QuestionQUESTION: I have a 1976 MGB that I am trying to sell and I keep getting asked if it has an overdrive transmission....how can I tell?
ANSWER: Hi Nanci.
The MGB overdrive was an optional extra up to 1974. After that it was standardized, therefore your 1976 MGB does have overdrive. There should be a tiny overdrive switch built into the top of the gear knob.
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thank you. I have now looked at the gear knob and I cannot find an overdrive switch. Is there a way to tell by looking at the transmission?
Answer
Yes, you could look underneath the car. Behind the engine and the gearbox you will see a third unit about the size of a pumpkin. It is part #41 in the following diagram:
http://www.ukmgparts.com/browse.aspx?CID=a06aab03-5ebc-49d9-a937-a6d8adfce6c1&SI
The whole gearbox with overdrive attached is shown as part #1.
The overdrive switch was moved twice during production. Up to 1974 it was on the dashboard. On a LHD USA car it would be to the right of the steering wheel and clearly marked OVERDRIVE. From late 74 to mid 76 it was incorporated into the wiper switch on a stalk to the right of the steering column. To engage overdrive you pull the stalk towards you, and to disengage you push it away from you.
