Crankshaft locking tool

My current task is changing the timing belt, and I decided to invest in crankshaft and camshaft locking tools, as I'll need to do it again in four years. Car is a manual 1.6 TF. In the Rimmer catalogue it isn't clear which is the correct tool, so I called and asked, and was told this was the correct one - 18 G1571

I know this tool says without PG1 gearbox, but the other tool listed by rimmers 18G1742 doesn't mention the MGF / TF in it's application, hence why I checked before ordering. However I can't get it to fit, and when I compared the pitch of the starter motor mountings (120mm centres) this doesn't match up with any of the holes on this tool. Have they sold me the wrong tool?

All the Fs and TFs except the stepspeed have a PG1 gearbox.

The PG1 was fitted to every 1.8 and over manual Austin, MG and Rover from 1983 onwards except the Rover 75 and MGZT which had a Gartag offering.

The PG1 was NEVER fitted to any car under 1.8 EXCEPT the MGF and MGTF 1.6. The PG1 was used in the 1.6 F and TF as it was easier to modify the box than create a gear change mechanism for a different gearbox for the mid mount engine for the limited numbers of 1.6 built.

Unfortunately the assistant at Rimmers obviously didn't know this so has miss sold you this, I would ring them on Monday and ask them to change it, and by return.

I've seen how on older k series engines the timing tool locked the flywheel ring from the top of the bellhousing using this tool.

However the k16 engine manual I have shows this tool being used at the top

But we know this ain't happening on the tf...

When I bought my locking tool to do my mgtf 1800...I looked for one that said does pg1 and pg2 boxes.....without getting it out of the garage it looks like yours and if I remember right when I did mine when I removed the starter I expected 2 holes to come in line with those used for the starter bolts....no they didn't. ..but I wanted that belt on that day no matter what....do I drill the holes I need...send it back...no..I fitted it using 1 hole...putting the crank in the position and then bolting the locking tool on...noting the direction of rotation of the flywheel......ie bolting it one side for undoing and the other side for tightening....so the locking tooth does not jump out and stays tightly put......Did my cambelt some years back..never missed a beat.every tf owner should get one ...it's not that difficult...and saves cash

Spoke to Rimmers on Monday morning, and they confirmed I'd been given the wrong information, and for manual TFs the correct tool is 18G1742. They sent it foc for next day delivery, and I note they have subsequently changed the catalogue description on their website.

Water pump and cam belt changed, I'm now dropping the front subframe to change the wishbone bushes for poly, and give it all a good clean and spray the chassis and subframe with Dinitrol.

Pleased to be of influence.