What to expect from forced induction?
Turbo Mini Forums

My scrappy Mayfair is getting rebuilt.
It needs a rebore so a major engine rebuild is on the cards. Some parts are already in place and others are in boxes waiting. And at some point its hopefully all going to get re-shelled in sexy light weight rust free GRP.

And then for some reason, I thought "what about a turbo?"
Why I thought that would be wise is a mystery, but still.

N/A'd the (998cc) engine spec was going to read like this (stuff already in place or bought in UPPER case):
STAGE 3 HEAD
LIGHTENED DUPLEX
2 CORE RAD
+60 PISTONS
BREAKERLESS DIZZY
LUCAS GOLD COIL
SW5 cam
LCB and RC40
1100 crank (maybe)
Twin 1.25 SU

I was hoping to get a useful 50-60 bhp out of this.

Then I thought, what about forced induction.

Now I've never even been in a car with a turbo, so I've no idea what to expect.
I've read odds and sods on this site about turbos and supers, including 998s, and it all sounds like a lot of hassel.
Question 1: Is it as much hassel as it sounds? This is particularly relevant bearing in mind I want to stick with a 998 (just because I do) rather than getting a Metro Turbo and dropping the whole thing in.

It's not just going to be me driving it. My GF is too. and she only drives about 4 times a year.
Question 2: What's it like living with a turbo'd Mini? Especially if you don't drive much?
Question 3: Is it possible to "turn off a turbo"? If it is, I'm guessing it's something to do with adjusting the boost level ... or am I missing the point?

Question 4: Does a turbo / supercharger generate enough heat to make it a possible problem with a GRP shell?

[size=1]I've had a look for the answers in previous posts and can't find them but appologies if I'm asking irritating newbee questions.[/size]

Edited by J.D on 14th Jan, 2005.

Question 1: Is it as much hassel as it sounds?

It all depends on your mechanical compentence and how seriuos you want to tune it.

Question 2: What's it like living with a turbo'd Mini? Especially if you don't drive much?

Depending upon the levels of boost and power output, it can range from being a great all day run around to a spine bending monster

Question 3: Is it possible to "turn off a turbo"?
It is not possible to turn off a turbo however low boost levels will be calm enough not to scare anyone who's driving it. Plus it is quite possible to drive the car "off boost" ie before the turbo kicks in the rev range

Question 4: Does a turbo / supercharger generate enough heat to make it a possible problem with a GRP shell?

I wouldn't have thought it would but it would be quite easy to mount a heat shield on the bulkhead next to the turbo to deflect the heat.

I hope these answers help you out....
If you do decide to turbo it your in for a whole lot of fun

In answer to the question in the title, the answer is 'empty pockets'... LOL!

Have a look through the site, check the 'how to' section, see the problems people have experienced (you will have some problems - nothing is ever simple) and decide if it's for you.
One thing is for sure, whatever problem you have, someone on here will have an answer or be able to assist.

Iv seen a turbo'd domino before, so it can be done with GRP, it had a GRP turbo box fitted to the shell...

turbo 16v k-series 11.9@118.9 :)

Denis O'Brien.

JD A Turbo wound up in a mini if all things are done right
will generate enough power & fun,
it will make your arse fall out!
GO FOR IT.