It is also highly likely the ignition system will need some work as well.
If it has been sitting awhile, the engine may not even turn over! and the fuel system could be full of rust and varnish type sludge!
They do have mechanical valve lash, that is a plus.
Use the fact it is not running to negotiate a good price. If the seller wants more, make him get it running!
MG's are fun and simple little machines, but the Lucas electrics they used are very prone to failure. Check real well for rust in the tub too!
Heck, the chances weren't that good when they were new!
Seriously, I had a '73 new - - - - they were known for robust bottom ends, and the usual shaky Lucas electrics. The only engine problem I had in many years was head gasket that blew twice (second time we trued the head and the fix lasted).
Like any engine that's been sitting a long time, pull the plugs, put some oil in the cylinders, let it sit for a couple days. Fairly easy to turn a B by hand, specially with the plugs out - - - so you want to turn it manually before trying the starter. Less chance that the pistons are seized than valve(s) stuck so you want to watch for that........if it turns freely by hand, put the plugs in and try the starter.
I'd also be amazed if the SUs are ready-to-go. Assume you've done your homework on those and their unique characteristics.
Having worked on my brother's old MGBs in the past I can say with some earnestness that even when they've only been sitting long enough to go in to buy a six-pack and some smokes there was a chance you'd be walking home. They never were terribly reliable, having been known for electrical and hydraulics issues. Still, they were a lot of fun.
If the car has been sitting awhile, you need to concern yourself with piston rings having rusted in place inside the cylinders, rust developing on the crankshaft, dried up valve guide seals and dried up gaskets, hydraulic seals on clutch cylinder and brakes, rust in the fuel lines, and on the brake drums, belts and hoses, etc. These things can all be addressed, of course, but it requires patience and money.
Not likely if it is trashed if the car was treated that badly the drive train is probably froze up. Especially stored outside in the elements.
Here is my advice . If you want multi headaches and have cash to throw away , by all means go for it. If you prefer non of those , buy anything Toyota for peace of mind.
depends on how long it has been sitting
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Im interested in buying this 1970 mgb roadster its pretty trashed but complete. If I threw new plug wires some gas down the carbs and oil and coolant in it and threw on a nee bsttery what arethe chances it would start?
