MG Midget 1275 Uprated clutch options
Discussion
Hi,
I was wondering if anyone could lend me some knowledge on MG Midget clutches. I've got a 165mm 1275-spec clutch kit here, but the engine it's going on will be producing 110-120bhp. I'm fairly sure this standard clutch won't take kindly to that.
Is it a case of uprated friction materials like the cerametallic ones, or are there other options I could look at? I've seen 'motorsport' clutches on eBay, but wonder what 'motorsport' actually refers to!
Thanks in advance!
I was wondering if anyone could lend me some knowledge on MG Midget clutches. I've got a 165mm 1275-spec clutch kit here, but the engine it's going on will be producing 110-120bhp. I'm fairly sure this standard clutch won't take kindly to that.
Is it a case of uprated friction materials like the cerametallic ones, or are there other options I could look at? I've seen 'motorsport' clutches on eBay, but wonder what 'motorsport' actually refers to!
Thanks in advance!
It will actually be ok as long as you drive it sensibly, I never had issues with the A series silly engines I ran in my Midgets and I was autotesting them too.
I did eventually move to a paddle clutch which was fantastic, but the best move was to a Marina/Midget 1500 gearbox and bell housing combo using the marina 1300 engine backplate, flywheel, a paddle clutch, standard clutch cover and a midget 1500 gearbox and finally a spitfire overdrive box.
It's heavier than the 1275 box but much much stronger, synchro on first, easy overdrive conversion and much better propshaft assembly (flanged both ends so no dropping oil if you pull the box) Plus the larger clutch plate diameter and overdrive ability were a godsend.
The Midget 1500 box fits in with no modifications to the body, the spitfire overdrive box needs minor tunnel mods (sometimes you can get away without).
I warn you now back then it was a cheap easy conversion, that I ended up completing by using the A+ block from the Marina as well, now there are no Marinas left and a spitfire box is expensive, expect to be spending at least £200 for a non overdrive kit and doubling it for an overdrive kit.
I did eventually move to a paddle clutch which was fantastic, but the best move was to a Marina/Midget 1500 gearbox and bell housing combo using the marina 1300 engine backplate, flywheel, a paddle clutch, standard clutch cover and a midget 1500 gearbox and finally a spitfire overdrive box.
It's heavier than the 1275 box but much much stronger, synchro on first, easy overdrive conversion and much better propshaft assembly (flanged both ends so no dropping oil if you pull the box) Plus the larger clutch plate diameter and overdrive ability were a godsend.
The Midget 1500 box fits in with no modifications to the body, the spitfire overdrive box needs minor tunnel mods (sometimes you can get away without).
I warn you now back then it was a cheap easy conversion, that I ended up completing by using the A+ block from the Marina as well, now there are no Marinas left and a spitfire box is expensive, expect to be spending at least £200 for a non overdrive kit and doubling it for an overdrive kit.
If you get on the peter may engineering web site he does an organic rally clutch thats larger IIRC 7.25". I used one of these when I was racing 1380 sprites. You'll need a new flywheel or yours redrilling to suit the cover. Dont be seduced by the super light weight F3 clutch and steel flywheel, they eat your gear boxes, ask me how I know!;) if its a low tune 1275, 1330 etc then i doubt you'll need an up rated clutch.
edited to add 120hp ish will probarbly be OK with a std clutch, are you using sticky tyres?
edited to add 120hp ish will probarbly be OK with a std clutch, are you using sticky tyres?
Edited by 
boy on Wednesday 20th February 08:00
boy on Wednesday 20th February 08:00Gassing Station | MG | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff