Thanks GoMog for your help here. I was able to change the fluid without incident. The old fluid was a very dark, cloudy red.
SUPER! My pleasure David. Feels good, doesn't it? I find Morgan maintenance and repair therapeutic.
I am afraid you must take the condition of the fluid and plug as important signs. The very old fluid (evidenced by its color and the amount of filings on the plug) indicates the standard of care (or rather lack of it) of the previous owner. It gives you an important task set you should perform ASAP. BTW, ATF fluid need not be be changed
for this box more than once every 25,000 miles (though I use 15,000 with LT77s). lack of maintenance are the most common cause of the issues I run into with trads
or any Morgans for that matter.
Specifically for you:
1. Though the LT77s are now far more expensive than they once were, they CAN be found if you know what you are looking for. But your 7HA Salisbury axle is unobtainium and requires a fluid change every 3000 miles
. You must change it now, using the right fluid of course. Though old or new or different axle fluids don't mix, don't worry about it. You should not ever top up an Salisbury, but you can change the fluid for new without concern.]
2. Of course, you will have changed your engine oil by now...https://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/plus8oil.htm#OIL Get a few small bottles of ZDDP, easily available in your country. It is not strictly necessary on a
seasoned flat tappet engine but I like its insurance and how its stops the characteristic clicketty-clack of these engines on start up.
3. I would also strongly suggest an engine flush of the current coolant (using clear lawn hose water will do) and then new coolant.
https://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/plus8coolant.html 4. Change your hydraulic fluid, clutch and brake.
BTW this fluid can be tested with a inexpensive tester I described on this forum earlier.5. Examine your tyres (tires) and determine their manufacturing date and quality. My guess is that you are going to be pleasantly shocked (PUN!) at the difference new and properly chosen rubber does for a trad Morgan. It is the WORST area to try to save money with.
After all this time at this, I have made it a personal GoMoG Law that all fluids should be changed in any recently arrived car,
whether it is used or new and regularly thereafter. It is a precaution that avoids the often encountered possibility of nasty surprises. And it allows you to start a RELIABLE maintenance log and scheduling. You can buy one in downloadable digital or hard copy form (if you choose to be fancy). The digital ones can even remind you when you must do certain tasks. They should be mandatory! I have received a new car from the MMC without the seats bolted to the car. Additionally, the Factory receives gearboxes without fluid in them.
Neither was a problem for me as I am a hands-on hobbyist as its seems you will be. My last remaining Morgan has never seen a mechanic or dealer in 21 years. If I relied on one, I'd have to drive more than 800 miles for an oil change.
BTW, that is a nice new picture of yourself you posted as an avatar.
gmg
