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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Front valance query

I'm busy inspecting my 'new' 1500 bodyshell. I notice that the front of the inner wing is welded to the edge of the front valance (where the two holes are for bolting the bottom of the wing). Is that correct? It is the same as the donor car but that is no guide as it has been welded just about everywhere! I thought the whole front assembly could be unbolted and removed.

If it is correct for the valance and inner wing to be welded, would it be advisable to cut the weld in order to remove the front assembly so that I can rust treat and paint the chassis rails as well as tart up the valance assembly? Or should I leave well alone and paint around everything. Advice from those more experienced in restoration than I would be appreciated.

Chris
Chris H (1970 Midget 1275)

If you are doing a cosmetic job, leave it in place. Otherwise, grind off the weld and remove it.

As for whether it should be welded, I'm afraid I don't know. Is it seam welded or spotted?
Dave O'Neill2

Seam welded. So is the donor car - but then the wing was welded on to that car!!!
Chris H (1970 Midget 1275)

Chris, wing, or inner wing? I don't think the inner wing goes anywhere near the valance on either 1275 or 1500s?
David Smith

The inner wing
Chris H (1970 Midget 1275)

Here is a photo of the area in question. As you can see the inner wing panel runs from the rear triangle forward and meets the valance where it is welded. This does not look like the diagram of the panel in my MOSS catalogue but it is just the same on my donor car. Sorry but I don't have 'Paintshop' so can't put an arrow pointing to the bit I mean.

Chris

Chris H (1970 Midget 1275)

ah - this is 1500 only. See Horler p. 118 -
"... revised inner wing panels between the footwell and front panel assembly. The latter was now a part of the main structure and welded to the new stiffener rails and lower frame rails. The front valance and splash shields were also revised."
David Smith

Thanks David - that suggests the welding is correct.

It sounds like I need to cut these welds and pull the front assembly in order to do a good job of rustproofing and painting.
Chris H (1970 Midget 1275)

This thread was discussed on 17/04/2013

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