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MG MGA - Fitting 1600 engine/Trans to 1500

I recently purchased a rebuilt 1600cc motor, it also came with 2 transmissions, one of which i plan on rebuilding. I have a 1957 MGA, with the 1500 motor and corresponding transmission. I am wondering what do i have to do to fit the new setup into my 57? Is it possible to use my 1500's clutch hardware? ie. Cluth master cylinder, clutch plate and such if i put my old flywheel on the new engine?.... I just cant wait to get it up and running again!-Ryan
Ryan

Ryan,
I think all is compatible except for a higher starter location which requires a cutout on the right floorboard. There may be an additional cover needed for this cutout. It's been many years since I owned a Mk II.
BOL,
Doug
D Sjostrom

The later MGA gearbox has higher starter position. You would need to use the engine rear plate from the 1600 engine to match the gearbox.

Also need to modify the tunnel and right side floorboard. The floorboard is easy to cut away. Late model tunnel covers are available on eBay occasionally (or I may know where to find one).

You also need the two piece propshaft to match the flanged output on the later gearbox.

All MGA clutch parts and flywheel are interchangeable. Late MK-II flywheel is 8 pounds lighter. Early MGB flywheel can be used if you match the number of alignment pins to the clutch cover (MGA 2, MGB 3).

MGB clutch parts can be used (ditto alignment pins), if you also use the front cover from early MGB gearbox to mount the MGB release arm in correct position.
Barney Gaylord

Ryan,

This was exactly what I did last winter.

Put a 1600 into my 1500 low starter A.

Pull your existing engine and transmission. Swap the rear plate from the old engine to the new and rebuild your old transmission.

I used various bits from the spare 1600 high starter position transmissions that I had, laygear for example, as well as new synchro rings to rebuild my original.

You wouldn't then have to cut the tunnel, although that is not a major task, or get a new propshaft. You already have all the bits you need apart from anything in the gearbox that would need replacing.

Clutch from your 1500 would fit fine, although I would replace it anyway.

Above is what I did, other options as above would also work just as well.

Chris.
Chris C

Oops,

Didn't read the other posting.

Chris
Chris C

Thanks for the posts, i've pretty much decided to swap the engine plates and go that route.
RSK Ryan

This thread was discussed between 13/08/2005 and 18/08/2005

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