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MG MGB Technical - Overdrive noises

I have a '71 BGT with overdrive - LH I think. It's recently started to make a 'snick, snick' sound as the driveline is taken up and released, as when you're cruising along. I've no doubt this is a 'bad thing', but does anyone know if this heralds an imminent failure or is it nothing to worry about just yet?
Dave Smith GT

Dave, are you sure that it's the OD? It may simply be a failing U joint. The LH ODs were known for their strength and reliability. I've had mine for over thirty years and the only problem, that I've had, is a failed solenoid. It was only forty two years old. RAY
rjm RAY

If you eliminate other causes such as universal joints you could remove the OD sump cover and check screen and magnets for metal particles (drain gbox first). I once found the large circlip from the sliding member sitting on top of the screen!
Mike
Mike Ellsmore

Good point Ray, I hadn't concidered the UJ - I've had the rear UJ go before and it didn't make that noise. Can't remember now if I changed the front at the same time, but I'll certainly check it.

G'box due an oil change anyway so I might go in and have a nose about if it's not the propshaft - thanks chaps.
Dave Smith GT

Does it only do it with OD engaged? Or not engaged?

If all the time then as said check the UJs and everything else in the drive-line. If you have wire wheels it could be the splines, or the hubs on the splines for both types of hub.

Otherwise I wouldn't worry about it. Certainly not worth getting the engine and gearbox and sending the OD away just yet, IMO.
paulh4

Paul, it's only when engaged, which I'd forgotten about when UJs were suggested, so actually not likely to be that after all - shame.

I don't have wire wheels, and the sound does seem to be coming from close to the gearbox, probably transmitted through the gearstick.

t's really just a slightly annoying noise at the moment, but I'll keep an eye (ear?) on it, as I don't want to let it fester and have it develop into something like a jammed transmission! I believe it's the original unit, so I think it's done pretty well.
Dave Smith GT

I think my V8 clicks in OD, it's been doing it for so long I don't even hear it any more, probably 100k.
paulh4

This thread was discussed between 06/06/2016 and 08/06/2016

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