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MG MGA - Starter removal

I need to either replace or repair the starter of my 60 A. The book says to drop the front below the oil filter, but I can't, there's not enough room. Do I need to remove thre oil filter to slip the starter out and then keep the filter out until I replace the starter? May as well do an oil change then, huh?
Also, the starter looks original. Should I have it repaired or buy a new one from AutoZone or a catalogue. Anyone have any problems with Scarborough-Faire? I've used them in the past and have been happy with them.
Thanks, Jack
J Weiss

If you have a spin-on oil filter, you’ll need to take the filter off for clearance. You’ll need to put the front of the car on jack-stands to get at the bottom bolt and remove the starter. Don’t know the prices in your area but in CT it’s cheaper to buy new.
David Werblow

Jack, I have the original type oil filter on my car ('58 1500) and found I had to remove the oil filter to remove the starter, a bit of a pain!
Lindsay Sampford

Definitely the case on RHD cars!

Jack if you can re-condition yourself that's the best way, otherwise, unless you need originality, David is right, probably easier and cheaper to buy a new replacement.
Neil McGurk

Yes, I have the original canister type filter and it IS a PITA. I've been pleased with Scarborough-Faire but have heard others have had problems. Their parts do seem to be less expensive than Moss and Cecilia is very helpful on the phone.
Any other comments about S-F?
Jack
J Weiss

She's a tough cookie, and some do not like her return policy. I have found her fair and a good source. Many of her parts are made by her firm - not MOSS, like many other distributors.
Her knowledge of all MGA models, and the different parts on them, is unsurpassed.
That's my personal opinion. Peter.
P. Tilbury

I have to agree with Peter. I've never had a problem with Scarborough Faire, either mail order or over the counter. Just make sure you know what you're ordering and it's the part that you want for your car. Marvin
Marvin Stuart

I have nothing but high praise for Cecilia and Scarborough Fair. The first time I called during my restoration I looking for a replacement for my distributor, she got on the phone and asked what was wrong with the one I had broken collar, so she talked me out of a replacement, found a old body in her spares pile, sold it to me for $30 (instead of $180 for a replacement). Been that way ever since, going on 5 years now - she will always look for the "right" sale, not the one that is most profitable.
- Ken
Ken Doris

Jack, In my experience it is easier and quicker to remove the oil filter to slip the starter out, and do the oil change as well.
Barry.
Barry Gannon

This thread was discussed between 03/05/2010 and 13/05/2010

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