8 replies to this topic

[RMSCDN]

Hi

 

Have my 67 Cooper S off the track for extensive DIY body work. Got a bit daft last night and dropped the rear subframe so I can work on the heel board. It's in pretty good shape but wonder if anyone has done any mods for strengthening. I have my trust Vizard's How to MODIFY your Mini out and it has some basics.

 

Any suggestions, diagrams etc.

 

Cheers,

 

Bob in London, Ontario, Canada

[Scoop77]

I was going to post a similar thread. I keep reading about these feature cars in mini mags and what they have done with the sub frames but you never see any pics. I would love to see how they lighten and strengthen them ;)

[Scoop77]

Hopefully get a response after the weekend ;)

[Scoop77]

Must want to keep it a secret :)

[Archived4]

I know of the bracing near the spring mount, and triangle sections at the inner corners, as well as stitch welding it up. But that's it haha

[rally1380]

Would also be a good idea to strengthen the shock absorber top mounts too, otherwise this happens.......

 

 

Not a case of keeping secrets....more a case of what Vizard suggests is the law.  As smiler says...as as Vizards book says also....seam weld and triangulate corners.  Lightening is a difficult one other than drilling the rear most cross member, but you will save very little weight.

 

Weight saving for subframes is done by fitting a rear beam and coil overs but on a 67 cooper s i reckon that is not classed as a period modification and therefore a no no....in purist's eyes anyway.

 

Rear beams were used in the early 70's tho, like this one......

 

[Scoop77]

Do like those rear beams. Didn't realise the mini fin drums had been around so long, assuming that's a period pic.
Don't like the look of those rear towers. Are you allowed to brace them, either to each other or other bodywork?

Edited by Scoop77, 02 July 2013 - 05:39 AM.

[rally1380]

Do like those rear beams. Didn't realise the mini fin drums had been around so long, assuming that's a period pic.
Don't like the look of those rear towers. Are you allowed to brace them, either to each other or other bodywork?

 

The photo is from a 1974 magazine article .

 

The rear towers were triangulated into the roll cage.

 

I'm with you though, they don't look very nice but i bet they work!!!

[RODZMINI71]

 

Here are some pictures of what i did to my Subframe (As per D.V) 

 

Not only does it help with adding a little strength, it also seals the frame up helping prolong its life.