Three distinct hood frame types were used on the MGB Roadster across its production run, and the hood canopy must be matched to the frame fitted, the three are not interchangeable.
Grey Packaway Frame (1962 to 1970)
The grey packaway frame was fitted from 1962 to 1970 and consists of a pair of frame halves that split in the middle for stowing in the boot. The frame is not permanently attached to the car, it locates into two sockets, one on either side of the rear compartment just behind the doors. The canopy assembly, incorporating the header rail and rear anchor plate, is spread over the frame and secured to the windscreen catches and body fasteners. Stowage bags are provided for both the frame halves and the canopy.
Grey Deluxe Folding Frame (1963 to 1970)
The grey deluxe folding frame was available as an optional alternative from 1963 to 1970, replacing the packaway arrangement with a frame that stays permanently on the car. It was attached to the rear inner quarter panels in the positions where the packaway frame sockets are located. The three-bow frame was connected to the header rail by hinged over-centre links. When collapsed, the folding hood occupied a fair amount of space in the rear compartment, and a separate hood stowage cover was provided.
The canopy, frame, and header rail were extensively revised in August 1963 to improve fit.
Black Michelotti Folding Frame (1971 Onwards)
The black Michelotti folding frame was introduced in August 1970 and fitted to all Roadsters from 1971 to the end of production. This was a much-improved design with a stouter frame painted black, featuring proper scissor links between the front header rail and the three bows. The fit of the hood and fasteners was significantly improved, producing a hood that was easier to handle and more weatherproof. The Michelotti frame can be retrofitted to pre-1971 cars, but the correct Michelotti hood must also be fitted, the frame and canopy are a matched set.
Frame sockets differ between earlier chrome-plated and later black-finished types, with the change point occurring during later production. A hood frame screw set containing all the correct fixings is available for each frame type. The screws that secure the frame and socket to the body differ between packaway and folding frame installations. Worn frame pivots are a frequently overlooked cause of a poorly fitting new hood.
Always check frame geometry and pivot condition before ordering a replacement hood canopy, a new hood fitted to a frame with worn or loose pivot points will never seal or sit correctly regardless of the hood’s quality.