Restoration-Mini

Technical Forums => Restorations => Topic started by: gr8kornholio on February 11, 2017, 07:28:08 PM

Title: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 11, 2017, 07:28:08 PM
I'm Mark, and back in August I became the owner of a 65 Australian MKI mini.  Have a growing list of modifications to do the car to make it more to my liking.  Looking forward to discussions and posting photos of it's changes.  I'll get some pictures of it up on here as soon as I figure out how. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 11, 2017, 07:38:16 PM
Pics are, easy just use the attachments dialog......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on February 11, 2017, 07:43:01 PM
Welcome welcome  4.gif. Yes pics are easy. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 11, 2017, 07:51:53 PM
Ok, I'll try these.  In order:  The day we got her.  Power by 7 Ent. 1380.  Couple of glamour shots.  Guess we don't have pics of the interior on this computer.  I'll have to get them off my phone.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 11, 2017, 08:01:00 PM
And in case any one reads my signature and is curious about the 07 MY/MY MCS here are some pics of it.  Miss this car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 11, 2017, 08:08:06 PM
Ok, on with the suspension discussion. Here is the current setup on my car.

HI/LO setup with coil springs and stock replacement shocks.  Found the 13 yr. old receipt.
http://www.7ent.com/products/coil-spring-conversion-w-adjustable-struts-for017.html

This rides really stiff.  Also not excited about how nothing really holds the springs in place when you jack the car up. 

Found a new set of springs from Huddersfield for a reasonable price.  Found your comment on how you liked these Dave.

Contemplating going with Spax coilovers from minispares:  http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Suspension/Coil%20over%20kits/RSX520.aspx?1911&ReturnUrl=/shop/classic/Suspension/Coil~over~kits.aspx|Back%20to%20shop

Possible concern here is the ride, the shocks seem to be adjustable.  Other is moving where the spring forces interact with the car.

Any other comments or suggestions are welcomed and appreciated.  Thanks
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 12, 2017, 11:01:02 AM
I think I'm leaning towards just replacing my hard coil springs with the black ones from huddersfield spares.  I believe my HI/LO's are a good quality. 

As far as suspension geometry adjustment the minispares kit is the only one that mentions a rear toe adjustment.  The others only do camber.

Now for shocks.  I've had good luck with KYB and someone already mentioned them.  Any other suggestions?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: towjoe on February 12, 2017, 11:08:53 AM
Mini Sport has a set that you can adjust toe and camber. I like Mini Spares and have a set to put on .


https://usa.minisport.com/mslms0510-fully-adjustable-mini-negative-camber-tracking-rear-brackets-pair.html


Regards
towjoe  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 12, 2017, 11:17:09 AM
Thanks, I'm trying not to have to order stuff from 3 different places, but it's not looking good.

Follow up on shocks, how much if any adjustment do you need on these cars if the majority of the driving will just be spirited road driving? 

I've found Spax and Gaz single adjustable along with Spax dual adjustable and the KYB AGX.  Guess the question is are the fully adjustable worth the extra 80 or so bucks?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on February 12, 2017, 11:32:35 AM
I have always used either basic shocks or the KYB Gas-A-Just shocks on my Minis.  Not used any of the various adjustable ones.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 12, 2017, 11:57:45 AM
The rear adjustment kit Toejoe mentions is the one I prefer, I've installed all the others too over the years and the one from MiniSport appears to be better made and is far easier to adjust.

As for shocks, John Styers has the adjustables on his car and usually drives them full soft, but tightens them up a few clicks for "spirited" drives in the twisties.

I've been perfectly happy with standard ones, so far I have my adjustables set full soft.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: John Gervais on February 13, 2017, 08:40:18 AM
I know that I'm probably the odd-guy out here, and you'll likely never drive my mini to 'feel it', but I've found the KYB gas-a-just shocks perfectly fine for spirited driving, as well as having a longer operating range than most adjustable shocks.  I think there's a table on this site's tech pages with damper lengths - most useful, since many who install adjustable shocks/dampers usually end up setting them quite soft anyways.

My mini is lowered and the gas-a-just haven't bottomed out.  The C-AHT687 road/rally rubber cones are really nice in that when you wanna go hard, they're rather firm.  Another nice thing is that they never come unseated when either airborn or simply jacking the car up.

To help things along, I've got Ripspeed HiLo's and a ½" rear anti-roll bar, shimmed the rear toe to 0°, have rear adjustable camber brackets adjusted to neg. ½°, negative camber arms in front and adjustable tie rods, trimmed and re-profiled hydrolastic-type bump stops.  Proper offset lower arm bushes and hard/soft tie-rod bushes, solid aluminum top and teardrop subframe mounts etc.

My unsolicited recommendation is that perhaps some seat time in both rubber cone cars as well as coil and coil-over sprung cars would be a good idea, as changing suspension systems can get expensive.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 13, 2017, 11:34:11 AM
Thanks for the input, I'm hoping to get some seat time in a rubber cone and kyb car this weekend.  Think I've ruled out the coilover setup due to cost and possible problems, which may or may not be unfounded.  Not sure if I know anyone around with with one to test ride in.  Agreed on the cost which is why I'm trying to get as much opinion as I can. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on February 13, 2017, 02:52:54 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on February 13, 2017, 11:34:11 AM
Thanks for the input, I'm hoping to get some seat time in a rubber cone and kyb car this weekend.   

If you will be at drive in the hills in March you can try my cay. Rubber cones and KYB gas-a-just shocks.

Brad
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 13, 2017, 07:48:14 PM
Sadly I won't, this year.  Hopefully there will be more of these and once I get some things ironed out on the car and a tow rig set up I'll be in for sure.  Thanks
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: John Gervais on February 13, 2017, 08:03:42 PM
There are surely other rubber coned minis about; it's just a matter of keeping your eyes open if you see one at a cars & coffee or British car event.  Most owners don't frequent the usual message boards, but are friendly enough - 'specially if you've got your mini with you. 

If you happen by Copenhagen, you're welcome to try mine -
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 14, 2017, 03:44:35 PM
Quote from: John Gervais on February 13, 2017, 08:40:18 AM
The C-AHT687 road/rally rubber cones are really nice in that when you wanna go hard, they're rather firm.  Another nice thing is that they never come unseated when either airborn or simply jacking the car up.

The closest i could come to this number are these from minispares.  The description sounds about right.
http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Suspension/Rear/Dry/C-STR687.aspx?190701&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/cone.aspx|Back%20to%20search

I guess I stated it wrong earlier, but this weekend a fellow mini owner is going to take me for a ride in his cone/kyb equipped mini.  Thanks for all the offers though, and if I'm even in Denmark I'll look you up.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: John Gervais on February 14, 2017, 04:29:14 PM
Yes, those are the ones - I generally type from memory and sometimes get the numbers a bit wrong - not to mention the time-zone / sleep deprivation thingy...
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 14, 2017, 06:49:54 PM
Quote from: John Gervais on February 14, 2017, 04:29:14 PM
Yes, those are the ones - I generally type from memory and sometimes get the numbers a bit wrong - not to mention the time-zone / sleep deprivation thingy...

True, it's already tomorrow there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 20, 2017, 08:07:22 PM
So I got to ride in a car with cones this past weekend and have to say it was nice.  Not bouncy like mine, so now the question is spend the extra on cones, or get the softer, but not softest springs.  Guess one consideration is can you fully compress a cone?  Where as I can see with as short as the springs are hitting a proper bump could fully compress them with jarring results.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on February 20, 2017, 09:18:28 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on February 20, 2017, 08:07:22 PM
So I got to ride in a car with cones this past weekend and have to say it was nice.  Not bouncy like mine, so now the question is spend the extra on cones, or get the softer, but not softest springs.  Guess one consideration is can you fully compress a cone? 

The rubber cones on a Mini are said to have a geometrically progressive springing rate - meaning the first millimeter of compression travel is "X", the next millimeter of travel is twice as hard, the next millimeter is 8 times as hard, the next is 16 times as hard and so on.  So soft on smaller impacts and progressively harder on bigger impacts.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 22, 2017, 07:38:10 PM
So after some consideration I'm leaning toward the rubber cones for the suspension.

Bruce, are yours the stock replacements?  I see minispares has those and a performance version with a yellow dot or red dot.  The red dot match another members post for part number that they have.

Gotta start making this parts list.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on February 23, 2017, 07:47:15 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on February 22, 2017, 07:38:10 PM

Bruce, are yours the stock replacements?  I see minispares has those and a performance version with a yellow dot or red dot.  The red dot match another members post for part number that they have.


Totally stock cones on my car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: jeff10049 on February 23, 2017, 09:58:04 PM
I have stock cones on my car and the ride is great seems to handle fine too but its just a 850 on 10" so I don't drive it real hard. My 1275 car had springs I hated them traded for cones and was super happy. With the springs if you hit two or three good bumps in a row it would bounce so bad I couldn't keep my feet on the pedals.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 24, 2017, 07:52:18 AM
I hit one the other day on a back road that actually popped the hood, thank goodness for the safety catch. 

Thanks again for everyone's input and help on this.  Looking forward to doing all this and enjoying the drive even more.  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 08, 2017, 10:34:14 AM
Anyone have any tips when working with the MK1 subframe tower bolts?

Some months ago at a Cars and Coffee Bruce pointed out that mine were missing.  I now have the bolts, insulators, and lock tabs.  I've seen a picture for the order they go on. 

Bruce, think this will be similar to when we changed yours to the urethane bushings?

(http://www.minimania.com/CatImages/minicat12-23.jpg)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 08, 2017, 10:37:52 AM
No tower bolts!  Lucky the subframe didn't rip off the car hitting a bad hole.  Nothing special about installing them.  The tabs are meant to be bent over on the bolt heads after you torque them down.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 08, 2017, 11:25:43 AM
What tabs?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 08, 2017, 11:37:34 AM
Part #5 has a tab on it that presses up against the tower bolt head. At least one's I've used have them.  I suspect to keep them from backing off.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 08, 2017, 11:48:47 AM
Part # 21A1470. It's a locktab.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 08, 2017, 11:49:01 AM
OK, those are on two bolt subframes - I was thinking his were singles because he referenced Bruce's car - which is an
'88....I forgot he has a Mk1

Why does bolt #3 have the necked down area?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 08, 2017, 02:15:12 PM
Ok, yea, I hadn't driven it a whole lot since I found out.  The reference to Bruces was the process to get the spacer and the lock tab in.

Do the insulator and locktab go on top of the body?  Or does something actually go between the subframe and body?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on April 08, 2017, 02:46:19 PM
The insulator (Part #4 in the diagram) goes between the body and the subframe.  The locktab (Part #5) goes on top of the body cross-member.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on April 08, 2017, 05:51:36 PM
Mark, should be very much the same as doing it on my Mk. V car, except of course for the differences for a Mk. I.   We found out you can do it without having to unhook everything.  Let me know if you'd like some help.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 09, 2017, 01:28:34 PM
Quote from: MPlayle on April 08, 2017, 02:46:19 PM
The insulator (Part #4 in the diagram) goes between the body and the subframe.  The locktab (Part #5) goes on top of the body cross-member.

Thanks, that is what I was thinking after reading the reply from 94touring. 

Bruce, Hopefully this week I'll have some time to look at it further.  You loosened your engine stays correct? Or did they have enough flex.  These insulators are flat and only about an 1/8 inch thick.  Think most of the fun will be lining up all 4 holes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on April 09, 2017, 06:06:58 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on April 09, 2017, 01:28:34 PM
Quote from: MPlayle on April 08, 2017, 02:46:19 PM
The insulator (Part #4 in the diagram) goes between the body and the subframe.  The locktab (Part #5) goes on top of the body cross-member.

Thanks, that is what I was thinking after reading the reply from 94touring. 

Bruce, Hopefully this week I'll have some time to look at it further.  You loosened your engine stays correct? Or did they have enough flex.  These insulators are flat and only about an 1/8 inch thick.  Think most of the fun will be lining up all 4 holes.

We loosened the rear subframe-to-toeboard mounts, removed the subframe tower bolts, left the front rubberized teardrop mounts untouched (solid your car) and lifted the body up slightly at the toeboards, letting gravity pull the subframe down the inch or so that was needed.   We did not touch the engine steady(s).   Should be similar on your car except it will likely be necessary to loosen/remove the front subframe mounts since there is no flexibility there like on later Minis.   The other concern on a Mk. I is the hard brake line down to the hydraulic brake switch mounted on the subframe itself - need to make sure that is not stressed.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 14, 2017, 01:20:11 PM
Tower bolt installation attempted and failed.  The left side didn't want to line up at all not to mention it's buried behind the radiator.  So I tried the right side.  Looked like it lined up well, but the bolt wouldn't thread in. No problem lifting the body up just like Bruce and I did on his.  Is it possible I have the hydro subframes?  Is there a tell tale way to see this by looking at the subframe?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 14, 2017, 01:28:57 PM
Ok, may have answered my own question.  Looking at the diagram above and the top of the tower for the dry vs. hydro there are different sized holes between where the bolts go.  The hydro hole is much larger, and the hole on my towers is very large.  So guessing I got the wrong bolts. 

Both minispares and minisport state it is a 5/16" UNF bolt with length of 4 3/8"  Is this something I may be able to find at a hardware store?  Googled UNF and it says its the fine thread pattern. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 14, 2017, 01:34:29 PM
I doubt you can find 4 3/8, but you should be able to find 4 1/2 no problem, just put an extra flat washer under the head of the bolt. UNF is standard US fine thread, so hardware stores will have them, but I'd recommend you buy grade 8 bolts if you can.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 14, 2017, 02:12:41 PM
Thanks Dave, was thinking the same thing with the washer and grade8.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 14, 2017, 02:20:05 PM
I don't understand what you meant about being buried behind the radiator, the bolts are actually on the other side of the short bulkhead stiffener, well back from the radiator. You should be able to see them easily - I'd recommend you remove the hood (bonnet) for better access.

You can use a long drift to line them up and install one, then the other one should go right in.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on April 14, 2017, 04:14:50 PM
Mark, are you familiar with Elliot's Hardware in Plano?  They have a super extensive selection of nuts and bolts and may have oddball sizes. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 14, 2017, 06:46:49 PM
Sorry Dave, what I meant was the view of the gap between the subframe and the body where the bolts go in, I couldn't see that area very well because of the radiator. 

Bruce, that's exactly where I went.  No 4 3/8" but got some 4 1/2" and a couple extra washers.  Also got new bolts for the floor to subframe mounts as I'm pretty positive 2 of the ones on there now are original. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 09:54:06 AM
Ok, so with a lot of effort to get them lined up and through the washers, tabs and spacers they are all 4 in.  The floor board bolts are also back in.  Now a new problem.  With the spacers in place between the body and subframe the bolt holes on the front of the car wont line up.  The ones you guys use for flat towing, mine had tow eye bolts.  Of course looking at the whole set up this makes sense.  With those spacers in how is the front of the body supposed to line up with the subframe since it is now higher at the tower?

Are the spacers not for everycar?  I now know mine had the hydro suspension originally, did it use the spacers?  I only ask because the hole in the middle of the spacer is small like the hole in the picture of the dry subframe.  The hydro subframe has a large hole in it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 22, 2017, 10:14:27 AM
Are you talking about the spacers at the front of the car or the ones between the towers and the subframe?

My understanding of the tower "spacers" is that they're really just a vibration damper and the tower should draw up tight to the body, so the alignment of the front holes shouldn't change.

You only use the front spacers to make up a gap between the subframe and the body, so not every car needs them so those shims should not affect the alignment of the holes to the body.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 10:31:07 AM
The spacers I'm referring to are the tower ones (see diagram at the top of the page).  The one's I got are solid metal so no give.  That's why I'm wondering if a wet suspension car had them or not because the large hole is not in the center of them.  Of course this also then brings up the length of the bolt.  If I take the spacer out the 4 3/8" bolts look like they'd be to long.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 10:35:37 AM
Does this look right?  Other than being sideways.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 22, 2017, 10:40:17 AM
Seems correct to me, how far out are the front bolt holes? Using your theory they should only be out the thickness of the shim, or about 1/8"....that shouldn't really be a problem.

Maybe loosen everything up, install the front bolts, then tighten everything?

I can't answer about using a shim on hydro vs dry, maybe Dan can?

I'll have a very original, unmolested or modified Cooper S hydro car on the rack tomorrow, I'll take a good hard look at this
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 11:04:49 AM
I cant even see the front bolt holes.  And when I jack up the car by the subframe they don't get any closer.  I'll try loosening the floor bolts and see if that gets me anywhere.

Ok, thanks Dave.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on April 22, 2017, 03:05:34 PM
This sounds just like the problem I have on my car lining up the front subframe mounts.   But I think some of the bodywork on my car was perhaps installed a bit off?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 04:50:57 PM
Ok, loosening the floor bolts helped.  the right side was still a pain, but it was that before the tower bolts.  Almost done.  Dave, I'll still be interested to see the hydro suspension tomorrow.  Thanks.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 22, 2017, 05:19:44 PM
I'll take pics, anything in particular you want me to photo?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 22, 2017, 06:23:27 PM
Mainly just the tower area.  Where the subframe meets the body.  Is the spacer in the same place.  Also if you can get one down the big hole on top of the tower where the hydro line runs down into the bag.  Wondering if the original hydro spacer may be different than the reproduction ones.

I did get all the other bolts back in by loosening the floor bolts then doing the front subframe bolts (tow bar area) before tightening the floor bolts again. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on April 22, 2017, 06:36:32 PM
That's pretty normal....

His car will have the hoses going down the holes, so I don't know how much I'll be able to see for you......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BritBits on April 22, 2017, 08:42:18 PM
Mark,

Won't help with this, but there's a great industrial hardware supplier near me in east Plano that stocks all sizes of SAE thread bolts, it's been a great source of proper nylocs for my Spitfires.  The owner has (had??) a Jag so he felt my pain when I was looking for oddball hardware.


Cheers,

Jim
Almost Oklahoma
'63 Awesome Mini Cooper 997
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 23, 2017, 07:42:01 AM
East Plano would be nice, I'm in Allen so currently I have to drive to west plano to Elliot's Hardware.  They have an insane amount of bolts.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on April 23, 2017, 09:59:36 AM
Jim, what's that place called?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 24, 2017, 06:05:41 AM
It's BA industrial at Ave. N and Summit Ave. 

Speaking of always something.  So I got all the bolts installed on my subframe.  Of course with the spacers my front ride height was higher.  So I adjusted the hi/lo settings.  Of course this brought back up the droop problem were they are loose when the suspension hangs.  I knew I'd seen some oversized rebound buffers and found them on minimania, 7ent, and another us site.  In my research though I found an article about installing coil springs, which I have, and according to the article in mini magazine, mine are in wrong.  It shows spring, spacer plate, hi/lo.  Mine are spacer, spring, hi/lo. 

The oversized buffers will help with the front, but is there anything I can do for the rear?  I will continue to search the interwebs for answers.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 24, 2017, 06:28:30 AM
Turns out, wet suspensions had a rebound buffer for the rear.  Since my front subframe is wet, hopefully the rear is too.  Other options were rebound straps from a sprite.  Seems most people just use a short enough shock to stop droop, but that seems harsh on a shock. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2017, 05:21:59 PM
Ok. Took this picture today and this just doesn't look right. I'm thinking the wet suspension shouldn't have the spacer. After some conversation on BaT it sounds like it's for the dry do to the raised bolt areas where mine are flush. Not 2 separate mounds.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2017, 06:40:30 PM
Finally found the pic that I've been searching for.  And yep, no spacer.  Looks like it was only for the dry.  So if anyone ever needs early dual bolt tower bolts and spacers I'll have them.  Guess I'll be loosening these all up and taking them out.  YAY!

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3030/3078133030_4c6e15f50c.jpg)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2017, 06:42:52 PM
Now that that is solved.  Next issue.  I'm replacing the couplings as they are worn and hitting my header.  Thing I've read up on them is that if the yokes are going bad it will destroy a set of these in a hurry.  Is there a way to check the yokes condition with them on the car? 

(http://www.minispares.com/image.axd?type=product&picture=350/QL5000.jpg)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on May 04, 2017, 06:31:47 AM
I don't know about how to check the condition of  the yokes, but I will take the tower bolts and spacers.  I will likely need to replace at least the spacers on my Moke and it is the early dry subframe.

Send me a PM when you have them out and we'll arrange a deal.

The hitting your header is likely more to do with the size /shape of the header and how it passes the yokes.  There have been several discussions about how to get the positioning of performance headers right so that they clear the yoke outputs.  Most of the headers are designed for clearing the later pot joint outputs which give more room than the yoke outputs.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 04, 2017, 07:15:00 AM
I'm surprised to see those plastic caps on the Ujoints, back in the day when I used to change out the rubber ones for solid caps they were made of steel.......but I guess modern plastics in that application work just fine.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on May 04, 2017, 08:56:40 AM
I remember using the solid white nylon U-joints with needle bearings made by Quinton Hazel back in the late 1970s on my Mini.   They were the modern upgrade at the time
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 04, 2017, 09:59:03 AM
Quote from: MPlayle on May 04, 2017, 06:31:47 AM
I don't know about how to check the condition of  the yokes, but I will take the tower bolts and spacers.  I will likely need to replace at least the spacers on my Moke and it is the early dry subframe.

Send me a PM when you have them out and we'll arrange a deal.

The hitting your header is likely more to do with the size /shape of the header and how it passes the yokes.  There have been several discussions about how to get the positioning of performance headers right so that they clear the yoke outputs.  Most of the headers are designed for clearing the later pot joint outputs which give more room than the yoke outputs.

Will do, I'm hoping to get them out this weekend, but it's filling up. 

They weren't rattling when I bought it.  Started a couple months in and seems to be getting worse.  With the power of my motor I wonder if these are just going to get beat up regardless.  May look at the hardy spicer ujoint or other upgrade when the car goes off to paint.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 09, 2017, 04:19:11 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2017, 06:42:52 PM
Now that that is solved.  Next issue.  I'm replacing the couplings as they are worn and hitting my header.  Thing I've read up on them is that if the yokes are going bad it will destroy a set of these in a hurry.  Is there a way to check the yokes condition with them on the car? 

(http://www.minispares.com/image.axd?type=product&picture=350/QL5000.jpg)

So I got these in today, took minispares 5 days to process the order and 1.5 to ship, but whatever.  So reading the haynes manual it says to disconnect the upper ball joint to put them in, i'm guessing this is to give some play in the driveshaft to maneuver these in and out?  Anyone ever attempted this without disconnecting the ball joint?

I have the good splitter so it's not too big of a deal, was just hoping not to have to mess with it. 

On a second note, I'm going to probably replace the little knuckle that my hi/los sit in on the upper arm, the rubbers are looking worn.  These just pop in and out, when the suspension is loosened far enough, correct?

Thanks
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 09, 2017, 05:08:54 PM
Pop in and out? Well in theory anyway...... ;D

Sometimes they get stuck in there pretty good.

Back in the day I used to be able to replace those joints without taking the ball joint loose, put the inner cross in first then you just have to turn the axle and joint to enable the cap to slide in from the top, then turn the next one to the top and slide it in.....all the while being very careful not to lose any of the needles......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 09, 2017, 05:43:07 PM
Yea, I've seen all those needles, from messing with the old pair that came in boxes with the car, along with like 100 of those ubolts.

I've seen my hi/lo slip up and down on the knuckle, but yea what kind of fight can I expect getting them out of the upper arm?  Is there a preferred method to getting them out?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 09, 2017, 06:16:59 PM
Just grab and pull, sometimes they come out in pieces......sometimes they slip right out.

If you grease those needles up with some really sticky grease they generally stay in place.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 15, 2017, 05:13:45 AM
Update:  I got these replaced, won't even go to the PITA that was.  No room to work, laying on my back on the floor and the u-bolts nearly refused to go back in the holes around the new plastic caps, but in the end and 5 hours later I got them in.

Met up with Bruce for a drive around town.  No problems and no more 3rd/4th gear speed rattle when letting off the gas.  I then headed out to a show in the country and when I tried to accelerate up to 60 it started vibrating like crazy.  From about 55 up.  So I let off and coasted back down to 50 where it didn't vibrate.  Of course as soon as I let off the gas after that the rattle was back.  Was fun babying the car back home from out there, glad I didn't try to skip it and go with Bruce and ruin his drive. 

Any thoughts on if I did something wrong or is there a bigger problem I'm unaware of?   To be honest, I don't think I've had the car over 50 since I started hearing the rattle some months after acquiring the car.

Bolts to tight? (no room for torque wrench and only 12 ft lbs)  Shafts not re-aligned properly?(mentioned nothing in manual about marking them like a driveshaft)  Something else worn out that's causing these to hit the exhaust? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on May 15, 2017, 06:56:43 AM
Is the exhaust an aftermarket header or the stock exhaust?  If an aftermarket header, it is likely the angle of the header.  (See ArmyCook's thread as he has been dealing with the same/similar issue.)

Edit: Here is the thread:
http://www.restorationmini.com/forum/index.php?topic=1341.msg21682#new (http://www.restorationmini.com/forum/index.php?topic=1341.msg21682#new)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 15, 2017, 07:07:56 AM
It's an aftermarket header with the 2 down pipes.  The thing is, that it wasn't doing this when I bought the car back in August.  It didn't do it for some months after I bought it, including a couple hours drive through the country at speeds of 70+

It only started rattling probably this year and started out very faint.  As it got more noticeable I started looking into the problem.  Then finding the couplings as a possible cause and visually inspecting them to see they had been hitting the exhaust.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on May 15, 2017, 07:18:59 AM
I've read conflicting stories about whether engine movement (or more properly - lack of movement) affects whether there is hitting or not.

When not hitting, obviously you are fine.  When the hitting gradually starts (such as when steady bushings start weakening), it seems minor. 

The goal what I've read seemed to indicate was making sure that the header and engine if moving stayed as a single unit maintaining the relative clearances.  Providing flex points at alternate locations (such as an exhaust flex coupling right after the header's 'Y' pipe) was reported as another option.

What the answer truly is, I do not know.  As I stated to start, there are still conflicting stories/opinions.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 15, 2017, 06:25:10 PM
So a response on the uk forum was tire balance.  I haven't checked them lately, and going to be really  50.gif if that could be the cause of all of this.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 17, 2017, 03:25:36 PM
Yep, one wheel was like 2 ounces out I think he said.  Probably the cause of all of this, including the couplings.  Cause like I said earlier, I hadn't had it over 50 since I started to hear the rattle.  Let's just hope I haven't destroyed the new couplers that took 5 hours to put on. 

Speaking of, came across this on minimania today.

Description
If you have ever tried to use old U-bolts to re-install your yoke axle couplings, either the old rubber or modern nylon with needle bearings, then you know how terribly frustrating and time consuming it can be. NEW U-bolts are THE answer! Sold individually, eight required per car.

22.gif ensued. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on May 17, 2017, 05:39:37 PM
My Moke has the yoke style couplings.  I have no idea how old the rubber couplings on it are.  I planned replacing them when I install the 998 engine, so ordered a set from MiniSport - they came with new u-bolts!

https://usa.minisport.com/gcd101-mini-rubber-drive-coupling-kit-1959-76.html (https://usa.minisport.com/gcd101-mini-rubber-drive-coupling-kit-1959-76.html)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 24, 2017, 06:09:59 PM
Finally got to drive it after the wheel balance.  Felt the improvement right away.  But I may have destroyed the new couplers already.  They only rattle when I shift from 3rd to 4th at above 3K rpm.  It also sounded like I could hear the start rattling above 55mph, but didn't really get a chance to drive extended at that speed.  No more vibration though.

Plan to get under there and loosen up the bolts and make sure they are all still together and aligned correctly then tighten them back up.

If I do need to replace them again, I need to get this set of pliers.
(http://stronghandtools.com/stronghandtools/img/stronggrip_paj.jpg)

Only problem is they are sold by welding supply places and can't find them for sale on line anywhere.  And the few welding places I called weren't even sure if they could order them.   50.gif  It's really amazing that sometime you can't find stuff on the interwebs, like home HVAC parts.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 31, 2017, 03:38:59 PM
So fidgeted with the couplers again today.  Loosened them up rotated and moved the suspension around and shaved the fraying plastic off.  Tightened them back up. 

Question though, how much, if any play should there be in the shafts?  Before and after the couplers?

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 31, 2017, 03:47:23 PM
Very little......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 31, 2017, 05:19:14 PM
Ok, it wasn't much if any, just not completely solid which I figured was ok.  I'll find out if I get to drive it tomorrow, depends on forcast.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 31, 2017, 05:33:02 PM
You getting these daily T-storms like us?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 01, 2017, 04:34:07 AM
Suppose to be by forecast, but haven't ever accumulated.  This morning there was rain in the area and stated at 80%.  So didn't drive it, so it wont rain. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 01, 2017, 05:05:58 AM
I need to mow my south acreage, but this daily rain makes it impossible - I did manage to get the grass at the house mowed at least....should have done the south part the same day but I was lazy and a bit tired so I thought I'd let it go till later in the week.......oops.

Plus I've worked Tues, Wed and Thurs this week already - this was supposed to be a one day a week job just for play money! It's not as much fun driving tired, 300K mileage cars with questionable brakes and tires in the rain, tho most days it's over by noon.

This Saturday is the A Series Run, t was supposed to happen the first weekend of May but got rained out, this weekend they say rain or shine we're doing it. Doesn't bother me in my Mini, but it might be a little tough in an open Bugeye or Midget or Seven....some of the cars coming this Sat.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 01, 2017, 06:23:22 AM
Aww, mowing, the one thing I don't miss about the acre lot we had. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 21, 2017, 08:51:39 AM
Question...  What are my options for upgrading the output side of my remote shift transmission?

It currently uses the upgraded plastic and needle bearing couplers, which I have damaged due to replacing them before finding the wheel balance issue.  The car has a pretty hot 1380 motor in it.  Can the couplers continue to handle the power?  Is there a better, less likely to need replacing, option?  I know any upgrade will require opening the output case.  I do plan to do a body off repaint so that would be the time to do it.

Thoughts, opinions, suggestions.... 

Thanks.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 21, 2017, 09:11:50 AM
Convert to pot joints? They are trouble free and will handle the power no problem.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 21, 2017, 10:25:29 AM
I've seen this option on the European forums, but they start getting all over the place with why's and why nots and need this not that well maybe but if...  Wait, what was the question.

Is it as simple as replacing the output shafts with the pot joint ones and adding the pot joints?  Or are there other considerations since it's a remote box compared to a rod box.   Or does that not matter here?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 21, 2017, 10:37:11 AM
I think you will need new output shafts and maybe even new covers - let me check into it a bit more. If you were going to do all that you should add a cross pin diff.

You might be able to swap over directly to the Hardy Spicer joints without messing with the output shafts or covers, but that will mean new axle shafts. Let me look into it.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 21, 2017, 10:41:04 AM
Switching over to pot joint outputs will require new axles as well as the items Dave mentioned.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 21, 2017, 10:55:27 AM
Thanks Dave.  4.gif

That seems to follow some of the other forum conversation.  Will those new covers fit the current box?  That was also a debate point.  Of course a couple people chimed in and sad the plastic/needle bearing couplers are just fine.  But I'm guessing they've never had to change them  50.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: jeff10049 on June 24, 2017, 09:12:47 PM
The plastic needle bearing joints should be fine, Theirs no way a wheel balance issue damaged them in such a short time if ever. You might have other underlying issues. When changing them squeeze the old u bolts down to proper size in a vice first. Be careful not to over tighten the u bolts it will distort the cap and cause premature failure.  A 1380 driving through that will be fine similar size joints handle 400+ hp in rear drive cars weighing twice as much.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 26, 2017, 07:01:06 AM
Ok, so if they can handle the motor I'll just keep them, thanks for the info.

Is there a way to test them for failure?  It shook pretty violently when I went to 55 and they really started to rattle after that.  It also damaged the plastic from hitting the hot exhaust so hard.

Other issues is a concern, recommendations on places to look?

I didn't think I'd over tightened them, but it is a possibility.  I'm guess it's get them just tight enough to hold them in place but no more?

I tried the squeezing, but over did it a bit and then they still didn't want to go in.  I'm getting close to getting a pair of the wide mouth vice grips I posted earlier, pretty sure they will greatly assist in the job. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 26, 2017, 09:36:49 AM
To squeeze the U-bolts down a little, put the nuts on the threads put one end down on the concrete and hit across the open part of the U with a hammer.....easy peasy.....just don't go too far.

Could you have gotten one or more of the little needle bearings out of place when you installed them? It's easy to do and that will keep the caps from going on all the way.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 26, 2017, 09:44:56 AM
It's the not to far part that becomes the problem.  I had an incident with one where the plastic cup came away from the metal that houses the bearings, but the bearing area never came apart.  Was able to get it back on. 

If I take them off, is there anything to inspect to see if they are worn?  other than the needle bearings?  Big fear is to replace them and still have an issue. 

Could anything between them and the wheel be causing them to rattle?  Or from them up to the diff housing?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 26, 2017, 10:02:01 AM
All sorts of possibilities.......I would grab the axle and twist it and see if there's any slop. Also, make sure the gearbox is in neutral and have someone turn the wheel while you watch the joint as it rotates, see if it looks normal or moves around.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 12, 2017, 06:31:12 PM
So replaced these again, but saved the ones that came off.  Other than some damage to the plastic from where it hit the exhaust the old ones don't look bad.  My new expandable, handle cranked vise grips worked like a charm.   20.gif

Bad news.  Still have the issue.  ONLY above 50-55 mph there is a major vibration in the drivetrain.  You can't feel it, through the steering wheel, but man you can hear it.  Open to all suggestions to check.  Motor mounts?  Engines steadies?  Wheel bearings? Exhaust mounts?  Transmission(remote shift)?   50.gif

Dave, I checked the output shaft again and it has a very tiny amount of play, enough for you to know it's moving, but not enough to really measure.   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on August 13, 2017, 05:33:37 AM
I know this sounds like a silly long-shot, but could it be an out of balance rear wheel?

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 13, 2017, 07:07:17 AM
Des anyone have a set of wheels/tires you could swap with? Easy way to eliminate that as a possibility.......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 13, 2017, 08:24:16 AM
I could check the rears for balance.  I'd say Bruce, but I think his wheels are in Tulsa, even though they aren't on the car.

Had this thought...  Are the shafts balanced?  Like a typical driveshaft?  When I did my trucks u joints the manual stated to mark the shaft and the yoke so you line them back up how they came apart.  The mini manual said no such thing on these so at the time I didn't even think about it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 13, 2017, 09:17:51 AM
Shouldn't matter, they're too short and don't have enough mass, the only thing that would matter is if one is bent.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: tsumini on August 13, 2017, 11:10:37 AM
Can you feel it thru the floor or gearshift?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 13, 2017, 03:54:42 PM
Don't usually drive with my hand on the stick, but did notice it rattling yesterday.  Like it did before I replaced the old worn out plastic cup when I upgraded to the short shifter.  And yes, if you could "feel" it anywhere it was in the chassis and not the steering wheel.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 14, 2017, 06:21:03 PM
Update:  I pulled the dry subframe spacers out... finally, thankfully the shorter bolts went right back in the holes (this was not the case the first time).  The lower engine stay was a little loose, and feels a little rubbery at the block when disconnected form the subframe floor bolt.  Tightened the length adjuster nut and tried to tighten where it connects to the block, but at a point the nut would turn but not get any tighter.  Didn't see anything rotating either?  Odd?

May have found the main culprit.  Searched the UK forum and a guy had a similar issue.  Wheels balanced but above 55 had and out of balance type vibration.  Turns out his wheels were not centering.  My wheels have the shank lugnuts.  Where a shaft on the lug goes through the wheel as it threads onto the stud.  The shank shaft at least a couple mm smaller than the hole in the wheel.  So how do you center a wheel like this?  Can I get larger shanked lugs?  Or do I need to be looking for wheels too?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 14, 2017, 06:42:01 PM
You definitely need the right lug nuts!

Either that or some wheels that used the cone shaped lug nuts instead of the shaft style..
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 14, 2017, 06:50:28 PM
There are a bunch of different size shank lugnuts. Measure the hole size and depth to know what you need. The last ones I needed came from Oz. Let us know what you need and I'm sure we can find some.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 14, 2017, 08:09:31 PM
Best way to measure the hole?  My micrometer won't fit inside my little ass 10" wheel.  LOL!. 

I wonder how the previous owner had gotten away with this for however long he did.  It went to 90 smooth as glass when we were test driving it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 14, 2017, 09:05:48 PM
Do you have the tapered washer thingy?  I have a set of wheels that are the same style but have this washer piece that centers it up.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2017, 05:39:16 AM
Yea, mine has that washer piece, but they are the other way around... I'll check the backs when I get home but I swear they have always been on like a cone, not a dish to center.  Or it's a load of  :-[ 11.gif 50.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on August 15, 2017, 06:52:23 AM
The MiniLite wheels I recently sold to Willie-B had similar lugnuts with washers.  As I recall, the washers were flat on one side and tapered on the other where the ones Dan showed are dished one side and tapered the other.  The tapered goes toward the wheel to center up the wheel as Dan says. 

Hopefully it is as simple as flipping the washers.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gasmini on August 15, 2017, 09:45:53 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on August 14, 2017, 08:09:31 PM
Best way to measure the hole?  My micrometer won't fit inside my little ass 10" wheel.  LOL!. 

I wonder how the previous owner had gotten away with this for however long he did.  It went to 90 smooth as glass when we were test driving it.
Use hole gages to put in hole and check with micrometer. If you don't have those use a pair of calipers.

He trailered it if it was out of town.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2017, 12:25:53 PM
I know he trailered it out of town, but during the test drive we easily hit  90.  Also after getting down here to TX I took it on a back road run and had no issues up to 70. 
I'm guessing this all started when I took the wheels  off.  Anxious to get home and see which way the washers are on the back wheels since I haven't touched them.  I'm going to feel like a real idiot if I got them turned around on the fronts and caused myself all these headaches.  Learning sucks sometimes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2017, 01:55:24 PM
Ok, so at least now I know I'm not crazy and flipped all the washers.  Here is a pic of the rear wheel, which I haven't touched since I bought the car.  I'll flip all the washers around and see what that does.  I'll take a pic of the wheels too when they are off and you can see the indentation in the wheel from the washer in this orientation.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2017, 01:56:56 PM
Pic of me and my mini me replacing the coupler.  Thanks to my wife for sneaking this on my phone.

Not sure why it's upside down.  It's an attachment.  O well, rotate your tablet.   ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 16, 2017, 04:24:31 PM
Ok, flipping the washers wont cut it.  they are dished on the inside at an angle.  Also the lugs wont fit in them and the small end doesn't fit in the hole in the wheel.

From my testing, tried deep sockets till one fit the hole almost perfectly, I need something that doesn't exist.  Shank diameter is 0.665 in, but after the washer the depth can be no more than 15mm ( a little over a half inch). 

Mini mania has some for the Revolution wheel that are 0.665 but they are 1.06" long after the washer.  Should I start looking for a smaller washer that is angled on one side and completely flat on the other?  To match the bottom of the lug and fit into the whole.  Cause I'm guessing there is no way to cut the shank down on something like this. 

Of course it all begs the question How'd any previous owner never have this problem.  These have obviously been on here a long time as they have worn a grove into the wheel.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 16, 2017, 05:06:11 PM
That pic was making me crazy!



Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 16, 2017, 05:06:49 PM
Are any of these wheels hub centric? Like on new MINIs?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on August 16, 2017, 05:23:30 PM
I have not heard of any of the wheels for classic Minis being hub-centric.  I do recall there being a thread over on Mini Mania a short while back where someone was asking where to get the inserts to make their wheels hub-centric.  I think the consensus was to inquire at a custom wheel shop.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 16, 2017, 05:35:44 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on August 16, 2017, 05:06:11 PM
That pic makes me crazy!

Hoping that's a good thing.  Thanks for getting it right side up. 

There is nothing on the hub/brake drum that you could center a wheel on.

Any chance of cutting down the shank length?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 16, 2017, 06:05:45 PM
These are what I am using on my Jellybean wheels. Length under the washer is 16mm, diameter is just under 17mm, .680". The washer is flat on both sides. I would be glad to send you one to try for size.

http://minisport.com.au/mini-mag-nuta-suit-jellybean-style-mag

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 16, 2017, 06:21:22 PM
You could also find some with a 3/4" shank and drill your wheels to size.

Or buy some tapered wheel nuts and have your wheels machined to the same taper, that way they would absolutely be centered. You might need some longer studs to make this work depending on your wheels.

Now that I think about it this is probably isn't a great idea as most alloys that use a shank type lug nut do it for a reason IE: the wheel material isn't very strong and they're concerned the tapered lug nut would erode or damage the wheel and work loose.

Lemme dig thru my stuff tomorrow and see what I have too......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 17, 2017, 04:18:13 AM
Quote from: Willie_B on August 16, 2017, 06:05:45 PM
These are what I am using on my Jellybean wheels. Length under the washer is 16mm, diameter is just under 17mm, .680". The washer is flat on both sides. I would be glad to send you one to try for size.

http://minisport.com.au/mini-mag-nuta-suit-jellybean-style-mag

Those seem like exactly the size I need.  Funny it's from minisport AU, since my car is an Australian import.  Guess it's one more thing I have to get from that country.

Is this the only place you've found this style lug?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 17, 2017, 04:35:38 AM
It is the only place I could find it. There are probably others though.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 17, 2017, 05:15:25 AM
This may work out, they have my quarter light window seals.  Can only get them from Australia. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 17, 2017, 06:07:18 PM
Well, so much for that.  I placed an order this morning and they just contacted me.  They only have 2 of the lugs and the supplier is out of business.  Guess I'll start searching the other Australian sites.  I have a few Instagram contacts over there too.   ::)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 17, 2017, 06:44:26 PM
Just damn.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 17, 2017, 07:33:37 PM
Alas, all hope may not be gone.  There is a guy on ebay australia that appears to have a set of these exact lugs.  My contact at minisport au is looking into it.   9.gif  I offered to purchase them and the rest of my order if he could find out if these were correct and acquire them.  Really only want to pay shipping from Australia once.   ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2017, 10:20:02 AM
Minisport AU comes through.  The sales guy was able to get the lug nuts he was out of from the lug nut king on ebay.  He put them on the site and I reloaded my cart with them and the other parts.  They are leaving today and should arrive Tuesday.  Aussie shipping just as fast as UK shipping.  Sad it takes so long to get stuff shipped from this country   ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 25, 2017, 11:50:42 AM
Great, one more thing taking care of.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 30, 2017, 04:41:36 PM
AAANNND....  Nope.  They fit some holes, but not others, so that's probably not a good sign.  Even if they did fit the holes, they have bigger heads so I couldn't get a socket on all of them due to the spokes.  I googled it, late at work so didn't have much time to look, but can you drill holes on a wheel?  I'm sure you'd have to have some type of centering jig.  But like I said, even then they'd have to put recesses in the spokes. 

Anyone have leads on some conical washers?  flat on one side angled on the other.  Not even sure these will work if my holes are different sizes.  I'm thinking I may just have to give up on these wheels.   50.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on August 30, 2017, 04:48:49 PM
Check at a specialty wheel and tire shop (that deals in lots of the "fancy, custom" wheels) and see if they have some of the hub-centric rings that fit.

That might help center up the wheel and let you continue using the existing lug nuts that fit the holes in the wheels?

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 30, 2017, 05:23:54 PM
If they fit some holes and not others, it sounds like you have some wear in the holes - you can have wheels drilled by a machine shop but I think at this point unless you're enamored of these particular wheels I'd be looking for some new ones. Go to JBW, they have tons of different styles for reasonable prices. For that matter they sell wheel/tire packages too if you also need tires.

http://www.johnbrownwheels.com/wheels/

I assume you want 10's?

I have a set of 13's with almost new tires I would sell for what I have in them - $500.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 30, 2017, 06:07:53 PM
Yea, I've been looking at some of them.  The wife likes the Dunlop replicas.  Just doesn't like the center cap.  Googled my paint color car and see several pictures of these with that paint color.  The new color, not the burgandy now.

(http://jbw.e2ecdn.co.uk/Products/5010D1.jpg?w=400&h=400&quality=80)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 30, 2017, 06:22:24 PM
You can put a MINI sticker over the JBW logo easy enough......at least then you can eliminate the shaking and drive it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 30, 2017, 07:33:18 PM
Mark, what is the "new" color?   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2017, 05:15:22 AM
The cars original color.  Fiesta Yellow. 

(http://www.theminiforum.co.uk/imgreq/img/83591b85207534099e240c5518b9d49c52da5f2e/63866f7244cc3e47b490596ee6303c4ddb7804a6.jpg)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 31, 2017, 06:15:33 AM
Nice!  That's a seldom-seen color, so it will be great to have one more Mini in that.    And the photo you found conveniently has the Dunlop wheels too!    Makes it easy to visualize your car in the future.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2017, 07:32:56 AM
Yea, I'm not entirely happy about loosing the original wheels, but if I'm just going to keep chasing the problem and not having good solutions then I'm going to have to.  At least these are period correct and you don't see them on EVERY classic mini. 

Last effort is looking for some conical washers local to dallas.  The hub centric rings I don't think will work, because the mini doesn't have a good defined area around the hub.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 31, 2017, 09:21:15 AM
I don't think hub centric rings will work either, nor do I think the conical washers are going to help - if the holes are out of round or worn funny. I think you either need the holes drilled/milled to an oversize with new lugs or new wheels.....sometimes things just get worn out and have to be repaired or replaced with new......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2017, 10:12:57 AM
Agreed.  I put out a request on the metroplex mini forum and the MIA (minis in action) facebook page for any wheel borrowing to possibly verify it's the wheels.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 31, 2017, 10:48:12 AM
Borrowing some wheels to verify the problem is a good idea.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 31, 2017, 02:42:18 PM
Mark, I should have my car back in a couple of weeks and you can borrow my 12" wheels.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 03, 2017, 11:52:44 AM
BIG HUGE THANKS to Luis.  He came by this morning with his mini.  We took it for a spin over 55 since he's pretty sure he hadn't yet.  No vibration.  Yay.  Swapped his fronts onto my fronts and went for another spin.  55... 60..  NO VIBRATION.  Victory.  And no coupler rattle either.  So on the hunt for wheels.  YAY!!!   

Didn't bother with the rears, because I have never taken them off. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 03, 2017, 02:18:41 PM
That's great news!  Glad you were finally able to sort it out.

Are you looking for tire/wheel combinations?   That's often the way to go because of the savings involved and they come fully mounted and balanced with lug nuts.  Plus the fact you don't have to try to convince some tire shop to mount 10" tires on your new wheels. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 03, 2017, 02:31:40 PM
I agree, getting 10's mounted and balanced properly can be tough.......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 03, 2017, 07:17:56 PM
There's a shop in McKinney called Thomason tire.  They balanced the fronts when the vibration was really horrible.  And the tread on mine is still good.  Did find these and looking into them around the web.  Should be able to find someone to drill the holes a little bigger to fit, if I can't find some to fit the current holes.

(http://www.raceways.co.uk/images/standard-steel-inserts-new.JPG)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on September 03, 2017, 08:08:37 PM
Those inserts look like they are for Cosmic wheels. Are they in the correct 3/8" size?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 03, 2017, 08:18:00 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on September 03, 2017, 07:17:56 PM
... And the tread on mine is still good.
Yeah. No need to get rid of good tires if some place will work with them for mounting.  Does the date code on them mean they are still good?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 04, 2017, 09:21:50 AM
They weren't labeled for anything specific, was just going of the given dimensions they would work if I can find someone to drill my wheels.

Here's the link; http://www.raceways.co.uk/Alloy_wheel_steel_insert_standard_size.htm
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 04, 2017, 09:24:25 AM
You don't want to fit them in the current holes as they're not round.....I would think you need someone to drill them accurately so you don't continue the issue you have now.

Or just buy some new wheels and be done with it......

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 04, 2017, 09:37:48 AM
I'd probably be buying new wheels if my lug holes were screwed up.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 04, 2017, 02:16:51 PM
Another reason I think these would be best since they will fit the area but require the holes to be drilled.  Gonna make some calls around tomorrow and go from there.  I have some other possibly crazy ideas brewing.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 05, 2017, 12:14:27 PM
Found a shop in Dallas that does steel inserts.  YAY!  Took some calling around and shops recommending other shops but got there.  Minette Enterprises.  They even have the inserts so I don't have to buy them from the UK.  But, now I need a set of 60 degree 3/8 lug nuts.  Anyone have a set I could buy?  I have 2 different size mag shank style if you need some.

Random thought, am I going to need longer studs?  Geez...
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 05, 2017, 02:17:55 PM
You may need longer studs, but they are a common thread size......3/8-24 .

I may have some lug nuts for you, I bought them new for Buzz but they didn't fit my wheels, lemme go make sure they're 60* nuts.......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 05, 2017, 03:21:54 PM
Thanks Dave, I did some google and it recommends 9 turns of engagement on a stud for a lug nut to be secure.  I'm figuring that is threads/full turns. 

I looked at the studs, my minifin drums have the long ones, but those aren't scheduled to go on yet. 

Of course to fix the wheels I have to have the tires unmounted.  Then I'm sure I'll have to have them rebalanced after they are fixed.  Checked the date code and it was like 3613, so tires should be good for awhile.  If I get them to stop vibrating and we keep having this glorious weather the tread won't last.... 71.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 06, 2017, 08:53:49 AM
Here are the ones I have, one set are new - narrow seat chrome nuts new from MiniSpares, the others are used and still good, but the outsides are scuffed up and they have the wide seat.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 06, 2017, 10:08:31 AM
Thanks Dave, looking at them I'd say the wide seat will be what I'd need to fit the inserts.  Do you know what size socket the wide seat ones take?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 06, 2017, 10:21:06 AM
13/16", smaller ones are 11/16", so only 1/16" smaller on a side.......it allows you to use them on wheels with thicker webs.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2017, 06:42:41 AM
Ok, thanks.  I know the ones on there now are 3/4"  The new ones I got from Australia are bigger and I can't fit my socket on them.  I'll check the size on those when I get home.  Also looked up some thin walled wheel sockets.

So opinion question.  Which would be better.  Enlarge the wholes slightly and use the shank style nuts I got from Australia (pending a thin wall socket will fit them) or have 60 degree inserts installed and use the appropriate nuts.

I'd figure the 60 degree way would give more of a guarantee to centering the wheel.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 07, 2017, 09:51:26 AM
Not only that, but it makes the wheels a lot easier to put on......those shank style nuts are a PITA, IMHO.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2017, 05:14:03 PM
So, I had the wife contact the sellers wife, they became facebook friends, about any wheel issues and how the husband used to get them on.  I was right, he used his best judgement to get them centered and the wife remembers vibrations at highway speeds. 

The old engineering brain was rumbling away again today and I came up with an idea.  I used the new lugs that are larger but only fit certain holes to attempt to center the wheels.  One side hopefully worked great as they fit two opposing holes.  Now I can't tighten these down all the way because of the socket issue, but they held the wheel while I tightened the other two then pulled them out and fitting the other originals.  The other side was a little more of an adventure because it only fit one hole.  So 3/8 stud meet 3/8 drive deep socket.  Yep, found one that fit the hole the best and used it in the opposing hole.  Then tightened the other two, removed the socket and large one and tightened those two.  I'll take it for a ride to work tomorrow and see what happens.  Definitely not a permanent fix, but maybe a for now solution.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 08, 2017, 05:33:57 AM
So far so good on the lug nut rig.  No rattling couplers on the drive to work this morning.  Will get the real test later on the way home when I go out and get it over 55.

Update:  Yep, smooth as glass.  Yay for solving the problem, now when I get time I can fix it properly.  Looking forward to driving the car more  71.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 16, 2017, 10:36:49 AM
Yay for the latest.  Odd noise this time, almost sounds like a whrrrring sound, kind of like trying to start but not getting enough power.  Car starts, runs, ect, just trying to describe the sound.

Here are the symptoms:  Only does it between 1500-2000 rpm and only with the headlights on.  Below that it fades, above it goes away.  Turn the lights off, but still have the parking lights on it goes away.  I have a recording of it on my phone I'll try and upload.  Just today figured out the only when the lights on part, so I'll definitely be checking electrical connections.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 16, 2017, 10:53:19 AM
Since it's associated with electrical load, it sounds like the alternator.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 16, 2017, 11:43:00 AM
So if no loose connections then possibly going bad?  Why do car issues follow me with every vehicle I have.  Lol. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 16, 2017, 12:13:36 PM
It's an old car, things go wrong with them.....unless you start from scratch and rebuild everything you're always going to have something to do to it. Chances are it's a bad bearing in the alt, the easiest, cheapest fix is to simply replace it. Add it to your order at MiniSpares!   ;D

The green car I have - I put in a new alt, new suspension, rebuilt the upper control arms, all the bushings, rebuilt the rear control arms, all the rear brakes, all the front brakes, new wheel bearings, new ball joints, new radiator and fan belt, I replaced all the window and door seals - and yesterday I found a bad steering boot....the heater door rattles, the heater valve - that I tried yesterday for the first time in almost a year - is stuck, the windows need attention as they drag and won't go down all the way,  - and this was on a car that ran and drove fine!   ;D

Not to mention the tiny spot of rust on top of the fender that will need attention - and I'm sure there's more.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 16, 2017, 12:29:28 PM
Sounds like my list of to do's.  It's going to be a fun winter.  I'll check out what they have as I have one more order to place with them before I have everything I need.... for now  ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 28, 2017, 12:49:45 PM
Love these finicky cars.  So, got my last shipment of parts, which included the new high output alternator.  Figured had a few minutes last night so just pop it on.  Yea, not quite.  It all "fits" but would need the sleeve adjusted on one of the top mounting points and the larger fan on it hits my adjustment bracket.   Didn't feel like messing with all that so just put the noisy one back on.  Well, this morning it stopped being noisy.  Guess I..  I don't know, maybe the belt was loose, both times, but this time I got it tight enough?  Who knows.  Back to driving it.  I'll get the big one figured out later.

One question though, I know it is for the newer cars, and am wondering about the extra blade connector and other connections on the back of it and if I need them?  I'll snap a pic of it later. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 08, 2018, 04:42:20 PM
So, not pertaining to my mini but my truck.  I recently put a manual choke weber carb on and don't like the push pull choke cable.  The pull twist one in my mini is much nicer.  Anyone have one of these or know of a local place I can source one or similar?  Can't find any except at minispares but don't need any other parts for the mini.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on January 08, 2018, 05:01:14 PM
I still have the old one from my Moke.  It is 31" long.  Will that be long enough?  If so, yours for postage, which should be about $6.65 (USPS flat rate envelope).

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 08, 2018, 05:11:29 PM
And that's what I was afraid of with a mini one.  That is too short, looks like I need closer to 50".  Thanks. 
Maybe mine will break in after awhile and slide a little easier
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 08, 2018, 05:52:15 PM
I've got a new one, but no ways it's 50'' long......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on January 08, 2018, 08:41:19 PM
Make sure there are no sharp turns in it.  Make sure the choke mechanism on the carb itself is not binding.

Also, you can lubricate the choke cable slightly.  Most folks I've seen post about lubing the choke and accelerator cables on Minis recommend a "dry" lube such as a graphite based one or some of the lubes for key locks that are either graphite or silicon based.

There are differing approaches recommended as well.  Most seem to have the objective of getting a light amount of lube most of the length of the sleeve.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 09, 2018, 08:11:14 AM
Here's one at 7 Enterprises, 46" long, twist and lock......

https://www.7ent.com/products/choke-cable-46-bhh0526.html (https://www.7ent.com/products/choke-cable-46-bhh0526.html)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 09, 2018, 04:55:50 PM
Thanks Dave and I got all excited cause I still have my prize certificate.  Then I found it and it expired Dec 31st. 

The reason NOT to order from 7ent.  22.95 for the cable 14.50 for shipping.  SERIOUSLY it's 1 lb if that cable.

Guess I'll call and see what, if anything they can do.  Not getting my hopes up.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on January 09, 2018, 06:14:46 PM
The folks at 7Ent have accommodated different shipping for me in the past.  You usually have to ask as their website quotes UPS only. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on January 09, 2018, 06:15:05 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on January 09, 2018, 04:55:50 PM
Thanks Dave and I got all excited cause I still have my prize certificate.  Then I found it and it expired Dec 31st. 

The reason NOT to order from 7ent.  22.95 for the cable 14.50 for shipping.  SERIOUSLY it's 1 lb if that cable.

Guess I'll call and see what, if anything they can do.  Not getting my hopes up.

Seven is more than doubling the UK retail price of that choke cable (MiniSpare sells it for £7 = $9.50) AND they overcharge for shipping too?!

Companies really should wise up on crazy shipping charges.   Millions of shoppers are getting VERY used to the Amazon model with 'free' or low cost shipping combined with getting their order in 2 days or less.  That trend is spreading quickly for other online retailers and the old days of having a shipping dept as an additional profit center just can't be sustained.


Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 10, 2018, 04:45:53 PM
I called them up and they honored the certificate.  Of course he wan't to know why that cable cause it was going to be too long for the mini.  Will be nice to have it on the toyota. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 20, 2018, 08:23:25 PM
So the tear down has begun.  So far got everything out of the boot, with a few surprises.  And most of the interior removed. 

Question on the interior, what is the best way to remove the "glued down" panels?  Like over the rear wheel wells and the carpet around the fronts. 

Any tips on getting the door glass out?  I have roll up windows, even though they are a little different due to the vent windows.  I have a request for help on that in to a mini club in Australia.

   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 20, 2018, 10:02:38 PM
Glued panels?  8.gif

I've never had my hands on those rare Aussie doors either.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 21, 2018, 09:30:34 AM
I guess really the question is what won't the blaster remove?  If there is glue residue left over after I peel off the vinyl and carpet.

I'm attempting to get some help with the doors from some Aussie's I've met online.  Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 09:43:59 AM
The blaster will cut trees in half, so glue shouldn't be a problem.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: drmini on January 21, 2018, 10:20:43 AM
Someone above was complaining about choke cable prices and shipping charges from Seven. If one considers that US suppliers (to keep it in stock and ready to ship) have to order it from England, pay for it & shipping from England, pay import duties, rent a warehouse/office, and pay someone to take the order, the $22.95 is not much profit , all things considered. The same cable from Mini Sport USA is $24.95 and I'm pretty sure it would be dropshipped from England.  Not sure. Even still, have you paid for shipping small stuff out of England?  It certainly isn't cheap.  As far as the $14 something that Seven charges, they have to buy a box as well as pay someone to box it up to ship.  As an experiment take that one pound or less cable to the nearest UPS store and ask them for cost to pack and ship via UPS to Auburn California.  I bet it's comparable to what Seven charges. The best way to cut shipping costs is to buy quantities and the shipping costs average out to less per item.  I don't really have a dog in this fight, but I do know if we enthusiasts don't keep the US suppliers in business then we will be forced to rely on contacting and shipping from England.  Add some time and import duties on top of that and then tell me how it works for you when you desperately need that one small part ASAP.  Rant over.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 10:36:16 AM
Yeah I dunno Hugh.  I like 7 and order from them in a pinch or need something yesterday, though that's rare. Spares shipping is often times as quick or quicker than stateside on small orders ironically enough.  Here's a quote on a brake cable to show the difference.  I suspect there just isn't any money in mini parts.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on January 21, 2018, 04:13:14 PM
Quote from: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 10:36:16 AM
I suspect there just isn't any money in mini parts.

The fact that MiniSpares, MiniSport, Huddersfield Mini Spares, MiniMania, Seven, etc. continue to exist seems to disagree.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 21, 2018, 04:26:31 PM
Quote from: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 09:43:59 AM
The blaster will cut trees in half, so glue shouldn't be a problem.

Sounds good.  With that power what's my chances of damaging the car?

Not finding any help out there about the doors so may just have to wing it.  YAY!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 04:35:44 PM
Quote from: BruceK on January 21, 2018, 04:13:14 PM
Quote from: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 10:36:16 AM
I suspect there just isn't any money in mini parts.

The fact that MiniSpares, MiniSport, Huddersfield Mini Spares, MiniMania, Seven, etc. continue to exist seems to disagree.

Stateside that is.  7 and mania offer other services which I would guess is how they make any real money.  Most of us know it's cheaper to buy overseas 999 times out of 1000.  They need parts on hand to run a shop.  Selling parts at marked up prices just comes with the territory since they pay almost identical to what any of us would.  Remember that I have imported crates of panels and was hooked into a supplier of mechanical parts at wholesale prices.  It was a waste of time except that I need the parts on hand for projects to both expedite the process and cut my parts overhead down by about 25%.  I'd have to sell a million a year in choke cables and that ain't happening.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 04:41:42 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on January 21, 2018, 04:26:31 PM
Quote from: 94touring on January 21, 2018, 09:43:59 AM
The blaster will cut trees in half, so glue shouldn't be a problem.

Sounds good.  With that power what's my chances of damaging the car?

Not finding any help out there about the doors so may just have to wing it.  YAY!

Flat panels you need to hold it 18 inches away and attack at an angle.  Otherwise you may as well kick the paint off with your boots. Anything interior wise you can be right up on it just fine.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 22, 2018, 07:32:55 PM
Got some wonderful pics and information on the doors from minisport in Australia.  Yay! 

Latest progress pic.. Who you calling ugly?  ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 23, 2018, 07:24:26 PM
Other than the instructions having the door side/which way to rotate the remote lock mechanism backwards that resulted in a slice to the hand I got one door completely dismantled.  Which you have to do to get the locking mechanism out.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on January 23, 2018, 09:23:42 PM
Keep a good copy of those instructions.  Jims5543 may want a copy of them as his pickup also has the Australian doors.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 24, 2018, 07:09:22 AM
Will do, already printed them out and tucked them safely into my big orange mini book.  Which has basic instructions, but no pictures.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 27, 2018, 07:39:00 PM
Whew!  Got the front wiring completely out of the car.  Pulled the radiator/no drain plug fun.  Drained the master cylinders and removed, those cotter pins will be fun to get back in.  Pulled the exhaust and the main power wire running the car.  Thanks to Bruce for coming by to help. 

Think it's just about stripped down.  Probably going to pull the back side windows but thats about it.  No major surprises.  Will be interesting to see if anything pops up after blasting.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 01, 2018, 06:47:41 PM
Pulled all the glass, thanks Dan for the removal tip.  Also pulled out the headliner and dome light.  Found out why the dome light didn't work, and it's amazing the car didn't burn to the ground.  Now it didn't work when I bought it but I never cared so I didn't investigate.  The headliner beams are color coded, but I also marked them front to back like 3 different ways.  Lol. 

Bruce, my roof does have padding on it, lol.  Also found lots more locations of original color. 

So, um, here's the dome light wiring, or should I say, what's left of it.  There was a burn mark in the headliner.  Have no idea how it didn't catch fire.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 01, 2018, 07:06:38 PM
Yeah, they didn't bother to put a grommet in where the wire comes thru the metal, and that feed wire is always hot - it grounds thru the door switches.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 01, 2018, 07:27:48 PM
Yea, I wonder how far it goes and if it damaged anything else.  It all works.

Dave, I think I cracked the neck on my radiator trying to get the cap off and Bruce mentioned an ebay radiator that you like.  Do you have a link?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on February 01, 2018, 07:54:53 PM
That wiring is scary.    Are you thinking of perhaps getting a fresh new wiring loom? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 01, 2018, 08:01:23 PM
There are a bunch on Ebay, this is just one choice.....  https://www.ebay.com/itm/2Row-Aluminum-Radiator-Fit-For-59-97-Austin-Rover-Mini-Cooper-1275-Racing-/322647020520 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/2Row-Aluminum-Radiator-Fit-For-59-97-Austin-Rover-Mini-Cooper-1275-Racing-/322647020520)

You can buy just the rear harness, which will include these wires all the way forward to the firewall.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 01, 2018, 08:44:42 PM
I saw them on mini spares.  Think best idea since not sure what all may be damaged inside the loom?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 01, 2018, 08:57:04 PM
Yea, either un-tape the entire loom and replace all the crispy wires, or simply buy the harness already done.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on March 03, 2018, 02:36:13 PM
After a long day of disassembly, Mark has begun stripping this thing.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on March 03, 2018, 03:37:23 PM
Cool.   I was wondering how he was doing. 

Aany pix of how the car looks now? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on March 03, 2018, 05:18:35 PM
He and the pressure washer ran out of gas.  I'll finish the blasting in a few days.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on March 04, 2018, 07:10:37 PM
Ran out of gas is putting it politely. Also have lost all desire to go to the beach ever again.  Was glad to get the engine out and the subframes home so I can clean and assemble them. I'll post some pics eventually.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 01, 2018, 03:18:00 PM
Finally got around to taking the rear arms off the subframe.  Any tips on getting the front body mount off the rear subframe?  According to the book the nut is the only thing holding it on, but it wont budge.  The one with the nut on the outside came right off.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 01, 2018, 03:28:58 PM
Only a nut that hold each trunion on.  The front pin needs to be held in place or it rotates when you loosen/tighten it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 01, 2018, 03:43:21 PM
That's the problem, they didn't rotate as I took the nut off.  I got the nut off.  I can't get the assembly out.  I can rotate the mount and lots of dirt comes out of the subframe but it wont budge.  Maybe after I give it a thorough soak with degreaser and pressure wash it'll loosen up. 

If it did rotate, is there a special tool to insert into the 2 little holes at the end to hold it?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 01, 2018, 03:49:44 PM
Take a hammer and punch to it and don't be timid.   

I always just use vice grips to hold it when tightening up, but I'm sure there's a tool available.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2018, 10:14:06 AM
looking for pros and cons of powder coating the subframes and suspension arms on these cars?  Good idea, bad idea, experiences.  Thanks
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on May 03, 2018, 11:39:08 AM
I had the subframes of my Traveller powder coated back when I completed that car about 20 years ago.   The subframes looked absolutely perfect when I assembled the car.   Then, I never thought about them again as they became "used" and covered with the usual road coatings.    IMO, not really useful or needed - it's not like you need to protect them from salt here in Texas.   I'd just go with a good painting.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 03, 2018, 11:41:20 AM
If you don't powder coat I'd do por-15 chassis paint.  They ultimately turn filthy like Bruce says.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 03, 2018, 01:01:24 PM
How much por-15 would I need to do both subframes?  Is the prep product necessary if not starting from complete bare metal?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 03, 2018, 01:08:56 PM
Degreased and de-rusted is all you'd need to do.  I suspect a quart is plenty to do the subframes, arms, and hubs. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 03, 2018, 01:24:22 PM
I'll bet a pint would do it.....I painted mine with Rustyoleum and used about 1/4 of the quart I bought.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 03, 2018, 01:30:07 PM
I know that a half pint at most did the block, and that was 2 coats to get good coverage. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 06, 2018, 06:06:50 PM
Question. Is the pivot shaft a part to replace just because I have it apart or if the shaft and bearings look good and fresh just reassemble it?  I only ask cause mine look really good and definitely not original and I know it's an ordeal to replace them.  The Haynes manual doesn't even attempt it and tells you to take it to a dealer. Lol.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 07, 2018, 03:12:57 PM
Additional question:  If I don't replace them, what's the best way to protect them or the best way to clean an arm with the bearings in place?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 07, 2018, 03:15:44 PM
You can clean it down with kerosene or mineral spirits, then just re-grease the bearings before you put it back together.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 08, 2018, 09:55:17 AM
It's things like this I'd really like a parts washer, but not sure about having all that sitting in my garage all the time. 

Dan, what cleaner is in your parts/hand washer?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 08, 2018, 10:55:56 AM
Purple power!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on May 08, 2018, 12:00:31 PM
Second on the Purple Power.
It will strip paint if you let it sit for a week or two.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 08, 2018, 01:52:53 PM
Do you usually use the pump/washer or is it more of just a soak thing?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 08, 2018, 02:09:21 PM
Both.  I'll let things soak to help loosen up grime, then run the pump when I'm brushing the grime off.  It's a very handy tool, plus the top doubles as more work bench when the lid is down.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 08, 2018, 03:20:33 PM
Ok, thanks.  Back to the pivot shaft, just pulled it completely apart and wiped the grease off and can see signs of scoring and corrosion build up.  No way to fix this I'd presume so probably going to replace. 

Since no one probably has the service manual removal/installation tools for the bearings what is the procedure? 

I found minidave's post with a brief description on his green mini, I'll have to dig out my new parts and books to put pictures to words.  Any additional tips appreciated.

Dug out the new parts and makes sense.  So I guess my question would be how do you get the needle bearings out and the other ends sleeve out? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 08, 2018, 04:52:49 PM
If you're talking about the rears, I'd just run those up to Dan, he has the special reamer you need to resize the brass bushings after you install them. Getting the old ones out is just a matter of having the right sized drift and knowing where to hit them. There's also a plastic sleeve inside.....you buy the kit - it has the bearings, bushings, sleeve, shaft and all the bits you need in it - last time I bought one they were about $11 a side.

You'll need two of these....

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Suspension/Rear/Hydro/GSV1125.aspx?190702&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/radius arm bearing kit.aspx|Back to search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Suspension/Rear/Hydro/GSV1125.aspx?190702&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/radius%20arm%20bearing%20kit.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 08, 2018, 05:57:37 PM
Yea I have the kits. That's how I was able to visualize your write up on the green mini post.

These aren't like a engine where after you bore it once you can't really do it again?  I ask cause I'd guess these aren't the originals. If they are they are in great shape after 53 years.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 08, 2018, 06:09:05 PM
I have to punch out the bearings, press in the new bearings, then ream the non roller bearing side for the pin to slide through.  Unless a bearing has spun, everything will be just fine.  $100 for the pair painted if you have the repair kits and have them de-scaled and all gunk removed.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 08, 2018, 06:33:44 PM
Ok I get it. So the sleeve that's not on the arm yet is the piece that needs reamed.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 08, 2018, 06:40:13 PM
Not sure I understand your lingo, but bearing that needs reamed is pressed in first. It's reamed.  Plastic sleave is fitted.  Roller bearings pressed in.  Then pin, big washer looking pieces, nuts, rubber collars are fitted.  It's greased via the zerk.  Presto it's like new!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 09, 2018, 06:02:41 PM
Sorry I meant the bearing. It's the one piece in the kit that's loose.

Dave, do you or anyone else have drift recommendations?  I know the brass ones. Remember using one with Bruce doing his hub bearings. Going to need a long slender on to punch these out.

Dan I'll keep that in mind and if all else fails I'll clean them up and send them your way.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 09, 2018, 07:14:15 PM
Can you take a photo of what's loose?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 09, 2018, 07:20:12 PM
Here is the kit. The bearing, assuming the piece that needs reamed, is the only piece loose in the package.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 09, 2018, 08:02:29 PM
Lol, yes, that is correct.  I was so confused  :D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 11, 2018, 01:54:23 PM
I finally got some free time to wetblast.  Still a bit more to go but shouldn't take much more than half a day.  My arms had enough today.  Overall solid car.  Only have a few areas to deal with, primarily both floor pans and corners.  Random patch work and the valance needs replaced.  Didn't have tons of layers of paint either.  One layer on the body, one super thin layer inside, and two layers on the roof. Floor coating crap came up fairly easily, just lots of it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 11, 2018, 02:01:35 PM
Wow, interesting to see it right after, what a mess.  Looks like the roof decal pealed off in some pieces.  Glad it's in pretty decent shape and excited to see it cleaned up.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 11, 2018, 02:09:07 PM
Your floor has no drain holes, which makes this interesting.  You'll be getting drain holes.  Maybe I weld them back up when I'm done  20.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 11, 2018, 02:53:36 PM
Some acid treatment before I go.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 11, 2018, 06:02:36 PM
Quote from: 94touring on May 11, 2018, 02:09:07 PM
Your floor has no drain holes, which makes this interesting.  You'll be getting drain holes.  Maybe I weld them back up when I'm done  20.gif

I remember you mentioning that when I was there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 21, 2018, 09:21:11 AM
First round of demo work done. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on July 21, 2018, 09:26:39 AM
Flintstones!  Meet the Flintstones!   ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 21, 2018, 10:36:38 AM
I was thinking more Jack Sparrow.  "Stop blowing holes in my SHIP!"(MINI that is)

Otherwise looking good, glad to see the garbage going out.  Yay, I seriously need to get to work on the subframes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 21, 2018, 11:04:12 AM
Less Flintstone/Sparrow. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 21, 2018, 06:49:56 PM
Used my eBay UK tool find to remove the rear arm bearings today.  Worked like a peach.  Put arm in vice. Insert tool. Hammer out bearings. Hopefully it works this smoothly putting them back in. And I do the included reamer correctly.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 26, 2018, 11:00:38 AM
Sealer primer on, filler going on in about 30 minutes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 26, 2018, 11:13:06 AM
Moving right along......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 26, 2018, 11:36:04 AM
Outside yes.  Looks good already. 

Inside not so much.  Turns out that 65-72 Australian cars have one and only unique floors.  They have a special tunnel in them for the hydro and fuel lines.  So I found one and am having it shipped expensively and somewhat slowly from Australia.  Yay unique cars.

Speaking of which, I may not have brought/left those up there.  Or did I?  They were 2 long narrow flimsy pieces of metal that go under the car and cover those channels.   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 26, 2018, 11:55:56 AM
Those are here.  Wondered what they were.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 26, 2018, 12:11:54 PM
That's good.  Yea they bolt to the underneath of the floor to cover those unique channels.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 28, 2018, 12:50:21 PM
Well since 14 days Australian time is actually only 4 days my floor pan has arrived.  So I cleaned up my rear arms.  Omg at the grease inside.  Didn't realize the arm seams hollow and that cavity is huge.   Stripped with wire wheels and drill. Workout.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 28, 2018, 01:06:46 PM
That is why the rear arms are supposed to have a sleeve over the hinge pin between the bushing and the bearing: to reduce the amount of grease required and keep it to the bearing and bushing.

Unfortunately, somewhere along the line, the sleeves were changed from metal to plastic and tend to burst easily.  When the plastic ones burst (or get left out entirely), it means trying to properly grease the arms ends up filling the whole cavity - using lots of grease.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 28, 2018, 03:23:36 PM
Yea I can see that.  Mine were intact, but were a little deformed at the ends.  So not surprised at the amount of grease in there.  Por 15 paint is on it's way.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 29, 2018, 01:16:39 PM
Finished the rear arm bearings and shaft replacements.  Reaming was an interesting exercise.  Second one of course went way easier.

Of course about the time I finished I threw something in the trash and heard a metallic clank. Turns out my thought to be deformed plastic sleeves were actually the metal ones.  Of course I find this after I've completed both arms.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 31, 2018, 06:36:45 PM
Coat of por15 on the rear arms.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 31, 2018, 07:12:05 PM
Nice!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 08, 2018, 06:08:03 PM
Anyone with an open dash mini or access to one, can you get me some measurements please?   

Height of opening
Depth near center at the top
Depth at top near the edge of the vent Slot for defroster.

Going to build a set up for my new toys.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 09, 2018, 03:50:39 PM
Here is a pic with reference lines for where I'd like the measurements.  Need the Height of the opening at the 2 yellow arrows.  Then also the depth of the dash area at the 4 corners of the yellow arrows.  So both top depths and both bottom depths.

Thanks
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 09, 2018, 05:19:51 PM
Or... you could just listen to the damn engine.   ;D

Seriously though, if you really want to hear tunes, you might consider mounting speakers in the gap under the rear seat.  That way they mostly hidden and don't dominate the looks of the interior by being modern in another wise old-school design aesthetic. 

Just my totally unsolicited opinion... ::)  But it's your ride, make the way you want it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 09, 2018, 06:10:01 PM
Yea I'm a music nut.  If there is something I love more than cars it's music. And it has to be done right. That location is horrible for sound.  They will be removable so no permanent damage to the car. 

As much as I enjoy engine music that constant droning will drive me nuts.  Engine songs are only enjoyable with the revs going up and down.  I guess the best way to describe it is the way people that don't get cars.  That's how most people look at me when it comes to music. Or put it another way.  That Ferrari 430 scuderia I drove on the track.... yea I'd put a stereo in it.   :-X
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 09, 2018, 06:15:24 PM
I can get the dimensions when I get back to town.  I'd consider having them on the lower dash pointing up, but obviously all up tp you.  The rear in conjunction with the fronts on my mini sounded really good. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 09, 2018, 07:11:14 PM
Ive considered putting the 6.5s back there. Going to mock some stuff up and play with it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: jedduh01 on August 10, 2018, 10:57:38 AM
By all means.. just to offer a different idea.. I prefer keeping the dash shelf open + un  cluttered. This is COMPLETELY your build.

But to get good sound youre totally correct . you do need something up front  and a rear to make it work "full" sounding

For my front setups  = I have found I very much like hanging speaker from under the front shelf.

my 63'    6.5 Pioneers -  Wood carpeted box.   = Plan to downsize to a 3.5 speaker set+ smaller box hanging.
  In the end they put out good sound + but boxes are a bit bulky.
     I also have 2 6 x 9's under the rear seat driven with an amp = but in all honesty it isnt ggreat sound back there = i always push more to front = let the rears fill some bass.

  I had a 94'   =   
Front ==  3.5's in smaller boxes under the dash shelf
  rear = 6.5's   or mabye even 6's - in the rear parcel shef
     This was an absolute ROCKIN for sound.   Loved it
  I also added a 10" single sub in the boot ( square truck box)   Bumpin...
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 10, 2018, 11:29:25 AM
Doncha hit your foot on those every time you get in and out of the car?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 10, 2018, 01:46:36 PM
That's what I was wondering also.  If I put just the 3's and tweeters in the dash shelf.  Then put the 6.5s in the parcel shelf, since they will just be midbass drivers.  I will also have  a 10" sub in the boot. 

Did you isolate the backside of the 6's from the sub?  I had 2 12's in the trunk of my accord and they would distort the rear deck 6X9s like crazy.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 10, 2018, 01:53:54 PM
Don't cut up your mint parcel shelf  :(
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 10, 2018, 02:46:23 PM
 :D  Ummm. yea, you mean that swiss cheese piece of metal that already had 2 big holes in it, then we drilled several more so it'd have enough meat for the rotisserie?  I'll try not to damage it further.

At one point I thought about cutting holes in the rear side bins and flush mounting them in a little enclosure in there.  But that's permanent damage. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 10, 2018, 04:15:46 PM
Looking so much better. Nice.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 10, 2018, 04:32:04 PM
Guess I've had the 66 rear parcel on my mind.  Oh...the rotisserie plates are still covering the shelf, so looks mint right now!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 10, 2018, 04:39:33 PM
Those subframes look great, paint or powdercoat?

I'll be getting a pair of subframes for a Moke tomorrow freshly powdercoated to build.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 10, 2018, 04:49:38 PM
Por15 I believe  4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 10, 2018, 05:26:51 PM
Dave got it with second guess. Powder coated.  $350 for blasted, pre baked to remove all impurities then coated.  Figured for that price it'd save me a weekend of work. Of course work offering OT really made it easier to pick.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 11, 2018, 05:20:29 PM
So were these always made out of aluminum?  Figured they are original cause of the pre 76 shape.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on August 11, 2018, 07:33:37 PM
I don't know, but that might explain why the subframe bolts freeze into them so badly.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2018, 06:19:09 PM
Ok, so it looks like I've misplaced one of these inserts in the steering arms. Of course I didn't even know they came out until I was cleaning them up this evening.  Shot in the dark but does anyone have an extra one laying around?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 15, 2018, 07:19:44 PM
FAM6924 on Minipares, just FYI.

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Steering/FAM6924.aspx?18&ReturnUrl=/product/Classic/Suspension/Front/Hydro/BTA896.aspx|Back%20to (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Steering/FAM6924.aspx?18&ReturnUrl=/product/Classic/Suspension/Front/Hydro/BTA896.aspx%7CBack%20to)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 15, 2018, 07:35:41 PM
Yea figured they had them but since my big box of stuff showed up today it's a little late to add to my order
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 15, 2018, 07:39:50 PM
Yes.  PM me your address and I will send one out in the morning.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 16, 2018, 04:08:54 AM
Sent and Thanks!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 18, 2018, 07:56:26 PM
Well built up the front subframe today. Had to do the upper arm twice, bad diagram in the book. Should've known that little wing was for the bumpstop.  Had to do the lower arms twice. Looked the same, but went to fit the hub assembly and nope, won't go in. Flip it over and dang it  50.gif. Lots of new shiny parts. Anyone see anything out of place please point it out. 

Main question was is the no washer or like that goes between the lower arm bush and the subframe?  I don't see one on my old ones and it seems to fit right.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2018, 07:54:50 AM
Forgot to mention I put the hub on upside down too.  Guess after switching the lower arms I completely failed to pay attention that the caliper bolts go towards the front.  I was going to have some wicked camber.

Random thought revelation this morning too.  I figured out where the missing steering arm pin/barrel might be.  Stuck in the old hubs, yep, sure enough there it was.  This thing is going to take forever to put back together doing things twice. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 19, 2018, 08:05:48 AM
I think you're doing just fine.  The first time usually involves doing things twice. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2018, 08:48:31 AM
Thanks, I'm definitely going to have an intimate knowledge of these cars when I'm done.

Another question.  Anyone using shims or retaining springs on the 7.5" cooper disc brakes for the pads?  I'm pretty sure I got everything for the kit, but the pads were seperate so I'm going to go look.  They are the MINTEX pads.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2018, 12:30:17 PM
Brake question. Does the hole in the switch assemble have to line up with the holes in the 2 way pipe connector?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 19, 2018, 12:55:14 PM
Huh?  What? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on August 19, 2018, 01:01:56 PM
No.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2018, 01:19:53 PM
Totally forgot to post pick.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 19, 2018, 01:22:47 PM
Nope, but use some new copper washers. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2018, 02:44:10 PM
Ok good, yep got those with the new braided line kit.  Which of course unknowingly I put on the wrong sides.  That's going to be par for course.  Now I know what the yellow band on the one was for.  Geez.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 20, 2018, 10:54:14 AM
Mark sent up some fancy seat brackets and since it's getting a new x member, now was a good time to add captive nuts.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 11:41:03 AM
Looks good.  extra leg room for us leggy types.   71.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 20, 2018, 12:05:45 PM
I have those, the only problem is the companion boxes on the sides stop the seats from going back as far as they can.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 12:45:17 PM
Disc brake dust shields.   Need them, don't need them?  Didn't get them because I didn't think about that I didn't have them and the disc conversion kit I referenced didn't have them.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 20, 2018, 01:04:51 PM
I took mine off, haven't noticed any negative effects since.....I wouldn't worry about them.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: jedduh01 on August 20, 2018, 01:08:12 PM
I dont run them on my 63.

My former other later model car had them = since they had some age = at one point the flimsy metal bracket broke
  From vibration fatigue and on a trip that let loose and the back plate rubbed itself on the rotor= They were annoying.

I THINK i hit a rainstorm once or hit a  heavy puddle once and had some extra water splash on the disk and felt the brakes take an extra moment to get their bite but not a worrysome thing.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 01:18:49 PM
Glad I forgot them.   77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 20, 2018, 01:30:18 PM
Toss the dust shields in the trash.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 20, 2018, 01:41:06 PM
We seem to have a consensus!   ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 20, 2018, 01:52:36 PM
So.... I can start collecting disc brake shields and corner the market when you guys all change your minds and want to use them again?    ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 20, 2018, 01:54:35 PM
Mark decided to source an Aussie floor pan, so out with the new and in with the new!  X member in place and needs some clamping toward the center before I can get carried away with welding
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 20, 2018, 01:56:12 PM
Quote from: BruceK on August 20, 2018, 01:52:36 PM
So.... I can start collecting disc brake shields and corner the market when you guys all change your minds and want to use them again?    ;D

There will be a new website in 50 years similar to BAT, but consist only of dust shields.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 20, 2018, 01:57:22 PM
I kept mine.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 02:03:46 PM
Quote from: 94touring on August 20, 2018, 01:54:35 PM
Mark decided to source an Aussie floor pan, so out with the new and in with the new!  X member in place and needs some clamping toward the center before I can get carried away with welding

Yea, may not have worried about it, but needed those bolt holes for the long thin line covers underneath.  And figured if I've gone this far might as well do it as back to normal as possible. 

Cross member looks good too. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 05:44:40 PM
Ok so I'm building the rear hubs.  It looks like the rear seal should seat against the bearing. Mine stopped a good 1/8th inch short so the bearing has play. Any tips to get it to go further?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 20, 2018, 07:05:23 PM
Well, there shouldn't be any lateral movement.  But you already know that.   Are you installing ball or roller bearings?  Did you get the outer races fully seated?   Did you get the grease seal fitted the right way? 

Two more things you probably already know: you can't mix and match pieces from different bearing sets - there are a matched set that can't be broken up.  And the left rear hub nut is reverse threaded.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 07:21:34 PM
They are roller bearings. Yes made sure not to mix them up. Races fully seated. Pretty sure I did. I'll post pic.

This is how I fitted it
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 07:49:11 PM
Looking at the pictures and remembering putting it together the bearing race seated on the second lip with the top of the race  below the first lip which looks like it stops the seal which would leave a gap between bearing and seal.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 20, 2018, 08:00:11 PM
With the outer bearing races fully seated against the stop in the hub, and the bearings fully packed with grease, the grease seal should sit down flush with the edge of the hub.    But I believe the Haynes manual says that the grease seal is fitted one way for ball bearings (lip facing the bearing) and the other way for tapered roller bearings (lip away from the bearing).  But I'm not sure that advice is widely followed.   In any case it's the same width fitted either way, so it can't be your issue. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 20, 2018, 08:07:26 PM
The bearings will be loose till you insert the axle and tighten the nut.....as Bruce says you should only seat the seal flush with the hub.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 20, 2018, 08:10:37 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on August 20, 2018, 07:49:11 PM
Looking at the pictures and remembering putting it together the bearing race seated on the second lip with the top of the race  below the first lip which looks like it stops the seal which would leave a gap between bearing and seal.

I had to read that a couple times before I understand what you're saying but there should be no gap. The grease seal will go flush up against the outer race and you can see that in this diagram.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 21, 2018, 05:03:35 AM
Bruce, which Haynes manual do you have?  Mine didn't mention anything about the type of bearings or have any pictures.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 21, 2018, 06:01:01 AM
That diagram is from a Haynes manual for the later Minis.  It's at home, but probably like 1985 on I think.  But, like a lot of stuff on our cars, the rear hub is the same for all years, 1959 - 2000.  Any Haynes manual should have lots of photos and diagrams.  What one do you have?

Also, regarding type of bearings:  most Minis came with ball bearings in the rear hubs.  Roller bearings were first fitted to the Cooper models in the 60s as an upgrade over ball bearings.  These days most people use the roller bearings.  The Haynes manual I have covers both types
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 21, 2018, 08:41:50 AM
I'm guessing mine is older and is not as full of pictures.  Looked through my big orange book too but nothing good in there.  I'll dig out the aussie book and see what i find.  Yea the old hubs I pulled off had the ball bearings in them.  They also have a metal lip on the back making getting the rear seal out a major pain.  I decided to just buy the new hubs and load the new bearings and longer studs for finned drums.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 21, 2018, 05:20:24 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on August 21, 2018, 05:03:35 AM
Bruce, which Haynes manual do you have?  Mine didn't mention anything about the type of bearings or have any pictures.

The diagram I showed you came from my Haynes manual with the dark blue cover.   But I also have this older one with the light blue cover. And the beat up orange cover one is the granddaddy of them all. That one came with my first Mini, and I've had it about 44 years. Used it to rebuild my car's engine when I was 19.  So it's very sentimental to me. 

But even the oldest one has plenty of diagrams and photos.   Which one do you have?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 22, 2018, 04:56:47 AM
Mine is orange, I'll try to remember to get a pic today, but it is lacking in photos compared to other ones I've had.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 22, 2018, 07:57:35 AM
Yea, I have the big orange shop manual also.  It has the Australian addition to it.  Also recently acquired a book from Australia that has really good pictures of the MK1 wind up doors.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 22, 2018, 09:49:14 AM
I'll get some pics of them when I get home.  It's a very rare book, only released in Australia I believe.  Found one on ebay over there and got my contact at minisport.aus to buy it and ship it with some parts.

Prior to that he was gracious enough to send me pictures of the pages in the copy he had about the doors.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 22, 2018, 02:46:14 PM
Here are my manuals. The right one is the Australian one.  Gregory's No 64.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 23, 2018, 08:17:59 AM
Had some time to play with the hub last night while the brother in law was replacing our garage door springs.  I've figured out how it all works together and the seal fitting and such, looks good to go. 

The thing I noticed was the pin the bearings go on is much wider the last half inch or so before the arm.  This is what will hold the bearing from moving around, not the grease seal which goes around this larger area of the pin.  Nothing beats real world visuals. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 10:42:53 AM
So what ALL could cause the rear hub to not rotate smoothly?  Or appear to not rotate in a perfect circle? 

When I spin it the hub rubs some of the brake components slightly on part of the rotation.  My thought is I didn't get the bearing races as perfectly seated as I thought.  Reason being I switched hubs and it rotated better, but you could still tell it wasn't perfect.

I'll build up the other arm and see if the really wobbly hub wobbles the same on the other arm. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 25, 2018, 12:06:25 PM
 The hubs are a cast piece – not machined on the outside and therefore there may be high and low parts.   Got a photo?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 12:34:08 PM
O yay, that was one thing I was wondering.  Because I put a ruler across one and spun it and the flange that the studs are in went by the same place every time.  May be grinding down the outside of the hub?

Found another thing, the hub that appears wobbly doesn't want to go onto the other stub.  Like not at all. 

I'll see if I can get some video or a pic, but it's getting a bit toasty out there now. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 25, 2018, 12:53:04 PM
 If the spinning hub is hitting a brake component such a shoe or spring it sounds like the brakes are not installed correctly. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 25, 2018, 01:10:43 PM
Some of these new brake backplates rub the drums once you torque down the wheels, requiring some shaving to be done. The hubs however once properly torqued down will spin a bit stiff at first, but shouldn't wobble.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 02:55:00 PM
I guess wobble was the wrong term.  The hub itself doesn't wobble it just may be the casting is not perfectly round so as it spins it rubs the brake spring.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 25, 2018, 03:12:44 PM
That's what I was thinking.  But I still wonder if you've got shoes and/or springs perhaps installed wrong?    Just because the car is from Oz doesn't mean things should be installed upside down.      ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 25, 2018, 04:02:47 PM
Maybe it spins backwards like their toilets.

OR. You probably have the spring on wrong.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 04:19:03 PM
Ha Ha.  The rear brakes came as an assembly.  But Bruce was right on both fronts.  One of the pads had slipped out of place and the one hub does seem to have a bulge on one side.  I took a video, but it's hard to make out with all the black in there.  As it spins the hub edge goes from like 1/4" clearance of the backing plate retaining bolt to probably less than an 1/8" clearance.  I put the drums on both and they rotated just fine, no binding or scraping so just an ugly casting.  Thanks guys!

Do need cotter pins, cause if I ordered them for the hubs they sent the wrong ones.  But maybe these are the ones for the front cause that hole is bigger.  No biggie, quick run to hardware store.

Did find my first duplicate ordered parts though.  I had already ordered the longer rear studs and the screw to hold down the drum.  Ordered them again with last order cause I forgot I put them in the box with the brake assemblies.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 04:26:49 PM
Pic
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 25, 2018, 04:28:06 PM
Hold on.  I found a stash of brand new cotter pins from MiniSpare last night when looking for a voltage stabilizer for Dave.  I can bring them over if you'd like.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 04:51:44 PM
Of course if you've read this thread since I started putting it back together I have put a lot together upside down.  Maybe I should stand down under while I build it then I won't have to keep redoing it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 25, 2018, 04:55:14 PM
Bruce, I sent you a text.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 26, 2018, 11:40:02 AM
Moving along toward the rear...
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 26, 2018, 12:05:11 PM
All the usual places
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 26, 2018, 12:46:54 PM
Wire wheeled, phosphoric acid treated, por 15 coated, and clamped together. Will weld once dry.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 03, 2018, 01:39:14 PM
Subframes completed and tourqued. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 03, 2018, 02:03:32 PM
Those look great, when do you think you'll see your shell again, best guess?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 03, 2018, 05:06:15 PM
Fairly soon.   I think all the metal work will wrap up this week.  Then bang out a paint job.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2018, 05:49:08 PM
I always forget about the Australian forum. I'm actually a member. 

Turned my British mk1 door latch into an Australian one. Hard to see, but my holes are threaded because this sits behind the sheet metal.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 07, 2018, 07:20:11 PM
Well done sir!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2018, 09:42:00 PM
Thanks. Tapping them was a pain cause they are loose in there and spin. 12-24 was not working. Then I started with 10-24 and moved up. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 08, 2018, 07:58:15 AM
If they are loose and spin, what will happen when you try to thread a screw into them? Won't they turn? And if you get them tight will you ever be able to remove them again? Cause, won't they just turn as you try to take the screws out? Maybe a little JB to stop them turning, or perhaps some solder?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 08, 2018, 09:15:07 AM
Those were my thoughts.  I did use one of my old ball bearings to smash down the back side a little more and that allows me to get the screw in without turning but a little safety net may be worth it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 25, 2018, 03:43:55 PM
All this tuning talk got me wondering what I had, I'd looked it up before but here it is. 

Bored 60 over.  Calver GT Head (stage 2) with Elgin 103 cam.  1.5 roller tip rockers and a 123 Distributor.

Head: https://www.7ent.com/products/cylinder-head-calver-special-tuning-gt-unleaded-sen0281.html

Cam: https://www.7ent.com/products/elgin-262-280-camshaft-fast-road-slot-drive-elg103.html

The engine is a 7ent built motor.  Just glad it came with the car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 04, 2019, 10:53:10 AM
CV question.  I have the new CV joint kits for the disc brake conversion.  I've watched a couple u-tube videos on it.  There is no grease packet in the box, but the joint is already filled with grease and has a plastic cover keeping it in.  Should I add more grease?  I've seen everything from that's enough to pack it and boot since that's all the grease it will ever get.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2019, 11:00:47 AM
I have some also for Clancy's car but I think I will try and pack a little more in before I boot it up. After all, the excess just goes into the boot....they probably have enough as it is, but a little more can't hurt is my idea. It won't take a lot. Be sure to use a Moly grease - one for CV joints. The pot joints OTOH just use a light, regular old axle grease...they don't need the moly.

On the boots, I find it a lot easier to install the boot clamps with the entire axle on the bench, then I put it back in the upright once it's all cinched up nicely. If you don't have the metal boot clamp tool, use zip ties, they work just fine. But on the outermost one you need the zip ties that are flat - that don't have the tab sticking up once it's tight, those will hit the hub.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 04, 2019, 11:03:11 AM
Ok, I've seen CV grease.  Probably avoid the synthetic versions since that's most likely not what's in there now?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2019, 11:04:04 AM
Synth is fine, just make sure it's the black, moly CV grease.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 04, 2019, 11:08:08 AM
Here's a picture hopefully. Lol. It's black grease in there. Gcv1013
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 04, 2019, 11:12:33 AM
I add extra to mine just cause more fits.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2019, 11:13:16 AM
Mine looked like they had more grease in them than that, I don't see any grease in there at all, so definitely pack them full!

I think your cylinder head is very similar to the one Dan bought - makes a lot of power! Don't know why they have so much exhaust lift with that cam, but with those 1.5 rockers the power will mostly be at the top of the RPM range. When I drove your car back to your house that night, since I had no clue where I was going and your bride was with me I took it very easy so I didn't get to feel what it had or where the power band was. We went with 1:4 rockers on Dan's car, so the power band is 3-6K and LOTS of torque.

It will be great for you to finally be able to run the car the way it was built - knowing you have a solid chassis under you and all the suspension and brakes are new!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on January 05, 2019, 12:47:10 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on January 04, 2019, 11:13:16 AM
We went with 1:4 rockers on Dan's car, so the power band is 3-6K and LOTS of torque.

I did a few things to get as much torque and streetabiity as possible.  Went with the 1.4 rockers as Dave mentions.  Head work is a must to get more power obviously.  Picked a cam that matches a street car, kent 266 in my case.  Then it was doing the maniflow manifold with longer straighter runners into the head and the longest velocity stacks I could fit.  The final touches of port matching and carb modifications have yet to be dynoed but the wideband says its pushing more air into the engine which equals more of that horsepower/torque thing we all want.  Gearing is a small factor as well in that a 2.76 will lug around, and a 3.76 will be too much for a regular street car.  3.10 to 3.44 is the way to go, my preference being 3.44.  My tiny tires really give me more of a 3.6 which if this was something I'd drive long hauls in wouldn't be desirable, but around town and twisty back roads it's unbeatable in the fun factor.

Also it should be added that a 1.75id exhaust with center muffler gives best power figures for a street car.  Maniflow stage 2 headers to match on a big bore.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 11, 2019, 12:05:59 PM
Yea, I look forward to playing with the motor once it's all back together. 

Just put in my interior order from Newton Commercial.  Brexit vote coming up on Jan. 15th and people are forcasting the pound to rise compared to the dollar. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 28, 2019, 06:34:11 AM
I haven't posted any updates in here in some time.  The metal work has been done and body prep underway.  A couple weeks ago ordered fiesta yellow from tcp globals auto color library to compare to the test fiesta yellow Mark had.  The auto color library is about the only source I know that has old formulas to be able to mix an exact match.  Did a side by side comparison and it's pretty close.  Had my paint supplier mix up half a gallon in the material I like to use and bought other shop supplies I've been short on.  Won't be long before it's got color on it.  Roof is going to be pepper white. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 28, 2019, 03:29:08 PM
Cool!   Going to be exciting to see it come together. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 04, 2019, 12:55:47 PM
Sanding and sanding and more sanding.  Still some minor low spots and a few dings to attend to.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 04, 2019, 01:02:35 PM
It all shows up in the sanding.  Nice that you can bag up the room so no more dust all over everything else.  Brings back nightmares of the tile removal in the house earlier this year. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 04, 2019, 01:05:50 PM
Yesterday was a day of shop cleanup.  Still dust and crap everywhere from just general shop work.  Can't imagine not having the plastic walls lowered and a fan exhausting the dust outside.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 04, 2019, 01:21:57 PM
Can't help the dust when you have a body shop....all you can do is manage it.

Can't wait to see some color going on.  4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 04, 2019, 01:47:41 PM
Won't be long now.  Calling it a day while some skim coat dries. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 25, 2019, 06:52:54 PM
We got color!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 26, 2019, 06:50:01 AM
Should get that clear on today.  Have one tiniest of runs hidden low along the gutter corner to knock down and one spot of sanding marks that showed up to quickly go over.  May not even notice them once clear is on but not worth the risk.  Then mask off the roof and focus on interior prep.  Body is 97.3% done.  I have to sand it down one last time with the final grit and need to seam seal a few spots. 

This is what I started with yesterday.  Little putty here and there for pin holes and the ever so slight low spot.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 26, 2019, 08:00:08 AM
I love it when the color starts to go on, the car starts to come back to life!  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 26, 2019, 12:32:40 PM
Nice and shiny.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 26, 2019, 12:50:18 PM
Good start!  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 26, 2019, 01:10:19 PM
Really went down smooth.  Just the standard few dust nubs.  Zero orange peel.  Pretty much perfect as is.  Some different light to illustrate.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 26, 2019, 05:03:20 PM
You beat me to the post of the pic.  That reflection is awesome.  I'm gonna have to lie when I start taking this around to shows or you're going to be flooded with requests. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 03, 2019, 05:30:11 PM
Been prepping the interior.  Got the dash rail dents gone.  Needs another vacuum and ready for some primer.  Roof is masked off.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 11, 2019, 03:42:16 PM
Went back and fixed up a section that had been bothering me.  The slam panel on this side had been badly mangled at some point in the car's life, and then hidden with filler.  I did the best I could to get it mostly straight but it still required a lot of filler, plus the lip on the engine bay side had jagged sharp edges.  Found a knockoff panel which I was hoping came with the seam, but it didn't which was fine, aside from it was tricky separating the two.  I really needed a scrap front end to steal the section from but I didn't have one available.  Turned out good nonetheless.  A dab of filler to smooth out ground down welds and won't even notice.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 11, 2019, 04:46:18 PM
 77.gif. This is why Dan is awesome. Any other person/shop would've just filled it back in and left it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 19, 2019, 04:17:08 PM
Interior prep moving along.  Have some more sanding on the visible panels to do then it's ready.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 13, 2020, 03:48:19 PM
This happened today.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 13, 2020, 03:58:05 PM
Fiesta time!
  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: G67mcs on May 13, 2020, 04:10:33 PM
Fiesta looks great!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 13, 2020, 06:58:18 PM
It's gonna pop with the black and houndstooth interior.  4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 15, 2020, 02:42:35 PM
Finally got the shell painted.  I will say it came out damn nice.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 15, 2020, 02:56:22 PM
I like it!

So much better than the color it was......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 15, 2020, 03:22:18 PM
 4.gif. Me too Dave, and it will all match.  No more red and silver with black on maroon. Like seriously. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on June 15, 2020, 04:49:00 PM
Great job Dan.  Looks super!   Can't wait to see further progress on this baby.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 16, 2020, 11:07:05 AM
Barely any color sanding to do.  Hit it with some 3000 grit was about it.  The bonnet is to keep splatter out of the engine bay.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on June 16, 2020, 11:24:24 AM
That is going to look really sweet when all done.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 16, 2020, 12:01:26 PM
Might try and run the harness and get the headliner in tomorrow while the doors, bonnet, and boot are prepping.  Buffing is complete.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 16, 2020, 12:13:45 PM
Wow, Mark....are you ready to get your car back home and start building it back up?   4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 16, 2020, 03:05:28 PM
Home yes. Building....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 17, 2020, 10:27:07 AM
Por-15.  Note to self, wear long sleeves and a hair covering next time.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on June 17, 2020, 11:58:42 AM
This is why I have several garage sweatshirts and ballcaps. Can be worn for really messy work and tossed if needed when done.

Coming along nicely.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 17, 2020, 12:22:34 PM
Undercoat?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 17, 2020, 01:13:19 PM
Por-15 gloss chassis paint.  Tough stuff.

Ok headliner done. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 17, 2020, 01:57:14 PM
 4.gif 62.gif 71.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 17, 2020, 01:59:57 PM
I think that turned out better than any you've done so far!   (headliner, I mean)  4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on June 17, 2020, 02:36:16 PM
Quote from: 94touring on June 17, 2020, 01:13:19 PM
Por-15 gloss chassis paint.  Tough stuff.

Tough indeed. In my experience if you get Por-15 on your skin, it has to wear off as you grow new layers of skin beneath the paint.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 17, 2020, 03:16:00 PM
Old wives tale, it comes right off with lacquer thinner...ask me how I know!  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 17, 2020, 03:23:46 PM
I'll try a thinner bath tomorrow then. 

Got the rubber all on and will get the glass in tomorrow.  Have to lower the shell back on a dolly once this por15 dries so I can wheel it out of the booth and knock out the rest of the items that need painted. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 17, 2020, 03:30:31 PM
Well., I don't know about how well it comes off after it's dried overnight!    8.gif

But if you wipe it off with thinner shortly after it went on, I know it comes right off then.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: G67mcs on June 17, 2020, 05:22:13 PM
 Once POR-15 dries, not sure it will come off too easily. So far even brush I've used has hardened up overnight and I've tossed them afterwards.

Any reason the fiesta yellow wasn't left on bottom of floor pan?  Just asking since I'm sanding and coating surface rust on my floor in prep to coat with POR-15. I used the grey color inside the car and have some chassis black for the subframes.

Thanks,
Garry

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 17, 2020, 05:31:22 PM
The floors were mostly solid but a bit rough and we decided to coat them for rust protection since carpet is covering them anyways.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 18, 2020, 11:45:59 AM
Glass is all in. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 29, 2020, 08:06:19 PM
Look at that pretty paint on the home page. Course teased Dan that's what crashed the site.  The moke picture reminds me of short circuit 2 after he's been all beat up with one eye hanging out.  Sorry, can't find a pic.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 21, 2020, 12:39:27 PM
It's been a sanding extravaganza.  On the home stretch.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 24, 2020, 02:39:38 PM
Got a box of MED goodies coming. It's FedEx so be curious to see shipping time compared to DHL.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 24, 2020, 02:56:16 PM
Got the back side of the doors almost ready for paint.  Sanding my fingers to nubs.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 24, 2020, 04:46:00 PM
Joys of the mini.  You see both sides of almost every panel.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 24, 2020, 07:13:39 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on August 24, 2020, 04:46:00 PM
Joys of the mini.  You see both sides of almost every panel.


Capt. Slow says all the cool cars have visible body-colored panels on the inside.  I agree.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 29, 2020, 11:27:01 AM
Aside from Mark coming and putting a few things on, my end is all done.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 29, 2020, 11:36:07 AM
Can't wait to see it on it's wheels!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2020, 05:45:13 PM
MED goodies arrived today.  Timeframe wasn't bad, but royally pissed at FedEx.  Box was beat and even worse soaking wet on the inside.  Luckily it's all rubber or aluminum and nothing seems damaged but I am missing a part. Surprised it was only one with the way the box looked. Contacted MED cause contacting FedEx was a robo call nightmare.

Well was going to post pic but it's too big.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 31, 2020, 05:47:53 PM
Pics should auto resize for you when posting.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 31, 2020, 06:19:42 PM
Things have not been exactly rosy with MiniSpares for me lately either, just FYI.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2020, 07:17:12 PM
Box
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 31, 2020, 07:36:15 PM
Good grief, did they run over it a few times along the way?

DHL generally does a pretty good job with my stuff....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 31, 2020, 09:25:34 PM
At first I didn't even think it was a box. Felt like it'd just been wrapped in brown paper.  But turned out that's cause it was soaked.  Even the packing peanuts had disintegrated.  Never gotten a package like this before. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 01, 2020, 05:12:17 AM
Yeah that's pretty bad. Where are the pictures of the stuff inside?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 01, 2020, 07:22:26 AM
Here's all the goodies. They are sending cover another plate and a new chain as this one is showing corrosion.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 01, 2020, 08:18:11 AM
That timing cover is nice! What are all the 90* elbows for?

As beat up as the box is I'm surprised the radiator didn't get damaged!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 01, 2020, 10:05:44 AM
It was wrapped in cardboard and big bubble wrap.  The elbows are for their breather setup.  I already have a nice cover and they are out of stock so they sent me the pieces to have them welded to mine.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 01, 2020, 10:20:41 AM
I thought they might be for a breather setup, but they looked big for breather hoses.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 08, 2020, 06:32:22 PM
Got the plate and new chain today. Box was wrapped in like 4 layers of tape.  Also got an invoice from FedEx for import duties. Anyone else ever get these on parts?  Never got one from sport or spares.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 08, 2020, 06:34:42 PM
Yes, I never get one on DHL, but I almost always get one from Fed Ex or anyone else.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 08, 2020, 09:27:51 PM
Hmmm.  FedEx just delivered a steering wheel from Greece to me today.   I guess an invoice is forthcoming? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 09, 2020, 06:01:33 AM
Yea the invoice followed about a week behind
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 09, 2020, 06:04:00 AM
I get them once in a blue moon.  I've gotten them from dhl, fed ex, and ups. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 09, 2020, 07:54:54 AM
I think a lot depends on the price, under $2K I don't get them at least from DHL.

So Bruce, what steering wheel did you get all the way from Greece?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 09, 2020, 10:57:27 AM
Quote from: MiniDave on September 09, 2020, 07:54:54 AM
I think a lot depends on the price, under $2K I don't get them at least from DHL.

So Bruce, what steering wheel did you get all the way from Greece?

It's a deep dish, thick rubberized foam one to replace the hard, thin plastic one on my LiteAce. Unfortunately, I've found the new one is pretty beat up by the sun.   Who knew it was sunny in Greece?   :-[    I may try to restore it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 11, 2020, 11:34:13 AM
Mark working on his subframes 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 11, 2020, 11:48:29 AM
Is the motor going in too?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 11, 2020, 03:57:42 PM
Got the engine in a bit ago. Mark will have to post a photo or I will tomorrow
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 11, 2020, 07:35:17 PM
Exciting progress!   4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 12, 2020, 08:05:30 AM
...
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 13, 2020, 06:28:43 AM
Thanks Dan. Lol. Yea got the subs on, motor in, doors, boot and hood buttoned down.  Even did an alignment on it.  Another big thanks to Dan for all his help.  I didn't take any pics, didn't realize Dan was.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 13, 2020, 06:49:55 AM
We got a lot done.  Flared some brake lines and got a couple rusty minis moved back into the side garage too.  Rear boot rubber needs time to settle in and the bonnet fitment was probably the worst of it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 13, 2020, 08:02:33 AM
Take pics!  Later on you'll want to show off it was a bare metal rebuild.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 13, 2020, 08:07:35 AM
Once you get it running again, there will be tons of little fettling to do, but once it's drivable it becomes more fun every day!  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 13, 2020, 09:03:29 AM
I have lots of pics. Just didn't take any over the two days.  Will definitely be taking more as I get things done.

That's the plan is to get it running.  Gonna go through it an put together a list of needs and then get to it.  Just doing what we did this weekend found more pieces that need replaced, painted or powder coated.  Spring is the goal.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 15, 2020, 11:33:18 AM
Ready for it's trip to Texas
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 15, 2020, 12:28:14 PM
And then the REAL fun begins. Lol.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 15, 2020, 01:03:42 PM
Can't wait to see it with trim and such on it!

Mark, are you using the same interior or something else?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 15, 2020, 05:07:58 PM
Lookin good in the sunlight!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 15, 2020, 05:27:09 PM
It'll be all black except some inserts on the seats.  Still using the cobra buckets.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: G67mcs on September 16, 2020, 08:24:57 AM
The body shell turned out great. Really like the Fiesta!

Fun begins but you are way ahead already with the engine installed.

Garry
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 16, 2020, 09:44:44 AM
Yea, I keep telling myself I started with a fully functioning car, so I should be able to get it back there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 17, 2020, 05:56:47 AM
Of course I'm finding out functional doesn't always mean right.  Looking through my books and discover the door handle spring is the first thing in the stack unlike it was when I took it apart and currently have it.  Sure I'm going to have a lot of this.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 21, 2020, 09:50:54 AM
Love having a hardware store that carries all these unusual thread size screws.  Just got all new for the door handles, catches and nylon buffers. Also for boot latch and license plate holder.  Be nice if the one they opened here in Allen had all the same stuff the big store does in Plano.  But either way it's better than paying 1.50 per from Europe or Australia.   

Do have to get the nylon things from Australia but working up a list for everything from there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 21, 2020, 10:06:31 AM
New fasteners make all the difference in putting one of these back together - at the very least if I reuse fasteners I run them all on the wire brush on the bench grinder so I have good clean threads.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 21, 2020, 11:54:01 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on September 21, 2020, 09:50:54 AM
Love having a hardware store that carries all these unusual thread size screws.  Just got all new for the door handles, catches and nylon buffers. Also for boot latch and license plate holder.  Be nice if the one they opened here in Allen had all the same stuff the big store does in Plano.  But either way it's better than paying 1.50 per from Europe or Australia.   

Do have to get the nylon things from Australia but working up a list for everything from there.

You talking about Elliott's Hardware?   

That's one thing I really miss about Dallas.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 21, 2020, 12:10:47 PM
I've found nuts and bolts to be way less expensive at Home Depot than Ace hardware, but I still maintain a large selection in my bins from Bolt Depot, all grade 8 stuff as it costs less than grade 5
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: tsumini on September 21, 2020, 03:23:41 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on September 21, 2020, 09:50:54 AM
Love having a hardware store that carries all these unusual thread size screws.  Just got all new for the door handles, catches and nylon buffers. Also for boot latch and license plate holder.  Be nice if the one they opened here in Allen had all the same stuff the big store does in Plano.  But either way it's better than paying 1.50 per from Europe or Australia.   

Do have to get the nylon things from Australia but working up a list for everything from there.
Is Elliots Hardware in Dallas still open. I think they have more hardware than has ever been invented... well almost. They were the goto when I lived in Frisco/ Dallas
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 21, 2020, 05:04:38 PM
Yes Elliots.  I go to the one in west Plano.  They opened one in Allen, but it's only got a fraction of the stuff.  Our Home Depot/Lowe's doesn't carry the fine thread sae sizes.  Elliots has them in stainless, zinc, chrome, black chrome, and several others including polymer. Some times it's a curse though trying to find the needle in the haystack.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 21, 2020, 05:30:42 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on September 21, 2020, 05:04:38 PM
Yes Elliots.  I go to the one in west Plano.  They opened one in Allen, but it's only got a fraction of the stuff.  Our Home Depot/Lowe's doesn't carry the fine thread sae sizes.  Elliots has them in stainless, zinc, chrome, black chrome, and several others including polymer. Some times it's a curse though trying to find the needle in the haystack.

Yeah, I would estimate that Elliott's carries about 10 times the number and types of fasteners compared to a typical HD or Lowe's.   Ask one of the many old guys for help.  They know their stuff there. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 04, 2020, 05:34:22 PM
I was going to change timing chain and front cover but don't have the right size socket/wrench. Thanks to Dave for the size.  Did notice the pulley is loose. I can move it around without it moving the crank bolt.

So I cleaned up the wiper motor and painted the housing.  Replacing the wiper boxes also. Took some figuring to get the old ones off.  The new ones have play built in so they go on easy. 

While waiting for the wiper motor to try I got the main front harness shoved through the tiny space it goes through above the cone pocket.  Speaking of wiring, any tips on making sure the little Lucas connectors are fully seated and tight? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 04, 2020, 06:10:16 PM
Yes. Take an old pair of slip joint pliers and cut a notch in the ends big enough for the wires to fit into - then just squeeze the ends together - they will pop into place perfectly. I sent you pics of mine
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on October 04, 2020, 07:26:32 PM
Pretty cool tool! 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 04, 2020, 07:46:31 PM
I got frustrated trying to get them to pop into place using my thumbs or needle nose pliers - this works a treat and cost nothing to make.  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Jimini II on October 04, 2020, 09:11:40 PM
Nice job Dave.
I like to make tools from old tools and have done quite a few over the years especially ones you do not use daily.
I made a tool for tightening Mini choke cables from a deep plug socket with a hex head and an old combination wrench then I slotted both so they would fit over the cable, makes the job of tightening them a lot easier.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 14, 2020, 07:46:03 PM
I actually found a pair of pliers in my stepdads sea of them that works great for squeezing the Lucas bullets together. Glad I organized them.  Getting all the little and big bits back from powder coating tomorrow. 

One question, it looks like my remote shift box had a gasket to the rear of the gearbox.  I don't see one for sale, haven't dug through my books yet.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 14, 2020, 09:08:37 PM
Between the gearbox and the remote housing? Nothing there that I recall, although there is a half moon rubber plug that goes in there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 15, 2020, 05:57:09 AM
Ok. Yea I have the plug.  Must just be some grease that's mashed between them. It sure looks like a piece of gasket.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 18, 2020, 06:42:17 PM
Finally got some pieces on the car today.  More cleaning up bits too.  Should actually have the doors latching tomorrow.  New nylon buffers were smaller, and imagine that, fit correctly.  Snail springs also work well, when they are there.

On the side, the brisket came out fabulous.  No more going out for way overpriced bbq. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 23, 2020, 05:41:39 PM
Finally have functioning door handles.  Helps to use the right length screw so it doesn't interfere with the inner workings of the door latch mechanism.  Yay for crazy one off unique doors. Lol.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 28, 2020, 01:19:25 PM
So either my fuel pump has died, su version with points. Or my battery won't hold a charge or both.  Probably should have had the battery on the trickle charger but it just sat in the shed for 3 years.  Any recommendations on a fuel pump if mine is dead?   Will hook it to a good battery when it warms up a little.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on October 28, 2020, 01:44:07 PM
If you are going for originality, then another SU fuel pump.  If not, I have used the Mr. Gasket 42S fuel pump with good results.  It is rated at 28GPH at 2.5-3 psi and is often available at local auto parts stores (Autozone, Advanced, O'Reilly, etc.).

Works fine with SU carbs without the need for a pressure regulator.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 28, 2020, 01:44:51 PM
Any electric one that's 3-5psi will do.  If the battery is old I'd probably just go ahead and get a new one.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 28, 2020, 01:52:36 PM
Victoria British sells an electronic pump that looks just like the SU, but won't die like the SU......two different choices on this page if you/re going for the original look and function.

http://www.victoriabritish.com/icatalog/sm/full.aspx?Page=105 (http://www.victoriabritish.com/icatalog/sm/full.aspx?Page=105)

I've had both success and failure with those Mr. Gasket pumps, took three of them back to Oriely's before I got one that stayed working. "but the third one stayed up!"

Not trying to spend all your money, but I agree a new battery is a good idea, but I wouldn't buy one till you're ready to start it up - no point in having the new one sit for a year while you do assembly
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 28, 2020, 02:23:51 PM
Yea no originality required. If there is a better version then I'm all for it.  Car is definitely restomod.  Looks old but with modern upgrades, where possible. 

Dave that looks similar to one minispares sells. Looks similar to the su and mounts the same, but no points.

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Fuel/Pumps/AUF214MS.aspx?1303&ReturnUrl=/shop/classic/Fuel/Pumps.aspx|Back%20to%20shop
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 28, 2020, 02:26:28 PM
I think mine is just one of those mr gaskets from Oreilly's.  Never had an issue with mine.  Trying to remember where I put the thing after installing the MPI pump for the turbo conversion. I'd like to stick it on the bus since all my bad fuel pump experiences have been with mechanical pumps. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 28, 2020, 02:30:39 PM
My green car still has the mechanical pump - it's getting changed to an electric when I do the motor on it. I'm thinking I might give the Mr. Gasket another shot because they're small and take very little power to run them.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 02, 2020, 01:42:24 PM
Ever put something in a place for safe keeping only to find out when you need it that it's so safe even you can't find it.  Nothing major, just the keys to the mini.  Can't put in the tank without removing the locking cap.  But for the life of me cannot find the keys.  Even looked in the dumbest places and still nothing.  Good thing is there is a good thread on here for such an issue but DAMN.  They are even on a key ring with a flappy leather thing. 

Dan, if you have a moment next time your at the shop can you keep an eye just in case for some crazy reason I brought them up there and left them.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 02, 2020, 02:02:40 PM
I'll keep an eye out but haven't seen any keys.  I've cleaned the shop throughly since too.  Last tank I acquired that still had the locking cap on and no key, I just cut the thing off.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on November 02, 2020, 02:45:26 PM
Did you put the keys with the ignition switch?

How about where you keep all the other car keys?

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 02, 2020, 02:47:47 PM
Nope, cause I wired that up.  You'd think that's where they would be, but not in the lock box or file cabinet. Really not sure why they ever got removed from where we keep all current keys.  But they did.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 02, 2020, 09:47:43 PM
As I was putting plugs/grommets in the boot I noticed some pin holes in the bottom of the battery tray.  Best way to patch/fill these?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 02, 2020, 11:02:01 PM
A little dab of por-15 which you probably don't have or a little dab of black silicone ect.. to match the existing por-15.  Or really tiny grommets  ;D.  I can't imagine there's much down there.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Red Riley on November 03, 2020, 05:56:57 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on November 02, 2020, 09:47:43 PM
As I was putting plugs/grommets in the boot I noticed some pin holes in the bottom of the battery tray.  Best way to patch/fill these?

Best way? Replace the battery tray. Honestly, that would probably be the easiest body part to replace on a Mini. I don't know if anyone else would recommend it, but I would think you could just cut it out, carefully take the surrounding edges down to bare metal, then panel bond the new tray in and touch up the paint.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 03, 2020, 06:12:41 AM
I do have some por15 and was thinking that or like you said some good silicone.
The only way I noticed them was laying under the car fitting grommets from underneath there were 3 tiny tiny white spots but then I saw my fingers on the other side. 

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 03, 2020, 06:46:14 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on November 03, 2020, 06:12:41 AM
I do have some por15 and was thinking that or like you said some good silicone.
The only way I noticed them was laying under the car fitting grommets from underneath there were 3 tiny tiny white spots but then I saw my fingers on the other side.

Just something to keep water out will suffice.  Probably filled in when I brushed on the por and opened up after I slid out and it thinned out.  Your battery tray isn't on it's last legs by any means or I would have replaced it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 03, 2020, 07:56:10 AM
No problem. I'll put a couple coats on and call it good.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 11, 2020, 07:16:26 PM
Just put in a massive this and that order for spares.  Fingers crossed got all of it to get it up and running. 

Anyone running a larger than stock water pump pulley?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 11, 2020, 07:46:33 PM
Only with short final drive gears, if you're running tall gears you'll want a smaller pulley so it will turn faster
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 11, 2020, 07:57:08 PM
I believe I have tall gears cause at 70 I'm probably around 3500-4000.  Of course I could be off a little, but I know it's geared for high speed @ low revs.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 12, 2020, 11:09:29 AM
Sweet, got a notice from DHL my shipment will be here Monday.  So with their usual earlyness probably Saturday. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 15, 2020, 02:36:57 PM
So my package showed up and I was working on the fuel lines.  I bought some braided 1/4" bored lines. Problem is they appear to be no where near 1/4" opening and will not go on the 1/4" hard lines.   Am I missing something here?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on November 15, 2020, 04:02:53 PM
Both your lines (braided and hard) are 1/4" ID (inside diameter).  That means the hard lines are closer to 3/8" OD (outer diameter) and will not fit inside the 1/4" ID braided.

You would need 3/8" ID braided to go over the 1/4" ID hard lines.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 15, 2020, 04:33:55 PM
Well that makes sense.  The old rubber lines say 1/4" but they look a little stretched at the fittings. Which I'm sure the braided have no chance of stretching. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 15, 2020, 05:13:06 PM
You're right, braided will not stretch at all.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 20, 2020, 06:05:56 PM
So who's running a fuel filter before their fuel pump?   Mine was just before the carb, but the new pump instructions say it should be before the pump, which makes sense.  So if you are, what filter you using?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on November 20, 2020, 06:38:01 PM
Not sure what fuel pump you ended up with but this what I use on the facet style pump on my car. Screws right into the pump.

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Fuel/Pumps/FPA906.aspx?1303&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/fuel%20filter.aspx|Back%20to%20search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Fuel/Pumps/FPA906.aspx?1303&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/fuel%20filter.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 20, 2020, 07:10:03 PM
Replaced the old SU points style with the one that looks like it but is electric and no points.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 20, 2020, 07:42:34 PM
I put one of those on the Inno, even after sitting with old gas in it for over a year, it still worked!   77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: G67mcs on November 21, 2020, 05:41:57 AM
   I'm currently running two fuel filters. One before the Facet pump to catch any debris or trash from the tanks and another in the engine compartment prior to the carb. This setup was in place when I got the car although the rear filter was clogged and the front had no physical filter inside the housing.

Garry
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 21, 2020, 08:06:42 AM
Yep, all the FI setups I've seen run two, one before and one after. Just make sure the one before the pump is free-flowing so you don't starve the pump. I prefer the clear ones so you can see whether they're getting clogged, but all the FI systems seem to run the metal  ones, even on the suction side.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 28, 2020, 06:34:54 PM
Finally did some work on the car.  Replacing everything up front from the front plate out.  Everything is going fairly smooth except getting the new timing set on.  Both pulleys fit fine on their own but the cam gear just does not want to go on as an assembly.  This is probably way easier out of the car but since I waited so long to actually buy the stuff that option is no longer possible. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 28, 2020, 08:55:49 PM
Looks nice.  How bad does your back hurt bending over doing the work?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on November 28, 2020, 09:26:55 PM
Quote from: 94touring on November 28, 2020, 08:55:49 PM
Looks nice.  How bad does your back hurt bending over doing the work?

No kidding, just adjusting the valves is bad enough. I can't imagine how many times I'd ram my head into the hood catch doing something like timing parts with the motor in the car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 29, 2020, 08:01:21 AM
Not bad actually.  Maybe it's the height I have the car, doesn't feel like to awkward of a bend. Also have my roller stool so a lot of it I can do sitting down.  Battery operated ratchets helping too.  O, and the hood is off the car.  Had way to much to do under it to have it in the way. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 29, 2020, 08:48:49 AM
That's the best thing about my removable bonnet, easier to work!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 29, 2020, 09:42:38 AM
It's not too bad to remove a regular bonnet, 4 nuts and it weighs nothing.....I agree getting it off and out of the way is one of the first things I do if I have any major work to do under there. I always mark the brackets before I take it apart, it makes it much quicker and easier to put it back when I'm done.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on November 29, 2020, 11:46:30 AM
Yeah I don't mind taking the bonnet off if i am going to be under there for a while, it's the putting it back on that I dislike. I have tried marking the brackets like you but it never seems to help much.

Dan found a much quicker way to remove the bonnet on his trip to KC, but again it's the putting it back on that may prove difficult. ;D

So how do you like that timing kit? I have been eyeing the MED alloy back plate (like the idea of the studs/nuts) and their timing cover. I see they have a redesigned belt drive as well without the tensioner. They say it's not necessary, but I do not think I have ever seen a belt drive timing setup without one. Of course those are always much larger engines with much longer belts perhaps it may not be needed on an A-series with such a short belt and a single cam? I would think it would be harder to get on as it would have to be fairly tight with such short "teeth" vs a chain setup. Much greater chance of a belt skipping a tooth vs a chain with a little slack, they also state about 15,000 miles before belt change which makes me think they must not be super tight and any amount of stretch could cause it to skip teeth.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 29, 2020, 11:55:22 AM
Quote from: cstudep on November 29, 2020, 11:46:30 AM
Dan found a much quicker way to remove the bonnet on his trip to KC, but again it's the putting it back on that may prove difficult. ;D


The realignment was off a lot after removing it at 75mph. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 29, 2020, 12:02:29 PM
Ha! Yeah, Dan's method does leave a bit to be desired for the reinstall!   ;D

This kit has a tensioner, but it's a guide as much as anything - I used it to take up the slack, but there was very little - I just moved it over to contact the belt and used my finger to put tension on it till I tightened the bolt. If you over tension these belts they fail faster, plus that makes them really noisy - sounds like a supercharger!

this is the first of these I've installed and I do like the way it's made....it's a quality bit of stuff. I don't have any issues with just running a single wide chain for that matter, as long as it's a good brand. Pre-A+ cars didn't even bother with a tensioner. Most of these cars today rarely get even 1000 miles a year on them - wearing out a chain is a very remote possibility.

I doubt skipping teeth is a consideration on these as they have a lot of wrap around the sprockets....that and as you mentioned - the short belt length

MED makes good stuff, I agree, but really spendy.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on November 29, 2020, 12:42:58 PM
Ah OK, so the tensioner isn't like a typical tensioner that is spring or Hydraulic operated. That makes more senses now why they would feel pretty confident eliminating it.

I didn't think about how much pulley wrap there is in this setup, but that definitely helps as well.

MED definitely makes some nice stuff. I just try to ignore the price and look at all the pretty things I want. If/when I ever go to actually order something that will be the true test on how bad I actually need it. Also the price being in pounds helps.... At least until you do the conversion math.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 29, 2020, 01:22:50 PM
No, not on this belt setup, the idler wheel has edges on it, the sprockets don't.

Pre A+ engines had no tensioners on the chains, most of the double row chains also don't use a tensioner. A+ motors have a sort of tensioner, in that it also is not spring loaded. You simply push the guide block against the chain and tighten the bolt, much like this setup. It's not so much a tensioner as it keeps the chain from slapping as the cam rotates and has tension, then releases.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 29, 2020, 01:29:05 PM
I haven't looked at MED's belt drive kit but none of the ones MiniSpares sells have a tensioner in them.

Edit: I have to say after looking at this kit vs MED and Spares, I like this one much better - and WillieB got a hell of a deal on it!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 29, 2020, 01:33:10 PM
Really like all the stuff from MED.  got some other bits for later to help with crank pressure.  Only issue so far is getting cam gear on. Probably nothing to do with the kit just a PIA with the motor in the car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 29, 2020, 03:00:17 PM
Success.  With a capital suck.  Finally got it to slide on, then rotated it around and the dots no longer lined up. I was afraid it had slipped but didn't check.  Oops. So off it came and line everything up again and now didn't want to go.  Cam needed turned just a smidge.  Got it turned and finally got it slid on.  Yay.  Now waiting on my pulley and cam nut lock tab.  Hopefully FedEx doesn't drop it in the ocean again.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 29, 2020, 03:15:26 PM
I have those if they do.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on December 07, 2020, 11:48:26 AM
Spendy bit of kit, but considering my stock style rubber fused one separated just sitting and the previous owners engine rebuild notes list internal damage likely due to balancer separation I'm thinking it was worth the extra money.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on December 07, 2020, 12:08:30 PM
Interesting - the two SPi motors I have in the shop right now don't have balancers on them, just pulleys.....and they're dead stock.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on December 07, 2020, 02:14:15 PM
CRANK DAMPER V PULLEY PRE MPI

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Engine/Block/Pulleys_Belts/AHU1878.aspx?100111&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/crank%20pulley.aspx|Back%20to%20search

Title of the part explains it all.  This is similar to what was on there before.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on December 07, 2020, 03:34:07 PM
On a closer examination of the SPi pulley set up I see there's a separate pulley that bolts onto the one that's held on by the crank bolt, and this second one has the rubber in it.

I like the more modern solution, for sure.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 11, 2021, 06:53:06 PM
Made some more progress today.  Fuel tank in and hooked up to the fuel pump.  Also got the remote shifter back in.  Hoping that since it went together it hooked up correctly.  Guess I'll find out when I get the gear lever on. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 11, 2021, 07:44:07 PM
yay for progress!  77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 14, 2021, 05:30:03 PM
Went to fit the carb with my snazzy MED filter and it is smashing into the wiring and speedo cable coming out of the speedo. 

So figure solutions are smaller spacer, current is 1/2".   Adjustable top engine steady to tilt the motor forward a bit.  Or go back to KN chrome cone. 

Issue with smaller spacer is the metal bracket that shields the exhaust and holds the throttle cable may hit manifold.  Also the stud length, may need shorter ones. 

Any issue with the engine steady pushing the engine forward?

Thoughts?  Known solutions?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 14, 2021, 07:01:43 PM
Pushing it forward is not the be all end all of the problem - as you tip it up forward, it comes up which causes interference at the lower edge with the bulkhead. I used a 1/4" spacer instead of 1/2, that seemed to be just enough, or use the K&N which seems to be made for this setup. I can't remember for sure, but I think I had to grind a little off the bracket in one spot for clearance to the manifold, but I think the stud length was OK - seems like I had to start the nuts and move the carb down on the studs as the nuts tightened down. However, it's different for a later model car with the gauges off to one side than for one with the center gauges.

Wait, do you run an HIF44 or twin carbs?

Dan used an MED on his twins and IIRC he had issues too.

I went back to a stock round filter assembly on my car, fits a lot better.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 14, 2021, 07:31:38 PM
HIF44.  Yea I figured the whole engine steady may cause other problems.  Mini spares only shows a 3/8" spacer.  Where did you find 1/4"?  Pretty sure that extra space would pull it back far enough.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Jimini II on October 14, 2021, 07:53:34 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on October 14, 2021, 05:30:03 PM
Went to fit the carb with my snazzy MED filter and it is smashing into the wiring and speedo cable coming out of the speedo. 

So figure solutions are smaller spacer, current is 1/2".   Adjustable top engine steady to tilt the motor forward a bit.  Or go back to KN chrome cone. 

Issue with smaller spacer is the metal bracket that shields the exhaust and holds the throttle cable may hit manifold.  Also the stud length, may need shorter ones. 

Any issue with the engine steady pushing the engine forward?

Thoughts?  Known solutions?
When the factory installed the 1275 and used the HIF carb in the early 90's they moved the engine mounts forward about 1 inch and fitted a longer engine steady bar.
An MG Metro intake is the correct angle and clears well but are hard to find.
Using the thin spacer and shaving the throttle quadrant helps and an adjustable engine steady along with a cone filter works.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 14, 2021, 08:08:33 PM
Only reason I had issues with the twins was I was running tall filters due to tall ram pipes.  On my hif44 everything fits just fine. You'll probably want to start with the upper steady.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 18, 2021, 05:15:27 PM
Going to ask a coworker who I believe has a 3D printer if he can make one, but if not anyone on here make me one?  1/4 carb spacer. 

Reason I'm asking?  7 who seems to be only one who has one wants $16 for it.  Not bad, but $16.50 to ship 0.2 lbs is absolutely ridiculous.  You could literally put it in an envelope and mail it for 2 stamps.  How do these places stay in business. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on October 18, 2021, 06:55:26 PM
I could print you one, I already created a 3d model of the spacer for the HS4 and one for the HIF44. But I currently only have a supposedly higher heat PETG at the moment which is what I printed the air intake part out of for Brad. He is supposed to have it tomorrow so it probably wont be long before he can report on how well it holds up to engine bay temps.

I just ordered some special stuff that is supposed to print easy like PLA but have the same heat tolerance and durability as ABS. ABS is a pretty common material used in auto plastic bits it can just be a pain to print with. It would probably be fine on something like the carb spacer but I don't know as I have yet to try printing with it.

Not sure when I will get the new filament to try, but I can get ABS pretty easily. If you do have someone that can print, I can send you the 3d files of the spacer I created if nothing else. I think I printed mine for my test stand at 1/4" thick but I can make it whatever thickness you want.

Here are the ones I made, I posted them a while back in the shop thread. I finally found a HIF44 carb, but wont have it until late this week or early next week some time so I am not 1000% sure it fits but I did take the measurements off of the manifold so it should work. It also has 4 holes in, but in the one I printed I only printed the 2 that align with the HS4 as that is what I was messing around with it on.
http://www.restorationmini.com/forum/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=1810.0;attach=16722;image
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 21, 2021, 05:10:40 PM
Thanks for the info and offer.  For now I think I'm going to put the old air cleaner on and get it running.  Keep me posted on the temp hold up or if you get the new stuff in. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 29, 2021, 04:58:43 PM
Finally got the distributor and coil back in and lined up.  Thanks for the clarification help Dave.  Keep doing things twice, but great figuring stuff out by doing it wrong once. 

Next is to adjust the valves and get the o2 bung welded in along with the breather modifications to the valve cover.  Speaking of which I bought a cheapo polishing kit from harbor and did a little polishing.  Not professional looking but WAY better than it was. But what a mess that is. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 29, 2021, 06:29:47 PM
The paint needed buffed again?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 30, 2021, 05:30:05 AM
O no, was polishing the aluminum valve cover.  It'd gotten very tarnished looking.  The paint is holding up great.  Doing my best not to scratch it any where.  Had some close calls with tool drops. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 30, 2021, 07:10:07 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on October 29, 2021, 04:58:43 PM
Next is to adjust the valves

Do you know the rule of 9? To set the valves correctly, when #1 valve is fully open, adjust #8 (1 + 8 = 9), when #2 is fully open adjust #7 and so on right thru the cam. At this point when one is full open the opposite is fully closed, giving you the best setting for clearance. Depending on the cam you should be at either 12 or 15 thou clearance.

I show how this works in one of my engine build videos.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 30, 2021, 12:00:10 PM
Yea I you tubed it last night.  Good visual too with the explanation.  Thanks.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 14, 2021, 03:46:18 PM
Got the exhaust on and ran all the fuel lines.  Checked and flushed the fuel lines before connecting it to the carb and all was good.  Filled with oil, forgot how goopy that stuff is.  Had to let it sit awhile after 3 quarts for it to move out of the rocker cover.  Primed it up a bit.  Hooked up the coil and with video rolling hit the key.   And. Omg is it going to just fire and run after 3 years. Nope.  Sounded great for about 5 seconds and then dies.  Doesn't want to start again.  Waited awhile then tried it and same as first time.  Ok, message Dave.  Flooding, ok, hif44 single carb.  Most likely choke o ring.  Fun.

Just to be thorough any other thoughts on a flooding hif44.  Thanks.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 14, 2021, 04:02:44 PM
That will definitely flood it.  The plugs are sooty black and maybe wet?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 14, 2021, 04:42:45 PM
Didn't check them. I did buy new ones so thanks for reminding me I didn't put them in.  Lol.  The old ones were a little black.

I did get my o2 sensor in so will be able to dial in a/f mixture. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 14, 2021, 04:48:40 PM
Make sure you actually check the plugs or have that 02 in there to see that it's actually flooding.  Might save you some time pulling the carb to put in a new o ring for the choke.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 14, 2021, 07:25:15 PM
Ok. I'll fire it another time and then check the plugs.  Lot less work then taking off the carb.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: mascher on November 15, 2021, 12:48:36 PM
I've fouled a lot of spark plugs while trying to get cars running. The best way I've found to clear them is to heat the electrode end with a handheld propane torch like a Bernzomatic. You'll see a secondary flame on the end of the spark plug as the fuel burns off. and shortly after this disappears the plug is usually ok. I usually do this out of direct sunlight (not hard in Seattle) so I can see when / if the electrode starts to glow dull red. The plug will get hot but no hotter than it gets in normal use.
Kelley
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 15, 2021, 04:28:20 PM
So fired it up again and same results.  Not surprised.  Then I pulled the plugs but only #1 was wet.  2-4 were dry.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on November 15, 2021, 04:40:56 PM
Maybe you're actually lean?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 15, 2021, 06:23:54 PM
Same engine, same carb so the mixture shouldn't have changed any from before....the only thing that has changed is that it sat for three years. Mine sat for way shorter than that and did the same thing....fixing the choke o-ring fixed it - started perfectly after that.

Only other thing is to make sure the float isn't stuck closed, and that the piston moves freely in the dome - oh and that there's oil in the top of the carb.

YMMV
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 15, 2021, 06:48:08 PM
New plug wires. Possibly one bad one?  Or a dead plug in #1?   

So the choke thing could cause only one plug to be wet? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 15, 2021, 07:27:53 PM
Check the other things first before removing the carb.....my plugs weren't wet at all, but fixing the choke fixed the problem
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 16, 2021, 11:57:04 AM
So in messing around with the plugs and wires discovered that the connector on #1 is a little finicky to get it to snap on.  So got that all sorted late and it was still wet inside so waited until today.  When I fired it, it sounded better, but still died.  Checked all the plugs and were dry.  Made sure all wires were snapped on and tried again.  This time literally nothing.  O well try again after running errands.  Halfway down the alley I realized I didn't remove the rag from the carb intake.  No air no bang. Oops. So when I got home I pulled the rag and tried again.  This time it ran longer. Several seconds before dieing.  Had to go back to work but looks like progress.  Plugs are still dry.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 16, 2021, 01:43:10 PM
SUCCESS!!!   Had to modulate the throttle to keep it going but I'd say it's running enough to put everything else on, radiator and all that and then mess with dialing in timing and carb.  Thanks for all the tips.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 16, 2021, 02:46:11 PM
Cool! Progress is always exciting.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 16, 2021, 03:09:48 PM
Yea time to finally put in a parts order and get this thing on the road
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on November 16, 2021, 05:34:22 PM
Super!!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 28, 2021, 05:19:53 PM
Foiled again, not sure if y'all remember about a year ago I received a shipment from MED that looked like Ace Ventura had delivered it.  With the timing plate missing and the chain rusting.  Well MED was great and took care of it.  Well today I found out something else was missing.  The upper radiator hose.  Guess in all the wth I didn't realize it was missing from the hose kit.  Have contacted them so will see what happens. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on November 28, 2021, 05:24:01 PM
That's one of the problems with ordering stuff way out ahead of the project.....the other is you can't find it so you wind up buying another, only to find the original one 5 min after the new one arrives!   ::)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on November 28, 2021, 08:55:43 PM
Yea that's what I was worried about until I found the pic I sent MED and could clearly see it missing.  That and it was never my intention for this to take a year to get to this point.  I got the car back in the fall and fully expected it to be on the go by spring.  Still shooting for spring, just a year late.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on December 01, 2021, 07:36:50 PM
So got the clutch and brakes bled.  Clutch wasn't bad cause I could see it while pumping the pedal.  Brakes different story.  Used the jar with fluid method.   Clutch took awhile to actually get going which was odd since it's so short.  Brakes took a lot but then they were completely empty.  Did all 4 then the backs again.  Pedal feels good.  Will definitely check them again before actually driving.  Especially with my sloped driveway.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on December 01, 2021, 08:09:53 PM
How close are you to taking it around the block?

Take some video!   77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on December 02, 2021, 01:25:49 PM
Pretty close. Waiting to hear from MED as guy I've been working with is out.  Don't know if I'll have time this weekend to flush block coolant passages and put radiator in. Have all the stuff just need time.  Will do on the video.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on December 11, 2021, 01:35:58 PM
Flushed the cooling passages today.  Good news it was fairly clean, bad news the thermostat housing to block and heater valve to block both leak.  Heater valve is new so not sure why it is.  The thermostat housing may need replaced as it doesn't look terribly smooth on bottom. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on December 11, 2021, 02:50:33 PM
I've taken a flat file to those, you might be able to clean it up that way. Also, you can use the cork gasket under the t-stat housing, it's way more forgiving - just use some Permatex sealant under it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 31, 2022, 12:46:08 PM
Ok so entire cooling system is in and filled.  After replacing the bad battery and everything hooked up it won't start.  Just turns.  Like it's not getting fuel.

Disconnected the fuel line from carb to check the pump, and it's working.  If I spray a little carb cleaner in it fires briefly off that so figure spark is working.  Can I check this with timing light?   I've done the arch it to the block but was obviously holding something I wasn't supposed to and got shocked.

So what would be causing the carb not to be delivering fuel?   Only thing I've done to the carb since I fired up prior to installing the radiator was added oil to the dash pot. 

Any ideas?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on January 31, 2022, 12:59:14 PM
How old is the gas and does it ethanol in it? Water settles to the bottom of the tank where the pickup is.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 31, 2022, 01:03:45 PM
Check to see if the needle is stuck, not letting gas into the float bowl....ethanol can swell the rubber tip causing it to stick.

Also, what WillieB said. Water in old ethanol fuel is a real issue.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 31, 2022, 01:14:06 PM
It's 2 months old but ethanol free.

Can moving the dash pot piston up and down to check for oil knock the needle out of alignment?

Just checked and piston and needle move together freely.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on January 31, 2022, 02:46:52 PM
I think Dave is referring to the float needle sticking. Not sure what carb you are running (external float bowl like the HS or integrated like HIF) but I have had a hell of a time with a sticking float needle in one of my dual HS4's and it absolutely drives me crazy. I have yet to go through all the hassle to pull the carbs off to figure out why it always wants to stick. I also use what is supposedly ethanol free fuel that I also add fuel stabilizer to before winter and if I am going to let it set for very long I also pull power to the fuel pump and let it idle until it dies.

Still have an issue with the float sticking in one carb. Tapping on the float bowl tends to dislodge it and get it working most times.

It never occurred to me that any water in the tank would settle to the bottom, where the fuel exits the tank....... :-[
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on January 31, 2022, 03:08:13 PM
Yeah, forgot to ask what carb we're working with here HIF or HS?

IE: is the float bowl off to the side (HS) or under the carb (HIF)

No, raising the needle in the dashpot does not affect the float needle

It def sounds like no gas is getting into the carb tho.....or the choke oring is bad and it's flooding the intake manifold
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 31, 2022, 03:33:49 PM
Hif44.  Makes sense. Was going to ask if there was an on car way to get it loose.  Will try some light tapping. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on January 31, 2022, 07:33:58 PM
I got it to at least fire on its own.  Tries to run but eventually stumbles and dies.  Spark plugs are black but not wet.  I have a new set so I'm going to put them in tomorrow and try again. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: LarryLebel on February 01, 2022, 07:50:44 AM
I had starting issues on my Traveller equipped with an HIF44. The only overt issue was a little fuel seepage\leakage in and around the carb. After many attempts to get it started, I eventually bought a rebuild kit which solved the problem. I found all the rubber bits on the carb were petrified and disintegrating.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 01, 2022, 11:41:57 AM
Yea if it keeps giving issues I'll definitely pull it off and rebuild.  Wouldn't surprise me if rubber bits are iffy.  It has been sitting for 4 years.  Thanks for the update Facebook.   Lol. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on February 01, 2022, 04:00:44 PM
Plus the ethanol in gasoline is probably taking its toll on the rubber too.  If you can find non-ethanol gas it's definitely worth it in older vehicles, lawnmowers, etc.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 02, 2022, 03:27:22 PM
So carb rebuild kit on the way.  Actually ordered from 7 cause spares didn't have the version without the butterfly and with its cost plus shipping and the exchange rate it was cheaper through 7.  Plus now I get my smaller carb spacer so the MED air filter will fit. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 12, 2022, 05:19:09 PM
Did the carburetor today.  Found some interesting stuff.  Float was crusty guessing with old ethanol.  The o rings in the choke were a little gummy.  One was a green one which seemed odd.  The jet tube was all discolored and appeared the brass piece the jet tube fits in was missing the washer.  Also, the old float needle was plastic and all brown.  It's all back together per the instructions so tomorrow I'll try and get it back on and see what happens. 

The springs weren't nearly the pain the videos made them out to be.  Of course having the right tools and being use to working with springs probably helped. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 13, 2022, 05:06:32 PM
It's alive. Starts on its own and idles on its own.  Came up to temperature and watched the coolant flow. 

Funny thing is while doing the carburetor I didn't find anything obviously wrong.  Just little things that may have caused issues.  When putting it back on the car I was installing the hose used for the overflow and it was plugged.  Umm.   That's a problem that I know from past experience will keep the car from running.  It was plugged with a screw so I may have just torn apart a carburetor because I had a screw in my overflow line.  Oops.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on February 13, 2022, 07:26:26 PM
Good job. That you will remember for a long time.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 19, 2022, 06:27:20 PM
Spent today making a timing mark pointer that was visible and didn't hit anything.  Also applied the timing mark tape to the new balancer pulley assembly.  You'd think with the quality of MED products they'd at least come with the bare essentials to set timing.  Also got my tach hooked back up so fingers crossed tomorrow I can get the timing set and see if it's still rich and then adjust the carb.  Guess I should wire up the air/fuel gauge too. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 27, 2022, 07:09:08 PM
Got the timing all set.  Was a little jittery so talked to Dave and mentioned check for loose wires.  Pressed hard on all connections to make sure.  Also pulled the plugs after and 1/4 were clean but 2/3 were black.  Today I noticed the cap isn't really tight. So played with the spring clasps so it fits tighter now.  Will find out when I drive it. 

Got the whole steering wheel all set up.  Also got the bonnet pop cable mounted.  Think for driving just need to put a seat in and figure out what to do with the breather port from the timing cover. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 28, 2022, 08:48:43 AM
That first drive is always scary and exciting - yet fun! And in your case you don't have to baby a new engine.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on February 28, 2022, 09:43:47 AM
Nope, just the brakes.  They are new at all 4 corners. 

Quick debate....   Pcv or breathers? 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on February 28, 2022, 11:36:42 AM
You can always just put one of those cute little air cleaner breather things on while you sort it out.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on February 28, 2022, 02:04:28 PM
If you decide on the PCV breather and need one like below, let me know.  I think I have one left over you can have.

(https://www.minispares.com/image.axd?type=product&picture=350/13H5191.jpg)

https://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/13H5191.aspx?ReturnUrl=/catalogues/classic/Classic~Mechanical~Parts~Manual/Engine/Closed~Circuit~Breathing~Components~and~Gasket~Sets.aspx?1~2~27|Back%20to%20catalogue (https://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/13H5191.aspx?ReturnUrl=/catalogues/classic/Classic~Mechanical~Parts~Manual/Engine/Closed~Circuit~Breathing~Components~and~Gasket~Sets.aspx?1~2~27%7CBack%20to%20catalogue)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on March 03, 2022, 06:00:36 PM
Figured out my crankcase breather.  Will post pics when I get it done. 

Working on shoving new rubber seals into the quarter vent windows.  Slow and steady.  Lol.  Did put in a message to guys in Australia cause apparently I didn't take pictures and not sure which way the rivets go.  Looking at it you'd think one bay but don't really fit well that way.  I swear I took way more pictures.   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on March 06, 2022, 03:11:54 PM
So waiting for this and that decided to tackle the door glass.  I'd heard this was a royal pita and pretty much is.  The quarter vent seal has to be stuffed into a channel all the way around.  The vertical seal is held on by some split type rivets that are fun to bend.  Getting the quarter vent/sliding glass and the little chrome triangle all in is also fun.  Took me a good 5 times of doing it to get it all right.  Really should have video the disassembly.  Other side will be cake.  Also glad my stepdads tool box had a rivet tool and rivets that fit. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 17, 2022, 04:16:31 PM
Realizing now should've done the insulation work first thing. Also should've fitted, trimmed and prepared the carpets first thing.  O well what fun is it to not do it the hard way.  Lol. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 17, 2022, 04:49:47 PM
That pattern would look cool as carpet.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 30, 2022, 07:16:56 PM
So I have finally figured out why so many people sell their project cars shortly after completion.  Pretty sure it's because at that point you are so tired of everything on it that you just really don't care about it.   Wouldn't say this about your typical tinkering project, but the full on strip and build back from scratch. 

Hopefully today will start to bring the charm of the car back since I actually got it on the road.  It's running ok, seems to idle a little low with the choke on.  Need to keep playing with adjusting the rear brakes.  Also the break pedal still seems to have a lot of travel before it does something.  Did bleed the brakes today and all it pushes out is fluid when bleeding. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on April 30, 2022, 07:25:02 PM
Full builds aren't for the faint of heart. I looked it up and you're a little over 4 years into it.  Granted I probably had it for 2.  Today the owner of the 60 shell came by to haul it home to start his build.  All I was thinking was wonder if he'll get it done.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on April 30, 2022, 07:55:02 PM
Yep I've had it back for over a year and a half.  I remember you saying you'd never do another after the green S that you were finishing up before mine.  Bad thing is I have a VW sitting here that needs the same treatment.

I'm sure others, just like me just don't grasp the scope of it.   Now maybe if all I'd done was take it apart, have you paint it, then put everything back on may have not been so bad.  But trying to fix all the bad stuff and done wrong and upgrading.   11.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on April 30, 2022, 10:20:47 PM
A couple of tips on the brakes that helped me get a better pedal. Take the clip that holds the front pads in. Put a hose on the bleed nipple, open it, then push the pad back on each side to force any air out. I used a "C" clamp on the first pad so it would stay in while I used large channel grips to push the other side in. then close the bleeder. Take a pair of needle nose locking pliers, put rubber hose on each jaw. You can use that to clamp off each rubber hose to see if the pedal changes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 01, 2022, 07:41:59 AM
about getting burned out on long term projects - it happens.....the only thing I can tell you is eye on the prize. The reason you're going to this trouble and expense is so you can have fun with it when it's done. so, try to start having fun with it now. Drive it, show it, do what ever seems like fun, and don't get down about what's left. Make a list and start crossing things off as you do them, soon the accomplishments will far outweigh the left to do list.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 30, 2022, 04:14:48 PM
Moving along.  Got the bonnet on and aligned along with the mustache, whiskers and grill.  Also got the boot buttoned up.  Put on the boot lid cover.  Nothing like fitting a flat board to a curved surface.  Big thanks to my 11yr old sharpie master.  Of course even thinking about it I still put the handle on wrong and of course taking it off I dropped a screw and yep, had to remove screws from on side of the cover to fish out the screws.  Looks good but a bit of a pita. 

Tomorrow going to try and get it safety inspection done and register it again.  Yay for driving. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on May 30, 2022, 04:17:16 PM
Bet you're ready to finally drive it!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 30, 2022, 04:59:38 PM
What did you do about the interior?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on May 30, 2022, 05:40:34 PM
More pix please! 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 30, 2022, 06:12:44 PM
The carpet is all down.  I meant to put the front door cards in but didn't get to it today.  Waiting on the interior guy to call.  I'm on the list and the material is ordered.  Currently only have the one seat mounted for driving purposes. 

Still have work to do on the dash area.  Those curved cards that fit up there are a being a booger.  Pretty sure I need to cut some of the fabric but scared to mess it up and of course the old ones seem to be long gone.

Really like the way painted cross member looks with the black interior.  It's hard to see but in the steering wheel pic you can see the tach pod.  It has the white connector in it.  Need to find a good gear lever knob.  There's a guy I follow on Instagram that makes Jack Skelington. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on May 30, 2022, 06:52:44 PM
Any idea on what you might like for a shift knob? I think I got 7 or so trying to find one I liked for my moke. My current favorite is one from Steveston Motor Co.

https://stevestonmotorco.com/collections/hardware/products/rally-knob

I would be glad to loan it to you for a trial fit if it looks like something you may be interested in. It is a good fit in you hand size, not like a stock size mini one is.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 30, 2022, 07:11:11 PM
It's probably going to be something a little off the norm.  I grew up an old school hot rod guy so will probably see some of those influences showing up.  Shift knob is one place I'll probably do it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: skmini on May 30, 2022, 08:38:52 PM
Cool to see it getting close to done.  Inspiration for my project.    ;D  Looking forward to seeing some more pictures.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on May 31, 2022, 09:36:28 AM
From tiny stock, one with built in extension, a little larger than tiny stock but same profile. To some different shapes.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on May 31, 2022, 11:02:14 AM
I did this one on the Inno, I really like the difference vs all the usual black or wood ones

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Interior/Gear%20knobs/22G110ALLOY.aspx?1703&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/gear%20lever%20knob.aspx|Back%20to%20search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Interior/Gear%20knobs/22G110ALLOY.aspx?1703&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/gear%20lever%20knob.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on May 31, 2022, 11:58:20 AM
I'm thinking more along the lines of this.  Figure this will be the expression of any passengers. Lol.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on May 31, 2022, 12:02:55 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on May 31, 2022, 11:58:20 AM
I'm thinking more along the lines of this.  Figure this will be the expression of any passengers. Lol.

I have seen those. They are cool.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: skmini on May 31, 2022, 04:49:18 PM
Quote from: Willie_B on May 31, 2022, 09:36:28 AM
From tiny stock, one with built in extension, a little larger than tiny stock but same profile. To some different shapes.

That picture makes it clear how much bigger the Steveston Motor Co. shift knob is.  I should have ordered one with my steering wheel.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 01, 2022, 07:17:48 PM
Haven't mastered the video post so Best explination it is.  Car barely idles with choke fully pulled.   This is fresh start after week or two of sitting.  When it came up to temp I released the choke and it died.  Fired no issues as long as choke was pulled.  Guessing for some reason my idle has changed, but I had set that when I timed it.

Extra info.  So before setting timing it idled fine on choke.  When it came up to temp I adjusted the idle to 900 and set the timing.  The 2 starts since then I've had the low idle issue.  I'm wondering if I forgot to release the choke before adjusting the idle and setting the timing.

Other issue is something sounds loose in the drivetrain and possibly getting looser.  After the gear box.  Will need to get it up on stands again and take a look.  Bad idea question, has anyone ran one of these while on Jack stands?  With 2 or 4 wheels off the ground?  Times like this I wish I had some kind of lift. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 01, 2022, 09:06:11 PM
It's possible the choke was sticking regardless of the choke knob being pushed in.  Retune idle and see if it holds. You have an air fuel gauge on there yet to see what you're getting at idle?  13s to low 14s is probably what you're going to want once it's warm for a stable idle.  Also make sure your distributor isn't loose and vibrating to the retarded side, making it idle poorly.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 04, 2022, 04:46:31 PM
Yep, the choke cable at the carb was all messed up.  The cable holder on this carb is crap.  Got it cleaned up.  Also the nut holding it at the dash has come loose.  Also took Dave's advice and pulled the top of the carb off and sprayed cleaner down in the jet. 

Now it idles around 2000 with the choke.  Not sure the choke is fully disengaging but may be do to the looose cable at the dash.  Here is a pic with the choke fully released.  The little gold screw should not be touching at this point, correct?

Air fuel gauge reads at 14 at idle with choke.  Think it was a little higher at idle without choke. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 04, 2022, 05:03:17 PM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on June 04, 2022, 04:46:31 PM
The little gold screw should not be touching at this point, correct?

As I recall, there should be a very slight gap when the choke if off.  The screw touching the cam may be holding the throttle butterfly valve open slighty.

The gap prevents the choke from affecting the butterfly valve at idle when the choke is closed.  It also allows the jet to drop very slightly richening the mix before beginning to also open the butterfly valve as you pull further open the choke.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 04, 2022, 05:04:54 PM
Gold screw should probably not touch with the choke shut. It's something you'll adjust to get a fast idle with the choke pulled but not so fast It's at 3000 rpms or something crazy. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 04, 2022, 05:15:08 PM
Sounds good. I'll get all that adjusted up.  Then to get it up and get under it to try and find the rattle.  Heard a rattle today with just the engine running then all the sudden it went away.  Usually not good, but turns out it was my timing tape that had half disintegrated then flew off and stuck to the grille.   Time to get a paint pin and put it back at TDC and just paint them on the pulley. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 05, 2022, 05:57:57 PM
Got the boogered up choke cable mess tidied up.  If it continues to be an issue will just have to order a new one.

Got it up on stands to find the rattle.  Spun the wheels by hand and didn't hear anything there.  Hubs nice and snug.  Got under it and one of the power wire clamps bolt was loose.  Tighten that up and also zip tied the afg wire to it before it gets tangled in the drive knuckle.  Speaking of which, looks like it's been hitting the exhaust again.  Last time I had this issue I found out my wheels didn't center themselves on the hubs. That was fixed my having the wheels fitted with the angled bottom lugs. So was spinning the wheel from underneath and noticed wheel weight sticky spots but no weights.  Took it off and sure enough they are gone.  Pretty sure this wheel is not perfectly balanced on its own.  So all 4 off and will take to the tire shop tomorrow.  Cleaned the back of the wheels as clean as they've probably been since new.  Hope that fixes it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 05, 2022, 06:39:30 PM
Small victories
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 06, 2022, 06:41:06 PM
Think I'm getting particles into my carb.  Was running fine 2 days ago and now it's back to barely idling with choke on.  Also looked at my fuel filter and there are little brown spots.  I have another filter before the pump too. 

This would explain the behavior of the way it's running/ idling.  Recommendations on maybe better filters or best way to try and flush the crud?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 06, 2022, 07:02:30 PM
What's the filter look like before the pump?  Maybe it's clogged.  Those cheap plastic clear filters have a paper filter that would catch anything I'm seeing in your pic.  I'd start with changing out the filters and see if it acts up.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 07, 2022, 06:26:35 PM
Ok replaced both filters.  Didn't see anything crazy with the pre pump filter, like it clogged or falling apart.  Just letting too much through.  The gas that came out of the line from carb to engine bay filter and crud that drained out of that filter was gross.  Little baffled cause I used proper fuel tank cleaner.  But then would also expect filters to actually filter. 

Will probably pull line off the carb also and spray some cleaner up in there.  Pretty sure the particles get through the jet under load or high rpm but get stuck in it at idle.  Should have time to run again tomorrow. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 08, 2022, 04:26:02 PM
Just as suspected, pulled the fuel line at the carb and ran the pump and a nice little pile of crud was in the bottom.  Sprayed carb cleaner in there and down into the jet.  Took some fiddling and idling and revs but finally got it back to high idle on choke and regular idle with no choke. Little gold screw not touching. 

So now back to rolling noises.  Have a wub wub wub noise sounds like from the back.  Not sure if it's new or just with everything else quieter I can now hear it.   Still have a rattle from the knuckle.  Wonder if I didn't get the header or collector seated deep enough in the exhaust. 

I just had all 4 wheels balanced.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 08, 2022, 05:35:59 PM
Slight irregularity in a brake drum rubbing on backing plate?

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 08, 2022, 07:43:32 PM
Will double check the rear brakes. 

A little googling and some info points to possible issues with the tires themselves.  Now I'd hope the tire shop would have noticed and or mentioned something if they saw it.  Then again they balanced them pretty quick so not sure.  Going to do some checks tomorrow. 

These wheels have pretty much been a pain since getting the car and just about ready to just buy something else.  Always loved the mambas.  Also like the "turbo" wheels. Jbw has an inexpensive set.  Specialist components and force racing have a fancier pricier version. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 08, 2022, 08:27:14 PM
I can't remember but are the rear backing plates for the drums new?  I've had new sets and combined with new drums, bind up and cause a friction area that needed filed down. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 09, 2022, 06:05:32 AM
Yes the entire rear drum assembly is new.  Believe I bought it as such from mini sport. 

I searched the forum cause I swear there was an entire thread about tires but all I found were bits and pieces. 

Also if anyone has other 10" wheel makes I'd love to know.  So far I have Jbw, force racing, specialist components, ultralight and even looked at the Japan mini place. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on June 09, 2022, 09:12:24 AM
Quote from: gr8kornholio on June 09, 2022, 06:05:32 AM
Also if anyone has other 10" wheel makes I'd love to know.  So far I have Jbw, force racing, specialist components, ultralight and even looked at the Japan mini place.

I have a set of new 3 piece wheels. Three of them have not even been assembled yet. They have never been drilled for the valve stems. I will post up some pics and measurements in a bit for you. The only downside is the place that made them no longer does, and you would have to have lug nuts made for them as they don't have anymore.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 09, 2022, 09:26:13 AM
I have an extra set of 10"x6" 'deep dish' Minilite style wheels with lug nuts and decent tires.

I can take pictures and post if you are interested.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on June 09, 2022, 10:00:55 AM
CMW racing. 10x5, 3 15/16 backspace, could never wrap my head around the offset measurements.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 09, 2022, 12:26:15 PM
I went out to the garage and took some pictures of the extra set of wheels I have.
They are Minator 10"x6" in silver with "diamond cut" rims and Falken 165/70/10 tires.  They also have all of the lug nuts and center caps.

One of the pictures shows the details of the back with the stampings readable.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 09, 2022, 06:42:09 PM
Those 3 piece are nice but sounds like a lot to get going. Also with that backspace wonder if they would rub or hit something. 

The Minator wheels are a nice take on the typical minilites, which mine are styled after.  If I can determine it's the wheels I may discuss further. 

This is when I miss having Bruce and Louis around.  Last time had this issue was able to swap a set of known good wheels and discover all issues were gone so therefore I knew it was the wheels.  Unfortunately I didn't have the car when I got the wheels "fixed" so don't know if they weren't fixed right or if something else is wrong.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 10, 2022, 11:25:40 AM
I'm not too far away to work something out as I am down in San Antonio.

The Minitors I have were taken off my blue "window" Van - it does not have flares and they stuck out enough to look too "boy racer" for my tastes.  I went with a different set of narrower wheels I already had.

The Minitors seemed to clear everything just fine when the Van first got here and it has the 7.5" Cooper-S style front disk brakes.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 12, 2022, 05:12:55 PM
Drove the car again today.  Still something not right with the choke.  It doesn't want to idle high until I pull the little gold screw out.  This is the only way it will start to high idle.  And once it warms up I screw it back in so it's not touching it idles fine with choke off.  Crazy part is sitting there holding the throttle doesn't make a difference.  It only likes the gold screw moved. 


So pretty sure front knuckle rattling is wheel.  Only does it above 35.  Going to swap front wheels and see what happens.   The rear I'm pretty sure is the left side and it starts very early and can hear it coasting all the way to a stop.   Drove down streets with lots of parked cars and there seems to also be a clicking noise in sink with the wub wub wub.  Guess I'll take that side apart and have a peek inside. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 13, 2022, 07:19:43 AM
You may be turning the screw too far in.  It is supposed to have just a tiny gap between it and the cam when the choke is fully off - so it is not affecting warm idle.

It is supposed to be close enough that pulling the choke on makes it contact and rotate the cam some for the high idle with choke on.

A check of my notes from the Nurlen site for tuning SU carbs indicates the gap should be 1.6mm.

Here is a link to the SU carb tuning site:
https://sucarb.co.uk/technical-hif-type-carburetter-tuning-general (https://sucarb.co.uk/technical-hif-type-carburetter-tuning-general)

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 13, 2022, 11:03:43 AM
Yea everytime I play with it I make sure there is barely a gap there when choke is off.  I'll set it to the 1.6 and see what happens cause currently it's way closer.  Just fitting my thinest gap feeler in there.

Something I did notice is the choke assembly has some play in it.  Meaning I can push the whole assembly in towards the carb body.  Pretty sure I tightened it all correct so is this normal or something it should not do.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 13, 2022, 11:10:23 AM
As I recall, there should not be any such play in the mechanism.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 14, 2022, 07:33:45 PM
So dismantled the left rear where I thought noise was coming from.  Nothing there. The lip of the backing plate in one spot had a bend but didn't look as it was hitting anything.  No noises though.  Did notice marks on the wheel weights but realized nothing back there for them to rub.  But I did just move that wheel from the left front. 

Went to the left front and pulled the wheel.  Yep, marks on the weights.  Put the wheel back on and yep, there's the noise.  It was just barely rubbing and noticed the caliper casting was a little rough so I filed down the high spots and tried again.  Took a few rounds but got them smoothed out and no rubbing.  Then I checked the right front.  At first I didn't see any marks and didn't hear anything.  Turned the fan off and turned it and then heard a faint rub.  Again barely touching so just smoothed out the rough edges of the caliper casting.  Rub noise eliminated.

So next to either drive again or put up on stands and take of the wheels and run it up to 35 and see if it rattles the knuckles. 

On the carb choke front I talked to Dave and his has the same play.  So gonna try a few things cause it really doesn't make sense.  If they don't work then I'll take that link and start all over following the setup. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 15, 2022, 07:35:07 PM
Quick wheel debate in case it leads to it.  10s or 12s?   I like the, I'd call it novelty of the 10.  No one but mini owners dare to say they are that small.  Issues with them is finding tire shop to work on them and balancing. Also with the center so small you don't get a lot of the "design".  Do 12s solve some of these issues?   Or do they carry there own issues. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 15, 2022, 07:51:50 PM
I have not had issues getting 10" tires mounted at one of my local Discount Tire locations.  The same location has done 12" ones on wheels for some of my Minis as well.

10" tires have more sidewall for adding some "cushioning" to the suspension.  12" tires have less sidewall and the 13" tires for Minis even less.  The less sidewall, the harsher the ride tends to be a common argument.

If your car has the 8.4" front disk brakes, 12" wheels/tires were the standard.  You would have to retro to the 7.5" disk brakes to fit 10" wheels/tires.

I have not had 13" wheels/tires personally, only 10s and 12s.  I have not really noticed much difference between 10s and 12s for ride and handling when comparing the same width tread.  I tend to prefer the narrower 145s verus the 165s.  The wider treads sometimes are more sensitive to road surface variations and ruts.

Many Mini owners seem to prefer the look of the 10s as being more visually balanced to the car's proportions.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 16, 2022, 07:27:49 AM
I think Michael hit all of the talking points, so I think it comes down to what do you like?

I like the 10's on the Innocenti, but I like the 13's on my Racing Green, mostly because it has the big flares (arches) and the 13's fill them out more. It does affect the ride and handling, but considering how few miles most of these cars get driven, I don't think it matters....it's certainly never stopped me from going someplace, whether a show or a driving event where I put on a few hundred miles in a couple of days.

So, I think those are the most important factors - are you planning to drive it cross country? Or is it a fun, run around town and go to shows and close-in events car?

Then find the ones you like and go with those. Given how much trouble you've already had with these wheels I think you're due for a new set, and with 12's you don't have to worry about the weights hitting the calipers!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on June 16, 2022, 11:21:18 AM
As Dave says, 12" wheels will give more clearance for the calipers if your front disks are already the 7.5" for using with 10" wheels.

The set of 4.5"x10" wheels I currently have on my blue Van have a similar issue of the stick on weights on the inside scuffing on the caliper.  The 10" wheels on my green Saloon do not have the issue.  It depnds on the thickness of the rim base and whether intended for drum brakes or disks.  The ones I have that rub the weights are "supposed" to be for disks, but are a thick rim base.

The 6"x10" "deep dish" Minitors I posted earlier are also supposed to be for disks.  I do not recall having any issues with them other than they stick out enough that small flares should be used.  I went with the narrower ones I had as extras because I did not want to add flares to fully cover the tires sticking out.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 16, 2022, 05:25:43 PM
Thanks for all the info.  I have one test to try but haven't had the time.  Should narrow it down. Of course if it is the wheels then decision has to be made.  My current wheels also stick out a bit and I don't plan to run flares.  So may look at 5" instead of 6" or a wheel patter with more backspace.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 19, 2022, 09:45:09 PM
So testing the car without the wheels was a royal PITA.  Love open diffs.  One hub spins other does nothing.  And wouldn't you know it, the hub that spins isn't the one that would rattle.  Tried putting tire on that one for more weight.  Nope. Ok, what can I wedge under it.  Aww, the other tire.  And sure enough, no rattling.  Put both tires on and rattling. 

Did notice that the tires were no square so with the wife's help got that fixed.  Not sure how it got off since we set it.  Everything was still tight.  After this drive it up to 50.  Only rattling is when I let off.  Pretty sure in neutral.  May try another run and leave it in gear.  Idk part of me still says it's the wheels.  Going to call a couple places tomorrow about alignment.  They are shops that specialize in custom suspension setups. 

Carb thing just won't straighten out.  Going to start over and check valves, timing, spark plugs.  Today when I shut it off it dieseled until I pulled a plug out of the block.   No coil. No plug wires. No battery.  Kept running until I pulled the plug out.  Probably going to pull the carb too to make sure no gunk in the bowl. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 20, 2022, 06:08:57 AM
Is the rattling detonation?  I've never had one diesel on with the entire electrical system disconnected before.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on June 20, 2022, 08:08:34 AM
I am late to the wheel discussion, but aesthetically speaking 10 inch wheels look best on a Mini in my opinion. Nice, chunky 10 inch wheels and tires just seem to fit the overall design of the car better than anything else.  My car has 12 inch wheels but somewhere down the line I will probably make the disc brake conversion needed to switch to 10 inch wheels.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on June 20, 2022, 08:26:25 AM
Quote from: BruceK on June 20, 2022, 08:08:34 AM
I am late to the wheel discussion, but aesthetically speaking 10 inch wheels look best on a Mini in my opinion. Nice, chunky 10 inch wheels and tires just seem to fit the overall design of the car better than anything else.  My car has 12 inch wheels but somewhere down the line I will probably make the disc brake conversion needed to switch to 10 inch wheels.

They handle better with 10s too.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 20, 2022, 08:57:39 AM
Quote from: 94touring on June 20, 2022, 06:08:57 AM
Is the rattling detonation?  I've never had one diesel on with the entire electrical system disconnected before.

That's a thought.  The only question mark there is why it only does it with the wheels on.  Didn't do it at all with the wheels off.  And with the wheels off up on stands is when it dieseled on forever.   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 20, 2022, 09:38:37 AM
Next time you can't get it to shut off, stick it in 4th gear, let the clutch out with the brakes on......
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on June 30, 2022, 07:36:59 PM
 :-[ moment.   After googling choke issues on Hif44 I found a couple of videos and found out my choke was wrong.  I'd locked the cable down to when the choke was fully disengaged the arrow was pointing at the fast idle screw.  Well that's wrong.  So I unclamped it and let it go back fully and then clamped it.  Then followed the video on setting it.  So fingers crossed tomorrow when I start it the choke and idle act appropriately. 

Valves were really close but adjusted them a little.  New plugs and double checked gaps.  Timing still accurate.   Did all of this before messing with carb.  Will double check timing when start up tomorrow.   

Moved the back wheels to the front and still rattling over 50.   With or without throttle.  In or out of gear.  Still trying to get local mini owners to come over.   Guy in Burlson has some but that's completely across the metro area.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on June 30, 2022, 08:45:19 PM
Wish you were a bit closer, I'd be happy to loan you a set to try and sort this, but given how much trouble these have given you already I think I would just invest in a new set of wheels. Don't buy those with the sleeved lug nuts tho, get them with the tapered ones.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 01, 2022, 06:43:09 AM
I still have the set of Minator 10"x6" wheels/tires I posted earlier.  They are complete with tapered nuts and center caps.  I was considering posting them in the "Parts for Sale" section at $320 for the set.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 01, 2022, 07:58:16 AM
He would need tires too, wouldn't he? I was just saying he just needs to borrow a set off a car and drive around a bit to see if that's his problem (I'm betting it is)

However, since I haven't heard the noise from in the car, I would make sure the backing plates on the rear brakes are tight, that the top nuts on the rear shocks are tight and so on.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 01, 2022, 08:24:08 AM
It's the exact same noise from last time.  It's very distinct.  I have a set I've picked out, almost identical to mine.  Just would really like to know before buying a set and then still have the issue.  Last post on classic mini of Texas got a little more traction.  See if anything comes of it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 01, 2022, 11:42:25 AM
The ones I have include the tires currently mounted.  They came off my panel Van, which has the 7.5" front disk brakes.  I had no noises or rubbing from them the few times I drove it with them on before changing to some narrower ones I already had.

The Van does not have flares and looks better with the narrower wheel/tire combo now on it, so the 10"x6" set is now extra.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 03, 2022, 03:38:05 PM
Think I got the starting issue solved.  Yay. 

On the wheel front I got some measurements off mine so I know what will fit like what.  Issue is most wheels will actually stick out further than mine.  Mine are odd cause they are 6 inch but have a slight positive offset.  Most 6 inch I find have a negative offset.  Waiting for some info from Jbw and will go from there. 

Micheal, thanks but you can list those cause they would stick out further than mine and mine are pushing the limits of looking funny with no flares. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: cstudep on July 03, 2022, 04:42:41 PM
I have not quite decided if I want to sell them or not yet but I have a full set (5 wheels) of 4.5 x 10" minilite wheels. I bought new tires thinking I would install them on the minilites for my car, I mounted one tire, stuck it on the car and am now completely undecided on if I like them or not. My car has had the steel 10" wheels with baby moon style hub caps since I bought it and it just does not look right to me with the minilites. I could probably get used to them but I am thinking I may sell them instead, I just can't make up my mind. Keeping the tires either way since I really need the tires LOL.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 10, 2022, 01:18:59 PM
So I have borrowed a set of wheels.  I finally got time to fit them to the front.  Which at first I didn't think they were going too.  They are 4.5x12 with a 35mm offset.  With that high offset and one side jacked up they rub on the coil over.  Luckily with the car back on the ground they don't. But this made me look around at clearances and in the back my current wheels are barely clearing the springs of the coil overs.  So will have to be thoughtful of this if ordering new wheels. 

With that in mind, is anyone on here running spacers?   If so what type and how do you center them properly?   I saw some on minispares that seem simple with just the correct 4 lugs and longer studs. 

I'm not fond of the narrow wheel, especially with high positive offset. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on July 10, 2022, 01:38:42 PM
Steveston Motor Co. has spacers that are 3mm and 5mm that are drilled just for minis.

https://stevestonmotorco.com/collections/hardware/products/slip-on-wheel-spacers
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 10, 2022, 03:00:45 PM
I run 3/4" spacers on the back of my green Mini   77.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 10, 2022, 03:17:09 PM
Thanks willie.  Dave which ones are you running?  What centers them?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 10, 2022, 04:55:58 PM
Generic.....they're so light and so close to the center of the wheel I doubt it matters. IIRC Mine have slots so they can run on a number of different spaced studs.....but if I were buying them again I would probably get some drilled to size like the ones WillieB linked

http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Wheels/Accessories/Spacers/CW17.aspx?200104&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/wheel%20spacers.aspx|Back%20to%20search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Wheels/Accessories/Spacers/CW17.aspx?200104&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/wheel%20spacers.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)

They also carry these
http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Wheels/Accessories/Spacers/CW17.aspx?200104&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/wheel%20spacers.aspx|Back%20to%20search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Wheels/Accessories/Spacers/CW17.aspx?200104&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/wheel%20spacers.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 10, 2022, 06:33:33 PM
Yea, those were the ones I saw.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on July 10, 2022, 07:06:22 PM
When I was using the spacers with the larger wheel stud openings I used a piece of 3/8" rubber hose over each stud the same length as the thickness of the spacer to hold them centered. Worked a treat.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 10, 2022, 08:26:25 PM
I think I have an unused set like Dave linked in my "spares" box.  I'll get out to the garage tomorrow and take a picture and post.  If you are interested, let me know.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 11, 2022, 10:51:39 AM
I do have a set (1 pair) of the spacers like Dave linked.  They are the 3/4" ones - see pictures below - with the longer wheel studs included.  They have never been used - just carried/bounced around in the box of spares for several years now.

If anyone is interested in them, send me a message.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 12, 2022, 06:07:48 PM
Thanks Michael, but won't need that much of a spacer.  I did get a drive and it was much improved with the loaner wheels.  Now it still rattled but was drastically better and these are not proven wheels.  They have weights and are probably close to balanced but not verified.   So mine are either junk or horribly balanced.   Going to call tire place tomorrow to verify how they mount to balance.   If it's through the hub then I'd question it cause no guarantee thats centered.  Would hope they'd balance by the lugs but guessing how fast they did it I doubt it.   

Other note it started better, idled under choke better, sounds a little high actually, and idled good after releasing choke. So progress.  Got it inspected too.  Now just need to go to tax office to do registration.   

O, and getting the seats started the 26th.  I may have a full on car legal for street use by August.  Yea, a month short of 2 years since I got it back.  Geez.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on July 12, 2022, 07:39:12 PM
That is fine.  I did not think you would need that much.  They came as spares with one of my past projects intended for the rears on a disk brake conversion as the car had unspacered rear drums originally.  I forget what I actually ended up doing, but the set was left over unused.

I'll post them in the "Parts for sale" section later for anyone that wants them.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 12, 2022, 07:56:18 PM
Some good ol google research and finding out these wheels should definitely be lug centric balanced. Due to age and manufacturing process the likelihood that the center hole of these is in anyway round let alone centered is probably slim.  Also the fact that the 3 wheels that still had weights were also changed.  Quick cone mount balance can cause weight chasing, so possibly they ran it, weighted it and done.  Bet if they would have dismounted it from the machine, then put it right back on it would be different.   So phone calls to tire shops for lug centric balance. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 12, 2022, 08:13:12 PM
I think you'll need to find a race shop to do that, most shops will have the adaptor (we had one at school) but no inclination or training to use it.

Bruce had his car aligned at I think it was Cobb Racing? I would call them
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 12, 2022, 08:26:38 PM
Yea they are gone. Moved to Austin.  There are a couple race shops that do alignment so will call them about balance too.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 13, 2022, 07:31:37 PM
Yay for low exchange rate cause this is the choice. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on July 13, 2022, 08:40:45 PM
Nice!  They're gonna look great on the car.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 13, 2022, 08:43:56 PM
Do those use sleeved lug nuts?

Reason I ask is that Don got rid of a set of Revolution wheels because he could never get them smooth - we figured the sleeves didn't allow the wheels to stay centered. Since he went to the mambas with tapered lug nuts he got rid of all the vibrations
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 14, 2022, 08:29:51 AM
It doesn't say specifically but from the picture and the lugs they show they appear to be using the angled seat nuts. 

Yea, my original issue with current wheels was the sleeve style lug.  Yea the holes had wallowed out, that's why I had inserts put in, but now the wheel needs balanced off the lugs and no one does it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 18, 2022, 08:17:05 AM
Got the car registered again today.  Glad I got there early.   

Also got a message the wheels are ready to ship but of course they have no spacers and have no eta on them.  So guess I'll wait for them to come in and see what exactly is an issue.  If I still need them I can get from minispares.   And the fronts don't need them so I can drive for now with mismatched if the rear does need them.  Set to go to upholstery shop the 26th to do the seats. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 21, 2022, 04:31:35 PM
Tracked down the non working signals from the inspection.  Bad flasher.  Got a close enough replacement from Napa and have turn signals again. 

Wheels are scheduled for delivery tomorrow.  Either will be yay problem solved or o 🤬 still a problem.  If I need spacers for the rear I'll put in an order from ol UK for stuff.  Lol.  Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 21, 2022, 05:37:05 PM
Do you already have the spacered out rear drums?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 21, 2022, 05:43:23 PM
Yes.  Didn't realize how far the coilovers stick out compared to just shocks.  If I didn't have the spaced out drums my current wheels wouldn't have fit.  So I'll probably have to get longer studs than what comes with the spacers cause they have to go through the drums too.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 22, 2022, 03:28:25 PM
Got the new wheels today.  Look good.  Question though, how much clearance should I go for between the tire and the rear coil over spring?     

The tires are on the verge of rubbing so I want to move them out, but not really any more than I have to cause I like how they look.  I figure 3mm is cutting it close so maybe 5mm if not that it's all the way out to 3/8" which is pretty much 10mm.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on July 22, 2022, 03:43:57 PM
Fronts or rears?

Front wheels move out as they go up, just FYI.....I think 3/8" clearance is more than enough....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 22, 2022, 03:45:44 PM
The fronts clear fine, it's the rears.

So you'd go with 3/8 (10mm) over the 5mm?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 23, 2022, 10:53:17 AM
So according to several other car forums this is a large topic.  Almost all are in agreement that if there is space it's enough.  So will go with 5mm.  Enough for good clearance but not going to push them out any noticeable distance.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 23, 2022, 04:32:19 PM
Nothing like spending $800 to find out you still have an issue. 
Not a total waste as the wheels look better and I needed new tires, but the frustration of well what's causing it sucks. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 23, 2022, 04:43:07 PM
Sorry to hear that.   11.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 24, 2022, 09:52:59 AM
Some times you just need a 2x4.  Exhaust I guess wasn't far enough back.  Also the knuckle bolts were really loose.  I'd checked them at the beginning but I guess they loosened up.  Not sure how they are the nylon nuts.  Guess something to keep an eye on.  Maybe getting a new header as the knuckle put a deep gash/dent in one. Doesn't look cracked or anything but will see.

Anyways the damn rattle is gone.  Feel a little  :-[ though as guess this should been first place to look. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 24, 2022, 10:19:35 AM
Hey so it's fixed!?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 24, 2022, 11:34:02 AM
Sounds like it.  Ran it up to 60 twice and no noise.   Only thing now after banging on exhaust my afr gauge just says A1.  Need to look that up now. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on July 24, 2022, 11:39:49 AM
I just had to buy a new sensor after melting the wires on exhaust. All it would say was A1. Even soldering wires back together wouldn't fix it.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on July 29, 2022, 11:57:59 AM
Seats are off getting done.  Smashed a fingernail working on the interior.  Minispares and dhl seem to be back on their game.  Ordered last night and it's shipped and so to arrive Tuesday. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 01, 2022, 06:44:46 PM
Got my stuff a day early.  Yay.  Got the spacers in, 5mm was plenty. Did have to replace the studs though so yay extra work. 

Also put the chrome trim around the bottom lip of the shell.  Wasn't to bad with the heat gun.  Didn't like the bend coming off the rear as it had been rolled up the wrong way for a couple years now.  Sucky part is halfway up the side, the easy part, discolored.  Like seriously.  O well.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on August 01, 2022, 07:06:44 PM
The car is looking great! Once you get the interior back, where's the first place you guys will take it for a run?

My stuff came today too - won't get started till tomorrow tho - really hot out now - really!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 01, 2022, 07:32:23 PM
Yea, the heat definitely limits the time in the garage.  Working outside the car isn't bad, but climbing around the inside and getting in and out really wears on you. 

Probably just a bunch of local stuff.  Don't want to venture too far with all the new stuff.   Some shake down runs and trips to local shows should hopefully get the rest, if any, bugs out. 

There is a monthly show, nothing big, but you can enter multiple categories so I want to see if I can get best 60s car.   Import is too easy. 

Also the state fair is coming up and they have a car corral and the mini club goes each year.  Hoping to take it there.  Have also seen some cruise ins happening around.  Hopefully this heat breaks though and we don't carry the non stop 100+ days into Sept. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 01, 2022, 07:59:10 PM
Beautiful!  IMO the Mini looks best on 10 inch wheels with no fender flairs and with the chrome trim instead - just like your car. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 02, 2022, 07:57:50 AM
Thanks.  I really like how it turned out with the wheels.  Having some issues though with that trim.  Need to try and smooth out the lip in a few places to get it to lay better. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 07, 2022, 05:08:48 PM
So what happens when an engineer is a car guy and an audio nut.....

You get a modified heat knob that now controls the bass boost on the amplifier.   Didn't need the heat valve as it is permanently open, that and no heater at the moment and even when one goes in the water can flow through it.   Also needed a place to mount the boost knob so boom. Fixed it. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 07, 2022, 07:13:40 PM
Nice!    Twist the roaring fireplace knob for the bass!    4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on August 19, 2022, 03:43:27 PM
 :-\     71.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on August 19, 2022, 04:04:31 PM
Very nice! 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on August 19, 2022, 04:07:51 PM
Looks good  4.gif
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 05, 2022, 06:07:51 PM
Found some possibly original parts and curious if they have any value.  Oil filter assembly.  Original brake and clutch hoses.  A bag that says wet subframe parts.  Original style hose clamps.  Original slave cylinder and what looks like clutch arms. 

Otherwise car is mostly done.  One more dash panel to put in and the windshield washer setup.  Hoping to get it out of the garage this week and get it custom aligned and some good pictures.   Big arts and autos festival in Denton Saturday which I'm targeting for its first showing.   
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2022, 07:22:50 AM
Going to take lack of response to previous post that the parts are worthless and will add to the bin. 

Dropped the car off this morning for its alignment.  Was fun and nerve racking at the same time driving it and leaving it.  It's Like dropping off a kid on first day of school. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 07, 2022, 09:11:45 AM
Sorry........yes, unless it's Aussie Mini specific and rare, I would say the bin is the right place.

I just threw away a shit ton of old scrap parts that I've been saving - no idea why. I still have about another shit ton of them to go too!

I'm a little surprised you didn't stay with the car, usually I like to align them with the owner in the driver's seat.....you did tell them you'd just spent a bazillion dollars on the paint and body work and if they scratch it, it will cost them another bazillion because the paint is a rare Aussie only color that has to come from down unda?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2022, 04:03:24 PM
No, but wishing I had as they didn't even do the rear.  Of course didn't realize until I got home and the wife was reading the paper work.  I was told by lots of car guys this was the place to go and when someone drops off a car for full custom alignment it most likely has adjustable parts all over the suspension.  Yay phone call tomorrow and probably a return trip.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 07, 2022, 04:22:55 PM
Yeah, sometimes you have to educate them about what needs to be done.....did you give them the specs to adjust it to?

Can you post a pic of the results, before and after?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 07, 2022, 05:20:09 PM
Yea I gave them the specs.  It's got 6th month warranty so I'll be giving them a call tomorrow to figure out what can be done.  Cause if all they did was the front I way overpaid.  Like way over.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on September 07, 2022, 06:02:46 PM
I paid $175 for a full 4 wheel alignment on the moke.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 07, 2022, 07:54:33 PM
Yes, it's usually $165 here for a 4 wheel on my classics.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 08, 2022, 01:30:01 PM
So taking it back in tomorrow.  They said they wondered if that's what they were for but didn't know.  God forbid you call the owner and ask.  Mine was $250.  They said they'd get it done first thing why I wait.  We'll see.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: BruceK on September 08, 2022, 03:33:07 PM
When I had my car's alignment done they suggested I sit in the car while it was done. So I spent more than an hour aloft up on the lift while they fiddled and adjusted and readjusted - fixing one thing tended to knock another thing out of specs.   One of the techs in the shop took the picture of me sitting in the car, below.

One thing to be sure is the car's suspension is adjusted level on all 4 corners before the alignment.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 08, 2022, 04:49:15 PM
What spec's are you using Mark?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 08, 2022, 05:51:54 PM
Specs
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on September 08, 2022, 07:20:36 PM
Wow! What idiot came up with all that?

Wait a minute............ ::) ;D
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 10, 2022, 12:18:00 PM
Got the alignment squared away.  This time he came in and got me so I could explain all the oddities of the mini suspension.   Enjoying driving the car again.  Can't take it to work though cause I found out the door key isn't working.  Fun.

Did however taking to its first show today.   Lots of spectators as it was a big event for police and fire.  Had a lot of great conversations and stories.  Need to put together my restoration book.  I swear I'm by far the youngest guy there with a classic style car. 

Since I now know it's a Morris mini and that's what I put on the tag I did a lot of explaining that is was just a mini.  The cooper is a different trim level on a mini.  Blew peoples minds they were making these up to 99.  They stopped importing them here in the 60's correct?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 10, 2022, 12:18:45 PM
Outside pictures. I realize I forgot to take interior ones. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on September 10, 2022, 12:53:38 PM
That looks great Mark!  Happy to see it on the road again!
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: Willie_B on September 10, 2022, 01:11:34 PM
Last year imported was 1967.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on September 10, 2022, 01:15:50 PM
Thanks. Everyone loved the color and complimented the paint. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MPlayle on September 10, 2022, 01:25:08 PM
As WilleB stated, last year imported was 1967 (possibly as late as Decmber 1967, but definitely none after 12-31-1967.  The last one off the production line was 10-4-2000.

Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 03, 2022, 07:33:32 PM
Finally had time to get the door handle off to see why the key lock doesn't work anymore.  The little square sliding piece was jammed.  When I got it loose and apart a little piece of metal fell out.  After knocking out the pin and getting the barrel out I found what fell out.  The little end of the barrel that slides the little lock bar back and forth.  So was going to order a new set just to replace everything.  Well guess what, yep after a little research the 65-71 Australian doors use specific door handles.  Can be had for a cool $300.  Maybe someday.  For now I just ordered a set of new key barrels so will just replace those for now.  Hopefully spares is on its game and I can get them before Saturday. 🤞🏼
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: MiniDave on October 04, 2022, 07:45:15 AM
What's happening Sat? Another car show?

How's it running?

Do you like the coil overs?
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 04, 2022, 05:48:23 PM
Yea another show.  This one is a little further out.  Slowly working my way further and further from home as I feel more comfortable that there isn't an issue.  Hoping to get some good out and about pictures too.  Have free time this weekend so we will see. 

So far appears to be running good.  Think idle is a little high so will have to play with that. 

Coil overs are great.  Think I need to crank up the dampers a little or maybe down.  It feels a little bouncy some times.   Corners great, the new falken tires aren't as grippy as the A008s though.
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 22, 2022, 04:02:49 PM
Two more shows over the last 2 weekends.  Got front row parking outside the big convention center for one.  Lots of people out and lots of great mini stories from them.   Pretty sure got the loudest applause during the awards. 

The other one was today and again every one loved the car and couldn't stop talking about it.  Got an honorable mention for paint (all props to Dan) and overall vision and execution.   

Did find out this past week that the rear shocks were turned all the way soft so turned them up a ways and it is riding even better. 
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: gr8kornholio on October 23, 2022, 02:14:02 PM
Picked up my show sign today.  Thoughts, critiques, suggestions.....
Title: Re: My 65 Australian MKI
Post by: 94touring on October 23, 2022, 05:31:18 PM
Cool, I got a little shoutout!