Engine and Gearbox

The clutch was attached to the flywheel with no problems. The standard clutch alignment tool from Moss did the job although I did have to wrap a little insulation tape around to get a more snug fit in the crankshaft bush. I attached the gearbox to the engine on the floor with just a little jiggling, and the bolts were torqued up.

The next stage was to hire a hoist to install the engine. I hired it for the day expecting the usual alignment problems that were mentioned in the build manual. Luckily, with the front engine mount loosely fastened to the chassis, the gearbox mount holes lined up with the chassis perfectly and were bolted up. The front mounts were then tightened and the job was finished, in one hour. The driveshaft was fitted to the overdrive and the differential and the job was complete.

I stripped down the alternator completely and cleaned it with a wire brush and electric drill .I replaced the spindle bushes and re-assembled the parts. I took it to a local electrician for testing and he confirmed that it was providing a good voltage.

I also stripped the starter motor down and cleaned the components. The retaining washers were missing and the rear spindle had been drilled and a split pin inserted. I left these out as at the time seemed unimportant. (Later this caused problems turning over the engine so I re-fitted a new split pin which solved the problem.)

I bought a new Lucas 45D distributor as opposed to the 25 unit that was fitted. This meant that timing would be slightly different later.

I also treated myself to an alloy rocker cover. This makes the unit look very smart although the chrome on the fixing bolts has already lifted. These will be replaced by a set of brass MG Logo ones from Moss.

I bought a reconditioned manifold from Ebay and the inlet manifold was bead blasted. I bought a new water pump and a new thermostat housing due to the different direction required for the radiator

I also bought a different oil filter housing. This one allows a smart stainless oil pipe to feel oil from the block directly to the filter rather than through an oil pump. I think it was from a marina version of this engine.