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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - new clutch

going to fit a overdrive box to my 1500 in the next few weeks just wondering is it worth changing the clutch at the same time only done 9000 on this clutch with no issues, are is it look at the clutch when its out and decide then.
mark heyworth

Later.

9,000 miles doesn't necessarily mean that much, a lot depends on the, and your, driving, how much, and how well, the clutch has been used - and of course that the whole clutch system components, including hydraulics, are originally well made, in good condition and set up correctly. Other than pulling away or changing gear you should always keep your foot off and away from the clutch pedal in a Spridget, no riding the clutch as you wait to pull off at junctions, lights, hills, ect., or holding the clutch pedal down when starting the car.

Poor quality releasing bearings and even clutch covers and plates have been about in the past (and still?).
Nigel Atkins

Looking at the clutch wear plates should give you an indication of wear? Hopefully at 9000 miles it should have plenty of life left in it.

That clutch realise arm pivot bush, pin, and tolerance ring on the 1500 is a weak point in my opinion. I would make sure they are in good condition.

I’m still using a bodge bolt instead, as the hole in my clutch release arm is worn. I’m after a good condition arm if anyone has one.
Chris Madge

If it was working fine and you know it’s not been abused I’d be tempted to re use it. The new Borg & Beck I’ve just fitted to my 1275 is nowhere near as well made as the old B&B that came out. Both the cover and plate are made from thinner gauge material and there’s just an air of ‘cheapness’ about it. It works ok but so does the one in my Sprite with 20k hard miles on it.
John Payne

took gearbox out today and the clutch looks like a new ,release bearing looks and feels fine as well.
mark heyworth

Good news, good on you and the manufacturers.
Nigel Atkins

My 1275 clutch is on 96,000 on a T9 gearbox, but did it's first 7,000miles with the previous ribcase set up. Like yours, Mark, I thought it too 'new' to replace when I fitted the 5 speed. But I did subsequently change the clutch slave to a concentric arrangement, after another 10k or so.
GuyW

This thread was discussed between 26/01/2020 and 02/02/2020

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