T-Series Considering a TF

[DocDup1]

I have been thinking about adding a TF to my garage and I would like to learn a bit more before I bother a potential seller. I currently have a TR4A with overdrive and I love the car. I realize that the TF will be a different experience. My question is whether I can drive a TF at freeway speeds. I am not talking about long trips, just short drives. I have owned MGB's and an early Healy 100-4, but nothing in the T series MG's. I did look at a TD about a year ago and the owner went to great lengths to talk me out of buying it. He said that the TD is pretty much a 55mph car all out. Before I had a chance to look at other cars, I found my TR4A and stopped the search. now that the TR4A is done, I find that I still love the idea of a TF. Any advice from the group? Thanks, Doc

 

[Grantura_MKI]

Just my opinion, but if you are worried about motorway/freeway speeds, I would not advise a t type for you.
I feel that T types are meant for back road cruising.

 

[DocDup1]

Thanks for the input. I would not make a habit out of freeway driving. My concern is whether a TF is capable of keeping up with traffic for a short trip. I have a few vintage British motorcycles, so I am pretty good at avoiding main roads.

 

[PAUL161]

Well, my TF1500 will cruise at 70 mph with its 4.1 rear and HighGear 5-speed transmission. It'll go faster but I don't drive it above 70! I usually run it in 4th gear but on the freeway, I'll put it in 5th at times. I love my TF and it's very comfortable to drive. Ok, my 72 MGB was more comfortable but less fun to drive. PJ

 

[Grantura_MKI]

I have a 34,49 and 63. Would not be bothered about the B, as it has overdrive and was designed for greater speeds.
I have restored quite a few and am not happy driving at extended high speeds in stock configuration.

 

[Grantura_MKI]

As Paul say, diff changes, gearbox, disc brake conversion, wheel and tire change, etc. Then what do you have??

 

[DocDup1]

Thanks

 

[drooartz]

I've done mods on cars to make them more daily usable. My Morris Minor is a good example: larger engine (1275 vs original 1098 though same basic block), front disc brakes, 5-speed conversion with hydraulic clutch. My Bugeye have very similar upgrades. I love them both, but they're certainly not stock. That work takes cash and effort, and may not be to your liking. I'm glad I have done the work on my cars, but not everyone will find that to their taste. In contrast, my MGB is essentially stock and there's a real advantage to that.

I admit, if I fit in a T-series MG I'd probably have one and do similar mods to what Paul's done. Luckily for my wallet I just don't fit in them.

 

[DocDup1]

One more quick question. The TF that I am looking at has the small round reflectors on the rear just outboard of the top of the gas tank. In looking at pictures, I don't see those on most cars. Were they original to a 55? Thanks.

 

[Grantura_MKI]

Yes.

 

[Mickey Richaud]

One more quick question. The TF that I am looking at has the small round reflectors on the rear just outboard of the top of the gas tank. In looking at pictures, I don't see those on most cars. Were they original to a 55? Thanks.

Yep.

 

[DocDup1]

Thanks

 

[59diamond]

I think you should consider my BUGEYE.
It has a 1275 engine and a Datsun 5 speed tranny and a 3.9 rear end.
It is a great car on or off the freeway.
Bill

 

[DocDup1]

Thanks for the offer. I have expanded my search to include other cars, but I had a Sprite a few years ago and I am looking for fresh adventures. Something that I have never owned before.

 

[NutmegCT]

How 'bout something like ...

1967 Morris Minor 1000

Bid for the chance to own a 1967 Morris Minor 1000 at auction with Bring a Trailer, the home of the best vintage and classic cars online. Lot #83,672.

bringatrailer.com

Sexy - no.
Fun to drive and work on - definitely yes!

Tom M.
(no financial interest)

 

[DocDup1]

I do like those. The latest car that I am looking at seriously is a 67 MGB GT. I have always had a soft spot for the GT's and I found a series I car that is in like new condition. Now to negotiate the deal.

 

[billspohn]

An MGA is a lot more capable as a highway car - have done hundreds of miles at 80+ mph in them, but if you have to have the vintage upright styling, the TF is as good as it gets short of buying a Morgan (which might suit you with your TR experience).

Of course if you fitted a tuned MGB engine and OD trans to the TF you'd get there too, but the traditionalists might burn you at the stake!

 

[Mickey Richaud]

An MGA is a lot more capable as a highway car - have done hundreds of miles at 80+ mph in them, but if you have to have the vintage upright styling, the TF is as good as it gets short of buying a Morgan (which might suit you with your TR experience).

Of course if you fitted a tuned MGB engine and OD trans to the TF you'd get there too, but the traditionalists might burn you at the stake!

Right! Or find someone willing to let go of their Victor...

Scroll down to post #10 here for more info on them:

Best places to shop for British car in U.S. & ? on replicas

Hi all, I am looking to change things around here. Going soon will be my 1956 Harley Panhead bobber to be replace by a 4 wheels of the sports car variety. At the moment a driver TR3 has my interest as I had one back in the early 70s. But back then I also had an Austin Healey which my Dad...

www.britishcarforum.com

 

[drooartz]

MGB GT is a great car, and I can also heartily recommend a Morris Minor.

 

[DocDup1]

Well the TF deal was a bust, so I concentrated on the 67 GT. Today it all worked out and I bought that car. It is a bit of a project, but it seems to have very good bones. It has recently been restored from the ground up. The good news is that the first 90% of the work was done to a very high level. The paint and body are excellent. the engine and gearbox are both fresh rebuilds. The wiring is all new and the interior is 95% new. The bad news is that the previous owner had to sell the car on fairly short notice and he left a few items undone. The car runs and drives like new, but there are a few cosmetic issues to deal with and the heater core is missing. Thanks to all who offered advice so far, I do appreciate all of the help.

Rich