best way to replace a front end and get a good line up/
Turbo Mini Forums

I need to replace the front end - a panels, wings front panel and was wondering the best order to go about it. I thought the best way would be to replace the a- panels first so they are alligned to the door.

Then how should I go about getting a good fit with the other panels? or am I all wrong?

Thanks.

I would do as you suggest. Then I would weld the wings to the front panel ensuring that you have a good width between the wings for the bonnet. Then you place this big piece onto the car. I have dont both ways, and like this much better!

Hi,
The most important part to get right is where the wing goes round the corner of the scuttle panel.
After this you can "adjust" the rest to fit.
My top tip is to screw everything togehter with small self tappers, before welding anything.
This allows you to get everything lined up and holds it in place while your welding.
Cheers,
Gavin :)

Edited by Bat on 24th May, 2007.

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I agree with Gavin; trial fit with screws (I use tec screws). The other recommendation I would make is to use as many genuine panels as you can. Don't get me wrong I've seen some very good front ends using the likes of Hadrian panels but in my experience, genuine panels need less work to get a factory look.

The way I have always done it; a panels first, line up and a decent tack on.

Then replace bonnet, this gives you something to line up wings too, plenty of clamps and adjust wings and front panel fit to bonnet and a panels, then weld it together.

Well I have just had the oposite experience ... I have one genuine and one hardrian wing for Candice's car ..... heritage didn't have any near side wings at the time and neither did Min-its or Somerfield!!!

The Hardrian wing practically fell into place .... the genuine one fits of a fashion but not great .... worse than that where the lip has been formed for the scuttle edge it has kinked in three places around that edge and is going to require panel beating to look smooth!!!!!!!!

I guess the best advice is look at the panels before you buy and pick the best ones.

Every day is a school day ...........

How fast and how expensive ...... the same question...

In answer to the original question I rebuild not replace.

Take the wings off but leave the front and A panels.

Make the wings fit relative to everything else and then fix in a temp fashion (I use small clickos but you could use pop rivits)

Then I replace the front panel and fully weld it in place.

I then change the A-panels and fully weld.

Finally I weld the wings in place.

I do it this way as it keeps as many of the original panels in place as long as possible. Also I prefer to do the final fitment of the A panels with the front edge and top point welded in place as you can have them move as you crimp the edge.

I've always done it this way with success but I can see the rational behind Tom's method.

Every day is a school day ...........

How fast and how expensive ...... the same question...