12 replies to this topic

[300bhp/ton]

What's the differnce and what vehicles where they found in?

Thanks.

[The Matt]

In general terms, A series engines were fitted to older minis, phased out around 1984 I think? A+ were found in Metros, later minis, allegros (though they may have also had A series, not sure) and so on.

But there are a few differences between the two engines. Alot of parts are interchangable, like heads, cranks, rods etc. But some things (like dizzys) are specific to the block.

[Retro_10s]

there's FAQ of this exact topic.

[Big_Adam]

good search will come up with an answer.

thin A+ engines have a load of ribs on the back of the bloke. like a big + sign.

[300bhp/ton]

there's FAQ of this exact topic.

Got a link?

I did a search, but it just comes up with loads of threads about ofther issues where a+ happens to be mentioned. I had no more luck using Google.

[Retro_10s]

interesting... the FAQ seems to have disappeared!.... i was sure GW did a FAQ about it?

well in any case here you go:

Strengthening ribs on block of A+

Dizzy clamp on A+ is forked and held on by One bolt

No dipstick tube on A+, it goe straight into the block.

Alternater bracket mounting holes are offset on A+, but nearly dead centre of the block on Pre A+ blocks.

The Area around the thermostat housing is sculptured on A+, Aseries is flat around it.

An A+ head does not have a heater tap take-off drilled through to the water jacket... as the Aseries does.

[Guess-Works.com]

An A+ head does not have a heater tap take-off drilled through to the water jacket... as the Aseries does.

Not quite true, Metro's and A+ 1275 minis using the same heater configuration as the metro didn't have the tap drilled.

[Retro_10s]

DOH! it was going so well! :'( i thought i was clever! stupid metros.

[300bhp/ton]

So there's no real benfit of an A over A+ or vice versa then?

[Retro_10s]

A+ blocks have the strengthening ribs cast into them as mentioned above!

This supposedly helps stiffen the block assembly to reduce flex at higher RPM, reducing drag for better efficiency.... allegedly this can improves power and fuel economy.....

[Guess-Works.com]

It's a personal preference thing... I personally think the A series looks a nicer block, dont have all those ribs on them

And I hate seeing 'period' restorations with a fl***ng metro engine in them !

[Retro_10s]

:'( glad i found the mini rocker cover then!

[fikus01]

i swear ive been told that the a+ blocks had a thicker deck height too, its a better block to use when ur shoving in a 970 or 1071 crank because it gives you more metal to play with!! and as far as mods go i havent seen a miglia with an a-series block!! tho i have seen quite a few 1380's with the older block!! dont know whats behind that!!