Alamo Beige MGA – A Family Restoration Story

This 1960 1600 MGA roadster was purchased new by Arnold in 1961, when he was 22 years old. He drove it, modified it, and raced it for 12 years until the engine died in 1973. A growing family and work commitments resulted in the car sitting in the garage of the family home on axle stands until July this year.

Arnold’s son, Graham, and Graham’s mother, Carol, decided that it was time after 44 years, for the car to be driven again. Arnold is currently recovering from an operation and several months in hospital, and it is hoped he will be well enough to ride in the car again later this summer.

Our brief is to get the car driving, and stopping, again. We will be replacing all the brake, clutch, fuel and radiator hoses. The original engine is being replaced, as is the gas tank. The tank recently started to leak, and the almost 4 decades old gas was like syrup, with a pervasive smell. The carburetors will be rebuilt, and a new stainless steel exhaust system will be fitted. Of course, new tires and tubes will have to be installed. Graham has been cleaning off the dirt, oil, and grease when he has the time. New front suspension bushes and steering rack boots are also being fitted.

While the Alamo Beige paintwork is faded, and there are some dings, scratches, and surface rust in the body, it will be driven “as is”. The red leather seats are in remarkably good condition, but the door panels and carpets are severely damaged. The car will be converted to negative ground when the new battery is connected.

There will be a follow-up story once the car is rolling again.