The General's ongoing rebuild

[Andy_S]

OK, so i didn't do a build diary first time around, so maybe a diary for the crash repairs might be fun.

The damage was caused by a roll at the last hillclimb event at Elvington & for those that haven't seen pics, here's how he looked when we got him home.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures009.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures010.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures011.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures012.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures014.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures016.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures017.jpg

After inspection, I don't reckon that there's too much mechanical damage.

Mucho body damage though :cry:

The hudersfield subframe bent a little cos at one point in the crash this was the only wheel on the floor .......
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures025.jpg

Here's the scrap yard :wink:

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures042.jpg

After stripping & cleaning (mainly glass) the wee fella doesn't look too bad.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures043.jpg

Over the coming weeks I'll be straightening things out as best as possible. The boot area has been pushed in an inch, so the boot floor will need to be removed.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures019.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures020.jpg

Deffo need to swap out the N/S front window pillar & roof corner, so if anyone is scrapping a shell, can I ask you to chop out this area ............ I'll pay for postage. :D

Other areas of the roof will be beaten sensless from the inside once the strengthening steelwork is removed.

More will follow over coming weekends.

[MattG]

would it just not be quicker and cheaper to find a new shell ? and just swap all the bits accross ?

Matt

[pickmeup]

fair play to you for rescuing the shell but as matt says wouldnt it be easier to find another decent clubby shell and bolt the good bits to it?

ive rescued a clubby shell with craig1010cc we should have scrapped it but 4.5months of hard graft got it done!

good luck mate, hope you get back on track soon

[Andy_S]

IMHO a re-shell will deffo not be cheaper & likely not be quicker either.

If I could find a 'guaranteed' good shell for £100 I'd think about it, but the last 'perfect' shell I bought cost £300 & still took 3 months to bring up to a decent standard.

The General is re-inforced in several places, seam welded in key areas and is pretty much rust free (if you ignore the area below the rear lights which I thought was OK so didn't repair!) Other than roof & boot, he is still straight, so why buy an unknown donor which will definately need work doing on it, when I've got a 'known quantity' here.

Always fancied a carbon fibre front, so I've got an excuse to buy one now. Plus I'll tub the arches as part of the work on the back-end. :D

[Geehawk]

Good to hear you so positive 8) 8) 8)

I presume the colour scheme is staying :?:

[bhphunter]

Im so gutted for you :cry:

I was actually looking at those pictures with an open mouth!


Good luck with the rebuild and your positive attitude towards it is bound to help.

See my build diary for how I replaced a roof - might help give you ideas for the pillar areas :wink:


Looking forward to seeing it back racing and winning :lol:

[Andy_S]

Good to hear you so positive 8) 8) 8)

Always :D No such things as problems, just opportunities to find solutions.

I presume the colour scheme is staying :?:

I won't get chance to finesse the job too much because of the need to do some work on the house & Tessa's Midget so some of the dings & scrapes will stay there too.

Maybe at the end of next year I'll re-do the paint (same scheme but with orange flake) ........... assuming I don't find another fun way to crash him in the meantime. :wink:

See my build diary for how I replaced a roof - might help give you ideas for the pillar areas

cheers bhp, I'll go & have a looksee . :D

[graemec]

I have clubman front & rear bumpers and a grill set here that I'd part with for a sensible (not ebay prices) offer.
Bumpers have been previously sprayed black - one has been stripped but the chrome is all rubbed down, one is still black. Both would need to be painted. From what I can remember the grille is 'OK' - not show winning by any means but straighter than yours!

Located just off M6 J35 so not the other end of the country. Let me know if you're interested.

Graeme.

[Andy_S]

Thanks for the offer Graeme,

Bumpers, grilles, bonnets, bootlids, headlights, front panel, wings, inner arches. floors, crossmember, heelboard, doorsteps, rear valence are all things I have spares of due to many years of hoarding. :D

I've scrapped any number of shells over the years, but don't have a spare roof anymore (did keep a couple for a while :oops: .)

So I'm only after a NS front window pillar & a corner off the roof from some kind person who is scrapping a shell. :wink:

[Allan McD]

Its just as well you are a pro hoarder 8)
Your store will be a bit depleted after this job :shock:
Allan

[Andy_S]

Hey Allan,

Nip outside & chop the window post off your racer would you .......... it'll make it lighter :D

How did your weekend go? Class win? Fastest FWD? Fastest Mini?

Those slicks you gave me are superb! The brake mods plus those tyres made a massive difference to the handling of the car. Shame the driver aimed his car at a straw bale :lol:


Andy
_______

[Allan McD]

Fastest real mini :lol: (a few bmw's were quicker :cry: and one wrecked worse than your's :shock: ) 6 seconds quicker than last visit the car is briliant now.
No class win it was british championship so all the b licence holders are in the same group 15 off us I was 9th.
I got my corner weights sorted out I had them all to pot but I did a bit of reading and found out how to do them properly I had misunderstood the whole concept :oops:
Allan

[Pooler70]

Good luck with the rebuild mate. Im sure you'll have it back to beating v-tecs again in no time. :D

[fbm-spec]

:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:

Sorry to see the General has been wounded. Hope u are ok Andy. Good luck with your parts search and rebuild.

FBM_SPEC.

[Oz]

At least you're not alone Andy :cry:

http://www.generalleefanclub.com/realgenerals/rare12.jpg

http://www.generalleefanclub.com/realgenerals/rare10.jpg

http://www.generalleefanclub.com/realgenerals/rare26.jpg

[Andy_S]

:D nice one Oz

I think the Mini did a bit better than those poorly looking Chargers! :shock:

If only I'd played my dixie horns as the car rolled ................ ah well, hopefully I won't get the chance again.

[Geehawk]

:D nice one Oz

I think the Mini did a bit better than those poorly looking Chargers! :shock:

If only I'd played my dixie horns as the car rolled ................ ah well, hopefully I won't get the chance again.

Wire them up to a tilt switch so it happens automatically at anything over 45 degrees :) :lol: 8) :wink:

[Andy_S]

With the help of my Dad (and a cut down acro), the General's repairs are progressing well.

Upper rear pushed out & started re-shape. (Where's that ding gone :?: )
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures046.jpg

Drivers side roof pushed out & partial re-shape. (Hammer tastic :lol: )
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures047.jpg

Passenger front corner was so bad we cut it out. :(
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures048.jpg

But cos we couldn't find a sensible donor, good old Bob re-shaped the mangled one. :D He's a bit clever my Dad.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/TheGeneralcornered002.jpg

Still plenty to do though ..............

[Mini Vlatko]

Very strange way of doing the repairs but you are managing it...keep it up :)

[MarkLD]

Excellent work Andy and Dad, the damage has come out very well. Have you cut out the seat back to do it or was it removed before?

Keep up the good work :beer:

[Marcus Nordblom]

Yea top effort,
really wish i had a dad like yours… maybe he could adopt me :lol:

//marcus

[Andy_S]

Excellent work Andy and Dad, the damage has come out very well. Have you cut out the seat back to do it or was it removed before?

The seat back was already cut away & I was using a second donor seat back bolted in to the shell.

really wish i had a dad like yours… maybe he could adopt me

Don't think my Mother would be pleased if he had to run around after two of us :D I know he'd enjoy himself though.

[BassAddict]

Cool - looks like you're getting stuck in and making good progress already :) When you're finished I bring my estate up - should be a breeze in comparison and only take a day or two :)
Rich

[pickmeup]

well done mate! making good progress with it, just shows you should never right off a shell! it can always be rebuilt with a bit of effort!

[Richspec]

Excellent work in a short time :!: , you and your dad have obviously got some skills :D

looking forward to seeing it up and about again :)

Rich

[Smurfy]

Looks like your making great progress Andy.

It will be back on the road in no time if you keep this up!! :D

[Andy_S]

Cheers guys,

I'm taking a few days off work next week so am aiming to have the shell all straight, roof welded back in, plus tubbed arches & few other bits. Bob (Dad) is hopefully back from a wee holiday so we should make some good progress.

[Andy_S]

Here's a few bits which I did over the weekend.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures054.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures052.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures055.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures057.jpg

Rear of the car can now ride 3 inches off the foor, no more boshing the arches. Had some spare inner arches & they fitted without modification ....... kinda.

Off to buy some steelwork tomorrow so I can rebuild the boot area and make a few other subtle adjustments. :D

[Marcus Nordblom]

As busy as a bee

Never seen it been done that way before, very clever Andy! Looks very nice, keep it up!

//marcus

[Allan McD]

I like the rear beam but I dont think that wood is strong enough for racing :lol:
Allan

[jiminwatford]

Excellent work. Any chance of moving 'General Lee' central on the roof now ? ;)

[Andy_S]

Any chance of moving 'General Lee' central on the roof now ? ;)

Not sure what you mean there Jim. The flag is pretty much in the middle & the wording is meant to fit over the doors ........... what am I missing?

[Oz]

yep as a closet Dukes fan I can confirm Andy is right :) :oops:

http://www.starcarstn.com/sitebuilder/images/GenLeeINT-250x189.jpg

[jiminwatford]

hmm i can see the reason for it but on the mini it looks on-the-cock

i'd never noticed it was at the front on the originals. must be because the roof slopes down that it always looked right

i reckon if you did a straw poll most people wold think it belongs in the middle :wink: :wink: :D

no offence, mate i think you're car rocks :D

[Andy_S]

Gotta love them Chargers ................... :D

[XEValver]

Looking good Andy!

No half measures there! 8) Keep it up :D

[Mini Vlatko]

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures054.jpg


Will you be welding this back in or are you planing bolting?? :shock:

[Andy_S]

The General's getting a rear axle setup kinda like Allan McD's so the original floor won't be going back.

I hope to fit a boot floor at some point (maybe when the MOT is due) but to start with a tubular frame is planned to hold the fuel tank & keep things square.

[Miniwidow]

no offence, mate i think you're car rocks :D

and rolls!!!

:wink: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Mark D]

PMSL, well done andy it's coming along nicely.

Fancy beams eh, your getting paid too much!!!

[caveman]

stick a carbon fibre one in :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

[Andy_S]

Fancy beams eh, your getting paid too much!!!

Nope ........ made to my very own design (so it'll probably break) from stuff we had lying around at work plus kitcar trailing arm brackets & rose joints from e-bay. Still need some 1" ID tubing for the arms.

I reckon £75 - £100 tops.

[Smurfy]

This might be a bit late now at the rate your going but I found this on the mini forum.....

http://www.theminiforum.co.uk/forums/index.php?showtopic=100997

The guy is in Leeds so if there is anything you need I can probably collect it and stick it in the post?

[PaulW]

This might be a bit late now at the rate your going but I found this on the mini forum.....

http://www.theminiforum.co.uk/forums/index.php?showtopic=100997

The guy is in Leeds so if there is anything you need I can probably collect it and stick it in the post?

Pmsl thats my mate Jason :D

Paul

[Andy_S]

Spent a long time achieving very little over the weekend.

Roof Repaired.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures058.jpg

Framework.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures062.jpg

[Allan McD]

Its near ready to race :lol: You will have time to fix the wifes car this winter if you keep this up :wink:
Allan

[boots]

Looking awsome, very impressive and quick work!
Are they 13" revos, they look huge :shock: ?

Steve

[Mark D]

Andy has also Agreed to letting Tessa drive next year, now he's found a seat big enough for her arse. That was Andys words, not mine. Sorry to drop you in it bud :lol: :lol: :lol:

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp343/darkmutton/DSC03038.jpg[/img]

[Mark D]

I'm only joking, he actually said "i wish it looked like that"

http://i426.photobucket.com/albums/pp343/darkmutton/DSC03039.jpg

I guess your not coming to the autosport show with us next year then andy :wink: . And i guess amsterdam is out of the question for my 40th :megasquirt:

[Allan McD]

(I guess your not coming to the autosport show with us next year andy)
I bet he isnt. :lol:
Allan

[BassAddict]

Mark - you're a bad person !!! :lol:

[Andy_S]

.............. :shock:

erm!

I don't think I said .....................

no!

[Allan McD]

Yes you did we all heard you said Grace.
Allan

[PaulW]

hahahah Andy..................BUSTED :D

Paul

[Miniwidow]

You like living dangerously don't you dear???

Your dinner is in the dog :twisted:

It does look like that........................magnified :oops:

[Miniwidow]

Oh and Mr D.................... Watch it next time I see you, you're not posting those and getting off lightly :twisted:

[Mark D]

Your dinner is in the dog

Oh you got off lightly there bud, Liz tells me mine is still on the 3rd shelf up. Thing is i know she means 3rd shelf up, behind the door...........In ASDA

You are a bad lad though andy :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Mark D]

Oh and Mr D

What, who me.........What did i do :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Andy_S]

Had some fun today 'adjusting' the AMT frame to allow the General to run low to the ground.

Haven't removed the frame for a few years
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures065.jpg
If you haven't seen an AMT frame for a while...........
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures068.jpg
then I chopped it in half
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures071.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures072.jpg
and glued it back together ..... (some of the welding isn't penetrating enough, so gona grind it back & take it to work to use the big amp welder there.)
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures075.jpg
and that wee engine still fits all nice and snug.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures073.jpg

2.25" removed & then each joint is renforced with 1.5mm box section and finally seam welded. Should be good for a few miles, although now he's gona need one hellofa bonnet bulge for the 2" of rocker top poking through.

[Pooler70]

Good to see your cracking on with getting him back up and built. With the height removed from the top of the frame you are going to need to allow for that in the 2 lower supports bolting to the car. Im guessing you probably know this but just thought id point out the obvious. Also what sort of clearance issues are you going to have in other places?

[Andy_S]

I know you know that I know that the rear supports need mods. No problem for these as they will end up a bit like the normal Mini type ...... watch this space. :wink:

Main problem is the steering rack as it only had 1" clearance on the diff housing so it will need to move nearer to the bulkhead. Not such an easy task. :?

The rear engine mount was fouling the frame but I sorted that this afternoon.

Gearshift mechanism needs mods, but looks reasonably straight forward.

Nothing else fouls apart from the obvious issues with the bonnet.

................ all this just to keep the driveshafts & top wishbones horizontal so we can run the shell with 3" ground clearance to maybe possibly sneak half a second on a run.

[Mark D]

but 1/2 a second off your last run will still be measured by a calendar :lol:

[Andy_S]

Sadly thats true :cry:

Dear father xmas, I've been a good boy & would really like some of those nice sticky Avon Tyres like the propper racers use.

[jiminwatford]

out of interest, how long would a new set of Avons last in this kind of sport? a season? more?

[Mark D]

How long is a piece of string jim. It would depend on all kinds of factors, such as what width tyre you go for, how soft a compound you use, how much power you put through them, steering angle set up, temperatures, driving style and track suface, somewhere like elvington eats tyres as a lot of it is concrete.

It also depends on what you mean by "lasts". Slick racing tyres harden every time they get warm and cool. A top race team only use them for 3-4 heat cycles. the first for qualifying, 2nd for race, 3rd + 4th for practice. That is why you get part worn slicks on ebay. They also harden over time and uv light buggers them up too, they should be stored covered.

To what i've been led to believe though a set of super soft sprint tyres should last an average season, Although Allan may go through them faster because he does quite a few sprints in a year.

[Andy_S]

Nice little narative there Mark, I certainly didn't know all that.

All I know is that those pre-used Yokahama slicks which Allan McD gave me were superb compared to the Mitchelins which you gave me and they in turn were better than my road tyres.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but a set of Avon's will cost around £600 (X 2 if you want wet's) and although I really want some, I'm also very tight!

[Mark D]

That price sounds about right for the larger slicks we would use, such as 7-8 inch wide. I think you may get a little change from £500 for the size we are using at the moment. I think allan pays just over £400 a set for the yoko's. If your buying avons make sure you also get the correct ply, they suggest single ply for the rears and 2 ply for the front.

I guess we are going to be raiding the avon stand at the autosport show this time :lol:

[Andy_S]

I guess we are going to be raiding the avon stand at the autosport show this time :lol:

That's a very good idea Mr D. ........... but where would we put the tyres on the way back :? ?

[PaulW]

Thats looking fantastic Andy, still say its a brave move on the subframe :D

I'm still confused about the sizing on slick tyres :?

I'm going to have to update my build diary :oops:

Paul

[rwdvvcmini]

pfft i remember the days when men made their own slicks :lol:

doughtnut, burnout, rinse and repeat a few times :twisted:

used to love my local scrappies, go in once a month, buy any half decent wheels/tires and go mental for a bit.

got caught by the cops twice on the way home after a session and got lotsa points, so that stopped :shock:

is it more the compound of rubber for traction or the amount of rubber that makes the difference ?

[Allan McD]

Tyres are a complex item you need the correct compound the correct width the correct construction , the constuction eg how the sidewalls etc are made is important for grip stability and durability.
Allan

[PaulW]

Tyres are a complex item you need the correct compound the correct width the correct construction , the constuction eg how the sidewalls etc are made is important for grip stability and durability.
Allan

So what tips can you give us for the sprint and hilllclimb?

Paul

[Mark D]

is it more the compound of rubber for traction or the amount of rubber that makes the difference

Tyre characteristics is an art in itself. When building a race car you should really choose your tyres and then build the chassis and suspension around the tyre specs. Handling and speed is all about making the most out of the 4 small contact points and making these as big as possible. Too wide a tyre and your creating rolling resistance, too thin a tyre and you wont transmit all the power, too soft a compound and they overheat and go off, before blistering and bursting, too hard a compound and again your losing traction.

when choosing your tyres you need to get the tyre data and check the tyre performance curve. This curve shows the traction generated in relation to the vertical load. A tyre gives more grip the more weight it has on it but only upto a point, then it starts to struggle and tyre slip occurs. This maximum grip point should match your cornering weight on the tyre to get maximum grip.

This all asumes that the tyres are flat to the floor to obtain the largest contact point possible and that is where camber angle comes into it. Camber angle is effected by body roll, this is effected by centre of gravity and roll centres ............................etc......etc.......etc

Lots of books to read to find out more

[Mark D]

and bearing all this in mind i still went through the bloody fence

chassis engineering by herb adams is quite an interesting and easy read on this subject

[Allan McD]

[quote]
Lots of books to read to find out more
If only I could read :lol:
Allan

[Allan McD]

So what tips can you give us for the sprint and hilllclimb?

Paul
The best tip I can give you is dont race using your credit card :shock:
And dont try to hard just have fun and keep trying things like ride hights tyre pressures etc.
Allan

[Mark D]

The best tip I can give you is dont race using your credit card

You could have given me that tip 2 years ago. It's the best tip i've heard

[tiny2403]

sorry if it too late but I have a roof corner if you want it :)

[Allan McD]

sorry if it too late but I have a roof corner if you want it :)
Ther may be a few people in need for it next year :lol: :lol:
Allan

[tiny2403]

well i have both sides should anyone need them
cj

[Andy_S]

sorry if it too late but I have a roof corner if you want it :)

That's very kind of you, but I've stitched in the old corner in & it look OK (ish).

Many thanks for the offer.



Andy :D

[Andy_S]

Got a few bits done this weekend ....... spent many hours staring at the job though :?

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures079.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures076.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures077.jpg

Unless you've got an AMT frame then you probably can't tell what's been done ........... very boring ....... sorry.

[evolotion]

would i be right in sayign you have "lowered" the car on the frame?! like them thre miglia racers do with there funny tower mod's

[mininut]

Andy, will you be raising the mount points for your rear trailing arms the same as you've raised the front? and will the rack still clear?

M.

[Andy_S]

would i be right in sayign you have "lowered" the car on the frame?! like them thre miglia racers do with there funny tower mod's

Yup :D, although I'm not sure how the Miglia guys do there lowering, I'm aiming at the same (ish) ride height. Measuring at the sill, Miglias are 7.5" below the front & 8" at the rear ............ but the General is running on 13" rims not 10's. (Will deffo need to spacer the track rod ends like the Miglias as well.)

Interestingly standard radius arms bottom against the rear seat with the car 4" off the floor & I'm after 3" ride height under the floorpan so a Vizzard style rear is axle is on it's way. Two lower arms trail forward at 90 degs to the axle & two upper arms trail back from the mid point of the axle at 45degs and tie next to the rear lights ......... no Panhard rod or Watts link required (in theory). Am aiming to mock this up at the weekend.

[Andy_S]

Andy, will you be raising the mount points for your rear trailing arms the same as you've raised the front? and will the rack still clear?

M.

The rack should sneak past the diff once the spacer bits are cut from rack mount on the shell, this in turn pulls the mounting up & towards the bulkhead. I'm only 70% confident here though and if my measurements are wrong I'll need to mod the bulkhead more dramatically. :(

The gearshift mechanism has clearance issues too ....... but a bit of tinkering should sort that.

All good fun though :D

[Mark D]

mmm, gonna have to get my finger out on mine, cant be overtaken by 2 vauxhalls.

Good work though andy, it's looking good

[fbm-spec]

mmm, gonna have to get my finger out on mine, cant be overtaken by 2 vauxhalls.

Good work though andy, it's looking good


Shouldn't that be 3 vauxhalls Mark ???? :wink: :D :P :P :P

[Mark D]

erm, no dont think so, yours dont count, i only had a 1.6 in it way back then AND it's never seen a track. I just hope i can stay infront of paul.

Saying that though, look at the level of work these vauxhalls take inorder to beat me. Fibreglass everything, fancy beams, new slicks, fuel cells, go -cart ride heights.

Oh hurry up with my new shell Geoff!!!!!

[Mark D]

Two lower arms trail forward at 90 degs to the axle & two upper arms trail back from the mid point of the axle at 45degs and tie next to the rear lights ......... no Panhard rod or Watts link required (in theory). Am aiming to mock this up at the weekend.


How's that going to work Andy. If all 4 links go forward then the axle can move up and down in an arc around the pivot points, by taking the top 2 links backover your fixing it in a set position (in effect tieing it down) and for it to move up and down the arms will need to extend. The only way i see it working is by using something like rose joints which allow the axle to rotate as it moves, but me thinks unless your running with dead straight track and camber it's going to be all over the place.

It's been a while since i've seen the vizard book but dosent he also run the top 2 bars forward inorder to make a pivot point in the centre of the beam.

[Andy_S]

- The axle can still rise & fall but as Mark says this will not be through an arc.

- The top brackets on the axle tilt back while the bottom brackets tilt forward and then the centre line of the axle is essentially rising vertically.

- The shocker mountings on the axle need to pivot slightly.

- Handbrake cable will be old metro cos of the rigid sleeve arrangement.

- Brake pipes need to be mounted to allow for the unusual motion of the hubs.

This all sounds very simple in theory, but I'll be happier when I see it in practice cos it's even stretching my imagination working through this little bit of the project. :)

Need to order some tubing today for the trailing arms..............

[Richspec]

Is that top bar on the front of the frame a permanent fixture? or just to hold it all together while your chopping an changing?

[Andy_S]

That piece of tube is just to keep things squared up while modifying the frame.

Rich, I know you that know why, but for the benefit of others it would foul the route that the exhaust takes if left in situ.

[Andy_S]

Here's a crap image of the Aldon/Vizard rear axle.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/IMAGE_007-1.jpg

[Richspec]

That piece of tube is just to keep things squared up while modifying the frame.

Rich, I know you that know why, but for the benefit of others it would foul the route that the exhaust takes if left in situ.

Aye, I figured it was temporary but was wondering!

Theres quite a lot of 'spring' in the frame when you remove the front alloy bar so bracing would definitely be needed!

Carry on the good work. :beer:

[Marcus Nordblom]

This sounds very interesting Andy! Maybe something for my car later on 8)
Is it possible to have a "kink" in it and retain the boot floor?

//marcus

[Andy_S]

Marcus, I think the top trailing arms would bottom out against the underside of the floor if you didn't remove the majority of it.
To an extent I think it depends how low you want the car to sit, but most likely the boot floor has to be sacrificed one way or another.
I raised the floor level by about 150mm to get sufficient clearance .......... hopefully I got that measurement right :oops:

[Marcus Nordblom]

that was a stupid question from me…sorry :oops:

[Andy_S]

Marcus, is that an Iron Maiden Avatar you've conjured up?

It looks a lot like young Eddy :D :D :D :D

[Marcus Nordblom]

Yes Sir, it sure is, the world greatest band some say!
'
I actually ordered the t-shirt to, logo up front and "A matter of life and death" on the back :twisted:


//marcus

[Andy_S]

Coooooool 8) 8) 8) 8)

I got every Maiden album up to Live after death, embroidered them on the old denim jacket (aged 15) & eventually got to see them live last year!

Was never that keen on the newer stuff (ie post 1985) :wink:

Best metal band in the world without any doubt!

[Andy_S]

Look at the level of work these vauxhalls take inorder to beat me. Fibreglass everything, fancy beams, new slicks, fuel cells, go -cart ride heights.

Oh hurry up with my new shell Geoff!!!!!

Said the man with the 1.8 type R motor running DTA & Direct to head Jenveys & gearbox with LSD.

I'm running a 90'000 mile XE motor on Carbs & g'box with standard diff which has been build by my incompetent hands. Plus I ain't got any fibreglass panels and am probably going back to road tyres for next season.

All this fancy (expensive) stuff makes you go fast in a straight line and as Allan has proved makes for some seriously fast times in a lightweight well balanced car. But for me, until I've got the wee bugger handling like those classic 1380 coopers there's no point in making him faster. ........... I'll only tip him over at a greater speed! :oops:

[Andy_S]

Did a bit more work on the rear axle & suspension this week.

Axle prior to fitting brackets.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures086.jpg
The stub axle assembly is fastened to the axle with 8 X 8mm studs & allows shimming for toe & camber.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures085.jpg
And then knocked up some rose jointed susp rods & mocked up the fitment.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures080.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures082.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures083.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures084.jpg
need to get some spacers made up for the rose joints & then mount the shockers and, and, and ....... :D

[Allan McD]

:shock: :shock: :shock: :shock:
That is looking like the fastest fwd mini :wink:
Allan

[Andy_S]

If we do some roof racing I'll deffo be fasest :oops: .... but probably not on 4 wheels.

[PaulW]

looking good Andy lots of progress

Paul

[Mark D]

That is looking like the fastest fwd mini

No,no,no,no,no I have a little trick up my sleeve too, just you wait and see!!!!

Looking good though andy, a lot of work to be 1 second slower mind!!

[Marcus Nordblom]

Looks like a really quality job, Mate!

//marcus

[Andy_S]

That is looking like the fastest fwd mini

No,no,no,no,no I have a little trick up my wallet too, just you wait and see!!!!

Looking good though andy, a lot of work to be 1 second slower mind!!

This isn't work ..... this is playing :D and it's only cost a few quid so it doesn't matter if I'm slower than Allan SchuMcD by only 1 second.

[Mark D]

mine is free, you'll see!!

It's looking good though andy, be interesting to see what difference it makes. I'm not 100% sold on the idea but hope you convert me.

[Andy_S]

The suspension is a variation on the rear axle that Allan was running this year & I think he was happy with his.

Also it's not meant to make me uber fast (cos I'm crap), just wanted to get the car running really low to the ground and remain road legal. You can't easily get low enough with 13" rims and standard radius arms.

Cheers for the nice comments guys. :D

[Mark D]

I like the work andy, dont get me wrong. The 2 concerns i have are this: 1) i cant see how it works without rotating the axle, thus throwing out all the angles. It maybe me missing something though. 2) Being designed by Vizard and shown in one of his best selling books it's the only working example i've seen, if it had worked i would have thought it would have taken off, especially with the grass track lads.

The 1 benifit you will have though is as you have said, running so low. The 2nd benifit is if it does not work it wont take much to change it to a design that does.

I'm hoping to buy some tracking gauges very shortly so if you need them to set it up give me a shout and i'll drop them off.

[Andy_S]

2) Being designed by Vizard and shown in one of his best selling books it's the only working example i've seen, if it had worked i would have thought it would have taken off, especially with the grass track lads.

You need to re-read the book Mark, this susp was developed by Mr V for his track/hillclimb Mini & not off-roading or rallying.

You can type up a 'told you so' when I crash on the test flight. :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Mark D]

You can type up a 'told you so' when I crash on the test flight

Oh no, i know all about that. if you remember i fitted a beam, new tyres, new settings then went through the fence on it's maiden voyage, not wishing that upon you. the other side of the coin is, nothing ventured, nothing gained. You maybe onto a winner and take 2 seconds off all of us!!

[Andy_S]

Feels like I've broken the back of the job now, spent a long day in the garage today & got the steering rack repositioned so there's a good bit of clearance around the diff.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures089.jpg

Then sorted the gearshift linkage so it fits in the narrowed gap & retains the same ratio (0.64:0.36 ish).
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures088.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures098.jpg

Then welded up the reinforcing plates
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures094.jpg

[Allan McD]

:D :D :D :D
Allan

[Mark D]

Take it easy andy, you wont have anything to do on christmas day!!!

[Andy_S]

And I have bought a not too secret weapon off old e-bay. A propper aerodynamic wing for £15. .......... gotta get the Renault stickers off it though :oops:
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures096.jpg

[Mark D]

I seriously like the spoiler. How about one of these for the front

http://www.nissan4x4.co.za/uploads/TheSani/images/2008-03-06_053116_TopBullBarDimensions.jpg

Im Fitting one of these

http://www.fairpoint.net/~jpierce/images/16HPChainSaw.jpg

Bales and fences will be no match!!!!

[Andy_S]

Coool 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)

I was fancying a self righting flipper, but the chainsaw is way better.

How about a big shovel for clearing the mess & a tipper for dropping off the crap.

This hillclimber has the perfect setup for aerodynamics & mess clearing :wink:
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/muck.jpg

[Mark D]

Mmmmm, that could be a bit dangerous for spectators, especially naked ones.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3243/2906351901_8e2beea6a3.jpg?v=0

[Andy_S]

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

[Andy_S]

A few more bits done :D

Heath Robinson suspension mounts.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Dad002v1.jpg

and for Allan McD's benefit a pic with the 12gallon tank in place. :wink:
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Dad004.jpg

then made a start on the framework to carry the forward facing tie bars.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Dad005.jpg

[Allan McD]

12 gallon will last you around 3 years 8)
Allan

[Andy_S]

12 gallon will last you around 3 years 8)
Allan

12 gallon tank is for the road & the LeMans 24hr race, but I got a 2 gallon ATL fuel cell for the sprinting :D.

[jiminwatford]

is that driving to the race or.... ? :lol:

[Pooler70]

Wheres the updates Andy? :)

[Andy_S]

Haven't done much over the last few weeks, but got out into the garage this weekend, however it was all about sorting the shell so not very exciting stuff.

Will post photo's after next weekend when there might be more bits of interest.

Hopefully will have all internals painted & running gear fitted by the end of Feb, then it's time to re-run the wiring, fuel & brakes.

It's all easy peasy when written like that :D

Not sure about painting the exterior though :| ...... I really hope I get time to blow some paint on him, but the first hillclimb in May is getting ever closer & he needs some miles under his belt.

Cheers for the interest.

[Allan McD]

At the first hillclimb you will get plenty practice miles about 1 :lol: :lol:
Allan

[Andy_S]

At the first hillclimb you will get plenty practice miles about 1 :lol: :lol:
Allan

....... exactly :(

[Andy_S]

Got some jobs done over the last couple of weekends.

Harness bar, reinforcement & arches finished.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures106.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures113.jpg

Rollcage modified.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures105.jpg

Few bits up front.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures102.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures112.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures108.jpg

And eventually decided to get rid of the back seat.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures111.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures109.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures110.jpg

Only a a small amount of welding left, then a lick of paint for the new steelwork & it's time to rebuild. :D

[NudgerSS]

I like the little bulkhead cut out cos those clevis pins are a bitch when you're upside down in the drivers footwell

John

[Mark D]

I see your not going light weight then andy

[Andy_S]

I like the little bulkhead cut out cos those clevis pins are a bitch when you're upside down in the drivers footwell

John

.......... and the older you get the less bendy you are. :!: I hated the clevis pin removal when I was a young lad ...... & got really cross with it last time I did it cos I'm old and creaky.

Made the take-off plate in the hope it would make the job easier.

[Andy_S]

I see your not going light weight then andy

Maybe a little bit, but there's no point in being uber lightweight unless you got one of those low torque Honda motors. :wink:

I got all steel panels too, no resin rockets for me ....... if I need to shed more weight I'll have a haircut & take my socks off.

[Mark D]

Instead off it being painted up as the general lee i think it would be more appropriate if you painted it black and put a red strip down the side and over the roof, I love it when a plan comes together!!!!!

[Andy_S]

Instead off it being painted up as the general lee i think it would be more appropriate if you painted it black and put a red strip down the side and over the roof, I love it when a plan comes together!!!!!

.......... gotta love Saturday TV from the 1980's ....... don't think I've got quite the right look for BA Barachus though.

[Allan McD]

Andy you are far more like Captain Howling Mad Murdock :lol:
Allan

[Andy_S]

Awww ........ I want to be Hanibal with the big cigar.

[Allan McD]

After a bit more thought after some of the things you have done you may be related to Mad Murdock :wink:
Allan

[Andy_S]

A few more bits done.

Axle & hubs fitted .........
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/100_0069.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/100_0072.jpg

Most of the internals painted.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/100_0071.jpg

Low ride height & good clearance around the tyre.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/100_0070.jpg

[Mark D]

its looking good andy. when before i said it looked heavy, it seems to look ok now painted. Funny how different it looks with a coat of paint.

[bhphunter]

its looking good andy. when before i said it looked heavy, it seems to look ok now painted. Funny how different it looks with a coat of paint.

I was thinking that too - must be 'lightweight racing paint' :lol:

Lets just hope its not aircraft spec incase he takes off again :lol: :lol: :lol:


Sorry Andy :oops:

[PaulW]

Dude thats looking great :D . its almost done :D :D

Paul

[Marcus Nordblom]

Great stuff, car looks really trick now 8)

[Andy_S]

I know what you mean about it looking lighter now that he's painted & I can lift the arse end. As an all steel Mini he's never going to compete with Allan's 500kg's, most likely 700kg's or so in th end.

Thought I'd have engine & front hubs on today, but I've had the squitters all day :( Takes a lot to keep me out of the garage at the moment so I'm gona have to do some late nights instead.

[MarkLD]

Thats looking excellent Andy 8)

[Marcus Nordblom]

ut I've had the squitters all day

Interesting club take a note 8)

[Andy_S]

No more squitters so got some more work done.

Engine & box into subframe & into car (but got to come out again cos of driveshaft oil-seal leak ...... grrrr)
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures122.jpgThanks to Marcus for the super-size sticker destined for the roof. :D

With the help of my dad, we've rescued all panels except bonnet & OS front wing.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures119.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures120.jpg

Wings are cut away by 3.5 inches & lip re-made.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures118.jpg

The bonnet is going to need something of a bulge.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures121.jpg

[Spiyda]

Looking good !

We'll be able to start a "bulge in the bonnet subgroup" :D

[Marcus Nordblom]

Looks meaner than the bus in "slap shot" 8)

Don´t paint it, wear a race suit ripped to pieces
– the other drivers will shit their pants :D

[Allan McD]

It looks real quick as it is 8)
With this being your second year as a racer inc all the mods you have done wins must be on the cards :D
Allan

[Andy_S]

Looks meaner than the bus in "slap shot" 8)
Don´t paint it, wear a race suit ripped to pieces
– the other drivers will bananas their pants :D

I'm not going to have time to paint the car & anyone who's seen me driving before will only crap their pants if I'm aiming at them.

It looks real quick as it is
With this being your second year as a racer inc all the mods you have done wins must be on the cards
Allan

Maybe I'll win if no-one else turns up. :| Only got half of the secret weapon installed though so we'll have to wait 'till later in the year for the full potential of the General to be unleashed ............... :twisted:

[Richard]

Truly amazing how you have resurrected the General with only a couple of new panels.
I am intrigued what the lengths of box section running between the bulkheads are for, extra rigidity?

[spNOam]

Two questions, 1. Why is the engine mounted so high? 2. Love the slicks, what size are they, will they fit on the rear with a std subby? (OK three questions :) )

[mininut]

Looks like you're making excellent progress matey, keep it up.

M.

[tommi_balls]

yer that engine does look high. car looks great tho! 8)

[MattG]

yer that engine does look high. car looks great tho! 8)

its because he wants the car to sit lower ( CofG ) but does not want to reduce sump/exhaust clearance

Matt

[tommi_balls]

yer that engine does look high. car looks great tho! 8)

its because he wants the car to sit lower ( CofG ) but does not want to reduce sump/exhaust clearance

Matt

he must be running a 4" pipe then :lol:

[evolotion]

yer that engine does look high. car looks great tho! 8)

its because he wants the car to sit lower ( CofG ) but does not want to reduce sump/exhaust clearance

Matt

should also keep the driveshafts at a sensible angle :)

[Andy_S]

Just for you GTMkoupe, the tubing running up the length of the car is to mount handbrake lever, gearshift, plus somewhere to clip fuel & brake lines inside the car.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures124.jpg

- The engine isn't mounted high in the car, the car is mounted low around the engine.

- The car can run 3"-4" ground clearance with 13" rims & 185/60 profile tyres. (7" at sill seam)

- The exhaust tunnel is modified to enable the 2.5" bore system to run fully within it.

- If the engine is pushed lower then the driveshafts point upwards at an inefficient angle.

- If the engine was pushed lower then the wishbones would point upwards & would bottom out with little effort.

- If the engine was pushed lower in the car then the sump would be prone to grounding at the uber low ride heights.

- The floorpan is the lowest point on the car.

.................. it's all about lowering the centre of mass to give increased cornering stability ............ in theory :wink:

[Miniwidow]

.................. it's all about lowering the centre of mass to give increased cornering stability ............ in theory :wink:

and less of an acrobatic tendency :wink: :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Andy_S]

.................. it's all about lowering the centre of mass to give increased cornering stability ............ in theory :wink:

and less of an acrobatic tendency :wink: :lol: :lol: :lol:

that might require a driver transplant :cry:

[Andy_S]

Been working on handbrake, brakepipes & wiring so not much to see, but for fun I cut away the bonnet to allow for the engine.

Not much bulge required. :D
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures125.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures126.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures129.jpg

and fitted the tiddly denso alternator in place of the Vaux one.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures127.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures128.jpg

[XEValver]

Good stuff Andy.

I thought i read somewhere that you were aiming for miglia ride height (which i think you quoted as 7.5" at front and 8" at the rear @ the sill?). I may be wrong but the reason i bring that up is that i measured mine and i've got those heights :| but i'm running 13s, without tubbed arches or nout and i dont really consider my car to be low so only thing i think is that those heights are wrong?

your car certainly looks lower than mine :shock: 8)

[Allan McD]

Looking good but you dont have long till Scarborough :(
Allan

[Andy_S]

Good stuff Andy.

I thought i read somewhere that you were aiming for miglia ride height (which i think you quoted as 7.5" at front and 8" at the rear @ the sill?). I may be wrong but the reason i bring that up is that i measured mine and i've got those heights :| but i'm running 13s, without tubbed arches or nout and i dont really consider my car to be low so only thing i think is that those heights are wrong?

your car certainly looks lower than mine :shock: 8)

Maybe the way you built your frame allows you to run low at the front, but the AMT frame wouldn't allow it. Bet your rear arches only have about 25mm clearance above the tyre though :wink:

I can run as low as 6", but that is with the 175/50 13's, but with the 185/60's probably 7.5" becomes a decent height.

Looking good but you dont have long till Scarborough
Allan

I know ....... :shock: ........ I've taken next week off work to make him roadworthy, that gives two weeks of testing.

Haven't had my entry accepted for Olivers Mt yet, so it might not matter. :(

[Pete_H]

looking good!

A buldge like this might look cool

http://www.carstylingtips.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/dsc05221.jpg

keep up the good work

[Andy_S]

Bet that big fella sucks serious amounts of air through those nostrils, but not really subtle enough for me. (said he with the silly flag on the roof :oops:)

[PaulW]

Haven't had my entry accepted for Olivers Mt yet, so it might not matter.


Thats strange, as you know i didn't post my entry in till late last week and i got confirmation at the weekend :shock: Maybe a phone call is in order?

Paul

[Andy_S]

handbrake cable & exhaust layout (not final fitted though :( )
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures130.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures131.jpg

[Allan McD]

If thats as fast as it looks :shock: The Honda boys (boy) has no chance :lol:
Allan

[Andy_S]

Got some more done.

Exhaust sorted.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures132.jpg

and heat wrapped.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures137.jpg

and hole cut in valence.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures133.jpg

and new boot floor.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures136.jpg

[Mark D]

Looking good andy, have you thought about some large holes in your rear valance, with some mesh over. With the car being so low it will just act as a big scoop slowing you down. Not by much i admit but it all helps.

[Andy_S]

Is there an easy way to cut big circles in stuff? Big Starret cutters I guess? The hole for the exhaust took far too long to sort the way I did it :|

Might need to remove the valence if you're beating me by say half a second, but if you lead me by 2 secs like last time we were at Olivers Mt then the valence ain't going to make a lot of difference :(

[Owen]

Is there an easy way to cut big circles in stuff?


I used a hole saw kit I got from tool station (around £30 iirc). Marked out, drilled and voila!

Doesn't look too bad to me...I hope :lol:



http://i140.photobucket.com/albums/r1/tennis_the_menace/Photo-0194.jpg

[Andy_S]

Jeez Owen, you've got more hole than valance :shock:

Thanks for the info on the hole saw ...... what sizes do they come in?

[tommi_balls]

have a poke about twitbay, any size you want mate. that car looks like a serious tool, im jealous 8) 8)

[Owen]

Jeez Owen, you've got more hole than valance :shock:

Thanks for the info on the hole saw ...... what sizes do they come in?


:lol: .


Can't remember off the top of my head, but I'm down the workshop tomorrow so I will measure them up. I think the biggest is about 3". As Tom said tho, you can get them seperately.

[tommi_balls]

if your looking to reduce drag the seams on a mini generate 25kg of drag at 65mph :shock: . read that in a mag once as someone tested it with a wind tunnel

[philster]

if it's a racer and you wanna reduce drag i'd just chop the rear valence off :wink:

[Andy_S]

Drag isn't a problem as max speed at Sprint/Hillclimb events is quite low.

The mods are all about improved handling ....... he said hopefully .......

We've all been building Mini's for huge power/torque, but end up sacrificing handling potential.

One or two of the 1960's Coopers were quicker than all but Allan McD on the hiillclimb events last year :shock: :shock: :shock:

[Mark D]

Thanks for the info on the hole saw ...... what sizes do they come in?

Many sizes, .... but just not big enough to cut a hole for the exhaust!!!!

[Mark D]

Hats off to you andy, i'm getting worried now, think the honda could be 3rd this year. But with the spaceframe arriving next year, towards the end of the season i will be going KAMAKAZI!!!!!!

[philster]

Thanks for the info on the hole saw ...... what sizes do they come in?

Many sizes, .... but just not big enough to cut a hole for the exhaust!!!!

I bought one from machine mart a few years back that was near enough the right size for the 3 gauges on a mini dashboard, that'd be plenty big enough

[chris alderman]

i think bosch do a 100mm dia, bi-metal hole saw. i know i have a 75mm one and they are bloody good, and i am sure i have a 100mm in the garage somwere,

[tommi_balls]

i think bosch do a 100mm dia, bi-metal hole saw. i know i have a 75mm one and they are bloody good, and i am sure i have a 100mm in the garage somwere,

are u suggesting he should plug his car with 4" holes??? wel it will def be light.

think this is the competion trying to feed misleading info lol :lol: :lol: :lol:

[Andy_S]

Thanks for the suggestions guys.

3" would probably be the right one so that vent holes are then the same size as the hole I made for the exhaust. I'll have a look on the bay.

[Andy_S]

Look what the Easter Bunny brought :D

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures.jpg

Very soft compound compared to any other tyres I've owned, although they won't be as soft as sticky Avon / Yoka slicks, but at £60 a tyre I'm prepared to suffer for the cause. 8)

[Andy_S]

A few more bits done.

Brakes are working, engine runs, clutch ok, got all gears, no water or oil leaks, kill switch works, no electric fires ........ these are known as famous last words & it'll no doubt turn to sh1t tomorrow.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures143.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures145.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures146.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures147.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures151.jpg

Only 2.5 inch ground clearance with the standard Mini wheels, but the Toyo R888's add another inch :D

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures149.jpg

[PaulW]

Tons of progress Andy. Fuck me thats low :D . How about a better pic of the spoiler on the back :D

I think your going to have the same problem as me, which is "how are you going to fill the tank"? It might be just the way the photo looks but your tank filler neck looks higher than the filler on the car. If you are filling it from the inside you need a think around the tank.

I will let you know about this as i'm filling mine from the inside and don't have a spill thing lets see what the scrutineer dude says

Paul

[Andy_S]

Funnily enough I read the blue book last night cos I wasn't sure about the ruling on the fuel tank in the boot. :?

My boot floor isn't sealed & so it naturally drains to the outside world, but just in case that's not allowed I though about sitting the tank in a plastic tray. (£2 from B&Q)

Really interested to hear Mr Kilmartin's view on this.

[tommi_balls]

yes yes yes the same steering wheel as me :D

now what is it? lol

[mini1]

Looking good Andy. Out of interest what length/poundage front springs are you using?

[Andy_S]

yes yes yes the same steering wheel as me :D

now what is it? lol

It's an Astrali wheel that my uncle bought me for xmas ........ 21 years ago.

Looking good Andy. Out of interest what length/poundage front springs are you using?

500lbs (deffo) @ 7" (i think)

[Andy_S]

got the new panels etch primed today.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures153.jpg

[Smurfy]

Looking good Andy!
It will be intresting to see how your times differ from last year with all the changes :D.

I'm going to try and sneak a day off to spectate Olivers Mount, but it depends how my work pans out :?

[Andy_S]

Looking good Andy!
It will be intresting to see how your times differ from last year with all the changes :D.
It'll be utterly amazing if the wheels point in a straight line & If he's close to last years times I'll be well chuffed.
I'm going to try and sneak a day off to spectate Olivers Mount, but it depends how my work pans out :?
Cool. 8)

[Pete_H]

Thought you said the buldge wasnt subtle enough :lol:

Looks awesome!! will be nice to see it all sprayed up and finished.

[Andy_S]

Thought you said the buldge wasnt subtle enough :lol:.
I kinda fibbed about wanting subtle :wink: Many thanks for conjuring up the image of big Yank Tank for inspiration. :D

[Andy_S]

Cos I'm running out of time to get sorted for next weekend's hillclimb, I've resorted to doing essentials only.

............. so I cut & fitted a new carpet ............. refitted the headlining ......... door-cards are now all back in ......... and I painted then fitted the very important rear wing. :D

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures154.jpg

[Allan McD]

Is the rear wing there to improve downforce or is it there to make it FLY :lol:
Allan

[PaulW]

Its to make pushing it easier :D

Paul

[Andy_S]

It's for full-on boy ricer effect :D ....... 'fast & furious' style or is that 'slow & incompetent'

anyhoo ......... you are a fine pair to make remarks about homebrew aerodynamics, one with his rear diffuser & the other with his front Ar'bath air-dam.

We'll find next that Mark's fitted an undertray & front splitter made out of a kitchen worktop :D

[PaulW]

Kitchen work top hmmmmmmm ive got some spare in the shed :D

Paul

[Allan McD]

Do you think an air-dam will make me quicker I have been thinking about making one :D
Allan

[PaulW]

Do you think an air-dam will make me quicker I have been thinking about making one :D
Allan

I will give you the plans Allan or you could just go to B&Q and look at the shower baths :D

Paul

[Andy_S]

Took the boy for a ride out today :D
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures157.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures158.jpg

Minimalistic engine bay
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures159.jpg

and cosy cockpit with everything in easy reach.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures160.jpg

Can't see what all the fuss is about with these LSD diff things. He pulls as straight as a train right through the gears.

Got a tiny problem with the track rods hitting the bulkhead on full bump & the NS front tyre got chaffed when turning left cos I haven't cut enough wing away, but other than that no problems ............ after 7 months off the road.

Well happy.

[PaulW]

hey nice one Andy, after what happened last season my hat is off to you big time dude. The general is looking good again.

Those toyo's are proper chunky monkey's arn't they :D

And stop with the diff will ya cos i know you want one don't you :D

Paul

[mininut]

You've done a fantastic job there matey, give yourself a pat on the back :wink:

M.

[Andy_S]

Erm .......... I ......... happen to have one of them there LSD things ......... kinda.

No extra horsies though ....... yet. :wink:

But you're right about the Toyos, they're like balloons. 21 inches diameter :shock:

BTW, I bought me one of those easybleed brake things, so I'm gona have a go at improving the slightly spongy pedal tomorrow night. If I cock it up you're gona have to sort it for me on Friday night (Mini-Sprite I mean) :lol:

[PaulW]

Erm .......... I ......... happen to have one of them there LSD things ......... kinda.

No extra horsies though ....... yet. :wink:

But you're right about the Toyos, they're like balloons. 21 inches diameter :shock:

BTW, I bought me one of those easybleed brake things, so I'm gona have a go at improving the slightly spongy pedal tomorrow night. If I grapes it up you're gona have to sort it for me on Friday night (Mini-Sprite I mean) :lol:

Oh yeah i forgot about the quaife diff you have.......ahem :D

Are you going on friday as well? Bring the easi bleed with you but i'm sure you'll get the hang of it. Ive been up and down the street today and giving some heavy breaking and i can't get the rears to lock which is good and the pedal feels good.

Paul

[Smurfy]

Well done Andy, the car looks great.

[Dazzler]

Its like Bad Taste Car Porn!!!

Awsome! Love It!

[evolotion]

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures157.jpg

something about this picture makes the car look like a toy, cause of the wheel and tyre choice one would assume there 10's making the rest of the car really out pf proportion, but in a cool way :lol:

[Andy_S]

Thanks for the kind comments guys :D

He's looking a lot different compared to his previous incarnation, mostly by accident and not much by design ............ even I wasn't sure if he looked right.

In the end if he looks like a cartoon, 70's porn star of a Mini then everythings good. :lol: 8) :lol: 8) :lol:

[Allan McD]

That car looks like it has an evil side under the skin 8)
Allan

[Marcus Nordblom]

Fantastic work Andy, what a stance that beast has know 8)

[MarkLD]

It shouldn't work, but it does :shock: even the spoiler doesn't look out of place. Look forward to it being all one colour again, nice job Andy 8) :D

[bhphunter]

As everyone else has said - it just looks great, think it must be the stance of it with those wheels and tyres.

I actually love the slightly battered 'raced in' look. (not that you not done a fantastic job of straightening it out.


When you think back to the way it was...



Well done chap.

[Hayling mini]

Well done Andy, that is looking the dogs dangly bits, when you are driving down the motorway I am sure everybody will just pull over & let you go by :D

[Andy_S]

Got the corner weights done this evening, although I didn't get perfect balance.

240kg NSF + 148kg OSR = 388kg
245kg OSF + 130kg NSR = 375kg

So thats 763kg wit my fat ass in there or 680kg without.

Can't compete on power to weight ratio with the fibreglass clad machines, but he's under 700kg so I'm happy. :D

[pritch]

that's a pretty damn good weight distribution if you ask me! a pat on the back is well deserved :lol:

[Rob H]

Really enjoyed reading through this build, it's great to see some thing a bit different. Have you had a chance to drive it yet? if so how does it handle with the rear beam?

Have you thought about moving the battery inside where the passenger seat normally is (or even better swapping it for a little gel pack) should help the weight balance a little more.

[BassAddict]

Your mini's looking excellent Andy :) Hope everyone's having a good weekend !

[Andy_S]

Really enjoyed reading through this build, it's great to see some thing a bit different. Have you had a chance to drive it yet? if so how does it handle with the rear beam?
Cheers for your comments, I really enjoyed the challenges that were thrown up in the re-build. Also just spent 3 days at Olivers Mount in Scarborough with the other 16VMiniClub Hillclimbers & I'm totally gobsmacked at how well the car handled. :D :D :D :D The reworked car knocked 3.25 seconds off last years fastest time.
Have you thought about moving the battery inside where the passenger seat normally is (or even better swapping it for a little gel pack) should help the weight balance a little more.
I looked at moving the battery into the car, but MSA regs require a non-acid battery & they're bloody expensive & not much lighter than a normal battery when you want some decent amps.

Your mini's looking excellent Andy Hope everyone's having a good weekend .

Lots of fun & the 16VMini boys didn't damage any fences this time :wink:

[Rob H]

Also just spent 3 days at Olivers Mount

The reworked car knocked 3.25 seconds off last years fastest time.

I'm gob smacked, you must be really chuffed with that.

[Andy_S]

Also just spent 3 days at Olivers Mount

The reworked car knocked 3.25 seconds off last years fastest time.

I'm gob smacked, you must be really chuffed with that.

Oh yeah :wink: :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

[Mark D]

I'll second andys efforts, he was snapping at my heels every step of the way and gradually chopping his time down. If anyone under estimates his driving ability, it's andy. he got me on the monday due to my mechanical problems but he has got me worried for elvington.

The 16v sprinters reackon my super sticky avons helped me knock 1.5 seconds off my fastest run but the nurses at the hospital think it's cos i have a lot less iron in my blood now weighing me down less.

well done andy, i'm worried but not scared!!!!!

[Allan McD]

well done andy, i'm worried but not scared!!!!!
You should be :lol:
Allan

[Andy_S]

OK so time to fix the General again after a problem on the second timed practice run at Elvington.

Seems like the clamping nut on my alt came loose & I didn't notice. Nut eventually fell off, which in turn caused the alt to move, which caused the fan belt to jump off the main pulley & tangle itself in the timing gear, which caused the belt to jump on the cams. I only know all this because of the evidence in the engine bay and taking the timing case off.

It looks like I've been lucky though, especially compared to Paul (Mini-Sprite) as initial inspection suggests that the General's only wiped out a set of inlet valves.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures163.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures165.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures164.jpg
Think this is the 5th time this head's been on and off. :|
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures166.jpg

Just to add to the comedy, the engine failed at exactly the same corner where I rolled last year :lol:

[Allan McD]

Just put the valves in the vice and hit them with a hammer you will get them streght enough :lol:
Allan

[DarrenW]

OMG :shock: :cry: :cry: :cry:

I love this mini, what a shame, hope you manage to get it up and running quick :shock:

[Andy_S]

OMG :shock: :cry: :cry: :cry:

I love this mini, what a shame, hope you manage to get it up and running quick :shock:

Many thanks for your kind words :D

Compared to last years' incident :oops: and Mini-Sprite's set back this is a minor piece of service work. £100 (yikes) worth of parts later & hopefully he'll be back to fight the next round of the Valver championship.

[Mark D]

he'll be back to fight the next round of the Valver championship.


I hope this makes him quicker then!!!!

[Andy_S]

He's alive again & needs a lick of paint, but here is is. :D

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures167.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures168.jpg

Have taken delivery of new decals from the USA this week & will do a proper re-spray over the Autumn. Hopefully I'll get time to blash some colour over the rough bits before Barky Heath though.

Trans-Am spoiler from ABS adds to the comedy effect methinks.

[henry210591]

Looking smart Andy!!! that is my perfect mini, i have to admire your handy work!

[Andy_S]

Thought I'd better tart him up a bit.
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures178.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures176.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures179.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures177.jpg
Thankyou to Marcus for the stickers :D

He's booked in for an MOT on Wednesday, so fingers crossed that they are happy with my funny rear axle.

[Mark D]

your axle will be ok, its the nut loose behind the wheel that i think they may be concerned about!!!

[Marcus Nordblom]

It´s on hemoroyds! When/if you roll it again have a look at offroad racers they put the rollcage on the outside, saves a lot of time;)

nice to see that you have the hardcore club sticker on it "the skull" -racers only!

[Andy_S]

I like to keep things as subtle as possible & yer Skull logo fits the subdued style perfectly.

[PaulW]

I'm loving it dude well done. Great to see the General back all the same colour. I should take some shots of mine but that would give away the *ahem* subtle additions ive made:D

Paul

[Miniwidow]

Yep dead giveaway.......I snuck into his garage and took this



http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/3740923830_d4082ffc8e.jpg

[PaulW]

tessa you have waaaaaaay too much time on your hands:D

Paul

[Andy_S]

Been doing some daft mods over the closed season.

Made an undertray & started the diffuser. Made from 1mm ally surprisingly rigid & light :)

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures010-2.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures008.jpg
http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures002-2.jpg

And have made a lighweight framework to allow the battery & 2 gallon fuel tank to fit under the back seat.

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x109/minifixation/Pictures001-1.jpg

[MarkLD]

Very nice additions Andy. Are you putting some separating fins in the diffuser or leaving it as one big open one?

[Marcus Nordblom]

very good fabrication skills Andy, you go from one clarity to another;)
You need a smaller batteri though!

[mininut]

lookin good man, like the alloy tank "tucked" in there :D

M.

[Allan McD]

You need a smaller batteri though!
Its an XE he has I tryed small batterys and they gave me grief.
Allan

[Andy_S]

Very nice additions Andy. Are you putting some separating fins in the diffuser or leaving it as one big open one?

Yup 2 additional separating fins (Ie 3 slots) & an adjustable 'double diffuser' for the middle section. Clearly I'm farting about, but it's fun :)

very good fabrication skills Andy, you go from one clarity to another;)
You need a smaller batteri though!

I know I need a smaller battery, but £150 for a dry cell is just too expensive & I still need decent amps cos I run headlights etc, so I'll stick with a sealed road battery for the timebeing.

lookin good man, like the alloy tank "tucked" in there :D
M.

I just hope the scruteneers are happy with our interpretation of a bulkhead. PaulW got some clarification from the MSA recently & so we believe a 1mm thick aluminium wall is OK ...... we'll see soon.