6 replies to this topic

[MiniCarJack]

Hi everyone

I haven't really noticed this until my friend pointed it out as a passenger, and I'm not sure if it's a normal "feature" or characteristic of the mini, or if I might have a problem.
Basically if I'm cruising along the road in gear (without any throttle being applied initially), when I depress the pedal I can feel the car jerk slightly, and likewise when I let the pedal fully off. This is more noticeable with sudden on/off applications of the pedal rather than gradual maneuvering of my foot. When this happens, I notice that the gear stick moves slightly too.

Like I said before I'm unsure whether this is to be expected with a classic Mini, or if I may have a problem with engine or subframe mounts. Should I be concerned, and is there anything I can do to prevent this "jerking" whenever I let the throttle on or off?

 

My car is a mechanically standard 1965 Morris Mk1 850 with the magic wand-type gearbox, but has been converted from hydrolastic to rubber cone suspension.

 

Thanks for any help and advice.
Jack

[Gadgets]

Engine mounts, Top engine steady, drive shafts, CV joints is where I would look at first.

[72clubman]

I'd start with your engine steady. Check it by trying to rock your engine back and forth by holding the rocker cover, if you can move the engine there's your problem.

[Nick Warwick]

If the engine steady bushes are fine check the bolt that goes from the top engine steady into the block incase it has snapped off (worse case scenario)

[Ethel]

All the above is worth investigating as it'll only get worse if there is a fault, but a transverse engine in a very light car with, a clutch that's almost an on/off switch, does make for a jerky power take up.

 

Depending on how fussy you are about originality, you could add one or more lower engine stabilisers.

[dklawson]

Not much to add except to follow the advice above.  Look at the steadies and mounts.

[Jordie]

Engine steady bushes worn is the usual cause, 1st thing to check. quite easy and cheap too.