The MGC doors are identical to those fitted to the contemporary MGB Mark II, the same pressings, the same hinge locations, and the same lock and handle mounting points. Complete door assemblies, individual door skins, hinge assemblies, hinge pins, check straps, and all structural door components are available. This is one of the many body areas where the MGC and MGB share components, making the full range of MGB door parts available to MGC owners without any fitment concerns.
Door Locks, Two Types
Door locks fall into two groups by date: an early type used from 1962 to 1968, and a later type used from 1968 to 1980. The vast majority of MGCs use the later 1968 to 1980 specification, only the very earliest production cars from October 1967 may have the older lock fitment.
The later type is identified by its different striker plate profile and lock mechanism. Lock assemblies, striker plates, lock barrels, keys, remote control mechanisms, and all associated fixings are available for both types.
When replacing locks, ordering a matched set of lock barrels with keys for both doors and the boot or tailgate ensures consistent key operation, a common frustration on older MGCs is an accumulation of different keys from decades of piecemeal replacements.
Door Condition and Restoration
Door hinge pins are a common wear item that causes the door to sag at the trailing edge, making it progressively harder to close and eventually causing the door to scrape the sill as it opens and closes. Replacement pins restore correct alignment. Check straps limit the angle to which the door opens and should be checked for stretching or detachment.
When replacing a door skin, a common body repair where the outer panel has rusted through below the belt line, the internal stiffening panel and anti-drumming pads should also be renewed for a professional result.