9 replies to this topic

[Howie1000]

Hi all,

I’d like to remove my front end (Clubman) and turn it into a flip front using the same removed end (A-Panels staying attached to car).
Is this possible or do the front ends get damaged when removing?

With the a-panel/wing weld, is it just a case of drilling the spot sells on the seam?

Or if anyone wants to post an idiot proof guide on how to do it, feel free!

Cheers!

[Cooperman]

This is really not a good idea.

It reduces the structural integrity of the body-shell and makes it much less crash-resistant.

It reduces the value of the car.

[Howie1000]

This is really not a good idea.
It reduces the structural integrity of the body-shell and makes it much less crash-resistant.
It reduces the value of the car.

I’m not fussed about the value, I’ve owned the car forever and doubt I’ll ever sell it anyway. The car will be used for hillclimbs and sprints etc, a removable front end is just easier.

[nicklouse]

loads of spotwelds to drill out. what you doing with the inner wings?

[Cooperman]

I didn't realise that it is a proper competition car and will, therefore, have a multi-point cage and, presumably, substantial inner wing bracing structure.
It is on road cars that full monocoque structure is needed as the front body structure needs to be able to take crash loads as originally designed.

[DeadSquare]

Yes, you can drill out the spot welds and release the wings from the body, if you have a right angled drill, it is handy in places, but for rigidity, you will have to weld, rivet or screw the wings and the bonnet together, and weld tabs to the A panel to locate the wings.

[Ethel]

....assuming it is held together as it left the factory which isn't  very likely. Certainly drill what spots you can find, but have a clear preference for which panels you want to save when you have to get less surgical.

[Howie1000]

....assuming it is held together as it left the factory which isn't  very likely. Certainly drill what spots you can find, but have a clear preference for which panels you want to save when you have to get less surgical.

It’s actually on its original doors, boot, bonnet, wings and a-panels, only big problem I’m seeing is the seam at the top of the wing and scuttle panel, my brother welded and smoothed it over many years ago, so I don’t have that natural line to follow.

[Howie1000]

loads of spotwelds to drill out. what you doing with the inner wings?

Losing a chunk of each inner wing as I’m fitting a K-series.

[Benoit_Dupont]

So if you are fitting a flip front and cutting more of the inner wing there won't be much left for structure and rigidity.

I agree with Cooperman, it's not a great idea. What about settling for a carbon fiber bonnet? They actually Come with a mod for K séries i think.

I am also all about light Weight mini but a flip front is something I won't do.

Plus from what I heard, it's a nightmare to fit properly. :)

Only my 2 (euro) cents.