2 replies to this topic

[Freddie007]

I used to own a mini in my hey day and knowing what I know now I wish I'd never sold it!

I've had it in the back of my mind for a long time to buy another mini as a restoration project. In January 2015 the opportunity arose and so I jumped at the chance:



My first job was to have it soda blasted to show it in all its glory and down to the bare bones to see what state it was in under all the paintwork:







As you can see, the boot was all rusted it and so was the floor. A complete restoration was needed!

I started with coating it with a working primer to put a halt to any more rusting!





To make life a little easier for myself I bought a roll over jig. The hard work now begins.



I got to work with welding in a new floor and valance.





More to follow!

[blueovalcraig]

Looks a good project. Will be following

[Freddie007]

After welding the new boot floor and rear valance I checked the boot lid fitted correctly.







I then started on the rear wheel arch and re fabricated the shock absorber support bracket, I can't believe the person who welded this car before thought his welding was any good (dove from above)!!!!!

Before:



After:



Sanded up and primed:




The next job was to cut out and replace the n/s floor and door step and lower panel. This was now 3 months into our 2 year restoration target !!! Every time I cut out a panel something else needs doing !!! Well I surpose its a mini !!!











Still being surprised by the awful welding I was finding! Don't get me wrong, I'm not disappointed, still glad I bought this classic and enjoying all the tasks its throwing at me.