Which engine do I want? And how do I identify it?

[burgundyben]

My MGA 1500 feels a little slow and not up to the use I want to give it on long high speed runs.

So I have decided to rebuild a 1800 over the winter and fit a 5 speed ford type nine box on the back for dropping in in the springtime.

I suppose I may decide on bigger carbs, tubular headers, hotter cam, electronic ignition, light flywheel or all sorts of others but first....

What engine? I know there is several variants, I'm in the UK and will want it to run 95 UL gas.

Is an 18V the one I want? How do I identify it?

Thanks!

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[Steve_S]

Re: Which engine do I want? And how do I identify

Honestly, I feel the best engine for the MGA is a 3-main 1800 from 62-64 MGB. It retains the same feel and quick revving as the MGA engine. Later 5-main units are a bit more durable and will leak less oil, but they feel smoother and more modern. Of course that may be what you're after but I prefer the feel of the engine to be a but more pure and raw, like the MGA itself.

The 3-main 1800 will also allow you to retain your original mechanical tachometer and will look correct in the engine bay, except for some very minor stamping differences that 99% of MG enthusiasts will never spot.

 

[burgundyben]

Re: Which engine do I want? And how do I identify

I'm not bothered about originality or under bonnet appearance (how could with a ford 5 speed going in).

Looking for smooth high speed touring ability.

 

[billspohn]

Re: Which engine do I want? And how do I identify

I agree with Steve 100%.

The 3 main was made for the MGA (literally - they just didn't get around to fitting it before the model change).

I run one in my coupe and it looks exactly correct for an MGA but has the added power. It also has slightly more power than the later 5 main engines, though not enough to worry about.

inding a good core 3 main B can be a challenge these days as many people in the old days tossed them out for 5 mains.

The 3 main says 1800 on the side and has the tach drive at the back.