I did a oil change today on race car, found some bits that shouldn't have be on the end of the sump plug, I need some help determining were they came from, I am thinking needle roller cage ??? drop gears ??

All the pieces are the same length and width

Im thinking gbox input bearing cage.

Not good tho. Looks like your in for an engine removal shortly

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The best part of fixing your mini is the test drive

Minis..

1976 van daily drive
1975 van
1968 deluxe in the shed
1967 deluxe high strung 1310
1959 austin healey sprite

Could it be the ring that goes on the outside of the main double row bearing?

Damn shame Mal.
Want a go in mine?

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Too many cars, and too little time.

let see if you can get it around the track without breaking it first

Mal

Well I have finally had time to pull the race engine, the inboard drop gear bearing was the culprit, luckily no damage to idler gear shaft or casing. I have brought new swiftune roller bearing drop gear set, that should stop it happening again.

Are their any tips for stopping this happening to my spare race motor in the future ?? or is it a case of always use good quality bearings ?

it appears as though you already know the correct answer.

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It's easy once you know how.

Yes, I'd Say I have, but what did do back in the day before some smart bugger came up with roller bearing type ??

straight cuts to reduce the twisting loads on them?

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did I tell you that I won a trophy?

These days, not all bearings are made to the same spec.
For example, it is well known that the Chinese are selling their imitation Branded (SKF, Timken etc, take your pic) bearings around the world through some parts retailers (not genuine bearing distributors). Even their packaging looks pretty legit.

These idler gear bearings are a stock Imperial size; well known brands eg Torrington are still available through bearing shops.
Or, ask where your supplier gets his from.

[edit] I have to say, I have never had a problem with a bearing collapsing. I buy them here from the usual Mini shops, unless they are all out of stock.

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DrMini- 1970 wasaMatic 1360, Mk1S crank, 86.6HP (ATW) =~125 @ crank, 45 Dellorto (38 chokes), RE282 sprint cam, 1.5 rockers, 11.0:1 C/R.

Mental note to self, don't buy gearbox rebuild kits from minisport uk, they may be cheap but they supply crap bearings.

I think it would be tough for any supplier to spot the shoddy bearings from the good all the time. These brands were once the best in the game.

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SooperDooperMiniCooperExpertEngineering

All garage work involves equal measures of enthusiasm, ingenuity and a fair degree of irresponsibility.

on a better note

the swiftune bearing set up looks quite neat - but a pity it doesn't mix and match with existing straight cut drop parts -