Moss Motors, Ltd

Hi all

It's been a long time since I posted anything,but I have been out enjoying the "B". I got a Monza exhaust put on this spring and much to my delight not only does she sound much more "serious" but I noticed better engine performance. Which leads me to my question....should I consider putting in an overdrive transmission? What are the pros and cons (if any) and what would be a reasonable price for a "good" used one. I have every confidence in my mechanic but would like some input before I broach him on this subject. 

Cheers...Rita

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Alive to drive British

Hi Rita,

How've ya been?

To be honest, I'd be wary of a used overdrive transmission unless it came with a guarantee. Even if it does you can't expect your mechanic to remove and reinstall one for free should it prove bad. If an overdrive gearbox is what you really want, I would look for the whole package as a rebuilt unit with all the goodies to adapt it. Will this be pricey? Yup.

Of course, you could accomplish the same thing with a five speed kit. There are two of which I know. First, there is the one sold by our host and others which uses the Ford Sierra gearbox. Then, there is the unit which uses the Nissan 280Z gearbox. This kit is sold without the transmission by Rivergate Restorations. You must supply the trans yourself, and they are getting a little hard to find, though there are still some out there. Both are good, well engineered kits with nice strong gearboxes.

Whichever way you decide to go, if at all, it'll make a real improvement in the car. We've done all three, and folks genuinely like the results, in spite of the price. If I can be of further help, let me know. Feel free to email me if need be.

Also, what's ever happened to your search for an MGA?

Glad to hear from you,

Bill

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Motorbill
From Lola to Land Rover, If it's British and has wheels, it's likely I've bloodied me knuckles thereupon

Hi Rita!

I installed the Moss-supplied 5-speed Ford transmission into my TD.  It totally transformed the car, and made it so much more enjoyable to drive either in traffic or cruising the highways at speed (remember, that's all relative for a TD).  The kit was complete and bolted right up without any major rework.  I suspect the same applies for your "B".  The reduction of gear and motor noise (due to lower rpms in O/D) is wonderful!

Money well spent.  Would do it again without hesitation.

Hi Bill,

Thanks for the input,I see your point about used, I've never been a big fan of used when it comes to my "B" (or anywhere else for that matter) I could foreseeably be creating a whole slew of problems, that don't exsist now. Perhaps I will save up my scheckles and do the job properly, the end result sound like fun!

I am still looking for my"A", but I tend to be somewhat "fussy" ( that's putting it mildly) and I will know the right car when I see it. There is a lovely '62 not far from me that's for sale but the owner is asking $5000. more than what I think it's worth. I don't know what its like in your neck of the woods but here in Ontario anyone who has an "A" seems to think that they can ask the moon for these cars. I encountered one "gentleman" who has a decent '57 and he wants $35,000. for it! Bad roof, no side curtains, fair paint, etc. etc. 

Then there is the issue of colour.....now I'm going to get myself in deep here! I really do not like "RED" and it seems that everyone has painted their "A" resale red! What I wouldn't give for Dove Gray with deep red leather interior or that lovely light green, heck give me good old fashion O.E.W, just no red! By the way the "gentleman" with the '57 said if I didn't like the red I could just paint it, so add another few grand to the price!

Well there you have it Bill, I'm back and as opinionated as ever!

Cheers...Rita

 

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Alive to drive British

Rita,

Good for you. Opinions are good. My worst customers are the ones who don't know what they want. I'm happy to work for anyone, whether on a repair or a restoration, if they know exactly what they expect and make that clear. We quickly come to an understanding of what it's likely to take financially, exclusive of surprises. The ones that want me to tell them what they want are annoying. What they are really doing, either purposely or subconciously, is trying to cause me to be at fault for any future unhappiness, whether it's buyers remorse or dissatisfaction with the color...

Take a look at the NADA website for MGA market values. They are rising for sure. True enough, this site tends to be about ten percent high overall, buut prices are still impressive for As. This is good and bad for us enthusiasts. If I were in your shoes,.....I'd probably be arrested!!  No, I think I'd buy sooner than later, though it's tough to make a good choice under pressure. Are you looking for a nice driver, a project, or something special? Let me know. Maybe I can help with the search.

 

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Motorbill
From Lola to Land Rover, If it's British and has wheels, it's likely I've bloodied me knuckles thereupon