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MG MGB Technical - Better Gaskets

Most of you know what it takes to pull an MGB transmission. I pulled mine to fix a front transmission oil leak. The parts involved are the oil seal and the front cover gasket. Does anyone here have a source for good gaskets? I ordered the front cover gasket and it's the consistency of "paper card stock". The bolt holes were likely off a bit and it tore apart and completely in two pieces while trying to install. To back track a bit, I had a rear axle leak and couldn't stop it until I doubled the gaskets. Among my parts are OEM and Beck Arnley gaskets from the 70s of far superior quality to what I get today. I'm thankful for Moss and others that we can get MG parts nowadays. I'm sure they're inundated with fast talking salespersons selling less expensive gaskets. But, there has to be some better gaskets out there somewhere. I can't justify reinstalling a transmission and risking leaks with this quality of gaskets. Any suggestions?
Rick Penland

Sometimes a bit of a longshot, but do you still have the original one? Could you make another gasket? I tinkered making my own at one time, but, by purchasing the proper gasket material. I used hole punches of various sizes for bolt holes etc, and rather than a Stanley Knife (although good for long straight edges ) I used a good sharp wood chisel to slowly 'walk' around curves ( several sizes of wood chisels helps eliminate step defects. ) One can with time and practice make very good gaskets at a fraction of cost and dare I say it better quality. Note, this goes for cork and rubber gaskets, a cylinder head or exhaust gasket is another story! Mike
J.M. Doust

Hi Rick,

If you go the DIY route, a tip from an MG IS BORN is to locate the gasket material over the plate and use a domed nut as a punch for all the bolt holes. The holes in the plate act as a cutting die.

Herb
Herb Adler

The original gasket doesn't show any damage and I could make one up as suggested. However, the shims between the cover and the transmission might be compromised. Thus, original thickness is best, just better material. I need to order the release bearing anyway, so will likely ask Moss Motors for suggestions. The gaskets are cheap enough and will order at least two in the event that I tear up another one and proceed delicately to try to replace it.
Rick Penland

Hi Rick,

You are right in that the thickness does impact on the shimming, but the DIY gasket material comes in different thicknesses, so you could buy the material that has the same thickness as the original one.

Herb
Herb Adler

I've also found that, when making up your own gaskets, making the holes is easy if you have access to old ammo cartridges. I have several guns, of different calibers, and the old shell casings are perfect for making clean holes in your gasket material. I'm also a firm believer in using Hondabond, a thin elastic gasket sealer, that is one one of the best that I've ever come across. When I rebuild 2 cycle engines, no gasket is available for most engines casings. The manufacturers specify using Hondabond, aka 3M Bond, between the 2 engine halves. It is incredible stuff and can often be used in place of a gasket. RAY
rjm RAY

Ray, What a clever person you are! I also have several firearms, being a keen pistol shooter. So I have 38,45 and 303, dont suppose the little 22 will be any use!Mike
J.M. Doust

The 22 caliber shells can be used for cutting holes for 10/32 bolts. Waste not, want not. RAY
rjm RAY

"The 22 caliber shells can be used for ..."

I have wondered also, could they be adapted to work as a gearstick anti-rattle plunger in the 4 synchro box?
Roger T

Roger, I think that they may be a bit too small in diameter, but 25 caliber cartridges would probably work perfectly. RAY
rjm RAY

This thread was discussed between 18/01/2011 and 23/01/2011

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