23 replies to this topic

[Cooperman]

Personally I would never add STP or any other 'friction reducing' additive to the oil in a classic Mini. It will result in the syncros going on the other gears due to its effect on the syncro hubs which require a certain friction level to work properly.

The solutions here are either to re-build the gearbox or double de-clutch. Either of those is a total solution.

[sonikk4]

A simpler way at looking at this is as follows, if you can afford to repair the gearbox then do so, if not then for the time being while you save up do as Cooperman suggests and double de-clutch.

[inim_repooc]

Sorry to hijack somewhat - but while on this topic, do you think k my gearbox could be sustaining damage through use? It is notchy into first and second and there is a slight graunch into third when cold or on shorter runs, but this goes away after a good run at higher sustained speeds (aka everything is up to temp and we'll circulated) it also has the 2nd gear synchro issue, but I double clutch anyway - I actually do it through every gear, up and down when cold!

Edited by inim_repooc, 20 December 2015 - 12:46 AM.

[sonikk4]

Sorry to hijack somewhat - but while on this topic, do you think k my gearbox could be sustaining damage through use? It is notchy into first and second and there is a slight graunch into third when cold or on shorter runs, but this goes away after a good run at higher sustained speeds (aka everything is up to temp and we'll circulated) it also has the 2nd gear synchro issue, but I double clutch anyway - I actually do it through every gear, up and down when cold!

 

It does sound like an issue. Have you checked clutch is moving correctly, not worn etc. If its good then the box will slowly degrade over time.

[Big Sam]

If it is only graunching when changing into 2nd, you could do what we did with every early car and double de-clutch. That way it won't get any worse or harm the 'box in any way further.

 

What i did for about 4 years with my mini before taking it off the road and didn't want to spend (neglectful owner clearly) but it was fine provided I didn't forget to do it.

 

Fixing it now will probably be cheaper than in the future if it goes bang.

[dobbin1999]

Thanks for the further input, how many hours labour would a Mini specialist need to change the gearbox on an MPI?

[Cooperman]

It's not a quick job. Typically on an MPI:

 

Engine out:                                                 2.5 hours

Strip engine from gearbox:                         1.0 hours

Fit engine onto new or rebuilt gearbox:      1.0 hours

Re-fit engine/gearbox into car:                    5 hours

 

Total:                                                            9.5 hours at, say, £40 per hour = £380 + VAT

 

Add the cost of the gearbox re-build plus new gaskets, seals and, maybe a new clutch plate = £550 + VAT

 

Total price around £920 + VAT.

 

You might find someone to do it a bit cheaper at a lower hourly rate.

 

Motto:  If you want to own any classic car learn to DIY  .

[theRossatron]

I'd definitely get it done, safe in the knowledge that your car has probably doubled in value since you bought it!

[dobbin1999]

I'd definitely get it done, safe in the knowledge that your car has probably doubled in value since you bought it!

That was my thinking, even if I spend £1000 plus, The car still has given me a great deal of pleasure and must be worth at least £3-4k more than I paid for it, not that I will be selling in the foreseeable future.