Intro and Update: Slugmobile and Mean Mini! (long read, but worth it)

[wheming]

I'll see if I can find the part number.
It was from RockAuto and was for an Aries or Reliant that had manual steering.

[aonejeeparmy]

Wayne,
Thanks for the reply. How's the mean mini going? We need an update! One more question do you have a decent list of the weight reductions on the slug, or a current weight? Again thanks for your time. Jeremy.

[wheming]

Jeremy,
Here is the rack I used:
A-1Cardone 231802 for an 86 Reliant manual steering.
Also bushing Raybestos 5777028
(The rack mounting bracket is different between P/S and manual.)

Slug's current weight was 2625 when I took her to the local scrapyard today.

I don't have a complete list of all the weight rrduction measures. But the big items are:
Mostly gutted interior
Lawnmower battery
A/C removal
No rear bumper
Lightweight custom crab wheels
Gutted rear doors
No sound deading/carpet insulation
Aluminum intercooler pipes
Removal of airbox

[wheming]

As far as MeanMini, she is still apart with no real progress for much of this year. She has the shortblock and trans installed but I fear there may be issues from it sitting half built in a humid garage.

Currently I'm in "negotions" with the wife for permission to bring it to SloweSpeed for completion of the assembly and some fuel system upgrades. (This is just the political way of saying I look for her to agree with my plans before I do it anyway...)

[RoadWarrior222]

Well if you want half truths, say Slowe is so desperate he's selling his pride and joy Consulier, so you wanna throw a bone his way to avoid breaking his heart

[wheming]

Well just got home about an hour ago from PA. Was dropping off MeanMini at her new temporary home for a couple months, give or take.

She'll be in some very capable hands to get finished up and better than how I could with what I have to work with here.

So her future return to the track is finally looking brighter.

[168glhs1986]

Dropping a car off at Slowe Speed is a comforting feeling knowing it's in very capable hands

[contraption22]

Excellent!

[x.Gen]

I recognize that garage! Brian is a great guy, on top of having these cars mastered.

[wheming]

MeanMini update:

Brian has been progressing steadily on the engine build/assembly. He has the entire engine checked out, some issues were addressed, all the machine work and clearances were verified. The engine is now assembled and back in Mini. Still lots to do, but the heart transplant I would say is shaping up to be a success.

Excellent work so far Brian!
Here are some pics:

[acannell]

looks great!!

I'm starting to realize how awesome our valve covers are in a world of plastic snap-on meaningless "engine covers" on late model cars. Not only is it aluminum and real, but it has TURBO in GIANT freaking letters across it....that'll do chry-co, that'll do

[Spraynlog]

Looking GOOD! Nice to see the new model intake set up on there too.

[wheming]

looks great!!

I'm starting to realize how awesome our valve covers are in a world of plastic snap-on meaningless "engine covers" on late model cars. Not only is it aluminum and real, but it has TURBO in GIANT freaking letters across it....that'll do chry-co, that'll do

Thanks Asa!
You'll notice your coolant mod kit and the dual thermocouple kit if you look closely!

[wheming]

Looking GOOD! Nice to see the new model intake set up on there too.

That is the Lengel plenum on a 2pc lower. I might have done the BMF intake if it were available at the time I collected all these parts.
It should still be a good improvement compared to the stock 1pc.
Looking forward to seeing this come together under Brian's skilled handiwork.

[Vigo]

Ooo, looks exciting!

[contraption22]

I can't wait to see your van back in action!

[wheming]

I know what you mean....
It kind of feels like Christmas...
I can't wait to see it complete, but I can be patient. It will be worth it!

[Chris W]

Wayne,

I've been following your posts on both your projects from the beginning and wanted to acknowledge your ability to refrain from rushing them through. So many get impatient and just want to get their cars on the road sometimes skipping important details along the way. Your ability to fight those urges is commendable and I know you will be more pleased with the end result because of it.

We have enjoyed working with you and appreciate your patience with some of the "Specialty" parts that were created just for Gus' old rides. By adding Brian's Magic touch you know things will come together in a way that Gus would have approved of.

Chris-TU

[contraption22]

I saw the van today, Wayne. It really looks great!

[wheming]

That's good to know! Thanks Mike.
I'm sure Brian is taking good care of her.