13 replies to this topic

[jackytwoshoes]

Sorry if this has been asked before, but I can't seem to find a definitive answer. 

 

How much trouble will I run into trying to put everything from my MPI into an SPI shell?

 

 

[The Matt]

Depends what you mean by "trouble" swapping the parts over is relatively easy, think there may be slight differences with the front panel, maybe with the ECU mounting bracket too..

 

But the real issue is that it's not legal to "rehell" with a second hand shell.

[jackytwoshoes]

Naturally It would take the identity of the SPI shell.

[sonikk4]

Still not legal. It would need to be a brand new shell to the letter of the law.

[Blatherskite]

Subframes are different - MPI engine is further back than_SPI, which also has side radiator. Don't know how that affects the shell dimensions / mounting points - maybe some clearances complication at the injection side of the engine?

[jamesquintin]

MPI front has mounting points for the front radiator, the side panel where the hole for the radaiator on the SPI is blanked off and the expansion tank is bolted on there. I'm sure the will be lots more subtle differences...

[nicklouse]

Still not legal. It would need to be a brand new shell to the letter of the law.

But again that U.S. Taking the OPs words literally.

Nothing wrong with putting an MPi engine in an SPi car.


But it does depend on what you are actually starting with.

If it is just a SPi shel (bare) and log book then yes you are pushing it and could very easily find yourself with a Q reg car IF you are lucky and don't get it squashed.

[John Butcher]

I am looking at putting an mpi 1275 cooper engine into a 91 city auto shell with as much of the cooper as I can get. Is this an issue?

If so, can the same engine be turned into a carb based engine?

[jamesquintin]

The MPI engine doesn't have the hole for the distributer...

 

Saying that I have seen an MPI car with a Webber 45 and a custom ECU. Not entirely sure it was emissions legal

[Steve220]

If the SPi has an identity, then all I can see you doing is putting the MPi engine and interior in. If the fun police on here start bleating about that being illegal, then I suggest they look at every modified highly modified Mini through history.

The problem I see here is you've used the phrase 'reshell' which seems to spark serious controversy.

Edited by Steve220, 28 September 2015 - 08:16 AM.

[nicklouse]

If the SPi has an identity, then all I can see you doing is putting the MPi engine and interior in. If the fun police on here start bleating about that being illegal, then I suggest they look at every modified highly modified Mini through history.

The problem I see here is you've used the phrase 'reshell' which seems to spark serious controversy.

exactly.

nothing wrong with Modding the SPi.

how many 850 became 1300 over the years. but they were still Austin 850s but with a ebgine size of 1275cc

[Steve220]

Also, can I just clarify with people on here as well. After a nice phone call with the DVSA this morning, if you use a brand new shell you can keep your original registration plate, as long as you use 2 key components from the previous car. Also found it on their website.



Keep a vehicles original registration number
A rebuilt vehicle can keep its original registration number if you can prove youve used:

the original unmodified chassis or bodyshell (car or light van)
a new chassis or monocoque bodyshell of the same specification as the original (car or light van)
the original unmodified frame (motorbike)
a new frame of the same specification as the original (motorbike)
You must also have 2 other major components from the original vehicle from the following lists.

For cars or light vans:

suspension (front and back)
steering assembly
axles (both)
transmission
engine


Understandably if it's a rusty slam panel being sold off eBay with a registration and VIN place, stay well clear.

Edited by Steve220, 28 September 2015 - 08:33 AM.

[Knuckles]

Sorry to drag this back up but I am potentially looking at reshelling my Spi mini into a new bodyshell.

I've had a few quotes to restore my current car to a good solid standard. When I add up the cost of the panels I need & the body shop costs it's over £6000.

My thought would be to order a new bodyshell from minispares get it painted & undersealed, then begin to swap every part from my old car to the new one. That way I know it's all new.

Is it correct As stated above as long as I use the majority of the original car and replace the bodyshell with like for like it will retain its vin and reg number and be the same car.
And of course the old shell will have to be cut up and crushed.

[sonikk4]

That would not be an issue as you will be using a brand new shell, not a second hand one.