Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1952 MG Midget, hemmings motor news, moss motors

Question
I have been given a 1952 MG Midget I believe it is a TD.  I have no experience in building a car from the bottom up, which this car needs, because it was given to me in parts.  I know all of the parts are not there, but I would love to restore this car to as close to original as possible.  My neighbor is a mechanic and he is going to help me.  My question is where might I find a book that will help us get started on rebuilding this beautiful old car.  I would also like to know if I can email you if I run into problems we cannot solve.  This is very important to me.  My sister, who gave me this car is dying of cancer and she would like to ride in it before she passes.  Any help you can give me would help me make this happen for her.
Thank you in advance.

Answer
Vance:

I will help you any way that I can. I had a TD for 15 years and enjoyed it's ownership and use.

For starters, in terms of a good restoration book for the average user go to the following url/link:

http://www.nemgt.org/tdmanual.htm

I have this book and it is a good place to start.

Organization is very important. In general I would suggest that you first get familiar with the TD by looking at parts catalogs and begin to make listings of what you have that you believe is useable and what you are missing and will need to get either new, (as reproduction parts) or used, ie., via "e-bay" or "Hemmings Motor News."

Moss Motors is a well used supplier for MG's and TD's in particular.  Look at: http://www.mossmotors.com
They have a catalog you can download on line.

A place called "Abingdon Spares" is great and have high quality parts. Go to the url/link shown here:

http://www.abingdonsparesllc.com

I would probably start on the mechanical items first, engine, transmission, frame/chassis, and rear end (differential). Then as these parts are coming together, you need to consider the body / coachwork. These cars have wooden coachwork covered by metal panels for the main body and doors and can be difficult to rebuild but not impossible. It may be you are somewhat skilled as a woodworker, or you won't have to replace much or any wood. If that's the case you will be ahead. Try not to cut corners and you will be further ahead in the long run. There is so much to tell you. It can be fun, but it looks like your going to be working on a schedule because of your sister and I certainly hope she gets to take that ride. I will do what I can for you.

Brian