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MG MGA - Gearbox starter hole cover?

Out of all the books/manuals etc. I have for the MGA I have not yet seen a picture or diagram of the RHS of the gearbox. I'm trying to find out what it is that covers the hole in the gearbox housing where the starter motor drive pokes through: I can't see anything either in the manual or the parts list or even in the Moss/B&G/Anglo Parts catalogues. There was no cover when I removed the box but as there are three 1/4" UNF threaded holes around the starter drive hole I'm sure there must be something if only to keep the dust out.
I've got a 1600 with the high starter position. Can anyone help please? Mike
m.j. moore

I have one along with my rebuilt but uninstalled gearbox. Glad to shoot some photos if you'll provide e-address.
Regards,
Doug
D Sjostrom

Guys, my understanding is that the cars did not come with a cover, although I agree it looks like one should be there, and tapped holes are provided. I have never seen one in any books/manuals either. Doug, is yours a factory original?

George

G Goeppner

Thanks Doug please send pic to magpiejazz@aol.com

And thanks for the quick reply - wouldn't be much quicker by 'phone!
Mike
m.j. moore

Can't say for sure, but if not, somebody went to an awful lot of work for a questionable market.

MJ,
I'll send a photo along shortly.
Regards,
Doug
D Sjostrom

Early 1500's were quipped with starter drive covers. Not sure about the 1600's. When the starter moved up higher in January 1959 the cover became more of a nusiance than a benefit. Very easy to smash the tin cup during R&R of the engine (and gearbox). I believe the tin cover was discontinued sometime before production of the 1600 started, but not sure exactly when.

I haven't seen one in years, and I would certainly not put one back on my car. If you made a habit of driving gravel roads regularly it might be of some benefit to keep gravel out of the bellhousing. I did 5,000 miles of gravel roads during the '97 Alaska trip with no such incident.
Barney Gaylord

MJ,Barney,
You've got mail
Regards,
Doug
(Early) MGA 1500
D Sjostrom

Have just discovered these holes for a starter gear cover this week on my 1600 as its rebore and bottom end time...

Surprisingly I haven't got one of these covers either!

Ain't there a lot of bits and bolts!

Pete
Pete Tipping

My car came with 2 of these covers. One is dome shaped, the other is a cylinder shape with an angled end. I used the dome shaped one and I wish I hadn't. The cover rubs agains the toe board and drives me crazy. Will remove it when I convert to the MGB clutch and throw it in the scrap metal bin. I thought I 'had' to use it since the holes were already tapped.
Tom Baker

I seem to recall the early one being slightly conical with a flat end.

I have posted D.Sjostrom'x pictures of the domed one here: http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/gearbox/gt121.htm
Barney Gaylord

This thread was discussed on 06/02/2006

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