MG TF Series Instruction manual

,
i
MIDGET
(Series
TO)
,
\.
~
D
(Series
TF)
WORKSHOP
MANUAL
•
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

MIDGET
(Series
..
TO
")
_-\.~D
(Series
M
TF
")
WORKSHOP
MANUAL
NOTE
Instructions given in
this
manual for servicing
the
M.G. Midget
Series"
TO"
are
also applicable In
the
main
to
the
Series"
TF."
In cases
where
components
are
not
common
to
both
Series,
the
necessary descriptions and instructIons for
the
Series
••TF .. will be found at
the
end
of
the
appropriate
section.
The
following
are
the
main items
affected:
Instruments
and Switches,
Carburet-
ters
and
Air
Cleaners, Radiator, Body, Lights.
R.eferences in
the
text
to
"later
models"
should be
understood
to read "
later
Seri as •
TO'
models and all Series •
TF'
models"
unless
otherwise
stated.
Amendments
to
the
manual
are
on Iy made by th e issue of revised
sheets,
or
additio naI
sheets
for insertion
at
the
end
of
each section. It is
therefore
of
the
utmost
importance
to
refer
to
the
end
of each section before carrying
out
any
work
on
the
vehicle.
The
part
number
of this manual, which should be
quoted
when a copy is
ordered,
Is AKD580A.
Published
by
THE
~.G.
CAR
COMPAX'~
LIMITED
Prop
.....
",
?ll.ORRIS 1II0TORS
LIMITED
£-\
bin
g
don
-0n - T
haul
e s
NUFFItiLD
Sole
Exporters:
EXPORTS
LIMITED
P,opti"",.,
MORRIS
:MOTORS
LIMITED
M.G. Midcet.
Issu~
8 (H &E)
99184-)/56
-
Oxford
-
England
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

I
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2M.G. Midget. Issue5 (H &E)
942994/55
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

CONTENTS
General Data
(Series"
TD It). Pages
-4
to
7.
General
Data
(Series"
TF
"),
Pages
19
to
21.
General 1nformation (Series
.,
TO
").
Pages8
to
18.
General Information (Series •• TF
").
Pages 13
to
26.
Maintenance
Attention
(Free and Periodical)
Frost Precautions
Engine
Fuel System
IgnitJon Equipment
Cooling System
(SerIes"
TO ..)
Cooling System
(Series"
TF
")
Flywheel and Clutch
Gearbox
...
Propeller Shaft
Rear Axle
Rear Road Springs
Steering
Gear
...
Front
Suspension
Hydraulic Dampers
Braking System
...
Electrical Equipment
Wheels
and Tyres
Lubrication
Special Tools
Body
Chassis Frame RepaIrs ...
M.G.
Mklpt..
Issue J(H &E)
B2966--1
l54
Section
A
B
C
o
DO
E
F
G
H
K
L
M
N
o
P
Q
R
S
3
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL DATA
(SERIES"
TO
")
ENGINE
TYPE
First
overs
ize
bore
Second oversize
bore
Radiator hose bottom
Gudgeon
pin
diameter
Centre
main
bearing-end
clearance
Marn
bearings-diametrical
clearance '"
Crankshaft-end
thrust
taken
on
Number
of camshaft bearings
Type
of
camshaft bearings
XPAG/TD
up
to
Engine No. 9407.
XPAGfTDf2
from
Engine No. 9408.
Four.
1250
c,c, (761cu. ln.).
54·4
at
5,200 r.p.m.
66
'·5
mm. (2,618in.).
9Q
mm.
(3,543
ln.).
10·97 h.p,
7·25
to
J.
Thermo-slphcn-e-pump and fan assisted.
Length 4in.
(10,16
cm.),
Diameter
2-&
in. (5·56 cm.),
Length
21
in. (5'71 cm.),
Diameter
IiIn. (2·86crn.).
+·020
In. (,50 rnm.).
Actual
bore
2·6381
in. (67 rnrn.].
+·040
in. (1,00
rnrn.),
Actual
bore
2·6581
in. (67,5 mm.).
1-3-4-2.
·0021
In.
to
·0029 in. (,056 mm.
to
·071 rnm.].
·006 in. to ·0
10
in. (,152 mm. to ·254 mrn.),
Two.
2·25 mm.
(·0885
ln.).
One.
4·0 mm. (·1575
rn
.).
50
to
70 lb.
per
sq. in.,(3·5
to
5·0 kg./cm.2) .
40
to
45 lb.
per
sq. in. (2·8
to
3·2 kg./cm.2) .
Clamped.
. [+·0004 in.
·7087
Ill
.+.0006 in.
18
[+
'010 mm.
mm. -1,015 mm.
Fit in piston
Double
thumb
press.
Fit in connecting
rod
Clamped.
Crankpin
diameter
(standard)
l·n2
in. (45 rnrn.].
Crankpin
minimum
diameter
for
regrind
1·722 in. (43,75 mm.),
ConnectIng
rod-length
between
centres
7·008 in. (178 mm.).
Connecting
rod-type
of
bearing Shimless, steel-backed, white-metal-lined.
Connecting
rod-side
clearance
...
·004 in.
to
·006 in. (·10 mm.
to
·ISmm.).
Connecting
rod-diametrical
clearance ... ·0005
in.to
·002 in. ('011 mm.
to
·056 mm.).
Number
of crankshaft
bear
ings ...
Three.
Type
of
main bearings Shlrnless, steel-backed.
whlte
-rnetal-llned.
Standard
main journal
diameter
.. , 2·047 in. (52
rnm
.),
Main journals first
regrind
diameter
2·027 in. (51-49 rnm.),
Main journals second
regrind
diameter
(minimum) 2·007in. (50·98 mm.).
Main -bearings- len
gt
h
Front
1-496
in. (38 mm.).
Centre
1-496
in. (38
rnm.},
Rear 1·575 in. (40 mm.],
·0014 in.
to
·0037 in. (·035 mm.
to
,095 mrn.).
·0008 in.
to
·003 in. (·020 mm.
to
·075 rnm.).
Centre
bearing.
Three
.
White
metal (front).
Zinc alloy
(rear
and
centre).
Firing
order
Piston clearance
at
pressure face
below
011
rlng ...
Ring gap
Number
of compression rings
Width
of compression rings
Number
of
oil rings
Width
of oil ring .. ,
all
pressure
relief valve
operates
Oil
pressure
(normal)
Gudgeon pin
type
..,
Number
of
cylinders
Capacity
B.H.P.
Bore
...
Stroke
R.A,c; rating
Compression
ratio
...
System
of
cooling
Radiator hose
top
...
4M.G. Midget. Issue 3 (H &E)
82966-1
1'54
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

Valve spring
pressure-open
Camshaft-bearing
clearance
Camshaft-end
thrust
taken
on
Camshaft-end
float
Camshaft-drlve
(type)
...
Valve timing markings
Exhaust valve
throat
diameter
Exhaust valve
diameter
Inlet valve
throat
diameter
Inlet valve
diameter
Valve
seat
angle
Tappet
type
Valve
lift-Inlet
Valve
lift-exhaust
Inlet valve
opens
.
Inlet valve closes .
Exhaust valve
opens
Exhaust valve closes
Valve
spring
pressure-shut
GENERAL
DATA-continued
Front
·0016 in.
to
·004 in.
(·04
mm.
to
·10 rnrn.).
Rear and
centre
·0018 In.
to
·0037 in. (-045
mm.
to
·095 mm.).
Front
end.
·005 In.
to
·013 In. (,125 mm.
to
·325 mm.).
Duplex chain, iin. pitch, 60 pitches, endless.
White
chain links
and"
T " marks on wheels.
1·024 In. (26 mm.).
Head
1·221
in.
(31
mm.) ;Stem ·315 In. (8 mm.).
1·181
In. (30 mm.).
Head 1·299 in. (33 mm.) ;
Stem
·315 In. (8 rnm.],
30°.
Hollow.
·315 In. (8 mm.).
·315 in. (8 mm.).
11
0before
T.D.c.]
From JS°
before
T.D.C.
5]0
after
B.D.C. Engine 45°
after
B.D.C.
sz-
before B.D.C.
XPAG/TO/2
45°
before
B.D.C.
24°
after
T.O.C. No. 241 16 5°
after
T.O.C.
Inner
31 lb. at 1·753 In. (14·06 kg.
at
4·453
em.).)
Total 93 lb.
Outer
62 lb. at 1·847 in. (28·12 kg.
at
4·692 em.). (42,18 kg.).
Inner
43 lb. at 1·"B8 In. (19,5 kg.
at
3·678 crn.]. JTotal 123 lb.
Outer
80 lb. at 1·532 in. (36·29 kg.
at
3·89 em.). (55·79 kg.).
Engines up
to
No.
XPAG/TD2/24
I15 :
Inlet and
exhaust
valve
working
clearance
(hot)
·019 in. (.4S mm.),
Engines from No.
XPAG/TD2/24
I16 :
Inlet and
exhaust
valve
working
clearance
(hot)
·012 in. (,30 mm.],
Valve guides Removable.
FUEL
SYSTEM
Fuel
tank
reserve
level
Fuel delivery
Carburetters
Carburetter
needles
CLUTCH
Type
(up
to
Engine
No.
9-407)
Type
(from Engine
No.
9408)
Facing
Warning
light on panel.
S.U.
electric
pump.
S.U. semi·downdraugh.t.
Standard-ES.
Weak-AP.
R.ich-EM.
Borg &Beck
7!
in. (18,4 em.)
diameter.
Dry
plate.
Borg &Beck 8 in. (20,3
cm.)
diameter.
Dry plate.
Type RYZ
on7
in.
diameter
clutch.
Moulded
type
on 8 in.
diameter
clutch.
GEARBOX
Synchromesh
Ratios Top
Third
Second
Bottom
Reverse
...
Second,
third
and
top.
Gearbox
Overall
8/41
Overall
8/39
1·00 5·125 4-875
1·385 7·098 6·752
2·07 10·609 10·09
3·5 17·938 17·06
3·5 17·938 17·06
Overall
9/41
4·555
6·309
9·429
15·942
15·942
M.G. Midget (Series
"TO
"),
Issue'" (H • E)
<13692-StSS
5
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
DATA-continued
6
FRONT
SUSPENSION
AND
STEERING
Camber
(static position)
Castor
angle
Toe-In
King-pin inclination
Track
Turning
circle
Wheelbase
"_
Tyre size
Tyre
pressures
REAR
AXLE
Type
of axle
Type
of
drive
Ratio
Adjustment
'"
BRAKES
Type
...
Type
of linings
lining
size-front
Lining
size-rear
Number
of rivets
SPRINGS
(front)
Type
...
Free
length "_
Mean coil
diameter
Number
of
effective calls ...
Diameter
of wire (ground)
Maximum deflection
SPRINGS
(rear)
Type
'"
Length
Width
Number
of leaves
Thickness of leaves
Camber
(free)
Working
load
HYDRAULIC
DAMPERS
Type '"
ELECTRICAL
Distributor
rotation
Automatic advance
Contact
breaker
gap (first type)
...
Contact
breaker
gap (second
type)
Sparking plug (engines
prior
to
No.
XPAG/TD2/
22735)
Nil (tolerance
±I
0).
r±!O
with side-members parallel to road.
Nil.
90to 10!0
full
bump.
Front
47!
in. (]·203 m.), Rear 50 In. (1,27 rn.),
31 ft. 3 in. (9,525 m.).
7ft. 10 In. (2,388 m.),
$·50-15.
181b.
per
sq. In. (1·27 kg./cm.2).
Semi-floating.
Hypold.
8/41,
8/39
or
9/4J.
Byspacers and special fixtures.
Lockheed hydraulic
two
leading
shoe
(front)
(9 in. dla.].
Ferodo MR.19.
8·75 in. X
1·5
in.X·187 in.
(22;22
em. X3·81 em. X
·47 crn.).
8·75 in. x
1-5
In.x
·187In.
(22·22 em. X3-81 em. X
·47 cm.),
Twelve
per
lining.
Coli.
9·59
In.±n-
In. (24·36 c.m.±1·58 mm.).
3·238 in. (8,24 em.).
7!.
·498 in. (1'27 cm.).
4·24 in. (10·78 cm.),
Half-ellIptic,
42 In. (106,7 cm.],
I!
In. (3·81 crn.],
Seven.
"*
in. (5·56 mm.],
4,[
In. (10·4 crn.],
500 lb.
at
iIn. positive camber.
(226'S kg.
at
12'7 mm. positive camber.)
Glrling
or
Armstrong.
Cou
nter-c1ockwise.
3r
on crankshaft.
·010 in.
to
·012 in. (,25 mm.
to
·30 mrn.),
·014 In.
to
·016 In. (·36 mm.
to
·41 mm.),
Champion
L.10S
(standard
equipment]
(14 mrn.),
K.L.G.
E.80.
Lodge HN
or
HNP.
M.G. Midget (Series .. TO
").
Inue
4 (H &E) 93692-.-5/55
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENE RA L
DATA-con
t!
nued
Sparking plug (engines from No. XPAGjTD2i
22735)
Sparking plug gap
Ignition timing
Charging system
Battery
CAPACITIES
Sump
Gearbox
Rear axle
Cooling system
Brake fluid
Fuel
tank
GENERAL DIMENSIONS
Length
Width
Height
Ground
clearance
Weight
(unladen)
Weight
(laden and with
two
passengers)
Champion NA.8.
·020 in.
to·022
In. (,50 mm.
to
·56
rnm.),
T.D.C. (full
retard).
c.Y.C.
Lucas GTW9A, 51-amp. at 10 hours. 12-volt.
Positive
earth
return.
9pints (10·8 U.S.
pints;
5·1
litres);
from Engine
No. 14948.
IO!
pints (12,6 U.S.
pints;
5·96Iitres).
Ii
pints (1,5
U.S.
pints;
·71
litre).
21
pints (2,7
U.S.
pints;
1·3Iitres).
12 pints (14·4
U.S.
pints;
6·8 lttres].
Ipint (1,2 U.S.
pints;
·57Iitl'e).
12t
gallons (15
U.S.
gallons;
57Iitres).
145 in. (3'683 m.).
58t
in. (1-489 m.).
53 in. (1·346 m.),
6 In. (15·24 crn.),
18! ewt. (2,072 lb.) (941 kg.).
22 cwt. (2,464 lb.) (1120 kg.).
Cylinder head
stud
nuts
...
Connecting rod big-end bolts
(to
next
split pin hole)
Main bearing cap
nuts
(to
next
split pin hole)
Steering wheel
attachment
nut
Gudgeon
pin clamp
screw
M.G. M1dlet.
bsue
5 (H &E)
95871-9,'55
TORQUE
SPANNER DATA
500 lb. in. (5,75 m./kg.).
320 lb. in. (3,7 m./kg,).
750 lb. in. (8,6 m./kg.).
500 lb. In. (5,75 rn.jkg.),
400 lb. in. (4,6 rn.jkg.).
7
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION
(SERIES U
TO
")
GEAR
POSITIONS
The
gearbox has four forward speeds, with synchromesh on second.
third
and top.
The
gear lever posItions
are
shown In
the
lllustratlon below.
To engage
reverse
gear, move
the
gear lever
to
the
extreme
right of its neutral posltlon:
exert
sufficient pressure
to
overcome
the
resistance
of
the
spring-loaded
stop,
and move
the
lever
rearwards.
The
instrument
panel with
the
ignition
switch key indicated by
the
arrow.
The
Ignition switch is in
the
centre
of
the
lighting switch and
the
remainder of
the
Instruments in
the
top
row
are
the
horn
push and
dipper
SWitch,
the
ammeter. and
the
011
gauge. respectively. Later models
have a fooc-operated dipping switch, a
combined
water
temperature
and oil
pressure gauge, and modified
speedometer
with headlamp beam indicator light and
revolution
indltator
dials.
The positions of
the
gearlever lor selecting
the
varia us gears
are
here
indicated.
The location of
the
gears Is also indicated
diagrammatically on
the
top
of
the
gear
lever knob.
8
THE
INSTRUMENT
PANEL
All switches and
instruments
except
the
speedometer
and revolution indicator are carried in
the
central
instrument
panel, with
the
exception of
the
dipping switch fitted
to
later models.
At
the
top
left is
the
lighting swltch controlling
the
lamps, In
the
centre
of which is
the
key-operated ignition switch. Turning
the
switch clockwise switches on
the
ignItion and
the
ignition warning light at
the
bottom
right-hand
corner
of
the
panel.
To
the
immediate right of
the
lighting swItch is
the
combined horn push and headlamp
dimming switch. It Is clearly
marked"
D .. for
the
dip position
and"
H " for
the
full beams.
Later models
are
fitted with a foot-operated headlamp beam dipping switch and this switch
lever is
omitted
on such models.
Next
to
the
dipping switch is
the
ammeter.
This is of
the
usual central
zero
type
indicating
both charge and discharge.
The right-hand
instrument
is
the
oil gauge. Thts should normally indicate apressure in
the
region of 40
to
45 lb.
per
sq. in. (2·8
to
3·2 kg./em.2)at normal running speeds. It will of cou rse
show ahigher figure when
the
engine is cold and a lower figure when
the
engine is running slowly.
On
later
models
this
Is combined
with
a
water
temperature
gauge.
So long as it is showing areasonable
pressure
it may be
taken
that
the
circulating system
is working satisfactorily.
The
bottom
left-hand switch In
the
instrument
panel is
the
switch
for
the
panel light. It is
of
the
rotary
type.
M.G. Midget. Issue 5 (H &E)
95781-9/55
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
The
next
switch, reading from left to right. is
the
switch operating
the
fog-lamp. It Is of
the
semi-rotary type. Fog-lamps
are
not
fitted as standard,
but
the
switch Is ready-wired so
that
one
may be fitted if desired.
Next
is
the
mixture
control knob which pulls
out
to
provide an enriched mixture. It can be
locked in several
set
open positions by
turning
it antt-clockwtse
through
90'" It should be
returned
to
the"
Off"
position as soon as possible once
the
engine Is running. The mixture
control is interconnected with
the
throttle
so as
to
co-ordinate
the
setting of
the
two
auto-
matically when starting from cold.
The
instrument
panel with the panel light
SWitchindicated by
arrow.
The remaining
items at
the
bottom
of
the
panel are
the
fog-lamp SWitch.
the
mixture control,
the
inspection lamp plugs,
the
starter
switch,
the
fuel warning light, and
the
ignition
warning light.
On
the
facia in
front
of
the
driver
are
the
large-diameter revolution indicator and
the
speedometer.
In
the
centre
of
the
panel are
the
two
plug sockets for feeding an inspection light when
required. They are always live and have no separate switch. The rims of
the
sockets are
coloured red and black, indicating positive and negative in
the
accepted manner.
To
the
right of
the
sockets is
the
starter
switch which is of
the
pull type. It must always be
operated
smartly and decisively
over
Its full range of movement.
At
the
bottom
right-hand
corner
of
the
Instrument
panel are
two
warning lights. The
one
on
the
extreme
right is
the
ignition warning lamp which glows when
the
ignition is switched
on, until
the
engine runs at sufficient speed
to
cause
the
dynamo
to
charge
the
battery.
The left-hand warning light comes into operation when
the
fuel in
the
tank falls
to
approximately 21
to
3gallons
(11,3
to
13·5
litres),
thus
giving warning
that
the
fuel supply is
getting low and In need of replenishment at
the
first
opportunity.
Two
large
instruments
are located rIght in front of
the
driver
on
the
facia board. These
are
the
revolution indicator and
dock.
and
the
speedometer,
respectively.
A knob below
the
speedometer
enables
the
trip
recorder
scale
to
be
returned
to
zero
when
It is pulled downwards and
turned,
and on later models a headlamp beam warning light is fitted
in
the
speedometer
dial which glows when
the
headlamp beams are in
the
raised position to
give
the
driver warning
to
dip his lamps when approaching
other
traffic.
The
dock
In
the
revolution Indicator is
set
byInserting
the
hand in
the
hole in
the
underpanel
to
reach
the
knob on
the
back-plate of
the
clock.
M.G. Midget (Series ., TO •'}, Issue 2
(E)
193<45-1/53 9
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
SIDESCREEN
STOWAGE (FIRST TYPE) (For details of second
type
see pages 17 and IS)
It Isof
the
utmost importance
that
the
sldescreens be packed
together
exactly as Indicated.
otherwise It will
not
be found possible
to
insert
them
Into
the
compartment
In
the
boot provided
to
house them. The necessary sequence Is shown below.
Q)
Start
with
the
right-hand front side-
screen and lay
it
down
on something flat as
indicated In
(I).
taking
care
that
the stays are
the
rlghtway up. Then
place
the
left-hand
front
sldescreen on
top
of It as shown, with Its
flap folded under and
the
stays at opposite
ends as illustrated•
..
The right-hand rear sidescreen Is
the
n placed on
top
of
the
other
two
as shown In (2). tucking
Its front bracket underneath
that
of
the
left-hand front sldescreen, so
that
It lies flat upon
the
other.
taking up
the
minimum amount
of
room.
10
This Is followed
by
the
left-hand rear
stdescreen,which Is laid
upon
the
others
in
the
opposite direction with
Its bracket slipped
under
the
cranked stay
of
the
right-hand front
sldescreen with which
the
pack was first
started (3). This
pro·
duces
a
pack
of
minimum dimensions.
as shown In (4).
@
M.G. Midget (Series
"TD
").
Issue 2 (E)
79345-1/53
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
Finally
the
com-
plete pack
of
screens
(4) Is transferred
to
the
space In
the
body
behind
the
seat
pro-
vided
to
house
them.
They
should
be
Inserted into
the
com-
partment,
bracketsfirst
(5). taking care
that
they
are
not forced into
position
or
damaged,
and hold lng back
the
edge
of
hood
to
facili-
tate
their
insertIon as
shown at (6). ®
FOLDING THE
HOOD
To
ensure
that
the
hood does
not
receive unnecessary damage It is Important
that
It
should
be folded
correctly
when stowed. The four steps for
correctly
folding
the
hood
are
here shown.
Neverfold
the
hood
when
Itls
damp
or
wet.
Always wait till It dries.
Before folding
the
hood back.
release
the
press
buttons
at each side.
Make
sure
that
no hood material Is
trapped
between
the
hood-sticks. and
that
the
rear
panel of
the
hood Is
pulled well forward. as at
(I).
Then
fold
the
hood-sticks right down and
gently pull
the
hood material
out
as
at
(2.).
Now
fold
the
two
corners in at
right angles. and fold
the
hood as
illustrated in (3). The hood material
Is
then
folded
over
again as shown at
(4). and it is
then
ready
for
the
tonneau cover
to
be fltted over
It.
M.G. Midget
(Series"
TO
").
Issue 2 (E) 8/52 II
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
JACKING THE CAR
When
jacking
the
front
wheels
the
jack pad should be located in
the
hollow
on
the
under
side
of
the
outer
end
of
the
lower
wishbone
to
avoid
the
possibility of
the
jack sllpping.
In
the
case
of
the
rear
wheels
the
most
convenient
place is
under
the
springs
close
to
the
axle as
shown
in
the
accompanying 1llustration.
When
jacking
the
front
wheels th e jack
should be engaged with
the
hollow
of the lower wishbone pan as shown.
When used at the
rear
the
jack is best
engaged with
the
rear
spring as
dose
to
the
axle as posslble.
12
WARMING
UP THE
ENGINE
As
soon
as
the
engine
has
started,
return
the
mixture
control
to
its half-way position. Do
not
race
the
engine
while
It is cold,
but
let
It
run
at
a fast
tick-aver-approximately
1,000
r.p.m.,
corresponding
to
15 rn.p.h. (24
km.p.h.)
In
top
gear-until
it has
warmed
to
allow
the
oil
to
circulate
properly.
Return
the
mixture
control
to
the
completely"
Off"
position as soon as
possible
without
causlng
the
engine
to
spl
utter.
Blanking off
the
radiator
will assist in
warming
the
engine
in cold
weather.
but
never
run
the
car
with
the
radiator
completely
masked.
CHASSIS
AND
ENGINE
NUMBERS
When
in
communication
with
the
Company
or
your
Dealer,
always
quote
the
type
of
model
and
the
chassis and
engine
numbers.
The
registration
number
is of no assistance and is
not
required.
Write
your
name and
address
legibly.
Model.
This Is
stamped
on
the
identification plate which is
secured
to
the
left-hand side
of
the
dash panel
beneath
the
bonnet.
Chassis
Number.
For
convenience
this
is also
stamped
on
the
identification plate as
well
as
on
the
chassis and shouId be
<!
uoted
with
its prefix.
Engine
Number.
Every
engine
carries
a
number
stamped
ana
disc which is
secured
to
the
flywheel housing. This
number
is also
duplicated
on
the
identification plate.
Note.-On
later
models the model
symbols
and chassis numberare
incorporated
in asingle
panel
on the identlficatfon plate.
M.G. Midget (Series
"TO
").
Issue 2 (E) 8/52
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

1 '
..
'
..
11
..
'
..
'
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M.G.
MmGfiT
fSeries
"TD")
ENGINE
(LONGITUDINAL SECTION)
111441'''11.11'
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''''''''''''''''',,''''
,J
M.G. Midget (Series
"TO
"). Issue 2 (E)
U34S-ljS3
13
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

i
"""I
M.G. Miclget
(Series"
TO
").
Issue
2 (E) 79345-1/53
EARLY
MODELS
WITH
THROW-AWAY
FILTO.
SEE
PAGE
A.30
FOP.
LATER MODEL
1l1111111111111111
....
tll
I
i
(TRANSVERSE
SECTION)
I
THE
M.G. MIDGET
(Series
..
TD
")
ENGL~E
........................
........,
_~~
_'_II_'
,
~
IIII
,
II
If
II
,
•••
-
14
!"""''''''''
,,"
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

MAINTENANCE
ATTENTION
FIRST
SOC
MILES
(800
KM.)
FREE
SERVICE
ATTENTION
(a) Drain sump.
gearbox
and back axle. and refill with
appropriate
lubricant.
(b) 011 and grease vehlcle
throughout
with
appropriate
lubricant.
Note.-New
lubricants chargeable
to
customers.
(e) Check and, If necessary.
adjust:-
(I)
Ignition ti mIng and automatic controls,
(2)
Tappet
clearances and valve rocker-shaft brackets
to
recommended pressures.
(3)
Carburetter
control gear,
mixture
setting
and slow-running.
(<4)
Dynamo drive belt.
(5)
Correct
clearance
for
dutch
pedal.
(6) Alignment of
front
wheels.
(7) All steering controls.
(8)
Tyre
pressures.
(9) Spar king piugs and d
lst
ri
butor
poi
nts,
(d) Check brakes functionally. also level of Lockheed fluid in supply tank.
(e) Look
over
and
tighten
all nuts. particularly cylinder head. manifold. universal joints.
wheels, spring clips and body bolts. Also check tightness of all
water
connections
and clips.
(f)
Top up
battery
and check working of all electrical equipment.
(g) Inspect hydraulic dampers for leaks. Top up oil levels if necessary (piston
type
only).
(h) Check
doors
for ease of opening and closlng. If necessary lightly smear dovetails and
striking plates
with
approved lubricant.
All
this
first service is free. only material used being charged for.
PERIODICAL
Every 250
miles
(400
km.):
Inspect
011
level in engine. Replenish if necessary.
Every
sao
miles
(800
km.):
Apply grease gun, tilled with grease
to
Ref. 0 (page
P.2)
to
the
folloWing grease nipple fittings. and give pump
three
or
four
strokes
:-
... on
steering
swivel pins. 2 on
steering
tie-rod arms.
Models with left-hand steerlng have an
extra
grease nippleon
the
clutch and brake pedal shaft.
See
that
radiator is full of
water.
(See Section
0.1).
Test
tyre
pressures. (See Section
0.1.)
Every 1,000
miles
(1600
km.):
Inspect oil level In
gearbox
and
rear
axle. Replenish if
necessary
to
Ref. B (page P.l).
Apply grease gun filled
with
grease (Ref. page P.2)
to
all grease nipples.
Apply grease gun tilled
with
grease
to
Ref. C (page P.2)
to
grease nipple on
water
pump
spindle and give
two
or
three
strokes.
Examine level in Lockheed brake supply
tank
and replenish with Lockheed Genuine Brake
FlUid If necessary. (See page M
.....
)
Top
up
battery
with dlstllled
water.
Make visual inspection of hydraulic lines and pipes.
Check
brakes and adjust if necessary.
Add a thin engine oil
to
carburetter
pl5ton dashpots
to
Ref. F (page P.2).
Every 3.000
miles
(5000
km.):
Drain engine and refill with fresh oil
to
Ref. A (page P.2).
Withdraw
rotating arm from
distributor
and add a few drops
of
oil
to
the
aperture.
Lubricate
the
automatic advance mechanism with engine
011.
Smear
contact
breaker
rocker-arm pivot
with grease
to
Ref. D (page P.2).
or
trace
of
engine oil.
Use
the
ollcan, filled with
011
to
Ref. F(page P.l). 5paringly on
the
door
hinges,
bonnet
locks.
carburetter
controls.
hand brake lever and
seat
runners.
Remove dynamo
lubricator
cap and refill
with
the
recommended grease
to
Ref. C (page
P.2).
Clean and re-oil
the
air
cleaner
(overseas).
Check dynamo
belt
tension and adjust if necessary.
Clean
petrol
pump points.
Check
contact
breaker
gap.
Check
dutch
pedal
free
movement and
adjust
if necessary.
M.G. Midget. Issue 6 (H &E) 9·U99--6!55
15
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

MAl
NTENANCE
ATTENTION-continued
Clean
and
examine
the
gaps of
the
sparking plug points and make
sure
that
they
are
not
too
wide;
they
should be ·020 in.
to
-022in. (,50 mm.
to
-56 mrn.),
Change
wheels
round
to
regularise
tyre
wear.
Every
6.000
miles
(10000
km.)
:Remove filters from
carburetters
and
petrol
pump. clean
and replace. (See Section B.)
Grease
the
revolution
indicator
drive
gearbox.
Ref. D (page P.2).
Replace
external
oil filter on early models with a new one. On
later
models (from Engine
No. 14224) fit
new
filter element.
Clean and re-oll
air
cleaner
(Home).
Drain
gearbox
and
rear
axle. Refill with fresh oil.
Remove
front
wheel covers and give
one
stroke
of
grease gun. filled with grease
to
Ref. C
(page P.2),
to
hub nipple (early models). Remove grease-retaining cap and replenish with
grease
to
Ref. C
(later
models).
Check valve
tappet
clearance.
Tighten
door
hinge and
stri
ker plate flxlng screws and spri ng
seat
bolts.
Check
wheel alignment.
Every
12,000 mi
les
(20000
km.):
R.emovesu mp. Clean
sump
and Internal oil filter, replace
and refill
with
fresh oil.
Examine fluid level in
front
and
rear
dampers, clean and replenish with Glrllng
or
Armstrong
piston-type fluid if necessary. (See Section L.I.)
Replace sparkIng plugs with
new
ones. Check dynamo and
starter
brushes.
Adjust clutch pedal clearance. (See Section E.I.)
Lubricate
steering
rack and pinion
to
R.ef.
B(page P.l). Drain and flush
out
radiator.
Check steering and suspension moving parts for wear.
FROST
PRECAUTIONS
16
If
the
car
is
not
stored
In a
warmed
building, steps must be
taken
to
prevent
the
cooilng
water
from freezing during frosty
weather.
Water
upon freezing expands. with
the
result
that
t
here
Is a very co nslderabIe risk of bursti ng eithe r
the
rad I
ator
or
the
cylInde r block by
the
pressure
generated.
As a precautionary measure.
the
water
shouldbe
drawn from
the
radiator
before
the
car
is
stored
for
the
night. or,
better
still, an anti-freezing solution may be used.
We
recommend
the
use of
Smiths"
Bluecol,"
Shell"
Snowfla.ke "
or
Filtrate"
Nevafreze ..
non-corrosive antl-freeze In
order
to
protect
the
cooling system.
The
recommended
quantltles of anti-freeze for different
degrees
of frost resistance are
:-
Down
to
Down
to
7"F.
(--HOC.)
O°F.
(-18°C.)
Series"
TD"
Quantity
2tpints (1'4 Iitres)
Quantity
31
pints (2 Iitres)
Series ..
TF"
Qu
antity Itpints ('85 litre)
Quantity
2 pints (1,14 litres)
Where
temperatures
below 00F.
or
_18°
C. are likely
to
be
encountered,
asolution
of
at
least 25
per
cent. of anti-freeze
must
be used to
ensure
imnwnlty from
trouble.
Consult
your
local Dealer on this
matter.
First decide
what
deg ree
offrost
protection
is req uired befo re adding ant i-freeze to rad iator.
Make
sure
that
the
cooling system is
water-tight
and examine all joints. replacing any
defective
rubber
hose With a
new
one.
Before
introducing
anti-freeze
mixture
to
the
radiator
it is advisable
to
clean
out
the
cooling
system
thoroughly
by draining
out
the
water
and swilling
out
the
water
passages with a hose
inserted in
the
rad
later
filler, keeping
the
drain
tap
open.
Avoid excessive topping up,
otherwise
there
Is a risk of losing valuable anti-freeze
due
to
ex-
pansion of
the
solution. Only
top
up
when
coolIng system is at its normal running
temperature.
Generally speaking, and-freeze is
not
Injurious
to
cellulose paint, provided it Is wiped off In
reasonable
time.
It must not,
however.
be allowed
to
remain 6n
the
paintwork.
M.G, MIdget. Issue 6 (H &E)
94299-6/5$
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

CD
GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
SIDESCREEN
STOWAGE
(SECOND
TYPE)
Later
models
are
fitted
with
amodified hood and
deeper
sidescreens.
The
following
directions
must
be followed
when
carrying
out
the
stowage
of
the
sldescreens
on such models,
and no
attempt
must
be made
to
stow
them
as
described
on
pages 10and
II.
Start
with
the
left-hand
rear
side-
screen
and place it in
the
space
provided
for
housing
the
side-
screens,
as in Fig. J,
with
the
attachment
lugs faclng
towards
the
front
of
the
car
and
with
the
canvas
part
up against
the
left-
hand
body
panel.
The
right-hand
rear
side-
screen
should
now
be
placed in
front
of
the
first
one,
again
with
the
attachment
lugs
facing
towards
the
front
of
the
car, but
with
the
canvas
part
up against
the
right-hand panel, as in Fig. 2.
@
material of which
the
screens
are
made.
unnecessary.
Insert
the
right-
hand
front
stdescreen
as in Fig. 3
with
its
lugs pointing
down-
wards
and its flap
folded
under
towards
the
rear
of
the
car.
Make
sure
that
it is
inserted
as far
down-
wards
as it wi
II
go.
This is followed by
the
left-hand
front
side-
screen,
which is also
Inserted
with
Its
attachment
lugs
to
the
bottom
and its flap
folded
under
to
the
rear,
as In Fig. 4. Be
careful
not
to
scratch
the
transparent
If
stowage
is
carried
out
correctly
the
use of force is
BM.G. Midget (Serle$ .. TO ,.J.
tUue
I
(E)
79145-1/53
17
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

GENERAL
INFORMATION-continued
Finally,
ensure
that
the
screens are
Inserted fully. as In Fig.
5. when
the
stowage
compartment lid may
be closed and secured
by means of
the
two
press studs.
18
FOLDING THE HOOD
The hood on
later
models Is fitted with an
extra
hood stick In
the
frame at
the
front end.
This, however, does not affect
the
foldlng procedure. and
the
Instructions given
0"
page
II
may be
followed when performIng this operation.
M.G. Midget
(Series"
TD
").
Issue I (E) 7')]45-1/53
Wishvilles Classic
Automobile Library

Centre
main bearlng---end clearance
Main
bearings--diametrlcal
clearance
Crankshaft-end
thrust
taken
on
Number
of camshaft bearings
Type
of
c:lmshaft bearings
Fit In piston
Fit In
connecting
rod
Crankpln
diameter
(standard)
Crankpln
minimum
diameter
(or
regrInd
Connecting
rod-length
between
centres
Connecting
rod-type
of bearing
Connecting
rod-side
clearance
Connecting
rod-dlametrlcal
clearance
Number
of crankshaft bearings
...
Type of main bearings
Standard
main Journal
diameter
MaIn Journals first
regrind
diameter
MainJournals second
regrind
diameter
(minimum)
Main
bearings-length
CapaCity
Bore
Stroke
Compression
ratio
R.A.C. rating
B.H.P.
Com
pression ratio
System of cooling ...
Radiator hose
top
Radiator hose
bottom
First oversize
bore
Second
oversize
bore
(maximum)
Firing
order
Piston clearance at
pressure
face below
011
ring
Ring gap
Number
of
compression
rings
Width
of
compressIon rings
Number
of
011
rings
Width
of
011
ring
Oil
pressure
relief
valve
operates
all
pressure
(normal)
Gudgeon
pin
type
XPEGfTF
1466 c,e. (89,4 cu. in.).
n
rnrn,
(2,835 tn.],
90 mm. (3'543 in.).
8·3 : I.
12·86 h.p.
63 at
5,000
r.p.m.
DATA
II
TF U)
XPAGfTF
(to
Chassis
No.
6500).
XPEG/TF
(from
Chassis
No.
6501).
Four.
XPAGfTF
1250 c.c, (761 cu. in.)
66·5 mm. (2·618 tn.].
90 mm.
(3,5.043
ln.).
8·1 : I.
10·97 h.p.
57 at 5,500 r.p.m.
8
to
I.
Thermo-slphon-pump
and fan assisted.
Length 4fe- in. (10,95 cm.).
Diameter
Irin.
(3·8 cm.),
Length 21 in. (5·71 ern.),
Diameter
't in. (2·86 cm.).
+·010
In. (·50 mm.).
+·040
In. (1·00 mrn.),
1-3-4-2.
·0021 In.
to
·0029 in. (·056
mm.
to
·071 mm.],
-006 In.
to
·010 In. (,152
mm.
to
·254 mm.).
Two.
2·25 mm. (·0885 ln.],
One.
4·0 mm. (·1575 ln.]
50
to
70 lb.
per
sq, In. (3'5
to
5·0
kg./em.!)_
40
to
45 lb.
per
sq. In.
(2'8
to
3·2 kg./em.I) .
Clamped.
·7087 I
t+l)()()i
In.
n.
+{K)06
In.
18
+010
mm,
mm.
+OI5mm.
Double
thumb
press.
Clamped.
I·m
In. (45 mm.).
1·722 In. (43·75 rnrn.],
No
regrind
permissible
onXPEG.
7·008 In. (178·mm.).
ShImless. steel-backed. white-metal-iined.
·004 In.
to
·006 In. (,10 mm.
to
·15 mm.).
·0005 in.
to
·002 In. (,01 rrnrn,
to
·056 mrn.}.
Three.
ShImless, steel-backed, whlte-rnetal-Il ned.
HJ.47In. (52 mm.),
2·027In.
(51,.049
mrn.], No
regrInd
permlss
ibleon
XPEG.
HI07
In. (50,98 mm.).
Front
I·496 in. (38 mrn.],
Centre
,·496 in. (38 mrn.).
Rear 1·575 in. (40 mm.),
·0014 In.
to
·0037 In. (·035 mm.
to
·095
mm.),
-0008 In.
to
-003 In. (-020 mm.
to
-075mm.).
Centre
bearing.
Three.
White
metal (front),
Zinc alloy
(rear
and
centre).
GENERAL
(SERIES
Number
of cylinders
ENGINE TYPE
Gudgeon
pin
diameter
H.G. Midfet..
!uue
3 (H
..
E) 93692-5155 19
Wishvilles Classic
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