Watts Link

[pawp]

Anybody running a Watts Link on an MGB?  I'm considering one and would like your input. Thanks

Well, I got it figured out.  Seems you can mount a watt's link offset to the drive line center if you change the pivot angle proportionally to the added length of the longer arm. There seems to be no adverse issues. So, it mounts at the right axle center-line for proper roll center and mounts off the right side of the differential, hence no clearance problems.  The mock up works fine . I'll let you know how the actual installation works.  Thanks for the help.

[mgb260]

Lakewood has one for a Mustang that could easily be copied over to the MGB.

[Moderator]

I've never seen a Watt's linkage on an MGB... but I've seen a really nice one on an MG Midget. I'll post snapshots below. A full article on the Midget in question is coming soon.  

I presume you realize there are two basic ways to install a Watt's linkage.
A) pivot the bellcrank on the axle, and connect the outboard links to the body, or
B) pivot the bellcrank on a body-mounted bracket, and connect the outboard links to the axle.

What rear axle will you be using?  I tend to think Option A suits a Ford 8-inch axle or an MGB "banjo" axle slightly better. Option B may suit a Ford 8.8, Chevy 10-bolt, or MG Salisbury axle slightly better. The latter (tube-type) axles typically have removable rear covers. Whether the bellcrank is mounted to axle or body, it's going to be in the way of accessing the differential. Are the covers strong enough for mounting the pivot, or will they require reinforcement?

An MGB presents a couple particular challenges:
1) there's relatively little clearance between the fuel tank and the axle. (On my car that there was just barely enough room for a Panhard rod behind the axle, but I've noticed some people haven't had enough room there. Ted Lathrop generally mounts Panhard rods ahead of the axle because of the tight fit behind.)  
2) the boot floor behind the differential is pretty weak, so if you attempt option B above you'll need to attach outboard and/or gusset across a lot of sheet metal.  

IMHO, the big advantage of a Watt's link (i.e. freedom from side-to-side axle movement and subsequent roll steer) would be more relevant for a suspension with more wheel travel, but the MGB rear suspension just doesn't provide much range of travel.  If you install a reasonably long Panhard rod, you probably won't notice roll steer effects...

[MGBV8]

I'm betting that Lakewood Watt's setup weighs waaay more than my panhard rod.

[mgb260]

Carl, You are absolutely right, everytime I post something now I'm going to worry about the weight! LOL. I'll probably diet myself being I'm one of the heaviest parts in the car! My brother used to have a Pro Gas/Bracket Vega with 400 SBC/Powerglide,super narrow 9" rear. Lexan glass everything gutted,aluminum interior,etc. It did go low 9's. I don't plan on going near that fast, or worry too much about weight on a street/strip fun car.

[WedgeWorks1]

Here is how it was done back in the day "Group 44" style on their MGB.

And one of the TR8s


Group 44 ran solid axles with watts linkage on almost all of their cars with the exception of the TR6, Spitfires, GT6 and some of the Jags. So if it is good enough for them then it should be good enough for everyone!

[mgb260]

I was just ribbing Carl on the weight of the Lakewood one, but seriously, that looks like a lightweight setup. Must have a fuel cell up in the trunk?

[pawp]

Thanks everyone. The idea I'm working in will mount in front of axle up top. Still measuring though. I appreciate the help. Keep it coming.

[mgb260]

Australian Falcon mounts in front. Here is a pic of one on a 8" Ford:

[mgb260]

Here is a Huffaker Watts mounted underneath the rear axle:

[Moderator]

Which Huffaker MGBs had Watts Linkages?

I've only had a close look at one Huffaker MGB... It was the one bought be Don Martin and subsequently owned by Hap Waldrop and now Eddie Beal - so arguably the final and "best" Huffaker MGB, although I can't tell by looking at it what all the fuss is about. See below.

Positive: the installed height of this Panhard rod has relocated the car's roll center lower by about seven inches:


Negative: Panhard rod mounted in single shear at both ends, and with a bend in the middle for good measure:

[mgb260]

Hap would know, I think he posted that picture originally in a discussion on Watts. The floorboards don't look like MG,maybe Spridget, Triumph?

[ex-tyke]

The floorboards don't look like MG,maybe Triumph?

Salsbury axle, main crossmember with exhaust reliefs, welded exhaust hanger bracket .....all appear to be MG - battery box is an aftermarket unit.

[mgb260]

Graham, The picture above the two Curtis posted, with the bottom mount Watts.The ribs in the floorboards run the other way. Maybe Spridget? I think you mean Banjo axle.

[roverman]

Watts made by Stock Car Products, had their pivot around the snout of 9" Ford. 8" also ? No one uses a "pickle fork"anymore? Simple,lite and easy to change IC. Pickle mounts on body/frame with open end of slot facing down. "Roller" bolts on rear cover of rear end, and travels vertically in slot. Adjustable height through multiple bolt holes to adjust instant center. Zero arc and compact.  roverman.