MGF Model specific suspension changes

Across all the MGF model variants from launch in 1995 to its replacement in 2002, there were three separate types of subframe mounting:

	Front subframe bush	Rear suspension bush
Up to VIN WD 026658	NAM 4131*	KGE 10001*
From VIN WD 026658	FAM 9525	KGE 100150

* NAM 4131 and KGE 10001 are standard Rover Metro parts and are also used on the rear subframe for all cars except the Trophy 160.

In fact both front and rear mountings on the Trophy are different (these are made of alloy) - I haven't yet got these part numbers available.

As the TF shares the basic design of its subframe with the MGF, it is possible that MG TF subframe bushes are retro-fitable to MGFs. I suspect that these are of a similar specification to those found on the MGF Trophy 160, although this is subject to confirmation.

The following table summarises the part changes brought in with the introduction of the Trophy 160, and are different from all other MGF models:

Changes common to front and rear:
GSV 1225	Knuckles (lowered, four required)
RZR 000010	Displacer springs (one per displacer)
Front only:
RNK 000010	Displacer, one per side
RNP 000060	Connection pipe to right hand displacer
RNP 000070	Connection pipe to left hand displacer
RBJ 000220	Right hand lower suspension arm
RBJ 000230	Left hand lower suspension arm
Rear only:
RPJ 000010	Displacer, one per side
RNV 000020	Bump stop, one per side
Definitions of terms used:
Displacer Spring:	Hydragas sphere

Interesting to see the front lower arms are different, yet the replaceable parts, such as the bushes and ball joint are common across the whole range. The explanation for the unique part number for the lower suspension arm is that this part number describes the assembly part number - the lower suspension arm is identical to the standard MGF. The difference is the orientation of the bush in the suspension arm; it has been rotated through 90 degrees to alter the compliance properties, to alter turn-in characteristics. This simple and ingenious mod can be applied to all previous models of MGF.

Below is deplicted the lower suspension arm and the associated components in the front suspension.

In the inset panel, right, shows the lower suspension arm, with the rear bush in its correct for non-Trophy MGF application (5), and for the Trophy application (6). If the bushes need to be replaced for any reason, it would be a simple job to alter the orientation of the bush to 'Trophy spec' - but note that this would need to be done for BOTH suspension arms (left and right).