The MGF and TF use a cable-operated throttle system connecting the accelerator pedal to the throttle body on the inlet manifold. Unlike a front-engined car, the cable runs from the pedal box area through the cabin bulkhead and along the underside of the car to reach the rear-mounted engine, a substantially longer cable run than on any other MG in the range. This longer run makes correct routing, secure clipping at each support point, and smooth cable operation more critical than on a conventional front-engined layout, as any friction or binding along the length of the cable is felt directly at the pedal. The cable should be inspected for fraying, kinking, or stiffness in operation, and the throttle return spring checked for correct function, a sticking or slow-return throttle is both an MOT failure and a safety concern.
MGF and MG TF Cable Differences
The MGF and MG TF use different accelerator cable assemblies. The TF's revised inlet manifold, air induction system and associated throttle body positioning mean that the MGF cable is not directly interchangeable with the TF cable, and left-hand-drive cars use a different cable from right-hand-drive cars due to the pedal box being on the opposite side of the car. MGOC Spares stocks the correct cable for MGF RHD, MG TF RHD, and MG TF LHD applications.
When ordering a replacement, the car's model (MGF or TF) and drive configuration should be confirmed, the cable is one of the production-change items where the wrong specification will not fit correctly without modification.
Accelerator Pedal Assembly
The accelerator pedal on the MGF and TF is a pendant-type pedal hanging from above the pedal box, with a pedal stop buffer that limits full-throttle travel to match the throttle body's full-open position at the engine. Pedal assemblies are handed, RHD and LHD are different part numbers, and the complete pedal assembly includes the pedal arm, pivot, and stop buffer. The cable connects to the pedal via a retaining clip that should be inspected for wear whenever the cable is replaced, as a failed clip can allow the cable end to disengage under load. The pedal is mounted to the body by a bolt-and-stud arrangement with specific-specification nuts and screws, all fixings are stocked individually.
Cable Routing, Clips and Brackets
Along the length of the cable run, a series of clips and brackets secure the cable to the body and to the inlet manifold bracket at the engine end. The cable-to-pedal clip retains the cable end at the pedal connection; the cable-to-inlet-manifold clip secures the cable at the engine end; and the accelerator-and-bonnet-cable-to-body clips (fitted in greater quantity on LHD cars due to the different routing path) support the cable along the underside of the car. The inlet manifold cable bracket, secured to the manifold by a single screw, provides the cable's anchor point at the engine and must be fitted correctly for the cable to operate without binding or excessive slack.
Ordering Considerations
For any Engine Controls replacement, the model (MGF or MG TF) and drive configuration (RHD or LHD) are the essential identifiers. Engine variant (1.6, 1.8, 1.8 VVC, TF 135 or TF 160) does not normally affect cable or pedal specification within the same model, but the MGF-to-TF transition is a firm break in the cable specification. Pedal stop buffers, return-spring condition, and the cable's free-play adjustment at the inlet manifold end should all be checked when any Engine Controls work is undertaken, to maintain correct full-throttle travel and reliable return to idle.