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MG MGB Technical - New to the MGB BBS

Hello All,

I am new to the MGB BBS, after having participated in the TD/TF BBS as the owner of a TF 1500. I am picking up my "new" car, a '63 MGB w/overdrive on Sunday.

This will be my 5th MG since I was 20 years old (way too long ago!). In order: '60 MGA, '70 MGB, '54 MG TF, '48 MG TC, and now back to MGB (still have the TC).

The '63 B is in very good condition, but I expect to be checking in here for the collective wisdom as I delve into it.

First question: the Vehicle Identification # is G-HN3L6055. So far I understand the following - G = MG, H = engine type, N = tourer, 3 = 3rd series, and L = LHD. Would someone please tell me what the "H" and "3" actually mean? And does "L" rather than "U" mean it was not originally exported to the USA? Finally, does 6055 mean it's the 5,954th car built (starting at 101)?

OK, Thanks.
Greg
Greg Van Hook

Welcome.

The structure of the chassis number changed slightly over the years. 'H' means an engine between 1400 and 2000cc. '3' indicates a Mk1 MGB of 62-67, the MGA having '1' and '2'. All LHD originally used 'L', then USA cars changed to 'U' in 1967. 'L' was dropped in 1969. Generally the cars were assembled in chassis number order, but as chassis numbers were allocated in the office beforehand you could get cars being assembled out of strict numerical sequence according to supplies of parts and the needs of different markets.

The above from Clausager's 'Original MGB', which together with the Workshop Manual is essential reading. Enjoy!
Paul Hunt

Thanks a lot, Paul.

Greg
Greg Van Hook

Welcome to the MGB section! Glad to have you aboard!
TheMiz

Greg - Welcome to the BBS. Let me say right now that Paul Hunt has a web site that is second to none as far as the technical aspect of the MGBs are concerned. If you don't have that web site bookmarked, here is is: http://www.mgb-stuff.org.uk/ it is well worth looking through at your leisure.

To the others on this site, Greg is also a rebuilder of SU carburetors and SU fuel pumps. Cheers - Dave
David DuBois

Greg: Welcome to the other side. A number of us also have TD/TF or other MG's in addition to our B's. Sounds like you came upon a nice older B. Post a picture when you can. Obvious from you listing, your not new to the breed, but as with the TD/TF site, this group is a wealth of information.
Bruce-C

Hi Dave, nice to hear from you. I'm sure everybody here knows that you are the SU fuel pump guru. OK, I'll check out Paul's web site.

Yeah, Bruce, it's a very nice car. I'll post a picture soon.

Spring has returned to our part of the world after a looong, cold, winter. Last night I heard the peepers down at the pond for the first time. It's what I consider to be the harbinger of good motoring weather. Can't wait to drive the B!

Thanks,
Greg
Greg Van Hook

This thread was discussed between 18/03/2009 and 19/03/2009

MG MGB Technical index

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