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MG MGB Technical - Front shock absorber leaking at gasket

One of my front shock absorbers has started leaking from the cover plate gasket. This is on the 'back' of the shock absorber and is inaccessible while on the car. Is this gasket a replaceable item? I can't see any listed at the usual MG suppliers. Broke a tiny piece off the corner of it and it looks like 1/16th cork. Has anyone successfully replaced one of these? I've been through the archives and have noted the advice on using the correct top-up fluid.
Brian Shaw

Shock parts are hard to find.

You may be able to substitute a sealant for the leaking gasket (as long as the screws don't bottom out before tightening the cover).
Glenn

Most auto parts stores sell gasket material in various sizes and types. Gaskets are easy to make if you have a set of punches and an exacto knife. Most of the time "in the old days" we made most small gaskets in the shop for things like thermostats, heater fittings, fuel pumps and the like. For everything--not just LBC's, although the local parts house usually never had what an MG or TR needed back then anyway. Had to go through the dealer for big markups and uncertain availability...if one was even in the local area.
R. L Carleen

In my old days, we made gaskets from an empty Corn Flakes packet and a ball peen hammer. Recycling before it got popular.
Derek Nicholson

i tried getting gasket paper form my local parts shop and they had never heard of it!! i dont know if i was using the right lingo but im sure i was making sense!! i have no idea about the shock, just thought i'd add my part however useless it may seem!
J P Connor

Made a lot of gaskets from 3 x 5 index cards as well...way back when. Remember making one for my 64 B's oil pump.
R. L Carleen

Did you try tightening the screws, maybe with an offset screwdriver? Never replaced a gasket, tightened lots of shock cover screws!
FRM
http://www.usachoice.net/gofanu
FR Millmore

Thanks for the comments.
FRM - I tried my offset screwdriver but it couldn't get all the screws, but I think I'll re-shape it a bit, it'll be easier than removing the shocker.
JPC - my local auto parts stores are almost useless, they just want to sell in-car entertainment and polishing kits for Fathers' Day.
Brian Shaw

Brian,
Removing the shock is not that difficult. If you are resonably mechanically adept it shouldn't take more than about 15-20 minutes to remove. Shortcuts are great if they really work but sometimes you just have to give in and do it right.
Bill
Bill Boorse

This thread was discussed between 30/05/2004 and 03/06/2004

MG MGB Technical index

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