This section covers the engine oils and paints needed for routine maintenance, restoration and concours work on the MGB GT V8. The Rover 3528cc V8 has specific oil requirements that differ from those of modern engines, and any restoration involving engine bay refinishing requires correct paints, primers and lacquers to achieve a durable, original-appearance result.
Engine Oils
The Rover V8 fitted to the MGB GT V8 uses a flat-tappet camshaft with hydraulic lifters. This combination has specific oil requirements: the cam-to-tappet interface relies on adequate ZDDP (zinc dialkyldithiophosphate) anti-wear content in the oil to prevent accelerated camshaft lobe wear. Modern low-ZDDP oils formulated for catalytic converter-equipped vehicles do not provide sufficient cam-and-tappet protection and can cause significant wear on flat-tappet engines. Classic-formulation engine oils with appropriate ZDDP content are the correct choice for the V8 and are stocked alongside the wider Castrol Classic range.
Engine Paint
Original Rover V8 engines were painted in a specific shade for the MG application. Engine paint, primers and undercoats appropriate to refinishing the engine block, ancillaries and engine bay are available, alongside the lacquers and clear coats used for protection. Paint products are selected to be compatible with the heat and chemical environment of the engine bay.
Sub-Sections
Engine oils are listed under Classic Engine Oils. Body and engine paint products and primers are listed in their respective sub-sections.
MGOC Spares
MGOC Spares supplies the full range of engine oils, paints, primers, undercoats and lacquers suitable for the MGB GT V8 and other classic MG engines.