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MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG Midget and Sprite General - Replacement Hood Recommendations?

Hi,

The hood that was on my Midget when I bought it is disintegrating, it is currently held to together with copious amounts of duct-tape, but I would like to replace it ASAP.
I plan on getting a vinyl one, and was wondering if anyone can recommend a manufacturer/supplier.
I have seen Don Trimming Company and Prestige Car Hoods come up, but was considering the MGOC.
Are any of them superior, is it even worth worrying about, I think that Don Trimming is marginally cheaper?
I noticed that the MGOC hood has some tabs which set the position of the header rail, this seems useful, do the others?

Thanks,
-- Josh
J Levine

Josh,

We have a Don Trimming's hood, and really like it. We ordered the zip-out back light to help with ventilation on really hot days.

Regards,

Larry C.
Larry C '69 Midget

For the ife of me I can't remember where I bought mine but buying one overseas was 3 times cheaper than having it made locally. Agree with Larry - whatever you order make sure the back window is a zip out. Makes a huge difference.
Mark Wilson

MGOC may well be selling hoods manufactured by one or other of the aforementioned.
Dave O'Neill 2

IMO - get a Don and get them to fit it if you want a good hood and fitting
Nigel Atkins

How does a zipped window provide more fresh air under the hood cover? ;)
Alex G Matla

Hi Alex,
In sunny South Africa in the summer at 30degC or +80F, hot seats and sunburn come into the equation so hood up, side windows down, back window unzipped makes for pleasant fresh air motoring. I also do a it of rallying and with the hood down those instructions flap all over the place.
Mark Wilson

Mh, yes. In South Africa I can imagine...
Alex G Matla

Thanks, think I will probably go with the Don Trimmings one.
Do these generally come with the required fixings?

-- Josh
J Levine

Josh,

You will need to reuse the base frame, header rail, retaining strip/s and sundries. Snaps and fasteners came with our top. Pardon the USA Moss reference;

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=29366

Mark Wilson (SA) and I are on the same page with flow through ventilation in the heat.

Regards,

Larry C.
Larry C '69 Midget

Bought one for my mark 2 Sprite from AH Spares. Very happy with it. Red vinyl. I think it was about £225.

Tim
TJ Prime

I installed a tan Prestige roof on my Midget, and am entirely satisfied with the product. Installation photos here:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/safety_fast/sets/72157623606866759/

-:G:-
Gryf Ketcherside

Echoing Mark above, the zip-out window really does make a difference in the summer. With my old top, driving with the door windows down created some turbulence, but it could still be hot and stuffy inside, as air exchange was poor. With the rear open, you get an actual flow of fresh (or more likely, warm and humid...) air, and it's definitely more bearable.

-:G:-
Gryf Ketcherside

I'm considering going to Don for a new hood with a zip out rear window for my mk3 Sprite. They've been in business for ages and have a very good reputation. I'll take the car and let them fit it as Nigel suggests, because, although I think I made a not bad job of fitting the header rail to the hood, I'm sure they can do it better. I just have to sell my Ashley hard top to finance it.

Bernie.
b higginson

If you go to Don I would suggest phoning them rather than ordering online so that you know what you are getting. I recently ordered a tonneau online and initially was disappointed when I received it. However when I phoned and eventually spoke to the boss (Mark) all became clear and he bent over backwards to ensure I was happy with the end result. Needless to say I would now recommend them.

Trev
T Mason

Thank you for all the suggestions.
I will give Don a call today, if all is good I may as well go with them (given that they are slightly cheaper).
I have considered a zip-out window, but don't think it will be necessary for our climate!

Thanks again,
-- Josh
J Levine

these zip down windows do they strap down?

I'm sure I drove a car with one and it flapped about widely above 50 mph

Mk1 MX-5s you could get a cover for the zip down window to keep it from scratching
N Atkins

I have ordered a hood in Superior Quality vinyl from Don.
Thanks for the help.

-- Josh
J Levine

Hi Josh

May I ask what Don are charging for the hood inc fitting?

I am in the same dilemma at the moment as to what hood to buy and where to fit?

their prices for the actual hoods are very good, but interested to see what they charge fitting wise?

Hope you can help
Brad
bk dyson

This thread was discussed between 25/05/2011 and 08/06/2011

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