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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Block height difference. 1275/1098

I bought a LCB exhaust manifold from an auto jumble which was listed as being for a midget. It wasn't stated which Midget and I didn't ask. I have found that the ground clearance is about 1.3/4 inches less than my freind Les Robinson's car. les's car is a 948 mk2 Sprite and mine is a 1098 mk3. I know that there is a difference in height between the two, but have I bought a manifold intended for a 1275? If the 1275 block is taller than the 1098 it would follow that the 1275 manifold fitted to a 1098 engine would sit closer to the ground. So, that's my question. Is the 1275 block taller than the 1098?
Thanks, as always, in anticipation of any information.

Bernie.
b higginson

The 948 and 1098 should be about the same height IIRC. The 1275 is about 1/4" taller. The 1275 pushrods are also longer as a result.
Dave O'Neill 2

I know that the what turned out to be a Frogeye LCB manifold that I bought, wouldn't clear the bottom of the car when fitted to my 1275 block.Up until that time I had no idea that there was a difference in engine height.
Gary Lazarus

your manifold could be for a Morris 1000 ?
David Smith

Naw. Moggie manifold comes much further out and back to go down a hole in a different place.
rob thomas

Thanks for the input chaps.
I wonder if some kind soul who has a 1275 could measure the height of the block from sump flange to the top of the block, I will measure my 1098 and I'll get Les to measure his 948, then if we put the results on here we'll all know.
Thanks.

Bernie.
b higginson

1275 = 8 7/8"
David Smith

Thanks David. I'll measure mine tomorrow and ask Les to do the same.
Bernie.
b higginson

Well, as Dave O'N pointed out, the 948 and 1098 are the same at 8 5/8" and the 1275 is 1/4" taller at 8 7/8". So thanks to all for info. It still doesn't account for all of my lack of ground clearance. I wonder if the ports in the heads are at a different height. AAARGH!!!

Bernie.
b higginson

This thread was discussed between 30/03/2010 and 02/04/2010

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