1962-1967 MG Midget Accessory Drive Belt and Fan Belt Guide
Keep your classic Midget's engine cool and charging system working with the right fan belt.
- The accessory drive belt (fan belt) is critical; if it fails, the engine will overheat and stop charging the battery.
- Squealing is the most common warning sign and indicates the belt is slipping due to wear, low tension, or contamination.
- Both Gates and Dayco are reputable aftermarket brands; choosing the correct size for your car is more important than the brand.
- Always check belt tension and consider carrying a spare belt and tools in your trunk for emergencies.
Understanding the Fan Belt on Your MG Midget
The accessory drive belt, or fan belt, is a simple but essential part of your 1962-1967 MG Midget's engine. It's a V-shaped belt that loops around the crankshaft pulley, the water pump pulley (which also holds the cooling fan), and the generator pulley. If this belt breaks, your engine will quickly overheat, and your battery will stop charging, leaving you stranded. Regular inspection and replacement are key to keeping your classic on the road.
Symptoms of a Failing Accessory Drive Belt
A worn or loose fan belt will usually give you a few warning signs before it fails completely. Being aware of these symptoms can prevent a breakdown.
- Squealing Noises: The most common sign is a high-pitched squeal from the engine bay. This noise is often worse when you first start the car or when you rev the engine. It's caused by the belt slipping on the pulleys.
- Battery Warning Light: If the belt is slipping badly or has broken, the generator will not spin correctly. This will cause the red ignition warning light on your dashboard to stay on while the engine is running, indicating the battery is not being charged.
- Engine Overheating: A slipping or broken belt means the water pump isn't turning as it should. This stops the flow of coolant, and you will see the engine temperature gauge climb rapidly. If you see this, pull over immediately to prevent severe engine damage.
- Visible Wear: You can often see when a belt is ready for replacement. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth surface), or contamination from oil or grease.
Pro Tip: Check Your Tension
Incorrect belt tension is a common problem. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to press the belt down about half an inch at the longest point between pulleys. A belt that is too loose will slip and squeal. A belt that is too tight can cause damage to the bearings inside the water pump and generator.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a classic car like the MG Midget, original factory parts are no longer made. The parts available today are new aftermarket reproductions. Brands like Dayco and Gates are well-known manufacturers that produce quality belts suitable for your vehicle.
Brand Quality:
- Gates: Often considered an OEM supplier for many modern car brands, Gates has a strong reputation for quality and durability. They are a very common and trusted choice in the classic car community.
- Dayco: Dayco is another major manufacturer with a long history of producing reliable belts. They are a solid alternative to Gates, and many owners use them without any issues.
Ultimately, both Dayco and Gates make excellent products. Most belt noise or failure issues on these cars are caused by incorrect tension, pulley misalignment, or oil contamination, not by the quality of the belt itself. The most important factor is ensuring you buy the correct size belt for your specific year and model, as several different lengths were used.
Common Ordering Mistake
MG used different belt lengths throughout the Midget's production. Some cars have also been converted from a generator to an alternator, which can change the required belt size. Always measure your old belt or check a reliable parts catalog for your specific vehicle configuration before ordering.
Accessory Drive Belt Replacement Cost
The cost for a new aftermarket accessory drive belt is very reasonable. The main difference in price comes from the brand and the supplier. Having a professional mechanic install it is also an option, but it is a very DIY-friendly job.
| Part Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket (Dayco, Gates) | $22.45 - $25.50 |
| New Specialist (Classic Parts Supplier) | $8.00 - $12.00 |
| Shop Labor | $50 - $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my MG Midget's fan belt?
It's a good idea to inspect the belt at every oil change. Look for cracks, fraying, and proper tension. As a preventative measure, replacing the belt every 4-5 years is a good practice, even if it looks okay. Modern EPDM rubber belts can last a long time, but heat and age will eventually take their toll.
What happens if the fan belt breaks while driving?
If the belt breaks, the water pump and generator will stop spinning. Your engine will begin to overheat very quickly, and the battery will no longer charge. You should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so to avoid catastrophic engine damage.
Is a squealing belt always a bad belt?
Not always, but it always means something is wrong. The squeal is from the belt slipping. This could be because the belt is old and worn, but it can also be caused by low tension, or contamination from oil or antifreeze. Always check the tension and condition of the pulleys first.
Can I replace the fan belt myself?
Yes, this is a very common DIY job for MG Midget owners. It requires basic hand tools to loosen the generator, pivot it to release belt tension, and then reinstall and tension the new belt. The process is simple and a great way to get familiar with working on your car.
Should I carry a spare fan belt?
Absolutely. Given the critical role of the fan belt and how easy it is to change on the roadside, carrying a spare belt and the necessary tools (usually just a couple of wrenches) in your trunk is highly recommended for any classic car owner.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: GCB10875 460-875
V-Belt construction. Note: Multiple lengths were used (e.g., 813mm, 838mm, 875mm). Verify correct length before purchase.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.