MG Midget Rear Suspension Parts: A Complete Guide to Restoration and Upgrades

Restoring or upgrading your MG Midget’s rear suspension is one of the most impactful projects you can tackle. The rear suspension directly affects ride quality, handling, and safety. Whether you’re chasing original specs or modern performance, knowing the right MG Midget rear suspension parts and how to choose them saves time and money. This guide covers common wear items, upgrade options, and practical tips for sourcing and installation.

Understanding the MG Midget Rear Suspension

The MG Midget uses a live axle rear suspension with semi-elliptic leaf springs and lever-arm or tube shock absorbers, depending on the year. The system is simple but has several critical components that wear over time. The leaf springs support the axle and provide springing, while shocks control rebound. Rubber bushings at spring eyes and shackles isolate the chassis from road noise and allow flex. The rear axle itself includes differential, half shafts, and brakes.

On early models (MkI, MkII, 1500), the rear suspension is similar, but later cars (1975-1979) have minor differences in spring rate and shock mounting. Understanding your car’s year is essential before ordering parts.

Common Wear Items and Replacement Parts

Leaf Springs

The leaf springs are the backbone of the rear suspension. Over decades, they sag, lose arch, and develop cracks. Sagging springs lower ride height unevenly and make the car handle poorly. Replacement leaf springs are available in standard (stock) height or lowered for a sportier look. Stock springs typically have 5 or 6 leaves. When replacing, always replace both sides to maintain balance. Look for springs made from quality steel with proper heat treatment. Avoid cheap springs that may sag quickly.

Shock Absorbers

Early MG Midgets came with lever-arm shocks (dampers). These are hydraulic but prone to leaks and fade. Many owners upgrade to modern tube shocks for better damping and reliability. Conversion kits adapt tube shocks to the original mounting points. Tube shocks improve ride control and are easier to replace. If you want to keep originality, rebuilt lever-arm shocks are available. For performance, adjustable tube shocks like KYB or Spax let you tune damping.

Bushings and Mounts

All suspension pivots—spring eye bushings, shackle bushings, and shock mounting bushings—wear out. Rubber bushings become hard and cracked, causing clunks and imprecise handling. Replace them with polyurethane bushings for longer life and better feel. Polyurethane is stiffer, transmitting more road noise but sharpening responsiveness. If comfort is a priority, high-quality rubber bushings are fine. Always replace all bushings at once when doing suspension work.

Axle and Differential Components

Rear axle bearings, wheel studs, and differential oil seals are often neglected. Worn axle bearings cause noise and can lead to axle failure. Check for play at the wheels. Differential leaks are common; replace the pinion seal and side seals. While you’re under the car, inspect half shafts for cracks and U-joints for play. Upgraded heavy-duty half shafts are available for high-performance builds.

Performance Upgrade Options

Lowering Springs

Lowering the rear with shorter or de-arched springs reduces the center of gravity and gives a more aggressive stance. Drop of 1 to 2 inches is common. Combined with proper shocks, lowering improves cornering by reducing body roll. However, too low can cause clearance issues and bottoming out. Choose springs designed for the Midget; some aftermarket suppliers offer progressive-rate springs for a more comfortable ride.

Adjustable Shocks

Adjustable shocks like Gaz, Spax, or Koni allow you to set rebound and compression damping. This is invaluable for track use or if you vary between street and competition driving. Start with a softer setting for the street, then stiffen for the track. Pair with stiffer springs to avoid over-damping. Installation is straightforward with conversion kits.

Sway Bars

While the front suspension often receives a sway bar, the rear of the MG Midget typically didn’t have one from the factory. Adding a rear sway bar reduces body roll and improves traction. Several aftermarket companies offer bolt-on rear sway bar kits. They come with new mounting brackets and bushings. Installation requires drilling some holes but is manageable for DIYers. A rear sway bar dramatically transforms handling, making the car feel more planted.

Sourcing Parts: New vs. Rebuilt vs. Used

Many MG Midget rear suspension parts are available new from classic car specialists. Moss Motors, Victoria British, and MiniMania are reliable suppliers. New parts generally have better quality than old stock, but some reproduction parts may need refinishing. Rebuilt exchange parts (like lever-arm shocks or differentials) can save money and are often done to factory specs. Used parts are risky; only buy if you can inspect condition. Springs and shocks should always be new because used ones are likely worn.

When ordering, specify your Midget’s year and engine size (948cc, 1098cc, 1275cc, or 1500). Some parts differ between models. Also, ask about spring rates and material quality. Avoid generic parts that require modification.

Step-by-Step Replacement Tips

Replacing rear suspension components is a weekend job with basic tools. Here’s a practical workflow:

1. Safety first: Support the car on jack stands under the frame. Never work under the car supported only by a floor jack.
2. Remove the wheels and loosen axle nuts.
3. Support the axle with a second jack.
4. Unbolt the shocks – remove lower mounting first.
5. Detach the springs at the front eye and rear shackle. Use penetrating oil on bolts.
6. Remove the axle once springs are free (if needed for differential or bearing work).
7. Install new springs by loosely mounting them, then tighten after vehicle weight is on them.
8. Reattach shocks – use new bushings and torque to spec.
9. Bleed brakes if you opened any lines.
10. Check alignment – you may need an alignment shop if ride height changed.

When replacing bushings, press them in with a vise or bushing tool. Grease polyurethane bushings before installation. Use anti-seize on all bolts to prevent corrosion.

Final Recommendation

For a daily driver or restoration, replace worn leaf springs, shocks, and all rubber bushings with quality stock-type parts. This brings back original ride and handling. For a weekend warrior or track car, invest in lowered springs, adjustable tube shocks, and a rear sway bar. Polyurethane bushings throughout sharpen response. Always replace hardware with grade-8 bolts. Spend a little more on reputable brands; cheap parts fail faster.

Start with a thorough inspection. Many Midgets only need new shocks and bushings to ride nicely. If your rear suspension is clunking or sagging, don’t delay—safety and enjoyment depend on it. With the right MG Midget rear suspension parts, your car will handle like new—or better.