Hello list,
Just spent a few hours working on the B. Did a lot of grinding and sanding
of surface rust, removed the ashtray, shifter trim ring, and sun visors
(here we go again) which were all quite rusty. They have been sanded and
primed (ok, call me cheap) and are awaiting paint before re-installation.
And no, I am not painting the vinyl on the sun visors, just the rods. By
the way, the actual visors are in very good condition, so no cardboard or
superglue for those. Also removed the driver's side seat in order to clean
out all the old carpet and get easier access during my wiring work. The
bolts to take the seat out required patience. Needs a couple holes patched
in the floor, but nothing too serious considering that my goal is a solid
driver and not a show car.
A couple of questions that arose during today's encounter... I have some
keys for the car, but none of them work, either the locks are all seized or
they are the wrong keys (doubtful). Has anyone had any lasting success
freeing up seized locks? How'd you do it? I'd rather not change them all.
And also, so that I'll know I'm trying the right key, what keys are common?
I mean, does one key open doors and trunk, and one for ignition, or
ignition/doors, and then trunk, or what? I know this is probably in the
owner's manual, but all I have is the Haynes. (The steering lock has been
disabled, and right now the car is started by the switch pulled out from
the back of the ignition lock...I didn't do it, honest). I have a long key,
a short key that is twisted so as to be unusable, and two very small keys.
The two larger keys are BL logo emblazoned, and the two small ones say
"Wilmot Breeden". Any polite suggestions on where to put them?
Also, the plastic housing on one of the plate lamps is broken off. I've
noticed that this is common to MG's. Anyone have a good way to reattach the
plastic? Epoxy worth the effort, or just buy a new one?
As an aside, I had to change a tire which had gone flat. My first use of
the MG jack, and I have to say that this is the nicest jacking arrangement
I've ever seen provided by a factory.
Next week I'll re-install the battery and start on the electrics. I'm sure
I'll have plenty of questions, but now that I have a diagram it should be
much easier. And though I didn't get one of the 12V soldering irons we've
heard so much about, I do have a cordless one...how's that for cool?
With spring, longer days, and my eagerness to get things done upon me, I'm
thinking of just ignoring my landlord's dictum and bringing it home to the
back yard anyway, so that I'll be able to get a few hours in every evening,
rather than planning expeditions over to the garage space. What can he do,
evict me? In Massachusetts?
Cheers,
Nevin
'78 B
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