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1. V8 water pump - remove & refit
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) provided our first V8 Workshop Note which was released in the V8 Column of the April 1979 issue of Safety Fast!. (Apr 79). A copy is available as V8NOTE1.

1a) Sequel to water pump article
Peter Beadle
Peter Beadle (Damask 0414) explains that the Rover thread lubricant is now part number 608591 and incidentally is around £6.00 a tin! [Note that was in 1979 pound notes!]. A copy is available as V8NOTE1a.

1b) Mini sequel to water pump article
Charles Williams
Charles Williams (Blaze 1170) from Wolverhampton popped up with this sequel to avoid the need to remove the radiator. A copy is available as V8NOTE1b.

2. Thermo-switch for cooling fans
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) describes how to service or replace the Otter switch. (Spring 79). A copy is available as V8NOTE2.

3. Exhaust manifolds and shrouds
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) provides another useful tip which makes the removal of the exhaust manifold easier. (Spring 79)

4. Throttle cable - a caution
Victor Smith
Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) describes how his throttle cable stuck open - an experience to be avoided. (Jul 79)

5. Removing the relief valve on a V8 overdrive unit
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) provides a useful note to save you the alarm and then the frustration of chasing ball bearings and springs as the fly around the garage floor when servicing your overdrive relief valve filter - not to mention the subsequent puzzle of wondering how they all fit together again for reassembly! (Jul 79)

6. Handbook error - steering & suspension grease points
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) has spotted a small tip which you need to note on your copy of the MGBGTV8 Handbook. (Jul 79)

7. V8 starter motor
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) explains how to remove and refit this unit. (Sep 79)

7a) Starter motor sequel
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) follows up his note with a note based on calls he has received from a number of V8 Register members. (APR 80)

8. Drain plug washer (sump) & pressure relief valve
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) has two tips in this note covering the compressible washer on the sump drain plug and the engine oil pressure relief valve spring. (Oct 79)

9. Electronic ignition - a few comments on the Mobelec in action
Philip Alexander
Phil Alexander (Glacier White 1227 provides this interesting note on electronic ignition. (Nov 79)

10. Survey of electronic ignition systems
Victor Smith
Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) the V8 Register Secretary & Registrar, provides this survey note.

11. Engine mountings & engine removal
Geoff Allen
This brief and useful tip comes from Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) who owns the first rubber bumpered MGBGTV8. (Aug 79)

11a) Right-hand engine mounting
Jim Gibson
Jim Gibson (Flamenco Red 2435) sets out a useful sequel to Geoff Allen's recent note (Jan 80)

12. Brake servo failure
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) writes a note on problems with his servo. (Jan 80)

12a) Brake servo vacuum hose (sequel)
Jim Gibson
Jim Gibson (Flamenco Red 2435) has a sequel on the brake servo. (Jan 80)

13. Front wheel arch (see also V8 Note 48)
Jeff Ward
Jeff Ward (Flame 2375) contributes a useful tip for keeping road mud out of the front wheel arch void. (Jan 80)

14. Looking after your body!
Tom Studer
Tom Studer (Damask 0109) runs an early LHD MGBGTV8 in Switzerland and is an enthusiastic member of the V8 Register. (Jan 79)

14a) Continued body care!
Philip Morgan
Philip Morgan (BRG 10220 provides a useful article which deals with a perennial problem - rust and body care! Philip develops a topic which our Swiss member, Tom Studer, began in our first journal. (Jan 80)

15. How to keep cool under pressure - V8 cooling system
Colin Leisk
Here Colin Leisk (Damask 1729) from Warwickshire provides a comprehensive and seasonal article on maintaining the V8 pressurised cooling system so your V8 does not overheat. (May 79). A copy is available as V8NOTE15.

15a) Cooling sequel
Jerry Bright
Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) provides a sequel to Colin Leisk's comprehensive V8 Workshop Note 15. (Jun 79). A copy is available as V8NOTE15a.

16. More cooling tips
Jim Gibson
Jim Gibson (Flamenco Red 2435) from Leicestershire adds some details to the current V8 cooling topic. (Jan 80). A copy is available as V8NOTE16.

16a) Even more cooling tips
Lothar Taverne
Lothar Taverne (Glacier White 5001) from Vienna has a Costello MGBGTV8. This note has been prepared with help from our Swiss member Tom Studer (Damask 0109). A copy is available as V8NOTE16a.

17. Heavy breathing on the V8 - how the inlet manifold works
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides an interesting article which explains how the V8 inlet manifold works. Jan 80)

18. Interchangeability - MGBV8 and Rover parts (Part 1)
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides a useful insight into how parts from MGB1800s and V8 Rovers can be used or cannibalised as spares for the MGBGTV8. (Jan 80)

19. Anti-theft device
Victor Smith
This brief note from Victor smith (Harvest Gold 1089) from London SW describes a simple but very effective way of thwarting car thieves. (Jan 80)

20. Renovating V8 alloy wheels
Chris Dodds
Chris Dodds (Glacier White 0986) is one of our Australian members and he explains how he renovated his Dunlop wheels on his MGBGTV8. (APR 79)

20a) Sequel on wheels
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides a brief sequel to the recent note from Chris Dodds. (APR 80)

21. Sequel to the starter motor article (see V8 Workshop Note 7)
Jim Gibson
Jim Gibson (Flamenco Red 2435) from Sheffield provides a note which is a sequel to the earlier article (V8 Workshop Note 7) by Peter Laidler. (APR 80)

22. Cooling fan override switch
Philip Morgan
Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) relays some recent comments from Philip Morgan (BRG 1022) in Surrey with a useful idea. (May 80)

22a) Sequel to the manual switch for cooling fans
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Abingdon adds a few ideas to the modification recently contributed by Philip Morgan. (May 80)

23. Rocker shaft maintenance
Chris Dodds
Chris Dodds (Glacier White 0986) from Australia describes maintenance work we will all have to face at some stage. (APR 80)

23a) Sequel to rocker shafts note
Colin Light
Colin Leisk (Damask 1457) has a sequel to the recent note from Chris Dodds. (Aug 80)

24. Engine and gearbox remove & refit
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex provides a useful article on removing the V8 engine and gearbox. It highlights pitfalls to watch out for and provides a few tips too. (Jun 80)

25. One cure for wheel vibration
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire provides a practical tip on how he cured vibration from the alloy wheels fitted to an MGBGTV8. (May 80)

26. Oil pressure relief valve cap
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire has another useful tip that could save hours of wondering how to get at the valve cap. (May 80)

27. Reverse gear jumps out?
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has a tip that could avoid that snatch as reverse gear pops out - a common MGBGTV8 problem. (May 80) This Note is available as V8NOTE27.

28. V8 alternator
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Glacier White 0815) from Derbyshire provides a useful article on the V8 alternator. Remember the spares tip - if you decide to go for a replacement alternator, go for the Unipart GEU218 and not BHH5195 and you can save over £60!

28a) Delco Remy alternator malfunction
Steve Foldhazy
Steve Foldhazy (Damask 0795) in NSW Australia adds a brief sequel. (Jul 80)

28b) V8 alternator - another sequel
(abstract from notes) This note is prepared from a collection of tips from members on alternators. (Oct 80)

29. Exhaust corrosion tip
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler 0811) from Oxfordshire provides this practical tip which applies to all modern MGs. (Jun 80)

30. Ballast resistance ignition system
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex explains how this part of the electrical equipment on an MGBGTV8 works. (Jun 80)

31. Saving your petrol tank from corrosion
Jerry Bright
Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) from Hertfordshire owns the last chrome bumper MGBGTV8 and has been maintaining the underside of his car. In this useful note he points to the vulnerability of the petrol tank to corrosion and explains how to deal with it - if you catch it in time! (Jul 80)

32. V8 overdrive unit
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides another interesting article on the overdrive unit fitted to the MGBGTV8 and shows how you can adapt the standard MGB1800 overdrive unit. (Jul 80)

33. Further note on the V8 overdrive unit
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Blaze 0815) from Derbyshire has a sequel to the recent note by Peter Laidler and explains how he tackles and cured problems with his V8 overdrive unit. (Aug 80)

34. Leaking vacuum advance diaphragm
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Blaze 0815) from Derbyshire explains a reason for difficulty when tuning an MGBGTV8. (Aug 80)

35. One reason for a LH exhaust manifold cracking
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides a helpful tip on the reason for these expensive manifolds cracking - he even stripped it down to find a solution! (Feb 81)

36. Hot air tubes
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Blaze 0815) from Derbyshire has a tip on renewing the hot air tubes between the exhaust manifolds and the breather systems. (Aug 80)

36a) Sequel on hot air tubes
Tony Hilton
Tony Hilton (Glacier White 1175) from Middlesex has a very brief sequel. (Sep 80)

37. Interchangeability of MGBV8 & Rover parts (Part 2)
Peter Laidler
Our regular contributor Peter Laidler has another article on how you can interchange V8 and MGB 1800 parts. This note covers the back axle. (Oct 80)

38. Changing the clutch slave cylinder hose
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex describes how you can tackle this job. (Jul 80)

39. Inter-changeability of parts (Part 3)
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has some further ideas on interchanging MGBGTV8 and MGB 1800 parts.

40. Front suspension modification
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has a tip for both the MGBGTV8 and MGB 1800 models. (Feb 81)

41. Better brakes for your MGBV8
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire suggests an idea for the front brakes. The note was originally prepared for MGB 1800 owners (Feb 81)

42. Loss of sparks
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Blaze 0815) from Derbyshire highlights a problem he had with the points on his V8 (Aug 80)

43. Hydraulic self adjusting tappets
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire explains how they work. (Jul 80)

44. Improving the MGBV8's handling
Philip Morgan
Philip Morgan (BRG 1022) from Surrey sets out improvements you can obtain. (Feb 81)

45. Interchangeable part numbers - Rover 3500 Coupe & 3.5SD1, Range
Rover & MGBV8
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides a postscript to his earlier articles on the parts interchangeability theme as a schedule showing the Rover 3500 Coupe, Range Rover and Rover 3.5SD1 parts that appear interchangeable with the MGBGTV8. This research is the result of peter ploughing through the various parts catalogues and comparing part numbers.

46. Blocked carburettor vents
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire experienced black exhaust emission, rough running and a loss of power after starting the engine. He provides this brief note on the possible cause. (Aug 80)

47. Water pump
Peter Laidler
Here Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire explains how he has stripped down tow pumps - what to do, how to do it and what to look for, and in particular highlights a difficulty. How do you remove the impeller from the shaft without breaking it? Has anyone overcome the problem yet? (Feb 81)

48. Front wing baffle extensions
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Aconite 1407) is our 244th member and shortly after joining he sent in a contribution to the V8 Workshop Notes series on an item many of us may not have realised was there!.(Feb 81)

49. Speedometer cable
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has a small gem that could save money. (Feb 81)

50. V8 gearbox - a topical subject to end on!
Peter Laidler
Our regular contributor Peter laidler provides an interesting, and sadly for some of us a timely article, on one of the most topical subjects for V8 enthusiasts - the gearbox. (Feb 81)

50a) V8 gearbox sequel
Philip Morgan

50b) Editor's sequel on V8 gearbox
Victor Smith

Tail end tips

Although we called the first volume "First Fifty", with some sixteen
sequels there were in fact 66 workshop notes in the first volume!

Volume 2

51. A tale of cooler tails!
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has a brief but useful tale of a corroded oil cooler tail.

52. Layshaft sequel
Brian Field
Brian Field (Harvest Gold 0097) from Cardiff sets out a few ideas based on rally experience as a sequel to Philip Morgan's ideas.

53. Bolts in your collector box
Ron Gammons
Ron Gammons (Black 1931) the well known MG racer and part of the duo of Brown & Gammons at Baldock in Hertfordshire has provided this valuable tip based on his own V8 swallowing a bolt through one of the carburettors. V8NOTE53

54. Could I fit a Rover 5 speed gearbox to my MGBV8?
Philip Morgan
Philip Morgan (BRG 1022) from Surrey sets out his approach on this topic.

55. Adapter assembly - carburettors
Jerry Bright
Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) from Hertfordshire owns the last chrome bumpered V8 and provides another workshop note which amplifies the V8 Supplement to the MGB Workshop Manual (AKD846).

56. Brake servo - a servicing summary
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) explains how to repair and overhaul the brake servo on the MGBGTV8.

57. Engine and gearbox removal and refitting - a sequel to an
earlier note
Peter Ellis
Peter Ellis (Damask 2632) from Lincolnshire has this interesting sequel. He also provides a sketch of the steel shim for the offside engine mounting.

58. A rust prevention tip
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop points to a hidden area where rust can be active!

59. Exhaust manifolds revisited
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop adds a few ideas to this saga!

60. Starter motor - part numbers cross referenced
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler provides a useful checklist.

61. Cooling fan motor
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) illustrates the part numbers for the V8 cooling fan motor.

62. Petrol tank modification
Paul Busby
Paul Busby (Glacier White 0278) from Nottinghamshire had to replace his tank and decided to cure the slosh noise of petrol moving in the tank.

63. Battery revival
Jerry Bright
Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) from Hertfordshire describes how you can gain a little more life from an old battery.

64. Servicing SU carburettors
Graham Freeman
Graham Freeman (Damask 1877) from Dorset supplies this concise note with helpful details on of the information available from SU Butec.

65. V8 ignition
Peter Ellis
Peter Ellis (Damask 2632) from Lincolnshire provides some useful check sheets on the Lucas distributor ignition data generally.

66. Exhaust manifold sequel
Geoff Allen feels that pips and redundant lugs could well be causing some of the cracked exhaust manifolds - Geoff Allen (Teak Blue 2101) the V8 Historian from Oxfordshire explains.

67. Exhaust manifold - further sequel
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire believes badly set downpipes on replacement exhaust systems may be another factor in cracking manifolds.

68. Clutch slave cylinder sequel
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Aconite 1407) provides this helpful sequel to the earlier note from John Dupont published in the V8 Register Journal Summer 1980).

69. Is your clutch really worn out?
Graham Freeman
Graham Freeman (Damask 1782) sent in a brief note on his experiences with an "engine out and refit which subsequently proved unnecessary. Why? - a worn link between clutch pedal and master cylinder.

70. Insurance for the MGBV8
Godfrey Joly
Now the cost of insurance for the MGBGTV8 is a topic V8 enthusiasts have to bear in mind but there are two items of good news on that front, both provided by our friendly brokers, the Jack Wallis Partnership in Southampton. Report from Victor Smith. (Jun 80)

71. A fire hazard in the engine bay
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire has set in a safety note following a worrying experience.

Volume 3

72. Back axle clonk
Chris Hall
Chris Hall (Glacier White 0815) from Derbyshire has provided a valuable cautionary tale and a back axle life saver tip.

73. More on hydraulic self-adjusting tappets
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provided a note earlier in the series on V8 cam followers and now he follows it with more useful details.

74. More on the V8 alternator
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Dorset provides a further note on the AC Delco Alternator type 7982707 for the V8.

74a) AC Delco alternator parts breakdown
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) provides a part number list.

75. Replacing hydraulic brake pipes
Jerry Bright
It pays to get under the MGBGTV8 from time to time and examine the state of the hydraulic pipes. Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) explains how he replaced his pipes.

76. Fuel tanks for the MGBV8
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) provides this useful note on the fuel tank. If you renew the tank soon, it could save you time and trouble! Remember too, Jerry Bright's earlier article (Note 31) on anti-rust treatment for an existing tank. (Update note: things have moved on considerably from the situation described below with a range of parts available.)

77. Rear silencer - an economy tip
Chris Hall
Chris Hall( Glacier White 0815) provides this useful note on extending the life of the exhaust system by replacing a blown V8 tail box.

78. Steering column on the MGBGTV8
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides an illuminating article on the steering column - particularly for the chrome bumpered V8s.

79. Dog guard for a BGT!
David Yeo
With a hundred and thirty seven horses up front, you may want to keep a dog under control in the back of your V8 David Yeo from Surrey has supplied details of a hatchback dog guard which will fit the V8.

80. Petrol tank sequel
Chris Bovington
Chris Bovington runs an 1800 B Roadster and contributed this very brief note in an article in Safety Fast! in August 1981.

81. Chrome nuts under the bonnet?
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) and Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire have an idea for brightening up the engine bay.

82. Wiper motor fault
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire, a former flight engineer, describes a wiper motor fault that had a knock-on effect.

83. Steel in aluminium - seal those threads!
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire provides a valuable reminder.

83a) Prevention of seizure of nuts & bolts
Jerry Bright
Following the earlier not (Note 83), Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) from Hertfordshire has some additional points on thread treatments.

84. Fitting new front wings
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) passes on a useful tip which reduces the effort!

85. Fitting an SD1 gearbox yourself - one member's experience
Jacques Milliet
Jacques Milliet (Green 0498) from Switzerland replies to an earlier note (Note 54) with details of his experiences.

86. BV8 engines for sale - take care!
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire explains how he was lured by an advert only to discover the engine was for a Range Rover. He wasted a journey.

87. Fitting Huntsman competition tubular exhaust manifolds - details
of the inner wing modifications and how to fit hot air ducts to them
Harry Speight
Harry Speight (Glacier White 2724) from Durham explains how to modify the inner wing on an MGBGTV8 for the tubular exhaust system and how to fit the hot air ducts to the air filter box.

88. Mind the toasted fingers!
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282) from Berkshire has a brief tip for saving your fingers when using a strobe.

89. Special V8 alloy & steel wheels
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) has been looking at the V8 wheels - an item that has recently gone NLA.

90. Sequel to fire hazard article (see V8 Note 71)
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from London W sets out in usual detail how he tackled one of the tips published during 1981 (Note 71) from Geoff Seaton.

91. Steering rack
Paul Busby
Paul Busby (Glacier White 0278) has a short note highlighting a problem you should be prepared for when removing the rack

92. Alternator bolt tightening tip
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex has a brief but useful tip on an item which even armchair mechanics might heed!

93. Searching for spare parts
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gild 0811) from Oxfordshire explains how he goes about searching for spares.

94. Servo sequel
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Damask 1282 and Black 2896) from Berkshire has a useful sequel to previous notes on the servo - Notes 12, 12a and 56.

95. Exhaust manifolds to crack or not to crack, that is the question!
Jerry Bright
Jerry Bright (Citron 1956) from Hertfordshire provides some practical tips for avoiding strain on the cast manifolds that could lead to cracked flanges.

96. Front brake calliper overhaul
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex explains how he tackled an overhaul of his front brake callipers. It is always worth remembering that track racing truism "never start anything you can't stop!". Please read this note in conjunction with the MGB Workshop Manual section M6.

97. Updating the parts catalogue
John Dupont
John Dupont (Teal Blue 0534) from Middlesex was the first contributor in the V8 Workshop Notes series and has sent in this useful note setting out some part number changes.

98. Back axle modification - possibly the most important note
yet for the MGBV8 but controversial nonetheless
Peter Laidler
This modification has been jointly developed by Geoff Seaton and Peter Laidler and both need no introduction as they are regular beavers for our members. The note is prepared by Geoff Seaton. See also Note 72 by Chris Hall.

99. Magnetic sump nut for the MGBV8 engine
Peter Laidler
Bill Burridge (Bracken 1152) who joined the V8 Register in 1981 has been putting his head together with Geoff Seaton and has come up with an interesting modification based on an original idea from Peter Laidler.

100. Gearbox and the MGBGTV8 - a sequel
Peter Laidler
One of regular contributors, Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire, has produced a topical sequel to a note on the first gear wheel in the V8 gearbox. It is an interesting article to complete the first hundred V8 Workshop Notes which are now published in three volumes.

Volume 4

101. Take care - your balls may drop!
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire provides this valuable tip that could save you a great deal of trouble and discomfort in the region of your carburettors! (Jan 84)

102. A small tip on speedo cable
Graham Freeman
Graham Freeman (Damask 1782) provides a small but useful tip. (Jan 83)

103. Underbody corrosion
Paul Busby
Paul Busby (White 0278) from Leicestershire follows an active Winter on his V8 with an article on that ever present topic - corrosion. (Jan 83)

104. The steering rack - another exception to note
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has found the steering column on the chrome bumpered MGBGTV8 is not identical to the standard MGB 1800. (Jan 83)

105. Move on batteries
Chris Bovington
Chris Bovington, who has an MGB 1800 Roadster, provided this note on batteries in a recent issue of Safety Fast! (Aug 82)

106. Rubber lock washers
Anthony Tyndale
A brief but very useful note from Anthony Tyndale (MGBGT 1800). (Aug 83)

107. Waxoyl treatment for an MGB or V8
Chris Bovington
Chris Bovington (MGB 1800 Roadster) contributes a series of tips in the August 1981 issue of Safety Fast! - this one is on Waxoyl treatment. (Aug 81)

108. Adhesives for the car - a comprehensive note
DGS
This useful, comprehensive note was originally published in two parts in the September and October 1981 issues of Safety Fast! and was contributed by a Club member "DGS". In reading this note in the reprocessed volumes released in 2003, please note this article was written in 1981. (Oct 81)

109. LE or ST - revised bodywork for an MGB
Anthony Tyndale
Anthony Tyndale (MGBGT 1800) set out some ideas on spoilers in the January 1981 issue of Safety Fast! (Jan 81)

110. High intensity rear foglights for an MGB or an MGBGTV8
Anthony Tyndale
Anthony Tyndale (MGBGT 1800) provided this note on a modification that provided rear fog lights within the standard rear lighting equipment. Subsequent to publishing this note we found the modification, whilst neat, did in fact breach the road vehicle regulations. So this note was withdrawn and is not reproduced in this updated volume. (Aug 81)

111. Petrol tank sequel
Chris Bovington
A brief contribution from Chris Bovington (MGB Roadster 1800) on the petrol tank. (Sep 81)

112. Rear wash/wipe installation for an MGBGT or MGBGTV8
Aidan Bristow
Aidan Bristow (Glacier White 1815) on duty in Lagos, sends us this useful tip. Fortunately his MGBGTV8 is garaged in a cooler and drier climate at Baldock! (Oct 81)

113. Brake servo sequel - more!
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire makes a few observations on Geoff Seaton's earlier article on the brake servo. (Oct 83)

114. Valuation of MGs for insurance purposes
Godfrey Joly
Godfrey Joly of the Jack Wallis Partnership are helpful insurance brokers who have been beavering away arranging competitive cover for MGBGTV8s. Here he provides a useful guide to the general requirements for valuations of V8s and other classic MGs. (Oct 83)

115. MG running on
Anthony Tindale
Anthony Tyndale (MGB 1800) provides this helpful tip - the kits he mentions can be obtained from CARSPARES. (Oct 83)

116. Lubrication of the MGBGTV8 axle and gearbox
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire clarifies the lubrication needs for these components. (Oct 83)

117. Wiring layout diagram for the new two plug and socket
requirements for tow bars
Victor Smith
Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) from London SW recently fitted a tow bar to his MGBGTV8 and came across the new two plug requirements. (Oct 83)

118. Handbrake compensating lever
Steve French
A caution sent in by Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex. (Oct 83)

119. Front spoiler sequel
Steve French
Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex suggests a few modifications when fitting a front spoiler. See the earlier Note 44. (Oct 83)

120. Inlet manifold gasket
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire has some tips on sealing the manifold inlet gaskets. (Oct 83)

121. Jumping out of reverse - another sequel
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire suggests another remedy for this irritating problem. This is a sequel to Note 27 in Volume 1. (Oct 83). You can view this Note as V8NOTE121.

122. Laying up an MGB or MGBGTV8 - a corrosion engineer's
thoughts
Geoff Seaton
Geoff Seaton (Black 2896) from Berkshire was until recently an engineer with British Airways and is very familiar with the care and attention needed on maintaining quality machinery. Here he sets out some ideas on lay up products. (Oct 83)

123. Underbonnet sound deadening felt drooping
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire explains that the sound deadening felt can break up and then drop down and damage underbonnet components. (Oct 83)

124. Clutch slave cylinder removal, the battle of the bulge - sequel
to Notes 38 & 68
Steve French
The irrepressible Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex graphically describes this exercise! The article is a sequel to Notes 38 and 68. (Oct 83)

125. Electronic water injection system
Anthony Tindale
Anthony Tyndale (MGBGT 1800) contributes this interesting note which was first published in Safety Fast! in May 1984. (May 84)

126. Changing exhaust manifold bolts
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire suggests you use socket cap screws as a replacement. (Jan 84)

127. Cigar lighter broken?
Steve French
Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex relates how he replaced a faulty unit with the latest pattern. (Jan 84)

128. Lubricating oils
R.A. Wild
The letter to Safety Fast! in May 1984 from RA Wild has a number of interesting points and comments on lubrication. (May 84)

129. Mounting badges on a rubber bumpered MGBV8
Geoff Allen
This tip came from Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire to Howard Gosling (Silver LE 3001) from London SW. (Dec 83)

130. Water pump dowel holes undersize - take care
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire highlights this problem which Victor Smith also met recently when changing a water pump. Be prepared for the procedure set out below but do it dry before the gasket goo goes on! (Feb 84)

131. Supercharging for road or track
Mick Broad
This is not for the faint hearted! An interesting article by Mick Broad of Auto Power Services at Daventry to set you going! (Feb 83)

132. To claim or not to claim!
Alan Kingwell
Alan Kingwell (Citron 1679) from Hampshire explains how to deal with a small claim. (Mar 84)

133. Suspension and handling problems and solutions
Hayden Winn
Hayden Winn (Glacier White 2781) from Australia provides a personal guide to sorting out suspension problems. This article first appeared in "Pieces of Eight", the regular journal of the V8 Register of Australia, part of the MG car Club. (Mar 84)

134. That V8 diff modification
Simon Boeyen
Simon Boeyen (Glacier White 0823) from Australia comments on his experience with implementing Peter Laidler's diff modification. It provides a useful caution too. (Mar 83)

135. Sequel to that V8 diff modification
Hayden Winn
Hayden Winn (Glacier White 0278) from Australia adds further helpful hints on carrying out Peter Laidler's diff modification. (APR 84)

136. Cooling system - MGBV8
Steve Foldhazy
Steve Foldhazy (Damask 0795) from Australia offers advice on cooling a V8 in Australia. (Mar 84)

137. Tie rod ends
Ken Dodds
Ken Dodds (Glacier White 0986) from downunder provides a method for untying his arms. (Mar 84)

138. Damaged V8 wheel nuts prevention
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire has a practical, if brief, tip to help you save your nuts! (Mar 84)

139. Rust prevention tip
Ken Dodds
Suggestions on rust prevention on the fuel tank provided by Ken Dodds (Glacier White 0986) from downunder. (Mar 84)

140. Air-conditioning cars - some background notes if you have
it in mind for the MGBV8
P. Manners
These notes have been provided by P Manners of Sankyo International at Reading - they are an interesting read for members who have air conditioning in mind. (Mar 84) V8NOTE140

141. Temperature gauge tip
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101) from Oxfordshire has a brief tip which may be useful to members refurbishing an MGBGTV8. (Mar 84)

142. Gear selection problems
Ken Dodds
Extract from "Pieces of Eight" contributed by Ken Dodds (Glacier White 0986), a longstanding V8 enthusiasts from downunder, with useful pointers to possible problem areas and suggested solutions. (Jan 84)

143. Starter motor - saving money
John Roslyn
John Roslyn (Teal Blue 0477) from Yorkshire has a useful tip. (Jan 84)

144. Changing clutch and brake master cylinders - a few
practical tips from seeing Geoff Allen at work!
Victor Smith
This note provides a few practical tips from seeing Geoff Allen at work! From Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) from London SW. (Jan 84)

145. Rust prevention - a further note
Anthony Wilkinson
Anthony Wilkinson is Secretary of the MGB Register of the MG Car Club and in this note sets out his ideas on rust prevention. First published in Safety Fast! in August 1982 (Aug 82)

146. Worn lower king pin bush
Colin Light
Colin Light (Damask 0457) from Kent has a useful note on this topic. (Jan 84)

147. Waxoyling an MGB or MGBGTV8 - part one
Roger Cooper
The first article on pumping the magic fluid into the inner parts of the body by Roger Cooper was published in the B Register Notes in Safety Fast! in December 1982. (DEC 82)  

148. Waxoyling an MGB or MGBGTV8 - part two
Roger Cooper 
This second part of the article on waxoyling the inner parts of an MGB 1800 or V8 by Roger Cooper was first published in the B Register Notes in Safety Fast! in December. (DEC 82)

149. Fitting louvres in a V8 bonnet
Simon Horlock
Simon Horlock sets out a useful tip which was first published in the March 1983 issue of Safety Fast! (Mar 83)

150. The answer's yes, now what's the question?
Bertie Samuleson
Bertie Samuelson (Chartreuse 2790) from London W received an interesting reply from BL to his request for information on spare differential s for the MGBGTV8. (Jan 84)

151. Difficult spares
Steve French
Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex sets out his list of difficult V8 spares following a recent tidy-up of his MGBGTV8. (Jan 84)

152. Gearbox lubrication
Steve Foldhazy
Steve Foldhazy (Damask 0795) is an active V8 enthusiast downunder and makes some recommendations for the correct "liquor" for the V8 gearbox. (Jan 84)

153. Drain plug drips
Hayden Winn
Hayden Winn (Glacier White 2781) from Australia suggests ways of ensuring drain plugs do not drip. (Jan 84)

154. That dwell adjuster again! - a sequel to Chris Hall's earlier
article
John Coulson
John Coulson (Black 2816) from Yorkshire has a "get you home" tip as a sequel to Chris Hall's earlier article in Note NN. (DEC 83)

155. Stainless steel petrol tank
John Roslyn
John Rosslyn (Teal Blue 0477) from Yorkshire explains how he traced a full size tank to replace his rusted original unit. (Nov 83)

156. Rockers not knockers!
Ken Dodds
A lubrication tip from Ken Dodds (Glacier White 0986) published in "Pieces of Eight", the Australia V8 Register journal on how to ensure the correct lubrication of the rocker shafts on a V8. (Oct 83)

157. Front spoilers for the MGBV8
Hayden Winn
Hayden Winn (Glacier White 2781), an active V8 enthusiasts downunder provides some useful hints on mounting a front spoiler on a V8 that works but does not spoil the looks of the Car. (Sep 83)

158. Exhaust manifolds
Ken Dodds
Ken Dodds (Glacier White 0986) from Australia sets out this cautionary note in "Pieces of Eight", the journal of the Australian V8 Register. (Sep 83)

159. Another view on the back axle life saver kit!
Syd Beer
Syd Beer (Harvest Gold 0130) who has one of the early press demo V8s, sets out his views on the problem first notes by Chris Hall and the "life saver kit" developed by Peter Laidler. This note is based on Syd's letter to Safety Fast! in the March 1983 issue. (Mar 83)

160. A reply to Syd Beer's views on the back axle life saver kit
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire relies to the interesting points raised by Syd Beer set out as Note 159. (APR 83)

161. The gearbox and the MGBV8
Peter Laidler
This sequel to an earlier note on the V8 gearbox is from our regular contributor Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire gives some more useful on an area of concern for V8 enthusiasts. (Mar 84)

162. The overdrive and the MGBV8
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire has the interests of V8 enthusiasts at heart and in this article he explains some more valuable tips for the V8 gearbox. (APR 83)

163. Balancing carburettors, or "Hissing Sid rules OK?"
Mick Westrop
Mick Westrop (Black 1407) from Hampshire is the V8 Register concours expert and has some ideas on balancing carburettors. (Oct 83)

164. Cleaning out your drain tubes!
Ken Smith
Ken Smith (Damask 1214) from Derbyshire sent in a note which could solve a number of problems on the drainage from the fresh air vent chamber. (Aug 83)

165. Contemplating a gearbox rebuild
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire tackles a subject many of us have in mind! He sets out a guide how to approach this major job. (Sep 83)

166. Starter fault
Jack Wilson
Jack Wilson (Bronze Yellow 0188) from Surrey sent in this contribution following his receipt of the V8 Register mailshot in October 1983. This note reminds Victor Smith of a problem he had with his MGB Roadster during practice at Brands Hatch a few years ago - my engine just kept cutting out!

167. Improve your handling on the MGBV8 - fit a rear anti-roll bar
Paul Busby
Paul Busby (Glacier White 2786) from Nottinghamshire provides this useful note and mentions the kits are available at the usual V8 specialists like Beer of Houghton and the Sprite and Midget Centre at Richmond in Surrey. (APR 84)

168. Hot air tubes
Bruce Carnaby
Bruce Carnaby (Flamenco Red 2278) from NN has a sequel to earlier articles by Chris Hall and Tony Hilton. (Mar 84)

169. The AC Delco alternator - a breakdown to show its parts
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire sets out the component parts of the V8 alternator. Remember there is a very useful comprehensive service manual supplied by AC Delco as part number 071-200 (12-1974). (May 84)

170. Missing ball - or whatever happened to the missing overdrive ball valve!
Steve French
Steve French (Black 0504) from Essex uses his V8 a great deal in an around London and at a chance meeting in the City the other day, thrust this note into my hand. It's a useful tip. (May 84)

171. Beware of kinky engine breather hoses!
Peter Laidler
Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire answers that question - why does an engine need a breather? (Mar 84)

172. Overheating mystery
Jack Wilson
The contributions from Jack Wilson (Bronze Yellow 0188) from Surrey are not long or technically involved but illustrate how a modest contribution based on your experiences of how you solved a particular problem or mystery on your MGBGTV8 could save fellow V8 enthusiasts a great deal of time. (Feb 84)

173. Removing a windscreen from an MGBGTV8 - take care with the chrome inserts
Peter Laidler
This note from Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) from Oxfordshire is well worth reading before you take a screen out or even before you consider a respray. (Feb 84)

174. Engine mounting brackets round the right way
Steve Thorning
Steve Thorning (Blaze 1890) from Hampshire runs the Shoulder of Mutton with his father and is our host for the annual V8 Gathering there. In this note he provides a very useful double check. (Mar 84)

175. Telescopic front suspension conversion kit for the MGBGTV8 - preliminary details
Elwood von Seilbold
Ellwood von Seibold is a V8 enthusiast with Spax, the well know manufacture and supplier of telescopic shock absorbers, which has recently announced the introduction of an interesting conversion kit for the MGBGTV8. This note is the text of a recent Spax press release. The existing lever arm front shocker is retained as an integral component of the front suspension structure but it is rendered ineffective with the removal of the valves. The fluid is of course retained. (May 84)

Volume 5

176. Alternator problems
Mike Breedon
An alternator problem struck Mike Breedon (Glacier White 1536) from Yorkshire when he was last home on leave from Saudi Arabia. It could have proved very expensive but fortunately he spotted some early signs. (May 91)

177. Alternative alternator
Jacques Millet
Jacques Milliet (Glacier White 0498 & Damask 2445), an enthusiastic member from Geneva, owns the good looking left hand drive MGBGTV built at Abingdon by Geoff Allen and featured in the V8 Newsletter in the August 1990 issue of Safety Fast!. (May 91)

178. Easier access to the spare wheel space
Jacques Millet
Jacques Milliet (Glacier White 0498 & Damask 2445) from Geneva who has his MGBGTV8s maintained at Abingdon by Geoff Allen, has contributed another note in our popular series. (May 91)

179. Heater control valve on the MGBV8
Peter Laidler
With components like the heater valve becoming more difficult to obtain, a regular contributor to the V8 Workshop Notes series, Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811), has a useful tip to help you use a standard heater valve from an MGB 1800 and adapt it for the MGBV8. He also adds a tip for achieving a smoother action on the control cable. (May 91)

180. Wind noise on the MGBGTV8
N.N. Mason
A feature of the MGB 1800 and MGBGTV8 that can frequently annoy our members is the wind noise at even modest speeds. NN Mason (Harvest Gold 1109) from Stafford provides this useful checklist of areas that need careful attention to tackle this problem. (May 91)

181. Brakes pulling
Don Bishop
Don Bishop, the Registrar for the MGB Register of the MG Car Club, provided this very useful tip which was published in the December 1984 issue of Safety Fast! (DEC 84)

182. Hypoy 90-B oil in the rear axle
M.N. Mason
NM Mason (Harvest Gold 1109) from Staffordshire sent in an interesting note regarding the transmission on the MGBGTV8. (May 91)

183. Spark plug tester
Simon Horlock
Simon Horlock, a member of the MGB Register of the MG Car Club, provides this idea which was first published in the October 1984 issue of Safety Fast! (Oct 84)

184. More on alternative alternators
Roger Parker
Roger Parker (Green 4092), a well known MG enthusiast from the West Midlands who has built a good looking MGBV8 Efi, provides this useful tip on alternative alternators for the MGBV8. (May 91)

185. An important safety check
Roger Parker
Roger Parker (Green 4092), a highly qualified police vehicle examiner, provides these precautionary notes on the possible consequences of failing to secure the batteries in an MGB or MGBV8. (May 91)

186. Fire extinguishers for your MG
David Knowles
David Knowles (Damask 1215), an enthusiastic (and artistic) member from Oxfordshire provides this helpful note which might be considered in conjunction with V8 Note 185. (May 91)

187. Tyre aspect ratios
David Knowles
David Knowles (Damask 1215) from Oxfordshire provides this useful insight to tyre aspect ratios. (May 91) V8NOTE187

188. Fitting an SD1 5 speed gearbox
John Wilson
Fitting an SD1 five speed gearbox was an exercise John Wilson mentioned at Silverstone earlier this year. Now John reports on having completed the installation. (May 91)

189. Overhauling the MGBV8 heater valve
David Knowles
David Knowles (Damask 1215) from Oxfordshire provides this note on overhauling the heater valve fitted to the MGBGTV8 model. This note expands on the earlier Note 15 from Peter Laidler (Harvest Gold 0811) and Note 179 from Colin Leisk (Damask 0729) from Warwickshire. (May 91)

190. Revival of sagging seats
David Wellings
Seat refurbishment need not necessitate the replacement of the whole seat base sponge - here Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire explains that there is an easier and cheaper solution! (May 91)

191. Rear head restraints for children
Dave Wellings
There comes a time in every family man's life when the "child seat plus back seat" combination is no longer solvable in an MGBGTV8! Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire explains that when his daughter (at 4 years of age) sat in her child seat, there was barely half an inch clearance between the top of the seat and the roof - even on a smooth road! Clearly something had to be done in order to maintain cordial father-daughter relations! (May 91) You can view this note as V8NOTE191.

192. MGBV8 tools from VL Churchill
David Knowles
At the back of the V8 Workshop Manual Supplement (AKD 8468) are two pages listing and illustrating the special tools referred to in the manual instructions. As the manual lists the full address of VL Churchill, David Knowles (Damask 1215) from Oxfordshire decided to check which tools are still available. Understandably some tools have been discontinued over the years but most of the tools for the MGBGTV8 (and many of those for the MGB 1800) are still available. The following list gives the prices quoted in 1986 by Churchill. (May 91)

193. Chrome bumper V8 grille badge plinth
Dave Wellings
This item is no longer available, however Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire indicates there is a way to reclaim a broken plinth. (May 91)

194. Gearbox inhibitor switch (overdrive)
Dave Wellings
These gearbox switches are virtually identical and at first sight appear to be totally inaccessible but can in fact be removed fairly easily, although the operation is fiddly. Here Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire describes how the overdrive switch can be removed from above or below, but it is much easier from above. (May 91)

195. V8 wheel renovation
Paul Gill
The only satisfactory way to restore an MGBGTV8 wheel necessitates splitting the rim from the alloy centre. The rim can then be sent away for rechroming and its removal from the alloy centre allows full access to the centre for painting and polishing. Here Paul Gill (Glacier White 2518) from Mid Glamorgan describes how he refurbished his wheels. (May 91)

196. V8 carburettor pipe warning
Dave Wellings
Whilst studying engines at Silverstone last year, Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire and author of several recent V8 Workshop Notes, drew the attention of David Knowles to a short piece of pipe which had been used by a previous owner of his car to bridge the two balance tubes on the innermost sides of each carburettor. This note highlights a potential danger from this pipe. (May 91)

197. Slipping clutch
MN Mason
NM Mason (Harvest Gold 1109) from Staffordshire provides a brief note which may save costly maintenance work. (May 91)

198. Wiper blade replacements
Peter Beadle
Peter Beadle (Damask 0503) from Sussex reveals that many replacement wiper blades sold as suitable for MGBs, MGCs and MGBGTV8s are in fact either too straight or too stiffly sprung. In this note Peter explains how to get the right equipment for a clean wipe! (May 91)

199. Head gasket failures
Dave Hewson
Dave Hewson (Glacier White 2899) from Surrey asks "how many MGBGTV8 owners have suffered head gasket failures on their cars?. They seem particularly prone to failure after sustained driving around the red line". Here he reports a cure. (May 91)

200. Protection against damp in storage
Tim Langman
Many people who store their cars off road during the winter months protect the exterior chrome with a light coating of oil bit do not think about the interior chrome. Here Tim Langman (Damask 0484) from Sussex provides a useful tip. (May 91)

200a Sequel - damp in garages during winter
David Knowles
David Knowles (Damask 1215) from Oxfordshire provides a note with comments on dealing with damp in garages. (May 91)

201. Problems with the oil pump
Peter Berry
Peter Berry (Teal Blue 0201) from Kent contributes this useful note following problems he came across following a leaking oil pump base gasket. (May 91) V8NOTE201

202. V8 accelerator cables
Ron Armstrong
Ron Armstrong (Citron 1095) from Hertfordshire contributed the following note. (May 91)

203. Alternative alternator connector box
Peter Beech
Peter Beech (Teal Blue 0698) from Sussex sent in this note about difficulties he had experienced with the connector block on his alternator. (May 91)

204. MGBV8s and unleaded petrol
Bob Winters
Bob Winters (Damask 1822) from Somerset has investigated the use of unleaded fuel for the MGBGTV8 with Land Rover at Solihull. As this article shows it should be possible for the ecologically minded V8 owner to use their car with a clean conscience! (May 91)

205. Setting ignition timing with a strobe
Howard Gosling
Howard Gosling (Quicksilver 3001 & Flame 4001) from Hertfordshire, our present Chairman, contributed this note on strobe timing. (May 91)

206. Priming an oil pump
Brian Field
Brian Field (Harvest Gold 0097) from Cardiff, who campaigns a rally prepared prototype MGBGTV8, has sent in a brief note which follows up the earlier note from Peter Berry (V8 Workshop Note 201) in the April issue of Safety Fast! with his own technique for priming the oil pump on the MGBGTV8. (May 91) V8NOTE206

207. Pick those ratios
Dave Wellings
Dave Wellings (Black 0974), one of the V8 Register technical representatives, provides a fascinating note on rear axle ratios which will be of general interest to MGB and MGC enthusiasts as well as those contemplating an MGBV8 conversion. (May 91)

208. C-post liner clip
David Knowles
David Knowles (Damask 1215) from Oxfordshire provides this useful note to protect the liner. (May 01)

209. Use of unleaded petrol in MGBV8s
Roger Parker
Roger Parker (Green 4092) from the West Midlands has some comments on the use of unleaded fuel in MGBV8 engines. (May 91)

210. Changing the brake master cylinder
David Atfield
David Atfield (Tundra 1816) from Cornwall has sent in this tip based on his personal experience. (May 91)

Volume 6

211. Hydraulic cam followers or self adjusting tappets
Peter Laidler
This is reprint of a note in one of the earlier volumes of the V8 Workshop Notes which is out of print. It's a note which is of interest and worth using again simply because the hydraulic cam followers give the V8 such quietness and ease of maintenance.

212. Interchange of parts between the US spec MGBGT and the MGBGTV8
Paul Kile
Paul Kile (Teal Blue V8 0889) from Fairoaks in California highlights how some parts from a 1973 US spec MGBGT can be used as replacements on an MGBGTV8. This note was originally posted on the MG bulletin board and passed to the V8 Register by David Smith (Bracken V8 2122). (Feb 00)

213. Battery management
Bryan Ditchman
In this note, originally produced as RV8 Workshop Note 56, Bryan Ditchman (Bracken V8 1012), describes a device which maintains the battery condition, particularly when an MGBGTV8 or MG RV8 is stored for extended periods. You can view this note as V8NOTE213.

214. Tips for attending the annual 24 heures du Mans
Victor Smith
A comprehensive note on how to plan a trip to le Mans based on the experience of the regulars from the V8 Register who go to this annual sports car endurance race. One member queried why a non-technical note is included in the series - come on, V8 life is not all spanners and spare parts, we need to enjoy the cars and the company of V8 chums at classic motor sport events like this. You can view this note as V8NOTE214.

215. Dealing with a squeal from the front brakes
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
This is a regular technical query and is now FAQ14 on the website. This note and the sequel from Roger Parker sets out how to solve the squeal. You can view this note as V8NOTE215.

216. End of leaded petrol
Roger Parker
Roger Parker (Green V8 4092) responded to a recent query from Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold V8 1904) from Cornwall concerning the silent arrival of LRP in the pumps during the Autumn of 1999. (DEC 99). You can view this note as V8 NOTE216.

217. Continued availability of leaded petrol
David Smith
David Smith (Bracken V8 2122) e-mailed us with a footnote to V8 Workshop Note 217 which is a useful note on what is available and where you can get it. (May 00)

218. Replacement gearboxes
Victor Smith
One of the early decisions members face when planning an MGBV8 conversion is the choice of gearbox. Increasingly it is also an issue for members with the MGBGTV8 model. Here Victor Smith (Harvest Gold V8 1089) provides a summary of your replacement options. This note is an outline of the gearbox options facing V8 enthusiasts as the MGBGTV8 approaches its 30th year. (Jun 00)

219. MGBV8 gearbox, clutch and propshaft
Roger Parker
A comprehensive review of the options and equipment available. Roger Parker (Green V8 4092) provides a general review of the choices of replacement gearbox for the MGBGTV8 and for MGBV8 conversions. (June 00)

220. Borg-Warner T-5 gearbox information
Bob Hyclak 
Information on an alternative gearbox for MGBV8 conversions. This article is by Bob Hyclak and is reproduced from the MG V-8 Newsletter Issue VII Vol 1 with the kind permission of the Editor, Kurt Schley. (June 00)

221. Dellow Automotive 5 speed gearbox
Kurt Schley 
A reprint of a useful article from the US V8 Register on an alternative gearbox much favoured for MGBV8 conversions in the US. This article is reproduced from the MG V-8 Newsletter Issue VII Vol 1 produced by an enthusiastic band of MGV8 fans in the USA. This note is included with the kind permission of the Editor of the MG V-8 Newsletter, Kurt Schley. (June 00).

222. Lay up and storage concerns for the MGBV8 enthusiast
Dave Wellings
A comprehensive note on how lay up and store a V8 and some of the issues to bear in mind. Many members take their MGBV8s off the road for the winter period to avoid the ravages of salt on the bodywork but a number of difficulties can arise when the car is fired up for an airing after a lengthy lay-up. Whilst the motivation for members laying up their V8s in winter is clear (they want to avoid the bodywork ravages from the salt spread on winter roads), it is just as important to ensure the car is kept dry whilst it is stored in the garage. Keeping the air moving under and around the car is a worthwhile precaution and an electric fan connected to a timer provides a useful period of breeze each day. Here Dave Wellings (Black V8 0974) provides some tips. (October 00).

223. Torch for the toolkit
Anon
A torch is an essential tool for the V8 and here is a suggested source. One of our RV8 members (Anon) provided this short note as RV8 Workshop Note 73 with details of an alternative torch for the RV8 toolkit. (October 00).

224. Battery lifter or carrier
Anon
A tip which will help V8 enthusiasts lift their batteries without ripping their knuckles! One of our members (Anon) noted a Brevette battery lifter was mentioned as an accessory in RV8 Workshop Note 9 on the RV8 toolkit. Here he provides information on an alternative battery lifter/carrier which could also be useful for MGBV8 enthusiasts too. (October 00).

225. Battery carriers or lifters, another source
Brian Jackson
Getting batteries out of their black hole in V8s in no joke so another source of battery lifters is good news. Brian Jackson (Teal Blue MGBGT 1800) called following the publication of RV8 Workshop Note 73 in the December issue of Safety Fast! to report another source of battery carriers or lifters at a lower cost. This is the first RV8 or V8 Workshop Note contributed by a Club member without a V8 powered MG and we are delighted fellow members with the original 1800 machines enjoy the V8 Register monthly column and periodic newsletters. (Nov 00)

226. Bonnet hinge alignment
Bryan Ditchman
One of the essential tips - brief but one you will need one day. It is a brief note from Bryan Ditchman (Caribbean Blue RV8 0265, Blaze V8 1059 & Bronze Yellow V8 1012) from Hampshire which will be of use to both MG RV8 and MGBV8 enthusiasts. (DEC 00).

227. Steering rack caution
Kevin Hallsworth
A colleague of Kevin Hallsworth (Green Mallard V8 0719) from Lincolnshire had experienced a strange feel through his steering and asked Kevin to look at the car. This brief note sets out what Kevin found on examining the car and urges members to make routine checks of their steering rack mountings. (June 01)

228. Brake servo failure
Victor Smith
The thought of suddenly finding you have no brakes makes V8 enthusiasts blood run cold. Fortunately brake failures because of servo problems are rare but, unlike difficulties with slave cylinders, early warning signs of potential servo failure are few - the consequences of sudden servo failure are spine chilling! This note from Victor Smith (Harvest Gold V8 1089) with contributions from Roger Parker, Geoff Allen and Jim Gibson, examines several cases and considers the options. (Jun 01). V8NOTE228

228A. Silicone or mineral brake fluid for V8s?
Dave Wellings, Gordon Hesketh-Jones, Steve Bowley & Georg Muller
Georg Muller has contacted the V8 Webmaster with a workshop (V8NOTE228B) saying "last weekend I changed my brake fluid. I'm now using silicone based brake fluid, which might be interesting for other owners as well. Therefore I wrote the attached note". Before we publish this note I feel it is worth seeking fellow members' views because the case for silicone fluid is not universally accepted and some believe it is not the best choice, particularly for a classic car. The following contributions are set out in the order received by the V8 Webmaster. (Mar 05) V8NOTE228A

228B. Brake Fluid - corrosion in the hydraulic systems
Georg Muller
Note from Georg Muller. This note should be read with V8NOTE228A. (Mar 05) V8NOTE228B

229. Fitting the new, smaller V8 Register grille badge
Victor Smith
A smaller V8 Register badge is now available in a good looking chromium finish which has been made to fit the grille mesh of the RV8 and also the rubber bumpered MGBGTV8s. This brief note from Victor Smith (Harvest Gold V8 1089) sets out how the badges are fitted. (APR 01).

230. Rear shock absorber link arm
Bryan Ditchman
Here Bryan Ditchman (Bronze Yellow V8 1012 and Blaze V8 1059) from Hampshire has a useful tip which could save your ruining a link arm if it has to be removed at any stage. Bryan says it is a note he has been meaning to write since his MGA days! (July 01).

231. Using fire extinguishers in cars
Andrew Brown
Like life assurance and writing a will, you will probably feel an article on fire extinguishers in cars is not an exciting topic. Few of us think about the possibility of fire in our cars and what we would need to bring it under control. In this useful note Andrew Brown (Flamenco Red V8 2501), from the West Midlands, provides the necessary background information and guidance for selecting a suitable extinguisher which would enable early action in fighting a fire inside the car or in the engine bay. Andrew's article is thorough and authoritative plus a sequel from Roger Parker. (Aug 01)

232. Cleaning a coffee stain from an RV8 soft top
David Lawler
A cautionary tale and how to clean up a mess on your hood! Whilst David Lawler (Woodcote Green RV8 1920) was having an alarm fitted to his MG RV8, a clumsy fitter unfortunately managed to spill coffee on the soft top. This brief note sets out how he cleaned up the mess. (June 01)

233. Renovo soft top care products
Victor Smith
Following V8 Workshop Note 233 from David Lawler, Victor Smith (Harvest Gold V8 1089) called Renovo who provided a brochure with details and prices of their useful range of soft top care products. This note (based on the text of Renovo's brochure) provides a summary of that information for members with MGBV8 Roadsters. (Aug 01)

234. Speeding British drivers may lose their driving licence in France
Reprint of an article in the Times
This is a reprint of an interesting article by Charles Bremmer in the Times on 27th October 2000 which will be of particular interest to V8 enthusiasts driving in France, not least during their visit to the 24 heures du Mans sports car endurance race in June. (Oct 00). V8NOTE234

235. SU fuel pump relocation
Peter Berry
Peter Berry (Teal Blue V8 0201) provides a note on relocating the SU fuel pump from the offside wheel arch to the boot. (Jul 97).

236. Alternative fuel pumps
Howard Gosling
Howard Gosling (QuickSilver V8 3001 and Flame V8 4001) comments on alternative fuel pumps. (Oct 97).

237. Relocating the fuel pump in the V8 boot space - a caution
Geoff Allen
Many V8 enthusiasts with chrome bumpered cars are very familiar with the chore of changing the fuel pump in the offside rear wheel arch and may have fondly thought it might be more conveniently located. Well several earlier V8 Workshop Notes in 1997 suggested an installation in the boot space but here Geoff Allen (Teal Blue V8 2101), the V8 Historian who worked in Rectifications Department at the Abingdon Works for over 27 years, has some concerns over the wisdom of that idea. (Nov 97)

238. Steering column bush renovation
James Strachan
This topic was touched on in an earlier note and here James Strachan (Damask V8 0582) from Cambridgeshire sets out how he tackled wear on the nylon bush at the top of the column. (Aug 01).

239. Ride height and bumpers
Roger Parker
Peter Holden (Glacier White V8 1183) retired from circuit racing a Midget a few seasons ago and thought about getting a MGBGTV8 which he could use for the occasional historic navigational event. He contacted the V8 Register seeking some guidance on ride heights and bumpers. This note is based on the reply provided by Roger Parker. You can see this note as V8NOTE239 on this website.

240. Trouble with the original "top hat" battery terminals
Victor Smith
If you have had difficulty with poor starting and misfiring at low revs, then poor battery terminals could be the answer. Here Victor describes what he feels is the battery terminal problem and how to solve it.

241. Further thoughts on the fuel pump relocation topic
Roger Parker
This note from Roger Parker provides his thoughts on the issues raised in the original note from Peter Berry first published in Safety Fast! back in October 1997 (now included in this volume as Note 236) and Geoff Allen's comments in Note 237. (Sept 01)

242. Insurance for classic MGs
Victor Smith
Insurance for the MGBV8 and MG RV8 is an important consideration for the V8 enthusiast because it is vital the policy provides sufficient cover in the event of a claim. Here Victor Smith reproduces a section of the Notes for MGV8 enthusiasts which were included as a section of the Members' Handbook produced by the V8 Register in 1996. (April 96)

243. Air intake mesh
Bryan Ditchman
Bryan Ditchman (Caribbean Blue 0265) has a tip which will also be of interest to MGBV8 enthusiasts which is a very useful modification to help keep rubbish out of the air vent void. (Sep 99)

244. MGBGTV8 camshaft change
Roger Parker
Following a discussion at the V8 Gathering at Silverstone earlier this year, a member of the V8 Register was keen to understand the likely problems to be encountered changing a camshaft without removing the engine. Roger Parker (Green 4092), who has a wealth of knowledge of V8 powerplants and MGBV8 conversions, came to the rescue with this note. (DEC 99)

245. Small steps & giant strides in the handling
Ken Drake
This is The suspension package on the MGBGTV8 was showing its age even when the V8 was launched in 1973 and by today's standards the handling demands skill and attention. Ken Drake (Citron 1057) from Berkshire provides this note on how he has made a series of improvements to the handling on his V8. It is a fascinating account of Ken's search for improved handling and his impressions with various the front suspension systems. Quite a definitive note on the topic. (DEC 99)

Volume 7

246. Rear shock absorbers for MGBV8s
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon provides a comprehensive note on his experiences with telescopic rear shock absorbers which should answer many of the questions that so frequently come up when members discuss this topic. You can view this note as V8NOTE246.

247. Twin exhausts for an MGBV8
Roger Parker
Can I fit twin exhausts to my V8 with two pipes running either side of the prop shaft tunnel? That was the query from David Youde. The note is Roger Parker's interesting reply.

248. Improved cooling with the MGBV8
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon describes the V8 cooling system as "marginal" and sets out a note on how to improve engine bay cooling. A copy of this useful note is available as V8NOTE248.

249. Fitting an override switch on the cooling fans
Ian Thomson & Gordon Hesketh-Jones
An override switch is a popular modification but Ian was getting a glow in his warning light that the override was on. Gordon, an electrical engineer and former MGB rally driver, came up with an explanation.

250. Fitting a 12 volt battery to a chrome bumpered MGBGTV8
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Changing from the twin six volt batteries to a single 12 volt on chrome bumpered V8s is a modification worth considering. Here Gordon explains how he carried out the change. You can see this useful workshop note as V8NOTE250.

251. Replacing a starter motor
Geoff Hall
In a short note, Geoff relates a pleasant experience in having a starter motor replaced.

252. Fault with the distributor vacuum unit
Geoff Hall
Geoff posted this very useful tip on the bulletin board which will be of use to members.

253. Location of V8 badge and the Leyland square on the MGBGTV8 nearside wing
Victor Smith
Andy Mathew had just finished a bodywork restoration and was faced with refitting the badges so he contacted the V8 Register for details of the location of the badges on the nearside wing. This note provides the measurements. V8NOTE253

254. V8 engine removal tip
Bob Mason
A useful tip for helping with the process of mating the transmission to the engine block during the engine reinstallation process.

255. Engine cooling tip for the MGBGTV8
Bob Mason
This note finally records a tip which has been discussed for years so makes interesting reading for those wanting to get some heat out of the V8 engine bay. A copy is available as V8NOTE255.

256. Uprated heater matrix for the V8
Geoff Hall & Roger Parker
Geoff posted a note seeking help with uprated heater matrices for his MGBGTV8 and received replies from both Keith Rowson and Roger Parker. V8NOTE256

257. Front shock absorbers on the V8
Simon Pickford
Simon's enquiry on the bulletin board has two responses. Roger Parker feels simplicity is often overlooked yet it is usually the best route by fitting the original equipment. He feels comprehensive conversions are not good value for the gains achieved. Clive Wheatley reports good supplies of new and reconditioned shock absorbers for the V8 - but do make sure you get reconditioned units from firms who recondition to good quality standards.

258. Ignition timing with a Rover 3500 engine
Phil Bristow and Roger Parker
Phil posted a message on the bulletin board seeking help with setting the timing on his modified V8 engine and Roger Parker's response was straightforward.

259. Lubricating the bush in the crankshaft following a clutch refurbishment
Tony Head posted a message for help on the bulletin board and this is the reply from John Bourke in which he suggests care is needed with lubrication but mentions a product supplied by LuK.

260. Engine stabiliser bars
Edited from the bulletin board postings from several members. A simple enquiry "has anyone fitted an engine stabilser bar on an MGV8 - I hear it helps prevent the lump moving around and cracking exhaust manifolds" produced a variety of comments and views. The comments touch on three issues - the effectiveness of the bar, the need to replace worn engine and gearbox mountings and the causes of cracked manifold flanges. A footnote to the note refers members to earlier Notes in the series - for example Notes 33 (Volume 1), 95 (Volume 3) and 158 (Volume 4). You can view this note as V8NOTE260.

261. Possible cure for noisy tappets
John Bourke
Paul Bray from Australia posted a message on the bulletin board on the V8 website seeking help on curing his noisy cam followers. This note reproduces the response from John Bourke, the V8 Technical Member.

262. Rising tickover in hot conditions
Geoff Hall
Geoff posted a note on the V8 website bulletin board which may save other members the difficulty of a racing tickover on a hot day. He was rather concerned the topic would have been covered before - it has not and is a useful tip.

263. Have you got a screw loose?
Bryan Ditchman
Workshop notes like screws still come out of the metalwork! Bryan Ditchman has found, during a rebuild of his MGBGTV8, another useful part which is used on the RV8 which can be used equally well on the MGBGTV8. You can view this note as V8NOTE263.

264. Plastic plug rot
Keith Rowson
Keith, longstanding V8 enthusiasts who now owns an RV8 (Oxford Blue 1764) recently obtained an RV8 from HS Imports and from his checks on the car posted this useful note on the bulletin board on the V8 Register website. It is a useful tip for enthusiasts with MGBV8s too.

265. RV8 coolant filler plug - worth changing to the brass plug
David Boniface
David in Tokyo describes how the plastic plug failed on his RV8 (Oxford Blue 1589) and suggests that preventative maintenance could be a wise step.

266. Got a blown plastic coolant filler plug? - a tip to help get you home
Tim Hipwell
Following the posting on the V8 website bulletin board by David Boniface (Oxford Blue 1589) from Tokyo on his experiences with a blown plastic RV8 coolant filler plug (see RV8 Workshop Note 264), Tim Hipwell (Oxford Blue 1133) from Devon posted a useful tip on a temporary fix to get you home should you have a similar blow.

267. R380 gearbox lubrication
Nigel Steward
Nigel Steward (Red 1038) from Hampshire posted a note on the Bulletin Board on the V8 website concerning lubrication for an R380 gearbox he has fitted to his Factory MGBGTV8.

268. Options when faced with an engine rebuild
Dave Wellings & Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Denise White posted a note on the Bulletin Board of the V8 website seeking fellow members views on the options when faced with an engine rebuild. Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire and Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall responded with their suggestions. (DEC 02)

269. Do we need to replace the tyres on our V8s before they are worn out?
Roger Parker & Norman Green
On low mileage classic cars the treads may look as though there is plenty of life left but what about the effects of ageing of tyres and the rubber compounds? This note reproduces the comments from Roger Parker and Norman Green (Tundra 2552) from Hampshire. (DEC 02)

270. What tyres were fitted to the MGBGTV8 at the Factory?
Victor smith and Geoff Allen
During a recent discussion of replacement tyres for the MGBGTV8, the question of whether some Michelins were fitted at the Factory rather than just the Goodyear Grand Prix fabric braced tyre. Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) checked with Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101), the V8 Historian who was in Rectifications Department at the Factory for over 27 years, and his reply is set out in this note. (DEC 02)

271. V8 cooling fan motors
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall sent in a note concerning cooling fan motors recently and Peter Beadle (Damask 0503) from Gloucestershire well known for his comprehensive knowledge of V8 parts, has contributed a few comments. (DEC 02). A copy is available as V8NOTE271.

272. Door jamb switch operating the internal console light
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall had to replace a faulty switch unit recently and reports his experience. (DEC 02)

273. Internal tailgate lamp
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall mentions a sourcing point with this unit (DEC 02)

274. White smoke - a scary moment!
Dave Wellings
Longstanding member Dave Wellings (Black 0974) from Yorkshire posted a note on the V8 website Bulletin Board just before Christmas Eve with one of those notes with very valuable advice. He recommends preventative maintenance on your heater hoses. (DEC 02)

275. Temporary steering tip
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Teal Blue 2101), the V8 Historian & Archivist who is now living in retirement in Cheshire, has provided a very simple note to complete Volume 7. It is a note based on his long experience of servicing and maintaining MGs, particularly MGBGTV8s, during his 27 years in Rectifications Department at the Abingdon Factory and then running his own MG business. You can see this note as V8NOTE275 on this website - the tip enables you to move the car when the steering rack is removed for maintenance work involving the starter motor or exhaust manifolds. (Jan 03)

Volume 8

276. The V8 cooling fan motor saga
Bryan Ditchman
Bryan Ditchman (Bronze Yellow 1012) from Hampshire has been giving his MGBGTV8 a comprehensive refurbishment over the last 12 months and says "I would like to put in my ten pennyworth in on a positive note" on how to maintain these units. (Jan 03)

277. Soak your spigot bush overnight!
Bryan Ditchman
Bryan Ditchman (Bronze Yellow 1012) from Hampshire has a couple of tips for V8 enthusiasts doing engine overhauls. (Jan 03)

278. Thatcham immobilisers
Richard Groves
Richard Groves (Blaze 1898) from Kent has some interesting comments on the effectiveness of these immobilisers which underlines the need to select an insurance policy that does not require a system to be fitted to your V8.

279. Reverse gear jumps out - not a new difficulty!
Ed Corbett, Gavin Bailey, Dave Wellings & Geoff Allen
Edward Corbett (Teal Blue 1916) from London SE has recently bought an MGBGTV8 and posted a message on the V8 Website bulletin board seeking help with his reverse gear slipping out. (Jan 03). A copy of this note can be viewed on this website as V8NOTE279.

280. RV8 filler cap for the MGBGTV8
Bryan Ditchman (Bracken 1012 and Blaze 1059) from Hampshire edits the RV8 Workshop Notes series so is in the fortunate position of being able to spot a useful RV8 part for the MGBGTV8! (Feb 03)

281. Relocating the temperature/oil pressure gauge and adding a voltmeter
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall has moved the water temperature/oil pressure gauge on his MGBGTV8 to a central position between the speedometer and tachometer. Here he describes the work involved - quite a long and painful process as Gordon explains. (Feb 03)

282. Distributors for the MGBGTV8
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall investigates the current situation concerning the distributor for the MGBGTV8. (Mar 03)

283. Solving the rusting V8 wheel nuts!
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall was frustrated at having to regularly buy new sets of wheel nuts and washers so set out to find out how to solve the problem of rusting nuts. (Mar 03)

284. Noisy tappets - is it normal?
Ben Millard & members' postings on the V8 Website
Ben Millard (Arum White 0369) from Oxfordshire posted a note on the V8 Bulletin Board seeking help with noisy tappets on his 1974 MGBGTV8. The responses were useful. (Mar 03)

285. What could that "Clunk" noise be?
Ben Millard & members' postings on the V8 Website
Ben Millard (Arum White 0369) from Oxfordshire posted a note on the V8 Bulletin Board seeking advice as to whether he should be concerned by a "clonk" when taking up the power on his 1974 MGBGTV8. The responses were useful. (Mar 03)

286. Soft front suspension on an MGBGTV8
Iain Hallifax & members' postings on the V8 Website
Iain Hallifax (Teal Blue 1728) from Norfolk posted a note on the V8 Bulletin Board seeking advice on his front suspension on recently acquired MGBGTV8. The responses were useful. (Mar 03)

287. Webasto blowout!
Ben Millard & members' postings on the V8 Website
Ben Millard (Arum White 0369) from Oxfordshire posted a note on the V8 Bulletin Board seeking help with the Webasto sunroof on his V8 which blew up like a balloon at speed and caused excessive wind noise. The responses were useful. (Mar 03)

288. Overheating problems with an MGBGTV8
Andrew Edgerton-Smith & Victor Smith
Andrew Egerton-Smith (Tahiti Blue 2610) from Norfolk sought help with continuing problem of overheating in traffic. This note is based on the responses provided by Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) from London SW. (Mar 03) See this note as V8NOTE288.

289. Steering wheel locks
Brian Marshall
Brian Marshall has an MGBV8 Roadster and posted a message on the V8 Bulletin Board seeking views on steering locks for the V8. This note sweeps up the responses and provides a useful guide.

290. Exhaust manifold gaskets
Daniel Heyer
Daniel Heyer (Damask 0987) from Germany sent a brief note in shortly after receiving his Omnibus Edition CD. (June 03)

291. Avoiding V8 wheel nut damage
Jeff Ward
Jeff Ward (Flamenco Red 2375) a longstanding member from Northamptonshire has some good advice on how to avoid damage to the chrome wheel nuts on a V8. Jeff also adds a reminder of the need to centre the road wheels on the studs using a pair of tapered face or conical seating wheel nuts. (Aug 03) V8NOTE291

292. Recommended tyre supplier
Peter Kilmister
Peter Kilmister (Woodcote Green RV8 0320) from Hampshire recently changed the tyres on his RV8 and his posting on the V8 Bulletin Board recommended a good tyre supplier for their excellent service. (Jul 03)

293. MGBGTV8 cooling and overheating concerns
Roger Parker
The exceptionally hot and long Summer in the UK in 2003 has made us only too aware of how hot an MGBGTV8 can become and the particular concerns over cooling. In this note Roger Parker thinks through some of the issues and provides some useful suggestions. (Aug 03) See this note as V8NOTE293.

294. Cause for carburettor flooding
Gavin Bailey
Gavin Bailey (Glacier White 0199 & BRG RV8 0766) from Surrey has identified a strange cause for a carburettor flooding. (Sep 03)

295. Getting an MGBGTV8 registered in France
Franck Morand
Franck Morand (Mirage 0158) from Clermont Ferrand responded to an enquiry from David and Elizabeth Phillips on how to find a way through the French bureaucratic system for importing and registering an MGBGTV8 to France as they intend living there. (Oct 03) V8NOTE295

296. New mobile phone law in the UK
Victor Smith
From 1st December 2003 a new law is coming out in the UK that will make it a specific offence to hold and use a mobile phone whilst driving. This is in addition to the current laws governing safe driving. Victor Smith provides a brief note. (Oct 03) V8NOTE296

297. Winter wheels for the MGBGTV8
Dr Gavin Bailey
Dr Gavin Bailey (Glacier White 0199 & BRG RV8 0766) from Surrey uses his V8 all the year round and has found a specialist firm who refurbish V8 wheels in a finish that is ideal for Winter conditions in the UK. (Nov 03) V8NOTE297

298. An unusual AC DELCO fault
Victor Smith
Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) had several old alternators serviced recently and was puzzled why a fault appeared when one of the alternators was installed on another V8. The cause is worth noting in case you are faced with similar symptoms. (Jan 04) V8NOTE298

299. Radar detector, a necessary protection?
Victor Smith
Have we reached a stage where the use of speed cameras has gone beyond the desirable aim of locating them where speed is known to have caused accidents and are they now being located with the intention of simply generating revenue? Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) feels that the increasing use of fixed and mobile speed cameras and other detection devices is certainly changing the driving behaviour of many motorists - often very welcome changes - but in some areas of the country many careful drivers are beginning to feel the location and use of some cameras is not reasonable. This note describes a radar detector with a good performance which is one worth considering. (Feb 04) V8NOTE299

Volume 9

300. Exactly how many MGBGTV8s were built at Abingdon?
Geoff Allen
Most authors of publications covering the MGBGTV8 quote 2,591 as the total production of the model - but is it correct? Well as information has gradually come to light, the longstanding V8 Register Historian & Archivist, Geoff Allen, believes there were more than 2,591 V8s! Geoff was at the Abingdon MG Plant for over 27 years, much of it in Rectifications Department, and is particularly well placed because during the weeks before the final close, he made a handwritten copy of the production control and despatch books. Here Geoff explains the true total production story! (Feb 04) V8NOTE300

301. Insurance for a V8 Roadster
Ray Cobley
Ray Cobley contacted the V8 Register seeking advice on insurance for V8 Roadster Conversions. Geoff King (Tartan Red 4029) from Kincardineshire responded with his experience of obtaining insurance cover for his much modified V8 Roadster Conversion. (May 04)

302. Hoyle suspension upgrade kits - a step change in improved handling
Victor Smith & Geoff King
The improved handling and ride characteristics provided by fitting the front and rear upgrade kits supplied by Hoyle Engineering are reported by V8 enthusiasts as a "marked change" and "handling more like a modern car". So we have taken a closer look at the information available from Hoyle Engineering and gathered comments from Geoff King, a V8 member who has installed the kits on his V8 Roadster Conversion. (Jun 04) V8NOTE302

303. Tracing a V8 overheating problem
Andy Kenning
Andy Kenning (BRG 4305), a new member from Surrey, spent several frustrating months tracing an unusual fault that caused coolant loss and overheating after every road run but not after static running. It's a useful tip we will all need to tuck away in case it crops up on our own V8. (Jul 04)

304. To lift or not to lift - that is the question
Gavin Bailey
Dr Gavin Bailey (RV8 BRG 0766 and V8 Glacier White 0199) from Surrey describes how he tracked down a hydraulic lift and has found it very useful. (Jun 04) V8NOTE304

305. Increased interest in V8s from Germany
Allan Doyle
Allan Doyle (Damask 1667) in Germany reports V8s are reaching the stage where they are classified as "Historic" and attract some road tax advantages. (Jun 04)

306. Folding windstop for an RV8
John Bolt
John Bolt (RV8 Nightfire Red 1228) from Buckinghamshire arrived at the V8 Gathering at Hazeley Heath with his new wind stop which is a particularly neat installation. It even folds down and allows the tonneau to cover the cockpit without the need to remove the wind stop first. This note is illustrated by John's sketches. It will be of interest to members with V8 Roadster Conversions. (May 04)

307. Horn fault causing an MOT failure
Victor Smith
One of the MOT tests is the correct functioning of the horn and at an annual test recently, Victor Smith (Harvest Gold 1089) was sad to see no hoot came when the horn push was pressed by the MOT examiner - but why? This brief note explains how to solve the problem. (Jul 04) V8NOTE307

308. Another way of registering an MGBGTV8 in France
Franck Morand
Back in October 2003, Franck Morand (Mirage 0158) from Clermont Ferrand responded to an enquiry from David and Elizabeth Phillips on how to find a way through the French bureaucratic system for importing and registering an MGBGTV8 to France as they intend living there. Here he sets out another way of registering a V8 using a "carte grise collection" system. (Aug 04) V8NOTE308

309. A long hot night at the Le Mans Classic - in fact just a little too hot!
Franck Morand
Franck Morand (Mirage 0158) from Clermont Ferrand in France returns from Thailand frequently and in 2004 timed a visit so he could attend the Le Mans Classic race meeting in his MGBGTV8. The journey to the Sarthe circuit proved a little more exciting than he had anticipated. His tale is quite extraordinary but a useful reminder to be careful not to pinch the wiring within the steering column cowl. (Aug 04) V8NOTE309

310. MGBGTV8 Buyer's Guide
Dave Wellings
Recently a prospective V8 enthusiast contacted the V8 Webmaster wondering why there was no MGBGTV8 Buyer's Guide available on the V8 Website. A good point and clearly something which is much needed so we contacted a longstanding V8 enthusiast, Dave Wellings, who produced this very useful note within days as a summary of what to look for when seeking to buy a Factory built MGBGTV8 in today's market place (Oct 04) V8NOTE310

311. Buying guide for members wanting an MGBGTV8 for everyday use
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall has clocked up over 250,000 miles in his V8, so provides a useful guide from the perspective of a high mileage V8 enthusiast! (Dec 04) V8NOTE311

312. Solving front brake squeal
Mike Russell
Mike Russell (Damask 0505) from Buckinghamshire has travelled what he describes as a "long journey to silent braking" set out in this note. (Dec 04)

313. How many MGBGTV8s were made in each colour and what trim colours were used?
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen, the V8 Historian and Archivist, has produced a comprehensive chart of body paint and trim colours following an amusing discussion between Fred Jenns and Barry Sidery-Smith at a Bonhams auction when Aconite 1261 came under the hammer. (Dec 04) V8NOTE313

314. MGBGTV8 buying guide footnotes
Geoff Allen
Geoff Allen (Team Blue 2101) from Cheshire was at the Factory for 27 years, much of it in Rectifications Department, has a few footnotes on the buying guides provided by Dave Wellings and Gordon Hesketh-Jones. (Dec 04) V8NOTE314

315. MGBGTV8 windscreen and side glass replacement
Gavin Bailey
Gavin Bailey (Glacier White 0199) from Surrey is restoring his V8 and found a good windscreen replacement service. (Dec 04) V8NOTE315

316. MGBGTV8 alternative distributor
Chris Armitage
Chris Armitage (Tundra 2066) from Hampshire has found and extensively tested an alternative to the Lucas distributor for the MGBGTV8. (Dec 04) V8NOTE316

317. How to keep a Lucas distributor going
Gordon Hesketh-Jones
Gordon Hesketh-Jones (Harvest Gold 1904) from Cornwall has covered over 370,000 miles in his V8 and has a serious annual maintenance schedule with periodic major work, so is familiar with worn Lucas distributors. Here he adds some useful tips on maintaining the Lucas unit. (Dec 04) V8NOTE317

318. No longer a period of grace on motor insurance renewals
Victor Smith
An important change was introduced during 2004 requiring insurers to send up-to-the-minute data to the central Motor Insurance Database, or risk penalties for late submission. There is no longer any period of grace with renewals with insurers. (Jan 05) V8NOTE318

319. V8 Roadster Conversion project - from dream to reality!
Geoff King
V8 Roadster Conversions are very popular with V8 enthusiasts and come in a variety of specifications. Here Geoff King (Tartan Red 4029) from Kincardinshire provides a fascinating tale of how his project was conceived and carried out over a three year period to produce an award winning V8 Roadster with a wonderful specification and performance. (May 04) V8NOTE319

320. Starter motor solenoid modification
Bob Owen
Bob Owen (Blaze 1624) from Hampshire provides a useful modification as part of a solution to a problem starting a V8 when hot or when the starter solenoid auxiliary contacts fail. (Jan 05) V8NOTE320

321. Another windstop which looks good and works well
Mike Simmonds
Mike Simmonds (Woodcote Green 1504) from Berkshire fitted a windstop to his RV8 which was supplied by Tij-Power in Germany. They supply windstops for MGB Roadsters too. (Feb 05)

322. Reconditioning a V8 gearbox and overdrive
Geoff King, Phil Bristow and Chris Armitage
Tina Elias posted a note on the V8BB in February 2005 saying "I have recently obtained a spare original V8 overdrive gearbox which I intend to get reconditioned in advance of my own gearbox failing. Can anyone suggest a good firm to undertake the work, preferably in the south of England and ideally in the Surrey - Hampshire region?" (Mar 05) V8NOTE322

323. Fitting a "lights on" alarm to a V8
Alan Turner
Alan Turner (Damask 0663) from Devon posted a note on the V8BB and in passing mentioned a useful modification. Here he sets out how to make the device. (Mar 05) V8NOTE323

324. Upgrading the sealed beam units on the V8
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