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MG MGA - more cylinder head stuff

Hello all,

As I continue to search for a good early B head, I have been wondering if it is that big of deal to use the late (air rail) head that came with my MGA. The DPO had installed this head at an engine rebuild. My understanding is that the engine had been run while suspended by a chain from the shop rafters before being (partially) reinstalled in the car. The car was never finished and I have dismantled it for a proper restoration.

It would appear that the late MGB head would offer the advantages of approximately correct combustion chambers for correct compression ratio as well as the larger valves for better breathing. The only drawback I have heard mentioned is needing the 'eyebrows' cut in the block. As I will have the engine at the machinist for complete inspection anyway, it would be convenient to cut the eyebrows at this time.

Has anyone run a late B head on a 1600? Any comments/experiences?

As an aside, I was poking around under the bonnet of my 66 B this evening and discovered it has a late B head installed. Casting number is 12H2389 - the same as the one that came with my A. The motor runs great.

Safety fast!

John
JM Greenlee

This thread was discussed on 25/03/2005

MG MGA index

This thread is from the archive. The Live MG MGA BBS is active now.