Clogged drain tube

During heavy rain both foot compartments of my MG get soaked. From this forum I learned this is probably caused by a clogged drain tube. So yesterday I crawled under the car to inspect the drain. An indeed, the dust valve was fully clogged. During cleaning I wondered why not simply cut off the dust valve from the drain. I know that's no good as fas as originality is concerned, but is there another reason not to do so? Any suggestions?

Jasper

I cut mine a couple of years ago. (Hope I don't get criticized too badly)

I think you are talking about the drain tube from the fresh air intake in front of the windshield. Assuming I'm correct I think the dust valve at the bottom serves a secondary function of forcing intake air from the grill into the car. If the tube is open at the bottom air flow will go out the tube instead of into the car. Probably not a big deal in a roadster with it rag top (or more likely....not top), but possibly an issue in the GT.

BH

Mine was clogged, I cut it off.

BH,
Great point, first I heard that nver thought about that......

Mine was clogged. I ran a coat hanger through it from the bottom (and got a face full of crap) to clear it. No more problems. Will probably have to repeat every few years, but next time I'll keep my head out of the way.

Chuck

First thing I do when I get a new MG is cut that damn bulb off.

Cut it off or replace it with a vet tube from a marine hardware place.
Similar sort of tube used to drain water from boat hulls as the boat runs along.
Allows water out but self seals when water or air tries to go in.

Cheers , Pete.