10 replies to this topic

[CBJ805T]

Hi all

Bad day in the garage - I was fitting my new driver side wing and having initially tacked the wing near the bonnet hinge, I was wrestling with trying to get the front panel to fit properly against it. having got the fit where I wanted it I welded it in place and then welded the a panel onto the wing. When I stood back I realised I’d not positioned the panel properly against the scuttle. the photos show the gap I’m left with, which is around 3 -4mm. My question is can this be fixed? If so, how or do I need to cut the wing off buy a new one and start again?

https://www.amazon.c...qVeebsVj2exJDpK

https://www.amazon.c...AGer0LmWwmI66YL

https://www.amazon.c...kJYor2ZEnJ0TUWY

 

Bonnet Fit - 

 

The bonnet fit is 4mm all round - but it gets tighter at the front panel on the drivers side

 

https://www.amazon.c...E31vfsEV6xyEKva

 

https://www.amazon.c...ywvDbLKm9In6LUh

 

Other Wing Fit: - Gap is 2mm, 3mm max

https://www.amazon.c...mM5qBcFlPy4k7bI

 

 

Front Panel / Bonnet / Wing:

 

Passenger - https://www.amazon.c...5QR257sA7ou3PhD

 

Drivers - https://www.amazon.c...PRhmmPLf6JufiDa

Edited by CBJ805T, 19 February 2026 - 10:10 AM.

[Gaz66]

Thats as good as ive ever seen on a mini. A smear of seam sealer, job done 👍

[sonscar]

I'd be happy with that.Steve..

[Minirook]

If you have not done this yet, Fit the hood (bonnet)  on and see how everything aligns before making a final decision here. You didn't say that the passenger side was on already. I everything aligns then how is a new one going to improve fitment. It's at this point I would consider using a sealer on the joint.   

 

Based on the second set of pics, I would be happy with what I see. Good alignment on the hood, front panel and Outer A post. At the end of the day if you are happy, then a nice sealant job at the joint will wrap it up. If you are not happy with it, start again, just know you are chasing 1 to 2mm improvement.

Edited by Minirook, 18 February 2026 - 02:10 PM.

[bpirie1000]

Are these genuine wings and scuttle?

Fettling in every panel is always required.

I usually say.. get to a good point then leave it... return later.. fresh eyes..

Over think things until you return..

Time spent now pays dividends later..

[CBJ805T]

If you have not done this yet, Fit the hood (bonnet)  on and see how everything aligns before making a final decision here. You didn't say that the passenger side was on already. I everything aligns then how is a new one going to improve fitment. It's at this point I would consider using a sealer on the joint.   

 

I've added some more photos of the bonnet fit and other wing to the original post  

All panels are heritage and more importantly already welded in    

Edited by CBJ805T, 18 February 2026 - 12:39 PM.

[Gaz66]

Personally I wouldnt be worried about any of that 👍

[sonikk4]

to be honest i have seen far worse and some so called professional fits as well.

 

NOW if you are really getting skewed out of shape about this then your only option other than to rip the wing off and start again is to slot the wing where iit curves around the scuttle, dress if back till you are happy with the gap, then weld in a thin strip of metal. Linish it all up, skim of plop, jobs a good un.

 

A lot of work, very doable (did this to a Magnum panel on my mates mainstream Cooper) but time consuming.

[bpirie1000]

What you using the car for is key here.... Concours or just to enjoy...

It is what it is.. consistent gaps... all that most people try for..

[coopertaz]

yes not concourse but very good and would leave as is. as above seam sealer or run some braze in it, if you have the kit.

[CBJ805T]

Hi All, 

 

thanks for your feedback - you've cheered my up and I thought it was rubbish but you've all said it was ok 

 

I'll add some seamsealer and move on

 

Appreciate your input

 

Chris