MGA

1955-1962 / Roadster / Coupe / United Kingdom

All MGA problems All workshop issues

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

Timing Chain Stretch

Symptoms

A rattling noise from the front of the engine at idle. Valve timing wanders, reducing power and efficiency.

Cause

The single-row timing chain stretches with mileage. The tensioner compensates for some wear, but eventually the chain exceeds the tensioner's range.

Fix

Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and sprockets.

The timing cover must be removed.

Cost: $200-$400 in parts.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $200-$400 in parts

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// More MGA problems

Other known issues

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.

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

Carburettor Wear (SU H4)

Rough idle, poor fuel economy, hesitation on acceleration, black smoke from the exhaust. The engine may run rich or lean depending on which component has worn.

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

Head Gasket Failure

Coolant loss without visible external leak. White smoke from the exhaust. Milky emulsion under the oil filler cap. Overheating. Bubbles in the header tank.

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).

View all 16 MGA problems