Step One

“The Teardown and Analysis”

The MGA’s were an old style car with a separate frame and a body that could be lifted off. Although they were mass produced there was a lot of hand work and fitting to put one together. In addition to the visible (and beautiful) outer body panels there were also a series of under body panels and there one finds some serious rust damage. I got this car when it was 10 or 11 years old and already (unknown to me) it had serious rust problems in the inner panels which is one reason the doors did not close properly. All the MGA steel body panels are 18 gauge steel (which is quite thick for a car these days) and the hood, trunk, and door skins are aluminum. I should point out that the floors are plywood.

Right Side

Here is a shot of the right side of the car, which is raised up about 2’ to make it easier to work on. Now to the left side of the car with the outer body panels removed. Notice the severe rust damage in the inner body panels especially in the rear door post. The inner sill is completely gone. So the game plan is to repair and replace the inner body panels one side at a time. Then make sure the door closes properly, temporarily install the fenders and adjust fit until the door is aligned properly. Then remove the fenders and door again and repeat on the other side. Once both sides are completed the body can be lifted off the frame without distorting or falling apart (this one would definitely fall apart).


Below is the rear for post which is basically floating, its base and attachment points are rusted out.