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MGB-GT Right Hand Drive Conversion--MG-GT

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PAUL161

PAUL161

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How much trouble would it be to convert a late model UK right hand drive car to left hand drive, such as a 1978, or? Were any late model GTs made in the left hand drive versions and what was the last year made? PJ
 
1975 or 76 was last year for US MGBGTs I think. Know I have seen just a couple rubber bumper GT's. Couldn't tell you exactly how much trouble it would be to swap. Parts to convert (rack and pinion, dash facia) wouldn't be hard to get. Guess you would need to swap wiring harness as well to do quality job. Cutting and patching bulkhead would be where I would puzzled the most.

Marv
 
Just curious Don, just curious. I know where ones buried in a shed. Chicken poo and all. PJ
 
Marvin Gruber said:
1975 or 76 was last year for US MGBGTs I think. Know I have seen just a couple rubber bumper GT's. Couldn't tell you exactly how much trouble it would be to swap. Parts to convert (rack and pinion, dash facia) wouldn't be hard to get. Guess you would need to swap wiring harness as well to do quality job. Cutting and patching bulkhead would be where I would puzzled the most.

Marv
Click to expand...

1974-1/2 was the last of the rubber bumpered GTs to enter the North American market...about 1250 or so of them.

If you're going to import at 75-80 GT from the UK, I would leave it RHD...I've got several friends with RHD cars here in the states; they say it is not that hard to adapt to that orientation on our roads.

YOMV
 
Not only is it easy to get to, but I prefer RHD on most occasions. It was especially great a few days ago in an absolute downpour of rain. After parking on the street, I didn't have to get out on the side of traffic. :smile:

Some people don't have an easy time with it however, and in this case I recommend just getting a LHD car. Converting a car can be done but unless you're getting the car for next to nothing then it probably isn't worth the expense and effort.
 
I've driven in England and had no problems with the right hand drive there, I just followed the traffic! At first, the round abouts were a little challenging. After about 3 or 4, it was a breeze. A funny story though came out of this, as the wife and I stopped at a pub for lunch out in the country and after, when we were returning to the car, without thinking, I jumped into the left side and was totally surprised for a moment as no steering wheel was there. Pure habit. My wife wouldn't let it die and remarked to a British couple what I did and all had a good laugh. Slightly embarrassing to say the least. Fun memories. :jester: PJ
 
A friend of mine has a RHD MGB and it's really a thrill to drive and ride. The RHD takes a bit of getting used to but poses no significant problems to a careful driver.

It also turns a lot of heads, as it's very rare to see on this side of the pond.

Given the opportunity I'd snatch one up without hesitation. The RHD seems to add a bit of fun to the overall LBC experince, IMHO.

YMMV.

:thumbsup:
 
I'm starting to get feed back on this car, so to set the story straight; It's located in a dry barn, covered, 5 miles from my sons ranch in Oklahoma. He has an interest in the car also and knows the owner. PJ
 
My Mini - 63 wagon - is RHD and I love driving it! I don't notice that much difference actually. I'd love a RHD year round driver.
 
I have converted 20 MGB's to RHD. The MK I's are the best to convert. Same goes for converting to LHD. The bulk head is the same on both sides...pedal box location, colunm hole, throttle, etc. The MK II's will require more work, as the locations will need to be punched. You will find the the fasia will be the big problem. Later B's came fitted with three different designs. I would think that you will find late model RHD GT's right up to the finish of production in the UK. If I was to have a RHD GT, it would be fitted with a Rover V8. I already have two RHD motors and do not have any issues...actually like them as I am left handed. If you purchase a TC, Paul you will not have any choice but RHD.
 
I drive my RHD Jag almost every day, wouldn't have it any other way.
 
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