Electrical upgrades cover the most effective improvements to the Midget's Lucas electrical system, from ignition and charging improvements to lighting enhancements and convenience additions. Most upgrades are designed to work within the existing wiring without major modification, making them accessible to owners with basic electrical knowledge.
Performance Ignition
Electronic ignition conversions eliminate the need for regular contact breaker points adjustment and provide improved spark timing consistency across the rev range. The Lumenition optical trigger system fits inside the existing distributor body, retaining the original external appearance. The Lumenition Magnetronic provides a magnetic trigger alternative. For the 1500, the 123 Ignition is a complete electronic distributor replacement with multiple selectable advance curves.
Performance ignition coils provide a stronger, more consistent spark, particularly beneficial for engines with modified timing or higher compression ratios.
High-Output Alternators and Dynamos
Dynamo-to-alternator conversions provide substantially improved charging output, particularly at low engine speeds in traffic where a dynamo produces very little current. High-output alternators are available for cars with additional electrical loads such as electric cooling fans, high-powered lighting, or audio equipment. The MGOC Spares blog article "Roger Parker Q&A - MG Dynamo to Alternator Conversion" provides detailed guidance on the conversion process and the benefits of upgrading.
Hi-Torque Starter Motors
Hi-torque starter motors offer faster, more reliable cranking than the original Lucas units, particularly valuable on engines with higher compression ratios or on cold winter mornings where the standard starter can struggle. These are direct replacements that use the existing mounting points and electrical connections.
Lighting Upgrades
Halogen headlamp conversion kits and LED bulb upgrades improve visibility significantly over the original sealed beam and filament bulb specifications. LED bulbs are available for side lights, indicators, tail lights, number plate lamps, and interior lighting, offering improved brightness and greatly reduced current draw.
When fitting LED indicators, a compatible flasher unit is required to maintain the correct flash rate.
Hazard Lights and Relay Kits
Hazard warning light kits add a safety feature not originally fitted to most Midgets. The kit includes the hazard switch, flasher unit, and wiring needed to integrate with the existing indicator circuit, providing four-way flashing for roadside emergencies and slow-moving situations on modern roads.
Battery Chargers and Conditioners
Battery chargers and conditioning units maintain the battery in optimum condition during periods of inactivity, essential for classic cars that may sit unused for weeks or months between outings. A modern intelligent charger monitors the battery state and adjusts the charge rate automatically, preventing both undercharging (which leads to sulphation) and overcharging (which damages the plates and boils the electrolyte).
Washers and Wipers
Electric washer pump kits and the Smartscreen intermittent wipe conversion are covered in detail in the dedicated Wipers section. Both upgrades are available for positive and negative earth systems.
Horns
Air horn kits and replacement horn upgrades provide a louder and more authoritative horn note than the standard Lucas electric horns, a practical safety upgrade for Midgets used regularly in modern traffic.