So the original radiator in my 1986 mini decided to start leaking so I ordered a C-ARA4443 which is the same as C-ARA4442 but with a temperature switch. I decided to test fit it in the shroud even though the listings only mention modifications to two piece shrouds, being a rover this has a single piece shroud. Of course it doesn't fit. The corners of the radiator have a step which hits the shroud. I can almost get all four bolts in but it is tight and scratching the paint. Is this normal? Am I doing something wrong? Is it just like almost every part I buy in that they don't fit.

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1986 Mayfair (998 auto), 1974 S, 1974 Van, 1972 PMG Van

Too many minis

I don't have experience with 'modern' minis but from your photos, can you cut off just the corner of the shroud if that is the only part of the shroud stopping a good fit?

I will have a look tomorrow but I don't really want to cut original parts to make replacement parts fit.

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1986 Mayfair (998 auto), 1974 S, 1974 Van, 1972 PMG Van

Too many minis

I sympathise with your reluctance to change an existing part to accommodate a replacement part that should fit.
Not sure what I would do. Modifying the new radiator could cause it to leak.

Maybe have your original radiator shell recored with the core from the new one; assuming that a suitable core for a late UK mini is not easily available in Australia. A bit expensive. There are still some places who can do this.

hi 68+

Will fitting the rubber bushes lift the shroud? Cam4414 part

This is out of the car so bushes won't change it

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1986 Mayfair (998 auto), 1974 S, 1974 Van, 1972 PMG Van

Too many minis

The problem is that the core and side pieces are not aligned correctly. This means that the top edge of the core where the tank joins hits the shroud on one corner before the bolt hole lines up. The edge near the bolt hole which doesn't line up is 5.3mm from the side piece compared to 3.6-3.8 of the other corners which aren't as bad but still aren't perfect.


When I buy the "quality" version of something I expect it to be good and it should at least fit. As well as not fitting it also looks like a blind person painted it, there are runs everywhere and some of the fins came bent.
I will organise returning this one and may end up getting the original fixed which most likely means a recore.

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1986 Mayfair (998 auto), 1974 S, 1974 Van, 1972 PMG Van

Too many minis