"Poor durability" is a bit harsh. The 5-main is stronger but gives slightly
less power. Unless you intend to thrash it I wouldn't think it is much of
an issue. Rebuild and reinstall the 3-main and enjoy its originality.
PaulH.
----- Original Message -----
From: Chris Thompson <ct@cthompson.com>
To: <mgs@autox.team.net>
Sent: Friday, February 23, 2001 3:40 PM
Subject: 3 Main Engines
> Question,
>
> I've located a 1964 pull handle roadster in "fantastic" shape. I'm
currently
> waiting for more info on it. It's for sale at a price that I like.
>
> My 1973 is in limbo. When I bought it, ohio wouldnt let me transfer the
> title because I couldnt show proof of Social Security Number. I had lost
my
> SSN card. (Never mind the card says it's not to be used as ID). So I
waited
> the requisite four weeks for a new SSN card to arrive, went to go move the
> title, and the title is gone. Cant find it anywhere. And the guy I bought
it
> from sold it because he was moving "out west", And left no forwarding
> address. I have no bill of sale, either.
>
> So my plan was to buy the 64 and part out the 73. It should be pretty much
a
> wash.
>
> My question is this... When I've read discussions of the older 3 Main
> engines, the description of why the switch was made to 5 is a bit
> harsh. Usually someone mentions that the 3main likes to "Whip itself to
> death" and has poor durability.
>
> I'm looking for a daily driver, here in Cincinnati, where there's
currently
> snow on the ground, and wet salty muck on the roads. We're also far enough
> south that 100+ F temperatures are not unheard of in the summer.
>
> What would I be getting into with a 3main? I've considered rebuilding the
> 18V in the 73 for placement in the 64, and rebuilding the 18whatever int
he
> 64 and keeping it safe for whenever I wanted to remate them for
authenticity
> and sale. I'd probably convert to negative ground, as I want a stereo/mp3
> player. And it would probably get Fiero Seats for comfort and headrest
> speakers.
>
> Oh, and my wife will likely kill me for buying another.
>
> So if you great MGB gurus could give some 3main advice, I'd appreciate it.
>
> ________________________________________________________________________
> | Chris Thompson ct@cthompson.com |
> | 1973 MGB http://cthompson.com/mg/ |
> | 1964 Pull Handle Roadster????? |
> +----------------------------------------------------------------------+
|