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MG MGB Technical - B GT tailgate props

I'm finishing up the ridiculously long-term restoration of my 1969/70 MGB GT. Car looks pretty good, runs good, etc. but I'm slowly finishing up the detail bits.

First off, I'm having trouble with the props that hold the tailgate up. Mine were taken apart and cleaned...but the springs no longer work like they're supposed to. They don't put any tension...meaning the 'gate will come crashing down on my head!

I know, it would be easier to fit gas struts instead, but I'd like to keep the car appearing as original as I can. Thanks in advance!
Chris Osterhus

Hey Chris
Are you sure you don't have them backwards?. When the hatch is fully open the arms lock into place. I imagine the spring has to be situated in the arm the correct way. I can probably get you a picture if you need.
Mike
MK Mike

I have gas struts available for the MGB/GT and MGC/GT

Contact me offlist at mowog1@aol.com

(I also have bonnet and bootlid strut kits)

rick ingram
Pieces of Eight!

Rick Ingram

I have Rick's struts on both the rear hatch and the hood (bonnet) on my GT. They may not be the same as original equipment but are far superior.

The hood opens much wider and there is no prop in the way. The hatch struts are a major improvement. All you have to do is unlatch and the hatch rises slowly to its full height all by itself. This makes loading when your hands are full a pleasure rather than a three hand challenge.
Lee

Chris

I believe you have the springs on the wrong side. As I remember, there is only one direction that they go on and will tighten up.
Bruce-C

Bruce may be right that you possibly have them on the wrong sides, in which case, they will no longer rest on their "open" stops. However, the reason I went to the struts that Rick sells was that a new set of replacement OE type spring hinges quickly lost their tension and I too would get bopped in the head. I have not had that problem since installing the struts, even when one strut finally gave out after almost 9 yrs of daily driver service. The other strut was enough to hold the hatch. I couldn't say that for the old spring hinges. FWIW
RK Muenchausen

This thread was discussed between 21/03/2009 and 22/03/2009

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