Mini & Mini Cooper FAQ Part 1

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The Mini FAQ is a list of frequently asked questions (plus answers) about maintenance and mechanical work on Minis and Mini Coopers. The answers are mostly derived from the archives of the Mini-List mailing list and are the work of contributors to the list, edited for presentation in the FAQ. See Mini FAQ Part 2

General 5 Speed gearboxes for Minis Adding central locking/keyless entry/electric windows Converting to/from Left Hand Drive Importing a Mini into the USA Is my car a Mini Cooper? Is my car a Mk1, Mk2, Mk3, … ? How can I find out more about my Mini/obtain a Heritage Certificate? How to tell if a mechanical part is worn MG Metro alloy wheels – can I use them? Rod change gear shift removal Stripped thread on gearbox drain plug hole/spark plug hole Socket size needed for (xyz) bolt? Turbocharging your Mini What are the dimensions of a Mini? What does MOWOG mean? Why are Minis notorious for overheating?

Body Checking for rust (pre-purchase) Chrome side trim installation Door does not shut properly (fouls on body shell) Is it safe to drill holes in the rear parcel shelf to install speakers? Mark 1/2 (external hinge) doors are sagging Mark 1/2 door glass – fitting Mark 1/2 window channel removal Riley Elf/Wolseley Hornet – which panels are the same/different? Where/How can I get matching paint for my old Mini?

Brakes All you need to know about brake upgrades Brake bleeding advice Brake system won’t bleed Disc brake calipers won’t bleed Vibration felt through brake pedal Silicone versus standard brake fluid

Clutch Clutch does not fully disengage Clutch pedal slow to release

Diagnostics Brake Shoes- rear – uneven wear and/or binding Car interior smells of petrol Clicking/clunking noise when turning sharply Engine oil smells of petrol Exhaust – testing for leaks Ignition system Removed distributor to work on it, now car won’t start Shaking or vibration at certain speeds Squeaking noise when going over bumps Water temperature gauge reads low Voltage regulator diagnostics

Electrical Dynamo to alternator conversion Type of wire to use when re-wiring Positive Earth vs. Negative Earth

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