Featured Tech Sessions
We are featuring classic "Tech Articles" on this page. These articles were previously published in NAMGAR's MGA! magazine, and written by Mike Ash, NAMGAR's Technical Editor. We have copied the articles from the NAMGAR book "Tech Sessions from MGA!".
The articles will change every few weeks, so come back to see what topic is being "featured". We welcome your suggestions for subjects you would like to read about in future.
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Engine Ventilation
When an MGB engine is installed in your MGA, or you have an aluminum valve cover fitted to your MGA engine, you need to consider the important factor of engine venting. In this tech article from MGA! magazine, Mike Ash details the changes you might have to make. Read more
What is Ethanol Doing to Our MGAs?
This is a subject that is generating much interest lately in the UK, especially with the increase in Ethanol content from 5% to 10% in 2013. The Federation… Read more
Generator Service
VOLUME 18, NO 2 The oft forgotten oiling point on the MGA is the bush at the rear of the generator. If neglected, the bush can wear and,… Read more
Fuel Gauge Problems
Volume 26, No 1 MGAs and Magnettes do occasionally break down on the road. However, the most embarrassing situation is when you run out of gas. MGA fuel… Read more
Tech Sessions I - Index. Volume 13 No. 6 thru Volume 29 No. 2
The Content Index for all of the MGA! articles in Mike Ash's "Tech Session I" book is listed below for easy reference. If the article has been posted… Read more
MGA/Magnette Choke Cable & Lever Adjustment
If you experience hard starting on your MGA or Magnette when cold, it could be that the choke needs adjustment. Also, if the choke is not correctly set, the mixture when running could be too rich. Read more
Speedometer Calibration
The MGA was originally fitted with a 4.1 or 4.3:1 differential ratio, while the Magnette has a 4.875 or a 4.55 ratio. Changing any of these to a 3.9 (MGB), or installing a 5-speed gearbox, will affect the speedometer accuracy. In this article, Mike Ash researched the various speedo options. Read more
MGA Parking Brake
The parking brake on the MGA is unusual in that it was designed as a “fly-off” type. Mike Ash learned to drive in an era (not an ERA) when the use of the parking brake, or hand brake as it is known in England, was encouraged at every STOP. Here he describes his rigorous training, the parking brake design, and its adjustment. Read more
Electronic Ignition for MGA and Magnette
The standard points and condenser ignition system in the MGA and Magnette are generally most reliable. However, problems do occur when the points gap closes up or a condenser fails. This can be avoided by converting to electronic ignition. In this tech article from MGA! Vol. 23, no 5, Mike Ash describes the installation of the “Igniter” system…. Read more
Converting the Electrical System to Negative Ground
Some MGA owners have tried to install a modern radio/CD player, or to use a GPS, which is helpful for touring today. As the MGA is originally positive… Read more
Engine Cooling
For our third featured tech article, we continue with the engine cooling theme. This article from 1995 includes references to thermodynamics, antifreeze/water ratios, thermostats, oil coolers, electric fans, and correct engine fan mounting. We welcome members comments, or questions for Mike Ash. Read more
MGA Cooling Fan Shroud
Vol 22/Number 2 The MGA cooling fan shroud is designed and built by Dan Beha of Akron, Ohio. Dan spent a lot of time perfecting the design, but… Read more
Cooling System Check-Out and Maintenance
Vol. 16/Number 1 This month we have chosen an article on Cooling System Tune Ups as overheating is always an issue with MGA's that are driven hard. We… Read more