Advice on modifying a Series 2 saloon

[AndyPap]

As modified saloons don't appear to be throwing themselves at me at the moment, I'm considering doing it myself. I've been offered a solid 1954 Series 2 saloon (2 door) together with (but not fitted) Marina brakes, 1300 engine & gearbox, radiator and propshaft.

Assuming the car's OK structurally, what do I need to be considering before taking on this project as opposed to a similar project on a 1098 Minor? Am I right in thinking that someone's produced a 'Marina to Minor' guide book and if so would this be appropriate to follow.

Please be honest with me and tell me now what problems I'll face. I'd much rather know now and decline the offer if necessary, if it's not realistic.

Any advice gratefully received!

Thanks

Andy

[Cam]

Well, you'll need proper dampers for one. Also are you sure everything else you are getting with the car is in sound condition?

It's a fair bit of work and can be expensive. But if it's a standard 1300 then you can keep a lot of the parts. Which 1300 engine and gearbox is it? Marina? Ital? Midget?

[bmcecosse]

You need to be really sure of the structure before adding extra power. Obviously suspension,steering and brake condition all need to be top line. Start by fitting the brakes and getting them working well before adding more power. BTW - It's still not going to be a 'fast' car , unless you modify the engine for much more power - and shed as much weight as possible from the car.

[turbominor]

Hi Andy

Modding a series II is not realy any different to a 1000 except you need to cut the floor a bit to fit the later box if you change the engine.

Have a look at my site www.turbominor.co.uk

You will need to fit disk brakes, telescopic dampers front and rear and i would fit an anti roll bar as it transforms the car

Cam and I both have the same rear dampers and they perform very very well.

As for engines you cannot go wrong with the 1275 a or a+ that will both fit a 1098 gear box with minimal work. If you have been given the marina box i would not use it as it is awfully heavy and you have to cut the bell houseing to clear the steering rack and also lower the engine. Lowering the engine then hits the anti roll bar.. and i cannot rember how many new sumps i fitted after smashing the sump into the road.. in the end i fitted a 1098 box and put the engine back to the original height!