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MG TD TF 1500 - Radiator support bracket orientation

Hi -

I have a 52 TD that I acquired disassembled. All the bits and pieces are now restored and I am almost done with assembly except...

I am trying to fit the bonnet using this excellent article: https://www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgtd/mgtd_bonnet.htm

I can get the top panels to fit very well against the radiator shell, but the bottom panels show a shrinking gap from top to bottom, and in fact, the bottoms of the bottom panels actually overlap the radiator shell by approximately 1 cm.

The article mentions to check the orientation of the radiator support by checking the hole in it for the crank handle is pointed towards the front of the car. However, my support bracket has a hole for the crank both fore and aft!

I found it very difficult (Ok, imnpossible) to measure anything to answer the question as to whether my support is installed correctly or not.

Has anybody run into this problem? Since I'm so close to the finish line I prefer not to remove the radiator unless my support is in backwards, but of course that's what I'll do if it's the only solution.

Thank you!
JG Gage

The holes for the radiator support are slightly offset in the bracket. With the radiator out, you can measure this. The short distance should go forward. This will give you about 1/2 inch forward for the shell.
Bruce Cunha

Thanks Bruce - very helpful info as usual.

I presuming the support is in backwards it looks like switching it will make the passenger side of the car about right but the drivers side too big by about 3/16". But closer than I am now.

Best, Joe
JG Gage

Joe,

The bracket should be fitted as shown in the 4th image in the above information


John
J Scragg

Here is a picture of the correct orientation. I need to add this to the website as it comes up often.

Also note that the top radiator stays can be adjusted for length so depending on where that gap is you may be able to reduce it by changing the stays length.



Christopher Couper

Thanks everyone! It was indeed that the bracket was reversed. I just could not tell that without removing the radiator because my support and the lip and hole for the starter rod on both sides. Once I removed the radiator it was very obvious. I reversed the support and hope to get the bonnet on tomorrow!
JG Gage

This thread was discussed between 02/07/2025 and 04/07/2025

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