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MG MGB Technical - Fibregalss / composite body panels

Hi
I am restoring a 1968 MGC and contemplating fitting Fibreglass (Fiberglass / composite) Fenders (wings) and bonnet.

The main reasons that I am considering Fibreglass is the benefit of low cost (initial purchase price and International transport costs) and lack of corrosion (I live at the coast).
The"C" was bought as a bare and very tatty body shell,and I am not trying to bring it to "original" / concours condition - I want a fun weekend runabout.

I have heard different opinions ragarding the fibreglass fenders and bonnet. As they are not load-bearing components, safety and structural body integrity should not be issues.
I do understand that it may be difficult to obtain a decent fit / adjustment, and a fair amount of rwork / cutting out of headlight apertures, providing separate ground wires etc will be required.

Are the fibreglass panels sold by Moss and Honeybourne mouldings OK?
A couple of people have told me that they are fine as long as you don't expect a perfect finish and understand that by fitting them you will probably reduce the car's resale value.
Others have told me don't bother with fibreglass - they are suitable only for the racing and rallying fraternity who rquire cheap, light panels.
P.W. Leyland

From what I understand they are a real bear to install. Is something wrong with your steel panels? You can probably repair them for less than it will cost to have the fiberglass units installed.
Steve Simmons

PW

I have a pair of fiberglass front fenders for my 69 C that I bought from Smoothline here in the US. Quality looks good, although you do have to cut ALL of the holes for bolts, lights, etc. and they do NOT have any of the captive nuts that are part of the original metal fenders. Not only that, but they did not fit correctly along the rear edge where the gap is between the fender and the door. If I were to do it again I would use steel fenders. The fenders are the same as used on the B of the same vintage and it may be possible to buy used fenders locally. Even it they have some rust replacement sections are available, and are a lot smaller and lighter to ship than a complete fender.

FWIW

Larry
69 C in restoration.
Larry Hallanger

I also have a pair of Smoothline fenders. If you are quite handy and patient, you can make them look almost indistinguishable from the originals, but it requires reshaping of the back edge where it meets the door and extensive work around the cowl-to windshield-to door area. Also keep in mind that when installed, they are not flat - they require some sanding to remove waves in the fiberglass and gelcoat. Then they may require re-gelcoating or a coat of epoxy to prevent the fiber texture from showing through. And they don't just bolt on. They require a fair amount of adjustment. Buy used steel wings instead - unless you really want the weight savings, or unless you really enjoy fiberglass work!
Jeff Schlemmer

Another thing to consider: Fibreglass is easily damaged. Have you checked out how your insurance company will react? They may refuse to cover you.
Steve S.

All work and no fun, they also tend to warp and wave if parked in the sun for extended amounts of time.I have made the mistake of using them a couple of times and cursed myself for it afterwards. But hey,its your call.
wcw

I dont like them they bring me out in boils.
Jim

This thread was discussed between 15/03/2004 and 20/03/2004

MG MGB Technical index

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