Morgan +8 User guide
+8 4.0
Morgan Owner’s Handbook
FOREWORD
The object of this book is to provide the owner with a clear picture of the car
and its needs. Technical terms have been avoided wherever possible.
Each car is carefully built and tested, but the continued satisfaction of the owner
is largely in his own hands. The best cars will not run well unless careful
attention is paid to their upkeep.
To gain the maximum pleasure and performance from your Morgan, lubricate
regularly, keep all nuts, bolts and screws tight and thereby reduce rattle and
unwanted noises, and lastly keep brakes properly adjusted and in good working
order. Alterations and adjustments from the standard specification are not
recommended but, should it seem necessary, our Service Department will be
pleased to give advice if contacted.
Vehicle Identification
In all communications with your
Dealer or the Morgan Motor
Company, please quote the chassis
and engine number. This is
particularly important when ordering
parts.
Chassis No.
This is stamped on top of the
crossmember, in front of the right
hand front seat. Also on the vehicle
identification plate on the bulkhead
under the right hand bonnet.
Engine No.
This is found on a metal plate fitted
to the block, between the exhaust
manifold pipes on the left of the
The information in this handbook is as close
as possible to the correct information about
your car. Continuing development means that
changes are made all the time and some of
these may not be covered by this book. Errors
and omissions are avoided, but cannot be
ruled out.
Your specification
When you ordered your Morgan,
you made various choices regarding
colours, trim and equipment. Below
you can list some of these, which
will be useful to keep in the car
along with your handbook.
Colour
Colour and grade of trim
Colour of hood
Radio Specification
Door and Boot Key No.
Fuel Cap Key No.
Supplying Dealer Information:
Name:
Address:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
GENERAL SPECIFICATION
Engine Rover V8
Bore of cylinder (mm) 94.00
Stroke (mm) 71.12
Compression ratio 9.35:1
Cubic capacity 3950cc
Firing order 1L,8R,4R,3L,6R,5L,7L,2R
Power (kw @ rpm) 140 @ 4800
Torque (NM) 305 @ 3500
Valve operation Central camshaft, pushrods to overhead valves,
hydraulic tappets.
Valve timing: Inlet 39° BT 28° AB
Exhaust 77° BB 66° AT
Oil capacity: Engine (refill) 10.0Pts/5.7 Lts/12 US Pts
Gearbox 2.8 Pts/1.6 Lts/3.36 US Pts
Rear axle 1.75 Pts/1.0 Lts/2.1 US Pts
Water capacity 24 Pts/42 Lts/28.8 US Pts
Cooling system Water pump, radiator(15lb/in²) electric fan and
thermostat (88°C) (antifreeze Page 5)
Petrol 95/98 Octane unleaded only
Tank capacity 12.5 Gall/56 Lts 15 US Gall.
Ignition System
Type Lucas Dis 2
Ignition timing 4° ± 1° BTDC @ 750 rpm
Spark Plug types Champion RN11YC
Spark Plug gap 0.9mm/0.035"/0.040"
Carburation type Lucas Gems hot wire electronic injection
Fuel Pump pressure 26-36 PSI/1.8-2.5 BARI
CO Reading 0.5/1.0%
Front Wheel Alignment and Suspension
Castor angle 4°
Camber 1° NEG ± 0.5°
Kingpin inclination 2°
Toe-in 0 to 1
/
8" (0 to 3.2mm)
Weights
Complete with tools and petrol 940kg (2,068lb)
2Plus 8 4.0
Technical Information
Technical
Information
All specifications are subject to alteration without prior notice
Transmission
Clutch Diaphragm spring, hydraulic operation
single dry plate 9.5" diameter.
Rear Axle Hypoid Limited Slip. Ratio 3.23:1
Gearbox Rover: Five forward speeds, all synchromesh, one
reverse. Remote change.
Gear ratios Gearbox Overall
1st 3. 32 10.72
2nd 2.09 6.75
3rd 1.39 4.49
4th 1 3.23
5th 0.79 2.55
Reverse 3.43 11.08
Performance (205/60 VR15 Tyres)
Miles per hour/1,000rpm (approx)
3.23
5th 28.48
4th 22.48
3rd 16.17
2nd 10.75
1st 6.77
General Dimensions (approx)
Wheelbase 8'2" (249cm)
Track (front) 4'5" (134.5)
(rear) 4'6" (137.5cm)
Ground clearance 5½" (14cm)
Turning Circle 37' (11.2m)
Wheel size 15" x 6.5 (38 x 16.5cm)
Tyre size 205/60 VR 15
Overall Dimensions
Length 13' (396cm)
Width 5'3" (160cm)
Height (hood erected) 4' (122cm)
Body Dimensions
Seat to Hood 3' (91.5cm)
Width at Elbows 3'11" (119.5cm)
Height of Seat from Floor 8" (20cm)
Leg Room (front of seat) 19"-27" (48-69cm)
Door Width at Waistline 2'4" (71cm)
Luggage Space Width 3'5" (99cm)
Height under Tonneau 11" (28cm)
Depth (max) 21" 53cm)
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Morgan Owner’s Handbook
Technical Information
Technical
Information
RECOMMENDED LUBRICANTS These recommendations apply to
temperate climates where operational temperatures may vary between
approximately 0ºF (-20ºC) and 90ºF (32ºC). Information on recommended
lubricants for use under extreme winter or tropical conditions can be obtained
from the Morgan Motor Company or your local distributor.
4Plus 8 4.0
Technical Information
Technical
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ANTIFREEZE It is essential that the level of antifreeze should not fall below
40% at any time. Antifreeze is required during winter and summer months to
prevent corrosion of the aluminum engine components. The antifreeze used
should be of a recommended type suitable for aluminium or mixed metal
engines.
CASTROL MOBILOIL BP SHELL DUCKHAMS TEXACO
Engine Castrolite Super 10W/40 Visco Nova Super 11 10W/40 Havoline
10W/40 Rally Formula 10W/40 10W/40 QXR 10W/40
or TXT 5W/50 Quadro 10W/40
10W/40 10W/40
Gearbox TQF ATF 210 Autran G Donax TF Q-Matic Texmatic
Type G
Rear Axle Castrol BP Limslip Shell Spirax Hypoid 90DL Multigear
Hypoy LSX Gear Oil 90/1 Super 90 EP 85W 90
Steering Imperviatr Energrease
Rack Light 2626
Wheel Castrol LM Mobilgrease MP BP Energrease Shell Retinax Multifak EP2
Bearings Grease or Mobilgrease L2 A or Marfak
Special All Purpose
Chassis Castrol Mobilgrease MP BP Engergrease Shell Retinax Multifak EP2
grease MS3 Grease or Mobilgrease L2 L2 or Marfak All
points Special Purpose
Oil Can Engine oil Engine Oil Engine Oil Engine Oil Engine Oil Engine Oil
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Morgan Owner’s Handbook
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INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Speedometer
The electronic speedometer indicates
the vehicle speed when in motion.
The distance recorder indicates both
total mileage and trip mileage on the
same screen. To change from total
mileage to trip, press the button at the
base of the instrument. A small ‘t’ will
appear at the front of the display
when in trip mode. To zero the trip,
hold the same button down for a few
seconds. This can be done when
either display is showing.
Oil Pressure Gauge
This indicates the engine oil pressure
when the car is running. The normal
oil pressure should be between 1.8 - 4
Bar at, at 2400 rpm when the engine
is warm. At idle speed the pressure
will fall, but should still register. If no
pressure registers when the vehicle is
started, check engine oil level. If this is
correct, consult your Morgan Dealer
immediately.
Caution: Do not run an engine with
low or no oil pressure. Have it
checked!
Voltmeter
This instrument indicates the condition
of the battery on a voltmeter principle.
A reading above the 15 volts which
continues after 10 minutes running is
too high and should be investigated.
A reading below 12 volts indicates the
battery charging system requires
attention. To avoid battery discharge,
switch off unnecessary electrical
equipment when stationary.
Water Temperature Gauge
This is electrically operated, acting
only when the ignition is switched on.
The normal reading, when running on
the road, should be between 80 and
115°C. The temperature will change
when driving conditions vary.
Fuel Gauge
Operates only when the ignition is on,
the tank capacity is 12.5 gallons (56
litres).
Caution: The gauge is a guide to fuel
level and is affected by the angle of
the vehicle. It is advisable to avoid
running out of fuel often, as this may
damage the fuel pump.
Revolution Counter
Shows engine speed in revolutions per
minutes and is calibrated in divisions
of 100. It is of the electric impulse
type. The engine safe maximum is
5750rpm:
Caution: Never allow the engine speed
to exceed this speed.
WARNING LIGHT UNIT
(Placed centrally .behind steering
wheel):
(1) Direction Indicator
Monitor
The left-hand indicator glows green
when the steering column
combination switch is moved to signal
left-hand turn; the right-hand indicator
operates for a right-hand turn.
(2) Ignition Warning Light
(red)
This serves the dual purpose of
reminding the driver to switch off the
ignition before leaving the vehicle and
of acting as a no-charge indicator.
With the ignition switch ‘on’, the
warning light should be illuminated
only when the engine is stopped or
turning over very slowly. As the
engine accelerates the light should
dim and eventually go out at a fairly
low engine speed. Failure of the light
to behave in this fashion will indicate
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a broken alternator drive belt or other
fault in the charging system.
(3) Headlight Warning Light
(blue)
Glows when headlights are on main
beam, no light when dipped.
(4) Brake Warning Light (red)
When the ignition is switched on
with the handbrake applied the
indicator should glow. Should failure
of the front or rear brake lines occur
or the brake fluid level be too low, the
indicator will also light up.
Caution: Never drive a car with the
brake warning light on. Have it
checked!
(5) Inertia Switch Warning
Light (yellow)
In the event of an impact the inertia
switch will operate. This is indicated
by this light. The light will go out
when the switch is reset.
(6) ML Light (yellow)
The ML warning light will be
activated when there is a failure in the
ignition or fuel system of the engine,
which causes a change to the
emissions from the vehicle. If this light
is activated during the running of the
vehicle. The car should be taken
immediately to the nearest Morgan
Dealer. When the car is first started,
the ML light will illuminate with the
ignition light and once the car starts to
run correctly, this light will disappear.
No vehicle should be driven with any
form of misfire as this will seriously
damage the catalyst and cause fire.
Warning: Before re-setting the inertia
switch the vehicle must be checked
for damage, especially to the electrical
and fuel system.
FOOT OPERATED CONTROLS
Accelerator
The pedal is connected by a cable to
the injection throttle.
Foot Brake Pedal
Actuates the brakes on all 4 wheels
hydraulically, and also closes the
circuit to the rear brake lights. These
only operate when the ignition is
switched on.
Clutch
Press pedal to disengage drive from
engine to gearbox. DO NOT REST
YOUR FOOT ON PEDAL WHEN
DRIVING or hold the clutch out to
freewheel as this will CAUSE
UNNECESSARY WEAR.
HAND OPERATED CONTROLS
Handbrake
This is the ‘fly-off’ type. To operate the
handbrake pull backwards, the lever is
fixed in the ‘on’ position by pressing
the cap on top of the lever which
engages the paul in the ratchet. To
release brake pull the lever to the rear
and allow to go forward to the full
extent. Red warning light shows until
handbrake is ‘off’. It is advisable to
engage 1st gear when the vehicle is
parked on inclines. Disengage 1st gear
before starting.
Heater
This is located behind the dash board
and the hand brake lever, above the
gear box cover.
The temperature is controlled by the
knob in the centre, bottom of the
front of the box. Moving the knob to
the left increases the heat and to the
right reduces the heat. Hot or cold air
can be directed by the use of two sets
of vents on the heater.
1) On each side of the heater box are
6Plus 8 4.0
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Operating Instructions
rectangular vents. A small knob on
the vent can be used to open and
close the flaps of the vent to direct air
in the foot wells. These vents can also
be pivoted up and down.
2) On the front of the heater to the
left and right of the control knob, are
two round vents. These can be used
to direct air into the car. The vents are
opened by pressing on the larger of
the flaps. These vents can be rotated
to direct airflow.
Defrost/Demist
An electrically heated windscreen is
fitted to your car to clear the screen in
poor weather.
To operate the screen, first start the
engine as described, then press the
switch on the dash board showing the
screen symbol. This will heat the
eliminates and the screen. In heavy
frost, the screen may take longer to
clear, but should show signs in
approximately 2 minutes.
The screen can be used at all times
when the engine is running, but it is
advisable to switch off the screen
when clear.
Important
Switch off the screen BEFORE
switching off the engine, as this will
drain the battery.
Light and Indicator switch
The left hand control stalk behind the
steering wheel operates the direction
indicators and the vehicle lights.
Indicators
Press the control downwards until it
clicks in place for the left hand
indicators and lift the control upwards
for right hand indicators. The stalk is
fitted with a self cancel system which
should turn the switch off. In certain
cases this may not work if the wheel
has not passed through 90 deg.
Lights
The end of the left hand control can
be rotated upward to operate the
lights.
Position: 1: Lights Off
2: Sidelights and Dash Board
3: Main Beam/Dip Beam
Dip Switch
The same control stalk operates the
dip switch. To change the Head Light
setting, pull the stalk toward the
wheel until it clicks. To change again,
repeat the action.
Windscreen wipers/washers
The right hand stalk behind the
steering wheel operates the wiper and
the washer system.
Wipers: To operate the wipers the end
of the control is rotated upward.
Position: 1: Wipers Off
2: Intermittent Wipe
3: First Speed Continuous
4: Second Speed Continuous
Intermittent Wipe: With the main
switch in the first position, the screen
will be cleared once at a set period.
This period can be varied using the
rotary control on the inner part of the
stalk. The bottom stop is the longest
delay and the top the shortest.
Single Wipe: If the complete stalk is
pressed downward, the screen will be
swept once. The control will return
automatically.
Washers
To wash the screen, the control
should be pulled toward the steering
wheel. The stalk will return
automatically. Each time the washer is
operated, the wipers will sweep the
screen three times.
Caution: Always switch the wipers off
before turning off the ignition. In frost
or snow, always check that the wipers
are free before operation. Not doing
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8Plus 8 4.0
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so will damage the wiper system. At
all times use an additive in the washer
system and prevent freezing. Do not
use wipers on a dry screen.
Gear Lever
Always select neutral position before
starting the engine
Rover box
Do not lift, press, or rest hand on lever
when in motion. Select reverse only
when car is stationary.
Steering Lock, Ignition and Starter
Switch
This switch is located on the steering
column and has 4 positions.
Important:
Take note of the key number.
1st position Steering wheel lock in
operation and ignition off, key can be
extracted in this position.
2nd position Moving clockwise
‘garage lock’. Ignition off, but steering
unlocked which allows the car to be
moved and steered by hand.
3rd position Ignition on.
4th position Is spring loaded and
brings in the starter motor
Caution: Never allow the car to move
unless the lock is deactivated.
Horn
The horn button is located in the
centre of the steering wheel on
standard cars. On air bag cars the
horn is on each side of the top bar of
the wheel.
Rear Red Fog Lamps (Yellow)
These lights will only operate when
other lights are switched on. The
switch is only lit when the fog lamps
are on. DO NOT USE REAR FOG
LAMPS IN GOOD WEATHER.
Hazard Switch (Red)
This switch when depressed operates
all direction lights and should only be
used when the vehicle is stationery in
an emergency situation.
Fan Heater Switch (Yellow)
Operates two speed fan blower motor
in the car heater system.
Driving Light Switch (Yellow)
Operates both fog lights if required in
adverse driving conditions (when
fitted)
Instrument Illumination Rheostat
Turn knob right to illuminate the
instruments at high intensity and left
to reduce the intensity.
Seat Controls
There are three types of seat available
1: Fixed Back Bucket
2: Reclining
3: Sports Tipping
All seats have forward and aft
movement, controlled by the bar
under the front of the seat cushion.
The reclining seat has a fine adjusting
wheel on the side of the back rest,
which changes the angle when
rotated forward or backward. A small
lever below the wheel allows the seat
back to be folded down onto the
cushion.
Important
Be sure the back rest locks in place
when raised back up. The locking
point will vary with the angle set on
the wheel.
On the Sports seat, the whole seat can
be pivioted at the front to improve
access to the rear. The catch is
released by pulling the small loop
below the front of the cushion, above
the slider release. The loop must be
pulled to secure the seat again.
Airbag (when fitted)
The airbag system is mechanically
activated and totally self contained
within the steering wheel hub. In the
event of an impact a spherical sensor
moves within a cylinder releasing a
firing pin. This initiates a chemical
reaction, generating a gas (nitrogen)
which inflates the airbag. The whole
sequence of events from sensing the
impact to full inflation of the bag
takes place in a fraction of a second.
As the occupant restrained by the seat
belt moves forward the head and
chest come into contact with the
inflated bag which then deflates in a
controlled manner, via vent holes in
the rear of the bag, to absorb the
remaining energy of the impact.
The airbag is designed to inflate in
severe frontal collisions. It will not
deploy at very low speeds or in side
and rear impacts. Protection in these
instances is provided by the seat belts.
The severity of the collision is a
function of the relative speed and
weights of the vehicle or objects
colliding.
The noise and gas associated with the
deployment of the bag are not
hazardous to health.
Note: No objects whatsoever should be
attached to the centre cover of the
steering wheel or the dashboard.
All work on the airbag system
including replacement after
deployment and replacement at the
end of its service life must be carried
out by an authorised Morgan Dealer.
The airbag label fitted to the vehicle
contains the following statement:
ATTENTION SEAT BELTS SAVE LIVES
THIS VEHICLE IS FITTED WITH AIRBAG
SUPPLEMENTARY RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
FOR BOTH DRIVER AND FRONT SEAT
PASSENGER. FOR MAXIMUM
PROTECTION ALL OCCUPANTS
SHOULD WEAR THEIR SEAT BELTS
WHEN THE VEHICLE IS IN USE.
CHILD SEAT AND PASSENGER AIRBAG
USE ONLY FORWARD FACING CHILD
SEATS WITH PASSENGER SEAT IN THE
FULLY REARWARD POSITION
WARNING - As with all airbag systems it is
vitally important that passengers are
correctly restrained by the seat belts.
No rearward facing child seats must be
used in airbag vehicles
Young or small children must not be
carried in airbag vehicles unless the seat is
fully back and they are using the seat
pads required to ensure they are correctly
held by the seat belt.
Short drivers should take great care.
Sitting too close to the steering wheel can
be dangerous if the airbag is deployed.
Immobilise System Plus 8
This Morgan pIus 8 is fitted with an
engine immobilise system as part of
the engine management equipment.
The system has a rolling code
identification to prevent ‘Code
Grabbing’
To activate:
On the fob supplied with the keys, are
two buttons. The right hand button
has a pad lock symbol on it and when
pressed, this will start the system. A
red LED on the centre instrument
panel will flash when the system is
armed.
Warning
The system must only be used when
the car is parked and the ignition is
off. Do not remove or attempt to alter
the system in any way.
To Switch Off:
Press the left hand button on the fob
to turn the system off. The red LED
will go out when the unit signal is
cancelled.
If the fob has been pressed away from
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Morgan Owner’s Handbook
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the car, it may take three or four
operations to turn the system off. This
is due to the rolling code in the ECU.
SEAT BELTS
Wearing
Never attempt to wear the belt other
than as a complete lap and diagonal
assembly. Do not try to use the belt to
more than one person at a time, even
with small children. Ensure that the
belt webbing is not twisted when in
use, and that the belt is adjusted to
the correct tightness.
Using the harness
Take hold of the chrome connecting
end, draw over the shoulder and
across the chest. Push the tab firmly
into the buckle unit nearest to the
wearer, until a positive click is heard.
Ensure that the harness is safely
locked (see fig A).
To release the buckle press the red
button on the centre unit downward,
and make sure the belt retracts into
the rear (see fig B).
Adjusting
The belts fitted are of the inertia reel
type. Adjustment is automatic and the
belt will move to allow freedom in the
car. Free movement may be restricted
when cornering or braking, as the
locking mechanism is operated by the
pitch of the vehicle. In the event of an
accident the belts will lock, preventing
forward movement. The lock will
release automatically when the car is
stationary.
Cleaning the webbing
No chemical cleaners should be used
on the webbing. If it becomes soiled,
sponge with warm water, using a non-
detergent soap, and allow to dry
naturally, not by artificial heat or
direct exposure to the sun.
NEVER ATTEMPT TO EITHER BLEACH
OR RE-DYE THE WEBBING.
Warning:
1. Never at any time wear the lap belt
loosely as this reduces its protection.
2. Periodically inspect the webbing for
abrasion, paying particular attention
to the anchorage points and adjusting
devices.
3. In the event of an accident any
safety belt which has been subject to
a shock load should, in the interests of
safety, be renewed.
4. Alterations or additions to the kit
which might impair the efficiency of
the assembly should not be carried
out. In the case of doubt, or suitability
of a particular model, consult the
manufacturers list.
5. Small children should only be
carried if properly restrained. If they
are too small for a seat belt, a correct,
good quality child seat should be
used.
Mirrors
Caution: Always adjust mirrors before
moving off. The image in the mirrors
may not be true. Accustom yourself to
the type of mirror fitted before driving.
The interior mirror gives the best
image of vehicles behind.
Interior Mirror
This is simply adjusted by moving the
head. The position on the screen is set
by the Department of Transport.
Exterior Mirror
The head can be adjusted by means
of the small screw in the rear of the
mounting.
Caution: Do not overtighten after
adjusting. The height on some mirrors
can be adjusted by the nut fitted part-
way down the stem.
10 Plus 8 4.0
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Windows
These simply slide forward to open,
backward to close.
Caution: Do not push the two parts of
the window together, this will scratch
the lenses. Do not push the screen
open when it is frozen, this may break
the lenses.
Door Locks
To open, lift handle upward. It will
automatically spring down after
operation.
To lock, push locking knob upwards,
or downwards, depending on the lock
type.
Caution: If the lock will not engage, do
not force it, it may mean the door is
not properly closed.
Never close the door when the lock
catch is closed. If it has come down,
simply open the handle to lift the
catch.
Fuel Filler Cap
The fuel filler cap is a flip type. To
open press in the back part of the
latch at the top of the cap. When
fitted with a lock, the key must be
turned before the catch is opened.
The key cannot be removed when the
cap is unlocked.
Caution: Never close a locking cap
with the key or lock in the locked
position, this may bend the lock bar
and prevent opening.
Fuel Types
The Plus 8 should run on 95 or 98
Octane unleaded fuel,
Caution: All catalyst cars must be run
on unleaded ONLY.
Warning: Petroleum Spirit is highly
flammable and in confined spaces is
toxic and explosive. Never fill the tank
with the engine running, or near
naked lights or hot surfaces. Do not
inhale fumes. Have possible fuel leaks
Operating
instructions
checked by experienced personnel. Do
not use any other fuel than standard
petrol. Do not over-fill the tank.
Always ensure that the filler cap is
properly closed before starting the car.
DRIVING INSTRUCTIONS
Starting
Before attempting to start the car,
make certain that the handbrake is
fully applied and the car is in neutral.
Caution: Do not operate the
accelerator pedal when starting. Turn
the key and ensure that the
ignition/steering lock is free.
Caution: Never allow the car to move
with the steering lock engaged. Move
the key forward to the ignition
position and rotate the engine until it
starts. Release the key as soon as the
engine is running. If the engine does
not start. Release the key, pause for
five seconds and try again. Do not
operate the accelerator. Do not
operate the starter for more than 15
seconds at a time. If the engine still
fails to start. Switch off the ignition
and investigate the cause.
Caution: Continued operation of the
starter will discharge the battery and
damage the starter.
Warning: Carbon Monoxide is
dangerous. Do not breathe exhaust
gases which contain carbon
monoxide. Before starting the car, be
sure that there is sufficient ventilation
to allow gases to escape.
Engine Start
When the engine first starts, under
certain conditions, the hydraulic
tappets may emit a rattling noise. This
is due to oil having drained from the
hydraulic system when the vehicle
was standing.
The level of oil will automatically
recharge the tappets and the noise
cease after a period of engine
running. After the engine has been
standing for long periods, or in very
cold weather, this noise may last for
some minutes. In these cases the car
may be driven, but the engine speed
should remain below 3,000rpm, until
the noise ceases.
Starting in Cold Conditions – (10C)
Before operating the starter, depress
the clutch. When the engine starts,
release the clutch slowly.
Warming up
As soon as the engine is running and
the instruments are reading correctly,
the car may be driven. The tick-over
will be adjusted by the fuel injection
and may run a little higher than
normal while the engine is cold. The
tick-over may also fluctuate for a short
time when electrical equipment is
switched on.
Caution: Avoid harsh acceleration or
labouring at all times, but especially
when the engine is cold. It is
recommended that the car is run
carefully until the normal running
temperature is reached.
When the vehicle reaches normal
operating temperature, check that all
the instruments are reading correctly.
Under cold conditions, the gearbox
may appear stiff whilst the car is cold.
Operate the gears carefully, allow time
for the clutch to free the box and the
lever to travel between the gate.
Brakes
When first driving a new car, the
brakes will require bedding-in. This
also applies when brake surfaces have
been replaced. During the first 200
miles, avoid heavy or continuous
braking.
Warning
Wet Brakes
Driving through deep water, or during
heavy rain and slush conditions may
reduce braking efficiency. As a result
braking will not slow the car as
12 Plus 8 4.0
Driving
instructions
Driving Instructions
quickly.
If heavy rain or deep water are
encountered, before braking a light
application should be made to clear
water from the brake surfaces.
Caution: If discs are wet, the car may
not brake in a straight line. Brakes
should be cleared as soon as possible,
away from other traffic. Always allow
a greater distance from other traffic in
wet conditions.
Warning: If the brake warning light
comes on while the car is in motion,
this may indicate a failure in one of
the brake circuits. You should stop
immediately, braking slowly, as the
brake efficiency may be reduced.
Investigate the cause, and if satisfied
that you may continue, do so, but
take great care. Do not brake heavily,
and have the car examined at the
next available garage. If you are not
sure, do not continue, but call for
assistance.
Warning: This car is fitted with servo
assisted brakes. Do not move the car
without the engine running, as the
effort required will be greatly
increased. The car will stop if the
pedal is pressed hard enough.
Caution: Never drive with the
handbrake applied. Never rest your
foot on the brake pedal when not in
use. Take care when descending steep
hills – brakes may overheat and
reduce efficiency if constant braking is
required.
Running in
During the first 30 hours or so of their
working life, the moving parts of a
new car require a ‘bedding-in’ or
polishing process, such as is provided
by light and medium running.
Long trouble-free life, particularly of
engine, rear axle and brakes depends
on this careful running-in, which can
only be achieved by restraint on the
part of those who drive the vehicle
during its initial time.
The engine may seem to lack power
for the first 200 to 300 miles (320-
480km) whilst this process is taking
place. The power will then improve as
the car is used for the first 2,000 miles
(3,200km), and this will be
accompanied by a corresponding
improvement in fuel consumption.
It is suggested that for the first 500
miles (800km) engine speed should
not be exceed 3,000rpm.
Both long periods of idling and
excessive racing of the engine should
be avoided at all times and
particularly during warming up from
cold.
Do not allow the engine to ‘labour’
especially when driving up steep hills.
At the first sign of this, change down,
bearing in mind that changing down
too early can result in undesirable
racing of the engine.
Vary the rpm occasionally whenever
possible, releasing the accelerator now
and again to give the engine a better
start in life.
As the machined surfaces approach
their optimum condition, it becomes
necessary to reset the adjustments to
suit the more fiexible engine. Your
Morgan dealer will attend to this
when he carries out the first service.
Due to the good power to weight ratio
of the Morgan car, complete free
running of the engine and other parts
may take longer than the initial
running-in period. Full engine power
may not develop until the vehicle has
covered over 5,000 miles.
First Service
After the first few weeks or 1,000
miles, the car should be returned to
the supplying dealer for a ‘First
13
Morgan Owner’s Handbook
Driving Instructions
Driving
instructions
14 Plus 8 4.0
Driving
instructions
Driving Instructions
Service’.
At this time the car will have settled
into a normal running pattern and the
‘bedding-in’ process should be
completed.
Your dealer will examine and reset
the engine where necessary. At the
same time all the oils should be
changed, along with the engine oil
filter. This will remove any materials
released during the ‘running-in’
process.
Any points you have noticed may
prove useful to your dealer and
should be mentioned when you
deliver the car for service.
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
AND ADJUSTMENTS
Introduction
In this section will be found
information necessary to maintain
your car in good mechanical condition
in a temperate climate. Details of the
intervals of service may be found in
the schedule at the back of this book.
The time between examination is
dependent on many things,
particularly the type of use and the
road conditions. In dusty conditions or
regular town journeys the time
between services must be reduced. If a
car is not in use for long periods, the
need for regular attention is as great
as for a vehicle in every day use.
The following details, along with
services from your Morgan distributor
or dealer, will help to prolong the life
and enjoyment of your car.
Regular Checks:
1. Front suspension lubrication (every
200 miles or as necessary)
2. Daily checks:
Lights
Horn
Indicators
Windscreen wiper and washers
Mirrors
Brakes operation (foot and hand)
3. Weekly checks (or before long
journeys)
Engine oil level
Engine coolant level
Antifreeze
Washer bottle level
Battery fluid
Brake fluid
Clutch fluid
Tyre pressures and condition
Lubricate all locks and hinges
(including bonnet hinge)
MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS
Warning: The following safety
precautions must be observed when
the bonnet is open and the engine is
running or the ignition is switched on.
Do not work beneath the car with the
vehicle lifting jack as the only support.
Place suitable stands under the car as
a safety precaution.
Keep hands, tools and items of
clothing clear of all drive belts, pulleys
and operating mechanisms. Beware
the cooling fan may operate even
though the engine is not running.
Avoid skin contact with all exhaust
system components. They may be hot
and will burn you.
Do not touch the ignition coil,
distributor, ignition cables or
connectors, you may receive an
electric shock. On vehicles fitted with
electronic ignition systems the electric
shock could be severe.
Carbon monoxide is a dangerous gas
and can cause unconciousness and
may even be fatal. Do not breathe
exhaust gas because it contains
carbon monoxide which by itself has
no colour or odour. Never start or
leave the engine running in an
enclosed, unventilated area.
Keep children and pets clear of the
car. Do not allow anyone inside the
car unless specifically working to your
instructions.
Whenever possible work in the engine
compartment with the engine stopped
and the battery disconnected.
Dangerous Substances
Warning: Many liquids and other
substances used in motor vehicles are
poisonous and should under no
circumstances be consumed and
should, so far as possible, be kept
from contact with the skin. These
substances among others include acid,
15
Morgan Owner’s Handbook
Routine Maintenance
Routine
Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
anti-freeze, brake fluid, fuel,
windscreen washer additives,
lubricants, and various adhesives.
Particular care should be taken to
avoid unnecessary contact with used
engine oil. Always read carefully the
instructions printed on labels or
stamped on components and obey
them implicitly. Such instructions are
included for reasons of your health
and personal safety. Never disregard
them.
Fuel Tank Filling
Warning: Petroleum spirit is highly
flammable and in confined spaces is
also explosive and toxic. In the event
of inadvertent spillage, switch off
engine, use no naked flame or light.
Do no smoke.
Components Containing Asbestos
Safety Instructions
Warning: Certain components such as
front and rear brake pads, clutch
plates and brake bands in automatic
transmissions, heat shields and certain
gaskets fitted to your vehicle may
contain asbestos. Inhaling asbestos
dust is dangerous to health.
The following safety instructions must
therefore be observed when working
with these components:
Wear a protective breathing mask
suitable for asbestos dust. Never use
an airline to blow dust from
components. Clean friction
components using methylated spirit.
Replace worn components with
recommended replacements. Operate
if possible out of doors or in a well
ventilated place. Preferably use hand
tools or low speed tools equipped, if
necessary, with an appropriate dust
extraction facility. If high speed tools
are used, they should always be so
equipped. If possible, dampen before
cutting or drilling. Dampen dust and
place in a properly closed receptacle
and dispose of it safely.
Servicing and Adjustments
The importance of regular servicing
cannot be over-stressed. Your local
dealer can offer the full range of
facilities and maintain your car to a
high standard. With the increase in
high technology engine management,
the level of equipment and method of
adjustment for engine running has
become more complex. It is essential
that the correct equipment is used
when re-tuning a Morgan engine. The
wrong testing equipment can cause
expensive failure in electronic controls
and seriously affect the engine
workings.
Some of the items in this book may
be carried out by the owner, with
advice from your Morgan dealer or
the factory.
Caution: Never undertake any work
you are not certain of. Never make
modifications to standard equipment,
especially safety related modifications
such as brakes, seat belts or steering.
Warning: You are ultimately
responsible for the safety of your car.
You should always discuss changes to
specification with your dealer or the
factory.
Slow running and mixture control
The tick-over and mixture adjustment
are both linked in the fuel injection
engine and cannot be altered, other
than by use of the proper test
equipment. This should be carried out
by an approved Morgan Garage.
Lubrication
Engine
Caution: Always use high quality oils
of the correct viscosity for topping-up
16 Plus 8 4.0
Routine
Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
and refilling. Always try to use the
same oil for topping-up as was used
at the service. Never mix mineral oils
with synthetics. See chart at the front
of this book for details of oils and
grades.
Engine Oil Level
Should be checked every week. Stand
the car on level ground when the
engine is warm, allow time for the oil
to return to the sump and remove
dipstick. Clean the stick and replace in
the tube between the manifold pipes
on the left of the engine. Withdraw
the stick again and read the level. The
level should fall between the two
marks at the bottom of the rod. Do
not fill above the ‘max’ mark.
Warning: The dipstick is situated
between the centre pipes of the
exhaust manifold. When the engine’s
warm the manifold will be extremely
hot. Do not touch it with hands or
clothing. The metal of the dip-stick
may also be hot.
Oil change
The engine oil should be changed
every 5,000 miles. Run the engine to
normal temperature. Switch off the
engine and remove drain plug from
the left - hand side of the sump. When
the oil has drained completely, clean
and replace plug. Fit new plug gasket
if necessary. Fit a new oil filter (see
below) and fill with the correct grade
and quantity of oil (see page 5).
Replace the filler cap on the left-hand
rocker cover and run the engine for a
short while. Remove the dip-stick from
the engine and wipe clean. Replace
stick to full depth and remove again
to examine level. The level should be
just on the ‘max’ mark. Never overfill
the engine.
Warning: Care should be taken when
draining engine oil as it may be very
hot. Prolonged exposure to used
engine oil can cause serious skin
disorders. Avoid excessive contact
with skin or use protection.
The radiator fan may operate even
when the ignition is switched off. Take
care not to work near the fan until
engine has cooled sufficiently.
Oil Filter
The filter should always be changed
when the engine oil is replaced. The
filter cartridge is located below the
engine on the right-hand side in front
of the engine. To remove, turn the
filter anti-clockwise until clear of the
thread. Discard the old filter. Clean the
thread and face of the mounting with
a dustfree cloth, lightly oil the sealing
ring on the new filter and screw into
place in a clockwise motion. Tighten
until the seal is in contact with the
face and then make half a turn more.
Do not over-tighten. Start engine,
check oil pressure and examine for
leaks. Be sure to check oil level after
filter change.
Gearbox
At each service the gearbox oil must
be changed. This is best done when
the engine oil is renewed as the drain
plug is located at the bottom right-
hand side of the gearbox under the
car.
Warning: Never work under a car
supported only by a jack. Always use
proper axle stands under the cross
members of the chassis. Always work
on level ground. Remove the drain
plug, with a suitable container under
the gearbox. This is best done while
the oil is warm.
Warning: The gearbox oil may be very
hot. Do not let oil come into contact
with face, eyes or mouth. Used oil can
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Morgan Owner’s Handbook
Routine Maintenance
Routine
Maintenance
cause skin complaints or irritation.
Avoid excessive contact.
When all the oil has drained, clean
and replace the drain plug.
The filler is reached from inside the
car, through a cover on the right-hand
side of the gearbox housing. This is
found by lifting the floor mat nearest
the gearbox cover and releasing the
lift-a-dots. Lift the material cover up
and the inspection cover is visible. The
inspection hole is near the centre of
the tunnel. The filler plug has a square
head.
Remove the plug and fill to the
bottom of the filler hole. Refit the
plug, but do not over-tighten. Replace
the inspection cover and refit the
material cover.
Rear Axle
The axle used in the Plus 8 is fitted
with a limited slip differential. It is
essential that an oil specially
formulated for this type of axle is used
(see page 5). The oil must be changed
every 5,000 miles (8,000km). A drain
plug is provided at the base of the
axle.
Caution: The hypoid bevel gears and
limited slip differential fitted to the
rear axle require a special lubricant to
ensure efficient operation and long
life. During ‘running in’ the limited slip
discs may be heard to ‘knock’ or ‘click’
when turning corners, particularly
after long motorway trips. This should
become less frequent after the first
5,000 miles (8,000km).
This type of gear incorporates a
sliding action between the
exceptionally sturdy gear teeth,
resulting in silent operation. However,
the rubbing action is too severe for
normal oils, so special ‘Hypoid’ oils
have been developed which contain
additives that make the oil capable of
withstanding pressures many times
heavier than normal oils can cope
with. A further feature of ‘Hypoid’ oils
is that they are ‘lighter’ that is to say,
more fluid than normal axle oils.
However, the special additives begin
to lose their properties in the course
of use, and the oil tends to revert to a
light gear oil.
Thus it is advisable to completely
drain and replenish with a new
‘Hypoid’ oil every 5,000 miles
(8,000km), and in any event do not
exceed a period of 10,000 miles
(16,000km).
It is desirable to have the oil level
checked during this period and if the
oil is below the plug on the rear do
not ‘top up’ but drain the oil and refill
with new oil, this will overcome the
danger of mixing the various grades
of oil. Clean away grit from the filler
plug and refill until oil reaches the
level of the filler plug on the rear of
the axle case.
Air Cleaner
The injection system fitted to this car
detects the level of air drawn into the
engine, and uses this information to
control the fuel level. It is important
that the air flow is not restricted. The
air cleaner should be changed every
10,000 miles, or more frequently in
dusty conditions or regular town use.
The element can be removed by
releasing the four clips around the top
of the case. The element is free to be
removed. When replacing, use the
correct specification of element and
make certain that it is fitted correctly
on the raised areas in the cleaner and
on its lid. Be sure the lid is properly
secured.
While checking the air cleaner the
pipes connecting it to the engine
should be examined. It is most
18 Plus 8 4.0
Routine
Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
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