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MOTRS

MGB GT

1965-1980 / Coupe / United Kingdom

All MGB GT problems All workshop problems
Common Weatherproofing (Roadster)

Hood (Soft Top) Deterioration

Symptoms

The hood fabric shrinks and becomes difficult to erect. The rear window (plastic on most cars) turns opaque and cracks. Water pools on the roof and finds its way through stitch holes and seams.

Cause

UV exposure degrades both the fabric and plastic window. The PVC or mohair shrinks with age and heat cycling. The frame itself can distort, putting tension in the wrong places.

Fix

  1. 1 A new hood ($300--600 for PVC, $500--900 for mohair). Fitting requires care -
  2. 2 the hood is glued, stapled, and screwed to the frame and body. Professional fitting is recommended unless you have experience. A glass rear window conversion eliminates the fogging plastic
Cost mentioned in fix
$300$500

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Other known issues

Minor Weatherproofing (Roadster)

Door Seal and Window Seal Gaps

Wind noise, water leaks at speed, and a gap visible between the top of the door window and the door frame seal. The door may require slamming to close.
Common Weatherproofing (Roadster)

Windscreen Pillar Seal Leaks

Water drips onto the dashboard or down the A-posts during rain or car washing.
Minor Body and Structure

Sill Corrosion (Inner and Outer)

The outer sill skin bubbles, softens, and eventually perforates. In advanced cases, the outer sill crumbles when prodded. The inner sill -- the structural member -- rots from inside the box section and loses its load-bearing capacity.
Critical Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated floor pans, particularly in the footwells and under the seats. Wet carpet is a telltale sign. In severe cases, you can see the road through the floor.
Minor Body and Structure

A-Post Corrosion

Rust at the base of the windscreen pillars where they meet the scuttle panel. This area can be invisible until advanced.
Minor Body and Structure

Door Skin Corrosion

Rust along the bottom edge of each door, working upward from the inside.
All MGB GT problems