User:VoodooPhoenix/sandbox

TA International
The Marina based 'TA International' is a direct development of the MGB based 'TA Pullman'. The decision to develop the International was primed by the need for a more freely available, sensibly priced, donor vehicle. The Morri Marina was the logical choice. It offers the look absolutely right for the 1930's sport car, but like the MGB, has the right sound and feel. Like the MGB the Marina was fitted with the famous 1800cc 'B' series engine; in fact the 'TC' version was actually fitted with the MGB twin carburettor varient producing some 100 BHP. During the chassis re-design to accept the Marina's mechanics, the opportunity was taken to re-style the car. In fact the wheelbase was increased by 5" and lowered by 2".

Like its MGB based sister car, the INternational uses a single donor, in fact the Marina gives you everything except the radiator, (which is from either Austion 1800 or Austin Maxi) and the fuel tank, (use MG Midget, A35 or purpose made units). The only part requiring any form of modification was the propshaft.

The International is designed to use either the standard 13" Marina steel wheels, or ideally 14" or 15" wire wheels.

Using the 'O' Series Engine
As previously stated the TA Interational has been specifically engineered around the 1.8 'B' series engine, therefore, was the most straight forward build. Conversly the fitting of alternative power units, such as the 1.7 'O' series engine (Morris Ital), required more care.

The 'O' series engine is a longer engine than the 'B' series, and due to its engine mount design sits higher in the chassis and finally to complicate matters further the alternator fouls the steeing column. There was the optional 'Engine Compatibility Pack' which overcame some of these problems encountered, it consisted of a 2 engine moust lowering brackets and a substantial replacement alternator bracket to be positioned higher than normal.

Using the above option enabled the 'O' series power unit to be neatly and successfully installed.

The TA International came with a build manual and took on average between 80 - 120 hours to assemble, depending on experience.