Upgrading the front suspension of your classic Mini can seem daunting, but with the right parts and a meticulous approach, it's a straightforward process. At Mini Sport Ltd., we specialise in providing top-quality components and expert guidance to help you enhance your Mini's performance.
We started by fitting standard rubber doughnuts (cones) with the original top arms, refurbished with new pivot shaft kits. For adjustable ride height, we used Mini Sport’s Adjusta-Ride suspension trumpets, renowned for their quality.
To reduce twist and increase the stiffness of the front subframe, we added fillets and seam welds along the suspension towers. This, along with solid mounts for Mk4-on front subframes, helps with finer steering and handling but may also increase noise, vibration, and harshness.
Mini Sport’s Adjusta-Ride kit, equipped with a grease nipple to prevent thread seizing, was installed. It also comes with a cover over the thread to prevent water damage. During a trial fit, we found the thread on the urethane bump stop was too long and shortened it by 10mm for easier future removal.
As with the rear subframe, pre-assembling components on the bench simplifies the process. We used copper grease on various parts, such as the bump stop and its locknut, to prevent seizing and ensure easy removal in the future. This step is crucial, especially in water-prone areas.
For help or advice on building your Mini's subframe, contact us today, or visit our Easy Parts Finder to identify the parts you need.
Use new bolts to retain the pivot shaft. Clean the threads for the captive nuts on both sides of the subframe with a UNF tap before fitting the plate.
Pull the dust cover on the forward part of the top arm back over the outer edge of the casting before fitting the top arm. This aids the fitting process. Once the pivot is in place, push the dust cover back into its correct position.
Fit the polyurethane rebound buffer, or droop-stop, while the spring is still compressed. Use a washer to spread the mounting screw load on this all-plastic type, as self-tappers usually ruin the captive nuts.
Using a Mini Sport suspension compressor, we compressed a standard rubber doughnut to easily install the top arm. Later rubber doughnuts tend to have a metric internal thread, so ensure compatibility with your compressor tool.
For this build, we selected Mini Sport’s fully adjustable Group A race-proven tie bars. The original standard tie-bar was used to gauge the required length of the adjustable one. Copper grease was applied to all relevant parts to improve longevity and ease future adjustments. Note that tie-bar adjustment primarily affects the caster angle but also impacts the toe angle.
Setting Up the Bottom Arms
Mini Sport’s adjustable bottom arms, tested on rally cars for durability, were installed. Using the standard bottom arms as a reference, we ensured the correct setup length to allow for front wheel camber changes. These arms, with their large Rose joints and built-in dust guards, offer both reliability and adjustability.
A towing eye was fitted, essential for any track or motorsport car. We also used a genuine subframe bolt strap with water seals, eliminating the need for an additional person inside the car.
Mini Sport’s front top damper mount, designed for rally-style abuse, was installed. This robust component features a removable bolt and a boxed bracket for added strength, ensuring long-lasting performance under demanding conditions
Don't miss out on the rest of the Bogus 2 Series!
This blog series is your go to for a guide to taking your Mini from a bare shell to a road-worthy classic. Check out the rest of the series for tips and advice from our Mini Experts for every stage of your Mini restoration!
Throughout the restoration process, using high-quality products ensures durability and performance. Visit our website to find all the parts mentioned in this guide.
If you need any help or expert advice, don't hesitate to contact us. Happy restoring!
This guide is meant to provide general information and a step-by-step approach to restoring your Mini's front subframe and suspension. It is always recommended to contact a trusted professional if you are unsure about any part of the process or lack the necessary tools and experience. Safety should be your top priority.