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MGB as a daily driver

To: british-cars@autox.team.net
Subject: MGB as a daily driver
From: KMWHEELER@ualr.edu
Date: Fri, 02 Sep 1994 12:50:09 -0500 (CDT)
My MGB has been my only 'daily driver' since I got it in 1986.  I have
had some interestin problems, but have only been let down by the car a few 
times.

Times the car 'let me down':
        the original brake master cylinder blew (103,000 miles)
        the original radiator blew (108,000 miles) (due to a fan strike)
        clutch burned up (right after I got the thing)
        ignition switch burned up (DPO had rewired the fuel pump)

Times the car wasn't drivable due to me:
        engine rebuild at 93,000 miles
        suspension rebuild at 105,000 miles
        cylinder head off at 102,000 miles (original one cracked, did
                a polish job on this one)

Oh yeah, this is a 1975 B.  I have had the 'usual' problems.  The hazard
switch had to be replaced so that circuit would work, the turn signal switch
was replaced, and it still has some Lucas gremlins.

When I rebuilt the engine, I went with older (higher compression) pistons,
a mild (maybe too mild :) cam, and weber side draught carb.  

The suspension: new kingpins, new rear springs, rebuilt shocks, and a R/H
handling kit (nice swaybars).

I drive the absolute hell out of this car.  This summer it has had over 200
miles of logging roads under its little Pirelli's, and the engine constantly
sees 5500 rpm.  The oil is changed religously, the suspension greased often,
and small neighborhood children sacrificed the appease the Prince of Darkness.
(just kidding)

In my experience, and MG with new parts makes a fine daily driver, but 
1) be prepared for it to do something silly, like every year before
inspection my turn signals act up   2)  take car of it.  this doesn't mean
pamper it, just make sure everything's in tip top shape.  These are really
rugged cars, and I don't think a lot of modern econoboxes would put up with
what I do with this MG, and I may be crazy, but it seems to like it.

MGB advice:  if you buy one, install an oil cooler, *and* have the radiator
rodded out/replaced.  

oh well, this isn't the best car write up i've ever done, but time is at
a premium right now!

sing blue silver!

Keith


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