MGB Roadster

1962-1980 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All MGB Roadster problems All workshop issues

Critical Engine

Cylinder Head Cracking

Symptoms

Coolant consumption with no visible external leak. Milky residue on the oil filler cap. White smoke from the exhaust. Overheating.

Cause

The B-series head can crack between the valve seats, particularly on engines that have been overheated. The head is cast iron and can be repaired, but prevention (maintaining the cooling system) is far better than cure.

Fix

Remove the head, check for cracks (pressure test), and either repair or replace.

Remanufactured heads are available.

Cost: $800--1,500 for head replacement including gasket and machining.

Cost mentioned in fix

Cost: $800

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Other known issues

Critical Engine

Bottom End Bearing Wear

Low oil pressure at idle when warm (below 15 psi). A deep rumbling or knocking sound from the lower engine, particularly at idle and on acceleration. This is the main and big-end bearings wearing out.

Minor Engine

Overheating

Temperature gauge climbs into the red, particularly in traffic or on hot days. Coolant loss through the overflow.

Critical Engine

Oil Leaks

Oil residue on the engine, drips on the ground, burning smell from oil on the exhaust manifold.

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.

View all 18 MGB Roadster problems