Hi classic mini owners --

I'm having my 1275 engine and remote shift transmission rebuilt by Heritage in the coming months. The car is a 1973 Austin. I have the option of converting the remote shift to a rod change setup and I wanted to get feedback on that here.

Specifically, I'm looking for advice for or against swapping to a rod change setup. I will be using the car as an infrequent driver, and probably taking it out cone racing once in a while. I'm getting an LSD installed while they're in there doing the rebuild. This would be the ideal time to swap for a rod change if I choose to go that route. As far as the cost goes, that won't be a driving factor.

I hear that the rod change shifts are more positive, and there is more availability for the parts (the u-bolt attachment parts on the remote shift are apparently NLA).

Anyway, enough blabbering. Any input, positive or negative would be greatly appreciated.

Cheers,
Jeff

 

Go with the rod change. I wish I had it when I had my 63 mini.

 

Upgrade to Pot-Joint axles while you are at it.

 

rod change is the way to go

 

Sorry to disagree but REMOTE like an "S" is the way to go and use Hardy Spicer axles... MOST vintage racers SVRA etc... use Remote shifter. Re "U" s not available, that is true, but you can change the outputs (and should) Doug and Graham are great guys. They will agree if you ask them, although they challenge each other a lot too (which I'm OK with, it keeps them thinking). Good Luck, and FYI I have a 65 and a 62 BOTH remote box's. No problems!!!

 

Remote is best.....but there are more rods on ther road since a lot folks have replaced the original stuff.

I would go remote if I had the choice. You must also consider the fact that you floor must mbe modified if go remote on a newer car.