12 replies to this topic

[The Matt]

Well, as per title really.

I am sure I have heard people talk about this being a straight swap. I was just wondering whether I can use my spare (VGC, fully built up and repainted) single tower bolt subby in place of my twin bolt one? I know this is just me being lazy, but it's also a better condition subframe than the twin bolt job that is currently on the car.

I know there is a hole down the centre of the twin bolt shell, where you stick yer cone compressor in, but is this reinforced in the same way as the tower bolt type shells are?

[Guess-Works.com]

As far as I was aware, no it's not a straight swap... I dont believe the cross memberin the bulkhead is strengthened for a Turret bolt, and I think you'll also have issues with the subframe rear mounts...

[The Matt]

Meh, I was just thinking lazy!

I have been told they are a straight swap, but obviously not! Nevermind, cheers anyway GW!

[Guess-Works.com]

Don't take me word for it , I've never even thought about doing it..

[The Matt]

Don't take me word for it , I've never even thought about doing it..

Well, the twin bolt subby will be out in the next couple of days, so I'll have a look and take some piccies! Can do a trial fit to check too.

Will post conclusions!

[Elfman]

I hope it is a straight swap bacause my Elf is set up this way.

I've been wondering whether it's safe to take out the single tower bolt so that I can compress the cone. I was planning to post this question in a few days time when my friend manages to find his spring compressor.

[Big_Adam]

Take the single bolt out to do the cone. I did. Nothing imploded, broke, set on fire or electrocuted me so it's all good.

[Elfman]

Many thanks Big_Adam.

[The Matt]

To follow up from all of the above..........

Picture (from above) of the twin bolt subframe mounting holes:



Now IIRC, the single tower bolt shells have reinforcement down the central hole, (effectively a tube welded down there), am I right on that or is my memory failing me with old age?

Anyway, this shell is a 1971 and there is no reinforcement down that central hole, so I would not personally be happy with bolting a single tower bolt subby to it unless I had welded a reinforcing tube down there (if the later shells have them that is).

[Dan]

They do indeed but I think a bigger problem then welding that tube in is the toe board mounting.

[The Matt]

They do indeed but I think a bigger problem then welding that tube in is the toe board mounting.

Well, yeah that's a good point! It is a different shaped subby aint it!

[ROD]

They do indeed but I think a bigger problem then welding that tube in is the toe board mounting.

Well, yeah that's a good point! It is a different shaped subby aint it!

Is that so?? i was hoping to use a rear subby out of an 1980 mini in my 1972 Clubman.

ROD

[Dan]

Rears are fine for interchanging.