Wayne, you have indeed started down a very slippery slope. There are many
purists that would not agree with these modifications that are being
disclosed. Guess it9s time for my confession. I purchased my 1951 (10/10/51)
TD Mark II in 1999. When I was checking the car over before sale, I was
appalled that the restorer had installed a dual oil/water gauge (TD13914 -
not standard until Feb 22, 1952) and directional lights (TD 22315 - not
standard until Dec 4, 1952). I almost didn9t purchase the car because it had
been modified. Then after I bought the car, my purist attitude changed in
order for comfort and safety. I read in a TSO that you should only modify a
TD if 1) you do not change the outward appearance and 2) you only do it for
safety and comfort. So I ended up really taking the bull by the horns. My
continuing guideline is to always incorporate mods that can be easily
reversed and would not prejudice my car at shows. Most mods are well hidden.
My justification (rationalization) for the mods is that my TD is a daily
driver, average 11,000 miles per year and have made six long trips from
Florida to California, to Canada, to Watkins Glenn, etc.
MODS BY RESTORER IN 1980
Combined Oil/Water gauge
Directional Lights
Spin on Oil Filter
Driving Lights
Stone Guards over Headlights (this IS a Mark II)
Crane camshaft
Custom machined Tappet Cover
Luggage rack
THOSE MODS I HAVE ADDED
Datsun 5 speed synchromesh tranny (the original would have required a
complete rebuild))
4.3:1 rear end (from MGA)
Cruise Control (arthritis in leg). Only a 12 inch O.D. black hose is
evident.
Control hinged under dash.
Pertronix Ignitor
Petronix 3Flame Thrower2 coil
Transistorized existing dual fuel pumps (Mark II)
Electrically separated each fuel pump with a switch so always run one and
have one as standby!
Radiator overflow bottle
MGB lightweight 7 blade fan
Fuel filters and shut off valves at petrol tank for each line
Heat Shield between manifold and carburetor
Heat Shield under carpets and around tranny tunnel
Fused ALL circuits individually (approx 20 fuses). During Canadian trip,
burned up part of harness. Time for fuses!
Heater with shut off valve (yes, Florida can be COLD at night)
Buzzer for 3Lights left on2
Halogen taillights
3rd brake light
Cigarette lighter for Cell Phone (under dash)
Transistorized quartz clock replacing original non functioning clock
Radio on slides that disappears under dash
12 CD Changer mounted behind seat
Radio and CB Antennas
Lock on Glove Compartment
Radial tires with tubes
Elapse Time Meter for XPAG
Steamer trunk vintage labeled
Mark II badges (TD/c 22613 - not standard until Dec 1, 1952)
Does this sound like a build-it-yourself TD? I know I am opening myself up
for criticism, but I fell in love with the looks of the TD back when they
first came out, but also want a car that I can enjoy as a daily driver with
all the creature comforts and reliability of more modern cars. I do treat it
well. Just finished painting the TD yesterday with many coats of lacquer -
lots of color sanding!!! Did not opt for modern enamels and clear coat
because the car would then be tooooo shinny and not look vintage. Next week
I will be replacing the upholstery. The restoration is almost 25 years old.
Stu Keen
1951 MG TD Mark II
Venice FL
/// unsubscribe/change address requests to majordomo@autox.team.net or try
/// http://www.team.net/mailman/listinfo
/// Archives at http://www.team.net/archive/mg-t
|