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This may be somewhat of a strange question. How hard would it be to convert a '79 Austin Mini 1000 LHD to RHD? It apparently has a 1300, but I havent had time to get the numbers from it yet. I think that it would be more fun and even more of a head turner if it was like that. The car is completely gutted and the body isn't in the greatest shape, so this would be more for the experience than to make something show worthy. I just want something that works.
I also live in ND so finding a RHD mini close to me would be pretty difficult. However, if anyone is close to Fargo and wants to help me figure out my mini, that would be awesome.
Check out Mini Mania for this topic. I know I read it on there a couple weeks ago. I too am interested as A Mini Should be RHD.
I think you "just" flip the steering rack, move the pedals over, move the column over and hook everything back up. Simple... Yeah.... That's it!
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I don't know if you can just flip it over - I think you actually need a conversion kit (but I may be wrong). I know that the body is pre-drilled for the bolts so whether you flip it or get a kit, either way, you shouldn't have to drill new holes.
I second the idea of asking on MiniMania, either on their forums or just with a phone call - they'll usually give you all the info you could possibly need prior to buying anything.
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~Matt Cook | Dublin, Ohio | '92 Classic Mini Sprite: "Fiona" + Purple Haze 2005 MCS Cabrio: "Dawn". See old MODs from "Nano" HERE - post #166 - many with How-to links!
I think you "just" flip the steering rack, move the pedals over, move the column over and hook everything back up. Simple... Yeah.... That's it!
steering rack:
The Minis were designed for both LHD and RHD setup during manufacturing, so the goal was to have all parts moveable. I seem to recall, however, that there are different part numbers for the LHD and RHD steering racks.
turn signal switch:
IIRC the turn signal switch is simply rotated to the correct orientation for LHD or RHD.
pedal box:
The pedal assembly can be bolted to either side of the vehicle, although the hydraulic lines will need to be modified or replaced because the master cylinders are mounted to the pedal box at the firewall.
I have been working on my RHD rebuild and the questions I would look at are:
Steering rack needs changed - along with steering columm
Pedal box appears to be a relatively easy change
Brake & Clutch master need moved with pedal box
Heater hose routing changes
Steering column may just require routing the wiring loom over from the center binnacle location
Many of the holes that I use as a RHD look duplicated for a LHD so that should not be an issue. I have many pix of my RHD from my rebuild so let me know of you want some pix.
Thanks for the replies. The project seems doable for the most part. It may be some time before I get around to doing it as my mini requires quite a rebuild over the winter. But I will try to move stuff and look at how it would look when its on a rotisserie and on the disassembly.
