Removing the hub nuts was particularly difficult, until i asked for help! The hub nuts have opposite threads, the left has a left hand thread, the right a right hand thread to prevent them working loose with the wheel rotation etc. Removal requires a 1.7/8" socket, or the easier cheaper method, a metal chisel and hammer!
I was at a loss as to how to remove the nuts without the correct socket so i called upon the knowledge and experience of Team Neaves Racing whom i met through the MG BBS and Forums. Local to me, they were happy to help me out. 60 seconds with a chisel and hammer loosened the nuts. It would have taken me hours to do this myself simply because i didn't know the easiest method!
Team Neaves Racing is a family team based near Dunsfold near Godalming Surrey. Blaine, Ollie and Dan are very friendly guys preparing their MGB's, powered by VHPD K-series, for the Peter Best Insurance Challenge this year with their first race at Brands Hatch at the end of May.
With hub nuts off and the loan of Team Neaves hub puller i was able to remove the hubs and strip out the bearings and oil sills. The back plates could then be removed.
With the axle casing now bare i stripped it back using a combination of wire wheel
in a drill and flap wheel in the grinder. Not all rust was removed, but i painted in Hammerite Direct to Rust paint so it should be fine. I chose hammered black as the finish should smooth out the rough bits. The hubs were also painted. I am going to paint the brake drums and back plates in Hammerite Yellow as highlights.
I bought new hub nuts as the old ones were damaged whilst being removed, and new lock washers to keep it all safe. The new bearings will be pushed in to the hubs with new oil seals today and the back plates and remaining parts will be cleaned up and painted.
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