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MG TD TF 1500 - TD air filters

Does anyone know why so many TDs had the original oil bath air filters replaced with pancake style ones. My 51 was on blocks from 1960 until the present so this conversion was made early in its life, perhaps even at the original purchase. I presently have an off brand made in California in place. They have a copper mesh for a filter. Is this a good enough filter for a dusty town like Spokane and what is the proper way to oil them?
N. Oakley

My TD, like yours has the wire mesh filter. Mine has a date of 1976 scratched inside the cover.

The reason to change from the old oil bath type is pretty clear to me. It is much easier to work on the carbs without that metal pipe that goes to the original filter, and better air flow/performance

They also sell individual paper filter air cleaners, which would probably be better in terms of filtering.

I take oil and put it on a rag and wipe it around the outside of the element. Maybe someone out there knows a better way.

Whether it is sufficient, well I can only say that the big Healeys (3000) came from the factory with a similar type aircleaner, due to space considerations, and I had two of these cars. The engines seem to last forever.

Perhaps someone with a MG garage could comment on whether it affects engine life. If it does, I would change mine.
larry ayres

I'm told that the after market filters were more similar to what was used on racing MGs by racing enthusiasts. If you owned an MG and wanted to appear more aggressive and daring, you altered your car with all sorts of racing apparatus like areo wind screens, interior hand holds, and yes, a non stock air filter.

It is just like what the kids do today with the little Japanese cars... no one predicted that someday a bunch of middle aged men would be pursuing originality as a way to self perfection. ;)

dave
Dave Braun

I'm thinking that if I wanted the TD exactly as it was in May of 1953, I would have to put "me" back to the way I was in May of '53....and that means i would be 6 years old and need a whole ton of hair implants.....!!!!!
Nope... like my checkerboard grille and Nardi wheel......
gordon lawson - TD 27667

If you've ever run a car for long with an oil bath filter, you would know how effective they are (very). Not very sporty looking, tho. When you wash out your mesh types, you may be surprised at how much dust gets held by the sticky oil. But only if it's sticky (moist). Dry mesh filters will pass as much dust as your window screens do in the summer.
Tom

This thread was discussed between 05/01/2006 and 06/01/2006

MG TD TF 1500 index

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