Jeff Wilkins's Journal

All my previous journal entries lead to this one. I am proud to say Green B, my 1977 MGB, is finally complete to the level that I can drive and enjoy it. My original target was to build this project car in 3 to 4 years. Well that was a doable goal but because of all the learning, and life events that interfered with the schedule it ended up being all off 7 years. It is safe to say the first 6 years were spent on all the mechanical side of the motor, drive train and running gear. I rebuilt the motor completely but have disassembled and reassembled the valve train since to ensure things were done correct after reading things here on MG experience. Yes, it has been a methodical and trying experience. The assembly of the body parts and interior went quite quickly but I still have work to do on the interior. This has truly been a life experience that has transformed me from an auto enthusiast to something much more. I know a lot of enthusiasts but I have come to believe there is a real difference for those who have rebuilt the motor to completion where they have a working piece. I have a whole new level of appreciation for caring for my automobiles. Changing the oil in an engine has new meaning. I do all my automotive maintenance myself now. It isn't so much that I don't trust the Jiffy Lube guys but more that I want to take a look at things to be sure everything is in good condition and to my standard. The savings have been mounting from the repairs I do myself now. I attribute all the savings to my MG experience. Also, I have owned three other MGBs since the Green B project began. I look at them as rescue projects. I flipped two of them and kept a fine 1971 MGB because it is a very nice chrome bumper car. I also helped a friend get his MGB in good condition so it could be sold. I have to say that the learning could not have been achieved without the help that has come from MG Experience forums. What a great set of forums. There are some people on here with real knowledge from years and years of experience working on MG cars and often many other interesting makes and models. I hope there are some new members that like me embrace this hobby and become a regular on MG Experience. Great forum!