For a Roadster, the hood is one of the most important components on the car in terms of appearance, fit, and ease of operation. Frame identification is the single most important step before ordering, hoods for the grey packaway and grey deluxe folding frames fitted to cars up to 1970 are not interchangeable with hoods for the black Michelotti folding frame fitted from 1971 onwards. Frames that have been repainted can mislead, so always confirm the actual frame type before ordering. The packaway frame (1962 to 1970) detaches completely and stows in the boot with the hood cloth attached.
The grey deluxe folding frame (1963 to 1970, optional extra) stays on the car but the hood cloth was still removed before stowing. The black Michelotti frame (1971 onwards) stays permanently on the car and folds with the hood into the space behind the seats. It is more practical in daily use and can be retrofitted to pre-1971 cars provided the correct Michelotti hood is also fitted, the two are a matched set.
Original equipment vinyl hoods for the black folding frame are available in fixed rear window (1971 to 1976) and zip-out rear window (1976 onwards) variants, both supplied with header rail. The zip-out rear window became standard from the 1977 model year and is only available on Michelotti frame hoods. On earlier fixed-window cars, the window must always be left closed before folding, as folding under tension causes permanent crazing of the plastic. Cars from 1971 to 1976 can be updated to the zip-out rear window hood without any other changes.
Hood Materials
Hoods are available in several material options beyond standard vinyl. Double Duck offers a two-layer canvas construction with a rubberised waterproof membrane as a practical alternative to mohair. Mohair is the premium choice, a three-layer construction that is quieter at speed and longer-lasting than vinyl or canvas, available in a wide colour range with zip-out or heated glass rear window options.
Club Vinyl Hoods
Club vinyl hoods are available for all three frame types in black with contrasting colour binding and optional zip-out rear window, supplied without header rail. R-Style hoods in mohair or Double Duck feature an arched zip-out rear window without rear quarter windows, following the MG RV8 design, and fit the black folding frame only. Cabrio hoods add a separate padded headlining with contrasting interior lining for extra warmth and soundproofing.
Header Rail & Fitting
The header rail must always be checked before ordering a replacement hood, a worn or corroded rail will prevent correct sealing regardless of hood quality. Old rivet heads from previous replacements accumulate inside the rail and should be shaken out before refitting. Press stud and Durable Dot positions must be marked and punched once the hood is fitted and under correct tension. Worn frame pivots are a frequently overlooked cause of a poorly fitting new hood, always check frame geometry before ordering a replacement hood cloth.
Tonneau Covers
Full and half tonneau covers are available in vinyl, Double Duck, and mohair. The half tonneau covers the passenger side only and is available for folding frame cars from 1963. A windstop fitting behind the seats to reduce buffeting at speed is available in clear polycarbonate or leather-bound mesh and is one of the most popular Roadster accessories.
Hardtops
Reproduction works-style hardtops are available in black or white with flock interior lining, and a wraparound alternative with a larger rear screen is also offered. Seal kits for original factory hardtops and a hardtop storage cover are available separately.
Car Covers & Hood Care
Tailored all-weather covers, cockpit covers, and condensation-free long-term storage systems are all available. Double Duck and mohair hoods must be washed with specialist fabric shampoo only and dried thoroughly before folding. Hood care products for cleaning, reproofing, and colour revival are available for both vinyl and fabric hoods.
Wipers
Wiper blades and arms are available for all MGB variants. The MGOC Spares range includes the complete range of MGB weather equipment, hoods for all three frame types, hood frames, header rails, tonneau covers, windstops, hardtops, wiper blades, car covers, hood care products, and all associated fixings and fasteners.