MG T-ABC

I am in the process of replacing the gasket behind the engine mounting plate on my TC. I have the timing cover off but have hit something of a brick wall in removing the sump. All the bolts are out including those through the bellhousing however the sump is resisting gentle persuasion. Any suggestions which may facilitate my task are welcomed. Thanks.

Job done! A more determined approach involving tapping progressively larger flat blade screw drivers between sump and block split the joint without damaging anything.

Just thinking ahead... if you fit a new Viton front oil seal to the nose of the crankshaft (with silicon) be sure to fit it to the timing chain cover first then lift the sump up to it as you will probably not be able to fit it to the sump first.

Thanks Ray, l have just been down this road taking the opportunity whilst in isolation to remove the engine and address its various oil leaks. Of course l replaced every seal except the one behind the bearer plate as it had no apparent leak. When reinstalled the engine was oil tight except l could see a drip slowly form between the block and bearer plate behind the generator. Nothing for it but to pull the front off the motor and fix it.

I replaced that gasket when the engine was returned from having had a rebore/regrind etc. The engine builders wanted the block clear so it was something I had to do when I got it back.

All good fun!

Ray.