Hi all

I'm looking for my next project and am thinking about buying an early 80's clubman van shell imported from the UK which is in great condition, I would like to use parts from a banged up 78 Leyland van I have. Will the subframes and other bits and pieces for the build be compatible?

I know the doors are different but are there any other issues I may face?

Thanks in advance for your knowledge.

Cheers

Benn

that's interesting - the UK didn't have clubman vans... it may have had its front replaced with clubman panels but are you sure it's not an estate?

have a look at the doors - does it have external door hinges?

edit: but otherwise everything except the front subframe should be basically compatible, the front subframe is a little bit different in the way it mounts so you might need to stick with an English front subframe

_________________
did I tell you that I won a trophy?

Thanks Simon.

Yep, it's an estate with internal door hinges with a 'square nose' front.

Will the engine, suspension & brakes from my Australian Van all bolt on to an English subframe?

Thanks again for your help.

Yep, and nice find!

_________________
did I tell you that I won a trophy?

And, as it sounds like you're starting off with an Estate shell, you have a lot more options than finishing it as a simple van

Is it coming with the rear side windows etc installed (or available)?

Cheers, Ian

I believe it has all the parts and glass needed for the sliding side windows and have seen the rear seat, my wife is keen on something the whole family can fit in unlike my current van.

I have young kids so need to investigate anchor points and rear sash seat belts, I've seen pictures online of UK estates so think it will be ok but need to check before I get too excited.

Rear lap belts won't be a problem.

Based on my car I would say that 3 point belts would be a major engineering issue.

IMHO the Estate is the most practical Mini ever.... don't know why they didn't sell truckloads

Cheers, Ian