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MG MGA - Checklist

I am considering a purchase of an original 1957. Does anyone have a checklist. The vehicle is drivable.
Jim Paul

Jim, there is a pretty good discussion on this in the archives. Look under "purchasing mga"
But basically, check the frame for rust, especially in the areas next to the floor boards. Check the cross bar for rust. The door sills are another area that is a problem with rust. Usually the front of the frame up by the engine is pretty good,(due to the oil leaks from the engine acting like a rust preventative)
Check the fenders and doors for rust, look pretty carefully to see if there is a lot of Bondo on it.
Do the doors close with a equal gap, or do they sag?
Does the trunk ( sorry -- boot)close nicely, or does it have gaps? Ditto with the hood (bonnet)
If it has been sitting in the damp for a while, I imagine the brake drums will be rusted and need regrinding- but you will have that done anyway.
Also, plan on a new interior, a new top, seat covers etc etc. Do all the gauges work? Does the radiator leak?
What shape is the fuel tank in? Does it have any rust-thru, or visible patches?
Look at the battery cradles- are they corroded thru?
When the engine is running, put your palm over the oil filler cap opening, if there is a lot of pressure there it needs some valve work(it's called "blow-by")
Shake the front front wheels from top to bottom it shouldn't have any motion, and side to side- it shouldn't move noticably without moving the steering wheel. In other words- unless the car is in really good shape- you can plan on spending quite a bit fixing it up.
good luck
/ gil
gil

JIm,

If you're not familiar with Barney Gaylord's website, you should spend some time surfing it. In addition to advice on buying/selling MGA's, he has LOTS of great info.

http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/

Have fun!
Joe Cook

This thread was discussed between 29/01/2005 and 01/02/2005

MG MGA index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.