MG MGB TOURER GHN5 Handbook page 32

Running Instructions
T a c h o m e t e r For normal road work, and to obtain the most satisfactory service from your
engine, select the appropriate gear to maintain engine speeds of between 2,000
and 4,500 r.p.m.
When maximum acceleration is required upward gear selections should be made
when the needle reaches the yellow sector (5,500-6,000 r.p.m.). Prolonged or
excessive use of the highest engine speeds will tend to shorten the life of the
engine. Allowing the engine to pull hard at low engine speeds must be avoided
as this also has a detrimental effect on the engine.
The beginning of the red sector (6,000 r.p.m.) indicates the maximum safe speed
for the engine. Never allow the needle to enter the red sector.
W e t brakes If the car has been washed, driven through water, or over wet roads for pro-
longed periods full braking power may not be available. Dry the brakes by
applying the foot brake lightly several times while the car is in motion. Keep
the hand brake applied while using high-pressure washing equipment.
Towing Should it become necessary to tow the car, use the towing eyes provided (see
'AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION').
Vehicle loading Due consideration must be given to the overall weight carried when fully loading
the car. Any loads carried on a luggage rack (Tourer), or roof rack (GT), or
downward load from a towing hitch must also be included in the maximum
loading-see 'GENERAL DATA'.
Towing The towing weight of 1,680
lb.
(762 kg.) is the maximum that is permissible. When
using bottom gear a gradient of up to 1 in 8 can be ascended while towing a
weight not exceeding this figure. It may be necessary to adjust the maximum
towing weight to comply with local conditions and regulations. The recom-
mended downward load of a trailer or caravan on the towing hitch is 75 to 100 lb.
(34 to 45 kg.), but this may be reduced or exceeded at the discretion of the driver.
Any load carried on the roof or downward load from a towing hitch must also
be included in the maximum loading of the vehicle.
Overdrive The overdrive unit, controlled by a switch on the fascia, provides a higher
(When fitted) driving ratio for use with third or fourth gear. To engage overdrive move the
switch down to the 'OVERDRIVE' position; to disengage, move the lever
to 'NORMAL'. Accelerator pedal pressure should be maintained and it is not
necessary to depress the clutch pedal during engagement or disengagement.
The overdrive can be engaged at any throttle opening when in third or top gear.
If increased acceleration is required the overdrive can be 'switched out' without
alteration to the throttle setting. Do not 'switch out' the overdrive when travelling
at speeds exceeding normal third or top gear road speeds.
In certain driving conditions while travelling in third gear, the overdrive can be
switched in to provide a top gear ratio or out to provide third gear acceleration
without the necessity of changing gear.
If for any reason the overdrive does not disengage, do not reverse the car otherwise
extensive damage may result.