13 replies to this topic

[Laurie]

As some of you know I'm booked in soon for an engine conversion come paintjob come electronic ignition installation, might also include cam chain renewal, water pump and clutch too - depending on costs / finances.
Anyway, for the 3 fluid changes should I trust the garage? It's a mini centre by the way. Or supply my own?

[nicklouse]

what garage?

[Laurie]

Gloucester Mini, Gloucester


http://gloucester-mi...o.uk/index.html

[whistler]

If you supply the parts then they won't warranty the work. Your choice.

[slidehammer]

Let them use their pwn fluids or do the work yourself. You have to assume they are using stuff they trust and know to work well in the Minis, so they can warranty their work.

[Laurie]

If you supply the parts then they won't warranty the work. Your choice.

Good point I hadn't thought of re the actual parts, but what about fluids though?

[Laurie]

Let them use their pwn fluids or do the work yourself. You have to assume they are using stuff they trust and know to work well in the Minis, so they can warranty their work.

Ok

[Cooperman]

Have you thought about doing it yourself?

Most classic car owners do their own basic maintenance as they can't afford to pay garage charges.

To change the water pump, timing chain, fit electronic ignition and tidy up the block is a real DIY job. Lots of help and advice on here if you get stuck with anything and we are really helpful.

Changing the clutch requires a good flywheel puller.

All that is necessary to work on a classic Mini is a good tool kit with imperial spanners and a socket set. A torque wrench is also handy for when the head needs to come off plus a light trolley jack.

[Laurie]

I heard (from this forum) the electronic ignition required a timing lamp, before I heard this I *was* going to be doing it myself.
The engine is being painted by hand seeing as it'll be out of its bay anyway.
Cam chain and clutch are way beyond my capabilities

I'm planning on doing the wheel bearings and steering gators myself though, loads needs doing imo on this car before I'm happy lol

[MatthewsDad]

Have you discussed your requirements with the workshop? I'm sure they can reassure you on the fluids they use. You may not be offered a complete warranty if you pick and mix which items you ask them to install. Have a cuppa and a chat with them, and then decide.

[Laurie]

Have you discussed your requirements with the workshop? I'm sure they can reassure you on the fluids they use. You may not be offered a complete warranty if you pick and mix which items you ask them to install. Have a cuppa and a chat with them, and then decide.

Good plan:thumbs up:

[cal844]

Why not join a local mini club? I'm sure someone there would help you out with jobs you can't do! Although a clutch change on a mini is easier than some modern vehicles

[surfblue]

I heard (from this forum) the electronic ignition required a timing lamp, before I heard this I *was* going to be doing it myself.
The engine is being painted by hand seeing as it'll be out of its bay anyway.
Cam chain and clutch are way beyond my capabilities

I'm planning on doing the wheel bearings and steering gators myself though, loads needs doing imo on this car before I'm happy lol

If you are able to change wheel bearings then timing chain and clutch are within your capabilities. Give it a go, great sense of satisfaction doing it yourself and saving money is a big grin factor as well. Those jobs on a mini are more fiddly than difficult with access the main issue. As long as you have 20 8" long triple jointed fingers you'll be fine 

[Cooperman]

And we are such a friendly and helpful lot on here if you get stuck with anything  .