Ask the expert

PART EXCHANGED

I have owned quite a few

Minis over the years, from standard to quite heavily modified. I carry out all of my own maintenance and would describe myself as a competent DIY-er. I’ve always wanted to own a Mini with an engine conversion and had planned, when time and money allowed, to build one from scratch.

Earlier this year – while browsing everyone’s favourite online auction site – I spotted an unfinished project with a Honda VTEC engine fitted. It clearly needed a lot of work but at first sight, it did look like most of the hard graft had been completed. I ended up buying the car, sight unseen.

After a couple of months, I have to admit I’m still not too sure what I’ve bought and the project hasn’t progressed at all. I’ve contacted the guy I bought it off and it turns out that he had also bought the car as a part completed project…

I’m trying to establish what parts have been used, and trying to find out if there is such a thing as a build manual. Can you point me in the right direction?

Andrew

“You really don’t need anything too big to get the best from the 998 engine”

A It sounds like it might be time for a bit of detective work. As you’re no doubt