Hello all,
I bought a MINI shell in December and have been meaning to start a project page. There has been a significant change of plans. After moving the vehicle around multiple times (I live in London and had nowhere to work on it), I finally found a yard near me with a unit I could rent. I did some rust removal before deciding to get the shell blasted. Upon receiving it back from blasting I naively thought it didn't look too bad. After a post on here I soon realised I had an absolute basket case. The decision was either replace every panel on the car, or get Paul at Paul Preston Minis to take care of the shell as well as the 1kr engine conversion kit he is doing for me. I have decided to go with the latter. Paul has now sourced a new shell for me and started work today.
My plan is to turn the car into a 200bhp beast. Paul will be installing this engine kit he has been working on for a few years. The engine will be sent off to Steve at Spring Engines for all sorts, ported heads, new pistons, rods etc. I will get it back from Paul once the shell has been restored, roll cage welded in, painted and the engine kit installed. I will then do the rest, with a lot of help from Paul on the phone, and posts on here!
I have a Youtube channel going with a mate which anyone can find here: https://www.youtube.com/@DipstickMedia
I hasten to add that I don't have the foggiest so excuse any and all mistakes, but I am learning. Looking forward to sharing the journey on here!
p.s I have added a few pics thus far
Edited by jackclancy, 08 November 2025 - 08:20 AM.
. Is there any plans to make the subframe available commercially?
