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MG MG Y Type - Y type headlamps

Can anyone throw any light on a recent headlamp query I received.(no pun intended) I'm stuck for an answer.
Both the YA and YB workshop manuals state that the headlamps fitted to these models should be the Lucas MBD.140.
I always assumed that Y types should be fitted with the Lucas S700 units (this is the type listed in the YT manual) and my car has these fitted.
I have done some research and it appears that the Lucas prefixes MBD stand for -
"M" - standard lamp with seperate reflector and lens
"B" - Brass body (Chromed)
"D" - Domed lens.
This description matches the S700 as far as I know so what is the significance of the 140 ?
Thanks in anticipation.
Jack Murray

Now this is very interesting as we are wanting people to register their interest in having a reprint of the Lucas Equipment listings for the YT and the Y Saloon!

Using this excellent little guide this states:
Headlamp MBD140 Export and Left Hand Home, and Right Hand Home.

The only difference between the two is that the LH Home is Lucas part number 50458 and the RH Home is 50490. The two are identical except for the Bulb holder and reflector. The RH Home is 504804 and 506854 respectively, and the LH Home is 504801 and 506855 respectively - probably something to do with the dipping. No reference is made to the early larger lights as fitted to very early Y(A)s, so I guess these must be the numbers for the slightly smaller ones. Publication date - December 1949.

If you are interested in the possibility of obtaining a copy of either, or both of these (and / or the Fist 500 miles in your MG Y Type leaflet) please see the July 2003 news for a link to eMail me to create the demand. We need a few more for each publication to make a print run viable.

If you are not sure what I am talking about, go to the Collectibles page and you can read more about each of these items there too.

Paul
Paul Barrow

Hi, the S700 headlight is a 7" headlight and the same as used on the MGTD. The MBD140 headlight is a 8" headlight and the same as used on the MGTC.
Regards, Hugh
Hugh Pite

Hugh

Many thanks for the info. It has made me get my Original Lucas brochures out and although they are both December 1949 it is interesting to note that the YT brochure quotes the headlamp unit as being the S700, and the Y Saloon of the same date (some time after the practice of fitting the 8 inch light ceased) as being the MBD140!

We are still seeking numbers for the reprint of both these brochures in their full colour (black, brown and white) book format. To register an interest in obtaining a copy, please go to the News item in the July News - I would put one up today but I do not want to detract from the news on the spoof eBay emails that are flying around.

Paul
Paul Barrow

For what it is worth, my 49 Y had the 8" (TC) shells, with the step down rims to fit 7" units and the 50 has 7" (TD)shells.
Safety Fast
Paul
Paul

I can concur with Paul from CT/USA on this - Y 4099 had the step downs too - Y 5270 did not!

Paul
Paul Barrow

This thread was discussed between 30/07/2003 and 03/08/2003

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