5 replies to this topic

[Moaningredchimp]

Hi All,

 

Having just purchased a 96 registered SPI, I am finding lots of faults that need rectifying (It seems it has been neglected by previous owners).

The problem I am struggling with now is the rear tyre has a grove gouged out of it where it hits the wheel arch periodically when hitting potholes or lumps in the road. The problem is worse when the car has rear seat passengers.

 

Any ideas what would cause this, or how to fix it would be greatly received.

 

Its the passenger side, not that I expect that makes any difference.

 

Cheers,

 

PC

[Dan]

  Lowered too far, massive wheels fitted without making any changes to anything, worn out springs and dampers, it could be loads of things.

[Moaningredchimp]

Hi, Thanks Dan,

It has not been lowered to my knowledge, and the drivers side does not catch at all. When i bought the mini it had a tow bar fitted, which I expect may have put extra loading on the rear suspension at some point.

The car is fitted with slightly wider wheels, but what look like standard shocks.

I don't believe there is a bumps stop on the rear suspension, so would I right be in assuming it is either shock absorber or rubber cone.

Cheers,

Pc

[IainStallard]

If it has no bump stops, surely that would be the cause? As they wouldn't be stopping the suspension from travelling too far

[bmcecosse]

If the car had 13" wheels from standard it would have been slightly raised from the factory - and 'bump stops' (more 'over travel stops' than bump stops) were fitted internally on the subframe.  The tyre hitting arch is an MOT fail - but more importantly - it is a massive safety issue because it can lock up that tyre if you hit a hump while cornering hard at speed - which can throw the car in to a spin......  You need to investigate - and yes new cones are probably going to be needed.  Dampers don't affect ride height - but do very much affect suspension movement - and at that age of car will be well worn if they have never been renewed.  While in at the cones  - check the bump stops are present.  Of course - worst case is that the subby is rotten and collapsing - so inspect carefully.  

[Moaningredchimp]

Many thanks for the feedback and advice so far.

I have been checking through my Haynes manual and can find no reference of where to find a bump stop or over travel stop on the rear suspension.

If anyone can give me a steer on where to find this it would be greatly appreciated.