Sorry if this is a stupid question, but is there a difference between forward and rear facing thermostat housings or can you just change the way it faces? Cheers.

You mean between early Mini and Late Clubmans / Mokes? Yes, they are different and even the rear facing small bore is different to the rear facing big bore.

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The 3 studs (or bolts) that secure the thermo housing are not eqi-distant, meaning that whatever housing you have only goes on 1 way.

You can change the rear facing housing to a front facing housing by using the proper housing and the associated radiator, top hose and top rad bracket.

Hope that answers your question.

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Steve