17 replies to this topic

[Rob1]

What are the most effecient upgrades to a standard 998 or 1275 engine, in terms of power/efficiency? I am planning on buying a mini as soon as circumstances allow, and I will probably look to a few upgrades, although nothing too drastic to begin with. I've been told in the past that a simple refurb/upgrade of carbs and filters will be the simplest thing, what else can be done?

[Jimmyarm]

Start off with a stage 1 kit (check the suppliers for details) and a session on the rollers. This will make a noticeable difference to start with and the kit is pretty easy to fit yourself if you are reasonably proficient with your spanners. If not you might find someone up your way willing to lend a hand to get it on

As a rough idea of the difference these two things combined will make, my mini had 38bhp when I got it - Std 998. After the addition of a 'stg 1 kit' it has 52.6bhp (both flywheel figures).

[Big_Adam]

I have one thing to say:

"DAVID VIZARDS GUIDE TO TUNING THE A-SERIES ENGINE"

Buy it, read it....LOVE IT!

[Guess-Works.com]

A good service, realy your first mod, it's amaizing how many people forget things like changing the oil, new set of plugs and leads, new dizzy cap, points condenser, and even a new air filter...

[Garagiste]

If you can't lay your hands on Vizards book easily, look out for issue 1 of Mini Expert - still knocking around in some WH Smugs.
As Guessworks says though, the simplest things can make a huge difference. Last weekend I cleaned up my plugs and topped up the dashpot oil, and the difference in performance is staggering for such an easy bit of maintenance.

[Dan]

I agree completely, the first priority should be to make sure the engine is in top condition to begin with. A thorough service and inspection, tuning everything to factory settings will get you in a good position to know how good the car is and what kind of modifications you might want to persue. After that then a stage 1 kit and tuneup gives the most improvement for the money spent, Mini Spares Centre sell the best developed stage 1 kits IMHO.

Edited by Dan, 22 December 2006 - 07:31 PM.

[fikus01]

once you have done them you have to look at the cam and head change options!! a cam is cheaper to but but harder to fit, than a cylinder head.

what are you after from your money and what lump do you have to play with???

[Turbo Nick]

best upgrade for a 998 is to fit a 1275, i wouldn't even bother with a stg 1 on a thou personally.

[Rob1]

As of yet I'm still trying to find a mini to play with. As I have more enthusiasm than money or experience, would it be more straightforward to begin with to but a 1275, or a 998 then add a stage 1? I really appreciate the help, I don't want to over stretch myself and buy a lump of junk, or get one and leave it in a worse state after I've hasd my paws on it!! :'(

[biggav]

how about get a running car, service it, but leave it pretty standard, then, buy a bigger bore engine (there are loads about) or half engine and build up from there. you need to remember that any mods you make at the top of the engine can have a detrimental effect on the bottom end and gearbox, so in that sense it's better to start at the bottom and work upwards.

I once spent quiet a few pence on a tuned 998 head, high lift rockers, inlet manifold, rc40 exhaust and air filter only to find that my mates standard 1275 still pi55ed all over it. and the final drive ratio made for rubbish acceleration

[Big_Adam]

Rob, do what I did and tral thro ebay alot. Got my exhaust for about £40 from manifold to back box. Manifold was £2.50 (cooperfreeflow one) link pipe was £7 from mini spares. then the back boxs was £10 ebay. Then few bits and bobs and it was a stage 1 kit. Got a K&N filter, alloy inlet manifold.

edit

oh, I'm taking about stage 1 kit bits. sorry just read it and it isn't very clear.

Edited by Big_Adam, 26 December 2006 - 11:00 PM.

[Dog]

Agreed with Gav.

Get yourself a running, good condtion Mini - if you've not go the skills to weld/restore it.
If its a 998, keep it a 998...
If it s 1275, keep it a 1275...

What I am tring to say is, what ever its got, keep it at that, build your own engine, learn how the A-Series works, what works with it, learn your driving style, what RPM you mainly sit in/within, then you can work out what style engine you can build/get built...

[MRclubman1100cc]

totally agree, everyone has different driving styles

[Dog]

One bit of advice I got given when looking at engines...


There are more ways to make a Mini go fast, than its BHP figure

[Rob1]

So for the money, is it better just to look about for a 1275? Just to show up my lack of knowledge; which cars had the 1275 engine fitted, was it just the Cooper S models? I'm looking for an earlier car (well pre 90 anyway)