Midget

1961-1979 / Roadster / United Kingdom

All Midget problems All workshop issues

Critical Engine -- A-Series (948, 1098, 1275)

Oil Leaks

Symptoms

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

Cause

Every gasket and seal on the A-series hardens and leaks with age. The rear main seal is a scroll-type design that relies on engine oil viscosity to maintain its seal -- it is not a positive seal and will always weep slightly.

Fix

Systematic reseal.

Replace all gaskets and seals.

The rear main seal can only be replaced with the engine out or the gearbox removed.

Full reseal: $150--300 DIY, $500--1,000 at a workshop.

Cost mentioned in fix

$150$500

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// More Midget problems

Other known issues

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.

Critical Engine -- A-Series (948, 1098, 1275)

Overheating

Temperature gauge climbs in traffic or on hot days. Coolant loss through overflow.

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.

View all 17 Midget problems