Picture frame question

[nottsman]

I've removed the radiator for an upgrade and want to clean up the front whilst I have access. I want to remove the brackets that hold the horn supports to the picture frame by removing the 4 bolts. However, I'm concerned that these bolts may have structural importance. Does anyone know if I can remove the bolts safely?

The car is a 1969 series 2 2+2.

Thanks.

Nick

[mgcjag]

Hi Nick...how you getting on....i originaly thought yes but now thinking that the bolts go through to the lower brace of the frames....not sure if the anti roll bar is in the way to get the bolts out.....if i were doing it i would support everything and loosen the nuts to see if they were loose enough to remove the bolt..if not de tension the torsion bars....its not dificult ( just detach the upper wishbone ball joint etc)..... i have removed the picture frame to refurb everything in the past....with the engine in place just chocked up from below

[paulsco]

Hi Nick,

You can remove the bolts without anything flying off if that is what you mean, but they are important to the structure of the car and need to be replaced.

On the earlier cars there is a shim between the picture frame and the side frames, so if it's there, don't forget to put it back in.

I think on later cars it may be spot welded on, but I am not sure.

Paul

[nottsman]

Thanks Steve and Paul. I don't want to remove the picture frame at this stage, just gain access to the bottom section, so I can clean off surface rust and repaint. The horn brackets are rusty and also need to be cleaned and painted before putting back.

So if I follow the advice I can remove the bolts safely, remove the horn brackets, clean up and paint and put everything back?

It looks as if its possible.

Nick