3 replies to this topic

[Austinmini1966]

Restoring a 66 MK1 and decided to convert from wet to dry suspension.

Having just re bushed, honed etc and about to change the stub axle on the original wet arms to the dry stubs I have become slightly worried that people are advising not to use the wet arms on a car that is going dry?

Any experience or expertise would be much appreciated cheers

[mab01uk]

I would stay with Hydrolastic if at all possible to retain value and original features of this unique suspension system on a 1966 Mini, however if you do convert to dry details in links below may be useful.

 

Useful 'How To' link on converting wet to dry suspension:-
http://www.calverst....rom-wet-to-dry/

 

Quote from Keith Calver in link above:-

"Now, to avoid all sorts of hassle, it really is strongly advisable to use dry-type radius arms. The hydro design will see your Min fall flat on it’s arse unless you get some severely lengthened rear trumpets. Then there’s nowhere to bolt the dampers to. The dry type have a pin sticking out to take them, the hydro doesn’t. This damper mounting pin is part of the rear stub axle, swopping these can be an absolute nightmare and they’re not cheap either. It’s cheaper in the long run to buy a pair of completely refurbished dry arms. Honestly."

 

With a Mk1 you may also find the Mk1 Forum helpful:-

http://mk1-forum.net...289b20dc7046a13

Edited by mab01uk, 28 April 2020 - 09:05 AM.

[Austinmini1966]

Thank you for that much appricated........ I don't suppose you would know are all rear radius arms for "dry" cars the same? Cheers

[mab01uk]

As far as I am aware all 'dry' radius arms are the same, although the handbrake cable pivot/guide varies on early arms, also very early 1959/60 arms are different to look at because they are a welded fabricated construction before cast arms were produced but are now quite rare and sought after for early mini restorations. Brake pipe is on top of dry arms and below on wet arms due to bump stops.

 

You may need to do more research as some say they have used wet radius arms when converting to dry.....

This thread on the Mk1 forum may also be of interest but you may need to register to view the Technical section:-

http://mk1-forum.net...php?f=3&t=21076

Edited by mab01uk, 28 April 2020 - 01:18 PM.