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MG MGB Technical - Overdrive switch

Is It just me , but this is the second switch I'm on now.
Just when you are not expecting it , when clicking the switch on ....it doesn't engage.Frustratingly I have to click -back and forward till I feel its gone all the way. When this happens I know there is only one solution, another switch. Ive tried opening these things up but never seem to get them to work again. Is it just me?
R S Clark

Hi RS

I share your frustration as had a similar experience on my 75 TR6. I took the original switch apart after it failed to operate the OD and made an attempt to clean up the contacts. This was marginally successfull so sprung for a new switch. This one seems to be poorly constructed since if I inadvertantly knock it towards the on postition, whilst OD is already engaged, the OD drops out and back in again. Quite frustrating, however, these switches are too expensive to keep replacing.

Good luck,

Barry
BJ Quartermaine

Current stock of switches for many MGB applications seem particularly poor these days. You might be better off getting one second hand (taking a meter with you to test it first!) at a parts fair.
Paul Hunt 2

Yep have to agree, i'm on my third one. this one's a second hand one which I think is original and seems to be lasting. Sometimes you can't beat old rather than repro.
Matthew Crabb

Hi, If you guys are talking about the overdrive switch fitted to the gear lever mine was in bits when I got my 1980 BGT earlier this year when I checked it out it seemed very flimsy, my answer was to fit a works type switch this is very solid alloy item with a flick switch on the side this feels as if it will last a very long time, they are made for early cars which have a 3/8th inch thread but are easily drilled and tapped out to 7/16 to suit the later ones [I found it easy but don't blame me if you cock it up]hope this helps. Regards Bob Patchcott
r h patchcott

This thread was discussed between 13/07/2007 and 17/07/2007

MG MGB Technical index

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