6 replies to this topic

[Bigfoot]

Hey everybody,

Just a quick exhaust-related question. I've just put down a deposit on a '99 MPi (non-Cooper) with a centre exit exhaust. The only problem is that the clamp in the middle is about an inch off the ground with an adult in the back seat. Obviously this only becomes a problem when going over a wee bump or something, but I'd rather get it sorted.

I'm afraid I've got no idea what sort of exhaust it is, looks vaguely RC40ish, it's circular and simple, no mufflers or anything. It seems to be anchored at the rear and at the front, near the downpipe, but left to sag in the middle.

Does anybody know how to sort this? I don't know if it's actually missing a centre bracket, or if there never was one, but either way, I need to attach it somehow. Any clues?

Thanks a lot, sorry if I'm a bit vague
Roy

[minicooper1.3i]

Hey

The only mouting points on a standard MPi side exit are, from engine to boot are, gearbox on the diff housing, middle on the rear subframe and side on the rear subframe. I'm assuming that there is a custom middle bracket on the rear subframe under the bumper. On my standard exhaust, in sagged quite low between the CAT and tailpipe and with people in the back, it would ground on slight bumps, etc.

To fix it, I undid the bolts where the sag was, re-applied firegum, re-joined the tail and CAT, did the bolts up losely then jacked the assembly up on a trollley jack until it touched the bottom of the car / exhaust tunnel. Then I did the bolts up bloody tight, took the jack out and fired it up to cure the firegum. The weight of the exhaust allows the exhaust to drop enough away from the body so it doesn't knock or sag too low.

Bit long winded but I hope it helps. If you've not got a mouting point for your exhaust at the front of your rear subframe then you should see about getting one fittted asap ....lol

Good luck and well done on your Mini purchase!

[Bigfoot]

Okeydoke, cheers for that

I'll need to check with the seller, see if it's got bracket mounts at the front of the rear subby. I've got a funny feeling it probably doesn't, though... what would be involved in getting a mounting point put in?

Thanks.

[998dave]

Hey,

Easy really, the holes will be there, you need to take a look and see what else is in place.

Essentially there should be one of these:



mounted to the rear face of the front cross member of the rear subframe, (got all that?)

Then you'll need the correct hanger, and an exhaust U clamp.

Ah, look at this...

Click Here

Get that kit, and you'll have that rubber block, and the correct mounts! See the metal hanger on bottom right? That's the centre hanger you're missing.

Hope this help, any questions ask, or pm...

Dave

Edited by 998dave, 01 August 2008 - 11:57 AM.

[speedtrifle]

One thing that I have seen some people do is fit the centre section of pipe incorrectly. There is a kink in it to get round the gearchange remote. I have seen this 90 degrees out and bending down rather than round the remote.

Chris

[998dave]

Ah yes, what he said...

[Bigfoot]

Thanks a lot, Dave especially

I'll get the seller to send me some photies of the rear subby, see what I've got to deal with.

Cheers!