Restoration-Mini

Technical Forums => Restorations => Daves Garage => Topic started by: MiniDave on November 01, 2020, 10:28:04 AM

Title: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on November 01, 2020, 10:28:04 AM
Last night, right as the kids were coming thru for trick or treat my next project arrived.

This is a late 90's Sport Pack, Japanese Spec, 1275 automatic trans with A/C.

Boy howdy is that one crammed engine compartment! Between the A/C components and the SPi ECU AND the automatic there is no room for hands or tools to get in there and work!

The brief on this car is that it has flat cones and is riding on the bumpstops, so first order of business is to rebuild the suspension and get it to drive properly. While we're under the bonnet I'm charged with removing the A/C components which will require a bit of tidying up and some different brackets to drive the alternator as it's currently driven off the A/C compressor clutch. The owner had the freon removed before he sent the car to me.

The car was shipped in one of the nicest enclosed car haulers I've ever seen! I didn't get any pics as it was dark when he got here, but I'll see if I can get some when he comes back to pick up the car for the return trip home.

Edit: I just noticed the big MINI badge on the back! I told you, it was dark when it got here last night!   ;D
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on November 01, 2020, 10:33:03 AM
Holy smokes, that engine compartment is filled to the brim!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on November 01, 2020, 11:45:10 AM
And here I was thinking a VTEC filled up the engine bay.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on November 01, 2020, 03:18:51 PM
Carefully remove all the a/c stuff first.  That will give room for getting at the front subframe bolts to get a compressor on the rubber cones.  Expect to use the metric compressor rod.

Now would also be a good time to install hi-lows if not already present.

While removing the a/c stuff, full document the disassembly process for someone to use as a reassembly guide.  There is still a slight demand for the a/c kits when complete.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on November 01, 2020, 03:32:17 PM
Nah......I'm just gonna rip it all out and toss it in the bin!   ;D ;D ;D

He says he doesn't want the removed parts.

I made my cone compressor out of a chunk of black pipe and a piece of 14mm allthread - works a treat!

Adjusters come with the Smooth a Ride kit, but Ima look and see if it already has them JIC. We're still going to change the cones no matter what.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on November 01, 2020, 05:16:43 PM
I remember that car. it was imported out of Japan and came off the boat with no forward gears only reverse, nothing a full re build of the auto trans couldn't fix along with some others that were done at the same time.

That is a straight no rust Mini and probably still has 95% o it's original paint apart from the viper blue roof, painted bonnet stripes and flares of course.

The ac always worked well with no issues afaik.

The issue when removing this ac set up on the later spi cars like this is that it runs through the ecu, it is a factory set up unlike the earlier ones with the condenser up front which were an add on to the existing wiring harness.
To have a complete kit apart from the obvious you need the Japanese ecu and the wiring harness, Jap spec cars did not have the immobilizer like the UK spi ones so the ecu's are different.

Looks like the owner installed new 13x7 rims and tires it had 13 inch sports pack wheels on it when my buddy sold it a few months ago.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Lone Star Mini on November 12, 2020, 09:46:47 AM
So Dave.. what's your job?  to get the mini up and running properly?  I think it's a nice looking mini.  Although I've always wondered how well the side mirrors on the wings work?  You can't (or I can't ) reach them if you need to adjust...
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on November 12, 2020, 10:12:09 AM
Mirrors on the wings do not work worth a darn if you ask me. Not only can you not reach them, those mirrors are so small they are basically useless once you move them that far away. It's a good thing I have a decent enough center mount mirror and the mini is small enough with enough "window" that seeing out isn't really an issue.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on November 12, 2020, 12:16:04 PM
which Mini, Randy?

This white one is in for suspension rebuild, it runs fine. I won't be able to start on it till I get the Inno off the rack tho.

I agree on the wing mirrors - I've only driven one car with them and I could not see a damn thing!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on November 12, 2020, 10:25:01 PM
The wing mirrors are a pain to get adjusted correctly and then when the car is parked someone always seems to bump into them and you go through the re adjustment procedure.
I find it best to used an overtaker mirror as a back up that fastens onto the body seam.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: mascher on November 13, 2020, 04:33:35 PM
That's why they made the Boomerang mirrors. Still it's like looking at postage stamps mounted on the fenders. Almost anything is preferable.
Kelley
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 02, 2020, 04:37:10 PM
Well, so far DHL has let me down today.....I've had not one, not two but three text messages today saying that my suspension parts order was out for delivery by the end of the day (of course, they don't say which day!  ::)) and usually I see my driver about noon to one o'clock.

Today, it's now well past dark thirty and nuttin......absolutely nuttin.

Just in case I checked around the side of the house and by the garage door in case they simply dropped it off. I also checked my two immediate neighbors to see if it got dropped there by accident, but no.

The boys are really good at alerting us when a UPS, Amazon, FedEx, Postal or DHL delivery truck is in the neighborhood, but today was a very light delivery day for our hood, as only FedEx and the postman showed up.

Although my next door neighbor got hooked up on Google fiber today and the boys sure let me know about THAT!  ;D

Edit: I was just about to push the "Save" button for this post and here they are!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 02, 2020, 08:36:30 PM
"End of day" for FedEx and DHL tends to be about 8:00 PM - especially for "home" deliveries.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 02, 2020, 08:53:35 PM
I had UPS show up at 9:30 pm a couple of weeks ago. Felt sorry for the driver as it's always the same dude and he usually shows up around 5. He said it was a long day and he was ready to be done.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 03, 2020, 10:39:28 AM
Parts is parts....

Smooth a Ride kit plus adjustable lower control arms and tie bars. I prefer these lower arms, they're easy to set and plenty heavy duty.

Still waiting on a set of sealed ball joints from Japan.

We're also going to change to an aluminum radiator on this and the 998 I'll be building for him, so I ordered 2 of them.

The automatic for the 998 will be crated up and sent off for a rebuild to Nick Upton....he has all the special tools you need to do one of those - I don't although if people keep sending them to me I might try and get them.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 03, 2020, 11:47:20 AM
I have never seen that version of adjustable lower arms where are they from? They are definitely different than the ones I have seen.

Seems like I saw you and Dan have had good luck with the considerably cheaper aluminum radiators from ebay I think? Still satisfied with their quality? I need a new radiator pretty bad, I think mine has sprung a leak somewhere. Would the one you usually get fit a Mk1 ok? I know fitting on the mk1's can be hit and miss sometimes with radiators.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 03, 2020, 12:53:55 PM
The aluminum radiators are just a tad thicker than the regular Mini radiator. 

If your MK-I still has the shroud on the inner wing/fender, then it may be an issue.  It was when I did my white Moke: I had to roll the lip of the fender shroud for clearance.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 03, 2020, 01:10:56 PM
The white car is a '96 Japanese spec SPi, so it's what...a Mark 5 or 6?

If this 998 goes in Dan's Pup, then it might need a small notch cut out.

I did have to notch my '89 Racing Green to fit, come to think of it.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 04, 2020, 11:42:39 AM
Quote from: MiniDave on December 03, 2020, 01:10:56 PM
The white car is a '96 Japanese spec SPi, so it's what...a Mark 5 or 6?

If this 998 goes in Dan's Pup, then it might need a small notch cut out.

I did have to notch my '89 Racing Green to fit, come to think of it.

1990 through 1996 were MK VI Minis.

On a customers early Mini rather than cut the lip on the wing I modified (or used) a different top bracket as there was enough fan clearance, can't remember how I solved the bottom bracket issue maybe spacers.





Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 04, 2020, 12:43:09 PM
On my 89 Racing Green I only needed to take a very small notch out where the forward corner of the radiator interfered with the fender. I think I could have put a tiny bit of rubber in there instead, or take a hammer to it and dented it in very slightly for clearance.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 04, 2020, 03:03:04 PM
I think I will probably just order one and see how it works. If it requires more permanent mods than I am comfortable performing I'll just use it on a future test stand I plan to build. I have a motorcycle engine I am rebuilding along with potentially an a-series in the future so a test stand of sorts would be useful.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 04, 2020, 03:36:43 PM
My little junk parts test stand has been really useful, I know how I would build it the next time tho. Leave more room under the casters so the legs of the engine hoist will fit under it, and leave one side open so I can bring an engine straight in rather than up and over.

I think I would have the engine sit higher too so there's more room under it for gas tanks, batteries and such. Also a tool tray for the odds and ends screwdrivers, timing light and such. You learn you grow, right?

I buy mine off Ebay, I used to pay around $60 shipped, the last three have been $74 shipped, sill a good buy IMHO.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 04, 2020, 03:58:05 PM
Yeah I was checking out your stand pretty good when we were there LOL. Simple yet effective and your "upgrades" sound pretty reasonable, especially the space under for the hoist legs, not really something you think about until the first time you go to sit the engine in and the damn things won't fit under it. Been there done that so thanks for the mention there, probably saved me the same aggravation later LOL. 4.gif I have seen the pictures of ones built using the metal wheeled carts that you mentioned somewhere here, but after looking at how flimsy some of those carts actually are I am not sure how well one of those would hold up without some pretty decent reinforcement.  In which case you may as well just build one like you did.

Yep even at $74 it's still a hell of a lot cheaper than anything else I have seen.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 04, 2020, 04:11:45 PM
Best part about the aluminum radiators is that they work, even in Texas/Kansas/Missouri  summer heat.

Yeah, I had to go with bigger casters on mine as I could not get the legs under it! Also, I originally had two fixed and two swivel casters, now I run all swivels
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 10, 2020, 11:51:35 AM
Sorry Paul, I missed you question about where I got the suspension bits. They all came from Mini Sport, that's the only place that sells the Smooth a Ride kit, and I like this design of control arm better than the ones MiniSpares sells.

I managed to get some time in on the white car.....

Getting anything off of a Japanese A/C car is a total PITA! It will look positively roomy under the hood once it's done. One thing I will say, all of the Japanese added on bits (all metric of course) come off easily - they are not rusted up like the English build bits are.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 10, 2020, 12:38:43 PM
Once I got the ECU out of the way, I could get at the remaining A/C parts, the condenser and fan finally came out.

I had to place another order at spares, he's decided while it's all out or accessible to replace the starter, alternator (went with the 70 amp option), radiator of course, water pump and radiator hoses. I also ordered some new plugs and plug leads as they were pretty hard and crusty.

Next I'll drop transmission shield - I hadn't seen one like this made for an automatic - and try and find where all the oil is leaking from. Since it had it's transmission rebuilt not that long ago I'm a little surprised just how much oil is all over under the car.

Anyone seen an engine number stamped into the block like this? It has the holes for the rivets....

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 10, 2020, 12:55:42 PM
Thanks for the info on the lower arms! I did manage to find the smooth-a-ride stuff at sport but somehow missed seeing those lower arms. They certainly look a little more robust than the other style and easier to adjust is always a plus! 77.gif

Never seen an engine number stamped in. Seen plenty with plates completely missing, and plates beat all to hell where you can hardly read them. It almost looks like they pounded that in with a center punch, can't imagine they did while maintaining that much precision though. If they did then I am impressed!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 10, 2020, 01:37:27 PM
That looks like the engine number has been hand engraved with an engraving pen.  Probably required by Japanese regulations?

(Similar to the Japanese issued VIN stamped in the boot on 1980s models?)

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on December 10, 2020, 01:45:10 PM
I think that type of engraving is what all mid-90s A-series had until the end of production.  Way back when I had a circa 1995 stock 1275 engine which I put in my old Traveller and it had similar markings. 
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 10, 2020, 05:05:36 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on December 10, 2020, 12:38:43 PM
Once I got the ECU out of the way, I could get at the remaining A/C parts, the condenser and fan finally came out.

I had to place another order at spares, he's decided while it's all out or accessible to replace the starter, alternator (went with the 70 amp option), radiator of course, water pump and radiator hoses. I also ordered some new plugs and plug leads as they were pretty hard and crusty.

Next I'll drop transmission shield - I hadn't seen one like this made for an automatic - and try and find where all the oil is leaking from. Since it had it's transmission rebuilt not that long ago I'm a little surprised just how much oil is all over under the car.

Anyone seen an engine number stamped into the block like this? It has the holes for the rivets....

You are lucky with the customer wanting to change out parts while it is apart. I literally was arguing with a guy whose water pump needed replacing about why he should replace the bottom radiator hose while it was out as he saw no need for it. I wouldn't mind if it was fresh but I have been working on his car for quite a few years and it looked old but I do remember he was the same way about changing both the rear wheel cylinders instead of just one.

While you have it that far apart you might want to ask the customer if he wants the auto bands adjusted as it probably has never been done since the rebuild, now is the best time to access/remove that front cover.

The oil leak may have been or is coming from the automatic sideways cartridge oil filter. I seem to remember the old owner having an issue with it leaking but IIRC he was installing the O ring seal without removing the old one which seems to happen a lot with Mini auto owners. The gear selector linkage seal always seem to leak too along with the normal other Mini leaks.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 10, 2020, 06:10:12 PM
Is there any info on how much or what to set the bands at? I didn't find any - and I read thru all the info on the AP site.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 17, 2020, 07:09:40 PM
I've been working every day in the shop, trying to get as much done as possible before I head into the hospital Jan 5th.

I cleaned the block up and gave it a lick of red Rustyoleum paint - pay no attention to the green valve cover, that's my paint cover. I have a nice shiny new aluminum cover coming for it next week.

I also have a new aluminum radiator, water pump, alternator, starter and all new hoses that have come in. Just need to get it all installed.

These Japanese made ball joints came in too - they are pretty spendy but they never need lapping, shimming or greasing. This is the first set I've installed as they are so much money, but I sure like the idea of them,.

All the parts except the valve cover are here, so I'll be moving forward on this as quickly as I can....but there are always delays. In this case tomorrow it will be 50+ outside, I have to fix a gutter that's come loose, and clean all the leaves out of the gutters before it snows and I get ice dams. I'm glad we're not dealing with what the northeast is this week! They got a couple of feet of snow overnight in some spots!

The last pic is of the cones compared to the new smooth a rides.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Willie_B on December 17, 2020, 07:43:54 PM
When I installed my balljoints I had to remove the dust cover for the socket to fit. A bit fiddley as they are held with a spring but not too bad.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 17, 2020, 08:04:50 PM
I seem to recall seeing on the website for those ball joints that they still need to be greased, just not shimmed?

Are they a different model from what I saw?

These are the ones I read about from other threads on the forum:
http://classicminisjapan.com/new-parts/maintenance-free-ball-joint-kit/ (http://classicminisjapan.com/new-parts/maintenance-free-ball-joint-kit/)

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 17, 2020, 08:12:20 PM
Well....to me "maintenance free" means no greasing?
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 17, 2020, 08:18:50 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on December 17, 2020, 08:12:20 PM
Well....to me "maintenance free" means no greasing?

At first, I thought the same thing until I read all the way down the product page and it talked about the installation process.  There it said they still needed greasing - just no more adjusting the shims as they wear.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on December 17, 2020, 08:23:43 PM
it says "Grease up as normal using the nipple on the lock tab. Other than for exceptional circumstances, does not require additional grease-up once fitted."

So technically "maintenance free" I suppose, so long as you don't have any exceptional circumstances......once properly greased up the first time of course.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Willie_B on December 18, 2020, 05:35:24 AM
Yes they do get greased up after install and as needed. Just no shimming required as they wear in.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 18, 2020, 09:03:23 PM
I've been chipping away at the White car, today I got the radiator out so I could get the first smooth a ride cone installed, got the second coat of paint on the engine and got a bunch of parts cleaned up. Also got all the radiator hoses off and water pump out. I think that's the last bit of stuff I have to remove in the engine compartment. While it was so accessible I adjusted the valves too.

Tomorrow I'll get the other front cone installed, then start on ball joints and lower control arms. Once the front end is done I can start reinstalling all the crap I had to take off to get stuff out of the way - the radiator hoses alone were crazy hard to get off - no idea how I'm going to get it all in again! I also changed out the upper control arm bearings and shaft. I noticed the kits from Spares have all the nuts, bolts , washers and plates included - the ones from Sport don't have the big plate or small hardware. I had to straighten the plate as it was bent when I got it out.

BTW, in case anyone needs to know - the tall cones go in front, short ones in back. Jeremy at Jet Motors says it's a good idea to shorten the trumpets about 2mm or the front end sits too high. I decided not to do that, I know they'll settle down after a few hundred miles......

BTW, I was very pleased with how easily the control arm came off the old ball joint, sometimes they can really fight you, but this one popped right off with the scissor press.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 19, 2020, 07:21:49 AM
On the late models with the one piece fan shroud, plastic 11 blade fan and no metal inner fender extension you can install the radiator with the shroud and lower hose attached.
Its a bit fiddly and you will need to flex the fan blades some but it works for me and my big ass hands.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 19, 2020, 09:31:16 AM
This one has a thick rubber shroud between the radiator and the inner fender that was attached with the same 4 bolts that hold the shroud, it was so stiff I could not get enough clearance to get the radiator out. I'm debating whether to put it back in again since I'll be using an aluminum radiator and it won't have A/C. There also is an electric fan in this fender and I'm debating removing it too.....my car with it's alloy rad takes a pretty hot day and a long run on the highway to get to the middle of the temp gauge, I can't see the need for the electric fan.

I did buy a switch though, so I could just wire up it for safety's sake.

Once I got all those hoses off I had room to get my hand and a ratchet wrench in and take out the bolts on the back side to release the shroud and the rubber, but putting it all back will be a chore!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 19, 2020, 10:15:50 AM
I run an aux fan on my car where the spi fan sits.  I still run hot on a hot summer day sitting at an idle or moving slowly. Probably has something to do with the radiator core is all I can figure since it did it before the engine rebuild also.  I'd leave that fan just in case. Once I'm moving there's no issues. Just hates slow speeds.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 19, 2020, 10:21:46 AM
I'm surprised, mine doesn't do that at all. On long highway runs on really hot days of 90* +, it only gets slightly above the middle of the gauge....in town or at stops it doesn't get any hotter BUT, I'm not making 100 hp either....I figure this one had the extra fan because of the A/C, even tho the A/C condenser had its own electric fan too.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 19, 2020, 10:28:29 AM
It's a mystery.  Tropical fan or regular fan I have the same issue.  And it's verified hot by a rad cap temp gauge too. So not some faulty sending unit.  Part of the pitfalls of a Chinese rad perhaps.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 19, 2020, 10:47:39 AM
It may also be a matter of which water pump/fan pulley size you are running.

There are 3 main sizes: 3.875" (original standard size), 4.2" (small bore oversize), and 4.75" (Cooper-S and late model 1275s - not MPI).

Going to a smaller pulley increases the speed of flow through the radiator meaning more volume per time.  Too fast and you risk cavitation at the pump and the coolant not spending enough time in the rad to cool much.

Going to a larger pulley slows the speed of flow.  This means more time in the radiator but can also mean the coolant spending too much time in the engine.

That was one of the things I had to balance out when I redid the Moke.

The part descriptions on Mini Spares site also talks about using the better water pumps in conjunction with the appropriate sized pulley.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 19, 2020, 10:49:17 AM
I need to measure what's in there.  That could be it.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 19, 2020, 11:09:57 AM
I forget where the correct place to measure actually was, but I seem to recall it needed to be about where the belts sits versus the outer rim.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 19, 2020, 01:34:15 PM
Yep, I had this issue with Buzz, in my case I had gone to the 2.76 final drive and the engine just wasn't making near as many rpm's on the highway - that's where I was having my problem getting hot. Going to the smaller pulley completely cured it.

I'm not sure which way you would need to go as you're running a 3.44 plus the smaller tires, so your RPMs are way up there compared to what mine were on Buzz.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 19, 2020, 02:06:33 PM
It's only at idle and low speed.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Willie_B on December 19, 2020, 02:27:16 PM
I have a couple of the small 3.875 and a couple of the larger 4.75 pulleys. I would like to try the middle size 4.2 one. On my mini I am running the smallest pulley and it does good around town and in the mountains but the temp goes up when on the freeway at 70+ for any period of time.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 19, 2020, 02:52:38 PM
Sounds like Dan may need to go one size smaller that his current and Brad (Willie_B) needs to go one size larger.

Here is the 4.2" listed in stock at Mini Spares:
http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Cooling_heating/Water/CAM116.aspx?0703&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/water%20pump%20pulley.aspx|Back%20to%20search (http://www.minispares.com/product/Classic/Cooling_heating/Water/CAM116.aspx?0703&ReturnUrl=/search/classic/water%20pump%20pulley.aspx%7CBack%20to%20search)

I have a spare but need to measure it to see which one it is.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 19, 2020, 04:53:02 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on December 19, 2020, 09:31:16 AM
This one has a thick rubber shroud between the radiator and the inner fender that was attached with the same 4 bolts that hold the shroud, it was so stiff I could not get enough clearance to get the radiator out. I'm debating whether to put it back in again since I'll be using an aluminum radiator and it won't have A/C. There also is an electric fan in this fender and I'm debating removing it too.....my car with it's alloy rad takes a pretty hot day and a long run on the highway to get to the middle of the temp gauge, I can't see the need for the electric fan.

I did buy a switch though, so I could just wire up it for safety's sake.

Once I got all those hoses off I had room to get my hand and a ratchet wrench in and take out the bolts on the back side to release the shroud and the rubber, but putting it all back will be a chore!

All the Jap spec Minis came with the big rubber boot to remove the hot air from the engine bay and help the electric fan draw hot air out also.
As you have removed the a/c you should not need the rubber boot but I would leave the electric fan in place.
I have owned several spi a/c Minis running stock and aluminum radiators and in the Summer the fan will kick in when in traffic.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 20, 2020, 04:49:56 PM
Well, I was hoping not to have to take the front end completely apart, but events conspired against me....first the inner CV came out of it's socket and would not go back in, which meant I was going to have to at least remove the boot - but then I found the boot was torn too, which means I'll be not only removing the hub but also stripping the axle down so I can replace the inner boot. I also noticed the brake hoses to the front calipers look very tired, so I'll be replacing them too, which means flushing the brake system.

It seems like you can never just do a single job...... ::)


Edit: Good news - I have a full set of boot kits in stock so I won't be held up waiting for them

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 20, 2020, 08:35:36 PM
I hope that CV comes off easy it seems some of them can be a pita others seem to drop off with the first tap of the hammer.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 21, 2020, 07:45:48 AM
I have a 20 ton press, it will come off!   ;D
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 23, 2020, 05:36:04 PM
As it turns out, I did have to use the press to get the axle out of the hub, but it really didn't take any pressure and it came right out - I just hate beating on them and messing up the end of the axle and threads. I do have a die to fix the axle threads tho, just in case.

Once apart I could not see how to remove the inner CV, it seems like it had some sort of metal cap over the end of the axle and it did not want to pry off. So I popped the outer CV off, took off the outer boot and slid the inner all the way down the axle again. Sounds easier than it was!

Once it was all cleaned  and lubed it went back together exactly as it should.

The left side is now all done, although I haven't decided whether to do the brake hoses. They don't look bad, but they may be original....and while I have it accessible......the problem is the what ifs - what if the bleed nipple breaks off in the caliper, what if the brake line is rusted together and the end rounds off and so on......

I'll probably go ahead and change out the hose, now is the time with the radiator out of the way....I also got plenty of new clamps - it takes 5 for the heater hoses, and 4 more for the main radiator hoses.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 23, 2020, 06:55:37 PM
Looking good.
Not to jinx you Dave but i have never had that many issues when taking a Jap spec Mini apart when compared to working on the rusty UK ones, go for it at least the radiator side is wide open.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: G67mcs on December 24, 2020, 08:27:54 AM
 A little project creep going on Dave. While you've got it apart might as well replace those brake hoses, etc.. Great job though on everything!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 24, 2020, 12:56:46 PM
Well, the good news is the hose change out went along with no drama, just as Malcolm thought it would.

Now I can go ahead and install the new aluminum radiator and all the new hoses, then the left side will be all buttoned up and I can head over to the right side and get started on it. Right side should go considerably quicker as I don't have to disassemble the entire car to get to it!   ;D

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 25, 2020, 11:24:58 AM
I hope some of you eagle eyes noticed the tie bar bolt is in correctly!   62.gif
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 26, 2020, 12:07:12 PM
Radiator is in and all buttoned up, I need to split the 998 transmission off the engine and get it crated so it can ship next week.....

Then back on the suspension job - starting on the right side front, then rear, and leaving the gas tank conundrum for last. Anyone successfully just move the tank enough to reach behind and get the top shock nuts off without having to drain and remove the tank?
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 26, 2020, 12:10:01 PM
If there's enough fuel line you can move the tank around without draining it. 
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 26, 2020, 12:13:48 PM
Yeah, haven't looked at the EFI lines to see if there's enough flex in them...really don't want to drain the tank but today is the day if I'm going to do that - it will be almost 60* later this afternoon and I can have the door open to clear out the fumes.

Guess I'll have to revise my plan and do the left rear next.....

Wonder how much gas is in the tank? Battery is disconnected.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on December 26, 2020, 12:42:51 PM
I'd think running the SPI fuel pump into a gas can would make short work of it.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MPlayle on December 26, 2020, 01:09:30 PM
Back when I did the carb conversion and pulled the SPI tank for installing a regular tank, I found most of the SPI fuale lines at the tank were actually a rigid plastic type of line formed to fit the area.

Check it carefully as I recall it being a bit of a puzzle in there with the feed and return lines.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 26, 2020, 04:56:35 PM
Yes, there are a bunch of vapor lines and such that go into the top of the tank and are fairly unobtanium.....I'll need to be very careful when I move it.

Today I got the other side upper arm, ball joint and and new cone installed - it's a bitch kitty on an automatic due to the size and placement of the motor mount on that side, and the size of the cover for the torque converter. The bearings on that side were done too, so it was time to replace them before the front end started squeaking and getting all wonky. The hard part was aligning the shaft to go into the upper arm, especially working alone. Took a while but I got 'er done!

Later I'll replace the tie bar, lower control arm and bushings and the brake hose on that side. With that done I can reinstall the ECU and it's bracket and it will be that much closer to running. I'm still waiting for the new correct oil filter, gasket, o-ring and the new valve cover.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on December 26, 2020, 08:53:36 PM
Is the bump stop separating in the last pic or is it just a shadow?

Pretty sure there is enough flex on the fuel tank lines to move the tank over depending on how flexible the neck seal is. I used an air ratchet on the shock on the last one I did as there was not much room to move a ratchet around but a 1/4" ratchet would work as well after it is loosened up.
You can see the fuel level easily with a flashlight down the neck.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on December 26, 2020, 10:57:10 PM
I'll check that bump stop, but I think it's still attached.

I have an air ratchet too.....
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 02, 2021, 11:15:14 AM
Onward and upward!

The front end is all done, the only thing left is to bleed the brakes and add coolant. I have the alignment close enough to drive it to the alignment shop but since we got a half inch of ice covered with 6 inches of snow yesterday I'm going to wait at least till the roads have dried up before I take it over there.

I got the easy side of the rears done, and I managed to get the fuel tank slid out of the way enough to snake my arm in under and over and reach the nuts on the top of the left rear shock. However......getting the tank back in place is proving to be a challenge. I'm probably going to have to remove the deck lid so I can get in a better position to push it back where it belongs.

I did go ahead and pull the rear drums to check the brakes, but everything looks good there, so all I had to do was adjust them one click and they're ready to go. I will need to bleed them of course....

Closer and closer to being done.....
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 02, 2021, 04:16:11 PM
Gas tank is back in - I had to remove the deck lid to get where I could maneuver it back into place, I got it close but just could not get it that last little bit. Once the deck lid was off I could get in place and shift it around, then it slid right in. Of course all the studs came out of the deck lid hinges so I had to clean them all up on the wire wheel before I could put them back. PITA.

But it's in, the brakes are bled, wheels are back on and it's ready to drive over to the alignment shop next week sometime. It's still sitting high because it hasn't rolled at all...it should drop a bit more when it does but these always sit really high at first. within a few miles they settle in some then it takes a few hundred before they drop much more and you have to adjust them.

I know it looks funny to us sitting up that high, but if you look at pics of the cars as they came off the assembly line, that's how they all looked. The sump guard is still off till I get it running and see if it's leaking oil from anywhere. I think the culprit last time was the oil filter cannister o-ring. People think it's too hard to change them or they don't know how or they double it up,....anyway you cut it if you don't do it right they leak.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 02, 2021, 07:20:06 PM
Does the alignment change significantly when the cones begin to settle in and compress?
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on January 02, 2021, 07:29:50 PM
Camber would increase to the negative as it lowers for sure.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 02, 2021, 08:25:21 PM
So do you have to compensate for that in the alignment settings with the new cones?  Or does it not change enough to matter?
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: 94touring on January 02, 2021, 08:41:27 PM
Well if it was already set to a big value then it would matter. But assuming it's stock arms and probably 0 or slightly positive as it is, it won't matter.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 02, 2021, 09:00:17 PM
Good to know.  Thanks.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 03, 2021, 04:08:14 PM
Yay! It runs! I had to do a small modification to the alternator adjustment bracket as it was hitting the alternator fan very slightly. I ground a little clearance on the bench grinder and that took care of it.

Fired it up and ran it for a bit, I'm going to have to flush the cooling system as it's full of nasty rusty crap so I'll drain it down and refill a few times till I start getting clear water back. It's still too cold out or I would put it in the driveway and just run it with the garden hose in the top of the radiator - that would sure be a lot quicker and less of a mess. Fortunately these new aluminum radiators have a drain cock, the OEM radiators did not, the only way to get water out of them was to pull the lower hose off - which makes such huge a mess! - and is a PITA to get to, especially when every thing is hot.

Had to pull the grill back off to get to the alt adj bracket, and that's also the only way to reach the drain cock.....
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 03, 2021, 04:34:23 PM
Dave, this stuff is really great for cleaning all the rusty crap out of the cooling system. It's non-toxic, non-corrosive, and biodegradable.  However, it does not prevent freezing so when you use it with distilled water for the flush you have to make sure the engine does not get below zero. 


Thermocure Coolant System Rust... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R74I5UY?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 03, 2021, 07:12:37 PM
Thanks for the link, I should have gotten some of that a long time ago.....

Wonder if I could use this, since I have a couple of jugs of it already?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00631GZEU/ref=sspa_dk_hqp_detail_aax_0?psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFPTEJMUEhHTkJJVkUmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMDEyMzMxTFNFOFJLWjJETlpOJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA5OTY2NjczWkhEWE9NTVA1SlQmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9ocXBfc2hhcmVkJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ== (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00631GZEU/ref=sspa_dk_hqp_detail_aax_0?psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFPTEJMUEhHTkJJVkUmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAzMDEyMzMxTFNFOFJLWjJETlpOJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA5OTY2NjczWkhEWE9NTVA1SlQmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9ocXBfc2hhcmVkJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==)
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on January 03, 2021, 08:05:32 PM
The WD40 stuff may work ok but I'd make sure it's good to use on aluminum. Most of those style rust removers are but it's worth checking.

The stuff Bruce posted is made by the same company that makes Evaporust which is basically the same type of thing as the WD40 stuff you posted. I think the difference between those and the radiator specific stuff is the radiator stuff has additives that also help clean aluminum/brass. My understanding is the regular stuff doesn't really clean aluminum or brass which you really don't need anyway unless you think the heater core needs flushed.

Also not sure how well the regular stuff works if you mix it with water. Pretty sure it's intended to be used straight up, at least that's how I've always used it.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 03, 2021, 08:23:57 PM
Hey Paul, any chance you're headed this way soon, I have a box full of stuff I'd like you to have. sooner the better!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: cstudep on January 03, 2021, 09:40:13 PM
Let me check my calendar. I may be able to get down that way this coming weekend.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 03, 2021, 10:24:56 PM
Let me know....
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on January 04, 2021, 08:19:28 AM
When flushing the cooling system i have found on Jap spec cars and Florida Minis the heat is not used often.
A lot of the real nasty crud gets to settle in the heater assembly so i always flush the whole system and on some i have had to disconnect the heater and drain the worst into a container inside the car.
Also owned a Mini that the boot hinges were slotted for quick removal, it made working in the boot a lot easier.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2021, 09:11:05 AM
Good point, I intend to flush the whole system - I had that issue on the heater core with Buzz, I ran gallons of water thru the heater before it came clean - and then shortly after that the core started leaking and I had to replace it!  ::)

If the studs aren't painted over (like these were) then it's two screws and four nuts and its off - especially on these later cars with the seal on the body instead of the deck lid.....but the paint meant the studs were going to back out instead of the nuts coming off. I cleaned them up and put the studs back in before I installed the deck lid again....working in the boot with the lid on is particularly difficult when the car is up on the lift, you just can't work around it, so I usually just remove them anyway. My biggest issue is finding a place where I can store it that it won't get damaged.

Today will be the warmest day we've had in a while (45*) so I'm going to run it in the drive and flush as much crap out as I can, then I'll put the cleaner in and let it run for a while then let it soak overnight - or two or three - then flush it some more before I put fresh coolant in it. whatever I accomplish will be way better than it was.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2021, 01:03:08 PM
sunny and 50* today, perfect weather to get the White car outside and flush the cooling system. I ran about 6 gallon jugs of clear water thru it and it was quite a bit better, so now I have some cooling system flush in it, I'll run that for a good while and then flush it out before I put in the new coolant.

The car rides and drives fantastic on these Smooth a ride cones, I really like them.

Next up once I get the cooling done today I'll take it over to the alignment shop and have that done, my guestimates don't seem far off as it drives well, doesn't pull or wander. these enormous 7" wide wheels will rub if you hit a big bump on a turn - like pulling into my driveway....but he'll have to deal with that. Since the cones are set as low as possible in the front, I can raise it up a bit more if needed. I can lower it a bit in the back if needed too....

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on January 04, 2021, 04:18:11 PM
The owner has changed those wheels as it had 6x13 sports pack wheels on it with no rubbing issues.
The last owner replaced the flares as it had the rubber ones on it and one got damaged I told him to get the fiberglass ones but I am not sure if he did that or not.
It is amazing how well a Mini or any car for that matter drives with all new front end components.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 04, 2021, 06:14:06 PM
I agree.....and in this case getting up off the bumpstops too!

Most of the frontend was in pretty good shape, I only replaced the upper control arm bearings because the one side was starting to wear into the shaft slightly.....and I had them off the car anyway.

The bushings were tired, the ball joints were loose and the tie bars were bent, so all new stuff there, plus being adjustable for good alignment will help. I just eyeballed the settings but it looks pretty good now that it's down on its wheels, and it drives pretty straight.

I think the 7" wheels are too big but he likes the look.

It does have the fiberglass arches, and they look pretty stout too.

I have to get him on the 1500 mile oil change program, so much of the old oil stays in the torque converter that it looks dark almost immediately. I got him a couple extra filters too.

Some small good news, it doesn't seem to be leaking oil from anyplace, and the transmission shifts smoothly and well. I'm thinking it was the oil filter o-ring after all that was leaking.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 06, 2021, 12:37:34 PM

Well, just when you think you have it sorted.

I ran it extensively yesterday, drove it around the block a bunch of times and when I parked it in the shop overnight, this morning not a drop of oil on the floor.

So I went ahead and buttoned up the front grill, installed and adjusted the bonnet and then put the sumpguard back on under the engine. Fired it up and took it around about a 10 block run and came back, parked in the shop and sum-of-a-beach, there's a damn oil puddle on the inside of the sumpguard!

Right in the center where the oil filter is too.....so now I'll pull the grill and sumpguard back off and see if I can determine where it's coming from. Why in the hell it didn't leak all day yesterday is beyond me.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 06, 2021, 02:08:43 PM
So I pulled the filter housing off again, I could not find anything wrong with it but it clearly was leaking.

There was a fairly massive puddle under the car (well, 7" around or so) and I could follow the trail down the front of the transmission.

So I cleaned up the housing off the 998 engine I'm building and swapped out the filter for a new one, I found a small burr on the edge of the transmission housing face and cleaned that off, then used some good gasket sealer on a new gasket and bolted everything back together and fired it up. I ran it for 10 minutes with no leaks, but then I ran it for over an hour plus drove it around the other day and it didn't leak then either, so.....

It's bucketing down right now so I won't be able to drive it till tomorrow.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 06, 2021, 02:48:17 PM
Fingers crossed you fixed it. 

But an owner could become reluctant to do the necessary timely oil changes on an automatic if it's going to be an Exxon Valdez situation with the filter each time.

Is there any upgrade solution for a simpler oil filter solution that might be easier to seal?  I'm thinking of how old manual A-series used a messy cartridge oil filter back in the 1960s that could be eliminated with a spin-on filter retrofit.

If there isn't any such adapter currently on the market, that seems like an opportunity for a Mini supplier to develop one. I'm sure automatic owners would welcome some kit that allows use of a good-sealing, high quality, and readily available spin-on filter. 
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: mascher on January 06, 2021, 03:18:17 PM
The AP automatic transmission uses much higher than usual oil pressure and I have heard that spin on oil filters can't take that pressure. As I'm sure Dave is aware the most common problem with oil filter leaking is failure to remove the old filter housing O-ring and adding a new one. Doesn't really sound like this is his problem anyway.
Kelley
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 06, 2021, 03:32:57 PM
I don't know if the spin on adaptors will work, the housing that the cannister attaches to is completely different on the automatics.

It wasn't leaking at the cannister o-ring, but between the housing and the transmission.

No drips on the floor after running for 20 minutes.

I'll drive it over to the alignment shop tomorrow, if it doesn't leak then I'll call it good.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 06, 2021, 04:03:48 PM
Quote from: mascher on January 06, 2021, 03:18:17 PM
The AP automatic transmission uses much higher than usual oil pressure and I have heard that spin on oil filters can't take that pressure. As I'm sure Dave is aware the most common problem with oil filter leaking is failure to remove the old filter housing O-ring and adding a new one. Doesn't really sound like this is his problem anyway.
Kelley

Ah, got it.  Thanks.  makes sense why are they stuck with the cartridge filter into the 90s for the automatics.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 07, 2021, 06:12:47 PM
So today I drove up to the alignment shop to have the front end aligned....

This car is well received at the shop, all the techs wanted to get a good look. The car looks tiny on a rack built for modern pickup trucks!

The tech is the same one that aligned Don's Pup, so he was somewhat familiar with Minis, but of course this one is different than a Mini Tec front end. He did a great job, starting with height adjustment, and when done getting the steering wheel exactly straight.

I took the car for a short drive on the highway, about 10 miles, and the car drove straight and smooth.....perfect job.

When I got home I parked it in the shop and did other things for a while, when I came out......well, that's part 2
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 07, 2021, 06:17:46 PM
Part 2.....

After a few hours time I went back down to the shop and saw this....

I can't find anything wrong so I tightened the cannister up a quarter turn and took it for about a 5 mile drive, so far not a drop has fallen - so I hope that's it at last.

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: tsumini on January 08, 2021, 11:55:43 PM
I feel your pain. Mine has a some oil drops after a drive also. One place leaking is the Oil pressure regulator fitting. It needs a new gasket. Unfortunately I don't think it is the only one.



Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 09, 2021, 08:03:32 AM
I have some of those - they're actually a copper seal - if you'd like me to send you one, just PM your info to me and I'll drop one in the mail.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 09, 2021, 08:14:49 AM
Well, after two days of parking in the same spot there was one spot about the size of a dime, and he's decided he can live with that so I put the sump guard back on and she's ready to go home. A local friend has an enclosed trailer he uses to haul his race car but hauls other cars in the offseason to help pay for things...he's picking the car up Monday to haul it home. It sure drives nicely!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on January 09, 2021, 09:41:10 AM
Quote from: MiniDave on January 09, 2021, 08:14:49 AM
Well, after two days of parking in the same spot there was one spot about the size of a dime, and he's decided he can live with that so I put the sump guard back on and she's ready to go home. A local friend has an enclosed trailer he uses to haul his race car but hauls other cars in the offseason to help pay for things...he's picking the car up Monday to haul it home. It sure drives nicely!

I feel your pain with the canister filters.
There was a forum poster years ago on MM by the name of Yowza.
While he was in Japan he had a Toyota spin off cartridge filter installed and claimed it worked fine.
Reading up on the pressures that the auto transmission
puts out (110 lbs psi in reverse) i don't know how it worked successfully.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: tsumini on January 09, 2021, 12:46:20 PM
Quote from: MiniDave on January 09, 2021, 08:03:32 AM
I have some of those - they're actually a copper seal - if you'd like me to send you one, just PM your info to me and I'll drop one in the mail.
Ok thanks for that. One of the most frustrating things lately is needing a 50 cent part NA locally and ordering needs $5 minimum order and 5x USPS mailing fee.
That would be great and thanks again. i'll PM
Edited for misquote.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 12, 2021, 09:44:21 AM
After all the frustrations with the oil leak I thought I finally had it whipped. Drove it around the block several times, had already driven it up to the alignment shop, about a 5 or 6 mile run on the highway and not a drop. So Monday morning Clancy was on his way to pick it up to haul it home, I backed it out of the garage and again drove it around the block and when I came back I noticed a trail going up the street - this is what I found when I walked back in the garage.....

It was clear that it was coming from the oil filter o-ring again.

So I pulled the housing off -again - cleaned everything up, put a new o-ring in - again - and a new gasket between the housing and the engine - again - tho it wasn't leaking there. I find it easier to just remover the whole housing so you don't dump all the oil out of the cannister all over the engine trying to get it out. Not that it mattered much at this point since so much oil had already spewed out all over the road on my drive around the block.

Anyway.....I gently filed the end of the cannister to make sure there weren't any sharps or nicks, put yet another new or o-ring and gasket on and put it back together and ran it on the rack. Dryer than a popcorn fart - tho I've been here before. I also had to remove the sump guard which was full of oil and clean it too then put it back on.

This morning it was still dry after I started it so I ran it around the neighborhood some more and let it run for about 20 min in the driveway...... perfectly dry.

So we loaded it on the trailer and it's headed home today. I think he' plans to be there by Friday.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 13, 2021, 05:39:00 PM
Clancy made it to Corning, NY today, only 6 hours to go so delivery tomorrow afternoon. A long damn drive from here to Boston!
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 13, 2021, 06:38:22 PM
Wow. To Boston?  A trail of oil drips coming off that trailer lead all the way from Kansas to Massachusetts!!    ;D



(Just kidding Dave! ).
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 14, 2021, 06:31:02 PM
What's that old Chinese curse - "May you live in interesting times"?

So, Clancy got to Boston today and pulled into the owner's shop to drop the car off - they noticed the fog lights were glowing slightly, when he went to start it smoke poured out from under the bonnet!

The culprit was a fried fog lamp relay that decided to self immolate just them - it also had mostly killed the battery.

But all's well that ends well, he drove it home tonight and is extremely pleased!

Oh, and it's not leaking any oil!  77.gif

And no, it's not because it's empty!   ;D
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: Jimini II on January 15, 2021, 08:22:47 AM
That's good news i thought you were going to say it started leaking again lol.
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 15, 2021, 11:10:42 AM
Shhhhhh......

Fingers crossed!  77.gif
Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: BruceK on January 15, 2021, 11:35:18 AM
A relay like this with a built-in replaceable fuse probably could have prevented that ugly meltdown. 

I didn't know these existed until recently.   The other ones I've seen - can't find them now - have the fuse integrated a little better and not sticking up so far. These would still probably work and most applications.

Fused Relay 12V 30A/40A 5-Pin - (5-Pack) Automotive Built in Fuse Metal Mounting Tab SPST Normally Open Car Motor Automobile https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PB756NC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_H-DaGb6FV8J4C

Title: Re: White Japanese Spec Suspension Rebuild
Post by: MiniDave on January 15, 2021, 11:37:05 AM
Yes, those are great for not having to add a circuit from an overfilled fuse panel, but it depends on why the relay failed, the fuse might or might not have blown.....