1977 MG B Roadster

Great question! Converting from rubber to chrome bumpers is one of the most popular modifications for 1974.5-1980 MG Bs. The good news is it’s totally doable, and there are several complete conversion kits available that make the job much easier.

What You’ll Need

Complete conversion kits are available from suppliers like:

• Moss Motors (kit #453-878, 453-888)
• MGB Hive
• Abingdon Spares
• MGOC Spares

These kits typically include:

• Chrome front and rear bumpers with overriders
• Special mounting brackets (the mounting points differ from rubber bumper cars)
• Metal fill plates for the bodywork areas
• All necessary hardware

The Process

This is not a simple bolt-on job. Here’s what’s involved:

1. Remove rubber bumpers - undo the original shock mounts and brackets
2. Bodywork required - the rubber bumper cars have different front fenders with larger openings. You’ll need to weld in metal fill plates and do bodywork to match the chrome bumper profile
3. Install new brackets - the chrome bumper mounting brackets bolt to different locations
4. Paint - the modified areas will need to be painted to match
5. Grille considerations - you may want to swap to an early chrome grille or keep your later grille

The listing mentions the current owner already cut down the front rubber bumper to make it less intrusive, so you’re halfway there aesthetically!

Cost Expectations

• Conversion kits: ~$400-$800 depending on supplier and quality
• Professional installation: Budget $1,000-$2,500+ for bodywork, welding, and paint
• DIY: Possible if you’re handy with welding and bodywork, but professional help is recommended

Should You Do It?

On a $8,500 car like this one, a chrome conversion could actually increase the value - many buyers prefer the classic chrome look. But it will cost you a few thousand to do it right.

Since this car already has a modified front bumper, the seller was clearly thinking along the same lines!

Want to see other MG Bs that have already been converted? You can check out similar 1977 Roadsters at https://classic.com/m/mg/b/roadster/ to compare chrome vs. rubber bumper looks.

Need help finding a kit supplier or have questions about the process?