Front end Update

Started by classic conversions, July 14, 2012, 01:37:59 PM

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classic conversions

It has been lots of work and time consuming thus far.
The front end originally was design to fit the RB and was going to be tested on a RB B, but things changed with the B that was going to be available and testing was cancel until a RB B could be found, to my amazement no one here on Ca. wanted to test the front end. My friends Cobra which uses an MGB cross member volunteer to test, this was a great car to test due to the Cobra job is high speed rallies, but it is rally season and ......no time.
Next was to modify my MGB RD and proceed to test the front end, not as easy as I though.
I had to make lots of changes to my B due to modifications that were done prior to this front end. The good news is that the new front will fit both cars; the CB B will require a bit more pieces and very minor modifications.
Decided that if I was going to tested in my B then I would need the correct wheel offset, this took 31/2 weeks to get due stock and special drilling since my B is a five bolt wheel. VTO wheels are perhaps the best wheels I have found thus far, they are light, very light I like them.
Next was to install the front end for fitment, next I had to build a sway bar due to the radiator seats forward in my car and the tires were hitting the sway bar, more modifications, this are not needed on the average MGB. Many things happen all at once, blew the supercharger hose all to hell, cut a belt, do not know how, it was still working it was just a bit to narrow.
Adjusting and adjusting and modifying and more of each time, not an easy task when you are a one man job and includes phone calls, e-mails, shipping, getting supplies etc.
Not complaining.
First drive great, spring to soft, changed spring, perhaps a little stiffer, now I need to match the spring rate to the sway bar, more changes to the sway bar which had to make another that had several adjustments. More later on how to make your own bars.
Went to the same road which has some off camber turns and camber turns and some good bumps to drive on, made a huge safety mistake. The day before when I drove the same road it was good. Next day I just went for it, well.....I should have driving it first to check for any changes etc... On one of the turns a truck or someone dump some sand and......yes went for a spin, was able to keep control but went off the road and made some damage to the B, nothing serious, but enough to have a good safety check.
Where I am on the front end kit? Cross members are made, testing for spring sway bar rate and this takes time.
I have enclosed some pictures to give an idea.
When is the front end going to be available, I have to say at the end of this month or Aug.