How easy is it to convert an automatic Mini to a manual?? Is it a simple as unbolting the auto tranny and replacing it with a manual. I know there is also an extra pedal to deal with, but is that it or is there something weird with the automatics??

I am still peaking around at Mini's for sale, and I have run across a few autos on Ebay and that got me thinking....

 

This isn't a Mini, and not that helpful other than to point out anythings possible... Or as a contractor once put it to my folks, "Nothing's impossible, just expensive".

 

This is a very easy thing to do. There are a few components that you need to add to the Mini to make it manual transmission worthy. But, you should be able to use the same subframe as the automatic transmission uses. The hole in the cab for the shifter is the same on auto and manual Minis so this is not a problem. You will need to aquire a Clutch Master and Slave cylinder, Brake pedal set, obviously a manual motor and transmission (easiest way), and the gear selector.

If you should need a new front subframe, pedal box, or engine I might be able to help you out... depending on what type of engine you are looking for. I would be willing to sell one of my 998's if you are interested (engine and tranny together in good working order). These parts are located in Coeur d' Alene, ID in case you were interested in picking it up. Since I am in Germany I could coordinate it with my brother or parents to get the parts you need if you were interested. Good luck with the swap if you go that route... it is possible, it is very easy... and it is not very expensive

 

thanks for the help on this! as of now, I dont' have a Mini yet, still shopping around. I am just making sure that if a decent auto comes around, that I could possilbly do the swap and not spend a fortune. you wouldn't happen to have or know anyone that has a project Mini that they are selling, would you??

 

Easy and expensive are very relative terms. I would not be surprised to find out buying a manual MINI to begin with would end up being much cheaper, and certainly a heck of a lot easier....

 

Oh I agree with you that just buying a manual trans Mini would be cheaper and easier. I am just thinking that if I ran across a Mini with a great body, interior, etc and the only drawback is the auto, that I still could do the conversion without spending an arm and a leg for it. That is my reasoning.

 

It's always good to keep your options open, I agree... Let us know how it turns out for you!

 

Everyone here will be the first to know! Thanks for the help!

 

The odds are that you will find a good manual Mini before you find an equally good auto. The percentage of Minis with automatics is quite low (like less than 10%, maybe less than 5%).

 

I like those odds!

 

Automatic Mini's are fun! :D

 

Well read the section here on converting the block from auto to manual, first. The Austin America autos are the same. It also has helpful info on your auto and it's repair and care.... Info is in the Engine/Trans/Clutch Tech Section

http://www.austinamericausa.com/

 

I too agree with the fact that you will find a manual before you find an automatic. My first Mini was an automatic and it didnt really have much "GO" to it. I am not a speedy driver but it seemed to take so long to get to 45mph. Since then I have owned several different kinds of Minis and I would say that I have found the manual 1275 Carb setup to be my favorite.

Definately keep your options open nlsmini. Automatics are fun but you can always swap them to manual if you need to. This adds the extra expense that many of the people are talking about here but you could look at is as a chance to gain some experience. I have been working on Minis for the past 5 years and have had a surplus of parts on hand at all times being in Europe. Keep in mind that the expense of parts, etc is much higher in the states. Then add labor charges if you were not doing the work yourself... and you might be able to get a little nicer Mini that is already manual.

I am back in Germany now and have many different areas that I can find Minis. If there is a specific Mini (color, type, etc) that you are looking for... give me a rundown of what you are looking for and I will keep my eye out. I come across Minis daily. I have shipped three back to the states for myself so I am also very familiar with the ins and outs of it all. Just give me a shout if I can help. Good Luck!