Target Audience:
Professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.
Purpose:
To provide comprehensive guidance for maintaining and repairing the MG Metro 1980-1990.
Manual Comparison:
Offers equivalent or superior content to factory manuals and owner's manuals, with the convenience of digital access.
Feature 1:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major systems.
Feature 2:
Critical specifications, torque values, and clearances.
Feature 3:
Detailed wiring diagrams and electrical system troubleshooting.
Feature 4:
Guidance for both routine maintenance and complex repairs.
Feature 5:
Instant availability via digital download.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, disassembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing, lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection (if applicable to models covered), carburetion (e.g., SU, Weber), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, emission control systems.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, wiring, timing adjustment.
Transmission Manual:
Gearbox overhaul, clutch system, gear shift mechanism, driveshafts, UJs.
Transmission Automatic:
Automatic transmission service and repair (if applicable variants exist within the production period).
Suspension System:
Hydrolastic suspension (front and rear), interlinking hoses, displacers, pump, suspension arms, bushings, dampers.
Steering System:
Steering rack, column, tie rods, linkages, adjustment.
Braking System:
Front and rear disc/drum brakes, hydraulic system, master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, dashboard instruments, fuses, relays, ignition switch, wiper system, heater fan.
Body And Chassis:
Body shell, doors, windows, hinges, locks, body panels, interior trim, chassis components, corrosion prevention.
Heating And Ventilation:
Heater unit, ducting, blower motor, controls.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid level checks, brake adjustments, lubrication points.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common faults and symptoms across all major systems.
Disassembly And Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for removing, overhauling, and reinstalling major vehicle components.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed instructions for repairing specific parts and systems, including common wear items.
Cleaning And Reinstallation:
Guidance on cleaning components before reassembly and proper installation techniques.
Engine Timing Adjustment:
Detailed procedures for setting ignition timing and valve timing (if applicable).
Suspension Adjustment And Charging:
Specific instructions for charging and adjusting the Hydragas suspension system, including fluid levels and pressures.
Electrical Component Testing:
Guidance on testing and troubleshooting electrical components like alternators, starter motors, and lighting circuits.
Depth Of Coverage:
Covers fundamentals for DIY mechanics to professional technicians, including detailed step-by-step guidance.
Diagnostic Information:
Includes critical specifications, diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Illustrations And Diagrams:
Features illustrations and pictures to aid in understanding procedures and component identification.
Torque Specifications:
Essential torque values for critical fasteners in engine, drivetrain, chassis, and bodywork.
Engine Options:
Primarily Rover/BMC A-Series engines: 1.3L (1275cc) variants. Early models might have had 1.0L (998cc) versions.
1.3L Engine Power:
Approx. 60-68 bhp (depending on specific tune and year, e.g., MG Metro variants often had higher output) - *Specific figures vary by sub-model and tune.*
1.3L Engine Torque:
Approx. 70-75 lb-ft (dependent on specific tune) - *Specific figures vary by sub-model and tune.*
Carburetion Common:
Typically single SU HS4 or HIF4 carburettor. Some performance variants may have used twin carbs.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Petrol (from mid-1980s onwards, earlier models may have been designed for leaded or required additives).
Bore Stroke 1275Cc:
70.6 mm x 81.3 mm
Compression Ratio Typical:
8.8:1 to 9.75:1 (depending on variant)
Cooling Type:
Pressurised liquid cooling system.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6-12 months, depending on usage. Consult specific manual recommendations.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check at 6,000 miles, replace as needed. Replace annually or if dirty.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Inspect every 12,000 miles, replace as needed. Interval varies based on plug type (e.g., standard vs. platinum).
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF/CD or equivalent. Viscosity typically 10W-40 or 20W-50. Exact grade depends on climate. Consult manual for specific recommendations.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 litres (including filter) for 1.3L A-Series engine.
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with anti-corrosion inhibitors. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Consult manual for specific coolant type (e.g., OAT/HOAT, though older specs likely apply).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 glycol-based brake fluid.
Transmission Oil Manual:
GL4 Hypoid Gear Oil, SAE 80W/90. Capacity approx. 2.0 litres.
Common Issue 1:
Hydragas suspension: Leaks in hoses or displacers, loss of pressure, requires specialized charging equipment.
Common Issue 2:
Rust: Common on sills, wheel arches, rear valence, and door bottoms due to age and typical British car construction.
Common Issue 3:
Carburettor issues: Sticking or worn diaphragms, fuel leaks, tuning instability.
Common Issue 4:
Electrical gremlins: Aging wiring looms, corroded connections, faulty switches and relays.
Common Issue 5:
Wear on suspension bushings and ball joints, leading to steering vagueness and noise.
Mg Heritage:
MG, a British marque with a long history of producing sporty and affordable cars, often based on mass-market BMC/BL platforms.
Metro Introduction:
Launched in 1980 as the Austin Metro, replacing the Mini as British Leyland's primary small car. The MG Metro variant was introduced to inject sporting character.
Mg Metro Enhancements:
The MG Metro featured more powerful engine tuning, stiffer suspension (Hydragas), sportier trim, and styling cues to differentiate it from standard Austin Metros.
Manufacturing Location:
Longbridge, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
Production Period:
1980-1997 (for the Metro nameplate, with MG variants evolving and ceasing earlier within this period).
