MG TC Tire Pressures

• The ideal MG TC tire pressure ranges between 24/35 PSI.
• To find out more about MG TC tire pressures see our MG TC Tire Pressure Guide.

• For the MG TC longstone recommends the 4.50x19 Ensign B5.
• See below or click the link for information on MG TC Racing Tires.

MG TC Tires

The MG TC was originally equipped with 4.50-19 Dunlop Fort 90 crossply tires, which are unfortunately no longer in production. In this size, Longstone's recommendation for the MG TC is the 4.50x19 Ensign B5. This tire is built to the same design as the now discontinued 4.50 x 19 Dunlop B5, a tire that was fitted to a huge amount of vintage and classic cars during it's day.

The Ensign has a great carcass structure for wheels like those on the MG TC, it also has the period tread pattern that the original Dunlop B5 had, which is the tire that would likely have been fitted to many MG TA's in the period.

Another option would be the 4.00/4.50 x 19 Longstone, which offers excellent performance, and features the 3-block tread pattern that was also prominent on many pre-war TA models.

TC wheels require innertubes in order to properly function. Whenever available we recommend Michelin innertubes as we have found them to be reliably of high-quality, leading to considerably less issues than with budget tubes. The Michelin 19MFR is the ideal tube for these tires.

If you want to take a TC onto the track you would be best with a set of 4.50x19 3-Stud Ensign Racing, with a set of 450-500X19 Race innertubes.

This tire and tube combination is optimised for hard driving, offering superior performance on the track. Race equipment is built for performance over longevity however, so we would recommend road tires for road use, even for fast drivers.

Borrani wire wheels could be a fantastic upgrade for an MG TC. Wire wheels offer a timeless aesthetic, and Borrani's wire wheels are the best in the industry. Borrani wheels are made from robust metals including aluminium rims, lightweight, durable steel spokes, and solid steel wheel centres.

These wheels come in a variety of styles to suit different preferences and applications. The classic painted silver finish echoes the style of vintage race wheels of the day, and the polished and chrome finish features a highly polished rim, shining chrome spokes, and a light-catching wheel centre.

There is also an option for wheels with a painted finish and a polished outside edge, which adds a modest yet sophisticated touch to the wheel's appearance. Each style reflects Borrani's commitment to quality and tradition, and a Borrani wire wheel would therefore be an excellent addition to your TC's running gear.

MG TC History

Introduced in 1945, the MG TC Midget marked a significant moment in the post-WWII era, showcasing advancements in engineering and design. It was powered by a 1250cc engine and exceeded the milestone of 10,000 units produced, surpassing its predecessor, the TA, with improvements in both suspension and electrical systems.

The vehicle was integral to the revival of MG's car production after the war. It retained the 1,250 cc pushrod-OHV engine of the pre-war TB model, but with a higher compression ratio of 7.4:1, achieving 54.5 horsepower at 5200 rpm. The updated XPAG engine and new features such as a hydraulically regulated timing chain tensioner contributed to its enhanced performance. With features like a 12-volt battery and 19-inch Dunlop wire wheels, its production spanned over four years with 10,001 units made, indicative of its success at the time. In 1947, the car was priced at £527 in the UK.

The TC's design included a water-cooled, 1250cc inline-four engine, with a power output of 54.4 brake horsepower. The car was meticulously designed to deliver exceptional performance and precise handling, boasting a seamless four-speed gearbox and a chassis and suspension system set up for handling and comfort.

The MG TC not only demonstrated engineering prowess but also achieved significant speeds of up to 78 mph. Its high production numbers for the time were a testament to its popularity.

The MG TC is noteworthy for its role in increasing the presence of British sports cars in the United States. Ownership by the Duke of Edinburgh, coinciding with his marriage to Princess Elizabeth, further elevated its profile in the public.

The MG TC signified a cultural milestone, serving as a bridge between past technical achievements and future innovations. It laid the groundwork for the MG TD, which would carry on MG's tradition of automotive innovation.

With the arrival of the 1950s, the MG TC was succeeded by the MG TD, a transformative model that introduced features like an independent front suspension and a new chassis design, marking a new phase in automotive engineering.

MG TC Tire Pressure

In the realm of classic cars, the context in which tires were used has changed considerably since the second half of the 20th century. The vintage and post-war era, when vehicles such as the MG TC debuted, was characterized by roadways that were predominantly composed of loose gravel or untreated dirt paths. Such conditions necessitated the use of comparatively lower tire pressures to accommodate the uneven and malleable surfaces. Today’s road infrastructure boasts uniformly paved and smooth asphalt surfaces that requiring higher tire pressures suitable for the hard surfaces.

Consequently, the tire pressure guidelines from vintage and post-war manuals are now somewhat obsolete, and adjustments must be made to align with contemporary driving conditions for safety and performance.

For an MG TC with crossply tires on modern roads we suggest a starting pressure of 30 psi on all wheels, followed by some test drives and adjustments until you find the right pressure for your comfort and driving habits. Pressures should typically not be lower than 24 psi unless you find yourself off-road, and no higher than 35 unless you are carrying substantial extra weight.