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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Rear Axle...

Can somebody tell me if I can put a rear axle of a 1275 midget on a 1500 midget? Is it exactly the same or are there differences. I would also be keeping the rear diff from the 1275 not sure on the ration though?
C Carter

Hi mate

Yes you can use the 1500 axle however 2 things to note

I would expect that the 1500 could have a 3.7 diff in it where as the 1275 has a 3.9. Most people would prefer to use the 3.7 but there is no need if you do not want to and you could sell the 3.7 for a £100 or more.

More importantly you 1275 is likely to have Rod brakes whereas the 1500 would probably have cable. I think you can simply buy a 1500 cable to change.
Robert (Bob) Midget Turbo

Wow very quick reply thank you. It is the other way round it is a 1275 axle to use on a 1500 midget. It is an early 1500 anyway so think the diff is 3.9 didnt upgrade to 3.7 until very late 1500 cars I believe? so I can use the cable off my 1500 :)
C Carter

Bob makes a good point about the parking brake, they are different types, but as he said, changing the rest of it ought to deal with it.

the 3.7 came in 8/'77. The ratio is stamped on the outside of the housing, top RH.


Norm
Norm Kerr

Thank you very much for all your help just wanted to check first before I buy one.
C Carter

C carter

Have you lined one up yet or are you looking??
i am in Morley and have a spare
Mick struggling with the wiring

Some 1275 axles had a 4.22 diff.

If you have the later type handbrake, you will either need to use an earlier cable or weld a bracket onto the axle to support the cable.
Dave O'Neill 2

Which axles had that Dave?
Robert (Bob) Midget Turbo

OP has an early 1500

Don't know which axles but early 1275 were 4.2:1

Can't wait for The original ... book to turn up give date and chassis numbers then :)
Nigel Atkins

Right.
Robert (Bob) Midget Turbo

Up to late '68 (according to Haynes Super Profile)
Nigel Atkins

As above
Dave O'Neill 2

Hi Mick no I dont have one lined up so yes I am interested. Just need to get one sorted ASAP. Then there are lots more to sort out! Maybe I could help you with your wiring? Email me chriscarter36@hotmail.com
C Carter

This thread was discussed between 15/04/2011 and 20/04/2011

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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