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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Frogeye Electrical Issues

I have an issue on my Frogeye the following circuits don't appear to work:
Heater
Fuel guage
Indicators
No ignition light

I have checked the fuse and that is ok.

Has any one experienced a similar problem?
Rob Sheldon

If you have had the fuse holder off did you put it back the correct way?
MG Moneypit

I think that issue of the fusebox orientation only applies to the later style fuse carrier with the hidden link on the back. Assuming Rob's car has the correct one the orientation doesn't matter. Though doesn't mean it couldn't be rewired wrongly!

All the items not working are controlled via the ignition switch,so I would be checking the connections behind the dash.
GuyW

Rob

You say you have checked the fuse, but have you checked for 12v at the fuse (both sides) with the ignition on?
Dave O'Neill 2

The ignition light goes between the dynamo and ignition switch as well. if it's the ignition switch the wipers should work with ignition on, and also the brake lights should work with ignition on.
MG Moneypit

Maybe these diagrams will be useful for Rob.
Rob




MG Moneypit

Check for 12v on both sides of the ignition switch with key on. If 0v on battery feed side, check wire from solenoid to switch (should be brown). If 12v on battery side but 0v on switched side, ignition on, then the switch has failed (but engine would not start). It is re-buildable.

If 12v on both terminals, ignition on, check connections at fuse and for 12v across fuse.
Bill Bretherton

Check the connections underneath the control box. They can corrode.
Les Rose

Thank you all for your help, I found the problem. It was the ignition switch not properly making the circuit so all good. I think lack of use has caused the contacts to get a layer of dirt on them .

Now to fix the original problem of a fuel gauge always reading full.
Rob Sheldon

"Now to fix the original problem of a fuel gauge always reading full."

Check you are getting a good earth from the gauge to the dash. I added a separate earth wire off the thumbscrews.
Tim Carter

Remove the gauge from the dash. There are two terminals marked B for battery and T for tank (from the sender). Earth the T terminal with ignition on. If gauge drops to zero, the sender is stuck in a high (tank full) position. On no account do you earth the B terminal! If gauge still showing full it is faulty (and fixable, they're quite simple).
Bill Bretherton

Also, IF gauge does go to empty with T earthed, check sender connections, both at gauge and rear of boot. With T wire disconnected, resistance from wire to earth should be between 0 and about 80 ohms. If infinity there is a connection or sender problem.
Bill Bretherton

This thread was discussed between 26/05/2024 and 26/06/2024

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