MG Car Repair: Front brake cylinders 1955 MG TF, brake cylinders, backplates

Question
Friend recently purchased a 1955 MG TF in a completely dismantled condition and has proceeded to attempt a restoration even though he has never owned one. Having run into a few problems he has asked my advice seeing as how I have restored an MGB. The problem confronting us is that he has had the front suspension sorted professionally and we are assembling the brakes. However the banjo on the front cylinder fouls on the steering arm (both sides) to the  point where the cylinder doesn't
seat properly on the backing plate. At least a 16th inch more clearance required. We have wracked our brains as to the problem. All parts appear to be original and logically everything should fit but there is evidently a problem somewhere. Perhaps the original owner purchased non genuine parts but everything seems OK. We have parts books and workshop manuals but it has got us a bit non plussed. Any clues?  Car made for Australia

Answer
Hi Dennis.

Either the kingpin assemblies have been put on upside down, or the brake backplates have been fitted to the wrong sides (they are handed).  

Have a good look at the backplates.  The holes for the cylinders are slightly offset, and the offset should be UPWARDS at the front.  The steering arm should drop DOWN to clear underneath it.

If this doesn't solve your problem, please send me a photograph.  You may have MGA components which were different.