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MG MGA - Brake Hose Washer Question

Inspecting the car today prior to the annual transport test & I noticed these plastic washers fitted over the front flexible brake hoses.

I think I know what they are for, but would welcome any ideas that you guys might have.

Richard


R A Evans

Looks like a stand-off to prevent rubbing. Mine (Moss new) does not have it.
Art Pearse

Agree with Art, its a good idea and I wish my hoses had them fitted.
J Bray

Interesting.

The plastic washer is not a friction fit & is able to move between the two connecting ferrules at either end. The inner diameter of the washer makes it impossible to remove from the rubber hose without cutting & so this was fitted before the ferrules were attached during manufacture. (Nelson Stokes Ltd)

My best idea at the moment is that the road transport inspector uses these sliding washers as a gauge to check for any swelling or deformities of the brake hose whilst the brake pedal is depressed.

My road worthiness test is due shortly & I will ask for his opinion. In the mean time I am open to all other ideas.

Richard
R A Evans

Hi Richard, I wonder if its a colour-coded material or pressure indicator. Have to admit I like your swelling gauge idea though.
Pete (yeap the local one...)
P N Tipping

Hi Pete, MOT tomorrow. Perhaps the old timer that carries out the transport test may have an answer.
R A Evans

Good news, the car has passed its roadworthiness test. Unfortunately the test mechanic could not confirm the reason for these sliding plastic washers. Brake hose quality is carried out by sight, feel & braking efficiency. As a long shot I have mailed the manufacturers, if I get a reply I will report back.

Richard
R A Evans

Congratulations on passing the roadworthiness test, I presume this is instead of the MOT which in theory is not required for some MGA's.

Did they provide any documentation confirming roadworthiness? my local garage said that they can do a full MOT as usual even though its no longer required.

Would like to know what the washer is for so please keep us informed,

John
J Bray

Hi John, my MGA was registered September 1960 so this test was the MOT.

As we all know the certificate issued does not tell you much, only that it was roadworthy at the time of the test.

I had an advisory that the balance of the rear braking was marginal. Carried out an inspection at home & found some oil contamination on the near side shoes. Parts are on order.

Had there not been a requirement to have this test carried out then I expect I would have been continuing to drive around until oil was seen dripping out the bottom of the hub. Well worth having this test even if it is not a requirement for some cars

Richard

R A Evans

Richard, Check there's no oil running down the inside of the backplate coming from the half shaft / hub joint. I've got a reasonable set pair rear drums if you need them.
Pete
P N Tipping

Hi Pete, oil seems to be leaking between halfshaft flange & bearing hub so a new o-ring & gasket to be fitted. Hub is OK, just requires a clean up. Thanks.

Richard
R A Evans

This thread was discussed between 12/06/2013 and 21/06/2013

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