MG Midget 1979 User Manual

DGET

MARK

III

(GAN

6UL)

Driver's

Handbook

Publication Part No. AKM

4386

British

Leyland

Motors

Inc.

500 Wi

llow

Tree Road, Leonia

New

Jersey

07605

BRITISH

LEYLAND

UK LI

MITED

197 8

BRITISH

LEYLAND

UK LI

MITED

197 8

WARNING Many

liquids

and

other

substances

usedinmotor

vehicles

are

poisonous

and

should

under

no circumstances be consumed

and

shouldsofar

as possible be

~ept

a~ay.

fro~.

open

.wo~n'!S.

These

s~bstan~~~.among

others

incl';lde

~nti-

FOREWORD

This

Handbook

provides an

introductiontoyour

car,

together

with

information

on the care u

periodic maintenance required to

combine

trouble-free

motoring

with minimal

running

costs.

Claims

for the replacementofparts

under

warranty

must

be submitted to the

supplying

authoriz I

AustinMG

Dealer, or

when

this is

not

possible, to

the

nearest

authorized

AustinMGD al

~I"

informing

themofthe

vendor's

name

and

address. Except in emergency,

warranty

work

h uld

always be carried

out

by an

appointed

authorized

AustinMGDealer.

By keeping the

Passport

to Service, signed by the

authorized

AustinMGDealer, or

vendor

in til'

vehicle, you

can

quickly establish the

dateofpurchase

and

provide the necessary details if

adjustm

cn t..

are

required to be carried

out

under

warranty.

Regular

use of the

Passport

to Service

Maintenance

Scheme is

the

best safeguard against th

possibilityofabnormal

repair

bills at a

later

date.

Failure

to have

your

car

correctly

maintain

could

invalidate

the

termsofthe

Warranty

and

may result in unsatisfactory

operationofthe

emission

control

systems.

Safety features

embodied

in the

car

may be

impairedifother

than

genuine

parts

are

fitted. In certain

territories, legislation

prohibits

the

fittingofparts

not

to the vehicle

manufacturer's

specification.

Owners

purchasing accessories while travelling

abroad

should

ensure

that

the

accessory

and

its

fitted

locationonthe

car

conformtomandatory

requirements existing in

their

countryoforigin.

Your

authorized

AustinMGDealer

is provided with the latest

information

concerning speci I

service tools

and

workshop

techniques. This enables

himtoundertake

your

service

and

repairs in

the

most

efficient

and

economic

manner.

The

operations

carried

outbyyour

authorized

Austin

Dealer

will be in

accordance

with

current

recommendations

and

may be subject to revision fron

time to time. Further details on Service

Parts

will be

found

under

'SERVICE'

on page 75. Please note

that

referenc \

to right- or left-hand in this Handbook

are

made as if viewing the car from the rear.

Specification details set

out

in this

Handbook

apply

to a range of vehicles

and

nottoany

particula ·

vehicle.

For

the specificationofany

particular

vehicle owners

should

consult their

authorized

Austin

Dealer.

During

running-in

from

new,

certain

adjustments

vary

from

specification figures detailed. They will

be set to specification by

your

authorized

AustinMGDealer

at the 1,000 Mile

Free

Service

and

should

maintained

throughout

your

car's

life.

The

Manufacturers

reserve

the

right

to vary

their

specifications with or

without

notice,

and

at such

times

and

in such

manner

as they

think

fit.

Major

as well as

minor

changes may be involve d jn

accordance

with

the

Manufacturer's

policyofconstant

product

improvement.

Whilst every effort is

made

to ensure the accuracyofthe particulars

contained

in this

Handbo

ok,

neither

the

Manufacturer

nor

the

authorized

AustinMGDealer, by

whom

this

Handbook

is supplied,

shall in any circumstances be held liable for

any

inaccuracy or the consequences thereof.

Whilst every effort is

made

to ensure the accuracyofthe particulars

contained

in this

Handbo

ok,

neither

the

Manufacturer

nor

the

authorized

AustinMGDealer, by

whom

this

Handbook

is supplied,

shall in any circumstances be held liable for

any

inaccuracy or the consequences thereof.

IJo,

Emission Controls

Your

car

is fitted with emission controls

and

devices required by the

United

States Clean

Air

Act.

Please read carefully the

'EMISSION

CONTROL

SYSTEMS'

sectionofthe

Handbook

which

contains

informationonthe

emission

control

systems fitted to

your

car

and

recognition of

symptoms

of malfunctions which

could

affect emissions.

It is imperative

that

you familiarize yourself with

the

contentsofthis section,

and

ensure th a t

the

car

you

have

purchased

will

remain

in compliance with

the

intentionsofthe

above

act.

All

EMISSION

CONTROL

maintenance checks

and

adjustments

shouldbeentrusted

to your

authorized

AustinMGDealer.

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTIONTOTHE

CAR

CATALYTIC

CONVERTER

PRECAUTIONS

CONTROLS

INSTRUMENTS

AND

SWITCHES

STARTING

AND

RUNNING

INSTRUCTIONS

LOCKS,

FITTINGS

AND

BODY

SEATS

AND

SEAT

BELTS

HEATING

AND

VENTILATING

CAREOF'PHE

CAR

CLEANING

COOLING

SYSTEM

WHEELS

AND

TYR

BRAKES

AND

MAS T R Y IN RS

ELECTRICAL

IGNITION

ENGINE

EMISSION

CONTROL

SYST

EMS-EXCEPT

CALIFORNIA

- CA LI FOR NIA

FUEL

SYSTEM

.. TRANSMISSION

STEERING

AND

SUSPENSION

t'U~L

~Y~

·ltM

TRANSMISSION

STEERING

AND

SUSPENSION

GENERAL

DATA

SERVICE

MAINTENANCE

SUMMARY

LUBRICATION

Page

67 70

CATALYTIC CONVERTER

PRECAUTIONS

1. Use unleaded fuel only. This is essential to maintain the efficiency of til

emission control system. Unleaded fuel has the additional advantage that il minimizes spark plug fouling, thereby giving improved engine performanc '.

2. Have your car maintained in accordance with the Maintenance Summary outlined in this handbook. A correctly tuned engine minimizes exhaust emissions and achieves the optimum performance and fuel economy.

3. Do not continue to operate your car if you detect any engine malfunction. Misfire, or engine run-on may cause unusually high catalytic converter temperatures. Damage to the catalytic converter 'may occur if any such engine malfunctions are not rectified immediately.

4. DO

NOT

LEAVE

YOUR

CAR

UNATTENDED

WITH

THE

ENG

INE

RUNNING

AT ANY

TIME

as an unobserved rise in engine temper ature

may cause damage to the engine and catalytic converter.

5. The use of a catalytic converter increases exhaust system temperatures . Do not operate or park your car in areas where combustible materials such as dry grass or leaves may come in contact with the exhaust system. The exhaust system could ignite such materials under certain weather conditions.

6. Do not run the engine with a spark plug lead disconnected or a spark pili removed or use any device that requires an insert into a spark plug hole in order to generate air pressure (e.g. tyre pump, paint spray attachment , etc.) as this could also result in catalytic converter damage.

7. Do not push or tow your car to start it. Use jumper cables. Under certai

conditions, pushing 'or towing could damage the catalytic converter.

S. The catalytic converter contains a ceramic material. Avoid heavy impact.

on the converter casing.

CONTROLS

Fig. 1

Pedals

The pedals are arranged in the conventional positions.

(1) (2) (3)

The brake pedal operates the dual hydraulic braking system applying the brakes on all four wheels, and bringing the stop warning lights into operation when the ignition is switched on.

Hand

brake

The hand brake is of the pull-up lever type, operating mechanically on the rear

(4) wheels only. To release the hand brake pull the lever upwards slightly, depress

the button on the end of the lever and push the lever down.

Gear

lever

The gear positions are indicated on the lever knob. To engage reverse gear mov

-e

(5) the lever to the right in the neutral position as far as possible. Lift the lever

and move it forward to engage the gear. Synchromesh is provided on first, second, third, and fourth gears.

The reverse lights operate automatically when reverse is selected with the ignition

switched on.

Fig. 1

~\\

)1~lffZ=5S

Fig. 1

INSTRUMENTS

AND

SWITCHES

IGNITION/STARTER

SWITCH

AND

STEERING

LOCK

Fig.l

Key

number

The key number appears on the key, on the number tag supplied or on a lab" attached to the windscreen of a new car.

NOTE

THE

KEY NUMBER in your DIARY and in a reference

bookatHOM

and then

REMOVE

THE

LABEL with the key number

FROM

THE

CAR.

Consult your authorized Austin MG Dealer regarding key replacements for th steering-column lock.

The steering-column lock (4), if used properly, will greatly reduce the possibil ity of the car being stolen. ,

Unlocking

To unlock the steering, insert the

keyand

turn it to position

'I'.

If the steering-

wheel has been turned to engage the lock, slight movement of the steering-wh e

will assist disengagement of the lock plunger. \ With the key in the position marked

'I'

the ignition is switched off and th

steering lock disengaged. The radio may be operated

with

the key in this positi on.

The key must be in this position when towing the car for recovery.

Ignition

and

To switch on the ignition,

turn

the key to position

'II'.

Further

movement agai n t

start

spring resistance to position

'III'

operates the starter motor. Release the key

immediately the engine starts.

Locking

To lock the steering, turn the key anti-clockwise to the-position marked"I' , pre the button

(5), turn the key to the

'0'

position and withdraw it.

WARNING: The steering lock/ignition/starter switch and its electrical circuits ar designed to prevent the ignition system and starter from being energized while th steering lock is engaged. Serious consequences could result from alterations or substitution of the steering lock/ignition switch or its wiring. In no circumstance must the ignition switch be separated from the steering lock.

Do not lubricate the steering lock.

Fig. 1

INSTRUMENTS

Fig. 2

Speedometer

In addition to indicating the

road

speed this instrument also records the total

(1 ) distance (3) and the distance travelled for any particular trip (2). To .reset the

trip recorder, press the knob

(4)

and

all the counters will return to zero.

Tachometer

This instrument indicates the revolutions per minute of the engine and assists

(5)

the driver to use the most effective engine speed range for maximum performance in any gear (see page 15).

Coolant

The gauge indicates the temperature of the coolant as it Ieaves the engine cylinder

temperature

head. An important note about temperature is on page 14.

gauge

(6)

Fuel

gauge

When the ignition is switched on the fuel gauge indicates approximately the

(7)

amount

of fuel in the tank. An important note on filling with fuel is given on

pages 13 and 54 or 62.

Fig. 2

1--

Do not lubricate the steering lock.

Fig. 2

Instrument

d vvitches

WARNING

LIGHTS

AND

SYSTEMS

Fig. 3

Haza rd

REE

N. The direction indicator warning lights will flash when the

hazard

warnin

(1) lights are operating.

Ignition

RED. This light serves the dual purposeofreminding the driver to switch off th

(3)

ignition andofbeing a no-charge indicator.

Main

beam

LUE.

The

light glows when the headlights are switched on with the beams in

(4) the raised position. The light goes

out

when the beams are dipped.

THE

WARNING

LAMP

(5)

GLOWS

AT ANY

TIME

EXCEPT

WHEN

STARTINGORWHEN

THE

IGNITIONISSWITCHED

ON ANDTHE

HAND BRAKE IS APPLIED,

THE

CAUSE

MUST

BE INVESTIGATED

IMMEDIATELY.

Unless as a result of your investigation you are satisfied

that

it is safe to proce ed,

you should leave the vehicle where it is

and

call for assistance. Even if you are

satisfied

that

it is safe to proceed, the

car

should only be driven in cases of real emergency,extreme care should be taken and heavy braking avoided. In deciding whether

it is safe to proceed you should cons ider whether you will be infringing

the law.

Braking

system

The hydraulic brake system has two independent circuits.Ifhydraulic pressure fails in one circuit, the remaining circuit will provide an emergency brake condition on the

other

two wheels

and

allow the

car

to be brought to rest by

brake

pedal appl ication. This would be accompanied by the warning

lamp

(5) glowing

on the instrument panel.

AMBER.

The

warning light will glow when the ignition is switched on and

out

soon

after the engine is running, see 'STARTING AND RUNNING IN-

STRUCTIONS'.

Direction

REE

N. The warning light flashes when the direction indicators are operating,

indicator

Additional warning is also given by the audible 'clicking'ofthe flasher unit.

(1)

Oil

pressure

(2)

Brake

RED.The

warning light serves two separate functions. Firstly, if the brak

(5)

system hydraulic pressure fails the lamp glows; secondly, the

lamp

glows as (l

hand

brake

'on' indicator. The warning light will only operate when the ignition

is switched on

-see

NOTE.

Seat

belt

RED.

The

warning light will glow for eight seconds each time the ignition start

(6) switch is operated, irrespective of whether the driver's seat belt is fastened- s

NOTE.

Anti-theft

A combined ignition and steering lock with warn ing buzzer is fitted to the car.

warning

buzzer

The warning buzzer will sound if the driver's door is opened while the key is in the lock. The buzzer will not operate if the key is removed from the lock.

When leaving the car unatt nded a

lway:

Set the

hand

brake.

Lock the steering by removin g the k

y fr n th ignition teer ing lock.

. Lock the car

door

s and rernov th k y.

Further

information on the seat belt warning system will be found on page 24.

NOTE:

As an automatic check the

'BRAKE'

and

'SEAT

BELT'

warning la mp.

will glow each time the ignition key is turned to position

'III'

(starter

mo~or

operating). Consult

your

authorized AustinMGDealer

if anyofthese warrun

lamps fail to glow when the

starter

is operating.

Fig. 3

Instrument

nd Svvitches

COLUMN

SWITCH

Windscreen

washer

and

wiper

control

Fig. 4

Direction

indicators,

main

beam

and

horn

control

Fig . 4

Direction

The switch operates the indicators only when the ignition is switched on.

indicators

Move the lever to position

'A'

when turning left and to position

'B'

when turnin '

right. After making a turn the signal is self-cancelledwhen the steering-wheel is returned

to the straight-ahead position. The switch lever may be held against spring pressure to select either left or right

indicator and willcancel the indication immediately it is released without mov ment of the steering-wheel.

A visual warning of a front

.rear bulb failure is given when, after switching on

an indicator, the warning lamp and the serviceable bulb on the affected side giv a continuous light.

Headlamp

With the headlamps switched on at the lighting switch, move the lever forward

dipper

('C')

to use the main beams; the warning light willglow (BLUE). Return the lever

to the midway position to dip the beams.

Headlamp

Lift the lever towards the steering-wheel

('D')

to flash the headlamps irrespectiv

flasher

of whether they have been switched on at the lighting switch or not.

Horns

Press the end of the lever

('E')

inwards to sound the horns.

Fig. 4

Windscreen

Press the end of the lever inwards

('F')

to operate the washer jets.

washer

In cold weather the washer reservoir should be filled with a mixture of water and a recommended washer solvent to prevent the water freezing.

To avoid possible damage to paintwork do not use radiator anti-freeze in the windscreen washer.

Windscreen

Move the lever upwards

('G')

and then release it to obtain a single wipe. The

wiper

lever will return to the 'off' position and the blades will park automatically at the completion of the wipe.

To operate the wipers at normal speed move the lever down to the first position

('H')

and to the second position

('J')

when a higher wiping speed is required .

NOTE:

Neither the windscreen wiper nor the washer can operate until the

ignition has been switched on.

S~.-

Instrument

s and Svvitches

SWITCHES

Fig. 5

Lighting

Press the lower end of the switch rocker to the first positiontcoperate the parkin

(1)

and

tail lamps

and

to the second position to operate the headlamps. The marking

on the switch is illuminated when the panel lamps are switched on.

Panel

lamps

The panel lights will function only when the side lamps are switched on. Turnin

(2) the switch

knob

clockwise switches on the panel lights; further clockwise move-

ment of the

knob

increases the light brilliance.

Hazard

To use the direction indicators as ahazard warning to other

road

users, press the

warning

lower end of the switch rocker, when all the direction indicators

and

their warnin T

(3) lights will operate together, irrespective of whether the ignition is on or off. Th

green illumination light on the face of the switch glows when the panel lights ar switched on.

Return

the switch to the off position to cancel the warning.

Blower

switch

For

operating instructions see

'HEATING

AND

VENTILATING'.

and

heater

controls

(4)

Cigar-lighter

To operate, press the

knob

inwards and release. When the element has becom

(5) sufficiently heated the lighter will be partially ejected,

and

may be withdrawn for use. The rim of the cigar-lighter is illuminated when the panel lights ar switched on.

Courtesy

light

The courtesy light is controlled by a switch in the light

and

by a switch fitted t

(6) each

door

pillar. With the doors closed the light may be switched on by slidinu

the switch towards the steering column. Opening either

door

will switch on the

light,

and

closing the

door

will extinguish the light.

Fig. 5

STARTING

AND

RUNNING

INSTRUCTIONS

The following instr uctions are a guide for starting, running

and

loading the car,

and

include notes on the use of the controls

and

the indications of the instruments. .

Running

The treatment given to a new car will have an important bearing on its subsequent

life,

and

engine speeds during this early period must be limited. The following

instructions should

be strictly adhered to.

During

the first 500 miles (800 km):

NOT

exceed 45 m.p.h. (72 km/h).

NOT

operate at full throttle in any gear.

NOT

allow the engine to

labour

in any gear.

Exhaust

1. The catalytic converter contains ceramic material. Avoid heavy impacts on

catalytic

the converter casing.

converter

2. Use unleaded fuel only (91 octane). The use of leaded fuel will seriously impair the efficiency of the emission control system.

3. The reaction in the catalytic converter increases exhaust system temperatures. Care

must

be taken to avoid exhaust system co ntact with easily combustible

materials such as dry grass.

4. If the engine misfires, the cause mu

t b immediately rectified to prevent

catalytic converter damage.

5. The use

any device which require an in rt into a

spark

plug hole in

order to generate an air pressure, i.e. tyre pump or pa int spray attachment, could also result in catalytic converter

dam

age. .

Choiceoffuel

The engine has been designed to operate only on unleaded fuel. It is essential

that unleaded fuel is used otherwise serious damage can be caused in the catalytic converter.

Filling

with

The

filler neck of the fuel

tank

is designed to accept fuel dispenser nozzlesofthe

fuel

type specified only for unleaded fuel.

The

dispenser nozzle

must

be inserted into

the filler neck sufficiently to open the

trap

door

for fuel to flow into the fuel tank.

Filling

with

The

filler neck of the fuel

tank

is designed to accept fuel dispenser nozzlesofthe

fuel

type specified only for unleaded fuel. The dispenser nozzle

must

be inserted into

the filler neck sufficiently to open the

trap

door

for fuel to flow into the fuel tank.

15 m.p.h. (24 km /h) 25 m.p.h. (40 krn/h) 40 m.p.h. (64 krn /h)

Starting

and Running

Instructions

Starting

Sit in the car, then wear and fasten the seat belts; this applies to both driver an d passenger.

Switch on the ignition and check:

That

the ignition warning light glows.

That

the fuel gauge registers. Depress the throttle pedal fully and release. Operate the starter. Do not depress the throttle pedal while the starter is operated. As soon as the engine is started check:

That

the oil pressure gauge registers.

The ignition warning light has gone out.

Quickly depress and release the throttle pedal to set the automatic choke to its correct position.

NOTE:

For cars operating in sub-zero temperatures, slowly depress the throttle

pedal until 2,500 rev

fmin is attained; maintain this speed until the engine reaches

normal operating temperature.

Ignition

The lamp shou ld glow when the ignition is switched on,

andgoout

and stay out

warning

lamp

at all times while the engine is running above normal idling speed. Failure to do

so indicates a fault in the battery charging system. Check

that

the fan belt is

correctly tensioned before consulting your authorized Austin MG Dealer.

Gear

change

Under normal dr iving conditions, it is recommended that to maintain the most

speeds

favourable exhaust emissions and fuel economy, the gears are selected at the following speeds:

1st to 2nd

.. 2nd to 3rd . . 3rd to 4th . .

Tachometer

For

normal

road

work, and to obtain the most satisfactory service from you r engine, select the appropriate gear to maintain engine speeds of between 2,000 and

4,500 revImin.

When maximum acceleration is required upward gear selections should be

made when the needle reaches the yellow sector (5,500-6,300 rev/min). Prolonged or excessive use of the highest engine speeds will tend to shorten the life of the engine. Allowing the engine to pull

hard

at low engine speeds must be avoided

as this also has a detrimental effect on the engine. The beginning of the red sector (6,300rev/min) indicates the maximum safe speed

for the engine. Never allow the needle to enter the red sector.

Wet

brakes

If the car has been washed, driven through water, or over wet roads for prolonged periods full braking power may not b v ilabl . Dry the brakes by applying the foot brake lightly several times, while th r i in motion. Keep the hand brake applied while using high pressure wa hing uipment.

Oil

pressure

warning

lamp

The lamp will glow when the ignition is switched on

and

go out soon after the

engine is running.

Vehicle

Due

consideration must be given to the overa ll weight carried when fully loading the car. Any loads carried on a luggage rack or downward load from a towing hitch must also be included in the maximu m loading.

Towing

Should it become necessary to tow the car, use the towing eyes provided.

for

recovery

The ignition/steering lock key must be at positions

'I'or'II'

and

must

not

removed during the tow.

For

tow starting the key must be at position

'II'.

the light continues to glow, stop the engine immediately

and

investigate th e

cause. Start by checking the oil level.

Starter

not operate the starter for longer than five to six seconds.

after a reasonable number of attempts the engine should fail to start, switch

off the ignition and investigate the cause. Continued use of the starter when the

Starter

Do not operate the starter for longer

than

five to six seconds.

If after a reasonable number of attempts the engine should fail to start, switch off the ignition and investigate the cause. Continued use of the starter when the engine will not start not only discharges the battery but may also damage th e starter.

If the starter pinion fails to engage .with the flywheel ring, or fails to disenga ge when the engine starts, the starter will emit a high-pitched whine; release the ignition key immediately. Should the starter pinion become

jammed

in mesh with

the flywheel ring, turn the squared end of the armature spindle with a spanner.

Temperature

Normal operating temperature is reached when the pointer is in the

'N'

sector.

gauge

Overheating may cause serious damage. Investigate any upward change in the temperature gauge reading immediately. Check coolant level

and

fan belt tension.

Towing

The towing weight of 1,3441b (610 kg) is the maximum that is permissible.

When

using

bottom

gear a gradient of up to 1 in 8 can be ascended while towing a

weight not exceeding this figure. It may be necessary to adjust the maximum

towing weight to comply with local conditions and regulations. The recommended

downward load of a trailer or caravan on the towing hitch is 75 lb (34 kg), but

this may be reduced or exceeded at the discretion of the driver. Any load carried on the luggage rack or downward load from a towing hitch must also be included

thP

TY":llV;1"Y"InJ:Y\ lrv:u-1UHT

th""

"""h..

i£"l"" -

weight not exceeding this figure. It may be necessary to adjust the maximum towing weight to comply with local conditions and regulations. The recommended downward load of a trailer or caravan on the towing hitch is 75 lb (34 kg), but this may be reduced or exceeded at the discretion of the driver. Any load carried on the luggage rack or downward load from a towing hitch must also be included in the maximum loading of the vehicle.

ENERGY CONSERVATION It is essential that owners wishing to achieve the best possible degree of fuel

economy ensure, as a first priority, that their vehicle is tuned to its optimum level of performance by regular maintenance in accordance with Leyland recom mendations.

Apart

from regular maintenance there are a number of areas where deliberate

and conscious actions on the

part

of the owner can achieve further quite marked

improvements. The following are recommended:

• After starting from cold, quickly depress and release the throttle pedal to set the automatic choke to its correct position.

• Switch off the ignition if the vehicle is expected to be stationary for more than half a minute.

• Avoid short stop-start journeys.

• Anticipate obstructions, junctions and sharp corners and adjust speed as necessary. Do not generate unnecessary speed.

• Accelerate gently through the gears.

• Decelerate gently whenever possible and avoid heavy braking.

• Stay in top gear as long as possible without labouring the engine.

• Ensure tyres are correctly inflated.

• Remove any unnecessary weight. CAUTION: Carburetter piston damper

An incorrectly fitted or lubricated carburetter piston damper can cause a marked increase in fuel consumption. The cautionary note and instructions on carburetter damper topping-up given on page 68 of this handbook

MUST

be observed.

LOCKS, FITTINGS

AND

BODY

Keys

Two keys and a duplicate set are provided, the large key for the steering lock/ ignition switch, and the all metal key for the glovebox, the doors and luggage

compartment. To reduce the possibility of theft, locks are not marked with a number.

NOTE

THE

KEY NUMBERS IMMEDIATELY on taking delivery of the car, see page

Lubrication

To ensure trouble-free operation it is essential that the locks, hinges and catches

are adequately lubricated. Locks. Inject a small quantity of thin oil, through the key slots and around the

push-buttons. Do not oil the steering lock. Hinges. Apply grease or oil to the joints of the hinges. Bonnet catches. Apply grease to the moving surfaces of the bonnet release

mechanism and oil to the release lever and safety-catch pivot points.

Doors

The

door

key can only be inserted or withdrawn when the key

and

key slot (1)

Fig.

1 are vertical. Forward key movement locks, opposite unlocks. To lock the doors

from inside the car, turn the locking lever (2), downwards.

Cubby

box

To open. Press the button (1) and lower the flap (2).

Fig.

To lock. Insert the key and turn clockwise. To unlock.

Turn

the key anti-clockwise.

Fig. 1

"""""

Fig. 1

Fig. 2

Locks,

Fittings

and

Body

Driving

mirrors

Fig. 3 External. The mirror head is adjustable from the driving position when the

window is open.

Fig.4

Interior. The mirror stem with anti-dazzle head is designed to break away from the mounting bracket on impact. The stem may be refitted in the mounting bracket as follows. Align the stem ball (1) with the bracket cup (2), ensuring that

the small protrusion (3) on the stem aligns with the indent of the mounting

bracket. Give the stem a smart tap with a soft instrument

join the two

components. Anti-dazzle. To reduce mirror dazzle, pull the lever (4) away from the windscreen.

Bonnet

To raise the bonnet, pull the

knob

(1) located inside the car on the left-hand side

Fig. 6 below the fascia panel.

Press the safety catch

(2) under the front of the bonnet

and

raise the bonnet. When fully raised the support stay will automatically spring into engagement and the bonnet will be held in the open position.

To close, raise the bonnet slightly, pushthe catch

(3) on the bonnet stay rearw ard

to release the locking mechanism and lower the bonnet. Apply light pressur with the palms of the hands at the front corners of the bonnet and press down quickly; undue force is not necessary and may cause damage. The safety catch and lock will be eard to engage.

Windows

and

Rotate

the handle (1) on each

door

to open and close the windows. The venti la-

ventilators

tion panels adjacent to each window may be opened after releasing the catch (2).

Fig. 5

Bumpers

Spilling fuel on the bumper may cause temporary local swelling of the rubber. Remove stains by lightly wiping the whole of the bumper with petrol (gasolin e) or warm water and liquid detergent.

Fig. 3

Luggage

To open , insert the key and

turn

it clockwise,

turn

the handle in an anti-clockwise

compartment

direction

and

fully raise the lid. The support stay will automatically spring into

(boot)

engagement and the lid will be retained in the open position. Ope ning the

Fig .7 luggage compartment lid automatically switches on the courtesy lamp.

To close, raise the lid slightly, push the catch (1) on the support stay forward

to release the locking mechanism, and lower the lid. Clo sing the luggage compartment lid

automa

tically switches off the courtesy lamp.

Fig. 7

I~II

If it is imperative that the car b driv n with th luggage com

par

tment lid open,

adverse effects can be minimized by adoptin th following pr ocedure :

1. Close all windo ws.

2. Open the face vents fully.

3. Set the heater controls to circ ulate the maximum

amount

of cold or hot air.

4. Switch on the blower

motor

to maximum speed.

not

travel at high speed.

To lock,

turn

the key anti-clockwise and withd raw the key.

WARNING:

Exhaust fumes will b d awn j to the car if it is driven with the

luggage compartment lid open, cau ing a h lth h zard to passengers and driver.

Fig. 6

3ND242

Fig. 5

1\\

&\\ /i

Iii

3ND242

Fig. 4

Locks,

Fittings

and

Bodv

Drain po i

nts

The body and doors are provided with drain holes to allow rain-water and

Fig. 8 condensation to flow freely from the panels, thus preventing accumulated water

from causing rust and corrosion. It is essential

that

the drain holes are kept

clear

and

are not inadvertently blocked. When painting or applying underseal to the body underpanels or doors, temporarily seal or mask the drain holes to prevent the ingress of sealant. Periodically inspect the drain holes and clear any obstruction using a piece of stiff wire or a suitable tool.

Jacking up beneath the underfloor may deform the drain apertures; always use the jacking points provided.

Hard

top

Fitting. Lower the hood.

Fiqs.9and

10 Position the

hard

top on the car

and

engage the toggle fastener tongues in their

sockets on the windscreen rail. Check

that

the rubber sealing strip is correctly

positioned forward of the rail. Fasten the toggle links

and

lock them with the

securing brackets (inset, Fig.

9).

Fit

the bolts into

both

side-fixing brackets and

tighten them down gently

and

evenly until the

hard

top

seals at

both

sides an d

the rear.

not tighten the bolts

hard

down.

Check the width of the gap between the flanges of the side-fixing brackets ( Fig. 10), remove the bolts

and

fit packing washers between the flanges to th

thickness of the gap. Refit

and

tighten the securing bolts.

Hood

is most important that the instructions for raising, lowering, and folding the hood

(Soft

top)

are carried out in the sequence given. Do not apply pressure to the frame-members other than the header rail; undue force is not necessary and should be avoided. Do not fold or stow the hood when

it is wet or damp.

Fig. 8

5118 4 0

Lowering (1) Unclip the sun visor and move to one side. Release the press studs on the

windscreen frame and

hood

frame links (Fig. 11).

(2) Release the "hood from the If-fa tening tr ip an d the three fasteners on

each rear quarter panel. (3) Open the toggle catches on the wind cr en rail (inset, Fig. 11). (4) Press the header rail rearward to

p the hinge links, at the same time

keeping the hood materia l pu ll d out t w rd the rear away from the frame

(Fig. 12).

Fig. 12

/ J I I

Fig. 11

SIIU

D I

((

Fig. 10

;/I'

----

Q....II

-c...

Fig. 9

Locks,

Fittings

and

Body

(5) Collapse the frame int o its stowage position in

the

rear

compa

rtment

and

lay

the

hood

mate

rial on

the

luggage

compartment

lid.

(6)

Fold

the

quarte

r-light inwards, on a line between

the

qua

rter-light

and

back-

light (Fig. 13).

(7)

Fold

the

hood

over the frame into the rear

compartment

(Fig. 14).

(8)

Lay the

hood

cover over the

hood

and

secure the

rear

edge with the fasten ers

(Fig. 15).

(9)

Arrange

the cover

and

secure it at the sides with

the

fasteners provided at

each

quarter;

secure

the

front

edge to the cockpit rea r panel with the four

press

studs (Fig . 15). Reposition the

sun

visors.

Raising (1) . Remove the

hood

cover

and

open

both

doors.

(2)

Lift

the

hood

over

theframe

and

lay it on the luggage

compartment

lid.

(3)

Unfold

the qua rter-lights

and

pull the header rail forward

and

upwards at

the

point

indicated by the label. Ensure

that

the

hood

material

takes

up its

correct position as

the

frame is erected.

(4) Engage the

hood

toggle fastener tongues in their sockets on the windscreen

rail, check

that

the

rubber

sealing strip is correctly positioned forward of

the rail , and fasten the toggle links.

(5) Secure the ho od with the fasteners on the

rear

quarte

rs, windsc reen side-

posts, and frame hinge links.

(6) Stow the

hood

cover.

Tonneau

cover

Fitting. Lay the cove r over the cockpit

and

secure the

rear

edge

and

sides with

the fasteners on the

tonneau

and

quarter-panels.

Extend the cover forward

and

secure

the

front edge to the fasteners on the

fascia panel

top

and

windscreen pillars.

Usage. The centre zip allows the cover to be folded down to give access to the driving seat or

both

seats.

Fold

the

cover down behind

the

seat

and

secure it

with the fasteners to the heel

board

(see Fig. 16).

The

short

side zips permit th

use of seat belts when the cover is folded down. Removing. Reverse the fitting procedure.

Fig. 13

Fig.

Fig. 15

Fig. 16

SEATS

AND

SEAT BELTS

SEATS

Fig. 1

Seat

Driving position. Both seats are adjustable and can be moved easily into the

adjustment

most comfortable position. Move the lever (1) located beneath the front of the seat outwards; hold the lever in this position while the seat position is adjusted. The locking pin is spring-loaded and will automatically lock the seat in the required position when the lever is released.

Seat back adjustment. The rake of the back or squab of the seats can also be adjusted. Ease the body weight from the seat back and move the lever (2) rearwards. Release the lever

and

ensure

that

the seat back is fully locked in position ;

check by applying back pressure on the seat.

Head

restraint

The vertical position of the head restraint (3) may be adjusted.

To lower, push the head restraint down towards the seat.

fasten

Lift the engagement tongue (1) from the stowing device (2)

and

draw

the belt

over the shoulder and across the chest

and

push

it into the locking device (3)

nearest the wearer. NOTE:

Withdraw the belt from the reel with a steady pull: sudden snatches

should be avoided as these will lock the reel.

release

Depress the panel (4) marked

'PRESS'

on the locking device.

stow

Allow the belt to retract fully, manually assist the last few inches to retract.

Hoo

the engagement tongue (1)

onto

the stowing device (2). To prevent the tongue

sliding down the belt, ensure

that

the slide (5) is close to the tongue when the

belt is stowed on the stowing

device,

To raise, place both hands under the restraint pad and lift the head restraint up away from the seat.

SEAT

BELTS Fig. 2

Warning

The seat belt warning system functions when the ignition /starter switch is opera-

system

ted. The

'FASTEN

BELTS'

lamp will be switched on for eight seconds each time the ignition /starter switch is operated. The warning buzzer will sound for eight seconds if the ignition/starter switch is operated before the driver's seat belt is fastened.

Testing

Careofthe

belts

WARNING: This test must be carried out under safe road conditions, i.e. on a dry, straight paved road, during a period when the road is free from traffic. With the belts in use, drive the car at 5 m.p.h. (8 km./h.)

and

brake

sharply.

The

automatic locking device should operate

and

lock the belt. It is essential

that

the

driver

and

passenger are sitting in a normal relaxed position when making the

test. The retarding effect of the braking must not be anticipated. If a belt fails to lock, consult y

ourauth

orized Aust

in/MG

Dealer.

No unauthorized alterations or additions to the belts

should

be made. Inspect the webbing periodically for signs of abrasion, cuts, fraying and general wear; pay particular attention to the fixing points

and

adjusters.

~ig

•.1

Fig•.

Wearing

Always wear a belt as a complete lap and diagonal assembly

and

never at any time

wear it loosely, as this reduces its protection. Ensure

that

the belt is lying flat

and

not

twisted. Always stow a seat belt

thatisnot

in use.

Never

attempt

to use a seat belt for more

than

one person, even for small children .

Fig. 2

Do not attempt to bleach the belt webbing or re-dye it.Ifthe belts become soiled, sponge with

warm

water using a non-detergent soap

and

allow to dry naturally.

Do not use caustic soap, chemical cleaners or detergents for cleaning. Do not dry with artificial heat or by direct exposure to the sun.

Renew a seat belt assembly that has withstood the strain of a severe impact.

+ 32 hidden pages

MG Midget 1979 User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual