MG RV8: Essential Maintenance & Tips

The MG RV8, a modern interpretation of a classic British sports car, offers a unique driving experience. As these vehicles age, with the youngest now over 29 years old, proactive and informed maintenance is paramount to preserving their performance and longevity. This guide delves into essential workshop notes, common owner tips, and technical details to help RV8 enthusiasts keep their beloved machines in top condition.

The MG RV8 Workshop Note Series

For owners seeking detailed technical information and maintenance advice, the V8 Register of the MG Car Club has been an invaluable resource. They have produced a popular series of RV8 Workshop Notes, covering a wide range of service and maintenance procedures, along with useful spares tips. These notes are particularly helpful for addressing issues that may arise as the cars mature. Complete sets are available on CD in both Microsoft Word and PDF formats. For details on obtaining these essential documents and information on joining the V8 Register, contact Victor Smith, the V8 Registrar, via email at [email protected] or by fax at +44 208 392 9673.

Understanding Japanese RV8 Imports

A significant number of RV8s were exported to Japan, and many of these have since been re-imported. Owners of these vehicles should be aware of a specific modification required for the distributor vacuum advance. On ex-Japanese models, the vacuum pipe is often incorrectly routed from the side of the plenum chamber. This can lead to constant vacuum to the distributor, causing the timing to be permanently advanced. The correct setup involves moving the vacuum tube to the nipple on top of the throttle butterfly chamber. The original tee piece on the plenum chamber should then be blocked off using the rubber cap from the butterfly chamber nipple, or the tee piece can be removed entirely with the vacuum hose connected directly. This simple adjustment, taking less than five minutes, ensures the timing advances correctly only when the throttle is opened. It’s important to note that the nipple on the plenum chamber might be blocked, requiring cleaning or careful drilling if necessary. After this adjustment, the ECU may need a brief period to readjust.

Common RV8 Issues and Solutions

Several common issues have been identified by RV8 owners, with practical solutions and tips provided:

Power Steering Upgrade

The steering on the RV8 can feel heavy, especially during low-speed manoeuvres. A popular and highly recommended upgrade is the EZ Power Steering unit. Once installed, it integrates seamlessly with the RV8's interior, making it almost unnoticeable. The unit is available from Clive Whealey in the UK for £1794 (plus VAT for overseas customers). Many owners find this a worthwhile investment that significantly enhances driving pleasure.

Wiper Blade Adjustment

Ensure your wiper blades are correctly adjusted. The bottom corners should not interfere with the lower edge of the glazing rubber, as the softer rubber can develop unsightly grooves where the blades catch. This is a simple but important check for maintaining visibility.

Clutch Master Cylinder Cap Removal

Removing the clutch master cylinder cap can be challenging, often leading to scraped knuckles or deformation of the soft aluminium cap if tools like grips are used. Investing in a "Zyliss Strongboy Jar & Bottle Opener" is a highly recommended solution for easy and damage-free removal.

Distributor Clamp Wrench

Adjusting the ignition timing on an RV8 can be difficult due to the hard-to-reach distributor clamp nut. While a specific Rover service tool exists, a substitute with a long, specially shaped neck can make this job considerably easier. These are available from automotive parts suppliers.

Plastic Coolant Filler Plug Corrosion

A warning has been issued regarding the corrosion of the black hexagonal plastic coolant filler plugs located at the end of the high-rise pipe. This corrosion can lead to coolant leaks. Workshop notes 150 and 158 address this, recommending replacement. The plug is shared with the Range Rover, with original part number ARA240, often superseded by KTP9401.

Alloy Wheel Corrosion

Almost all RV8s suffer from alloy wheel corrosion. The most effective solution is a complete wheel refurbishment, which involves removing tyres, valves, and studs. The cost typically ranges around £50 in the UK or $120 AUD.

Exhaust System Maintenance

A small hole is drilled at the lowest point between the silencer boxes on each exhaust pipe. These holes can become blocked and require regular cleaning with a 1/8" drill bit to maintain the exhaust system's integrity.

Exhaust Manifold Nuts

Regularly check the exhaust manifold nuts, as they have a tendency to work loose. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the studs or nuts through over-tightening.

Windscreen Surround Corrosion

Corrosion can appear on the windscreen surround, particularly on vehicles exposed to the elements. Rover UK may have replaced these under warranty if the issue arose within the warranty period. Rust often forms along the bottom rail. To help prevent this, applying a rust inhibitor, such as odourless fish oil, between the windscreen glass and the rubber seal is recommended. The rubber seal can be gently lifted with a rounded screwdriver blade to allow for spraying.

Areas Susceptible to Rust and Corrosion

Due to their sea voyages to and from Japan, many re-imported RV8s may exhibit corrosion in specific areas. The salt air exposure can highlight weaknesses, although the main body panels are zinc-coated. Prompt treatment of any found corrosion and a full rust prevention service are advised. Areas to inspect include:

• Front cross member
• Front header rail retaining strip on the hood
• Exhaust mounting hooks and brackets
• Expansion tank mounting bracket
• Top of petrol tank and sender unit
• Sill mounting brackets
• Rear hood surround under the rear screen
• Windscreen frame
• Inlet manifold gasket
• Headlamp retaining clips
• Starter motor terminals
• Alternator main terminals
• Bottom of heater box
• Hood frame pivot points

It's worth noting that UK and European weather conditions, with their associated road salt, can accelerate these issues more than Australia's climate.

RV8 Alarm System and Air Conditioning

Alarm System Remote: Be mindful of the RV8's alarm system remote. Since there's no key deactivation for the central locking, losing the transmitter or its failure means the system can only be deactivated with another programmed remote. Renewing the transmitter batteries annually and keeping spares in the glove box is crucial.

Air Conditioning: For RV8s equipped with air conditioning, run the system for a few minutes once a week. This ensures the refrigerant circulates properly, preventing premature failure.

Recommended Fuel and Servicing

Recommended Fuel for Australian RV8s

Shell V-Power, a high-density, high-octane petrol (98 RON), is recommended for optimising RV8 performance. Its advanced formulation provides smoother power delivery, improved responsiveness, and better fuel economy. It also possesses cleansing properties that help maintain clean fuel injectors and inlet valves, reducing carbon deposits and ensuring peak engine condition. This leads to better driveability and reduced maintenance.

K&N Air Filter Servicing

Proper servicing of K&N air filters is essential for their longevity and performance:

1. Pre-cleaning: Gently brush and tap the filter to dislodge dirt.
2. Cleaner Application: Spray the K&N air filter cleaner liberally and let it soak for at least 10 minutes.
3. Rinsing: Rinse the element with low-pressure water, flushing from the inside out.
4. Drying: Allow the filter to air dry naturally. Do not use compressed air, open flames, or heat dryers, as these can damage the cotton fibre.
5. Cleaning Hints: Avoid petrol, steam cleaning, caustic solutions, strong detergents, high-pressure cleaning, or cleaning solvents, as these can damage the filter media and rubber end caps.
6. Re-oiling: Once completely dry, apply K&N Air Filter Oil evenly into each pleat. Wait 10 minutes and re-oil any dry spots. A properly oiled filter has a uniform red colour. Never use an oiled filter without proper re-oiling.

K&N filters are an investment, and correct cleaning will ensure they last for many years.

MG RV8 Identification Numbers

Accurate identification of your RV8 is vital for parts and service:

• Engine Number: Located on the engine block between cylinders 3 and 5. '48A' signifies the 3948cc, 9.35:1 high-compression V8.
• Gearbox Number: Stamped on the bottom right-hand side of the gearbox housing.
• Body Number: Found on a plate affixed to the bonnet lock platform, often oversprayed in body colour. Example: 2MG40J000360Z ('Z' denotes the Cowley plant).
• VIN Number: Located on the offside of the bonnet slam panel on a Rover Group Limited identification plate. It's also etched into the nearside front windscreen and stamped into the boot rain channel on the offside. Earlier cars may have it inside the boot.
• Part Numbers: RV8-specific part numbers often begin with 'ZKC', e.g., ZKC 6683.

MG RV8 Maintenance Schedule Summary

Regular servicing is crucial. Key items to check and replace at various intervals (typically every 10,000 km or 6 months) include:

• Engine oil and filter renewal
• Spark plug replacement
• Air filter cleaning/oiling
• Fuel filter renewal
• Brake fluid and clutch fluid renewal
• Coolant system checks and top-ups
• Drive belt condition checks
• Tyre pressure and wear checks
• Brake pad wear inspection
• Lubrication of various points (bonnet catch, door catches, accelerator linkages)

More extensive services include coolant changes, spark plug replacement, and gearbox/rear axle oil renewal at longer intervals.

Fuses and Electricals

Understanding the fuse box layout is essential for diagnosing electrical issues. Fuses are colour-coded by amperage: Yellow (20A), Red (10A), Blue (15A). The fascia panel fuse box contains numerous circuits, from ignition and lighting to the radio and cooling fan. Having a diagram of the fuse assignments is invaluable.

Service Parts and Products Recommendations

• Engine Oil: Castrol Magnatec Semi-Synthetic 10W-40 (5.5 litres with filter).
• Gearbox Oil: Castrol SMX-S fully synthetic 75W-85 GL4.
• Differential Oil: Silkolene Silktran Synthetic 5, 75W-90 GL5.
• Oil Filter: Unipart GFE121, superseded by GFE422, or Fleetguard LF4016.
• Coolant: Bluecol IAT antifreeze (Silicate-based) is recommended for historic vehicles. Avoid OAT and HOAT types, as they can damage seals in older engines.
• Spark Plugs: Bosch WR8DC.
• Air Filter: K&N No. ZKC6615.
• Fuel Filter: Lucas 6FU, Cooper's WZ168 (large metal) or WZ15 (small transparent).
• Battery: Needs to measure approx. 210mm x 175mm. EXIDE EXTREME X DIN 44MF or SUPER CHARGE MF44 are suitable.

Technical Data Highlights

Engine: 3950cc V8, firing order 1-8-4-3-6-5-7-2. Idle speed 700 +/- 25 rpm. Breakerless ignition. Spark plug gap 0.9mm (0.035in).

Wheels & Tyres: 6J x 15 alloy wheels with 205/65 ZR15 tyres. Tyre pressures: Front 1.5 bar (22 psi), Rear 1.6 bar (24 psi). Wheel nut torque: 72 Nm.

Capacities: Fuel tank 51 litres, Engine oil 5.5 litres, Gearbox 2.7 litres, Cooling system 5 litres.

Fuel Consumption: Simulated urban driving: 16.4 L/100km (17.2 mpg). Constant 90 kph: 6.9 L/100km (40.9 mpg). Constant 120 kph: 8.7 L/100km (32.5 mpg).

MG RV8 Security Locking Wheel Nuts

Each wheel is fitted with a security locking wheel nut to deter theft. These require a special matching socket for removal. The sockets are classified by a letter and number code (e.g., A=7, B=42, C=29).

LT77S & R380 Gearboxes

The RV8 originally featured the LT77S gearbox (Leyland Transmission, 77mm shaft distance, 'S' for refined synchromesh). From VIN 644 onwards, a change was made to the R380 gearbox, which denotes its torque capacity in Newton metres and has a different gear pattern. Following the gearbox changeover, there were reports of clutch issues requiring gearbox removal and clutch replacement.

By adhering to these workshop notes, maintenance schedules, and owner tips, MG RV8 enthusiasts can ensure their classic V8 continues to provide exhilarating driving experiences for years to come.