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MG MGA - lower collar valve spring size

I'm restoring the cylinderhead of a 1500CC engine from a '59 MGA. USed new springs for the valves (2 springs per valve) and some of the lower collars was broken. I ordered new ones, and it appears that the new collars are smaller, so that only the inner spring is on the collar and the outer spring is still on the cylinder head. Does not sound right now does it. Any experience with this?

-- Paul
Paul van Adrichem

Hi Paul,

I would contact Barney Gaylord by direct email if I were you. He is the expert to answer all your queries. Have a look on his website see what you can find about your problem. If that fails Barney will be only too pleased to help you sort all your problems. His email address is:- barneymg@mgaguru.com

Frank
F Camilleri

Hi Paul,

I found the same thing when I received a set of the bottom collars from Moss last year. I used them anyway and am entirely happy with them. As far a I can see the collars are only to ensure the spring is held centrally and doesn't work its way into the recess the valve guide sits in. The smaller collars seem to perform both objects adequately.

The collars are not used on any cylinder heads which have single springs (Magnette & MGB 18v types), the springs are seated directly on to the cast iron cylinder head.

Hope this helps

Paddy

P Reardon

I would prefer the original size wide spring up. It not only centers the inner spring, but also serves as anti-wear surface on the head. Thickness of this part also makes up part of the specified spring height when setting it up for correct spring preload force. If the smaller diameter spring cup is used you might need to add shims to bring the spring up to correct height and initial force.
Barney Gaylord

This thread was discussed between 16/03/2011 and 17/03/2011

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