5 replies to this topic

[CooperLover]

Hi, wandered in here a few eeks ago and have been reading loads of the posts, present and old, and thought how friendly a place this seemed with loads of knowkedgeable people about.

I recently bought a '94 Mini Cooper, which I am absolutely besotted with. I have always liked Minis, just never had enough money to get one until recently. Anyway, she's called Lil' Mo, (was the previous owners name for her and is because of the numberplate, basically), has 37k on clock and runs lovely.

I love the way she looks already - with walnut door cappings and some nice chrome bumpers and arches on her. But there are a few things I would like to do to myself in time.

Most important thing I thought was to get everything mechanically sound first as had heard some horror stories about Minis. Anyway, had her serviced, one sill replaced, some small welds underneath. I have been told the sub frame is sound and overall I'm happy.

Thing is, I really do know very little about cars in general and am trying to change this via the internet and maybe some helpful books - as I really would like to have a go at some small jobs in the future and at least know how everything works.

I'm thinking of taking it to a place called 'Deans Minis' in Soham, nr Ely when I have saved some £s up as I don't want to keep taking it to an general motor shop when I can take it to what is basically a Mini specialist. Does anybody have any info on these guys and whether they are good? Not that anything big needs doing - I just want to make sure everything is good and that she is all set up right. The only thing that may need attention is a squeeking sound that happens occasionally and sounds as if it's coming from the wheel on drivers side - it's a sound that seems to happen at wheel speed anyway and the MOT tester I saw recently (passed) said it may be either a wheel bearing or driveshaft.

Anyway, hello all. I will keep reading and will post a few of my own when I get chance now.

Cheers

[Jordie]

Just keep on top of things....

Have the nipple joints greased.
Driveshafts/CV regreased if needed

Your allready on top of most things with the service and welding.

Sounds a nice car, and welcome to the mini forum.

[crocstarr]

hello and welcome. good to see you want to get your hands dirty. how much did you pay for your mini? there will be plenty for you to do on your mini in the future lol, thats the fun of the mini.

[CooperLover]

Thanx.

Paid £2,350 for it. Saw some that were a couple of years younger - but none that were as cared for or as good mileage wise.

I just want to know what people are talking about and what components are - don't like the idea of taking it to a garage and being told that you need a new 'x' that costs £xxx and not knowing if this is rubbish!

I am learning, in the meantime just want to take it to somewhere proffessional that knows mini stuff in particular, without paying millions!

Cheers

[Guess-Works.com]

Just a quick suggestion, try and find a local mini owner club, you will soon find out who are the ones to go to and also the ones to avoid... and possibly some very good amateur ( as in not doing it as their job :cheese: ) mini mechanics...

Which part of East anglia are you ??? and maybe there will be the odd ( some very odd :fear: ) member on here who can guide you in the right direction...

[CooperLover]

Thanx for the suggestion.

I want to start running to some shows etc as of next year and me and my partner are gonna join the National Mini Owners club I think.

I'm in Cambridgeshire, quite near Wisbech.

Cheers