5 replies to this topic

[minifreek1]

My Mini is being taken off the road next month to start a long process of replacing a few panels (mainly front end and scuttle) but am also hoping to go lightweight too. The windows are being replaced with polycarbonate when I get round to it. My question is, how much strength is in the rear door bins? And can they be removed without losing any structural strength or do I need to install strengthening back into the shell? I have a full cage installed which I'm sure will help.

Ta

[nicklouse]

they are also part of the rear seat base.

[minifreek1]

Thanks Nick.

I should have said the rear seats have been removed.

[sonikk4]

With the seat pan removed and an alternative seat belt mounting point installed then you should be fine. As they are the bins are flimsy, but as a precaution adding in some extra welds either spot or seam weld would do no harm.

[minifreek1]

I'm using harnesses as a restraint instead of seat belts.

So if I remove the seat base and rear bins but then add in extra welds it'll be OK.

I'm not building a rally car or race car just weightsaving.

[sonikk4]

You have a cage which depending on the type will help with strength and adding extra welds will help. I have more welds on my car than standard plus they are considerably larger ie 1/4" plug welds whereas most you find on a mini are smaller.

 

Is the harness bar welded in place with reinforcing plates on the arches??