3-810-043-31 (2)

FM/AM Cassette Car Stereo

Operating Instructions

Owners Record
The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom of the unit. Record the serial number in the space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer regarding this product. Model No. XR-C300 Serial No.
For installation and connections, see the supplied installation/connections manual.

XR-C300

1996 by Sony Corporation

Actual total number:

Sony XR-C300 (E) 3-810-043-31 (2)

Warning

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help. You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual could void your authority to operate this equipment.

Welcome!

Thank you for purchasing the SONY Cassette Car Stereo. This unit lets you enjoy a variety of features by using a rotary remote. In addition to the tape playback and the radio operation you can expand your system by connecting optional CD changer.

Table of contents

This Unit Only Getting Started
Resetting the unit.. 4 Detaching the front panel.. 4 Setting the clock.. 5
With Optional Equipment CD changer
Playing a CD... Scanning the tracks Intro scan.. Playing tracks repeatedly Repeat play.. Playing tracks in random order Shuffle play.. 9 9

Cassette player

Listening to the tape.. 5 Playing the tape in various modes. 6
Memorizing stations automatically Best Tuning Memory (BTM). 7 Memorizing only the desired stations. 7 Receiving the memorized stations.. 7

Additional Information

Precautions.. 10 Maintenance.. 10 Dismounting the unit.. 11 The rotary commander labels.. 11 Location of controls.. 12 Specifications... 13 Troubleshooting guide.. 14 Index.. Back cover

Other Functions

Adjusting the sound characteristics.. 8 Muting the sound.. 8 Changing the sound and display settings. 8
Attaching the front panel

Getting Started

Resetting the unit
Before operating the unit for the first time or after replacing the car battery, you must reset the unit. Press the reset button with a pointed object, such as a ball-point pen.
Attach part A of the front panel to part B of the unit as illustrated and push until it clicks.
Reset button Note Pressing the reset button will erase all the memorized stations.

Detaching the front panel
The front panel of this unit can be detached in order to prevent the unit from being stolen.
Notes Make sure that the front panel is the right way up when attaching it to the unit as it cannot be attached upside down. Do not press the front panel hard against the unit when attaching it to the unit. It can easily be attached by pressing it lightly against the unit. When you carry the front panel with you, put it in the supplied front panel case. Do not press hard or give excessive pressure to the display windows of the front panel. Do not expose the front panel to direct sunlight, heat sources such as hot air ducts or leave it in a humid place. Never leave it on the dashboard etc. of a car parked in direct sunlight where there may be a considerable rise in temperature inside the car.

Caution alarm

If you turn the ignition key to the OFF position without removing the front panel, the caution alarm will beep for a few seconds (only when the POWER SELECT switch is set to the A position).
Press (OFF). Press (RELEASE) to open up the front panel, and detach the panel by pulling it towards you.

(RELEASE)

Notes Be sure not to drop the panel when detaching it from the unit. If you press (RELEASE) to detach the panel while the unit is still turned on, the power will be automatically turned off in order to protect the speakers from being damaged.

Setting the clock

The clock has a 12-hour digital indication.
For example, setting it to 10:08

Cassette Player

Listening to the tape

Insert the cassette.

Press (OFF) or (DSPL) during operation. Press (DSPL) for two seconds.

The hour digit blinks.

1 Set the hour digits.

to go forward to go back

Playback will start automatically. If the cassette is already inserted, press (TAPE) to start playback.
2 Press (SEL) momentarily.
The side facing up is being played.
Getting Started/Cassette Player

The minute digit blinks.

3 Set the minute digits.
The side facing down is being played. Tip To change the tape transport direction, press (TAPE) during tape playback.
Press (DSPL) momentarily.
The clock activates. Note If the POWER SELECT switch on the bottom of the unit is set to the B position, the clock cannot be set unless the power is turned on. Set the clock after you have turned on the radio.
To Stop playback Eject the cassette

Press (OFF) 6

Fast-winding the tape
During playback, press either side of (PRESET/DISC).

REW PRESET DISC FF

Rewind

Fast-forward

To start playback during fast-forwarding or rewinding, press (TAPE).
Locating the beginning of the tracks Automatic Music Sensor (AMS)

You can skip up to nine tracks at one time. During playback, press either side of (SEEK/AMS) momentarily.

SEEK AMS

Switching to the radio during fastwinding the tape Automatic Tuner Activation (ATA)
Press (5) during playback. ATA appears on the display. When fast-forwarding or rewinding with (PRESET/DISC), the tuner will turn on automatically.
To locate the previous tracks
To locate the succeeding the tracks
Note The AMS function may not work when : the blanks between tracks are shorter than 4 seconds there are noises there are long sections of low volume or quiet sections.
Skipping blanks during tape playback Blank skip
Press (6) during playback. BL.SKIP appears on the display. Blanks longer than eight seconds will be automatically skipped during tape playback.
Changing the displayed items
Each time you press (DSPL) momentarily during tape playback, the displayed item changes as follows:
z Tape playback z Clock z Frequency*
* While the ATA function is activated.
Playing the tape in various modes
Searching the desired track Intro scan
Press (1) during playback. INTRO appears on the display. The first 10 seconds of all the tracks are played. When you find the desired track, press again. The unit returns to the normal playback mode.
Playing tracks repeatedly Repeat play
Press (2) during playback. REP appears on the display. When the currently played track is over, it will be played again from the beginning. To cancel this mode, press again.
Press (SEEK/AMS) to search for the station which you wish to store on the preset number button. Press the desired preset number button ((1) to (6)) for two seconds until a beep sounds.
Memorizing stations automatically

Best Tuning Memory (BTM)

This function selects from the currently received band the stations with the strongest signals and memorizes them in order of their frequency. PREVENTING ACCIDENTS! When tuning in during driving, use the automatic tuning and the memory preset search function instead of the manual tuning.
The number of the pressed preset number button appears on the display window.
Receiving the memorized stations
Press (TUNER) repeatedly, and select the band. Press the preset number button ((1) to (6)) momentarily on which the desired station is stored.
Press (TUNER) repeatedly and select the band. Each time you press (TUNER), the band changes as follows:
FM1 n FM2 n FM3 n AM1 n AM2
Tip Press either side of (PRESET/DISC) momentarily to receive in order the stations stored in the memory (Preset Search Function).

Press (BTM) for two seconds.
If FM stereo reception is poor Monaural mode
Press (MONO) momentarily. MONO appears on the display. The sound will improve, but it will become monaural. (The ST indication will disappear.)
Notes The unit will not store stations with weak band frequencies on the preset number buttons. If there are only a few stations received, some preset number buttons will remain empty. When there is a preset number indicated on the display window, the unit will store stations on all preset number buttons from the one currently displayed.
Each time you press (DSPL), the display item changes as follows:

Frequency Clock

Memorizing only the desired Stations
Up to 6 stations on each band (FM1, FM2, FM3, AM1 and AM2) can be stored on the preset number buttons in order of your choice. Therefore, 18 stations can be memorized on FM. If you try to store another station on the same preset number button, the previously stored station will be erased.
If you can't tune in a preset station
Press either side of (SEEK/AMS) momentarily to search for the station (automatic tuning). The scanning stops when a station is received. Press either side of the button repeatedly until the desired station is received.
Note If the automatic tuning stops too frequently, press (LCL) momentarily to display the LCL (local seek mode) indication. Only the stations with relatively strong signals can be tuned in. Tip If you know the frequency, press and hold either side of (SEEK/AMS) until the desired station is received (manual tuning).
Press (TUNER) repeatedly, and select the band.
With the Optional Equipment
Adjusting the sound characteristics
Select the item you want to adjust by pressing (SEL) repeatedly. VOL (volume) n BAS (bass) n TRE (treble) n BAL (balance) n FAD (fader) Adjust the selected item by pressing either (+) or ().

CD Changer

You can control two CD changers.

Playing a CD

Press (CD) and select the changer. CD playback starts. When a CD changer is connected, all the tracks play from the beginning. Each time you press (DSPL) momentarily during CD playback, the displayed item changes as follows:
$ Elapsed playback time $ Disc and track number $ Clock
Adjust within three seconds after selecting. (After three seconds the button will again serve as volume control button.)

Muting the sound

Press (MUTE). The MUTE indication flashes. To restore the previous volume level, press again.
Locating a specific track Automatic Music Sensor (AMS)
During playback, press either side of (SEEK/AMS) the number of times you wish to skip the tracks.
Changing the sound and display settings
Enjoying bass and treble even at Low Volume Loudness
Bass and treble will be reinforced. Press (LOUD). LOUD will appear on the display. To cancel, press again.
To locate the succeeding tracks
Locating a specific point in a track Manual Search
During playback, press and hold either side of (SEEK/AMS). Release the button when you have found the desired part.

To reverse

To forward

Muting the beep tone

Press (6) while pressing (SEL). To obtain the beep tone again, press these buttons once more.

Switching to other discs

To return to the previous disc
To advance to the next disc

Scanning the tracks

Intro scan
The first 10 seconds of all the tracks on the currently selected disc are played in order. After the first disc is over, the next disc is played. Press (1) during playback. INTRO appears on the display. When you find the desired track, press again. The unit returns to the normal CD playback mode.
To play the discs in the current changer in a random order
Press (3) repeatedly during CD playback until SHUF 2 is displayed.
Each time you press (3) the display changes as follows: $ SHUF 1 (Disc shuffle) $ SHUF 2 (Changer shuffle) $ Cancel (Normal CD playback mode)
Playing tracks repeatedly
Repeat play To repeat a track
Press (2) repeatedly during CD playback until REP 1 is displayed.
If you press (1) during shuffle play, the first 10 seconds of all tracks will be played in random order.
Other Functions/CD Changer

To repeat a disc

Press (2) repeatedly during CD playback until REP 2 is displayed.

To repeat all the discs in the current changers
Press (2) repeatedly during CD playback until REP 3 is displayed.
Each time you press (2) the display changes as follows: REP 1 (Track repeat) REP 2 (Disc repeat)
Cancel (Normal CD playback mode)

REP 3 (Changer repeat)

Playing tracks in random order Shuffle play
To play the tracks on the current disc in a random order
Press (3) repeatedly during CD playback until SHUF 1 is displayed.

Precautions

If your car was parked in direct sunlight resulting in a considerable rise in temperature inside the car, allow the unit to cool off before switching on. If no power is being supplied to the unit, check the connections first. If everything is in order, check the fuse. If no sound comes from the speakers of a 2-speaker system, set the fader control to the center position. If you have any questions or problems concerning your unit that are not covered in this manual, please consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Maintenance

Fuse Replacement
When replacing the fuse, be sure to use one matching the amperage rating stated on the fuse. If the fuse blows, check the power connection and replace the fuse. If the fuse blows again after replacement, there may be an internal malfunction. In such a case, consult your nearest Sony dealer.

Fuse (15 A)

Warning Never use a fuse with an amperage rating exceeding the one supplied with the unit as this could damage the unit.

Notes on Cassettes

Cassette care Do not touch the tape surface of a cassette, as any dirt or dust will contaminate the heads. Keep cassettes away from equipment with built-in magnets such as speakers and amplifiers, as erasure or distortion on the recorded tape could occur. Do not expose cassettes to direct sunlight, extremely cold temperatures or moisture. When the tape is played back for a long period, the cassette shell may become warm because of the built-in power amplifier. However, this is not a sign of a malfunction. Cassettes longer than 90 minutes The use of cassettes longer than 90 minutes is not recommended except for long continuous play. The tapes used for these cassettes are very thin and tend to be stretched easily. Frequent playing and stopping of these tapes may cause them to be pulled into the cassette deck mechanism.

Cleaning the Connectors

The unit may not function properly if the connectors between the unit and the front panel are not clean. In order to prevent this, open the front panel by pressing (RELEASE), then detach it and clean with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Do not apply too much force. Otherwise, the connector may get damaged.

Main unit

Back of the front panel

Dismounting the unit

The rotary commander labels
You can control this unit with the optional rotary remote (RM-X2S). Some labels are supplied with the rotary remote. Attach that label which matches the functions of the master unit and the mounting position of the rotary remote. When you mount the rotary remote, attach the label in the illustration below.

Release key (supplied)

DSPL MODE SEL

SEL MODE DSPL

Location of controls

1 INTRO 4

LOUD MUTE

RELEASE

REP ATA

3 SHUF 6

BL. SKIP
SEEK AMS REW PRESET DISC FF

TUNER SEL CD TAPE

LCL OFF
Refer to the pages for further details. 1 LOUD (loudness) button During radio reception: Preset number buttons 7 During tape/CD playback: (1) INTRO button 6, 9 (2) REPEAT button 6, 9 (3) SHUF button 9 (5) ATA (Automatic Tuner Activation) button 6 (6) BL.SKIP button BTM (Best tuning memory function) button DSPL (display mode change/time set) button 5, 6, 6 (eject) button SEEK/AMS button 6, 7, PRESET/DISC button 5, 6, 7, MONO button MUTE button RELEASE (front panel release) button 4, 10 ! SEL (control mode select) button 5, 8 ! Reset button (located on the front side of the unit hidden by the front panel) Press this button when you use this unit for the first time, when you have changed the car battery, or when the buttons of this unit do not function properly. ! (+)() (volume/bass/treble/balance/ fader control) button 5, 8 ! Display window ! TUNER (radio on/band select) button 7 ! POWER SELECT switch (located on the bottom of the unit) See POWER SELECT Switch in the installation/Connections manual. ! CD (disc play/CD changer select) button 8 ! TAPE/* (playback/transport direction change) button 5 ! OFF button 4, 5 @ LCL (local seek adjust) button 7

Specifications

AUDIO POWER SPECIFICATIONS
POWER OUTPUT AND TOTAL HARMONIC DISTORTION 8 watts per channel minimum continuous average power into 4 ohms, 4 channels driven from 20 Hz to 20 kHz with no more than 1% total harmonic distortion.

Other Specifications Cassette player section
Tape track Wow and flutter Frequency response Signal-to-noise ratio 4-track 2-channel stereo 0.08 % (WRMS) 30 18,000 Hz 58 dB

General

Outputs Line out (1) Power antenna relay control lead Power amplifier control lead Bass 8 dB at 100 Hz Treble 8 dB at 10 kHz 12 V DC car battery (negative ground) Approx. 177 mm (7 1/ 3/in.) (w/h/d) Approx. 155 mm (7 1/ 1/1/8 in.) (w/h/d) Approx. 1.2 kg (2 ib. 10 oz.) Parts for installation and connections (1 set) Front panel case (1) Bus cable (supplied with an RCA pin cord) RC-61 (1 m), RC-62 (2 m) RCA pin cord RC-63 (1 m), RC-64 (2 m), RC-65 (5 m) Rotary commander RM-X2S Source selector XA-U20

Tuner section

Tuning range Antenna terminal Intermediate frequency Usable sensitivity Selectivity Signal-to-noise ratio 87.5 107.9 MHz External antenna connector 10.7 MHz 8 dBf 75 dB at 400 kHz 65 dB (stereo), 68 dB (mono) Harmonic distortion at 1 kHz 0.5 % (stereo), 0.3 % (mono) Separation 35 dB at 1 kHz Frequency response 30 15,000 Hz Capture ratio 2 dB
Tone controls Power requirements Dimensions Mounting dimension Mass Supplied accessories Optional accessories
Tuning range Antenna terminal Intermediate frequency Sensitivity 530 1,710 kHz External antenna connector 10.71 MHz/450 kHz 30 V Optional equipment

Power amplifier section

Outputs Speaker outputs (sure seal connectors) Speaker impedance ohms Maximum power output 25 W 4 (at 4 ohms) Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Troubleshooting guide

The following check will assist in the correction of most problems which you may encounter with your unit. Before going through the check list below, refer to the operating procedures.
Problem No sound Cause/Solution Adjust the volume with (+). Set the fader control to the center position on the 2-speaker system. Remove the front panel and clean the connectors. See Cleaning the Connectors of Maintenance for details.
Indications do not appear on the display window.

Tape playback

Problem Playback sound is distorted. Cause/Solution Contamination of the tape head. n Clean the head. There is a noise in the space between tracks. A blank space is too short (less than four seconds). + on (SEEK/AMS) is pressed immediately before the following track. = on (SEEK/AMS) is pressed immediately after the track starts. A long pause, or a passage of low frequencies or very low sound level is treated as a blank space.

The AMS does not operate correctly.

Radio reception

Problem Preset tuning is not possible. Automatic tuning is not possible. The ST indication flashes. Cause/Solution Memorize the correct frequency. The broadcast is too weak. The broadcast is too weak. n Use the manual tuning. Tune in precisely. The broadcast is too weak. n Press (MONO) to enter the MONO mode.

Disc play

Problem Playback sound skips. Cause/Solution A dusty or defective disc.
Error displays (with the optional CD changer(s) connected)
The following indications will flash for about five seconds and an alarm sound will be heard. Display Cause A disc magazine is not inserted in the CD changer. No disc is inserted in the disc magazine. The disc is dirty. The disc is inserted upside down. The CD changer cannot be operated because of some problem. The ambient temperature is more than 50C. Solution Insert a disc magazine with discs into the CD changer. Take out the magazine and insert the discs. Clean the disc. Insert the disc correctly. Press the reset button on the unit. Wait until the temperature goes down below 50C.

E-01 E-02 E-04 E-99 TEMP

If the above-mentioned solutions do not help to improve the situation, consult your nearest Sony dealer.
Automatic Music Sensor (AMS) 6, 8 Automatic tuning 7 Automatic Tuner Activation (ATA) 6

Shuffle play 9

T, U, V, W, X, Y, Z

Tape playback Treble 8 5

Bass 8 Balance 8 Best Tuning Memory (BTM) Blank skip 6 7
Caution alarm 4 CD playback 8 Clock 5

Display 5, 6, 8

F, G, H
Fader 8 Fast-forward 5 Front panel 4 Fuse 10

I, J, K

Intro scan 6, 9
Local seek mode (LCL) Loudness 8 7

M, N, O, P, Q

Manual search 8 Manual tuning 7 Mute 8
Radio 7 Repeat play 6, 8 Reset 4 Rewind 5 Rotary commander
Sony Corporation Printed in Japan

OCTAGON

Newsletter of the M.G. Owners Club & the Peninsula T Register The Northern California Centre of the M.G. Car Club MGOC Octagon If undeliverable please return to: 7230 Silver Lode Lane San Jose, CA 95120

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Forthcoming Events... 3 From the Editor... 4 Presidents Ponderings.... 5 Daffodil Hill Tour\ Phil-abration, THIS SATURDAY.. 6 Mt. Hamilton Tour\ April Fools Rallye.. 7 Cecil Kimber Run\ Valve Cover Racer Tech Session.. 8 MGs by the Bay.... 9 Woodland All British Show and Swap Meet... 10 Pacific Coast Dream Machines\ Moss Motors British Extravaganza.. 11 Vintage MG Races at Laguna Seca...12-13 Four Days of Vintage MGs...14-15 On the Road Again Open House... 16 Shermans Way... 17 Minutes...18-19 MGs by the Bay Registration Form.. 21 Classified Ads... 22
Ken Miles R1 and Flying Shingle R2 Racers at Laguna Seca

April 2008

Photo by Jeremy Palgon
About The Octagon and MGOC.
The M.G. Owners Club, formed in 1957, is the Northern California Centre of the M.G. Car Club, formed in England in 1930. The Peninsula T Register was formed in 1973 and is now an informal sub-group of the MGOC. We receive a copy of the MGCCs Safety Fast, available to members on loan from the Corresponding Secretary. The club is also associated with the North American MGB Register, the North American MGA Register, and the New England MG T Register. The MGOC holds a business meeting on the second Thursday of each month at an event known as the Natter and Noggin in the style of English clubs. The Octagon, our newsletter, is published monthly by the M.G. Owners Club. Opinions expressed in The Octagon are not necessarily those of the MGOC, its members, or Board of Directors.

Club Meeting

Natter & Noggin
April 10 (2nd Thursday), 7 pm
The Englander Sports Pub & Restaurant 101 Parrot Street, San Leandro http://www.englanderpub.com/ (510) 357-3571
The Englander is an enjoyable place where we have our own cozy room. The food is good so bring your appetites. Directions to The Englander: From Northbound I-880, take the Washington Ave. exit within San Leandro and turn right on Washington St. Travel 2.2 miles until you see Parrott St. Turn right on Parrott Street. You will see The Englander on your right. From Southbound I-880, take Davis St. exit and turn left on Davis. Travel 1.3 miles, then turn right on E. 14th St. Travel 0.3 miles, and then right on Parrott Street.
DIRECTORY of MGOC OFFICERS for 2008
President: Sam Gearhart, 510-530-2267, swg3@comcast.net Vice President: George Steneberg, 510-525-9125, j2george@pacbell.net Treasurer: Mike Jacobsen, 415-333-9699, MikesMuseum@yahoo.com Secretary: Randy Grossman, 510-483-3171, r.m.grossman@comcast.net Registrar: Tom Balutis, 925-330-6584, tbalutis@aol.com Activities Director: Bob Trencheny, 925-556-9311, tbobx@aol.com T Register Director: Jim Carlson, 408-224-3992, mgjim@comcast.net Corresponding Secretary: George Steneberg, j2george@pacbell.net Membership Development: Bob Stine, 650-349-5128, rastine@rcn.com Octagon Editor: Jeremy Palgon, 510-378-1821, alistaircookie@gmail.com Commercial Advertising: Mike Jacobsen, 415-333-9699, MikesMuseum@yahoo.com Historian: George Steneberg, 510-525-9125, j2george@pacbell.net Photographer: Jeremy Palgon, 510-378-1821, alistaircookie@gmail.com

CLUB ADVISOR PROGRAM

Feel free to call these members, who have volunteered to help with purchase, repair, and restoration of various M.G. models, etc. MGB 1962-74: Marty Ray, 831-475-6204, martyray@cruzio.com MGB 1974-1980: Ed Adams, 510-483-6821 MGB V8 Conversion: Tony Bates, 408-666-6174, Tony@BatesFamily.net MGC: Kent Leech, 925-253-9757, kent@kentleech.com MG Midget: Mark Hertz, 925-757-2070, damhertz@prodigy.net MGA/Coupe/Twin Cam 1955-62: George Steneberg, 510-525-9125 Z-Magnette Saloon: Eric Baker, 510-531-7032, mgpb36@yahoo.com T-types: George Steneberg, 510-525-9125, j2george@pacbell.net Pre-war Midgets-Magnas-Magnettes: George Steneberg, 510-525-9125 PA/PB Midget 1934-36: Eric Baker, 510-531-7032, mgpb36@yahoo.com S.U. Carburetters: Marty Ray, 831-475-6204, martyray@cruzio.com

Classified Ads

Ads are free to MGOC members and $6.00 per month for non-members. Please send copy (and check made payable to MGOC if a non-member) to MGOC, 7230 Silver Lode Lane, San Jose, CA 95120. Members may also email ads to the Editor at alistaircookie@gmail.com. Cars: Two 59 MGA Racecars and a big stack of parts. Contact Member Tom Morgan at (650)588-4960. 1952 MG TD MARK II $18,000 Frame off restoration in 1982. 9.5 on a scale of 10. Runs well with just over 6,000 miles since restoration. Ivory with green leather upholstery. MARK II refers to a limited number of TDs with the engine that eventually went into the TF (larger carburetors, dual fuel pumps, and a little more horsepower). Comes with all sorts of tools, cover, floor jack, stands, filters, spark plugs, etc. Contact Member Peter Applegate at (415)383-0700 (Marin Co.) Parts: For Sale: Four 14 inch MGB Wire Wheels. Contact Member Tom Morgan at (650)588-4960. For Sale: Aftermarket MGB Hardtop. Flashy. Keep warm and dry! Member Eric Baker, Oakland, (510)531-7032. For Sale: MGB/GT " Dia. Sway Bar. Member Ken (510)791-8445. For Sale: Five Steel Wheels from 1976 MGB roadster, 4 with trim rings, $40 OBO for all five. SU Carbs - AUD326F and AUD326R plus manifold and heat shield for MGB, $60 OBO. Pair of early MGB Rear Axle Shafts with splined hubs for wire wheels, $100. Map Pocket with tan carpet, free. Black Tonneau Cover for preheadrest MGB, some small repaired or repairable tears, good serviceable condition, $50. Two Sony XR-C300 Stereo Cassette Decks with removable faces in lightly used condition with remote CD controls built-in (remote changers not included), $40 each. FIAT 850 Spider Hard-Top, excellent condition, $250. Used front and rear MGB Chrome Bumpers, $10 each. Must pick up large parts in SF. Contact Member Tom at (415)203-9160 or thomasknapp@att.net. For Sale: Black leather after market Steering Wheel (with hub) for your 62-67 MGB/C. Mountney GT 14" with polished center spokes. Great condition. Victoria British part no. 15-580. Cost $250. Sell for $100 or decent offer. Contact Member Wayne Veatch at (415)297-1807 or veatchlaw@mindspring.com. For Sale: Pair of 1963 Black and Yellow License Plates, beautiful condition. Four Wire Wheels off an MGA. Please contact Member Viggo at (650)341-9064. For Sale: Sprite/MG Midget 4 Speed Ribcage Gearbox. This 4 speed came out of my 1966 Sprite. I installed a 5 speed and don't need it anymore. It works perfectly and is ready to bolt in. $150. Please contact Member Rod Schweiger at (650)2961108 or rodnut@rcn.com Free: 1966 Sprite/Midget 1098cc A Series Engine with large mains. Complete with flywheel, distributor, clutch, etc. This engine was replaced by a 1275cc engine in my 66 Sprite. It may have a cracked block because it was overheating for the previous owner. This engine has many good parts: head, crank, cam, rods, flywheel, etc. Please contact Member Rod Schweiger at (650)296-1108 or rodnut@rcn.com.

COMMERCIAL ADVERTISING IN THE OCTAGON
Direct all questions about advertising to Mike Jacobsen at 415-333-9699 or MikesMuseum@yahoo.com. 2007 rates are: monthly (yearly): full page $25 ($240), half page $18 ($175), third page $12 ($120), business card $8 ($75). All ads expire on January 1, and fees for a partial year will be pro-rated to that date. Deadline for ad materials is the 10th of the preceding month. The MGOC makes no claims as to the reputation or quality of work performed by businesses advertising in The Octagon.
MAKING CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE OCTAGON
Your stories, photos, tips, questions, and anything MGOC-related are always welcome in The Octagon. Please make your contributions by the 20th of the month preceding the issue in which you want them to appear. Please email all contributions to alistaircookie@gmail.com or send them to: MGOC, 7230 Silver Lode Lane, San Jose, CA 95120.
RECRUITING MEMBERS FOR THE MGOC
Have you helped recruit any new members lately? Bob Stine is in charge of new member recruitment and can send you flyers. The club roster is available to members from Tom Balutis upon request.

Forthcoming Events

MGOC Events in bold Mar. 29 Daffodil Hill, Volcano, Sorry Safari Touring Society Mar. 29 Phil-abration, Sausalito Bay Model, Abingdon Rough Riders Apr. 6 April Fool's Rallye, Santa Rosa, Empire Sports Car Club Apr. 19 On the Road Again Open House, Morgan Hill, Bill Hiland Apr. 20 Mt. Hamilton Tour, Abingdon Rough Riders Apr. 26 Cecil Kimbers 120th Birthday Run, Oakland, Randy Grossman Apr. 27 Valve Cover Tech Session, San Francisco, Mike Jacobsen Apr. 27 Pacific Coast Dream Machines, Half Moon Bay May 3 River Road Wine Tour, Pebble Beach Sports Car Club, Warren Pierce May 3-4 Moss Motors British Extravaganza, Buttonwillow May 4 Hillsborough Concours dElegance May 10 MGs by the Bay, San Leandro Marina May 18 All British Meet at Woodland (formerly Dixon), UBSCC May 18 Friendship Day, Redwood City, Mid-Peninsula Old Time Auto Jun. 1-8 British Car Week Jun. 7 Wine Tour, Sonoma, Andy Preston Jun. 7 Hayward British Field Meet, Mini Owners of America SF Jun. 22 Palo Alto Concours dElegance Jul. 6-10 GoF West, Monterey Jul. 31 - Aug. 3 Rendezvous 2008, Oregon, Club T MG

From the Editor

Though my little harvest gold MGB has sat sadly in my garage, the presumed victim of leaky choke valves, I have happily made it out to our last two events: the Shermans Way Film Premiere and the Vintage MG Races at Laguna Seca. Bill Hiland generously loaned me his maroon MGB for the Shermans Way event, and its a beast. When I asked Bill if there was any way to drive it quietly, he responded, No, why would you want to? I have never driven an MG that powerful before. After a bit of an adjustment (to compensate for my initial fear of the cars jumpiness), I found it quite fun to drive. Thanks for loaning me the car, Bill. As for the event itself, the films director, Craig Saavedra, and star, Michael Shulman, led us on a short tour to the theater, complete with parade laps. We were really quite loud, and drew the attention of many unsuspecting people in downtown San Jose. The film was very entertaining, and I stayed for dinner at Hawgs with the cast and crew afterward. As my friend Robert Zacher said, How often do you get the chance to tour to a film in a classic convertible with the director and star, watch that films world premiere, and sit down for dinner with the cast and crew afterward? Two weeks later, with my MGB still not sorted out, I headed down to On the Road Again for our tour to Laguna Seca. Not particularly interested in driving my 89 Camry behind our tour, I caught a ride down with Mike Jacobsen in his blue MGB GT. Once at the event, I meandered here and there, checking out the wide variety of vintage automobiles and, of course, taking pictures. Warren Pierce was pitting for a couple guys; and he and his wife, Kathy, graciously and gladly introduced me to the MGVR guys. Shortly after the noon track tour and MG only race, Bob Trencheny gave me a ride back up to Morgan Hill. Thank you Mike, Warren, Kathy, and Bob for making the event that much more enjoyable. The marque of friendship indeed! I dont think Id have enjoyed either of these events near as much if it werent for my friends in the MGOC. Jeremy Palgon

The MG Owners Club

Presents

MGs by the Bay

Saturday, May 10, 2008 San Leandro Marina
This annual event is a gathering of MGs from across Northern California. The show opens at 10 am, rain or shine, with trophies awarded at 2 pm. Same-day registration will open at 8 am. Featuring: Music, raffle prizes, contests, trophies, food and drink, plus more! Valve Cover Races: Bring your MG valve cover racer and enter the competition. Rules available at: http://www.mgoc.org/valvecoverrules. Awards: Judging is by popular vote, with trophies awarded for Peoples Choice, Best Daily Driver, Premier (from previous winners), and for every class, with classes determined according to the number of cars registered by May 1, 2008. Entries: All MGs are welcome, from daily drivers to complete restorations. The $25 entry fee includes a dash plaque, an event t-shirt, and special coupons from our sponsors. Additional cars registered to the same owner are $10 each, which includes a dash plaque only. All cars must arrive by 10 am sharp! This is necessary to allow for proper placement of the cars. If you arrive late, we cannot guarantee placement of your car with others in its class.

Presidents Ponderings

Wow! By the time many of you read this it will likely be April. The days are already longer with the onset of daylight savings time, and the weather is looking better for motoring with each passing day. I have been lucky enough to have my roadster out a number of times the last couple of weeks on some day trips for my job. I cannot claim to have a daily driver, but I sure enjoy driving it whenever I can. The Board and other volunteers are working feverishly on all the preparations for the annual MGs by the Bay car show. We are anticipating a great turn out; so be sure to fill out the registration form (on page 21) and get it mailed in. We will have more details about the show and activities in the May issue of the Octagon. We are going to put in a special request for better weather than we had last year when it was so cold and windy. On March 15, a handful of us headed south to Monterey, a few in our MGs, to attend the HMSA races at the Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. It was my first time on a track and I had a blast taking laps around it (with Bob Trencheny as my co-pilot using my video camera to shoot ten minutes or so of the ride). I am working with Bob to get the video linked to our MGOC website so you can all watch it. Though the weather in Monterey left a bit to be desired, the track was dry during our ride and it was definitely a memorable time. Just a quick glance at the upcoming events listed here in this issue and posted on our website confirms that the 2008 Motoring Season is here! On March 29, some of our members are joining the Sorry Safari Touring Society on their tour to Daffodil Hill in Volcano. Our Cecil Kimber Tour will be on April 26, MGs by the Bay is on May 10, and on June 7 we will head to the Sonoma Wine Country for what is always an enjoyable ride. I look forward to seeing more and more of you throughout the year; and I encourage each of you to come join the fun. Regards, Sam Gearhart

19 MGs by the Bay Posters, T-Shirts, Advertising, and Sponsors: Dan Shockey is taking the lead on posters and t-shirts. City of San Leandro Permit Status: Sam has obtained permit and will complete it and take it to the city. Insurance Status: NAMGAR expects to have insurance certificate back to us in two weeks. Valve Cover Races: No firm valve cover tech session yet, but we will have the valve cover races. Utilities and Services: Sound system (entertainment), music, portable sanitation, and trash. Last years cost was $397.46 for port-o-potty. Sam will contact Pat Davis to see if he will handle this arrangement. Motion to Have Either a DJ or Band: and pay up to $500 for this event. Motion carried. Bob Stine will make these arrangements. Next Meeting and Natter: 7 pm on April 10, 2008 at The Englander. The meeting was adjourned at 8:14 pm. Submitted by Randy Grossman.
A quick last minute reminder:

Daffodil Hill Day Tour

Saturday, March 29
Well meet up with Sorry Safari at the Jack in the Box at the intersection of Vasco Road and Industrial Way (6020 Industrial) in Livermore at 9 am SHARP. Please bring a snack, water, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, a camera, a full tank of gas, comfortable shoes, and a spirit of adventure. MGOC Contact: Jeremy Palgon, 510-378-1821, mgowners@gmail.com SSTS Contacts: John Pezek, 510-793-5089, jmpesek@sbcglobal.net; Ben Lenci, 510-651-0808, bjlenci@comcast.net
And if you cant make it out to Daffodil Hill:

July 6 - 10

GoF West is the name of a regularly held Gathering of the Faithful MG owners in the Western United States. This year, GoF West will be just a pleasant drive down the coast from us in beautiful Monterey. Complete Event Information and Registration Form: http://gofwest.com/events.htm
MGOC Business Meeting Minutes

March 13, 2008

The meeting was called to order by President Sam Gearhart at 7:07 pm. Also attending were Eric Baker, Randy Grossman, Mike Jacobsen, guest Brian Marloe, George Steneberg, Bob Stine, and David Wright. The February minutes were approved as printed in The Octagon. Treasurers Report: Made by Mike. Registrars Report: Made by Mike. Secretarys Report: Randy reported on letter from Dan Shockey thanking the Club for the gift certificate for Nancy related to her many years of work on behalf of the Club. Corresponding Secretarys Report: George filled out papers for MGB Register. There was a request for MG car posters to be made. George said he will handle it. The Octagon: Jeremy has asked for any input on quality or content. George mentioned that he likes the centerfold photo spread. Mike noted that Jeremy is working on sending more copies electronically (to other clubs), which hopefully will bring down costs a little. Bob Stine said, Hes doing great. Tell him he still has the job. Website: Everything running smoothly. Past Club Events Tech Session at On The Road Again with Marty Ray Shermans Way Film Premier: Bob Stine gave a positive report on the event. Upcoming Club Events Historic MG Races at Laguna Seca: March 13-16, 2008. We have our own corral. We are allowed in pits too. Daffodil Hill Tour: with Sorry Safari on March 29. GoF West: July 6-10, 2008 in Monterey. Mike sent Stuart Locke an email regarding the event. Mike has not heard back. Cecil Kimber Tour: scheduled for April 26. Event will have same route as last year. Sonoma Wine Tour: There is a date conflict between the tour and the Hayward Field Meet. Nothing has been resolved yet. Old Business Club Officers Insurance: Sam needed to fill out forms and sign which he did at the meeting. Mike will send back the forms and the check. New Business Selling Cardboard to GoF West: Motion made to sell 150 sheets at $1.50 each. Motion carried. Motion to Authorize $30 for Cecil Kimber Event: to pay for donuts and prize for Cecil Kimber trivia contest winner. Motion carried. Reimbursing Robert Milner: for gas to bring valve cover track to MGs by the Bay. Motion for $75 for this expense is passed.

Mt. Hamilton Tour

Sunday, April 20
Up for a challenging drive up Mt. Hamilton to the Lick Observatory and back? Then come along as we meet up with the Abingdon Rough Riders for our annual trip over the tallest mountain in the area. The drive is challenging, as there are a little over twenty miles of steep hills with some of the coolest (i.e. narrow and winding) roads in the Bay Area. The views from the road and the observatory are breathtaking. This is not a trip for the faint hearted (or those prone to car sickness), and your car should be in good mechanical condition, as there are no services for over 70 miles. Please start with a full tank of petrol. In a departure from our usual route, our ARR leaders plan to start on the backside and end up in San Jose (between 3-4 pm). Well be stopping at The Junction for lunch, and well probably also stop at a winery in Livermore and the Mt. Hamilton Observatory. When and Where: Well meet at 9:30 am at Starbucks, 3950 Mowry Ave., Fremont Plaza (corner of Fremont Blvd. and Mowry), in Fremont. Do NOT go to the Starbucks at 5034 Mowry Ave. (between Blacow and Farwell)! ARR Contacts: Barry and Sue Swackhamer, 408-608-5695, barry_sue90@hotmail.com

ESCA April Fools Rallye

Sunday, April 6
The Empire Sports Car Club would like to cordially invite you to their 44th annual April Fools Rallye. Rallymaster Bob The Beard Jenkins has devised a scenic and fun 35 mile route for this A-B type rallye. A rallye is not a speed event. Its a test of a teams ability to follow instructions along the route while looking for signs and situations that fit the definitions of the rallye. There will be a brief rallye school at 11 am for all those new to rallying. When and Where: 10:30 am in the Charles Shultz Museum parking lot, Santa Rosa. Cost: $15 per car. All proceeds go to Canine Companions. Directions: Take the Steele Lane Exit off Highway 101, a mile North of downtown Santa Rosa. Go West on Steele and it will become Guerneville. Right on Range. Left on W. Steele. Right on Hardies and Left into the second driveway (museum lot). Contact: Bob Jenkins, 707-546-6867, thebeard@sonic.net
Cecil Kimbers 120th Birthday Run

Saturday, April 26

By Randy Grossman OK, so last years Run was rainy and windy; but if you were there, you received a special merit badge from Past President Bob Stine for surviving the journey! This year I predict sunny breezy weather. Melissa Johnson and I will lead you on a wonderful winding and hilly tour route just made for MGs. Cecil Kimber, whose birthday was 120 years ago on April 12 would be proud to be part of this adventure. Melissa and I are spoiled as this tour begins right near our home. Its one of those 90-minute weekend drives you can take a few times a year when the sun is out and the mood strikes for a wonderful but challenging spin in the MG. The fun begins at about 10:45 am. After some coffee and donuts (or bagels) and a quick drivers meeting, we will award a prize to one lucky participant of our tour before we head out. What is it, you ask? How can I win it, you wonder? Come on the tour and find out. We will leave our home in San Leandro at 11 am and head through the Berkeley hills by way of Skyline Drive and Grizzly Peak Blvd., stopping at a vista point which I believe is truly the most panoramic view of the entire Bay Area bar none (including that view from the Marin Headlands). On a clear day you can see four bridges which cross the Bay. When we reach the top of Marin Avenue, we will go down the steep long hill (Make sure your brakes are in good shape!) and go over to Solano Avenue for lunch at Zacharys Chicago Pizza, which offers arguably the best deep dish pizza in the country. It is usually crowded, but not to worry. Solano Avenue is full of many marvelous restaurants of almost any ethnic cuisine imaginable, should you not wish pizza. The tour will officially end there, but for those wishing further fun, the Berkeley Marina is close by. If you have any questions, call us at 510-483-3171. We hope you will join us. It will be a tour to remember. When and Where: Meet 10:30 am at 874 Rodney Drive in San Leandro. By Jeremy Palgon

On a cool, but pleasant, February evening, sixteen club members came out for the Shermans Way Premiere. Craig Saavedra and Michael Shulman, the director and star of the film, arrived at our rallying point in the beautifully restored red MGB from the film. After a few minutes of chatting and comparing cars, Craig handed out Shermans Way placards and movie soundtracks to everyone in our little tour. Then, with Craig and Michael in the lead, we headed off to the San Jose Repertory Theater for the premiere. On our tour, in a preview of things to come, Craig and Michael found themselves momentarily confused about which direction to turn (despite the directions Id handed them). The next thing I know, as if to foreshadow the film, Michael is running down the street asking me which way to which way to go. As the film opens, Sherman (Michael Shulman), an uptight Yale student, is urged to be more spontaneous by his girlfriend (Lacy Chabert). At first he balks; but faced with losing her, he ultimately decides to fly out to California to visit her unannounced. When he arrives, he discovers that shes already found someone new. Upset, and taking her advice about spontaneity to heart, Sherman hitches a ride with Palmer, an eccentric former Olympic skier driving an MGB convertible. What ensues is a comedic and metaphorical investigation of the road of life. From the films website: Shermans Way starts with two strangers setting off on a road trip of convenience only to veer off the path into a comedic exploration of the random nature of friendship, fatherhood, and the annoying persistence of finding ones place in the world a world in which one wrong turn can change your destination.
Valve Cover Racer Tech Session

Sunday, April 27

There it goes! Its aspeeding MG valve cover? And look at that, its lost some parts along the way (actually thats a winning strategy). Once again well be having the fun and excitement of valve cover racing at MGs by the Bay. Come on out to this tech session and build your very own British speedster. Valve covers and parts will be available for a modest fee. When and Where: Meet 2 pm at 115 Pinehurst Way in San Francisco. Contact: Mike Jacobsen, 415-333-9699, MikesMuseum@yahoo.com
Craig Saavedra, Michael Shulman, and the MG from Shermans Way with the MGOC

Youareinvited!

What: Where:

GalaOpenHouse

16840JoleenWay,#G4 MorganHill,CA95037

OntheRoadAgain

SaturdayApril19,26PM
Pleasejoinusformunchiebits,localwines& beverages,music,MGs,andotherclassicautos.
ComeseeNorthernCaliforniasnewestMGrestoration,parts, andrepairshop.Witha12,000sq.ft.facility,wehaveashow roomjustforMGs,storagespaceforotherclassics,aswellas anonsitepaintboothandbodyshop.
RSVP.408.324.4814orhilandbritish@yahoo.com
Warren Pierce displays the Pierce Manifolds award for the Fastest Weber Powered MG
Sunday was sunny, windy, and cool. Similar to Saturday, the MG guys and gals raced with HMSA and had a MG only race, which was won by Scott Brown in his MGA The Pile. After the noon MG drive, where I managed to hit 70 once, it was time to help the MGVR racers pack for their trip home, say goodbye to new friends, and drive Jim Ws 62 MGA racer down Highway 68 to Ole Andersons shop.
The United British Sports Car Club of Sacramento is proud to host Northern Californias premier All British Motorcar Show and Swap Meet. This nineteen year tradition finds a new home at the Yolo County Fairgrounds in Woodland after ten years in Dixon. A larger venue will provide more space to expand and enjoy even more fellow British car enthusiasts. We now offer an all grassy show field and more shade along the perimeter. This is a wonderful opportunity to see more than 300 cars representing over 90 years of British motoring history.
Mike Jacobsen and his MGB GT hold off Ken Miles R1 Racer (on a parade lap)
Cost: $20 per car (with pre-registration before May 1, $30 at the gate), free for spectators. Complete Event Information and Registration Form: http://www.ubscc.org/CarShow.htm
What a great four days! This was the largest gathering of MG race cars on the West Coast for many a year with: fifteen MGAs, two MGB GTs, two MGB roadsters, two Midgets, a TF, three TDs, an MG L1, an MG NE, an MG NB (driven by Al Moss!), a Magnette Special, a Cooper MG, a Byers MG Special, and Ken Miles R1 and Flying Shingle R2 Racers. The MGVR guys and gals are a great group of folks, and theyre going to be back at Laguna Seca in four or five years for another Focus Event.

Four Days of Vintage MGs

By Warren Pierce Photos by Jeremy Palgon
Thursday started off with about forty MG enthusiasts getting together for a welcome party at the Martine Inn in Pacific Grove, featuring dinner and a tour of Don Martines MG Museum. A surprise birthday party, complete with cake, was held for MG Vintage Racer Jim Weissenborn who, along with Scott Brown and Gary Anderson, organized this West Coast Focus Event of the MG Vintage Racers. About noon on Friday, I started helping get the paddock area arranged so the majority of the MG racers could pit together. I had volunteered to help tech the MGs and, after a quick briefing on what to look for, off I went. Mostly I was checking for current safety equipment, helmets, driving suits, and fire extinguishers; but I had some fun pointing out non-MGA parts on the MGAs. The majority of the MGs were MGAs, with seven twin cams present! Most of the racers were from the East Coast, and newer parts are legal in the race organizations there. Most were running MGB master cylinders and plastic fans. One racer pointed to a dent in his bonnet where a blade had departed his metal fan. Probably a good item to check on our street cars! After teching the last car to arrive, it was off to the track party provided by HMSA. Later a lot of the MG guys and gals headed out to the Baja Cantina, I headed home.

Pacific Coast Dream Machines
Half Moon Bays Awe-inspiring World of Wonder
Rare Autos, Military Aviation Marvels, Monster Trucks, Motorcycle Trials
A spectacular showcase of 2,000 magnificent machines: running the gamut from super cool cars, custom motorcycles, and one-of-a-kind woodie busses to tricked-out trucks, antique engines and tractors, and historic military aircraft. Beyond the wide assortment of cars (everything from horseless carriages to Mark Martins NASCAR show car), hundreds of aviation wonders are expected to be on display. Birds of every feather, from stylish home-builts and ultralights to spectacular military aircraft (including a B-17, a Japanese Zero fighter, a B-25 Bomber, P-51 Mustangs, and an F-4 Wildcat) will be on site for your amazement. There will also be a fascinating array of antique engine powered tools and tractors. And for your musical enjoyment, the Celtic folk band Claddagh will be playing. When and Where: 10 am to 4 pm at the Half Moon Bay Airport on Highway 1, about twenty miles south of San Francisco and five miles north of Highway 92. Cost: $30 per machine (with pre-registration before April 15, $35 thereafter). Spectators: $20 for adults, $10 for age 11-17 and 65+, and free for kids age 10 and under. Tickets are available at the gate only. The show benefits the Coastside Adult Day Health Center. Complete Event Information and Registration Form: http://www.miramarevents.com/dreammachines/index.html
A row of MGAs receiving attention in the pits
My black MGB was the first car in the corral on wet and windy Saturday morning. I arrived at the track at 7 am to deliver donuts to MG Paddock Central where the Pebble Beach Sports Car Club was providing coffee and donuts for the racers. Even though the track was wet and new to them the racers had a nothing but positive things to say about Laguna Seca. The highlights of the day were the noon track drive, with a mixture of street and race MGs out on the track, and talking with members of our MG club. Saturday night a banquet was held at Laguna Seca Golf Course with various awards given out the West Coast Focus Event Spirit Award Copper Bucket going to Jim Weissenborn. On behalf of the Pebble Beach Sports Car Club, I presented awards for The Longest Tow to Paul Fitzgerald (who towed his MGTD from New Hampshire!) and Favorite Race Car to Pete Thelander with his 1934 MG NE. The Pierce Manifolds Fastest Weber Powered MG award went to Don Cole with his MGB GT. The wording on the Weber award was changed from Weber equipped to Weber powered as Scott Brown was going to bolt a Weber to his floor board to be eligible!

Moss Motors British Extravangaza Vintage Race and Car Show
Buttonwillow Raceway Park
Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4
Touted as the premier British car event on the West Coast, the Extravaganza features a popular choice British car show (with lots of prizes and trophies), a track drive on both days, a slalom event (with instruction), a BBQ on Saturday night, a pre-war exhibition tour in period correct clothes, British feature races, and two days of racing with over 250 cars. Where: Buttonwillow race track is located a quarter mile west of I-5 on Lerdo Highway, near Bakersfield. Cost: $35 per person (with pre-registration before April 20, $45 thereafter). Complete Event Information and Registration Form: http://www.mossmotors.com/SiteGraphics/Pages/buttonwillow2008.html
Vintage MG Races at Laguna Seca
Rows of MGs in the paddock (above)
MG Racers in the pits (below)
Lining up for the MG only vintage race (below)

Photos by Jeremy Palgon