2 replies to this topic

[mab01uk]

How to Convert a BMC A-Series Cylinder Block From Automatic to Manual

"In the USA, an Austin America (ADO16) has often been the source of a 1275cc engine for an early Mini that came with a smaller powerplant. Many Austin Americas have the optional 4-speed automatic, and the cylinder block is different enough to prevent its use on a manual trans without certain modifications."
This web page will tell you in great detail how to convert a 1275 block:-

http://www.home.eart...1/convert1.html

 

To fit a 1275 auto block to a manual, apart from drilling the dipstick hole, there are a few mods needed to oil plumbing:
1. Auto block doesn't have the drilling all the way from the oil pump to the relief valve.
2. Auto block has 2 holes in the relief valve seat `cotton reel' to let oil get into the main gallery, because the normal filter flange is blocked off with a plate- the motor's lube oil comes UP the banjo pipe from the auto trans to the motor.
3. Auto block pump mounting recess is .250" deeper than in a normal 1275 block.
AusMini Link:-
http://www.ausmini.c...hp?f=25&t=90470

 

According to one of the Mini magazines a lot of auto Mini cylinder blocks are also being converted in Japan where many of the Rover Minis sold were automatics.
 

Edited by mab01uk, 10 June 2020 - 02:31 PM.

[mini-mad-mark]

Interesting - I guess this has been around some time but was less attractive until now as there are starting to be less manual engines to go around (here mainly talking about 1275) - maybe was conceived/more popular in the US if there were always more autos than manuals

 

Anyone doing this in the UK?  I see a few auto 1275's on Ebay at more reasonable prices than manual engines - maybe more autos would appear if this became more normal and so made them more attractive

 

What do we estimate would it cost/how much should we be willing to pay?  I suppose it would be sensible to do a normal rebuild at the same time so this would be on top of the normal stuff - although beyond the scope of the average home mechanic (no offence to the very skilled ones out there) I don't think it looks like a massive amount of work for a competent engine builder (if they would be happy to stand behind such a conversion of course) and the oil pump spacer would probably become a stock piece so cheaper than one off every time

[bpirie1000]

Still toying with this idea anyone see the oil pump conversion plate..

I get that it will,l need to be 0.25thick but do they offset the holes for flow or what is the concensus for it? Trying to learn of others here... get me up to speed please....