I just managed to dismantle a old 12G202 head off a 68 engine block, which probably hasnt run in about 30 years.

Would like to replace this head with the one sitting on a 998 engine. The photos are attached. I dont think it is important to get the tappets and rockers off, but took them anyway just in case.

The block is located in Mudgee which is a long trip back to Sydney. Only go there about 3 or 4 times a year.

Would appreciate suggestions - what should I do to make it functional again? What tools are needed? Skills?

Regards
Marc

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1966 Morris Mini Deluxe
.... 4 bicycles and 3 screaming kids.

I'd dismantle if first to be sure, but I'd bet the valve seats in the head need recutting, the valves need refacing or replacement, and it probably needs new valve guides too. Finally, get the deck skimmed flat.

Easiest way is just take it to an engine reconditioner, but if you want to take it apart yourself, buy or borrow a valve spring compressor to get the springs off.

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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.

Hey - I am close to Mudge and have everything you need to dismantle it. Are you in Sydney or Mudgee ATM.

There is a very good engine reco bloke in Mudgee with mini experience, his only downfall is that he is not quick.

Mike

Name one that is quick - it appears the slower they are the better they are - to a point

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David L


My greatest fear in life is that when I die my wife will sell my Mini and tools for the price I told her I paid for them!

Hi Mike, thanks for the offer. Unfortunately I just got back from Mudgee this arvo and wont be back till at least July or Aug. Managed to get the head off the engine, so no probs with that - as my 10 year old said "dad, you were in the garage forever!". Actually it was about 4 hours.

Unfortunately I do not have the good fortune of possessing a mechanical background, but am so keen to learn. I would love to learn how to do a DIY clean/preparation of the head. Budget is 'tight' (a.k.a. wife hates the Mini).

The present cylinder head sitting ontop of my 998 is working well enough, so this is simply a learn-as-you-do project. Is there a good URL site showing how to do this?

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1966 Morris Mini Deluxe
.... 4 bicycles and 3 screaming kids.

hmmm..

Not really - just about all mini heads warp over time and they need to be flat. The only way is to have them machined. And since they already at the reco place they have all the equipment to easily remove the valve guides and press new ones in. They also have valve seat cutters and grinders.

As a matter of routine the head is usually acid dipped to give it a good clean inside and out.

The last head I had reco-ed was done by the Mudgee man and cost $150 although I supplied the bronze guides.

Its also a good chance to have hardened exhaust valve seats fitted so you can safely use unleaded fuel without octane booster substances. For an extra cost though.

Things like porting and polishing can be done at home but you do need a good sound head to begin with.

$150 or thereabouts doesnt sound so bad. Can hide this amount from the wifey. Do you have the name of this mechanic in Mudgee? I might bring the head back when I go there again.

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1966 Morris Mini Deluxe
.... 4 bicycles and 3 screaming kids.

No worries

I wont name him on here but he is on School Lane off Cassillis Road towards Frog Rock.

Give me a ring when you are getting ready - in the 63 region white pages as R Byron - Yarrawonga road.

Mike