MG MGB and MGB GT Tech Talk
I am installing an electric fan on the B and wanted to wire it through a switch in the console so that I could turn it off/on automatic mode/on. I bought a switch from Moss but it is a POS! Anybody know a good source of reliable switches that fit the rectangular holes (a new style, 2-speed, heater blower switch would work).
Eric, please don't take me wrong when I say what I'm about to say....
WHY install an electric fan on your '74? Instead of putting a bandaid on the heating problem, why not solve it? Properly setup and maintained B's don't have heating problems! Somewhere in your cooling system something isn't working optimally....radiator plugged or leaking or vanes dmamged, buildup of crud in block's water channels, water pump getting weak, a hose partially collapsed, thermostat not working properly, heater core blocked, etc, etc, etc....why not find & correct the problem?
Tony - I agree completely! There is nothing wrong with the heating/cooling system. In fact, I have ususally found them to be over-cooled! However I prefer to remove the normal cooling fan and install an electric one. The engine runs a little quieter, and you gain a couple of HP. Back home I just ran without a fan - and used the heater to cool it in traffic - but the weather here is a tad warmer so I thought I'd use the electric fan!
Tony's correct and he probably has a few original switch's laying around. They can be taken apart and cleaned up. Eric is on the right track also...I fired up the GT with out a fan and was amazed at the noise reduction. Almost went down to Autozone and bought electric fan.
When you say new style heater switch, are you talking 77-80 or 74-76. I have a heater blower switch from a 76, that I thought I would use on a 79, only to find it doesn't fit. I could let you have it. I also have quite a collection of switches I have tried to use none of which fit, so send me the dimensions you need, and I'll see what I have tonight.
I guess for my 79 I will just buy the correct switch from Moss
Ed
Eric...see, with that explanation what you want to do makes sense: more power & quieter operation....contact me off-bbs....Don's right, I probably have an original switch that would work...what about a heater fan switch?
Thanks Ed - I appreciate the offer. A word of warning - I bought a switch from Moss and it is worse than useless! It fits the hole O.K. but mechanically and electrically it is junk. I will use it as a filler only!
Ed, the late-style dash Chuck gave me had most of the switches still in it, and they're of no use to me. If you need a late-style heater switch drop me an email and let me know and I'll head out to the garage and see if I have it. I'll just pass it on in the spirit in which it was given to me.
I need a later style heater fan switch, if anyone has one. Mine is on it last legs. (78B)
I have personal experience here...
The fan blades fracture and launch into low orbit
in my case thru' the bonnet.
Install the electric fan!
It's not a coolin' system issue....
I just use a toggle switch in the hole for the seatbelt warning light. It's easily reversible.
Then send it back. My new fan switch for the 79 fits the hole, and works as it should.
Sounds like Greg has a good idea. Make that a 3-position toggle and you have off - on - automatic. Maybe I should do that too.
