7 replies to this topic

[Chrisenkate]

Hi. I reside in South Africa (parts are quite scares) and have a 1978 mini. It was involved in an accident with damage to the front panel, bonnet and front subframe. Engine is fine. I am going to replace the panels. Should I replace the subframe or have it straightened (without removing it) by a specialist?

[Chrisenkate]

Sorry, trying to attach a photo

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Edited by Chrisenkate, 31 August 2014 - 05:12 PM.

[Gremlin]

Need to make sure the shell is still straight, and that it has just bent what you can see

[sonikk4]

The biggest issue with straightening that subframe is the tie bar section is deformed. You will need to get that right or you may have issues with suspension.

[Steve G]

Does the front of the floor look OK where the subframe bolts on ? I'm guessing that you car has a rubber mounted subframe and if so the impact might not have transferred into the shell. Depending on where the side rail of the subframe has bent straightening the front rail might nearly fix it. If the tower part of the subframe has twisted you will probably have to take it off to measure it up properly, but once you have got that far replacement might be easier.
Some of the workshop manuals have dimensions for checking the front subframe straightness.

[sonikk4]

If this was in the UK i would say bin it but as you are somewhat further away location then trying to fix this would be better to do.

[Chrisenkate]

Thank you

[Ethel]

There are some good dimensioning diagrams online. I'd agree that your chances are much better if it's only the front member doing a banana impression.

 

http://www.blitznort...G/subframe1.jpg

 

The inboard suspension pickups are pretty simple too - parallel & perpendicular.