Morris Minor Owners Club

Took my Traveller Pickup for MOT yesterday - it failed!

The fuel tank is leaking slightly. Can anything be done about this, or is it a case of replacement? The annoying thing is that I filled it up only a couple of days ago. At £80 + VAT, I don't really want to replace it if I don't have to !!!

The bracket the attaches the handbrake cable to the rear axle has snapped off (again). Last time I repaired it with Chemical Metal, which held for a good 6 months, but I doubt it'll do it again.
I think this is part of the whole suspension bracket that is welded (?) to the axle casing, can you get replacements, how easy are they to fit?

There's also a little welding required along the back, not sure if it's inner wings or what, but its right up against the woodwork (not the outer wings). Does that mean I have to take it all apart to get it welded?

Some welding required by the rear, rear spring hanger (N/S) and somewhere near the front tie-bar. I'm told that the gearbox crossmember is on it's way too, but can't see this listed in anyones repair panel lists.

My final question then: is it worth me doing it myself? I can't weld, but am willing to learn. The main problem will be space, my garage just isn't big enough. I was planning to sell the pickup so that I could keep the Traveller out of the winter rain. I have a feeling that it's going to take me a good few months to do the work myself and I'm not sure I can bear to leave the Trav' outside over winter and it does need some TLC.

I do have a friend who's very handy with a MIG, so that might be the more sensible answer.

All thoughts suggestions, offers welcome!

Thanks in advance

Ben

I'm told that the gearbox crossmember is on it's way too, but can't see this listed in anyones repair panel lists.

This is a bolt on clossmember. You can pick them up s/h.

AS for welding. If you can do it yourself then go for it. You will save lots of money and gain experience.

Edd

There is a sloosh round the tank type of sealant available but I dont know anyone who has used it, you should be able to get a second hand one.
The rear spring hanger ofte involves the rear inner wing as well, and the tie bar area will be part of the chassis leg and its best to replace with at least half a new leg.
Iver Heath is not too far from you and there is a guy there that repairs Minors and other older cars so he would be able to give you an idea of costs if dont DIY, however I dont know exactly where he is I have just heard good reports.

When removing that cross member, got to watch out for those captive nuts under the masterclyinder

Having crawled into my pit for a closer inspection:

The gearbox cross member is fine - it's covered in oil! I think he was referring to a TINY hole in the chasis leg where the two bolt together.

I can't see the hole near the tie bar, but couldn't get that close, my garage is too short, the car won't roll back far enough and I couldn't be bothered to slide right under!

At the back, the lower 2" or so of the inner wings have definately gone, but there seem to be several layers of metal behind them. How is this section made up, are these just old panels that have been welded over?

Kevin: slooshy stuff sounds like a good idea - I'll have a look for some.
I know everyone says you should replace the chasis leg, but isn't that a LOT of work? I.e. engine out, dismantle suspension etc etc etc...? Is there no such thing as a good patch?

Ben

Is there no such thing as a good patch

Yep. If done properly it can be fine. I have some patches on mine. when it gets covered in patches then replace it!

The sealer is available from Paul Beck , Vintage Supplies. I don't have his number handy though. I always use in my old bike tanks to seal any possible leaks and hold any rust particles floating around. Much better than the fibreglass gel type which breaks up after a while. In your case though I would have thought you could find a good tank at a breakers .

Here it is
http://www.vintagecarparts.co.uk/en/list+~/
No you dont have to take the engine out to do a chassis leg, patch repairs are OK but it depends where if its next to a mounting point like the eyebolt I would tread with care.
Just as a matter of interest Minor Mania do the half chassis leg replacement for £160 + vat that includes parts.

IF U NEED A SECOND HAND TANK I HAVE ONE
£40 OR THEREABOUTS
WELDING ALSO UNDERTAKEN, CALL ME
ROB 01206 231793 EXTN 1