Mk2 Mini Cooper - Bangers and Cash: Restoring Classics
Welcome to the latest instalment of our restoration journey in collaboration with the hit television series, Bangers and Cash: Restoring Classics, about the Mk2 1969 classic Mini Cooper 998cc, painted in the breathtaking Island Blue with a Snowberry White roof. This chapter takes us deep into the nucleus of the restoration process, where we meticulously rebuild the engine and gearbox, craft a new wiring loom from scratch, make strategic upgrades to the brakes and suspension, and conduct a thorough refurbishment of the carburettors. It's a journey that showcases the unparalleled precision, expertise, and passion Mini Sport brings to this ambitious project.
The gearbox's restoration mirrored this philosophy. With a focus on reliability and a smooth driving experience, we replaced worn bearings and seals, recalibrated the gear ratios for optimal performance, and ensured that the rebuilt gearbox would deliver a seamless transition between gears, enhancing the Mini's drive-ability and joy.
Electrifying the Past: The Wiring Loom
The electrical system often represents a significant challenge in classic car restoration, primarily due to age-related wear and outdated technology. Our Mini Cooper's original wiring was a tangle of decades-old issues, necessitating a fresh start. John, our expert in automotive electrics, undertook the meticulous task of building a new wiring loom. This wasn't just about replacing old wires; it involved construct a completely new wiring harness that would respect the Mini's heritage while infusing it with with modern durability and reliability. The result is a harmonious blend of the past and present, ensuring that every electrical component works flawlessly.
A Modern Twist on Classic Brakes and Suspension
In updating the brakes and suspension, our goal was to respect the Mini's heritage while preparing it for the demands of modern driving. The original braking system was replaced with Mini Sport’s alloy brake callipers, designed and machined in-house. These callipers, combined with larger discs, provide a significant improvement in braking performance and heat dissipation, crucial for both safety and driving pleasure.
The suspension's transition to a dry system was equally strategic. By replacing the Hydrolastic system with Mini Sport Adjusta Ride and Moulton Suspension Cones, we achieved a ride that's both faithful to the original feel and enhanced for modern roads. This upgrade ensures the Mini handles with the agility and comfort expected of today's vehicles, without sacrificing its classic character.
Breathing Life: The Carburettors
The carburettors are where fuel meets air, and magic happens. Our restoration process for these crucial components was not just a task—it was a mission. Each carburettor was dismantled, with every part cleaned, inspected, and refurbished or replaced as necessary. By fully reconditioning and rebuilding these vital components, we've ensured that the Mini Cooper's engine will sing once again. The restoration of these carburettors focused on achieving the perfect mixture and flow, optimising fuel efficiency, and ensuring that the engine's response to the throttle is both immediate and smooth.
The journey of restoring this Mk2 1969 Mini Cooper 998cc is testament to the dedication, expertise, and passion that defines our Mini Sport team. Each component, from the engine to the wiring loom, has been treated with the utmost care, ensuring that the essence of this classic car is not only preserved but enhanced. Ensuring this amazing Mini not only celebrates its rich history but is also primed for creating new, unforgettable memories.
Follow us on social media for continuous updates on this exciting journey. Together, we're not just restoring a classic Mini Cooper; we're redefining its legacy for the modern era.
Ready to make your Mini dreams a reality? Reach out to our team today. We're not just mechanics and engineers; we're enthusiasts like you, committed to preserving the Mini's legacy.
Contact us: sales@minisport.com