Could have been the extra weight of the picnic hamper and tartan rug...So I've left it in the garage until I picked up enough enthusiasm to start again, which will be in the next couple of weeks. The engine and box are both 1275 Midget, no significant tuning, with original flywheel and a mechanical linkage using Declan's kit. I used an NOS QH drive plate, having read disparaging comments about the quality of replacements available at the time, and probably (my memory isn't perfect) the cover from the Midget engine. The release bearing was renewed, and a suitable fork sourced based on advice here. All worked well initially, but the failure was quite rapid, almost total loss of drive to the gearbox within a few miles of first noticing it slipping.
Until I dismantle it I won't know the cause of the failure, there are some oil drips at the bottom of the bellhousing so not impossible that there has been some oil contamination which I'll have to deal with. I will replace the plate and the cover as a matter of course, so I'm looking for advice as to a reliable make or supplier. I might also need to ask on the MG forums, but I'm starting in the best place!
Mark
