Safety Fast! August 2018 by MG Car Club

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

August 2018 Volume 62 Number 08 £3.95

THE

CAR

CLUB

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Inside this issue 7

Club Matters and Kimber House News 8 News 10 Products 14 Postbag 50 Out and About 52 Calendar of Events 59 Race Torque

60 61 69 72 82 92 98

MGs on Track MGCC Speed Championship Overseas Review Centre Updates Register Updates Classifieds Looking Back

Features 17

The Humble Drum Brake Paul Ireland explains the history and workings of the Drum Brake

Abingdon Fires Adrian Goodenough recounts stories of fires at the Gs

Quick guide to Buying an MGF/TF Colin Grant gives some hints and tips of what to look for when buying an MGF or TF

Event Reports Canada Run 2018 and Tour of the South East Windmills

The British Sportscar Weekend Graham Keilloh reports on all the action from Donington Park

BTCC Championship A round-up from Croft

Overseas News MG 2018, the 27th annual NAMGBR meeting by Brian G Woodhams

Newsletters 35

Midget Newsletter News from the Chairman and Steve Collier and his racing exploits

MGB Newsletter Tech Tips, Events and The London to Sydney Marathon MGB

V8 Newsletter Enjoying classic V8 power, Options if your Dunlop composites need refurbishing and more

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

MGB GT V8 (Glacier White 0321), built in June 1973 ahead of the launch of the model in August that year, is often enjoyed by V8 enthusiast Andy Goves on the open roads in Wiltshire. Photo: Andy Goves

@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

Since the new MOT rulings came in to place on May 20 I’m seeing more and more of the late 90s/early 2000s MGs failing their test and being broken for spares due to being uneconomical to repair. The new MoT test is no longer a black and white case of ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. Instead, every fault found during the test will be categorised as dangerous, major or minor. Dangerous. Cars that fall into this category are deemed an immediate risk to road safety or have a serious impact on the environment. They will be subject to an automatic fail and should not be driven until the vehicle has been repaired. Major. Cars with major defects will automatically fail the MOT and should be repaired immediately. Minor. Cars with minor defects will be allowed to pass and the faults will be recorded so you can get them repaired at a later date. MOT testers will continue to give advice about items you need to monitor, known as ‘advisories’. With the oldest of MGFs 23 years old, and Zeds now 17 years old, general wear and tear is starting to affect them, and by the time it gets picked up on the MOT you could end up with a long list of issues in the various new categories, and with the prices of the MGF/TFs and Zed cars still low, if the car has no sentimental value it’s not hard to see why they’re being sold as ‘spares or repair’. Spares for these MGs are readily available, thanks to the support of companies like XPart, and the majority of ‘Minor and Major’ jobs can be undertaken by a competent home mechanic, or if you don’t fancy tackling it yourself there is still plenty of support for the MG Rover-era cars from garages and mobile mechanics. In the forthcoming issues of Safety Fast! we’ll be publishing some MG Rover-based technical articles that will hopefully inspire those of you with issues to tackle them yourselves. Until next month, drive safely. Andy Knott

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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CHAIRMANS NOTES BY IAN QUARRINGTON

Administration. What a topic for a hot day (it’s Silverstone GP weekend and football (whatever that is) on the television shortly. Well, we cannot run our Club without a serious amount of order and that means administrative duties for the Chairman and the Board just now. As I write I am thinking of one of my dearest friends, the late Terry Starkey who, upon me telling him in June 2010 that I was about to join the Board said: “I don’t do committees, Q, they just get in the way of the fun in life” Terry was full of humour; he even wrote for the back page for the order of service for his own funeral: “It’s at 11:30. Don’t be late, there is bound to be a rush”. The whole point of this message to you is that while we have to keep the admin going, it is important not to lose sight of the fun in Club life. In April the Board signed off the work of the Mems and Arts committee relating to the Subcommittees Terms

of Reference. These still need issuing to these groups, so if you are actively involved in a group that reports its work directly to the Board look out for an email from me soon. Council agreed all the input on this in March and it was based on information given by those serving on those groups, so there should be no surprises in store. In any case, we will publicise them on the Members only area of the Club website in due course. Next, we are looking at the first draft of a document prepared by Jim Andrews (thank you, Jim) to assist the Club Chairman regarding the organisation and running of the Club’s Council and Annual General meetings. When Council last met at Cowley we enjoyed an easily run meeting held in the spirit of the Marque of Friendship, even if it was cold that day...what a contrast to today. I have been a bit Machiavellian here because some of you will remember that Pete Chaundy and Bob McGillivray are looking at the content of the meetings on behalf of Council in a parallel exercise, so I am planning to put both sets of drafts (once approved) into a proper file marked “There were no guidelines for this job: a

document to assist any future Chairman of the MGCC”. Jim’s draft includes a checklist of what needs doing against some notes and references to the Mems and Arts which give more clarification. Autumn brings a change in nature every year and at our AGM there will be some changes that will help shape the future of our 88-year-old Club, including in that administration which is the people who serve on the Board of the Club. Final thought: on one of those lovely occasions recently when John Day and I were presenting 50-year awards, one member showed me a very old copy of our Club rules which was a small, maybe 20-page, booklet the size of a pocket diary. As the Club grew so those rules and guidelines grew to help sustain us all together, but I don’t want you to think we make administrative changes for the sake of change. Everything we do is thought out and thought about over and over and over until it fits perfectly and properly into the spirit as well as the ethos of the Club’s rules and Mems and Arts and will go some way to ensure the next 88 years of the MG Car Club and its administration.

Also making the trip to Kimber House was a team of Indian filmmakers producing content for an MG documentary to be broadcast by Discovery India, with local MG owners bringing a selection of classic MG models along specifically for the occasion. On the Friday before MGLive! the founding members of the MG Car Club’s India branch made an additional visit, meeting with Adam and receiving a tour of the premises.

To complete a trio of nations, more than 25 MGs fill the Kimber House car park as part of the Belgian MG Owners Club’s Summer Heritage Tour. As well as visiting the shop and exploring the building, the club’s members enjoyed complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits before presenting Adam with the club’s badge. The visit was part of a busy day that also saw the cars park up in Abingdon town centre and head to Blenheim Palace.

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS There was a truly international flavour at Kimber House in the runup to MGLive! this year, with several overseas groups visiting the Club’s revered Abingdon headquarters as part of extended stays in the UK. Amongst the visitors were two groups from China. The first was a group of MG Car Club China members and fellow MG enthusiasts, who brought their Club flag along for Kimber House staffers to sign and presented the Club’s General Manager, Adam Sloman, with a special ‘United Friends of the Octagon’ commemorative plate. The second group consisted of MG dealers and MG China staff, with both parties thoroughly enjoying their visit.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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NEWS

Tribute to Peter McCann It is a sad loss that Peter passed away following a long illness. He will be missed by many members of the MGCC Yorkshire Centre and in particular the East Yorkshire Group. Peter’s first love was motorbikes but he always fancied an MG. In 1968 he purchased a 1946 MG TC for just £30, which remains in the family to this day. Peter became a Car Club member, and together with a small group of other enthusiasts set up the East Yorkshire Group in the late 1960s. The monthly meetings were held in the Tiger Inn, Beverley, where the lunchtime monthly meetings are still held. Peter was the East Yorkshire Group chairman for about 10 years. In 1976 the East Yorkshire Group started an annual event at Sledmere House. Peter was an electrical engineer with the Yorkshire Electricity Board, which gave him strong connections with the local farming community and through this he cajoled farmers to allow an autotest either in their farmyard or in a field, so the Tour of the Wolds multi-venue autotest was established. Sledmere and Tour of the Wolds became very popular events and Peter was an enthusiastic member of the organising team for both. Peter gained a wealth of knowledge rebuilding his TC and over time gained a second running chassis of a TC, which he

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has restored but was never returned to the road. His son, Richard, aims to complete this as a competition vehicle. Peter also rebuilt an MGA for his wife, Karen, who also has been a great supporter of the East Yorkshire Group. Peter and Karen had many trips and holidays and enjoyed some of the MGA Register weekends in Karen’s A. Peter was very generous with his knowledge and time, willing to help all. He was at one time the MGCC North East Technical Representative for T Types, helping any member to resolve a problem with their car. Peter also amassed a great number of T Type spares and he would trade items as swaps rather than take money; this again showed his generosity. Peter will be sadly missed, not only by his family, but also the MG Car Club where he had so many friends.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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NEWS

2018 Trade Directory Due to a technical error, Robin Lackford Engineering were omitted from the 2018 Trade Directory. Regrettably, this is not the first time that Robin Lackford Engineering have been omitted. The company, and indeed Robin himself have been a tremendous supported of the MG Car Club and its members for many, many years and we apologise completely for the error that lead to their omission from this year’s directory. As well as their support for the Club and its members, Robin Lackford Engineering have offered fantastic support to the Midget and Sprite Challenge. The team are able to undertake everything from race car preparation to a full nut and bolt restoration. If you would like to learn more about Robin Lackford Engineering, you can find their website at www.robinlackford.co.uk or call them on 01403 864600 or Mob: 07836 720507.

Oselli Open Day Oselli invite all MGCC members to our open day on August 4 from 9.00am to 4.00pm, where there will be an opportunity, on a first-come first-served basis, of a free rolling test of your own car. Also on display are Cars for sale, and an open opportunity of looking around our 18,000 sq ft operation. We will also have the Oselli MGA graduate spec car with the Sebring body kit available to test drive. For more details visit www.oselli.com or call 01993 849610. Notice is hereby given that the 2018 Annual General Meeting of The MG Car Club Limited will be held on Saturday October 20 2018 at MG Motor Longbridge Commencing at 4.00pm 1. Apologies for Absence. 2. To approve the minutes of the AGM held October 21 2017. 3. To receive the Financial Statements for the year ending December 31 2017 together with the Reports of the Directors and Auditors thereon and to reappoint Messrs Wilkins Kennedy as Auditors. 4. To elect the Chairman of the Club for the coming year. 5. To elect the President of the Club for the coming year. 6. To elect the current Vice Presidents of the Club for the coming year. 7. To elect the Vice Chairman of the Club for the coming year 8. To elect the Treasurer of the Club for the coming year. 9. To elect other Directors of the Club for the coming year. 10. To transact any other ordinary business of an AGM that may properly be considered. There will be an open forum following the close of the AGM. Every member has a statutory right to appoint another person as his proxy to exercise all of his rights to attend and to speak at a general meeting of the Club. Please note that only the elected CRB representatives have the right to vote at such meetings on behalf of the members. Issued by Colin Grant Company Secretary NEXT AGM SATURDAY OCTOBER 19 2019

www.mgcc.co.uk

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DEDICATED MG BESPOKE TOURS

Did you know - in addition to our Scenic Car Tours programme, we have a dedicated groups department to arrange exclusive, bespoke tours for MG groups or groups of friends. Groups can be as low as 3 or 4 cars and there is no limit to the number of cars, subject to availability of course!

10 Reasons why you can trust us to help you 1. Financial Security - Your Money is Safe with Scenic & Continental Car Tours. In accordance with the EC Package Travel Directive, Scenic & Continental Car Tours operates a system of client trust accounts, the ultimate in payment protection. This means every penny you pay to us is ring-fenced and audited by an independent firm of accountants and may not be used by us to pay suppliers until you have returned from your holiday. 2. A Great Choice of Hotels - We have literally 1000s of hotels and group rates in our system, so once you decide on your destination and dates of travel, it shouldn’t take us long to confirm availability and give you a firm price. We can also take care of your special requests, including extra night stays, excursion requests, dietary requirements.

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5. No Financial Commitment - We take away any financial commitments you may incur - i.e. hotel deposits, tickets etc. allowing you to just get on with promoting your tour to your members or friends. 6. Marketing support - We’ll always offer to help with leaflets if you need them to advertise the event, and even offer you the opportunity to promote your tour our website where we can give you your own webpage where your members can even book online. 7. No Surcharge Guarantee - Once you have booked a trip with us, the price will stay the same, no matter how the currency markets change before you travel.

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3. We’ll Support you all the way - We will not take away your role as the group organiser, (unlessyou want us to). If you already know where you want to go or if you have a specific hotel(s) you would like to use, that’s great, if you are just looking for some ideas and suggestions then that’s great too! In either case we will help you to put together the best tour for your group and at the best price possible. 4. Administration - We can take care of all of your administration including, bookings, tour confirmations, payments and ticketing. In addition we’ll make all of your hotel reservations, ferry bookings and take care of any special requests. However if you prefer to take the bookings and payments yourself, then that’s fine.

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8. 24 Hour Emergency Back-up - We provide a 24 hour emergency back-up service on all of our tours, giving you the peace of mind that whatever time, day or night, that you can contact one of our team if you or one of your members has a problem. 9. We’ll give you the Time to Sell your Tour From the time we confirm your tour, we can holdoff the hotels and ferries for your tour without commitment for several months while you promote the tour to your members or group of friends. 10. We Really do Care - It’s true, we really do want you and your group to have the best tour experience because we know that if you do you’re more likely to book with us again and tell your friends about us!

Preferred Tour Operator

Tours are organised for the MG Car Club by Scenic & Continental Car Tours

For more information on our group tour planning service call our Group Relations Manager Kieran on: 01732 879153 or see: www.sceniccartours.com

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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

R A

EVERYDAY MODIFICATIONS FOR YOUR MGF AND TF BY ROGER PARKER Reviewed by Colin Grant. Roger Parker is highly regarded for his technical knowledge on all things MG. His latest book covers a range of modifications and improvements to the F and TF taken from his personal experience. There are in-depth explanations on how to improve the engine and transmission performance, with upgrades to brakes and suspension being fully covered. He then moves on to wheel and

ROVER K-SERIES ENGINE BY IAIN AYRE AND ROB HAWKINS Illustrated with over 300 photographs, Rover K-Series Engine Maintenance, Repair and Modification is a practical guide to keeping the K-Series engines in fine working order. The most well-known issue with the K-Series is the head gasket, and this book demonstrates how to identify common faults, before giving practical advice on how best to solve them. Step-by-step guidance on all aspects of long-term engine maintenance is provided, in addition to the improvements required to prevent further problems. A K-Series engine is then stripped down to examine its clever and interesting structure, and is rebuilt with improvements. Authors of over 20 automotive books and countless articles in assorted motoring magazines, Iain Ayre and Rob Hawkins have combined their knowledge to bring you this book on the Rover K-Series engine. Priced at £24 plus p&p. To order please visit https://shop.mgcc.co.uk or phone Ineke on 01235 849737.

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tyre options and body and interior changes, to electrical upgrades plus a comprehensive setting up and maintenance guide. Together with over 450 images, this is a thoroughly absorbing book for the F and TF enthusiast and one I will be adding to my bookshelf. Priced at £25 plus p&p. To order please visit https://shop.mgcc. co.uk or phone Ineke on 01235 849737.

M R B

O cy pe al to

MGF TROPHY AND MGTF SUBFRAME MOUNTING – FROM XPART

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Following feedback from their network XPart have produced a Stainless Steel version of the commonly used Subframe Mounting KGE000110, the new part number is KGE000110SS. XPart’s MGF and TF specialists reported that after a number of years the original Mild Steel Subframe Mounting could fall victim to corrosion and need replacing. When they had tried to purchase stainless steel versions from aftermarket suppliers they found them to be of inferior quality. XPart have had the new Subframe Mounting manufactured from high-quality 304 stainless steel, using the original tooling and produced by the original manufacturer, to ensure a top-quality product that will resist corrosion and fit perfectly. XPart aim to help MG and Rover owners keep their cars on the road and in good condition for as long as possible, with a healthy parts supply at affordable prices. Retail price at £29.95 +VAT, they are available from XPart distributors and XPart AutoService Centres. www.xpart.com

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EXCLUSIVE 2019 TOURS FOR THE MG CAR CLUB Operated for the MG Car Club by Scenic & Continental Car Tours

Belgian Delights - 24th - 27th May 2019 Exclusive MG Car Club Tour

From £249.00 Per Person Including a Tasting Tour of the famous Stella Artois Brewery. Just a stone’s throw from Brussels stands the old Burgundian town of Leuven. It has so much to offer, from its amazing gastronomy to its spectacular Gothic Town Hall, a delicious Leuven pint and the atmosphere of the Old Market Square to the demure magnificence of the Saint-Peter’s church, Leuven is truly one of Belgium’s hidden treasures. Chocolates & Beer - Belgium is world-renown for its high quality chocolates, a tradition that started when chocolate was introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Today, Belgium produces 172,000 tons of chocolate per year with 2,000 chocolate shops. So culinary travellers, pack your sweet tooth! Beer is a part of Belgium’s culture with over 650 different varieties. There are approximately 178 breweries in the country, ranging from international giants such as Stella Artois to microbreweries like Domus, both of whom are based in Leuven. During your Stella Artois Brewery tour you will discover the secrets of their brewing process during a new interactive guided tour. The tour lasts approximately one hour and ends with a delicious Stella Artois tasting. Other Attractions Include: Waterloo Battlefield, Brussels, plus Autoworld, housed in the vast Palais Mondial takes visitors on journey of over 100 years of automotive history.

Price Includes: Return P&O Ferry crossing from Dover to Calais • 3 Nights at the Novotel Leuven • Buffet Breakfast each Morning • Tour of the Stella Artois Brewery & Tasting • Detailed Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions • Commemorative MGCC Tour Rally Plate • Single supplement £150.00 per person

Lake Garda & The Stelvio Pass - 3rd June - 12th June 2019 Exclusive MG Car Club Tour

From £919.00 Per Person

The Italian Lakes are unique and unmistakable. From landscapes to language, famous food to friendly locals, there are lots of bright, colourful towns around all of Lake Garda, and its clear blue waters are edged with Cypress trees, olive groves and dramatic mountains. Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy. It is a popular holiday location located in Northern Italy, about halfway between Brescia and Verona. Its shoreline is dotted with picturesque villages, medieval castles and lakeside promenades that create a unique magical atmosphere. There are 24 towns located on Lake Garda. Its 158 kilometers (98 miles) of shore length and its clear blue waters are edged with Cypress trees, olive groves and dramatic mountains. Desenzano is one of the largest towns on the lake and is popular with foreign visitors and Italian visitors alike. Located on the lake’s south west corner, it has its own train station so you can easily get to Milan, Verona or Venice. The Stelvio Pass at 2757m is one of the highest and most dramatic mountain passes in the Alps. You’ll experience the drive down the famous switchbacks driving through the heart of the Stelvio National Park before starting the descent, taking you through some great stretches of alpine forest and fast sweeping roads prior to your arrival at the foot of the pass.

Price Includes: Return P&O Ferry crossing from Dover to Calais • 2 overnight stays en-route to Lake Garda and 2 overnight stays on return Journey • 5 nights at the Hotel Drago in Lake Garda • Buffet Breakfast each Morning • Dinner included each evening • Complimentary Car parking included throughout • Detailed Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions • Commemorative MGCC Tour Rally Plate • Single supplement £350.00 per person

Jersey Island Tour - 28th September-2nd October 2019

From £439.00 per person

An island of rediscovery where landscapes are just waiting to be explored. Whether it’s the view from the battlements of a 12th century castle, a beach walk along Jersey’s unspoilt coastline or taking time to reflect while you watch the sun sink into the sea over St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey is there waiting to be discovered.

Exclusive MG Car Club Tour

Sparkling seas, golden sands, rugged cliffs, picturesque harbours and fascinating countryside await the visitor to Jersey. A welcoming island that offers the best of Britain with the added zest of France.The largest and most southerly of the Channel Islands, but still only 45 square miles, Jersey is situated on the edge of the Gulf Stream, 100 hundred miles south of England and 14 miles from France. The Island slopes from north to south to face the sun and boasts the best sunshine record in the British Isles and a climate which is milder in all seasons than the UK. Just nine miles by five, Jersey’s size makes it easy to fit plenty into a weekend; with heritage discoveries on your doorstep and miles of beaches and bays to explore.

Price Includes: Return Condor Ferry from Poole to Jersey • 4 night stay in the 3* Merton Hotel, St Helier • Buffet Breakfast each Morning • Dinner included each evening • Detailed Road Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions • Commemorative MGCC Tour Rally Plate • Single supplement £200.00 per person

To Book or for more for more information on our group tour planning service call our Group Relations Manager Kieran on: 01732 879153 or see: www.sceniccartours.com GROUP TOUR FULL PAGE MG Safety Fast AUG 2018.indd 1 Safety Fast_August18_Front.indd 12

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PRODUCTS

HAMILTON CLASSIC PRODUCTS FROM KIMBER STORES

Hamilton Classic have been in the classic car accesory business for over 15 years and in that time we have strived to find new products that not only enhance the ownership of classics but also make them easier to live with and more reliable. As a partner of the MG Car Club for nearly 10 years we have a great stable of products for all models of MG from the classic TA to the all new ZS, and as a member of the MG Car Club you can save up to 10% on the Hamiton range. To order any of the product please visit the MGCC shop at https://shop.mgcc.co.uk or phone Ineke on 01235 849737

CTEK BATTERY CHARGER/CONDITIONER

Every CTEK battery charger is designed to be completely safe for you and your vehicle. The MXS 3.8 is an advanced battery charger and maintainer. It has selectable programs for use on different sized batteries and special programs for desulphation, and charging on cold days. The MXS 3.8 microprocessor-controlled 7 step battery charger and maintainer is suitable for batteries from 1.2Ah-85Ah. Features include battery diagnosis to establish whether your battery can receive and retain a charge, a patented desulphation program and a ‘Snowflake’ program for charging on cold days. It also includes selectable programs for charging smaller and normal batteries. The MXS 3.8 uses CTEK’s patented float/pulse system, which is the most efficient maintenance mode when a battery is connected for long periods. The MXS 3.8 is simple to use and you can follow the whole charging process on the clear, easy-to-read display. Fully automatic ‘click and connect’ 7 step charging. Smaller battery, normal battery and cold weather programs. Charges batteries up to 85A. Reverse polarity protected, 5-year warranty. Members price £63.00 plus P&P.

SUPERTEX INDOOR CAR COVER Supertex is non-hygroscopic, making it not only water resistant but it will not absorb moisture from the air, making it perfect for almost any indoor environment. Most sizes available in Red, Blue or Green, all supplied with a storage bag. Supertex is a man-made fabric that has many beneficial qualities for protecting your car: • SOFT FLEECE LINING giving a quilted feel for additional protection against knocks. • FULLY BREATHABLE so moisture in the air doesn’t get trapped between the car and cover. • 100% DUSTPROOF due to its non-woven construction. Priced between £103 - £158 depending on model of car.

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TAILOR MADE CAR OVER MATS

OEM Quality Car Mats made to your personal specification using an antifungal-treated polyamide yarn with a 2100gm pile weight. 11 colours of carpet to choose from. Over 20 binding colours and an unlimited number of stitching combinations to make these mats as personalised as your car! We hold the templates for over 2,500 vehicles, but if your MG isn’t on our list then we can make your mats from paper templates or originals for the perfect fit. Priced between £103 - £158 depending on model of car.

MOLTEX OUTDOOR CAR COVER

Our Moltex fabric has been developed over a quarter of a century of UK experience. The silhouette-contoured shape improves air circulation and breathability, together with elasticated ends and two sewn-in webbing straps for snug, secure fitting. • 99% WATERPROOF so suitable for long-term outdoor use. • FULLY BREATHABLE to help avoid condensation, can be put on a damp car. • WELDED SEAMS and stitched hem for extra protection and strength. • INTERNAL FLEECE lining to prevent damage to bodywork. • UV PROTECTION avoids paint fade and deterioration of rubber seals. • 2-YEAR WARRANTY Priced between £148.50 - £185.50 depending on model of car SPECIAL OFFER: With every Moltex car cover ordered this month you will receive a ‘MIRACLE ABSORBER’

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POSTBAG

MG TD (1951)

MGLIVE!

CRC 855 was bought as a barn find at a Biddle & Webb auction in Birmingham on November 6 2011. This was a Probate Sale so the only detail to come with the car was that it had been in the same ownership since 1958. I was very fortunate to find an old tax disc under the carpet. This convinced the DVLA that I should keep the original registration number! I would dearly love to hear/meet anybody from that family who had owned it for more than 50 years. All information from anybody else would be highly valued as well. After eight years’ work it is now in concours condition in British Racing Green, although the original colour was red but needs a history!

I feel that Roy Locock in his response to Chairman’s Notes of May has perhaps not fully grasped the overall picture, in particular the financial aspects of MGLive! Yes, the Club runs a race meeting at Silverstone, has done every year from 1951. Other events such as the California Cup, Sprints, etc, were mainly nomadic. It was always a problem to find where to run them. In the eighties Silverstone provided that haven. In the mid-eighties when I became Chairman it was decided to take a leaf out of the continental events and offer more facilities for the Club to gather and share experience at a focal point. The first of the large marquees, a silver service supper and guest speaker were the result. Members enjoyed the improvements and that has led to the event we now know as MGLive! Silverstone has provided over recent years a focal point and the opportunity with its space and facilities for not only the events, Race meeting, California Cup, Sprint, Autosolo, etc, that the Club wants to run, but also camping and caravans and a central focus point for meetings being the marquees for Centres and Registers alike. The location of Silverstone, central in the country and close enough for our Continental and overseas visitors, makes an important contribution also. However, the point about the finance is that thanks to the support from Silverstone and the income from the race meeting the Club can put on the event without significant contribution from Club funds, viz the membership fees. Without that income an event the size of MGLive! infield just doesn’t cover its costs, certainly not in any location I can think of that offers the opportunity for the entire Club to meet and indulge in the many and varied activities that currently make up MGLive! Roy is right, though; the race meeting can, providing we have sufficient guests, continue for the two days on the Grand Prix circuit without the infield. But he needs to address the financial implications of that. The ability and desire for Centres to take on the organising workload is something to be taken into account also. Many, I believe, would not want to handle it. In addition, every time you move an event of this type there is yet another learning curve that goes with it, in particularly with suppliers. Finally, speaking of motorsport, it has been fundamental in the Club history and prominence. It is still a jewel in our Club’s activities; we are the only single-marque Club still running a major race programme which has allowed us to run the major central annual gathering which is the envy of so many other Clubs.

Many thanks Bruce Rix

MODERN PETROLS AND CLASSIC CARS Your recent series of published articles “Modern Petrols and Classic Cars” has been brilliant and very interesting. Paul Ireland has produced a truly excellent, readable and understandable paper on a complex issue from which I have learnt much… I hope others have likewise. I would also like to say that having been reading Safety Fast! for the last 50 years or so, in recent years the standard of publication generally has improved tremendously and I hope that I am not alone among your readers to acknowledge the investment and hard work that has gone into achieving this. Regards Keith Porstmore

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Sincerely Ron Gammons, Main organiser Silverstone 1985 to 2000, Race 1985 to 2018

A F

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24/07/2018 17:23

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08/05/2018 15:53

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FEATURE

THE HUMBLE DRUM BRAKE By Paul Ireland

INTRODUCTION The modern drum brake was first used in a car made by Maybach in 1900, although the principle was only later patented in 1902 by Louis Renault. While drum brakes have mainly been replaced by disc brakes, they are used on all the classic MGs. Even some modern, high-performance cars such as BMW and Porsche still use drum brakes for their handbrake. Drum brakes probably reached their pinnacle in the 1955 Mercedes Le Mans car which had massive inboard front drum brakes, nearly as big as the wheels. Even so, it was still outbraked by the Jaguars with their new disc brakes. My reason for writing this article, however, is not to give the history of drum brakes; it is in response to a problem I suffered with my MG TC’s brakes. After 30 years since relining the brake shoes, I decided it was time to replace the now dry and cracked linings. I sent my shoes off to a reputable company where they were quickly refitted with new bonded linings. Unfortunately, when you gently applied the brakes the new shoes grabbed, violently pulling the car to one side, and tended to stick on, especially at slow speeds. Despite my best efforts and the advice of T Type experts on Bill and Sally Silcock’s spring tour, it took emergency maintenance in the hotel car park to spot the problem. It is this I want to share with other classic MG owners. I would also like to thank Barrie Jones for his contributions to this article.

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DRUM BRAKES – HOW THEY WORK This diagram shows the orientation of the brakes on the MG TC and earlier cars; on other cars the pivot may be at the top or side of the brake but they all work the same way. The operation of drum brakes is very straightforward. There are two shoes covered with friction material inside a drum. Each shoe is pivoted at one end

and they are applied by an outwards force at the other end pushing the shoes apart and against the drum face. The pivot carries the whole braking force. When the brake is released a return spring pulls the shoes back. The outwards force may be applied by hydraulic pistons or mechanically via cables or rods acting on cams or levers. On the MG TA and later cars the rear

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FEATURE

wheels use both a hydraulic piston for the foot brake and a cable-operated mechanical system for the handbrake. Drum brakes are not perfect. The outward movement of the brake shoe decreases towards the pivot as shown by the diagram on the previous page. Until the top face of the friction material has worn sufficiently, the lower face will not even contact the drum. As a result new shoes are more likely to feel spongy or overheat until they have properly bedded in. A second problem with drum brakes is heat dissipation. As the friction material covers virtually the whole area of the inside of the drum, the only way for the heat to escape is by conduction through the drum. If used for long periods, eg when descending hills, drums can get overly hot causing the brakes to fade. In contrast, the friction material on disc brakes only covers a small area of the disc; the remaining part is open to the air allowing the heat to escape. The final problem with drum brakes is brake dust produced as the friction material wears. This collects inside the drum and can cause the brakes to squeal and wear to moving parts such as the pivots, adjusters and mechanical linkages. SELF-SERVO EFFECT

There is one advantage with drum brakes: they self-servo, ie the braking force is increased on the leading shoe by the rotation of the wheel as the friction between drum and shoe “pulls” it on. Unfortunately, the braking force is also reduced on the trailing shoe.

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The selfservo effect is the cause of the brakes grabbing or pulling to one side. When the friction material on the leading shoe touches the drum, the self-servo effect increases the braking pressure and, in extreme cases, it can over-brake that wheel or grab. Any differences between the brakes or adjustments on each wheel can be exaggerated by the self-servo effect and can cause the car to pull to the side as the brakes are applied. The TC and earlier cars have one leading and one trailing shoe per drum. It takes the same pressure on the brake pedal to stop the car when it is going forwards as backwards. The TD and later cars with drum brakes had twin leading shoes on the front wheels. On these cars there are two pivots and two hydraulic cylinders generating the outwards force. As a result it requires less brake pedal pressure to stop when they are moving forwards and by the same token more pressure when reversing. Something pre-MG TD drivers need to be aware of when swapping to more recent models.

that it is not possible to set the position of the bottom of the shoes. Hence it is important the lining is the correct thickness (3/16’’). Too thin and it will take a long time for the brake to bed-in, too thick and it will bind. The TD and later cars had a more satisfactory arrangement. Rather than a pivot, the shoes were fitted into a slot, so that they could self-centre themselves within the drum. There is a second return spring at the bottom of the shoes to hold them into the slot. On the TD, TF and the MGA the adjusters are of the “snail cam” variety (pictured below).

THE PIVOT AND BRAKE ADJUSTMENT The early cars had a pivot pin bolted onto the back plate and a hole in each brake shoe (as represented in the above diagrams). The shoes were held in place by a spiral spring and horseshoe clip, rigidly locating them. It was problems with this pivot arrangement that caused my brakes to grab and lock on. More about that later. Adjustment is by two large bolts on the back plate that set the closed position stops at the top of each shoe. The problem with this arrangement is

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FEATURE

alloy with two square-headed bolts cast into it to provide the locating studs. In the new adjuster, these were “replaced” by two 6mm lengths of studding tapped into the alloy. The first time the MoT tester stamped on the brakes these ripped out of the alloy – something that could have happened in a real emergency stop. As a result, the brakes collapsed inside the drum causing the hydraulic system to fail and preventing the handbrake from working. A total brake failure.

On the MGB an adjuster is built into the pivot. This has an adjustment screw with a pyramid-shaped head and when screwed in, it “clicks” every 90 degrees pushing the bottoms of the brake shoes outwards. An advantage of this system is that it allows the bottoms of the shoes to be adjusted to give a better “fit”. The main disadvantage of the pyramid adjuster (shown above) is that the casting is made from aluminium and the adjusting screw, which protrudes out of the back of the brake, is steel. Exposure to water and salt under the car causes the screw to seize in its housing and coupled with its small square head, this makes it virtually impossible to turn. When I owned an MGB GT, my practice was to remove and grease the adjuster screw and after refitting, put a tightfitting plastic tube filled with grease over the exposed threads to keep out water. This certainly helped kept it free. There is a problem with some replacement adjusters. Barrie Jones reported he had a catastrophic failure of a brand new pyramid adjuster when he rebuilt his V8. The original is made of

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RETURN SPRINGS It is important that these are in good condition and properly fitted. They should not catch on any part of the brake fittings and especially not rub on the hub. They are probably the hardest component of a drum brake to fit and I have never found a satisfactory solution. On the TC and earlier cars, a shoe has two riveted-in posts, one on each side. The larger is the brake stop (see photograph below) and is fitted on

the inside. The smaller has two notches around it where the springs fit. Before fitting, ensure the brake stops set at their minimum position to reduce the amount you have to stretch the springs. I also find a rope pulled tight around the shoes also helps keep them as close together as possible. My current practice is to use a pair of pointed-nose pliers to hold the spring as close to the loop on one end, put the other end of the spring in place, then using the fingers of my other hand with my thumb on the brake shoe pull the pliers to until I can get the spring in place.

I start by fitting the springs over the outer of the two notches. When fitted, slide them over to the inner notches closest to the shoe. On the rear shoes ensure the middle of the spring goes behind the clip on the handbrake mechanism. On the later cars, the springs fit through holes in the shoes and the shoes are held in place by anti-rattle spring clips that pass through the shoe and back plate. On my MGB I found I could fit the return springs first, then lever the shoes into place with a large screwdriver. The problem here is you need four hands – one to hold each of the shoes and the other two to fit the anti-rattle clips. Again, it is useful to ensure the brake stops are set to the minimum position before starting. MAINTENANCE Brakes are probably the most critical component of a car, so maintaining them is essential. Depending on how much you use your brakes, it is worth cleaning out the brake dust every two years or 5,000 miles. Remove the brake drum from one wheel at a time. It is safer to wash the dust from the drum and around the shoes using a fluid such as Halfords Brake Cleaner rather than an air hose which can create a lot of potentially dangerous dust. The brake adjusters should be freed off before removing the drums, which also checks they are working properly. It is worth greasing the pivots, adjusters, backing plate where the brake shoes touch, mechanical linkages and/ or ends of the hydraulic pistons using copper grease or a high-temperature ceramic grease. BE CAREFUL not to get any grease on the friction surfaces. If you do, brake cleaner will remove small traces. Check the brake return springs are in good condition and properly located. Check any hydraulic hoses and pistons for leakage or weeping. If the pistons have dust covers, they can be carefully pulled back to inspect the pistons and confirm that that they move freely. When a car

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FEATURE

is left standing, hydraulic fluid can, over time, make these pistons very stiff. A small amount of rubber grease around the piston and under the dust cover helps. It is also worth checking that the shoes have a chamfer on the leading and trailing end of the friction material as this reduces the chance of them grabbing. In practice, the chamfer is only needed on the leading end; adding one to both ends makes it easier to reverse the brake shoes at a later date to even out wear. Finally, before refitting the drum I check that each brake shoe can move freely using a screwdriver against the hub as a lever and check nothing is rubbing on the hub. Replace the drum and press the foot brake hard to position the shoes before re-adjusting. Screw the adjusters until the drum is binding, then backing them off one or two clicks or a fraction of a turn should be sufficient to allow the drum to rotate freely. If a brake still rubs in places

as the wheel is rotated, then you need to check the drum is not oval. It may need to be skimmed. The maximum oversize for later cars is 0.060 inches, beyond which the drum must be replaced. MY GRABBING AND STICKING-ON PROBLEM Needless to say, when I replaced the shoes on my TC I had followed all the maintenance steps. Everything appeared to be OK, but when the car was moving, a gentle touch on the brake pedal and “bang” – on came the brakes, hard. Even when the brake pedal was released, the brakes on one wheel stayed on. Why? The problem was due to wear on the pivot pin and the pivot hole in the brake shoes. The shoe with the most wear was able to move up and down by around 30-50 thou, very small, but sufficient to cause the problem. Unfortunately, I had inadvertently fitted this shoe as a leading

shoe on a front wheel, which also had the pivot with the most wear. When I gently applied the brake, the self-servo effect pulled the brake on and moved it down on the pivot, putting it on hard. Because the shoes are firmly located with a spiral spring and horseshoe clip, the return spring was not sufficiently strong to pull the brake off, hence it stuck on. The solution: I re-manufactured the brake pivots, which can be easily replaced as they are bolted into the back plate, and replaced the four most worn shoes with new ones. Now the brakes all come on “as one” with no grabbing or uneven braking of the wheels. The lesson, if you own a TC, YA or earlier car, is always check for excess movement of the shoes on the pivots before fitting the horseshoe clip. There should be virtually none. On later cars, after fitting the return springs check the shoes can move up and down relatively freely.

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FEATURE

ABINGDON FIRES By Adrian Goodenough, Retired MG Factory

Adrian recounted these stories after the passing of Jim Simpson, aged 100. Jim was part of the factory fire brigade, which was a side-duty that employees could volunteer for. Adrian spoke of watching them practice for British Leyland competitions, where they won many trophies over the years.

MG Factory fire Brigade in 1973. Jim Simpson is in the front row, second from the left

he only serious fire we had at the factory was when we had a new paint oven installed. It could take about 15 cars, but we had many problems with it. Before the cars had paint repairs and entered the oven, all the light lenses had to be removed or they would melt.

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One day Fred Hayes, who was on the end of the oven, started shouting at us as there was smoke pouring out. Fred had a long pole which he used to pull the cars out of the end of the oven as they were too hot to handle. We managed to pull one car out, but the smoke was too thick and acrid (by this time the fire alarms were ringing

out). At the other end of the oven was Bill Purbrick who was spraying the cars. He was also a works fireman and he dropped everything and ran down to the fire station, completely unaware of the location of the fire, but was back up in just a couple of minutes with the rest of the fire fighters. By this time it was a very serious fire, as tyres were exploding, so we evacuated all of B-block, where we then waited for the Abingdon and Didcot fire brigade. There were five cars completely burnt out, and about another 10 badly damaged, but repairable. We were all expecting the fuel tanks to explode and were lucky they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, but the fuel lines burnt out and when the fuel ignited, it just created more white smoke, which then combined with the rest of the cars burning. The paint shop and finishing shop were in complete blackout which was very frightening. The MG firefighters were very brave as most of them had never seen a fire of this magnitude and although we lost a few cars, no one was hurt and the oven was running again in two weeks. On a more humorous note, there

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FEATURE

Les Mathews and Bob Saunders in action during the 1956 Fire Brigade Competition

was one retired firefighter at the ‘Gs’, Cyril Cox, and he had the freedom of the factory (also a lot of time on his hands). He spent a lot of time with his horses which he kept in a field next to the main compound and used his bike to get around the site and to take hay/ feed to his horses. He also wore a pair of overalls to keep his trousers clean.

One day, on his visits to feed his horses, the weather wasn’t good and by the time he got back to the fire station, he was quite wet but luckily he had an electric fire in the station, so he took off his wet clothes and hung them on the back of a chair close to the fire to dry out. He then left the station and walked across to A-block

and went into the canteen for a tea and something to eat. While in the canteen, the fire alarm sounded and, by the time he got back to the fire station, he could see there was a lot of commotion outside the station and he discovered the station was on fire/ (This was in the 1960s, and up until then this was the only fire we had at the ‘Gs’.) The next day Cyril had to go down to the personnel department to explain himself and had to pass the production lines on the way. As soon as he was spotted by the workforce on the lines, they all started to sing and cheer and someone offered him some old overalls. He also had the same treatment when he walked through B-block. Cyril was never allowed to forget the day he set the fire station on fire!

MG Car Co Ltd Works Fire Tender. Built by Miles Ltd of Gloucester on a Morris Commercial Chassis

Fire Brigade competitions at Morris Motor Sports Ground www.mgcc.co.uk

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MILLE MIGLIA

TUE 14 – SAT 18 MAY 2019 (DATE TBC) THE ORIGINAL AND BEST…FULLY HOSTED 4 NIGHT MILLE MIGLIA VIP TOUR

Join TV celebrity and motoring legend Tiff Needell as we dip in and out of the epic 1,000 mile Mille Miglia on our all inclusive 5 day hosted tour. Enjoy exclusive viewing and hospitality at fabulous locations including our private balcony overlooking Lake Garda and unique hospitality in San Marino where you’ll be just feet from the cars in our private VIP Grandstand - with waitress service and gourmet lunch. Our boutique hotels are perfectly located and of course this is Italy and the food capital of Europe… so you’ll enjoy fabulous inclusive wining and dining throughout!

4 NIGHT VIP HOSTED PROGRAMME INCLUSIONS: With numbers limited to around 25 clients this tour is intimate, friendly and exclusive. » Arrival meet & greet with chauffeured transfers directly to your hotel » Boutique hotel accommodation including breakfast » Hosted chauffeured transfers throughout the programme » Welcome drinks reception and superb regional wining and dining included throughout » Private tour of the Mille Miglia Museum including dinner & drinks » View the build up in Brescia » Lakeside lunch with viewing from our private balcony

» VIP hospitality in the hilltop principality of San Marino reached by cable car with exclusive reserved seating and gourmet dining » Informal guided walking tour of Bologna’s key and hidden sights » Private guided tour of select motoring museums including exclusive behind the scenes access to the Lamborghini Factory » Motor Passion concierge management on-site throughout the weekend » Hosted by motoring legend Tiff Needell

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Early MGF pictured with a late MG TF

QUICK GUIDE TO BUYING AN MGF/TF By Colin Grant

ith MGF/TF prices at an all-time low, it’s now an ideal time to consider buying one of these great

sports cars. As when buying any car there are points you should look out for and the MGF/TF is no exception. The purpose of this guide therefore is to make you aware of the main points that should be considered before parting with your hard-earned cash.

TF front grille www.mgcc.co.uk

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Good News – Bad News: The good news is that there are many MG specialists who will happily look after your car and new spare parts are readily available, including many breakers who offer up good secondhand parts at realistic prices. EBay is also a good source of parts for the do-it-yourself mechanic. The bad news is that if you are non-mechanical and don’t take the necessary steps in checking the car before buying, you can be left with a

sports car that may need more spent on it than the car is worth!! So be warned. Do your homework: It’s important to do some research before going to see a car as there are varying trim levels, an amazing amount of accessories available, and engine options to choose from. Our MGF Register has an in-depth guide at www.mgfregister.org/ mgftfbuyersguide.html and also the Club has a web site at www. buyinganmg.com/buying.htm which will help you. Pay as much as you can afford, with prices varying from a few hundred pounds for an early rough ‘F’ to around £4,500 plus for a low mileage mint condition late ‘TF’. As a choice I would go for a good condition limited edition model over a standard car as these do seem to hold their prices better, although at present do not seem to command premium purchase prices. Latterly there are also the ‘TFs built under Chinese ownership, being the LE500, TF85th, and standard TF135. These of course

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FEATURE

TF Intake scoop

Glass rear heated windscreen

will command a higher price, as the two premium models come with aircon, hardtop (LE500 only) leather upholstery, 16in wheels etc. fitted as standard. Insurance: Once you have decided on the model you wish to look for, check out the insurance cost, as a TF160 with a 1.8 litre 160bhp engine is obviously going to be in a higher insurance group than a TF115 with a 1.6 115bhp. Where to look: The cars for sale section in Safety Fast! is the ideal place to start. There are of course alternatives if you can’t find what you are looking for, such as webbased car sales sites like Auto Trader, or check out other publications. Also as a member of the MGCC you have the full support of the MGF Register who are always keen to offer help. There are of course many MG specialists that sell Fs and TFs but these

Alcatara and leather covered seats 26 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

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Access to oil and water top up points

normally command higher prices, but will come with a warranty, and in many cases will have had the cambelt and head gasket replaced. EBay is another place to look, but you do take a chance if you don’t have the opportunity of looking over the car before buying. Another alternative is to attend an auction, but again you are taking a chance buying this way as test drives before the auction are not normally permitted, although you can visually inspect the car and hear the engine running. Before you view: Before you go along to view a car ask for the registration number so you can carry out an HPI check. An HPI check can be carried out on the internet. A typical site is www.mycarcheck. com who can, for a comprehensive check costing around £15, supply you with all the information you need as to whether there is any outstanding finance, colour change, crash damage

11 spoke 16in wheels with four pot calipers

or if the car has been written off at any time and what category it was assigned. (Go to www.carpages.co.uk/ motoring-news/car-insurance-writeoff-categories-17-09-08.asp for more information on insurance write-off categories.) This really is a must, as the information supplied could help you to negotiate the price, or walk away, if for instance the car has been written off in the past. Also available from motinfo. direct.gov.uk is the MOT history which will also show the car’s current MOT/ road tax status, plus any past failures and advisories. When viewing: It’s a good idea to take along a set of overalls, mechanic’s gloves, and a torch, plus trolley jack/axle stands (if available). Firstly ask to see all the necessary paperwork and check the VIN number matches the one on the car. A full service history with a stamped-up book and receipts is a real bonus, plus the owner’s handbooks. Start with looking around the outside of the car for any sign of accident damage, scratches, poor panel gaps, etc. Check under the bonnet for any signs of damage to the inner wings/chassis legs which will mean the car has been involved in an accident at some time. Also look in the boot, lift the carpet and check for any damage to the body panels. Look at the rear screen in the hood. If its glass that is a bonus as they are also heated, but if it’s plastic look for any signs of splitting and make sure you can easily see through it as they are prone to discolouring. If fitted check the condition of the hardtop and look for any damage around the outer edges

www.mgcc.co.uk

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pers

FEATURE

Poor condition hood, bargaining point

MGF interior with non standard seats

F front grille

as this will show if it has been dropped when removing and fitting, plus check the condition of the headlining and rubber seals. Get the owner to operate the lights and pay particular attention to the MGF headlights as the reflectors are prone to becoming opaque and are costly to replace. Operate the doors and make sure they can be opened easily from inside and outside the car. Make sure there are two key fobs and operate the door locks using these. If slow to respond it could be simply that the batteries in the fob need changing. Check that both wipers work as the linkage is known to fail, leaving only one wiper working.

Damaged plastice rear screen www.mgcc.co.uk

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While checking the car, ask as many questions as you can to build up a picture of how the car has been looked after: questions such as how long have you owned the car, who services the car, what coolant do you use (there are two main types), what oil do you use, have the head gasket/ coolant pipes been replaced etc. A knowledgeable owner who can answer these questions will more than likely have looked after their car, but someone who replies I don’t know or I’m not sure has been the opposite, so beware Make sure you check the make, condition and size (different size tyres between front and back) of the tyres,

Standard MGF 15in wheels

TF with colour matched seats and trim

as cheap tyres can have a major effect on the handling qualities of the car. Whilst checking the tyres look at the condition of the discs; a deep ridge around the edge of the disc denotes worn discs in need of replacement complete with pads. Check to see if the wheels have been kerbed, and if they have been badly damaged, note this as a bargaining point as refurbishment can be costly. Check the header tank in the boot area by undoing the cap (when the engine is cold) and making sure the coolant is at the half way level and that it is not a sludgy brown colour which may indicate a head gasket failure. Next remove the dipstick to check that the oil is clean with no milky deposits on it, which again may suggest a head gasket failure. (Short journeys, in winter, can cause this issue so be aware of this.) If the owner will allow you, use the trolley jack/axle stands to check underneath the car for signs of corrosion, particularly on the subframes, engine/subframe mounts and coolant pipes. Also look at the condition of the exhaust and catalytic converter; replacing these can be expensive. Check inside the car and look for wear on the driver’s seat bolster which

TF with optional windstop and roll over hoops AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 27

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Later snorkel type hearter air intake After market exhaust and cat

is prone to wear. Check the condition of the carpets and general interior. If the owner will let you lift the carpet in the foot wells, check to see if the felt underneath is wet due to water ingress. Check the heater fan works on all settings; if not, the heater resistor will need replacing. Operate the hood and check its operation/condition. Pull on the handbrake to check its operation; this should pull up one or two clicks at most and have a positive feel to it. If not, the linkage on the rear brakes could be seized. Test Drive: Go for a test drive, insurance/owner permitting, and check out the gear change which should be smooth in the up and down changes. Check the clutch operation. Stiffness when applying the clutch could denote a seizing operating arm that would need the gearbox to be removed for replacement. Also check to see if any warning lights are staying on in the dashboard. Check the operation of

Chrome handbrake button part of bright pack

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the brakes and that the car pulls up squarely without pulling to one side. If testing an automatic, Steptronic F or Stepspeed TF, then check that the auto gearchange is operating normally. Problems can arise when the wrong oil is used or change intervals are not being adhered to. Another fault to look out for on your test is the car suddenly revving highly with little forward progress. This fault can be down simply to a £20 inhibitor switch being faulty, normally due to corrosion around the electrical contacts and is easily fixed. The MGF/TF has excellent handling qualities and should corner almost as if on rails. The ‘F’ uses Hydrolastic suspension which should give a very smooth and comfortable ride, taking road undulations in its stride. If you find the ride is harsh and the car is sitting low, then the suspension will need attention as the ride height is very important to the ride quality. The ‘TF’ will be harsher as it uses a conventional coil over damper suspension system and was stiffened up to give a more sporting ride. Later cars, 2005, had comfort suspension fitted which greatly improved the ride, with the harder suspension being reserved for the Sportpack 1 option. Many owners fitted a kit using Bilstein dampers which softened the ride and this is certainly a bonus if fitted. Bargaining Points: The main thing to remember is to only haggle over the price if you are capable of rectifying areas of the car

Bilstein Handling Kit

that need attention. Costs can soon spiral out of control if you entrust the work to a garage, and your low-cost fun car can soon turn into a money pit, so it will pay you to walk away as there are many more cars out there for you to look at. On the plus side, if you are an experienced mechanic with a fully equipped home workshop you will find the majority of the work required fairly straightforward, with parts at realistic prices and readily available. Final tips: If you have limited mechanical knowledge then find someone who has and will come with you to view a car. If you are a member of the AA or RAC you could arrange for them to do an inspection of the car; charges for this start around £135. There is also an independent firm called Classic Assessments who also offer this service. When looking round the car make a mental note of all the minus points and use these in negotiating the price. Have a budget in mind and stick to it, but spend the most you can to obtain the best car available. To supplement this ‘quick view’ there are some very good publications available. I strongly suggest the purchase of one of these for a more in-depth guide to buying your ideal MGF/TF.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Cars assemble at the Mason Arms

CANADA RUN 2018

et again the ‘Canada Run’, organised by the new Vale of York Natter, was blessed with fabulous weather. It was a lovely day; definitely a day to have the hood down! It was the fourth Canada Run, and fourth time with blazing sunshine. Who says it is always dark and gloomy ‘up north’? Not as many entries this year, probably due to the growth of classic car events in the area. We had an entry of 22 cars from as far afield as Northumberland and East Yorkshire. We started from our regular Natter haunt of the Mason Inn at Hopperton, where Kim Gillespie laid on tea and coffee and bacon butties. There was a good selection of MGAs, MGBs, F/TFs, one RV8, and one Midget, as well as a couple of other classics. The aim of the run was go around all the of WW2 bomber airfields manned by the Royal Canadian Air Force, and the local memorials. As you read this in the summer months of 2018, it will be 70 years since those young men returned to their homeland, leaving behind over 4,200 souls who Russell Hudson heads off in his MGA

By Ken Cothliff

were killed in service with the Canadian Group of Bomber Command. Initially, before the run proper began, the cars drove to Allerton Castle, just over the road from the pub. It was the headquarters for the Canadian Bomber Group in WW2, and the owners allowed us onto their grass for a photo opportunity in the bright sunshine. After that, it was set the odometers at the exit gate to start the run, and through the winding lanes to the old toll bridge (a whole 40 pence!) at Aldwark. This bridge is the only one over the River Ouse between Boroughbridge and the one on the ring road north of York, and I often wonder how its wooden road surface coped with all the wartime traffic to and from the local RAF bases. After passing by RAF Linton-onOuse, and the disused airfield at East Moor, near Sutton on the Forest, the cars headed north over the Howardian Hills toward the old airfield at Wombleton and then the lovely market town of Helmsley. Here a decision over a coffee break had to be taken by the entrants as to whether they headed further north to Teesside and the two airfields

up there, Middleton St. George – now Durham Teesside Airport – where there is a memorial statue to Andrew Mynarski VC, the only winner of the award in Six Group, and Croft – now a racing circuit. The alternative was a shorter route via Thirsk to RAF Leeming, where the northern participants would rejoin the track. From conversations afterwards it was apparent that quite a few of the cars went for the longer run of about 160 miles. Many run entrants commented they had seen other classics on runs in the area. After leaving RAF Leeming it was a tortuous weave through the attractive leafy lanes of the Vale of York, past Dishforth, Skipton-on-Swale and finally Tholthorpe – the most intact of the disused airfields in the area. The final rendezvous was the Anchor Inn and Carvery at Whixley, just north of the A59. Many of those who took part said they would return to find out more about this part of our history. “Adding history to a run makes it more interesting” was the oft-repeated comment. What a great way to enjoy your MG on a lovely, sunny, Yorkshire Sunday.

Setting off on the Canada Run

www.mgcc.co.uk

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EVENTS

TOUROFSOUTHEAST WINDMILLS By Philip Bayne-Powell

he South East Centre recently held a very successful tour of the windmills located along the North Downs. This was a departure from the usual tours through the countryside and visited seven very different windmills before finishing up at the windmill at Charlwood for a welcoming barbeque. The tour started at Priory Farm garden centre, South Nutfield, which had opened up earlier on the Sunday especially for us. After signing on and grabbing a coffee, 39 cars set off on the tour, following the route instructions given them. They were also given information sheets on all the windmills to be visited, which were as varied as you could imagine. The first one was the working 1665 windmill at Outwood where, for a nominal £2, people had full access to the inside of this fully working post mill. It is Britain’s oldest working windmill, and listed by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings as “of paramount Importance”. It is currently for sale at around £800,000, which includes the adjoining converted bar residence.

RV8 by Outwood windmill

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The rally field photographed from Charlwood windmill

From there the tour went to the 1824 tower windmill at Wray Common, which has been fully restored and converted to residential use. Following the tour route people came to the 1765 post windmill at Reigate Heath, which was used for grinding corn. It sits right behind the Reigate Golf Club which handed out the keys to access the roundhouse, uniquely used as a church from 1880; services are still held there every month. Next visit was to the jewel of the tour, which was a wind-powered sawmill at Buckland. This small twostorey 1860s windmill is unique, being the sole remaining saw mill in the country. It sits in the back garden of the proud owner who delighted members with a short full-access tour, with the band saw running courtesy of a modern electric motor. He was an Alfa Romeo enthusiast, and had his Giulietta parked in the drive for us to admire. The tour then went to the 1803

smock windmill at Ockley, where we had to admire the dedication of the owner, who had bought the remains of a collapsed windmill. He inherited just the brick base and some of the collapsed structure. He has rebuilt the superstructure using as many recycled materials as he could. It now just awaits the finishing touch of the four sails, for which he is waiting for funding assistance. He personally took people on a full tour of the five storeys of the rebuilt tower. At Ewhurst, the helpful owner was on hand to tell people about this Grade II listed brick tower windmill from 1845. It had been converted to residential use, so this was just one of the two windmills that we couldn’t see inside. The tour finished at the fully restored post mill at Charlwood, where 40 people took advantage of the four conducted tours. Cars were lined up either side of the access track, before 62 people enjoyed the barbeque lunch.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:14

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MIDGET NEWSLET TER Mike Parker mikeparker78@btinternet.com

WELCOME TO THE MIDGET NEWSLETTER The Register Road Run this year is being organised by Peter Chaundy and is starting at the Motor Hub, near Bibury in Gloucestershire, and will take you through the stunning Cotswold countryside to Stowe House and Landscape Gardens. There is an entry form alongside this newsletter or you can print a copy directly from the Midget Register website www.midgetregister.com Another popular event with our members is Kop Hill. We currently have space for Midget owners to park at the Kop Hill event, held on September 15-16 2018. You can book directly online at www.kophill.org.uk Hopefully we will see you there.

I would like to thank Steve Collier for his input into this Register newsletter. Also, thanks must go to Robin Lackford for his continued sponsorship support of our race Championship over many seasons, and to all the drivers for taking part in the Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge. Don’t forget we also have the Register open day on August 12 at the MG Car Club’s headquarters, Kimber House in Abingdon. Open from 10.00am-4.00pm, you are guaranteed a warm welcome. A selection of special Midgets will be on display to greet you, including the ex-Rauno Aaltonen MG Midget that Aaltonen raced at Bridgehampton in

1965, a fully prepared Class A racing Midget, a sprint car prepared by Geoff Clarke of MG Development fame, and Roy Locock’s well-travelled ‘Bridget the Midget’. If you’ve never visited Abingdon, the birthplace of the majority of MG Midgets and the MG Car Club’s headquarters, now’s the ideal time. We plan to provide tea, coffee and a buffet for those attending, so to give us an idea of numbers please could you register your interest with me, Mike Parker, on mikeparker78@btinternet.com Enjoy the summer motoring. Mike Parker Midget Register Chairman

The Midget Register is holding an open day at Kimber House on August 12

www.mgcc.co.uk

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MIDGET NEWSLET TER

BACK IN THE HOT SEAT So, a little background to my Midget racing ‘career’. Having hung up my racing overalls in 1995 I had thought that was that. Racing for over 20 years I thought it was time, as someone once said to me, to “take some time to smell the roses”. All was well until, wandering into an MGCC sprint meeting at Curborough one Sunday afternoon, I was overwhelmed by that addictive smell of petrol and oil, know what I mean? Watching competitors readying their cars I thought this looks like a great way of having a bit of “leisurely” fun on a Sunday, nothing too serious. Famous last words! I thought the Midgets looked particularly good fun to drive so my thoughts turned to perhaps obtaining a road-going car and doing a few modiﬁcations for the occasional sprint meeting, Curborough being only a 15-minute drive away from our house. Knowing absolutely nothing about Midgets, I started trawling eBay. Not being shy of getting my hands dirty, I found a 1979 Midget, one of the last 500 black ones, which had failed its MOT only needing a couple of hundred pounds worth of welding. Now, I can see you all laughing but I did push the button! A couple of days later the car arrived, the seller very kindly delivering

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Steve Collier leads the way in his Midget. Photo: Dickon Siddall

it as he only lived a few miles away and it was fresh from the MOT failure. It actually looked great, gleaming black paintwork, silver minilites, rubber bumpers, etc, so handing over my £500 I thought “great, a bit of welding to the ﬂoor, ﬁt a roll cage, throw away the rubber bumpers and away we go, competing on a shoestring, just like the old days!” I still have this car! It’s on a rotisserie, welding almost complete, awaiting inspiration or new owner? Being of mature years, I decided time was of the essence and a readyprepared car would be needed if I was to get back on track any time soon. I spotted a class B race car in Cars and

Classics which seemed to tick all the boxes; loads of specifications that I didn’t really understand at the time but 1380 full race engine, fibreglass front and back, modifications to the suspension, etc, etc. What’s not to like? The car was Richard Bridge’s B class, in pieces when I arrived to view, but a deal was struck whereby they, that’s John and Richard (mainly John, I think) would put the car back together and I would collect ready to go. Brilliant, so what else would be needed? Well, I wouldn’t be driving this car to events as originally planned, so a trailer, overalls and helmet (my old stuff which I dragged from its 20-year

A helping hand to get to the start line

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:24

MIDGET NEWSLET TER

Enjoying some sprinting action

resting place was well past its sell by date, even the soles on my old leather Westover boots had cracked). For the uninitiated, these where pretty much the same boots that boxers used to wear, the wafer-thin leather soles gave a brilliant feel to the pedals… sorry, I reminisce. What else? MSA Licence, MGCC membership and registration with Luffield Speed Championship and enter first event, finally all set and ready to go. As I had now purchased a proper car it seemed only sensible to invest in some proper soft compound slicks, and try to do the car justice. This was really the only thing I changed, thinking I’d just see how it goes. So, after a cursory check over, nuts, bolts, fluids, etc, it was off to Rockingham in March 2015. Everything went well, the car seemed nicely neutral to drive. However, I could feel my competitive nature kicking in and was soon working out what was needed to make the car more competitive. The main thing that arose was the need to have the correct diff for the different venues. Sprints on race circuits were not a problem, 3.9 Sprinting the Class B 1380cc Midget.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_August18_Front.indd 37

or 4.2 ratios, however hills with tight hairpins and no way of engaging first gear without risking a gearbox implosion required a variety of very low ratios 4.55, 4.9 even 5.3! I therefore became very adept at changing the diff and also an avid collector of different ratios. This doesn’t mean I enjoy the job and after 12 further events during 2015 I certainly became rather tired of the process. I’m sure that certain avid Midget hillclimbers reading this will be thinking “what a wimp”, but I’ve got broad shoulders, I can take it! Anyway, as the year progressed, things got even more competitive, chasing the championship down to the last round at Castle Combe, rain putting paid to any fast times that day and having to settle for second overall in the championship. It was actually great fun. I met a lot of great people who, as with most club motorsport, were always willing to help and give advice, so thanks to them all and perhaps one day “I’ll be back” for more. During the winter of 2015 thoughts of making a racing return began to emerge. Going head-to-head would

The Midget being prepared at home

be another challenge after 20 years off, but nothing ventured, nothing gained. Competing at the MGLive! Stowe sprint during 2015, I had visited the paddock to look at the Lackford Engineering Challenge cars with no intention at that time of racing. However I was impressed with the cars, in particular a black class A car that looked fantastic, but more of that later. This championship certainly seemed the one to contest, all the cars being Sprites or Midgets and of course my car was originally a class B race car, so simple to return to the class regulations. Having raced for over 20 years in many different types of car in the past, I started to think about how I used to approach the preparation of the car and what jobs should be prioritised. All the years that I competed, the main aim was always to ensure the car would finish the event. Obviously you can’t control everything when you’re racing – other people’s and of course your own over-exuberance are often factors which result in a DNF. Putting aside the uncontrollable, the imperative is preparation, preparation, preparation – sorry, not trying to teach granny to suck eggs! But to use an old adage “”o finish first, first you have to finish”. Also, when you are usually on your own at a meeting and don’t have the luxury of someone doing last-minute adjustments, if you’ve forgotten to adjust the mirrors or check tyre pressures, etc, swearing at yourself in your helmet gets you nowhere when the 30sec board goes up in the collecting area. It’s all down

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MIDGET NEWSLET TER

to being prepared. I’ve recently had to resort to a note pad Velcro’d to the steering wheel to try to save me from any embarrassment. Must be my age. So here I am half way through my third season of Midget racing, very much a newbie, but I’ve learned how to change diffs, attempted to rebuild the gearbox (ended up sending it to Peter May, thanks), reacquainted myself with building A series engines (my previous experience being an autocross Mini in the early 70s). Nothing much changes (oil still comes out the same places!) and I’ve generally fiddled around with the suspension, spring rates, roll bars, damper settings, etc, etc, looking for those little marginal gains that improve the car’s performance. 2016 started at Donington and was something of a shock to the system – cars everywhere inside, outside, brakes locked, tyres smoking and spinning off. That’s racing. Anyway, I kept my nose clean and was happy with the car, the only issue being a lack of traction out of corners. This was mainly an own goal, having left some bump rubbers in the new rear dampers. These were hidden under the dust covers. Unfortunately it took me half the season to work out that the rear end was going solid mid-corner before they were finally discovered and removed. Joy at last, the car responded, springs and antiroll bar changes finally making the car competitive, and I could live with the other B class guys. Also, with improved traction my Avon tyre bill was substantially reduced! Plans were laid to make the car even more competitive for 2017 but a chance conversation, actually early in the 2016 season, with the owner of the above-mentioned black car resulted in a change of plans. Yes ‘Orange is the new Black’. So, after some wheeler-dealing bacon-boy style, a price was agreed and sealed with a bacon butty – sorry, James, a bit of artistic licence. So off I went for a track day. The idea was to try the

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car as it finished the season, add some fuel and off to Oulton Park for an open pit lane track day 103db. These are actually a great way of testing, very affordable at certain times of the year, spend all day in and out of the pits making little changes, all for as little as £99! I digress. Anyway, WHOW! the grip and braking distances took me completely by surprise and still do, even now. Overall top speeds are not much different, slightly quicker due to greater corner exit speeds, witness the problem A class cars have overtaking if faced with a drag race along the straight with the same exit speed as any of the other classes. They’re probably thinking: “Come on, what are you messing around at!” Basically, though, it’s the same old brick but a bit wider – sorry, no offence to Midget or Sprite owners! So, back home a rebuild commenced, engine first priority. Other than that nothing much else happened, a garage extension taking up most of the winter months. More cars, more space, you know the problem. Early March and the car was ready for another budget track day. This revealed several problems. Most scary being the fuel pump going up in smoke, no fire fortunately, and then the old oil leak problem raised its head, more smoke and eventually a black flag. A crack in the welding of the oil breather pipe to the shiny new rocker cover! Preparation oversight, or was it too much bling? More bling failure at Brands resulted in two DNFs – expensive, poorly

Orange is the new black. Photo: Dickon Sidall

designed alternator shorting out the ignition I think? I say “I think” because I replaced most of the ignition system at the same time as dumping the aforementioned alternator and running on battery power only. Since then the car has run faultlessly throughout the 2017/18 seasons. Some suspension tweaks to find those marginal gains, tried to do some weight-saving over last winter but still around 50kg overweight, so plenty of scope for improvement in that area for the future. The brief, and it was brief, could you write something about Racing a Midget. Well, I’ve only been at it for 4 years, small beer to many stalwarts of the Lackford Engineering Spridget Challenge, but I’ve tried to give a taste of my experiences. What I have discovered, however, is that this is a true Club series, friendly people where help and advice are shared. Perhaps not everything’s shared, that’s motorsport. We’re all competitive, it’s the nature of the game. These cars also give massive ‘bang for the buck’; no motorsport is cheap but I think this is about as good as it gets, and I’ve tried lots of different formulas in the past. We’re about half way through the season and looking forward to seeing as many cars out there as possible, especially A class. Steve Collier The purposeful Class A Midget. Photo: Dickon Siddall

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D_CLASSIC MOTORING 05/06/2018 14:55 Page 1

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

WELCOME TO THE MGB NEWSLETTER I am opening this four-page spread with a couple of photographs which put the MGB in a whole new light. This trike was pictured at a huge motor cycle show in Laconia, New Hampshire. It uses the MGB engine and transmission,

lovely presentation, with gear selection in the usual place, clutch operated by left foot and radiator rear mounted. That’s a new one on me. Have any of you any interesting, and different, pictures you would like to share?

“100 YEARS OF THE RAF IN CORNWALL” MG CAR CLUB WEST CORNWALL CAR RUN I thought you might like to hear of an event down here in Cornwall this summer, should you happen to be visiting… Saturday August 25. This trip has a full guided tour of the former WW2 airfield at RAF Davidstow Moor and a visit to the Cornwall at War Museum. A special entry/tour price of £11 for seniors and £12 for others. Snacks will be available or bring a packed lunch/picnic. The guided tour of the airfield will be in the museum bus and is for up to 10 passengers. This takes approximately one and a half hours. Two trips have been arranged for us so this means we are

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limited to a max of 20 persons for the full tour. You may like to attend but not go on the tour and just visit the museum. We start at The Norway Inn, Perranarworthal (A39 between Truro and Falmouth) at 10.00am to arrive at Davidstow for midday. If you would like to go could you please confirm because of the limited numbers on the full tour. John Harvey needs to let Steve at the museum know so he can arrange enough volunteers for us. Should be a great day of Cornish airfield history! John Harvey apollo25@hotmail.co.uk is the Natter leader.

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TECH TIPS Andrew Vigor has sent in the following, covering a few issues that have arisen recently. Handbrake Cable. There are no less than 10 different handbrake cables for the MGB, depending on the model and whether the car has wire or steel wheels. After replacing the rear brake cylinders I could not get the brakes adjusted correctly and resorted to taking the car in to my local garage. Later that day the mechanic showed me a rusty metal clamp that he had removed. It appears that the car had been ﬁtted with the handbrake cable for a wire wheel car, which is too short for the steel wheel version. Rather than ﬁt the correct cable it seems that a previous owner had bodged the job by making a clamp to extend the effective

length of the cable. Fitting the correct cable has solved the problem. Roadster’s Boot Latch. We have heard from a member recently with this problem. I urge you to check the bolt holding the latch is tight. If it gets loose, the key may turn the lock without releasing the latch. Disaster! The boot can be almost impossible to open and the boot lid may be damaged in the attempt. There is more information about this under ‘Tech Tips’ on the MGB Register website. Fuel Lines. There seem to be two options for the layout of the fuel pipes from the bulkhead to the carburettors. Either they go around the inner wing to the front carburettor then back to the rear one or directly to the rear

carburettor then on to the front one. On replacing the fuel pipes in the engine bay – which were starting to look a bit tired – my garage changed the routing from the first option to the second. Since then, idling during hot weather in traffic queues has improved – presumably due to less fuel vaporisation. Distributor Vacuum Advance Pipe. On routine checking I noticed that the spark plug in number four cylinder was almost white compared with the pale grey of the other three plugs. The pipe connected to the distributor had perished and cracked, letting air into the pipe and weakening the fuel mixture. This was easily fixed with a £2 replacement part, and possible rough running and engine damage were avoided.

THE LONDON TO SYDNEY MARATHON MGB The MG Car Club Marathon MGB was invited to join a display by the Historic Marathon and World Cup Rally Car Group at the Bicester Heritage Classic & Sports Car Show. As well as the Jean Denton 1968 Marathon MGB there was a BMC1800 Landcrab that also entered the event, and also the BMC Maxi World Cup car that Jean Denton also drove.

Thinking of the Jean Denton car and having had some correspondence with Mike Garton, I have been ﬁnding out something of the history of what we now refer to as the Marathon car. In this I am indebted to Mike Garton for access to notes that he kept from those early days of events with MGBs, and to Andy Knott for digging around in the Kimber House archives for contemporary material. I am editing this next piece

from articles he penned for Safety Fast! in October and November 1968. In that year, Mike took an MGB GT for a long test drive. He considered that the MGB GT was best value for a medium-priced transport that offered the best of both worlds (ie family transport and something with sporting potential). Would it, though, provide room for two adults and children in comfort for a long journey? A combination holiday

The Marathon MGB on display at the Bicester Heritage Classic & Sports Car Show www.mgcc.co.uk

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The Historic Marathon and World Cup Rally Car Group and MGB Register at Bicester

and trip to Florence for the Mugello race provided the opportunity. So, with Mike, his wife, Ian (5) and Janet (7) and all the usual luggage they set off from Abingdon to Southampton docks, thence to Le Havre. They had an overnight stop in a hotel by the port then onward to join the Autoroute du Sud near Orly. On the unrestricted road south the MGB maintained 4,500rpm in overdrive top sustaining 100mph for mile after mile and, though the weather was hot, the temperature stayed at 170 degrees Fahrenheit with oil pressure of 70psi. Mike drove through the day arriving at their holiday home at Vallauris at 11.00pm with 791 miles on the clock. Average speed had been 62 mph and no oil consumption. Fuel consumption averaged out at 23.5 mpg. Astonishingly, there had been no grumbles from the children who had curled up asleep for the last 100 miles. Mike says that he did not feel particularly traffic weary, though a cup of tea was welcome! So, having got the family settled in the south of France he drove into Italy for the Mugello race, close to Florence. The circuit is 66 kilometres (41.2 miles) long and in beautiful country. Woe betide you if you take time to admire it whilst attempting to drive round the track. The photograph shows the race car that was to become famous by driving from London to Sydney and Mike’s BGT at the local garage they used for servicing the cars between practices

The Marathon MGB in good company

and racing. The BGT also achieved many more laps of the race circuit than the actual race distance being driven by several people. It seems that it was worked so hard that it needed three pints of oil! The race itself is eight laps of the circuit and there were 91 starters. Tom Boyce had prepared the race car with a 4.13 diff which is a compromise with a mark II gearbox. Tom extracted nearly 130 bhp on 1 3/4’’ SUs and the rev counter had to be carefully watched. Oil pressure during the race held pretty constant at 70psi and the engine temp stayed around 170 Fahrenheit. The plan was that Mike would drive the first five laps and then swap with Jean Denton who would drive to the finish. The MGB started well down the list but Mike overhauled several early starters and he diced with a Porsche 911 (Peter Jackson) for two laps before he retired. On the straights he had to back off the throttle to 6,500rpm (around 120

mph) and the car was maintaining a 39-minute lap time. Having completed his five laps Mike came in to hand over to Jean, and having refuelled and topped up the oil Jean pushed the starter and… nothing. It had earthed itself internally and had to be replaced. (A push start would have meant disqualification). It was 35 minutes before Jean joined the fray. When Mike had pitted he had been third in class and in 22nd place on the road. Whilst swapping the starter motor a Porsche came through pushing them to fourth and another came through just after Jean left. Anxiously they all wondered if she could do it, but luck was not with them and she had to stop to change a plug lead, eventually taking the flag in fifth place by 38 seconds. The archive at Kimber House has all the editions of Safety Fast!. Shortage of space means that I can only share a snippet of what I have read. Motor racing has changed a bit…

UMD outside the garage in Scarleria with the owner, NBL 129E is a press car Mike borrowed to travel to Mugello and write a road test for October 1968 Safety Fast!

EVENTS I am asked to remind you of the summer picnic on August 5 at Millett’s Farm Centre, Abingdon. Details on the website. The Away Weekend in Shropshire is now full. Don’t forget the lecture at Radley College on the London to Sydney Marathon on Saturday September 22. I am told that Rosemary Smith (who finished the event driving a Lotus Cortina) is coming over specially from Ireland to join the other notables (Paddy Hopkirk, Alec Poole). This will be a very notable event for the Register and the MGCC. Worth making a note on the calendar.

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MGB NEWSLET TER

MGB REGISTER LECTURE 2018 SATURDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER Organised by the MGB Register of the MG Car Club.

THE STORY OF THE 1968 LONDON TO SYDNEY MARATHON on it’s 50TH ANNIVERSARY at RADLEY COLLEGE – RADLEY ABINGDON OX14 2HR FROM 2PM TO 5PM (Tea & Coffee available from 1.30pm)

This will be a very special day. Guests will be Paddy Hopkirk and Alec Poole who finished 2nd on the event together with Rosemary Smith who finished in a Cortina Lotus. Also Peter Browning and Bill Price from the BL Competitions Dept. Plus other celebrities. The afternoon will be hosted by Graham Robson the Motoring Historian and Journalist

To book online go to

www.mgb-register.org/events

Or complete the form below and post with a cheque made payable to the MGCC – MGB Register lecture@mgb-register.org Tel 07555 044528

POSTAL TICKET FORM for MGB LECTURE 2018

Name Address

Contact number

Email Quantity of tickets required @ £10 each Total cheque value

Post entry to : Chris Cockram, 9 Cattle End, Silverstone NN12 8UX If you have NOT given an email address please enclose a stamped addressed envelope www.mgcc.co.uk

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V8 NEWSLET TER Victor Smith Tel: 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net • www.v8register.net

WELCOME TO THE V8 NEWSLETTER V8 LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 1973 the V8 as a very good enforcement vehicle. Five years later the V8 Register was formed in October 1978 and the first V8 AGM and Dinner were held in May 1979 over the Club’s annual weekend meeting at Silverstone. The members attending the dinner included enthusiasts from Switzerland (Tom Studer) and Germany (Walter Kallenberg) together with John Dupont,

The iconic advert for the “new 124mph MGB GT V8” never ceases to underline the announcement of the launch of the MGB GT V8. Although the V8-powered model had mixed reviews from the motoring press, the performance of the car was recognised, not least by a review in the Police Review magazine that saw

Alan Kingwell, Geoff Allen, Jerry Bright, Charles Williams, Howard Gosling, Peter Beadle, Tony Hall, Jim Gibson, Victor Smith and Mike Maude Roxby. By May 1979 the activities of the V8 Register were well underway with the launch of the V8 Workshop Notes series which has gone on to be a successful series, now in the 14th volume.

Alan Kingwell, Victor Smith and Mike Maude Roxby in the mid-1980s

ENJOYING CLASSIC V8 POWER Launched in August 1973, the V8-powered MGB combined the popular fixed head coupe body style with a powerful three-and-half litre light alloy V8 engine. The Rover powerplant ran with a reduced compression ratio but an increased torque compared with the similar engines then used in the Rover saloons. The result transformed the MGB, creating a very nimble car with the luxury of multi-cylinder power which is both flexible and economical – features which continue to have a special appeal for V8 enthusiasts toda On the road the MGB GT V8 has an effortless performance, accelerating rapidly in the higher gears with 125 mph available in both direct and overdrive top. Hills just melt away and the torque gives the car an unfussy manner. The 0 to 60 time of 7.7 seconds is still, decades later, a time many of today’s sports saloons cannot touch. Even

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when asked to work hard, the exhaust note retains its very pleasingly modest but purposeful burble, in keeping with its understated manner.

V8 of Pricewatch contributor, Andy Goves

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MGB GT V8 in Harvest Gold on Abingdon aerodrome

The V8 engine, although from an old Buick design from the early fifties, contains hydraulic cam followers which give the MGB GT V8 a quietness that compliments the smooth power. Under the bonnet, the lightweight aluminium V8 engine seems much bigger than the original four-cylinder steel engine but is only just a little heavier when the engine ancillaries are included. The lightweight benefits are good front-to-rear weight distribution and an appreciable increase in the power-to-weight ratio, even from the detuned 137bhp V8 power unit. A surprising feature of the MGB GT V8 is the fuel economy. Even driven on the open road, with a sense of fun the enthusiast can enjoy with V8 power, it is quite easy to achieve between 27 and 31 miles to the gallon. The overdrive unit gives the MGB GT V8 long legs with around 29 mph per 1,000rpm or 3,000rpm at 90mph. The convenient overdrive facility is available on top gear at the flick of a stalk switch on the steering column, and on many of the earlier chrome-bumpered examples of the model, it is available on third gear as well.The MGB GT V8 is, however, not without its poor features: excessive wind noise at speed

and a choppy ride at slow speeds from the stiffer rear springs which are needed to cope with the higher power output. The gearbox has to be treated with consideration when punching the additional power through to the road wheels At its launch in 1973, the MGB GT V8 was welcomed as a powerful example of the MG marque, but generally regarded as arriving several years late in a popular but ageing bodyshell and suspension package, then over 10 years old. The MGB GT V8 is very much an MG combining the famous marque’s Safety Fast! features – speed and performance with predictable and forgiving handling characteristics. At the time of the launch, the specification of servo-assisted brakes, tinted glass, distinctive light alloy wheels, fine cord covered adjustable seats, two-speed wipers and an overdrive as standard made it a refined sports car for 1973 and good value at its launch price of £2,294. In so many ways the MGB GT V8 has been an undiscovered classic sports car, but since 2010 prices have risen substantially. It remains a sports car that a small band of enthusiasts enjoy a great deal and see as very good value today in every sense.

A concours car previously owned by Howard Guiney

Compact V8 engine bay

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Original Dunlop composite wheel

OPTIONS IF YOUR DUNLOP COMPOSITES NEED REFURBISHING The original wheels fitted to the MGB GT V8 model were a 14” composite wheel with an alloy centre with characteristic features mated to a chromed steel rim. Over time the recess, where the inner edge of the steel rim is attached to the alloy centre, can attract rust and if it’s not controlled that corrosion can develop to an extent that the wheels are in a sad state and need refurbishment. Until a couple of years ago several experienced and reputable wheel restorers offered a refurbishment service for Dunlop composites but unfortunately ceased offering that service because of their concerns over being able to maintain their necessary refurbishment standards. So what options are there today for an enthusiast with Dunlop composites in need of refurbishment? Here Victor Smith looks at the current situation and what is available. What are the issues with refurbishing Dunlop composites? Over time, corrosion at the steel rim/ alloy centre interface and necessary refurbishment work will reduce the thickness of the steel rim and of the alloy centre and as this is where the reriveting takes place during reassembly of the wheels. There are concerns that the reduction in the thickness of these parts can result in weakening the wheel. The strength of a wheel on a sports car capable of speeds of well in excess of 100mph is clearly important – and remember at 100mph they are rotating at about 1,400rpm and are subject to huge forces when braking,

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accelerating and cornering. So the wheel’s integrity is paramount. The full refurbishment of a Dunlop composite wheel requires the alloy centre to be split from the steel rim with the removal of the rivets. It’s particularly important that the exact mating position of each wheel is recorded by marking both parts so that when reassembly is carried out the wheel can be mated in exactly the same position. Once the two parts of the wheel are split then the corrosion on the chromed steel rim has to be removed. Depending on the severity of the corrosion ,that may have resulted in some of the steel being damaged and together with the process of rust removal, a reduction in the thickness of the steel rim in the area of the mating surface may result. Similarly with the alloy centre interface, corrosion can leave damage on the alloy centre’s mating surface and any necessary grinding down of the alloy mating surface to achieve a good mating of the two restored interfaces can reduce the thickness of the alloy in that area. A real concern for specialist wheel refurbishers is whether the resulting thickness of each part will be sufficient for riveting during the reassembly of the wheel. In the past the refurbishers have cautioned that a repeat refurbishment of these wheels is unlikely to be acceptable for these concerns over the thickness of the metal in that area. The riveting of the steel rim to the alloy centre needs to be of the highest quality, because if the rivets

do not “clamp” the parts together firmly there will be relative movement called fretting, which will exacerbate the wearing away of any insulation coatings (anodising or paint) that might be applied. This will then allow water in and the risk of corrosion. Usually the steel rims were sent off to a rechroming specialist who has the necessary skills to prepare the rims and rechrome them to a high standard. The alloy centres usually need cleaning down and repainting with a black paint. MWS have stopped refurbishing Dunlop composites A few years ago the specialist wheel refurbisher, Motor Wheel Services at Langley in Berkshire, decided to cease providing a full refurbishment service for Dunlop composites. To avoid the consequences of corrosion damage to the steel rims leading to a reduced thickness of metal at the mating face with the alloy centre, they had refurbished some wheels with new chromed steel rims, but they found there was a great deal of skilled labour needed to get a satisfactory fit during reassembly of the wheels and consequently they were expensive, sometimes around £500 to £600 a wheel. But there were still concerns that the alloy at the interface might not be sufficient to provide a strong and durable joint and hence concerns over product liability. There were also some issues with balancing refurbished wheels with new steel rims. So MWS did not continue refurbishing wheels using new steel rims, and as we know they subsequently decided to cease refurbishing them using the customer’s original steel rim and alloy centre. Other specialists have also ceased offering a refurbishment service involving splitting Dunlop composites. What are your options if you have corrosion on Dunlop composites? Taking preventative measures to avoid rusting of the chromed rims is a vital first step to try to avoid, or at least minimise,

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V8 NEWSLET TER

corrosion of the steel rims. Keeping them clean of road film, using regular but careful polishing of the chromed areas, will help keep any rust from forming. Also, spraying the chromed areas with WD40 helps, too. Nic Houslip says: “This spray (Water Dispersant #40) was developed for the US space agency NASA and works because it has a greater affinity for metal than water, which means it can, and does, displace any water and allows the oil in the mix to form a waterproof coating on the metal.” At least one specialist continues to offer a refurbishment service where there is only limited surface rusting. It does not involve splitting the alloy centres from the chromed steel rim in the way they had previously done for a comprehensive refurbishment of these wheels, but just careful polishing to remove the surface rust. This option could be a useful option if the early development of corrosion is spotted in time. Advertising for a set of used Dunlop composite wheels in good condition is a good option. Adverts on the “Spares Wanted” web page on the V8 website have produced results in the past, as a number of current and former V8 owners have had a set or individual wheels available that they wanted to offer for sale, but it’s fair to say that with the leading specialists ceasing to offer a refurbishment service for Dunlop composites, the number of wheels seen advertised for sale has fallen significantly and they have been replaced with “wanted” adverts. A set of new all-alloy Dunlop composite lookalike wheels is increasingly seen as a practical and affordable option.

In mid-2014 the leading MG V8 parts and service provider, Clive Wheatley, sourced a supply of new all-alloy wheels that look very close to the original steel and alloy composite wheel. At the time that Clive was working with a specialist wheel manufacturer in the West Midlands to produce a good quality lookalike wheel, the specialist refurbishers were still offering a service for original 14” Dunlop composites. So Clive Wheatley’s new supply of all-alloy wheels was made in a 15” size and aimed principally at the MG V8 Conversions market because the 15” size was attractive as they enabled a larger front brake calliper to be fitted and the Hoyle front and rear suspension upgrades, too. The all-alloy lookalike wheels are nano coated to provide protection from the potentially damaging effects of a film of road spray, particularly on the alloy rims. As with many other alloy wheels, the manufacturer recommends washing the wheels when they are coated with a film of road spray. Most V8 enthusiasts with the original Dunlop composite wheels would do that in any case, but with alloys it’s particularly desirable they are not left with a coating of road film. However fitting 15” wheels will need a different tyre size choice, but fortunately there is a good choice of tyres. With 175 or 185/65 R15 tyres the rolling circumference is a little less than with the original 175 80 R14 tyre, so at 65mph on the speedo the actual speed is a little lower at 62.2 and 63.6mph respectively. We have a guide note on the V8 website on tyres for 15” wheels and the marginal effect on the speedometer reading. Clive’s 15” lookalike wheels have

New all-alloy replacement 15” V8 lookalike wheel with a polished rim supplied by Clive Wheatley

been available for a couple of years and have been selling well, but since the specialist refurbishers have ceased offering their service, some owners of original factory MGB GT V8s who have been unable to get their original 14” Dunlop composites refurbished have opted to buy the 15”all-alloy lookalikes. The idea of arranging a supply of 14” all-alloy lookalikes has been considered by Clive Wheatley but he has found the original brake calliper used on the factory MGB GT V8 unfortunately cannot fit within the 14” all-alloy wheel. In addition, the front end costs of creating the alloy centres and the minimum stocking levels do require a very substantial initial investment which would go alongside his remaining major investment in the earlier 15” lookalikes. Replacing badly corroded Dunlop composites with a set of 14” Minilite wheels is an option as they are a classic wheel for cars of the sixties and seventies and are much liked by many MG V8 enthusiasts.

V8 DERBYSHIRE TOUR 2018

V8 ROLLING ROAD DAY

The next V8 Tour in the popular series will be in Derbyshire from Sunday 2nd to Thursday September 6, based at the New Bath Hotel and Spa at Matlock Bath. The event will include touring the beautiful scenic routes around the Derbyshire dales. There will be a tour of the Peak District National Park, visiting both Derbyshire White Peak and Dark Peak. Bookings are now full but there is a reserve list. Further information at: www.v8register.net/more.htm

On Saturday September 8 we have a day of rolling road sessions at Aldon in the West Midlands, including a fuelling setup check, timing adjustment check and at least two power plots. Spectators will be very welcome. Full details are available on our ‘More’ web page www.v8register. net/more.htm

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OUT AND ABOUT AT

MGLIVE! 2018 Photos Damien Jennings and Matt Woods

Thank you to everyone who made MGLive! such a MaGniďŹ cent event.

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CALENDAR

AUGUST

Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 MG Car Club Danish Centre Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix MG Car Club Danish Centre will attend the Copenhagen Historic Grand Prix. For more information, visit the MG Car Club Danish Centre website http://mgklub.dk Saturday 4 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre East Kirkby Air Show MGs are welcomed to this popular event. Contact: Dave Noble 01507 527945 Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 MGCC: Yorkshire Centre Croft Nostalgia Weekend The Yorkshire Centre is invited to join the Tyne Tees Centre at this event. Contact Noel Lindford noel.lindford@btinternet.com Sunday 5 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Revesby Show This show will include an MG display. Contact: David 01790 754774, davidstonehouse1@btinternet.com Sunday 5 MGCC: Midland Centre Summer Sprint at Curborough, near Lichfield A round of the MGCC Speed Championship. Entries contact: Martin Price 01299 401177 Marshalling contact: Simon Morris 07788 168488 Sunday 5 MGCC: MGB Register Summer Picnic MGB Register picnic taking place at Millets Farm, Abingdon. Contact: John Watson 07770 525236. See the MGB Register site www.mgb-register.org Sunday 5 MGCC: South West Centre MGs on Grass 2 The SW Centre’s second grass autotest of the year will be held at Claverham, near Bristol. For more information visit www.mgccsw.com/event/mgs-on-grass-2-2/ Contact: Dave Coppock 01934 834429 dave_coppock_mg@hotmail.com Tuesday 7 MGCC: Anglia Centre Longham Club Meet Pride of Ownership Held at The White Horse, Longham, Norfolk NR19 2RD. Contact: William Ball 01508 471506 midnorfolk@mgccanglia.com Wednesday 8 – Sunday 12 MG Car Club Switzerland European Event of the Year MGCC Switzerland celebrates 70 years by hosting the European Event of the Year in the town of Flims. For more information, please visit the MG Car Club Switzerland website www.mgcc.ch Friday 10 – Sunday 12 MGCC: Germany AVD Oldtimer Grand Prix Race event with special parking for the MG Car Club Germany. For more information, please visit the MGCC Germany website www.mgcc.de

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Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 MGCC: Magnette Register Harrogate MG Show The Magnette Register will be attending this weekend event organised by Harrogate MG Club. For more information, see www.harrogatemgclub. org.uk/ShowDetails2018.htm Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 MGCC: 6.3.5 Register BTCC Rockingham The 6.3.5 Register will be attending the British Touring Car Championship meet at Rockingham, Northants. Keep up-to-date with the 6.3.5 Register on Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register/ Sunday 12 MGCC: Yorkshire Centre Harrogate MG Pateley Bridge The Yorkshire Centre will attend this event at Nidderdale Showground, Pateley Bridge. For more information http://harrogatemgclub.org. uk/ShowDetails2018.htm Sunday 12 MGCC: MGA Register/MGA Twin Cam Group MGA Day at Canons Ashby The MGA Register’s annual gathering and picnic at Canons Ashby, an outstanding Tudor manor house. The cars will assemble on the grass in an exclusive spot next to the house. More details to follow. For venue details, see www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ canons-ashby Sunday 12 MGCC: Caledonian Centre Dumfries Motor Show The Caledonian Centre attended the Dumfries Motor Show for the first time in 2017. It had a small display then; however this year it will have a full display with a full range of MGs. For more information see www.mgcaledonian.com/ event/2018-dumfries-motor-show/ Contact: Glenn Neilson 07962 365952 glenn.neilson@sky.com Thursday 16 – Sunday 19 MGCC: Norway Norsk MG Treff Norsk MG Club’s second annual event of the year, based around Torpo. For more information, visit the Norsk MG Club website www.nmgk.no Sunday 19 MGCC: Triple-M Register VSCC Mallory Park Triple-M Racing with the VSCC at Mallory Park. Contact: Mark Dolton via mdjdolton@gmail.com Sunday 19 MGCC: MGA Twin Cam Group Stockfest, Newbury The Twin Cam Group visit to Stockfest. For more information please check the website http://rarebreedstour.co.uk/rare-breeds-tour/ Sunday 19 MGCC: Zed Register Lakeland Motor Museum The Zed Register’s visit to Lakeland Motor Museum, Ulverston, Cumbria. Contact: John Thompson via johnt5@btinternet.com

Sunday 19 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Lincolnshire Poachers Concours Held at Doddington Hall. See www.doddingtonhall. com/event/lincolnshire-poacher-concours-pride-ofownership-show/ for more information. Contact: Geoff and Vicki 01205 871973, geoffjedge@aol.com Sunday 19 – Sunday 26 MGCC: Germany MG Rhein Tour A week’s tour for ambitious MG drivers, travelling from the Rhine’s source in Grisons (Switzerland) to the Kasteel Duurstede, near Utrecht. The daily stages are between 180 and 240 km long, so this event is aimed towards younger MGs. It’s limited to 20 vehicles. For registrations visit www.mgf-tours.de Monday 20 – Friday 24 MGCC: Caledonian Centre August Five-Day Tour The Five-Day Tour this year will be heading for the Highlands, starting at the Richmond Park Hotel in Linlithgow. Contact: Tony Smith 07770 927803 aa.jsmith@btinternet.com Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 MGCC: 635 Register BTCC Knockhill The 6.3.5 Register will be attending the British Touring Car Championship meet at Knockhill, Fife. Keep up-to-date with the 6.3.5 Register on Facebook www.facebook.com/groups/ MG635Register/ Saturday 25 -Monday 27 MGCC: North West Centre Oulton Park Gold Cup The North West Centre will attend this popular historic race event at Oulton Park, Cheshire. Sunday 26 MGCC: Midget Register Spridget 60th 2018 is the 60th anniversary of the introduction of the Austin-Healey Sprite Mk 1 – known as the ‘Frogeye’. The Midget and Sprite Club are celebrating with a birthday bonanza at Wroxall Abbey Hotel, where Midgets and their derivatives are welcome to attend. Entrance will be £15 and will include a Commemoration Rally Plaque. Note that this is not an MGCC-organised event. For info email membership@midgetandspriteclub.co.uk www.midgetandspriteclub.com/birthday-bonanzabooking-form/ Sunday 26 MGCC: Yorkshire Centre Dales Run 2018 For more information see http://mgccyorkshire. co.uk/event/ Contact: Paul Croft 01274 783442

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Classic and Sports Cars are extremely proud to have for sale this newly completed MG TA Special. This Q- T Type recreation has just been ﬁnished to the highest standard and the rebuild and restoration quality is “probably” the best you will ever see. No expense has been spared and the eye for detail is second to none.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED SPEC All aluminium ‘Boat-Tail’ design bodywork based on the MG Q-Type. Small boot space for overnight bag. Side foot plates to aid entry to the interior. Fully overhauled XPAG Engine bored to 1300cc. Ported cylinder head and fully unleaded. New Sports Camshaft and matched distributor. Engine Fully Balanced. Stainless Steel ﬁsh-tail side exhaust.

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NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE Gearbox USED BY ANY OTHER PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION Gearbox rebuilt. All bearings and seals replaced.IS GIVEN BY shaft replaced and casting re-bushed. THE PUBLISHERS - © MSRemote Publications (2001) Ltd. Bell Housing shaft replaced and casting re-bushed.

URGENT PROOF

Dashboard & Instruments Supercharger Period style dashboard anodised matt black. Front mounted direct drive period style supercharger. Period instrumentation and controls matt black anodised bezels. 2” SU carburettor mounted on aluminium supercharger manifolds Largeinrev counter, Radiator Aluminium induction tubes leading to aluminium coated cast iron Please check this proof carefully for errors style, content andTemperature, layout. Supercharge Boost, Oil Pressure, Clock and Lap Counter. inlet manifold with pressure relief.

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Unit 9, Broadfields Farm, Dunmow Road, Rayne, Braintree, Essex. CM77 6SA Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 53

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Peter Burchill (MG ZS) leads Matt Simpson (Rover Tomcat Turbo) in the Peter Best Insurance MG Cup

he inaugural British Sportscar Weekend on July 14-15 at Donington Park hosted the latest diverting weekend of racing, in bright sunshine and sapping temperatures. The Peter Best Insurance MG Cup combined grids with the Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup, the races co-sponsored by Minehead Motor Factors. It meant 35 cars for their races, the biggest grid of the weekend. Richard Buckley took both Peter Best Insurance MG Cup wins, his

first points since the Silverstone season-opener. He led all of race one from pole, though star of the show was Mike Williams. For this meeting Williams had replaced his R65 gearbox with a more robust MG ZR equivalent, hoping to avoid the problems of earlier rounds. But here he had to start both races at the back after a wheel bearing failed in qualifying. He rose rapidly in race one and was third by lap five, within four seconds of the lead. He then fell off the leader’s pace and had an off-track moment as his tyres,

THE BRITISH SPORTSCAR WEEKEND

in his words, “fell apart” in the hot temperatures, with holes in them the size of 50p pieces! He still salvaged third place and got Driver of the Race. Peter Burchill finished between him and Buckley in second. Ian Boulton won in Class B ahead of Iain Dowler, having passed at onethird’s distance. Darren Harris increased his Class A championship lead by being first home in that category. Buckley led all the way in race two as well. He was happier with his car after set-up changes, and built a lead of nine seconds by two-thirds’ distance. Williams again rose from the back – learning his race one lesson, he nursed his tyres and finished second six seconds off Buckley. Williams also was awarded Driver of the Day for Sunday. Boulton finished third over all and with it got his second Class B win of the weekend. He got the place on the last lap when the ZS of Burchill had an off and dropped behind. Jack Ashton continues to edge in on his brother Andrew in the Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup championship after taking both wins, with Andrew runner-up in both. In race one Jack beat his brother by four seconds, managing the gap despite running out of brakes towards the

By Graham Keilloh. Photos Dickon Siddall

The Morgan +8 (47) of Peter Rafter ahead of Malcolm Dearnley’s Morgan 4/4 54 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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The T Types of Peter Edney and Nick Ashman battle it out in the Iconic 50’s race

end. Driver of the Race Shamak Glodek completed the podium. Jack took the second Metro race, too, again beating Andrew by around four seconds, and this time Jack got Driver of the Race. Glodek’s brakes failed going through the Craner Curves just after half distance but he was still able to finish fourth. Championship leader Steve Collier won the opening Lackford Engineering Midget/Sprite Challenge race in his Midget. He prevailed over David Morrison after a tough battle. The pair swapped the lead several times in the opening laps then at half distance Driver of the Race Collier made the decisive break by passing Morrison on the inside of Redgate and then the chasing Stephen Watkins was able to get by Morrison at McLeans a few corners later. Morrison reclaimed second before the lap was out but by that time Collier had a decisive advantage. He beat Morrison by four seconds, with Watkins third. Paul Campfield took the race one Class E win in his Sprite, helped by

woes for his chief rival, Pippa Cow. She fell to the back at the start and although she climbed back to second in class, albeit nearly half a minute off Campfield, she then stopped in the pits with technical problems. Ed Easton beat Mark Witherspoon to the Class D race one win. Morrison and Collier again fought over the win in race two, and this one was resolved when Collier slowed and pitted on lap four – his car was only offering intermittent power which he thought was a fuel or electrical problem, though he later discovered his Midget was leaking oil. Collier got the compensation of being awarded Driver of the Day for Saturday. Ed Easton was awarded race two’s Driver of the Race, which he described as “probably the best race that I’ve had” after prevailing in a multi-car battle which also got him his second Class D win. Campfield helped himself

to a comfortable Class E with Cow not taking part. Russell McCarthy took the TN Racing BCV8 Championship win, his second win of the year, after an eventful run. He set the pace early on but fell behind Neil Fowler after developing gearbox problems, meaning he couldn’t get third gear. He dropped two seconds shy of Fowler but then worked out how to get third by using second gear before, and he closed onto Fowler’s tail by two-thirds’ distance. However with his problems he thought he couldn’t get past unless Fowler made an error, which happened on the final lap with Fowler running out of tyres in the hot 30-minute-long race. Fowler did not get the chicane entering the final tour right, which let McCarthy get alongside on the outside for Redgate, then Fowler twitched under braking and ran wide allowing McCarthy by on the exit. Rob Spencer, who had taken every BCV8 win this year aside from one heading into this meeting, was running with the leaders in third place but dropped out at one-third’s distance when his halfshaft broke. Spencer’s sons had a happier time. Luke claimed the Class AB win – championship leader heading into the weekend, Simon Tinkler, was unable to make the grid – while Jordan was second in Class C behind Andrew Young despite having a 15-second penalty for exceeding track limits. Driver of the Race, Mark Scott, was Class B winner by nearly a lap.

TN Racing BCV8 Championship field being led by Russell McCarthy

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The Triple M Register Challenge field with the Q Type of Barry Foster leading

In the opening MG Nottingham MG Trophy race Graham Ross claimed his fourth win in a row, just beating Jason Burgess who returned to action after missing Silverstone. Burgess led from pole but Ross seized the lead at half distance by getting up the inside at Redgate. Burgess stayed on his tail for the rest of the way and Ross won by half a second. Doug Cole finished third despite a Redgate spin on oil from two earlier blow-ups as well as gearbox struggles. Paul Luti kept championship pace with Ross by taking race one Class B victory, winning out in a fight with Tom Butler and Driver of the Race Sam Kirkpatrick – whose team changed his engine to an old unit in double-quick time after a qualifying blow-up due to Kirkpatrick selecting the wrong gear, also several cars went off on his oil. In reality Luti’s win was comfortable as both Butler and Kirkpatrick got time

penalties for track limits – Butler had five seconds added and Kirkpatrick 15 seconds for two offences. Tylor Ballard meanwhile made it three Class C wins in a row. Ross made it five wins on the trot by winning the second race, too, again from Burgess. It was more comfortable than race one as Burgess had to ease off to cool his brakes at mid-distance after a spell of pushing them hard trying to force leader Ross into an error. Ross also got to the top of the championship table as Luti slid off at McLeans trying to take the Class B lead from Fitzpatrick on the outside, and got beached in the gravel. Kirkpatrick helped himself to the class win ahead of Ryan Firth and Driver of the Race Butler, while Ballard extended his Class C winning run to four. “I’m chuffed as chuffed can be,” said Ross afterwards. “Jason kept me really honest. Then I seemed to be able to eke out a wee bit; then it was just a case of not doing anything silly.”

The mixed field of the Cockshoot Cup with Keith Egar (4) out in front 56 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

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Ray Collier was another to stretch a run of victories with a brace of Cockshoot Cup wins making it five out of five this season for him. In the first race he inherited the lead on lap one which he kept to the end; first Keith Egar’s Midget who had taken the lead from the second row ran off in the early corners and lost places, then Phil Standish who had taken the lead from Egar speared off at McLeans when coolant leaked onto his rear tyres. The resultant flying gravel left Collier with windscreen damage for the rest of the weekend. He won by six seconds from Peter Bramble who ran out of brakes late on. Simon Lowery got third after starting eighth, which got him Driver of the Race. In addition he was short shifting due to high engine temperatures and declared himself “stunned” to finish on the podium. Ian Whitt took the Class B win comfortably ahead of Mark Bellamy who got a five-second track limits penalty in any case but still finished second in class. Collier then took the second race win. He fell to fourth at the off behind

Ryan Firth (46) leads the Class B pack in the MG Nottingham MG Trophy Race www.mgcc.co.uk

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a pair of Midgets who as expected made a quick start, as well as behind Standish running third. Collier swiftly moved forward and took the lead from Egar on lap three. Standish before long was up to second and gave close chase of Collier for the rest of the way despite a smoky cockpit. Standish got right with Collier when the latter outbraked himself, but then spun at the chicane on the final lap in a last-ditch attempt to take the lead. Driver of the Race, Collier, won and Standish recovered to take second. Mike Peters took his third Class B win of the season with Bellamy again second. Whitt pitted with technical problems after just two laps. Reflecting the sportscar theme, the event included two Equipe and two Morgan races. The Equipe ThreeHour Classic Relay had a dramatic finish. Ricky Evans driving a Marcos GT for the B2 Marcos team and John Muirhead in a Lotus Elan for the Chapman’s Chariots squad contested victory late on, Muirhead desperately seeking a way by Evans. The fight ended with Muirhead spinning off at Coppice with six minutes remaining, his Elan buried in the gravel. This meant that the race ended under the safety car and the B2 Macros team of Evans, Chris Keen and George Rolls took victory. The Elan team had led much of the way but Evans chased Muirhead down in the final stint, and was aided by a safety car with around half an hour to go, caused by CGEEBIES’s car leaving the track at the chicane, which wiped out much of Muirhead’s halfminute advantage. The race had also earlier been red-flagged for around 15 minutes as a fibreglass Tornado Talisman left the track and could only be retrieved by a flatbed lorry. The Equipe Classic 30 Minute Sprint Race victory fight was enthralling too, this time between Jack Rawles in an Austin Healey and

The Equipe three hour classic relay grid walk

Tom Smith in a MGB Roadster – a pair who don’t usually get a chance to battle due to competing in different Equipe categories. Smith led the early part though Rawles got extra urge after a mid-race safety car period in which he was able to cool his car’s temperatures. The duo – Rawles quicker on the straights and Smith in the turns – swapped the lead on several occasions including four times in one lap. The final pass was with three laps left when Rawles sold Smith a dummy to take the inside line for Redgate, though Smith – despite a subsequent Old Hairpin excursion – was only two tenths shy at the end. He got the consolation of Class three victory. Stephen Winter won in Class four comfortably with Jim Campbell winning Class five. The Iconic 50s win was contested by Neil Cawthorn and Bob Lines. Cawthorn led the entire race from pole, though for the most part Lines clung to his coattails, a second or two

shy. Cawthorn’s final winning margin was comfortable, though, as with two laps left Lines had a trip through the gravel at the chicane – he still finished second. Alex Quattelbaum visiting from America finished third, and Robert Innes-Ker was fourth and took the Class C win. Peter Edney got the Driver of the Race award for finishing fifth, having started on the back row in 11th. The Triple-M Register Challenge race had a late twist of its own as longtime leader Tony Seber left the track at Coppice with three laps remaining, letting Malcolm Hills through to win. Driver of the Race Hills had chased Seber hard, going much faster than he did in qualifying, which he said was due to traffic in the latter. Just before his off, it looked like Seber had made a crucial break from Hills in traffic. Fred Boothby took the Class B win. The race had been red-flagged on lap one as six cars were stranded at Redgate. Fortunately there were no serious injuries.

The red Frogeye of Robin Lackford leads Ian Burgin (10) www.mgcc.co.uk

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RE NO V W IS ED !

THE MG CAR CLUB INVITES YOU TO COMPETE IN THE:

NORTHWEST 100

OULTON PARK INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT SATURDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER

• • • •

100 MILES CONSISTING OF TWO 50-MILE RACES WITH A FUEL STOP IN-BETWEEN. SALOON AND SPORTS CARS ON TREADED TYRES ELIGIBLE. ONE OR TWO-DRIVER TEAMS WELCOME. ENTRY FEE JUST £495 - ENTRIES AT THE ORGANISER’S DISCRETION.

E-MAIL johnh@mgcc.co.uk OR CALL 01235 849738 WWW.MGCC.CO.UK/MOTORSPORT

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RACE TORQUE

RACE TORQUE By Ron Gammons Photo Dickon Siddall

e are now half way through the year’s Club’s race programme, by the time you read this, with only the one-day event at Oulton Park on Saturday September 1 and the final meeting at Snetterton on September 29 to come. The Oulton event will have, in addition to most of our own Championships, a new 100-mile race titled the ‘British Motor Heritage North West One Hundred’. It’s open to both open and closed vehicles running on moulded tyres. In order to address the comments of some that their cars wouldn’t last out on fuel for 100 miles of flat-out motoring, the basis has been altered at allow for two sessions of 50 miles each, thus allowing for refuel and driver change in safety. We will run another race between the two sessions to give a decent time gap. So, it’s open to one or two drivers for a modest entry fee of £485. Entries

www.mgcc.co.uk

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are already open and we look forward to receiving more in addition to those already received. Our thanks to John Yea, of British Motor Heritage, for his support for the event. Entries are effectively by invitation, so that the organisers can ensure a sensible and safe performance balance and classes will be decided on the basis of entries. Snetterton (Saturday September 29) will provide the opportunity for our Championships to have the final races of 2018, where traditionally the positions in the Championships are established. Always a chance of an upset, everything to play for! This year we have taken the opportunity to run on the 300 Circuit for the first time in response to Coordinators requests. So, new lap records for MG Car Club meetings to be established. By great courtesy, the Editor has allowed a late comment on the Club’s superbly successful Donington meeting to be added. There is, I understand, a comprehensive report and great

pictures by the ever-supportive Dickon Siddall in this issue, so maybe a brief insight into the organisers’ role. Nobody, almost 12 months ago, had realised that the World Cup was to be concluded on the weekend, no idea that England would even feature towards the last matches, when it became clear, up until the Wednesday evening prior to our race meeting, that we were actually in with a shout. Well, what to do? Would the marshals actually arrive to support the meeting on the Sunday? Without them we would not be able to run the meeting. A great deal of concern was felt and that’s putting it very mildly! The race programme and timetable were hastily revised in order to provide for a 4.00pm Sunday finish, in time for the start of the WC finalTVs were established in the paddock, beer and soft drinks made available and then the sad news of England not being finalists anyway. But arrangements had been made, so we went ahead…just a normal organiser’s day…

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

MG on track

A RALLYING CALL

G on Track’s Castle Combe event in June was held under cloudless skies and in heat akin to that of Athens. A track day is always going to place some extra demands upon both car and driver and, in combination with the high ambient temperatures, a few technical mishaps were to be expected. In reality, there were remarkably few mechanical failures and most of these were fixed in the paddock with a visit to the onsite parts shop, the donation of a spare from a fellow participant, or the services of a courier company with extra keys... although I do agree that locking your keys in the boot is not a breakdown in the truest sense! As well as keeping an eye on the engine gauges it was necessary to keep a very close watch over tyres. Committee member, John Robertson, reported that his tyre pressures rose by six psi during just three laps, which says a lot about the effect of a hot track surface but even more about his style of driving! We always get a friendly welcome from everyone at this circuit, and a second visit to Castle Combe is arranged for September. The track layout is deceptively simple but offers a variety of corners, each with a unique

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character and each with its own way of catching out drivers whose concentration wanders. If you have never driven this track please do, as there are many good reasons that we come here twice a year. In July’s Safety Fast! I described our Activity Day to be held at North Weald; this is not a track day but an opportunity to explore the handling of your car and your own abilities in the completely safe environment of an airfield, and is largely aimed at firsttimers and novices. Great fun, very inexpensive and, as I write this, spaces still available to book! In addition to our own events, you will notice that the Calendar also shows the dates for November’s NEC Classic Car Show. This type of event allows us to reach MG owners who perhaps have not considered taking part in a track day or, unthinkable as this may seem, have never encountered MGs on Track. Lured onto our stand by a variety of display vehicles, unsuspecting ‘victims are subject to a gentle sales patter based solely upon our own enthusiasm for MGoT events and the honest assertion that their lives can only be altered for the better! However, three days on an exhibition stand does become challenging for those of us on the committee with little sanity left to

lose, so we would welcome offers of assistance from any members who will be at the show and are willing to help on the stand for an hour or two. Please contact John Robertson for further information (johnr@mgs-on-track.com). In similar vein to the preceding paragraph, we would also love to hear from members who might like to become more closely involved with the running of MGs on Track. As with all branches of the Car Club, MGoT is managed by a committee of volunteers united by a shared enjoyment and belief in our style of track days, and feedback suggests that our members echo this. Whilst committee members will be present at the actual event, both to ensure smooth running and to enjoy the fruit of their labours, clearly much preparation and background work takes place in the preceding months. Negotiations with circuits may in fact have started towards the end of the previous year, and then events are set up on the website, instructors arranged and, closer to the event, a lot of behind-the-scenes juggling will be happening before the ‘lights turn green’! In addition to work related to specific events there is, of course, a great deal that could loosely be described as admin: finances need to be controlled, the website to be

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:19

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.

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 5 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 The second visit this year in case you missed the first due to popularity! NEC Classic Car Show – November 9-11 Visit us to say hello, or even to help on the stand for an hour or two if you’re feeling bold; email johnr@mgs-ontrack.com to find out more. Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 3 Our last event of 2018. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this undulating circuit including Paddock Hill Bend!

managed, newsletters sent out, etc, plus attending occasional events such as MGLive! or the NEC to draw in new participants. We are currently one or two down on ideal committee numbers, so if you would like to learn more about the activities of the committee and whether joining might be for you, please contact our Chairman, Dave Pearce, for more information (davep@mgson-track.com). For those who think they could have nothing useful to offer, I can only present myself as proof that you may be far wide of the mark!

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We are now about two thirds of the way through the season and although certain patterns of scoring are becoming evident it is too early to be in any way definitive. Front runners at the moment are all familiar names: Andrew Till, last year’s Southern winner, in his 1.4 ZR, Ian Howlett in his MGF Trophy, Rob Orford driving his immaculate Group three MGB and last year’s overall winner, Dave Morris, who has gone for a complete change by moving from his RV8 to a TC. All this could have changed by the time you receive your Safety Fast!. On June 9 the circus moved to Abingdon Airfield for the annual dual track event. There are two sprint tracks laid out and half the field tackles one circuit while the other half does the second. After lunch they swap over and the scores are calculated on both times added together. This event has rapidly become a firm favourite with a number of drivers and is run by Sutton & Cheam MC to raise money for an armed forces charity. We fielded 11 entrants and the top scorers were Ian Howlett, Rob Bell and Neil Lock. Late in the month, on the 29th, we visited the Aintree circuit for the Liverpool Motor Club sprint. For the less historically informed, Aintree used to be the home of the British Grand Prix, albeit in a much longer form than the remaining club circuit. We had a respectable eight entrants and the top scorer was the relative newcomer, Paul Rigg, in his Group one MG TF 135. Also performing well were the familiar names of Andrew Till and Ian Howlett. On July 7 we visited the historic Barbon Manor hillclimb, near Kirby Lonsdale in Cumbria, as I indicated in last month’s article. Due to a number of regulars taking themselves off to watch the Le Mans Classic event we were down to only five entrants. However, as you can imagine, the weather was perfect and the venue, under such circumstances, was so magnificently scenic we didn’t miss the Sarthe Circuit at all. The track is relatively short and favours power output rather than handling expertise. The contingent was made up of three TFs of various types, a racing Midget and my own venerable Group two MGB GT. The fastest car was the Midget of Jake Wolf followed by the TFs of Ian Howlett, Paul Rigg and Christopher England. Bringing up the rear, not that far behind, was my cast iron engined legend. Coming events are Curborough on August 5, Loton Park on August 25-26 and an extra event at Harewood on the 25th.

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 61

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

BTCC CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 5 – CROFT

roft Circuit, near Darlington, is the opposite of Oulton Park. The former Bomber Command airfield has no changes of elevation and the circuit follows some of the lines of the perimeter roads. The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car drivers made their return to the circuit on June 23-24. Some improvements have been made at Croft in recent years, but planning problems hinder further changes. This means that there are no large grandstands and the crowds watch from the grassy banks. The circuit flows from start to almost the finish, but the hairpin turn onto the start line straight is very slow. The two MG6 drivers, Rory Butcher and Tom Boardman, had both managed to get among the points at Oulton Park, but Rory’s innocent involvement in the race three start line incident had cost him a potential high score. The AmdTuning.com team had carried out repair and preparation work to ensure that both cars looked immaculate again. At Croft, the “option” tyre is the harder compound used in all three races at Thruxton and all the drivers would have to use it in one of the races. As has become normal, two 40-minute sessions were made available to the drivers for car set-up work prior to the 30-minute Saturday afternoon qualifying session. Track temperatures were high on Saturday morning, restricting the drivers to short bursts of activity. The biggest surprise was the appearance of the Subarus of Jason Plato and defending champion, Ash Sutton, near

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By Paul Goodman. Photo: Dickon Siddall

the top of the timesheets. Both Tom and Rory concentrated on set-up work, although at the end of the second period, after two red flag interruptions, Rory popped in a time good enough for seventh place. It was even hotter for qualifying, with the cars carrying “success” ballast struggling to set competitive times. It soon became clear that the rear wheel drive cars were going to be quickest, with pole position being secured by Ash Sutton with Jason Plato alongside on the front row. Next up was Andrew Jordan in his Pirtek BMW, with former MG driver Sam Tordoff quickest frontwheel drive car fourth in the Focus RS. Getting a clear run with 32 cars on track was a problem, with Tom suffering down in 31st place. Near the end of qualifying Rory found a gap and registered a time good enough for 13th place, only point eight six seconds adrift of the pole time. Crowds poured into the circuit from early morning, enjoying the hot and sunny conditions. Race one proved to be a Subaru benefit, with Ash Sutton leading home Jason Plato and Tom Ingram’s Toyota slotting into third. Rory had a strong race, jousting just outside the top ten and finally finishing 13th. Things didn’t go so well for Tom who finished 26th, the last car on the same lap as the leader.

The starting positions for the second race are the finishing positions from the first. Once again, the race was won by the Subaru driven by Ash Sutton, despite carrying maximum success ballast. Jason Plato was given a drive through penalty for creeping at the start so didn’t feature. Tom Ingram’s Toyota just held off Colin Turkington in the BMW who completed the race podium. Rory again battled hard, finishing 10th to score more important championship points. Sadly, Tom was forced to retire with mechanical problems. The draw for grid positions for race three didn’t favour Rory, so he would start from 10th place in his hunt for more points. Tom would start from the back if the team could repair his car. Pleasingly, both MG6s were ready to go for the final race of the day. This time the winner was Dan Lloyd gaining his, and BTC Norlin’s, first-ever victory in the Honda Civic. Some way back was Tom Chilton’s Ford which held off Senna Proctor’s Vauxhall Astra. Rory had another good race finishing 13th and scoring more points. Tom finished 23rd. Rory’s performances over the three races brought him back up to second in the Jack Sears Trophy standings for drivers who had not finished on the podium before the year started, with just Dan Cammish ahead.

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OVERSEAS

John Twist operating

Rocker Box racing with starter Tony Burgess

Electric 1967 MG 1100 project of Terry Looft from Ohio

MG 2018

he 27th annual North American MGB Register (NAMGBR) meeting was hosted by MGs of Baltimore in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, from June 17-22. Some 345 cars were registered from all over America and Canada. Indeed, the largest contingent of attendees at the Gala Dinner was from MGCC Toronto. I met up with John Burrows, past President of MGCC

By Brian Woodhams

Toronto, at Baltimore/Washington airport, and together we drove up to the Wyndham Hotel in Gettysburg, where the event was held in splendid surroundings. The battle of Gettysburg, July 1-3 1863 was a turning point in the American Civil War, and was the battle where the Union ended the Confederate General Robert E Lee’s second and most ambitious invasion of the North – “the High Water Mark of the Confederacy”. Gettysburg was the war’s bloodiest battle, and is where President Abraham Lincoln, the

16th American President, made his famous, but brief, Gettysburg address on November 19 1863. Indeed, this MG event was called “A Gettysburg Address” and in the programme an MG play on the address was made – it is very clever but a bit long to include here. Gettysburg is a small town by American standards, but is very much dedicated to this important point in American history, and one cannot help but be amazed by the scale of the battlefield and the cannons and memorials to the various regiments which are all around the battlefield tour.

Rear car park at the hotel full of MGBs

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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OVERSEAS

1976 MGB of John Fraoli (RMC) in Funkhana

Dave Mullen – winner of the John Thornley trophy

After breakfast on Monday, registration started, regalia was collected, and the silent auction bidding began. The Nuffield Trophy was very much in evidence at Registration – it had been transported by Joe and Kathy Gunderson of the Rocky Mountain Centre, who are the current holders of the Trophy – many thanks, guys. Although it was a very warm day, a battlefield tour took place in the afternoon, followed by the Welcome reception in the evening. The battlefield tour was done as a familiarisation run in my ride for the TSD Rally – a dyslexic MG which was a GM 2009 Chevrolet Corvette with 430bhp on tap and air conditioning – very exciting! Early on Tuesday morning I attended the NAMGBR Officers breakfast as a guest with Rick Ingram of the North American Council, and then went on to the TSD Rally school with Bob Gloyd from the

Rocky Mountain Centre, who was to be my driver in the dyslexic MG. After the classroom, we were sent on a practice event of about 30 miles where distances were measured to one-hundredths of a mile and times to two decimal points of a second – serious stuff!! I soon began to realise that approximation was the name of the game as my Omega watch only did seconds, and the Chev’s odometer only did tenths of a mile. We finished eighth in the practice rally, and organised some changes for the real thing. During the day John Twist had been doing his Rolling Tech Session, and there was no shortage of customers. We were back in time to watch the Rocker Box racing in the afternoon, organised by Tony Burgess

The American Nuffield with John Burrows from MGCC Toronto

of the MGCC Emerald Necklace Club. Can you imagine the surprise of some British tourists who were doing a coach tour of the Battlefields, when they arrived at the hotel to find the Iris Blue 1964 MGB of Paul Hanley in the lobby!! On Wednesday the real rally was held over 75 miles and country roads, and despite the calculator on my mobile giving me some strange answers, we soon got in the swing of it. At the Awards Banquet we found out we had finished in a very creditable sixth place. The Funkhana (driving tests) was held in the afternoon, but by now the weather had changed and it was cool and rainy. In the evening the parking lot party was moved inside out of the rain.

MG Girl Jennifer Clark with Joe Gunderson (RMC) and 1936 MG PB www.mgcc.co.uk

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OVERSEAS

My presentation at the Awards Banquet

We had rain during the night and when I awoke on Thursday morning, the sky was overcast and seemed to be threatening more rain. However the Car Show, which was on grass by the US 30 road from the east into Gettysburg, went ahead as planned because the forecast said the sky would clear – and it did! All the attendees had voting slips for the 26 classes, which included all MGs from pre-war to the different types of MGBs and other British. Before my departure from the UK I had a list of seven Clubs to target and talk to regarding affiliation, and I have to

Class 19 – MGC GTs

Class 24 – other MGs

Showfield with weather improving

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OVERSEAS

1973 Black Tulip MGB of Laura Magnuson (RMC) – a rare colour

say the reception I received was very positive. With the Nuffield Trophy in attendance, the Gala Dinner and Awards got under way on Thursday evening at which I was given a spot to speak to the approximately 600 attendees. I told the assembly about the 100-year celebration of MG and when it was to occur, and made a point of praising NAMGBR for introducing the “Next Generation Register” which is run by Ryan and Leanne Looft from Wilmington, Ohio. The youngsters are the future of our Clubs. I also thanked Richard Liddick and his team from MGs of Baltimore for putting on a great meeting at a wonderful, spacious venue. The John Thornley trophy, which is a print of an MGB at Sebring, was deservedly won by Dave and Janie Mullen from the Southern Indiana Region British Car Club. After breakfast on Friday morning, I was sad to be leaving friends old and new as I packed up and drove alone back towards Baltimore/Washington airport in the rain, but felt that it had been a very worthwhile event.

Hotel lobby with 1964 MGB of Paul Hanley (MGs of Baltimore

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

very happy Saturday at MGLive! with my younger son, eventually to become the custodian of our MGA Roadster, left me with two thoughts very much in mind. First, that so much effort goes into organising the events which take place around the MG world, and second, that almost everyone I’ve met since becoming a member has been someone I’d be pleased to meet and spend time with again. Something very special seems to flow from this love we have for our MGs, whichever model it might be. Those thoughts seem to follow through my reading this month, which is very much Southern Hemisphere biased, with magazines from both Australia and New Zealand. The first is Bulletin, from Wellington, New Zealand, which almost justifies a complete review to itself. The cover picture was of a 1931 M Type Midget at British Car Day, and a very comprehensive article within gave details of the event, which included a wide crosssection of period cars. Many future events were covered and there is clearly a lot going on in the Wellington area. I was intrigued by the designs of props to allow either side of a centre-hinged bonnet to be safely held open, and of the appraisal of an MG ZS, especially as, at the beginning, it didn’t seem as though the appraiser was too keen. However, it worked its magic on him, and he expressed his clear admiration for a well-made vehicle. The Leadfoot Festival sounded like two days of great hill climbing fun, with a wide variety of vehicles taking

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part, as did the series of Old Speckled Hen Runs. A comprehensive history of R Type Chassis Number RA0253 provided food for thought, as it was at one time modified for use as a road car, fitted with a fibreglass body and registered. That one of the modifiers was a certain Pete Stevens inevitably caused a chuckle. It is now in the care of a museum and might be restored to as near original specification as is possible, but it made me realise that many vehicles now regarded as valuable (in every sense) could well have not been seen as such in earlier times. The Mangaweka MGF Festival looked like a lot of fun and the advertisements for cars, spares and club regalia, especially the MG Car Club badge with a Silver Fern, widely used as a national symbol, in the background rounded off a well-presented and delightful to read magazine. OPPOSITE LOCK,

from Sydney, followed the theme of including spouse/partner names in its contacts list and had entertaining articles. I particularly enjoyed reading about the exploits of Allan Tomlinson who, at the age of 22, remains the youngest-ever winner of the Australian Grand Prix. A record he has held since 1939 and which was set in an MG TA. The Phillip Island Classic Festival of Motor Sport sounded like an event we’d all like to attend, with a wide variety of classic racing cars, including many MG models, taking part and the Cecil Kimber Birthday Run was also clearly much enjoyed. Clubtorque, from New South Wales, carried a detailed list of future events, contact details and pictures of very happy members at a hill climb, whilst The Octagon, from Western Australia, had details of a Sprint event, a “Show ‘n’ Shine”, midweek gatherings and finally photographs of smiling lady members, with glasses of wine, possibly some of that lovely local stuff!. The Marque of Friendship was much in evidence in this month’s reading, and I was heartened to see younger faces in many of the photographs. Sharing friendship and the pleasure of our interest can only be a good thing and, to quote the actress Mae West, “Too much of a good thing is wonderful”. An admirable sentiment!

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OPEN DAY 4TH AUGUST FOR ALL MGCC MEMBERS. FREE ROLLING ROAD TEST AVAILABLE

How to find us To navigate, key in the postcode MK17 0NY. From the M1 motorway: Take junction 13 onto the A421 to Milton Keynes. Stay on the A421 through Milton Keynes and out the other side following the signs to Buckingham (A421). At the roundabout with sigh post Great Horwood left take the left turn. You are 1 1/2 miles away. Follow the road through the village and out the other side for 1 1/2 miles. sign left (at white fence) Greenway Business park.

Oselli invite all MGCC members to our Open Day on 4th August 9am to 4pm where there will be an opportunity, on a first come first serve basis, of a free rolling road test of your own car. Also on display Cars for sale and open opportunity of looking round our 18,000 sq ft operation. And a test drive of the Oselli MGA graduate spec car with Sebring body kit.

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 71

From the M40: Exiting at junction 10, take the A43 towards Northampton.At second roundabout take the A421 towards Buckingham and Milton Keynes. Stay on the 421 around Buckingham signs milton Keynes south (A421). Approx 4 miles and first roundabout turn right sign Great Horwood. Go through the village and stay on the Winslow road for 1 1/2 miles. Sign on left (at white fence) Greenway Business park. From the M25: Take the A41 to Aylesbury. Stay on the A41 and follow all signs to Buckingham. Take the Buckingham road and when Through Winslow. Take the first right just over bridge, sign Great Horwood. Approx 2 miles on right is Greenway Business park. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss us!

24/07/2018 17:20

CENTRES

ABINGDON WORKS

TONY COTTER sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk Reasons to be cheerful, 1…2… 3…I’m writing these notes having just watched England progress to the World Cup last eight by beating the All-Columbian Wrestling Federation XI on penalties. By the time you read this, the England team will have returned home to a heroes’ welcome for getting as far as they did. On the other hand, they may still be making front page headlines and be household names for becoming only the second England team to win the… Oh, let’s not get carried away! The second reason to be cheerful is that this current heatwave is perfect MG weather. Who doesn’t love driving in the sunshine with the roof down?

The third reason to be cheerful is that we’re still only half-way through the MG season, with plenty more activities to keep us occupied most weekends. Check out the AWC Newsletter for all the details, including all Natter locations and Pride of Ownerships. Talking of which, special congratulations go to Richard and Christa Colston on being presented with the AWC Charlton Award at the Chesham Natter’s PoO recently. The event went down extremely well with the approx 100 (67 cars) people there! This is the 35th year that Richard and Christa have run the Natter, so their award is very much deserved.

ANGLIA

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

The East Anglian Tour 2018 is almost upon us. Based at Ufford Park, Woodbridge, and starting Friday September 21 to Sunday 23, an enormous amount of planning and preparation has gone into this event, with an allday tour on the Saturday including a ferry trip on the Norfolk Broads.

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Full information can be found on the website along with booking information. The Anglia Summer Picnic turned out to be the most successful ever in its long history, as organiser Roger Latham reports below.

You will notice that there is no Summer Day Out this year. The reason for this is that the AWC Committee has only a finite number of active volunteers to organise events for your enjoyment. We had to make the difficult decision this year to limit the number of events we can manage on the basis that we can do fewer events really well, rather than more events less well. Our flagship OSH run always receives positive reviews, so this will continue to be our main focus. Naturally, we would love to be in a position to organise more custom events for you, but to do that, we need more help. If you feel you can support the committee by volunteering to plan, organise or help run events, please do get in touch.

You cannot help but have noticed that since MG Motor unveiled their all-electric concept car, the MG E-Motion, at the Shanghai Motor Show last year, it has appeared in many motoring magazines, including our very own Safety Fast! If the reaction from those that attended the show in China is to be believed, this really will be a revolution in the modern MG era. How the actual production car will look as compared to the concept, is anyone’s guess. But it will surely mark a new milestone in our favourite marque’s long and illustrious history. I wonder if a member of the AWC reading this article today will end up owning one of these in the not-too-distant future. Note to Editor: must ensure MGLive! in 2020 has plenty of charge points located in the E Register display.

It was a perfect summer’s day at Felbrigg Hall for our Picnic. Hot and sunny but with a refreshing breeze. We were allocated an exclusive parking area for our MGs opposite the courtyard with its facilities and close to the nearby visitor centre. Parking was on grass with some welcome shade under mature trees. Those who visited the house found much to interest us; apart from the many varied rooms there were conservation items to see. The volunteers who staffed the house were a mine of interesting information. A visit to the walled garden was most enjoyable, too, with its mature trees, shrubs and colourful borders. There were greenhouses open and a large kitchen garden, too. For the energetic the extensive grounds were there to be explored with a lake and church.

There was a record turnout for the event of 63 MGs plus an Alfa Romeo. This despite a number of no-shows which may have increased this total. It may be difficult to top the day but we will try with next year’s Picnic. Where to next year? Roger Latham Helmingham Hall Festival of Classic and Sports Cars takes place on Sunday August 5 and the MGCC Anglia Centre will again have a stand at the show. Information can be found on the Anglia website which also includes a fantastic video of last year’s event to give you an idea of what you can expect at this very popular event. I have been in the past and can truly recommend it. John Cumming is the MG organiser for this one and can be contacted on 01359 259717.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:20

CENTRES

CALEDONIAN

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

After a long hard winter we now have a long hot summer… ideal for MG motoring! As I write this we are about to head for Glamis – should be dry for a change! Some of us took a trip last month to the Tain Classic Show sharing with Highland MG. Great location and lots of ‘new’ old cars. While there I was approached by a lady holding a photo of an M type her late father owned in the 1930s. She was amazed to be told that the car still existed and that I knew the owner. They are hoping to meet soon. If you fancy a wee jaunt to Dumfries on the 12th then Tony Smith might be able to get you a place at the Dumfries

Motor Show. It’s a low-key but interesting event. Give Tony a call if you are interested. Bookings for our Five-Day Tour this month have closed but you may still be able to enter the Arran tour in September. Check the website for details. It’s possible that by the time you read this, entries for the Bo’ness show will also have closed. However, I may have a spare entry or two, so contact me if you would like to be ﬁtted in. Even if you are not part of our stand, do come along as it’s a great weekend with a mixture of classic cars both static and competing on the hill. In Scotland it’s a unique event. Speaking of

DEVON & CORNWALL YOUNG JANNER II bobslatter@hotmail.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/ I must start this off with a correction to last month’s notes. It is about the activities for Devon Day on Sunday August 12. The short scenic run with a difference will be the same, starting at the Engine House

Café, Compton Park, Callington, PL17 8EA at 9.30am where refreshments will be available. The run will ﬁnish at Sterts Theatre, Upton Cross, Liskeard, PL14 5AZ by about 2.00pm. There will be an entry fee of

The Centre display at last year’s Powderham Gathering

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Bo’ness, does anyone have a ride-on garden mower we could borrow…? Contact me, please. Entries are open for our October one-day run on the 7th. Starting from Lanark and including a trip on the Union Canal, it will be a ﬁne autumn day I’m sure. Please book early! This is likely to be our ﬁnal oneday MG run for the year! Soon your committee will be

formulating an event programme for 2019. We are always looking for suggestions (and assistance!) regarding new events or places to go. Let us know if you have something in mind. And just another little reminder that I need your email address and permission if you wish to be updated on Caledonian goings-on by email. That’s all for now.

The daughter of a 1930s M type owner

£5.00 to cover permit fees, etc. Contact Barry Smith on 01752 336454 to book an entry. As there is no lunch stop on the run, bring a picnic with you, which can then be taken into the Summer Jazz in the Park in the theatre grounds, if staying for that afterwards. Unfortunately I made an error last month saying the Show was by donation only. It is actually £10.00 per ticket, but as this is going to the very worthy charity of Macmillan Cancer Support, I hope no one is put off by this. If the weather is inclement on the day, it will actually be held under cover of the theatre itself. The concert runs from 2.00pm until 6.00pm. For tickets to this contact Terry Bolt on 01579 383497. Let’s all help Terry to raise a lot more money towards this speciﬁc charity, for which he has tirelessly raised thousands

over the past few years, especially with his escapades with Geoff Hearn in Terry’s trusty MG TD on the Grand Tour Cape to Cape events. There is also still a chance for members to take part in the Tamar Old Bridges Run being organised by Alan and Verona Davis on Sunday September 2. The entry is filling fast but if you contact Alan on 01579 351034, he may be able to fit you in. That would appear to be all the future events covered at the moment, but may I take this opportunity to say thank you to all the Centre members who attended the Crash Box and Classic Car Club Historic Vehicle Gathering last month, with a full array of MGs from early models right up to the current MG ZS. Some very good publicity for the Centre and the Club overall.

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CENTRES

LINCOLNSHIRE

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

August Natters: Wolds Wednesday 1; Abbey Lodge Monday 13; Wishing Well Wednesday 8; Three Horseshoes Thursday 16; Lincoln Tuesday 28; Red Cow Inn Thursday 23. Luncheon Club: Wednesday 15. August Events East Kirkby Air Show Saturday 4; Revesby Show Sunday 5; Boston Classic Car Club Show Sunday 12; Poacher Concours Sunday 19. It’s almost here! The shiniest event in the Lincolnshire Centre calendar, formally known as the Lincolnshire Poacher Concours, takes place in the grounds of 16th Century Doddington Hall, six miles West of Lincoln city centre on Sunday August 19.

What is a concours, I hear you ask? Well, a “concours d’elegance” to give it its full title, is an exhibition or competition in which cars are judged on their elegance and beauty, and specifically on their closeness to original specification. You may now be thinking that as my car (a much-modified MGB GT V8) does not fit those criteria, then it may not be welcome at the event. Not a bit, as the very smart organisers, Geoff and Vicki Edge, have already thought of that, and entrants can elect to be judged (by independent clued-up judges) on either the basis of Originality – as factory, or Condition – being modified.

MIDLANDS

TONY LAKE tonylake134@hotmail.co.uk www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgccmidlandcentre/

MGLive! camping set up kept the Midland Centre busy on the Thursday before the event. Scott Munton had rounded up all the usual suspects to bang in pegs, hang out bunting and greet members as they arrived on Friday and Saturday. Over 200 pitches were marked out, that seemed to match the advanced bookings quite well. On the day the old quiet camping area, although unmarked, served as an overﬂow for caravans, motor homes and tents. No doubt the ﬁne weather persuaded the undecided to venture out to Silverstone. Brian Osborn and Paul Hollingworth organised another

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run around the route used for the 1926 Victory Reliability Trial for motorcycles, sidecar outﬁts and light cars. A somewhat disappointing entry of 11 drove 90 miles on roads that in the day were mostly unmetalled, and were able to see the sections that intrepid trials riders and drivers faced in the twenties. The Centre makes an annual award of the California Shield to the most successful Natter in the Midlands area. The award resulted from a goodwill visit by a bunch of southern Californian MG enthusiasts to the UK in 1970. The California Cup from the same folk is still keenly contested at MGLive! in the

Long-serving MG Midget UWP 460G driven by Bryan Pack at MGLive! 2018 California Cup. Photo: John Hebb

And you don’t even have to bring an MG, as there are classes for non-MGs, both pre-1970 and post-1970. So, basically, if you’ve got a car, why not bring it along and have a pleasant sunny Sunday in tranquil surroundings with likeminded car lovers. You might even win an award, so download the entry form from our website and send it in. If you’ve got any queries, please don’t hesitate to contact Geoff or Vicki, either by phone on 01205 871973, or by email to geoffjedge@aol.com

If you can’t wait for the big event, then feel free to join us for the Landlord’s Choice events at the Cross Keys Inn at Grasby in the rolling Lincolnshire Wolds on Wednesday August 1 and the Wishing Well at Dyke (just north of Bourne on the A15) on Wednesday August 8. Both events should start around 7.30pm, and are designed as a fun show for your cars, judged by the hostelry’s unbiased host. Best break out the bucket and sponge now!

Autotest every year. For 2017 the shield went to North Leicester MG Club. Rick Willoughby, chairman of 2016 holders, Kilsby MG Club, presented North Leics chairman Colin Readwin with the much-prized shield at their Natter on June 20. North Leics run the highly successful Charnwood Caper, an event that regularly sees 90plus entrants and, in addition to being a sociable day out in the Leicestershire countryside, generates substantial funds for charity. Their 2017 event raised £1,000 that was recently presented to STEPS who help 50 families with children who suffer cerebral palsy or Down’s syndrome. North Leics themselves are not backward in coming forward; they issue national press releases to publicise their activities. Worthy winners indeed.

Natters like this and the subs of their members are the lifeblood of both the Midland Centre and the MGCC itself. July 29 will be the Midland Centre summer day out at Shelsley Walsh, with some dedicated parking and a discounted entry charge making for a fun day at the Classic Nostalgia meeting. See the website for details: www.mgcars.org.uk/mgccmidlandcentre/ August 5 sees the Centre at Curborough for the Summer Sprint. Marshals are always in short supply, so if you can help out Simon Morris will be glad to hear from you. There is no admission charge for spectators so come along and enjoy the spectacle. See the website for more details. September 23 is the date for the Autumn Trial at East lodge Farm, Bromsgrove.

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CENTRES

NORTH WEST PAUL GOODMAN 01625 876300

Midsummer has arrived with lots of MGCC events on offer. The climax of the Cockshoot Cup race championship for 2018 will be reached over the next few weeks. The now-traditional Anglesey double-header will be held on Saturday August 11 and Sunday August 12. The two races are part of an exciting package being promoted by the British Racing and Sports Car Club. The circuit is near Ty Coes and has some brilliant viewing points and photographic opportunities. Qualifying will be on Saturday morning, with one race on Saturday after lunch and the other on the Sunday. The August social events start on Tuesday 14 at The Old Hall Farm Pub, followed a week later by the Plough and Flail

meeting on Tuesday August 21. Finally, our lunchtime gathering is on Wednesday August 29 at The Egerton Arms, Knutsford Road, Chelford SK11 9BB. It is too late for you to get a free entry ticket to the Gold Cup Meeting at Oulton Park on Sunday 26 and Monday 27, but if you are attending in an MG please come and park with us or drop over and have a chat. Look out for our flag. Just one week later, we are back at Oulton Park on Saturday, September 1 for the MGCC race meeting. There will be another Cockshoot Cup race and doubleheaders for several of the other championships. We also have an innovation in the Northwest 100. This is a 100-mile race for sports and saloon cars using

MGAs at the Plough and Flail. Photo: Paul Goodman

treaded tyres. There will be a pit stop during the race in which drivers may be changed. It is not too late to enter this event. We will also have a lunchtime parade for members. You will be able to sign on during the morning. We have booked our stand at EventCity for the weekend of September 15-16. If you would like to display your car or help by working on the stand during the show, then please contact me. Looking back to June, we achieved our objective by filling

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

What a glorious summer and great weather for top-down sports car driving which started with MGLive! in early June through to the SE Summer Gathering, so I hope you have taken advantage to be out and about in your cherished machines! It seems as though MG motoring is not always plain

Max Ruffles with his 1500 Midget head

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sailing. Our son Max (20) driving his 1980 Midget back from Birmingham University to Kent suffered a broken fan belt and you can guess the rest – overheating/ head gasket failure and a tow home from RAC! Fortunately the weather has proved kind, so he has embarked up removing the cylinder head and although proving difficult due to one seized head stud, he ingeniously welded a nut onto the end of the stud and unscrewed the nut revealing little damage except for normal water in the cylinders and consequent surface rust, so still a bit work to do. It took days to fix, including a number of texts to a certain older MG addict for advice

Midget headgasket failure

but shows real commitment from a young member which is great to see. Rumour has it that a modern MG6 belonging to a fellow MGCC member was also on the same stretch of road a day or so later enjoying the services of the RAC. With the holiday season now upon us there are plenty of South East events to engage with at local Natters and monthly midweek Wanderers meetings (see our SE webpage: https://www. mgccse.co.uk/calendar/ ) as well as several local PoO’s at the Three Horseshoes, the North Down Natter’s BBQ in August and the

the Plough and Flail car park, with more than 100 cars arriving covering the whole history of motoring from 1900. As well as nearly all ages of MG, we welcomed several superb RollsRoyce cars and Jaguar E Types. Finally, notice of the Centre Dinner Dance and Awards Presentation. This will be held at our usual venue, The Deanwater Hotel, Woodford, on December 1 which is a weekend later than usual. This will give us the chance to have a seasonal theme. More details to follow.

Fairmile talk from Bill Price and Alan Zafar in September. Sunday September 23, Autumn Gathering at Michelham Priory House and Gardens, Hailsham BN27 3QS. This is a pay on the day event and includes entry to the house, gardens and working water mill. £17 per car (two people). Full details: www. mgccse.co.uk/calendar/ Events Roundup The 12/12 event at Brooklands was held in June with the South East Centre hosting a display of cars. This annual event is always worth visiting for the vast array of mainly pre-second World War cars and other additional attractions including aviation artefacts. This year also featured Julian Aubert’s reconstruction of three pre-first World War aircraft.

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CENTRES

SOUTH WEST

ANDREW OWST 01761 221893 andrewowst@hotmail.com www.mgccsw.com Facebook www.facebook.com/MGCCSW In mid-June we had our usual stand for the weekend at the South West Classic Car Show at the Bath and West Showground, near Shepton Mallet. The four cars on display were an MGA

fixed head coupe owned by Dave Jacobs, an early Mk1 MG Midget owned by Kingsley Beck, Bruce Weston’s red MG TC and Neil Lock’s Sprint ZR160. The photo taken by Jim Lott shows

TYNE TEES

TONY WOOD anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk

“Sumer is icumen in” as the madrigal singers tell us, so here are more delights to tempt you from the paths of righteousness. Croft Nostalgia weekend is on August 4-5 for all the fun of great motor racing, air displays, classic cars and period costume. Our organised display is already full but there is ample classic car parking if you feel like coming along in anything pre 1977. Saturday 18 sees our Southern Treasure Hunt and Supper Run. Details are sketchy as we haven’t finalised the arrangements, but it will start at 4.00pm and finish around 6.00pm for a pub meal. Watch Tyne Tees Tidings for details or contact Noel (noellindford@ btinternet.com) or me.

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On Sunday 26 Dennis is again organising our display at Hamsterley Hoppings, an excellent village show with lots to do. Contact Dennis on 07970 115202 or denhope@hotmail.co.uk Early September brings the heady delights of another BBQ at our Coulby Manor meeting (6th) – pre-book with Noel. Finally on September 9 the Old Speckled Hen Road Safety Trial, a road run with a difference. Sponsored once again by Morland’s Brewery, we start at the Rokeby Inn for a run through the North Yorkshire dales incorporating some simple nontimed tests of driving skill, with questions on MG and motoring knowledge adding a little spice to the proceedings in case the great roads and scenery don’t

the stand, and our thanks to the owners for displaying their cars. David Jacobs was rewarded by winning the award for the best Classic Sports Car. Our thanks go to Jim Lott for organising and to all the members who spent time manning the stand. A team from the Centre entered the California Cup Autotest at MGLive!, Silverstone. The team consisted of Mike Angwin MGF, Jim Lott MGF, and Mike Beecher MG ZS 180. They did not win but they put in a very creditable performance. Well done to the winners from Ulster and Lincolnshire. Future centre events are as follows:

non-damaging and will not wear out the tyres, but you can still have a good romp around a field in your MG. The venue is at Claverham, 15 miles south of Bristol and details are on the South West Centre website.

MGs on Grass 2 Sunday August 5 This is an autotest on grass so

Wiscombe Hill Climb Saturday September 8 This is the premier event run by the South West Centre and marshals are always needed. Marshalling is the best way to see the action and it is a tremendous day’s motorsport as we traditionally have around 130 entries with a great variety of cars. Superb venue near Honiton, Devon, so do come along and support the largest event run by the Centre. Again, details are on the South West Centre website.

do enough for you. Entries from anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk or call 07885 654795. Sunday July 1 saw a bunch of stalwarts tackling a Grass Autotest at Bywell Hall Classic Show, a Club event in the morning closely contested between 10 entries. Overall honours went to Ken Armstrong (TF) from Richard Young’s Metro GTi with a fine 3rd taken by Doug Carmichael (MGB) who stunned us all with his FTD by

over three seconds on the final test. Great fun on a perfect, smooth site which was then opened up as a taster event to the showgoers, six of whom tackled two tests in vehicles ranging from Minis to a Skoda Fabia. That all of us had a great time is due to Noel but especially our chief timekeepers, Tony Coates and Trish Colligan, who again performed above and beyond. Check out the videos on our Facebook group.

Owen Frankland MGB GT Bywell Hall Autotest

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CENTRES

YORKSHIRE

DAVID COPEMAN 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk North – Nick Mann Members needed to make sure their ‘little grey cells’ were in full working order for our June meeting which took the form of a quiz organised by Mike and Val. This was certainly a quiz with a difference as active taste buds were called into play for guessing crisp flavours and even chocolate types! The overall winners were David Doulin and John Waterhouse, who clearly need to review their dietary preferences! Only joking, boys! South – Geoff Norcliffe In June we lost our friend and former Natter Leader Alastair Twiby. Alastair was a popular and well-respected man who will

be very much missed. Alastair supported and organised many events in the Natter and we will be remembering him during those future events. Our thoughts are with Kathryn and their family. The Douglas Cup was presented to Vaughan Rich whose MGA Coupe was voted Pride of Ownership winner. East – Brian Rylance Barry and Jan’s foray into Lincolnshire was well supported and the weather was superb for the July run, a visit and tour of the Trawler Arctic Corsair. The compass run to the Yorkshire Farming Museum on July 29. West – David Copeman Our annual Pride of Ownership

ULSTER

CAROL WILLIS Tel: 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk

June’s Nosh ‘n Natter in The Poacher’s Pocket was very enjoyable with a good attendance. It was also a beautiful day, and before we all left it was agreed to have another in July instead of waiting until August. Daft Eddy’s was suggested for a change and, as well as having a beautiful outlook, it has a different menu. Ten minutes after we had all driven off Gordon had it booked! Another great attendance with everybody in wonderful form! As part of the celebrations for our Jubilee year it had always been our intention to make an assault on the California Cup which, of course, is spiritually and rightfully the property of the Ulster

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Centre. Gordon managed to put together two teams for our bid: Team one = Gordon Buckley, Will Corry Jnr and Bryan Mutch all driving Midgets; Team two = Jay Colville in a Midget and Stephen and Roger Dawson in an MGB. The circus left town! All met up again in the autotest area on the Saturday morning where they entered into a long and wellfought contest throughout the day, with the Ulster Centre Team one winning by 15 secs from the Lincolnshire Centre Team, and Will achieved ftd by one second. The BMC Trophy was won by the Lincs Centre, with Jay coming fourth overall and Stephen sixth with Roger putting in a creditable

took place at the June meeting. A great attendance with over 30 cars including Geoff Morris’s new ZS. Chris Falanagan’s 4.6 litre ZT Coupe was voted Best Car by the members. Glen Lynn’s 1966 MGB Roadster was voted the President’s Choice. In the absence of Alan Dakeyne, our President, the choice was made by Kelly Broderick, new to MGs having just bought an MGB. Tiger – Pete Welbourn The June lunch outing was a re-run of Terry’s “Holderness 2”. Everybody agreed it was a pleasant jog around north Holderness and this year after a damp start the sun came out and the scenery was revealed. Unfortunately Terry could not be with us but we all wish him well.

It was good to have Karen McCann join us, driving her MGA. The sad passing of her husband Peter was a shock to us all. Vale of York – Ken Cothliff June’s Natter was a bright, sunny day. We had 15 cars and 27 members attending, including two new potential members. In my absence, Rick took over and the next few events were reviewed – Newby Hall Classic, MGCC Compass Run, and the plethora of summer shows and runs that abound in Yorkshire. Other future events for Natter members include the Pateley Bridge MG show, charity shows at Temple Newsam and Burley in Wharfedale, and the big Otley Transport Extravanganza in September. Thanks to all our supporters.

drive. As it was a long way to go for one day they also entered the AutoSOLO the following day and Jay entered the Sprint, coming second in class. Didn’t our boys do well at Silverstone – great results, especially during our Jubilee Year. Congratulations to one and all. July is generally a quiet month for us, that is, except for Noel who has been looking for sites to run the Ulster Classic Trial. For the past three years we have used the Killinchy, Lisbane area but this year we are returning to Craigantlet. The route is not yet finalised but we will let you all know what,

why, where, when as soon as we can. Of course, we need marshals and time-keepers that night and any volunteers will be gratefully received, so please get in touch with either Stephen or Carol if you can help. We don’t know yet if our PCTs will run this year as fields may be scarce because of the weather we’ve been having and farmers are behind schedule. Dates for your Diary: August 14 Nosh ‘n Natter, Poachers Pocket from 12.30pm August 24 evening PCT venue tba September 7 Ulster Classic Trial

Three very happy pixies – Will, Bryan and Gordon AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 81

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REGISTERS

VINTAGE

JOHN VENABLES 01865 862573 johnandtriciav@gmail.com

As I write this it is almost too hot to be driving an open car but fortunately our vintage MGs have very big radiators. My 18/80 does not have a cooling fan but still maintains the right temperature. I suppose I could fit an electric fan if there was a problem. My MGA used to overheat but this was cured by having the radiator recored with an extra row of cooling tubes fitted. The heat has been like the Sahara desert and the grass looks that way. We are proposing to hold an autumn event on Sunday October 7. The idea is to meet up for coffee at 11.00am, then a run of about 30 miles to a nice hostelry for lunch and general chat. Peter Mace, our Chairman,

has suggested we meet up near Oxford, being fairly central in the country, and guess who he has delegated to organise it, being the only VR member in this part of the UK, (me). I would be glad if you could email me if you are interested johnandtriciav@ gmail.com with your intentions. If necessary, I can find a B&B here, and I am sure I can find a place for a trailer if you live far away. More details will follow next month. You will be welcome in a modern car if necessary. The season is well under way now and I attend a few local agricultural shows before the autumn, which are always interesting. A word of caution: on June

TRIPLE M

JEREMY HAWKE +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com www.triple-mregister.org

The Summer Gathering: As I write, the heatwave and lack of rain continue, and so the Summer Gathering in Peter Green’s “back garden” was a real belter of a day, perhaps almost too hot. One or two of our more

senior members thought better of a long drive in an open MMM and chose covered transport with air-con! For one or two others, mechanical gremlins prevented them arriving with suitable MGs (your scribe being one, as the

11 I posted first class the water pump from my VA to a restorer in Wolverhampton. It failed to arrive, despite being well packed. It is very expensive to replace. I should

John Day’s MG 18/80 takes to the Silverstone GP circuit during the lunchtime parade laps at MGLive! Photo: Colin Murrell

“modern” tow vehicle had its crank damper disintegrate a few days beforehand – a common problem according to Google). That said, Peter had once again laid on extra ice-cold drinks and the choc-ices just kept coming. We had a good turnout of the models, and as usual you get to see something you’ve never seen before; for me (and probably a lot of others) it

David Cooksey’s J3 (J3764). This car only resurfaced in 2012 having lain in obscurity for many decades

Karl Wiessmann’s C Type (C0283) complete with A-A head, down-draught SU, twin auto-pulse pumps and hood!

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have used tracker and insured it, which I did not, and I much regret not doing. I fortunately found another from a member of the SVW Register and I was very grateful.

was a C type with a hood! There was the usual BBQ lunch, lighthearted quizzes and driving tests, efficiently arranged as ever (though it helped if the passenger could throw a ball into a bucket…), or if preferred, you could just chat to old friends, make new ones, even just shelter from the sun. If you haven’t made this one before, make a note for next year. Upcoming Events: Wiscombe Hillclimb on September 8 – details at: www. mg-cars.org.uk/mgccsc/ and marshals most welcome. Kimber Car Trial on October 14 – organised by the MGCC SW Centre and Team Phoenix “training event”, non-damaging and great fun. Entry details can be had from chairman@mgccsw.com See you all out and about soon.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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REGISTERS

SVW

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

Writing this at the end of June we have the SVW Event in the Cotswolds in prospect. We’ve planned to arrive on Monday July 9 and stay until Thursday. Sharman is concerned about the 130 miles or so each way as she doesn’t usually do significant distances in the VA Tourer. Hopefully, with the hood up, a few cushions and blankets, and a gentle drive on the country roads all will be fine.

Photo below shows Christopher Rowe’s WA Tickford (ex-John Dutton) that took pride of place outside the SVW stand at MGLive! this year. The other photo shows my VA Tourer at a local VSCC meeting in Sussex – in rather good company, as you see! There has been some discussion on the MG SVW Register about tracking. As it happens, I’ve recently had my king pins and track rod ends

replaced and it’s certainly changed the handling of my VA Tourer and not for the better! It seems to be more skittish and tramlines more than before and the tracking may be part of the problem. General consensus suggests there should be a 1/4” toe-in at the rims across the axle, ie 1/8” at each wheel. I want to get this right before setting off for the SVW event. However, I’m also concerned about the

king pins. Mine is fitted with the old-type thrust roller bearing at the top of each king pin with a packing washer at the bottom. Most VAs with this setup have long been converted to the thrust washer type with no roller bearing, as recommended by MG Cars at the beginning of 1938. I’ll write more on this next month. In the meantime, enjoy the summer sunshine in your MG.

T TYPE

JOHN WARD 01621 773606 johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/t-register Incredible, but by the time you get to read these notes there is only one more event for 2018 on the T Register calendar. The 2018 T Register Autumn Tour Friday 7 to Monday September 10 2018, based at the Hog’s Back Hotel near Farnham, Surrey, GU10 1EX, just to the west of Guildford. The cost will be £500 per couple, dinner, bed and breakfast for the three nights, and this includes the Gala Dinner on the Saturday night. The routes on Saturday and Sunday will be touring the leafy Surrey countryside. Jointly organised by Barry and Glenys

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Knight and Alan Wakefield, and Geoff and Annie Matthews have organised the administration side of things. There is also an option for those living locally to join in the daily tours and/ or meals. For all the details and options contact Annie or Geoff Matthews on 01840 214972 or by email at annie@ shepherdsbarn.com All hotel bookings are taken by Annie who will advise on the process for completing the booking and sending the entry fee of £45 per car, but do hurry – the last date for booking is July 31, hopefully just after you receive this edition of Safety Fast!

There was a time, many moons ago, that the majority of our cars looked something like this. How times have changed! Seen at Silverstone this year, a very unspoilt but well-used TC

In a very similar vein, look what was recently discovered in Chelmsford. Not seen the light of day since the 70s, but could there be a TF under there? More, maybe, next time

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REGISTERS

Y TYPE

JERRY BIRKBECK jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk Tel: 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 Well, classic car owners have been enjoying amazing weather. I do hope that all of you have been using your faithful Y on the roads of Britain and further afield. Devotion to the `Y’ cause was demonstrated at the beginning of July with our bi-annual trip to Llanerchindda Farm in the Brecon Beacons. Llanerchindda Farm Those of us able to make it not only saw Wales blessed with wall-to-wall sunshine but also enjoyed the superb hospitality of Martin, Lynn, Andrew and Mark Hadley. This was our third Y Register trip to Llanerchindda, which

commenced in 2014 and was arranged under the auspices of Peter Vielvoye. Sadly, on each occasion we have not made it in the YT. I had assumed that having been fiddling with the car for a few weeks, the installation of a new water pump would be a straightforward job. It was, but refitting the engine stabiliser unit was a tad more fiddly than I had remembered! Thinking that two full days would be more than enough time to have everything replaced, car serviced, etc, I was confident that all would be ready for a 10.00 am departure. Well, the service part was completed, and the simple plumbing was also done.

MAGNETTE

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

The 22nd International Z Magnette Day (June 29-July 1) was organised this year by Gunter and Anja in the

Westphalia region of Germany, and was well supported as usual. In total 14 Magnettes were gathered from Denmark,

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However, testing everything showed up a few leaks. So, we went in the TC! There were some Ys there! Sensible, organised Y owners had arrived for Pimm’s and cakes by 4.00pm on Friday; we arrived around an hour and half later. There were some later arrivals but they had travelled considerably further and in their Ys! Our numbers included Peter Vielvoye in his YT, Peter and Gillie Sharp in their YA, Alan and Carole Chick YB, Dave and Hazel Jones YA, Brian and Gill Mellem YB, Fran and Jan Smith YB plus Derrick Newman in his TD, Bill and Linda Washington in his A35, and Jo and I in the TC. Nine cars in all and sadly some could not make it. Neil Cairns’ YB was being repaired at Brown and

the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Germany and the UK, with visitors enjoying the usual mix of good company, food and scenic drives. I particularly like the juxtaposition of old and new in the photo below of Magnettes at the Sauerland Pyramids, a futuristic science park for biomedicine and ecology. Slightly lower turnout for the Worcester weekend (July 1315), but an enjoyable time was had by all, and Clive produced an excellent programme based around the beautiful scenery of the Malvern Hills, including Witley Court and Croome Court. I wasn’t able to make the Friday visit to the Morgan car factory myself, but it was apparently as fascinating as you might expect, and there should be a full report on the website by the time you read this.

Gammons, and Chris and Annette Callaghan were at a wedding, whilst Mike and Sue Silk were navigating stretches of the canal network. All the drivers had their navigators, not that they were needed as Martin’s route books were superb, and with the OS that each couple was provided with our journeys were well thought through, not too long but with plenty of challenges and opportunities to enjoy some of the best landscapes in Wales. The Isle of Man 2019 Every two years we look to visiting somewhere different at the end of the season – normally in September. Next year we are exploring the opportunity to visit the Isle of Man. If you are interested then please do contact Peter Vielvoye (email: peter vielvoye@blueyonder.co.uk).

There’s still Harrogate, Kop Hill and the Lou Shorten Tribute weekends to come, so hope to see more of you at one of those. Just a reminder that David Griffiths (01423 873132) would like to know in advance if you’re going to the Pateley Bridge showground in order that parking space can be reserved, and as mentioned the Register AGM will take place there at about 5.00pm (Saturday August 11). Also note that the NTG Concours Trophy will be judged and awarded as part of the Sunday show. Lastly, although not official Register events, we’re again invited to the Stockcross village fete and car show, near Newbury (August 19) and Capel Manor Gardens, Enfield (September 2), both of which have been much enjoyed in previous years.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:21

Manor Garage & Sons! Tel: 01235 767751

• • • •

Servicing and MOT Work Sill Replacement Restoration Professionally Spot Welded Gearbox rebuilds we have a stock of 4 synchro reverse gears that are currently not available Engine rebuilds Wiring looms ﬁtted Very large stock of new parts for mail order 25 Years in Business

FREE 20-50 oil WITH EVERY SERVICE

Failing 6v batteries?

Fit Manor Garages twin 12v conversion.

Still 12v but with double the capacity. Fits existing battery boxes, with minimal extra wiring. Reliable starting power after your MG has been parked up. KIT £150 +vat.

Visit our website: www.manorgaragewantage.co.uk Kimble-SF_Nov-09.qxd:Kimble MGE 1_8 col 3.3 26/10/09

The Great British

13:0

Steering Wheel

Tel: 01932 568822

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.

Ww14” ENo Nalso in W

NO 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.

NEW MGB Baulk Rings

OPENING HOURS: 08.30am – 5.00pm Mon – Fri Sat am: By appointment only

KEEPING MORRIS & MG ALIVE FOR THE FUTURE Welding to MOT standards Vehicle safety checks undertaken

SAVE MONEY WITH US – NO VAT ON LABOUR! Unit 6, Stevens Yard, 113 Fordwater Road, Chertsey, Surrey KT16 8HB www.chertseyminors.co.uk

STEVE McKIE SPORTSCARS www.bighealey.co.uk

CNC Machined in the UK to our specification Brass 2nd & 3rd/4th £59.95+VAT

CHESTERFIELD

For the ‘best’ in MG high-performance Parts Hotline: +44(0)1543 472244 E-mail: sales@bighealey.co.uk DENIS WELCH MOTORSPORT, YOXALL, BURTON ON TRENT, STAFFS DE13 8NA, UK

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 85

•

DERBYSHIRE

Specialists in the repair and restoration of MG cars Suppliers of parts for • MGA • MGB • MGC • Midget • T Type • MGF/TF

Steel 4 synchro £49.95+VAT

www.mgcc.co.uk

Mechanical repairs and servicing Bodywork/paintwork

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

Steve McKie Sports Cars Hi-Res.indd 1

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 85

23/06/2010 13:46

24/07/2018 17:21

REGISTERS YRX 310 at Le Mans 2018. Photo: Colin Murrell

MGA

EDWARD VANDYK 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk The unbelievable summer weather continued for the South West MGA Day on July 8. 19 MGAs gathered at Tormarton for the run to Iford Manor. The route went past Castle Combe, Lacock and then onward to Caen Locks on the Avon and Kennet canal, near Melksham. There was an opportunity to stop at any of these locations to visit and soon the MGAs were spread over the 40-mile route. Despite the heat, all cars made the picnic at Iford Manor

where we joined other members of the South West Centre. Luckily the field had a very large tree providing adequate shelter! Members then took the opportunity to look around the Manor gardens or have refreshments at the café. Many thanks to Alan Whitfield for organising a fabulous day. Thank you to all those who came to support us and YRX 310 at the 2018 Le Mans Classic. Our target was to survive and finish and we achieved that! In

fact we finished fourth in the Index of Performance, where cars are given handicaps, and even won the IoP in the first race. We were 35th overall out of a grid of 60+. To put this into context, our best lap was 5’59” and our top speed 122.47mph. We were backing off at what we thought was a true 6,700 revs and afterwards realised the rev counter was 700 optimistic at that speed, rather than the 400 we thought, so the car had more to give. However, since we were running an MGB 3.9 differential, the same as would have been available in period, it makes Bob Olthoff’s claim of the fastest

MGAs at rest after a scorching SW Tour

speed ever recorded for an MGA of >135mph (more than one figure is cited) in the same car at Phoenix Park, Dublin, somewhat more interesting as it implies he managed 7,500 revs or more. What do we have to look forward to in August? There is MGA Day at Canons Ashby, Northamptonshire, on August 12 – the latest information sheet is available on the website www.mgcc.co.uk/mgaregister/wp-content/uploads/ sites/22/2018/07/MGADay-2018.pdf Do come and join us at the Stockfest Car Show on August 19. It is not too late to sign up for the 2018 Rare Breeds Tour which we hold the same day, prior to the show. https:// rarebreedstour.co.uk/stockfestcar-show/ Let’s hope the magical weather continues.

MGC

MIKE HAUGHTON mgc_mike@btinternet.com

‘The sun has got his hat on’ – well, he certainly did for MGC Day 51! A splendid day was enjoyed by all at Fawley Hill, courtesy of Lady McAlpine. It’s not often you get an invitation to play on a private train set but the C Register certainly took up the opportunity. The Saturday prior to MGC Day 51 was extremely

relaxed and enjoyable at the Bull Hotel in Gerrards Cross. On the day we had a total of 65 MGCs present. It was wonderful to meet up with Tom and Teresa Pugsley from Canada and Harvey Heath and Jane Howarth visiting us from New Zealand. More information regarding the event will be published in

Wall to wall sunshine – Wall to wall MGCs

next month’s Safety Fast! In the meantime, lots of photos can be found at https://flic.kr/s/ aHsmnzvLG5 It may seem a long way off yet but with everyone’s life being so busy it could be worthwhile making a note of the following dates in your diary. In May 2019 we are looking to take the C Register to Jersey to coincide with Liberation Day which is celebrated on Thursday May 9. The C event will most likely commence one or

two days before and run through to the Sunday 12. It also coincides with another MG event being held there. Prior to that we have the Downton weekend on May 4-5 and an idea being considered at this stage could be to combine to the two events. This is still at the embryonic stage at the moment and more information will be announced on the C Register microsite soon. Happy C Motoring. Colin Howes

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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H1 - CLIVE WHEATLEY_H7 - CLIVE WHEATLEY 29/06/2017 15:23 Page 1

New Replacement MG RV8 Heatshield Fits above catalysts on the underside of the car. Stops heat ingress and paint burning on underside of car £119.50

RV8 front radiator cover Black £199.50 Part Carbon Fibre £227.80

Genuine RV8 heater valve (ZKC 5119 - the correct one) £54.95

genuine & conversion parts Tel: +44 (0)1746 710810 Fax: 01746 710999 email: sales@mgv8parts.com Callers by appointment only at Highgrosvenor, Worfield, WV15 5PN (between Bridgnorth & Wolverhampton)

OVERSEAS MAIL ORDER AVAILABLE Full workshop facilities: servicing, repairs, MoT and prep. RV8 wood refurbishment & mail order services worldwide. Catering for all MGB, V8, V8 conversions & RV8 vehicles. ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT

RV8 Main header rail and filler. £59.95

RV8 Petrol Tank Sender with Seal & Locking Ring. £59.95

www.mgv8parts.com RV8 Expansion tank £79.95

RV8 New Polyurethane rear anti-roll bar bushes. £16.70 for the pair

V8 Engine Steady Bar This is the best you can buy for the money! £50.60

BRAND NEW high torque starter motor. British made £252

HERITAGE APPROVED

RV8 cars available for sale - please call

RV8 boot stays. £30.20 each

RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers

Adjustable on car through 28 different stages £129.00 each (front) £142.25 each (rear) full set £522 - save £20.50

CM08.17/H1/p

NEW All Alloy 15 inch Replacement Wheels for the GTV8 With an alloy centre and a highly polished alloy rim. Weighs approx 2kg lighter. No further rusting. £399.60

New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats. Original patterns, colour & embroidered with MG logo. Pair RV8 mats £99.50

www.mgmecca.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

Terms Apply

1973 MGB GT V8 RACER BRG, full race spec car, but road legal, ideal for race/track day/sprint or just fantastic fun on the road. 3.9l race spec engine. Extinguisher system. Race tyres. Full cage. Superbly prepped car and fantastic value £18,995

URGENT PROOF

1975 MGB Black with black trim. Very early R/B MGB with early V8 type dashboard. Ideal for C/B or V8 conversion. New hood. New carbs and p/ tank. Cleated seats. Older restoration. Paint tatty and bubbling on o/s/f wing (new on n/s/f). Looks great from 10ft. Loads of money spent recently, solid underside. Drives really well. Loads of history. As traded in. Fantastic summer value £3,795.

Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ 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

Telephone 01206

1959 MGA 1600 BRG, black trim. L/H/D. Original European car not USA. Chrome wires, boot rack, 1800cc engine. Tonneau. Drives really well, used for continental touring many times. Great looking car, nice usable condition £19,995

Fax 01206 500180

We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which is a departure from the original copy

1976 MGB ROADSTER Tartan Red, black trim. Totally restored car (by ourselves 8 years ago). All new chrome, detailed engine bay, new trim. Superb car, lovely panel ﬁt. Tonneau. Immaculate car ready for summer. Tax & MOT exempt. £14,995

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 87

1957 MGA 1500 Old English White, red trim, w/w. Absolutely lovely car, restored very well a few years ago. Tonneau cover. Lovely panel ﬁt. Reliable. Lady owner last 15 years. Used for many tours, loads of history. A superb car. £24,995

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 87

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REGISTERS

FWD

BEN HATTON ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/

On July 1 members of the FWD Register attended the annual BMC and Leyland Show at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon. The day was blessed with absolutely glorious weather and it was nice to see some different FWD cars attend that we had not seen before. There were two MG Metros that were new to us as a Register but the most surprising find was an absolutely immaculate MG Montego, owned by Anthony Kearsley. Of all of the FWD cars it is the Montego that eludes us. As we all know, all of our cars are relatively low on numbers but it appears to be the MG version of the Montego that we just cannot find more than a handful

of. So it was great to see Anthony’s MG Montego arrive at Gaydon. The car was found by Anthony in Northern Ireland along with another MG Montego in metallic green. This stunning red example had covered 67,000 miles from new and had a UK registration. Not being able to get over to Northern Ireland to view both cars, Anthony virtually purchased the cars over the phone. Both cars were driven over and are now part of Anthony’s FWD collection of cars. Having stood for around 12 months, the Montego did develop an ECU problem, which really for a car of its age is remarkable to be the only

MGF

TIM MORRIS 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org The prolonged heatwave has been heaven sent for roadster owners, although sometimes air conditioning would be a boon. MGF Register baseball caps have been seen in abundance (still available from our online shop). Scenic runs are great in this weather, as are gatherings at pleasant country pubs in the evening. You’ll find all our Regions indulging in much of this throughout the summer, none more so than our burgeoning Central Region who are regularly getting fantastic turnouts for gatherings. Look them up if you are in that area; they have their own MGF Central Facebook page and Twitter feed alongside the good old MGF Register internet forum.

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All other Regions have been very busy and many also have their own Facebook pages, too. Along with this column there is no excuse for not getting out and about and supporting your closest region – so why not do it? We’ve had some brilliant regional events recently – Hanworth Classic Car Show (TV and SE), Queen Vic Car Show (Anglia, Herts and Essex), Uxbridge Classic Car Show (TV and SE) Brooklands Classic Car Show (TV and SE), MGs in the Park (South Wales, Central, TV, and Dorset). You may notice that most of these are southern based but then we are underrepresented in the North with just a couple of regions – Yorkshire, and North Wales and Cheshire. We are

technical issue. The condition of the car is absolutely stunning with only one flaw. The rear spoiler has at some point in its life been repainted somewhat poorly with a couple of runs in the paint which is now starting to crack, but for a car of its age and with its reputation

for rusting away it really is a remarkable car. At the time of writing, our next event will be the MGCC Saloon day. By the time you are reading this we will have attended the event, so a report on this will feature in the notes of the next Safety Fast!

Anthony Kearsley’s MG Montego

always on the lookout for people who could form an active Region particularly in the northern area, so if you are interested please get in touch with the Chairman, Nigel May, and maybe we can get some northern multi-regional events underway. Having said that, there is one coming up on September 16 – MGs Go North. Organised by Yorkshire Member John Prewer it is based at Eden Camp, a former WW2 Prisoner of War camp near Malton. Entry price of £7 per person payable on the door gives you full access to the Museum – look out for the event info on the MGF Register Facebook page. It might just be all the smaller events that the Regions organise that form the beating heart of the MGF Register: Yorkshire went on a Fish n Chip run to Bridlington and the RNLI station, the South East went Adventure Golfing, Anglia

went to a show amongst the aeroplanes at Flixton, and so on and so on! I’m not sure if this is a first for the MGF Register but the South East Region entered a team in the Brooklands Karting Challenge recently – a hard-fought two-hour endurance race for three of the Region’s members in the baking hot sunshine. They may not have bothered the podium but it was great to see the Register being represented in different ways and well done, team! Finally, we have news that the Register has been granted a stand again at the Lancaster Insurance NEC Classic Motor Show with Discovery which takes place on November 9-11. Special discount rates for Club members on advance tickets – contact Keith Williams for details – keith.williams@ mgfregister.org

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:21

Telephone 01753 644599

Email: martin@runnymede motorcompany.com

Mobile (07836) 222111

www.runnymedemotorcompany.com

Aston Martin in the Thames Valley

1949 MG TC recently repatriated from New York. We were delighted when this car arrived at the overall condition, albeit with some non-standard features. It is a delight to drive, has an strong engine that holds excellent oil pressure and the manner in which the car drives does not disappoint. Very good value at £24,950

1965 MGB roadster finished in California Sage with white “Works” style hard top and prepared for FIA Classic rallying. FIA papers (now expired). The car comes with an enormous file listing all of the various modifications and previous history of the car. Perfect as an Historic Rally car or an ideal subject for development into an FIA historic race car. £24,950

Please view our website at www.runnymedemotorcompany.com for further information or contact Martin Brewer on 01753 644 599 Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 89

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REGISTERS

ZR/ZS/ZT

of the racing championships. From our vantage point we had an JOHN THOMPSON Tel: 07854 275541 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister excellent view of a lot the circuit and all eyes were on the track for the Trophy race and Cockshoot Cup turnout with around 70 cars Events And Shows especially. With so many wonderful arriving during the morning. We We had a brief respite after Zeds present, choosing an overall were especially pleased with this MGLive! before our first Kimber winner and runner-up for our ‘Car figure as the day coincided with House Open Day took place on of the Show’ competition wasn’t two major sporting events and Sunday June 24. A handful of an easy task for the judges. In the summer holidays. To celebrate the Zeds, and owners, took up our end, however, congratulations to 15th anniversary of the launch of offer, which made for a very Peter Fitzwater and his immaculate the MG ZT 260, 16 were present relaxed atmosphere. Some of X-Power Grey ZT 260 and Anthony on the day and made an impressive them had never been to Kimber Kerr and his stunning Biomorphic sight, and sound! Having had a House before. Many thanks to ZR 160. complete mix of weather for this Peter Andrews from MG Motor event over the years, we were for giving everyone a fascinating UPCOMING EVENTS treated to a blazing hot summer’s insight into the development of We have a chance to catch day, which added to the overall the Zed range. Thanks also to our breath during the holiday ambience of the event. Elsewhere Ineke and Colin for opening the month of August before heading on the infield there were displays Club shop and conducting tours to Oulton Park in Cheshire for from MGs on Track, the F Register of Kimber House for our visitors. the next rounds of the racing and the V8 Register, to name but a After months in the planning championships on September 1. few, in addition to the main Club MG Saloon Day took place at We then head to Snetterton at Marquee. Also taking place over Donington Park racing circuit on the end of the month for the final the weekend were the next rounds July 15. We had a very respectable

MG6.3.5

STEVE HAINES Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register https://twitter.com/635register Saloon Day at Donington was a fantastic event on a very hot day earlier last month, in co-operation with the Zed, F, T Type, FWD and Young Members Registers. The Club gazebo had an airing right next to the Roberts Chicane. It was nice to see new, old and potential owners and MGCC members on the stand in the gazebo, with

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some Club merchandise being sold, including the very limited edition “Trophy League” grille badges. Contact Steve Haines if you want one! There was some great racing on the day and a very full paddock of MGs through the ages. The Museum was also of particular interest, with a huge selection of F1 cars through the ages.

The Facebook page has been very busy with owners attending local runs, meets and events over the summer period. It’s good to see the newest models being a part of the traditional MG meets. There was a good representation at Powderham Castle, near Exeter, on the Devon and Cornwall MGCC stand earlier in July, with Bob Slatter’s MG6, and MG3 and Gary Page’s new ZS on the Sunday.

rounds of the championships and presentations. A number of people have recently joined the Register and our Facebook Group – welcome to all of you. If you wish to register your car with us, please contact Paul Money at the following: paulmoneymg@gmail.com We also have the build data for the entire production of Zeds if you wish to know more about your car. For further information and upto-the-minute Register news please visit our Facebook group.

Setting up for the Kimber House open day

Our next big get-together will be the BTCC event at Silverstone on Sunday September 16, where you can take advantage of the MGCC pair of Adult tickets for just £26, which includes infield Register parking. We will have the gazebo set up, Club merchandise and are looking forward to catching up with everyone at this great event. Enjoy the remainder of the summer!

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:21

MARTIN MARTIN SMITH SMITH www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk

The MG specialists for MGF-MGTF -MG3

MARTIN SMITH Quality new and used spares. Car trimmers/upholstery. MG car sales and MG repair service

www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk

Tel: 07722 175473 Units 1&2, Westlane Farm, Westlane, East Lydford, Somerset TA11 7HD Email: smudgemg@yahoo.co.uk

www.classicmg.co.uk MGB V8 Supersports Roadster, Heritage shell. This bespoke, ultimate MGB was hand built by the MG Owners club workshop and magazine featured during the build, Grey leather interior with mohair hood. 2001-2002. 4.6 litre engine with R380, 5 Speed gearbox. Too many details to list, please call for speciﬁcation. £29,500

MGR V8 in Oxford Blue, 25,500 miles Repatriated in 2004 and fully maintained regardless of cost. Rare colour, air conditioning. No.1134 with R380 gearbox. £23,500

30 MGS FOR SALE

MGS URGENTLY WANTED TO PURCHASE

62B HIGH STREET SHEPPERTON, MIDDLESEX TEL: 01932 241843 / 07836 281493 WWW.CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM EMAIL: MGSALES@CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM

MG TF 135 Style Pack (just 16,540 miles)

MG TF LE. ex Trophy 190bhp /Cup Racecar

MG TF 160vvc Facelift (just 33,000 miles)

2010 (10 Reg) Manual Petrol. One of the last 120 made, very low mileage 2011 model year car fitted with the Style Pack and folding door mirrors. Full Black leather sport seats, 16” Twisted pepper alloys, silver interior trim, glass heated rear screen, engine water level censor, soft ride suspension, remote boot opening. Full service history 7 services cambelt serviced at 13,950m. Just 2 owners having covered just 16,540 miles and having spent most it life sunning it on Guernsey and The Isle of Wight. £7,495

2011 (PP Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in: Orange Our MG TF LE Ex (mgcc)Trophy 190 race car is now for sale. Its a 190bhp (dry sump VHPD Cup car racing engine/gearbox), built from MGF cup car and a new pre production ‘LE’ bodyshell, Techspeed made (BTCC Team) no expense spared, hardly ever used, ex Dave Woods ‘Luffield Cars’ who had just two made and theirs only 4 in total. Slicks and wet tyres etc, as raced in the MGCC Cockshoot series, Phil Standish sister car keeps winning, Harkers LE500 just won our Anniversary race at MGLive, this one just needs a better driver to win, Superb condition......... ....Ideal for the Cockshoot series/Pete Best......Part exchange considered road/race....07836 281493....All Offers considered must go space needed for other projects being undertaken......ltd company or going abroad can claim the vat back. £8,000 + VAT

2005 (05 Reg) Manual Petrol Very rare TF160vvc facelift model, one of the very last made, just 33,000 miles. Spec includes Heated glass rear screen, soft ride suspension, just fitted with a kmaps upgraded ECU. Full black leather sport seats, 16” 11 spoke alloys, chrome packs, engine water level censor, front fog lights, just cambelt serviced and moted. Repeat very very rare late model and one of a very few in Rio Red, recently used by us (registered to us) at shows this TF is in outstanding immaculate condition. £6,495

MG TF 135 Convertible (1 owner just 8,670miles)

MG TF 135 Facelift model (just 54,000 miles)

2006 (06 Reg) Manual Petrol A very very rare one Lady owner very very low mileage TF135. Having covered just 8,670 miles repeat 8,670 miles from new. Spec includes a Smokestone cockpit with black sport seats, front fog lights, salt & Pepper soft top, spare wheel, 15” alloys, Abs braking, engine water level censor. Repeat one Lady owner just 8,670 miles every mot and the original bill of sale etc. Fitted with a New headgasket / cambelt / water pump (17/07/2018). This TF is totally original and Immaculate, £6,795

2005 (05 Reg) Manual Petrol Private MG TF reg number. Full Black leather sport seats, soft ride suspension, Black hood with a heated glass rear screen, engine water level censor, front fogs, wind deflector, etc, recent new headgasket / cambelt / water pump @ 49,629miles, four new Toyo prox tyres @ 52,383 miles on unmarked alloys. New stainless supersport exhaust just fitted (23/7/18). One of only 31 cars built in JHG paint PUU trim Build date 24/3/2005, one of the last built by MG/Rover, Superb condition. £4,795

We are the original MGF/TF specialists. Offering very very low mileage very high specification MGF’s / TF’s including special limited edition models. Continuing to take our MG’s to events / shows and Race meeting with the MGCC ‘MGF’ register. Viewing is by appointment only please 01932 241843 or 07836 281493 sales@churchsquareautos.com.

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 91

This is just a small selection from our stock

www.churchsquareautos.com AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 91

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CL ASSIFIEDS How to Advertise 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.

1972 MGB Roadster

Beautiful in Midnight Blue with chrome wire wheels and Beige leather interior. Mohair hood and full tonneau. Six owners from new, restored for me by Horam Classic Restorations in 2001. Lead free engine by Ivor Searle. Still in very good condition. History and all invoices etc. since restoration. Many new spares, workshop manual etc. 12 months MOT. £11,000. E-mail alanrothwell@catnetuk.co.uk (Surrey.)

1971 MGBGT

Tax free. Overdrive. Mileage 62610. Full service history. Grey interior with red piping. Battery cut out switch with removable key. Map light. New steel bonnet. Matching period Lucas spot & fog lights. Large rally reversing lamp. Professionally serviced. £4250.ono. Telephone: 07752953253 or email janemsimmons@icloud.com

1999 MGF75th Anniversary

One owner from new, with 54,000 miles on the clock. Always serviced by our local garage. Comes complete with colour matched hardtop. Head gasket has been replaced. Recently passed its MOT with advisories for corrosion on the underside. Otherwise in good condition for year. £1250. For more information contact Joan on 01752 298316 or leesplymouth@blueyonder.co.uk

1954 MG TF

RHD drive UK car subject to a ground up restoration in the late 1990's. In my ownership for the last 4 years. Extensive history including a full rebuild file with photographic record. Little use since rebuild and in excellent condition. Service history and regular MOT's with no advisories. Fantastic drive, but unfortunately has to go as I need the garage space. £28,250 o.n.o Tel 07836 326069 or email tbrown5400@hotmail.co.uk

MGF 1.8 VVC

1973 MGBGTV8

Pre-production car (12th V8 built). More than £20,000 spent 2009-2013, painted Police White, S/S exhaust, V8 wheels in excellent condition. Serviced annually, MOT May 2019. Contemporary Police equipment, Heritage certificate, original 1973 Police Review with review of the car, magazines with articles, Unipart catalogue. £26,995ovno. me@malcb.uk for link to photos and history. 07989 658727 (New Milton)

1961 MGA 1600 Mk 11

Roadster in Old English White with red upholstrery. Complete paint strip and respray in 2010, including chassis inspection and underseal. Oselli 1950 Stage 11 engine, 5 speed gearbox, elctronic ingnition, chrome wire wheels, bootrack and stainless steel exhaust. Featured in Safety Fast November 2008 under a ‘Very Special MGA’. Drives beautifully. £28,000. Tel 07814785408

1973 MGBGT

In green, superb condition. Tax and MOT exempt. Electronic condition, leather interior. 13/4”SU’s, Wire wheels, electric fan. £6300. Telephone: 07801418200, or 07803260019. (Abingdon, Oxon)

92 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 92

Flame Red, one owner from new. First registered 4/4/97. Mileage 80,500, MOT until 4/12/18. Reluctant sale,very good condition, always garaged. Various mechanical modifications over the years. £1,250 ono. Contact Peter for details. Tel: 01386870422. (Worcestershire)

R/H drive Ivory white, tan trim hood & a side screens, chrome luggage rack. Recent brake overhaul. Bodywork in good condition as never driven on a wet road since restoration. History file, original hand book etc. Owned by club member for 20 years with little use. £26,000. Tel: 01628483882 or Email: martinjarvisstoves@icloud.com (Berkshire)

2003 MG TF Sunstorm

45K on the clock, 12months MOT and 9 months tax. Lots of work done to it recently including new MLS head gasket and all that goes with it, new alternator, new cambelt, battery. Bodywork very good, little rust round the wheel arches but the rest is great. £2000ono. ababigailc@btsfabrications.co.uk

2004 MG ZT-T 190+ 2.5 V6

Poseidon Blue monogram finish, 112,000 miles, manual. May MOT. 2 owners, first was MGRover; current owner since 2005. Full history. 190+ model with full black leather interior, electric seats, cruise control, satnav etc., xenon headlamps. Both key-fobs. Extras include removable tow bar, full-size spare wheel. Alloy wheels have been refurbished, and a stainless steel exhaust fitted. Belts changed at 79,000 miles. It also has a full extra set of alloy wheels fitted with Vredestein winter tyres. £1450. Contact Tim 07801790008 or carpenter.tim@btinternet.com (Surrey)

1954 MG TF 1250

2001 MGF 1.6

Tahiti Blue Pearlescent. 2001. 44000 miles. Low coolant warning kit. Stainless water pipes. Alloy radiator. New tyres and spare set of wheels. HPI clear. Some service records and old mot's. On Sorn. Needs MOT and due cambelt. Waxolyed sills and wheel arches. Unmolested and nice car for younger member. Started regularly. £800 o.n.o. Henry 01268 761017 (Wickford Essex)

1980 MGB GT

Prepared for the December 2013 Lands End to John o' Groats classic endurance rally which it completed successfully. Since then it has been on a SORN sitting in a dry garage. Yellow, very solid, full harness belts, many new parts fitted for the rally, including batteries, suspension bushes and winter tyres ( full set of normal covers included). MOT can be arranged. £950. Full details at w w w. t e r r y g i l e s . c o. u k / m g b g t Contact Terry 0208 660 7555 terry@wireless-research.co.uk

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:22

A37 - Barry Walker_CLASSIC 23/07/2018 10:30 Page 1

CL ASSIFIEDS

BEAULIEU INT. AUTOJUMBLE

THE

SEPTEMBER 1ST & 2ND 2018

STAND IS HERE 65 66

80 79 78 67 77 68 76 69 75 74 70 73 71 72

81 96 82 95 83 84 94 85 93 86 92 87 88 91 89 90

GREEN (B) FIELD

130 157 131 156 132 155 133 154 134 153 135 152 136 151 137 150 138 149 139 148 140 147 141 146 142 145 143 144

49 64 50 63 51 52 62 53 61 54 60 55 56 59 57 58

93 118 94 117 95 96 97 116 98 115 99 114 100 113 101 112 102 111 103 110 104 109 105 108 106 107

GREEN FIELD

48 47 46 35 45 36 44 37 43 42 38 41 39 40

MARQUEES (BLUE)

33 34

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27

GREEN FIELD

28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35

55c 55b 55a 55 54 53 2

59 84 60 83 61 82 62 81 63 80 64 79 65 78 66 77 67 76 68 75 69 74 70 73 71 72

87a 56 87 57 86 58 85

PUBLIC ENTRANCE

17 32 18 31 19 20 30 21 29 22 28 23 24 27 25 26

9 10

170 195 171 194 172 193 173 192 174 191 175 190 176 189 177 188 178 187 179 186 180 185 181 184 182 183

163a 202 164 201 165 200 166 199 167 198 168 197 169 196 6 7

16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8

124 163 125 162 126 161 127 160 128 159 129 158

OAK TREE GONE!

3 4 5

BEER

94 93

1 2

88 123 89 122 90 121 91 120 92 119

57 63 62 58 61 59 60

97 96 95

GREEN (D) FIELD

BANKING

164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 1 173 1 121 152 122 151 123 150 124 149 125 148 126 147 127 146 128 145 129 144 130 143 131 142 82 108 83 107 84 106 85 105 86 104 87 103 88 102 89 101 90 100 91 99 92 98

RED FIELD

69 68 67 66 65 64

139 138 137 136 135 134 133 132

T O I L E T S

33 32

RED (A) FIELD

51 52 53 54 55 56

76 114 77 113 78 112 79 111 80 110 81 109 75 74 73 72 71 70

RED (A) FIELD

19 20 21 22 23 24

15 16 17 18

25 38b 26 38a 27 38 28 37 29 36 30 35 31 34

115 157 116 117 156 118 155 119 154 120 153

TO RED & YELLOW FIELD

45 46 47 48 49 50

RED FIELD

44 43 42 41 40 39

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

1 15 16 16 16 163

BE SURE NOT TO MISS IT. STANDS R60-63. RIGHT BY THE ENTRANCE

CAR SALES plus accessories for the models we sell: M, D, F, J, K, L, P, N, TA, TB, TC, TD.

Side and nose mounted superchargers (incl. all fittings), original badges, original tool kits, luggage racks, mascots and manuals. TEL: 01789 400181/FAX: 400230 MOB: 07836 244103

www.barrywalker.com email barry@barrywalker.com (we are close to Stratford-on-Avon)

DONHOODS-SFAug07.QXD:Layout 1

enquiries@mgsforsale.com

01707 876089

www.mgsforsale.com

07831 556666

MGB Roadster 1967 Older Restoration (MUB211F), 3 synchro model with overdrive, ﬁrst registered in Leeds in 1968, chrome bumpers, chrome wire wheels, original steering wheel, double duck hood, older early 90’s bare tub restoration by Colour Developments of Bradford-on Avon in Tartan Red with Black leather interior trim, restoration included complete power train, only two owners in last 27 years, heavy history ﬁle with photographic and documentary evidence, invoices from MGOC, B Hive etc. etc. drives nicely, just arrived. £14,950.00

23/9/09

Recommended spares supplier

16:22

CM09.18/A37/g

… for the very best in vintage MGs … Estd. 1968

MGOC. OCC.

Page 1

DON HOODS UNBEATABLE QUALITY – UNBEATABLE VALUE! DIRECT FROM THE MAKERS – WITH OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

•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. 7JJ

Choice of heavy duty PVC, ICI Vynide, Everflex, Duc k and Mohair AL MAKES & L incl: MG, MODELS Tr Escort, Giumph, olf etc.

ingham B23 Hampton Road, Birm

13 Tel: 0121 373 13ICE OFF SOUTHERN SALES

00 Tel: 01202 7422

CARPET SETS FOR MOST MODELS

www.donhoods.com

URGENT PROOF URGENTLY WANTED

MGB Roadster Mk1 Pull Door Handle (GPJ896C), three former keepers since Feb 1965, British Racing Green Coachwork, nicely mellowed Black leather interior Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. trim, original period steering wheel, Mohair Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold hood, chrome wire wheels, overdrive, older ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. restoration on original shell with good structure, paintwork not perfect but still SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE much admired, more recent works have TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ included new correct period petrol tank, new brake calipers, electronic ignition, carburettor overhaul & carpeted boot, previously sold by ourselves, available now £12,495.00.

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

URGENTLY WANTED ANY MG ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION

Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars

Please call Edward 01923 840236 or any time on 07774 484497 We reserve theOF right to STOCK charge for any alteration to this proof which SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OUR is a departure from the original copy Email: ejwhitescars@aol.com www.mgsforsale.com Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange Website: www.mgandporsche.com 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.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 93

(Northwood, Middlesex)

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 93

24/07/2018 17:22

CL ASSIFIEDS

1966 MGB Roadster

Car is in very good condition. Interior is black leather with red piping. Body is original - not heritage and has been resprayed by previous owner and still in excellent condition with good panel gaps. Recent work carried out, with all new parts including new hood, radiator, loom, tyres and spinners, front wheel bearings, grill, rack gaitors, Revotec electric fan, boot carpets, and bonnet sound proofing. Car runs and sounds amazing. £12,500 ono. Call me on 01732 887265 07930491027 or email: walkermr20@gmail.com

1950 MG YT

The restoration of our beautiful KYX186 was completed in 2016 but since then we have not had the time to give her the attention she deserves, hence we are looking for a new home where she will be fully appreciated and given the opportunity to get out more often. We have restoration documentation plus workshop manuals and registration documents. £25,000. Contact Janet Eisenthal j_eisenthal@hotmail.com 01225 315407 (Bath)

1956 MGA 1500

Original UK supplied RHD car Heritage Certificate. Lots of new parts fitted in last 4 years. Recent new Michelin tyres. Lots of documents / bills / 18 old mots. 3 previous owners. Older restoration, but in very good condition and drives very well. Soft top, tonneau cover and side windows all very good condition. Sensibly priced at £26,995. Contact Laurence – 07850 935000 (Dorset )

2000 MGF 1.8 Wedgewood

SE limited edition. 51,000 miles. Dinitrol rust proofed. Full black leather interior. Polybushed. Uprated SPAX shock absorbers. Stainless steel water pipes. Low coolant warning kit. Stainless steel exhaust. Matching hard top.Tonneau cover. Full service history. MOT June 2019. £3995 o.n.o Tel: 01765 608529 (North Yorkshire)

1981 MGB LE Roadster 1973 MGB Roadster

MGRV8 1953 MGTD2

Three year total restoration just completed on this original UK rhd car. First registered in may 1953 in cornwall, hence the distinctive RAF number plate. All items totally restored or replaced including a complete new Hutsons body tub. Colour is autumn red with biscuit interior. Please contact me for details as the list is far too long for this ad. All invoices and detailed photographs of the rebuild are available which show an expenditure far in excess of the asking price. Only selling as space urgently required for another project. £23950. Tel: 01822 835828 or email pumpaction356@gmail.com

First registered 19.10.95 in Japan. Re registered in UK 6.6.05. Total mileage (evidenced) 33634 miles. MOT due Aug. 2018.This vehicle has only been used, since 2010, in dry conditions. It has been dry stored and covered when not in use in a garage. It is generally in excellent condition with a half tonneau and full tonneau. Hood, tyres and wheels all excellent. Colour, Woodcote Green. All original, includes Japanese/English history. £16,375.00. Contact John 07867557983 (Wiltshire area)

1963 MGB Roadster, 1971 MGB Roadster

Stunning 1.8 MGB was rebuilt by East London Classic Cars in 1996. Flame red, black leather seats, stow away hood and frame. Always garaged and still in excellent condition, only used in fair weather. Road tax exempt. Good service history. Owned since 2004. 76000miles. Drives beautifully, ver reluctant sale. Contact Clari on 07790534547 or email cclaribrown@hotmail.co.uk (Hertfordshire)

94 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 94

Pull handle model with 3 bearing engine. Heritage certificate and photographic evidence of restoration in 1992/3 by Murray Scott Nelson when the engine, gearbox and clutch were also rebuilt. Waxoyled/regularly maintained. Mileage; 10340. Speedo replaced 1993 during restoration reading 49286 at the time. Documentation from 1992/3+. Agreed insurance valuation £22,000. Price; £17,500. Email: t38@karoo3.karoo.co.uk (Yorkshire)

Dark Green, good condition. Unleaded petrol engine, 5 speed gearbox. Dry stored (garaged). Tax and MOT exempt with receipts and records for work done over the years. Chrome bumpers. Reluctant sale. £6000. Must be seen. Phone for details 07766 707737 (Leicestershire)

With distinctive 888 lucky registration. Bronze with black hood and black leather. Black hardtop included. Wire wheels, overdrive, radio, alarm, walnut dash, tonneau. Fitted rollbar incorporating an effective windstop. Serviced by MG specialist with full unleaded engine rebuilt in late 2017. History file contains original Austin Rover MG Service Record. MoT 3/2019. Current owner 18 yrs. Excellent throughout. £9,950 ono. 01283 841011 (Staffs) alan638elkington@btinternet.com.

2004 MG TF 160 VVC

Starlight silver with black halfleather seats, radio, windstop. Distinctive private plate included. Lady owner last 12 yrs. Serviced by MG specialist including h/g replacement and new disc brakes at recent service. MoT March 2019. only 51k miles. Full service history. Super condition. Looks and drives beautifully. £2850. 01283 841011 email: alan638elkington@btinternet.com (Staffs)

1954 MG TF 1250

In present ownership last twelve years. Black with red interior. Good effective weather equipment. Full spec available upon request, sent by email, but includes new crankshaft and camshaft, Five-speed conversion, unleaded head, recent Michelin tyres, luggage rack, full tonneau, high level stop light. Lots of paperwork and history. Much admired car but not Concours. Health issues prompt selling. £22500. Tel 07919327724. (Scotland)

SELLING YOUR CAR? 1972 MGB GT

12 months MOT. Owned for 12 years. New front and rear wing panels 5 years ago. Oselli unleaded head. Electronic ignition. Professionally serviced. Car garaged. £3495.00. Tel: 07785 734310 or Email: rgtysoe@hotmail.co.uk. (Oxon)

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/07/2018 17:22

CL ASSIFIEDS

MGZR 160 Express Van

Genuine very rare 160 Express with 27,000 miles from new! One previous owner with sales invoice. All electrics plus optional A/C and coil over suspension. In excellent condition. Genuine reason for sale, would make great a advertising vehicle or track car. Mechanically sound with head gasket and belts changed. Just covered 5k miles flawless, £3995 bargain or any serious offer. Mark – 07976 693650. (West Midlands)

1937 MG TA

Purchased fully restored in 2013 but seen ver y little use since due ill health of the owner. In all round excellent c o n d i t i o n . F u r t h e r p i c t u re s av a i l a b l e . Offers a ro u n d £27,500. Please contact in the first instance George Wilder. Tel 01787236192 or 07742 006260 (Essex)

MGF VVC 1998

In red. 78,689 miles. Much spent. Head gasket, radiator, clutch, brakes, front wings, tyres. Smar t number plate . Long MOT. Little used now. £975. Telephone 07759 434 533 (Cambridgeshire)

1997 MGF 1.8

Flame Red, 40,000 miles, owned from new, Heritage leather seats, carpet and trim, wood veneer kit, head gasket modification, wind deflector, properly maintained, summer use only garaged year round, all documentation including original bill of sale, good basis for early concourse car. £2,995.00 ono. Contact Andy: 01608 664429 or 07703 533887. Email:andyandmags@compuserve.com. (North Cotswolds)

2001 MGF Mk 2

Silver Full MOT 82,885 miles used all year Round. Good dry clean car with a good hood and a good clear screen & All the work done ready to enjoy. New upgraded head gasket and bolts, cambelt and tensioner, water pump, thermostat, stainless steel coolant pipes, brake pads and disc's all round, battery, serviced. Accessories inc, rear spoiler, wind breaker, jvc head unit with ipod and rear speaker system, hood cover, 8 spoke minilight alloys with MGF logo, dust caps and MGF logo keying spanner, 2 Sets of keys & 2 Alarm/ C/Locking Fobs. Heated mirrors, power steering and tilting steering wheel. Great driving wee buitie & classic insurance. MGCC member. Owner for 3 years car in N/Ireland £1,995. Tel 07889063339.

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 95

1972 MGBGT

Tax Exempt with 89000 miles. MOT April 2019. 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, two 6 Volt Batteries. Newly upholstered seats. Resprayed in 2018 to its original old English white colour. £6750. Great condition. 07427620822. (Oxford)

MGBGT

14000 miles since documented full restoration. Beautiful car in Brooklands Green, with black, as new, interior. Wooden Motolita Steering Wheel and uprated halogen headlights, brakes, engine and electronic ignition. MOT’d and now tax free. Any trial. Excellent drive. £5250.00 ono. Contact Doug on 07860 486758

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 95

24/07/2018 17:22

Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern

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.

XPAG Spares

Late round hole cylinder head. B&G modern valve spring conversion, Unleaded, ported, TF valves, top hat seals. £300. Pair SU 1.25 carbs with all linkages for TD. Few miles bfore storage so no wear. £250. Tel 07768 775600. (West Mids)

MGA Mk1

Steel wheel back axle diff and brakes. Rust free and complete as taken off car.Bearing retaining nuts undamaged. Also pair of front brake drums. All in good condition. Tel: 01873 853287. (Abergavenny South Wales)

CARBURETTERS

Twin 1.5inch SU carbs from a running 1953 MGTD. £60 plus postage or collect. Contact John on Tel: 07727167668. (South Devon)

Midget Spares

Peter May suspension parts including lowered uprated leaf springs, 7¼ ̎long 500lb coil springs, 30% uprated front dampers. ¾” ARB. Polybush kit including front trunnion, wishbone, ARB, leaf spring pads and bushes. BMH body parts inc. 1500 fuel tank, boot lid and many repair panels including inner and outer sills, spring hangers, rear floor repair sections etc. All parts are new and unused. Offers by email please to Jim Baynam 07871 119785. Email: baynam@btinternet.com

MGB

4-synchro gearbox from 1969 car. No problems. Removed for 5-speed conversion. £75. MGA fuel tank and all fixing straps. As new. £75. Buyers to collect . Tel: Richard on 07714 233840 or Email: willowsmere@btinternet.com (Staffs area)

Rostyle Wheels and Tyres

5 rostyle wheels and tyres size 185/70/r14 in excellent condition. Rostyles have been stove enamelled. The 4 road wheels have Avon Enviro 185/70/R14 with tyre depth of 6mm. The spare has a Firestone F560 185/70/R14 tyre and a depth of 4mm. Comes with 16 chrome wheel nuts and 4 x MG centre caps. £199. Tel: Niall on 07778 033528 (South Essex).

96 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 96

MG RV8

Brake Caliper £95.00 Water Pump and gasket £100.00 KN Air Filter £30.00 Alternator £90.00 Wheel £200 ALL ITEMS ORIGINAL and UNUSED. P&P extra or collect. Contact Brian on 0113 2500212.

MG Various Spares

Original TD dynamo ( cast iron ends) refurbished £50.TD dynamo almost new £50. MGA dynamo almost new £50. 2 regulators 12V full working condition £10 each. 2 MGA rocker covers one black one red £5 each. 2 MGA overriders chrome in good condition £30 each. Blue cotton MGA dust cover £20. Natural cotton TD dust cover with MG logo £20. New parking sensor kit £30. Set of Cosmic locking wheel nuts £25. P&P extra. 01252617908. (North Hants)

Midget RWA

Four x 60 spoke painted wire wheels, plus chrome spinners, splined drive shafts and front back plate / discs. £240. Rear axle : best offer. Collect / Deliver by arrangement. Contact Chris 07774816364 (North Somerset)

MGB

Wire wheel Salisbury axle complete but unknown condition. Narrower track for clearance under wing and scarce. £60, MGB 5 bearing engine 18V E-H30083. Partly dismantled for inspection and reconditioning. £55. Buyer collects. Tel 01525 862297. (Central Beds)

MG Various Spares

MGTA Propeller shaft £80. Steering shaft support bracket £30. Front wing brace £30. Tonneau bar (top of seat back) £30. Set of bonnet catches and handles £50 MG VA Radiator, flushed and tested £65 MG YA Alloy air inlet, with MG logo, carburettor on manifold. £80 Inlet/exhaust manifold £30 Front engine plate & bearer £25. Handbrake cables £80 the pair MGB Pair of su carburettors AUD325 R £50. Tel: 01833 660000 or Email: rgb_architects@gmx.com

Safety Fast magazines

From the last ten years available as full set. For collection free of charge. For more details Email: martinlatimer@hotmail.com (Derbyshire)

MGB

2xHS1.75" SU carburettors with linkages. 1 Manifold for above 2x KN Airfilters. 2x Rampipes. Best offer secures. For more info Email: gcarr777@aol.com or Tel: 01702 202354

MGA

Pair of chrome overriders some tiny rust spots, and rears have been painted silver but in overall good condition £34 the pair. MG TD & TF Inner steering column. part number 15 on page 25 of Moss T-Type catalogue. No longer available £80. MGB. Early 3 synchro starter motor as new only used over 3 months. £50, A selection of roadster carpets in black, available due to change in colour, 3 synchro tunnel cover carpet new £40. Call for details. All free collection, or postage at cost.Telephone jack on 01280 848529 (Buckingham)

MGA

Offside rear wing with usual corrosion that can be repaired, will fit and look right once done unlike some replacement panels Surplus to rebuild requirements. £60.00. Buyer to view and collect. Email:refgough@yahoo.com or Tel: 01424 892479

Radiomobile

Type 50T period car radio in full working order. Includes AM/FM wavebands, with invisible modification making it instantly switchable to receive FM programmes. Appropriate period model for Ztype and Mk III/Mk IV Magnette, TF, MGA, early MGB, but would also fit any model. I can supply a small speaker if desired. Radio £85 plus P&P, or collection welcome. East Wilts/West Berks/South Oxon. Phone Dave 01672 520975.

MGB

Seat Belt guides in black, £20 for the pair as new condition. Buyer to pay the postage. Contact Peter: peterforeman4866@gmail.com

MGA

1600 rear light plinths, a pair complete with lenses, bulbs, wiring and wing gaskets. Plinths painted OEW. £140 ono for pair. Coupe rear screen. Used, but perfect other than remains of mounting sealant/rubber at edges. £140 ono. Coupe rear quarter screen, passenger (n/s) in perspex; good condition. £20 ono. Postage at cost, otherwise collect from S. Bucks. Please call 07903 383756, leaving message if necessary, I shall respond.

MG Books

The MG Workshop Manual by W.E. Blower. Maintaining The Breed (1st Edition 1950) by J.W. Thornley. 1960 MG Midget handbook (AKD 1774C) Offers. For more information contact Peter on Tel: 01179857400 or mobile 07780806378

WANTED WANTED

3.9 Banjo axle diff. Jim Baynam 07871 119785 or email baynam@btinternet.com

Call for a quote today

01376 574000

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk WANTED

MGB 3 Syncro gearbox and overdrive. Prefer good order but anything considered. Tel. John on 01944 758888 or Email: johnspencer49@icloud.com.

WANTED

A pair of MG Rv8 seats with head rests any condition considered but must be complete. Pair of sun visors and brackets. Engine bay plastic fuse box top cover. Door speaker grills Head light reflector Spare wheel cover Pair of number plate lights. email Liveman500@yahoo.co.uk or 01189-429585

SPARES FOR SALE HOW TO ADVERTISE

XPAG Spares

MIDGETS! WANTED

Late round hole cylinder head. B&G modern valve spring conversion, Unleaded, ported, TF valves, top hat seals. £300. Pair SU 1.25 carbs with all linkContact the Midget Specialist ages for TD. Few miles bfore MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon storage so no wear. £250. 07703 465 224 CHROME Tel 07768 775600. (West Mids) BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent MGA Mk1condition bought up to £8,000. View current Steel wheel back axlestock diff at and brakes. Rust free and comwww.mgmidgets.com plete as taken off car.Bearing retaining nuts undamaged. Also pair of front brake drums. All in good condition. Tel: 01873 853287. (Abergavenny South Wales)

CARBURETTERS

Twin 1.5inch SU carbs from a running 1953 MGTD. £60 plus postage or collect. Contact John on Tel: 07727167668. (South Devon) WANTED ALL MG MODELS!

WANTED

All conditions wanted, from barn ﬁnds Midget Spares to concours. Complete collections Peter May suspension parts purchased. Cash buyer. includingDiscretion loweredassured. uprated leaf Please do not hesitate to contact me springs, 7¼ ̎long 500lb coil if you are interested in selling your springs, uprated MG and 30% are looking for front a prompt dampers. ARB. Polybush kit hassle free¾” cash buyer! Please feel free to contact for a no obligation including frontmetrunnion, wishchat. pads and bone, ARB,friendly leaf spring I am especially interested in the following bushes. BMH body parts inc. models: MG TC, MGA, MGB, MGC, 1500 bootand lidMidget. and MGBfuel V8, tank, Magnette

MG RV8

Brake Caliper Water Pump and KN Air Filter Alternator Wheel ALL ITEMS ORIG UNUSED. P&P e Contact Brian on

MG Various S

Original TD dyna ends) refurbishe dynamo almost n dynamo almost n lators 12V full wo £10 each. 2 MG one black one re MGA overriders condition £30 ea MGA dust cover ton TD dust cove £20. New parkin Set of Cosmic lo £25. P&P extra. (North Hants)

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Four x 60 spoke p wheels, plus chro splined drive shaf plate / discs. £240 offer. Collect / De ment. Contact Ch (North Somerset)

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Wire wheel Salis plete but unknow Narrower track fo under wing and MGB 5 bearing 18V E-H30083. P for inspection an £55. Buyer colle 862297. (Cent

MG Various S

MGTA Propeller shaft shaft support br wing brace £30 (top of seat bac bonnet catches many repair panels including £50 CALL DIRECT ON: inner and outer sills, spring MG VA 07787 528131 hangers, rear floor repair secRadiator, flushe tions etc. All parts are new and £65 unused. Offers by email please MG YA to Jim Baynamwww.mgcc.co.uk 07871 119785. Alloy air inlet, w Email: baynam@btinternet.com carburettor on m Inlet/exhaust ma Front engine pla MGB £25. Handbrake 4-synchro gearbox from 1969 car. No problems. Removed for24/07/2018 pair 17:22 MGB

B12 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 19/04/2018 09:35 Page 1

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nes, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and sell T-types and other classics. ‘T-type’retirement – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ –SERVICES_MIKE ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ s to occupy yourself after banishment the garage. B32and - MIKE ROLLS ROLLSto SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1 teresting objects toandoccupy after retirement and banishment to the garage. We restore refresh both yourself T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and sell T-types and other classics. Running out of T’s for sale but we have some interesting objects to occupy yourself after retirement and banishment to the garage.

THIS MY OWN Mk1 MX5. A CANNON GT 1964. very early car restored by a original, bought and this wonderful Westland Helicopter engineer. only TWO It must be the only MX with sports race car to race unscuffed leather seats. It cond owner at Angouleme. Built by has a twin stainless exhaust, 1964Cannon and used Mike in 1964 to uprated brakes, adjustable This isand a verydrives rare MK1superbly. MX5 that according ntil he put it in FIAT 124 COUPE 1975 RHD. shocks, newSuperb hoodinterior et al. It handles Alloy beat divas. It is fitted to my MoT garage has never been welded. It with dash protector, mini-lite propel rep wheels. wheels it.Unmarked These cars embody the ultimate 60s sports s brought out in passed with no advisories. It is the rare V spec, with a 1098 Screamer. paintwork, lovely chrome. In lovely without un-welded the problems. experience It also leather has £1000 worth of with unmarked interior, Brace bar, coil e engine rebuild condition, you will stereo/cd never find oneplayer. like this. Beautiful overs overs, alloy wheels, electric windows, full Yesterday's classic panache with today's Superbly presented and prepared. Eligible for many inside and out. £12,995 original tool kit, andexhilarating appears to be rust free I had ed for and left AUSTIN RUBY 1936. Remarkably this lovely, reliability. I love it…a quickly appreciating series maybe even Goodwood. Be unique and call for new hood fitted last year. It is fitted with a very bolide…and only £3,995. Put aaexpensive Lotusradio badge on…then its one 40k. original, and unspoiled has had only TWO owners e form and has covered littleRuby mileage since. and DVD player, whatever of from new! Its second owner bought it as a student in more details. £27,950 COMING SOON those is, I bought it for myself and used it all last highly believable196486,000.It is in such a and used it as an every day car until he put it in Full race, well know Championship winning TC summer, but now it needs a new appreciator. A his fathersis garage. It was brought out in 2003 and had on that I doubt there not another rare MK1 and sought after... I hope... £5,250 MG. Fully modifiFRENCH ed race 2016 car POIRIET for either T Series 125cc. a complete engine rebuild by Austineers. It was cared Championship or a real hooligans road car. an instant runner and for and left in woe its originalbetide and lovable anyone form and has and rare Please ring forVery details.unusual £Not too expensive! COMING SOON covered little mileage since. Its speedometer reads a riginal appearance. Its lovely. £6,995 cycle car. A French Poiriet Left hand drive MGA race car, this can be highly believable 86,000.It is in such a lovely unrestored

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converted to right and drive or left as is. 1650 full race engine, LSD< race suspension and seats. Class winner, extremely quick race car or road car. £23,995

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different and original, 2 seats and 3 gears and you won’t fall off and we have another one! This has done a colossal 600 miles! Both unrestored and nice MIKE ROLLS £4,500201 each. 2016 6 SERVICES FOR MGs

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condition that I doubt there is not another unrestored car like it. Its an instant runner and woe betide anyone who destroys its lovely original appearance. Its lovely. £6,995

4Sight Lighting Company................... 62

Kimble Engineering Ltd...................... 85

Adrian Flux ...................................... 62

Kmaps ............................................. 16

Barrie Carter .................................... 97

Longstone Tyres ............................... 34 Manor Garage .................................. 85

TRADE MEMBER

Specialising in all MG’s

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

FIAT 124 COUPE 1975 RHD. URGENT PROOF A beautiful unrestored MG TC 1948. This has been subject to a body off rebuild Beech Hill Garage ............................. 95 Bespoke Rallies ............................... 74

British Motor Heritage .......................IFC

Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares ...... 91

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm

Mech-Mate Ltd ................................. 80

MG TF 1954, 1250CC Red with original red interior and black carpets. This car was originally exported to Switzerland and was always been right hand drive, in 2001 it was re-imported to this country after having a mechanical restoration over there. It is a very genuine car with a great MG number plate, lovely history with black and white pictures of the family that owned it when new, it has recently had new wire wheels and tyres ﬁtted and comes with good weather gear and heritage certiﬁcate. This TF drives beautifully. £26,995.

MG Mecca ........................................ 87

Australian car, 1 owner for Bucks Sports and Classic .................. 80 a few years ago and little used since. The interior is all 25 years, soon here, please C.C.H.L ........................................... 78 Mike Authurs Classics (MG Midgets)... 96 Insurance 6 new red leather and it Carole hasNashhad an....................... engine refurbishment. ring. SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE Brown and Gammons ........................ 11

Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. MG Sales Centre ............................... 21 Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold Midland Classic Restoration ................. 3 ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook.

All the wheels are new and it has excellent chrome. TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ The car was from a dedicated owner who cared and T-Type restorations and XPAG engine rebuilds pampered it. It is in lovely condition with new weather and general MG servicing are the mainstay of our MG RV8 ROADSTER 1995 condition and tonneau, Very nice to drive. £26,950 in 1995 but not registered until business. We welcomeManufactured your custom. Car Service Pack............................... 33

Mike Rolls ........................................ 97

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Chisbon Restorations ........................ 68

Motor Passions ................................. 24

Church Square Autos ........................ 91

NTG Services ..................................OBC

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Oselli Ltd .....................................70, 71 Peter Best ............................IBC, 96, 97 Peter James Insurance ...................... 16

arriecartermg.com Colne Classics .................................. 80 Cotswold Car Storage –

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Raceglaze......................................... 68

We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which Rees Bros ......................................... 30 is a departure from the original copy

Crown Classic Cars ........................... 87

Retro Sports Cars ............................... 8

David Manners ................................... 6

Rimmer Bros Ltd ............................... 33

Dennis Welch.................................... 85

Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ..... 39

Distributor Doctor .............................. 85

RPS Ltd ........................................... 68

Don Trimming ................................... 93

Runnymede ...................................... 89

Duckhams ....................................... 15 EJW Classic and Sports ..................... 93 Fishers Services................................ 30 Footman James ................................ 29 Former Glory..................................... 91

Scenic Car Tours ................................ 9 SMR ................................................ 93 Steve McKie Sports Cars ................... 85 Summit MG ...................................... 80

cartermg.com GENT PROOF Frontline .......................................... 49

Sussex Classic Car Parts ................... 39

Halls Garage ..................................... 68

The Hutson Motor Co Ltd ..................... 3

Hoyle Suspension.............................. 30

Torro Sports Cars Ltd ........................ 96

Just Right Autos Ltd .......................... 44

Vitesse Global Ltd ............................ 62

www.mgcc.co.uk

proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. e is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold Safety Fast_August18_Back.indd 97

1997, 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. £24,000.

DAX 427 COBRA, 1973 Built between 1984 - 1988 using number one of a series two chassis, Jaguar series two front suspension and Jaguar S Type rear suspension and Spax shocks all round, it has a Chevy 5.7ltr engine with a Getrag gearbox. The car is ﬁnished in dark blue with grey interior, it is MOT’d until May 2019 and comes with good history ﬁle with invoices etc. This cobra is now a historic vehicle so tax exempt and has been built to a high standard. £36.995

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

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

AUGUST 2018 SAFETY FAST! 97

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Barry Walker .................................... 93

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ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

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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, Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735 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 this month shows a somewhat modified ‘J-type’ if we’re not mistaken, with four happy-looking chaps showing the spoils of victory. We think the event took place in 1997. Can you tell us more? This photo by Brian Osborn appears to show a presentation ceremony taking place in an olde worlde pub (just look at those beams!). Can you help us to identify the event and tell us who the three cheery-looking gents are?

Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, 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), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849737) Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Piers Hubbard, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock.

Finally, a photograph below of a bevy of ‘Bs’ by John Watson at a location that seems to shout Brooklands in early spring. Any ideas about when this gathering took place?

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.

98 SAFETY FAST! AUGUST 2018

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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

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K189TS TA/B or K189RS TC Superior master cylinder with brass body & stainless cap

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B023XT TA water pump rebuilt with new revised internals £189.00 Exchange (old unit reqd in advance)

MG RV8 1994 blue Japanese import. Excellent condition, recently overhauled. £18,500 or nearest offer.

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

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