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MG MGA - How were the original jacks secured in the trunk?

How were the original Shelley and King Dick screw jacks secured in the trunk (boot) of an MGA? While the tool roll was secured by straps and crank handle by clips, I don't see any reference to how the jacks were secured, surely they weren't left free to roll around. Were they jammed in placed by extending the jack by hand as is sometimes done in modern cars. Photo of orignal type installation would be handy.
Regards
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

Mike

My guess is that they were not secured and that is why so many parted company with the cars.

The only example I have seen so far of a specialised retaining bracket for Shelley jacks is in the AC Cobra - picture attached of its LJ22 clip and handle stowage.

I would also be interested in any MGA details for my database.

Steve

Steve Gyles

In that case maybe Barney will post the more ingenious jack securing methods on his web site as a prize for submissions!
(By the way I have a scissor jack that fits in my tool roll - but I have been asked the question by another club member)
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

Mike

Touche! A scissor jack is far more practical.

Steve
Steve Gyles

Mine lives under the spare wheel out of the way (along with a safety jacket and medical kit) and not rattling around
dominic clancy

Not to be left loose, but to be secured with web straps. The screw jack and 3-piece drive handle, lug wrench for DW cars or KO hammer for WW cars (and Twin Can/"Deluxe" cars), were to be placed in a large fabric pouch with tie straps. The smaller tool roll could be placed into the same large pouch. That assembly was then positioned on top of the spare tire up against the bulkhead where is was to be secured with two web straps with friction buckles. See here:
http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/interior/int102.htm
The 1600 Coupe has the spare tire contained entirely within the boot, but tools are secured to bulkhead in similar manner.

Also see Drivers Handbook under "Luggage and Tools" here:
http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/books/pdf/Drivers_Handbook_1500.pdf
Barney Gaylord

Page from Drivers Handbook:

Barney Gaylord

Regrettably MGA's that were produced in Australia were not equipped with the extensive tool kits that Abingdon cars had! Nevertheless they had a jack, wheel hammer and plug spanner (I think that was all(?), MGB's were the same, cars sold in Oz all had centre-lock wire wheels although a friend specifically ordered disc wheels and got them and still has the car!). Where and how the tools were located I'm afraid I don't know and I don't think that the owner's manual enlightens us. Coupes and Twin Cams sold in Australia were produced at Abingdon and had the full tool kit.
Barry Bahnisch

This thread was discussed between 07/06/2010 and 08/06/2010

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