ZT/MGB Technical Tips

A technical tip for ZT owners
Working on the MG ZT range may be something that appears to fall only within the preserve of dealers and other specialists. Certainly the complexity of the vehicle’s systems precludes most owners from carrying out much beyond basic maintenance, and even here there are sometimes extra electronic complications. But surely dealing with a battery is not going to be that difficult – or is it?

If for any reason it is necessary for the battery to be disconnected there are obvious concerns surrounding the vehicle’s security system, plus radio and clock settings depending what is fitted to the car. However, disconnecting the battery on a car with Satellite Navigation could lead to damage that makes the cost of a new battery seem like the cost of a packet of chewing gum!

The issue arises from the way the Satellite Navigation system powers up and down. It is not something that is connected to the actual operation of the controls from inside the car or with any need to have the key in the ignition. Indeed opening the doors or the boot/tailgate is enough to power up the unit as indicated by the little red ‘Power’ lamp as shown in the picture. Only after the boot/tailgate has been open for approx.90 seconds will the unit power down, indicated by the ‘power’ light extinguishing, and only then should you disconnect power. (Or remove the unit, if that is what you’re intending.)

Power light off

Power light om

Disconnecting supply from the unit when it is powered up can lead to corruption within the unit rendering it unusable and to replace it will cost over £1500.

Now that many early cars are dropping out of manufacturer’s warranty, the fact that batteries have a finite life, and the view of most owners that a battery change is something most people can do, things like this will come to notice for the wrong reasons.

Any member with other similar tips for the newer MGs is encouraged to write to the magazine and share them.

Roger Parker

Re-Circulating MGB
It has probably been suggested before, but by putting a piece of acetate (from a pack of Sainsbury’s croissants) between the grille and the mesh of the heater air intake, the gale from around the ill- fitting “fresh air door” can be eliminated during winter use.

If the dash-level air vents are opened, and the fan switched on, it will draw warmer air from the cockpit, heat it and send it out down by your feet or to the windscreen.

I think posh cars call it “re-circulating”.

Fresh air can be adjusted with the quarter-lights or by small gaps around the edges of the acetate (or an ill-fitting hood) according to taste.

Michael Beswick