Hi All

Has anyone replaced the rear subframe bushes with the subframe still in place?

My rear subframe bushes have deteriorated and I need to replace them on my hydro-elastic mini S. Got the parts and then realised there were a lot of unknowns. Looks like I have to remove the fuel tanks to get to the bolts of the rear bushes and also the bolt through the front set of bushes won't come out without dropping the subframe down at least 5 cm and also dismantling the rear suspension arm. I am not keen on re-pressurising the suspension, so looking for some insights on how to do it with the subframe in place or displaced slightly .

bharp831

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller

I think you're out of luck. The subframe will drop down enough to get the rubbers out, but getting to the front rubbers is your problem...

(Happy to be corrected) but can't get to the nut on the inside of the front pin without taking out the radius arm, you can't take the radius arm out without depressurising the system

making a hydro pump is really simple though... you just need a good quality clip or screw on schrader valve attachment and a grease gun or an old brake master cylinder & pedal box.

If you plan on owning a hydro car ongoing, having a pump is really handy - I use mine once or twice a year

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did I tell you that I won a trophy?

Thanks Simon K, appreciate your feedback. Looks like I need to look for a pedal box.

Bharp831

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller

Surely there's someone from Minis in the Gong who can loan you a pump, or drop by to pump it up when needed? If you don't intend working on hydro suspension regularly that may be quicker and cheaper than making or sourcing your own pump.

Try timmy201 for a starter.

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ex-NSW Police 1970 MK II Cooper S
VMCI #43

Thanks Winabbey
A search of the minisinthegong forum shows timmy201 has one, but as Simon k said, if I am going to keep this as a hydro suspension, might be worthwhile making one up. Will contact timmy anyway

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller

I don’t have one, but if you contact PhillB on here he might be able to help you out

Or Graeme Lord Automotive

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Thanks timmy. I have also found an old posting about how to make one, so got a couple of options

bharp831

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller

Have sent bharp831 a pm offing to help with a pump. From his comments, he may not have got the pm?

Thanks Bill, didn't know about PMs so missed your message. Thanks for your help again

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller

PM sent. I started with a grease gun type but is slow and messy. I made this one out of a pedal box ...much better. A lot of people use a plumbers test pump which are a neat solution too.

You are welcome to borrow mine to use or see how it's made.

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68 Morris Cooper S Mk1 (*ex 78 1275 LS 4th last built, 70 Morris 1500 OHC & 70 MiniMatic)

Thanks so much Phill, will get in touch.

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Mini Cooper S Mk 2, 1970,
Mini van 1970 with side windows now converted to 4 seater traveller