me again!! Swift engine, mini gearbox

[ed4ran]

After thinking about it for a while (after being inspired by SCURVY DOG (http://www.theminiforum.co.uk/forums/index.php?showtopic=9685) with his cross flow mini box) i decided to give it a go,

So after receiving a spare engine yesterday (Thanks Matt :D ) i began work on the mating process ;)
The idea is to simplify the Swift conversion so the MINImal amount of work is required to get it to fit,
so by attaching it to a modified mini gearbox it will use a standard subframe, driveshafts, gearchange, and possibly speedo,
as well as fitting in an unmodified roundnose front end :wink:
This also keeps more of it standard mini so its easier and cheaper to replace bits when needed and custom parts cost alot, let alone having to replace them should you crash (new frame?) or break a shaft!!

The stock GTI engine is 100hp and ive heard often that the usable limit of a mini gearbox is 100hp
So it should be possible to run a stock swift engine on a stock gearbox, or upgrade if you want to!!
As well as gearbox parts being cheaper for minis, and more people to rebuild them.

Even with the possiblity of a turbo manifold to place the turbo where they are on minis (that have turbos fitted).

MK1 Engine to use for proto type:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/01.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/02.JPG

Now with a new flange on the base with a modified mini box hanging by some rope
(dont worrying it was only so i could get a pic of current progress)

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/03.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/04.JPG

So thats where i am after a few hours work,
will be adding some reinforcements to the box,
like webbing down the sides, and possibly some support inside.

Have been drawing on CAD to design the crank adapter and when i have the measurements from this modified box ill do the CAD drawings for the flanges etc then i can get them all laser cut.

Anyone think im too stupid to do it and should stop now?

[Marcus Nordblom]

Good luck! I´m sure you pull it off, you seem pretty clever to me…

marcus

[ed4ran]

:D I hope it works!!!
Once it progresses a little more there will be one, maybe two extras i might play with.

[pickup76]

Interesting project, i like the idea of being able to retain alot of standard mini parts but the gearbox is one of my pet hates about a mini. I think 100bhp on a standard box is going to be abit risky. Ive been running 80bhp on standard gearboxs...yes that gearbox's plural :(

Still, gearboxs are cheap and if you can pull off the conversion kit within the budget of us mear mortals it could be a really good route to (relativly) big power.

keep us updated!

[ed4ran]

Is the at the wheels or at the flywheel? and what part of them broke?

The point is that you could run it on a stock gearbox, but you have the option to upgrade, also when pushed the swift box isnt much better diff often goes, if not the synchros eventually!!
I guess it depends how you drive, and it will end up not much different if you have a powereful mini engine, only the engine wont cost anywhere near as much to make the 100hp. But yes I do understand what your saying.

[ed4ran]

Also one of the main points is that not everyone wants to chop up their car. :D

[pickup76]

yeh car chopping is the reason i changed the car i am doing the conversion on so the a series box might be a good alternative.

80bhp flywheel. Ive had idler bearings fail, syncros fail and a damaged selector fork. My car does get driven hard so i sort of expected these probelms. I do try to be sympathetic to the box but its aprears to be not alot of help.

An opton i might try as the next evolution of the swift mini to overcome the swifts gearbox issues is a vauxhall box as ive seen a few novas with gti engines fitted and i know where i can buy an adapter bell housing. The downside of this is im not sure i can retain 10" wheels with sensible gear ratios. Every different angle is another compromise!

[ed4ran]

Yeah, i was thinking as an upgrade straight cut drops could be used,
Were the gearboxes you used rebuilt or just second hand?

Yeah i have seen the Novas as well, but wanted to minimize the number of different vehicles to use components, although the vauxhall boxes probably have better spares available,
but you will still need a custom frame and driveshafts which are the expensive bits if you need to replace them.

[Smurfy]

This looks like an interesting project :)

Good luck with it!

[minja]

When the axles are lined up, how tall is the engine going to be relative to the normal Mini bonnet line?

[mininut]

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/04.JPG


Just a small observation.. isn't the box on the wrong way round? :?

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swift/46.JPG

[ed4ran]

Relative to a mini engine it should be no taller than the rocker cover
(Pic isnt 100% accurate, but gives an idea of the differences)

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/A%20over%20G13B.gif

Just have to remember that even though the swift is 1.3 is has a shorter stroke and larger bore, so the engine is wider, but not as tall.

MiniNut, the engine is rotated when it is put over the mini box, and that is why there is the transfer gears (idler) to flip the rotation back. :D
It puts the exhaust down the back like the mini setup and the inlet on the front, like an 7/8 port head. Its very similar layout with the mini engine, even down to the alternator, water pump layout.

[mininut]

MiniNut, the engine is rotated when it is put over the mini box, and that is why there is the transfer gears (idler) to flip the rotation back. :D
It puts the exhaust down the back like the mini setup and the inlet on the front, like an 7/8 port head. Its very similar layout with the mini engine, even down to the alternator, water pump layout.

Good luck matey.

M. :D

[ed4ran]

:lol: I think ill need it :oops:

[Swiftmini]

Nah once you get going i'm sure you will be fine.

[ed4ran]

Havent really done any more on it apart from sticking it on the bench and adding the transfer case to check the gaps and crank line up,
as well as give you a better idea of the proportions involved,
and im happy to say it will probably only need moving about 1mm or so, but there is a slight clearance issue with the starter motor :oops:

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/05.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/06.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/07.JPG

[minja]

Looks like it might fit.
Best of luck.
I'm certain that if we all had a wish it would be that Suzuki made a 2000cc short-stroke FWD automobile engine putting out about 190hp mated to a five or six-speed gearbox that fit as well in a Mini as the 1300c version does... I know I do...

[Swiftmini]

Looking good 8)

what is the issue with starter motor clearance?

Is it to close to the block?

[ed4ran]

Minja I have thought about mating other engines to a mini gearbox, but most will require straight cuts but it could still work, i just dont have access to any to get the measurements i would need, and would need to make sure the engine will rotate in the right direction.

The problem with the starter is that where the engine (swift) attaches to the gearbox normally there is a recess for the starter but the bit that takes the bolt sticks out and that is just in the way, it could probably clear if i shaved the engine block, but i wanted to keep the engine as unmodified as possible, if none at all. :oops:

[Swiftmini]

Hows it going today?

[ed4ran]

Not really done much as i had to pick Jim up from work,
so i couldnt really go out and get some cutting discs etc to do the end flanges.
Am dropping him off in town later so may pop to B+Q before i go to a mini meet or they may wait till tomorrow. :(

Also tomorrow our new Maplin store opens so i may go for a quick look!! :D
Aren't i sad!!!! :lol: :wink: :oops:

[XEValver]

Also tomorrow our new Maplin store opens so i may go for a quick look!! :D
Aren't i sad!!!! :lol: :wink: :oops:

no way! maplins is awesome! :P :oops:

[ed4ran]

:lol: Ive already started a list of the bits i need that i cant get anywhere else!! :twisted: Do you think they will laugh at me if i can tell them the part numbers of the bits i want? :lol: 8)

[BigAndy]

Good luck with this project - its equally as impressive at the BMW K head conversions. If you get it to work something tells me the the swift conversion will be the new conversion of choice - its sooo much bettr suited to a mini than a big XE engine, or vtec and k series for that matter!

[Swiftmini]

its sooo much bettr suited to a mini than a big XE engine, or vtec and k series for that matter!

someone has seen the light
:lol: :D

[Swiftmini]

how was maplins?

If you need me to send some money for bits just let me know?

kev

[ed4ran]

Maplins was nice until there was a mix up with a capacitor i wanted, which the computer said they had, but when they showed me it it was a resistor :?
Also the guy behind the desk didnt know what a capacitor was :lol: So they had to refund my 43p and remove them from their system,
and they didnt have any 37pin connectors any more :evil:
so i just ended up with some shielded cable to rerun some sensitive lines to see if i can remove the miss fire i have.

Also have found a nice metal container to give the MSs a sponge bath, just need to find an old tooth brush. :|

So today was mostly a loss :(

Going for some lunch and a drink (its roasting here!!)
then into the garage to cut the end flanges and make some more progress :D

[Swiftmini]

One of those days :lol:

[bodgeit]

Big respect for giveing this a go!

I look forward to following the progress :D

Matt

[ed4ran]

Well i have a small update,
I have roughly made the engine/transfer case flanges and drilled some of the holes for the bolts,
and can now clamp it all up so the engine is square to the transfer case,
but it still needs a little tweaking on the position, but i cant really do this without some way of measuring, so ill may wait until i have the crank end before i fix it in place.

So monday im going to ring about getting the crank end CNC'd and also to get some HT countersunk fine thread bolts.
Which means there might not be much more i can do until i have those, unless i figure out an easy way of centering it all.

I might play on CAD some more tomorrow and see if i can get the crank adapter more complete.

Its clamped up! I think its looking more like it all goes together now, rather than just a pile of bits.
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/08.JPG

As good as i can probably get it by eye ;)
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/09.JPG

[buljac]

This is great.

You could pair it with the sequential box from minispeed :P

signe me up for this if it get into production. haha.

keep up the good work.

[Swiftmini]

Looking good! making some good progress.

Have been able to find out all the properties of the crank nose. Hardness etc?

[ed4ran]

Not yet, but ill ask a local engine builder about getting it treated the same as cranks toughened etc.

[ed4ran]

:? :o Just rang the first place about the crank adapter and they are so busy it would be 3 months before they look at it.

[Swiftmini]

If i beg, i may be able to cut up a crank and check the hardness and depth of hardness, at my previous place of work.

I have plenty of bent a-series cranks so i'll take one up when i have 5mins and see what they say. It will have to be when the boss isn't in though.

No promises i'll let you know.

Kev

[ed4ran]

Called a guy about getting the crank end CNC'd and he was close so he came to my house and talked about it,
he has taken the crank end i had and the flywheel and will be drawing/designing the crankend, and will also get a quote for the machining work 8)
Will have to wait for the quote :( and i dont know how long that will be.

[ed4ran]

Well i guess it could be small progress, but its progress none the less!! :D
Guy doing the crank end popped round today (very nice chap indeed)!
Gave my a drawing of the end

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/10.JPG

He has been talking to two engineers today about having them made,
and they said once you add the price of hardening (nitrided) and the machining etc it came in at about £210 - £220 (its probably going to be EN40 steel),
so he is going to a gear company tomorrow and will see if they can do it (aiming for less than 200 for the crank end) :D

Have also been looking into the other bits (oil pickup etc, i know they will work)
Im just trying to do them with minimal mods and keeping original parts, but we'll have to see when i come to make them.

[Swiftmini]

Good progress on the crank so far :D !

Will you be making the pick up pipe, like a central pick up stylee?

[ed4ran]

Hopefully, may end up doing a mixture of mini and swift bits, but i may try making one from scratch and use a mini strainer. :lol:

[Swiftmini]

I just got chance to check out the above drawing, looks really good 8).

I have know idea what a good price would be for a crank end, but 200 is probably resonable for a one off.

[ed4ran]

Tomorrow i should be getting another 2 quotes for the crank end, so if the price is right ill get one and continue with the positioning and welding the flanges. 8)

[Swiftmini]

Goodluck with the quote :D

[ed4ran]

The guy hasnt rang me yet :(
I want to go out, so im just waiting for him to ring and let me know :?

[Swiftmini]

I guess no luck yesterday with the quote :( :?

[ed4ran]

No, will ring him today and ask. :cry:

[ed4ran]

:cry: The 2 yesterday rejected it :evil:
So the guy is trying to get another quote today from someone who makes cranks and he'll ring tonight :? (I'm just a little worried).

[johnsn]

Hi, I've been following this thread for a wile. If you can send me a cad file I will get some quotes on the crank end.
I'm very interested in doing this conversion in my Mk III Elf with hydrolastic suspension.
I did this type of conversion with a Fiat 124 engine and I cut the trans case down and welded a new flange on it. My wife got rid of it when we where heaving marital problems. So it was never finished.
Do you have any pictures of the transmission with the engine off?
john :D

[Swiftmini]

:( Some people suck :cry: I hope you find a good quote :)

[ed4ran]

I hope so to :cry:

[fbm-spec]

:idea: :idea: maybe a stoopid question but.... could you not get a mini crank end machined to fit ??? would save a lot of work too.


Just a thought ....without a lot of thought :wink: :wink: :?

[Spag]

Yeah - just get a ring turned up that will bolt to the Suzy crank flange, with an 'ole in the middle, the diameter of a Mini crank.

Hacksaw the tail off a mini crank then MIG it in place :wink:

Woss the worst that could happen !!

[ed4ran]

lol, ive already throught of that and have the end of one already
and i was even thinking of cutting up a swift flywheel and welding the 2 together :lol: :lol: :lol: 8)

[Swiftmini]

Hacksaw the tail off a mini crank then MIG it in place Wink

Thats what i would try first, if it breaks, then get it done by a pro.

Even if you don't run it, it'll be good for mock up purposes.

Kev

[ed4ran]

I think if i had access to a lathe then id do it, as i could get it centered better,
but i dont so i cant really do it that accurately so its not really worth it. :? :cry:

[ed4ran]

No progress with the crank adapter at the mo,
but as i was upgrading my cooling and so needed to remove most of the stuff from my "engine" bay
I thought it was a good time to test the engine and box to check a few things.

So for those who want a better idea of the fit here are some piccies!!!! 8)

Some things to note are i dont think the standard inlet will work (might do with mods) :(
But the standard alternator mounts should along with the stock belt.
There is 2 options for the radiator, a mini should fit in its normal place with new mounts but would require an electric fan on constant
or maybe a custom one mounted at the front (or even a bike rad with a mini rad?).



http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/11.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/12.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/13.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/14.JPG

mmm room for a turbo!!! :lol:
http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/15.JPG

[ed4ran]

Well ive just spoken to the guy about the crank end and the last place wanted £500 plus heat treatment for it, and they wanted the crank so the final grind could be done with it on the crank so that it is all true. http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/icon_furious.gif

Hes going to finish the drawings then ill have them off him so i can pursue other companies. :( http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/brickwall_smilie.gif

[evolotion]

Well ive just spoken to the guy about the crank end and the last place wanted £500 plus heat treatment for it, and they wanted the crank so the final grind could be done with it on the crank so that it is all true. http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/icon_furious.gif

Hes going to finish the drawings then ill have them off him so i can pursue other companies. :( http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/brickwall_smilie.gif

soudns fair enough to me tbo! .. what you need to find os one of those one-man machine shops that dont advertise, they type of place where the old chap does it for the fun/challenge ratehr than anything else, as you can always off a ride in the finished product to sweeten teh deal :lol:

[johnsn]

Not much more and you could have a new crankshaft made. :shock:
john :D

[ed4ran]

:lol: I have thought of that, and i would probably have it short stroked :lol:

[johnsn]

Maybe a crank manufacturer could make the part for you.
john :D

[Pandora]

At least you know, what you are dealing with now. And you can always say this is what you were quoted. I think giving mike a ring would be a good idea.

[ed4ran]

one of the ones we got a quote from was a crank manufacturer!!! (i think it might have been the last one). :oops:

[Swiftmini]

Engine looks awesome in the bay 8)

Can't wait to see this in a demo car

[johnsn]

Hi, I was looking at your drawing and have a question.
Are you going to make a cover for the bolts that hold the crank adapter on the crank? Or are you going to recess the bolts below the primary gear thrust surfaces?
john :D

[ed4ran]

Yes they will be below the thrust surface, its very tricky as they are very close to the main section so they have to be small, but as it rotates most of the forces will be on the sides of the bolts and not pulling on the heads. :?
But at the rate im going with engineering companies it may be easier to make a whole new crank (but short stroke with a mini end :lol: )

Ed. :oops:

[johnsn]

This is what I'm interested in doing the conversion on.
http://www.16vminiclub.com/gallery/albums/userpics/PIC00035.jpg
john :D

[ed4ran]

Yeah i thought a 3 cyl would fit very well.
Would be good to have a T3 engine :D

[ed4ran]

Well no further progress as im waiting on the drawings for the crank end so i can contact some people about getting them made.
The guy doing them has been away working this week, in wales, so hasn't been able to finish them,
He is home thursday so will do it then.
:( i keep looking at it, but i cant do anymore till i have the crankend!!!! http://images25.fotki.com/v901/photos/5/512767/5039962/rsocmoan-vi.gif http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/blargh.gif

[picKup]

Well no further progress as im waiting on the drawings for the crank end so i can contact some people about getting them made.
The guy doing them has been away working this week, in wales, so hasn't been able to finish them,
He is home thursday so will do it then.
:( i keep looking at it, but i cant do anymore till i have the crankend!!!! http://images25.fotki.com/v901/photos/5/512767/5039962/rsocmoan-vi.gif http://www.teamswift.net/images/smiles/blargh.gif

When you get the drawings send them over to me if you want as I know someone who might be able to do it. Not sure if it's what they specialise in but I can show him the drawings and see what he thinks!

Mike

[ed4ran]

Hmm, well i dont think that a new crank will be possible, i havent had a quote, but I was told to expect £1700 for a one off,
and not much of a reduction with several being made (lot alone the price of the drawings!!!),
they also said that the crank end is the best method for doing it. http://www.16vminiclub.com/forums/images/smiles/icon_blowup.gif

Still waiting on drawings, but i know the guy should have the measurements he needs now so shouldn't be long :(

[ed4ran]

:D happy boy i am, most definitely should be getting the drawings tomorrow as now he has the proper dimensions for the taper etc. :D

[Swiftmini]

At last some good news :D hope all works out this time.

Have you found someone who can manufacture the parts for you yet??

Kev

[ed4ran]

i have several companies that have been mentioned to me to try for quotes, but havent asked any yet because ive been waiting for the drawings so i can send them for an accurate quote. :oops:

[Swiftmini]

Yes sorry. It does make sense tom wait until you have drawings :lol:

Still hope all goes well.

[ed4ran]

I hope so too 8)

[ed4ran]

Drawings have gone to a local engineers for 2 reasons, 1st is to check/provide grinding tolerances, 2nd is to give a quote for them to produce them,
which is good in a couple of ways, mainly, they would be local to me, also they have done something similar before so have some experience of this kind of thing.

So as soon as they get back to me with a quote then i will also get the drawings emailed with the correct and checked grinding tolerances.

I guess its going to be start if next week, problem is im off to cambridge on monday but should be coming back tuesday so that may not be a problem.

[ed4ran]

:( Today is just a bad day for me :(

First i find out i didnt get the job in cambridge,
and now i get a quote for the crank end

£400 for the 1 (i could have it in about 4 to 6 weeks), Plus the bolts that will need to be made :cry:
Thats a big chunk, and seriously affects the overall cost, he said id have to have a few made for the price to come down (2 or 3 wouldnt really change anything).

Hmm i may try cleaning and selling my carbs and that may cover most of the initial cost of the end :(
(anyone interested in some Twin Dellorto 45M Turbo Carbs from a Lotus Esprit? including plenum and inlet manifold!)

[Swiftmini]

I spoke to my boss and he reckons we could do a batch of 5 for that price. we even have the tooling and forgings set for similar components. i'll send pm when i'm not on pda.

[Swiftmini]

sorry to hear about the job :cry:

[ed4ran]

:o cool!! :shock:
I will be getting the drawings now that the details are sorted.
(although the amount of times ive been promises them it could end up being another week or two) :cry:

[Swiftmini]

I'm going to print off the drawing on page two and take a crank into work with me. It will give my supervisor a proper idea of what needs doing. I will also be able to do some cutting and see how deep the hardness is and how hard the part needs to be. I will get some pics while i'm doing it :D

Cheers
Kev

[ed4ran]

:o 8) Cool :D That will be handy, when do you think you'll know? As i was thinking of ringing tomorrow to get the other one done. :?

[Swiftmini]

The story so far :D

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_134.jpg
How the crank looked after i attacked it with the saw

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_135.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_138.jpg
After a little machining

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_139.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_137.jpg
Waa hay it fits in the end of the crank

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_136.jpg
Hmm needs a flange

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_140.jpg
A bit of machining after shrinking on the flange. 5 thou interference fit.

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_141.jpg
Set up in the rotary table ready for drilling

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_142.jpg
Thats where we are at now

[Swiftmini]

What bolts do you intend to use?

Is 2mm counterbore going to be deep enough?

Will it matter where the holes are relative to the slots etc in the shaft?

[johnsn]

Looking good!
Keep up the good work.
john :D

[ed4ran]

:shock: HOT DANG!! :lol:

nah holes have no relevance with the flywheel, unless you want to use the spi flywheel and sensor on MS?? :wink:

[Swiftmini]

A couple more pics while i have chance. I haven't posted the adator yet, bank holiday :roll eyes:

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_146.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_143.jpg

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_145.jpg

There isn't anywhere for the head of the bolts to go. The flange could be made 20mm instead of 10mm. This will give room for the capheads to sit below the thrust face.

http://i25.photobucket.com/albums/c83/swiftmini/IMAGE_144.jpg

The other thought i had was to drill the holes out big enough for the head of the bolts (14mm) and then make a 10mm thick spacer to go on the back with the 10mm holes. Could tack it on for now and then make the adaptor with a thicker flange when it comes to production.

Could you get away with another 10mm offset?

Cheers
Kev

[ed4ran]

:lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

I think that sums it up :wink:

I got the drawings :shock:
Finally got round to contacting the guy again and asked if he could send me what he had, although think he is looking for digital versions.

Ed

[miniswift]

Hi Ed,

What Kev is doing these days?
Is he still doing his Swift conversion?
Also, G13B engine with Mini gearbox.
He likes to start and seems to stop.
He was doing bike carbs, then went back to the injection system.

I haven't seen his post lately....
How about you?
Have you finished G13B on Mini gearbox project?

Cheers
Atchi

P.S. I have more or less finsihed my house now so I will be starting my Mini proper!...soon, I hope.

[ed4ran]

Havent spoke to Kev for a while, havent seen him on here, or msn,

Its not finished yet as im waiting for the end to be made, but found someone willing just needed the drawings (as always)

Im seem to be going the same direction as you!!! Just about to complete buying a house :shock: Then all i have to do is save up for a new double garage/workshop :D (2 single garages at the mo, one is crap and possibly asbestos :? )

Ed.

[miniswift]

Nice double garage.... I wish I could afford that.

Well, at least I extended my garage to make it bigger!
You can afford to buy house with double garage at your age, lucky man.

I'm hoping I finish my car by next summer. As you know, I got a lot to do before MOT-able.

Good luck with Asbestos, you will need to get pro to take it off.
Then you can start rebuild your garage/workshop.

Cheers
Atchi

[ed4ran]

:lol:
Luckly the current owner bought next doors garage/land so ive got double what it would have come with normally, house aint big, but then its only me anyway.

Might move the ok garage that is there further back and build a double where it currently is so i should have a single storage garage then a double garage/workshop :D will try and get it as big as i can :wink:
Problem is it may take a while to save up :( will just have to play with a single for now.

[Swiftmini]

hi all,

I feel I must explain where i've been..

firstly iam really sorry ed for messing you about with the crankend, send me your addy and i'll get it sent asap.

I really badly want my mini in a drivable state, I just haven't got the enthusiasm. I look at it every day and all my mates are trying to get my ass in gear.

I have also been quite busy with projects for friends, rover v8 sierra, 2l zetec in mk4 escort. as soon as my current project is running I will be moving my mini to my dads place, hopefully I will then finish it.

I doubt I will use megasquirt though, gonna try and get it running on the stock ecu.

cheers
kev

[ed4ran]

PM'd

I recently got my brother's running on the stock ecu (with a mk1 inlet) that is going through the MS relay board with what was left of the harness from chopping to do MS in the first place :D Just the odd teething problems with normal engine adjustments, but idles fine and runs well. Should be heading back this weekend so will get some pics etc. (although it looks like it did just with a mk1 inlet)

If you need any help with it let me know :D

I think unless you are really modding the engine there is no need for MS.
Unless you need some crasy inlet that cant work with stock.

Ed.

[ed4ran]

Been getting a little stressed recently with stupid people trying to sell houses, but ive been doing little bits on this to keep my mind off things.

Not really done much apart from changing to better bolts for the bottom of the engine and make flanges etc fit a bit better (helped by the bolts) still trimming to do on the flanges but not going to do anything like that until i actully come to getting them fitted in place.

Anyway a big thanks to Kev (SwiftMini) :D for sorting this 'small' piece of the puzzle ;) Should allow me to get things in place and start things going again.
Just need to get it bolted on some how and check its alignment, then i need a 1275 mini primary gear (only have 998s :( ) so i can line it up etc.

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/16.JPG

http://homepage.ntlworld.com/gary.heritage1/Pics/swiftmini/22.JPG

[Swiftmini]

anythoughts on fixing it on? do you think you will use the spacer?

good luck with the rest of this, it looks very good already.

cheers
kev :D

[ed4ran]

I think I have to use the spacer, just not until i can get it bolted on as it wont stay in place by itself :lol:

[ed4ran]

Not been up to much, apart from getting stressed with house stuff not getting very far.

Tinkered at the weekend with this but there still isnt much i can do until the end is sorted.
I have trimmed the flanges between the engine and transfer case, and have also managed to bodge the crank end (from SwiftMini) on,
at least now its stable and doesnt wobble giving me something to line things up with.
You can turn the engine over with it so its pretty stable.

I have done my best (due to not having precision measurment tools) to check the true-ness of the crank end and it seems pretty good! :)

[Oz]

Hey Ed has there been any progress with this ? :D

[ed4ran]

Not really, House has been getting in the way
But have be thinking about it quite alot with intentions to progress,
Ideas of changes and improvements, but its hard not having it to check clearences.

I may actually be bringing the engine and box to my house this weekend (its been sat in mums garage since i moved here :cry: )

Ed :(

[Hayling mini]

Hello.............. Ed, are you still around?

Jerry

[ed4ran]

hello Jerry,

I am still around, i do want to play with minis, but work is getting in the way, and the house is giving me even less time and money to do anything :cry:
Only got two more thing to do on the house before i reroof the garage, but im not going to hold my breath, it just gets too depressing :(

Keeping an eye on the van (and a few others), looks like good progress!! :D

Ed

[Hayling mini]

Been their with the house, I remember going to work, coming home & renovating until 3.00 A.M then up again at 7.00 A.M everyday for about a year. Just thought it was strange you had not been on for a while, did you get that 1600 4WD box in the end?

Regards

Jerry

[ed4ran]

lol, not yet, might pick one up this weekend.
But I will need some other bits aswell anyway.
Just need to collect bits as and when i can.
As long as i have the bits for when i go into the garage for something other than just emptying the rubbish from it. :lol:

Ed

[Hayling mini]

What do you need?

[ed4ran]

depends what i can get this weekend (if anything)
Would be things like gearchange, prop, diff, driveshafts etc (the usual)
plus will get some tubing, and some metal for a jig etc.
Wouldnt mind getting the bulkhead of a mini to bolt to the wall, but its not going to be something i pay for.

I have however be looting the skips at work (they've been having a big clear out) and got some metal, some storage boxes and other odd bits and bobs, wiring, battery cables etc.

[Hayling mini]

I have gear selectors x 2 from GTI & several GTI drive shafts if you want them.

Jerry

[ed4ran]

Thanks, but I thought the gearselectors are cable operated on the 4wd boxes :( my justy one is (but i've modified it now).

I didnt think the GTI driveshafts are the same, unless its just the Justy shafts that are different to the GTI ones? or it could have just been the ones i had :? :lol: (quite possible with my luck), my justy ones had the fewer number of splines on them.

[Hayling mini]

Hi Ed
Most of the 4WD boxes are cable, some were rod, chances are yours will be cable. All GTI's were rod. I have Justy drive shafts if you need them, however the 1600 4WD shafts are much stronger & if you can get them they are much better. As a matter of interest Evo shafts also slot straight in if you are looking at big power.

Regards

Jerry

[ed4ran]

Evo shafts!! thats good to know :lol:
Is that the shaft into the suzuki Pot joint, or can the evo pot joint be used as well (wishfull thinking)? :lol:

I have just looked at the prices of Evo shafts!!
and you get what you pay for!! you get shafted!!! :lol:

Ed

[Hayling mini]

The Evo shaft slots into the Suzuki pot, I have a mate who tunes Jap race cars for a living & he just gave me a couple of shafts :D
I am not going to use them at the moment, but may need to for the next addition to the van. Andy & I have been building a J20 lump which will go in the Van probably this summer. We are aiming for 450BHP at the wheels so will need to look at stronger shafts & the Evo ones will probably be used then.

Jerry

[ed4ran]

not still going with the 1.6 lump?
Isnt there a problem with the oil pump on the J20 or something along those lines?
(or is that someone on TeamSwift not doing something properly?)

:oops:

[Hayling mini]

We have a cunning plan :D

[ed4ran]

8) :lol:
Please do keep me informed :wink:

[Hayling mini]

Will do :lol:

[Oz]

http://www.specialist-components.co.uk/cnb/shop/sconline?articleID=9&op=article-related_products

Ed, not sure if this is any use to you ?

In looking up Manx Racing/Bill Quine (see other hread in Non-16v)I did come across references to people using the Ford engine/box conversion who used the crank adapters in high reving engines getting injured when they broke loose and that it was advised to use a billet crank if at all possible - just thinking where the flywheel is in relation to the wedding tackle is not a pleasant thought if it breaks loose :shock: :lol:

[ed4ran]

Hi Oz,
Yeah I have been looking at SC as a possiblity for a billet crank,
dont like the idea of any fly wheel / wedding tackle interaction :shock:
Just dont think ill have £1000 spare anytime soon :cry:
So this is just on the shelf for the time being.

Ed

[Hayling mini]

Hi Ed
Hows it going?
Any progress?

Hope you enjoyed your trip around Barkston.

Regards

Jerry

[Hayling mini]

Hi Ed
I see you are back posting on the site, any progress with yours?

Regards

Jerry

[ed4ran]

hi Jerry,
No progress with any projects yet, just collecting parts (got another engine yesterday).
Im just getting more withdrawl symtoms from not playing with the mini, lol, so ill have to do something soon.

Ed.

[Hayling mini]

I know the feeling, motivation is hard when its freezing cold & you have too much going on. I have set myself targets, Barkston being one of them, you coming over again this year?

Regards

Jerry

[ed4ran]

Yeah really want to go, hopefully get some inspiration, and as its not far from my mum's house so I don't really have an excuse. :D

Still got some of the swift to get rid of (body bits). Ive taken most of it to the tip after cutting it up, but there are some bits that are too big still.

Also once ive sorted the kitchen and had a shift around i can paint the new garage door, which will spur me on to getting it fitted.

Ed.

[Hayling mini]

Hopefully this year I can give you a wiz round in the van:D

Jerry

[ed4ran]

That would be ace!! :mrgreen:

[Hayling mini]

Hi Ed
Any progress on this or are you still playing houses?

Regards

Jerry

[Mini fab]

If you may Suzuki Boys,Please excuse my observation . It so happen I've came across this thread and for the 1st 4 pages Ed is waiting for a quotation. I notice the time lapse almost a 5 to 6 mos absent on the forum, I guess Ed is going no where with this conversion. Using an A series gearbox to mate to a Suzuki GTI . No Way! One of the most weakest in the A series is the gearbox. He said it will save you sometime in doing your frame , if this conversion works! It's not moving ahead it's going back.
Co'z I can see more money to it and head scratching. And at the end of the day still need to sort your intake, then your manifold just like anybody else . So get your act Ed . just drop any good engine in that Mini and made a frame just most of us and start enjoying. . Well my 5 cents worth, no pun intended.

[ed4ran]

Hi Jerry,

This is still shelved at the moment, but recently managed to replace the roof on the garage!!!
So now Ive got to replace doors etc to get the garage secure and then start bringing all my stuff from my mums house here (this included).

I understand what you are saying Mini Fab, but sometimes you need to know something can work before you invest more time and money into developing it and improving the idea. This has only cost me a few pounds for some metal at the moment.

Many have remarked on the strength of the A series gearbox, but I have accepted that it wont take lots of power, and Im not expecting it to take anymore than what a mini engine would put through it. They can be made stronger!

When I started this it was slow progress as it was a side project and I didnt have any money being a student, now I'm working I've moved onto buying a house that needs a lot of work, so I've not got the time either now.

I will progress with this, but its fairly low on the list of things to do. But I am progressing with everything else, and I will get there eventually.

Regards,

Ed.

[Hayling mini]

Ed
You forgot to mention that you had already built 2 Swift engined cars, one with the engine in the front & one with the engine in the back:D

[Mini fab]

I understand Ed. As I can see your a student and the basic principle in life is " time is money" Spend too much time in a project it means a waste of money.
I'm also a student 2 years ago. Too much time hitting the books , too late to earn your life. You will have a family of your own , divert your priorities . I know every man needs to prove he can do something .
But the bottom line is... each and everyone of us in this forum try to proved that the old A series is replacable with a new,improved, powerfull, modern and etc. engine, but the way you wanted it to happen is to use a part of it , that needed to be replace. Save your time/money, you are a talented man as your friend Hayling has stated , But at the end of the day it won't work , and if it work who wanted to run a 16V on a 4 syncro gearbox? and 5 speed will still be an option.:confused::confused::confused::
Cheers mate!!!!:beer: get some of these and put a Vtec / Vauxhall for a change!
Notice Vtec/ Vaux Double VV for Victory!!! And Suzuki for S@*Ks ( oh snaps! just kidding)

Hayling: Your a good Pal!!! have a :beer:cheers!!