14 replies to this topic

[germini30]

Guys, 10 years ago my mini was completely stripped to a bear shell. It had loads of new panels fitted. At the time I didn't realise the hate that wide sills have,They were fitted. Basically we cut all the old outer sills away. Fitted new inner sills and rustproofed them before fitting the outer sills. The wide sills were seam welded there full length. After this they were pumped full of waxoyl. Now ten years on I have no rust in the floors or rear companion bins and the sills still look like new. What should I do? Leave them alone or put some vents into them? I know most people will say to cut them off.

[Ben_O]

 I know most people will say to cut them off.

Yep.

The correct narrow type sills are stronger and vented to minimise moisture build up in the box section.

 

However, if they truly are still rust free internally, then I guess there is no hurry to change them. Just keep a close eye before you end up having to spend out on inner sills too

[germini30]

That's what I was thinking. Waxoil again on a hot day will help. What about drilling holes to vent them

[CityEPete]

Can you get inside with a boroscope to check how they are getting on inside?

I'd look inside and if they are still perfect, pump them with more waxoyl.

I dont think the strength is that much of an issue if they're not rusty, they will devalue the car if you sell it regardless of how solid they are, the first thing we'd say to a buyer of your car is "either run away or knock off the cost of replacing the sills and any paint work required".

Edited by CityEPete, 11 June 2018 - 09:11 PM.

[germini30]

Is it worth drilling holes to allow aitflow

[nicklouse]

not really as you need to do more to let the water out.

[germini30]

Can they be converted to the same style as standard sills, ie cut along the length

[CityEPete]

Can they be converted to the same style as standard sills, ie cut along the length

That's actually a good idea, cut a line down where it should be, drill holes where it needs welding between the vents, clean up the floor and prime it, weld the sill then touch up the paint.

[germini30]

And that would be fine??

[nicklouse]

but your waxoyl that is in there will go up in flames.

[germini30]

That's what I was thinking nick.

[germini30]

Obviously I would have to cut carefully to otherwise I will cut the inner sills

[CityEPete]

but your waxoyl that is in there will go up in flames.

He could wash the sills out with some petrol first, lol.

[nicklouse]

Obviously I would have to cut carefully to otherwise I will cut the inner sills

sod the cutting its the welding that would be the issue. just leave untill you need to fix it.

[germini30]

I think that I am over thinking to be honest. The wide sills were not used to cover anything up. All the crap was cut away and once these were fitted they were waxoiled so potentially could last many more years