Apparently there are two versions of Cooper 'S' axels. One would be the standard axel used on all Minis. I have become aware that there was a unique version for the later Cooper 's'. It is identified by a raised ring approx in the middle of the axel. Anyone have any info on this item? What makes it different from the standard axel? Stronger? Or what? Another mystery for me.
Chris Miller
Axel identification
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TECH396
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Re: Axel identification
Chris. I don't have the answer you're looking for but thought I'd help you out with a photo showing those raised rings. Maybe the pic will help get your answer.
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Paul H.
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cmiller
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Re: Axel identification
Thanks for the photo Paul. Hopefully someone will have some insight.
Chris Miller
Chris Miller
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Peter Laidler
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Re: Axel identification
Some time ago there was a tech feature about the actual drive shafts. I seem to recall that the shafts with the 'reinforce' were not particularly S shafts at all. But standard shafts made by a different contractor.
In any case, in a metallurgical sense, the larger diameter 'reinforce' won't alter the capacity of the shaft. All it will do is to indicate something such as manufacturer or a different forging method such as down size rolling- or the like.
In any case, in a metallurgical sense, the larger diameter 'reinforce' won't alter the capacity of the shaft. All it will do is to indicate something such as manufacturer or a different forging method such as down size rolling- or the like.
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CooperTune
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Re: Axel identification
I haven't a clue, I have always heard the axles with the raised ring were S. I have a lot of axles and only a single pair of those. The only true S in my shop is my 64 1071. I can't say for a fact they came with it as it arrived in boxes. Steve (CTR)
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Maddog
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Re: Axel identification
Yes the drive shafts in the original post are S spec ones.
Apparently the raised ridge on the shafts was a design feature to hit the subframe at full droop to prevent over articulation of the inner drive shaft hardy spicer joints. There is a small difference in length between these S and standard Mini rubber uni joint shafts (I think 1/8 inch?) but for all intents and purposes they are interchangeable.
Apparently the raised ridge on the shafts was a design feature to hit the subframe at full droop to prevent over articulation of the inner drive shaft hardy spicer joints. There is a small difference in length between these S and standard Mini rubber uni joint shafts (I think 1/8 inch?) but for all intents and purposes they are interchangeable.