14 replies to this topic

[ultimax5]

Hi Mini Enthusiasts,

Has anyone successfully fitted any of the Retrosport (DSN Classics) Engine Steady Thermostat Kits to a JDM SPI (with coil pack) with A/C? Since the alternator sits pretty high up the engine, I was told that the outlet of the thermostat housing won’t be able to clear the bracket holding the alternator. The standard JDM SPI (with coil pack) has its thermostat housing outlet faced towards the right (if you’re facing the car), so it clears the alternator bracket that’s mounted to the cylinder head.

Any thoughts/suggestions/pics of your setup?

Thanks in advance.

[nicklouse]

Can’t think what a JDM SPi set up looks like post a few clear pictures then we can advise.

 

there may be interesting ways to make it work.

[ultimax5]

Thanks for your reply, nicklouse.  I'll try to upload some pictures this weekend.  

[ultimax5]

Here's a link to some pictures of the engine bay (hope it works).  You can see how the thermostat housing outlet is directed away from the alternator bracket, as standard on the JDM SPI with A/C.  The Retrosport Engine Steady Thermostat Kit (link below) appears to have the outlet facing forward, which would probably foul against the alternator bracket.  

 

https://photos.app.g...D2Ur4VUwBUy1kV8

 

https://www.dsnclass...e-engines-long/

[KTS]

looks unlikely it will fit given the product details on the DSN page includes the following:

 

Not suitable for cars with twin carbs or Japanese spec Spi models.

[ultimax5]

I wrote to DSN to ask. They told me that although it’s stated in their website that it’s not suitable for Jap spec SPI models, they do sell alot of those engine steadies to Japan, so he believes that they’ve gotten it to fit somehow. I was hoping someone here might have one installed, perhaps after some modifications.

[Steve220]

I was told the same and ended up having to send it back. I've got an MPi with a side mounted radiator to go in my van and can't find anyone that makes an alloy thermostat housing apart from Specialist components for their supercharged builds. However, they never reply to any of my emails.

[ultimax5]

Looks like I’ll have to search for an alternative. Anyone managed to install a top left engine steady for their JDM SPI (with coilpack)?

[whistler]

Suggest you look at a water pump to bulkhead steady bar as sold by Moss Europe.

https://www.moss-eur...kit-abr024.html

[ultimax5]

Thanks whistler. I’ll check it out.

[gav]

MSSK1304 - Mini engine stabiliser water pump to bulkhead kit with bushes (minispares.com)

[whistler]

MSSK1304 - Mini engine stabiliser water pump to bulkhead kit with bushes (minispares.com)

Same as the Moss-europe one. There's also one on ebay but I think the plate metal is thinner.

I fitted one to my wife's 1330 and also one is going on my Mk1 Hydro (with a modified base plate) as nobody makes one for the Hydro suspension models.

[Maccmike8]

The alty is the problem, I suspect its the amount of pipes and cables on the bulkhead, find a gap and Im sure youd get the DSN one to fit.

[gav]

 

MSSK1304 - Mini engine stabiliser water pump to bulkhead kit with bushes (minispares.com)

Same as the Moss-europe one. There's also one on ebay but I think the plate metal is thinner.

I fitted one to my wife's 1330 and also one is going on my Mk1 Hydro (with a modified base plate) as nobody makes one for the Hydro suspension models.

 

 

I know, just cheaper if you use your TMF+ ;)

[ultimax5]

The alty is the problem, I suspect its the amount of pipes and cables on the bulkhead, find a gap and Im sure youd get the DSN one to fit.

It’s the angle of the DSN thermostat housing outlet that I foresee to be a problem. The alternator bracket is right in front of it.