MG Midget Forum

Hi there,

I recently purchased a new Top Frame from Moss Motors to replace what I think is the original frame on my 74 Midget. The old frame had snapped and from the time I bought it was held together by a nut & bolt...until it wasn't and a jagged edge was in line with my head as I entered the car. My solution of only leaving the top down was not the best solution.

I tried installing the new frame and for some reason it's not extending far enough to allow the headrail to clip onto the windscreen. I tried loosening the bolts where it attaches behind the seats to allow a little more play, but it didn't get me much closer. I gently tried to get the frame to extend by pulling on each crosspiece, no luck. I let it sit in the sun for a couple of hours, even though the top had been latched closed all winter until today when I made the switch. Still nothing.

The part number at Moss for the frame is 400-680, which I confirmed with someone at Moss this afternoon. I'm at a loss. I've attached a few images showing the frame on the driver's side working back. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Mike

I have the same issue. Pretty sure my top was a moss replacement. I've been able to snap it shut and let it sit all winter, didn't help make it any easier. Some of the snaps can't be snapped-in in the back in order to get it up. Our cars are old and at their age, there's performance problems.

It's the gentle part where I think you're going wrong. I have to get 1 latch on and then crank on it to get it to clasp. It's an art and you have to bench a minimum of 150 to get it.

Also, are the Moss items refurbished? Your pics don't seem to show a new top. Your first pic shows you close enough to get the clasp on the hook. I have to push mine forward to get to that point.

---

79' Midget with a Weber Carb and more beer than gas.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2024-04-10 08:05 PM by BigRedMidget.

The one on ours takes a bit of finesse and brute strength. One side is easier than the other, and I have to finagle a bit to get it closed. I figure it's not 100% in alignment.

Isaac, the soft top was new when I purchased the car in 2017. The Top Frame is the new part. And it's the frame I'm having the issue with. I don't believe the frame from Moss is refurbished.

While it looks close enough to get the clasp onto the windscreen, it's still coming up short. Looking at the pictures of the frame, you can see everything fully extended. I don't think I can force it any further.

I just wonder if anyone else who has purchased a top frame from Moss for a Midget (it appears the same frame worked for models from 1967 to 1980) had any issues in getting it to close?

Joe, with the old frame on the car, it did take some brute strength to convince it to close. It's the new frame I'm having the issue with.