Safety Fast! February 2020

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

February 2020 Volume 64 Number 2

£3.95

THE MIGHT Y V8

SafetyFast_Feb2020_Covers.indd 1

GL ASGOW TO MONTE CARLO BY MIDGE T

FROM FIRST PRINCIPLE

24/01/2020 16:05

THE ORIGINAL AND THE BEST As the original equipment manufacturers to companies such as Rover, MG, Triumph, Jaguar and many others over the years, Tex has established an unsurpassed reputation for quality and service.

Today that quality remains evident in our Classic range of products, over 95% of which are manufactured in our factory in Oxfordshire on the original tooling.

Tex products range from wing and door mirrors, wiper arms and blades and accessories are all supplied as original accessories on most British cars in the 50s, 60s, 70s. Tex were ďŹ tted as original equipment to all British Leyland vehicles between 1974 to 1983.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Look for the original stamp when buying a product. We are the only manufacturers.

BUY ON LINE AT

www.motoringclassics.co.uk OR PLACE YOUR ORDER BY PHONE ON 01993 707200

SafetyFast_Feb2020_Covers.indd 2

SH TI I BR 8 T A 94 E 1 GR CE A N I S

D N A R B

24/01/2020 16:05

WELCOME FEBRUARY HIGHLIGHTS

MG & TRIUMPH SPARES DAY The first show of the season for many, held at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on Sunday February 9 2020. www.mgandtriumphsparesday.co.uk for more details..

F

ebruary already, and for those of you who are still using your MG through the winter months in the UK, I hope you managed to get out and about over the New Year period between the heavy rainfall and join in with one of the many events held up and down the country. As I mentioned last month, we’re celebrating the 90th anniversary of the MG Car Club by running a selection of covers from publications which have been an integral part of the Club’s history. Last month was the MaGazine, first published in 1933, this month it’s the turn of its successor, The Sports Car, with number one being published in April 1935. By this time the editor of the MaGazine had been headhunted by the British Racing Drivers’ Club to edit their new magazine Speed.

This left Cecil Kimber with a bit of a problem so he, in turn, headhunted the team which described itself as ‘A Monthly Journal of Speed’. This was also an A4-sized journal but not quite so glossy in style and quality as the MaGazine had been. Originally it had started life as the Brooklands Aerodrome Magazine, being the magazine of the Brooklands Aero Club. In 1932 it had been taken over by O.V. Holmes and changed its name. For April 1935 it changed again to The Sports Car incorporating Brooklands Track and Air, being the official journal of the MG Car Company Ltd and the MG Car Club. The editor was F.L.M. Harris, and one of the staff to make the changeover to The Sports Car was ‘WB’ Bill Boddy, later to gain great fame in the motoring world as the editor of MotorSport. Bill turned freelance but remained a regular contributor until the outbreak of war in 1939, which was also to be the last year of The Sports Car magazine.

The Club is fortunate to have a full set of The Sports Car magazine in our archive for any members who may be interested. Mentioning the archive, you’ll see in the Kimber House news this month that the Club is looking for assistance in the archive. If you think you could offer some help please get in contact.

RACE RETRO Europe’s number one historic motorsports show, held at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, on February 21-23.

Visit www.raceretro.com for details..

MGS ON TRACK MGs on Track take to the Goodwood Circuit, Chichester, West Sussex, PO18 0PH on February 22. For information or to book visit www.mgs-on-track.com

Until next month, drive safely.

Andy Knott

Membership Type

Direct Debit Rate

Standard Rate Online

Standard Rate Post

Single

£50

£55

£55

Joint

£54

£59

£59

Young Members 16-20

£15

£15

£15

Young Members 21-24

£30

£30

£30

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 3

ANNUAL DINNER AND AWARDS EVENING The annual South West Dinner and Awards Evening is happening on February 22 at The Limpley Stoke Hotel, Limpley Stoke, near Bath BA2 7FZ. Details from www.mgccsw.com/event/ For many more events during February please visit www.mgcc.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 3

24/01/2020 16:03

MIDLAND

CLASSIC

R E S T O R AT I O N S

Servicing and MOTs, Restorations, Insurance Work, Full Trim Facilities, Full Race Preparation and Performance Modifications Offering a comprehensive range of services for all types of MGs and any classic motor car 5 minutes from Junction 6 of the M5 at Worcester

www.midlandclassicrestorations.co.uk Hutson.qxd:Layout 2 24/3/10 14:38 Page 1 Hutson.qxd:Layout 2 24/3/10 1 Unit 4, Woodfield Business 14:38 Units, Page Kidderminster

Call 01905 622166

Road, Ombersley, Droitwich, Worcs, WR9 0JH

THE HUTSON MOTOR CO. LTD. Parts&&Panels Panelsfor forTA TAto toTF TF Parts

BUY BUY DIRECT DIRECT FROM FROMTHE THE MANUFACTURER MANUFACTURER

We We manufacture manufacture aa complete complete range range of of top top quality quality ash ash frames frames and and components, components, complete complete panelled panelled bodies, bodies, individual individual steel steel parts. parts. Full Full restorations restorations undertaken undertaken on on all all classic classic cars. cars.

Comprehensive Comprehensive paint paint shop shop and and trim trim facilities. facilities.

Ash frame skeleton bodies.

Ash frame skeleton bodies.

Individual Individual ash ash frame frame components components and steel panels. and steel panels.

•• Dashboards Dashboards •• Quarter Quarter Panels Panels T-Series ash frame sections & body panels T-Series ash frame sections & body panels •• Door are hand built in our Bradford factory.

Door Frames Frames are hand built in our Bradford factory.

•• Hood Hood Finishers Finishers Fully Fully assembled assembled complete complete panelled panelled bodies bodies for for TA TA to to TF. TF.

Fast Fast and and efficient efficient mail mail order order •• Helpful Helpful counter counter assistance assistance Free Price Lists available Free Price Lists available Please Please telephone telephone for for your your copy copy PAWSON STREET • BRADFORD • WEST YORKSHIRE • BD4 8DF PAWSON STREET • BRADFORD • WEST YORKSHIRE • BD4 8DF

TEL: 01274 669052 • FAX: 01274 669685 • Email: hutsonmc@talk21.com TEL: 01274 669052 • FAX: 01274 669685 • Email: hutsonmc@talk21.com

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

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

MG_SafetyFast_July16_3-50.indd 3

24/06/2016 17:11

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 4

24/01/2020 16:03

INSIDE REGULARS 7

Club Matters and Kimber House News

8

News and AGM Notices

10 Products 12 Young Members Branch 14 Postbag 58 Overseas Review 60 Out and About 65 Race Torque 66 MGs on Track 67 MGCC Speed Championship 69 Centre Updates 80 Register Updates 91 Classifieds 98 Looking Back

NEWSLETTERS 44 Triple M Newsletter A pre-production rubber bumper MGB GT V8, one of six, and the second rubber bumper car produced photographed on a Spring Day in Abingdon. Photo: Colin Grant

49 Midget Newsletter 54 MGB Newsletter

FEATURES 18 MGLIVE! More information on the 2020 MGLive! event

27

39

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

In 1935 Alan Hess, the editor of the MaGazine, was headhunted by the British Racing Drivers’ Club to edit their new magazine, Speed. This left Cecil Kimber with a bit of a problem so he, in turn, headhunted the team which described itself as ‘A Monthly Journal of Speed’.

This was also an A4-sized journal but not quite so glossy in style and quality as the MaGazine had been. Originally it had started life as the Brooklands Aerodrome Magazine, being the magazine of the Brooklands Aero Club. In 1932 it had been taken over by O.V. Holmes and changed its name. For April 1935 it changed again to The Sports Car incorporating Brooklands Track and Air, being the official journal of the MG Car Company Ltd and the MG Car Club. The editor was F.L.M. Harris.

www.mgcc.co.uk

21 THE MIGHTY V8 Colin Grant gets nostalgic whilst driving an MGB GT V8

27 GLASGOW TO MONTE CARLO Ken Brown and his mate Paul head out on a 3,000-mile Midget adventure

39 FROM FIRST PRINCIPLE Tracing the History and Reviewing the R Midget, reprinted from a 1935 issue of the Sports Car Magazine

62 SIMPLIFYING SPEED EVENTS Paul Goodman looks at the new rules and regulations

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 5

16 17:11 SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 5

24/01/2020 16:03

Abingdon MG Parts for MG, Triumph & MX-5 Cars

Exclusive Club Member Discount Members of the MG Car Club can take advantage of an exclusive discount on our extensive range of MG parts To find out more about the full collection of parts we supply and our great discounted prices please speak to a member of our sales team today To benefit from your club discount simply quote MG Car Club and your membership reference number

0121 544 4444

e-mail: enquiries@davidmanners.co.uk visit: 991 Wolverhampton Road, Oldbury, B69 4RJ

w w w. d av i dm a n n ers . c o . uk Parts for Classic Mini | Jaguar & Daimler | MG & Triumph | Morris Minor | MX-5

AVAILABLE EXCLUSIVELY TO NEW MEMBERS OF THE DAIMLER & LANCHESTER OWNERS CLUB

Adding class to your journey Well formed Classic MG Insurance

J&C Classic Restorations Chris Redfern – Specialising in all MG models

• Full restoration • Servicing • Trim • Mot work • Electrical • Tuning Proud to have carried out the preparation work on MGA ‘UPO 929’ Mille Miglia entry

CALL NOW

0800 093 8860 carolenash.com/classic-car UK opening hours: Mon - Fri 8am - 8pm, Sat 9am - 5pm.

As with all insurances, terms and conditions apply. Carole Nash Insurance Consultants Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference no. 307243.

Carole Nash is a trading style of Carole Nash Insurance Consultants Ltd, registered in England and Wales no. 2600841.

6 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 6

Phone: 07900 633 826

E-mail: jcclassicrestorations@outlook.com

Unit 14 Clockhouse Mushrooms, Egham, Surrey TW20 8PF www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:03

CHAIRMANS NEWS

A

t this time of year as I carry out my MG servicing I remember the warmer days of last summer and ask myself “what did we get out of this car last year, what events did we go to, what drive did I do that we really enjoyed, where did we visit, what

old friends did we meet and what new ones did we make?” All these things come from actively belonging to a vibrant Club. The next thought is “what can we do and where can we go next summer?”

There is so much to choose from your Natter, Centre, Register and the Club’s Motorsport activities to add to your diaries. I find the more we take part in, the more fun we have with the various groups across the Club. It has always been a maxim of mine that the more you put into something, the more satisfaction you get out, the more you are involved, the more fun you have.

As the Club enters its tenth decade, the folks who make things happen across the Club are getting older and the Club is always looking for younger people to bring into the organising committees across the organisation, so if you feel that you have something to offer please make yourself known to any of the Centre, Register, or Branch representatives across the Club.

Planning is in full swing for MGLive! and tickets will be on sale now. As we lost last year’s MGLive!, we are hoping that even more of you will join us for the Club’s flagship event in 2020. We are now under contract with Silverstone for the weekend of June 13 and 14. We are offering a similar ticket deal to members as we trialled last year and there is a booking form with this edition of Safety Fast!, although we would much prefer you to book via the MGLive! website as it cuts down on our administration at Kimber House.

Our spring Council meeting is fast approaching and we will again be the guests of The British Motor Museum at Gaydon on March 14, whom we thank for their generous support. If you have any points that you wish to bring up, or new ideas, please contact your Centre, Register or Branch committee to ask them to raise the item for discussion.

Bill Silcock

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS Club Archive – Volunteer Help Required Peter Neal, our Club Archivist, desperately needs help from a volunteer who could spare some time to assist in the archive.

Computer experience and a good working knowledge of MG models and history would be a benefit. Duties will include filing, updating the computer database, archiving photos, plus sorting and archiving a range of other items donated to the Club. If you feel you could spare some time and would like more information please contact Peter Neal on 01235 849739.

Good Luck, John!

John Hutchison, our Competitions Secretary, has left the Kimber House team. John joined the Club back in the summer of 2014, working with the Racing Sub Committee organising the Club’s race programme. A popular figure with our race competitors and all in

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 7

the paddock, John’s efforts have been hugely appreciated by all at the Club and we wish John every success in his new employment.

John will be succeeded by Mark Baulch. As well as having been Awards Co-Ordinator for MG Car Club for the previous four years, Mark is also the Deputy National Press Officer for the British Grand Prix, Co-Ordinator of the RallyMaker programme at Wales Welcome to the MGCC Mark Baulch Rally GB, Chief Control Officer for the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Rally Championship Co-Ordinator for the Association of Central Southern Motor Clubs, and Treasurer for Southern Car Club.

Mark has been involved in Motorsport at all levels, from karting to Stock Car Racing, to National and International Rallying and Formula One for over 30 years. He has been a Marshal since he was 16, held a senior official licence for over 20 years and worked as everything from Race Secretary to Safety Officer to Clerk of the Course and Club Steward at various events, as well as being a race commentator at over 500 short circuit meetings.

Mark will split his time between the Club office and his home office. He can be contacted via email: motorsport@mgcc.co.uk. A contact phone number will be available soon.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 7

24/01/2020 16:03

NEWS GEORGE HERSCHELL. WESTERN NEW YORK CENTRE

Piers and his wife Linda (left) accepting their 50-Year MG Car Club Membership Award from the Club’s President, John Day (right)

PIERS HUBBARD The Club were saddened to learn of the passing of Piers Hubbard in December 2019. With his passing, the Club has lost one of its wellknown, long-term and much respected members. He will be fondly remembered by many Club members for his quiet and understated support. He got involved in many aspects of running the Club and could be relied on to apply common sense to all situations.

In any gathering of MG owners Piers would bring an infectious enthusiasm to proceedings and his good-natured approach was therefore much appreciated at Club Council meetings. The March issue of Safety Fast! will include a full tribute to Piers.

NEW MG HS TAKES FIVE STARS

George passed away peacefully on January 12 2020 at the age of 88. George is survived by his sons, George and Jim, and our sincere George Herschell in an MG TD with Brian Woodhams condolences go out to the family on their sad loss.

After high school, George attended Rochester Institute of Technology where he received a degree in Fine Arts, which helped usher in a lifelong love of Architectural rendering and Automobile Art. George and Nancy were married in 1952 and the Western New York Centre (WNYC) was formed and affiliated in 1958. George and Nancy were involved in this Centre almost from the formation and he/ they held most of the Board positions at one time or another. George owned a 1966 MGB, a 1950 MG TD, and a 1955 MG TF. George was a true MG enthusiast and a brilliant MG artist. I had the privilege of being personally presented with his book of MG drawings and history at Watkins Glen when MG was the featured Marque in September 2015. George and I had forged strong links between the WNYC and the UK when he “demanded” my presence at the Centre’s 45th Anniversary in 2003, and then again in 2008 for the 50th Anniversary.

In 2018 Richard Powers requested I attend the 60th Anniversary of the WNYC and I once again met up with George and his family. George was a true New York gentleman and real MG enthusiast – RIP George, you will be missed.

Brian G Woodhams MGCC UK North American Manager

TOM TATE

The all-new MG HS has achieved a Five Star Euro NCAP rating.

The HS impressed in all areas of the stringent Euro NCAP tests, including the four stand out categories being, Adult Occupant, Child Occupant, Vulnerable Road User and Safety Assist. The HS joins its cousin the MG ZS EV which also achieved a five-star rating.

Highlighted was the MG Pilot suite of high-tech driver aids that supports the structural safety engineered in the all-new HS. MG Pilot features include Active Emergency braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, Intelligent Headlamp Control, and Traffic Jam Assistant.

The new HS is in showrooms now with prices starting from £17995, and is the fourth in MGs range alongside the MG3 hatchback, MG ZS compact SUV and the all-electric MG ZS EV 8 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 8

Long-standing members of the old North East Centre will be saddened to hear of the death at 85 of Tom Tate, one of the founder members of Tyne Tees sub centre. Tom, a dentist by profession, along with his wife Cathy were leading lights in all aspects of MG motoring, sharing a rapid Nicholson-tuned MGB and an MGA Coupe. A smooth, quick circuit driver, Tom was well known at the many race and speed events held by the MGCC, and his friendly rivalry with fellow Tyne Tees stalwart Gordon Douglas, who campaigned an equally rapid Downton MGB, was always hard fought and extended into the realms of Autotesting and Rallying. Tom was at the heart of everything the Club did, his cheery grin and easy manner making any new member feel instantly at home. In later years when the girls arrived, the MGB was replaced by a four-seater Morgan, still driven with the same brio, and their social events dubbed ‘Cath’s Nights Out’ still loom large in the memory.

Tyne Tees and the MG community offer their sympathy to Cath and the family.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:03

AGM NOTICES NEWS MGCC Devon and Cornwall Centre AGM

Date: Saturday March 21 2020 Venue: Callington Bowling Club, 38 Liskeard Road, Callington, PL17 7JE Time: 7.30pm for 8.00pm AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence 2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2019 AGM 3. Matters Arising 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report 6. Secretary’s Report 7. Competition Secretary’s Report 8. Election of Officers and Committee 9. Points for Discussion This will be followed by a Complimentary Buffet etc.

MGCC Lincolnshire Centre AGM Date: Thursday March 5 2020 Venue: Abbey Lodge, Kirkstead, Woodhall Spa, LN10 6UQ Time: 8.00pm AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence 2. Approval of Minutes from 2019 AGM 3. Matters arising from 2 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Honorary Treasurer’s Report and Approval of Accounts 6. Honorary Secretary’s Report 7. Competition Secretary’s Report 8. Communications Report 9. Election of Officers and General Committee 10. 2020/21 Calendar 11. Auditors for 2020/21 12. Any other relevant Lincolnshire Centre business 13. Time and Date of Next AGM Nominations for Committee posts to be received in writing by the Honorary Secretary, Sue Mackenzie, by February 8 2020. For more information contact Sue on 01529 497849.

MGCC Tyne-Tees Centre AGM

Date: Thursday March 5 2020 Venue: Coulby Manor, Coulby Manor Way, Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, TS8 0RP Time: 8.00pm prompt AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence 2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2019 AGM 3. Matters arising from the above 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Secretary’s Report 6. Membership Secretary’s Report 7. Treasurer’s Report and adoption of the Accounts 8. Election of Officers 9. Election of the Committee 10. Any Other Business Nominations for election to join the TyneTees Centre Committee to be sent to the Secretary, by email to david.alexander2012@ btinternet.com or by post to David Alexander, 29 Till Grove, Ellington, Morpeth, Northumberland, NE61 5ER. Closing date for nominations is February 21 2020.

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 9

MGCC Yorkshire Centre AGM

Date: Tuesday March 17 2020 Venue: The Star, 223 Roberttown Lane, Roberttown, Liversedge, West Yorkshire, WF15 7LQ Time: 8.00pm AGENDA 1. Apologies for Absence 2. Minutes of Last AGM 3. Chairman’s Report 4. Treasurer’s Report 5. Secretary’s Report 6. Election of Officers 7. Election of Committee 8. Any Other Business All nominations for candidates for election to the committee and topics for AOB should be sent to: Marie Dobson, 30 Ingleborough Drive, Sprotbrough, Doncaster, DN5 7AD by March 1 2020.

MGF Register AGM

Date: Saturday March 21 2020 Venue: Kimber House, Cemetery Road, Abingdon OX14 1AS Time: AGM 2.30pm AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence.

2. Approval of minutes of the last AGM. 3. Matters arising from previous AGM minutes.

3. Chairman’s report.

4. Treasurer’s report and adoption of accounts.

5. Regalia.

6. Membership.

7. Registrar.

8. Events.

9. International Events.

10. Archive.

11. Election of Committee, Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer.

12. Any other business.

Nominations for election to the Committee and AOB Agenda Topics should be submitted to the Secretary by March 8 2020.

All communications to Jane Parry, Secretary MGF Register.

Email: secretary@mgfregister.org Tel: 07841 648428.

MGCC North West Centre AGM

Date: Thursday February 13 2020 Venue: The Ship Inn, Styal, SK9 4JE Time: 8.30pm AGENDA Apologies Minutes of the 2019 AGM Matters Arising Chairman’s Report Treasurer’s Report/Approval of Accounts Election of Centre Officers Election of Centre Committee Any Other Business Nominations for election to the Committee and AOB agenda topics should be submitted to Paul Goodman, email paul.goodman7@ntlworld.com Tel 01625 876300

MGCC MGB Register AGM

Date: Sunday March 22 2020.

Venue: The MG Car Club Ltd, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1AS. Time: Starting at 11.00am AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence.

2. Approval of the Minutes of the 2019 AGM. 3. Matters Arising.

4. Chairman’s report.

5. Secretary’s report.

6. Treasurer’s report and adoption of accounts.

7. Registrar’s report.

8. Election of Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Committee.

9. Any other business.

Nominations for Election to the Committee/ Committee Posts and AOB Agenda Items should be submitted to the Secretary by March 8 2020.

All communications to Neil Hyett, Secretary MGB Register Email secretary@mgb-register.org Tel: 01869 241180.

MGB Register Mobile: 07555 044528.

MGs on Track AGM

Date: Saturday March 7 2020 Venue: The MG Car Club, Kimber House, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS Time: 10.00am AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence 2. Minutes of last AGM 3. Chairman’s report 4. Secretary’s report 5. Treasurer’s report 6. Election of Officers 7. Election of Committee 8. Any Other Business Nominations for committee posts and requests for other information to be received by email to the Secretary, James Mumford, at JamesM@ mgs-on-track.com by Monday March 2 2020.

MGCC Vintage Register AGM

Date: March 15 2020 Venue: Shillingford Bridge Hotel, Wallingford OX10 8LZ Time: 11.00am AGENDA 1. Apologies for absence 2. Minutes of the meeting: March 2019 3. Matters arising not on the agenda 4. Chairman’s report 5. Treasurer’s report 6. Secretary’s bulletin Editor’s report 7. Election of Register Chairman 8. Election of Register Treasurer 9. Election of Register Secretary 10. Election of other Committee Members 11. Any other business Please send nominations or apologies to Debbie Brading Vintage Register Secretary on debbiebradingvr@yahoo.com or 07795 227715 by the March 1 2020.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 9

24/01/2020 16:03

PRODUCTS

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

SUB FRAME MOUNTS LARGE AND SMALL FROM MIKE SATUR

M

Ho Ho Ra Ra Su AB AB Cl W

DEI BLACK FLOOR AND TUNNEL HEAT SHIELD

Mike comments that his new design he has made allows the subframe to be detached and the actual mount stays bolted to the chassis, so maintaining the same alignment.

Made from 304 stainless steel, using CNC machining and laser cutting for accuracy and TIG welding, this new design is more accurate, stronger and easier to use... and hopefully cheaper than the stock or copied parts that are dubiously manufactured.

These parts come with all the bolts required.

Cost for these new parts, four small and four large mounts with all fixings, is £247.20 plus VAT (£296.64) plus £12 UK delivery. These can also be purchased in pairs if required.

Contact Mike Satur on 01782 373547 or mobile 07971 778295, web: www.mikesatur.co.uk email: sales@mikesatur.com

NTG MOTOR SERVICES CLUTCH KIT

NTG are offering a three-piece 8”clutch kit for TD TF YB ZA ZB MGA1500/1600 at £196.80. The MGA1600 MK 2 kit price is £209.10.

For more information contact: NTG Motor Services Ltd, 282-284 Bramford Road, Ipswich IP1 4AY. Web: www.mgbits.com Tel: +44(0)1473 406031/2 Fax: +44(0)1473 742087 or email: sales@mgbits.com

10 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 10

DEI Floor and Tunnel Heat Shield is dimpled, bright, 10mm aluminium facing, bonded to a finely woven layer of high temperature-resistant glass fibre material. It is able to withstand harsh road conditions as well as exposure to extreme weather. In response to customer demand DEI is now producing its Floor and Tunnel Shield in black as well as the more familiar bright alloy finish.

The black finish will appeal to classic car owners who want to insulate their car’s interior from outside noise and heat with a less conspicuous modern material. DEI Black Floor and Tunnel Shield is applied to the outside on the underside, on the firewall or under the bonnet with the black side facing the heat/noise source.

DEI Floor and Tunnel Shield will conform to the contours of the panels and an aggressive peel-and- stick adhesive backing will ensure it will withstand wind and water and yet will be easy to shape, trim, cut, peel and stick. The black coating will withstand high temperatures and will be unaffected by heat from turbos, catalytic converters and exhausts.

DEI Floor and Tunnel Shield is available in two sizes: Part No.: 050549. Black Floor and Tunnel Shield 42” x 48” Part No.: 050552. Black Floor and Tunnel Shield 21” x 48” For more information and the latest prices contact DEI’s UK distributor Demon Tweeks at 75 Ash Road South, Wrexham LL13 9UG. Telephone: 01978 664466. Or visit their website at www.demon-tweeks. com/uk/

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:03

M

Al RH He O Re O Fr Fr Flo

To

M

Al Al Al Fu St Re O To

C

F 1 E

BROWN & GAMMONS FIRST FOR EVERYTHING MG! MGF/TF

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

BGF9021-24 £36.50

MG TA, TB, TC

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

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

MG TD AND TF

MGA

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

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

MG MOTOR UK

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

30064821T £75.00 30073783 £48.00 30092045 £144.00 10160897 £168.00 10394095 £66.00 10160896 £66.00 10508798 £66.00 10025315Z £30.00 10008675Z £43.00

GENERAL ACCESSORIES

SERVICE PACKS

MGB

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

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

MG Morris Bear, Green Jumper MG Buster Bear, Red Jumper MG Cecil Bear, Green Jumper MG Buster Bear, Green jumper MG Badge Collection MG Mugs, Black or Red

BGR68B BGR68R BGR68C BGR68D MM001 MM061/84

£13.00 £13.00 £13.00 £13.00 £28.95 £6.95

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

ORD ER ON -LI NE

l

WORLDWI D E MAI L ORD ER AVAI L AB LE

WWW.UKMGPARTS.COM

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

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

Car Sales, Parts Sales & Workshop Fax: 01462 896167 sales@ukmgparts.com 18 High Street, Baldock, Herts, SG7 6AS Established 1977

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 11

CAR SALES

MAIN DEALER

As an MG Main Dealer we can offer sales of all the new MGs. We also offer sales of classic MGs throughout the range. Call us now for a great deal on a new MG or visit our website to see our latest cars in stock.

01462 490049 24/01/2020 16:04

YOUNG MEMBERS

Shaun Nelson shaunnelly@hotmail.com

GRACE PEASE

– 1972 MGB GT AUTOMATIC

I

bought my B GT, Bertie, nine months ago and although we have an age gap of over 20 years, it’s definitely true love.

I’d wanted a classic car for as long as I can remember. Mum has a Triumph Stag so girls and classic cars must run in the family. I’ve always submerged myself in car culture, caring far more about what cars were in a film than the actors and actresses, and gluing myself to ‘Top Gear’ on a Sunday night.

I knew I had to own a GT, as I love its quintessential British ‘cool-ness’ and surprising practicality. I’d been looking for over a year until I came across Bertie, an automatic, the rareness of which only 12 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 12

made him more appealing! There were only 1,285 automatic MGB GTs produced and this only makes Bertie more special to me. The same Borg-Warner Type 35 3-speed box was fitted to a huge assortment of cars; from the Jaguar XJ6, to Volvos, Fords, and Chryslers.

I’m hoping to take a mechanics course to carry out basic maintenance on Bertie, but I’m enjoying learning as I go. I think it’s so important, particularly for young women, to feel a part of the car scene, especially with classics as it’s a very maledominated scene. I like the surprised look I get from people when I tell them what I drive, and I love the looks from other road

users when I pass by, especially the flash of the lights from other classics.

Bertie and I frequently attend classic shows in the south where I enjoy spending the day surrounded by other classics and having conversations with other enthusiasts. I also represented Bertie at the Classic Motor Show at the NEC, where it was so lovely to meet other young members. I have a few plans for Bertie, including a new engine soon, but ultimately, I’d like to keep him as original as possible and only add a few modern conveniences when I have the money while studying at University! One thing is for certain – I’m never selling my MG. www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:04

Generic

THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSIAST

ys

Am a

Road Jo ur ne

w

ng zi

ww

.sce

niccartour

s.c

om

SCOTLAND’S NORTH COAST 500

A 500 MILE DRIVE SHOWCASING THE BEST OF THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS

7 Day, 6 Night Tour From £849.00*- £949.00* Per Person

• 6 NIGHTS HOTEL ACCOMMODATION • 6 BREAKFASTS & 6 EVENING MEALS, INCLUDING WELCOME DINNER ON THE FIRST EVENING • ROAD BOOK FEATURING MAPS, GREAT DRIVES & LOCAL ATTRACTIONS • COMMEMORATIVE TOUR RALLY PLATE • COMPLIMENTARY CAR PARKING AT ALL HOTELS

niccartour

s.c

w

sce

niccartours.c

niccarto

ur

s.c

R oa d J o ur ng zi

o

w

w

w.

sce

niccartour

s.c

w.

ing

sce

R oa d J

ou

om

ROAD JOURNEYS AMAZING AMAZING ROADROA JOURNEYS 2020ZING AMA D JOURNEYS 2020 niccartours.c

AST

AST

2020

2020

SCOTTISH ISLANDS 500 TOURS.COM TOURS I WWW.SCENICCAR TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I EUROPEAN BRITISH TOURS I IRISH BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.COM BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.CO M

az

om

w

om

ROAD JOURNEYS AMAZING AMAZING ROADROA JOURNEYS 2020ZING AMA D JOURNEYS 2020

DRIVE & CRUISE TOURS

Road Jou r

.sce

w

w

w.

ww

ENTHUSIAST OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING THE UK’S LEADING TOUR THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSIAST THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSI

OPERATOR FOR THE THE UK’S LEADING TOUR THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSIAST THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSI w

g in

ou

Am

Road J

Am a

az

om

DRIVING ENTHUSIAST

sce

m

Am

Am a m

w.

ys

w

e rn

w

ys

o

ne

s.c

ys

ur

e rn

niccarto

ing

ys

.sce

ys

R oa d J o ur ng zi

ne

ww

Am az

Road Jou r ys

w

ne

g in

ne

Am az

A SELECTION OF OUR 2020 TOURS

THE BORDER 500 TOURS.COM TOURS I WWW.SCENICCAR TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I EUROPEAN BRITISH TOURS I IRISH BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.COM BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.CO M

AUSTRIA & THE DANUBE / BLACK FOREST & THE RHINE

ISLE OF SKYE & OUTER HEBRIDES

ALNWICK TO PORTPATRICK & THE LAKE DISTRICT

From £1999.00 Per Person

From £899.00 Per Person

From £449.00 Per Person

BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I CAR CLUB / BESPOKE GROUP TOURS EXPERIENCE SOME OF THE BEST CLASSIC & HISTORIC MOTORSPORT EVENTS IN EUROPE

g in

ww

.co

PAU HISTORIC GRAND PRIX & THE PYRENEES FROM £1199.00* PER PERSON

az

ing

R oa d J

niccartours

Classic & Historic Classic ric to isHistoric sicot&orH&sp M Clas orEvents t Ev port Motors ts ents en Ev t or Motorsp PART OF SCENIC & CONTINENTAL

m

w

MOTORSPORT EVENTS MOTORSPORT EVENTS

MOTORSPORT EVENTS

ou

ENTHUSIAST OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING THE UK’S LEADING TOUR THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSIAST THE UK’S LEADING TOUR OPERATOR FOR THE DRIVING ENTHUSIAST .sce

MONACO HISTORIC GRAND PRIX FROM £999.00* PER PERSON

CONTACT US FOR A COPY OF OUR 2020 TOUR BROCHURES

Roa d J o ur

Am w

LAON HISTORIQUE FROM £189.00* PER PERSON

ys

iccarto

ng zi

om

GRAND PRIX DE L’AGE’ D’OR FROM £799.00* PER PERSON

e rn

.scen

.c urs

ys

ww

ne

Am a

ys

w

SPA CLASSIC FROM £299.00* PER PERSON

Road Jou r ne

Am az

MILLE MIGLIA FROM £1099.00* PER PERSON

w

w.

sce

niccartours.c

2020

PART OF SCENIC & CONTINENTAL

EYS

01732 879153 WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.COM CCARTOURS.COM TOURS I WWW.SCENI TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I EUROPEAN BRITISH TOURS I IRISH BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.COM BRITISH TOURS I IRISH TOURS I EUROPEAN TOURS I WORLDWIDE TOURS I WWW.SCENICCARTOU RS.COM

Generic & Classic Motorsport A4 Advert Jan 2020.indd 1 SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 13

CAR TOURS

PART OF SCENIC & CONTINENTAL CAR TOURS

om

JOURNEYS NG ROADROAD AMAZIAMAZING JOURNEYS AM2020 AZING 2020ROAD JOURN

All flight bookings are operated for Scenic Car Tours by our sister company, Success Tours, ATOL No. 5114 *All prices are per person and based on 2 persons occupying a car and a twin/double room. Single supplement available on request. All prices correct at time of going to print.

5114

CAR TOURS

DISCOVER SOME OF EUROPE’S LEADING CLASSIC & HISTORIC MOTORSPORT EVENTS EVENTS DISCOVER SOME OF EUROPE’S LEADING CLASSIC & HISTORIC MOTORSPORT C MOTORSPORT EVENTS G CLASSIC & HISTORI OF EUROPE’S LEADIN SOME R DISCOVE

SPA CLASSIC

MONTLHERY VINTAGE REVIVAL

IMOLA CLASSIC & MOTOR

VALLEY • LAON HISTORIQUE VALLEY IMOLA CLASSIC & MOTOR VALLEY REVIVAL MONTLHERY • ANGOULEMVINTAGE CLASSIC SPAHISTORIQU • MONACO E CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS IMOLA CLASSIC & MOTOR E GRAND PRIX • GRAND PRIX DE PAU HISTORIQU E REVIVAL • LES VINTAGHEURES ERYGRANDES • SPA 6 HOURS FRANCORC AUTOMOBI E HAMPS MONTLH HISTORIQUE DE PAU UE PRIX • GRAND • CHANTILLY REMPARTS LES CIRCUIT • ANGOULEME CLASSIC ARTS • GRAND DE PAU HISTORIQ HISTORIQUE SPA & ELEGANCE • LAON PRIX DES PRIX DE L’AGE D’OR • GRAND TS & ELEGANCE • CHANTILLY• ARTS AUTOMOBILES DES REMPAR & ELEGANC MILLE • LES GRANDES HEURES MIGLIAE • MONACO HISTORIQUE GRAND PRIX • CHANTILLY ARTS • ANGOULEME CIRCUIT • MILLE MIGLIA BILES L’AGE D’OR UE PRIX DE AUTOMO GRAND • www.sce HISTORIQ FRANCORCHAMPS HEURES 6 HOURS • SPA • MILLE MIGLIA • LAON • LES GRANDES niccartou D’ORrs.com UE GRAND PRIX • GRAND PRIX DE L’AGE • MONACO HISTORIQ CHAMPS FRANCOR www.sceniccartours.com HOURS 6 SPA •

om www.sceniccartours.c

09/12/2019 10:01:39 24/01/2020 16:04

POSTBAG KEN MILES I enjoyed reading Adam Sloman’s piece on Ken Miles in Safety Fast! last month. So often overlooked in my estimation, not only as a race driver, but also as a development driver and engineer, and especially his contribution towards the development of Shelbys Cobras and GT40s. Ironic then it takes a Hollywood movie for folks to finally sit up and take notice. Ken Miles was right of course, too, to criticise BMC for not pursuing a more vigorous competition campaign with MG. Record-breaking was all very well, and also rallying with Minis and big Healeys, but it did little towards keeping their most prestigious name MG in the headlines, while allowing other manufacturers to capitalise through their motorsporting activities.

Of course the 1955 Le Mans disaster didn’t help the cause, where although entirely unrelated, one the three works MGA prototype’s was written off, with very nearly its driver Dick Jacobs, too. Then in September of the same year another tragic accident occurred during the Ulster TT on the Dundrod circuit, where a second team of three MGAs had been assembled.

Although again unrelated, this dreadful accident involving seven cars claimed the lives of three drivers. Clearly this, along with Dick Jacobs’ slow and painful recovery from the Le Mans accident, was enough for MG to withdraw after what

MAINLY MORGAN MARSHALL I was at the MGCC Hunter region’s (in Newcastle Australia where I now live) club rooms recently and happened by chance to see a recent Safety Fast! in which Peter Jones’s Vintage Newsletter was published.

Wow, did that bring back memories!

Peter may remember that we met once outside the Woolpack in Sutton Veny, as he was early to visit Roger and I was visiting my parents in SV. Roger and my father, Hugh, were churchwardens together and shared a love of old MGs and attended a few local Natters and meets together.

Morgan Marshall maintained my father’s P-Type ADD 284 in Bristol in the mid ‘30s as he did for many of the local young blades including David Fry. With David’s money Dad designed and built the Freikaiserwagen which is another story.

When David Griffiths, the current owner of ADD 284, thought about repairing the lower back end of the car’s bodywork he decided to leave it alone. Later in 1995, when I reunited Dad with the car, David found out that Dad had complained to Morgan that the rear was fouling on the 14 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 14

amounted to just two races. A great pity, though, for who knows where it could have led?

We all know it was a dangerous sport back then, Ken Miles as mentioned, being killed while testing at Riverside in August 1966 at the wheel of what Adam describes as Ford’s next GT car. This was in fact the ‘J’ car, (chassis No J-2), later called the MkIV. The limited run of aluminium honeycomb sandwich ‘J’ cars (12 chassis laid down, 10 being built up) were being developed for the 1967 Le Mans programme, which MkIV chassis No J-6 went on to win in the hands of Dan Gurney and AJ Foyt. But when the Miles accident happened his car was being readied for a few late season Can Am races where it was thought the extra mileage would help evaluation. There never was a cause determined for the Miles accident, despatched earlier that month and shaken down at Kingman, Arizona, J-2 was totally destroyed in the accident at Riverside on August 17.

These could be, and sadly were on too many occasions, tragic times, but for me in my late teens, very, very exciting. An excellent story – can we have more of the same, please?

Dennis Wharf

centre part of cart tracks on the trials.

No problem, said Morgan Marshall who promptly grabbed a pair of tin snips and cut a couple of inches off! David was happy he left the body as it was with its history and patina. Also, did not replace the rear seat wooden ply backing although it had a number of holes drilled in it.

All was revealed when Dad told him he had used the seat back in the horizontal position and screwed on a number of clips to the ply backing to hold tools for easy access while in the pits of the Mendip!

The pics of the Mendip GP are interesting. It was actually the Mendip GP de Tourisme, as mentioned with pics in the lengthy piece I wrote on the history of Dad’s P-Type ADD 284 reproduced in a MMM Yearbook some years ago. The top photo in Safety Fast! is not Dad or his riding mechanic, but it is an MG. Also, the second last number looks like a 6 and not an 8 for Dad’s car.

The lowest pic could be David Fry (l) working on Joe Fry’s Bentley. The man is about the right size and the other could be Joe who had a Bentley at that time.

I first met Morgan Marshall on the

Salisbury Trial in 1969 when he sought me out to see if I was Hugh’s son. He told me then that his 18/80 had done 350,000 miles. He was one of history’s genuine gentlemen and I feel privileged to have known him as I know you are, too.

Sadly, two of the three 18/80s in Australia are still under long restorations, but Colin Schiller’s red tourer 6666 is out and about from time to time and attended the Pre-War MG Rally I organised in Bathurst in 2013.

Thanks for the memories!

Rob Dunsterville www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:04

10% DISCOUNT FOR MG CAR CLUB MEMBERS

Winter Storage Available

Vehicle storage | Logistics | Automotive Care

For information please contact Mark Ellis T. 07974 333 789 E. mark@classicconcierge.co.uk

Driven by Excellence

www.classicconcierge.co.uk

Rimmer ad A5 landscape .qxp_Layout 1 05/02/2019 17:06 Page MGF2 CC-MGB-advert.indd 1

14/11/2019 19:58

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR MG MODELS 1962 ONWARDS

T ust us to deliver...Worldwide. Millions of parts in stock.

Tr

Parts service also available for Tr T iumph, Land Rover, Rover, Mini & Jaguar ‘96 on.

We’ve Expanded our Call Centre Hours - Now Open up to 20 Hours a Day - 7 Days a Week!

Triumph House, Sleaford Road, Bracebridge Heath, Lincoln, LN4 2NA. England Telephone: 01522 568000 Fax: 01522 567600 E-mail: sales@rimmerbros.com

www.rimmerbros.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 15

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 15

24/01/2020 16:04

Moss-S

POSTBAG FERRARI GP TEAM CONNECTION I was recently perusing the November Safety Fast!, and noted the advert in there from the Caledonian Centre on their ‘Jim Clark Trail’ next May, with reference to the MGCC’s connections to Jim Clark. I wondered if MGCC members would be interested in another famous racing connection, this time concerning the MGCC and one of the Midland Centre Natters.

During the later years of the 1950s, the Ferrari GP team consisted of two English drivers, Mike Hawthorn and the perhaps lesser-known Peter Collins, but it is Peter who is the subject of this email. Peter’s family originally lived in Mustow Green, near Kidderminster, and ran a car dealership there (which still exists, albeit in a modern form) together with a transport business, and Peter was born in that village. During the 1920s his family was involved in running a pub in nearby Harvington, in those days known as ‘The Talbot’, and according to Chris Nixon’s famous tome, ‘Mon Ami Mate’ featuring the brief lives of both Collins and Hawthorn, Peter Collins’ parents had some involvement with the MG Cream Cracker and Musketeer trials teams of that era.

Therein lies the first connection with the MGCC.

Following a successful period in sports cars with Aston Martin, highlighted by two second places at Le Mans, Peter Collins moved into Grand Prix racing and won the British GP for Ferrari in August 1958, but sadly was killed at the next event, the German GP at the old Nurburgring. His remains were buried at the local church in Stone, just round the corner from Mustow Green and Harvington. There is a commemorative stained-glass window in that church, donated by the British Racing Drivers Club.

In later years, The Talbot was renamed The Dog, and remains so today. The North Worcestershire MGCC group, of which I am a member, has for the past few years met at The Dog, and that is where the second MGCC connection comes in. Yes, it’s a bit of a tenuous connection, I admit, but a connection nonetheless.

I could write more on this subject but have deliberately kept it short here. I’m mentioning this in case there are other Natters within the Club that also have existing connections with famous people in motorsport, particularly GP drivers. Could it be worth researching for a future article?

BRA

Andy Robson

JANUARY LOOKING BACK I am sure someone else has pointed out that in the “Looking back” photo in the January issue the person on the right of Ron Gammons is Gerry Brown. I am in touch with Gerry as we have known each other since 1966 when Gerry was at University in Birmingham and I lived in Moseley. We started racing our T types at the same time.

The rally Midget PMO 200 belonged to and was driven by John Sprinzel.

My friend Dennis Wharf said that John Sprinzel would use his registration number PMO 200 on several of the cars he owned, swapping it from car to car over a period of at least 15 years. As captioned, the picture shows it being worn by the MkII 1098cc MG Midget he used for the very rough 1965 Welsh Rally, where, partnered by navigator Atis Krauklis, it retired on the Coed-yBrenin stage with a punctured petrol tank, despite having a guard fitted. The following year the same car was entered for the Monte Carlo Rally, again with Atis Krauklis reading the maps. They were leading the 1300GT class when they suffered a blown core plug on the

16 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 16

home stretch into Nice.

The car would compete once more in 1966, on that year’s Circuit of Ireland.

However, overcome by fumes in the small cockpit from a holed exhaust system, he collided heavily with a marshal’s car, the crew being hospitalised with various fractures as a result. This was the one and only serious accident of John’s long and illustrious career.

Part of a small batch of numbers, PMO 200 first appeared on an early production MkI Sprite registered by Marcus Chambers of the Competitions Department, which

f

John Sprinzel’s Speedwell Company would prepare as a private entry for the 1958 Alpine Rally. Registration numbers being important to rally drivers, as mentioned the number subsequently appeared on about five of John’s MkI Sprites, plus a Triumph TR3A, Ford Anglia, Allardette, Cortina GT, 997 Cooper S, the MkII Midget mentioned above, followed by a later MkIII Midget, and also the ex-works Bjorn Waldegaard Porsche 911S, which John entered for the 1972 Welsh Rally.

•

m

James Thacker

SP

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:04

Lo +4

Moss-SafetyFast-January.qxp_Layout 1 11/12/2019 13:45 Page 1

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

ISSUE 26

ISSUE 25

MGA

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

Parts, tools & accessories since 1948.

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

MG T-TYPE Restore Maintain Modify

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

ISSUE 23

ISSUE 17

MGB including technical advice and detailed schematics

Restore Maintain Modify

including technical advice and detailed schematics

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

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

TR5-6

ISSUE 14

Restore Maintain Modify

ISSUE 20

including technical advice and detailed schematics

SPITFIRE

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

Parts, tools & accessories since 1948.

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

including technical advice and detailed schematics

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

ISSUE 11

ISSUE 21

including technical advice and detailed schematics

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

E-TYPE including technical advice and detailed schematics

including technical advice and detailed schematics

ISSUE 3

ISSUE 17

TR2-4A

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

ISSUE 1

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

PARTS & ACCESSORIES FOR YOUR

MX-5

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

moss--europe.co.uk | moss--europe.fr

free catalogues...

• Full colour accessory parts section, with colour images, prices and comprehensive information of each product, including interior, exterior and performance parts.

• Detailed annotated diagrams of vehicle components with comprehensive text listings detailing each part.

JAGUAR

MX-5

moss-europe.co.uK SPECIALISING IN CLASSIC MINI, JAGUAR, MAZDA MX-5, MG, MORRIS, TRIUMPH AND UNIVERSAL COMPONENTS.

London +44 (0)20 8867 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 17

Bradford +44 (0)1274 539 999

Bristol +44 (0)117 923 2523

Manchester +44 (0)161 480 6402

PARTS ACCESSORIES TOOLS

Paris +33 (0)1 30 80 20 30

24/01/2020 16:04

We have been working closely with the MG Car Club to ensure that their very welcome return to Silverstone will be a huge success in 2020. We were extremely sorry for the cancellation caused by the essential resurfacing work last year, so it’s great to see MGLive! return. Silverstone will be doing all we can to ensure that the MG Car Club have all they need to ensure a fantastic MGLive! befitting of their 90th anniversary.”

Stuart Pringle, Managing Director of Silverstone

M w

THE WORLD’S LARGEST MG EVENT!

cha 3c su

UK M in an

The MG Car Club has announced the dates for MGLive! as Saturday 13th June – Sunday 14th June 2020 at Silverstone Circuit.

MGLive! will be packed full of exciting features to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the MG Car Club, the original club for MG enthusiasts.

The MG Car Club has run events at Silverstone since 1951, so the Northamptonshire based circuit has been a key part of our club’s history for nearly seventy years. Therefore, it is only fitting that we should return to commemorate the incredible milestone of the 90th year since the club’s formation.

As well as the club celebrations, there will also be features to mark the 25th birthday of our beloved MGF. There will also be the return of the MG Car Club Autotest as members compete for the coveted

California Cup, as well as a packed weekend of racing action ontrack, live music, trade show, Autojumble, entertainment arena and interviews with key figures from the club’s history.

The MG Car Club also welcomes MG Motor UK, who join us to support the event with displays of the latest MG models, including the latest electric cars wearing the octagon badge.

It’s going to be a truly memorable weekend of MG fun, so don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate this major milestone in the club’s history.

All this and more!

• Live action arena with car stunts and presentations hosted by Wayne Scott • Return of Russ Swift, sponsored by MG Motor UK • Racing • California Cup Autotest and • Autosolos plus race action on track all day.

• Concours & Pride of ownership • Traders

• Cars for sale display • MGCC displays including our Registers and Centres • Displays from the MG manufacturer • Live music • Variety of food and drink stalls • Kids activities • Circuit Parade Laps • …and MGs as far as the eyes can see!

M

Ra

Su

Ea

Ad

Ga

T

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 18

24/01/2020 16:04

th eir e ely

MG Live! is not just the world’s biggest festival of all things MG. It is also home to some of the most spectacular club motorsport you will ever see! Proving that there is something for everyone at MGLive! there is a full programme of racing out on track at Silverstone throughout the weekend, all in addition to the show field, trade arena, live music and stunt driving displays.

s

e e

BCV8 Championship MG Trophy Championship The MG Trophy is one of the UK’s most hotly contested single make club championships. It offers wheel to wheel racing for the front wheel drive MG ZRs in 3 classes, and the more modern MG3. The MG Trophy is also known for producing superstar drivers of the future, like Jack Goff who is now competing in the British Touring Car Championship.

The MGCC Peter Best Insurance MG Cup Established for over 20 years, the MGCC Peter Best Insurance MG Cup is the UK’s most popular MG racing series and is the only championship for which any MG model is eligible. This always offers close fought racing. This year’s entry list includes a range of MGs from post war T-Types through to sixties Midgets, MGBs and MGCs, plus more recent MGFs, Z series cars and current production models such as the MG6 GT.

The MG Car Club’s long established BCV8 Championship is the premier series for MGB and MGC racing, offering classes for the fully modified V8s to road going cars. The noise alone is spectacular with the V8s ripping up the pit straight, door handle to door handle.

Cockshoot Cup THE Cockshoot Cup Championship is a racing championship run by the North West Centre of the MG Car Club. The cars are split into four classes and cover everything from Midgets, MGBs to ZRs, MGFs and MGTFs.

Lackford Engineering Midget & Sprite Challenge The Midget & Sprite Challenge is the only exclusively ‘Spridget’ race series in the UK. With the backing of the well-known Classic Car restoration company, Lackford Engineering, it is THE home for racing MG Midgets and Austin Healey Sprites of the kind built 1956-1979.

Stunt driving displays with Russ Swift Over the years, Russ has established 3 Guinness World Records for Parallel Parking in the tightest space, a J-Turn in the tightest space and the fastest donuts! Russ will be demonstrating all these moves, plus passenger rides, driving a car on just two wheels and all sorts of other tricks and stunts for you at MGLive!

d

The MGs used for most of Russ’s display performances are absolutely standard specification. Those driven on two wheels have only one modification – a locked differential! To give you an idea of just how much tyre smoke, speed and excitement you can expect, consider this: Russ gets a maximum of 3 miles from a set of tyres whilst performing at MGLive! You can’t miss this!

ss

Live entertainment The Candy Girls are MGLive! favourites and we’re over the moon to have these exceptional performers back with us. They are a three-part harmony group of international repute, with worldwide audiences loving their repertoire of modern pop in a vintage style plus some golden oldie favourites thrown in for good measure. They are great fun on stage and very much a part of the MG Car Club family!

Their international careers have seen them perform in some of the biggest arenas and venues across the world but they always put on their best shows at MGLive! As well as being great friends on and off stage, the girls share a love of all things vintage and harmonious! They enjoy a great musical partnership and above all value their wonderful “vocal blend” that is often commented on - this combined with their tight choreography and natural stage personalities really sets them apart from other three-part harmony trios.

MGLive! 2020 Ticket Prices

DAY

Rate

VALID

Super Early Bird

3rd February (10:00) - 26th February (10:00)

Early Bird

26th February (10:00) - 22nd April (10:00)

Advance

22nd April (10:00) - 4th June (10:00)

Gate

13th - 14th June

WEEKEND

Member

Non-Member

Member

Non-Member

£15

£23

£26.50

£35

£17.50

£25

£30

£40

£20

£25

£35

£40

£30

£45

Super - early bird tickets now on sale!

Tickets are even better value this year for club members, as we would like to share the MG Car Club’s 90th anniversary celebrations with as many members as possible. It’s set to be a momentous occasion, so don’t delay – book now!

Keep watching www.mglive.co.uk for more details!

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 19

24/01/2020 16:04

MERCHANDISE

Valentine Ideas

1. Wooden MG Box £ 22.50 2. Duo Umbrella £ 25 3. Keep sake tin incl. free earplugs £ 5 4. TF mug with Fudge £ 10.50 5. MGB GT and 6R4 socks £ 9.99 6. Ladies gloves £ 18.80 7. Old fashioned sweets £ 4.50 8. Beanie hat £ 12 9. MG Garage sign £ 23

1

10. Baby suit £ 15.50 11. Neck scarf £ 12.50 12. Rucksack £ 25 13. MGA book £ 45 14. MGB 50 DVD £ 14.99 15. Top Trumps £ 5 16 MG Cap £ 10 All prices excl. P&P

2 5

3

6

4

12 7 8 9 10

11

13

15

15

14

To order visit WWW.MGCC.co.uk/shop Or phone Ineke 01235 849737 2 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 20

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:04

FEATURE

T

he MGB GT V8 came about due to an entrepreneur, called Ken Costello, seeing an opportunity to place a bigger engine into an MGB. The ‘B’ was originally designed to have a V4, hence the enlarged engine bay, but that never materialised, instead relying on the evergreen ‘B’ Series engine.

Costello chose the Rover (Buick/ Oldsmobile) V8, which after development fitted in perfectly. This was something that British Leyland had considered, but then dismissed on the grounds that it would not be possible unless costly re-engineering of the body shell was carried out. But after hearing about the Costello V8, Leyland boss Donald Stokes, asked to view the car. After seeing it he was very impressed

and Costello even allowed BL engineers to study the conversion. Stokes decided that MG should produce a production version, but in GT trim only. This was launched in mid-1973, being developed on a very tight budget which made the end result all the more gratifying for the MG staff involved.

THE MIGHTY V8

By Colin Grant

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 21

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 21

24/01/2020 16:05

22 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 22

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:05

The all-alloy V8 was a natural for the MGB, being a similar weight to that of the cast iron B series engine, and therefore not affecting the excellent handling characteristics of the car. Therefore the V8 was to become the perfect partner, combining handling, comfort, and power to match. The only downsides were the high fuel bills and the fact that it looked so similar to the standard MGB GT but cost much more.

The fuel crisis, that followed the Middle East war, brought an end to many bigengined cars and MG followed suit in 1976 by dropping the V8 from their line-up, after only 2,591 had been made.

What happened to ken Costello? Well, he was upset that Leyland produced their own version of the car without giving him any credit for his idea or paying him a penny for his development work. In fact, Costello was never even consulted in the development of the MG version of the car.

This caused a fall-out between him and

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 23

Leyland, who instructed their dealers not to supply engines without an old unit exchange, effectively stopping Costello from acquiring engines. Undeterred, he sourced engines from Europe to continue production, which eventually dried up, and so eventually he sold the company he had founded in the late 70s. Ken went on to develop advanced five-speed gearboxes and even created his own type of fuel injection system for the Rover V8 engine. Sadly he passed away at the age of 88 in July 2015.

Having had a 1974 Damask Red MGB GT V8 for four years back in the nineties, it was a pleasant surprise to be offered the chance to rekindle my relationship with the model after an offer by MGCC Director, Dave Saunders, to try his car.

This is a pre-production rubber bumper car, one of six, and was the second rubber bumper car produced. The original paint colour was Harvest Gold but later painted Black by a previous owner. It was originally invoiced to the BL publicity department and had a British Leyland Birmingham registration number, then used for publicity photo shoots, and as a Press demonstrator.

Later it was issued with a Worcestershire registration number and despatched to a main dealer for sale. Dave purchased the car in September 1983.

Hopping into the car I found everything came back to me. Pulling the choke and turning the key brought the car to life with that familiar burble from the exhaust. Blipping the throttle gave you the sense that there was a beast waiting to be unleashed from under the bonnet. Backing it out of the Club’s garage reminded me it took a firm grip of the gear stick when finding reverse.

Out on the open road and with a grin on my face, I took to the old factory test route that was used for the V8s back in the 1970s.

These used to be quiet country roads with their unspoilt, picturesque villages, complete with country pubs and quaint churches.

But today they are rat runs to avoid using the A34 that has become more like a large car park than a major route between Winchester and Birmingham. But I was pleased to find on the day I drove the V8 it was fairly quiet, which gave me the feeling of what it was like to be a factory tester in those far-off days.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 23

24/01/2020 16:05

Dave’s car is really well sorted and felt like a new car. It still retains many of the original items that many people changed over the years. Aftermarket parts are fitted though, such as the exhaust manifold and steel exhaust system, together with a Moto-Lite steering wheel, although Dave has retained the original items. I well remember reading at the time that bored policemen, in their police-equipped GTs, would push their fingers into the round holes of the original steering wheel and get them stuck!! These were later change to elongated holes to stop this.

The power delivery is just awesome and the torque from the V8 engine is just amazing, so much so that you could almost pull away in top!! Overtaking is just a breeze; no changing down as I would have done in my standard ‘B’ – just push the accelerator down and away you go.

The standard seats have been recovered in leather, and are plush and comfortable, and I would feel happy going on a long journey in them. The ride and handling is typical MGB, doing everything well but giving you the driving experience we miss so much in modern cars. Brakes are adequate, but even with a servo fitted

24 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 24

still need a firm push, but they did pull up evenly with no pulling to one side.

Once back at the Club I took time to look round the car and am still impressed by the Dunlop composite wheels shod with wider 175 tyres, the discreet V8 badging and, inside, the impressive load area for a sports car, where with the rear seat down you have more than adequate space for the weekly shop or boxes of bric-a-brac when attending your local boot sale. The front passenger compartment has leg room that caters for the tallest of people. All the controls are laid out for easy access and this car is fitted with inertia reel seat belts and an optional Britax sun roof.

A really enjoyable experience, although I find it hard to believe that my V8 was worth around £5,000 back then, when

a similar car today will fetch between £20,000 to £35,000 dependant on condition and history. How times have changed.

MGB GT V8 Registration number DNP 229N Chassis No: GD2D1-2102G Engine: 48601832 Capacity: 3,528cc Power Output: 137bhp at 5000rpm Original Colour: Harvest Gold with black interior Commissioned: August 9 1974 Mounted: August 16 1974 Car invoiced to BL Publicity, Longbridge, Public Relations for Publicity and Press Demonstrator.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:05

FJ1825

Insurance solutions for classics and more. *

Did you know with FJ+ you can tailor your policy from a range of cover options, including; breakdown, agreed value and salvage retention?

Did you know, if you own more than one vehicle then you can ask about combining them all on one Multi Vehicle Policy.

Call our friendly UK team for a quote.

0333 207 6074

or visit: footmanjames.co.uk *All cover is subject to insurer’s terms and conditions, which are available upon request. Footman James is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No. 4043759. Registered Address: Towergate House, Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Telephone calls may be monitored or recorded. FP ADGE.1084.5.18

FJ18256 - MG Car Club MV A4.indd 2 SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 25

19/11/2018 13:46 24/01/2020 16:05

8” colour touchscreen**

8” colour touchscreen

mg.co.uk

mg.co.uk

Apple CarPlay™**

Apple CarPlay™

LED DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS

LED DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS

UP TO £1,250 DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION AND 5.9% APR REPRESENTATIVE MGmotor

MGmotor

MG3 fuel consumption: URBAN 38.9 mpg | 7.3 l/100km, EXTRA URBAN 53.8 mpg | 5.3 l/100km, COMBINED 47.1 mpg | 6.0 l/100km, CO2 Emissions: 140 g/km.

All MPG and CO2 figures quoted are sourced from official EU regulated laboratory test results. These vehicles are WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) type approved vehicles. However, in-line with Government guidance, to facilitate direct

MG3 fuel consumption: 38.9different mpg | 7.3 l/100km,and EXTRA URBAN 53.8 | 5.3 l/100km, COMBINED 47.1 | 6.0 l/100km, CO 140 g/km.

2 Emissions: comparison between differentURBAN models from manufacturers to accommodate the mpg full transition to this new testing regime, we mpg have displayed the NEDC figures.

These NEDC figures are the values for this vehicle used in all registration and taxation until further notice from the UK authorities. consumption and efficiency figures are EU provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect “real(Worldwide world” driving results. Model shown: Vehicles MG3 Exclusive with Hello Yellow paint at £12,795 onHowever, the road (OTR). prices include VAT where applicable, All MPG and CO2 Fuel figures quoted are sourced from official regulated laboratory test results.

These vehicles are WLTP Harmonised Light-Duty Test Procedure) type approved vehicles. in-lineOTR with Government guidance, to facilitatevehicle direct first registration fee, delivery, and 12 months’ Vehicleand Excise Duty. “From” price is based on OTR price £9,495regime, for MG3we Explore. £1,250 deposit contribution applies to 4figures year 5.0% APR . Representative on used Personal Purchase and is available at participating comparison between differentnumber models plates from different manufacturers to accommodate the full transition to this newoftesting have displayed the NEDC figures. These NEDC are the values for this vehicle in allContract registration and taxation until further notice from dealers until 30th November 2019. Finance by MG Financial Services CF15 7YT. Subject to satus, availability and terms and conditions. Applicants must be 19 or over.Prices are correct at time of being published and are subject to change without notice. Please see your local dealer or

the UK authorities. Fuel consumption and efficiency figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect “real world” driving results. Model shown: MG3 Exclusive with Hello Yellow paint at £12,795 on the road (OTR). OTR prices include VAT where applicable, vehicle visit MG.CO.UK for details. * Not available on Explore.

first registration fee, delivery, number plates and 12 months’ Vehicle Excise Duty. “From” price is based on OTR price of £9,495 for MG3 Explore. £1,250 deposit contribution applies to 4 year 5.0% APR . Representative on Personal Contract Purchase and is available at participating dealers until 30th November 2019. Finance by MG Financial Services CF15 7YT. Subject to satus, availability and terms and conditions. Applicants must be 19 or over.Prices are correct at time of being published and are subject to change without notice. Please see your local dealer or

visit MG.CO.UK for details. * Not available on Explore.

MG Sales Centre, Lowhill Lane. Birmingham B31 2BQ 0121 295 9282 Birmingham.mg.co.uk SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 26

24/01/2020 16:05

FEATURE

GLASGOW TO MONTE CARLO

BY MIDGET

By Ken Brown

So, you have thought about it, perhaps dreamed about going to the Monte Carlo Heritage, Classic or even the full Monte, the Historic.

So, how and when? Well, back in a pub in Edinburgh, I asked a mate of 30 years if he was up for being a co-driver, and that was how it all started.

t

m

et

g m

r

e

g

r

k

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 27

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 27

24/01/2020 16:05

Engine mated to the five speed gear box

Engine rebuild well underway

The Rebuild The summer saw a 1,000-mile tour of the Scottish Highlands and Skye in my MG Midget. It was a great tour with my eldest daughter, Charlotte – however the engine went through three litres of oil. Time for a rebuild ahead of the Monte.

After doing some research into what I wanted to do, and who I could trust, I took the car into Engine Services at Musselburgh. We agreed on a full rebuild taking it to stage two fast road, which would improve performance but meant it would still be driveable on the road.

I visited the garage each Saturday morning when the team kept me up to date with the findings. Alec, Paul and Joe kept the bits aside so I could photograph

28 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 28

them and we discussed and agreed the next steps.

The final outcome, an unleaded stage two head, the block bored out by 60thou, new pistons and rings, each piston drilled out to the lightest, the same with con rods. A new crank was required due to the damage by a thrust bearing. The crank was balanced along with the new clutch and flywheel.

The new engine would run hotter, so a larger radiator was installed and the old oil cooler was upgraded. This also removed the risk of any of the metal parts from the remains of the thrust washer found in the sump being elsewhere in the system.

With a long-term view, the decision

was also taken to replace the four-speed gear box with a five-speed unit from Frontline Developments. We installed a road fast cam and to get the best of this, along with a four-branch performance manifold, but kept a two-box exhaust pipe to minimise the noise levels.

Next came a few challenges. As the compression had increased from 120 to 150psi the existing starter had to be upgraded to a high-torque starter, the fuel pump was changed over to an electric pump with a regulator, onto the carbs, although they had appeared fine when in the original setup. The old seals and wax stats were leaking, so were replaced. Then finally, the old distributer, with a 20-yearold electronic Parana conversion kit, was changed for a new all-in 123 unit.

Next stage a final balance and tune.

Now only two weeks away from the Monte, I needed to run the engine in with the breaking-in oil. 550 miles were covered going up and down the box, going up and down hills to Oban and back, as well as a few other places. The difference was brilliant. The engine just wanted to keep on pulling uphill.

The five-speed box was great. Before at 3000rpm was a speed of 50mph and now with the fifth gear was 64mph.

I took the car back to the garage on the Sunday night to let Joe finish off the checks and for an oil change.

In the meantime, I had met with the Scottish chaps to organise the Scottish start of the Monte Carlo. Both Douglas

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:06

New clutch, carbs and stage two head on the engine

Anderson and Craig McGibbon were enthusiastic about my interest in the event and extremely welcoming and helpful.

Craig passed on an invaluable list of prepping, spares, and accommodation at various locations.

There was a list of questions.

We covered dates, locations and accommodation. In short, there are three elements: • A Heritage run starting in John o’ Groats, Aberdeen and Glasgow running to Dumfries.

• The Classic, starting in Glasgow going to Monte Carlo, via a few check points, including an overnight stage starting in Reims and going to Valance.

• The Full Monte, starting from different countries. In the UK, the sendoffs from Glasgow, then Banbury, and Reims which is the start of 14 stages over three days finishing in Monte Carlo. There were several requirements for both cars and crew to qualify, and entry is always oversubscribed. More info available from www.monte.scot As time passed towards the deadlines for entry, and the work on the car continued, the only option was that we would follow and continue with the cars all the way to Monaco. Douglas was delighted and offered for us to run as car zero, going first over the ramp to lead the team on the route to the Auld Girth Pub in Dumfries.

The weekend before, the final prep consisted of: fitting the hard top, replacing

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 29

THE SPARES WERE PACKED, USING ALL THE SPACE POSSIBLE IN THE BOOT (IT’S QUITE AMAZING WHAT CAN BE ACHIEVED).

THIS ALLOWED FOR A SMALL WATERPROOF BAG OF CLOTHES ON THE BOOT RACK, AND A SMALL PERSONAL BAG BEHIND THE SEATS the rear brakes, adjusting the handbrake, and oiling and greasing all the relevant areas. The front suspension checked and greased, any loose cables tied back, the four additional driving spots attached and aligned. A practice fitting with the snow chains was a bit of a test. The spares were packed, using all the space possible in the boot (it’s quite amazing what can be achieved). This allowed for a small waterproof bag of clothes on the boot rack, and a small personal bag behind the seats. There was no room for our black-tie kilt outfits so we had these sent ahead by courier straight to the hotel. A good move!

Weighing the con rods

Finally, the mandatory stickers that had been ordered were attached to the car.

I was aware the car might be difficult to see at night, so I applied some red reflective tape on the back bumper and two white reflective strips on the hard-top roof. Finally, a set of mud flaps were added front and rear.

On the Wednesday morning, after a few final tweaks, it was time to go.

Piston drilled to make it as light as possible

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 29

24/01/2020 16:06

JUST BEFORE THE COUNTDOWN BRIAN CAME WITH A MICROPHONE TO HAVE A CHAT. AS HE KNELT DOWN AND RESTED HIS ARM ON THE WING MIRROR IT FELL OFF, THE CROWD LAUGHED AND SAID “DO YOU THINK YOU’LL MAKE MONTE CARLO?”

Fixing a new mirror to the Midget in Banbury

The event.

My mate Paul arrived. We quickly packed his gear and set off for Glasgow, but after five miles the rear tyres needed more air as they were wallowing. We reset these at 35psi and by the time we were at Glasgow 40 psi, which was much better.

A redistribution of some tools in the passenger foot well also made a difference.

The start was located at Clydebank, at John Brown’s shipyard on the spot where many famous ships were launched. My grandfather worked there for a short time, and this is when my father was born – his name was also John Brown.

John Murphy, the skipper of the yacht I sail on, came through to send us off, with one of the biggest boxes of chocolate I’ve seen; we forgot how limited the space was inside when, a few days later, we tried to open them!

We attended the briefing, added the final stickers to the car, and headed for the ramp to set off at the front of the 80 cars that had assembled. What an honour.

Just before the countdown Brian came with a microphone to have a chat. As he knelt down and rested his arm on the wing mirror it fell off, the crowd laughed and said “Do you think you’ll make Monte Carlo?”

On the road, map in hand

30 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 30

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:06

SC20 C

JOIN US FOR THE CLASSIC’S 30TH ANNIVERSARY

www.silverstoneclassic.com Our club’s exclusive Car Club Display Package code is:

2020CCD075

SC20 CCAdvert A4 V3.indd 1 SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 31

11/12/2019 09:43 24/01/2020 16:06

We drove off the ramp, the crowds clapping, cameras flashing. Paul was navigating: hand maps, gps, and a phone map to see the best routes though the city to avoid heavy traffic.

Several cars tooted their horns as we passed them. With the car badged up, wow, we were heading to Monte Carlo, only 1,500 testing miles to go.

Once on the A roads, the spotlights made a big difference to seeing the road.

It wasn’t long before a few of the faster cars caught us up and passed, but we were in it for the long haul.

After a lovely reception we were in and out of the first check point very quickly.

This was the end of the journey for some who had travelled from John o’Groats.

We continued on to Dumfries and then Penrith for the second fuel stop of the day.

Paul took over driving and we crossed the A66 and met up with a couple of work colleagues in their 20-year-old SLK, who were going as far as Reims. We carried on to the stop for the night at Barneby Moor.

At 1.30am a bite to eat, a pint and it was lights out.

The next morning the crowds waved us on our way as we headed for Banbury.

After a quick fuel stop we headed down the A1. This was where the wing mirror

just fell off the driver’s side! The next minute of conversation was surreal – Paul took on the challenge to find another mirror en route. An hour later we dropped into an Austin Healey garage; with mirror in hand we headed to Banbury.

The reception on arrival was brilliant.

We parked up, quickly had some tea and sandwiches that had been kindly laid on and returned to the car to fit the mirror.

Nothing was straightforward, but in half an hour the door was stripped, the bolt on the new mirror cut down in length as it fouled window. All back together, off we went, heading for the ferry at Dover.

The forecast was snow so we went for it, arriving with three minutes to spare, to the relief of those we had arranged to meet at 5.00pm.

Once in Calais, and remembering to drive on the right, we found the night’s accommodation, parked up and changed.

We met the boys downstairs for a pint, then went out into the old town, had a meal and a drink. As we left and headed to bed, we found two inches of snow had fallen, and this was on the coast.

However, by next morning it had melted and we decided to go and get the front wheels rebalanced at a garage. All I can say is that the French use a different

The Midget with a friends 20-yearold SLK

32 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 32

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:07

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 33

24/01/2020 16:07

term. It’s fun trying to explain when they don’t use the term rebalance, but with a few hand signals we got there, and the front wheels were done.

We rendezvoused at the check point garage, on a very compacted, snowy forecourt. We were now getting it, great comradeship. So off we headed to Reims. Craig warned it was a bit of a circus atmosphere. As we arrived, we were ushered into the main square even though we were only following, but lost in translation, we parked up below the magnificent Cathedral.

As the afternoon continued, car after car appeared. I believe 350, classics, all prepared and ready. The crowds were poring over the cars, cameras snapping away, some asking if we had just come from Glasgow in disbelief.

We watched the majority of the cars head off before returning to the Midget.

As we tried to move the heras fencing, an armed officer with a sub-machine gun insisted we went over the ramp, so we did not argue. The rain was pouring, the crowds cheering as we were in the only MG Midget and they loved it, cameras flashing, us up on the big screen. Down the ramp and off we went. I had to back

34 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 34

off the throttle as the rear slid just a bit too much on the wet cobbles, which entertained the crowd.

That night we talked and debriefed about the day over a few pints, as the rest of the cars drove through the night to Valance. Next morning we were up and headed off to Valance, too. The fifth gear made a big difference to fuel economy on the motorway, as well as reducing engine noise. As we passed the trucks the wheels seemed massive and much taller than the car, but with lights on and high viz strips we kept a good eye on other vehicles.

On several occasions’ cars passed, slowing down, drawing level and then camera phones would flash, then a wave as they sped off again.

As we headed for the centre of Valance, we noticed several groups of policemen at junctions. Little did we know at this point that they were there due to the fuel price protesters with yellow vests. On reaching our accommodation, adjacent shops were being boarded up.

We enquired about secure parking, but this was an extra 15 euros – a no-brainer.

We paid and got the car into a very secure car park below. Our next challenge was finding somewhere to eat as everywhere was closing. But as you can guess, two lads from Scotland took on the challenge.

We found a pub, good start, with just four of us including the barman. We had a couple of local beers and enquired about food. No chance, the chef had already gone before the trouble started.

We eventually found a nice hotel which was surprisingly serving food.

We joined in with a support crew in the lounge bar and learned more about the event. Some competitors had been in the hills practising in the previous weeks. The event is always oversubscribed, with the repeat entries having first option.

We headed back to our accommodation, avoiding the protesters, as all the cars from the event were safely parked in a football stadium.

The following morning, the big day: up into the Alps 1,200m, and down into Monte Carlo.

We fuelled up again, and as we headed out of the city, we saw the roundabouts with protesters and fires burning old pallets to keep them warm.

The roads were great and clear, with the snow-capped mountains ahead. We played some music and discussed the option of routes. As we climbed, the satnav showed the hairpins ahead. The engine was pulling well. Although the roads had been cleared, the snow lay on the verges, not a place to go off as the drop offs were very, very big. With just over 100 miles to go, a

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:07

noise started developing from the nearside wheel bearing. The noise became more prevalent with every hairpin bend.

What could we do? We backed off on the speed, changed the route to a straighter road, and carried on, determined to make Monto Carlo. We’d review how to sort the problem without a spare bearing then.

As we descended into Monte Carlo the temperature was getting warmer, from minus to plus 17°C. We certainly noticed the difference. We were almost there. A young lad was staring at us as we passed a Ferrari, which made me laugh. As we reached the sea front we were ushered in, and met Douglas. We went up onto the ramp, got out and got the photo.

Yes, we had done it. What an achievement!

I felt for Douglas, however. He had organised so much of this trip, but he had problems with his car and did not enter.

He travelled by train. I asked if he wanted to drive the Midget and park it for the night – he did not need to be asked twice.

It was time for a plan. We had three nights and two days in Monte Carlo. We contacted our mate Murray in Scotland

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 35

and he was able to source and post out a wheel bearing. We headed off to the hotel, to collect our suitcase with our kilts which had been sent ahead.

What a hotel. Situated on the S-bends of the F1 route through the town – yep we were in the Fairmont. I can understand the surprise of the beautiful and immaculately dressed receptionist when we booked in – well, I looked like Uncle Buck and Paul like an SAS major.

One hour later, with shirts ironed, kilts and dinner jackets on (Paul had no studs for his shirt, so we used spare cuff links) we headed off to the bar. As we passed reception, the receptionist took a second look and smiled; yes, I think we brushed up well. We smiled waved back. To the bar.

As we walked into the bar area, and scanned the beers available, we received a round of applause. We turned, smiled, then ordered a couple of cold beers. By the time we had had a couple, we were joined by the other drivers from Scotland

and we headed to the Monte Carlo Automobile Club, a place you cannot enter unless you’re a member, or in our case, guests of Douglas.

We walked through the grand entrance, passing photos on the walls of great cars from previous decades, cabinets with trophies and medals, a pianist in the corner and were handed a glass of champagne from the waiters, who never let my glass run dry. A fantastic evening, the food was first class. There may have been 40 people there, but it was never too loud.

I even managed a large malt at the bar.

The next day we moved to our more affordable accommodation and went sightseeing as the wheel bearing was not due for 36 hours. We walked around taking in the sights and views just as in GoldenEye, but as it was 17°C we were in t- shirts, unlike the locals who were wearing jackets, hats and scarves. It’s a beautiful place. During these two days the speed trials took place in the mountains.

Rally entrants assemble by the Harbor in Monte Carlo

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 35

24/01/2020 16:07

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 36

24/01/2020 16:07

In good company in Monte Carlo

We had planned to watch but did not want to risk damage to the car.

The bearing arrived the following afternoon. In the front car park of the bay with crowds gathering, we jacked the car up, stripped the hub out and replaced the bearing, twice until we were satisfied.

That afternoon the other 350 cars arrived, ready for the final night stage.

We returned in the evening along with the crowds to watch the cars heading off, each getting a send-off going over the ramp. By next morning they had returned, and the champagne flowed, the empty bottles left on top of each car.

We now had three days to reach the ferry at Amsterdam, so we did it in style.

We drove up into Italy, travelling over some massive bridges and tunnels and headed for Switzerland. Breathtaking scenery, snow-capped mountains, and 16Km-long tunnels. Paul had booked the accommodation – a great deal in a Chateau up on a hill, Castle Hotel Gutsch in Lucerne. As we arrived we were driving on fumes, the trees were laden with snow and ice. I’m thinking “this is fantastic”. We headed to reception to book in, only to find the great rate we had booked was the right day but the following month! Memo: do not book hotels when lying in bed after drinking. So, we paid full price for another room. The view from the bar was fantastic,

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 37

especially for writing a great review in order to obtain the few drinks.

The next day just before heading off, we met an Asian man on holiday with his extended family. He had seen the car and wanted to sit in it. It made his day, even though not a word of English was spoken.

We poured the spare gallon of fuel into the tank and headed for Germany, stopping at the next fuel station.

The car was running well, apart from in the towns where the carbs seem to be suffering from heat evaporation, and the wheel bearing was holding up. The next night’s accommodation was booked on the go and for the correct night in Cologne at a Holiday Inn. We walked into the town to try the local beers. After a few we ended up in an Irish bar. The young barmaid spoke excellent English, the Guinness was good, and we were able to suggest some songs to play, a great night.

The following morning in the rain, we headed off to the flat lands of Holland.

The satnav at one point indicated almost 10m below sea level. We arrived at the port in the wind and rain – the wind was really strong. Paul said this was known as the party boat as there was a nightclub on the upper deck. Really!

As we headed out of the harbour the wind was force seven and getting stronger.

I knew from several passages sailing over

the North Sea in a yacht what lay ahead.

I caught up with Paul in the bar and he said it would be fine in a couple of hours once we were in the lee of the land.

I said, trust me, there will be no shelter until we arrive in Newcastle. As soon as the restaurant opened, we joined in the stampede. Once seated it was a buffet, eat all you want. We had not eaten since breakfast. However Paul started struggling with his main course as the ship rolled from side to side and banged into the waves. As I started my third different main course Paul was struggling with sea sickness. I suggested he go and lie down on his bunk and sleep (one of the best ways of avoiding sea sickness). Before he left, I said in less than one hour this place will be empty, and nobody will be in the nightclub. How right I was!

I looked in on him later. He was sound asleep, so I decided an early night would be good.

Then next morning, as we came into Newcastle, the wind was still strong, and in the daylight the spray could be seen blowing off the waves. As soon as we berthed, we headed north and in just over two hours were back in Edinburgh. Almost 3,000 miles round trip.

What an adventure, a great time shared with a great mate. Will I do it again? Watch me.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 37

24/01/2020 16:07

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 38

24/01/2020 16:07

FEATURE George Eyston on the Brooklands banking in an R Type

FROM FIRST PRINCIPLE

By Laurence Pomeroy Junr.

Tracing the History and Reviewing the Salient Features of the R Midget, reprinted from a 1935 issue of The Sports Car Magazine.

A

lways to excel and to be superior to others,” wrote Homer some 3,000 years ago, yet these words might well be considered the inspiration of the MG racing policy which has resulted in the production of a brilliant new design called the R Type Midget.

Before proceeding to a description of the leading features of this new design, it would, I think, be as well to explain that all MG cars designed for racing purposes have to be produced on a commercial basis, that is to say, made in a certain minimum quantity and sold at a price which will at least cover their design and construction.

From this policy follow certain important consequences, notably: 1. The design must be reasonably easy to produce, and involve no highly expensive alloys or machining methods which would

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 39

raise the price to a point where the car was no longer saleable.

2. The car must be reliable in the hands of the racing private owner, and it must also be possible for him to drive the car safely at its maximum speed.

3. The amount of money spent initially on the designs and development work must be quite small.

The number of purchasers for this type of car is necessarily limited, and even £1,000 spent on experiment amounts to £100 a car when ten are built.

Bearing in mind that the cost of producing a new model car in America is usually reckoned at a minimum figure of £200,000, that the latest German racing cars are estimated to cost £7,000 to £8,000 each, and that as far ago as 1914 it was considered impossible to produce

a racing car for under £2,500, it might be thought that the conditions governing the MG cars were such as to make a competitive design of pure racing car almost impossible.

History, however, has proved this to be far from so, and in respect of our reputation in international competitions the British industry is, I think, very deeply indebted to the brilliant work of the MG designers, who have made superlative bricks with but little straw when compared with their Continental rivals.

With this in mind, we shall be able to appreciate the magnitude of the task confronting the MG engineers when they set about producing the latest R Type car.

One might indeed reasonably ask why, in view of their convincing superiority in Class H in 1934, they should have departed so far from the orthodox.

The reason is that the general layout of the previous types was designed in 1932 when the 750cc engines were producing about 55 hp, giving a top speed FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 39

24/01/2020 16:07

FOR 1934, EXPERIMENTS WERE MADE TO SEE IF THE ENGINE WOULD OPERATE SATISFACTORILY IN CONJUNCTION WITH MUCH HIGHER SUPERCHARGE PRESSURES THAN HAD BEEN USED ON ANY ENGINE PREVIOUSLY.

The R Type chassis was a complete breakaway from the previous MG design

in road-racing trim of about 94-96 mph.

In 1933 the hp was increased to around 75 by raising the supercharge pressure to 18 lbs per sq inch, which, at that time, represented the peak of supercharger efficiency. The rise in speed corresponding with this made it apparent that the general layout was not quite equal to the power which could be developed by the engine, but, as is common knowledge, numerous successes were gained by these cars during the year, both at home and abroad.

Blowing 28 lbs For 1934, experiments were made to see if the engine would operate satisfactorily in conjunction with much higher supercharge pressures than had been used on any engine previously. This became possible by virtue of the rapid strides which had been made in supercharger design. A three-bearing crankshaft was employed, and the engine surpassed the most sanguine expectations of all concerned by producing well over 110 hp with 28 lbs supercharge pressure, representing at one fell swoop an increase of 40 per cent. on the previous year’s engine.

40 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 40

Such an astonishing increment in hp made it evident that the cars would be very much faster than any road racing 750cc hitherto made, and, to cope with this, a new and larger chassis was built for the Q model car, as it came to be called.

These cars were widely raced in 1934, and achieved some striking successes at Donington, Brooklands and elsewhere, where they established themselves as being on a par with very much larger cars from the viewpoint of both maximum speed and acceleration.

During 1934, however, we saw a clear demonstration of the superiority of cars with independent suspension, it being particularly noticeable that they obtained a much better wheel grip than their conventionally-sprung rivals, and were thus able to use full throttle from low speeds without wheel spin on surfaces where such a procedure had previously been impossible. This was obviously a most valuable characteristic for cars with very high hp in relation to their size and weight, of which the Q Type was an outstanding example.

The designing staff at the MG works, therefore, set about a most exhaustive survey of the possibilities of independent suspension, including a thorough mathematical analysis of all the problems involved, and the making of many models in which the behaviour of the car under various conditions could be closely studied.

As a result of these studies, they concluded that independent suspension was a most valuable feature for racing cars, but that it must be applied to all four wheels where existing methods of application left a great deal to be desired.

Once having established the value of the principle, its adoption was inevitable, and a tremendous amount of work was put into the design of a system which avoided the disabilities present in other motorcars, the final design well exemplifying, in the words of Lord Fisher, that “No difficulty baffles great zeal.”

Such is the lineage, and such the considerations which have resulted in the R Type.

Some readers will know that the foundation of the chassis is a member which is forked at the front to hold the power unit, which, with its Wilson gearbox and Zoller compressor, is substantially similar to the Q type.

Engine Changes Internally, the main alteration consists of the use of stiffer connecting rods, apart from which the engine as a whole bears a resemblance to the ordinary P type. This is almost unbelievable when one realises the enormous hp which is extracted from it. www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:07

A bit of fettling by George Eyston before taking to the track

It will be noted that the part of the frame which is not tubular is box section, the whole being electrically welded and providing a form which is about eight times as stiff as anything previously used, and over 50 lbs lighter.

A great deal has been written in the weekly press about the use of torsion bars for the front and rear springing, and I think this principle is well known to most people on account of it having been used now for some little time by the Citroen Company, and demonstrated by them at the 1934 Olympia Show.

It is in the detail layout of the connecting links between the wheels and the torsion bars where the ingenuity and care in design are evident. It would, I fear, almost be necessary to write a book on the lines of Euclid to describe thoroughly the precise reasons for the layout adopted, but what, within the limits of this article, I am www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 41

THE DESIGN OF THESE R TYPE MG RACING CARS DEPARTS SO RADICALLY FROM ACCEPTED PRACTICE FOR ROAD AND TRACK WORK THAT THEY MUST BE CONSIDERED AS BEING SOMETHING THAT IS ENTIRELY NEW AND FRESH. able to do is to call attention to the rigidity of the whole structure.

It will be seen that at the front end of the car there are triangular members, and these are so laid out that the front wheels move up and down without any variations in track, with extremely low stresses from brake torque effects, and with a complete appreciation of the steering problems involved both when operating under conditions of hard braking and on rough surfaces.

The steering gear in itself is not less ingenious than the rest of the construction, consisting as it does of a

Bishop layout with two cams and rocker arms geared together in such a manner that any kick from the wheels is not transmitted through the gear. Each cam and rocker arm works an individual pushand-pull rod going to each front wheel.

Rear Suspension At the back end of the car it will be noticed that not only are there triangulated members to guide the wheels in their up and down motion, but also that there are special steel arms to hold the wheels perfectly steady and parallel to themselves and to the frame.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 41

24/01/2020 16:07

Doreen Evans having fun in a Bellevue Garage R Type

The whole of these layouts have been designed so that under the worst possible conditions a wheel will break or bend without damage to the link structures, whilst as a consequence of the very large reduction in unsprung weight it has been found possible to almost completely eliminate friction from the springing, since the torsion bars, which constitute the main springs, have, of course, no friction, and the shock absorbers are of the hydraulic type.

It is consequently reasonable to expect that the car will combine steadiness at full

speed with a degree of comfort far above present racing car standards.

This, of course, is all to the good, because, with the single-seater bodies provided, maximum speeds in the region of 130 mph will probably be obtained.

Moreover, as stated before, by reason of the MG policy the cars are designed for use at this speed by ordinary men, and not solely under the guidance of super-drivers and ex-motorcycle riders whose powers of endurance, and judgment in knowing which way a thing is going to jump next, are so much above the average.

A Classic Type Mr. H N Charles, BSc, head of the Technical Department of the MG Car Company, Ltd, in a paper read before the I.A.E., stated that previous MG racing cars did not constitute classic types of design such as were exemplified by such cars as Peugeot, Sunbeam, Mercedes, and so on. No longer would such a statement be admissible without manifestly false modesty, for the design of these R type MG racing cars departs so radically from accepted practice for road and track work that they must be considered as being something that is entirely new and fresh.

We may admit that Byron was justified in asking: “What is the end of fame? ’Tis but to fill a certain portion of uncertain paper,” but one feels that these cars will not be valued solely by any fame they may achieve in competition successes.

They will also, I believe, in due course be looked upon as the prototype of a new type of motor car, and one which, I am sure, will not only sustain, but also enhance, the prestige both of the MG Car Company and of England.

Kenneth Evans at the wheel of his R Type during the BRDC British Empire Trophy Race

42 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 42

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:34

20-23/FEB/2020

SPECIAL OFFER FOR CLUB MEMBERS

THE CAPITAL’S PREMIER CLASSIC CAR SHOW COMES TO OLYMPIA, LONDON Over 500 cars on display and to purchase • Legendary Car Stories retold by motoring heroes • Tribute collections to mark 40 years of the Audi Quattro and 50 years of Range Rover

Tickets now available from thelondonclassiccarshow.co.uk USE CODE ‘CLUB’ WHEN BOOKING TO SAVE £5.00* ON YOUR ADULT ENTRY TICKET

  

Stay up to date with the latest news *Offer only valid on Standard Adult Tickets until 19th February 2020

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 43

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 43

24/01/2020 16:07

NEWSLETTER

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

WELCOME TO THE

TRIPLE M NEWSLETTER RA0257 seen at the 2017 Michaelskreuzrennen in Switzerland with Christian Berthold behind the wheel. Photo: Daniel Reinhard

CAR OF THE MONTH Now well into the 2020s, are you all doing a good job of making them ‘roaring’ so far? The Car of the Month might help in that respect as it’s the R-type’s turn. Which, incidentally, was introduced 85 years ago this year. Roaring indeed! Only ten were made back in 1935 with their chassis numbers running from RA0251 to RA0260. Not only was I fortunate enough to see one being raced in anger a couple of years ago, I was also granted a peek at three of them being rebuilt consecutively in a bunkertype basement somewhere in some woods. An incredible sight I will not soon forget, believe you me! The owner clearly believes in omne trium perfectum as did one of our former treasurers and my predecessor as Registrar for the R-types, Bob Milton. Bob owned three of them at the same time back in the late 1950s

44 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 44

and early ‘60s, which he wrote about in the Register’s 2010 and 2011 yearbooks. Yet another three are reportedly with one UKbased family. Wouldn’t it be nice if we were to see three of them being raced together again one of these days? Wishful thinking, I’m afraid, since none of them are currently being used for actual competition. One of the exceptions is Christian Berthold who took over custody of RA0257 from Gerhard Meier a few years ago and who takes part in the occasional Swiss hill climb. Although not of the ‘racing licence needed’ type, these events do provide great fun to driver and spectator alike, regardless.

Anyway, above is a pic to liven up the Car of the Month and, as always, do read up on all things R-type on our website under Model Profiles.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:08

NEWSLETTER ALL THINGS Q Roll back the alphabet, as promised last month, and we’ve returned to the Q-type for this month’s elaboration. With Triple-M Racing having taken flight in the past five or six years with full grids of 20 to 25 ‘regulars’ racing at least a few times a year, both with the MGCC and with the VSCC, it naturally follows that some very special cars are resurfacing and entering the field.

The coming season should see the return of at least one Q-type to the track, if not two or even three!

Before I reveal too much, here’s a very promising bit by Richard Powell, brand new custodian of QA0254: “For the past five years I have organised a speed trial for pre-war cars, and I had always dreamt of owning such a machine with racing history. Visiting Montlhéry in Paris in the spring of 2019, I could not help but notice QA0254 in amongst the French autojumble, looking a little bit neglected but very appealing all the same. On my return, a friend gave me the tip-off that the car had been placed in his care to prepare for sale as it had failed to attract serious interest in Paris. I wasted no time in travelling down to see the car again. Here before me was a car not only with race history, but with the added charisma of a 1930s motorina driver.

Coincidentally when researching the speed trial history, Doreen Evans’ name had appeared more than once. I agreed to buy the car in August and it was lovely to have the opportunity to display the car at the Grimsthorpe Speed Trial later that month.

I am passionate to discover as much about the history of the car as I can and although there is much published of the early years of its campaigning with Doreen and her brother Kenneth, the later history becomes more hazy.

In 1935, the July 1934-built car, the fourth Q-type chassis out of eight, was bestowed with a brand new single-seater body by the race tuner engineer Wilkie Wilkinson who worked for Bellevue Garage, the Evans Family’s own company.

This Q-type raced by Kenneth and Doreen proved very competitive, but in

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 45

1935 two new R-types were brought into the stable with which it was to share honours all through the year. The records show that in 1936, QA0254 was being raced by one Roger Hanson in the Nuffield Trophy at Donington, amongst other events at Brooklands, Southsea and even in Ireland. H. Stuart Wilson was the next driver to take on the car, racing it at Brooklands, Crystal Palace and in multiple speed trials in 1937.

After the war, the car appeared again at the Brighton Speed Trials in 1947. The car was adapted for its new owner, Mr Jim Lafone, who was a disabled ex-fighter pilot.

He campaigned the car up to the end of 1950 in all sorts of speed trials and sprints.

The car then reappeared in radically modified form in 1955 in the ownership of A.T. (Tom) Norton who actively took it hill climbing. Tom had fitted a 6,124cc Gypsy Major aero engine in which guise it became known as the De Havilland A.T.N. The original engine and Zoller supercharger had been removed at an earlier stage and sold on to be incorporated into a Lotus Mark VI, apparently.

The engine modification, although fast, made it difficult to handle and the car minus its dumb irons at this point (which it lost when the independent front suspension of a Morris Minor was fitted in 1956) is believed to have been broken for spares and was sold to Colin Clifford, a well-known specials builder and Riley specialist. The rear boat tail allegedly ended up on the GN Wasp which is still a regular in VSCC races today.

Inspired by the iconic Brooklands photograph of Doreen Evans in the car, Tom Dark embarked on making a faithful copy in 2005. He was obviously delighted when – as a result of the attention the car received – the original chassis turned up which had, at the time, been sold by Colin in a batch of Riley spares to Mr Julian Majzub, founder of the Blockley Tyre Company.

The original chassis and bonnet and many other original Q-type parts were incorporated into the car that was raced at Goodwood in 2007.

After a Zoller supercharger failure, the car languished in Tom’s workshop to be spotted and purchased by Steve

QA0251 at Brooklands when in the ownership of Dudley Froy

Richardson from whom I bought the car.

The engine is currently being treated to a rebuild and as metalwork is my profession, some cosmetic tweaks to the non-original body are being undertaken to get as close as I can to the original car.

QA0254, a very distinctive Q-type, has had a colourful past in various forms, but I am passionate to ensure that what survives of this historic car will be doing what it was conceived for. I have recently taken delivery of a new Marshall supercharger, which will get the car back on the track, but perhaps an original Zoller may be added in the future, when I have had a little more experience of the car.

For 2020 I would like to feel my way with hill climbs and speed trials before I commit to wheel-to-wheel racing.

To quote Keats, ‘a thing of beauty is a joy forever’ and the more I learn, the greater my pride in being the custodian of such a great car.”

And there’s more! While Richard is prepping QA0254 to go sprinting, QA0255 is currently being rebuilt after its unfortunate accident at Donington almost two years ago and has received a fresh coat of green paint, the colour it carried when it was supplied new to Eddie Hall.

I’m not sure if ‘DST’ (as the car is fondly

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 45

24/01/2020 16:08

NEWSLETTER QUARTERLY QUIZ

QA0251 as it appeared a while back; a glimpse of things to come. Photo: Brooklands Museum

called, for its later owner, Dorothy Stanley Turner) will be taking to the track again, but here’s hoping anyway! Incidentally, this is the machine which featured in last month’s scribbles with bonus points being awarded to those who knew which car it was. The first to come up with the answer was Anthony Littlejohn, one of its former custodians. He emailed the following which I found very interesting: “In 1934, the car was supplied to Eddie Hall, but he didn’t keep it for very long; by 1935 it was with Robin Jackson, at Brooklands, and presumably for sale. I don’t think we know why Eddie Hall sold it on, but I hazard a guess: he was a fairly big man and would have struggled to fit in it comfortably.

When I owned it, I had exactly that problem and didn’t use the car very much.

Dorothy Stanley Turner, who was slim and petite judging from the photos, purchased the car in 1937 and the photo published in January’s notes is her driving it, I think at Brooklands, but cannot be certain. I have many of her race programmes, but cannot identify that she raced under 31, if that is the number, nor as number 1 or 51. Up until September 24 1938 (the First Dunlop Jubilee Trophy Race at Brooklands), the car was running white with silver wheels. For the First October Road Handicap at Brooklands on October 15 1938, the car was white with black wheels as it appears in the picture.

So, assuming it is Dorothy, she is wearing light blue cotton overalls and her trademark scarf which she always wore, but, and here again I am confused: In the photo the driver appears to be wearing a soft helmet and goggles. In all the photos 46 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 46

I have of Dorothy racing, she is wearing a hard hat with a distinctive brim and visor. So, possibly not her driving! Many years ago, I had the opportunity to acquire her racing overalls etc. Though I did not buy them, I recall them well.

Dorothy owned the car until after the last race meeting at Brooklands on August 7 1939, where she won the first mountain race at an average of 66.2 mph, 14.8 seconds ahead of Aitken in the 2.9 litre Alpha-Aitken which I believe was fitted with one of the engines from the Bimotore Alfa. Not bad for 747cc!

It is interesting that Dorothy lodged a protest at 4.45pm that day about an incident which occurred in the third race which finished at 2.00pm. The stewards decided that they could not hear the protest as it was out of time and they ordered the protest money be returned.

The paper is signed by Algernon Guinness, Lionel Martin and George Eyston. I wonder what had happened?”

Last but not least, there’s QA0251.

All through 1934, this car was extensively raced by W.G. (Bill) Everitt, but it wasn’t until it ended up with Dudley Froy halfway through 1935 that it acquired its distinctive high-tailed single-seater body which is currently being recreated by the same family that has owned this special bit of motoring history since 1963. Every now and then you can get a glimpse of the car, either when it turns up at Brooklands in a part-finished state or in the NAMMMR newsletter for instance, warming us to things to come as the son intends to race it. Fingers crossed this is the year!

Onwards to more humble yet just as worthy and wonderful cars. I owe you the answers of October’s Quarterly Quiz.

Photo 1 is J2174, Peter Yonge’s J2. Back in 1937, his uncle bought the car in the UK on behalf of his brother (Peter’s father) and had it shipped to New Zealand. Having grown up with fond stories of his Dad’s J2, Peter developed a dream to one day own such a car himself and when the remains of his Dad’s actual old car came up for sale in 2012, there really was no question of not buying it. It is since being restored in New Zealand, though Peter himself is Norfolk-based and so the process is a sometimes frustratingly slow one.

There’s a pal of Peter’s Dad in the driver’s seat in the October picture.

The next photo was of PA1197, a PA then. Joop Silvius, a family friend, went over to France back in the 1970s to check it out and see if he could buy it.

He didn’t, I’m sorry to say, and the car is still in France, hopefully having received some TLC since.

The third picture showed a beautiful L1, L0265, photographed in the Netherlands in 1972. The car is still right here in my country, being loved.

All six (yay!) people who took the trouble of submitting their answers were correct and so all their names went in to the head and out came David Shattock, long-term PA owner. The lapel badge is on its way to you, David, and thank you all (ha!) for entering!

Another beachy view of J2174, top photo car in the October quiz www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:08

NEWSLETTER

A close-up of the dilapidated PA1197 in France, middle photo car in the October quiz.

For your new assignment, I’d just like to hear what model is depicted, please, although there’s no need to hold back if you know more.

See you at the Stoneleigh show on February 9!

The tail end October’s boof L0265, ttom photo car.

Quarterly Quiz - Name that model! www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 47

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 47

24/01/2020 16:08

1959 MGA COUPE 1500

This Californian market car was repatriated in 1990 and converted to right-hand drive with the added benefit a stainless steel fuel tank. In 2010 it was given a refresh that included a new radiator, exhaust and an unleaded head

+44 (0)1242 384092 : GLOUCESTERSHIRE, GL7 5NX : INFO@CLASSICMOTORHUB.COM : WWW.CLASSICMOTORHUB.COM

SALES : STORAGE : TRANSPORT : EVENTS : DETAILING : SHOP

1935 MG PA (SUPERCHARGED) Delivered new to Brazil, this fabulous car was to remain with the same family for over 40 years The subject of a recent restoration impeccably finished and ready for the coming concourse season

SafetyFast_Feb2020_3-48.indd 48

24/01/2020 16:08

Chris Hale c.hale1962@btinternet.com www.midgetregister.com

NEWSLETTER

WELCOME TO THE

MIDGET NEWSLETTER We are now into 2020 and the more eagle-eyed of you will have noticed a change of scribe for the Midget Register!

I will try to follow in previous scribe Mike Parker’s footsteps.

UP AND COMING

First a few dates for your diary.

February 9 – The MG and Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh.

The Register will have a stand at this season opener. As usual, we aim to have one or two cars of interest on the stand.

Please come along and say hello.

Sunday March 8 – Register’s AGM at Kimber House, details in last month’s Safety Fast! We are always on the lookout for new ideas and ways to provide more Midget-related fun for you to enjoy, and it would be great to see and chat with more of you so please pop along on the day if

you can. You can always email me any thoughts or ideas if you can’t make it!

MGLive! on June 13-14 (provisional dates) September 6 – Register Road Run – location tbc Looking further ahead, the Midget will be celebrating its 60th birthday in 2021.

The Register is looking to mark this historic milestone so please look out for further details over the coming months.

A great way to keep up to date is to subscribe to the Register’s digital newsletter which has all the latest events and information on Register activities. You can sign up at www.midgetregister.com The Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge is set for another exciting season of highly competitive racing at some of the best racing circuits in the UK. The championship has been running since 1977 and is the place for racing Spridgets.

If you fancy having a go at racing in the championship contact Race Coordinator Mike Parker 01235 525255 mikeparker78@btinternet.com or Secretary Gil Duffy 01886 880882 – 07977 554087 – gilduffy@supanet.com The race calendar is being finalised and will be published shortly.

Do come along and support the championship to see all the thrills and spills of close, competitive, racing.

The Midget Register Stand at Stoneleigh 2019

Midgets and Bs gather at MGLive! 2018 Photo: Matt Woods

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 49

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 49

24/01/2020 16:14

NEWSLETTER NEXT GENERATION RACERS Barney Collinson Barney’s father John has been competing in the Midget and Sprite challenge for the past 13 years, and prior to that sprinting and hillclimbing an MG Midget and MGB. “For as long as I can remember I have been going with dad to race meetings and I suppose it was inevitable that I would end up in an MG Midget from my first race,” said Barney.

Faced with a choice of either going on a rugby trip with the school to Hong Kong and Australia or going racing, Barney chose the latter. The car was sourced and in true ‘dads and lads’ fashion Barney, along with dad John, turned a Midget they bought into a race car during the early part of the summer.

“The cars are quite easy to maintain and not full of electronics like modern cars, which means that they are great to learn how cars work. I will be starting at Taunton and Bridgewater College this coming September on a motorsport diploma and working on the Midget has been invaluable experience before starting there.”

Only turning 16 in March of this year, Barney’s first race at Donington Park was the first time anyone that young had raced in the Midget and Sprite Challenge since its inception.

Barney and Alex by the Class D Midget 50 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 50

Barney pushing the Midget hard at Donnington

“It was quite daunting, given that I have not been able to drive a car on the road yet,” said Barney, “but I had some great tuition from Josh Cook before the race meeting.” Unfortunately the first race meeting didn’t go to plan, with Barney getting into the gravel in the first race and putting the car on its side. “I was absolutely fine,” said Barney, “and the car only had a couple of scrapes. Despite the car being nearly 50 years old, the modern safety equipment and roll cage worked perfectly and everyone was fantastic in helping to get me out for the next race.”

Alex Gozzard Alex has always had an interest in motorsports and was set on his way by a present on his 18th birthday. “I was given

a supercar experience,” said Alex, “and was lucky enough to drive some amazing cars, including a Ferrari, McLaren and Ariel Atom.

I received some very positive feedback on the day from instructors to encourage me to pursue further track days or racing. This led to passing my ARDS test at Goodwood earlier last year. I am currently in my final year of an extended diploma at Exeter College, and after a vigorous selection process I have secured a placement at Porsche Centre Exeter this year as part of my course. I have been looking at various race series since passing my ARDS, as I was really keen to start racing.”

It was a chance meeting in the local rugby club that sees Alex competing in the Sprite and Midget Challenge.

“Rugby is a big part of our family and I have played in the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy for the last three years. My brother plays rugby with Barney for the local club in Ivybridge and Barney’s dad, John, overheard my mum mentioning me passing my ARDS test when at the end of year award ceremony. Those were probably the only two people in the room who knew what an ARDS test was!”

Alex then soon met with Barney and John, who explained about the Sprite and Midget challenge. “It’s quite bewildering to look at all the various race series available,” said Alex, “and I didn’t really know where to start. When John explained about the MG Car Club race series, how friendly it was and particularly the fantastic offer of half-price race entries to under 25s, I couldn’t wait to get started.”

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:14

NEWSLETTER

WHY CHOOSE THE CHALLENGE? I guess like all petrol heads you have wondered about ‘going racing’ but have been put off because it all seems so complicated, not to say expensive. Well, it isn’t so hard and it need not cost a fortune!

What does the Lackford Engineering Midget & Sprite Challenge offer? The short answer is affordable, competitive racing on all the best UK circuits including Silverstone Arena Grand Prix and Brands Hatch.

Our goal is to provide a Championship for Midgets, Sprites and their period variants, such as Lenhams, Arkleys,

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 51

etc, to race in all their various Historic specifications, but also to make circuit racing accessible to the amateur enthusiast.

Historic Motorsport is booming because the cars built in the 1960s and 70s can be made to perform as well as modern machinery but without the complication of sophisticated electronics and ‘driver aids’ to keep the driver ‘safe’ on the road, but which inevitably ‘blunt’ driver feedback and enjoyment on a circuit.

The problem is that as the popularity of Historics has grown so have the price tags!

Midgets and Sprites are (still) affordable. A class C would be £7K-ish, a fully prepared class D car from around £8K-£10K+, whilst the more race-tuned Class B or Class E cars start at around £10K-£14K+. A race winning Class A car is still circa £16K+.

But they will never go down in value and might even appreciate faster than cash in the bank!

2020 is the 43rd season of the Challenge and the regulations do not change year by year so cars don’t become obsolete or uncompetitive.

What Makes Midgets and Sprites So Special?

The original ‘Frogeye’ Sprite was designed by Donald Healey as a no-frills, fun sports car.

It is very light and is built around a central ‘Tub’ which is extremely rigid. This allows modified suspension and brakes, etc, to work effectively. MG Midgets are, of course, mechanically identical.

The cars are mechanically quite straightforward. Rebuilds and race preparation are well within the ability of the average ‘home mechanic’.

Parts are readily available and advice from other competitors is abundant and free!

Our Sponsor, Robin Lackford, can also provide parts, advice and professional services if needed.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 51

24/01/2020 16:14

NEWSLETTER

The A Series engine began life in the Morris Minor but saw success in Formula Junior Race cars in the late 50s before being enlarged to 1275cc to power the legendary Monte Carlo Rally-winning Mini Cooper S. The gearbox was race proven in various Lotus sports cars in the 50s and 60s. The modified classes allow Ford gearboxes to cope with the extra power reliably.

Today’s Midget Challenge engines produce up to 140bhp. In Class A cars weighing 510Kg this gives a power-toweight ratio of nearly 300 bhp per tonne.

The latest 911 S Porsche in comparison has loads more power but also weighs a whole lot more, to give about the same power-to-weight ratio.

So, a race-prepared Spridget is seriously quick, handles and stops really well (as good as a Supercar?) They are, of course, rear wheel drive so feel and handle like a genuine race car.

A HANS device (about £250) is recommended but not compulsory as our cars are classed as Historic.

Race entries average about £200 each and maintenance is not too onerous. You will need probably six tyres for a season (Class C-E about £100 each, Class B-A slicks about £160). Brakes last a season and a few oil changes are needed.

The race car will use only about 15-20 litres of petrol over a weekend, but don’t forget the fuel for your tow car.

B&Bs near the circuit vary in cost. A tent is cheaper and the back of an estate car or van is not so bad. A camper van is better!

The big unknown is accident damage.

Driving standards in our races are good and car-on-car crashes are rare. Throwing it into the barrier unaided is down to you!

I know it all adds up but a season of, say, five or six races can be done for £3-4K and a full season for say £6K. Who are the Drivers?

Drivers range from early 20s with limited experience to 70+ with wily racecraft.

There are family teams with Father and Son/Daughter both driving. There is a great atmosphere with both informal and organised barbeques at the circuits.

A Health Warning: I know you want to, but if you try it you will get hooked. On the other hand, you will enjoy it more than anything you’ve ever done before!

Any Queries/Questions/Need more Information? Contact Gil Duffy (Competition Sec) on 01886 880882 or gilduffy@supanet.com or see the website: www.mgmidgetchallenge.club

So What Does a Season Cost?

Once you have the car and a trailer (about £1,200 for a good, used trailer) you need to join the MGCC (£50) and register for the Challenge (£50 but first race you can try free!).

You will need a race licence. The MSA provide a Starter Pack costing £95. You will then need an ARDS test. (There is a theory paper and a practical driving test.)

Fireproof overalls, gloves, boots, etc, plus an FIA-approved crash helmet comes to about £1,000 but these last for ten years.

52 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 52

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:14

H1 - CLIVE WHEATLEY_H7 - CLIVE WHEATLEY 27/09/2019 14:47 Page 1

High Torque Starter Motor.

British made £252

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

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

Weighs approx 2kg lighter.

No further rusting. £430.80

genuine & conversion parts

RV8 Expansion tank £79.95

HERITAGE APPROVED

Tel: +44 (0)1746 710810 Fax: 01746 710999 email: sales@mgv8parts.com

Callers by appointment only at

Highgrosvenor, Worfield, WV15 5PG (between Bridgnorth & Wolverhampton)

OVERSEAS MAIL ORDER OUR SPECIALITY

RV8 MG Rocker Covers £267 pair

RV8 Petrol Tank Sender with Seal & Locking Ring. £59.95 RV8 Headlight Cowl in composite £114 each

RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers

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

• RV8 wood refurbishment

RV8 Boot Stays. £30.20 each RV8 Front Radiator Cover Black £209.50 Part Carbon Fibre £239.80

Catering for all MGB, V8, V8 conversions & RV8 vehicles.

RV8 cars available for sale - please call

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

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE

www.mgv8parts.com ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT

New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats.

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

CM11.19/H1/rrrr

• Worldwide mail order services.

EZ Power Steering Electric power steering for the RV8.

Silent operation. Only the steering column to be changed. £1,794

URGENT PROOF 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. _ _ _ _ _

Telephone 01206

Fax 01206 500180

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 53

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 53

24/01/2020 16:14

NEWSLETTER

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

WELCOME TO THE

MGB NEWSLETTER

Don Hayter greeted by John Watson and Neil Hyett of the MGB Register

Following a request sent to the MGCC from the Millers Grange Care Home in Witney, the MGB Register and Abingdon Works members put together a convoy of MGs to visit a special person who was there for a couple of weeks.

The special resident was Don Hayter, his wife Mary was on a short holiday to the German Christmas Markets, so we surprised Don in this new development.

The manager Jim MacLoud had made the request, and to make us even more keen to go we were invited to join Don for his favourite lunch, Steak Pie followed by Spotted Dick pudding, which was excellent.

In the group was Geoff Clark who worked with Don at the MG factory, Richard and Gill Martin from AWC, Roger 54 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 54

Boys in his new MG TF and Michael Barclay, Geoff Edwards, Neil Hyett and John Watson in MGBs from the MGB Register.

This thought came from Roger Martin.

I was piling shopping in my MGB GT recently when I was reminded just how practical the model is compared to many classic sports cars and couldn’t resist taking the attached photo to illustrate this.

I then thought maybe the Register could use the picture in some way to remind members that MGB GTs are not just for go-and-show events but can still be used for everyday-like purposes.

Classic, Stylish, Sporty and Practical How many classic sports-cars can you say that of?!

I got this email the other day and am

publishing it in this newsletter because it will be of interest to other overseas members.

“Hi David, I am an MGB owner resident in the USA. Am I eligible to have my car registered with the MGB Register? I follow your updates in Safety Fast! every month and feel that I would like to be a Register member. Thank you, Ian M Crozier.”

The answer is Yes, of course and welcome! Contact Andrew Vigor, the Registrar and keeper of the database, and send him your details. The Register website gives all the details. www.mgb-register.org I read quite a lot of material from many sources that have a direct relationship to MG. Recently the Federation Internationale des Vehicules Anciens have published their policy on the conversion of classic cars to www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:15

NEWSLETTER electric power. The full statement can be found at www.fiva.org/en/electrificationof-historic-vehicles-statement-from-fiva In essence, it states that if the power train is replaced then the vehicle can no longer be regarded as historic. It is not the shape of the body that makes a vehicle historic but the way in which the entire vehicle was constructed in its original form. FIVA would strongly recommend that any changes are completely reversible, with all the original components marked and safely stored. There are also implications for taxation class and certification for roadworthiness viz… MOT. An article in the New York Times gave me a different perspective on future possibilities for what power vehicles may use. It stated that electric vehicles currently comprise 2% of all the passenger vehicles worldwide and that this is predicted to double by 2025-30. The bulk of the development is happening in China and it foresees EVs being used mainly in cities with high efficiency diesel cars used elsewhere. The USA will stick with “gas” engines. So, still some life left for your classic MG. Sunday April 19 2020 will be to the day the 50th anniversary of the start of the World Cup Rally. Starting at Wembley Stadium this 16,000-mile epic car marathon finishes in Mexico City. The Historic Marathon Rally Group (HMRG)

Sitting down for lunch with Don Hayter. Photo: Gill Martin

have organised an event at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon. Not only cars from the Mexico event will be on display, including the winning Ford Escort FEV 1H, kindly loaned by the Ford Motor Company, but also cars from the 1968 London to Sydney Marathon including the Jean Denton MGB now owned by the MGB Register. Other Rally cars old and new are also expected to be in attendance.

Why not pre-order your MGB Register Cap or Polo Shirt for collection at our next event?

We will bring your items to the event for collection, saving you the shipping

costs. We will take pre-orders for items with a 30-day cut-off point. https://regalia. mgb-register.org Orders placed before February 25 will be available for collection at the NEC Classic Car and Restoration Show March 27-29. The MGB Register has a stand space in Hall 5 stand 535.

It is 10m x 6.5m and close to the MGCC, ZR/ZS/ZT Register, MGs on Track and the Young Members stand.

Fancy something for MGLive! – Place your order between March 15 and May 15.

Classic, Stylish, Sporty and Practical the MGB GT www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 55

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 55

24/01/2020 16:15

NEWSLETTER

Cars assemble for the 8.00am start just north of Tucson

MGB WEEKEND TO BRITISH WHEELS ON THE GREEN Although the Classic Car season is over in the UK, elsewhere the cooler months of the winter are ‘THE’ season. Although active members of the MGB Register in our MGB GT LE, we also have a 1979, California spec, MGB roadster at our property in Oro Valley, Arizona. We are members of the Tucson British Car Register which is an active club that likes to drive (and eat!). The President of the Club

heard about an event being organised by the Arizona MG Club (based in Phoenix), British Wheels on the Green, and organised a weekend trip to attend.

On Saturday November 2, the cars assembled for an 8.00am start at a McDonalds just north of Tucson, close to the I-10 interstate to Phoenix. Ten cars were on the drive from XK 140 / E Types, an Austin Healey Sprite, an MGA and five

The “Beverley Hillbillies” car complete with graffiti in the Dwarf Car Museum 56 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 56

MGBs. Our route followed the Frontage road (parallel to the Interstate) for a while but then we joined the I-10 then the I-8 (towards San Diego) to our first coffee/fuel stop at Casa Grande. Having regrouped the “caravan” (that’s American for a convoy) proceeded to the Dwarf Car Museum south of Maricopa.

The owner of the Dwarf Car Museum makes road-legal and drivable, scale versions of 50s American cars. He uses Toyota engines and transmissions and having decided on the wheel base for his dwarf car, then hand makes every element of the body and interior. He makes dies of all the trim pieces and beats metal to the dies. The craftsmanship is amazing! One of our favourites was the “Beverley Hillbillies” car complete with graffiti.

From the Museum it was a shortish hop to our hotel for the night at Glendale, just west of Phoenix. That evening the Tucson Club were hosted by the Arizona MG Club and we were greatly impressed with their welcome and hospitality.

Sunday dawned to clear skies and the forecast promised typical autumn weather of no rain and a temperature of mid to www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:15

NEWSLETTER

high 20s. (Why do you think we live part time in Arizona!!). It was a 10-minute drive to the venue for British Wheels on the Green in the City of Peoria and we were greeted by a circular, grass-covered amphitheatre to show off our cars. The greenery was a marked contrast to the dusty desert conditions we had enjoyed on Saturday. It did mean, however, that a quick detailing was required to get our cars to show standards before members of the public started to show up. The event was the third that the Arizona MG Club had organised at Peoria and was in aid of a local charity, “Maggie’s Place”. Walking around the field there was an impressive array of Jaguars and Triumph TRs as well as lots of MGAs and Bs, a sprinkling of T Types and Rolls Royces. The oldest car was a pre-war Wolseley in unrestored but patinaed original paint and interior.

As is usual at US car shows, all entered cars were judged by a team of judges.

An unexpected bonus for us was that our MGB was judged second in class (Rubberbumpered MGBs) and the MGB’s garage now boasts a plaque to prove it.

The show was wrapped up at 2.00pm which allowed the entrants a leisurely drive home. We took the picturesque route to Oro Valley avoiding the Interstate and were home two and a half hours later. This was our first trip away in our MGB and we were very pleased with its performance, despite the lack of overdrive. Overall, a very pleasant weekend away with likeminded folk who share our passion for British cars.

Paul Critchley www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 57

Classics cross the Historic Gillespie Dam Bridge that opened in 1927. It is part of US Route 80, a transcontinental highway between San Diego, California and Tybee Island, Georgia

British Classics gather for the British Wheels on the Green in the City of Peoria

Our MGB which was judged second in class (Rubber bumpered MGBs) FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 57

24/01/2020 16:15

OVERSEAS REVIEW

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

reviewed past events, which included a fund-raiser for a cancer charity and their Old Speckled Hen Run. The ad for the forthcoming 2020 MGCC National Rally, delightfully called “Welcome to Wellywood”, caught my attention as it’s a Saturday to Wednesday event, with a full and interesting itinerary.

An appreciative review of an MG ZS was good to read, as e th r fo e Various suspen Showtim covered in the sion layouts German MGCC was a piece on members who MG Kurier joined a UK group on a journey through France and then other events like this time of year. The frantic back in the UK. It’s good to see, yet again, commercialism of December is over, how “The Marque of Friendship” spans and I’m left with happy memories of the world. Other articles covered “Where Christmas and New Year celebrations Are They Now?” seeking previously known with family and friends. cars, The Daffodil Run, The Old Speckled Magazines reviewed this month clearly Hen Run and the origins of the colour show that good times were enjoyed by known as British Racing Green. many members around the world. MG The item on the functioning of the KURIER, from Germany, included items on humble Radiator Cap was useful, as was Le Jog in an MGA, an event at Montlhery, the pertinent advice to ensure that the the Nürburgring Oldtimer Grand Prix correct pressure and length cap is fitted. I and the Goodwood Revival. Clearly a found the item on MG’s first Utility Vehicle group which travels to, and enjoys, many fascinating. It will be manufactured and events. An article on the various rear offered in Thailand, and is a re-badged suspension layouts used by different version of a Maxus T70. I wonder if we’ll manufactures was appreciated, as were see it in other markets in the future. the comprehensive member contact details and variety of cars for sale.

I

THE CANTERBURY MaG, from New Zealand, contained a thought-provoking item by their Club Captain on the future of electric cars and noted that the MG ZS EV will be available in their market in early 2020. Event reports showed that members have been enjoying themselves with a visit to an Aviation Park, a Breakfast and Morning Trial and Rockerbox Racing. I was particularly impressed by the very thoughtful obituary about former member Edward (Ted) Loversidge.

MG Bulletin, also from New Zealand, had an impressive advertisement for a Classic Motor Race Meeting as its cover picture, and within, comprehensive committee contact details and list of future events. The President’s Column 58 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 58

The MG Extender offered in Thailand

FOREVER YOUNG, from South Africa, included a comprehensive review of past events by their Chairman, revealing that many good times had been enjoyed during the year. Also included were details of the 2020 Oudtshoorn National Indaba which looks as though it will be a not-to-bemissed and memorable event. The item on a 1964 MG Midget, known with affection as “Piglet” (the writer’s father has an MGC called Miss Piggy), was especially enjoyable, and explained how the car has been much modified and is now used in competition.

The Octagon, from the MG Car Club of Toronto, contained an interesting letter section, in which members can seek and receive advice from others, technical advice on how to measure voltage drop, advice on MGC carburettor tuning, and how to maintain and improve MGF and TF gear selection, all written in a very user-friendly manner. I very much enjoyed reading of a member’s experiences with a 1956 Magnette, those of another whose interest was triggered by an MGA, which resulted in the much later purchase of a “B”, and of another who purchased a Midget to restore with the help of her father. Sadly the car was later found to be beyond repair. An article on Ashley Engineering who, in the 1960s, offered body kits for Midgets and Sprites, prompted happy boyhood memories of poring over magazines and dreaming of what I’d like to own. A good selection of cars for sale rounded off the magazine.

ont cover

The Bulletin Fr

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:15

For Sale

MGA Historic Racer & MGC Sebring

MGCC Winter Gourmet Break Offer. January to April 2020 £99.00 D.B&B per night. Phone or Website use promo code MGCC20 MGCC Winter Gourmet Break Offer. January to April 2020 £99.00 D.B&B per night. Phone or Website use promo code MGCC20

01442 832019 mail@mgmotorsport.com

PARTS - 24/8/12 SERVICE - SALES 17:51 Page 1

Summit:Layout 1

MGB/C’s BUILT TO ORDER. CALL FOR COMPLETE LIST

Summit

The MG Specialists

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

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

W PARTS X-Part - SERVICE - SALES Auto Service Centre g

We can also rebuild your existing engine.

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

Please check website for full cylinder head specs.

Free courtesy cars Free courtesy business cars Family owned/run Family owned/runfacilities business Full workshop & repairs FullService workshop facilities Bodyshop • MOT Station Service & repairs

Price Guides

Car sales MGB/C’s BUILT TO ORDER. CarCALL sales FOR COMPLETE LIST c

Located on the outskirts of Maidenhead town centre, Berkshire, we are second to none when it comes to MG cars.

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

w

MGB Std Unleaded Engine £2345 Balanced Engine £2545 Balanced Engine with Cam £2800 1950cc Balanced Engine with Cam £3300

Please check website for full engine specs.

Opening Hours Mon-Fri 8am–6.30pm Sat + Sun Closed – but our Web Site is open!

Unit 2, Furze Platt Industrial Estate Off St. Peters Road, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 7QU Parts +44(0)1628 629707 Workshop +44(0)1628 636001 Website www.summitmg.co.uk Facsimile +44(0)1628 580291 E-mail enquiries@summitmg.co.uk

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 59

All the above prices include VAT

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

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

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

01276 479647/ 07470 215747 Bagshot, Surrey

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 59

24/01/2020 16:15

OUT&ABOUT

1

2

3

4

5 60 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 60

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:15

OUT&ABOUT

6 7 1. MGs gather amongst other exotica at the January 2020 Bicester Heritage Scramble meet. Photo: Iwan Jones 2. Marc Hanson’s ex-Works MGA in ’56 Alpine Rally livery at the Concours of Elegance, Hampton Court. Sole MG present! Photo: Marc Hanson 3. The ex-Dick Jacobs MG YB touring car on display at the new Silverstone Experience Museum that opened in October. She represents the touring cars that have raced at Silverstone since the very first U.K. touring car race in ’52 (where she won her class). Photo: Marc Hanson 4. A pair of MGBs parked at Quinault Lodge, a wonderful hotel in the Olympic National Forest on America’s West Coast. The owners were two couples on a holiday from Vancouver Island (not far north by ferry).

Photo: Peter Cope 5. Adrian Martin and his wife’s 1946 TC (which they have owned for over 45 years!) pictured in Italy during the Stella Alpina Rally in the Dolomites.

Photo: Adrian Martin 6. Spotted in Surrey, British Columbia. A rare MGB with the overriders still on, ‘Sabrina’ Bs mostly get size reductions. Photo: John Fry 7. Joanne Gaspard with her Midget, which she has owned from new since she was 17, at the 2019 combined MG/Jaguar Club Vancouver 50th Anniversary Event. Photo: John Fry 8. A gaggle of MGCs belonging to the Young family, even the house plaque features a C! Photo: Vic Young 9. Lee Traynor’s stunning modified MKII MG ZS 180 pictured at a show, alongside other modern MGs, at Himley Hall. Photo: Lee Traynor 10. Keith Holdsworth’s pair, 40 years apart, a Volcano Orange MGF and an Autumn Red ZB Magnette. Photo: Keith Holdsworth

8

9

10 www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 61

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 61

24/01/2020 16:16

COMPETITIONS

SIMPLIFYING SPEED EVENTS S

By Paul Goodman

peed events take place on level tracks (called sprints) and up hills (hillclimbs), using tarmac-surfaced roads, with cars running individually. Electronic timing is used to give a very accurate measurement of the elapsed time taken to get from the start line to the finish line. Drivers are given two practice runs followed by at least two competitive runs, which count towards the awards which are presented at the end of each event.

Cars are split into classes by engine size and degree of modification.

Drivers are permitted to share cars (we call this ‘double driving’). Each driver needs their own licence and helmet, but other costs can be shared by co-owning a car.

The first driver will take a run, followed by a quick changeover, before the second has their attempt.

The season runs from April until October and there are events around the country most weekends. The MG Car Club Speed Championship is made up of about 30 such events, of which a driver’s best eight scores count towards the National Championship.

62 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 62

Motorsport UK, the governing body of the sport, set the rules and regulations.

For 2020 these have been changed significantly to provide a much simpler and cheaper route to becoming a competitor.

So, what is needed to get on track?

Drivers only need to do two things, providing that they are entering in a standard road car. Firstly, an ‘RS Interclub’ licence must be bought from Motorsport UK priced at £64. This can be obtained by simply filling in a form with no additional training or racing school attendance required. Secondly, a helmet must be purchased conforming to Motorsport UK regulations. This can be open or closed face. A frontal head restraint (or “HANS” device) is not required and neither is specialist fireproof clothing, although your arms and legs must be covered.

Next question is what is a standard car? This is defined in Section S11 of the rule book. Essentially, it is a sports or saloon car manufactured after January 1 2000 with two-wheel drive and an engine capacity up to two litres. For MG owners this definition includes the ZR, ZS, ZT and

MG6. Post-1999 MG TFs are also included, as are the current MG range of MG3, ZS and GS. No modifications are allowed, and tyres must be normal road tyres, chosen from what is known as “List 1A” in the rule book.

If you are interested in competing, there are several places to start. The governing body website is www. motorsportuk.org Here you will find an online copy of the rules and regulations, such as the specifications for helmets, etc.

The application form for the licence is also available to download.

The full details of the MG Car Club Speed Championship can be found at www.mgcc.co.uk/speedchampionship Here, you’ll find the full list of events that make up the championship, together with links to the entry forms for those events. To explore other events, a good starting point is the Regional Associations of Motorsport UK. These cover the whole country, and each has a competition secretary who collates a list of events in their region.

Speed events add the additional dimension of competition to track days which are familiar to many members.

There is a real challenge in both trying to beat your fellow competitors’ times and improving your own personal best. The paddock atmosphere is always brilliant at speed events, with time between runs to socialise. Fellow drivers will be keen to help you improve, by sharing hints and tips.

Why not take the plunge in 2020?

You won’t regret it. But a warning – the sport does become addictive and lots of competitors spend years searching for that elusive fraction of a second off their time.

In a

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

454639

BODVOANKCE

IN A

VE TO SA

NECRE

B-TICK U L C / .COM W O H S TION STORA

ETS

SPRING’S BEST CLASSIC CAR SHOW 27-29 MARCH 2020 • NEC, BIRMINGHAM

Get hands on, sit back and learn, and be entertained at the friendliest of classic car shows!

Over 1,000 Classic Cars • 150 Car Clubs • Live Demonstrations • 250+ Traders Car Dealers • Celebrities • Restoration Gurus

Exclusive discount on Saturday and Sunday adult or family tickets with your club code*:

Book your tickets today at necrestorationshow.com/club-tickets

In association with

Official Show Partners

*Exclusive discount code is for club members use only, available in advance until midnight on Thursday 26 March 2020. To book by phone call 0844 858 6758, calls cost 7ppm plus network extras.

454639_PCRS03_Club_A4_Portrait_Ad_2020_FV.indd 1 SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 63

31/10/2019 12:08 24/01/2020 16:16

RM Car Care Richard Mander - Detailing & Valeting Detailing & Valeting Services: Enhancement Detail New Car Preparation Interior Detail Wheel & Wheel Arch detail Car Badge Removal

Mini or Full Valet Tailored quotes to customers’ requirements

07871 836295 rmcarcare79@outlook.com

64 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 64

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

RACE TORQUE

RACE TORQUE T

by Mark Baulch

his month, I bring you news from the Autosport International Show, where we were meeting Members, competitors and car and motorsport fans from January 9 until January 12.

Thursday was a very busy day of meeting with guests that we will have racing with us this year, sponsors and suppliers. Friday was another networking day and included some discussions about 2021 too, as well as some current competitors visiting the stand to discuss the year ahead. The weekend also saw a good number of current and potential future competitors and Members enjoying a conversation with the MG Car Club staff and volunteers and gaining an understanding of the relatively low cost of racing with us. My thanks must go to the two drivers that provided their cars for the show, Richard Garrard for his Metro and Tylor Ballard for his freshly built MG ZR 170 in a rather unique colour! I would also like to thank all the other volunteers that helped us to promote the MG Car Club during the show. In no particular order, Geoff St John Mitchell, Peter Macwaters, Bruce Woods, Peter Burchill, Kyla Birdseye, Emma Cross and Katie.

There is much excitement about the year ahead, especially the use of a new circuit for MG Car Club, Silverstone International. Everyone is also looking forward to MGLive! in June. www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 65

I promised you an introduction to another member of the Race subCommittee, already mentioned above. You may have already read a little about Emma in the last edition of this magazine, so here are a few key questions about herself that she has answered: 1. Favourite motorsport moment in history?

There is no chance of me choosing just one!

2. If you could invite three motorsport drivers to a dinner party, who would you invite? Ayrton Senna, Graham Hill, Colin McRae. 3. What would be your dream circuit to drive around and in which car? Le Mans in

an LMP1 Toyota Hybrid, although they would need to put blocks on the pedals and being 5’3” I’d also need a booster seat.

4. What is your driving pet hate? Other drivers getting in my way when I know where I’m driving to.

5. Your proudest moment in motorsport?

I have two… Being awarded ‘Spirit of the Championship’ for a second year for my co-ordinating role and presenting a trophy to my Dad for a great race on my birthday at Brands Hatch.

6. Year and specification of your race car?

I don’t have one but if anyone is willing to let me have a go round a track in theirs, I’m all up for it!

7. Assisting MGCC Championship since?

As a vocal supporter of my Dad for as long as he has raced Metros, but four years as the Drayton Manor MG Metro Cup Co-ordinator.

8. Favourite music to drive to? Anything I can sing my heart out to with the volume turned up high without having other drivers giving me funny/strange looks.

February will see us at the Race Retro show at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, from the 21st until the 23rd. MG Car Club will be on stand 2-310 with a Class A fully race-modified MG Midget and an MGC. If we do not see you at the Show, then we look forward to seeing you at an event in 2020.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 65

24/01/2020 16:16

MGs ON TRACK

MG on track

Duncan Wood duncanw@mgs-on-track.co.uk

GOODWOOD AND BEDFORD AUTODROME

M

Gs on Track’s first event of the year will take place at Goodwood in West Sussex towards the end of this month. The track probably needs little introduction as it is one of the longestestablished in the UK, with a historical feel that is maintained with considerable care.

In an embellishment to this atmosphere the Triple M Group will be taking one of the sessions in February, so even if you are not driving there will be plenty to entertain if you just wish to come along to spectate.

The open paddock area offers a chance both to study cars close up and to chat with the regulars to learn more about our track days; newcomers to our events will not be short of encouragement to give us a try at the first opportunity!

As at all MGoT events, ARDS-qualified instructors are available to book at modest cost, and their aim is not to turn you into another Stirling Moss (ill-advised at Goodwood for obvious reasons) but just to assist drivers to extract the best from themselves and from their vehicles. A session with an instructor at this or any

66 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 66

circuit will repay the cost many times over in terms of enjoyment and increased confidence. Our days are all about fun and safety, and certainly nobody else will be judging your ‘performance’, but it’s still good to feel that you’ve driven as well as you possibly could, something an instructor can help you achieve. Due to its profile and popularity with our members Goodwood often sells out quite quickly but, if you have missed out, it is always worth joining the waiting list as there are occasional cancellations.

On March 9 we head to Bedford Autodrome where MGoT will be providing two 20-minute sessions in each hour for our members, assigned as usual according to driver experience and the car’s speed potential, with track owners MSVT selling the third to the wider public.

The Autodrome may not be well known compared to Goodwood as it does not host races, but has been purpose built for track days, driver training and experience days by ex-F1 driver Jonathan Palmer.

The track can be configured in three different layouts, and we will be using

the longest and fastest of these, the GT circuit which, at 3.8 miles to the lap, is even longer than Silverstone. With a blend of long straights and challenging corners, the venue is as entertaining as any that we visit. Due to its length, the circuit does take a bit of time to learn, particularly as there are no grandstands or advertising hoardings to use as landmarks. However, as there is no requirement to provide spectator protection or safety barriers the circuit has very large run-off areas, which means the chances of a spinning car meeting an immovable object are minimal which could make it a reassuring choice for a first-timer or novice. ARDS-qualified instructors will, of course, be available, and the venue offers all the facilities that you might expect, including excellent catering and on-site fuel.

MGs on Track will have a stand at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show to be held at the NEC on March 27-29. We are always seeking new members, and this type of event allows us to reach MG owners who have not previously considered taking part in a track day. Manning the stand is a pleasure but, as thrilling as the chase for potential new recruits can be, it can also be very tiring! Therefore, the committee would welcome offers of assistance from any members who plan to be at the Show and who are willing to help on the stand for an hour or two. If you may be able to help, please contact John Robertson for further information johnr@mgs-on-track.com www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

MGS ON TRACK – 2020 CALENDAR Please visit www.mgs-on-track.com to register, check availability, or to book a track day.

Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates.

Goodwood – February 22 Take a step back in time with the first of two visits to this atmospheric venue, including one dedicated session for the Triple M Group.

Bedford Autodrome GT – March 9 At 3.8 miles in length there is ample space to unleash those horses, with generous run-off areas for the directionally challenged!

Mallory Park – April 21 A welcome return to this characterful Leicestershire circuit with lakes!

Snetterton 300 – May 18 A fast and open track; long straights combined with a challenging infield section.

Castle Combe – June 22 The first of two annual visits to this very friendly circuit in Wiltshire.

North Weald – June 26 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.

Croft – July 3 Experience one of the hidden gems of British Motorsport on a day shared with Lotus on Track. ‘Open pit lane’ format so not suited to novices.

Blyton Park – July 6 Not a traditional racing circuit, but a fun and friendly venue boasting a layout with real character.

Anglesey – August 10 Experience this challenging circuit on a day shared with the Lotus 7 Club.

Overlooking the Irish Sea and with views to Snowdonia, this track amply repays the journey west.

Castle Combe – September 7 A second opportunity to enjoy the thrills of this ever-popular track which includes a couple of chicanes and high-speed, technical corners!

Donington Park – October 5 A circuit with a long history, this is a firm favourite with all. Includes plenty of changes of elevation and the swooping Craner Curves.

Goodwood – October 26 A second visit in case you missed the first due to popularity!

Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 7 Our season finale; don’t miss the chance to enjoy this undulating circuit including Paddock Hill Bend!

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 67

MGCC MGCCSPEED SPEEDCHAMPIONSHIPS CHAMPIONSHIP John Wilman, Beechfield, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak. SK23 0JJ Tel: 07778 165186 www.mgspeed.net Speed Championship registrations have been coming in since late December.

This can only bode well for the forthcoming season.

The Motorsport UK yearbook is still only available online at this time but by publication I would hope that they will have appeared on www.mgspeed. net. The main changes are in the level of safety equipment required for standard and road-going cars. A sensible step back in time seems to have taken place, no doubt to encourage more people to try out our sport without too much initial expenditure. When competing in a standard car, only a valid helmet will be required with protective gloves merely recommended. Drivers of road-going cars will be required to wear Proban overalls and gloves which will reduce the cost of setting up considerably. For the uninitiated, Proban overalls are the same as the orange ones worn by marshals.

A word of warning, however. Our classes and the designated MSUK classes are not necessarily the same. So please read the blue book text very carefully and make sure that your level of equipment complies. It might even be sensible to err on the side of caution and acquire the minimum level i.e. Probans and gloves. Accidents do happen, even in standard cars.

All this talk of equipment brought on an acute attack of nostalgia and I unearthed a photograph of me rounding the hairpin at New Brighton sprint in an open Midget. I was wearing a helmet but had on a short-sleeved polo shirt.

Teamed up with that were a pair of gardening gloves. I remember that the scrutineer had made the glove thing his theme for the day and those were the only things available.

Looking forward. There are two new events on the calendar. On June 13 we will be attending a sprint at Brooklands hosted by our good friends Farnborough Motor Club. This event had previously been solely for VSCC members; however, they have bowed out and it is now open to all. I believe the track is one used by Jaguar for testing and customer demonstrations so should be interesting.

In addition, on the weekend of August 15-16 Bristol Pegasus are running a Welsh weekend. This comprises a sprint on the Saturday at Llandow and another at Pembrey on the Sunday. As date clashes mean that we cannot attend the earlier Llandow event this should be most welcome for many competitors. I anticipate that entries will be at a premium so get in there quick.

Rob Bell, the 2019 Speed Championship winner in his MGF ‘Project Shed’.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 67

24/01/2020 16:16

28th Old Speckled Hen Tour Sunday 24th May 2020

Celebrating Two of Abingdon’s Famous Products Your Details Mr / Mrs / Ms Full Name ...........................................................................................

Address .............................................................................................. ...........................................................................................................

Town .................................................................................................

Post Code ..........................................................................................

Phone ................................................................................................

Mobile ...............................................................................................

E-mail ................................................................................................

MG Car Club Membership No. ........................................................

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

Entries limited to 100 cars | Entry Fee: £25 per car To include light refreshment at the start; detailed tulip route book; rally plate and one cream tea per person at the finish.

Last date for entries: Monday 18th May 2020 Cheques payable to: MGCC Abingdon Works Centre Entries to Richard Martin, 26 Medlicott Drive, Abingdon, Oxon. OX14 5PS. Tel: 01235 529331 e-mail: r.martin@mgabingdon.org.uk If no e-mail address, please include a stamped addressed envelope.

OSELLI CLASSIC & SPORTS CARS

MGB

Oselli ltd, Greenway Business Park, Winslow Road, Great Horwood, MK17 0NY 01993 849610 or 07831 597424

1958 MGA Roadster

Midget/ A Series

Engines 1800cc Lead free 1800cc Fast road balanced 1840cc Balanced stage 2 1950cc Standard lead free 1950cc Fast road stage 2

£2150 £2500 £2950 £2800 £3200

Engines Standard lead free Standard fast road balanced Stage 2 fast road balanced 1293cc fast road stage 2 1380cc fast road stage 2 1400cc fast road stage 2

£2150 £2500 £2950 £3010 £3250 £4100

Heads Standard lead free Stage 2 lead free Stage 3 lead free Stage 3A lead free Stage 4 comp head

£540 £650 £780 £870 £3200

Heads Standard lead free Stage 2 lead free Stage 3 lead free Stage 3a lead free Stage 4 Comp head

£540 £650 £780 £895 £3200

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

68 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 68

Finished in Dark green metallic with black trim, repatriated from the US, converted to right hand drive and restored with a four speed gearbox etc in 2012. The car has had little use since and is in need of some TLC and a new hood, hence priced accordingly. £21,950.00.

www.oselli.com

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

CENTRES ABINGDON WORKS Richard Martin sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk There were a number of annual gatherings on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day so I hope you found something to tempt you out in the car to blow any seasonal cobwebs away.

People arriving in Abingdon’s Market Place for the traditional Boxing Day event were all wishing that the gloriously bright weather of the day before had stayed around for a further 24 hours! However, grey skies didn’t dampen everyone’s enthusiasm with models ranging from T-Types, As, Bs, Cs, Midgets, Fs and TFs joining a lone Magnette plus an MG ZS EV around the Christmas tree. Roger and Nicky Boys had kindly put together the road run which finished at the Black Horse where Jeff and Michaela had laid on some refreshments. A charge was planned for the food, but, as a thank you for supporting the AWC on a miserable day, the Committee, displaying seasonal goodwill, waived that! Centre members were also out on New Year’s Day at, amongst others I’m sure, the Cotswold Motor Hub in

ANGLIA Rob Muir 01206 862619 scribe@mgccanglia.com www.mgccanglia.com Rolling Road Day Saturday February 22 will see the Anglia Centre’s third annual visit to Luke Stevens Developments rolling road workshop.

LSD run a state-of-the-art race preparation workshop and Rolling Road and thanks to a lot of hard work by Alison Isaacson, our Facebook editor, you have the opportunity to be shown round the workshop and get the chance to have your MG power tested on the rolling road.

Pre-booking is essential with Alison via email on facebook@mgccanglia.com The cost for the rolling road session is £60.00 or you are welcome to attend just to watch the proceedings for free; either way please contact Allison so she can have numbers of people attending before the day and to confirm spaces are available.

Photograph of the Year Competition As mentioned in the January Safety Fast! Anglia

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 69

Bibury, the Phoenix in Hartley Wintney and Stony Stratford town centre. At the end of the first week of the new decade there was also Bicester Heritage’s first Scramble of the year with MGs much in evidence. I’m sure there were others, but if you want to ensure you don’t miss out on future events, make sure you sign up to the Centre’s Newsletter.

Starting next month, March, we have an event a month for three months with the AGM – February 29 at Kimber House when we’ll be

running the MG film the Indian crew made, which includes footage of the 2018 Old Speckled Hen – followed by the “Not Quite St George’s Day Run” on Sunday April 19 (entry form in March issue) and then the 28th “Old Speckled Hen Tour”, an entry form for which appears in this issue and is on the website. We look forward to welcoming you at one, two or all three of them!

Welcome to all our new members whom we look forward to meeting during the coming months.

Hoods up on the 2019 Boxing Day Run

Centre are now running a photo competition.

Most of us love to look at photographs of MGrelated material, and with the upsurge in the use of mobile phones to take pictures, many of us will have hundreds of photos that are crying out to be shared with fellow members.

The details and terms of the competition are detailed below.

Members are invited to submit their photos with an MG subject. Photos must be current (in the current year) and not have been published elsewhere. The competition will run from January to December each year. Photos submitted will be published monthly on the MGCC Anglia website and should be sent direct to the Anglia Centre Webmaster, Kelvin Fagan, at webmaster@ mgccanglia.com with your details and membership number. At the end of each year all photos submitted will be examined by the MGCC

Anglia Centre Committee. The winning photo will be selected and an annual trophy presented to the winning entrant.

Even the photographs that are not from the current year, thereby not qualifying for the competition, can be submitted for inclusion on the Photo Gallery of our website or sent to me scribe@mgccanglia.com to be included in the Safety Fast! magazine.

Just to show that anyone can do it, the photo this month was taken by me of the MG ZS on a Lake District Pass, using a little ‘point and shoot’ Canon camera.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 69

24/01/2020 16:16

MG MEETS?...

S P E C I A L R AT E S F O R MGCC MEMBERS

FREE website for car fans byBY car fans AS RECOMMENDED

Find hotels that your car would choose Find car-themed places to visit Plan car holidays and tours

Join today

and enter our free monthly prize draw*

Who are Petrolheads Welcome?

FREE HOUSE

We are a group of car fans who have wide experience of travelling nationally and internationally in classic and sports cars. We are active in many car clubs and have a wide range of contacts in the industry.

Having had to cobble together information from various sources to plan trips in our cars, we thought

B A R & R E S TAU R A N T

*T&Cs Apply

A L L D I S H E S A R E F R E S H LY P R E PA R E D TO O R D E R , U S I N G L O C A L LY S O U RC E D P RO D U C E

FOSTON’S ASH INN’S OWNERS ARE CLASSIC CAR ENTHUSIASTS

P R I VAT E , S E C U R E O F F - R O A D PA R K I N G F O R U P T O 5 0 M G s

T H E C A M P, N R B I R D L I P, G L O U C E ST E RS H I R E , G L 6 7 E S w w w. fo s t o n s a s h . c o . u k 0 1 4 5 2 8 6 3 2 6 2

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 70

24/01/2020 16:16

CENTRES

fans

se

e?

ence c and ave a

m ght

T&Cs Apply

CALEDONIAN Bob MacGillivray 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com I’m always glad when January is over. It’s usually a long, dreich month, although as I write this on the 3rd it feels almost like spring! Three events to tempt you this month…

Our first run is on Saturday 8 when MGs are not obligatory. The 50-mile run is based around East Dunbartonshire and is quite informal. Check the website for details.

Then on the 16th, we have our annual visit to Brian Luti at Dreadnought Garage. Lunch is available at the Old Rectory and we will then meet at the garage around 2.00pm. Car Detailing as well as technical tips are on the programme.

Again, please book through the website.

And a new event is a visit to Race Retro at Stoneleigh, leaving on Friday 21 and returning on the evening of the 22nd. Race Retro is the premier retro motorsport event with something for all.

Have a look at their website www.raceretro.com for more info and book through our website.

DEVON & CORNWALL Young Janner II bobslatter@hotmail.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre As I sit and write these notes, 2020 seems to be racing along and the need to prepare for this year’s events gets closer than ever. The latest calendar of events is included with the excellent current newsletter from Ted Lawrence.

With the lengthening of daylight hours, now is the time to start getting our cars out of winter hibernation, if you are one who puts them to bed for the winter. Hopefully we will have something for all members to take part in, whether it be social runs, car shows or short break holidays such as the Spring Gathering in South Wales in May. The list of Centre Natters has been published in Safety Fast! already, but there are some errors and omissions. Tony Short’s Natter at the New Inn, Broadclyst, near Exeter, should have read “meet on the fourth Tuesday at 12.00pm from October to March and from 7.00pm April to September”.

Further details are available from Tony on exetereast.devon@mgccdc.org.

Also, the Torbay Natter run by Alan and www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 71

Further ahead, you can now book for our March events, Tribute Night and separate Lunch day. And there are a few places available for the ‘Jim Clark Trail’ 3-Day Tour in May. It may surprise you to know that we have already put in our entry for the Glamis show in July, but our first show is Thirlestane Castle in June, followed soon after by MGLive! at Silverstone. It would be extremely useful if you could submit your entries through our website as soon as the booking forms are there.

If any of you did not receive a copy of the 2020 Newsletter, then let me know and I’ll send one.

Enclosed with that was a copy of the A previous Technical Day! programme for this year. Before your diary gets too full, why not mark in a few Caledonian events you would And you may have noticed that there are like to attend? And I should also say that I’m some vacancies on our Committee. The AGM is on grateful to all those who submitted articles. If you April 7 and if you would like to know before then think you could contribute something for a future what is involved as a Committee member please publication, then please get in touch. get in touch… It’s nothing too onerous!

Barbara Turner and held at the Churston Manor Hotel, Churston Ferrers, Brixham, has been omitted.

They meet at lunchtime on the third Wednesday of the month from 12.30pm onwards. Again, Alan can be contacted on torbay@ mgccdc.org.

The borders Natter is missing and is also held on the third Wednesday of the month at the Royal Inn, Horsebridge, near Tavistock. Hosted by Ian Cameron, meet at 7.30pm for 8.00pm if eating, which it is advisable to pre-book directly with Paul the landlord, or from about 8.30pm onwards if not eating. Ian can be contacted on devoncornwall.border@mgccdc.org for more details.

Any events taking place at the Natters throughout the year will be published in the newsletter, on the Centre website and on Facebook, Twitter, etc. and also by direct email if it is short notice, so please ensure that your email

address is up to date on our mailing list.

Once again, I do ask everyone to keep up to date with their e-mail addresses, as members change their internet providers, and quite often their addresses as well. Just drop me a note and I can update the files. If you still prefer to receive hard copy of the newsletter, etc, please let me know and I will add you to the postal register.

This month’s picture is of sunnier times at the Torbay Old Wheels Club Gathering at Paignton.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 71

24/01/2020 16:16

CHISBON RESTORATIONS

Brookland aeroscreens – curved or square top glass

Brooklands ‘Bluemels’ steering wheels in cream or black.

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

For all your MG requirements, from a service to a prize winning restoration, contact Adrian Priestley via

www.chisbonrestorations.com or

Tel: 01255 862626

72 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 72

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

CENTRES LINCOLNSHIRE Ian Mackenzie 01529 497849 MaccaV8@aol.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk February Natters: Wolds Wednesday 5; Abbey Lodge Monday 10; Wishing Well Wednesday 12; Three Horseshoes Thursday 20; Ferry Boat Tuesday 25; White Hart Thursday 27.

Luncheon Club: Wednesday 19.

March Events: Lincolnshire Centre AGM, Abbey Lodge Thursday 5.

It was great to see so many of you at the Abbey Lodge on New Year’s Day, and after a thorough inspection of the Landlord’s Choice entrants, the winner of the first event of the calendar year was Jeff Patterson in his MG ZT. Brill car (indescribable colour) and cool acceptance speech from the winner.

Then we were off, on a not-so-mystery tour, as long as we followed the suggested route in the hand-outs, which even the crew of the leading Trophy Yellow MGF managed this year (we won’t talk about last year’s attempt and the ‘lost hours of New Year 2019’), but we had the course sweepers in another MGF to put us right in case of need. Thank you, ladies!

Jeff Patterson receiving his New Year’s Day Landlord’s Choice Winner’s Rosette

MIDLANDS Roger King rogerking43@gmail.com www.mgccmidlandcentre.co.uk Farewell the 20-teenies and hello to the “soaring 20s”, or so we hope. Well the Centre is looking forward to an action MG year, at least!

First up and seeing the decade out, was the traditional post-Christmas walk, thus forsaking rubber tyres for rubber boots. This time along the banks of the River Severn. I am reliably told it was muddy, so heavy going then, but enjoyable, with the traditional stirrup cup to look forward to at journey’s end. This was followed on New Year’s Day with the equally traditional Chilly Willy run through the lanes of Worcestershire. Not really a Centre event, it nevertheless saw 25 MGs travel 36 miles before adjourning for lunch at the North Worcestershire Natter venue. Thanks to Natter member Bob Hall for an interesting route.

The next Welsh Rallye scheduled for the weekend of May 15-17 continues to attract entrants from far and wide. We are regularly asking the hotel venue for more rooms and so far they have been

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 73

able to respond positively, so if you fancy joining us then please get your entry in soonest. Details on the Centre website or email me at rogerking43@gmail. com for the paperwork.

Planning for 2020 is well advanced, with a detailed programme of what is in store available soon, again on the website. For those without access to the “wonders” of modern communication, we will publish a synopsis in a future Safety Fast! so you will not miss out.

The Centre`s AGM has just taken place and your scribe was lifted from his chair and, with all the aura of Parliament “selecting” a Speaker, was thrust, struggling, to occupy the august role as the new

February is the month of repair and undercover polishing; not much happening other than the local natters, although a good day out could be the MG and Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh Park, near Coventry, on Sunday 9. Grab a few spares, have a chat with like-minded souls, and get enthused for the coming year.

Ideally, bring some of that enthusiasm to the Centre’s AGM at the Abbey Lodge, Woodhall Spa on March 5. We are always looking for new Committee members to join us. If you would like to get involved, or feel that you could offer a new idea for an event, please contact Secretary Sue on MaccaV8@gmail.com Throughout the year, we will be organising Centre 40th Anniversary events – keep ’em peeled for news on the website, or the regular email updates.

Looking ahead to April, we will have the National Drive Your Classic Car Day homing-in on the Walled Garden at Baumber, near Horncastle, on the 26th – another hidden Lincs Gem! And don’t forget that we will all have to apply for our Motorsport UK RS Clubman licences to compete in some events, including the first Autotest of the year on April 19, and it’s only a few clicks away!

Chairman in succession to Martin Price. Forgive the frivolity, because it is an honour and I look forward to working with our great Midlands team.

As an MG owner, supporting your local Natter can prove highly beneficial. I was looking for a replacement centre console finisher in piano black for my TF 160. Mine had degraded badly, looking pimply.

I went on eBay and trawled through many offerings, none of which fitted the bill. No one seemed to have new ones, either. Faced with flattening and repainting my existing one, I raised this at my local Natter. Amazingly a member had a new one in his garage and with the price of a drink or two it was mine. Now that is a good start to a new decade.

Roger King in his Aurora Monogram MG TF

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 73

24/01/2020 16:16

GENUINE NEW & USED MG ROVER PARTS AVAILABLE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES FOR ALL MG ROVER VEHICLES GUARANTEED SATISFACTION & FRIENDLY SERVICE HELPING KEEP MG ROVER VEHICLES ON THE ROAD COLLEGE MOTORS UNIT 1 STURT FARM IND EST BURFORD, OXFORDSHIRE OX18 4ET TEL: 01993 823560

(TOTAL-ROVER38) collegemotors1@gmail.com WWW.ROVERMGSPECIALIST.CO.UK

74 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 74

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:16

CENTRES NORTH WEST Paul Goodman 01625 876300 The most important Centre event this month is the Annual General Meeting. This meeting is your opportunity to influence what the Centre organises. The new committee is also elected. There are existing vacancies, and this is an opportunity for some more members to come on board. The meetings are held once a month and the agendas revolve around the competition and social events which we run during the year. The AGM will be held on Thursday February 13 in the upstairs room at the Ship Inn, Styal, SK9 4JE starting at 8.30pm.

There are three social events this month starting with the Trophy Room, Cheshire County Sports Club gathering on Tuesday February 11.

Then one week later, the Plough and Flail pub meeting will be held on Tuesday February 18. Final plans will be made for the show appearances that the Centre will make in 2020. If you want to be involved with your car then please let us know.

Finally, the lunchtime pub meeting will be on Wednesday 26 at The Hornsmill, Chester Road, Hapsford, Chester, WA6 0JE.

SOUTH EAST Ray Ruffels and William Opie raywillmg@gmail.com www.mgccse.co.uk

Hope you put the car away before the snow arrives

January has been a typically cold and damp month with most MGs tucked away in the garage.

However in February there is an opportunity to venture out and join the Valentine’s Treasure Hunt on Sunday February 16 starting from the Pheasant Pub, Buckland, RH3 7BG at 10.00am for a 10.30am start. The finish will be at the Plough, Leigh, Surrey, RH2 8NJ. For further details contact Derek Edwards at mgmadness@ntlworld.com or see MGCCSE website at www.mgccse.co.uk The Stoneleigh MG & Triumph Show is being held on Sunday February 9 at Stoneleigh Park, www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 75

Registrations can now be made for our championships.

The Cockshoot Cup Racing Championship will start at Silverstone International Circuit on March 28, so now is the time for drivers to fill in their entry forms.

There will then be nine more rounds at MGLive!, Donington Park, Anglesey, Snetterton and Oulton Park. The Speed Championship starts on April 5 at the Midlands Centre event at Curborough, near Lichfield. They are looking for a good turnout of drivers to kickstart the season.

You can also enter now for our two Centre speed events, the Anglesey Sprint Weekend on May 2-3 and the Scammonden Dam Hillclimb on May 17. All the information that you need can be found on the North West Centre website. There

are still some administrative and operational vacancies in our teams for these events, so please get in touch if you would like to get involved. New volunteers will be very welcome to work alongside and back up our experienced members.

Looking further ahead, Drive It Day is on April 26 and a new and unusual destination is in the planning stage with more news to come next month.

Finally, all our events are listed on the Centre website www.mgcc.co.uk/north-west-centre This has links to the Cockshoot Cup and Speed Event Championship websites.

Coventry. This includes an autojumble, club displays, exhibitors and cars for sale; see www. mgandtriumphspersday.co.uk The Spring Naviscat is being held on Sunday March 8. This will start (and finish) from The Spur at Slindon, West Sussex, BN18 0NE. Registration will be from 10.00am with the start at 11.00am, finishing at 2.30pm. Teas/Coffees will be available at the start with lunch available to competitors at the end. For further details please contact organiser John Reay on 01798 343719 or at sandjreay@freeuk.com The printed flyers with all of the 2020 South

East events should be enclosed in this issue of Safety Fast! magazine, so please review these so you can plan your 2020 itinerary. Some early highlights include the Spring Luncheon (with awards) on March 29, the Brooklands MG Era on April 19, and the Battle of Britain Spring Run on April 26 starting at the National Memorial, Capelle-Ferne, Kent.

Full details on each event will be available on the MGCCSE website normally six weeks before, so do use this route to remain up-to-date. Volunteers to assist at the events are really welcome so please contact the organiser if you can help in any way.

MGCs showing off at the Plough and Flail Concours, June 2019.

Photo: Paul Goodman

Last summer’s PoO line-up at Michelham Priory

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 75

24/01/2020 16:17

Fostons Ash

2nd March 2020 at 7:30pm and 1st Monday of the Month

Inn The Camp, Stroud.

GL6 7ES

Launch of the Gloucestershire Natter 15% Discount Voucher at Moss Europe Bristol for those MGCC members attending on 2nd March*

15% Discount on Fostons Ash Inn Menu on 2nd March

Free gifts from Moss Europe and MGCC at the 2nd March Meeting

Come Along and Hear About the Programme of Events Planned for 2020

Fish and Chip Run, Bacon Butty & Coffee Runs, a NaviScatter, Visits to Motorsport Events and Cirencester Polo Match Email glosnatter@mgccsw.com to register and/or for further details * Moss Europe Ltd discount voucher valid at Moss Europe Bristol office only, in store only and must be used by the 31st March 2020. Moss Bristol is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and late on Tuesday nights until 7.30pm with a special late night on Tuesday 17th March 2020 for Glosnatter members including drinks and snacks etc. Some exclusions apply to the 15% offer, please ask staff for more information when placing your orders. Max 30 vouchers issued on a first come first served basis.

Motor Wheel Service

Renowned worldwide for the manufacture and restoration of wire wheels.

Speak to one of our specialists or visit our website to learn more about our range of wire wheels, tyres and accessories for vintage and classic MGs

www.mwsint.com +44 (0)1753 549 360

76 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 76

info@mwsint.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

CENTRES SOUTH WEST Jim Lott Twitter - @mgccsw email chairman@mgccsw.com, www.mgccsw.com/ www.facebook.com/MGCCSW Welcome to the notes from the South West Centre.

I have exciting news of a new evening Natter starting up. The Natter will be at the Foston’s Ash Inn, The Camp, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 7ES on the first Monday of the month starting on March 2 at 7.30pm.

The Natter leader is Mike Guest (glosnatter@ gmail.com) and he is organising discounts on food at the Inn and discount vouchers for Moss Europe, Bristol and also some free gifts from Moss and Kimber House for the March 2 opener. I look forward to welcoming members who live in and around Gloucester at the first event.

The annual Dinner and Awards evening takes place on Saturday February 22 2020, at the Limpley Stoke Hotel, near Bath. Our guest speaker for the evening will be Stuart Turner, competitions Manager at BMC during the glory days of the Mini Cooper wins on Monte Carlo Rallies and

TYNE-TEES Tony Wood anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk As the awake amongst you may have noticed, my original report of the Autumn Leaves run managed to conflate itself with the 2018 report – right pictures, wrong words – so in the interests of accuracy here is the proper version. I blame the technology, it blames the button-pusher, I start 2020 with unresolved conflict!

44 crews assembled at Dobbies Garden Centre, Ponteland, in what Noel refers to as a hint of drizzle but what the less hardy amongst us would class as rain. We were flagged off by organiser Andrew Kelly, wielding his Northumbrian flag with gusto, and embarked on a scenic 57-mile route on roads less well-travelled to the finish at the Emirates Stadium, home of Durham Cricket.

Dodging the raindrops (which was more than our moist marshals were able to achieve) we gathered in the main lounge for an excellent Sunday lunch and awards presentation. Our guest judge, David Henderson, did the run in his MG ZS EV, (is this a first for the Club?) and was very happy with its performance and range in a real-world setting. www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 77

lots more. The website www.mgccsw.com/event/ annual-dinner-and-awards-evening-2020/ has details on how to apply for tickets.

The South West Centre AGM is arranged for March 3 2020, in Compton Martin Church Hall starting at 8.15pm. This is the same evening as the Ring O’Bells Natter in Compton Martin.

A further event in March is planned but no date fixed as yet. Dick Craddy is organising a visit to the Great Western Air Ambulance HQ at Almondsbury (the junction of the M5 and the A38). This will be an evening visit with a talk on the work of the Air Ambulance and a look around the newly opened facility. A small donation will be required from each member attending. Full details

will be published on the South West Centre website once a date is confirmed.

This year, Motorsport UK (the body that issues the permits for our competitive events) has decided that all competitors and passengers must hold an RS Clubman licence. The RS Clubman licence is available free of charge and can be applied for online at www.motorsportuk.org/getstarted/2020-rs-clubman-licence/ This licence will be required for all of our competitive events. For instance, competitors and passengers wishing to take part in the Kimber Classic Trial (May 2 2020) will each need a licence to take part. Forms will be available at signing-on but to save time, it is advisable to obtain a licence before the event.

Jeremy and Marcus Hawke in Jeremy’s MG J2 tackling one of the tests during the 2018 Kimber Classic Trial. Photo: Simon Lott

Wet weather is a wonderful leveller. Those who are familiar with my MGB will know that, whilst tidy, it doesn’t match up to the many fine cars on show, but nonetheless I found myself accepting the Autumn Leaves trophy. Photos in circulation show my shocked expression: only 50% of my face has registered the news and you could garage the B in my open mouth. In the interests of saving the nation from even greater depression, this did not make the cut for Safety Fast!

However the photo of the winner of the Spirit of the Event award, Lorraine Noble-Thompson, did and is re-printed here.

Our Annual dinner in December saw 54 of us sit down at the Ramside Hall for an excellent meal and to applaud those who deservedly walked away with the silverware. Special mention should be given to our Enthusiast and Lady Enthusiast Trophy winners, Dennis Hope and Julia Grant respectively, Marshal’s Award winner Matthew Alexander, and Long Beach Trophy winner Doug Carmichael.

Ian Graham, apart from collecting the Chairman’s Award, kindly presented the ‘Award Nobody Wants’, a nicely mounted but mangled conrod, to David Bolton whose B engine has had more ins and outs than the Hokey Cokey. A great

night with almost £300 raised in our Raffle for the Great North Air Ambulance which we all support but hopefully will never need.

Finally, a reminder that our AGM takes place on March 5. Please make the effort to come along as Noel is standing down as Chairman to our general dismay and some other chump is taking over. Free food is provided for the wake/ celebration but we need to have an idea of numbers, so if you’re coming let Noel know.

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 77

24/01/2020 16:17

FISHER SERVICES...

THE BEST SELECTION OF MG PARTS BCL1

BCL1

High power LED back light upgrades for all models, inc Mk1 MGA, TD etc.

Discreet DRL systems New! for classic cars

Kit with or without a pair of perio

As the SE London and Kent premier MG specialist, we headlights, special LED pilot li offer a comprehensive range of services full instructions give and including: easy fitting workshop facilities and extensive stock of parts for all your operation - can’t be forgotte MG requirements. Specialising in all MG models from £99.99 + VAT & P&P. pre-war to present. £129.99+VAT with headlights

plus headlights, sidelights & more.

= Amazing NEW orange & warm white bulb for front sidelight/flashers

Unique products with money-back guarantee.

plus ......

High performance LED upgrade bulbs for all 12v classics.

01789 576115

enquiries@bettercarlighting.co.uk www.bettercarlighting.co.uk 78 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 78

Handcrafted bespoke bodywork

Call:

We have staff with over 50 years MG experience to care for your MG

020 8776 7695 Please quote MG Car Club when phoning

NOW!

Email: info@fisher-services.co.uk

www.fisher-services.co.uk

TRADE DE MEM MEMBER MEMB

Unit 11, Abbey Trading Estate, Bellgreen Lane, Lower Sydeham SE26 5TW

MG OWNERS’ CLUB

MEMBER RECOMMENDED SUPPLIER

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

CENTRES The other Natters were planning their runs for the year; South Natter planning the Daffodil Run over Easter, Vale of York is planning the Heartbeat Ken Cothliff Run over the Yorkshire Moors on Sunday June 7, kencothliff@hotmail.co.uk, and the lovely Dales Run organised by North Yorks mgccyorkshire.co.uk Natter at the end of August. MGCC members are welcome to join us on these runs so check out the The end of the year is always a quiet time for the Yorkshire Natters. Christmas celebrations and parties Yorkshire Centre website for details.

Touring MGCC members are always welcome were held at the majority of the Natters, with the to attend Yorkshire Natters. Details of Natter exception of North Natter who have planned their meetings below: party in January.

New Year’s Day saw the annual Chilly Willy Run, Yorkshire Centre Natters meet as follows: Lunchtime Tiger Natter – 1st Wednesday of month organised by the South Yorkshire Natter, starting (often 3rd Wednesday is a run) at the usual and now “the world-famous Cyclist East and North – 2nd Thursday of month café” in Langsett for breakfast. Eight cars and their 24/39 Natter – every other month on drivers managed to recover from the New Year celebrations to take on a 63-mile run from Langsett 1st Wednesday Reservoir and through parts of Derbyshire to finish near Doncaster where lunch had been pre-booked for those who still had room for yet more food (the SY Natter crew really do like their food). Malcolm brought his trusted and now familiar Y Type Saloon, the oldest car there, whilst Vaughan brought his MG ZS which was the newest car on this run. Clear, crisp weather proved to be a bonus, providing good driving conditions and the lower temperatures helping keep the older cars cool enough.

YORKSHIRE

ULSTER Carol Willis 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk Our New Year’s Day Treasure Hunt had 18 cars, which included two MGs, gathered in the carpark behind SuperValu in Comber and finished at The Pheasant, Annahilt. This year Gordon and Ruth planned the route on what was a glorious but cool afternoon and the route took us to The Pheasant, Annahilt, in about 45 minutes in good time to order something for tea while the organisers marked the forms. Ralph Ewing and Valerie Heron won overall and the wooden spoon was taken by Mike and Linda Wilson. Chairman, Terry Ingles, had a special prize for the MG which finished and Mike and Linda won the draw for that.

Our Nosh scheduled for Poachers Pocket on January 8 saw a very small attendance. Some did advise that they couldn’t be there but please note, it is important that you confirm your attendance at each one so we may let the venue know how many to expect.

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 79

We have our AGM on January 16 and the Derek Walker Memorial Classic on January 25. The results of both will be announced in the next issue of Safety Fast! and also shown on our website.

As you will all know by now, both drivers and passengers require a Motorsport UK Clubman Licence in order to compete on MUK events. This is free and can be applied for online, free of charge, from their website or you can download the forms and post them.

Your licence will be emailed within minutes of applying online, prior to being posted to you.

We continue to need marshals and timeDates for your diary:Saturday February 15 Thursday March 12 Saturday March 28 Saturday, April 4

West – 3rd Tuesday evening Vale of York – lunchtime 3rd Thursday South – 4th Wednesday monthly evening Locations may vary, so always check out our website if you are visiting the area.

I include some photos from our 2019 events, as reminders of some sunny weather. Hope to see some of you up here this year.

Roger Dawson’s MGB

keepers to help run our events and therefore need volunteers for that, so please contact Carol Carol on 07831 345560 or carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk if you are free to assist on any occasion.

Annual Dinner and Prizegiving – The Ivanhoe Nosh and Natter – venue tba Autotest – MG round of the NI Championship Karting – event to be confirmed (Lambeg)

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 79

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS VINTAGE Ian Quarrington IanQuarrington999@BTInternet.com First things first. Deeds not words, so please let’s see you at the AGM on Sunday March 15 at Shillingford Bridge for our lovely informal-butformal meeting followed by some lunch and then a guest speaker. If you don’t come, you can’t vote for your Committee, and if you don’t vote you can’t then moan... a bit like the recent General Election but this is much more important. It is 10.30 for an 11.00 start. Some of us, including your Club President and two of the VPs, will have been at the Club’s Council Meeting the previous day and we will be at the VR AGM, too.

Next.. VR Tour. You have all seen the dates and the location and the itinerary but the take-up so far has been very slow, to say the least. If you don’t support it you will be the first to complain if it doesn’t happen in following years. It is very hard work putting on these events and it is all voluntary work. You will all know what happens to volunteers who don’t get much support.

There was a lot happening over Christmas and New Year that is reported elsewhere in the

SVW Paul Campbell svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk I trust 2020 has started well for you all.

John Bates was carrying out some winter tasks and sent in the following: The VA gearbox has been troublesome for years and no amount of work by ‘professionals’ could solve the problem.

The rear of the box has an extension of the output shaft (before the universal joint coupling). In the rear of the box the output shaft is contained in a cast iron extension of the box and at the back is a bearing. This bearing carries little or no ‘weight’

magazine, so let’s look forward to some other events.

February 9 is the MG Spares day at Stoneleigh, always a good place to catch up with friends at the beginning of the season, February 15 there is VSCC racing in the Pomeroy Trophy at Silverstone (look out for Marion who will be marshalling in the pit lane there). Race Retro is at Stoneleigh on February 2123. Moving into March, other than our AGM on 15th there is either the Practical Classics show at the NEC on 27-29 or the opening MGCC meeting of the year at Silverstone on Saturday 28 (and yes Mrs Q will be there, too)... don’t forget the Club has a Welcome Centre at all our race meetings and you can sign up FREE for parade laps during the lunchtimes, subject to the racing going to plan. Then on April 19 it is MG

and British Marques day at Brooklands.

I was delighted to hear that Rob Constant has been very active with social media, including the VR facebook page with help from John Cooper, on behalf of the Register and I saw some correspondence with other VR folks from Rob where he makes the very valid point of the importance of keeping in touch, however we do it.

By making sure we communicate and share ideas, we can do so much more as a group. I know that Rob was invited by Club Chairman Bill Silcock to come and talk about his ideas for the Marque Centenary at the January Club Board meeting, so I am hoping Rob will be able to share his thoughts and his enthusiasm with us at Shillingford.

Vintage Cars gather on a previous Vintage Register tour.

but seems to be there to provide stability for the shaft. It was well lubricated for many years (over 40) but for some reason or other, lubrication dried up. Oil is supposed to collect in a tiny ‘tray’ in the gearbox and trickle out through the casing onto the output shaft and then along the shaft to the bearing. Alternatively (it seems to me), oil is also supposed to be slowly expelled from the box by a scroll on the shaft, and hence to the bearing.

This time I told the repair shop about the bearing problem and the solution was a new bearing wider than original (to give it chance to grip the shaft) and it is locked in place by machine screws through the casing onto the bearing. It is yet to be tried out on the road!

The adverts on the website have been reviewed and are now up to date. There have been lots of updates and additions, plus quite a few have recently sold and have been removed.

One VA owner is looking for a set of VA carburettors to complete his rebuild, which may be a tall order. The SU H3 carbs are hard to find and often don’t even come up on the SU product listings. Other than the VA, I think the H3 was only used on the Jaguar Mk IV and Mk V with the 2.5L engine (the 3.5L used the H4), plus a few Riley specials. I think the H stands for Horizontal and the 3 represents the throat size in the number of 1/8th inch increments above one inch; i.e. 1 3/8 for the H3. The H4 is therefore 1 1/2. This is measured at the throttle side as opposed to the air cleaner side, which is often different. The number on the main body casting is 3251.

If you’ve not already done so and you would like to attend, this is a good time to book for the SVW Event that takes place in July in East Sussex – full details on the Facebook group and the website.

There will be a flyer for the event in the March edition when we have our 4-page spread. If you have anything for that edition, please send it in before the end of January.

VA Tourer in good company at a VSCC meeting last March. Photo: Paul Campbell 80 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 80

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS contribution there would be no such event. They have arranged Middle Aston House in Oxfordshire on May 9-10. A dinner on the Saturday evening followed by a run on Sunday to Coombe Mill are the activities that Chris has arranged. If you are interested then please contact Chris either by phone on 01865 820312 or by email: chrismgabingdon@yahoo.co.uk

Y TYPE Jerry Birkbeck 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 birkbeckjerry@gmail.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk It seems strange writing these notes in the first week of a new decade. We are entering a very different era in a world that is subsumed by climate change, the indifference of man to fellow beings and the raft of changes that are likely to happen post Brexit.

How this will affect our hobby is of course an unknown, though there are likely to be fundamental changes to what we are able to do with our beloved cars.

My suggestion is to use your Y as much as you can and your insurance permits. As we drove out in our modern this afternoon, it was gratifying to see a lovely 3.8 Mark II Jaguar being used.

Long may this continue!

Peter Vielvoye’s YT appears on TV I am sure that a few of you know that Peter Vielvoye has been working with the BBC, who were keen to use his lovely and well-used YT on

MAGNETTE Stephen Tickell 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org If you were spending more time over Christmas online than on the road in your Magnette, you might have followed a fascinating discussion on the ‘MG Experience’ forum about the contents of the tool kit that would have been supplied when the car was new. In the UK at least, this has perhaps been less of a preoccupation for owners of Magnettes than for other models, as we don’t often have concours competitions where the winner is decided on the basis of which car had the most original spark plug spanner!

Nevertheless it’s always an interesting addition when a tool kit is present and correct – I believe Grant Howlett’s family heirloom ZA is still fully equipped – and I occasionally resolve to make more of an effort with mine, until I remember some more pressing task…

Fortunately American Magnette enthusiasts are doing a better job than us in maintaining originality – notably Wray Lemke and Steve

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 81

Peter Vielvoye’s YT that featured in the BBC ‘Father Brown’ series

the ‘Father Brown’ series. Filmed last summer, it appeared on BBC 1 on Monday January 6 at 2.15pm and splendid it looked. Peter had his 30 seconds of fame, although that should be the YT had its moment of fame! Very well done, Peter, an excellent way of promoting the marque. The series can be found on ‘catch up’.

Future Events Spring Weekend May 9-10 2020 Our principal activity this year is of course the Spring Weekend, which will be the 23rd occasion and is once again organised by our Chairman Chris and his wife Annette. They undertake a huge amount of work for the Register and without their

Hanegan, always an authoritative source on restoration matters. In fact, the basic information is contained in the service parts manual (page 124) which lists included tools by part number, but it still requires expertise and experience to identify and source exactly the right piece. Steve provided this impressive photo of one of his tool kits, although I believe he may have perfected it even further since the picture was taken.

I do actually have some of the original kit that came with my car, but smaller items such as ACH9151 feeler gauge and AMK9958 ‘spanner – tyre valve’ were probably long gone when I bought it. The standard tools were not surprisingly very similar to those supplied with the MGA, packed in

MGLive! Saturday and Sunday June 13-14 2020 The MG Car Club is once again back at Silverstone after a 12-month hiatus and the Register will have a presence. More details will be posted in due course.

Pied Piper Summer Show: Highnam Court, Gloucester June 20-21 2020 Peter Vielvoye has suggested another summer venue which may be of interest. The Pied Piper Summer Show at Highnam Court, to the west of Gloucester. It is apparently well worth considering.

More information is on the following link: www.piedpipersummershow.co.uk It could be an ideal opportunity for a summer meeting of fellow Y owners. If you are interested then please let Peter know.

Happy Y motoring!

a similar tool roll, but the arrangement of jack, starting-handle, etc, in the boot was obviously unique to the Magnette. Inspired by the forum exchange, I’ll be taking more of an interest myself this year when tools are on display at events, and you never know, Anthony might be checking the position of your tyre-pump before deciding who gets the trophies.

Steve Hanegan’s original tool kit

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 81

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS T TYPE Paul Plummer 01926 854574 scribe@tregister.org The first events of the year took place on New Year’s Day with T Types well represented at Vintage Stoney and at Brooklands, and I hope that all your winter fettling activities are well under way, and the car will soon be ready for the coming season’s events.

T Register Events for 2020 The arrangements for the T Party are still being finalised at this time, and the details will be released in due course.

• February 9 – the T Register at the MG and Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh.

• April 18 – Rebuild Seminar at Gaydon • April 19 – MG and British Marques Day at Brooklands • April 27 – May 1 – Spring Tour to the Ardennes • June 13-14 – T Register at MGLive!

• TBA – T Register T Party • September 11-14 – Autumn Tour to the Malvern and Shropshire Hills

MGA Edward Vandyk 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk Sad news for the MGA Register, the MGCC and the MG community. Piers Hubbard, co-author of ‘Call It MGA’, for many years MGA Register Historian, stalwart of the SE Centre and onetime MGCC Treasurer, passed away just before Christmas after a brief illness. A full appreciation will appear in the March edition of Safety Fast! but ahead of that a photograph of Piers taken last year with Piers on his back under the dash of his MGA fixing the choke cable! Linda, Piers’ wife, commented that he was very proud of the fact

82 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 82

As previously mentioned, the date of our rebuild seminar has been changed and will now be on Saturday April 18 at Gaydon. The rebuild topics covered will be: • LED lighting, voltage regulators and dynamos • Competition preparation for a T Type • Solving T Type drum brake problems • A practical approach to common problems on a T Type Please note that the T Register AGM will take place on April 18 at Gaydon immediately after the Rebuild Seminar has finished, at around 4.00pm.

Any topics for discussion should be forwarded to the Secretary, treg.sec@virginmedia.com by the end of February.

Pont-a-Lesse, near Dinant in Belgium. As before, there will be no set routes, but you will be able to join your friends and visit the local attractions of your choice. There has been a good take-up by members for this event, but if you still fancy a continental jaunt please get in touch with Sally Silcock at treg.sec@virginmedia.com MGLive!

After a break last year, the MG Car Club returns to Silverstone for the summer extravaganza, where the Club will be celebrating its 90th birthday together with the 75th anniversary of the TC. As with all these events further details, application forms, etc, can be found on our website at mgcc.co.uk/t-register

Spares Day at Stoneleigh Once again, the T Register is attending this show with our own stand where the traditional Bring and Buy sale will take place. If you have any items for sale, questions, or would like to volunteer to help, please contact Barry Knight at barglen@ ntlworld.com Spring Tour to the Ardennes The Register is organising a spring tour to the near continent, which will be based at Castel de

that, at his age, he was still slim and agile enough to do this. Piers truly had a positive approach to life and he really will be sorely missed.

The MGA Register 50th anniversary badge which was advertised at the Phoenix Inn reunion has now been produced; 100 are in stock for delivery.

The price is £30.00 plus £1.50 p&p to a UK address.

Now is the time to confirm your order by contacting George Dutton. Please see the MGA Register website (merchandise section) for more details.

MGA Register Spring Weekend: ‘One Rally – Two Countries’. The Grange Hotel, Mercure Bristol North, Winterbourne, Bristol BS36 1RP, the base for 2020 MGA Spring Touring Weekend with tours running through Gloucestershire and Wales, is now fully booked and the capacity for the Saturday evening Gala Dinner has been reached.

Another instance of ‘when it has gone, it has gone’ so book now for the Golden Anniversary Tour, details follow!

The Golden Anniversary Tour will be based at the Cave Castle Hotel, Church Hill, South Cave HU15 2EU and this will be our base for the four days. The Register has made a block booking, reserving 60 rooms exclusively for the Anniversary

T Types bathe in sunlight at MGLive! 2018

Tour, and this will only remain available until February 29 2020. Half of the reserved rooms have now been booked for our tour, however after that date Cave Castle will open bookings to the public on a first come, first served basis. When you make a booking please quote the booking reference ‘Wilson MGA Register’.

The room costs are as follows: Friday September 25 – Two course evening meal, bed and breakfast - double £121, single £90.50 Saturday September 26 – Gala Dinner, bed and breakfast - double room £138, single room £101.50 Sunday September 27 – Two course evening meal, bed and breakfast - double room £121.50, single room £90.50 To make a reservation at the Cave Castle Hotel please telephone the hotel reception on 01430 422245 and pay a non-refundable deposit of £20 per person to confirm your accommodation. For more info see our website.

Don’t forget to complete an Entry Form and send to Ian Wilson together with the entry fee of £25 members, £30 non-members. Entry Form can be accessed from: MGCC website, MGA Register, Events in 2020, MGA Register 50th anniversary weekend.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

LED lighting, voltage regulators and dynamos Competition preparation for a T Type Solving T Type drum brake problems A practical approach to common problems on a T Type

Application Form

ebuild 2020

Well, things will be a bit more advanced than what Captain Castor spotted on the Autumn Tour and we will be having seminars on

Saturday 18 April

The T Register’s Rebuild event will once again be held at the British Motor Museum Gaydon CV35 0BJ which you will be able to visit as part of the event

I wish to apply for ......... place(s) at the T Register Rebuild 2020 Conference: Name: .....................................................MGCC membership No: ....................................................

Address:............................................................................................................................................

Postcode: .........................................................................................................................................

Phone: .............................................................................................................................................. email: ................................................................................................................................................

‘Next-Gen’ Relative/Future owner (names):........................................................................................ .........................................................................................................................................................

Special Requirements:.......................................................................................................................

Catering: I will/will not require Bacon Roll breakfast snack on arrival * Dietary preferences/constraints (eg. Veg; Vegan etc.) ............................................................................. (* We will attempt to cater for any special requirements, but availability cannot be guaranteed)

Your T Type Model(s): .........................................Other MGs?: ...........................................................

Fees (inclusive of VAT) MGCC/T-Register Members: £47.00 Non Members : £49.00 ‘Next Gen’ Relative/Future Owner (Accompanying a full Member): £38.00* (* This rate also applicable for Authorised Helpers and Administrators.)

Fees include all refreshments, lunch, and access to the Heritage Centre displays until 4.30pm Please tick Payment Please pay by Bank Transfer if possible - sort code 30-18-88, account number 00373841, payment reference ‘T Register Rebuild’ ☐ Or enclose a cheque for £ ..........payable to: ‘MG Car Club T Register’ Please remit, with this signed form, to the Bookings Administrator:Barry Knight, 26 Hilfield, Yateley, Hants. GU46 6XP Tel: 01252 875740 email: barglen@ntlworld.com

☐

Signed ...................................................................... Date .............................................................

The information/materials imparted by Presenters at REBUILD is provided in good faith, but without warranty, explicit or implied.. The MG Car Club, T Register, its Officials, Presenters & Organisers accept no liability for any actions subsequently taken by attendees based on that information or materials. Always seek advice from a competent person before undertaking repairs/modifications which could affect the safety of yourself and your vehicle. The Organisers reserve the right to alter the programme, if necessary, due to unforeseen circumstances.

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 83

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 83

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS MGC Mike Haughton mgc_mike@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/mgc-register/ I am happy to report that the Register’s annual Christmas dinner held at the Woodside Hotel in Kenilworth, at the end of November was a great success. The event was well supported and several ‘Cs braved the cold.

Richard Immins was at Brooklands Classic Gathering on January 1 – in good company with

two other MGCs, and around 1100 other classics – that’s fair play to all those without New Year Hangovers!

The events for 2020 are now kicking into gear so here are a few dates for your diary.

May 2 – Saturday. The Register will be meeting up at the Downton Engineering Works Social (DEWS) event at Downton Football Club. This coincides with the Cuckoo Fair held in the village so there are plenty attractions for all. Last year we won best club stand, so let’s see if we can do it again.

Late afternoon we have the C Register AGM at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Salisbury,

Richard Immins at Brooklands Classic Gathering on New Year’s Day

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

RV8 members in Cornwall Peter Cutting, an RV8 member in Lostwithiel, has been in touch recently as he is keen to meet up with fellow MGV8 members in Cornwall. His contacts are available via our ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website. www.v8register.net/more.htm V8 Curry at Knowle Our annual V8 Curry is on Saturday February 8 2020 at the Lloyds Restaurant in Knowle, just west of Stoneleigh, where the popular annual MG and Triumph spares show will be held the

84 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 84

following day. Full information and booking details are on our ‘More’ page.

Visit to the Workhouse at Southwell Ken Clayton has arranged a group visit to The Workhouse in Southwell in Nottinghamshire on Sunday July 5 2020. See our ‘More’ page.

Coating suspension parts On completely dismantling the front suspension and removing the sub-frame from his MGB GT V8 Conversion Chris Bound found it seemed solid, but had a lot of surface rust on it, so he thought he might have it grit blasted and coated. But before taking that step he wondered about the options including etch priming and chassis paint, galvanising, powder coating or hot zinc spray.

When removing any rust and cleaning the surfaces by grit blasting, Ron Gammons cautioned that whilst most suspension parts are quite substantial, it’s worthwhile making sure that the blaster does not use too much air pressure. It’s easy to distort steel, so an acid dip is probably the better course. He has seen problems with powder coating, depending upon the thickness and who has applied it. If a chip occurs or it’s stressed and cracked (even

followed by a few drinks in the bar no doubt, and an informal dinner in the evening.

May 3 – Sunday. There is the DEWS road run. Always a well-organised event with many interesting cars taking part.

June 13-14 – MGLive! 2020 is back at Silverstone this year with renewed enthusiasm.

June 27-28 – MGC 52 Weekend. Saturday there is a visit organised to the Fleet Air Arm Museum in Yeovilton. Saturday evening, we have our gala dinner at the Royal Chase Hotel, Shaftsbury. Sunday, it is the main event at the Haynes Motor Museum in Yeovil.

Further details and booking form can be downloaded from the C Register micro website or contact Mike Haughton directly.

Just to mention, if you have any local events that could be of interest to other C owners please send me details for inclusion in future Register newsletters.

In closing, can I mention a renewed request to remind people to update their details with the Register if there have been any changes. This includes email address, postal address, phone number or change of car details. This will help Barrie and Ginny enormously.

That’s all for now, folks. Back into the garage!

Colin Howes from just tightening up parts) the exterior of the coating can look good but may allow water and damp down behind the coating with the usual results which will not be visible before damage occurs.

Peter Berry noted his TVR chassis was grit blasted, repaired and tidied up prior to zinc flame coating. Four years later there is no rust. Ron Gammons noted if you zinc spray a component it makes it very difficult to repair the part by welding in the future. The zinc is difficult to remove before being able to weld or even heat the part to straighten it.

John Brown feels shot blasting and then painting with a polyurethane two-pack paint system is a better option. Referring to NORSOK painting standards he says: “If it’s good enough for the North Sea oil rigs, it should be good enough for an MG V8.” Ron Gammons prefers a coat of black enamel or similar paint with a thin base of undercoat and prior acid etching.

Simon Gardiner had a front cross-member hot-dip galvanised a few years ago and has had no problems with distortion. Chris Bound later reported he had gone to his local blasting and powder coating specialist.

See our ‘More’ webpage for a full copy of this article.

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

• MGB we restored was chosen by Oxford Automobile Model Company Failing 6v batteries?

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

• Professionally Spot Welded Still 12v but with double the capacity. Fits existing battery boxes, • Gearbox rebuilds we have a with minimal extra wiring. Reliable stock of 4 synchro reverse starting power after your MG has gears that are currently not been parked up. KIT £195 + vat. available • Engine rebuilds • Wiring looms fitted • Very large stock of new parts • 27 Years in Business

CM06.19/B8/drd

CLASSIC MOTORING 20/05/2019 11:35 Page 1

by

Re For comm me r G ende d lor y M G

2 4 H R R O A D S I D E R E C O V E RY A N D T R A N S P O R T, O X F O R D S H I R E We specialise in moving classic, prestige, and track cars, offering local and nationwide delivery and collection.

URGENT PROOF •

Specialising in transporting all MGs

Please check this proof carefully errors • R e for com m e nindstyle, e d bcontent y F o r and m e rlayout.

Glory MG Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold • D e a l e r Ve h i c l e Tr a n s f e r ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook.

2 4ALTERATIONS h r R e c o v e r TO y THIS PROOF PLEASE SHOULD YOU REQUIRE• ANY

e C aQUOTE r Tr a nADVERT s p o r t NO. _ _ _ _ _ TELEPHONE BEFORE _•_ _ _P r_i _v a_ tAND • Over 25 years motor trade experience • W i d e a n d v a r i e d l o y a l c l i e n t b a s e •

Prestige ,classic, sports, vintage, t r a c for k cany a r s alteration to this proof which We reserve the right to charge is a departure from the original copy

For more information, please call us and we will help with any queries on 01869 600920 i n f o @ r j h a u t o m o t i v e . c o . u k • w w w. r j h a u t o m o t i v e . c o . u k www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 85

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 85

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS FWD Ben Hatton ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/ As the New Year begins, things are already starting to get busy for the FWD Register. We have just been offered a stand at the NEC Classic Car and Restoration Show in March. Although a much smaller show than the main one in November, year-on-year the show gains in popularity and seems to get better with each passing event. We do have some cars in

mind for our stand but if anyone would like to display their car with us please do get in touch.

Saturday February 8 will see our AGM take place at Kimber House, due to start at 11.00am.

We have plenty of things to discuss, particularly in regards to MGLive! We did have things planned for last year’s event but due to circumstances that everyone is all too aware of, we were unable to put into action what we had planned. Anyone who wishes to join is more than welcome; can I just ask that you drop me an email so I know who to expect.

Come and visit us at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show at the NEC on March 27-29 2020

MGF Tim Morris 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org The roaring twenties have arrived and I wonder what developments this new decade will bring with it? The rapid rise of electric cars will no doubt be foremost in the motoring world and we will see more of these from MG in the next ten years. We have already seen some electric F/TF conversions but they are less than a handful. I wonder if we will we see more this decade and will they be offered on a commercial basis rather than one-offs as we have seen so far?

One thing is for certain – we will be celebrating 25 years of the MGF this year with a special event on July 25-26 at the British Motor Museum. Tickets are now on sale through the BMM website. You can book tickets for the Saturday show and the Anniversary party in the evening. The Sunday will be an anniversary road run starting from Gaydon and using some of the original press routes from 1995 – tickets for that will be available separately, so keep an eye out on our Facebook page, internet forum and

86 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 86

website. We are delighted that a number of guests have already agreed to join us for special sessions in the lecture theatres, including Steve Cropley, Nick Fell, Dennis Chick, Roger Parker and Ian Pogson.

Join us for our first open day at Kimber House on Saturday March 21 – tea and biccies, archive material and tyre kicking will no doubt be the order of the day – pop in and say hi to your committee, share some ideas, chat about F/TFs. We’ll also be back at the MG Show at Stoneleigh on February 9, so seek out the stand and say hi to our events team.

Did you celebrate the new year and new decade at a classic car meet? There were several around the country ranging from small pub car parks to massive events such as Vintage Stony, Brooklands and the Bicester Scramble (albeit a few days late!).

The bleary-eyed Register managed to get down to the Brooklands meet with a Club display flying the flags on a slightly chilly Finishing Straight.

A New Year also means another FWD Spring Run. Thanks to Tanya this year’s event will follow much the same route as last year. As in previous years, the run is also open to any non-MG variant of our FWD cars that MGCC have. Beginning at Kimber House for MG variants only, the run will then proceed to the Mini Plant at Cowley to pick up non-MG versions of our cars and a short tea break. We will then proceed to the British Motor Museum at Gaydon. The route will be a non-motorway route going through some brilliant driving roads and scenery. There will be an extended stop at Gaydon for lunch and photographs. We will then proceed to the Longbridge site. This for many will be rather sad, considering the recent developments at the old MG Rover factory. Our final stop will be just around the corner at the Church of FWD Register member Colin Corke, where tea and cakes will be provided for a charitable donation.

This is something we have done every year and is always a nice end to the run.

If you would like to take part in the run please either let myself or Tanya know as soon as possible, just so we know what numbers to expect and so we can also inform the volunteers at the church so they can have the tea and cakes ready for us.

We hear that Brooklands MG Era has been changed this year and other types of British classics will also be joining the fray. Whilst the exclusivity of an all-MG day will be missed, there will be more classics to look at if you join us on April 19. We’ll have a Club stand and special 25th Anniversary display, so will be on the lookout for some silver MGF/TFs to head that up – I wonder if we could get 25 of them! Let Tim know if you can help out with your silver car – tim.morris@mgfregister.org Finally, congratulations to Gerry McGovern who received an OBE in the New Year Honours List for services to the motor industry.

Some of the Register at Brooklands NYD Meet

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

The only independent RAC Approved MGF & MGTF dealer in the country with over 50 MGF’s & MGTF’s in stock.

▪ Car sales

▪ MG only workshop ▪ Servicing and repairs ▪ Body repairs ▪

▪ Accident repairs ▪ Suspension pump ▪ Free vehicle inspections ▪ ▪ New and used parts ▪ Huge accessories shop - hardtops, hoods, windows, exhausts, remap, wheels, windstops – we’ve got it all!

Tel: 01572 767777

Email: info@trophycars.co.uk

On the A1 North of Stamford, South Witham NG33 5LN

British Made

BOXER ROLL HOOPS

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

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

THE MGF & TF SPECIALIST

For Your MG

From

£265

DAYTONA SS EXHAUSTS VOTED ‘BEST EXHAUST’

BY MG ENTHUSIAST

TESTED BY MG ENTHUSIAST AND ROGER PARKER With over 200 kits now sold and 100% positive feedback the FCCKit has been a great success eliminating the hydragas issues. For 2019 the MK4 version incorporates improvements to make fitting easier, additional height and camber adjustment and self lubricating sintered bearings which eliminates the familiar top arm knock/play. 4 shocks and springs, 4 top arms, 4 turrets, ABS brackets and all fittings required standard tools are all that is required for a DIY fit. ’The ride you set is the ride you get’ £ +VAT

949

TF SUSPENSION K T The Mike Satur TransFormer Coilover Kit features a CNC machined aluminium top mount with rubber isolating pads which mount directly into the subframe without any drilling. The 50mm large capacity GAZ shocks are a MS design with a 14mm rod that is far stiffer than anything else on the market and directly transmits the loads into the rod without any reduction in diameter or strength. The stock/aftermarket ones are machined down to 10mm my 14mm design increases the strength without the risk of snapping.

Height and damper adjustment is easily done and the new design CNC machined lower bolts 15mm dia front and 17mm dia rear prevent the risk of snapping compared to the stock 12mm ones. The kit comes ready to fit without the use of old parts only the lower arms have to be machined from 12mm to 14mm for the lower bolt. The springs can easily be replaced without the need for compressors. The kit comprises of 4 spring and shock assemblies and 4 lower bolts.

£950 +VAT

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 87

From

From

£285

WINDBREAK SCREEN Only

TOUGHENED SAFETY GLASS

QUAD, ROUND or OVAL tail pipes

£65

SLICK SHIFT IV

4-2 2-1 1 MANIFOLD Only

£185

MGF / TF CAMBER ADJUSTER KIT - PER AXLE Only

STAINLESS STEEL Only

£445

ALI HEATER KNOBS

£40

RADIATOR BLEED SCREW SUNMATE

Only

£8.75 Only

£46

Only

£30

SEATBELT ACCESSORIES

£20

£21

WIPER LINKAGE

CLUTCH LEVER Only

From

Only

£36.75

£117

HUB ADAPTERS Only

£115

Only

£40 STANDARD OR LOWERED

KNUCKLE JOINT - NEW MIKE SATUR DESIGN

AI R Only DUCT £35 KIT HYDRAGAS HYDRAGAS NIPPLES NIPPLES - SET SE T 4 WELD IN

SCREW IN Only

£70

Only

£50

All products designed by Mike Satur All prices exclude VAT unless stated

www.mikesatur.com 01782 373547

PARTS MAIL ORDER WORLDWIDE

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 87

24/01/2020 16:17

REGISTERS ZR/ZS/ZT JOHN THOMPSON 01702 298866 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister Upcoming Events It’s February already and our first event of 2020 is now just over a week away. The MG and Triumph Spares Day which takes place on Sunday 9 at Stoneleigh has become the traditional season opener for us in recent years. It’s good to catch up with old friends and to meet new members who have joined us over the winter. Please come and see us in Hall three for the latest information and a chat.

Plans also continue on the arrangements for the Practical Classics Restoration & Classic Car show in March. We will be located in Hall 5 on stand 430 next to the main Club stand. Work continues apace on the arrangements for some of our events later in the year. Information will be released as details are confirmed.

With the 2020 race meeting dates confirmed, visit www.mgcc.co.uk/motorsport/ for further information. We are pleased to announce that the Register will be organising the lunchtime

MG6.3.5 Sean Round sean@seanround.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register twitter.com/635register February already? Where has the time gone?

Many of you will know me already but I’m Sean Round and have taken over as chair of the 635 Register from previous incumbent, Steve Haines.

I would like, on behalf of the committee, to give our thanks to Steve for his great efforts during his five years at the helm and for all he did for the Register – I’m sure our members will agree he did a great job.

2020 promises to be another great year. Steve has assumed the role of our Events Co-ordinator and is already working hard in the background to pull together a calendar of events for you all. Please do keep an eye on our website page, our Facebook and Twitter feeds, too, for news in this regard. We’re also looking to do a couple of slightly different events this year – keep your eyes peeled. If anyone has any other suggestions for events then please do let me or one of the

parade laps again this year*. This is your opportunity to see the circuit from a driver’s-eye view and is a benefit of your annual membership. Please visit Geoff in the hospitality suite to sign on. *Please note that the parade laps are subject to alteration and/or cancellation due to the racing timetable.

Zeds At The Lakes Our main event of 2020 is of course the ‘Zeds in the Lakes’ road trip which takes us to the Lake District for four days. Based in Kendal, you will have the opportunity to travel on some of the most scenic roads in England in the comfort of your own Zed. We deliberately moved our regional event to September so it could be incorporated into the weekend. ‘Zeds in the North’ will take place at the Lakeland Motor Museum. The price of the weekend includes entry into the museum. Those not on the road trip are more than welcome to join us for an enjoyable day at the museum. Just to remind you of the dates; September 11-14 are the dates for the road trip. Sunday September 13 is the day at the Lakeland Motor Museum. Further committee know – we’re always open to suggestions.

As you may already know, it’s looking increasingly unlikely that the MG6 GT will feature in this year’s BTCC. One of last year’s drivers, Sam Osborne, has recently signed with AMD Tuning and will be taking the wheel of one of the Honda Civics.

I’d like to extend a thank you to Sam and his family for being so welcoming to us last year and to the guys at Excelr8 too! However, all is not lost as the new MG6 shall be making an appearance in TCR – will be exciting to see how that gets on!

information will be announced in due course by ourselves and Scenic Car Tours.

It’s not too late to register your interest with Scenic Car Tours if you still wish to go. Simply email your details to admin@ sceniccartours.com or call their Sales/ Operations team on 01732 879153.

As Steve noted last month, our Chairman’s Charity is Parkinson’s UK. We’d really like to hit our target of £635 this year so if anyone has any suggestions as to how we may be able to raise funds at our events then please feel free to make them!

I’m really looking forward to meeting more of you over the coming year, learning more about your ownership experiences and seeing what we can do to help each other enjoy these fantastic cars we’ve all grown to love!

Sam Osborne piloting the BTCC MG6 at Donington Park in 2019. Photo: Dickon Siddall 88 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 88

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:17

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

New General Manager Part-Time leading to Full-Time after a successful �irst 12 months Part-time £14,170 plus bonus scheme, building to full-time £24,570 + bonus ENGINE MODIFICATIONS

FULL WORKSHOP FACILITIES FOR ALL AGES OF MG

CLASSIC AND SPORTS CAR SPECIALISTS We cover all MGs and Classic Sports Cars & Historic Race Cars

SERVICING • REPAIRS FULL IN-HOUSE RESTORATION AND FABRICATION INCLUDING: PAINTBOOTH WITH LOWBAKE OVEN IN-HOUSE TRIM SHOP RACE DAY & TRACK DAY PREPARATION & CIRCUIT SUPPORT FULL MECHANICAL WORKSHOPS

Sponsors for Lackford Engineering Midget and Sprite Challenge 2018 Lackford Engineering Historic Formula Ford 2000 Championship 2018

We are the only MG O/C 5 Spanner/Star restorers in East and West Sussex

We are looking for an experienced, motivated and �lexible team member to assist in the running of our respected business. Your role will range across our workshop, parts sales, car sales and vehicle storage departments.

We have been MG specialists for over 40 years and are extremely proud of our excellent reputation. We aim to maintain this by constantly providing our customers with friendly, reliable and value for money service.

Essential Experience Technical knowledge of classic British sports cars.

Dealing with customers face to face in a knowledgeable and friendly way.

Managing people and ef�iciently working with processes.

Role To support the Managing Director, in most aspects of the business.

You will have sole responsibility for running our Parts Department and our Classic Vehicle Storage facility. After a successful �irst 12 months your role will build to include more responsibly including Workshop Management.

Please email your enquiries to william@beechhillgarage.com, stating why you wish to apply and why you would be suitable for this post.

Telephone 01753 644599

Email: martin@runnymede

PLEASEmotorcompany.com NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED Aston Martin in the Thames Valley THIS ARTWORK IS THE PROPERTY OF CLASSIC MOTORING MAGAZINE. NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE USED BY ANY OTHER PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION IS GIVEN BY THE PUBLISHERS - © Aceville Publications Ltd

URGENT PROOF 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. _ _ _ _ _

Mobile (07836) 222111

www.runnymedemotorcompany.com 1967 MGB Roadster finished in Tartan Red with contrasting black hide interior. Having purchased an MGB at the age of 21, supported by a finance agreement, these cars have always been a favorite of mine, despite moving onto numerous other hand built British Motor cars. This particular MGB has been the subject of a total, high quality restoration and is beautifully finished. The paintwork is completely unblemished and the interior leather and carpets look as though they were fitted yesterday. The soft top is in as new condition and with the car is a matching tonneau cover. It sits on silver painted wire wheels and has the benefit of Overdrive on 3rd and 4th gears, reducing engine revolutions for motorway cruising.

Everything about this car suggests that the previous owners have taken great care and the older restoration included a new Heritage body shell, hence the whole car is completely corrosion free. When driving, the engine performs extremely well and the overdrive clicks in without any lag. You can find MGB’s for considerably less than our conservative asking price but if you want the best, look no further. £18,950

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

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 89

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 89

24/01/2020 16:17

site Type b e w ed nd Tt a c a i ded e MG om com W c .

NE for th gmg. agmg y a ia l l .xp n@xp c w e sp ww ingdo b il: a a Em

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

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

URGENT PROOF

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

Classic car sales including Classic Car Specialists focusing

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

commission salesourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook.

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

Telephone 01206

Fax 01206 500180

Unit 9, Broadfields Farm, Dunmow Road, Rayne, Braintree, Essex. CM77 6SA We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which

a departure from the original| copy 01376 569355 is | abingdon@xpagmg.com www.xpagmg.com

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 90

24/01/2020 16:18

T-Type

Servicing, Restoration and Bespoke reďŹ nishing work Classic and Sports Cars Essex have been established for many years, and over that time have built up an excellent reputation as one of the UK’s leading T-Type specialist restorers.

We understand the need to balance maintaining originality with 21st century modifications such as 5 speed gearbox conversions, uprated brakes etc.

Our in house engineers can help you with a range of work starting from basic service packages to a

complete engine rebuild. If paint work is required, our bodywork specialist is on hand with a fully operational spray booth, boasting the highest quality work seen.

As a family run business we pride ourselves on a personal service. You will be welcome in our workshop throughout all stages of your project.

We are happy to discuss any requirements you may have so please get in touch.

We look forward to seeing you!

View all our work at www.xpagmg.com

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 91

24/01/2020 16:18

CLASSIFIEDS CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

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

MG TF LE 500+H/top,#181/500, just 38,665miles

LE500 #181/500. Previously supplied by us @32,845 miles in Jan 2017.Full spec LE500 including its hardtop. Air conditioning, black leather sport seats, sports pack 2 with soft ride suspension, Heated glass screen with black soft top, 16” black 11 spoke alloys,etc .Just been though our workshop, serviced and fitted with a new cambelt / water pump, a New Stainless Supersport exhaust, Kmap upgraded ECU plus a new mot with no advisories, also has fitted uprated drilled/vented brake disc’s. Full service history Superb condition. £5,895

MG TF 135, Very high spec, Rare colour combo.

MG TF 115 Spark’SE’+ H/top, (just 43,000miles)

2005 (55 Reg), 74,000 Miles, Manual, Petrol, Very high spec TF135 finished in very rare Pearl Black with Grenadine cockpit alcantara sport seats with black leather. Sport pack 2 ABS,16” 11 spoke alloys 4 pot red brake calipers, chrome packs, glass heated rear screen. Full history covered just 7,000miles since 2011. Superb condition £2,995

High spec TF115 Spark ‘SE’ model with a colour coded hardtop. 16” 11 spoke alloys (just refurbished plus new tyres), red 4 pot brake calipers, Black leather seats with grey inserts +MG logo, Silver console/ door trims / two tone silver steering wheel, chrome packs. Club/F register members car, low insurance group. £3,295

This is just a small selection from our stock

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

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

2015 MG6 TS DIESEL

Grey, 32,000 miles. Full MG service history, last serviced & Mot’d September 2019, so�ware update Dec 2019. 1st owner MG Longbridge, since looked a�er by MG in Sheffield. TL Model chrome trim on front grill. Insulated boot to reduce noise levels. Waxoyled, full size spare wheel.

Extended warranty until September 2020. £5,395. Tel: 07535 434341 (Sheffield)

Spent first twelve years of it’s life in Cyprus, taken over by RAF type. Not pristine but In nice condition. Primrose yellow, green leather. New hood, side screen and tonneau cover two years ago.

Carbs need se�ng up. £29,950. Reason for sale, just bought a TF. Tel: 01473 824 924. Mob no 07790 775 080.

(Ipswich area)

2003 MG ZT-T V6 190 HP

Estate/Tourer. 92,000 miles. MOT till August 2020. Cam-belts changed approx 2000 miles ago. In excellent condition internally and externally. Smooth MANUAL gearbox. Engine in excellent condition.

Recently fitted tow-bar. £1450. Contact Ray on 07984 390 436 (Torquay)

www.churchsquareautos.com

www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk

The MG specialists for MGF-MGTF-MG3-MG6

MARTIN SMITH

1954 MGTF

Originally le� hand drive and sent to US. Returned UK 1989. Converted to RHD and refurbed. 16000 miles since 1989.

Electronic ignition. Not converted to leadfree. Some micro blistering. Very good hood and tonnaeu cover. Price £23,000 Contact: 07711319539 Email: brucecawdron@icloud.com

Quality new and used spares.

Car trimmers/upholstery.

MG car sales and MG repair service

www.usedmgtfspares.co.uk

92 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 92

MGF VVC 2000

Reluctantly selling my Wife’s much loved MGF VVC, year 2000, full leather seats, hardtop, 57,000 miles, one owner, dealer maintained from new. Two new tyres less than 3000 miles ago, MoT until June 2020, I have all service details, MoTs etc.

Garaged all its life, this car is in excellent condition - not concours but little work to make it so. £2750. 01793 763364 grahamarrondelle@yahoo.com (Near Swindon Wiltshire)

2003 MG ZR 160

9,906 miles from new! Full History, Just been mot’d 11/20, had belts changed etc.

Obviously like new and original, photos available on request. £4250 o.n.o For more information Tel: 07785261293.

(Somerset)

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

Early solid wheel mod TD0461(EXU) with eng Exported to Canada a my father in 1994 in a New Body Tub and wi parts rechromed and leather seats. The car re-assembly. £7,500.0 on 07790 034288.

(Fareham, Hants)

1946 MG TC

FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1981. OUR OFFICE/ SHOWROOM IS AT 62B HIGH STREET SHEPPERTON TW17 9AU VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE

MARTIN MARTIN SMITH SMITH

1950 MG TD

Please note that the Advertising deadline is February 10th for the March issue of Safety Fast!

MGZS 1800

Fuel Injected Petrol. C last 9 years - - private - moving house. Excel First registered April 2 miles, MOT to 17/7/2 Bodywork in great con scratches. Very strikin with rear spoiler. Uph clean condition. Fron Air conditioning, heat ABS braking. Original wood CD/Radio. Engin 2019, plus new radiat and new battery. Inv Clean Alloy wheels. Ty remaining. Private nu with the car. £800 OV at London N4 4BL. Ph 07856 679152.

1958 MGA 150

Fully rebuilt with pho Only 1800 miles since Brakes upgraded to 16 anti roll bar fitted.Oth 1500 spec. Original fa port but now Right ha service. £29995 ono. P on 07979370895 or peach2000@globalne information. (Suffolk)

MGF VVC 2000

Sadly selling my much loved MGF VVC, 2000 model, full leather seats, heated rear window, 58,000 miles two owners, full service history, £6000 spent on updates, four new tyres, new HG, clutch, water pump,strainless steel exhaust, new radiator, coolant pipes. MOT until June 2020, this MGF is very rare in an excellent condition. £4500 open to offers.

07908004009.Email jamjar62@gmail.com (Letchworth Her�ordshire)

1970 MGB Roa

Red, good working ord overdrive, new batter round, chrome wire w tyres. Call for more de £8000 ONO. Viewable 841868. (Fareham)

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:41

adRocket

BARRY WALKER Ltd Sherwood Restorations Estd.1968

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

British Motor Heritage approved

SOME MORE SUPER OLD THINGS THIS MONTH

Established 1966

ALL IN LOVELY ORDER AND AT VERY FAIR PRICES

Established as one of the leaders in the field of vintage and classic car sales and restoration, of many major Concours d’Elegance Awards 1949 MG TC with over 200 years of combined experience, winners 1960 MGA ‘1600

SPORTS. A slightly older restoration than some we offer, but in really good reliable condition with a lovely engine & box, and nicely patinised red leather.

Correct & original with excellent steering & performance...£28,950

ROADSTER’.

Completely refurbished

by Bob West MGA. There is little I can say about this other than it’s fabulous & offered in show condition. Not a car we often sell, but when as good as this it meets the standard we sell at.

Deep red, beige leather, full weather equipment...£35,500

1947 MG TC SPORTS. It’s not very often we get a truly professionally engineered car. If you’re looking for reliability, longevity & performance, this must be viewed. One engineer owner for the past 51 years.

Photographic album showing every stage of this 2014 chassis-up restoration. Beautiful to drive in pristine condition. Raven Black with Apple Green leather..............................................................................................£36,500

SOLD

1935 MG ‘N’ 6 CYL. 4-SEAT MAGNETTE. The ideal long distance touring MG or perfect for golf clubs, dog or wife’s luggage. Good ground clearance, roomy & comfortable with proper 6cyl. performance. In original condition throughout. Two-tone blue with complete interior by Collingburn in blue leather with full weather gear. Such a practical car with sensible ease of entry. Ideal for the Flying Scotsman or similar................................£65,000

*

PRE-WAR & TA/B/C SPARES FOR SALE * Dismantled but complete MG ‘N’ 6cyl. engine. V. good components - RARE...£8,500 * Spare L/K cyl. head – unshaven........£1,500 * Many other 4/6 cyl. engine parts including clutches. * J/P/L/F handbrake crosshaft, complete...£550 * Set of front & rear rebuilt MG D/F/J/P shock absorbers..........................................£120ea * New water pumps for P/L/K/N models....£485ea * Complete MG J2 engine for rebuild (all together)........................................£6,500 * TA/B/C pair new magnetic speedo & rev counter.............................................£550 pair * Head/tail/side/foglamps. Instruments for all models, electrical boxes, filler caps, Lucas horns, etc, etc. * JUST IN J2/F2/L2 HOOD FRAMES & CYLCLE WINGS * Very good F2/J2 radiator.............£550 J2 radiator shell...................£350 * Mint cond. PA/PB radiator shell........£695 P/N gearbox remote.......£365 * TC road wheels/MMM road wheels/all types of steering wheels. ***** SAME DAY MAIL ORDER *****

JUST ARRIVED – MG PB, FOR COMPLETE RESTORATION, BUT ALL TOGETHER IN ONE LUMP. REALLY NICE PROJECT......£22,500

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

Tel: 01789 400181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com

adRocket

Sherwood Restorations Ltd Established 1966 Established as one of the leaders in the field of vintage and classic car sales and restoration, with over 200 years of combined experience, winners of many major Concours d’Elegance Awards

1961 MGA ROADSTER MK2 Chariot Red with Black trim. Bob West restoration some years ago and still stunning throughout.

WAS: £36,995

NOW £34,995 SAVE: £2,000

1974 MGB 1.8 ROADSTER – OVERDRIVE

Citron Yellow with Black Interior and Hood. One of the last chrome bumper ‘B’s, restored a few years ago to a high standard, remaining in the same superb condition to this day. An ideal start to Classic Motoring.

WAS: £13,495

NOW: £10,995 SAVE: £2,500

1968 MGC ROADSTER Glacier White with Black trim.

Retaining its original registration ‘OOB 21G’. Sympathetically modified with ‘touring’ in mind.

Comprehensive history. So nice, so original and so understated.

RHD – WAS £31,995

NOW £27,995 SAVE: £4,000

1974 MGB GT V8 – GENUINE FACTORY ‘GD’ CHASSIS NO.

Green with Autumn Leaf interior, genuine factory example. A very original, unmolested example supplied new by Kennings in Chesterfield. Very low ownership and a believed genuine 66,000 miles from new.

WAS: £25,995

NOW: £19,995 SAVE: £6,000

If your car is one of the very best, please call with an accurate description, detailing condition, history, ownership, etc. All makes and models required.

Upton Fields Garage, Upton Road, Southwell, Notts. NG25 0QB. Tel: 01636 812655/812682/812700

www.sherwoodrestorations.co.uk sales@sherwoodrestorations.co.uk

“SPECIAL DISCOUNTED RATES FOR READERS” Please mention ‘Safety Fast’ when calling.

Barry Walker February 20.indd 1

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 93

FP_CLASSICC_3899348id3990095.pdf 05.08.2019 12:09

21/01/2020 11:42

FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 93

24/01/2020 16:41

CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise

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

To place an advert in Safety Fast! please MGBCGT ROADSTER 1974 Heritage Shell MG 1968 AUTOMATIC Older & BoltRebuild Restored email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk withNut an upe (VPK860M) overdrive, last owner (RWD628G) MG CGTbumpers, 1968, automatic, excellent Mineral attached photochrome of your car, details of your to MGCC. 41 your years, rebuilt ondetails, a new Heritage Shell byoriginal renownedBlack Blue coachwork with nicely mellowed car, contact price of your neral Blue MG specialists MGB Hive in early 2000’s, Damask RedMGC interioryou trim,live original genuine leather bound -of-the De Luxerange TL car,leather area where and membership enquiries@mgsforsale.com coachworkwheel, still in good with only steering nicelycondition detailed engine compartment iesel.

48,000 miles o.

Almost number.

Please keep your advert to age/mileage 2015 imperfections, nicely patinated leather trim,BorgMG6 TS DIESEL litreblack engine idealinterior with the eage odernwill increase) 18” 70housing words,the thesmooth editor 3.0 reserves the right miles. Full MG service histoOE style automatic Black vinylgearbox hood, rebuilt engine Ivor Grey, Searle 32,000 Warner thisbyparticularly rare ellinserts. head, MoT’d until to edit longer adverts.

Thismaking is for one housed in clean engine compartment, heavy history le serviced & Mot’d September 2019, ry, filast modelonanonly, ideal for classic today, this vehicle apparently formed part of a collection of a deceased ost discs and pads as well inserti additi onal inserti ons containing restoration invoices circa £10k, original sales invoice from 1978, tax discs, old mot’s so�ware Decold 2019.

1st owner no. interior, satestate, inspection one fuel can logs see and the of the rebuildupdate fromOlder a number years ago and please email eather MGquality 1968 &ofBolt Restored back to on 1977, handwritten aCGT plethora ofAUTOMATIC invoices both past & Nut present for servicing MG Longbridge, since looked a� er by &MG om with likely little miles since is still very fresh in appearance, just arrived £24,950.00 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk nectivity. Full service MG CGT 1968, automatic, excellent Mineral maintenance over the years, a credit(RWD628G) to the custodian of the last four decades, drives delightfully, in Sheffield. TL Model chrome trim on

by SAIC Motor 2016 UK Tech-MG6 just Blue coachwork with mellowed original GTarrived, diesel £14,950.00 front grill.nicely Insulated boot to reduceBlack noise MG BGT 1972 Last Owner 37 Years (LLF951K) MG BGT, od condition. Spacious, leather interior trim, original genuine leather bound MGC Facelift model. Top-of-the range TL levels.

Waxoyled, full size spare wheel. last owner 37 years, chrome bumpers, overdrive, ng modern MG. £6500 MGB Roadster Older £10k Restoration (RRR101R) steering wheel, nicely detailed engine compartment model.

1.9 turbo1972, diesel.

48,000 miles Extended until September 2020.

Rubber will Bumpers, previously sold coachwork byhousing us, priorthe owner last 3.0 warranty chrome Rostyle wheels, now requiring 07530734044(daily driver so mileage smooth litre engine ideal with the Borg increase) 18”Aqua Tel: (Sheffield) 24inserts. years, comprehensive restoration inindeed the£5,395.

90’s some improvement but a £10k very solid vehicleautomatic with a 07535 Warner gearbox making434341 this particularly rare alloys, red bumper MoT’d until with new sill sections, front wings, doors, bootstyle etc.navy nicelycloth nice original feel and appearance, original June 2020. Recent discs and pads as well evidenced withgold invoices photos within history seal and engine fitted mid heavy 80’s and drives as new tyres. Fullinterior leathertrim, interior, satfile along with DVLA ownership records, previous mot’s, nav, Bluetooth connectivity.

Full service delightfully, good history file with original documentation tax etc. etc. Mechanical of power train specialists Brian Brown Classics & B history – servicedback bydiscs SAIC Motor Tech- refurbishment to the 80’s, aUK plethora of invoices from renowned including unleaded engine than 4k miles coachwork still in£5,950.00 excellent condition and nical Centre. In good condition.

Spacious, Hive, original Unipart Goldless Seal papers, oldsince, mot’sBlack etc. etc. just arrived virtually unmarked black leather interior trim, recent hood, refurbished original Rostyle wheels with economical engaging modern MG. £6500 good tyres, tailored tonneau covers, carpeted boot, drives delightfully, fastidiously maintained and ono. Call Adam on 07530734044 50 ever a credit to its custodians, just arrived, £9,450.00 1946 MG TC heated Spent first twelve years of it’s life in Y WANTED per alloy URGENTL Cyprus, taken over by RAF type. Not ull size toolkit pristine but In nice condition. Primrose 2003 MG ZT-T V6 190 HP every yellow, green leather. New hood, side ith Estate/Tourer. 92,000 miles. MOT till screen and tonneau cover two years ago. make builtthis 1961. On the August 2020. Cam-belts changed approx Carbs need se�ng up. £29,950. Reason ANY CONDITION duced. miles.

It has EU approv2000 miles ago. In excellent condition infor sale, just bought a TF. Tel: 01473 824 his it was approved ternally and externally. Smooth MANUAL 924.

Mob no WEBSITE 07790 775 080.

SEE OUR FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK power of the motor gearbox. Engine in excellent condition.

(Ipswich area) ekchanged to lead Recently fitted tow-bar. £1450. Contact r is black with a beige onoffered 07984 390 436 Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior qualityRay models elsewhere.

Part (Torquay) exchange od condition. MG A 1600 any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only e left side of the car.

In good condition, built 1961.

On the please (available evenings & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an MOT and are areItfully fully serviced prior to to collection/delivery. collection/delivery. or £34’200 GBP. Theare 58’000 MOT and prior tacho miles. hasserviced EU approvd from France.alPhone papers (before this it was approved or Email: in Switzerland) The power of the motor s.org is 79 PS and had be changed to lead free petrol. The car is black with a beige Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850 Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850 interor. It’s in a good condition.

The wheel is on the left side of the car.

Price 38’000 Euro or £34’200 GBP. The car has to be picked from France. Phone 0033 389 89 40 56 or Email: L MG MODELS! francoise@bignens.org 1954 MGTF

01707 876089

07831 556666

GT diesel

01707 876089

www.mgsforsale.com

1950 MG TD

07831 556666 Early solid wheel model number

TD0461(EXU) with engine XPAG 760.

Exported to Canada and reimported by my father in 1994 in a dismantled state.

New Body Tub and wings in primer. Many parts rechromed and excellent black leather seats. The car needs painting and re-assembly. £7,500.00 ono. Contact Nigel on 07790 034288.

(Fareham, Hants)

1947 MGTC

Original uk car with good history, older restoration but still in super condition.

Excellent oil pressure ,tight steering and driving perfectly. Fitted with period heater!nearly new hood. Recent full service. £25950ono. For details and further pictures please contact Michael on 07979370895 or email peach2000@globalnet.co.uk.

(Suffolk)

URGENTLY WANTED

ANY ANY MG MG

ANY ANY YEAR YEAR ANY CONDITION

MGZS 1800

Fuel Injected Petrol. Current owner for last 9 years - - private sale, reason for sale - moving house. Excellent condition First registered April 2002. Mileage 10180 miles, MOT to 17/7/20. Road Taxed.

Bodywork in great condition - no dents/ scratches. Very striking, rare bright yellow with rear spoiler. Upholstery in good clean condition. Front electric windows.

Air conditioning, heated rear screen and ABS braking. Original factory fitted Kenwood CD/Radio. Engine overhauled June 2019, plus new radiator, new alternator and new battery. Invoices included Clean Alloy wheels. Tyres 70% tread remaining. Private number plate sold with the car. £800 OVNO. Car can be seen at London N4 4BL. Phone or text Steve on from barn finds to MGF VVC 2000 Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850 07856 679152.

Originally le� hand drive and sent to US. keted, 1 collections purchased.

Reluctantly selling my Wife’s much loved Returned UK 1989. Converted to RHD d.

Discretion assured.

MGF VVC, year 2000, full leather seats, and refurbed. 16000 miles since 1989. h black sitate to contact me if hardtop, 57,000 miles, one owner, dealer Electronic igniti on. Not to leadnd must 1972 MGB Roadster, Oldconverted English White, red trim.

MGRV8, Woodcote Green, trim. in selling your MG and maintained fromBritish new.

Twostone newbeige tyrestrim, Totally restored on dry state shell,Very everything is new/ 1995 750 free.

Some micro blistering. goodcolour), 1972 MGB Racing Green, black 1973 MGB Roadster, OxfordSports blue leather (RV8 New beigeRoadster mohair hood, new (original) tonneau, recon.

2L fast road engine. seats. ompt hassle-free cash less than 3000 miles ago, MoT unti l June leather seats, antique red carpet, fast road engine, Barley trim, mohair hood,Price chrome in excellent condition, new door cards.

Re WANTED ALL MODELS! hood and tonnaeu cover. £23,000 Everfl exMG red hood.

W/Wheels.

Drives like aw/w, new fully car, interior balanced and stage 11and head, 15”caps. minilite, carbon restored S/S about 15rack, years ago, still excellent, well veneered ree to contact meAll forconditions a console door 48,500 mls.

2020, I dash have all service details, MoTs etc. superb, boot sports painted dash. wanted, from barn finds to wheel, co.uk Contact: 07711319539 fi bre dash, Moto-Lita, superb driving car in super looked after car, excellent engine bay.

Super example Screen frame (refurbed).

Power steering, upgraded Hydraulic bonnet struts, K&N filters. Would cost in on friendly chat. concours. Complete Garaged allengine its life, car Suspension isshell in excellent condition, nice baythis , superb fast fun at collections £14,495.00 to Clive Wheatley Spax shocks. poly Email: brucecawdron@icloud.com excess of £35k to purchased. build. £27,995.00 £13,795.00 bushed. and slave but cylinder, boot conditiNew on -clutch not concours littlenew work Cash buyer. Discretion assured. rested in the following stayst. £22,995 to make it so. £2750. 01793 763364 Please do not hesitate to contact me if GA, MGB, MGC, MGB 1972 MGB Roadster, Old English White, red trim. te and Midget. you are interested in selling your MG and Totally restored ongrahamarrondelle@yahoo.com dry state shell, everything is new/ 1995 MGRV8, Woodcote Green, stone beige trim.

1958 MGAtonneau, 1500 roadster, new (original) recon. 2L fast road engine.

Sports Wiltshire) leather seats. New beige mohair hood, are looking for a prompt hassle-free cash (Near Swindon new door cards. Re Everflex red hood.

W/Wheels. Drives like a new car, interior in excellent condition, Fully rebuilt with photographic record.

IRECT ON: buyer! Please feel free to contact me for a superb, S/S boot rack, sports wheel, painted dash. veneered dash console and door caps. 48,500 mls.

Power steering, Only 1800 milesupgraded since restoration.

Hydraulic bonnet struts, K&N filters. Would cost in Screen frame (refurbed). no obligation friendly chat.

7 528131 to Clive Wheatley Spax shocks. Suspension poly excess of £35k to build. £27,995.00 Brakes toboot 1600 discs and front bushed. New clutch and slaveupgraded cylinder, new sed Buyer I am especially interested in the following stayst. £22,995 anti roll bar fitted.Other wise to original models: MG TC, MGA, MGB, MGC, MGB 1500 spec. Original factory black, US imV8, Magnette and Midget. port but now Right hand drive.Recent full 1964 MGB ROADSTER Pull door handle car, Iris 1976 MGB Roadster. Tartan Red, black trim, blue, black /white trim.

Excellent restored car done in the totally MGB restored car stripped to bare and CALL MIDGET DIRECT ON: Green, Shadow Green trim. 1972 MK1 Almond Flame Red, Tanback leather trim. shell Full bare service. £29995 ono. Please Call Michael 90s but immaculate. still excellent an early restored Californiancar, imports when shell restored overwith 10 years. spent onrecord. parts Totally Totally probably rebuild historyThousands and photographic on 07979370895 or email they best were really O/drive,Restored interior really goodand as Minilites.

07787 528131 alone, everything is either reconditioned. the MK1 good. available! in as 1992 Lovely engine bay. new Drivesorsuperbly.

Some new, lovley bay,just superb shell done. and superbly original, marks Immaculate engine bay, summer stone chipped still looks engine like ZR it’s been Immaculate in paint.

Superb fun andpainted great peach2000@globalnet.co.uk for more 2003 160 UK Based MG Buyer painted underside, alloy bonnet,trim w/wheels, steering underside, all new chrome, new seats (period 60’s underside, engine bay, interior etc. Drives like investment. £11,995.00 information. (Suffolk) wheel.miles Fitted with better 5 brg£18,995 engine, original 9,906 from new!

Full History, Just new.

Unique opportunity. (wouldbanjo cost axle. well style), wood dash, mono style wheel, 15” minilites. A A superb oldertorestoration and ready to enjoy with no superb car and fantastic value @ £14,995.00 h chrome over £40-50k restore now!) £18,995 been mot’d 11/20, had belts changed etc. work required, fantastic value £15,995.00 Midget trim. Specialist Obviously like new and original, photos MIDGET MK1 Almond Green, Shadow Green trim. 1972 MGB Flame Red, Tan leather trim. Full bare rationon in Abingdon MGF ERS Totally VVC restored 2000 car, probably shell rebuild with history and photographic record. available on request. £4250 o.n.oTotally immaculate. ord, the the best MK1 available!

Restored 1992loved and MGF Sadly selling my in much VVC, Minilites.

Lovely engine bay. Drives superbly. Some 224 CHROME For more information Tel: 07785261293. still looks like it’s just been done.

Immaculate marks in paint. Superb summer fun and great many 2000 fulletc. leather seats, heated underside, engine bay, model, interior trim Drives like investment. £11,995.00 (Somerset) D MIDGETS in ywheel, new. Unique opportunity. £18,995 58,000 (would cost welltwo owners, rear window, miles over £40-50k to restore now!) £18,995 ition bought up to running full service history, £6000 spent on Contact the Midget Specialist y file w current stock at updates, four new tyres, new HG, clutch, Please note that the MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon tes. water pump,strainless steel exhaust, midgets.com 1970 MGB Roadster 07703 465 224 CHROME Advertising deadline is new radiator, coolant pipes. MOT until Red, good working order, drives well, re) 1960 AUSTIN HEALEY 3000 MKI Fern Green, green 1995 MGRV8 Woodcote stoneRacing beige trim.

New 1969 BUMPERED MIDGETS inGreen, MGC Mineral Blue, grey leather trim.

Chrome 1976 MG MIDGET 1500 British Green, June 2020, this MGF is very rare in an February 10th for leather Overdrive. trim. Restored a few years by ago,ourselves rebuilt body, beige mohair hood, (original) tonneau, in wires. overdrive, new batteries and brakes all Totally restored 10 Autumn Leaf trim.new Everything on the this interior car has excellent condition bought up to excellent conditi on. £4500 open to off ers. retrim, rebuilt engine and box.

Works hard top!

Period excellent condition, 48,500 mls.

Screen frame excellent been renewed or refurbished. All new trim. years ago. Superb car in superb condition. Lovely round, chrome wire wheels with new works additions - roof vent, air vent etc. Superb cargrey and (refurbed).

Fitted with power New clutchplus and engine bay. Unleaded rebuilt engine.

Bespoke Over £12,000 spent onsteering. parts alone, March issue of 07908004009.Email jamjar62@gmail.com £8,000. View current stock at loadsleather of fun! £49,500.00 tyres. Call for more details and photos. slave cylinder, new Immaculate boot stays, in fact all the RV8 trim, seats. A fine restored and very well looked 1000’s of hours. inside andusual out and AR? (Letchworth Her� ordshire) foibles all sortedFantastic out. Excellent example. £22,995.00 www.mgmidgets.com after car £27,995.00 underneath! value £12,995.00 £8000 ONO. Viewable weekends, 07930 Fast! lub you We also haveSafety a very rare hardtop for sale for the RV8 in 841868. (Fareham) Woodcote @ £2750. y Fast for 1976 MG MIDGET 1500 British Racing Green, 1969 MGC Mineral Blue, grey leather trim. Chrome s, max 60 Autumn Leaf trim. Everything on this car has wires. Overdrive. Totally restored by ourselves 10 been renewed or refurbished. All new trim. years ago. Superb car in superb condition. Lovely icture to Over £12,000 spent on parts alone, plus engine bay. Unleaded rebuilt engine. Bespoke grey

www.mgsforsale.com

1965 MKII MG Midget

Black with Red/Black Piping Interior, Heritage certificate, Full MOT (09/2019) and certificates going back 25 years, lots of history and receipts, original brochure and owners handbook. O�en seen at Goodwood Revival, Breakfast and Members meetings. Insurance valuation certificate for £11,000. £9,995 ono. 07831 852 510 or darrenwilliams63@icloud.com

www.mgmecca.co.uk www.mgmecca.co.uk

ANTED

www.mgmecca.co.uk

WANTED

GETS! NTED MIDGETS! WANTED

k 0

1000’s of hours. Immaculate inside and out and trim, leather seats. A fine restored and very well looked AUGUST 2019 SAFETY FAST! 95 after car £27,995.00 underneath! Fantastic value £12,995.00 94 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

1933 MG J2

Professionally restored 1986 and little used since. Owned 15 years and further improvements include completely rebuilt cylinder head, rebuilt brakes and new drums, refurbished correct dashboard,flashers fitted, new 3 block tyres, new exhaust, discrete electric fan, rebuilt dynamo with diode control, new Lincon battery. Detailed records of work and use.

Car has won awards at major Shows and MG CC events.Car is near Newcastle upon Tyne. £33,000 o.n.o. Tel: 01670 790212 or Email rawlinsondavid@yahoo.com

1950 MGTD

British Racing Green. Milage 74000 Good condition. Owned and loved for 18 years in UK, garaged, South African Car, Constancia, Car RH drive Tel 01829 260069 Mob 07715159225. Price £24000.00 ono Email - geoff.burdett@sky.com (South Chehire)

www.mgcc.co.uk

AUGUST 2019 SAFETY FAST! 95 SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 94

25/07/2019 10:27

24/01/2020 16:41

WANTED WANTED ALL MG MODELS!

1938 MGTA

Rosso red TA2334. Rebuilt for reliability.

1939 MGTB spec XPAG engine, new hood and side screens, twin fuel pumps and coils. Third overall on day 4 of the HERO 1000 Mile Trial. Faultless run in 2018 from Ardennes to Leicestershire in one day. Kept in garage within home. Lots of documentation and parts. £34,950 ono.

Email: mg2000@btinternet.com

All conditions wanted, from barn finds to concours. Complete collections purchased.

Cash buyer. Discretion assured.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are interested in selling your MG and are looking for a prompt hassle-free cash buyer! Please feel free to contact me for a no obligation friendly chat.

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

CALL DIRECT ON: 07787 528131 UK Based Buyer

MIDGETS! WANTED

1970 MGB GT

Recent complete engine and body restoration. The chassis/body stripped and repainted, all chrome work was replaced. Mechanically refurbished; head gas flowed and unleaded, gearbox and overdrive refurbished by specialist.

Engine uprated with S/S Twin Branch Exhaust, Electronic Ignition, New Alternator, High spec Fuel Pump and Fast Road Cam. Suspension fitted with Anti Roll Bar and Servo Brakes. New interior: door panels, leather seats, carpets and walnut dash.

Price £9550. Contact Tony on 07942 448868. (Bristol)

Contact the Midget Specialist MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent condition bought up to £8,000. View current stock at

www.mgmidgets.com

CARS FOR SALE

EST’D

How to Advertise

MGB 1963

Iris Blue basically good condition but in need of some love and attention.The car has Overdrive,Dish wheels,old set of Wire Wheels rear hubs for Wire Wheels,Boot rack,Tonneau covers,various spares. £6500.O.N.O. Contact Anne Den on 07901852292 (West London)

TED

M

er

m r o F

R OU

Y

AN GW

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

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

y r o Gl BY

1946 MG TC

01844 281700

Spent first twelve years of it’s life in Cyprus, taken over by RAF type. Not pristine but In nice condition. Primrose yellow, green leather. New hood, side screen and tonneau cover two years ago.

Carbs need se�ng up. £29,950. Reason for sale, just bought a TF. Tel: 01473 824 924. Mob no 07790 775 080.

(Ipswich area)

nigelguild@hotmail.com

MGOC Recommended Dealer 40 MGs in Stock

Best Prices paid with friendly advice. Est 1986 Fast payment and collection

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 95

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

FULL WORKSHOP FITTING SERVICE AVAILABLE

2015 MG6 TS DIESEL 1950 TD All work carried out byMG time-served Grey, 32,000 miles. Full MGBMC/BL service histo- engineers Early solid wheel model number ry, last serviced & Mot’d September 2019, TD0461(EXU) with engine XPAG 760.

Worldwide Order to Service so�ware update Dec 2019.

1st owner Mail Exported Canada and reimported by our since ebay shop and website for products and details MG Visit Longbridge, looked a�er

by MG my father in 1994 in a dismantled state. in Sheffi TL Model chrome trim on Body Tub and wings in primer. Many Uniteld.

9, Shopwhyke Industrial Centre T New 01243 782671 front grill. Insulated bootChichester to reduce noise E parts rechromed and excellent black Shopwhyke Road, heathrowtransmissions@gmail.com levels.

Waxoyled, size2GD spare wheel. seats. The car needs painting and West Sussex full PO20 wleather heathrowtransmissions.co.uk Extended warranty until September 2020. re-assembly. £7,500.00 ono. Contact Nigel £5,395. Tel: 07535 434341 (Sheffield) on 07790 034288.

(Fareham, Hants)

URGENTLY WANTED

1947 MGTC

Original uk car with go restoration but still in s Excellent oil pressure , and driving perfectly. F heater!nearly new hoo service. £25950ono. Fo further pictures please on 07979370895 or em peach2000@globalnet (Suffolk)

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

Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars

2003 MG ZT-T V6 190 HP

Please call Edward MGZS 1800 Fuel Injected Petrol. Current owner for time on 07774 484497 01923 840236 last 9 years - - private sale, reason for sale - moving house. Excellent condition ejwhitescars@aol.com First registered April 2002. Mileage 10180 miles, MOT to 17/7/20. Road Taxed. www.mgandporsche.com Bodywork in great condition - no dents/

Estate/Tourer. 92,000 miles. MOT till August 2020. Cam-belts changed approx 2000 miles ago. In excellent conditior onany internally and externally. Smooth MANUAL gearbox. Engine inEmail: excellent condition.

Recently fitted tow-bar. £1450. Contact Ray on 07984Website: 390 436 (Torquay)

scratches. Very striking, rare bright yellow (Northwood, Middlesex)

1965 MKII MG

Black with Red/Black P Heritage certificate, Fu and certificates going b lots of history and rece brochure and owners h seen at Goodwood Rev Members meetings. In certificate for £11,000.

852 510 or darrenwillia

with rear spoiler. Upholstery in good clean condition. Front electric windows.

Air conditioning, heated rear screen and ABSFEBRUARY braking. Original factory fitted Ken2020 SAFETY FAST! 95 wood CD/Radio. Engine overhauled June 2019, plus new radiator, new alternator and new battery. Invoices included Clean Alloy wheels. Tyres 70% tread remaining. Private number plate sold with the car. £800 OVNO. Car can be seen 24/01/2020 16:18 at London N4 4BL. Phone or text Steve on

Call for a quote today

01376 574000

Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern SPARES FOR SALE

STEVE McKIE SPORTSCARS CHESTERFIELD

•

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

www.stevemckiesportscars.co.uk Tel 01246 454527 • Fax 01246 453681 DONHOODS-SFAug07.QXD:Layout 1 23/9/09 16:22 Albert Street North, Chesterfield, S41 8NP

Page

DON HOODS

Steve McKie Sports Cars Hi-Res.indd 1

Members can advertise their spares for sale/wanted free of charge for items up to £250. Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of £20. To submit your advertisemet please email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all correspondence. The editor reserves the right to edit longer adverts.

This is for one insertion only, for additional insertions please email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk

MGB Parts

DIRECT FROM THE MAKERS – WITH OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

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

mingham B23 Hampton Road, Bir

13 Tel: 0121 373 13ICE OFF SOUTHERN SALES

00 Tel: 01202 7422

CARPET SETS FOR MOST

MODELS

Custom made and standard fit covers for your car from £99

(Borg Warner 35) including the torque converter and all linkage and gear-lever etc. Offers. Martin Contact on Mobile: 07976 283 688. Landline: 01926 491609

• Custom Waterproof Outdoor £295

Trophy blue, black lining (not sagging), heated window, excellent condition.

Collection only. £300 Telephone Peter: 07836600717 (Haddenham, Nr. Thame).

Boot lid, immaculate, no rust or rot £60. Drivers door, reskinned £90. Pair of front wings(All finished in Harvest Gold) Four Michelin ‘Energy’ 145/80 13 tyres, as new, £40 2 Rostyle rims & 2 tyres £25 Dunlop B5 tyres, 525/550 x 19” Buyer collects / can bring to Stoneleigh.

07703 532507 (Midlands)

Vredestein classic tyres

• Standard fleece-lined breathable

Five off 165x70x15 to suit MGA or Magnette 3000 miles use only. £200 or near offer, call 01495/225589 buyer collects, South Wales.

from £112

• Soft Indoor Stretch from £99 NEW! (Covers for all other cars too)

MGF 25 years

Launch Brochure - The Drive of your Life Pub no. 4899 32 pages - £15 post paid Contact 01872 510373

Online database for the perfect cover at www.carcovershop.co.uk Tel 01780 749449 I-240085.indd 1

15/05/2017 13:33

www.bighealey.co.uk

CNC Machined in the U.K. to our specification Brass 2nd & 3rd/4th

£59.95+VAT Steel 4 synchro

£49.50+VAT (Prices are subject to change. Please see our website!)

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

96 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

MG TF Hard Top

In Stainless Steel:- Safety Catch, Safety Catch Bracket, Locating Cup, Lock Pin, Thimble, Spring, All fixings. £40 inc postage. Unused and in original packaging Contact Ben 07807 151319.

• Custom Indoor from £150

NEW MGB Baulk Rings

Launch brochure- fast forward - Pub. No. 4850 - Price £15 post paid Also brochures- The drive of your life Abingdon Ltd Edition- Freestyle, S.E. trophy 160. TF Sprint, Sun storm, LE 500 135 Fun, TF 85 Anniversary. Contact Peter on Tel: 01872 510373

MGB Bonnet Fittings

Premium Quality since 2003

Pair in black fabric with subframes as supplied by Brown and Gammons.

As new condition following briefly being fitted to my MGA. Half price £600.

Also for MGA 1500. Twin SUs with inlet manifold and 4 wire wheels all in good condition. jpswarne@hotmail.com (Cheltenham)

MGF 25 years

Midget parts for sale:

www.donhoods.com

Works Style Comp Seats

MGB/C Heritage Panels

New! Tailgate, Rear wings to beading, Rear valance complete. MGC Short block engine, Gearbox, Steel wheel axle, Front suspension. Lots of other MGC NOS parts available to clear offers please. Tel 07747 301326

MGC Auto Gearbox

YB/TD Parts

Incomplete rear axle (no halfshafts), complete casing minus shocker lugs inc serviceable CWP but probably needs pinion bearing. Includes both backplates and one brake drum. Offers please. Nigel Pratten 0151 327 6776 or ncwpratten@btinternet.com

MGB

twin loop rollover bar with pair of full harnesses. All as new £50 buyer collects or arranges carrier. email nixon95@sky. com 07712184028 (Woodlesford)

A Series Spares

Over 200 items for sale including, cylinder head, crankshaft, pistons, gaskets, gearbox parts, clutch parts, Carburettors complete and parts available. Complete dynamos, distributors, control boxes, fuel pumps, headlamps and rear lights plus much, much more. Collection from Abindon Oxon. Email Leslie for more details at: leslie.steele@sky.com

SPARES WANTED Wanted for MG TC

Tacho and ammeter for renovation or sale please contact Carl Chadwick on 07817 012057.

Dynamo Wanted

Working dynamo with positive earth.

Tel: Don on 07897 002086 (Bucks)

Please note that the Advertising deadline is February Moss Europe Ltd ............33 EJW Classic and Sports 95 4Sight Lighting Company70 Fishers Services .............70 Adrian Flux .....................70 NTGFast!

Services...............OBC 10th for the March issue of Safety Footman James .............31 Barrie Carter ..................97

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

•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

at MG Triumph Spares Day, Stoneleigh, 9th Feb, 2020. Due to garage clear out I have a number of parts available (to many to list here).You can find me on the day at the MG T Register stand in Hall 1. Ask for Barry 07551816583.

2 door shells ( pre 1967 ) £60, 2 steel wheels (pre 1967) £20, 4 Rostyle Wheels with good tyres £60, 1 2 GT rear glass £15.

MG Midget Parts Front wings, valences boot lids etc Buyer collects.

Tel: Chris Burge 07794479708

23/06/2010 13:46

UNBEATABLE QUALITY – UNBEATABLE VALUE!

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 96

MGB Spares for Sale

How to Advertise

DERBYSHIRE

Specialists in the repair and restoration of MG cars

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

Barry Walker ...................93 Beech Hill Garage...........94 British Motor Heritage....IFC Brown and Gammons......9 Car Cover Shop .............96 Carole Nash Insurance .11 Chisbon Restorations......76 Church Square Autos ....95 Classic & Sports Cars (Essex) ......................90, 91 Classic Concierge...........16 Clive Wheatley ................53 College Motors Burford ..74 Colne Classics ................94 Cotswold Car Storage – Classic Car Hub...........25 Crown Classic Cars ........70 David Manners ................6 Dennis Welch..................96 Distributor Doctor............85 Don Trimming .................96

Former Glory ..................95 Fostons ...........................72 Frontline .........................38 Halls Garage ...................68 Hoyle Suspension ...........68 J&C Classic Restorations11 Just Right Autos Ltd........48 Kimble-Rutter Ltd ...........78 Longstone Tyres ............36 Machine Mart .................43 Manor Garage ................96 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares ...........................95 MG Mecca......................92 MG Sales Centre ............26 Midland Classic Restoration 4 Mike Authurs Classics MG Midgets...........................94 Mike Rolls .......................95 Mike Satur ......................78

Oselli Ltd ........................76 Peter Best .........IBC, 96, 97 Rees Bros .......................96 Retro Sports Cars ..........53 Rimmer Bros Ltd ............16 RJH Automotive Transport.........................85 RM Car Care...................68 Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ....................78 Scenic Car Tours ...........13 Sherwood Restorations ..93 Skiptune..........................85 SMR ...............................92 SPAX.................................6 Steve McKie Sports Cars96 Summit MG....................76 Sussex Classic Car Parts43 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd .4 Torro Sports Cars Ltd......94 Vitesse Global Ltd – AD ..74

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:18

868884

Barrie Carter

768830

Barrie Carter

01308 868884

and Alan Bartlett email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk

and Alan Bartlett

07885 768830

‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern

k

01308 868884

This lovely Citroen 2cv Dolly has undergone a very nice restoration at some point. It has more performance than most, don’t know why but it’s quicker than others!! It has a lovely body & interior, galvanised chassis, boot rack & a large history file. These cars are rising in value & I love em! £6,995

Call for a quote today

01376 574000

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

Barrie Carter Barrie C Barrie Carter 01308

07885

01308 07885 01308 07885 868884 768830 C a e i r 868884 r t r e 768830 a r and Alan Bartlett and Alan Bartlett 868884 B email 768830 and Alan Bartl barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk 07885 email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk and Alan Bartlett B32 MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1 email barriemgracer@y 768830- ‘X-pag’ - ‘X-pag’ - ‘T-type’ - ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ Barrie‘T-type’ Carter This lovely Citroen 2cv Dolly has undergone a This very lovely nice restoration Citroen 2cv Dolly at some point. It has performance has more undergone a very nice restoration than most, don’t know why but at some point. it’s It has more performance thanItmost, know why but it’s quicker than others!! has adon’t lovely quicker than others!! It has a lovely body & interior, galvanised chassis, body & interior, galvanised chassis, email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk boot rack & atrim, large history file. aspect These and and Alan Bartlett We restore refresh both T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, paint; every and fiwe buy Be Different!!

London Taxi professionally boot rack a large le. These cars are rising in value I &love em! history and sell T-types and other classics. Running T’s cafe for sale we have some& interesting objects to occupy email barriemgracer@yahoo.co.uk convertedout to a of mobile with abut London cars are rising in value & I love em! £6,995 yourself after retirement and banishment to the garage MGTF for restoration.

RHD, wire wheels, theme. Fridge, hot water, superb lighting,

01308 868884

Ford Model Y Vintage Special 1935

tted a prewar MG body & wings, ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’filovely – with ‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’ ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-p seats, etc in the 60s–& has been

lovely car to use for the fun it was meant for.

‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘T-type’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ ––‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’‘X-pag’£6,995 Some racing history. Very cheap. £6,950 all complete, very sound and only. £10,250 seats 8. Great fun MoTd & very cheap. £4,750 owned by the same family since. It’s a

Volvo 130 2 door coupe XPAG 1500. We are building an XPAG 1500 engine 1967.Unused for 25 years this to any spec. Please ring with requirements. time warp 130 has escaped XPAG 1250s MGC Roadster 1968, built In Mineralto Blueorder from £3000 manual and Overdrive. One attentative the rust ravages that plague owner for 17 years. It has a historic This lovely Citroen 2cv Dolly fully and very nice restoration that inccured Subaru Justy, You’ve forgotten these these cars. It has 57000 miles TC Race/fast road car, allegedly twice championship winner, This 2cv Dolly modified to T reg. specs. Rolling chassis £13,950. or with fulllovely race Citroen new panels, carpets, hood, wire wheels, 1200 cc FWD! Switchable! 34K Ihas love undergone a very nice restoration 1350 engine! “1¾ SU’s Derrington manifold, now removed which appears to be correct. head and engine rebuilt to fast these, a low mileage lovely example. hasand undergone amodified very nice restoration at some point. It has more performance available separately. Car has plumbed in ext. comp clutch, alloy body road specification. This “C” is in very They have MX5 Performance. Cheeky, at some point.

It has more performance 3 It has the correct trim and Ford Model Y Vintage Special 1935 4 1 / ”SUs, lovely instantly useable condition.

These Special Ford Model Y Vintage 1935 panels, 15” wheels, tramp bars modified brakes, teles, cage, race quick and great off roaders. Beautiful than most, don’t know why but it’s most, don’t cars knowarewhy but it’s romping away in valve so next with a seat, and more. It’s as scruffy as raced and very quick. than Ideal circuit, inside and out. and fitted prewar MGIt rubbishes body & 205s wings, tted with a prewar & wings, unworn carpets, unavailable year you canamake a profit! £21,000MG bodyrare. race or hillclimb. £18,500 quicker than others!!

Itfihas lovely £3,250 quicker than This lovely Citroen 2cv others!!

Dolly It has a lovely lovely seats, etc in the 60s & has been lovely seats, etc in the 60s & has been body & interior, galvanised chassis, now...it drives well and itsDifferent!! London Taxi professionally & interior, galvanised chassis, Be Different!!

London TaxiisBe professionally owned by since. the same family since. It’sbody aa very boot rack & a large history file.

These has undergone nice restoration owned by the same family It’s a This lovely Citroen 2cv Dolly has MGC GT 1968 Beautifully converted to a mobile cafe with a London original oily usable converted to arag mobile cafeform with a London lovely car usemeant for thefor. fun it was meantboot for. rack & a large history file. These cars are rising in valuelovely &undergone I love a very atit to restored to endurance and MGTF restoration. wheels, carem! to useniceforrestoration the fun was theme.lighting, Fridge, hot rally water, superb lighting, MGTF for restoration.

RHD, for wire wheels, RHD, wire at some point.

It has more performance some point. It has more performance historic specification.This theme. cars are rising in value &£6,950 I love em! £6,995 £6,250Fridge, hot water, superb Some racing history.

Very cheap. £6,950 all complete, very sound and Some only. than£10,250 most, Don’t know why, but its cheap. £6,950 seats 8. Greatisfun MoTdthe & very £4,750 probably best cheap.

“C” I have racing history.

Very all complete, very sound and only. £10,250 seats 8. Great fun MoTd & very cheap. £4,750 owned and I’m very tempted to

than most, don’t know why but it’s

£6,995 quicker than some others!! It has a lovely boby , interior, galvanised keep it. It has been fully restored chassis, boot rack and a large history and has pictorial evidence but file. These cars are rising in value has had1500. sensible upgrades, gas building an XPAG 1500 engine XPAG We are very quickly and I love em! £6,995 shocks all round, Anti bar, XPAG 1500. We are building anRollXPAG 1500 engine Minilite reps with rally tyres.

Sebring headlight front valance. to any spec.

Please ring covers withandrequirements.

Competition quick Overdrive on all gears 10 gears!!

Stage 2 head with to any spec. Please ring with requirements. mild cam, six branch exhaust and specialto system.

Inside from the car has rally XPAG 1250s built order £3000 Gordon England Cup Model Austin 7 1926 cobra seats, and the correct rally£3000 navigation aids. Halda, stopwatch One owner for over 50 years & in lovely XPAG 1250s built tobelts order from and Brantz clocks for endurance events. It is all topped off with a Britax condition. This well known Gordon England matching sunroof. The car is an absolute delight to drive with oodles of Austin is fitted with the rare LAP. OHV conver torque and power. If you want the best “C” look no further £21,995 Ford Model Y Vintage Special sion and1935 has performed with this for many fitted with a prewar MG body years.&Itwings, has the spare engine and box with it & is&ahas finebeen Austin that is acceptable for many A very rare 1929 BMW Austin 7 lovely seats, etc in the 60s 3 Be Different!! London Taxi professionally 1 owned /4”SUs,by the same familyVintage Badge, radiator emblem and surround since.and It’sAustin a events. For sale on behalf of the family. £29,950 converted to a mobile cafe with a London are pure BMW, as are the 3wheel hubs.

Ford Model Y Vintage Special 1935 lovely car to use for the fun it was meant for.

4 1 / ”SUs, MGTF for restoration.

RHD, wire wheels, theme. Fridge, hot water, superb lighting, This car must rank in the forefront Some racing history.

Very cheap. £6,950 all complete, verydesirability. sound and fitted with a prewar MG body & wings, Panhard Dyna X 1947 RHD Austin 7 and BMW Builtonly. £10,250 seats 8. Great fun MoTd & very cheap. £4,750 Allegedly 1 owner & specially built as RHD for

by BMW in 1929 with its mirror image seats, etc in theTaxi 60s professionally & has been Be London a disabled customer. Resting undisturbed inlovely a Different!! & engine adapted Be for LHD and then London Taxi professionally Different!!

French barn for over 20 years, it has now been owned by the since.

It’s a converted to asame mobilefamily cafe with a London fittedan with XPAG JHLE sports1500 600 bodyengine and XPAG 1500. We are building converted to a mobile cafe with a London recommissioned and is a lovely Oily Rag car that is Ulster suspension modifications. Has £6,950 lovely carFridge, to use for fun itsuperb was meant for. theme. hotthe water, lighting, runningwire and braking, with everything working.

MGTF for restoration.nowRHD, wheels, to any spec. Please ring with requirements. theme.

Fridge, hot water, superb lighting, a fully documented and fascinating history, all documented.

It has been in the same The car has been researched by a Panhard Some historian seats 8.racing Great history. fun MoTdVery & very cheap.£6,950 £4,750 cheap. years or £3000 more, being in many Austin events, before being loaned to a all complete, very sound and only.its£10,250 who has unearthed fascinating history from the XPAG 1250s built toownership order50from seats 8. Great fun MoTd & very cheap. £4,750 £6,950 museum. Now, on the demise of the owner, the car is being recommissioned in our factory records. It is at present being registered in workshops, please enquire for further details. £31,000 the UK with full authorisation from the Panhard Club. Offered £6,995

quicker than others!! It has a lovely www.barriecartermg.com

2016

MIKE ROLLS

TRADE MEMBER

Specialising in all MG’s

body & interior, galvanised chassis, boot rack & a large history file. These cars are rising in value & I love em! £6,995

SERVICES FOR MGs

MGTF for restoration. RHD, wir all complete, very sound and on

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

www.barriecartermg.com

XPAG 1500. We are building an XPAG 1500 eng XPAG 1500. We are building an Ford8am-6pm,Wed: Model Y Vintage8am-5pm, Special 1935 www.barriecartermg.com www.barriecartermg.com Mon,XPAG Tues,1500 Thurs,engine Fri: Sat: 8am-1pm to any spec.

Please ring with requirements.

to any spec. Please ring with requirements.fitted with a prewar MG body & wings, XPAG 1250s built to order from £3000 XPAG 1250s built to order from £3000 lovely seats, etc in the 60s & has been Be Different!! London Taxi professionally 13/4”SUs,

Colne Classics converted to a mobile cafe with a London theme. Fridge, hot water, superb lighting, seats 8. Great fun MoTd & very cheap. £4,750

MIKE ROLLS

owned by the same family since. It’s a 2016 201 6 lovely car to use for the fun it was meant for.

MGTF for restoration.

RHD, wire wheels, £6,950 FOR MGs Some racing history.

Very cheap. £6,950 all complete, very sound and only. £10,250SERVICES

MG Power Steering and www.barriecartermg.com restoration specialists

1 /4”SUs,

TRADE MEMBER 3

Specialising in all MG’s

13/4”SUs,

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

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

XPAG 1500. We are building an XPAG 1500 engine to any spec. Please ring with requirements.

XPAG 1250s built to order from £3000

MG TD - 1953

MG TD 1953, Finished in British Racing Green with green interior and Tan weather gear. This MG TD had a light restoration in 2009/10 £6,950 and it is a beautiful car. It has a good history with the original buff log book and drives extremely well. £26,995

www.barriecart www.barriecartermg.com

MG16 - BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS_BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS 26/09/2012 14:24 Page 1

1 /4”SUs, 3

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

01255 432693, 07714 675319

MG TC, 1947

MG TC, 1947, finished in black with beige interior and weather gear, it has been fitted with a re-con engine which has only done 10,000 mls. The car comes with a very good history file including old MOT’s, invoice’s and details of work done over several years. The car has recently had Blockley tyres fitted all round. It does have one or two minor paint blemishes but still presents itself very well. £25,995

MGC ROADSTER - 1969

MGC Roadster, 1969 in Old English White. This car comes with overdrive, £6,950 painted wire wheels, black sports reclining seats with white piping, uprated engine with gas flowed head, Maniflow exhaust system, Motolita wood rim steering wheel, new hood and good service history. The car has recently been re-commissioned and serviced by us and is in good condition. £22,995

www.barriecartermg.com

Bucks Sports & Classic Car Centre

MGB ROADSTER - 1976

Rubber bumper, Flamenco Red, Tax and MOT exempt, MOT until 12th April 2020 and a new one can be put on if required. It comes with Overdrive, Unleaded head, Black canvas hood with red piping, Black leather seats also with red pipping, Chrome badge bar and full and half tonneaus. Stainless steel Bootrack.

This car is in a lovely condition inside and out and drives really nicely. £6,995

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

MG TF 135 SPRINT - 2002

Finished in Le Mans Green with Smoke stone interior and Gun smoke Alcantra leather seats. 54,000mls, it had a multi layer head gasket fitted in 2012 and the cambelt was changed @ 51,000mls it has been fitted with a suspension comfort pack and comes with glass heated rear screen, excellent service history, MOT until Oct 2020 and 2 sets of keys.Excellent condition inside and out. £3,995

10STREET Rabans Aylesbury.

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 97

CC10.12/MG16/p

For friendly advice contact Pete Giles on MG TF - 2002 ONLY 24.000MLS FROM NEW £2,495 Barrie Carter February 20 1/4.indd 1 Tel: 01296 433550 or Mob: 07831 404968 Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk www.mgsonthenet.co.uk www.mgsonthenet.co.uk email: peter.giles@mgsonthenet.co.uk Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service” FEBRUARY 2020 SAFETY FAST! 97

24/01/2020 16:19

LOOKING BACK The official publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast!

Copyright MG Car Club 2020

Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 andyknott@mgcc.co.uk Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Editorial Committee: Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770 Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770

W

e kick-off this month with Marcus Brundler’s MGC looking resplendent against a backdrop of snow covered mountains. This photo was featured in the MGC newsletter for June 1996. Can you tell us where it was taken?

Distributed by: Air Business. Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood Way, St Albans AL4 0JY Tel: 01727 890600

Just look at that immaculate picnic hamper!

This picture by Andrew Roberts reminds us that MGLive! Is not that far off. Lets hope that we get some decent summer weather for it.

Our third photograph of a rather nice NA gives us no clues to the usual ‘where’ and ‘when’ questions. Can you help?

President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Ian Quarrington Chairman: Bill Silcock.

Vice Chairman: Keith Williams Treasurer: Richard Colston Directors: Dave Saunders, Peter Cook, Adele Rand, Lorraine Noble Thompson, Colin Withers, George Wilder and Dave Tynan Company Secretary: Colin Grant Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Lauran Gallacher (Assistant General Manager 01235 849735), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), Colin Grant (01235 849733), 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, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock.

Company limited by guarantee The Club, as a corporate body established as the MG Car Club Limited, is a company limited by guarantee. Every member of the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year after he ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Club contracted before he ceases to be a member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one pound.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates.

Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast!

It should be noted that neither Hine Marketing, the Editor, nor the MG Car Club make any recommendation in respect of any goods and/ or services advertised or featured in this issue. It is the responsibility of readers to satisfy themselves that the goods or services offered or referred to are bona fide and in no instance shall Hine Marketing, the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or suitability of any such items.

98 SAFETY FAST! FEBRUARY 2020

SafetyFast_Feb2020_49-98.indd 98

www.mgcc.co.uk

24/01/2020 16:19

PeterBest_SafetyFast_MGCarClub_Advert_297x210.pdf

T

8

1

07/01/2019

14:28

classic car insurance PBIS specialises in classic car insurance, as well as insurance for other collectable classic vehicles. We have been supporting the MG Car Club, its Centres & Registers, for over 30 years so we know what is important to you.

Approved Insurance Provider

Our ‘Abingdon’ policy covers classic use for MG’s 3 years and older.

Policy benefits may include: • Free agreed valuations • Roadside assistance and recovery within UK/EU • Limited mileage options • Discounts for multiple car ownership • Club member discounts

C

ask us today about our classic mg cover

M

Y

call now for an instant quote

CM

01376 5 574000

MY

CY

CMY

visit: www.classiccar www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk email: info@classiccarinsurance.co.uk info@classicc

K

Peter Best Insurance Services Ltd Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration No. 307045 | Registered in England No. 2210270

SafetyFast_Feb2020_Covers.indd 3

24/01/2020 16:05

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

T190K MGA floorboard kit-7 piece £120 C141K fixing kit £33

S106B Steering control adaptor TA/B/C £103.20

B308AK Thermostat kit-TA/B/C/D/Y £98.34

Disc Brake Kit-TD/F/YB/MGA/Magnette (ZA/ZB shown) from £654

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

SafetyFast_Feb2020_Covers.indd 4

24/01/2020 16:05