14 replies to this topic

[nursey]

At first my mini was banging in first gear now it is banging every gear change wondering if any one has any idea what it could be

Be grateful for any advice

[The Matt]

Do you mean it bangs when you put it into gear? Like a 'clunk' when you lift off the clutch? It could be that there is a little bit of movement in the engine steadies, causing it to rock a little bit and 'CLUNK' as you lift off the clutch and put your foot back down on the throttle??? Tis a common problem in Minis.

[Guess-Works.com]

I'd say top engine steady has parted company with the bulkhead.

[smudger]

Engine steady bushes replaced.

Will check that later.

Clutch pedal is on floor to change. Will bleed clutch in case it has air in it and check how far out the clutch arm is too.

Will re-check the engine steady. Am sure the engine mounts are knackered too.

I am (fingers crossed) fitting a stage 1 over weekend, will fit Ulitmate Engine Steady at same time.

Now, what it it isnt the Engine Steady, will that narrow it down to the clutch?

[The Matt]

Depends when the 'bang' is?

Is it when you push it into gear? Is it when you put your foot back on the throttle? Is it when you push the clutch pedal down?

[smudger]

No idea, i am going to have a look at it later and take for spin.

[nursey]

Engine steady bolt has sheared in block. 2nd bolt in if facing engine

[The Matt]

Engine steady bolt has sheared in block. 2nd bolt in if facing engine

Ooopsies!

I have never fitted one, but I believe that you can get repair kits for when this happens, so that the steady is bolted into a different position. It's either that or you'll have to get the bolt removed (drill down centre and use an easi-out).

[nursey]

Just fitted ultimate engine steady, engine is now solid.

Will find repir kit thanks

[Guess-Works.com]

Is it the bolt nearest the bulkhead, if so I have a repair bracket for the job...

[Dan]

Ultimate Engine Steadies are NOT designed to replace the original steady rod, you must refit the original as soon as posible. There is a real danger of tearing the thermostat off the head using an Ultimate on its own. The torque reaction is at the other end of the engine.

[nursey]

We both understand that the Ultimate Engine Steady is no designed to be used on its own, thats why we are buying a repair bracket.

And looking at the Engine Mounts (bound to be broken if the engine steady hasnt been working for a while) together with the Engine Steadys from gearbox to subframe.

[The Matt]

If you're gonna go for new engine mounts, get the captive nut ones (I think that good old Minispares does them)

[Guess-Works.com]

And make sure the captive nut is WELL Welded on ( the presses in ones have a tendancy to loosen )

[nursey]

Yes will check the welds when they turn up, thanks for the tip!

Whats the best way to fit the engine mounts?