I have recently become an MG owner and am looking for help in the rebuild of a
1971 Midget. The car is standard and reasonably sound although it is due its
MOT at the end of the month so who knows what might be found.
I am after picking your many brains for ideas on modifications that I could or
should do to the car to make it a little more suitable for driving in the 90's,
and details of reliable UK suppliers.
The car has suffered during its life and the interior trim needs a full
replacement. The seats will repair though. The mechanics are standard with
1275cc engine and it has wire wheels. At present my intention is change and
customise where suitable but not to cannibalise in any way so that in future
years it could be returned to its original state if required.
The sort of thing I am after details of are as follows:-
1) I like the wire wheels so wish to keep them but have been told they are
difficult to mmaintain. Is this true.
Will they take wider tyres than the standard ones fitted, if they need
replacing can wires with wider rims be fitted without body mods or adverse
effects.
2) Engine - What needs to be done so that I can be lead free by the end of
1999. Are there any other modifications that I should make at the same time
I believe an alternator can be fitted to replace the dynamo but how is this
done and what model alternator.
3) Suspension - I understand that it is common to lower by up to 1" to improve
handling. How is this done?
Is the improvement in handling by changing to telescopic shocks worth the cost.
4) The car came with a corroded fuel pump - is there a simple modification to
move it away from the direct line of wheel spray.
5) Any other advice for a new MG'er, details of good MG web sites etc would be
appriciated.
I am trying to get the ideas together now so that every thing is ready for when
I start work on the car in a couple of months.
Many Thanks
JAK
1971 Midget
1998 Renault Espace
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