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So what do I have???

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GaryBeu

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My wife and I just bought an MGB yesterday that has been sitting in a garage since 19991...needs moderate work. Here's the first question: The vehicle number on the data plate is GHN5UB220017G and, as nearly as I can figure, shows it to be a 1971 model made 08/1970. The title shows it as a 1970 model. It DOES NOT have a split rear bumper. So...what year is it? When we order various parts and pieces what year do we ask for? Thanks for any help.

Gary and Carla
 
Your car was built somewhere between Aug '70 & Jan '71.....look on the driver "B" post just below the door latch & there should be a data plate pop riveted to the car that tells in which month it was built - I'm guessing Dec....you have a '71 car.
 
Thanks for the replies. Data plate shows built 08/70. I wonder why the title says 1970...guess there's no telling. So any parts orders I make should be for a 1971 model? Were there any major differences between 1970 and 1971? Thanks

Gary
 
The "B" in the VIN designates your car as a 1971.
 
There weren't many major changes...back in the day, dealers titled cars in the year when they sold them....so, your car made it to a dealer before 1971 & was sold before 1971.

That's the reason its important to know your VIN....you need to get a Moss catalog....when you need a part, itf there was a change in that part, the catalog will tell you.

You also need to get a copy of "The Original MGB" so you can learn a bit more about your car.
 
And a Bentley "Official Workshop Manual".

All mysteries will be revealed. :wink:

...and of course there are a few here who've been around these beasts from their inception.
 
Thanks everyone! I'll get a Moss Motors catalog and where do I get a Bentley "Official Workshop Manual"? I was going to order a manual from Moss.
 
Amazon, Moss, places like that.
 
It's always worth taking a look on ebay for workshop manuals. The Bentley MGB Manual frequently turns up there for much less than you'll pay at Moss or another retailer. While you're looking do a search for "The Original MGB" that Tony suggested, excellent book. I can also highly recommend the new Haynes book "MGB, MBC & MGB GT V8" by David Knowles.
 
Thank you guys!! It's great to get good info from people who obviously want to help and not belittle the guy who asks questions. Thanks again.

Gary
 
Good luck with your car Gary and welcome to the forum. Don't know how much trouble it would be in your state, but I would try to get it titled for the proper year. It's confusing to some how the dealers basically controlled what year a car was titled by when they sold them rather than what the manufacturers invoice stated. The guys gave you a lot of good advice on manuals to read up on your car. Their a different breed than what were accustomed to on our modern vehicles. I would adhere to Tony's advice on getting a Moss catalog. You will be amazed on how much info is in there and what parts go with what car number, year, etc. Once you get deeper in to it, there are a lot of enjoyable magazines pertaining to the MG series. PJ
 
GaryBeu said:
Thank you guys!! It's great to get good info from people who obviously want to help and not belittle the guy who asks questions. Thanks again.

Gary
Click to expand...

No tolerance for belittling here! We've all been where you are (I'm kinda still there at times!), and the only way to learn is to ask questions. 'Course after you've been here a bit, you ~~might~~ get a gentle prod or two - all in fun! :jester:

By the way, are you anywhere near Clarksville/Ft. Campbell? Always up for meeting BCF members.

Mickey
 
Mickey...I have absolutely no problem with "prods" :smile:. I easily take as well as I give...all in fun.

I'm in Edmonson County about 3 miles from Mammoth Cave Nat'l Park.

Gary
 
Not too far away - if you're ever in the neighborhood, coffee's usually on.
 
Thanks...I may drop by sometime.
 
Feel free to drop by my place too (though it's an extra 2,000 miles).
 
Dave...I'd love to drive this MGB out to see you!! :cheers:
 
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