Caesar the 1275 E - Diary of minor changes

[Vinay-RS]

So some big news. I decided that I don't have the skills, tools or time to get the suspension sorted and I knew it needed doing. Hence I took the car to a local Mini/Classic car specialist - Dennis Nathan at NVS at Killarney Race Track. This was the best decision ever, as he gave the car a once over, checking the suspension, brakes and cooling systems.

I was hoping to get the adjustable tie rods, adjustable lower control arms and front and rear Hilos fitted. Additionally, I was hoping to get the rebuilt gear selector fitted. It turns out that there was a little more wrong with the car than just worn components. Dennis found that the tie rod mounting point had sheared. He had this refurbished so that the car was safe. He then proceeded to fit the new components. Following this, he found the lower and upper engine steady brackets were also either damaged or completely sheared. He brought in a professional welder who fixed the broken brackets and everything was tightened up. Next up the gear selector was fitted with a bit of filing down, as the fit was so tight that it wouldn't select gears at first. The cooling system had a few small issues too. The top radiator bracket bolts were sheared off and there was a small hole on the top cowling. These problems were all fixed as well.

Now, as a pro, he was also able to identify a number of issues that need to be sorted soon. There is a tiny leak from the head. This is probably because one of the head studs have pulled up and the stud holes need to be chamfered. Additionally, the sump plug, which is currently a random bodged bolt, needs a Helicoil. He said this can be done in-situ and is possible since he has a car lift. He wasn't keen to fit the twin carbs on a cylinder head that isn't perfect yet, so that is also still on the todo list. Lastly, once the brakes are done, they will go back to him to get installed.

I'm so happy with the result! The car drives incredibly well and feels so much stiffer with the new suspension components. I can feel all the bumps from the road and the squeaks and rattles from the suspension when going over bumps and turning are completely gone. The gear selection is also so smooth and feels like new!