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MG MGA - Transmision play

I was just inspecting the transmission linkages of my new MGA. Looks like the U-joints are fine (no play on any axis to the extent of what I can move the shaft by pulling it with my hands.

However I did notice that I am able to rotate the transmission shaft about 10-15degres when the car is at rest and the gearbox in neutral.
Does this indicate that the gears on the transmission are really worn? What parts would have to be replaced in that case?

The is no play however laterally out of the shaft axis.
The transmission is covered in a a big layer of black oil paste...

Any advice on how to check health of this would be appreciated.

G Ramos

Just to clarify, when I talk about transmission I was referring to the differential.
G Ramos

What you see is a little backlash in the ring and pinion. Not enough to change parts.
R J Brown

Ok, thanks. I wont worry about it then. ;-)
G Ramos

Free play rotation in the propshaft is usually NOT a problem with ring and pinion gears. It usually results from wear of the thrust washers for the differential bevel gears. That's fairly easy to fix and pretty cheap for the parts, but it will kill a few hours for the novice.

It requires disconnecting back end of the propshaft, pulling half shafts out the sides an inch, and removing the differential pumpkin from the rear axle. Then remove the main bearing caps and lift out the ring gear and differential assembly. Punch out a locking pin, slide out the pinion shaft, and the bevel gears fall out. Reassembly is the reverse of dissassembly, replacing the thrust washers as you go.

See instructions and photo tour here: http://chicagolandmgclub.com/photos/a_diff
Barney Gaylord

Barney, thanks for the advice.
I will look into the procedure, however I don't think I am mentally prepared yet to take the differential apart.
I have to get a couple other things sorted before like the clutch and generator setup.


G Ramos

This thread was discussed between 26/02/2010 and 27/02/2010

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