An MG Is Born S1:E5

Choosing the Right Project

Mark Evans embarks on a brand new project, aiming to transform a 1973 Chrome-bumpered MGB Roadster from an unloved rust-bucket into a pristine classic car. In the first programme Mark tracks down a suitable car for restoration in an old chicken shed in Surrey. The deal done, it's back to his workshop to start the strip down.

Taking the Engine Apart

In the second episode of An MG is Born, Mark strips the engine down step by step, starts work on the body-work and takes a trip to the Heritage factory where, 20 years after production stopped, new body shells are still being made.

Restoring the Bodywork

Programme 3 sees Mark continuing to restore his 1973 MGB. While the body is away being bead blasted, it's the turn of the sills and rear axle as Mark replaces the 3-part sill structure, strips and refurbishes the rear axle and dismantles the differential.

Repairing the Shell

With the body of Mark's MGB back from the bead blasters, it's easy to see how much restoration work is now needed. New wings are fitted and a new steering rack fitted to the body. Mark also visits a specialist engineering company who are refurbishing the over-drive unit to find out just how it works.

Refurbishing the Overdrive

The MGB rebuild starts in earnest. The rear axle is fitted to the shell withe new parabolic front springs. The front cross member is fitted and the car is finally back on its wheels. The engine, gearbox and overdrive units are fitted.

Upgrading the Heater

Mark fits a new heater, but it's not without its problems. The pedal box is fitted and the clutch master cylinder is overhauled. Whilst Pete prepares the wheels for spraying Mark and Les continue to fit the braking system. The handbrake causes a few head scratching moments and Les gets to use the new lathe to skim the brake drums. Finally some paint is applied to the wheels.

Seating Arrangements

Mark strips down his seats, door panels and centre console and takes their bare bones to the seat surgeons, Yvonne, Sandra and Ellen for re-covering in luxurious red leather. Mark fits the quarter lights and winding windows to the doors - an easy job turns into a nightmare. It only gets worse when he tries to fit the new windscreen. Then it's on to the hood frame and the new mohair hood amazingly fitting uses the same principles as a face lift.

Rebuilding the Fueling System

We find Mark glass bead blasting the engine inlet manifold - gorgeous. He goes on to fit it together with the new custom-made, ceramic coated,stainless steel, tubular exhaust headers. But there's a problem with the rest of the exhaust. After some head scratching a solution is found. A quick tip on how to make your own gaskets is followed by the complete rebuild of the fuel pump. Mark converts it to electronic operation. Three hours are wasted when Mark accidentally trashes the gleaming radiator that he has just finished refurbishing. But another is substituted and the race is on to get the engine plumbed, fuelled and wired for its first fire up before the end of the show.

Finishing Touches

Mark is behind schedule so it's a frantic sprint for the finish - he has all the lights and shiny bits to fit as well as the boot, bonnet and badges. Finally the MGB sees the light of day - and it's a beauty!