1949 MG TC Roadster

1949 MG T-Series Description

I've owned the car almost 11 years. The previous owner lived in California and passed away in 2005. He owned it since the mid-70s and did a complete restoration of the car in 1979. I bought the car from his widow and had the car shipped to me in Ohio. The car was in excellent condition. Over the next 10 years my son and I took several trips in the car... North Carolina, New England, Indiana, Michigan, and all through Ohio. The odometer was reset to zero in 1979 and when I purchased the car in 2005, it read 21,863.
Now it is 38,000 (true mileage unknown). The title shows the VIN as TC8114 (from the data plate in the engine compartment). The engine casting date is April 21, 1939 (from an MG model TB which is basically identical to the TC engine). The VIN is stamped TC9415 on the frame.
Cosmetically, the body is rust-free. There is a small area near the right running board where the paint is not good.... you have to get very close to the car to see it. The last picture in this listing shows the detail. Except for that one area, the paint is shiny and smooth. There are several small areas of minor touch-up but the car's overall appearance is definitely eye-catching. The front tires are new, the rear tires are about half worn, and the spare is serviceable. The body wood has been replaced and under the car it is stamped "Made in Canada." The body is solid.... no squeaks, no rattles!
I replaced the top and tonneau cover in 2006 and they still look new. The side curtains are in excellent condition, and fit well. The interior stays dry even in a rainstorm. The 4 plastic "windows" are not scratched or smudged, as well as the back window of the top.Everything works on the car except the clock, which will occasionally run when the battery is fully charged. All lights, instruments, wipers, all controls work fine.
About two years ago I began to notice the oil pressure was gradually becoming less than normal, and the engine started to clatter as it accelerated, approaching around 3000 rpm, so I decided to have the engine rebuilt. This was done in the fall of 2015, and included new valves and springs, guides, tappets, cylinder liners, pistons, rings, wrist pins, camshaft, bearings (con rod, main crank, and camshaft), timing chain, and water pump. All parts were purchased from Moss and I have all the receipts. The motor now runs beautifully and quietly with great oil pressure and plenty of power. However, despite installing a new Moss real seal kit, the engine is still leaking oil. If the new owner wants to address this issue, I would suggest consulting with a shop who has experience working on the MG XPAG-Type motor. There is an improved seal sold by Moss called the Speedi-Sleeve but I did not buy this when I ordered parts. The Speedi-Sleeve is described in detail in the Moss parts catalogue.
Now, with the motor fully warmed up, oil pressure is 40-45psi at idle, and maintains 55-60psi at approx 60mph. On the hottest days the temp gauge maxes at about 85C. No water is added or needed.
Other major areas of the car which have been repaired or replaced over the years are: carbs rebuilt by Joe Curto in 2006, distributor 2006, radiator 2009, generator 2011, oil pump 2012, starter 2013. All receipts and records will be included with the car.
I believe I have started the bidding at a reasonable amount. My wife of 50+ years wants to replace the MG with a Miata (no oil leaks, has a HEATER). I will be 80 in a few weeks and it's time to sell.
A minimum deposit of $1000 is required from the winning bidder within 48 hours of the end of the listing. Bidders with feedback of less than +5 must contact me before bidding or I will reject those bids. Thank you.... I hope the new owner will enjoy the car as much as I have.