Doug,
Remember that the newest MG on these shores is now 23 years old.
Therefore, unless the previous owner replaced or restored virtually
every part on the car, it remains at least 23 years old. Any car that
age is bound to have some gremlins creeping in somewhere.
That having been said, there is no reason to believe that if you choose
your car carefully from a reputable owner, and have the car inspected
prior to purchase by a knowledgeable MG mechanic, you can't have a
pretty trouble-free experience.
Sooner or later every car will require maintenance and some repair, but
if you choose carefully, pay an honest amount of money for the right
car, maintain it properly, you can enjoy years of ownership.
Be sure, also, to join the local MG club. It not only provides you with
ready knowledge to find and purchase a car, but also is a helpful source
of experts in case you do run into a "spot of bother". Besides, I think
you will find an amazing level of social activity and friendship rarely
found with any other marque.
Regards,
Lew Palmer
-----Original Message-----
From: owner-mgs@autox.team.net [mailto:owner-mgs@autox.team.net] On
Behalf Of NFexec@aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2003 7:33 PM
To: mgs@autox.team.net
Subject: Can I ever count on having a fairly trouble-free MG???
OK, here I am, a previous owner of a brand-new (then) '77 MGB that I had
for
only 4 years. I've owned three Miatas over the years, and my current
one is
going back after lease end in two years.
I've thought about getting an MG for a long time, and while I would not
do
that before my miata goes bye-bye, I am taking my time to get some
information and possibly join the local club (haven't yet).
My question has to do with my concern over how UNreliable these neat
cars
really are these days. I get the sense that there are a lot of MG
owners out
there who spend a LOT of time rebuilding, fixing, patching, repairing,
replacing,etc. their LBC's... and while I understand that might be part
of
the enjoyment of owning one, I am wondering if I were to get a virtually
totally restored car with appropriate 21st century upgrades in
carburation,
ignition, rebuilt engine & tranny, - all major electrical, mechanical,
etc.
systems.... will I still be faced with fixing leaks, replacing parts
here and
there, adjusting items ad nausem just to keep the car running?
Am I being delusional to think I can get an MGB that won't require a
trip to
the garage every other week? Or, can I enjoy relatively trouble-free
motoring with a sensible maintenance schedule that doesn't include
pulling
the engine or replacing the carbs every year??
Please don't laugh too hard --- while I'm not inept, I don't have a lot
of
car repair experience, but do think the MG's are georgous cars. --
thanks
for any advice, guys!
Doug
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