Looking for help in Edinburgh area

[joanna11]

I am looking for a moggie enthusiast in or near Edinburgh who would be happy to give me some quidance in helping my minor back onto the road - I keep trying to repair her myself but don't know enough! If there is anybody out there - please help!

[GAS]

I am about 30 mins from Edinburgh and would be happy to give you some guidance

What do you need help with?

[joanna11]

Hi,

Where abouts are you?? 30 mins from edinburgh in which direction? Could be quite close to me - or a long way away!!

My engine gave up - and I had it re-conditioned and then mot'd - well since then I seem to have no end of problems - one being a problem with electrics - I think it is an earth connection problem but have no back lights, no fuel guage and other small electrical problems. Due to this - I haven't really been able to use her safely and now I can't get her to turn over. I am a bit of a novice but keen to learn.

Any help very greatly appreciated.

[Jefftav]

Hi Joanna11, if you go into the electrical section you can view a wiring diagram which might help you. The electrics on a standard minor are very straight forward and it is usually a case of cleaning connections and checking wires have not been mixed up which is where a diagram can help.

The connections for rear lights are usually in the boot (mine are bullet type connectors which simply pull apart and with a 12v test light I was able to work out what went where as the earth wire had got mixed up.

Also use the other sections (mechanial, bodywork etc..) to post your Morris problems and usually someone will come along and give a few tips to help you out.

I am in Inverness so really I am no use to you but perhaps take GAS up on his offer of assistance and it might help you to sort out a few problems and give you the confidence to tackle small jobs yourself.

[bmcecosse]

And if you post up your location - in your profile -we will have a better idea of exactly where you are! If it won't 'turn over' - then the battery must be flat - so give it a charge, and check the fan belt is tight enough to spin the alternator. Who did the engine 'reconditioning' - and do you have any specific engine problems ?
There are two highly recommended and friendly Mini specialist garages in Edinburgh who I'm sure will be more than happy to turn their attention to a Minor for a change.
PM sent!

[bmcecosse]

These lads at The Mini Works do superb restoration work on Minis - and will happily turn their hand to Minors. They are in Cockenzie.
http://www.owenccooper.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk/Contact.htm
Also McDonald Minis are more into repairs and servicing rather than complete restorations -they are in Musselburgh and wiil also gladly work on Minors. http://www.mcdonald-minis.co.uk/mainframe.htm
Both Companies are absolutely excellent - I wouldn't choose between them - and will give you honest/fair opinions of your car and any work it requires.

[pjh56]

one being a problem with electrics - I think it is an earth connection problem but have no back lights, no fuel guage and other small electrical problems.

Hi Joanna
I replaced my rear light units yesterday and when I tried the new ones the brake lights would'nt work. I also noticed the fuel gauge didn't work, this worked with the old units. After investigation I found the fuse on the right had blown. I replaced this and tried the lights again, after trying the lights again the fuse blew once more. On close inspection of the new lamp I found a bare wire, this caused a short every time I tried the lights. A little bit of insulation tape solved the problem. I must say the lamp unit was brand new and this seemed to have happened in the assembly process.

I would advise you to check the fuse on the right hand side facing the car to see if this has blown, there should be two replacement fuses in the holder. While you are about it check the other aswell.
Good luck
Peter

[joanna11]

Many thanks everyone - I'm out looking at my car this afternoon!