I finally got into contact with a powerplant supplier here:

http://www.mini-metro.co.uk/index.html

And he is willing to sell me everything that I need to convert my 998cc/auto powerplant to a 1275cc/4spd unit. Here is the e-mail I sent him:

...

I am writing this e-mail because I am interested in purchasing a 1275cc
unleaded drivetrain unit from you. I currently have a 1986 Mini which
has a 998cc engine and automatic transmission installed. My engine
recently failed on me so I would like to go ahead and replace the entire
drivetrain as soon as possible.

I have a few questions regarding the 1275cc unleaded unit:
1. Precisely what components are included with the unit, and what is not
included?
2. Will the radiator for my 998cc engine work with the larger unit?
3. Will the exhaust header for the 998cc engine work with the larger unit?
4. How much of the intake system (intake manifold, carburetor, etc.) is
included, if any?
5. Will you also be able to sell me the pedal assembly, clutch cable,
and shift linkage necessary to convert the automatic to a manual?

...

And here is the response I got back:

...

1. The engine is complete. Gearbox, Block and Cylinder head (all
covered under Warranty). Also, distributor , Carburettor, Starter, and
Alternator (not covered under warrenty).

2. Your Radiator will be fine except you will need a different top hose.

3. The stock cast iron Manifold will work.

4. only the carb.

5. We can supply everything for your conversion, you will need clutch
slave and master cylinder and pipework not a cable and if memory serves
a new front subframe also.

Regards,
Paul

...

So for 450.00 GBP (about $900 excluding VAT) I get a complete engine excluding air filter assembly, exhaust system, and cooling system. From my current engine, I should be able to adapt the air filter assembly, exhaust, and cooling systems to work with the new engine. Cool. Things are looking up.

My question liews with the last question he answered; the ancilliaries I need to perform the conversion. I have no problem buying a clutch slave, master cylinder, etc., if need be, but do I ALSO need a new front subframe? I just want to be 100% sure that I do need one before I plunk down money on such a part. I've seen the prices for those subframes go for about $600 and I don't want to spend that money unless I absolutely need to....

Thanks!

- Angel Face

 

i dont see why you would need a new sub-frame..........i could be wrong but it should all match up

 

cool site for stuff as well..........

 

Consider ....

subframe deterioration is a common problem ,,,, these things are not solid cast but formed of folded thin steel. A rusted out subframe is a common problem. (I'm holding mine together with MIG wire and angle iron until I launch a replacement project)

On one hand I understand the $$$$ of trying to get rolling with as little significant other bashing as possible.

On the other hand, while it is all apart now ... is the best time to pull the old subframe and replace it ... and all the bushings and mounting hardware ... cuz you will NOT do it next year

 

i wouldn't see why you would need a new subframe, but listening to Capt up there, he makes a good point. may as well change it while you've got it exposed.

 

great points ........might as well while it's off, if you can.........isn't this how every repair/mod begins........."well i wanna do this, but since this is off i can do this and that and this and that"..........

 

Well, to be honest, I'm not even sure that my current subframe is rusted out or anything. I'm more concerned with the alignment of the engine and trasmission in the engine bay...if the manual transmission will fit onto a subframe that currently is occupied by an auto unit...

 

AUTO subframes do not fit manual powertrains.

 

I'm hearing both answers to my question in this thread. Are you completely sure the subframes are different?

 

yes, nothing fits, unless you do a complete swap.

Since you are replacing your rusty frame with a new one and new manual drivetrain....everything will be ok.

fyi: even the auto motor is different in the sense that it cannot be converted to manual transmission.

 

Angel, why not ask this guy Paul that's selling you the powerplant. See what he says as to the reason for replacing the subframe.

 

Ok, if the manual and auto subframes are completely different and not interchangeable, that is exactly what I wanted to hear. As far as the condition of my current subframe, I never said anything about it being rusty. The seller in England just wasn't entirely sure if I needed a new subframe to do the conversion. But if I do, then I'll go ahead and plunk down for it.

I got an e-mail list with the parts breakdown and costs from him. It looks like this:

1275cc unleaded engine with 4sp. gearbox £450.00
Master Cylinder (used) £27.61
Slave £23.50
Pipework £14.69
Pedalbox (used) £35.25
Slave support bracket (used) £14.69
Subframe (used) £94.00
Rod Change (used) £35.25
Pear mounts x 2 £7.00
Butterfly mounts x 2 £7.00
Engine Mounts x 2 £7.00
Delivery £45

The total comes out to £760.99, which converts to about $1,522. Considering the engine included is virtually complete, and that all of this stuff is coming from England, the price sounds reasonable.

 

that price sounds great!

what does shipping cost for something like that?

 

Well, it says 45 GBP ($90) for delivery in the list above, but I'm assuming that's for everything excluding the engine. I sent him an e-mail to find out how much the total shipping will be.

 

i DON'T see a shifter in your laundry list, you also need to enquire about what type of axles the tranny is ready to take or are you willing to swap yours here if they are different. It's worth asking so that you can do a plug and play type of install.

 

do you Dion of www.djminis.com ?

 

by the way

I have no idea how much it will be but I'd expect you'll get a bill from Customs for duty....

the one time I ordered a 'significant' part direct from UK it's delivery was closely followed by a letter from Uncle S asking for $$$$. That was after the seller confirming I was willing to pay the high shipping cost for an oversized item....

Surprise Surprise Surprise thought I ....

The high shipping cost for over size items + duty has made me realize the MiniMania doesn't really mark up THAT much.....

 

I believe the automatic subframes are slightly wider and the motormount holes are drilled in a slightly different location. MM might sell an aluminum spacer to convert it, but you'd probably be better off with a NEW front subframe (most are bent due to incorrect jacking or accidents). Rust is generally not as much of a problem compared to the rear subframes. Also, you'd best change the radiator to a new super 2 core to rule out overheating. Remember, do everything right the first time with new quality parts. If you cut corners, it will cost you time, frustration, and reliability issues.

dr dave

 

I'll be sure to ask about the shifter as well as the axles.

Are you asking if I know him?

What did you order from England, how much did it cost, and how much was the duty on it?

 

I Was asking about Dion because he may have a similar unit you can buy here instead of importing.