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 Posted: Apr 20, 2019 12:37PM
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CA
I was able to just get a Cooper Freeflow style header into (and out a few times!) my mid-1980's Mini with a 1275A+ installed. I think I did have to undo the dogbone to allow the engine to flex. With a relatively short bottom end bend, It will go past the block, subframe and axle, including the pot joint. Not a chance with anything bigger IMHO.

.

"Hang on a minute lads....I've got a great idea."

 Posted: Apr 20, 2019 10:43AM
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If you leave the distributor cap off, the generator and starter, it's possible to move the engine forward enough to take the factory header in and out without pulling the engine, but I don't think you can remove the engine with it still connected. You have to take the intake and carbs off, so taking the header off at this point shouldn't be a problem.

"Retired:  No Job, No Money, Wife and I!  Will travel anywhere for Minis"

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 Posted: Apr 16, 2019 11:03AM
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Hi Dough, not a problem. I am glad to managed to do it all by yourself. Let me know if you need me, I would love to learn more from you, cheers, Abel

 Posted: Apr 16, 2019 10:23AM
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Hi Abel.  I pulled the engine about two hours ago... before I saw your post.  When it is time to put the engine back in I may just take you up on your offer.  Pulling the engine was harder than I remember.  That does not bode well of putting it back in.

Doug L.
 Posted: Apr 16, 2019 09:30AM
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Hi Doug, if you need a hand, let me know. I will be more than happy to help, cheers, Abel

 Posted: Apr 15, 2019 07:35PM
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IMHO .. there is no trick... Header in first.

A few years ago I had the subframe sitting on a stand..ie out of the car .. so I thought it would be safe to put the engine in first.  Wrong!! still couldn't thread the header between the engine and subframe.

In historical films you can see BMC dropped the body over the built up subframe/engine.  As engines were run on a test stand before going into the subframe I assume they fitted the header to the engine and then lowered the whole caboodle at at an angle into the subframe. 

Cheers, Ian

 Posted: Apr 15, 2019 06:37PM
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I am in the process of pulling my '64 Mini's engine. This is only the second time in the 18 years I've owned it. I had a problem a decade ago and it's rearing its head again.

The car has the original stamped, tubular header it was built with. When I pulled the engine last time I had to tie the header back against the firewall when pulling and installing the engine. There was no apparent way to get the horizontal bend up and out from behind the engine.

Am I missing a trick here? Is it always necessary to put the header in the engine bay first and tie it out of the way when pulling/installing the engine?

Doug L.