My parts order arrived for the MGB this morning, right on
schedule. (Note to Dana Henry: We *did* look through the
Roadster Factory part book, but it didn't have pistons of
the right size to fit this block, so I went with Victoria
British.)
Kim ordered the parts, got the certified check out to them,
and essentially managed the order till it was delivered. In
her words to me in mail yesterday:
everyone there at VicBrit was unfailingly polite and helpful.
I had to hold a bit for a rep, who when I got her, was able to
determine that the order WAS received yesterday. The parts
(she confirmed most of the list for me so I know she was reading
from it) are ALL in, and will be sent out today for delivery
tomorrow. I guess I'm trying to let you know how impressed I am
with the service there.
And of course they're at home now. One miscue: the VB catalogue
lists in parentheses the number of each part that you need to
order for one vehicle -- that is, for front wheel bearings, the
catalogue lists (2) so you know how many to order for the whole
car. Their connecting-rod bolt listing says (4); I figured that
the part number listed bolt pairs, since of course you use 8 to
assemble an entire motor (two per rod). I ordered four of this
part number, and got four bolts. Oh well, I'll put one new bolt
on each rod and hope for the best.
Regarding the safety wire etc... I'm going to try to find red
Loctite in the high-temperature flavor, but if I can't, I'll
use the red #271 and just Brakleen the hell out of the threads.
That's what Mike O'Connor recommends, that and using Grade 8 or
stainless washers under the rod bolts. I did get a look at Chris'
very trick drilling jig, but it just didn't feel comfortable to
me, and that's what this is all about.
What else... I need a ring compressor, a tub of RedLine assembly
lube, some 10W-30 oil for the breakin period, and some gasket
removing spray to clear off the old Permatex.
Oh and by the way: for Dick Nyquist -- what was that cute little
blue four-door in front of your house last Monday evening? I saw
the letters TRIUMPH on the nose, but I've never identified that
particular vehicle, even though I've seen another one at least once.
Is it yours? Is it a friend's? Tell us more! (I had a very hungry
six-year-old in the car with me or I would have stopped to ask, but
we were in search of sushi and she was starting to gnaw the interior
about the time I saw your place...)
--Scott
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