I agree. First thing to do is to get the old beast running. The engine and
transmission need to work...at least to a point where you can see how the car
drives now and what else might be worn or broken. (I suggest new engine oil,
filters, coolant, plugs, cap, rotor and wires for a starting point...oh, and
make sure there's oil in the differential too!) Next, check the safety related
items: brakes, suspension, steering, clutch, etc. When you're not trying to
get it running, you need to work on the rust. See what rust is cosmetic and
what body parts might need to be replaced. Remember - the unit-body
construction means rust can be a structural problem. In any case, make sure it
is not
still rusting. Once you get it back on the road to the point where you can
"go" and "stop" you can turn your attention to the interior. If you have a
heated workspace, I suggest interior/exterior cosmetic work in the winter and
engine/transmission work in the summer.
BTW - I think Josh might be from the South "y'all" - but if he's near
northern NJ, I'd be happy to come by and have a look!
Good luck!
donny v
1978 MGB
In a message dated 3/18/2004 5:54:44 PM Eastern Standard Time,
leylandauto@yahoo.com writes:
I would say off hand to get the car running. You did not give much info on
the mechanics and maybe you do not know much on the car's status. Tell us more
on why it does not run, does it spin and not fire or not even spin. You
mentioned working on the transmission, is it broken too? How bad is the rust on
the
sills? Where do you live? maybe someone here can come over and help you get
started..
Carl French
Alfred, Maine
Joshua Blair <joshua@joshblair.com> wrote:
I'm Josh, the new guy who's the new proud owner of a 76 MGB that used to
work and is sitting in my garage with a lovely coat of primer grey with a
bit of rust. The interior looks like someone took a lawn mower to it and
the engine doesn't start. However, my lights do turn on, so I have a
starting point. So here's my question: if this was your car, what would be
the first step you would take to begin restoration? Should I do the small
things and then the transmission or the other way around? Thanks y'all
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