3 replies to this topic

[TEM]

I just pulled my mini back home from storage. Last time I parked it; I had engine issues. I need to completely retune/adjust the carb and distributor components (hope that will get it running again; it does start but barely moves; practically no torque from the engine). I also want to repaint the car, upgrade the suspension, new wheels/tires, add chrome stuff and arches, etc. Do I want to buy a Haynes Repair manual or the restoration manual?

Also, does anyone have any links to instructions on setting the carb and distributor (points, gaps, timing, and such)?

Thanks in Advance!

Edited by TEM, 20 March 2007 - 06:09 PM.

[taffy1967]

The Restoration Manual generally covers fixing up a Mini shell and gives details on how to spray it and everything else thats related.

The Service/Repair Manual goes into great detail on how to service your Mini and carry out basic mechanical and routine maintenance tasks. There's also a section on rust proofing too using a rust proofing product.

to be honest I'd say it's worth buying both, but I know the Restoration Manual is about 20 years out of date. I've got the 1985 first issue, which has a different cover, but the contents are identical and the Mini buyers guide still hasn't got any Rover Cooper information in it!

Unless you already have a Haynes Mini Manual, then you might want to buy one of those too, because that contains many facts and figures not covered in the Service/Repair Manual.

Here's the 2 Manuals on Amazon: -

Mini Manuals On e-Bay Link

Edited by taffy1967, 20 March 2007 - 06:18 PM.

[Dan]

Neither. Buy a Haynes Owners Workshop Manual. It's a lot better but probably out of print now. The current generation of 'Repair Manuals' that they sell in Halfords are frankly rubbish. You may have to search around shows or somewhere to find the older Owners Workshop Manual but it is well worth it. The only thing it that is only covers Minis up to '95. Failing that just buy the genuine Rover workshop manual from Mini Spares or somewhere, that is the real bible. Also all the genuine workshop manuals are on the BMH Mini CD-ROM I think.

[taffy1967]

I've got a few Haynes Mini Manuals (1969-1991, 1969-1993 & the latest 1969-2001) and I agree the older versions are generally better.

Also, does anyone have any links to instructions on setting the carb and distributor (points, gaps, timing, and such)?

But sorting out the dizzy (fitting points and condensor etc) and adjusting the valve clearances (tappets) is covered in great detail in the Repair/Maintenance manual and that book taught me how to do it and gave me the confidence to have a go. I'm pleased to say that I was successful too, but I had to refer to the Haynes Mini Manual for the rule of 9 guide (i'd get confused otherwise), so i'd say both books offer a great source of information for the beginner, novice or useless git like me!