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MG MGA - MGB box w'overdrive into an MGA

I have a rebuilt MGB overdrive box that I would like to install into my 1960 MGA. I have a 5 main 1800 engine to match. Any tips on the best way to do this?
DJ Loader

A considerable amount of work is required.
This work includes cutting away the mounting "ears" on the MGA frame that hold the rear of the MGA gearbox.
Welding gearbox mountings in place that are similar to front engine mountings.
Some reshaping of the gearbox tunnel.

See photo.

Mick


M F Anderson

Also notice, due to configuration of the OD unit and position of the gearbox mounts, Once it's all together you cannot get the gearbox out of the car without removing the tunnel. The welded mount as shown also raises the tail of the box some to slightly mis-align the propshaft. Probably not enough to cause vibration, but could shorten life of the U-joints for a high mileage car.

If I ever put that gearbox in an MGA I would do more cut and weld to install a removable cross member similar to MGB, so the gearbox cab be removed for service without tearing out the entire interior of the car. Otherwise some people have modified the tunnel to sit on top of the floorboards so you only tear out carpet and tunnel, maybe not seats and floor.
Barney Gaylord

Documented here with photos

http://clancy.ch/MGB_Overdrive.html

Either Gary Lock or Dave Godwin has made this mod too, but without the chassis mod. That causes the propshaft to sit at a very sharp angle, and also raises the rear of the engine far enough that the rear brace on the hood/bonnet has to be cut away to be able to close it.
dominic clancy

Guys,
Thanks for all of your comments.
Dominic, I do like the way the gearbox mounts are attached to the MGA frame. Is this a modified MGB mount? Maybe there's a way to lower the mount to reduce the angle of the propshaft. I'll investigate.
DJ Loader

This thread was discussed between 23/08/2011 and 25/08/2011

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