Yes, most mini's require a lead substitute, but it's usually just as a valve lubricant. You can use a fuel additive called 'valve saver.' You just add one millilitre for every litre of fuel. It's not expensive. I have a bottle under the bonnet that supplies the lubricant automatically, I just fill it up once every few weeks.

I believe some people here don't use the additive, but I consider it as cheap insurance. Alternately, you can modify the cylinder head to have hardened valve seats, which means you can run normal unleaded. If you're planning to do some work to your engine, you can do this when up-sizing your valves.

http://melbourne.gumtree.com.au/c-Cars- ... Z259511660

good price assuming no rust? I like it mostly because it already has rego a lot less hassle for me :p

Nice little clubby there.

I think a engine conversion is filled with lots of little headaches and $$$. Have a look in the conversion threads, there's heaps of information. You can also try theminiforum.co.uk. They also have a section on engine conversions.
Pay particular attention to how long the dates are in the threads, from starting the project to driving it. Some seem to be years long....

A mini is a seductive mistress, incredibly fun, but also frustrating. What I do know is you will look back on your time as a mini owner with fondness.

If you wan't something easy to work on, avoid the 1.3. The standard rover fuel injection just adds a whole heap of mess you really don't want to work on. Stick to a nice carby setup and tune your heart away, you will have a lot more fun.

i'm assuming he means a 1275 when he said 1.3 from the start (should have been a little more specific when i said 1.3)... i never said injected tho. isn't a 1.3i still a 1275 but injected? if so i guess we're still on the same page (1275) no injections

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yeah sorry, bad habit of rounding up the cc's

no worries. i normally say 1.3 when people ask me whats in the car . if i say 1275 they go huh ... dul blank look on their faces. it s just easier.

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