This is just a thought but, I always see MG Midgets for sale for about $1500. I was thinking I could maybe get a half decent engine from an early 70's Midget that ran the A series. I already realize that I would have to swap the transmission on the midget engine since the engine sits the other way. The midget transmission I looked at was closer to a magic wand transmission, whereas I have a rod change transmission.

I was just wondering if it would even be possible to do this swap. I am hoping it would be just putting the mini transmission on the midget engine, but if it would require a lot of modification it's probably not worth the effort or the cash. Anybody have any thoughts?

 

i wouldn't do it.
it's not worth the effort

 

Even though at first glance that seems like a good idea, it won't work. There is a difference in the block that makes it a no go. I don't remember off hand what it is. I'm going to meet my local Mini guru for lunch in a bit. I'll ask him & find out.

Stay tuned.....

 

The Midget "A" series inline crankshaft (like the rear wheel drive AH Sprite, Morris Minor, Austin A35 and A40, etc,) has no crankshaft tail for the primary gear drive to the transverse Mini gearbox. It also just has a conventional flange to bolt the flywheel to, not a taper fit like the Mini flywheel has.
I think the block is also different around the rear main bearing oil seal. A non starter really but you can swap the cylinder head over and various other common parts but not block or crank.

 

I talked with my Mini guru friend & he told me exactly what Mab01uk said. He did say the block could be used if you machined the rear main cap. He said he could see no reason to go though all that work though.

 

Thanks, Thats kinda what I needed to hear. I am going to need to rebuild my engine or buy an already rebuilt crate motor. I choke when I see the 5 grand price tag on a rebuilt 1275 and the 1098 I have is pretty whipped and it going to need a bit of work. I guess I'll have to work some more overtime to get that crate motor.

I just saw a freshly rebuilt midget engine and I was thinking I could save myself some time and cash, but thats apparently not the case. Thanks for the replies!