The MGB is a classic British sports car that delivers an engaging driving experience, but its original suspension design is a product of its era. Over time, rubber bushings harden, springs sag, and shock absorbers lose their effectiveness. Whether you are restoring a vintage MGB or upgrading for better performance, choosing the right suspension parts is critical. This guide covers everything from sway bars to coil springs, helping you make informed decisions without overspending.
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Energy Suspension 10.2101R Rear Spring Bushing for MGB
Understanding MGB Suspension Basics
The MGB uses a front independent suspension with wishbones and coil springs, and a rear live axle with leaf springs. The factory setup prioritizes comfort over sharp handling. Key components include control arm bushings, sway bar links, shock absorbers, springs, and steering rack mounts. Each part affects ride quality and cornering ability differently.
Front Suspension Components
Upper and Lower Control Arm Bushings – These rubber or polyurethane bushings connect the control arms to the chassis. Worn bushings cause vague steering and uneven tire wear. Polyurethane bushings offer firmer feel but transmit more road noise.
Coil Springs – Front springs support the engine weight. Stock springs are progressive rate, but aftermarket options include standard or lowered versions. Lowering springs improve handling but reduce ground clearance.
Shock Absorbers – Original lever-arm dampers (often called “dampers”) are outdated. Tube shock conversions or upgraded lever-arm shocks (like Spax or Bilstein) provide better damping control. For daily driving, a quality tube shock conversion kit is recommended.
Sway Bar (Anti-Roll Bar) – The factory front sway bar is mild. An upgraded thicker bar reduces body roll. Pairing with polyurethane bushings enhances response.
Rear Suspension Components
Leaf Springs – Rear leaf springs can lose arch over time. Parabolic leaf springs reduce weight and improve ride compliance. You can also add leaf spring clamps to limit axle wrap.
Rear Shock Absorbers – The rear also uses lever-arm dampers. Options include tube shock conversions or adjustable coil-over shocks. Tube shocks offer better heat dissipation and more consistent damping.
Rear Sway Bar – Not all MGBs have a rear sway bar. Adding one reduces understeer, but it requires mounting brackets. Some kits include a bar with polyurethane bushings.
Leaf Spring Bushings – These pivot points at the front eye and rear shackle wear out. Replacing with polyurethane reduces deflection and improves rear axle location.
Choosing Between Rubber and Polyurethane Bushings
Rubber bushings are OEM-style and provide a quiet, compliant ride. They are inexpensive but degrade quickly under harsh conditions. Polyurethane bushings last longer and sharpen steering response, but they can squeak without proper lubrication and transmit more vibration. For a street-driven MGB, a mix of rubber at critical points (like sway bar mounts) and polyurethane on control arms can balance comfort and performance.
Shock Absorber Upgrade Options
Three main categories exist: lever-arm dampers, tube shock conversions, and coil-over conversions. Lever-arm dampers are original but limited in adjustability. Tube shock conversions use modern telescopic shocks (like KYB or Bilstein) and require mounting adapters. They offer better control and are easier to replace. Coil-over conversions integrate the spring and shock into a single unit, ideal for race-oriented builds but more expensive. For most drivers, a tube shock conversion with adjustable damping is the best value.
Spring Considerations: Standard, Lowered, or Adjustable
Standard replacement springs – Restore factory ride height and comfort. Ideal for concours restorations.
Lowering springs – Drop the car 1-2 inches for a sportier stance and reduced body roll. Be aware of speed bumps and driveways.
Adjustable coil-overs – Allow spring preload and ride height tuning. Best for track use but overkill for street.
Spring rate also matters. Progressive springs offer comfort during normal driving and stiffen under load. Linear springs maintain constant rate; they are more predictable at the limit.
Sway Bar Upgrades for Better Cornering
Factory front sway bars are 5/8-inch diameter. Aftermarket options range from 3/4-inch to 7/8-inch. A thicker front bar reduces understeer but can increase oversteer if too large. Adding a rear sway bar further balances handling. Install polyurethane bushings and heavy-duty end links to eliminate slop.
Steering and Alignment Components
Worn steering rack mounts cause play. Replace with polyurethane mounts for better feedback. Also inspect tie rod ends and idler arm. After upgrading suspension, get a professional alignment. Set camber and caster within factory specs or slightly modify for turn-in response (e.g., 0.5 degrees negative camber front).
Recommended Suspension Kits vs. Individual Parts
Many suppliers offer comprehensive kits that include bushings, shocks, springs, and sway bars. Kits simplify selection and often save money. However, you may prefer to mix and match for a specific goal. For a spirited street car, a kit with polyurethane bushings, lowered springs, and tube shocks is popular. For a restomod, consider coil-overs and adjustable sway bars.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Installing polyurethane bushings without grease can cause squeaking.
- Over-tightening suspension bolts before car is on the ground will damage bushings.
- Mixing mismatched spring rates (e.g., very stiff front, soft rear) creates unpredictable handling.
- Using cheap shocks that fade quickly.
Practical Buying Guide
- Define your goal: Concours restoration, daily driver, weekend canyon carver, or track toy.
- Set a budget: A complete suspension overhaul (bushings, shocks, springs) ranges from $500 to $1500 for parts.
- Select reputable brands: Moss Motors, British Parts Northwest, and Rimmer Bros offer quality MGB-specific parts. For shocks, consider Bilstein, Spax, or KYB.
- Check compatibility: Pre-1977 MGBs have different front suspension geometry. Ensure parts match your year.
- Read installation guides: Some upgrades require welding or drilling (e.g., tube shock mounts). Plan accordingly.
Final Recommendation
For most MGB owners looking for a noticeable improvement in handling without sacrificing daily comfort, we recommend a combination of polyurethane bushings (front control arms and sway bar), a tube shock conversion kit with adjustable damping (e.g., Spax), and a set of lowered springs that drop the car about 1.5 inches. Add a front sway bar upgrade (3/4-inch) with poly mounts. This setup transforms the MGB into a more responsive and enjoyable driver while remaining practical for road use. Always replace worn steering components and get an alignment after installation. If your car is a concours queen, stick with rubber bushings and original lever-arm dampers. For track use, invest in full coil-overs and adjustable sway bars.