7 replies to this topic

[MikeyBr]

Hi all,

 

I've just rescued a 1985 Mini City from dry storage although it looks like it might have spent some of its life in a field beforehand. I have recently retired and cut my car teeth on a Riley Elf and Mini 1000 back in the 70's so, I'm planning to erlive part of my youth by restoring this specimen to a high standard (not a bodge).  After all, everyone loves a mini.

 

I picked it up on a trailer a few days ago so am just in the process of finding out more about it.  The body work needs serious remedial surgery from a professional but mechanically it looks good although it hasn't been used on public roads since 2005 (according to a tax disc in the vehicle).  I've taken out the plugs and hand turned the engine which is encouraging so far.  I am now planning to change the oil, filter and water and squirt a little oil into the plugs before more hand cranking and then turning on the starter motor.

 

I'm looking forward to being part of this forum to benefit from the collective wisdom of others so, as a start, any other tips on starting a long-standing engine would be a great start.

 

Mike

[Ethel]

Hi all,

 

 I have recently retired, enrolled to retrain as a welder and cut my car teeth on a Riley Elf and Mini 1000 back in the 70's so, I'm planning to erlive part of my youth by restoring this specimen to a high standard (not a bodge).  After all, everyone loves a mini.

 

 

Welcome 

[DomCr250]

Some very good mini owners in your neck of the woods - I used to go to the H Café once a month and the local Oxon mini owners club were always there - nice bunch of people.

 

You are really close to a decent mini spares shop - they do decent bodywork too - Mini Centre Berkshire in Rotherfield Greys.

[DomCr250]

Ohh - if it's been standing take the plugs out and squirt some oil down the bores - also prime the oil pump by removing the oil bypass main nut (the big one) and squirt a decent level of oil back into the pump,  pull the float cover off and make sure it's clean.  Check your fuel hoses and drain anything from the tank.  Crank it over on the starter without the plugs and get some oil pressure.  Then check for a spark and off you go.

[Aly-g]

Hi Mike, welcome to TMF, you will find nearly all the answers to any question you might have regarding your mini, I would put a small quantity of diesel down the plug holes and leave it for a day or so before turning the engine over, you will need to clean the fuel tank and lines throughout the car and the carburettor before trying to start the engine.

 

Allan 

[MikeyBr]

Many thanks folks. 

 

I'm impressed that you all came back with something so quickly to give me a start on getting this beast moving again.  Am looking forward to getting involved in the Forum.

 

Mike

[nicklouse]

And as no one has mentioned it join TMF+ (£5 a year) for 7.5% off MiniSpares prices.

wanders off to renew his subs.

[MikeyBr]

Many thanks for that nicklouse.  I'm now a fully paid up member.  Top tips coming in thick and fast so, thanks all.

 

Mike