106 replies to this topic

[Mini_Magic]

Absolutely no progress on the Mini this weeks, it's just been far too cold to go into the garage and work on it.

I did at least manage to give it an oil change last Sunday, although the cat decided to keep getting in the way and made me spill oil on the floor!

If it's a little warmer at the weekend, which is doubtful, I'll replace the water pump, fit the new tie rod, fit the new exhaust and fit the new grille (once it's arrived).

[Mini_Magic]

Replaced the water pump today, despite the cold and the snow. It took me most of the afternoon, so didn't managed to fit the other new bits. I'll see if I can tomorrow instead.

Looks a bit empty now!



Look at all that mess!



New toys!

[Mini_Magic]

Fitted the new exhaust system now!



I had to re position the rear fog light, so I moved it to the right and drilled a new hole for the bracket.

Almost finished fitting the Mk1 grille, just need to trim the top bracket things off first. Next job after that is to replace the tie rod bar on the passenger side.

[nev_payne]

Yup!

That photo doesn't even show the link pipe to the cat/de-cat pipe, which is straight though as well!

Just saw this post - I was under the impression that unless remapped, injection setups required back pressure from the exhaust to function properly i.e. the cat still being in place.

[Mini_Magic]

I've had a decat pipe on both my injection Minis and never had a problem, both have just been a little louder once fitted. No noticeable difference in performance, no increase or decrease.

The pipes themselves are all 2", it's only the exhaust tips which are 3".

[leaky]

Just remember to put it back on for the MOT lol!

[Mini_Magic]

Of course!

[Mini_Magic]

A few updated photos I took today while it was still light.











Still need to remove the lip from the bonnet and it really needs a wash.

[leaky]

That looks the nads! Good job their mate!

[bcjames]

Nice James, looks good! I do like those wheels on your car. Are you adding a moustache?

[Mini_Magic]

Nice James, looks good! I do like those wheels on your car. Are you adding a moustache?

Thanks, I'm thinking of actually leaving it without the moustache. A little bit different.

[bcjames]

Yes I quite like it without. It's not a mkI-esque car so I don't think a full 'tache would really suit it when all the other bits are quite modern.

[Mini_Magic]

Exactly, not going for the retro or classic look. Just making it look how I want.

Replaced the near side tie rod bar at the weekend, so now the wheel doesn't rub.

Next job will be to drill out the spot welds for the lip on the bonnet. After that it's pretty much done, just a case of maintaining it.

I'll also be replacing the front bumper at some point, as it's quite rusty and there's a couple of dents from the overriders.

[Mini_Magic]

I bought my girlfriend a Ford Ka today and we'll be sharing it, so the Mini is a pure weekend and fun car now.

Should mean it will be a lot easier to work on, as I won't be having to quickly put it all back together to get the food shopping anymore!

No actual updates, still need to remove the lip from the bonnet and replace the front bumper.

[Mini_Magic]

Can't believe how long it's been since I've done any significant work on the Mini.

It's hardly been used since the last post, only time it went out for a proper drive was to Brooklands.

Surprisingly the battery is holding the charge really well, starts on the key even after a couple of weeks.

Next big trip out will be to Newquay for the Riviera Run in a couple of weeks. Maybe by then I'll actually take some up to date photos!