underside access

Post by **cadetchris** » Fri Nov 06, 2009 3:47 pm

ok, not really morris related, more austin, but the same principal applies.

it is coming to that point i my restoration of my somerset where i need to tackle the chassis and underside.
my intention was to get a load of tyres from the garage in the village and literally push it on its side (with doors, front and rear wings removed) and work on it that way.
but i was tempted to get a roller for it (very espensive for a couple weeks use)
or do i simple stick it on axle stands and brave the inevertale torrent or wud, old waxoyl and rust that will fall in my face.

the chassis and body are seperate, but the body is a huge piece of metal and i dont really want to take it off.

so, what would people suggest i do?

Post by **bmcecosse** » Fri Nov 06, 2009 5:26 pm

Be sure to remove battery - drain axle/gearbox/engine oils. Seal off brake reservoir cap with cling film under the cap. I think it will take a lot of strength to roll a Somerset!

Post by **cadetchris** » Fri Nov 06, 2009 6:19 pm

luckly this just the shell with the front suspension ans wheels, and rear axle in place. the rest of the car is in the garage.
it is quite a heavy car, just shy of 2 tonnes fully built. hence i am a bit weary bu just pushing it over onto some tyres, as the body shell might twist, which will make things that little bit more special when it comes to putting it back together again

Post by **kennatt** » Sat Nov 07, 2009 8:56 am

I have rolled several mgbs ,not quite as heavy I know,like this,Left the wheels on and chocked them with timber against the garge wall then with sutable straps round the front and rear axel used a three ton block and tackle fastened to the roof above the centre of the vehicle and suitably supported the roof and simply lifted the side of the car up to the point where its was at the ballance point,gives good access to most of the underside,and most of the wieght is on the tackle ,not the car frame,Got to reverse it to get good access to the other side.But worked for me.

Post by **cadetchris** » Wed Nov 11, 2009 4:50 pm

that sounds a good idea, however i am lacking the relavent garage, so the sky is my roof.
i have thought about letting the tyres down on one side and with the air of the jack and axle stands, progressively jack one side up and chock it with a chunky bit of wood, but this will only get it to one point.