Safety Fast! February 2016

3.50 Volume 60 Number 02

inside So you want to refub and MGF/TFMG Car Club History Part IIIn conversation with Ted ReeveWorking inside the Octagon Jim ONeill

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

this month

FEBRUARY 2016

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www.mgcc.co.uk4 FEBRUARY 2016

OPENING TIMES: Mon - Fri: 8.30am 5pm Sat: Closed

Phone for our FREE exclusive parts catalogues

Sussex Classic MG Car Parts

We stock MG Midget and MGB GT Roadster Parts and accessories including: bumpers, tuning, body, engine, seats, brakes, clutches, hardtops, windscreen, headlamps, mats, exhausts, chrome wheels, gearboxes, suspension, calipers and catalytic parts.We sell online and from our premises at Partridge Green, and are always pleased to see visitors even if only for a chat about their cars.

Sussex Classic Car Parts, Unit 28, Huffwood Trading Estate, Partridge Green, West Sussex, RH13 8AU

+44 (0)1403 711551 www.sussexclassiccar.co.uk

Huge range of MGB parts!

Order your partsonline or in store

We manufacture a complete range of top quality ash framesand components, complete panelled bodies, individual steelparts. Full restorations undertaken on all classic cars.Comprehensive paint shop and trim facilities.Ash frame skeleton bodies.Individual ash frame componentsand steel panels. Dashboards Quarter Panels Door Frames Hood Finishers

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Hutson.qxd:Layout 2 24/3/10 14:38 Page 1



thisissue

February 2016

7 Editors WelcomeA summary from Andy Knott

9 From the Chair Club Matters from Ian Quarrington

10 Newsand more

12 Kimber House NewsProgress on the Bill Wallis Wing, archive donations and more

14 Products The latest products in the world of MG

60 Race TorqueAutosport 2016 and the MGCC racing season ahead

16 MGLive! 2016Tickets, racing and more at the largest MG event in the world

18 So you want to refurbish an MGF/TF

Colin Grant looks at whats involved with getting an MGF/TF back to a good standard

23 Working inside the OctagonA tribute to James Edward ONeill

28 In conversation with...Dennis Wharf chats to Ted Reeve

35 Club History Part IIThe history of the MG Car Club in the early 1930s

39 Triple M NewsletterMaking a J2 crank and more

44 Midget Newsletter1970s Midget Ownership, Colour is in the eye of the beholder and more

50 MGB NewsletterHaving a Wale of a Time, Jean Denton / Tom Boyce London to Sydney Marathon MGB and more

57 FWD NewsletterThe MG FWD Registers events diary, My Montego Turbo and more

Newsletters

Ted Reeve in his Class A MG Midget enjoying a hot and sunny MGCC May Bank Holiday race day at Brands Hatch in 2014. Photo: Dennis Wharf

Regulars

62 MGs on TrackMGs on Track invites everybody to try out a track day!

63 Luffi eld ChampionshipLatest news from the MGCC Luf eld Speed Championship

64 Calendar of EventsMGCC forthcoming events

66 Overseas NewsAn Australian Adventure by Greg Smith

68 Overseas ReviewSafety Fast! keeps tabs on the overseas action

70 Centre UpdatesNews from the MGCC Regional Centres

82 Register UpdatesNews from the MGCC Registers

92 Looking BackA selection of snippets from the MGCC archives

94 Classifi edsCars and Spares offered for sale



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FEBRUARY 2016 7www.mgcc.co.uk

WELCOME

@mgcarclub

AndyKnottEditor

Words from

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF

Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755E-mail: [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk

If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 [email protected]

Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 [email protected]

Editorial Committee: William Ball, Dennis Wharf, Colin Grant, Victor Smith, Adam Sloman

Regular Contributors: Alwyn Morgan

PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Chris Kynoch 01235 849731

Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770

Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770

Printed by: Precision Colour Printing. Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Tel: 01952 585585

President: John Day

Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best.

Chairman: Ian Quarrington

Vice Chairman: George Wilder

Treasurer: Richard Colston

Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, William Ball, George Wilder, Dave Tynan and Peter Cook

Company Secretary: Colin Grant

Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Chris Kynoch (01235 849731)

Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock.

Company limited by guaranteeThe Club, as a corporate body established as the MG Car Club Limited, is a company limited by guarantee. Every member of the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year after he ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Club contracted before he ceases to be a member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one pound.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates. Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast!

It should be noted that neither Hine Marketing, the Editor, nor the MG Car Club make any recommendation in respect of any goods and/or services advertised or featured in this issue. It is the responsibility of readers to satisfy themselves that the goods or services offered or referred to are bona fide and in no instance shall Hine Marketing, the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or suitability of any such items.

The official publication of The MG Car ClubIncorporating The M.G. Magazine, The Sports Car

and Brooklands Track and Air, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2016

The first part of the History of the MG Car Club, published in last months issue, seems to have gone down very well, with lots of positive comments especially from the newer members who hadnt realised what a rich and illustrious history the Club has got. A big part of the early days of the MGCC was Trials; although not as many are held today, the Club still organises a few for our members and attends other clubs trials. A few coming up are: the Lands End Trial that the Midland Centre eagerly support, on March 25-26; more details from Brian Osborn on 0121 445 4889. Another trial coming up, organised by our South West Centre, is the Kimber Classic Trial held on Saturday April 9, always a great, well organised event. Full details will be published on the South West Centre website, www.mgccsw.com/events/2016-calendar/

As well as Trials, there are lots of other events in the MGCC calendar. The main MGCC website is being constantly updated with events as were told about them, www.mgcc.co.uk/events-calendar, also check the relevant Centre and Register notes within this magazine. A few key dates of events that the main MGCC stand will be attending are: February 21 MG Show and Spares Day at Stoneleigh, February 26-28 Race Retro at Stoneleigh, April 10 Brooklands MG Era Day, April 16 Pride of Longbridge held in Cofton Park, opposite the MG Motor factory in Longbridge, July 29-31 Silverstone Classic, August 5-7 Croft Nostalgia Festival and November 11-13 NEC Classic Motor Show.

Within this issue youll see the poster and some more information on our MGLive! event, June 4-5, and also included, as an insert, is the booking form for the event. This is the Clubs premier event and attracts MGs from the Vintage era of motoring right through to the latest MG3 and MG6. Held at Silverstone, the home of British Motorsport, racing plays a big role in this event as you can see from Rons Race Torque in this issue. Unfortunately the Triple M cars wont be racing at Silverstone this year. They will however be out at Brands for our two day race meeting April 30-May 1. Well bring you more news on that next month.

Last month I mentioned that the Zed range of cars are celebrating their 15th anniversary in 2016. An event to celebrate this occasion, Zed 15 incorporating Saloon Day, is taking place on Saturday July 9 at the British Motor Museum, Gaydon. Again, well bring you more news next month.

Looks as if 2016 is shaping up to be a busy year.Until next month, drive safely


BIDDING ACCEPTED IN PERSON,

PHONE BY ARRANGEMENT OR BIDS ON

bennettsclassicauctions.com.au PRIOR TO 1.00PM START.

10% BUYERS PREMIUM APPLIES

PRESENTS

Star of the show, historic sports race car from Melbourne dealer, Lanes Motors, who fitted lightweight body and entered in the 1933 Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island and finished third. This was restored by Barry in 2005. A new factory style body and interior fitted and now running strongly and available for historic events.

THE STAR OF THE SHOW - MG F2 TYPE 1933

ON THE 27TH FEBRUARY 2016 AT 1.00PM IN THE SHOWROOM AT 2 TAMINGA STREET,

REGENCY PARK, ADELAIDE SA PHONE (08) 8244 8947

THE BARRY BAHNISCH MG & VETERAN CAR LIFETIME COLLECTION AUCTION

HUMBER 12/20HP / 1910 This veteran Humber was purchased in 1971 from a property on Torrens Road and needed full restoration and assembly. Over the last few years Barry has restored it. Reproducing the body using period photography. Its a Coventry Humber with T-head motor and now running strongly.

MG M TYPE ROADSTER / 1931 Very rare and original M Type. The engine let go on No. 4 piston, block is repairable and engine has a spare conrod to replace the No . 4. Other mechanicals are good and was driven to many events and shows.

MGA COUPE / 1959 Stunning MGA Coupe has been completely rebuilt and is in excellent running condition and with right hand drive coupes being rare would be a good one for the collector.

MGA MK I ROADSTER / 1959 This handsome MGA is an older restoration and rebuilt some years ago and was invited and sent to England for the commemorative rally. It finished 3rd outright in the hill climb at Harewood in Yorkshire on the estate of the Queens cousin and now driving strongly and the family favourite.

MG TC / 1947 This stunning early car has had a full restoration. Very original and correct. Ex concours winner and many club trophies.

MG MAGNETTE ZB / 1959 Last of the Magnette models and one of four delivered to the Adelaide dealers. The body has been totally rebuilt and repainted in its original colours and fitted with a 3.9 diff ratio and MGB engine. Interior redone in leather and timberwork redone plus new wiring loom. Car now requires final assembly.

ROVER 12HP / 1912 Handsome veteran 12HP originally discovered in a barn in Glenelg and passed on to Barry who finished restoring it over a 6 year period and has been a regular runner since. The model is distinct with artillery wheels and a short original chassis and is one of the Clegg designed cars.

MGB GT / 1969 This GT makes for an excellent project and is part restored from a donor car and has an overdrive gearbox and now needing full finish and assembly and a very low reserve.

CONCOU

RS

WINNER

CONCOU

RS

WINNER CON

COURS

WINNER



THE CHAIRFROM

FEBRUARY 2016 9

Club Matters from

That settles it: My restoration begins today. Ive bought a new set of pedal rubbers!

Ian QuarringtonLast month I wrote about significant change with the Board Members and with the staff at Kimber House. On Boxing Day last year and again during January, I took the chance whilst on various visits to see how the work on the Bill Wallis Archive wing is changing the view of our Club buildings. The builders have done a wonderful job to match the external brickwork to 11 and 12 Cemetery Road and yet what will be installed and set up inside this brickwork represents a huge change and a significant addition to the benefits of your membership. I cannot emphasise enough how important the Archive Project is to us all. For the first time in the Clubs experience we will be able to share so much more easily the wealth of our history on so many levels. I expect this will generate an enormous amount of interest in the MG Car Club from all over the world and we will no doubt be fielding an increase in enquiries for membership. We are looking forward to being able to look back. Please do continue to send in any archive material you may wish to share with us, Peter Neil is always grateful for any contributions. On the subject of history, I hope you have been

enjoying the serialisation of the book on the Club History in Safety Fast!.

We are making great progress on other projects too, and I would specifically highlight the Young Persons Initiative and our continuing IT project, both led by Dave Tynan. There is no escaping the fact that the vast majority of the more respected and well established Motor Car Clubs have an ageing membership. The poster and banners we put up at the NEC and other shows tell the world we have been supporting You and your MG since 1930. The message is clear that we cater for every model of car that carries the famous MG Octagon badge. The newer Registers such as the MGF, ZR/ZS/ZT and the latest, the MG 6.3.5 will be the first to agree we are supporting and encouraging those with the more modern cars, and in many cases that will mean younger folks too, and this initiative is being designed to encourage younger people to embrace our past, present and future.

Peter Skipper did a wonderful job in often very difficult circumstances to lead the IT project to where it stands today. Again, looking back, the work done by Peter and

his committee now means, among other benefits, that the race entry system now runs so much more smoothly: the website, always under review, is now easier and faster to populate: we have a Members Only Area full of information on how to get the best from the Club. Looking forward, the task of how to allow access to the data we hold on your cars is being pushed forward very quickly which will represent a big benefit to all the Registers. It is a particularly hard project to get right so that we keep our data safe and secure, remain within the regulations of the Data Protection Act and yet still provide a service to the membership. Please therefore be patient as we close in on this goal.

Before we know it the racing season will be with us. I am very conscious that few people truly recognise the efforts made by the Racing Committee to keep us as leaders in Car Club Motor Sport. Whilst the majority of us consider the winter as a relatively quiet period, this committee has continued to work each day, voluntarily, to arrange another season of exciting racing. I am already looking forward to it!

BIDDING ACCEPTED IN PERSON,

PHONE BY ARRANGEMENT OR BIDS ON

bennettsclassicauctions.com.au PRIOR TO 1.00PM START.

10% BUYERS PREMIUM APPLIES

PRESENTS

Star of the show, historic sports race car from Melbourne dealer, Lanes Motors, who fitted lightweight body and entered in the 1933 Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island and finished third. This was restored by Barry in 2005. A new factory style body and interior fitted and now running strongly and available for historic events.

THE STAR OF THE SHOW - MG F2 TYPE 1933

ON THE 27TH FEBRUARY 2016 AT 1.00PM IN THE SHOWROOM AT 2 TAMINGA STREET,

REGENCY PARK, ADELAIDE SA PHONE (08) 8244 8947

THE BARRY BAHNISCH MG & VETERAN CAR LIFETIME COLLECTION AUCTION

HUMBER 12/20HP / 1910 This veteran Humber was purchased in 1971 from a property on Torrens Road and needed full restoration and assembly. Over the last few years Barry has restored it. Reproducing the body using period photography. Its a Coventry Humber with T-head motor and now running strongly.

MG M TYPE ROADSTER / 1931 Very rare and original M Type. The engine let go on No. 4 piston, block is repairable and engine has a spare conrod to replace the No . 4. Other mechanicals are good and was driven to many events and shows.

MGA COUPE / 1959 Stunning MGA Coupe has been completely rebuilt and is in excellent running condition and with right hand drive coupes being rare would be a good one for the collector.

MGA MK I ROADSTER / 1959 This handsome MGA is an older restoration and rebuilt some years ago and was invited and sent to England for the commemorative rally. It finished 3rd outright in the hill climb at Harewood in Yorkshire on the estate of the Queens cousin and now driving strongly and the family favourite.

MG TC / 1947 This stunning early car has had a full restoration. Very original and correct. Ex concours winner and many club trophies.

MG MAGNETTE ZB / 1959 Last of the Magnette models and one of four delivered to the Adelaide dealers. The body has been totally rebuilt and repainted in its original colours and fitted with a 3.9 diff ratio and MGB engine. Interior redone in leather and timberwork redone plus new wiring loom. Car now requires final assembly.

ROVER 12HP / 1912 Handsome veteran 12HP originally discovered in a barn in Glenelg and passed on to Barry who finished restoring it over a 6 year period and has been a regular runner since. The model is distinct with artillery wheels and a short original chassis and is one of the Clegg designed cars.

MGB GT / 1969 This GT makes for an excellent project and is part restored from a donor car and has an overdrive gearbox and now needing full finish and assembly and a very low reserve.

CONCOU

RS

WINNER

CONCOU

RS

WINNER CON

COURS

WINNER


NEWSLETTERNEWS


New year, new dealsMG Motor UK finished 2015 on a fantastic high last year with December figures more than doubling those of the previous year; a success that came off the back of a number of great deals that were on offer to all new customers.

This year, MG has decided to start 2016 with a bang and offer not just one, but four incredible offers to its customers.

Those looking to buy a new car need look no further as, with the purchase of the super-fun MG3 or the fully-loaded MG6, customers will be entitled to some of the following offers:

2,000 minimum part exchange Following an incredible uptake by customers at the end of last year, this incredible offer has been extended until the end of January. Hundreds of customers took advantage of this deal when they exchanged their existing vehicle for a brand new MG at their local dealer. Those who thought they had missed out need only take their old car in, regardless of its make, model or age, and get 2,000 towards a new one.

One years free insurance Everyone loves to save money, so when MG is offering one years free insurance on all new 2016 MG3 models, customers wont be able to resist checking out these great superminis; particularly when the only thing to worry about for the next 12 months is adding fuel. Plus, this offer is also available in conjunction with the 250 Hilton voucher and 0% APR finance deal.

Free hotel break Theres no better way to celebrate a new car than with a road trip. So, as well as their shiny new car, all MG customers will receive a 250 Hilton Hotel voucher for them to enjoy a weekend getaway.

0% APR finance The popular deal is available on both the MG3 and MG6. Customers looking to spread the cost of buying their new car over a longer period, and avoid interest charges, will benefit from this great offer.

Terms and conditions do apply to all of the mentioned offers available, so for more information please visit mg.co.uk/offers.

Shop Closure StatementThe Club has decided to take the opportunity to review our merchandise and retail operations in order to offer a better range of products, increased choice and better value to MGCC members and the MG community as a whole.

During this period we will be suspending merchandise sales online, at Kimber House and at events we attend. Sales and renewals of Club memberships as well as the purchase of MGLive! tickets will not be affected during this review period.

John Inness leaving statementAfter 17 years with MG Car Club, Exhibitions Manager John Inness has recently left the Kimber House team. A familiar face at MGLive! and the Clubs other shows, John, together with his wife Jen have become well-known throughout the MG community.

The Club would like to thank John for his efforts since 1999 and wish him and Jen the very best for the future.

Paddy Hopkirk MBECongratulation to MGCC Honorary Member Paddy Hopkirk who has received New Years Honours in the Queens latest list of recipients.

Paddy Hopkirk has been awarded an MBE, again for services to motorsport, but also for his role as a patron of charity SKIDZ, services to young people. Having driven various MGs successfully throughout his career, Paddy is often seen at the MGCC MGLive! event chatting to fans.

Speaking about his MBE to his local newspaper Get Bucks he said: First of all Im not sure what it is exactly for. Im just very honoured and I appreciate the people who have written in. I was very, very surprised.

Its just come out of the blue, he said. They certainly managed to keep it quiet. Nobody knows about it, except the people that wrote the letters.

I dont know what it means, although certainly Im not going to get up myself. It wont change my life. Its just very nice to get.

He added: Im very honoured and flattered and thrilled, of course I am. Its a nice New Years Eve present.

All of us at the MG Car Club would like to extend our congratulations and best wishes to Paddy on his very much deserved MBE

BTCC and Scalextric join forcesTwo legendary motor racing forces will be coming together in 2016 when world famous toy brand and slot-racing company Scalextric produces a host of officially licensed BTCC products.

The partnership has been in the making for more than a year with both parties now delighted to announce the full range of

products that will be available from next summer.At the very top of the list will be an incredible four-car BTCC Touring Car Challenge

app-based ARC PRO set, which is the first ever edition in the latest style of slot racing. The multi-car racing package comes complete with lane-changing track and can even be managed via your mobile device using a specifically designed app.

The cars included in this set will be Colin Turkingtons #1 Team BMR VW, Andrew Jordans #77 888 MG, Matt Neals #25 Honda Civic Type R and Rob Collards #7 WSR BMW 1 Series all fully replicated from the 2015 BTCC season.

If that isnt enough, Scalextric will also be producing a further six individual cars for sale, which will include Jack Goffs #31 888 MG.


NEWSLETTERNEWS


SocialMedia

Round Up

NewsKimber House

The Bill Wallis Wing has been developing incredibly quickly during the last month, with the John Thornley Suite now showcasing a huge hole in the brickwork where the archive will tail onto. The windows have now been installed, along with the shelf tracks and the entire roof structure.

In Januarys Kimber House News, we asked whether or not anyone knew the whereabouts of former racing driver Richard Ides MG TC (registration LPC600). Robert Hubbard got back to us, and it was his brother that purchased the car back in 1954. It was kept for two years before it was sold. A few years ago, Robert decided to do some digging to fi nd out where the car had gone, and who had bought it. After not having much luck, Robert got an email roughly a year later from the owner of the car who invited him to come over and see the TC whenever he wanted. The location Malta!

At the beginning of the month we were blessed with an amazing donation from the widow of a member who had sadly passed away. A personal letter from Cecil Kimber dating back to 1935, an MG Supremacy booklet, and an MG racing document were all included. Donations like this are truly incredible it made our archivist Peter Neals year, and were only just into 2016! If any of our members have documents or items they are looking to get rid of, please get in touch with us fi rst, as they could be very valuable to our archive.

January saw us reach a fantastic landmark 12,000 Facebook likes! Thank you to all of our fans that have liked the page and supported it over the years its great to see so many active members across Facebook, and long may it continue. Another thank you we have to make is to Club Photographer Colin Murrell, whose last Murrell Monday photo was posted in January. Across the ten weeks, Colins photos were very well received across the internet and social media.

At the end of December we ran an online competition for the picture of the year, and at the beginning of January we revealed that Andy Brown and his stunning photo of his MGB in the Italian Dolomites had won with staff members here at Kimber House voting from a selection of eight pictures. It was a true winner so well done Andy.

The Abingdon Works Centres Boxing Day run was publicised across social media, including a Periscope video and a panoramic photo check that out on Facebook. We also counted down 2015s top fi ve photos on Instagram (www.instagram.com/mgcarclub), with the train of MGs from the 1970s at the East Dock in Southampton proving to be most popular. Were approaching 4,000 likes on that now as well, so there have been plenty of milestones to celebrate.

With events coming thick and fast in the coming months, be sure to keep a look out for even more content, and if you havent looked at our pages yet then please do signing up to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc. isnt required.

FEBRUARY 2016

Photo taken from the new Bill Wallis wing of the hole in the John Thornley Suite Colin Murrells stunning Murrell Monday photo.

The MGB of Andy Brown

The Abingdon Works Centre Boxing Day Run


NEWSLETTERNEWS


AGM NOTICE

Abingdon Works Centre AGMVenue: Lamb & Flag, Faringdon Road, Southmoor, Abingdon, OX13 5HN Date: Saturday March 19 2016 Additionally there will be a talk by the MGCC General Manager, Adam Sloman. Timetable: 12.00 midday optional meal. 2.00pm a talk by the MG Car Clubs General Manager, Adam Sloman. 2.45pm Abingdon Works Centre Awards. 3.00pm Abingdon Works Centre AGM.

Agenda:1. Apologies. 2. Approval of the minutes of the AGM of March 2015. 3. Matters Arising. 4. Chairmans Report. 5. Secretarys Report. 6. Treasurers Report. 7. Election of Officers. 8. Election of Committee. 9. Any Other Business. 10. Time and Date of next AGM.Nominations for election to the Committee and / or Officers and Topics for AOB should be submitted to the Secretary, Pete Davies, The Elms, 38 Swinbrook Road, Carterton, Oxfordshire OX18 1DS or by email: [email protected] by Monday February 29 2016.

Caledonian Centre AGMVenue: The Royal Hotel, Bridge of Allan, FK9 4HGDate: Tuesday April 5 2016 Time: 7.30pm on. Tea and coffee will be available from 7.00pm

Agenda1. Apologies for absence2. Approval of the 2015 AGM Minutes3. Matters arising from previous AGM 4. Chairmans report 5. Secretarys report6. Treasurers report7. Election of Office Bearers and Committee Members8. Events 20169. Motions for debate10. Any Other Competent Business11. Date of Next Annual General MeetingNominations for Office Bearers, Committee Members and Motions for debate should be forwarded to the secretary no later than the March 21 2016.

The MG Car Club Limited (The Club) Notice of Council MeetingA Council Meeting of The MG Car Club Ltd will be held at the headquarters of MG Motor UK, Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham B31 2BQ on Saturday March 12 2016, commencing at 11.00am.

Motions for debate at the Council Meeting should arrive at Kimber House by Friday February 5 2016.

We need to know if you are able to attend and who will be representing your Centre/Register/Branch. Could you please complete the slip on the form that will be emailed to all Chairmen/Secretaries of CRBs shortly, and return by Monday February 29 2016.

Devon and Cornwall Centre AGMVenue: The Eagle House Hotel, Castle Street, Launceston, PL15 8BADate: Saturday March 19 2016Time: 7.30 for 8.00pm

Agenda1. Apologies for absence2. Approval of the 2015 Minutes3. Matters arising4. Chairmans Report5. Treasurers Report6. Secretarys Report7. Competition Secretarys Report8. Election of Officers and Committee9. Points for discussionThis will be followed by a complimentary Buffet and informal Natter.

Lincolnshire Centre AGMVenue: The Abbey Lodge, Kirkstead, Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire, LN10 6UQ Date: Thursday March 3 2016 Time: 8.00pm

Agenda 1 Apologies for absence 2 Approval of Minutes from 2015 AGM 3 Matters arising from 2 4 Motions for Debate 5 Chairmans Report 6 Honorary Treasurers Report & Approval of Accounts 7 Honorary Secretarys Report 8 Competition Secretarys Report 9 Membership Secretarys Report 10 Communications Report 11 Natter Co-ordinators Report 12 Election of Officers & General Committee 13 2016 Calendar 14 Auditors for 2016/17 15 Any other relevant Lincolnshire Centre business 16 Time & Date of Next AGM Nominations for Committee posts to be received in writing by the Honorary Secretary, Sue Mackenzie by Thursday February 4, 2016. For more information contact Sue on 01529 497849.

MGA Register AGMVenue: Kimber House, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS Date: April 16 2016 Time: 10.00am for 10.30 sharp.Agenda1. Welcome & Apologies for absence2. Review & Approval of Minutes of 2015 AGM3. Chairmans Report4. Treasurers Report5. Election of Officers and Committee6. Any Other BusinessTo be followed by a Committee Meeting to which all Register Members are invited.

MGB Register AGMVenue: The MG Car Club Ltd, Kimber House, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS Date: Sunday March 13 2016 Time: Starting at 11.00am

Agenda1. Apologies for absence2. Minutes of last AGM3. Chairmans report4. Treasurers report & adoption of accounts5. Secretarys report6. Registrars report7. Election of Committee, Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer.8. AOBChairmans closing remarksThere are vacancies on the committee. Will any MGCC members wishing to become more involved in running the MGB Register please contact us for more information. Initially you can become a seconded member assisting the committee then, assuming of course that you enjoy the experience, complete a proposal form in March 2017 or simply carry on in an assisting role.All communications to John Watson, Chairman, MGB Register Email [email protected] Mob 07770 575236Bernard Rengger Secretary MGB RegisterEmail [email protected] Tel 01858 431271

MGF Register AGM Venue: The Oxford Abingdon Hotel, Marcham Road, Abingdon, OX14 1TZDate: Saturday March 19 2016 Time: Commencing at 2.00pm

Agenda1. Apologies for absence.2. Approval of the minutes of the last AGM.3. Matters arising.4. Chairmans report.5. Secretarys report.6. Treasurers report and adoption of accounts for year ending 31/12/15.7. Election of Officers.8. Election of Committee.9. Any other business.Please confirm your attendance to Michael Murkin MGF Register SecretaryEmail: [email protected]

MG Car Club T Type Register AGMVenue: British Motor Museum (formerly the Heritage Motor Museum), Banbury Road, Gaydon CV35 0BJDate: March 19 2016 Time: 4.00pm

Agenda1. Apologies for absence2. Minutes of last AGM3. Chairmans Report4. Treasurers Report5. Competition Secretarys Report6. Election of Officers7. Election of Committee members8. Appointment of Council representative9. AOB

Nominations (forms are available on the T Register website or from the address below) and topics for AOB should be sent in writing by March 4 2016 to: The Secretary, MGCC T Register, 29 Church Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire MK45 2PL.

Yorkshire Centre AGMVenue: The Star, 223 Roberttown Lane, Roberttown, Liversedge, West Yorkshire WF15 7LQDate: Tuesday March 15 2016Time: 8.00pmAgenda1. Apologies for Absence2. Minutes of Last AGM3. Chairmans Report4. Treasurers Report5. Secretarys Report6. Election of Officers7. Election of Committee8. Any Other BusinessAll nominations for candidates for election to the committee and topics for AOB should be sent to: Cliff Hobbs, Cedar Croft, Wood Lane, Whitwood, Castleford WF10 5PJ by March 1 2016.


PRODUCTS


PRODUCTS

MGA Floorboard set from NTGComplete MGA fl oorboard set 7 pieces; includes toeboards, front and rear fl oor sections and rear ramp board. All in high quality plywood as original. 99.60 inc VAT. Metal mounting rail set 96 inc VAT (not shown).

Go to www.mgbits.com for T Y MGA Z NTG Motor Services Ltd 282-284

Bramford Road Ipswich Suffolk IP1 4AY Tel: 01473 406031 or 406032

Stand21 Club Series Hans 20 degree deviceFor over 12 years, Stand 21 has held the manufacturing license for the HANS System and has been developing its own models, which are becoming more and more ergonomic and light weight across a range of prices.

The entry level HANS engineered by Stand 21, is the Club Series which combines the ergonomics of RS2 and the Ultimate with an extremely competitive price. This is due to injected reinforced carbon composite resin technology.

All of this gives every racer access to the right safety for their head and neck (succeeding at exactly the same tests as the other models) and the manufacturing quality which has made the French brand famous since 1970.

The Club Series is available in 20M and 20L models to suit the needs of most drivers and weighs less than 1kg all fully equipped.

With the regulation changes from the MSA Hans devices (FHR Frontal Head Restraints) are now Mandatory for events that require MSA License. For this reason Vulcan Racing are pleased to have set up a deal for club members that allows this item to be supplied within the UK for 230.22.

Contact Peter Burchill [email protected] www.vulcanracing.co.uk

The 1275cc A-Series High Performance ManualThis is a small reprint of a Veloce classic. The famous 4-cylinder A-Series engine was used in most Austin/Morris/Rover models including Mini, Metro, 1300, Allegro, MG Midget, Austin-Healey Sprite, Maestro and Marina for over 40 years. This is THE complete practical guide to modifying the 1275cc A-Series engine for high performance with reliability, and without wasting money on parts or modifi cations that dont work. Explains how many original components sometimes modifi ed can be used in high-performance applications. The author, Des Hammill, is an engineer and a professional race engine builder. Priced at 35 plus postage and available from Amazon and specialist booksellers.

MGF/TF Scuttle caps- Mirror blanks From MG and AMC Parts pment of new products and those unavailable we are NOW manufacturing these two fi nishing Blanks. The Scuttle Caps which fi t along the front wiper panel and the Door Mirror Blanks cover the interior mirror securing screws. For a very small cost you can professionally fi nish your MG.

Priced at:- Scuttle Caps (ECQ10003) Pack of 10 - 7.95 including P & P.Door Mirror Blanks (EKB100030PMA) Pack of 4- 6.00 including P & P.

To purchase or for more information contact :- MG and AMC Parts. Tel: 02392 220222/07454 006080 Email: [email protected]

DINANT & BELGIAN ARDENNES 16th to 19th June

SCOTLANDS NORTH COAST 500 July dates to be announced

ROME, SORRENTO & AMALFI COAST June & September

THE WONDERS OF WALES 27th May & 15th July

D-DAY LANDINGS & ATLANTIC WALL May & September

COLDITZ, DAMBUSTERS & GREAT ESCAPE TOUR 9th May to 7th June

4 Days, 3 Nights From 229.00 Per Person

SOUTH OF FRANCE & MILLAU BRIDGE 16th to 27th September

8 Days, 7 Nights Price to be con rmed






HONFLEUR & LOIRE VALLEY May & September

THE WONDERS OF TUSCANY June & September

COTSWOLDS, CHEDDAR & BATH June & October14 Days, 13 Nights From 1199.00 Per Person

3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 99.00 Per Person





SCOTTISH ISLANDS & HIGHLANDS 15th to 24th July

GUERNSEY & JERSEY 2 ISLAND TOUR May, June & September

JERSEY INTERNATIONAL MOTORING FESTIVAL 1st or 2nd June



ANGOULEME CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS 15th to 20th September6 Days, 5 Nights From 489.00 Per Person


GAME OF THRONES THE TOUR 26th to 30th September5 Days, 4 Nights From 399.00 Per Person

THE BELGIAN DELIGHTS April, May, June & September3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 149.00 Per Person

WW1 100th ANNIVERSARY TOURS May & October4 Days, 3 Nights From 239.00 Per Person


ITALIAN LAKES TOUR June & September13 Days, 12 Nights From 1099.00 Per Person

2016 BRUGES CLASSIC CAR FESTIVAL 26th to 29th August4 Days, 3 Nights From 299.00 Per Person

IRELANDS WILD ATLANTIC WAY June, July & September8 Days, 7 Nights From 699.00 Per Person

ITALIAN RIVIERA & CINQUE TERRE 26th May to 7th June13 Days, 12 Nights From 1099.00 Per Person

DARLING BUDS OF MAY TOUR 8th to 11th July3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 159.00 Per Person

CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE TOUR May & September

THE ISLE OF MAN June, July & September

2016 SPA CLASSIC 13th to 15th May

LAKE COMO & STELVIO PASS June & September10 Days, 9 Nights From 849.00 Per Person

DUTCH WINDMILLS & WATERWAYS April & September

GORDON BENNETT ROUTE 3rd to 7th June5 Days, 4 Nights From 479.00 Per Person

THE LAKE DISTRICT June & September6 Days, 5 Nights or 5 Days 4 Nights From 399.00 Per Person

10 Days, 9 Nights From 799.00 Per PersonRHINE VALLEY, ROMANTIC ROAD & BLACK FOREST 4th to 13th July

Lake Garda & the Stelvio Pass

June, July & Sept - 10 & 12 Days from 799.00

May, June, July & Sept - 5 Days From 399.00

Causeway CoastIrelands

10 & 13 Day Tours - June & Sept from 1399.00

Northern Spain

17th Sept to 8th Oct - 22 Days from 2395.00

& Picos de Europa

6th to 25th June - 20 Days From 3995.00

Canadian Rockies& Optional Alaska Cruise

14th to 28th August - 15 Days From 2199.00

Norwegian Fjords& the Atlantic Road

16th to 23rd March - 8 Days From 899.00

GORGES DU TARN & MILLAU BRIDGE 9th to 19th September11 Days, 10 Nights From 1149.00 Per Person

13th to 16th May - 4 Days from 169.00

23rd/27th June - 18/22 Days from 2495.00

20th to 30th April - 10 Days from 1995.00


7th to 11th July - 5 Days From 199.00

14th to 23rd August - 10 Days From 1995.00

6th to 14th July - 9 Days from 899.00

Monaco HistoriqueGrand Prix

Laon Historique

Arctic HighwayChallenge 2016

China TourIncl. MG Car Factory

Monterey Classic& Pebble Beach

Le Mans ClassicGRAND IRELAND TOUR 23rd August to 3rd September12 Days, 11 Nights From 999.00 Per Person

BRUSSELS & THE CARPET OF FLOWERS 12th to 15th August4 Days, 3 Nights From 199.00 Per Person

EDINBURGH & THE SCOTTISH BORDERS 1st to 4th September4 Days, 3 Nights From 249.00 Per Person

MILLE MIGLIA 2016 16th to 26th May10 Days, 9 Nights From 999.00 Per Person

ANTWERP & THE TALL SHIPS 7th to 10th July4 Days, 3 Nights From 199.00 Per Person

25th Anniversary Tour

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF

Our New 22 Day, 21 Night Tour4th to 25th September - From 2199.00

To book or for further details of our tours call us on 01732 879153or see our website - www.sceniccartours.com

North CyprusClassic Car Tour

Lake Annecy& Maurienne Passes

BAVARIAN CHRISTMAS & MEDIVEAL NEW YEAR 20th Dec to 1st Jan14 Days, 13 Nights Price to be confrirmed

CHANTILLY CONCOURS DELEGANGE 2nd to 5th September4 Days, 3 Nights From 339.00 Per Person

Untitled-1 1 11/01/2016 13:25:10MG_SafetyFast_Feb16_3-48.indd 14 22/01/2016 13:41

PRODUCTS DINANT & BELGIAN ARDENNES 16th to 19th June

SCOTLANDS NORTH COAST 500 July dates to be announced

ROME, SORRENTO & AMALFI COAST June & September

THE WONDERS OF WALES 27th May & 15th July

D-DAY LANDINGS & ATLANTIC WALL May & September

COLDITZ, DAMBUSTERS & GREAT ESCAPE TOUR 9th May to 7th June


SOUTH OF FRANCE & MILLAU BRIDGE 16th to 27th September

8 Days, 7 Nights Price to be con rmed






HONFLEUR & LOIRE VALLEY May & September

THE WONDERS OF TUSCANY June & September

COTSWOLDS, CHEDDAR & BATH June & October14 Days, 13 Nights From 1199.00 Per Person

3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 99.00 Per Person





SCOTTISH ISLANDS & HIGHLANDS 15th to 24th July

GUERNSEY & JERSEY 2 ISLAND TOUR May, June & September

JERSEY INTERNATIONAL MOTORING FESTIVAL 1st or 2nd June



ANGOULEME CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS 15th to 20th September6 Days, 5 Nights From 489.00 Per Person


GAME OF THRONES THE TOUR 26th to 30th September5 Days, 4 Nights From 399.00 Per Person

THE BELGIAN DELIGHTS April, May, June & September3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 149.00 Per Person

WW1 100th ANNIVERSARY TOURS May & October4 Days, 3 Nights From 239.00 Per Person


ITALIAN LAKES TOUR June & September13 Days, 12 Nights From 1099.00 Per Person

2016 BRUGES CLASSIC CAR FESTIVAL 26th to 29th August4 Days, 3 Nights From 299.00 Per Person

IRELANDS WILD ATLANTIC WAY June, July & September8 Days, 7 Nights From 699.00 Per Person

ITALIAN RIVIERA & CINQUE TERRE 26th May to 7th June13 Days, 12 Nights From 1099.00 Per Person

DARLING BUDS OF MAY TOUR 8th to 11th July3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 Days, 3 Nights From 159.00 Per Person

CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE TOUR May & September

THE ISLE OF MAN June, July & September

2016 SPA CLASSIC 13th to 15th May

LAKE COMO & STELVIO PASS June & September10 Days, 9 Nights From 849.00 Per Person

DUTCH WINDMILLS & WATERWAYS April & September

GORDON BENNETT ROUTE 3rd to 7th June5 Days, 4 Nights From 479.00 Per Person

THE LAKE DISTRICT June & September6 Days, 5 Nights or 5 Days 4 Nights From 399.00 Per Person

10 Days, 9 Nights From 799.00 Per PersonRHINE VALLEY, ROMANTIC ROAD & BLACK FOREST 4th to 13th July

Lake Garda & the Stelvio Pass

June, July & Sept - 10 & 12 Days from 799.00

May, June, July & Sept - 5 Days From 399.00

Causeway CoastIrelands

10 & 13 Day Tours - June & Sept from 1399.00

Northern Spain

17th Sept to 8th Oct - 22 Days from 2395.00

& Picos de Europa

6th to 25th June - 20 Days From 3995.00

Canadian Rockies& Optional Alaska Cruise

14th to 28th August - 15 Days From 2199.00

Norwegian Fjords& the Atlantic Road

16th to 23rd March - 8 Days From 899.00

GORGES DU TARN & MILLAU BRIDGE 9th to 19th September11 Days, 10 Nights From 1149.00 Per Person


23rd/27th June - 18/22 Days from 2495.00

20th to 30th April - 10 Days from 1995.00


7th to 11th July - 5 Days From 199.00

14th to 23rd August - 10 Days From 1995.00

6th to 14th July - 9 Days from 899.00

Monaco HistoriqueGrand Prix

Laon Historique

Arctic HighwayChallenge 2016

China TourIncl. MG Car Factory

Monterey Classic& Pebble Beach

Le Mans ClassicGRAND IRELAND TOUR 23rd August to 3rd September12 Days, 11 Nights From 999.00 Per Person

BRUSSELS & THE CARPET OF FLOWERS 12th to 15th August4 Days, 3 Nights From 199.00 Per Person

EDINBURGH & THE SCOTTISH BORDERS 1st to 4th September4 Days, 3 Nights From 249.00 Per Person

MILLE MIGLIA 2016 16th to 26th May10 Days, 9 Nights From 999.00 Per Person

ANTWERP & THE TALL SHIPS 7th to 10th July4 Days, 3 Nights From 199.00 Per Person

25th Anniversary Tour

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF

Our New 22 Day, 21 Night Tour4th to 25th September - From 2199.00

To book or for further details of our tours call us on 01732 879153or see our website - www.sceniccartours.com

North CyprusClassic Car Tour

Lake Annecy& Maurienne Passes

BAVARIAN CHRISTMAS & MEDIVEAL NEW YEAR 20th Dec to 1st Jan14 Days, 13 Nights Price to be confrirmed

CHANTILLY CONCOURS DELEGANGE 2nd to 5th September4 Days, 3 Nights From 339.00 Per Person

Untitled-1 1 11/01/2016 13:25:10MG_SafetyFast_Feb16_3-48.indd 15 22/01/2016 13:41


FEATURE

TicketsWith the dates for MGLive! 2016 confi rmed as June 4-5, the countdown now begins!

Tickets to the event are now on sale, and as a member of the MG Car Club huge savings can be had if you book in advance. Enclosed within this issue of Safety Fast! is the booking form, for not just entry tickets but for all the activities to keep you entertained at Silverstone over the weekend; remember its your weekend so make the most of it. Youll also fi nd tickets available online just visit the events dedicated website www.mglive.co.uk where well bring you all the latest MGLive! news and youll be able to book tickets securely on our online ticket shop.

MG Car Club members can buy a single day ticket in advance for just 18, a saving of 12 over the gate price, and a weekend ticket for just 28, saving you 17 on the weekend gate price. Once again, children aged 16 and under go free when accompanied by an adult!

Motorsport Motorsport has always been a major fo cus of MGLive! and this year is no different.

The Sprint makes a very welcome return once again to the Stowe Circuit on the Sunday. This highly enjoyable competition attracts drivers of all levels of experience, and its not unusual to see

all models of MGs alongside other classic marques. You can compete in the Sprint in a standard road car so if youre interested in becoming a competitor, please contact the organiser, David Rainsbury on 01614 274861. The Sprint is also a fantastic spectator sport so if you fancy watching, simply hop on one of the Classic Buses travelling around MGlive! and catch a ride across to the Stowe Circuit.

The Clubs premier autotest, the California Cup, takes place on the Saturday morning in Car Park 49, just

outside the main entrance to Silverstone. It is exclusive to MG Car Club members and attracts competitors from across the UK and Northern Ireland in classes from the very earliest MGs to the latest models. As one of the Clubs longest-standing competitions, were keen to see this event grow. Entry is just 20 and all you need is a road-going car, so why not give it a go? The regulations will be available to download from the MGLive! website soon.

The weekend also sees a packed programme of racing on the historic GP circuit. Well have our own Club Championships, with us along with Porsche Club GB, Morgan Sports Car Club and Lotus Cup Europe for the fi rst time. Remember, the paddock and garages are open and accessible to the public across the weekend so make sure you take a wander round and marvel at the machinery and the equally impressive drivers.

Presidents International DinnerLast year saw the fi rst Presidents International Dinner on the Saturday night at MGLive! It was such a success that the



FEATURE


largest classic car clubs, we are keen to be involved with and support this initiative. MG has a rich and diverse heritage, which makes this a perfect fi t for the event.

What else can you expect from MGLive! 2016?Traditional elements of MGLive! will also return in 2016. The main club marquee will have a number of displays from our Registers and Centres. The Register Parking will provide a fantastic sight for all MG enthusiasts, with the infi eld a sea of MGs; the Lifestyle Marquee will also feature an autojumble The Sunday will see the best cars the MG world has to offer in a Pride of Ownership and Concours DElegance, and well also be gathering some of the best traders in the MG world through the weekend.

Russ Swift, the legendary precision and stunt driver, will once again be showcasing his skills demonstrating two-wheeled driving, extreme parallel parking and more, in the arena.

dinner is returning to the Silverstone Golf Club this year.

Hosted by John Day, the MG Car Clubs President, the evening features a three course meal, a charity fundraiser and more. If youre looking for a formal but relaxed way to end your Saturday in the company of good friends at MGLive! then this could be for you. As this dinner was extremely popular last year, wed advise you to book your tickets soon to avoid disappointment!

MGLive! 2016 brings Heritage to the foreThe theme for this years MGLive! is Heritage. For some, the connection will be immediately obvious. For others, it will provide a fascinating insight into MGs rich and varied history.

2016 sees FIVA (Fdration Internationale des Vhicules Anciens) and the FBHVC (Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs) celebrate World Motoring Heritage Year and as one of Britains

Saturday night boasts a packed programme of live entertainment, including live music, disco and fully-licenced bar and theres no need to worry about driving, since MGLive! also offers pitches for camping and caravans.

With just fi ve months to go until the event, there will be lots of exciting news to come as MGLive! 2016 draws nearer.

www.mglive.co.uk



FEATURE

With MGFs and TFs at all-time low prices, many members are buying them as second cars to their main MG. Some use them as I do as their daily driver, using them all year round. The only problem is if you buy at the lower end of the price range you will have to expect to do some work to bring the car up to a reliable standard. This work wont necessary be a full-on restoration but more a refurbishment of the main serviceable items, and of course the

So You Want to

MGF/TFRefurbish an

possibility of the dreaded Head Gasket Failure (HGF) looms large on any cheap F or TF. Most of the serviceable jobs are well within the capabilities of a well versed home mechanic with a nicely set up workshop, but what about the first timer who has a sound understanding on the workings of a car but has not attempted to undertake a refurb? This therefore is a basic guide on how to plan your work and set up your workshop with the correct tools.

A Cat C MGF ready for refurbishment

By Colin Grant



FEATURE

You wont get far with your refurb without them, but you dont need the contents of a professional workshop, just make sure you have the right ones for the jobs at hand. Below are listed just some of the necessary items you will need. Remember if you are on a budget and dont want to splash out your hard earned cash on new items go to your local Autojumble as I have purchased excellent second-hand tools at ridiculously low prices. EBay of course is another source of second hand tools, though the benefi t of an Autojumble is you can check them out fi rst before buying.

Work benchYou can buy purpose built work benches but if you are handy with wood you can easily make one yourself, but make it as sturdy as possible.

Bench ViceA lot of jobs will need the use of a vice, and its so much easier than grappling on the fl oor. These are available in various sizes so buy the best you can but make sure you include soft jaws.

Socket set/Combination spanners A good socket set is worth its weight in gold, but do buy a good quality one that contains 3/8, 1/4 and 1/2in drive sizes, plus deep reach sockets (4mm to 32mm), spark plug sockets and extension and wobble extension bars. Some sets come complete with hex keys and a full set of all the most common set of combination spanners you will need. The most common sizes being 8, 10, 12, 14, and 17mm

Torque WrenchManufacturers recommend torque settings for a good reason as you will fi nd out if you try and tighten up a small bolt too much and it shears. But also as in the case of a cylinder head its important to tighten it down evenly. Ideally you need two torques wrenches. One for most general jobs such as brake callipers being a low range 8-60nm and a high range one for wheel nuts etc. being a high range 60-300nm. I purchased mine from Halfords and found them to be of excellent quality.

Required Tools

ScrewdriversBuy a good quality set of screwdrivers which contain fl at ended and phillips, plus a small electrical type as well.

Axle StandsThese are so important and are life savers, so be warned always use axle stands and never just rely on the trolley jack. There are different types, but I personally use the type that has pins to locate the height position.

Trolley JackA good low profi le trolley jack is a must. These are specially designed for sports cars and will easily go under the car. They normally have a rubber contact pad which prevents damage to the underside of the car complete with swivel casters which helps when manoeuvring the trolley. MultimeterWith some of the early MGFs now 20 years old electrics will probably need attention, particularly the wiring going into the boot lid which is a known problem area so a digital multi meter will help with your electrical fault fi nding. There are some excellent web sites that give you the basics of electrical fault fi nding but if you fi nd this too daunting then enlist the help of a specialist.

Impact DriversBefore you put extra pressure on your Phillips screwdriver to undo that stubborn screw, which will no doubt strip the head, use an impact driver. One good clout with a hammer is all it normally takes to undo the most stubborn of screws.

Magnetic TrayThese are ideal for placing your nuts and bolts in the knowledge that if you do accidentally kick the tray the contents wont be scattered all over your workshop fl oor. A magnetic pick up tool is also worth having to retrieve that dropped nut or bolt that has slipped down in the engine bay.

Health and SafetyA good pair of overalls is a must as it saves ruining your general clothes, but also gives added protection. Engineers gloves help protect your hands, but make sure you use a barrier cream on your hands before you start. Protect your eyes with good quality safety goggles and wear a good sturdy pair of safety shoes. If you use a solvent cleaner read the instructions before use and carry out the disposal advice.

You wont get far with your refurb without them, but you dont need the contents of a professional workshop, just make sure you have the right ones for the jobs at hand. Below are listed just some of the necessary items you will need. Remember if you are on a budget and dont want to splash out your hard earned cash on new items go to your local Autojumble as I have purchased excellent second-hand tools at ridiculously low prices. EBay of course is another source of second hand tools, though the benefi t of an Autojumble is you can check them out

You can buy purpose built work benches but if you are handy with wood you can easily make one yourself, but make it as

Required Tools



FEATUREFEATURE

The CarIt sounds obvious but picking the right car is crucial, so dont be tempted to take on a project simply because its cheap, as youll only struggle to muster the enthusiasm to fi nish the project and it will join the unfi nished projects ads in the classifi eds. Dont refurb the car in the mistaken belief that when you come to sell it you will make you a hefty profi t, as refurbishing will cost money particularly if not planned and executed properly. Dont buy a car that is modifi ed in any way if you want to have the car back to original specifi cation once completed. Make sure it has all the OE (original equipment) items fi tted such as exhaust, interior etc.

Make a list of questions to ask the vendor before going to see the car as you can save yourself a lot of wasted time and travelling costs. If the vendor is fully honest and tells you what needs doing, make sure you price up what it will cost in parts and where necessary labour charges as it could well pay you to look elsewhere.

You may like to consider a Cat C write off car which can be purchased via one of the salvage companies. Cat C is a car that has been written off and listed by the insurance company as being uneconomic to repair; bearing in mind they are costing the repair with high labour costs and new part prices which takes it over what the car is worth. A while ago I purchased a Cat C car for around 200 which had front

end damage. I then purchased from a breaker a second-hand wing bumper, and bonnet in the same colour as my car, saving the cost of re-spraying, for 85, and fi tted these easily as the panels and bumper are bolted on. The screen was replaced and after refurbishing the normal service items I had myself an ideal second car at very low cost.

PreparationMake sure you have purchased a workshop manual (unfortunately Haynes never produced a manual for the F and TF) available from the Club, and have bookmarked some good websites to refer to.

You should of course have thoroughly checked the car before purchase by taking along someone in the know, or have read the excellent buyers guide by Rob Hawkins, or my quick buyers guide published in the October 2013 issue of Safety Fast! Use this to give you guidance when checking over the car. This will give you a good indication which parts of the car need attention, such as brakes, coolant, suspension etc. Remember only to undertake tasks that you feel confi dent

with and seek help with those you dont, either from an experienced friend or by using your local MG specialist.

First of all you need space, preferably in a brick garage, although a portable garage will suffi ce, together with a comprehensive tool kit, see separate list, which includes all the main tools you will require. Prepare the workspace so you can lay things out and keep the area as clean as you can. After each session always make a habit of putting your tools away and cleaning the work area ready to start again in a tidy environment next time.

At the fi rst opportunity, get the car jacked up so you can have a good look around with an inspection lamp.

end damage. I then purchased from a breaker a second-hand wing bumper, and bonnet in the same colour as my car, saving the cost of re-spraying, for 85, and fi tted these easily as the panels and bumper are bolted on. The screen was replaced and after refurbishing the normal service items I had myself an ideal second car at very low cost.

from a breaker a second-hand wing bumper, and bonnet in the same colour as my car, saving the cost of re-spraying, for 85, and fi tted these easily as the panels and bumper are bolted on. The screen was replaced and after refurbishing the normal service items I had myself an ideal second car at very low cost.



FEATURE

an as new carpet set for an F I owned at a very low price using this service.

The RefurbishmentOnce you have established what needs doing, list the jobs you can undertake and those you will have to entrust to someone else. From the jobs you will undertake you now need to list the parts you require, such as a full service kit including spark plugs, filters, oil etc., plus other parts such as brake pads, discs, callipers. If you havent fitted these before, read your manual and look up the jobs on the web where there are some excellent sites that go through the work complete with photos. Also seek the help of someone experienced to look over you and give advice once you commence the work. Dont start stripping down various parts of the car at the same time, do it methodically, for instance start

with the service, i.e. changing the oil, filter etc., and then move onto the brakes and so on. Parts can be easier to remove if you clean them first. When you have dismantled parts, lay them out in order so you reassemble in the correct sequence. Spray penetrating oil on any rusty looking nuts before attempting to remove them; if they wont move, spray them again and leave overnight if necessary and try again the next day. If still stubborn apply a little heat before trying more serious methods such as grinding the bolt off. Make sure you check your tyre tread and condition. Remember age can effect tyre performance so check the date mark. Use of a camera is recommended so you can reference the pictures when refitting, but its also a good way of recording your work. Take your time and never rush jobs as it always ends in disaster.

The ShakedownOnce you have completed the work on your car, make sure you go over what you have done as a final check, but include items such as the operation of lights, indicators, wiper and washers etc. If its due for an MOT take a slightly longer route to the MOT station and make sure the car is fully warmed up (a cold engine can affect emission readings) and take the opportunity to bed the brakes in. Once the MOT is passed, get the top down, find your favourite stretch of road and enjoy!

Remember to use axle stands to support the car whenever jacking the car up and never be tempted to go under a car using only the jack. I nearly crushed myself in my teens when I did this!! So be warned. Things to concentrate on are the condition of subframes, the subframe locating points, coolant pipes, handbrake operation, sills, and exhaust etc. Other things to check on the car are of course the condition of the tyres, coolant, and oil.

PartsThe good news is that the F and TF are well served for parts, with many MG specialists selling new parts and reproducing items that are NLA (no longer available). When looking for parts no doubt eBay will spring to mind and yes there are bargains to be had, but also some of the parts can be of dubious quality, so cheap is not the way to go particularly with brake items which your life depends on. Good quality discs and pads are a must.

Another avenue for parts is the MGF/TF breaker and there are many of these around selling good quality second-hand items. Also look in the spares for sale section of Safety Fast, I once purchased

Looking resplendent after its refurbishment


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anything from an oil change to a full rebuildWe are also approved hood and screen tters for MGF Mania

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FEATURE

10% DISCOUNT FOR ALL EMERGENCY SERVICES, ARMED FORCES AND NHS WORKERS

JUST RIGHT AUTOSOxfordshires MGF/TF SpecialistsWe are now proud to announce that

we are Xpart dealers and can supply PARTS to Trade or Retail

We have a fully equipped workshop with our own MOT bay. Over 15 years experience on MGF/MGTF. We can carry out all repairs ,

anything from an oil change to a full rebuildWe are also approved hood and screen tters for MGF Mania

Call today on 01993 778060e: [email protected]

www.justrightautos.co.ukUnit 6, & 7 154 Newland, Witney

Oxfordshire OX28 3JH

25% o

MOTs

HISTORY

We are saddened to record the death in December of Jim ONeill at the age of 93. Jim held the position of Chief Body Designer at the MG Car Company from 1954 when the Abingdon design offi ce was re-established, until the closure of the factory in 1980. Jims association with MGs however began whilst working at Morris Motors in the 1940s. His fi rst MG job was to design a new body for what would become the TD Midget. This led to him being selected to join Gerald Palmer as his chief body draughtsman in the new MG design offi ce that Palmer had set up on his return to Morris Motors from Jowett. This offi ce eventually absorbed both Riley and Wolseley.

In 1994 David Knowles met up with Jim and his subsequent interview was published in Safety Fast!. As a Tribute to Jim we are reprinting this article in full.

Memories of my career with MGI started my automobile career in 1936 when I joined the Pressed Steel Co., which later became the Cowley Body Plant for the Rover Group. The Pressed Steel Co. were always regarded as a good training ground for young engineers due to the various models for different customers. Hillman, Standard and Morris to name but a few.

The basic design was, of course,

James Edward ONeill

Working inside the Octagon

the customers, but as very expensive tooling was involved, all the bodies were drawn out again on 18 foot drafts with great accuracy laying in Highlight lines at various angles to prove the body shape. All this work now is no longer necessary as the shape of the stylist clay model is recorded electronically onto tape which can then be used for tool machining and to produce detail drawings.

After working for 18 months in the Die Machine Shop I moved to the Drawing Offi ce. My fi rst job there was detailing two small brackets for an MG Car. Little did I realise then that most of my future career would be with the MG Car Co., rising to the position of Chief Body Designer. In 1940 I was transferred to Morris Motors at Cowley to work on various War Time products.

By the end of the war Alec Issigonis had designed a new car, the Mosquito, but before going into production it was widened by four inches to become the Morris Minor. I think the decision by the Technical director, Victor Oaks, to increase the width of the vehicle already so advanced tooling wise was a very courageous one, but he was right. It would have been a very narrow gutted looking car if left as Issi had designed it. My contribution to the Minor was detailing the major body panels.

In 1948 I felt I had to extend my experience, moving up to The Austin Motor Co. at Longbridge. We had an exciting programme, or so we thought at the time. Dick Burzie, the Austin Stylist had produced a very attractive small coloured drawing of a convertible which was planned for the American market, hence the name Atlantic.

The system Austins used to create their layouts differed to the one I had normally been used to, namely the A scale layouts. Austins used large vertical boards and onto these was drawn a thick blue line representing the outline as near as possible to the Stylists drawing. One could then stand back 15 feet or so to see how small adjustments could be made to make the perfect line.

It was at one of these sessions that Leonard Lord, the Chairman, appeared and decided he would have a go. So with a let the dog see the rabbit he picked up a sweep and proceeded to re-draw part of the line. We stood back to view, I looked at him, he grinned and said, Ive mucked it up (or words to that effect), you had better carry on. I mention this incident to show how, in those days, the top man would show a keen interest in what his men were doing. I am afraid it does not happen any more.

Jim at his desk in his Cowley offi ce



FEATUREHISTORY

George Abbott was the section leader for the layout of this job, with Ken Taylor working on the front end and myself on the rear end. Nobody was more surprised than me when all the body lines joined perfectly over the door area.

After 12 months or so, financial reasons forced me back to Morris Motors. I was sorry to leave Austins as I was very happy there. Morris were extremely busy designing their Morris and Wolseley range of vehicles which was fortunate for me because they had just received instructions to produce a replacement for the MG TC Midget. This was given to me. My brief was to produce a body shape less angular than the TC and more squat. The suspension was based on the 1 saloon with the chassis design carried out by Jack Daniels. This model was ultimately known as the MG TD. The powers that be were so concerned with the Morris and Wolseley vehicles that nobody in authority ever came to enquire how the layout was progressing. I concluded that Morris Motors were just not interested in MG.

When the body layout was almost complete I was informed that the MG Service Manager would be arriving to have a quick look at what we had planned for them. This was the first time I had met John Thornley and he impressed me with his alert sense of awareness. I do not know how much he understood when looking at the complicated lines of the Body Layout, but he made a point of asking if we could lower the tonneau line by half an inch. This would reduce the height above the rear wing and give an even more squat appearance. I did this while he was still there and sure enough it improved the shape considerably. With a Leave to go, Sir he departed. Here at last was somebody who was taking an interest in what I was trying to do.

The completed layout was shipped to our Bodies Branch at Coventry who produced a prototype body, it looked good. The body was mounted onto the Chassis and road proving commenced. The first Road Test Report stated handling good, impossible to read instruments at any speed. I was devastated, what should a young 28 year old designer do to overcome this problem. I had no idea. I have said that none of the Morris personnel were at all interested in the MG but one man now did come to my assistance, namely Tom Ramsay. He was the Assistant Chief Body Draughtsman. His idea was to weld a 1/8 thick steel sheet vertically to the chassis reaching up to the top of the body dash. A 12 inch square hole was then cut in it to enable the drivers feet to pass to reach the pedals. It cured the scuttle shake. I am sure these days one would never expect a test driver to work under such conditions. The production answer to the sheet of steel was a tubular Goal Post welded to the chassis frame. Production of the TD was started early in 1950 and was continued for about three and a half years. When sales dropped Abingdon was forced to Knife and Fork the TD by sloping the radiator and lowering the bonnet. This produced a more sleek and angular line, which of course, meant MGs were moving back and not forward. This model became the TF.

In 1949 the Riley Design Office was moved from Coventry to Cowley and the production of Rileys to Abingdon, with Rileys Jack Tatlow becoming General Manager of the Abingdon Plant. It was about this time that Gerry Palmer returned to Morris Motors from Jowett and was asked to set up a separate Design Office for MG. I was glad to join Gerry, taking charge of the Body Design with Bob Shirley running the Chassis side. The few Riley Designers that had moved to Cowley gradually drifted back to Coventry leaving only the Chief Engineer, Mr Lush (or maybe it was Rush). He was involved in a tragic fatal accident returning home on Christmas Eve. This sad event meant that Gerry and his team were now responsible for both the MG and Riley design.

Gerrys first design was a very imaginative MG two seater. It consisted of a basic body that could be sold in three versions: Cycle type wings for Hill Climbs etc., Wings and Running Board similar to the TD, or a

Safety Fast! February 2016

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Transcript of Safety Fast! February 2016