MGA

1955-1962 / Roadster / Coupe / United Kingdom

All MGA problems All workshop issues

Common Electrical (Lucas)

Dynamo Undercharging

Symptoms

The charge warning light stays on or flickers. Battery goes flat. Headlights dim at idle.

Cause

Worn brushes, a dirty commutator, or a failed voltage regulator. The dynamo's output is limited, approximately 22 amps, and marginal for cars with upgraded lighting or accessories.

Fix

Rebuild the dynamo ($200-$400) or convert to an alternator in a dynamo-style housing ($400-$600). The alternator conversion is the better long-term solution.

Cost mentioned in fix

$200-$400$400-$600

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Other known issues

Critical Electrical (Lucas)

Wiring Degradation

Intermittent electrical faults. Lights flicker. Gauges read erratically. Fuses blow without apparent cause.

Minor Rust

Sill (Rocker Panel) Corrosion

The sills become soft, bubbly, or perforated. The body may flex excessively when jacked up or driven over bumps. Doors may not shut properly as the body distorts.

Common Rust

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated metal in the floor pans, visible from underneath. Water may pool in the footwells. The floor may flex under foot pressure.

Minor Rust

Front Crossmember Corrosion

Visible rust, scaling, or perforation of the front crossmember (visible from underneath the front of the car).

Minor Rust

Rear Spring Hanger Corrosion

The rear spring mounting points show rust, cracking, or distortion. The rear of the car may sit unevenly or make clunking noises.

Critical Engine, BMC B-Series (1,489cc / 1,588cc)

Oil Leaks

Oil weeps from the rocker cover gasket, timing cover, rear main seal, and sump gasket. A layer of oil covers the engine and transmission.

View all 16 MGA problems