Greetings from a new member. I have started a engine restoration on a 1974 1275 cc "A" series for a young guy. It's out of a RH drive import that has quite a bit of aftermarket goo on it. The kid that owns it got it from a guy in Florida that apparently imports quite a few from GB. However, aside from a VERY nice top end (fully ported/polished head, premium rockers, springs, valves, header, and a monster SU) the engine looks well worn and stock on the bottom end. Dished pistons, significant ring ridge, broken timing chain follower, and a badly boogered up crank at the clutch end. It appears the clutch/flywheel assembly came loose and spun on the crank!

One thing that interests me about this engine is the label on the valve cover. It has an "EVANS 'A' series" plate attached on it, and an english flag painted on the other pad. It is missing the engine number tag, so that's a bit of a mistery. Anyone ever heard of this engine builder?

I'll know more in the next week as I dis-assemble it further, and I'm also wondering what pistons are available that might be an improvement. All feed-back is greatly appreciated as I get this Mini back on it's feet!

Hans

 

Quite a few Mini gurus on www.minimania.com including engine builders out of the UK & US. Best to post there for a quick answer to your questions. Seek out Keith Calver amongst others (read his articles in the tech section)...Heritage Garage in CA

I think Powermax pistons are recommended most. You can overbore to 1380cc with or without offset boring. Stroke to 1460cc. But many prefer to stay around 1293cc or 1310cc. The big improvements come from what's already been done. Select a good cam (SW5), get better cam drive gear, center oil pickup, lightened flywheel assembly, get it all balanced, & improve the differential.

 

Appreciate the resources. The engine turns out to be bone stock original under the fancy head, and needs nothing other than a freshening and a cam, curiously. Half the lifters are badly worn and pitted. We may bore it anyway, but he hasn't decided yet. Thanks again.

Hans