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MOTRS

Midget

1961-1979 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All Midget problems All workshop issues
Common Electrical

Dynamo/Alternator Failure

Symptoms

Battery goes flat, charging light stays on, dim lights.

Cause

Early Midgets use a dynamo (generator) that is less efficient than an alternator. Both types suffer from worn brushes and failed regulators after 50 years.

Fix

Convert to an alternator (if still on a dynamo) or replace the alternator. Cost: $100--250.

Cost mentioned in fix
Cost: $100

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// More Midget problems

Other known issues

Common Electrical

Lucas Electrical Failures

Intermittent lights, dead instruments, no-start conditions, blown fuses.
Minor Body and Structure

Sill Corrosion

The outer sill skin softens, bubbles, and crumbles. When prodded, it offers no resistance. In severe cases, the door drops when opened because the inner sill has lost its structural integrity.
Critical Body and Structure

Floor Pan Corrosion

Soft or perforated floors, particularly in the footwells. Wet carpets after rain. In extreme cases, visible road surface through the floor.
Minor Body and Structure

Rear Spring Hanger Deterioration

The rear leaf spring mounting points crack, distort, or tear away from the body under load.
Minor Body and Structure

Inner Wing and Suspension Turret Corrosion

The inner front wings around the front suspension top mounts corrode and thin.
Minor Engine -- A-Series (948, 1098, 1275)

Thrust Washer Wear (Crankshaft End-Float)

A metallic knocking or clunking noise from the front of the engine, particularly when the clutch is depressed or released. The clutch may feel different -- pedal travel changes, engagement point shifts.
View all 17 Midget problems