After finding a great 69 GT, (thanks Bruce, Bob and Jim) I began research. I found that the book on How To Give Your MGB V8 Power would make a good boat anchor if only it weighed more , and the best source is the MG V8 Newsletter, and the conversations with the people who write it.

To date I have purchased a 4.0 Rover V-8, a new Borg Warner T-5 tranny, a bell housing, clutch kit, flywheel , hydraulic throw out bearing, and 4 eight spoke alloy wheels. Big expenses to come are a Ford/MG rear end, and all the air conditioning components. Paint and body work depend on how far the car must be modified to make everything fit.

Several things have become very clear to me at this point. First: This is not going to be cheap! (Duh!)

Second: When I'm done it will be a fundamentally different car. It isn't just going to be a fast B-GT. Third: When everything is put together I will love this car. Great acceleration, no real weight penalty (except the driver), fantastic 5th gear high speed cruising. Fourth: No one sells a "kit". You are on your own to find pieces-parts Sonny Boy.

I now have all the parts needed to " dry fit" the engine and trans, so out goes the old engine starting this week. I'll keep everyone informed (editor willing), and by the way, does anyone want to buy a good four banger?

Jim Wood at Specialty Auto has 2 for sale. One is an 825S with a 5 speed,

and the other is an 825 SL with an automatic. Negotiations start at $3500. Phone (402) 432-1153.

We plan on running some photos sent us by Frank Grover. While Frank was in London over the Holidays, He took some photos (or more accurately David took them, as Frank is in them) of new Mini's and the MGF. Maybe Frank will give us an update on the Lazarus Mini (subtle hint, Frank).

Bob Shaw is planning a story on the updates of his MGA, complete with an MGB full synchro transmission with overdrive.

John Ulrich will give us an update on the GT V8.