T-Series Newbie '51 MGTD

[gjh2007]

Hi folks:

I am coming from the dark side, a TR250 owner. A guy who works for me is selling his dad's '51 MGTD. None of the kids know anything about cars. I saw a few photos of it, it looks like a nice driver. Full top, chrome wires, but that is all I know. He supposedly had the whole car restored at some point.

So, I think they are in the $12-$13 k range. I have no idea of what they are worth; more importantly, other than any automobile system checks, what specific things on the TD do I need to look for?

Thanks.

 

[JimmyG]

Don't worry about coming from the dark side. I own a TR6 as well as my 1954 MGTF. I've had the TF for over 30 years. Bought it when I was in college and drove it (and worked on it) for many years. Just had it completely restored by a professional and love it even more today.

Cars of this age will have a number of things that will need work.

The first thing to look at is the wood frame for the body work. The wood frame that makes up the passenger compartment is what I am talking about. The doors and all the metal work is attached to a wooden frame.

Check the door latches to see if there is any rot. The floor boards are exactly that, plywood boards. Check these for rot. These can be easily replaced. The wooden frame for the body is a bit harder to replace. I think there is still one guy back east that makes replacement frame kits out of ash.

Everything else is still available for the most part. Moss Motors and Abingdon Spares have parts and as always search the web for parts sources.

Many shops still work on these cars and provide technical data.

University Motors in Michigan is a great resource. Check out their YouTube videos on technical issues.

O'Conner Classics in Santa Clara California has parts and does work on these cars.

The guy who did my restoration is a great resource. His name is Martin Vheem Restorations located in Red Bluff,California.

I'm sure many others on this forum will jump in and help you determine the condition of the car you are looking at.

If you get a chance to look at the car, take some pictures, find out what work has been done on it to date, and we will be able to give you a better estimate of the condition and what to look for.

Best Regards,
JimG

 

[vping]

Welcome to the BCF. Lets hear it for another T owner!