend. Never before had I so much felt the need for an extra gear between second and third! That said, every few miles along the way was a hidden gem, spectacular scenery or quaint Cornish towns and villages. Porthcurno Telegraph Museum the next stop en route. When opened

in 1870 became the point at which submarine telegraph cables came ashore from around the Empire. There had been one or two breakdowns during the day – to be expected, I suppose, with 80-year-old cars on challenging roads. Nearly all made it back after roadside repairs. Several more were being fettled in Tregenna’s carpark as we drove in, spanner in one hand and a beer in the other. A free evening to enjoy St Ives and its range of restaurants. Fish and chips to Michelin star. Heavy rain overnight gave way to a light Cornish drizzle after breakfast.

A work of art, the 1903 Fresnel Lens in the Lizard lighthouse. Photo: Dick Morbey

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TRIPLE M NEWSLET TER

Land’s End. Photo: Tim Luffingham

No matter how well one prepares an 83-year-old car, I still feel a sense of relief when she starts up, especially after a night outside in the cold and damp. She’s never let us down yet, though it’s definitely a feeling of when and not if that day will come. With slight trepidation we left St Ives with 100 miles ahead of us, and a new-found respect for what might lie ahead. Following a mid-morning coffee stop at Healey’s Cider Farm, there was the option to do the famous Blue Hills Climb, near St Agnes. I’d looked at it on YouTube the previous evening and decided to take the alternative route on offer. Others braver than me did tackle it and were triumphant when we met for lunch. The afternoon brought us from Mevagissey to the chain-operated King Harry Ferry, crossing the River Fal and connecting St Mawes and the Roseland with Feock, Truro and Falmouth.

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Dating from 1888 it’s an iconic part of Cornwall’s history, and has been voted one of the ten most scenic ferry trips in the world. For many the crossing was one of the highlights of the tour. Cream tea at Trevaskis Farm for the afternoon pitstop before returning to St Ives via Gwithian. Another long day on narrow Cornish backroads. Another welcome beer and a few more bonnets open in the carpark. And so it was on to our third and final day. A warm and sunny October morning with 85 miles of Cornish roads planned for us. A delightful 33mile cross-country run brought us to the Lizard Lighthouse. A light was first exhibited here in 1619 to help guide ships through the English Channel. The current lighthouse, consisting of two towers with cottages between them, was built in 1751. It was automated and de-manned in 1998. Still a working lighthouse, we were invited to the top

with our guide. The Fresnel lens which dates from 1903 magnifies the light from a 400-watt light bulb which can be seen by ships 27 miles away. A food stop has never been far away on this tour and so we found ourselves at Roskilly’s Farm for lunch. Famous for its ice-cream, it’s also home to the Croust House Restaurant. 60 pre-war MGs filled the car park whilst nearly 120 drivers and navigators took their place at tables in the farmyard. The afternoon drive continued ‘well off the beaten track’, through towns such as Helford Creeks and Hells Mouth. 40 miles of backroads, many so narrow that passing places had been cut into the bank to allow traffic to pass, often necessitating a long reverse – the MG isn’t a wide car! I always finish the last run on a skiing holiday with a tinge of sadness coupled with a sense of relief that all went well and that I’m still in one

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 45

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King Harry Ferry; I wonder if a full load of Abingdon’s finest MMMs weighed on the Skipper’s mind? Photo: Tim Luffingham

piece. And so it was the same as we pulled into the car park at Tregenna Castle for the last time. 235 miles over three days doesn’t sound much; however the Cornish hills and roads had left drivers and navigators tired, and truly tested their 80-year-old cars. Dinner that evening was a more formal affair. Speeches, prizes and Cornish entertainment by the family group Twin Harmony who sang for us. We’d all had the opportunity to vote for the four and six cylinder car we’d most like to take home. The prize for four cylinder was Mark Green’s J3. Six cylinder was Peter Prosser’s KN saloon. Furthest travelled was Rod Ptak (who’d been touring for a week beforehand) with his L1 Salonette. Furthest with trailer was Ronald and Ilse Maier – from Germany. Most difficult journey – Simon Scargill for his 16-hour epic from Derbyshire with too much bad luck to list here! Most support to the MMM community – Bob Walker. Longest suffering – Terry Hartley for breaking down in his PA on Day one

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after just six miles, and after numerous delays only returning to the hotel after dark. The next day he accompanied Terry Wilson in his F2 which broke down after only 12 miles with transmission failure. Much of day two spent awaiting the same breakdown truck! Finally, Charlie Cartwright gave the Organisers prize to Richard Holl for his very original PA. Thanks also to our sponsors Andy King, Barry Walker, Sports and Vintage Motors, Tim Kelly MG Centre. Congratulations and enormous thank you to Charlie and Ian for all their hard work and organisational skills. Charlie at 79 years old seems to have an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of rural Cornwall. An incredibly well organised tour taking us safely around the backroads, visiting places you wouldn’t always find on a map! A final thank you to our 120 fellow travellers who made it so much fun and so very memorable. As a footnote to the successful tour, some of you will remember that a few years back we had one

in Scotland, organised by Colin McLachlan. Well, a return visit to the Scottish Borders is planned for the MMM Register’s 2018 Tour. The “Borders Reivers Raid II” will be held between April 30-May 3 2018, so if you fancy coming along, please email Karen Niven at: karen.niven@me.com for further details, or check out the events section of the Register web page.

The man himself; organiser Charlie Cartwright (complete with high-viz vest – H&S has arrived in Cornwall). Photo Dick Morbey

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 47

MIDGET NEWSLET TER Dennis Wharf dennis@loisweedon.net www.midgetregister.com

WELCOME TO THE MIDGET NEWSLETTER Although it might seem a long way off, summer will soon arrive, so all those jobs you intended tackling over the long winter months need attending to now, because sooner than you know it spring will have sprung! Nothing worse, on a fine spring morning, than to have the car still out of action for the want of a small job. But should you be doing something particularly interesting, please let me know and we’ll feature it in the notes and on the website. As you know, the Register’s main function is, and always has been, to provide help and information to owners, or prospective owners, of Spridgets, and over the course of a year we hear from a number of people keen to learn a bit more about the car they own, and sometimes whether we can help trace a car they once owned. Although we do our best we’re not always successful, but member Mike Banner didn’t need any help, for extraordinarily he simply stumbled across his old car for sale on a classic car website! His story is here in the Newsletter, along with another similar ‘lost and found’ tale which, being the historian, I found of real interest. The phenomenal success and longevity of our racing Championship, celebrating its 40th anniversary last year, has not gone unnoticed, for the HSCC now invite us regularly to race with them – the only single-model race series ever to do so. And I think rightly so, for some of our Championship cars, and their drivers, have very long and distinguished careers, far outstripping in terms of success and history, many of the FIA ‘historic’ type Spridgets we see at Goodwood and the like. If you get the chance, please come along to one of our races

this year. The guys put on some great racing, theirs often being chosen as race of the day, and being such nice people, are always happy to engage in conversation. Our full race calendar is shown within these pages. It came as a surprise to learn last summer that, although made in their millions, A-series cylinder heads are becoming more and more difficult to find these days, with cylinder blocks and gearbox casings evidently scarce also. Doesn’t seem that long ago they were ten a penny, so where have they all gone…? Now, I’ve often suspected Abingdon made up their numbering systems as they went along…Why? Well probably to confuse historians of the future! And if confirmation were required, just before handing over his registrar reins to David Storer, Graham Springthorpe sent me some information quoting the first MkII (G-AN3), Midget was assembled in January 1964, receiving chassis No: 25825. However, in my BMIHT list, compiled by Anders Clausager no less, it states 25788 to be the first MkII completed, only in March of 1964, some two months later, but 37 cars earlier! Confused – so am I, so I intend going along to Gaydon later this year to investigate, hopefully with Club archivist Peter Neil, because as many members will know, Peter worked at Abingdon during that time, and has considerable knowledge of how things were done. He’s also confirmed, unofficially, my suspicions! That’s it from me, so now over to our Chairman, Mike, for a few words, and also to Graham who has advance news of the Register’s planned weekend away in July. Dennis Wharf

REGISTER CHAIRMAN’S NOTES Unfortunately, I have to start by mentioning that due to a lack of volunteers, the Register will not be attending the MG and Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh on Sunday February 11 this year. The issue of members unwilling to come forward to help has been building over the past few years, and despite me constantly mentioning this within our notes, things have now become critical. Which brings me nicely onto to the AGM at Kimber House on March 11.

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For the Register to survive it needs new committee members, but above all help for events to take place, both for this year and going forward. Just to help on the day, or when you display your car at shows, is all we ask, so please come along and talk, you don’t have to join the committee, although that would help, but just offering a helping hand would be very encouraging. We are no further forward with my position on the committee as Chairman, as I’m still

awaiting news from the board on the extending of the time CRB Chairman can serve. But why the wait, for we are just a small Register doing, in our case, the best we can for the owners of MG Midgets. It’s taken six months so far, and still no answers. Watching the news on TV I see robots are the answer in Japan, so maybe that’s the way we should go, install a few robots to run the show! Sitting here in early January looking out on the cold and damp weather, I think back to the two very hot

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days we spent at MGLive! last June and the equally hot Castle Combe meeting a few weeks later, so I’m looking forward very much to the first of the two Silverstone meetings on April 7, that being the first round

of the Midget and Sprite Challenge, sponsored again this year by Lackford Engineering. This meeting will be on the short National Circuit so we’ll see the cars all bunched up about 30 seconds, instead of spread out at

three-minute intervals as at MGLive! With help we can have Midget parking in the car park, plus don’t forget the lunch time parade laps which are free and can be booked on the day. Sounds good to me.

LOST AND FOUND

Mike with his then girlfriend Anne, now wife of 47 years, in the South of France, 1969

Recently the Register was contacted by member Mike Bannard, asking if we had any recorded information on an MG Midget he had bought new in 1968. Over the course of a year we receive many similar requests, and as is so often the case, we couldn’t help on this occasion, but what made Mike’s request stand out was that, amazingly, he had found his old car quite by chance when deciding he’d like another Midget, 48 years after selling the first! Mike takes up the story: “I bought the car, registration number GBH 51G, new in 1968 from The Stoke Poges Motor Company in Buckinghamshire, which I recall cost £837. I owned it for some 18 months, driving down to the South of France in the summer of 1969, before selling it the following year to get married. One day in 2016 I decided to see if any of my old cars were still around by searching the DVLA MOT website, and to my great surprise my old Midget, was not only listed, but was taxed with a current MOT, recent failures seeming not too serious. Of course I had no idea where it was or who owned it, but it was good to know the car had survived.

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In a spare moment a few weeks later I googled “1968 MG Midgets for sale” and astonishingly there it was again, advertised for sale. As it had been my 21st birthday present, I felt compelled to buy it back, so spoke to the lady who owned it and agreed a price without even seeing it – she had only put it on the market that week! Anyway, after agreeing the price I told her the history and she was delighted that it was returning to its original owner. On getting the car home, it seemed to be in remarkably good condition, given its age, but when I stripped it down and had the shell stripped, de-rusted and primed, it became very apparent that a number of bodged repairs had been undertaken through its varied ownership. It is currently undergoing a lot of panel replacements and welding at a specialist restorer. I hope to get it back early this year as a painted rolling chassis, and then reassemble it myself. The aim is to get it back as close to its original condition as I can - more a labour of love than a financial investment, I think…!” Mike has promised to send

GBH 51G as collected 48 years later – has lost its sun visors and auxiliary Lucas driving lamps, but gained wire wheels

some pictures of the car when its refurbishment is complete; in the meantime however he is keen, if possible, to obtain any documents or other historical items from when he sold the car in 1970 through to 1972. Although very lucky in having some history and all the subsequent owners’ names from 1972 on, there is a gap of around 18 months he’d love to have answers for and also any original documents confirming him as the first owner. Any other stories from later in its history would also be welcome. As mentioned above, he bought the car new in November 1968 from The Stoke Poges Motor Company, a subsidiary of Hewens of Maidenhead,

Now undergoing much-needed repairs – another one saved

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both long since gone, who took it back in part exchange for a Mini when he got married in 1970. So, there was most likely only one owner from that time until May 1972, but by that date it had moved to Derbyshire – quite a way from Buckinghamshire – so it would be great if this period could be accounted for. Therefore if anyone can help fill the gap, let me know and I’ll pass it on.

LACKFORD ENGINEERING MGCC MIDGET AND SPRITE CHALLENGE 2018 DATES April 7, Silverstone National MGCC. April 28-29, Brands Hatch MGCC. May 19-20, Cadwell Park HSCC. June 2-3, Silverstone GP circuit MGCC. July 14-15, Donington Park MGCC. August 4-5, Croft HSCC. August 27, Castle Combe CCRC. September 29-30 Snetterton MGCC.

MIDGET REGISTER WEEKEND TOUR - JULY 6-8 2018 I’m pleased to announce we are organising a fourth Register weekend away, focused as previously, in the beautiful county of Somerset, but this time based at the foot of the Mendip Hills. The Wookey Hole Hotel is ideally situated in the heart of Somerset and offers luxury accommodation two miles from the medieval city of Wells, with its historic cathedral, and just nine miles from the magnificent Cheddar Gorge. Wookey Hole itself has a multitude of attractions including its famous caves, paper making museum, and model village.

A trip around the byways of the beautiful Somerset countryside is planned for the Saturday, visiting some of the more interesting locations and roads, before returning to the hotel for a convivial evening in the bar and restaurant. The Register has reserved 12 rooms with en-suite bathrooms at a group discounted rate for a twin or double of £152.00 for the two nights, Friday 6 and Saturday July 7, including breakfast on both days. Single rooms are available at £136.00. Evening

meals in the restaurant can be booked and purchased separately. Rooms will be held until the end of May and bookings must be made using the code GRP-MGCC-6JUL at the time of booking. The hotel can be contacted directly on 01749 672243, and by email: hotel@wookey.co.uk For further details and to register your interest, just contact me, Graham Springthorpe, by either emailing; graham.springthorpe@btinternet.com or calling 01934 519122.

GRAND TOURING MIDGET When a member of just over two years, a story appeared in the April 1974 edition of Safety Fast! of such interest that it has remained to hand in my desk ever since, often being referred to when making alterations or modifications to the three Midgets I’ve owned during that 44 year period. The story was written by Club member John Larminie, whose

opening statement declared: “In recent years the letters ‘GT’ have become so debased as a description of cars of special characteristics that they only imply black upholstery and ostentatious equipment. A real Grand Touring car is one good for long journeys at speed in comfort. This article describes how I modified my 1966 MkII MG Midget into a car that fits this definition properly.

As the car appeared in the April 1974 edition of Safety Fast! Photo: John Larminie www.mgcc.co.uk

I am one of those MG enthusiasts old enough to return to the Marque now that my children are growing up, using the car for those long journeys without the family and for commuting, so not just as a toy”. John had replaced the standard 1098cc engine with a later MkIII 1275cc engine, but had made other improvements, too, including fitting a 3.7:1 diff, slighter larger tyres, and many other details, resulting in a car he claimed capable of pulling away cleanly in top from 25mph, but giving a 70mph cruising speed at 3800rpm. All this plus 40+mpg. But what John didn’t mention was how good its acceleration was. In 1974 it wasn’t quite so vital as today; even a standard 1098 could easily squirt around the Morris Minors, Triumph

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 51

MIDGET NEWSLET TER

Heralds, and Ford Anglias, so numerous back then, but good fuel consumption is always a factor worth considering, particularly if touring, as John mentioned he did extensively, for even 40mpg only gives a range of 240 miles with the standard six gallon tank. Many alterations were carried out for comfort also, moving the heater control inside the cockpit – why did MG never do this – altering the positions of the other controls for greater ease, more insulation and the fitting of various additional instruments, etc. An Ashley hard top was adopted to cut down noise, plus as mentioned the changes to the gearing, all described in great detail with speed and gearing figures down to decimal points, measured by a stopwatch against motorway and autobahn distance markers. There were changes of plugs and needles in search for yet further performance, and alterations to the cooling, too. In fact John left no stone unturned in his quest for proper GT motoring. And he needed to, for often he would travel from his home in Dorset to the Czech border, usually fitting in a lap or two around the Nürburgring when passing through the Eifel Mountains. Curious as to what might have happened to the car since that story

With Ashley hardtop in place – still a Midget GT

was published all those years ago, I recently checked the DVLA MOT site, and lo and behold there it was, still taxed and MOT’d. On checking our Register database, however, it was sadly not listed. However I asked Neil Thomas, editor of Mascot, asking if he could mention it within the MASC magazine, and again I was in luck, for recently changing hands, it was now living in Scotland, its latest owner, Phil Cox, who was happy to make contact. We’ve enjoyed a couple of telephone conversations since, Phil sending me the following once he’d received a copy of the original article I knew would be of interest to him. “Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, but what an excellent article. I was really pleased to get your email. The car has a great history and thanks for sharing it with me, and hopefully with a wider audience eventually. John must have been a real petrol head, just hope I can do justice to his legacy. The part I was most impressed about was when he said he took it four times around the Nürburgring. You’ll be pleased to know it still retains the Ashley

Phil collecting, or is that rescuing, FJT from a rather “cluttered” garage last year

52 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

top, although the catches are broken, but it was a cracking day up here today so we got the roof sitting in position enabling me to take some photos. The interior picture shows the modification for the heater valve which is mentioned, it is a pull type so you don’t need to go under the bonnet to close or open the valve. Unfortunately, the radio is missing along with its aerial and the manifold suction gauge, too. The antiroll bar has been refitted, but I’m not sure if the rear shocks are the Armstrong adjustable ones. The oil cooler is still there, the ammeter also, but the other gauges have gone. It was funny reading about the new halogen headlights he fitted and that a white hood would keep the car cooler in hot weather than a black one. He planned everything with military precision to gain extra MPH and MPG, and must have had some great tales to tell.” Indeed he must, but John is typical of so many enthusiasts back then who used their cars precisely how they were intended, only in this case detailing it in an article still relevant today while being also a piece of history. What both Phil and I would like now, however, is to hear from anyone who might know a little more about what has happened to FJT 199D in the interim. So if you do, please do get in touch.

Modified heater controls and one of the additional gauges still in place

www.mgcc.co.uk

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FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 53

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MGB NEWSLET TER David Broadhurst 01209 614704 newsletter-editor@mgb-register.org • www.mgb-register.org • mgbforum.mgb-register.org

WELCOME TO THE MGB NEWSLETTER In this issue you will find a whole page listing our MGB Register events for this year. This is intended to be a tear(or cut) out-and-keep easy reference for you to place where it will be easily seen. This could be on the fridge front or kitchen notice board, or you could pin it up in the garage alongside your treasured 1960s Pirelli calendar. Everything is, of course, listed on the website but I’m not welded to my computer, so I am sure that you’re not. We have a stand allocated for the MGB Register at the MG & Triumph show at Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, on Sunday February 11. Come and say hello, you might want to buy something from us. We will have an early MGB roadster on display, a late, chromebumper BGT and a late BGT on display. At the end of March we will be unveiling the restored Jean Denton 1968 London to Sydney Marathon MGB, in which she and Tom Boyce completed the 10,000-mile event in 10 days and finished. The Practical Classics

The nearside door of the Marathon MGB being prepped alongside a new BMH door to replace the really rusty offside door.

54 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Restoration Show at the NEC will be the location, with the MGB being shown to all on Friday March 23. The show will be open for three days. We intended completing the project by the end of 2017 but a few problems have appeared, such as we have had to fit a new driver’s door and boot lid, but with support from our friends at British Motor Heritage the parts have been donated to us. The next and major problem was that Steve at ACR was struck down with the dreaded flu. This put him out of action for nearly three weeks, so it is now full steam ahead to ensure the car is completed for the show. Let’s see as many of you as possible at the show to see this MGCC asset. The next place to see the Marathon MGB will be at the MG Era Day at Brooklands where Clive has reserved a parking area for MGB Register members. He has reserved an area for about 60 MGBs; the date is April 8 2018. If you intend going to the MG Era day please notify Clive on cfwilday@alo.com or mobile 07943 306977 to reserve your place and to receive a parking pass. Our main Register event is the Spring Run on Sunday April 15, this year starting and finishing at the Haynes International Motor Museum in Sparkford, Somerset. An entry form and full details are on the events page of the website www.mgb-register.org A cream tea and entry to the Museum are included in your entry. Hot off the press is the news that we will be holding another MGB Register Lecture this year. The venue will be the new lecture hall at Radley College, Abingdon, on Saturday September 22 between 2.00pm and 5.00pm.

Door Etch primed and ready for the rebuild

The subject is the 1968 London to Sydney Marathon, this year being the 50th anniversary. It’s early days with the planning, but we have already secured the services of Paddy Hopkirk and Alec Poole who finished second in a BMC 1800 Landcrab. Our friend Graham Robson will keep the event under control. More details and a booking form will be on the events page. I was sent the following in the autumn, and thought that it might make interesting reading. It is from a lady called Melissa Farrow.

The original BRG covered in Matt black and then the purple that was applied later.

www.mgcc.co.uk

MGB NEWSLET TER

“MORRIS” THE MGB GT 1978

Interior stripped out and ready to assess the floor

Melissa and Morris

I bought Morris in March 2017 for £300 from College Motors; they had it stored there for a few years. It was last on the road in 2009. He’s not my first MG. I had a MG ZR as my first car and that was called Donald. I now have a ZS which is called Angus; yes, I name all my cars. I started working on Morris as soon as I got him home, and managed to get the engine turned over with help from some friends and drove it off the trailer to my drive. No history came with Morris, but I have managed to establish that the number plate has been changed at some point in his life. I also found some MOT history about the car, and when it was last on the

www.mgcc.co.uk

road. Also, he’s had 13 former keepers, but that’s all I could find out. I started by getting the engine running correctly by putting on a thermostat and checking all the wiring. I then stripped the car down to find that it needed some welding. I decided to tackle it myself, so bought a welder and went to work. I’d never attempted welding before, but fortunately I had a friend who’s got plenty of experience. I picked it up pretty quickly and got to work on it. In the end I had to weld both sills, inner and outer, around the windscreen, floor and the rear bumper. Next I turned my attention to the interior. It needed a whole new interior, which again I’m tackling myself and

Front end stripped down and repairs underway

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 55

MGB NEWSLET TER

The Engine bay of Morris as bought

Morris will now sport a deep cherry red trim. This is the first time I have ever done any work with fabric – it

was an enjoyable challenge. I ended up doing the entire door cards and the dash. Next, I’ll take on the seats.

I also plan to paint the car myself. It’s going to stay the original black. Again, I’ve never painted a car but I will learn as I go. It’s an original rubber bumper car and it’s going to stay like that. As you can see, I am trying to do all the work myself and learning as I go, with help and advice from friends. This is my first classic car and won’t be the last. I recently had to recuperate after a back operation, which meant a month or so of not working on the car. It was hard just to sit and look out of the window at both my MGs on the drive and not be able to drive or work on them. But I’m back working on the MGB now and Morris is progressing nicely. He’s just had a new engine loom fitted with the help of Steve Illing at Abingdon Car Restorations, and I plan to have the MOT carried out at the start of February. I’m now looking at increasing the power with a stage two head and new crank. Hopefully he’ll be ready for pride of Longbridge in April. Melissa Farrow

Morris when purchased by Melissa

56 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

www.mgcc.co.uk

MGB NEWSLET TER

MGB Register Events 2018 This is a Preview of the Register’s Planned Events for 2018 For up-dates visit:

www.mgb-register.org/mgb-register-2018-events mgbforum.mgb-register.org www.facebook.com/groups/M.G.B.Register

Saturday 17th February - MGB Register, AGM at Kimber House

Contact Neil Hyett 07768 414641

Saturday 10th March - Technical Day, Moss Motors, Feltham

Details in Safety Fast January issue Contact Colin Goodey 07706 925298 Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th March - Practical Classics Restoration Show

The Marathon MGB will be on display Contact John Watson 07770 575236

www.necrestorationshow.com

Sunday 8th April - MG Day at Brooklands

The Register will have reserved MGB parking Contact Clive Wilday 07943 306977

Sunday 15th April - MGB Spring Run

Starting and finishing at the Haynes Motor Museum. Entry will include Museum access and finisher’s Cream Tea. www.mgb-register.org/mgb-register-2018-events Contact Neil Hyett 07768 414641 Sunday 22nd April - Drive It Day.

Sunday Scramble, Bicester Heritage Contact Andrew Vigor 07909 536614 Thursday 3rd May – Guided Tour of Bicester Heritage

A rare chance for a guided tour of this historic site www.mgb-register.org/mgb-register-2018-events

Contact Andrew Vigor 07909 536614

2nd and 3rd June - MG Live, Silverstone

The world’s largest MG Event - the MG Car Club’s annual celebration at Silverstone. www.mgcc.co.uk/news-events

June – July - British Motor Museum, Gaydon Date to be confirmed. The Marathon MGB will be on display Contact John Watson 07770 575236 www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/events July MG Picnic – Rutland Water Details to follow soon Contact Colin Goodey 07706 925298 Sunday 5th August MG Picnic – Millets Farm, west of Abingdon

Contact John Watson 07770 575236

Friday 14th to Monday 17th September

MGB Weekend Ironbridge near Telford, Shropshire www.mgb-register.org/mgb-register-2018-events Contact John Watson 07770 575236 Saturday 22nd September at 2pm – Radley College, Abingdon

MGB Lecture on the 50th anniversary of the 1968 London to Sydney Marathon. Guest speakers Paddy Hopkirk and Alec Poole who finished 2 nd. Other speakers to be advised. http://www.mgb-register.org/mgb-register-2018-events/ Contact John Watson 07770 575 236

www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 57

FWD REGISTER NEWSLET TER Ben Hatton ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/

WELCOME TO THE FWD REGISTER NEWSLETTER This year is going to prove yet another busy one for the FWD Register. We are again holding our annual spring run .This is taking place on Saturday April 7, covering the three UK factories which have previously produced MGs, with a stop at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon for lunch. We are very grateful to all the venues we are visiting as none of them are charging, which allows the run to be free of charge to enter. There will be entirely optional-to-buy run plaques which need to be ordered in advance at a cost of £5; however you are very welcome to dress your cars with your own flags, etc. Below are the timings

and venues with postcodes. In order to manage numbers, please register in advance with Tanya on either tanyafield999@gmail.com or 07929 868284. Below are the venues with postcodes and the timings. Kimber House, Abingdon (OX14 1AS) – 9.00am for a 9.30am departure. Cowley (OX4 6NL) – 10.00am for a 10.30am departure. Gaydon (CV35 0BJ) We will depart after lunch at 2.00pm Longbridge (B31 2BQ) We will arrive at approximately 3.15pm, take photos then move on five minutes down the road for tea and cake in St John the Baptist Church Hall. We have also been successful in obtaining a stand at this year’s Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show at the NEC, March 23-25.

We are also looking at holding our AGM; the date is to be confirmed but will be published in the next issue of Safety Fast! FWD Register AGM Agenda: Date: Saturday February 24 2018 Venue: The MINI Plant Oxford, Cowley, OX4 6NJTime: 2.00pm 1.Apologies for absence 2.Welcome and introduction 3.Minutes of 2017 meeting A) true record B) matters arising C) actions 4.Chair’s report 5.Treasurer’s report 6.Annual statement of accounts 7.Registrar’s report 8.Event/show report 9.Election of officers 10.AOB

FWD MGs head off on a previous Register Spring Run www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 59

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www.mgcc.co.uk

FWD NEWSLET TER

The Montego with solid doors and bodywork comes home

MONTEGO RESTORATION Jeff Patterson has over the years restored many Montegos of various conditions. His latest project is a 1984 MG Montego efi with digital dash. Here Jeff tells us the story so far of his latest project. In February 2012 I was contacted by a guy in Colchester, whose son had just passed away with cancer, asking if I wanted to buy his son’s 1984 MG Montego efi with digital dash. I did know others had seen the car but declined to buy it. He emailed me a couple of pictures of it and in March I went down to view the car. Targa red with a white bonnet, sills and arches had been replaced

previously and the body wasn’t too bad. The car did run but needed a bit of work to bring it up to a standard I would be happy with, so I bought it. I had owned an identical car in the early 1990s and nostalgia kicked in. I did know this MG Montego from previous posts and eBay from the original owner, Ayrshire lad, who was asking quite a bit more for the car than I paid, as it was quite rare. A good friend of mine, Mal Watson, picked the car up for me in April and dropped it off to my barn which was not far from Lincoln Now I could have a closer inspection of the car and I decided at

that point to restore it to its former glory, A ‘friend’ of Mal and I was a car sprayer and a deal was done to spray the car for me, so I proceeded to remove and replace the old rusty doors, boot and bonnet with spares I had. Stripping the interior, I found various things that would need seeing to and the car also needed welding to various parts of the bodywork. I also removed the rear screens. I asked another friend if he could weld it for me and he did a good job for me on the passenger floor, rear panel and other parts that had rust and holes, but couldn’t complete the task. I contacted Mal once the car was ready to be sprayed and he brought down from his barn in Wetherby my other MG Montego efi with digital

The engine comes out

Montego in good company, ready for the engine to be removed www.mgcc.co.uk

Front suspension parts stripped off FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 61

FWD NEWSLET TER

Resplendent in Red

dash that I had bought a couple of months earlier, a Zircon blue example with only 22,000 miles on, and took back the red Montego. Unfortunately the car sat at Mal’s barn for over a year without being moved, so I decided to bring it back home to my barn and find another car sprayer. A few months later Mal dropped the car off for me, so I was back to square one. The car now didn’t run as it had been left quite a while under cover and we all know cars should be started every now and then. During the time that it sat in the corner of my barn looking sorry for

Primed and ready for the respray 62 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

itself I had accumulated a set of near rust-free doors in Targa red. I started to fit the doors but had encountered a problem: the passenger door was sitting too high. I had to remove the dash before this to make the other spare door sit correctly but this was still a problem. The sill had not been put on correctly and sat too high at the front. I left the car to stand another six months before deciding to sell it, as I was given notice to vacate my barn in the next year or so. At this point I also decided to sell my remaining Montegos and move on to something else.

I put all the Targa red doors and original boot back on the car, started to put the interior back in, and put it up for sale with no interest at all. With all these problems, the car wouldn’t start and as I was losing my storage I seriously considered scrapping it as I had nowhere to put it. Not to be beaten, I had to get the thing running, so spent the next few months trying various things; fuel pump was seized, hairline crack in the positive coil wire, both fuel relays were replaced with new but still nothing, replaced the resistor and checked the wiring all over the engine bay, found a cracked wire to one of the relays. Once I fixed that the car burst into life. Result ,I thought, and it’s telling me, don’t scrap me as I’m now alive. In the meantime I had sold my Montego Advantage and had one garage empty and decided to finally restore the car. In December 2016, using my son’s Rover 75 as it had a tow bar, and my A frame we moved the car from my barn to my garage just around the corner to where I live. It’s the fifth time I had moved the car since buying it in 2012.

www.mgcc.co.uk

FWD NEWSLET TER

Coming together, engine back in situ

I found a local car bodywork shop who gave me a quote to carry out all the remaining welding, bodywork and spray it for me. I sold my remaining MG Montego Turbo project to clear the garage next to the car, as I rent both. This cleared the way to put all my parts in and to put the engine for refurbing. I removed the engine and it fought me every inch of the way – solid and snapped nuts, bolts, etc, but it came out eventually. Next, the front suspension was removed but that was seized solid to the front hubs. I removed it all in one unit in the end. I replaced the suspension bushes, front springs, front shocks and more, using my spares I had accumulated over many years. The car was ready now to go to the bodyworks in March, 5 years after I bought it, so a moment in time. Once the car had gone, I could concentrate on the engine. I had

previously removed the head and found the bores in excellent condition. I checked over the bearings, big end, shells, etc, and none needed replacing so I put the engine back together, replaced all core plugs and painted the exterior. I replaced the head with a new one I had bought in 2012 for this car, flattened out the exhaust manifold as it was slightly warped, and replaced all oil seals in the gearbox. On my frequent visits to the body shop I could see the progress made and took pictures as I went. In August the car was ready to come back home, looking excellent in new shiny paintwork. I next replaced the brake master cylinder with a new one I had in my spares and a refurbed steering rack I had bought four years previously, and replaced various things prior to putting the engine back, new radiator etc on, so now the engine was ready to put

back in. In September it was time to put the engine/gearbox back in and very gingerly I lowered it in and without a hitch it slid in very neatly. All bolted up, wiring loom back in, new battery tray on. Front lights and indicators were put on, the front bumper had new red strips, bumper brackets and bottom spoiler were put on and also attached to the car. New front callipers were kindly donated by Mal, so all was now ready to start the car. Battery connected, I left the coil lead off and turned the car over. Step one done as it turned over and the fuel was priming. I did this for about 10 minutes on and off to get the engine oil circulated before connecting the coil lead. Moment of truth – the engine burst into life, big smile on my face there. Checked over and no leaks, though it’s a bit loud without an exhaust. Still loads to do as I want to finish the front of the car first, then turn it round to start on the rear. My garage isn’t large enough really, but it’s big enough if I complete one side at a time. I’m not expecting to finish the car before spring 2018, but as it’s now local, the pace has quickened but I’m in no hurry. It should get an MOT this year at some point but I don’t know when, as it’ll be six years since I first bought it by that time.

EVENTS CALENDAR FOR 2018 March 23-25 – Restoration Show at the NEC April 8 – MG Era Day at Brooklands June 2-3 – MGLive! at Silverstone July 1 – BMC and Leyland Show at Gaydon *September 15-16 – Manchester Classic Car Show at EventCity *November 9-11 – Classic Motor Show at the NEC *Our stands have yet to be confirmed for these shows Last year’s FWD stand at the Restoration Show

www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 63

RACE TORQUE

The MG3 attracted a lot of attention.

The MG Car Club at the Autosport show

RACE TORQUE

By Ron Gammons

he Club had an excellent response at the giant Autosport International Show at the NEC. Our stand proved a focal point for the Club’s members and many others who came to chat and say hello. Inevitably, the talk was mainly about the racing programme scheduled for 2018 and what our various Championships planned. The Show also gives an opportunity to meet up with many in the motor racing scene, and in particular, possible sponsors. Again this year The MG Trophy were able to confirm their sponsorship for the season. There was a considerable degree of optimism and, if the intentions come true, we should have some excellent grids and wellsupported racing in 2018. One of the talking points for visitors to the stand was the debut of the Knight Industries development of

64 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

the MG3 which was given a premier position facing into the aisle. While the car has yet to turn a wheel in anger on the race circuit, it certainly looked the part and generated a number of enquiries and discussions. It is planned for some testing before the first meeting and is due at the first of our meetings on April 7 at Silverstone. This could be the start of a new competition car for MG, a very welcome sight. Could this lead to a stand-alone Championship in 2019? Another car on the stand was a Metro from our Drayton Manor Park Metro Cup, a very competitive series with close races in very equal machinery. The costs of racing in this Championship are modest and it is said that £6,000 can cover the cost of the car, and race preparation as well as race entry fees if the driver is 26 or under. Yes, that’s right, a total of £6,000 covers the year’s racing. It is said some spend more than

that on a race kart engine!! Similar costs are spoken of in the Club’s premier series The MG Trophy, which caters solely for MG ZRs with three different classes. The Trophy race is often the highlight of a Club meeting; good grids normally in excess of 30 cars, great competitive driving with results across the line split by split seconds. The show ZR160 was sold on the Saturday to a 16-year-old who will be racing it in the Trophy this year. Both of these Championships are ideal for a first-time competitor and with the Club’s half-price entry fees for the under 26s, we have had great success in attracting younger drivers to the racing. Another aspect pioneered by the Club is the driver entry fee rebate calculated at the end of the year. Providing the competitor has taken part in all of his or her Championship scheduled with the Club, 5% of the total entry fee is rebated to competitors. At the same time, all qualifying drivers are entered into a draw for a £500 contribution towards the 2018 entry fees, with the second receiving £250. No money, but a discount off of 2018 entry fees! The Club is due to be at the Race Retro show at Stoneleigh on February 23-25. As usual, we will have a premier stand just inside the main entrance. It’s always a mecca for competitors and friends alike, often with many of the luminaries of the race scene calling in to rekindle friendships and contacts. Positioned right in the centre of England, just south of Coventry, it is easy to get to, well served as it is by roads and motorways…See you there? Remember, the season starts on April 7. By the time you all read this it will only be about 10 weeks away…time to sort the car out, to check that helmet, overalls and other equipment are clean, serviceable and, of course, in date, and perhaps time to renew your race licence!

www.mgcc.co.uk

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FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 65

DUNCAN WOOD DUNCANW@MGS-ON-TRACK.CO.UK WWW.MGS-ON-TRACK.COM

MG on track

GOODWOOD AND SILVERSTONE

Gs on Track were very pleased to be asked to join the Lotus on Track day held at Snetterton in mid-January, but the first dedicated MGoT event of the year will be held at Goodwood on February 17. Set in the rich countryside of West Sussex and famous for The Festival of Speed and The Revival, Goodwood maintains a 1950s aura of white painted buildings and manicured lawns. Developed from an original Battle of Britain airfield, the circuit was the venue for the country’s first post-war race meeting in 1948, and continued to host contemporary racing for a further eighteen years. Despite its airfield origins, the track has much to interest and challenge drivers, average speeds are high, and there is a very special ambience. In a change from previous years, the Goodwood management have asked that a hospitality package be included within the normal circuit booking. Therefore, this year all drivers, second drivers, and passengers will be provided

66 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

with lunch in the Jackie Stewart Pavilion, with complimentary tea and coffee available throughout the day. Clearly this does entail some additional cost, particularly for passengers who would normally be free of charge; we have accepted the arrangement on a trial basis so will be interested to hear opinion from our members after the event. At MGoT we firmly believe in the value of instruction, particularly if a driver is new to a circuit. To this end we ensure that we have Association of Racing Drivers Schools (ARDS) qualified instructors available at all our events at a reasonable cost to our members. At Goodwood we are expecting current British Touring Car Championship driver Jake Hill to instruct for us; he was at Brands Hatch for last December’s track day, and his calm and cheerful approach was much appreciated. In addition to Jake we are hoping that Alan Wilshire will be managing for Goodwood on the day. Alan is always happy to offer advice, encouragement or perhaps the odd witty putdown, and we all look forward to re-making the acquaintance of this longstanding friend of MGoT.

Alan Wilshire will also be MGs on Track’s day manager at the Silverstone event on March 19. The day will be run with three 20-minute sessions per hour. One session will be for MGs, and one each for Lotus on Track and the Lotus Seven Club who are sharing our day. Even those who have never visited this circuit will be familiar with it as the home of the British Grand Prix, and we will be using the full Arena GP layout as ‘featured on TV’. Like Goodwood, Silverstone’s roots were also those of a wartime airfield, this time one originally used by heavy bombers. The two circuits opened as racing venues almost concurrently, Silverstone hosting the RAC International Grand Prix in October of 1948. Numerous changes over the decades have given us today’s circuit, which boasts long, fast straights combined with highly technical sections such as the eponymous Arena combination of corners, and it is a challenging circuit even for drivers of lowerpowered MGs. Unlike Goodwood which has remained largely undeveloped, Silverstone benefits from the large run-off areas required for current Formula One events. Most of our members drive to the circuit and obviously also intend to drive back home again, so a little extra space when enthusiasm exceeds talent is always welcome! The 2018 Calendar features all of MGs on Track’s favourite circuits including, in April, Cadwell Park in the Lincolnshire Wolds. In contrast to the wide-open spaces of Silverstone this is a narrow track that winds through pretty parkland, and includes changes of elevation that you may not associate with this eastern county. Numbers are limited at this event so prompt booking to ensure a place is highly recommended. Details of these and all our other events are on our website.

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG CAR CLUB SPEED CHAMPIONSHIP MGS ON TRACK – 2018 CALENDAR

JOHN WILMAN, BEECHFIELD, FERN BANK, CHAPEL-EN-LE-FRITH, HIGH PEAK. SK23 0JJ T E L : 07778 165186 W W W . M G S P E E D . N E T

Please visit www.mgs-on-track.com to register, check availability, or to book a track day. Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates. Goodwood – February 17 Take a step back in time with the first of two visits to this atmospheric venue. Silverstone – March 19 Everyone should drive at the home of the British GP at least once. Cadwell Park – April 16 A twisty and hugely scenic circuit in the Lincolnshire Wolds. Snetterton – May 21 A fast and open track; long straights combined with a challenging infield section. Croft – June 15 A shared day with Lotus on Track on a great circuit, set between the Yorkshire dales and Yorkshire moors! Castle Combe – June 25 The first of two annual visits to this very friendly circuit in Wiltshire. Blyton Park – July 23 Not a traditional racing circuit, but very popular with all who’ve tried it. North Weald – August 10 An introductory activity day for those who have not yet tried a full track day. A chance to explore the capabilities of driver and car in complete safety. Castle Combe – September 10 A second opportunity to enjoy the thrills of this everpopular track which includes a couple of chicanes and technical corners! Donington – October 1 A flowing, historic circuit in the Midlands, featuring the fantastic Craner Curves and Old Hairpin sequence. Anglesey – October (date to be confirmed) Experience this challenging circuit on a day shared with the Lotus 7 Club. Overlooking the Irish Sea and with views to Snowdonia this track offers something for all. Goodwood – October 29 A second visit in case you missed the first due to popularity! Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 3 Our last event of 2018. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy

A happy and successful New Year to all readers of this column and particularly to the Speed Championship competitors whose involvement makes it possible and relevant. 2018 should prove to be something of a watershed year. Since 2001 the championship has passed smoothly from year to year bolstered by the unswerving support of our long-time sponsors, Luffield Cars of Loughborough, and of course their Managing Director, David Wood. So much so that the term ‘THE LUFFIELD’ has taken on iconic status, much as ‘Hoover’ has for vacuum cleaners. Now, for entirely understandable reasons, we have to say goodbye to this superb backer. At the time of writing, we have not yet attracted new sponsorship and should the situation stay the same, the North West Centre will be promoting the Championship under the title of ‘The MG Car Club Speed Championship’. Everything else will stay the same and we will be offering the same mix of sprints and hillclimbs countrywide as before. We had several new competitors sign up in 2017, driving MG cars ranging from our older cars right through the range to the latest offerings. The impression I get is that they all enjoyed the experience and will be back again this year. In addition, I have had a number of enquiries from potential competitors who have picked up on the enthusiasm and camaraderie and can’t wait to get involved. The South West Centre are holding their annual dinner and award presentation on Saturday February 24. This gives our Southern competitors the chance to collect their well-earned awards and no doubt discuss this this year’s campaign with their fellow speeders. Details of the dinner and its venue are available on the South West Centre website. Shortly after this, on March 24, is our first event. Courtesy of British Automobile Racing Club Midlands centre, we are invited to their annual sprint at Rockingham Raceway, near Northampton. If you have never been to this impressive venue it is well worth a visit. Designed originally for American oval type racing, it offers amazing viewing facilities. This hardly gives us time to digest the turkey and mince pies and we are off again with Harewood, Curborough and Goodwood following closely in April. Finally, as you will see from the photograph, things do not always go to plan. David Tandy competes in the very pretty MK 1 Sprite. On the second day of the Loton Park weekend David’s diff let go as he started his first run and his event ended on a transporter.

this undulating circuit including Paddock Hill Bend!

www.mgcc.co.uk

Terry Pigott pushing his V8 hard at Prescott in 2009

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 67

OUT&ABOUT

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TF 1500 And rew Kelly took this stun ning phot o of )hisfrom the 10th north ding (hea e hom way the on ny” “Tiffa , Trial iot Herr and Run Hen kled Tyne-Tees Old Spec n. ingto Darl near hed finis h whic A new acquis itio n to the Be ll fa mily fleet. Ro b Be ll inh erit ed from his second Un cle a 192 9 MG WL 6564. Th e photo is of the car M- type Mi dget, reg istration as collect ed. Ph oto: Ro b Be ll

Hiro shi Tachika and Pete r Cook drivi ng on the winding road, near Kobe, Japa n

68 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Mou nt Rok ko

Nag oya MGCC mem bers with MGCC ctor Pete r Cook, take n at the ‘Me et the MG’ event hosteDire d by the Kobe MGCC www.mgcc.co.uk

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OVERSEAS REVIEW A MONTHLY LOOK THROUGH A FEW OF THE OVERSEAS MAGAZINES WE RECEIVE AT KIMBER HOUSE REVIEWED BY PETER STEVENS

It’s that time of the year again. Here in the UK the weather is not especially inviting, our MGA is tucked up in ‘her’ well-ventilated and dry garage and I’m in a warm house, looking at Parts Catalogues, planning maintenance jobs and anticipating the runs we’ll be able to take part in, in just a month or two. Part of the fun is also reflecting on past pleasures, and reviewing some of the magazines sent to Kimber House from around the world gives me an ideal opportunity to see just what activities fellow Club members have been enjoying. MG MAGASINET from Norway has, as its cover picture, an MGA which has been fitted with a crossflow cylinder head and twin 40DCOE Weber carburettors. More detail is given in the article within the magazine, which reveals that it has a 1622cc engine and alloy radiator. I thought the ‘Brooklands’ type aero screens looked particularly good, as did the Black with Tan trim colour scheme. Clearly some very lucky person’s pride and joy and probably a lot quicker than mine! Also included are examples of design studies for future models, MGF/ TF Register notes, with a picture of an immaculate car with L plates attached, (presumably by a loving and trusting parent), and an item with a picture of the dreaded head gasket concern. The MGA news items and technical tips, including a V8-engined MGB Roadster, were interesting, as was the article on a visit to the revival meeting at Goodwood, with actor Rowan Atkinson, competing in an A35, being mentioned.

70 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Photographs of MGA, B and Z models towing mini-caravans intrigued me, as did the MGB Roadster pick-up conversion. A number of social events were detailed and finally a photograph of a very happy-looking lady in her TD, which left me with the distinct impression that our Norwegian friends have a lot of fun with their MGs. The Spark from the Washington DC Centre in the USA has delightfully warm and friendly articles by their President, also known as “The Distributor”, and Activities Chair, aka “The Generator”, in which past and future events are detailed. It seems that such events are greatly enhanced by the coffee and pastries provided by wives of members. An interesting item on diagnosing electrical problems stressed the importance of a logical and sequential approach, and the classified advertisements indicated a healthy turnover of cars and spare parts. MG Motoring from South Australia contained items on the many social activities they have enjoyed, including their 2017 National Meeting, the author of which very emphatically stressed the significant contribution made by volunteer helpers, and thanked them warmly. Their Kimber Run and Super Sprint events look to have been great fun, and it was good to see pictures of Z and 1100/1300 models on track. Mid-week lunch gatherings seem to be much enjoyed and the magazine was rounded off with excellent advertisements, including one for custom-made benches and storage. And for my last read this month, THE CANTERBURY MaG from New Zealand struck me as being in a very

happy and relaxed style, especially because of the interview with a member who has enjoyed a wide variety of MG models during his motoring life. It began with Austin 7 and Morris 8 models, but the MG enthusiasm was triggered by a trip in a 1954 TF, owned by a colleague, at which point he decided he wanted one. However, 40 years were to pass before that ambition was achieved. Various “moderns” came and went, along with a ’66 Midget, Daimler Sovereign, another ’66 Midget, a ‘54 TF in pieces (’98 to ’01 restoration), a ’51 TD, a ZT, an RV8 (sadly crashed), and a ’60 MGA. He now has his sights set on an MGB GT! Also included was an article on 1930s publicity events for the M Type Midget, which included an attempt to make 100 ascents of the notorious “Beggar’s Roost” trials hill in Devon, with a team of four cars. They succeeded, making their runs between 2.15am and 10.00am. The team of enthusiasts who attempted to recreate the event some 80 years later were not quite as successful, but, given the age of their cars, that was perhaps no surprise. It was, however, an appropriate homage to a model which still delights many of us when we encounter one. Summer isn’t too far away for those of us in the North, and we’ll soon be able to enjoy the company of like-minded friends again. Our common interests create a bond and I have to say that I rather agree with whoever said: “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy cars, and that’s kind of the same thing.” I think I’d use a specific marque name rather than “cars” and I’m sure you know what I mean!

www.mgcc.co.uk

Friday 21 to Sunday 23 September 2018

The Orwell Bridge, Ipswich, Suffolk

Come and explore East Anglia with a weekend of scenic driving, socialising and exploring the Suffolk and Norfolk countryside and coast. Based at Ufford Park Golf and Spa Hotel, Woodbridge, Suffolk, our three-day event will include tours to places of interest on Saturday and Sunday.

Ufford Park Golf & Spa Hotel, Woodbridge

Day 1 Friday 21 September Arrival from 3pm. Welcome drink, followed by dinner in the Vista Room at Ufford Park Hotel. Day 2 Saturday 22 September All day tour, including light lunch. Route includes a trip on a chain ferry to the Norfolk Broads, and an afternoon cruise on a Mississippi Paddle Boat. Dinner in the Vista Room. Day 3 Sunday 23 September Morning tour of the Suffolk coast, joined by local Anglian members. Farewell buffet lunch at Thorpeness Country Club. Bookings open 1 March 2018: for further information and booking form go to eastangliantour@mgccanglia.com

The Sutton Hoo Helmet

Chain Ferry, Reedham

The Shell, Aldeburgh

26th

Old Speckled Hen Tour Sunday May 28 2018

Mr / Mrs / Ms First Name ………………………..…… Surname ……………...………………... Address ……………………………………………………….. Address …………………………………………….................. Town ………………………………………………………….. Post Code …………..…… Phone ………………………….. Mobile ………………………….. E-mail ........................................................................................ MG Car Club Membership No. ................................................

Entries limited to 100 cars Entry Fee: £25 per car To include light refreshment at the start; detailed tulip route book; rally plate and one cream tea per person at the finish. Last date for entries: Monday May 21 2018

MG Car Information: Model:………………………… Registration No:…………………… Year:……………. Years Owned:……………

Cheques payable to: MGCC Abingdon Works Centre Entries to Richard Martin, 26 Medlicott Drive, Abingdon, Oxon. OX14 5PS. Tel: 01235 529331 e-mail: r.martin@mgabingdon.org.uk If no e-mail address above, please include a stamped addressed envelope.

CENTRES

ABINGDON WORKS

RICHARD MARTIN sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk On a cold but dry morning, around 50 cars gathered in Abingdon’s Market Place for the 24th Boxing Day meet. After a coffee and a chat, a number of them chose to set off on a rural road run which finished at the Black Horse pub on the old factory test route, just outside Abingdon, whilst others elected to go direct to the pub! The Abingdon Community Hospital League of Friends has benefitted from the donations received in the Market Place, so many thanks for your contributions. New Year’s Day saw members supporting the 9th Vintage Stony in Stony Stratford’s Market Square, whilst

others went along to The Classic Motor Hub in Bibury, in the heart of the Cotswolds. The end of the first week of 2018 saw Bicester Heritage hold its first Scramble of the year with Centre members supporting the MGB and Midget Registers and the Thames Valley Region’s F Register braving a cold, clear day on the old airfield. All these events and more are included in our regular email Newsletters, so if you don’t receive them please let us know and we’ll add you to the circulation. Notice of our AGM is included in this issue and we’d love to see you there. This year,

ANGLIA

ROB MUIR 01206 862619 Email: scribe@mgccanglia.com Website: www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia-centre

Anglia Centre Facebook Page With new committee member Alison Isaacson at the helm of the Centre Facebook page, I urge all of you who have not yet done so to log in and join the page. As a member of the MG Car Club, once you log in you can join the Anglia Centre group – it’s as easy as that. Alison is doing a fantastic job, putting a large amount of the latest information as it happens onto the site. You can contact her via facebook@ mgccanglia.com and she will post photos of your Club Meets and events for you, too. Remember that you can also have photos and reports of your events included on the website

www.mgcc.co.uk

by contacting our webmaster, Kelvin Fagan, via webmaster@ mgccanglia.com Of course, I appreciate that not all members like to use computers, in which case I am more than happy to accept photos and reports via ‘Snail Mail’ as they say, or receive a telephone call from you and I will do my best to include your views, reports and photos in the next available issue of Safety Fast! Believe me, it is always nice to have a chat with a member who rings me (those who know me tell me I can talk for England, don’t know if they mean it as a compliment though!) and I am more than

we’re delighted to advise that Anne Allison is coming along to let us know what her life in the MG World has been like. Husband, Mike, is an author and MG racer and is well known around the world, but Anne’s accompanied him every step of the way so it promises to be an entertaining afternoon. We’re also looking for nominations for the AWC’s Centre Member of The Year award, so if you know someone who you think has done a lot for the Centre over the past 12 months please let us

know as soon as possible. Also in this issue, is an entry form for the 2018 Old Speckled Hen, so why not get in early and get an entry in the post? As this year it’s the weekend before MGLive!, for anyone travelling a distance to Silverstone why not set out a week earlier and take part in both events? Finally, the Committee would like to extend a warm welcome to all our new members whom we look forward to meeting during 2018. Welcome to the MG family!

TC amongst the cars attracting attention on Boxing Day

happy to get things published in the old-fashioned way, so don’t feel left out – it’s your Club. East Anglian Tour 2018 Our touring holiday, based at the Ufford Park Hotel, Woodbridge, Suffolk, will run from Friday 21 to Sunday September 23 2018. With a weekend of scenic driving, socialising and exploring the Suffolk and Norfolk countryside and coast. our three-day event will include tours to places of interest on Saturday and Sunday. Please email eastangliantour@mgccanglia. com for further information and to register your interest. Bookings will be taken via an online form from March 1; links to the booking form will be emailed to those who register interest and will also be posted on the Centre website.

This is the first tour of its kind to be organised by the Anglia Centre, so now is the time to register if you don’t want to miss out on this historic event. P&A Wood Visit on April 14 Another of our Centre events that is bound to create a lot of interest is the biannual visit to P&A Wood, the Rolls Royce restoration experts based at Great Easton, near Dunmow, Essex. Our own Andrew Woods, a host of the Mid Essex Club Meet, has again organised the trip for us. Participants will get a tour of the workshops, which include engine, chassis and handcrafted vehicle body restoration workshops, along with a chance to look at the fantastic, and very expensive, Rolls Royce motorcars for sale in the showrooms. Reservations open on February 1 via email at andrewwoods@mgccanglia.com

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 73

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CENTRES

CALEDONIAN

BOB MACGILLIVRAY 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com

We have only one event this month, the Dreadnought Garage Technical Day on the 18th. Lunch is available beforehand at the Old Rectory and this will be a good afternoon in good company with an excellent host! There is still time to join us if you wish, and as always I am looking for suggestions for topics you would like to see covered. As usual, book through our website please. Our second lunch of 2018 will be on March 11 at Airth Castle, near Falkirk. It’s an excellent location and will be a very pleasant afternoon. MGs are optional so long as you come along! Again, book through the website.

Don’t forget also the Elvis Tribute weekend on March 2325. Always popular and a lot of fun. Spaces may still be available but check through the website. Our AGM is on April 3 in Bridge of Allan. There are a few committee members standing down and we are always looking for fresh blood… if you would like to help then please get in touch. And even if you simply want to find out more about how the committee operates or to complain about or congratulate us please come along! Further ahead, bookings are now open both for the August five-day Tour around Banchory and Fort William and the

DEVON & CORNWALL GRANNY JANNER www.allegropeter@aol.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/

CHANGE OF DATE FOR AGM Owing to a clash, the date of the AGM and venue has to be changed. It’s now being held at the Callington Bowling Club, 38 Liskeard Road, Callington, PL17 7JE on Saturday March 24 2018. Congratulations go to Terry Bolt who received the British Empire Medal for services to the community in Cornwall in the New Year’s Honours List. Natter News There are eight Natters to choose from throughout Devon and Cornwall. The South Hams Natter celebrated Christmas at the Furzeleigh Mill Hotel and most members stayed the night.

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The meal was excellent and the lighting of the Christmas pudding was the highlight. About 30 people partook and after the meal settled down for some booze and an in-depth discussion of the world. Thanks, Graeme, for putting this on. As Graeme will be away for several months, Val Miller and her helper Jean Edwards will be shoring up the monthly meetings. South Hams meet at The Hunting Lodge, Cadleigh Park, near. Ivybridge, meeting on the first Wednesday in the month. The Torbay Natter held their Christmas meal at lunch time; an excellent meal was had by all. They meet at The Churston Manor Hotel, Churston Ferrers,

September trip to Arran on the 15th to 17th. Both these events fill quickly so I would recommend that you don’t delay! You have been warned! The show season will soon be upon us so keep an eye on the website. Allow me to make a plea for you to book early! It is extremely difficult for the Show Team to plan these things properly when we are uncertain of who may or may not enter. The Show organisers are requiring us to detail our entries well in advance of the actual events, so please do what you can to help! We will be majoring on V8s as our theme this year but ALL MGs are welcome! I made an appeal last month for email addresses… and received two! There are a lot of members out there who don’t receive our regular emails

because we don’t have a current address. If you think you are in that category then please advise Nancy, our secretary, on mgcalsec@yahoo.com As always, if you have a suggestion regarding a possible new event or wish to comment (hopefully favourably) on any of our planned events for this year please let me or any committee member know. We aim to please! And finally, if you are looking for MG-related items for gifts then check out our new Regalia items or contact Tony or Lorraine.

Brixham TQ5 0JE, meeting at lunch time in the winter and evenings in the summer. Leader Alan Turner. West Cornwall meet at The Norway Inn, Perranworthal. The Natter leader is Ron Henderson, and they meet on the first Thursday in the month. North Cornwall meet at the Earl of St. Vincent, Egloshayle, Wadebridge, leader Rob Constant. They meet on the first Sunday in the month. Their Christmas meal was attended by 14 people, Barry and Fee Smith were the quiz masters and the winner this year was Brian Galbraith. Brian becomes next year’s quiz master. Horsebridge (Boarder Natter) meet at The Royal, Horsebridge, near Tavistock, Devon, leader Ian Cameron, and they meet on the third Wednesday of the month. Exeter and East Devon meet

at The New Inn, near Broadclyst, Exeter, leader Tony Short, they meet on the fourth Tuesday in the month, but from October to March the Natter will be held at lunchtime. North Devon meets at The Hunters Inn, Newton Tracey, located on the B3232. Leader Sheila Ballard, meetings are the second Thursday in the month. Their Christmas meal was a Dinner and Dance which all enjoyed immensely. MGF Register meet at The Dartmoor Lodge, Peartree Cross, Ashburton, leader Peter Opie and meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday. All are welcome at any Natter; if new, just make yourself known to the leader for a friendly welcome. More details and all the contacts are on our website, www.mgcc.co.uk/ devon-cornwall-centre/

Happy diners at the 2018 Chilly Willy

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CENTRES

LINCOLNSHIRE

IAN MACKENZIE 01529 497849 MaccaV8@aol.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

February Natters: Wolds Wednesday 7: Abbey Lodge Monday 12; Wishing Well Wednesday 14; Three Horseshoes Thursday 15; Lincoln Tuesday 27; Red Cow Inn Thursday 22. Luncheon Club: Wednesday 21. Early March Event AGM Abbey Lodge Thursday 1. Greetings, Octagonal friends, old and new! First, I’d like to thank my predecessor John Hebb for his sterling service in keeping us informed about all things Lincs. By way of my introduction, I’ve been an MGCC member since the eighties, and apart from dabbling in four-cylinder MGs (‘67B, two Metros, four Maestros including a turbo, MGF

VVC and ZT diesel) find myself and better half Susie to be serial V8 owners, so by now I should be committed. Living in the Lincolnshire Highlands as we do, you could say that we don’t have any problems with hills. Enough of me and mine... We are privileged to be joint Natter leaders at the new Lincoln Natter, the Ferry Boat Inn at Washingborough. The inaugural meeting was on January 23, so please come along on the fourth Tuesday each month. It doesn’t have to be your ‘local’ Natter – we would love to see you. The meetings start at 7.30pm, as do all the other Natters throughout the county.

MIDLANDS

ROGER KING rogerking43@gmail.com

2017 morphed into 2018 with a flurry of activity by Centre members. And given the weather, a snow flurry it certainly was. First up was the annual tramp around the Worcester countryside by the North Worcester Natter a few days after Christmas. The ground was crisp and even as some 16 persons braved the bracing air, driven ever onwards in the knowledge that the final destination was a hostelry that sported good ale and solid sustenance. On New Year`s Day an excellent turnout of MGs braved driving rain for Arden MG`s annual Chilly Willy run, so well

www.mgcc.co.uk

organised by Paul Dunster. A 25-mile route took us through the muddy lanes of Worcester and Warwickshire, ending up at another hostelry at Upton Snodsbury. Again, liquid and solid refreshment was taken as we contemplated time to be spent valeting cars. Regular readers of these notes will be aware that after 40 years of staging our Autumn Burton Dassett Trial the county council has decided that we can no longer access the site, basically on “environmental” grounds. Tony Lake, our trials co-ordinator, has fought a valiant fight against what we consider

The winter cobwebs were well and truly blown away by the New Year’s Day Run from the Abbey Lodge Inn, Kirkstead, Woodhall Spa, when 20 cars took to the local lanes, following a lunchtime meeting and Pride of Ownership judged by the landlord’s family. When I first joined the Club, I thought that a New Year’s Day run was just the thing to help ease the burden of the cycle of the Centre’s Natter seasonal meals and home-comfort

Christmas fayre. How wrong I was; we actually “run” in cars – far more genteel and relaxing. Next, an appeal. Without information (and pictures), both this Centre Scribe’s job and that of the Centre’s Webmaster (Bob Welch rjwelchmidget@aol. com) can be very difficult, so, if you’d like to let us know about a Centre event, or an event which Centre members have attended, please send the info and photos to either/both of us for inclusion.

New Year’s Day Pride of Ownership winners

an autocratic decision but so far that decision remains in place. The question is whether we can find another venue that approaches the challenge of Burton Dassett? With the need to circulate the Centre`s events diary looming, that alternative venue is proving elusive. Similarly, the Spring Trial. Will it be another “taster” event, or what some have dubbed a “tester” one? And again, where will it take place? In addition, the Centre is keen to move forward with our first Autosolo. We have a superb venue (for once), and dates in mind. By the time you read this all the above should have been resolved by the new committee (ok, likely to be the same people but different post holders) coming into office after the AGM in January. Fingers crossed.

The Spring Sprint at Curborough on April 8 promises to be a well-supported event. If you are looking for an excuse to go somewhere in your MG, maybe with others, why not plan a run to this venue and enjoy free motorsport? Happily, the Welsh Rallye is progressing well with some 36 now signed up to participate. Taking place over the weekend of May 11-13, and based in Aberystwyth, the route, I am reliably told, is an absolute delight with lonely roads and mountain passes reachable thanks to the start point. On the Sunday a fabulous ride up to Devils Falls on the Vale of Rheidol steam railway. Email me if you want to take part, but hurry as the hotel has only a limited number of rooms left.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 77

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CENTRES

NORTH WEST PAUL GOODMAN 01625 876300

All around the North West toolboxes and spray guns are in use in anticipation of another year of MG activity. The Centre Committee are busy working with other members to produce a wide range of events for you to participate in during the year, whatever your preferences. We have four events for the hardy and intrepid to attend this month. On Tuesday February 13, the Old Hall Farm Pub regulars will be meeting. This will be followed by the Annual General Meeting of the North West Centre on Thursday February 15. This will start at 8.30pm at the Ship Inn, Styal. We would welcome new volunteers to become committee members. After the brief formalities, there

will be an opportunity for an informal discussion about the future of the Centre. The Plough and Flail meeting will then follow on Tuesday February 20. There will be an opportunity to watch some of the “Jack Twyford” films which were donated to the Centre a few years ago. Finally, our regular lunch time meetings resume on Wednesday February 28 at The Hornsmill, Chester Road, Hapsford, WA6 0JE. All the components of our competition championships are now in place. The Cockshoot Cup racing championship kicks off on the Club Circuit at Silverstone on April 7. There is still time for drivers to register for the Championship and all competitors should now be

SOUTH EAST JO RUFFELS joruffels@gmail.com www.mgccse.co.uk

The New Year was welcomed in with style by the Fairmile Natter who hosted their now-infamous Hogmanay Dinner with a very strong Scottish theme, including a bargain-priced three-course meal and a Scottish limerick competition washed down with a slug of whisky. Photos awaited! Our new web pages (see new address above) have plenty of space for groups to advertise local events. Please send details to Ben Hill for inclusion on the web (webmaster@mgccse.co.uk) You can use the email link on the top of the web page. The first events kick off in

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February with the Stoneleigh MG and Triumph Show (Stoneleigh Park, Warwick) Sunday February 11 9.00am-4.00pm. Alongside specialist traders, the show also hosts a selection of autojumble, automobilia and cars for sale. www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/theinternational-mg-triumph-show2018-tickets-38833088814 Upcoming local events include: Fairmile film night February 8 Ian Ailes (01932 856960), Valentine’s Treasure Hunt February 18 Derek Edwards (01737 756891), 3 Horseshoes quiz night February 19 and New Year Dinner February 23 run by

submitting their entry forms. The Speed Championship contenders have their first outing at the Rockingham Race Circuit on March 25. Drivers who wish to score points need to register as soon as possible. Looking further ahead, we will have a new destination for our Drive it Day run with full details next month. Meanwhile, mark down April 22 in your diaries. Later in the year we are looking forward to Tatton Park, the Plough and Flail Concours, the Oulton Park Gold Cup and the EventCity show. You can keep

up to date via our website www. mgcc.co.uk/north-west-centre/ and our Facebook page. We also have a WhatsApp group for members who attend the Plough and Flail pub meeting. Finally, we would like to track down any MGs which have been raced or rallied over the years, but are now hidden away in garages, sheds, barns etc. These do sometimes come onto the market for sale, as happened with a Midget recently, but many others are missing. Please get in touch if you have any leads that we can follow up.

MGA and P Types spectate at Oulton Park. Photo: David Rainsbury

John Morgan (020 8657 2714), Roger Dudding talk March 8 Ian Ailes (01932 856960), village garage talk on electrics March 10 John Morgan (020 8657 2714). The Spring Naviscat organised by Peter Lamb will now take place on Sunday March 18 (please note change of date). Starting off from Barnsgate Manor, just south of Crowborough, East Sussex, following a 10.50am briefing and breakfast. It is envisaged that the rally will finish at around 2.30pm with prize giving and a two-course lunch. For details and applications contact Peter or Carole on 01892 661969 (peterlamb27@talktalk.net). The route is based around the edge of Ashdown Forest, home of Winnie-the-Pooh, a very beautiful area. Ordnance survey map 188

will be needed for this. The MG Era Day is being held at Brooklands on April 8 2018, so possibly a first outing for many of the older cars. As usual there will be action on the Test Hill, a concours d’elegance and a cavalcade on the Mercedes-Benz World circuit. This year an Awards Sunday lunch at Heavens Farm, Uckfield, Sunday April 15 will replace the dinner and dance. It is hoped that many of you will attend. To book a place contact Philip Bayne Powell 01483 811428. Derek Edwards (01737 765891) is currently taking bookings for the Isle of Wight rally May 4-7 2018. Please remember to keep the calendar flyers sent out for 2018 as these show the whole year’s events.

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 79

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CENTRES

SOUTH WEST

ANDREW OWST 01761 221893 andrewowst@hotmail.com Website www.mgccsw.com Facebook www.facebook.com/MGCCSW Our first event of 2018 is the Centre Dinner at Limpley Stoke Hotel, Limpley Stoke, near Bath, on Saturday February 24 2018. If you have not already booked your place please do so, as we all have a great time, hence the reason we continually return to the same hotel year after year. Full details are available on the South West Centre website along with the other events your committee have arranged for 2018. The second event of the year is our Annual General Meeting which will be held on Tuesday March 6 2018 at 8.30pm at The Old School Room, Compton Martin. This coincides with the Chew Valley

Natter at the Ring o Bells, Compton Martin, and the usual procedure is to come to the Natter, have a beer, walk the couple of hundred yards to the AGM, and then return to the pub for the rest of the evening. It is your chance to let the committee know what you expect from the Centre and your committee really could do with your support at the AGM. New enthusiastic members with new ideas are particularly welcome on the committee. Our third event is the secondlargest meeting the Centre runs, ie The Kimber Classic Trial, which takes place on Saturday April 7 2018. This popular trial traditionally attracts a strong entry from the

MMM Register, and for those who prefer to spectate, PLEASE volunteer to marshal, as large numbers of marshals are required on all the separate sections. This does have the advantage that the marshalling only last for two or three hours and therefore the rest of the day is free to view other sections and enjoy the long lunch break at The Camelot Inn, South Cadbury. The trial, which commences at The Lanes Hotel, West Coker, near Yeovil, runs through North Dorset and South Somerset finishing near Castle Cary. The scenery is superb. The entry forms and details of the meeting are on the South West Centre website and volunteers to marshal should contact Bruce Weston on 01963 440941, bruce@brimblelea.co.uk January and February are the two months where I like to spend

the majority of my time in the garage, hopefully to ensure the summer months can be spent driving not repairing. The major job I am currently working on is rebuilding the engine on the Midget which, as I reported in the November notes, was throwing out obnoxious fumes. The bottom end was fine but the block has now been rebored and new valves and guides have been fitted. The machining work was carried out by Autocare of Weston-super-Mare whom I used three years ago. I was so pleased with the work they did that I returned to them with the Midget “A series” engine and again they were most helpful. I am currently reassembling the engine and taking the opportunity to spruce up the engine compartment which is looking decidedly well-used.

Chairman’s Award for her 10 years’ dedicated service to the Centre as Treasurer, Membership Secretary and occasional cat herder when the Committee get a bit uppity! Add to that a raffle table groaning with prizes which raised £300 for our chosen charity, the Great North Air Ambulance, everyone went home happier, heavier and suitably enthused for the new year. And so to the future. Our AGM is to be held on March 1 at Coulby Manor where, as well as the Committee being on display for plaudits, brickbats and general indifference, there will be a FREE buffet! Now that has got your attention, as a wellknown characteristic of Tyne Tees members is that they will always travel for a free meal. Seriously,

come along, have your say, meet your fellow members from all over the region and have a good time (we keep the formal stuff to a minimum). Upcoming events: March 18 Production Car Autotest at Seaton Carew organised by our friends from Hartlepool & DMC , Contact Tony Coates on 07470 377317 or email tonycoates2003@gmail.com for details. Great fun, non-damaging, come and try it! March 25 sees Dennis Hope organising his ever-popular Sunday Lunch run, contact Dennis on 07970 115202 or email denhope@hotmail.co.uk Great scenery, good food and good company. Come along and join us and you might be taking home the silverware next year!

TYNE TEES

TONY WOOD anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk

Happy New Year: may 2018 be a successful year for your MG activities. Looking backwards, what do good food, good company and a mountain of silverware have in common? The Awards Dinner, of course! Superbly organised at the Gibside Hotel by Lyn Ebdon, an excellent meal was followed by the distribution of major prizes. Dennis Hope took home the Enthusiast Award and pre-1980 Southern Natter Pride of ownership award, and the other double-header was Noel Lindford who collected both Northern and Southern post1981 Pride of Ownership awards. Andrew Kelly and Ed Harvey took the other Pride of Ownership awards, Lynda Alexander (Lady

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Enthusiast), Ken Armstrong (Autotest) and Tony Coates and Trish Colligan, our willing and long-suffering Marshals, unsurprisingly took the Marshals Trophy and our thanks for devotion above and beyond the call of duty. Doug Carmichael, who had driven his MGB in rallies in England, France and the Isle of Man as well as at the California Cup, took the Long Beach trophy, awarded to the member who carries the Tyne Tees competition banner further afield. To complete the ceremony, a somewhat bemused Lyn Ebdon was summoned forth by the Chairman with an expression that suggested she might be put on the naughty step, but no, she was presented with a special

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 81

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CENTRES

YORKSHIRE

DAVID COPEMAN 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk North – Colin Brear We have a very supportive MG dealer network in Yorkshire; we were invited to the launch of the new MG ZS at Stanley Cars in Bradford, at the back end of 2017. We brought along our loved and cherished classic MG sports cars in support. South – Geoff Norcliffe The Piece Hall in Halifax was the scene of our Christmas celebrations, where Sue Herbert arranged for a guided walk around the newly restored buildings. The guide provided an insight into the history of the centuries-old complex, from its beginnings as a textiles trading centre to the tourist attraction it is now. We all went on to enjoy

our Christmas lunch and Secret Santa at an adjacent Italian restaurant. Thanks Sue! East – Chris Moore We were fortunate not to have the predicted heavy snow for the annual car run before our Christmas Lunch at Cave Castle. 58 diners enjoyed the meal and we thank Jill and Greg Thornton for again organising a great day out. The Scalextric Natter evening was not so successful. Despite Richard and Geoff Kirk servicing then planning a great track layout, one handset gave up. We have decided to reschedule the event for the February Natter. West – David Copeman The January meeting (Natter)

ULSTER

CAROL WILLIS (028) 9079 9997 or 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk

Christmas seems a long way away now but we had over 40 members along to our Christmas Mince Pie Night in December, where we proudly elected our new President and Vice President, founding members Mike Armstrong and Mike Wilson respectively. They have been Centre stalwarts since its inception and continue to contribute significantly to events, including those proposed for our 50th Anniversary year. During the evening, we presented a total of £1,600, which we raised during the past year, to representatives of local charities – Cancer Research NI, Alzheimer’s Society

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and Air Ambulance NI. We also had considerable fun with timed wheel and spark plug changing, a Christmas quiz, plenty of chat and – oh and yes, Mince Pies! Despite the uninviting weather, the New Year’s Day Treasure Hunt attracted 20 cars, meeting up in Newtownards to wend their way through the by-ways of the Ards Peninsula. Roger and Angela Fynn did a wonderful job creating a magical mystery tour which had a great mixture of difficult and easier clues, taking us to The Wildfowler in Greyabbey and our thanks go to them. Nobody got a full score; the winners with 37/46 were “hawk-

was well-attended, as usual. We are now looking forward to a new season of MG activities. The next main event will be the Awards Lunch at the Bridge Inn at Walshford on February 18, followed by the Daffodil Run on Easter Sunday April 1. On May Bank Holiday weekend 19 cars from the Yorkshire Centre will be heading up north for the Caledonian Centre’s Three-Day Tour. Later in May will be the Wolds Way and Canada Runs. Tiger – Pete Welbourn Many thanks to those who supported the Christmas lunch this year. There were 24 of us from around the county and, judging from the thanks, it was well received. Staying with the subject of food, we already have a couple of luncheon runs for next year sorted, Gordan is sorting a circular

eyes” Brian Glenn, Julie Fisher, John and Kathy Grant, and the wooden spoon was claimed by The Faulkners. It was a great family day out. Brian and Liz Patterson were drawn to set next year’s event and I am sure the ‘Pace-Note’ duo will provide a great route. The Centre’s immediate thoughts are the final arrangements for the Derek Walker Trial, happening imminently on February 3. The route starts with breakfast in The Ringside Cafe at Ballymena Mart before commencing a circuit of around 60 road miles from Ballymena to Ballyclare, Mallusk, Antrim and finishing back at Ballymena Mart. The Trial will comprise 20 or so tests on a variety of surfaces, providing a challenge and a full day’s motor-sporting entertainment

tour from Langlands to The Mill at Skidby, and Terry suggested we re-run Holderness II as it chucked it down last time and we cheated and used non-MG coupes. Vale of York – Ken Cothliff December 21 was our second Christmas party in the history of this Natter. 41 people attended the dinner at the Masons. An excellent raffle was organized by Rod; we had 26 prizes, so most couples got a chance of a gift. If you have any ideas for any Natter events next year, do bring them to the first 2018 meeting which will be on February 15 at the Masons. As Natter Leader I’m delighted at the progress of this group, especially with the continuing support from members of other Natters, and especially the local MG 24/39 Group. We seem to be going from strength to strength.

for both entrants and spectators. As usual, we would be grateful for marshals for the event, so please indicate your availability to the Club Secretary, Carol. The Centre’s new trailer, bought in the autumn for all our sporting equipment, has now been ‘wrapped’ and is resplendent in its ‘Old English White’ background showing off the theme of British racing green Club logos with a black MG Midget. The interior just needs some finishing and it will be ready for our 2018 events. Dates for your Diary: January 31 Film Night at Tudor Cinema, Comber February 3 Derek Walker Classic Trial – Start at Ballymena Mart February 24 Autotest – venue tbc February 28 Lunchtime Nosh and

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 83

2 Targa Sicilia May 10th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 24th 2018

The Country Lane Tours Targa Sicilia last May, tying in with celebrations marking the 100th running of the Targa Florio and the 110th anniversary of its inception, was voted a tremendous success by all participants. The event was oversubscribed so it will run for the second and last time in 2018, with entries restricted as previously to fifty cars. Starting with the overnight ferry from Genoa, the tour begins with two nights in Villa Igiea, a stunning hotel overlooking the bay of Palermo and originally owned by the Florio family. Small car, small engine - no problem! From Palermo the tour follows the coast to halts in Mazara del Vallo, Agrigento (Valley of the Temples), Ragusa (Montalbano country!), Siracusa and Taormina before skirting Mount Etna and calling in at Autodromo di Pegusa on the way back to Cefalu and the ferry. With brilliant driving roads, including the Targa Florio itself, stunning scenery, and numerous amazing attractions, this is a holiday of a lifetime with your vintage or classic car, especially as you can drive the Targa Florio route and Automobile Club Palermo will be opening up the Floriopolis Pits and museum especially for us. To receive a full detailed information pack, including a FREE DVD of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour, email your postal address to countrylanetours@gmail.com or call Ian on 01824 790280, but hurry as entries have already been received, including one from a participant last time!

REGISTERS

VINTAGE

JOHN VENABLES 01865 862573 johnandtriciav@gmail.com

The New Year is upon us and I must say I took an MG out on Boxing Day and came home feeling like a brass monkey, it was cold. Anyway, let us have a look at what is in store for the year ahead. First up is the AGM. You

will have received details in the bi-monthly bulletin, and you need to return your menu choice. Our next important event is the tour in Pickering, April 23-27. I understand there are a couple of places available still, so if you want to come contact John Day.

This is a fresh area for the Register and should be very interesting. Silverstone follows at the beginning of June. Details are to follow and I am sure it will be the usual great event. We shall have a new Chairman after the AGM and he may have some new ideas for later in the year. Whilst mentioning a new Chair, we must thank Debbie Brading for her spell as Chair. She has been very

enthusiastic and we are most grateful to her for helping out. The Register is quite small, so it is sometimes difficult to find replacements.

Mildenhall in Suffolk at that time. The photo was taken the day he brought his new treasure home, and that’s me (his daughter) sitting in the car with him (photos next month! – Ed). The engine did turn over when he brought it home, all the parts and original paperwork were there. The car became his weekend project of many years and many weekend trips were spent refurbishing existing parts. The seats were re-covered and the front grill re-chromed, among other things. I moved to America with my husband in 1978, so I wasn’t there to see all the work being done. My Dad continued to restore his car until he became ill and could no longer physically do the work. He lost his battle with ALS (Motor Neurone Disease) and passed

away in 1989. My mother, now 90 years young and still in the area, kept it covered up in a garage, and it remained in quite good condition. My husband, together with a friend, did the work of pulling it out of the garage and locating the parts. The car, Chassis 314, is quite an early model. It would make a wonderful restoration project as it is complete, although not fully assembled. I would love to see it restored by someone who would enjoy the project as much as he did, and to be able to see it when finished, maybe even have a ride in it – that would have made my Dad smile. - Barbara Dark If anyone is interested in acquiring this car, please drop us a line and we’ll put you in touch.

Vintage Register AGM Venue: Shillingford Bridge Hotel, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 8LZ Date: Sunday March 4 2018 Time: 10.30-11.00am Agenda 1. Welcome and apologies for absence 2. To receive the Minutes of the previous AGM 3. Acceptance of AGM minutes 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report 6. Stand down/rotation election of officers 7. Any Other Business

Vintage Cars gather for a previous AGM at the Shillingford Bridge Hotel.

SVW

PAUL CAMPBELL svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/

No doubt like me you’re making good use of the winter months to do the various tasks on your cars, looking forward to the spring and filling in your 2018 diary with all the events you wish to attend. One such event may hopefully be the annual SVW gathering, which I briefly reported on last month. Charlie has created a new email address for this event should you wish to be in touch – Cplainjonesmg@gmail.com Details and contact for the hotel can be found at www.phcompany. com/de-vere/tortworth-court Full details will be in our four-page spread next month. If you’ve contacted us regarding your views on

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electronic delivery of The SVW Review, we’re very grateful. If you haven’t, please check last month’s edition and drop us a line. I previously mentioned a VA Tourer in Norfolk that’s been in the same family since the 1960s, but last month I had insufficient space to do it justice. Barbara Dark now takes up the story. After 28+ years covered up in a garage, we recently brought out my late father’s 1937 MG VA Tourer. Jack Fields, my father, bought the car in 1968 from a local farmer for £50.00 ($85). He was serving in the US Air Force at

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 85

REGISTERS

Y TYPE

JERRY BIRKBECK jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk Tel: 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 What’s on in 2018? We do not have anything as absorbing as the Round Britain Relay this year. Our activities as a Register include three principal activities. The Spring Weekend, over the weekend of May 12-13, which is being organised by the indefatigable Peter Sharp, will be based in his home county of Bedfordshire. The run on the Sunday will take place over roads that even Peter has mentioned that he was unaware of! In June MGLive! at Silverstone is scheduled for the weekend of Saturday 2- Sunday 3. Whilst later that month sees a return to the delightful Llanerchindda Farm in mid-Wales

from Friday 22 to Monday June 25. The cost for a three-night stay is £245 per person. This is for bed, breakfast and evening meal. If you would like to join the party, please book directly with Llanerchindda Farm on 01550 750274. www.cambrianway. com Could you please let Chris know when you have booked in. chairman@mgccyregister.com The Photographs Over the first week of the New Year I found a couple of photos going back over 20 years. Both were taken on the MG Octagon Wings Run, I think from 1993 and 1996 – which seems like yesterday! I am unsure who the

86 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

owners are/were. I do, though, recall driving Richard Dick’s excellent YB saloon (now in Australia with his son) to Millets Farm, near Abingdon, in 1993. It was the first time that I had driven a Y for over 15 years (having sold my first in 1979). It was also the first time that I had attended a Wings Run and recall an article that I wrote in Safety Fast! later that year in which I referred to “an orgy of Y Types” – well, 17 in total! The Wings Run was a big event in the MG calendar with well over 100 pre-56 MGs in attendance. I bought my second Y (RVW 761) in 92, although with too many distractions – work, undertaking an MA, helping Jo bring up our three girls and playing rugby – it

was not on the road until late 94. The second picture is of DWG 260 taken in 1996, again at Millets Farm. It looks like a YA with the slender and original over riders that are so difficult to find now. That’s all folks! Keep on driving those Ys and continue to raise awareness of one of the rarer MGs!

www.mgcc.co.uk

REGISTERS

MAGNETTE

STEPHEN TICKELL 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org

Along with belated New Year wishes, I still need to catch up on a couple of things from 2017. Several Magnette owners have registered with us in the last couple of months, so a warm welcome to David Wass, Martin Howey, Bruce Greaves and Ken Belton in the UK, Nico Dippenaar in South

Africa and Mike Gilbert in Perth. There’s now pictures and details in the website gallery of well over 1,000 Magnettes worldwide, and many more than that recorded in Cynthia’s database, although undoubtedly there are plenty of cars out there for which we don’t yet have information.

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T TYPE

JOHN WARD 01621 773606 johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk www.tregister.org MG International Show & Spares Day Sunday February 11 2018 at the National Agricultural Exhibition Centre (NAEC) Stoneleigh Warwickshire CV8 2LG Last reminder for the opening event of the T Register year and your opportunity to buy T Register regalia, books and memorabilia and grab those much sought-after spares brought in by members for sale. Should you also wish to sell on some spares of your own, clean them up and clearly label the item stating ownership, contact details (preferably a mobile phone number) and the price required. There is a form

www.mgcc.co.uk

available by download from the website or on the stand on the day. Advance tickets are available online up to the day before at mgandtriumphsparesday.co.uk at a reduced price of £10.00 plus a small service charge or pay on the day at £13.00. Rebuild: Saturday April 14 at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon CV35 0BJ Since way back in 1980s the T Register has been hosting Rebuild seminars for the benefit of owners to look and learn all about our remarkable motorcars. These have always been very popular and well supported and in the past all our very

Factory styling model In December, quite unexpectedly, a 1/4 scale ZB ‘styling’ model appeared in Bonhams auction catalogue (although wrongly described there as a ZA model from 1953). Particular thanks are due to Peter Cadman who saw the catalogue and alerted the Register. Paul Batho then investigated to establish its provenance, and MGCC management quickly agreed that the Club should try to acquire the model for the archives. Finally, board member Dave Saunders was able to successfully bid for it at Bonhams on 6 December, so well done to all concerned. It’s thought the factory would have produced the model prior to minor changes for the ZB, and since it’s unlikely any others

survive from that time, it’s an exciting find. Hopefully it will be possible to unearth more of the history and to exhibit the model (which is more than three feet long) at Kimber House sometime this year – look out for further announcements.

knowledgeable and experienced speakers have never failed to enthral and entertain. So no exception again this year, once more at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon which has proved to be an accommodating and convenient venue. Last year proved popular in having one stream of speakers in one conference room and the formula will be the same this time. The two sessions in the morning will cover the muchdiscussed topic of additives being incorporated into petrol at the pumps and the possible ensuing effect that this has on components in classic cars and Paul Ireland will tell us all about the latest findings following his extensive researches being carried out at Manchester University. Following on from this, something that we can

never know enough about in maintaining a T’, Barrie Jones will go through all the rudiments of firstly getting it started… and then keeping it going, electrically, that is. After a buffet lunch we can then settle down to hearing from Paul Ireland the ways that we can possibly allay the long-term effect of ethanol on our carburettors and ways to generally improve performance all round. Finally, a much-valued session of Q&A with a group of stalwarts of the T Register fraternity, Barrie Jones, Roger Furneaux and Eric Worpe, there to answer questions and advise on all matters T Type.

Windscreen rubber Good news for those who’ve battled with refitting the original stainless steel trim to their windscreen, or at least making it stay in place. Peter Martin has just had new tooling for the windscreen rubber made up, which should result in trim that’s a closer match to the original, and subject to trial fitting he hopes to offer it for sale very soon, along with the rest of his comprehensive range of spares – see mgspecs.co.uk for more information.

Booking forms can be downloaded from our website at www.mgcc.co.uk/ t-register/2018-events

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 87

Be part of the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival All-inclusive tickets are fabulous value, providing: ■ A packed schedule of historic motor racing on the famous GP circuit ■ Full access to the paddocks – get close to the cars and talk to the drivers ■ Great viewing from the grandstands and on the big screens ■ The chance to display your car with likeminded enthusiasts inside the event when buying a car club package. ■ Live music on Friday & Saturday evening ■ A vintage funfair & much more!

... all included in the ticket price! “We just couldn’t believe the access. It changed it from being an event we went to watch to one we felt like we were part of”

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REGISTERS

MGA

EDWARD VANDYK 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk Details of the MGA Register Autumn Tour are now available and bookings can be made. The Tour will run from September 21-24 2018 and will be known as the ‘Cotswold and Thames Valley Autumn Tour 2018’. It is being organised by Jill and Graham Eke, to whom many thanks.

The home of MG in Abingdon will be the base for the Tour. 50 rooms have been reserved at Milton Hill House, Steventon, near Abingdon, at a rate of £100 single/£156 double per night for dinner, bed and breakfast. This includes the traditional Saturday gala dinner. Non-residents will be welcome at the gala dinner at

MGC

MIKE HAUGHTON mike@btinternet.com

We have received this short article from Dr Adam Davis which may be of interest. It makes me wonder just how many golden beige Cs are still in existence out there. “MGC Register readers might be interested in the recent unearthing of an early GT which, after a few years in the land of rust and decay, will be slowly restored to its former glory. The car in question was sprayed in a rare colour of metallic golden beige, although the former owner had the car resprayed an odd shade of yellow. Cedric, as the car will be known in the family, will be joining an A, two Bs and a F. According to

www.mgcc.co.uk

the C Archivist at Gaydon the GT was the 873rd built and the 15th sprayed in Golden Beige. As I have dismantled it all the numbers match right down to the door and ignition keys. So not only is it an early car, everything matches with continuous provenance, from the green logbook to when it was laid up to rust away! I know this restoration will face a few hurdles, not least the fact that the slam and rad panel will need fabricating unless readers know of any that we can purchase. Plus the inner wings will need some TLC. But on the whole it is a C that needs saving and showing to the wider world.”

£33 per person. Set in 22 acres of parkland some 13 miles from Oxford, Milton Hill is an attractive combination of a Georgian manor house with modern hotel facilities. Previous residents are said to include King William III, Peter the Great, and Sir Mortimer Singer of the Singer sewing machine family, so we will be in great company! www.miltonoxfordshire.co.uk Bookings on your behalf will be made with the hotel by the organisers, on receipt of the completed and signed form which is available on the MGA Register website or from the organisers, whose contact details are below. An entry fee of £25, to be paid by cheque made payable to MG Car Club MGA Register, will also be required. The MGA Register has undertaken the liability for late hotel cancellations and ‘no-

shows’, so participants must be aware that when booking they will be liable for the hotel costs if they cancel after August 22 2018 or cannot attend. The booking form contains an indemnity in favour of the MGA Register in respect of costs incurred on participants’ behalf. Participants will be required to pay their own hotel bills including incidentals when they depart. To book your place on the Tour please download an entry form at www.mgcc.co.uk/ mga-register/events-in-2018/ or contact Jill and Graham Eke, 14 The Junipers, Barkham, Wokingham RG41 4UX (jillgraham@btinternet.com) or 0118 977 4514 to whom all queries should be addressed. Completed entry forms should be returned to Jill and Graham along with your cheque.

We look forward to further updates on progress and hopefully some photos as well. The event at Brooklands MG Era Day seems to be moving up a gear. The main event is on Sunday April 8. There will be a C Register Dinner on Saturday April 7 (£15 per head for three courses – cash on the night – however you do need to prebook with your menu choices). This will be held at The Fairmile Hotel in Cobham (10 minutes from Brooklands). Members who would like to stay overnight can book into the adjoining Cobham Premier Inn. On Sunday morning we will ‘Full English’ at The Fairmile, before driving to Brooklands in convoy. Discounted tickets for MG Era are pre-bookable and include display parking, entry to all the Museum attractions,

including the new Flight Centre and the Bus Museum. Join us for the full weekend, breakfast or convoy only. Alternatively meet the group on Sunday morning at Brooklands. For more details, as well as dinner pre-booking form and Brooklands MG Era discounted tickets – Contact –Jon Glover – C Register organiser for MG Era and Fairmile Natter Co Leader. Tel: 07802 318950 or email: jongloveractor@gmail.com Also, a quick reminder for MGC Day 2018 – Fawley Hill Museum, Henley-on-Thames, on July 1. Booking forms for the weekend as well as the Era event can be downloaded from the Car Club website in the C Register section. Happy C Motoring. Colin Howes

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 89

REGISTERS

VICTOR SMITH 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net V8 Curry evening The annual V8 Curry is on Saturday February 10 at the Lloyds Indian Restaurant in Knowle near Solihull in the West Midlands. It’s close to Stoneleigh where the annual MG Show is held the following day. Details and booking arrangements are on our ‘More’ web page at www.v8register.net/more.htm MOT exemption Currently, vehicles manufactured prior to 1960 are exempt from the requirement to pass an annual MOT test, but from May 20 2018 that simple arrangement is changing to comply with an EU Regulation. In future, vehicles will not be automatically exempt on the

basis of their age, but owners will have to declare them to be Vehicles of Historic Interest (VHI). To be eligible to be a VHI, a vehicle must be over 40 years old and have not undergone any substantial modification during the previous 30 years. The meaning of “substantial modification” has been the subject of intensive discussion between the DfT and FBHVC. The original proposals put forward by DfT in its consultation would have been restrictive and impractical but it is thought that the guidelines now agreed and the introduction of the 30-year rule makes this a workable solution. The guidelines are in a document “Vehicle of Historic Interest (VHI): Substantial Change

MGF

TIM MORRIS 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org All our regions have been busy planning their basic itineraries you can see all their ideas in their respective Facebook pages and on the MGF Register internet forum. We are also putting together an all-inclusive calendar accessible via our website at www. mgfregister.org – click on Events Calendar in the left-hand column. Some of those events we have designated as “main” MGF Register events. With these events we invite members from all over the country or Europe to join us with the aim of getting to know each other better and breaking down the borders. So those main events at the moment include:March 24-25 – Chairman’s

Abingdon Weekend which includes an evening dinner and Register Awards on the Saturday plus a day run from Abingdon to a mystery location on the Sunday and, if you are so inclined, our AGM on the Saturday afternoon. If you plan to stay we have booked the Crown & Thistle Hotel in Abingdon, but I understand there are only a handful of rooms left – you’ll need to contact them yourselves to book on 01235 522556 (double room £200 including Saturday lunch and evening dinner, and Sunday breakfast; (£150 single)). The evening dinner is bookable separately at £40 per head if you are not staying at the hotel and the

90 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

Guidance”. We expect an FBHVC clarification will be released. See our ‘More’ web page for details. The existing Vehicle Excise Duty exemption arrangements are not affected in any way by these MOT exemption changes. It will still be possible for all vehicles over 40 years old to be registered in the Historic class and exempted from VED. That exemption continues to be on a rolling 40-year basis. Replacement ducting above the shroud on the exhaust manifold Angus Munro decided he would have to replace the tubular ducting above the hot air shrouds on the “Lobster Claws” attached to the air cleaners. The shrouds are located just above the exhaust manifolds. He had found they were NLA but Tony Lake

Sunday run is bookable at £10 on the MGF Register shop. April 8 Brooklands MG Era – Our regular presence at the Brooklands MG Day. We’ll have a Register parking area as usual – keep an eye out on the internet forum and Facebook pages. April 15 Arundel Castle – the MGOC have invited us back to Arundel Castle in Sussex. The Register has been before on several occasions but this year we are seeing if we can get our Southern groups together. Stay over at the White Swan in Arundel and join other members there on Saturday evening. April 22 North Norfolk Classic Vehicle Club St George’s Day Run from Sheringham to Holkham Hall. In conjunction with the MGF Register Anglia region we’ll be tagging on to this general classic

said he “had seen Revotec have some flexible aluminium ducting listed on their website in onemetre lengths at very nearly the right outside diameter – 51mm v 50mm – I have measured on my old air cleaner parts on the shelf. Given the relatively fragile nature of the ducting, having a slip fit rather than a force fit might not be such a bad arrangement.” See Revotec at: www.revotec.com Angus found their ducting fits well and he contributed a new workshop note as V8NOTE534.

Ducting above the shroud

car run along the lanes of North Norfolk – ideal for our central England-based groups. September 14-17 The French Trip. A long weekend in St Pol-sur-Ternoise, staying at Les Ballastieres. Mark the end of the Great War centenary with a visit to Vimy Ridge and the preserved trenches. There is no specific plan for the Sunday but there are plenty of places of interest in the area, including the battlefield at Agincourt. Travel by Eurotunnel on Friday with a scenic route to the village. There are limited places at Les Ballastieres but other options will be available should that fill quickly. As always, do check the internet forum, Facebook page or website for all the latest information on these and other events organised by the MGF Register.

www.mgcc.co.uk

REGISTERS

ZR/ZS/ZT

JOHN THOMPSON Tel: 07854 275541 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister Our first event of the new year will be just over a week away when you read these notes. It’s good to see all our planning reach fruition. Having been the traditional season opener for us for many years, it’s good to return to Stoneleigh for the MG and Triumph Spares Day after a gap of three years. It had become noticeable in the last few years that more and more Zed groups and forums were present at this show. We return with a bang and on our stand will have three Zeds which have never been on display before – to promote the Car Club and ourselves. Plans also continue on the arrangements for the Practical Classics Restoration & Classic Car

show in March. Our stand will include three Zeds, two of which have received a huge amount of renovation and TLC to return them to prime condition. But I won’t say what they are or who owns them! You will just have to come and find out. We will be located in Hall five on stand 535 right next to the main Club stand. Work continues apace on the arrangements for our ‘MGs in the City’ event in May. We are currently in negotiations with the Coventry Motor Museum and in the process of booking Millennium Place. Once the details have been finalised we will begin promoting this event properly. Moving into April, we will also be booking

MG6.3.5

STEVE HAINES Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register https://twitter.com/635register Things are starting to take shape for 2018, with lots of events being organised and booked. Good news to start the year that Shaun Hollamby’s AMD Tuning team will be running the very successful MG6 GTs in the 2018 BTCC season. It will be interesting to see who will be piloting them. It gives us yet another exciting year supporting the MGs in the touring car season. Let’s get behind the new team and hope for a very successful year… The Register would like to formally thank MG Motor, particularly Keith Harris and his team, for their support of us, their generosity and enthusiasm in support of owners of the

www.mgcc.co.uk

newest of the MG marque over the last five years. It’s really been a fantastic rollercoaster of a ride in the BTCC. We also thank Josh Cook and Aron Taylor-Smith for their support of the Register through 2017 and wish them all the best with their challenges ahead in 2018. Hopefully the early March events will be well supported at the BTCC Media day at Donington on March 27, with the season opener at Brands on the weekend of April 7-8. Our first big event for 2018 will be the Pride of Longbridge at Cofton Park on April 14 and we have booked a large stand for 6, 3 and SUVs. Further details will

A stunning MG ZT260, belonging to Matthew Lynch which was voted car of the show at Zed15.

space at Pride of Longbridge when the online form becomes available. The space requirement and vehicle numbers will be discussed and confirmed with the organisers. If you are interested in attending please let us know so we have an idea of numbers. This year marks the 15th Anniversary of the launch of the MG ZT 260 and we will be featuring this event throughout

the year, culminating with a display of V8s at MG Saloon Day in July. Further details will follow in due course. Before then, however, we would ideally like to have a V8 as one of our three Zeds on display at the NEC in March. If you would be willing to have your ZT 260 on show please either let myself or a member of the committee know. Thank you in advance.

follow on our stand number and location. The Register will have its gazebo and regalia, as well as an opportunity for owners to sign up to the Register. If you have any queries or ideas for events, please either check out the Facebook page events tab or the MGCC web page on our Register micro page,

where there is a full list of events for the year. If you are going to an event, please indicate attendance so we can account for numbers on stands and allocate enough space for everyone. If you have any ideas or wish to promote any events, please contact Sean Round: sean@ seanround.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 91

CL ASSIFIEDS

CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

Postcombe Service Station A40 London Road, Postcombe ,Oxon,OX9 7ED Many more available

www.former-glory.com. Est. 1986 MGA ROADSTER 1600 MK1 1960, Fully rebuilt by MG Specialist and low mileage since. Over £34000 spent on the restoration.Chariot red, bespoke leather interior with matching mohair hood and tonneau. Chrome wires, kenlowe fan,hi torque starter and electronic ignition. Please call for details £31950

Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course. This is for one insertion only. To place an advert or for additional insertions email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with details of your car, around 60 words, together with an attached picture, your contact information, price of your car, the area where you live, and membership number. Cost for non-members to advertise is £20. All adverts should be submitted by the 10th of the month for the following months issue.

MGA 1600 MK1 COUPE, Rare UK car, 1960, 1700 PX, old english white with red leather. Comprehensive history, including heritage certiﬁcate with matching details. Professional repaint in 2007 and hardly used since. Superb period interior. £25950 MGC ROADSTER, 1969, Bare shell rebuild just completed,concours bay, built by MGC Specialist, with all new or reconditioned parts throughout. Sandblasted bare shell and then rebuilt with show standard underside and engine bay. Rare steel wheel car. Balanced, unleaded engine, running in. Mineral blue. £28950 MGC GT, 1969, BRG, chrome wires original UK supplied car, Chrome wires and overdrive. Full respray in 2017, superb example. £18650

XPower Grey with 85,000 miles. Recent exhaust, cat, front and rear discs, pads and rear calipers. Near new tyres all round. MOT till October 2018. Lots of old MOT’s and history including receipts for replacement headgasket, coolant pipes and cam belt. Black Hartop included if required. £1200. For more info contact Chris on 01235 813197 (South Oxfordshire)

MG YB. I am looking for a good solid example with its original registration number and engine. I wish to pay up to £10,000 although maybe more for the right car. Please contact Mick. Email: deek@oneuk.com

MG Midget ,1965, black with brand new chrome wires special build in 2001 by Renowned specialists CCHL Ltd. Fully rebuilt throughout using rust free Californian bodyshell. Lovely period leather seats. New chrome wires and tyres just ﬁtted. mohair hood and motolita wheel. Previously supplied and maintained by us since. £8950 MG Midget, HERITAGE SHELL, 1965, tartan red, 1098 cc with correct wheels. Only 2500 miles since built with all new or reconditioned parts. Recent brand new grille and steering wheel. Magazine featured and one of the ﬁnest available. It will be offered for sale at approx half the price of todays build cost. £TBC

MGS URGENTLY WANTED TO PURCHASE. MGOC Recommended MG Car club trade member 92 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

White with black interior. 55000 miles from new. MOT 29/11/2018. Large history file with MOTs confirming mileage. Recently re-commissioned following many years of dry storage. Respray, mechanical overhaul including new battery, engine mountings, hoses, gaskets, steering rack gators etc. New badges, number plates, door seals etc. Under sealed and wax oiled throughout. Excellent condition inside and out. £5750 ono. Tel. 01789 778956 or email: tebury04@aol.com (Worcestershire)

2005 M

Rio Red w grills. Bl rear wind or with w less exhau to Decem tory. Ve some spa 01526 35 peterrelli

MGBGT

MGTF 2002

WANTED

Factory MGB GT V8 chassis no. 2222, damask red, new leather seats and refurbished wheels. Older body restoration with excellent engine bay. £15950

1970 MG 1300 Mk2

1973 MGB GT V8

Original factory V8 . Chrome bumper .( SAO 474 M ) (GD2D11088G ) . Manufactured December 1973. Damask red Overdrive 3rd and 4th . Webasto sliding sunroof. Detailed history file Heritage Certificate. MOT June 2018 . No road tax. Exceptional condition throughout. Drives beautifully. £28950. Contact Keith on 01794 517892 or email k.stone189@btinternet.com (South Hampshire)

Have ow Major res torecord. originality engine in ignition, shaft, fuel new Vred Heritage on retent Tel: 01837

LHD M

I wish to drive MG Mallorca. 01422-82

1972 MGB GT

Chrome Bumper. Interior Original Condition – Colour Bracken Last Owner 35 Years. £1950 o.v.n.o. Tel: 01737 765891

MGF 1.

1972 MGBGT

89000 miles.Tax Exempt. MOT April 2018 Full receipts & Mot certificates going back to 1996 when i believe the MG was restored. Original Chrome Bumper, manual gearbox, with overdrive, wire wheels. Petrol tank replaced now runs on unleaded fuel, struts, shock absorbers, 2 6Valve Batteries. Newly upholstered seats. Would benefit from a respray. OEO £5000. Telephone: 07427620822 (Oxford)

MGRV8. 1994

UK model in nightfire red with tan leather interior. 22400mls. Rare colour. In immaculate condition. Windscreen frame and veneer excellent. Nice MGR plate included. Recent service mot. fsh. Unused tool roll and original leather document wallet. £26500. tel Richard on 07511765272 or email ricko.crooks@gmail.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

Excellent low mile parts incl clutch, c water pip er and t from new owner fo (Kent)

As a me

for free.

picture t

or. 55000 /11/2018. OTs conre-comyears of echanical battery, gaskets, tc. New oor seals wax oiled ondition no. r email:

Chrome 4 M ) ufactured ask red Webasto story file OT June ceptional ves beauKeith on

CL ASSIFIEDS

.....for the very best in vintage MGs.....

estd.1968

SEE THESE AT THE MG/TRIUMPH SHOW, STONELEIGH FEBRUARY 11

1960 MGA 1600 Roadster

2005 MG TF135

Rio Red with Hardtop and stainless grills. Black soft top with heated rear window. Black leather interior with wind stop. Scorpion stainless exhaust. Uprated brakes. MOT to December 2018 and service history. Very good condition with some spares. £2295 ono. Contact 01526 354052 or email peterrellis@msn.com (Lincs)

RHD exported to Bahrain in Jan 1960. Restoration project lots of work done including wings already repaired. 1622 engine. I have new sidescreens 3 window PVC hood bumpers hubcaps overriders A/B posts inner/outer sills etc in fact to many new parts to list here. Interior is Red and the seats and carpet are in excellent condition. I have lots of photos I could email to anyone interested. £12000 Please ring me for full details 01945 584219 (Wisbech Cambs)

1935 MG NB 6 CYL. OPEN TOURER The last and best of the o.h.c. MG road cars. This magniﬁcent 1300cc tourer offers real power, comfort and a huge luggage area making it ideal for many of today’s superb UK and European rallies. Fully restored throughout with the enormous bonus of a Wilson pre-select gearbox; this car is ﬁnished in 2-tone blue with complete Collingburn interior, full weather equipment, Blockley tyres and full paperwork.......................£69,995

bodily & mechanically. Simply amazing fin*d.... £45,000ono

MGBGT 1969

Have owned this car for 25years. Major restoration early 1990’s-photorecord. Always maintained with originality in mind. New Ivor Searle engine in 2013. Moss electronic ignition, new wiring loom, propshaft, fuel tank, rebuilt front brakes, new Vredestein tyres. British Motor Heritage Certificate. Reg number on retention. £8500. For more info Tel: 01837 811108 (Devon)

1945 mG Tc mIdGeT. 1954 mG TF mIdGeT. FAcToRY oRIGINAl pA ToUReR. No room here to do justice to this Totally restored 1250cc TF with 60 An interesting car with excellent FACTORY ORIGINAL PA TOURER 1929 MG original ‘M’ SPORTSMANS COUPEwings, all bodywork, original incredible time-warp MG. Please Very disappointed that nobody has shown interest No time here to do justice to this incredible time-warp MG. matching nos., brand newany tyres and all new weather s/screens). in this very rare MG...... A ‘must’ forgear any (no collection and a Please see new website for the story of this car. Sufﬁce it here to Unrestored but original. usable, practical car. One of onlygauges 6 known of all which 3 or 4 say, it is virtually untouched; two owners, 53,000 orig. miles, still Fascinating, original TC, one of the are in running condition. Fully rebuilt at a cost that would with its original guarantee (alas elapsed) signed by Cecil Kimber earliest recorded...............£29,500

himself, Superb condition both bodily & mechanically. Simply amazing ﬁnd..............................................................£45,000ono

I wish to buy a very good left hand drive MGBGT to use and keep in Mallorca. Contact Ron Ward on 01422-823649

MGF 1.8 2001

Excellent condition in Tahiti Blue low mileage of 50,000. Many new parts including Headgasket, brakes, clutch, central locking, underside water pipes, battery. With CD player and tonneau cover. 2 owners from new. Service history. Present owner for 10 years. £2100 Ono (Kent)

frighten you. Please tell us what it is worth to you........ sensible offer acceptable

amazing find.........................£45,000

MGTF 54 REG

53500 Miles. Just had MOT with no advisories Big brakes with 16inch wheels. £1500 ovno. For details ring 01379 652369 or 07831536890 (NORFOLK)

April 2017 edition of ‘The Automobile’.....so rare....................£36,000 PROJECT...1934 MG PA for the restoration but with considerable work already undertaken. All originaloRIGINAl chassis/engine/body,etc...£16,500 Tool kITS IN STock NoSe & SIdemoUNTed SUpeRchARGeRS IN STock

COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regarded service is always available to you.

Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com

Kimble-SF_Nov-09.qxd:Kimble MGE 1_8 col 3.3

The Great British

26/10/09

Steering Wheel

The Brooklands We manufacture the BROOKLANDS

Steering Wheel from the original BLUEMEL tooling. It is not a Far Eastern copy and is made using the original methods and traditional materials. The CENTRE BOSS fixing kit, again from the original tooling, not only fits the MG TC and pre-war MGs, but the TD, TF and MGA. There are boss kits for other makes and kit cars too.

WANTED LHD MGBGT

Original en 0 o.v.n.o.

with tan mls. Rare ondition. veneer included. Unused er docuchard on email

barry Walker

British motor heritage approved

2003 MG ZT-T

Petrol turbo. 98,000 miles.Very rare because of all the options fitted from new which are:- Harmon Kardon sound system, big screen sat nav, xenon headlights, sunroof, alcantara seats which are both heated and electric, headlamp washers,reverse parking sensors. Also fitted with a towbar. I have a bill dated 08/03/2014 for £1,184.58 for engine parts which include a replacement cylinder head and turbocharger. Unused since the last MOT on 14/01/2016 so needs recommissioning. Did not fail the MOT when it ran out, just not retested. On SORN but viewing welcome. £750. Tel: 07811 686303. patrickw.collier@yahoo.co uk. Also have MG ZS in daily use for £350. (Mid Devon)

SELLING YOUR CAR? As a member of the MG Car Club you can advertise your car in Safety Fast for free. Just email your car details, max 60 words, together with a JPEG picture to Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Non member fee is £20

Ww14” ENo Nalso in NOW ABLE Ivo AILry AV

Now also 15½ inch wheel

BROOKLANDS AEROSCREENS are made using laminated glass to original specification to suit all vintage and sports cars.

john@johnkimble.co.uk

K KIMBLE

EST 1969

Tel: 01803 835757 Fax: 01803 834567

Unit 5, Old Mill Creek, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0HN.

URGENTLY WANTED MGA/MGB/MGC/V8/ MIDGET/SPRITE ETC

Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars

Please call Edward 01923 840236 or any time on 07774 484497 Email: ejwhitescars@aol.com Website: www.mgandporsche.com (Northwood, Middlesex)

Barry Walker 1/4 January 18.indd 1

www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 93

13:0

CL ASSIFIEDS

SPARES FOR SALE HOW TO ADVERTISE

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 advertisement email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all correspondence. All adverts should be submitted by the 10th of the month for the following months issue.

MG RV8 Sales Brochures

4343 1992 The shape of things to come. 4405 1992 The Marque has returned. Both excellent condition, in original envelopes together with covering letters from Rover Marketing director. For more details telephone Peter on 01609 748629 (North Yorkshire)

MG Magazines

MG Car Club Safety Fast Magazines, April 2002 to December 2017, plus 27 editions of Enjoying MG from 1993 to December 2002. Magazines could be delivered to the MG Spares Day at Stoneleigh on February 11th. Contact Jonathan on Mobile: 07771 844728

MG Midget Tyres

Four Bridgestone 185/60 x 13 80H Potenza RE 720 tyres with 6mm tread. Have changed to Yokohama 0048 purely for off road speed events. Bridgestones are free to anyone who will collect. Contact James on 01564 742508. (N.W. Warwickshire)

MGTF SPARES

Genuine 11 Spoke Black Alloy wheel and tyre for MGTF. As new, never been used. Car recently sold so surplus to requirements. £75 no offers. Buyers collects. MG Parking Only metal sign £10 no offers and buyer collects or pays postage. Tel: 01684566106 or email Howard.allen2005@gmail.com. (Worcestershire area)

XPAG Engines

I have in build a 1350cc lightened and balanced, stage 2 unleaded, big valve, lip sealed, 8” clutch, fast road cam, TD/TF engine. Future build of same spec. TC/D/F engines. Also one off, same spec, sleeved to 1500 TC/D/F. For more information contact Ron Ward on 01422823649

94 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

MGA MK1 1600

2 Front steel wings stripped good condition. 2 Rear wings one steel (stripped) and 1 fibreglass in OEW. Good condition. Complete radiator Grille good chrome and good condition. Call Simon on 0778866 8783 Leave message or text

WANTED WANTED

XPEG Cylinder Head for TF1500, casting No AEF118. My engine is currently fitted with an earlier head, casting No 22952 so could do a part exchange if it helps. Please Contact; Andrew on 07825 246427. Email: morton90@outlook.com

SPARES FOR SALE HOW TO ADVERTISE

MG RV8 Sales Brochures

4343 1992 The shape of things to come. 4405 1992 The Marque has returned. WANTED ALLcondition, MG MODELS! Both excellent in origAll conditions wanted, from barn ﬁnds inal envelopes together with to concours. Complete collections covering letters from Rover purchased. Cash buyer. Marketing director. For more Discretion assured. Please do not hesitate to contact details telephone Peter on me if you are interested in selling your 01609 748629 (North Yorkshire)

WANTED

MG and are looking for a prompt hassle free cash buyer! Please feel free to contact me for a no obligation MG Magazines friendly chat. MG Car Club SafetyinFast I am especially interested the following models: MG TC, MGA, MGB, Magazines, April 2002 toMGC, MGB V8, Magnette and Midget.

December 2017, plus 27 ediDIRECT tions CALL of Enjoying MG ON: from 528131 1993 to07787 December 2002. Magazines could be delivered to the MG Spares Day at Stoneleigh on February 11th. Contact Jonathan on Mobile: 07771 844728

MIDGETS! WANTED

MG Midget Tyres Contact the Midget Specialist Four Bridgestone 185/60 x 13 80H RE 720 tyres MIKEPotenza AUTHERS on Abingdon with 6mm 465 tread. Have changed 07703 224 CHROME to Yokohama purely in for BUMPERED0048 MIDGETS off road speed events. excellent condition bought up to Bridgestones are free to any£8,000. View current stock at one who will collect. Contact www.mgmidgets.com James on 01564 742508. (N.W. Warwickshire)

MGTF SPARES

Genuine 11 Spoke Black Alloy wheel and tyre for MGTF. As new, never been used. Car recently sold so surplus to requirements. £75 no offers. Buyers collects. www.mgcc.co.uk MG Parking Only metal sign £10 no offers and buyer col-

MGA M

2 Front good co 2 Rear (strippe OEW. G Comple chrome Call Sim Leave m

XPEG C casting N rently fitte ing No 22 exchang Andrew o Email: m

CL ASSIFIEDS

www.mgmecca.co.uk

MARTIN SMITH

Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

www.usedmg spares.co.uk

Quality New and Used MGF & MGTF Spares

1995 MG RV8 Woodcote, Stone trim. Superb order. We have repaired a side scrape as car was classed a ‘D’ category by insurance company, but very minor damage, pics available. Reconalised trim, new door cards, new screen and exch frame. Refurbed wheels, new mohair hood, new wood dash, caps and console, in fact all the RV8 foibles have been attended to. A superb car and not the usual tired offering.£21,995

1960 MGA 1600 COUPE Iris Blue, blue leather trim, arm rest. Fully restored from bare shell. Fully rechromed, new trim, bare shell repaint. New wings. Boot carpets & rack. Unleaded rebuilt engine. 5 speed gearbox conversion for effortless touring. Superb car, last owner since 1973! Would cost in excess of £60k to restore MGA Coupe like this. £32,500

1972 MG MIDGET, teal blue, autumn leaf trim, new hood, very original car, drives really well, last owner for many years lovely honest car, £6,295

1978 MGB ROADSTER, BRG, black trim, chrome wire wheels, new good year tyres, moto lita wheel, all new chrome, new paint, superb body, carbon dash, mohair hood, superb car £11,995

1960 MGA 1600 Iris Blue, blue trim. W/W, S/S boot rack. Totally restored UK car. Immaculate inside and out. Last nut and bolt renovation £42,495

1965 MINI COOPER Old English White, Dove Grey roof, Red Brocade trim. Totally restored, last nut and bolt. Totally immaculate in every respect. £32,500

Covering all models from 1995 > 2006 All items Supplied - from body panels, interiors & engines to headlights & wheel nuts

Tel: 07722 175473 East Lydford, Somerset Email: smudgemg@yahoo.co.uk

SHEPPERTON, MIDDLESEX TEL: 01932 241843 / 07836 281493 WWW.CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM EMAIL: MGSALES@CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM

MG TF LE. ex Trophy 190bhp (Cup Car) Racecar

MG TF LE500+H/top(1 owner just 30, 384 miles)

MG MGF TROPHY 160vvc (just 5,900 miles)

2008 (PP Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in: Orange Our MG TF LE Trophy 190 race car 190bhp (dry sump VHPD Cup car racing engine/gearbox), built from a new pre production bodyshell, no expense spared, hardly ever used, ex Dave Woods Luffield car just one of two made. Slicks and wet tyres. Only selling as for 2018 we will be Racing our MGF ‘Racing Red’ in the MGCC MG Cup + the MGF 20th Anniversary race. ......Part exchange considered road/race.......07836 281493..Email csautos@yahoo.co.uk £9,250

2009 (59 Reg)30,384 Miles Manual PetrolF inished in: Intense Blue/Black leather LE500, full spec with a colour coded Hardtop. Having covered just 30,384 miles with fully documented service history serviced including cambelt service/ 4 new Falken tyres /air condition serviced plus a new condenser fitted all at 30320 miles. Air conditioning black leather sport seats, soft ride suspension, passengers airbag, engine water level censor, 16” 11 spoke alloys, glass heated rear screen in its black soft top. These are fitted with the later ‘N’ series engines. Repeat just one owner and Superb condition thoughtout. £6,495

2001 (Y Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in: Trophy Yellow/black This is a totally immaculate MGF Trophy ltd edition. Previously supplied by us at just 2,676 miles, now just 5,900 miles. This car is totally original and the only added part being the wind deflector. Full handbook pack as from new, original bill of sale old mots/bills etc even the original dealers key fobs. As seen in MG Enthusiast mag on the front page plus a full 5 page write up inside (Oct 2014 see photos). The very best and lowest mileage Trophy for sale anywhere. £8,995

MG MGF TF parts + Racing parts, buying/ selling P.O.A.

New & Secondhand parts for MGF/TF parts eg seats, alloy wheels, hardtops, consoles, lights, trims etc plus a selection of Racing parts, see our new & secondhand parts page..............We are buying and selling............ please call David on 07836 281493

MG TF 135 Style pack (very low mileage 21,290 miles) 2010 (10 Reg) 21,290 Miles Manual Petrol Finished in: Oceana Dark Blue/ Black leather One of the last ever made, these last few TF’s being fitted with folding door mirrors. FSH, new cambelt. Pre reg plus 1 private owner. Fitted with soft ride suspension, engine water level sensor, passenger airbag, glass heated rear screen, remote boot opening.The Style pack model includes full Black leather sport seats, silver interior trim, 16” twisted pepper alloys. These later model cars are fitted with the ‘N’ series engines. Unmarked alloy wheelsblack hood and black leather seats etc, superb condition thoughtout. £6,395

This is just a small selection from our stock

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE

www.mgcc.co.uk

Morris Mini Cooper 997cc Immaculate

1962 (PP Reg) Manua lPetrol Finished in: AlmondGreen/Old English White A very rare Immaculate 1962 Morris Mini Cooper 997cc. Carefully FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1981 restored over 4 years to the highest standard, outstanding detailing, no OUR OFFICE/ SHOWROOM IS AT 62B HIGH STREET SHEPPERTON TW17 9AU expense spared, be hard to find a better one. Sold in its correct original colours plus original registration number, with its Heritage certificate and months mot.... Also for sale later this month a 1965 Mini Cooper ‘S’ VISIT US ON THE F-REGISTER STAND AT STONELEIGH 12 1275cc. £26,995

www.churchsquareautos.com

FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 95

Call for a quote today

01376 574000

Insurance for all MG’s DONHOODS-SFAug07.QXD:Layout 1 23/9/09 16:22 Page 1 classic and modern www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

DON HOODS

Colne Classics

UNBEATABLE QUALITY – UNBEATABLE VALUE!

B32 - MIKE ROLLSDIRECT SERVICES_MIFROM KE ROLLSTHE SERVICMAKERS ES 13/12/2012–09:50 Page 1

MG Power Steering and restoration specialists

WITH OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Choice of heavy duty PVC, ICI Vynide, Everflex, Duck and Mohair

•BETTER THAN ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT QUALITY •STITCHED AND WELDED FOR MAXIMUM LIFE •WIDEST CHOICE OF COLOURS AVAILABLE •ALL FASTENERS & FITTINGS INCLUDED D PRICE FOR LEAFLET AN LIST CONTACT Ltd Don Trimming Co.

AL MAKES & L incl: MG, MODELS Tr Escort, Giumph, olf etc.

mingham B23 7JJ Hampton Road, Bir

13 Tel: 0121 373 13FICE

View the website on www.colneclassics.com B1 Seaden Court, Gorse Lane Ind Est, Clacton, Essex. 01255 432693, 07714 675319

OF SOUTHERN SALES

00 Tel: 01202 7422

STEVE McKIE SPORTSCARS CHESTERFIELD

•

DERBYSHIRE

Specialists in the repair and restoration of MG cars

www.bighealey.co.uk

MIKE ROLLS

CNC Machined in the UK to our specification

2016

www.stevemckiesportscars.co.uk Tel 01246 454527 • Fax 01246 453681 Albert Street North, Chesterfield, S41 8NP

Brass 2nd & 3rd/4th £59.95+VAT

SERVICES FOR MGs Steel 4 synchro £49.95+VAT

TRADE MEMBER

Specialising in all MG’s

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

For the ‘best’ in MG high-performance Parts Hotline: +44(0)1543 472244 E-mail: sales@bighealey.co.uk

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm DENIS WELCH MOTORSPORT, YOXALL, BURTON ON TRENT, STAFFS DE13 8NA, UK

23/06/2010 13:46201 2016 6

Steve McKie Sports Cars Hi-Res.indd 1

01707 876089

MODELS

NEW MGB Baulk Rings

Suppliers of parts for • MGA • MGB • MGC • Midget • T Type • MGF/TF

enquiries@mgsforsale.com

CARPET SETS FOR MOST

www.donhoods.com

www.mgsforsale.com

07831 556666

TRADE MEMBER

MIKE ROLLS SERVICES FOR MGs Specialising in all MG’s

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm MGB Roadster 1974 Recent Restoration (JRO439N)MGB Roadster 1975 (registered), last of chrome bumper models built in 1974, delightful Midnight Blue coachwork with new Black leather interior trim, Mota-Lita wood rim steering wheel, new GB Alloys and tyres, rebuilt MGB Hive gearbox, overdrive & steering rack and many other components, large history ﬁle with mot’s dating back as far as 1980 making current recorded mileage of only 60k a distinct possibility of being genuine, many invoices both past and present, old tax discs etc. etc., nicely detailed engine compartment having been the subject of full strip down during the 2015/17 refurbishment, drives nicely, just arrived £14,995.00 MGB Roadster 1979 Chrome Conversion (EKV575V) MGB Roadster 1979, chrome bumper conversion, overdrive, mot November 2018, structurally sound, bare metal respray with some replacement paneling, new screen assembly and very nice Black coachwork with Black leather interior trim, good engine and new clutch within detailed engine compartment, good bright-work, recent hood, drives nicely, just arrived £8,750.00

URGENTLY WANTED ANY MG ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK

www.mgsforsale.com

Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only please (available evenings & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an MOT and are fully serviced prior to collection/delivery.

96 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

MG TD, 1951

Old English White, Originally RH Drive car exported to Switzerland from new, restored over there and then re-imported in 2006. This car won pride of ownership at the MG International Show, held at the NEC in 2008. Still in ﬁrst class condition with excellent paint work, beautiful red leather interior and smooth running mechanics. We are re-commissioning this car at the moment with a brake overhaul, battery and full service, it is still carrying some of its original export features, ie semaphore indicators. It comes with a tan hood, side screens and full tonneau cover all in excellent condition, and some history with MOTs and invoices. This TD drives superbly.

£24,995

MG RV8 ROADSTER 1995

Finished in Woodcote Green MG RV8, Manufactured in 1995 but not registered until 1997, Woodcote Green, re-imported from Japan in 2008. Just over 26,000km from new which is approx 15,000mls, it comes with a good services history, a very nice MGR registration number, windstop and matching hood cover. This is a superb example one of the best we have ever seen, it has just had a service and MOT so ready to be enjoyed. £26,000

1954 MG TF ARRIVING SHORTLY.

Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR

E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service”

www.mgcc.co.uk

Call for a quote today

01376 574000

B13 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 12/12/2017 12:04 Page 1

Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern

B13 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 12/12/2017 12:04 Page 1

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

B13 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 20/11/2017 16:36 Page 1

‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’

MG TD 1952. One

We restore and refresh both T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and T-types and other classics. owner for sell 25 years. Always and to the garage. Running out of T’s for sale but we have some interesting objects to occupy yourself after retirement andcherished banishment in lovely usable

condition. Smashing 1952. One Let’s hope we have warm snow so we can use our cars MG – TD Merry colour and chrome and fitted with the rare and desirable Derrington exhaust and inlet manifold conversion with a new unleaded head. 60lb oil pressure. Lovely gearbox and weather equipment. £18,950

MGTC just arriving from the US, nice restoration and little usage, please ring.

I love 2CVs. They are quick … really! Fiat 124 Coupe 1975 RHD. A beautiful unrestored Reliable, comfy, quirky and you Australian can Iget love 2CVs. They are quick … really! 1 owner for 25 years, soon I Reliable, love 2CVs. Theyquirky are quick … really! comfy, and canlike get a bike in the back. car, This one is a Dolly. here, please ring. Austin Big 7 1937. I like this you and would Reliable, comfy, quirky and you can get a bike in the back. This one is a Dolly. to complete it for someone. The chassis and Lovely condition, plum and custard, running gear have all been bike incondition, the back. This onerestored. is a Engine Dolly. Very unusual and rare cycle car. AaLovely plum and custard, nice chassis, smashing hoodandand and gearbox rebuilt and running. The seats French Poiriet 125cc 200 miles nice chassis, smashing hood and condition, plumleather, and custard, indicated delightfully different andLovely still the excellent and the body has interior. Nice history. Prise it from meinterior.are original, 2 seats and 3 gears and you Nice history. from me been nicely prepared.Prise It hood wouldit be a relatively nice chassis, smashing and won’t fall off and we have another one! This has done a andcolossal smile. £6,950 straight forward job to ﬁnish £2500. and smile. £6,950 600 miles! Both unrestored and nice £4950 each. interior. Nice history. Prise it from me and smile. £6,950

This my own Mk1 MX5. A very early car restored by a Westland Helicopter engineer. It must be the only MX with unscuffed leather seats. It has a twin stainless exhaust, uprated brakes, adjustable shocks, new hood et al. It handles and drives superbly. Alloy wheels propel it. These cars embody the ultimate 60s sports experience without the problems. It also has £1000 worth of stereo/cd player. Yesterday's classic panache with today's reliability. I love it…a quickly appreciating exhilarating bolide…and only £5,250. Put a Lotus badge on…then its 40k. MARLIN PROTOTYPE. This is the pre production Marlin as built by its designer Paul Moorhouse who built two prototypes. Built on a Triumph GT6 base with a 2 ltr 6 and ally bodied instead of grp, it is soundly constructed. It performs very well. Owned for ten years by the chairman of the Marlin Owners' Club. It represents a significant part of the history of this successful marque. Very sensibly priced at £5,250

www.mgcc.co.uk

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

Just Right Autos Ltd ......................... 58 Kimble Engineering Ltd..................... 93 Longstone Tyres .............................. 48 Manor Garage ................................. 80 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares ..... 95 Mech-Mate Ltd ................................ 78 MG Mecca....................................... 95 MG16 - BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS_BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS 26/09/2012 14:24 MG Sales Centre .............................. 27 Midland Classic Restoration ................ 3 Mike Authurs Classics ...................... 94 Mike Rolls ....................................... 96 Mike Satur....................................... 37 Mirror Trim....................................... 45 Moss Europe Ltd .............................. 35 NTG Services ................................ OBC Oselli Ltd ......................................... 78 Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. Peter Best .......................... 96, 97, IBC Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold Peter James Insurance ..................... 37 ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. Rees Bros ........................................ 60 Retro Sports Cars............................. 74 SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE Rimmer Bros Ltd .............................. 45 TELEPHONE BEFORE Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ RJJ Car Shipping and Transportation 80 Although every care is exercised advert, wethis cannot Please check proofhold carefully for errors in style, content and layout. Robin Lackford Motor Engineering .... 60 in preparing your ourselves responsible for12,any you Although may overlook. every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold Scenic Car Tours ................. 13,inaccuracies 23 ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. Skiptune ......................................... SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY37ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE SMR – Car For Sale ......................... 96 SHOULD YOUNO REQUIRE . _ _ _ _ _ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TELEPHONE _ _ _ _96_ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT Steve McKie SportsBEFORE Cars .................. . _ _ which ___ TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _charge _ _ _ _ _for AND ADVERT We reserve the right to anyQUOTE alteration to thisNO proof Summit MG ..................................... 45 is a departure from the original copy Sussex Classic Car Parts .................. 60 Carole Nash Insurance ...................... 9 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd .................... 3 Torro Sports Cars Ltd ....................... 94 www.mgsonthenet.co.uk email: peter.giles@mgsonthenet.co.uk Vitesse Global Ltd ............................ 86 Number 01 £3.95 January 2018 Volume 62

RIENDSHIP THE MARQUE OF F

THE

CLUB

CAR LT D

-THAMES ABINGDON-ON FO U N D E D 193 0

● CARBURATION ● A JEWEL IN THE KROWN NEW KID ON THE GRID

PLEASE CALL NICK ON 01452 730770

URGENT PROOF

Bucks Sports & Classic Car Centre URGENT PROOF URGENT PROOF Specialist in MGA, B, C, V8, RV8, Midgets, and MGF. Also specialists in early Minis

For friendly advice contact Pete Giles on Tel: 01296 433550 or Mob: 07831 404968 www.mgsonthenet.co.uk

CC10.12/MG16/p

4Sight Lighting Company.................. 76 Adrian Flux ..................................... 76 Barrie Carter ................................... 97 Barry Walker ................................... 93 BCC Parts........................................ 35 Beech Hill Garage ............................ 94 British Motor Heritage ..................... IFC Brown and Gammons ....................... 15 Bucks Sports and Classic ................. 97 C.C.H.L .......................................... 82 Car Cover Shop ............................... 80 Chertsey Minors .............................. 80 Chisbon Restorations ......................... 9 Church Square Autos ....................... 95 Classic Driving Development Ltd ...... 74 Clive Wheatley ................................. 53 College Motors Burford..................... 65 Colne Classics ................................. 96 Cotswold Car Storage ......................... 6 Country Lane Tours .......................... 84 COYS .............................................. 42 Crown Classic Cars .......................... 78 David Manners .................................. 6 Dennis Welch................................... 96 Distributor Doctor ............................. 65 Don Trimming .................................. 96 EJW Classic and sports .................... 93 Fishers Services............................... 76 Footman James ............................... 33 Former Glory.................................... 92 Frontline .......................................... 30 Get Patina ....................................... 29 Halls Garage .................................... 76 Heathrow Transmission..................... 80 Hoyle Suspension............................. 65 JLH Minor Restoration ...................... 53

bolide…and only £5,2

MARLIN PROTOTYPE. Thi the pre production Marlin MARLIN built by its PROTOTYPE. designer Paul T Moorhouse who built Marli two the pre production prototypes. on a Trium built by itsBuilt designer Pau GT6 base withwho a 2 built ltr 6 an Moorhouse tw bodied instead of grp, it is prototypes. Built onItape Tr soundly constructed. GT6well. baseOwned with afor 2 ltr very ten6y instead of of the grp,Ma it bybodied the chairman soundlyClub. constructed. It p Owners' It represent successful Veryten s very well.marque. Owned for

by the chairman of the M Owners' Club. It represe successful marque. Very

MGT’s always wanted. Collection and delivery UK and global, free advice unless it’s classiﬁed then I charge. New and used T-type parts and engines rebuilt outright or exchange.

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Thismy myown ownMk1 Mk1MX5 M This veryearly earlycar carrestored restoredb very Westland WestlandHelicopter Helicoptereng e It Itmust mustbebethe theonly onlyMXMXw unscuffed unscuffedleather leatherseats. sea has a twin stainless exh has a twin stainless e uprated brakes, adjustab upratednew brakes, shocks, hood adjus et al. shocks, new it. hood et a wheels propel These wheels propel it. Thes experience without the p stereo/cd player. Yesterd experience without th reliability. it…a qu stereo/cdI love player. Yeste bolide…and only £5,25 reliability. I love it…a

CM01.18/B13/d

Austin 10 Lichﬁeld 1935. Festering but complete project, not for the faint hearted and a complete project. Unused for 30 years, be brave £1995.

owner for 25 year

MG TD 1952. One Always owner forcherished 25 years in lovely usable a Always cherished condition. Smashi in lovely usable colour and chrom condition. Smashin colour fitted and withchrome the rar fitted with the rare exhaust and inlet exhaust andhead. inlet 6m unleaded unleaded head. 60l andweather weatherequipm equi and

10STREET Rabans Aylesbury. HP19 BUCKS 8RS HP20 1EB UNIT 18, PARK IND Close, ESTATE, OSIER WAY, AYLESBURY, We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which is a departure from the original copy is a departure from the original copy FEBRUARY 2018 SAFETY FAST! 97

Page 1

LOOKING BACK IF YOU CAN TELL US MORE ABOUT ANY OF THESE CARS OR THE EVENTS, WE ARE ALWAYS KEEN TO HEAR FROM YOU AT KIMBER HOUSE; CONTACT THE MGCC ARCHIVIST PETE NEAL ON PETERNEAL@MGCC.CO.UK.

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 2018 Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 andyknott@mgcc.co.uk Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Editorial Committee: William Ball, Dennis Wharf, Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman, Steve Clark PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Jeff Ruggles 01235 849731 Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770 Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770 Distributed by: Air Business. Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood Way, St Albans AL4 0JY Tel: 01727 890600 President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Bill Silcock. Chairman: Ian Quarrington Vice Chairman: Dave Tynan

Treasurer: Richard Colston

ur first picture shows David Easthope campaigning his TA in an event that he helped to organise for

the S. Yorkshire group. On the occasion David also finished up as a prize winner, too! Note the rather non-standard wings fitted to the car. Can anyone help with the where and when, regarding this photo? Something a little more modern this time. An MGC GTS at speed on the track, looking mean and beautifully stable in this excellent photo by Andrew Roberts. We think this photograph, of a TD taking a temporary rest during a ‘Prix Des Alpes’ Rally, was taken somewhere on the continent in Europe. Perhaps someone who might know the car can let us know where this event took place and who was driving. The photo is dated July 2001.

Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, Andy Green, Peter Opie, George Wilder, Dave Tynan and Peter Cook Company Secretary: Colin Grant Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Jeff Ruggles (01235 849731), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849731) Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock. Company limited by guarantee The Club, as a corporate body established as the MG Car Club Limited, is a company limited by guarantee. Every member of the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year after he ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Club contracted before he ceases to be a member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one pound. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates. Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast! It should be noted that neither Hine Marketing, the Editor, nor the MG Car Club make any recommendation in respect of any goods and/ or services advertised or featured in this issue. It is the responsibility of readers to satisfy themselves that the goods or services offered or referred to are bona fide and in no instance shall Hine Marketing, the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or suitability of any such items.

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk

98 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2018

If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

www.mgcc.co.uk

classic car insurance PBIS specialises in classic car insurance, as well as insurance for other collectable classic vehicles. We have been supporting the MG Car Club, its Centres & Registers, for over 30 years so we know what is important to you. Our ‘Abingdon’ policy covers classic use for MG’s 3 years and older. The policy includes free agreed value, roadside assistance and recovery within UK/EU, limited mileage options and discounts for multiple car ownership. ASK US TODAY ABOUT OUR CLASSIC MG COVER call now for an instant quote

01376 574000 visit: www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk email: info@classiccarinsurance.co.uk

Approved Insurance Provider

Peter Best Insurance Services Ltd Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration No. 307045 Registered in England No. 2210270 | Peter Best Insurance Services Limited, 180 High Street, Kelvedon, Essex CO5 9JD

Parts for TA to TF 1936-55, YA YB YT, MGA & Magnette. Secure online shopping at: www.mgbits.com or by phone. Worldwide shipping.

T&Y Type or MGA & Z series catalogues- email or phone for your copy

S106B Fine adjustment control-steering box for TA/B/C £86.40 incl VAT

T190K MGA ﬂoorboard set £105 inc VAT

Exchange shock absorbers available for most models

B027

MGA & Magnette oil ﬁlter conversion to spin-on type

£31.50 inc VAT

NTG Motor Services Ltd 282-284 Bramford Road Ipswich IP1 4AY Tel: +44(0)1473 406031/2 Fax: +44(0)1473 742087 sales@mgbits.com British Motor Heritage Approved - founded 1966