Basic Modifications

M

mattmonkey

0
Hello all. I'm after a bit of advice.....again...

At the meet in Coventry, some of you suggested a few modifications that could improve the running/mpg to the van. But a combination of tiredness, too much alcohol, and a lot going over my head has left me needing a reminder. I don't want to embark on too much but if there are any basic modifications that can be made, i'd be happy to know.

Tim suggested changing the air filter to a K&N one. I'd like to keep the original housing, and i'm sure Tim also said drilling holes in it would improve the air flow - Did this mean just in the "snorkel" part or in the main part of the housing?

I also think Martin suggested a better carb. Is there one that is recommended?

If anyone has any other ideas for improvements, i'd be grateful for advice.

Many thanks,

Mattmonkey and Claire

DSCF0503-1.jpg
Pootle Power !!!
 
You can get a K&N that fits straight onto the bend on the top of the carb but it has a tendency to suck in all the hot air from the engine compartment - but it is far better than the original set up, Martin M sells a kit that pipes cold air from in front of the rad, The original carb should definitely go in favour of at least a Webber - even better an SU conversion - commerracer can do you a modded manifold for that. And finally the exhaust - an RC-40 usually found hanging under sporty Minis is good - alternatively a bespoke straight through system does the job just as well.

Harvey the RV
 
Its worth changing to single to twin strombergs or SUs. Or a weber. And replace the fan for an electric unit. And a free flow exhaust. Your tyre pressures looked a bit low too if I remember rightly, that doesnt help.

Cheers
Jules

RatSport www.ratsport.co.uk
 
Thanks guys.

We had put air into the tyres before we left and only did 70 miles. What pressure do you recommend ?

Mattmonkey and Claire

DSCF0503-1.jpg
Pootle Power !!!
 
For simple to set up and maintain I'd go for SU carbs every time. Strombergs are an attempt to copy SUs, they had to make them significantly different for copyright reasons and in doing so designed a few 'faults' in.

BAZROCKS.jpg
If I told you I was a pathological liar, would you believe me?
I'M GETTING A HIGHWAYMAN !!!
 
In addition to the above, electronic points like the SimonBBC ones are a worthwhile purchase. Also, make sure all your ignition components i.e. dizzy cap, leads, spark plugs are in good nick. In fact make sure all engine components are in good nick, timing is correct and that the carb is setup correctly.
 
Cheers Adam.

A mate is fitting a servo kit (bought from Mr Maltas) at the weekend, and i'm gonna get him to check the engine out. And then he'll hopefully talk me through it all so i can keep on top of it myself in future. So much to do, and so little knowledge...

Mattmonkey and Claire

DSCF0503-1.jpg
Pootle Power !!!
 
If you want to keep the oiginal airbox then it really needs at least 1 extra snorkel or 2/3 big (1") holes in the side of the filter body ;)
a hefty head skim will help too :p

"you were only supposed to blow the bloody SLIDING doors off"
 
get rid of your bumpers [}:)]
& don't carry stuff you don't need,...the way you load the van,keep weight down low as possible...get those tyre presures right will definately help :)

Sybhil & no1
 
Tyre pressures, 50psi front 45 rear works for me, a tip from the forum which worked a treat was the re-routing of the fuel line, instead of over the engine route in front of the rad and back round near the air filter, fit a transparent inline fuel filter while you're at it, helps keep the carb muck free (and in tune), this mod stopped the flat spot just off idle when the motor gets hot.

tigger
 
Originally posted by Commerchris

quote:
get rid of your bumpers
& don't carry stuff you don't need,...the way you load the van,keep weight down low as possible...get those tyre presures right will definately help


I have tried and tried to explain to Claire the need to travel light. But she likes to be prepared for everything! If we left half of her clothes/make up behind, i reckon we'd get another 5mpg:)

Mattmonkey and Claire

DSCF0503-1.jpg
Pootle Power !!!
 
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