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MG MGB Technical - bodyshell/differences

can anyone tell me a simple way of telling the difference between a Mk 1 & Mk2,cb or rb bare shell thanks
d chadwick

d-
The MKI will have a downward step in the transmission tunnel just aft of the aperture for the shift lever while the MKII will not. The Chrome Bumper bodyshell will have two vertical rectangular slots in the front for the bumper mounts while the Rubber Bumper bodyshell will have two horizontalal rectangular slots in the front for the bumper mounts.
Steve S.

in addition to Steve's response, CB cars have a pointed "boat tail" below the rear tail lights, while the metal directly below the tail lights on rb cars is flattened to accomodate the flush bumper.
mark

Mark ll models, '68 and newer, also had a wider tranny tunnel to use the 4 synchro tranny. RB 'Bs' had the radiator shroud closer to the front. The change was made to accomodate the V-8 units in '74 or '73
Luigi

d-
Just in case you're considering a V8 conversion, according to Clausager's "Original MGB", the 1976 and later models had the upper surface of the wheelwell arches dished to provide clearance for the exhaust manifolds. The radiator was also moved forward in accomodate the V8 engine in June of 1976 for the 1977 and later model years (Sorry, Luigi). These later bodyshells also have pointing points for a rear stabilizer bar.

Of couse, if you wan to do a V8 conversion with a minimum amount of work, the MGOC sells a special version of the BMIHT bodyshell that already has all of the special modifications for running a V8 already incorporated (relocated fuel and brake lines, relocated fuel tanl inlet aperture, etc., etc.) It's called the Super Sport Bodyshell.
Steve S.

I stand corrected. Thanks Steve.
Luigi

The Super Sports shell does not have “relocated fuel and brake lines, relocated fuel tank inlet aperture, etc”
The Super Sports is a hybrid shell, either GT or Roadster, mostly rubber bumper and part CB spec. Rear suspension pick up points are RB with RV8 antitramp mounts. Front wings, front and rear valance are CB. Inner wings are late RB with holes for RV8 exhaust. The bulkhead and radiator diaphragms are late RB. The transmission tunnel is raised behind the radio console like the RV8 and a remote oil filter bracket is welded in place behind the radiator diaphragm. The kickboard brace is RB and rear antiroll bar brackets are fitted. Engine mounts are RB and the chassis rails have extra holes for the gearbox crossmember. The scuttle should be RB but mine was CB and had to be altered for RB demister vents. Bumper mounts are CB.
The relocated fuel tank and rolled rear wheel arch flanges were special modifications made by the MGOC, they are not included in the Super Sports shell manufactured by British Motor Heritage.

Geoff
Geoff King

This thread was discussed between 15/11/2002 and 20/11/2002

MG MGB Technical index

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