first off in 2009 in our Paul Smith,
and again last year in my current MK3.
I had not long finished the car, prior to last years event, and the engine unit had come to me as “a good low miler 1275 A+”, although I later transpired it had been raced, but not rallied! I had given the unit a good check over, some fresh gaskets and then put it in! Second gear synchro was shot and as time went on the engine began to burn more and more oil, although oil pressure was always good.
So before heading back over to Switzerland, the engine and box needed a rebuild and the rest of the car would gain some additions. Back in November, I pulled the engine and box, and headed up to a Mates place with the box for a “refresher”. New bearings, baulk rings, lay shaft, central oil pickup, magnetic traps and a cross-pin diff assembly were installed, although the much desired straight cuts remain on the wish list for now.
A nice fresh box!
Back home, and attention turned to the block. The rings were shot, razor sharp edged, the big ends showed signs of minimal wear but the crank was perfect. So new rings, ends and mains, centre main strap, honing before a dammed good clean saw the block turn the corner from old dog, to fresh young pup. The head was also replaced with a stock but refurbished MG Metro item.
Back in the car and run up, some other goodies were fitted to the car. A set of ST pattern 12” Minilife wheels , shod with winter tyres were fitted, as 10” winter tyres are all but impossible to get nowadays (without a mortgage anyway!) and the Colway M+S type tyres that are available, just don’t work over there.
Another goody I had to fit, was the Brantz Rally meter my Wife got me for Christmas ( or maybe, got herself as she is navigating!?). Being born and bred in Abingdon and my Dad doing some time in Comps during his apprenticeship (not long mind), I have a strong lust for all things works Mini, and so mounting the Brantz was a no brainer to me. It had to be a works type dash!
So now its just endless mile after mile of running in. Total boredom!
Looking good Phil, nice to see her back on the road!
